See other formats

Full text of "Seventh Day Baptists in Europe and America: A Series of Historical Papers ..."

Google 



This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project 

to make the world's books discoverable online. 

It has survived long enough for the copyright to expire and the book to enter the public domain. A public domain book is one that was never subject 

to copyright or whose legal copyright term has expired. Whether a book is in the public domain may vary country to country. Public domain books 

are our gateways to the past, representing a wealth of history, culture and knowledge that's often difficult to discover. 

Marks, notations and other maiginalia present in the original volume will appear in this file - a reminder of this book's long journey from the 

publisher to a library and finally to you. 

Usage guidelines 

Google is proud to partner with libraries to digitize public domain materials and make them widely accessible. Public domain books belong to the 
public and we are merely their custodians. Nevertheless, this work is expensive, so in order to keep providing tliis resource, we liave taken steps to 
prevent abuse by commercial parties, including placing technical restrictions on automated querying. 
We also ask that you: 

+ Make non-commercial use of the files We designed Google Book Search for use by individuals, and we request that you use these files for 
personal, non-commercial purposes. 

+ Refrain fivm automated querying Do not send automated queries of any sort to Google's system: If you are conducting research on machine 
translation, optical character recognition or other areas where access to a large amount of text is helpful, please contact us. We encourage the 
use of public domain materials for these purposes and may be able to help. 

+ Maintain attributionTht GoogXt "watermark" you see on each file is essential for in forming people about this project and helping them find 
additional materials through Google Book Search. Please do not remove it. 

+ Keep it legal Whatever your use, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that what you are doing is legal. Do not assume that just 
because we believe a book is in the public domain for users in the United States, that the work is also in the public domain for users in other 
countries. Whether a book is still in copyright varies from country to country, and we can't offer guidance on whether any specific use of 
any specific book is allowed. Please do not assume that a book's appearance in Google Book Search means it can be used in any manner 
anywhere in the world. Copyright infringement liabili^ can be quite severe. 

About Google Book Search 

Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers 
discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web 

at |http: //books .google .com/I 



^ 



S^jeit^ttttf lag SapttHta in 
lEurnp^ wxh Amntra 



A SERIES OF HISTORICAL PAPERS WRIT 
XEN IN COMMEMORATION OF THE 
ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY 
OF THE ORGANIZATION OF THE 
SEVENTH DAY BAPTIST GEN- 
ERAL CONFERENCE: CELE- 
BRATED AT ASHAWAY, 
RHODE ISLAND, 
AUGUST 20-25, 1902 



Vol. I. 



Printed For 
THE SEVENTH DAY BAPTIST GENERAL CONFERENCE 
^ by the 

American Sabbath Tract Society 

Plainfield, New Jersey 

1910 






^/rrC^ , 



COFTRIGUTBD 1910 hy the 
Ameiicatt Sabbath Tract Society 



TO 

THE MEMORY OF THE PAST 

AND 

THE HOPE OF THE FUTURE 

THESE RECORDS OF ACHIEVEMENT 
ARE REVERENTLY DEDICATED 



PREFACE 

This book consists of a series of historical papers writ- 
ten to commemorate the One Hundredth Anniversary of the 
formal organization of the Seventh Day Baptist General Con- 
ference, which was celebrated at the regular annual session 
of the General Conference held with the First Hopkinton 
Church, at Ashaway, Rhode Island, August 20-25, 1902. 

At the annual session of the General Conference held 
two years before, in August, 1900, a Committee, consisting 
of Charles C. Chipman, as chairman, and Rev. Boothe C. 
Davis, D. D., President of Alfred University, William Clarke 
Whitford, D. D., President of Milton College, Rev. Theo- 
dore L. Gardiner, D. D., President of Salem College, Rev. 
Clayton A. Burdick, Rev. Lucius R. Swinney, and William R. 
Potter, was appointed to prepare a programme suitable for 
the contemplated celebration. 

At the next session of the General Conference, in August, 
1901, the Committee submitted a report, in which provision 
was made for twenty-three papers, covering practically every 
phase of the history of the activities of the Seventh Day 
Baptist Denomination, from the time of the appearance of 
Seventh Day Baptists in England down to August, 1902. The 
original aim and purpose of the Committee are fairly set forth 
in the following extracts from its report : 

The plan of the Committee in preparing this, largely a historical 
programme, is to present a careful review of the past in such a 
manner that future efforts along all lines of our denominational in- 
terests will be geatly strengthened. In this we have great confidence, 
for we believe that while our young people know but little of our 
history, rich though it is, and a history which is highly prized and 



VI SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

admired by those who are conversant with it, such a review of the 
past will quicken our young people in denominational pride and 
loyalty as nothing else will. This plan will also accomplish another 
thing which is very much needed; viz., preserve permanently our 
history in a popular and convenient form for general use. 

Our plan is to gather up the history of all lines of denominational 
work from the date of organization to 1902, so that all subsequent 
history can date from that time. The papers and addresses will make 
a valuable historical collection, and furnish data of inestimable value 
to future historians. They will be highly prized by coming genera- 
tions. 

The Committee desire that these papers be historical of our people, 
in the various sections covered by the Associations, along lines of 
education, and church and reform work, in the broad sense, and not 
be confined to the exclusive work of the Denomination. Each Asso- 
ciation is rich in historical facts concerning our people, and historical 
events in which Seventh Day Baptists have been engaged. Our 
people have been among the leaders in the public school system, and 
in temperance reform movements. Take, for example, the Seventh 
Day Baptist influence in the Colony of Rhode Island, and later in 
the State. The Seventh Day Baptists cooperated with the Baptists 
of Rhode Island in founding Brown University, and the fact that the 
Charter of the University was drawn by a Seventh Day Baptist, Samuel 
Ward, and that there was Seventh Day Baptist representation on the 
Board of Trustees for many years, are facts worthy of record, and 
facts of which every Seventh Day Baptist, old or young, should be 
proud. Similar instances of Seventh Day Baptist influence and worth 
can be recorded of the other Associations. 

A brief mention of prominent Seventh Day Baptists who have 
lived in the Association, and who were actively engaged, or deeply 
interested in denominational work, would be interesting. For ex- 
ample, in the Eastern Association, there are the following: Thomas 
B. Stillman, George H. Babcock, Charles Potter, Professor William 
A. Rogers, and Mrs. Ann Lyon. In the Central Association, the 
following may be named : Rev. Alexander Campbell, Correll D. Potter, 
M. D., Rev. Eli S. Bailey, Jason B. Wells, and Mrs. Lucy M. Car- 
penter. In the Western Association, there are: William C. Kenyon 
and Jonathan Allen — ^both presidents of Alfred University — , Rev. 
Thomas B. Brown, Rev. Nathan V. Hull, and Mrs. Melissa B. Ward 



PREFACE Vll 

Kenyon. A similar list might be offered, if it were deemed neces- 
sary, of each of the other Associations. 

We feel confident that all persons selected, and whose names are 
placed on the programme, will cooperate with the Committee to the 
end that the Centennial Celebration of the General Conference at 
Ashaway, Rhode Island, August, 1902, may be a great success, and that 
tie minutes of the session will be the most valuable collection of histor- 
ical facts that have ever been compiled and published by our people. 

The report of the Committee was adopted, and the 
necessary arrangements made for carrying the programme 
and the accompanying recommendations into effect. 

While several of the papers were read in full at the 
session of the General Conference in 1902, many were read 
by title, only, for lack of time. Meanwhile, Rev. William 
Qarke 'Whit ford, President of Milton College, who was ex- 
pected to write a History of Seventh Day Baptists in America 
Previous to 1802, had been claimed by the hand of death be- 
fore his task was completed, and Rev. William C. Daland 
had been unable to prepare a History of Seventh Day Baptists 
in England. Arrangements were made to have these papers 
written by others. 

Moreover, upon the joint recommendation of its Exe- 
cutive Committee, and its Committee on Finance, the General 
Conference voted that these historical papers should be printed 
in book form, in an edition of one thousand copies, or more, 
and the price of the work was fixed by General Conference 
at a mere nominal sum. Consequently, a large deficit in the 
cost of the book was anticipated ; but concerning that, the Gen- 
eral Conference made this significant statement: 

This deficit should not be looked upon as lost money. It is an 
investment which we as a people make to build a permanent historical 
monument for the perpetuation of our history, and for the propagation 
of the Sabbath truth. 



VUl SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

A Committee on Publication, consisting of the following 
members, was then appointed: Henry M. Maxson, Rev. 
Earl P. Saunders, Charles C. Chipman, Rev. Arthur E. Main, 
D. D., Rev. James L. Gamble, D. D., and Orra S. Rogers. 
This Committee was instructed "to take charge of the whole 
matter of editing, and publication of, the minutes and papers, 
with power to depart from the above recommendations, if 
circumstances seemed to make it necessary." 

The work of publication proceeded very slowly. Several 
of the authors of the various papers began to realize the 
value of the opportunity before them, and insisted upon the 
privilege of further research, and subsequent revision of their 
respective papers. The treatise upon the South-Eastern As- 
sociation grew to such proportions that the author found, 
after four years of research, that he had sufficient Qiaterial 
for a royal octavo volume of 500 pages, and A History of 
Seventh Day Baptists in West Virginia was the result. 

The one to whom was originally assigned the subject 
of the Eastern Association, after repeated attempts to do the 
work, found himself unable to perform the task, for lack of 
time. Another writer was found, who would undertake the 
work upon condition that he be given a full year to complete 
it. The excellence of die result fully justified the delay thus 
occasioned. 

Once again, it seemed wise to the Committee to in- 
clude in the book some historical account of the German 
Seventh Day Baptists, and Dr. Julius F. Sachse, who has de- 
voted a great many years to the study of that subject, accepted 
an invitation to prepare it. Owing to manifold other duties 
of an exacting character, he was compelled to relinquish the 
task, however, and the sketch was prepared by another hand. 

After careful consideration, the Committee decided to 
include a large number of pictures in the book. Illustrations 



PREFACE IX 

« 

are no longer regarded as a mere embellishment of a his- 
torical work. They are a necessary part of a complete record. 
For example, no description in words, however rich and full 
of detail, can convey to the mind anything of the grace and 
beauty of the pulpit of the old Newport Church, with its 
striking approaching stairway, and its overhanging sounding- 
board of surpassing elegance, that a single picture can afford, 
in a mere glance. 

The selection of the illustrations has, of itself, been no 
light task. Obviously, a choice had to be made, since even 
after making a generous allowance for what might be inex- 
pedient or not germane, many very desirable subjects re- 
mained that could not be included for lack of space. 

Consequently, illustrations were chosen by classes, some- 
what after the following plan: 

1. Representative pastors from each of the Seventh Day 
Baptist Associations: namely. Eastern, Central, Western, 
South-Eastem, North- Western, and South- Western. 

2. Foreign missionaries. 

3. Representative evangelists. 

4. Representative missionary workers. 

5. Representative denominational lay workers and bene- 
factors. 

6. Foreign ministers and writers. 

7. Sabbath reformers, and writers upon the Sabbath. 

8. Representative teachers in Seventh Day Baptist 
schools, including presidents, and others, of DeRuyter In- 
stitute, Alfred University, Milton College, Salem College, 
Alfred Theological Seminary, the school at Fouke, Arkansas, 
etc. 

9. Presidents of the Seventh Day Baptist Education 
Society, and of the Seventh Day Baptist Missionary Society, 
and the American Sabbath Tract Society. 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

9 



10. Editors of the Seventh Day Baptist Missionary 
Magazine, Protestant Sentinel, Seventh Day Baptist Regis- 
ter, Sabbath Recorder, Sczrnth Day Baptist Memorial, and 
the Seventh Day Baptist Quarterly, 

11. Presidents of the Seventh Day Baptist General Con- 
ference. 

12. Authors of the various papers contributed to this 
book. 

13. Houses of worship of representative churches in 
each Seventh Day Baptist Association. 

14. Buildings and grounds of Alfred University, Milton 
College, Salem College, etc. 

15. Various Seventh Day Baptist buildings in England, 

Holland, and China. 

16. Miscellaneous. 

The portrait of no individual occurs more than once, 
except in the case of one or two unique groups of special 
interest. 

After spending more than three years in the selection of 
suitable subjects for illustration, and after consulting with nu- 
merous persons familiar with Seventh Day Baptist history 
and biography, among whom were Rev. Arthur E. Main, D. D., 
Rev. Lewis A. Platts, D. D., Rev. Abram H. Lewis, D. D., 
LL. D., Prof. Edward M. Tomlinson, Litt. D., LL. D., David 
E. Titsworth, Esq., and others, a list of pictures deemed 
acceptable was finally made by the Committee, and then passed 

into the hands of Mr. Corliss F. Randolph, who at the request 
of the Committee, has collected the pictures, and supervised 

the making of the half-tone plates. 

It is a cause of regret to the Committee that several 
pictures which would have added greatly to the interest and 
historical value of the book, could not be obtained. 

In accordance with the instructions of the General Con- 



PREFACE XI 

ference, the Committee has had an .exhaustive index made, 
which will add inestimably to the value of the work. 

The Conunittee did not find it practicable to attempt to 
unify, or even edit, the various contributions to the book, 
but have allowed each paper to appear as it left the writer's 
pen. That the various treatises overlap, one upon another, 
and contain many repetitions, is inevitable from the very nature 
of the work. That the book contains many errors, both of fact 
and of mechanical detail, is equally true, and for a similar 
reason. But these do not obtain to an extent sufficient seriously 
to affect the real value of the work. Corrections are solicited, 
and it is requested that they be sent to Mr. Corliss F. Ran- 
dolph, of Newark, New Jersey, the Chairman of the Com- 
mittee on Denominational History, of the Seventh Day Baptist 
General Conference. 

Finally, the long continued delay of seven years since 
this work passed into the hands of the Committee, has been 
no less trying to the Committee than to the impatient sub- 
scribers, but the mighty oak does not grow in a single year, 
nor is a magnificent monument built in a day. So that, if 
after all these years of weary waiting, the Committee has 
succeeded in producing a record, to be read of all men, which 
has set forth something of the centuries of struggle and 
achievement of a people who, besides their contribution to the 
ecclesiastical life and character of the world, have likewise con- 
tributed something, and that in no small degree, to the 
national fibre of the two mighty English-speaking nations of 
the earth; and if besides this record, there has been erected 
a fitting monument which shall reflect something of the glory 
of this achievement — ^and, with all becoming modesty, the 
Committee believe that this has been done — then the delav 
has not been in vain. 

PlcdnAeld, New Jersey. 
August I, 1909. 



TABLE OF CONTENTS 

VOLUME I. 

Page. 

Preface v 

List of Illustrations xv 

Corrections xxi 

Whai Hath God Wrought! By Rev. D. Burdett Coon 3 

The Sabbath From The Time of Christ to Its Appear- 
ance in England, By Rev. Abram Herbert 

Lewis II 

Seventh Day Baptists in The British Isles. By Charles 

Henry Greene and Rev. James Lee Gamble. . . 21 
Seventh Day Baptists in America Previous to 1802. By 

Lewis Alexander Platts 119 

The Seventh Day Baptist General Conference, 1802 to 

ip02. By Rev. Arthur Elwin Main 149 

The Seventh Day Baptist Memorial Fund. By David E. 

Titsworth 237 

The Woman's Board. By Mrs. Emma Teff t Platts 249 

The Young People's Permanent Committee. By Miss 

Agnes Babcock 261 

The Sabbath School Board. By Rev. Ira Lee Cottrell . . 27 1 
The Seventh Day Baptist Missionary Society. By Rev. 

Oscar Uberto Whitford 325 

The American Sabbath Tract Society. By Arthur L. 

Titsworth 421 

The Seventh Day Baptist Education Society. By Rev. 

William L. Burdick 463 

Denominational Schools: 

Alfred Uiversity. By Rev. James Lee Gamble 487 

MUton College. By Rev. Edwin Shaw 529 

Salem College. By Rev. Theodore Livingston 

Gardiner 545 



XIV SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Denominational Schools, continued. 

Alfred Theological Seminary, By Rev. William 

Calvin Whitford 549 

Extinct Schools, By Rev. Leander E. Livermore. . 559 
DeRuyter Institute. By Mrs. Marie (Still- 
man) Williams 567 

The Sabbath Evangelising and Industrial Asso- 
ciation, By William C. Hubbard 577 



ILLUSTRATIONS 

VOLUME I. 

Rev. Jonathan Allen Frontispiece 

Rev. D. Burdett Coon 3 

Rev. Abram Herbert Lewis 11 

Charles Henry Greene 21 

Mill Yard Church 40 

Old School at Mill Yard 42 

Graveyard and Chapel at Nation 44 

John Purser 46 

Nathanael Bailey 64 

Rev. William H. Black 68 

Rev. Peter Chamberlen, M. D 72 

Residence of Rev. Peter Chamberlen, M. D 74 

Bull Steak Alley 78 

Rev. William M. Jones 80 

John Slater 92 

Rev. Joseph Stennett . . . . / 96 

Rev. Samuel Stennett 100 

Sir William Tempest 104 

Rev. Lewis A. Platts 119 

Redwood Library at Newport, Rhode Island 136 

Henry Collins 138 

Hon. Samuel Ward 140 

Lt.-Col. Samuel Ward 142 

Rev. Arthur E. Main 149 

Silhouette of Rev. Henry Clarke 152 

A Group of Representative Pastors : 
Rev. Daniel Coon, 
Rev. Simeon Babcock, 
Rev. James H. Cochran. 

Rev. Lewis A. Davis 158 



XVI SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Group of Representative Lay Workers: 
Joseph Goodrich, 
Benjamin Maxson, 
William Stillman, 
Lester T. Rogers 17 i 

Group of Representative Lay Workers: 
Alfred Stillman, 
Paul Stillman, 
John Bright, 
Jason B. Wells 176 

A Group of Representative Pastors : 
Rev. Lucius R. Swinney, 
Rev. Seth L Lee, 
Rev. Azariah A. F. Randolph, 
Rev. Frederick F. Johnson 184 

A Group of Representative Lay Workers : 
Edwin S. Bliss, 
William Clarke Burdick, 
Isaac D. Titsworth, 
David Rose Stillman 188 

A group of friends at the Home of Thomas B. Stillman. 

in Plainfield, New Jersey, June, i860 192 

A Group of Representative PastoA: 
Rev. Joel Greene, 
Rev. George B. Kagarise, 
Rev. Henry P. Greene, 
Rev. Stillman Coon 194 

A Group of Denominational Lay Workers: 
Amos B. Spaulding, 
Clarke Rogers, 
Abram D. Titsworth, 
David Dunn 198 

A Group of Representative Pastors: 
Rev. Elston M. Dunn, 
Rev. James Summerbell, 
Rev. Joshua Clarke, 
Rev. Julius M. Todd 200 



ILLUSTRATIONS. XVll 

The Hull Family : 

Rev. Nathan Vars Hull, 

Rev. Vamum Hull, 

Mrs. Martha (Hull) Ernst, 

Rev. Hamilton Hull, 

Rev. Oliver Perry Hull 204 

A Group of Representative Pastors: 

Rev. Leroy F. Skaggs, 

Rev. James B. Davis, 

Rev. Jacob Davis, 

Rev. Andrew P. Ashurst 206 

A Group of Representative Lay Workers : 

Jacob D. Babcock, 

George B. Carpenter, 

Edwin G. Champlin, 

Charles H. Stillman, M. D 208 

A Group of Presidents of the General Conference : 

Rev. Earl P. Saunders, 

Sands C. Maxson, M. D., 

Walton H. Ingham, 

Nathan H. Langworthy 210 

A Group of Representative Pastors: 

Rev. Jared Kenyon, 

Rev. George J. Crandall, 

Rev. Hiram P. Burdick, 

Rev. Calvert W. Threlkeld 214 

A Group of Representative Pastors: 

Rev. Mordecai B. Kelly, Sr., 

Rev. Oliver P. Hull, 

Rev. Anthony Hakes, 

Rev. Daniel Babcock 218 

First Brookfield Church, at Leonardsville, New York . . 220 

De Ruyter Church : Interior and Exterior 224 

A Gmup of Presidents of the General Conference : 

N. Wardner Williams, 

Henry D. Babcock, 

Frank L. Greene, 

S. Whitford Maxson 226 



XVin SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

A Group of Ministers: 

Rev. Edward B. Saunders, 

Rev. Lebbeus M. Cottrell, 

Rev. Oliver D, Sherman, 

Rev. James E. N. Backus 232 

Henry M. Maxson .• 233^ 

Charles Clarence Chipman , 2330^ 

Conference Tent (1902), and the First Hopkinton 

Church 233* 

Interior of First Hopkinton Church 233^ 

David E. Titsworth 237 

George H. Babcock 238 

Mrs. Emma Tefft Platts 249 

Mrs. Harriet E. (Saunders) Clarke 252 

Miss Agnes Babcock 261 

Rev. Mordecai B. Kelly, Jr 264 

Rev. Ira Lee Cottrell 271 

Rev. George B. Shaw 276 

Rev. Oscar U. Whitford 325 

Hon. William L. Clarke 326 

Rev. William B. Maxson, M. D., D. D 332 

Group of Missionary Workers: 
Rev. Azor Estee, 
Rev. Samuel R. Wheeler, 
Rev. David Clawson, 
Rev. John Greene 336 

Rev. Halsey H. Baker 342 

Rev. Solomon Carpenter 346 

Mrs. Lucy (Clarke) Carpenter 348 

Mrs. Olive Forbes Wardner 350 

Rev. David H. Davis 362 

Mrs. Sara Gardiner Davis ; . . . . 364 

Mission Dwelling at Shanghai, China . . . ^ 366 

A Group of Missionaries to China: 

Mrs. Lizzie Nelson Fryer, 

Miss Susie M. Burdick, 

Mrs. Hannah (Larkin) Crofoot, 

Rev. Jay W. Crofoot 368 



ILLUSTRATIONS. XIX 

Rev. John L. Huffman 370 

A Group of Foreign Workers: 

Miss Ella F. Swinney, M. D., 

Miss Rosa W. Palmborg, M, D., 

Jacob Bakker, 

Rev. Frederik J. Bakker 376 

Christian Theophilus Lucky 386 

A Group of Representative Evangelists : 

Rev. Lely D. Seager, 

Rev. Charles M. Lewis, 

Rev. Vamum Hull, 

Rev. Judson G. Burdick 388 

George Greenman 390 

Rev. Gideon Henry F. Randolph 392 

Mrs. Lucy (Greene) F. Randolph 396 

Mission at Lieu-00, China 410 

Peter H. Velthuysen 418; 

Arthur L. Titsworth 421 

Charles Potter 422 

Rev. George B. Utter 426 

Rev. James Bailey 430 

Ira J. Ordway 434 

Group of Sabbath Reformers and Missionary Workers : 
Rev. Lester C. Rogers, 
Correll D. Potter, M. D., 
Rev. Joseph W. Morton, 
Rev. Henry B. Lewis 436 

Haarlem Church 438 

Rev. Gerhard Velthuysen, Sr 440 

J. Frank Hubbard 444 

Professor Edward M, Tomlinson 463 

A Group of Representative Educators : 
Charles R. Head, M. D., 
Rev. Amos R. Cornwall, 
Professor Henry C. Coon, 
Rev. Sanford L. Maxson 468 

Professor Albert R. Crandall 476 

Rev. James L. Gamble 487 



\ 



XX SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

Rev. James R. Irish 488 

Rev. William C. Kenyon 490 

Alfred Academy 492 

Alfred University : General View of Campus 494 

Kenyon Memorial Hall, with Babcock Hall and School 

of Ceramics 496 

Professor William A. Rogers 498 

Allen Steinheim Museum 502 

Rev. Ethan P. Larkin 504 

Rev. Boothe C. Davis 506 

Residence of Luke Greene 508 

Professor Alpheus B. Kenyon 510 

A Group of Alfred Teachers: 

Mrs. Caroline (Maxson) Stillman, 

Mrs. Melissa B. (Ward) Kenyon, 

Mrs. Ida F. (Sallan) Kenyon, 

Mrs. Abigail A. (Maxson) Allen 516 

Rev. Edwin Shaw 529 

Milton Academy, about 1844 530 

Rev. William Clarke Whitford 532 

Milton College 534 

Rev. William C. Daland 536 

A Group of Milton Teachers : 

Mrs. Ruth (Hemphill) Whitford, 

Mrs. Chloe (Curtis) Whitford, 

Professor Albert Whitford, 

Professor Walter D. Thomas 540 

Rev. Theodore L. Gardiner •. 545 

Salem College 546 

Rev. William Calvin Whitford 549 

Rev. Thomas R. Williams 550 

Rev. Darwin E. Maxson 552 

Alfred Theological Seminary , 554 

Rev. Leander E. Livermore 559 

Mrs. Marie S. Williams 567 

Rev. Alexander Campbell 568 

De Ruyter Institute 570 

William C. Hubbard , 577 



CORRECTIONS 

VOLUME I. 

Of the followifig corrections, those beginning with page 
30, and ending zvith page lis, ^^cept the one on page 78, have 
been submitted by Charles Henry Greene, Esq., who in col- 
laboration with Rev. James Lee Gamble, Ph. D., D. D., wrote 
the treatise concerned. 

Page 30, second paragraph. "The Britons of the southern 
part of the island were not different from the", 
(i. e., the Scotch people). The Scotch people here 
referred to were the people now called Irish. This 
does not weaken the force of the statement how- 
ever, as will be observed by the quotation from 
Moffat on page 27 of this book. 

P^ge 38, fourth paragraph. In the quotation from Dr. Sam- 
uel Kohn, after "Christian Jews, who arose in 
England and", insert "in 1661." 

Page 41, second line from the bottom. Since writing the 
statement that the membership of the Mill Yard 
Church was limited to "but thirty-eight women in 
1737", the writer has consulted the records of 
the Mill Yard Church, and a copy of the inscrip- 
tions on the Mill Yard tombstones prepared by 
Rev. William H. Black, about 1845. ^ comparison 
of these records shows that there were at least six 
male members in 1737. The statement of mem- 
bership on page 41, is made on the authority of 
Rev. William C. Daland, in the Sabbath Recorder, 
August I, 1895. 
Page 42, in section 6, entitled, Property Interests. The state- 
ments which appear here are made on the author- 
ity of Rev. William M. Jones, in the Jubilee Pa- 
pers. The Church records say that Joseph Davis 



XXII SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

did not present the Church with the Mill Yard 
property as a g^ft, but "loaned the money" to 
Mill Yard for the purpose of purchasing it. When 
the debt was paid, does not appear. 

Page 44, last line. The statement which appears here con- 
cerning "Edmund Townsend", is made on the 
authority of the Manual of the Seventh Day Bap^ 
tists, by Rev. George B. Utter (1858). The 
Church records" say that in 1722, Edmund Town- 
send was ordained by the Natton Church and sent 
out as an evangelist "to preach to other churches 
in want.'* 

Page 47, about half way down the page. The statement 

which appears here concerning the seating capa- 
city of the Natton Chapel, is made on the authority 
of Rev. George B. Utter in the Manual of the 
Seventh Day Baptists, and of Rev. William C. 
Daland, in the Sabbath Recorder of August i, 
1895. In the summer of 1907, Lieutenant-Colonel 
Thomas W. Richardson, pastor of the Mill Yard 
Church, preached here to an -audience of fifteen, 
and the chapel, it appears, has a seating capacity 
of about thirty-five. The present roof is not a 
thatched one. 

P^ige 59, line seventeen from the bottom of the page. For 

"Mill Yard", read "Pinner's Hall." 

Page 66, concerning Thomas Bampfield. For the statement 

that "He was born in 1659 (possibly 1654) and 
died in 1693", substitute the following: Thomas 
Bampfield (Bampfylde) was the eighth child and 
youngest son of Sir John Bampfield, Bart., and 
Eliazbeth Drake, his wife. They had fifteen child- 
ren. Thomas was born about 16 18 and died Octo- 
ber 8, 1693. He is buried in St. Stephen's Church, 
Exeter. (See Bampfylde, House of Exeter, by 
Robert Dymond, F. S. A. — A Period of London, 
England — in the Archaeological Journal, for June, 
1874, pp. 95-103, volume XXXI. For the date of 



CORR£CTIONS. XXlll 

Thomas Bampfield's birth, compare with dates of 
birth of other children). Thomas Bampfield says 
he began to observe the Sabbath about 1667. (See 
Bampfield's reply to Wallace, 1693, p. 18). 

Page 71, concerning Thamas Broad. Add the following: 
Thomas Broad lived and died a rector of the 
Qiurch of England. (See Anthony Wood's 
Athenian Oxenensis, Vol. XX, pp. (c), 593-594; 
Bliss's edition, 1813). 

Page 77, concerning Hebden. In AUibone's Diction- 

ory of Authors, he is called "Returne Hebdon." 
He was one of four exangelists ordained by John 
Trask, while the latter was pastor of Mill Yard 
Seventh Day Baptist Church. 

Page 78, concerning "Bull Stake Alley." This appears 
to be written "Bull Steak Alley,'' also. Both 
forms are used in this book. 

Page 83, concerning Elder Patrick McFarlane. The refer- 
ence to Mill Yard Church in this article, as origin- 
ally written are mostly from secondary sources. 
A more recent personal examination of the records 
themselves, by the writer, fails to reveal any Pat- 
rick McFarlane. The Patrick McFarlane men- 
tioned in the Minutes of the Seventh Day Baptist 
General Conference of some forty years ago, lived 
in Springfield, Ohio, U. S. A., being a member 
of the Jackson Centre Church. 

Page 92, concerning Robert Smith. For "Robert Smith", 
read "Richard Smith." It is not known that 
Robert Smith was an observer of the Seventh Day 
Sabbath. Richard Smith, however, was a prom- 
inent member of Mill Yard Church. A "Brother 
Smith" died in 17 14, supposed to be this Richard 
Smith. He was a member here as early as 1654. 

Page 96, concerning Edward Stennett. For the statement 
"Rev. Edward Stennett died at WalUngford in 
1690", substitute the following: It is known that 
a summons for the arrest of Rev. Edward Stennett 



XXIV SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

was issued by the Ecclesiastical Court in 169 1, 
and Rev. William H. Black, after a careful exam- 
ination of the evidence available, expressed the be- 
lief that Rev. Edward Stennett was living as late 
as May 6, 1705. 

Page 107, concerning Edmund Townsend. Qualify the state- 
ment that "On December 3, 1727, he was ordained 
as the successor of Joseph Stennett, ist." by the 
following : "The records of the Mill Yard Church 
show that Edhiund Townsend was ordained as an 
evangelist, by the Natton Church, in 1722, some 
time before June 3rd. In their extreme congre- 
gational independence, it not infrequently hap- 
pened that the English Seventh Day Baptists ig- 
nored a former ordination. A like case was that of 
Robert Cornthwaite, who was ordained pastor of 
Mill Yard Church, March 8, 1726-7, although he 
was already an ordained Baptist minister when he 
embraced the Sabbath. This custom prevailed 
among Seventh Day Baptist churches in America 
in their earlier history. A sort of official succes- 
sion seems to have been followed, beginning with. 
Deacon, then Evai]gelist, next Elder, and finally 
Pastor." 

Page III, concerning Elder Wheaton. The edition 

of the Baptist Cyclopedia cited here, is. that edited 
by William Cathcart, in 1881. The letter referred 
to, was written to Elder Wheaton by Thomas Hol- 
lis the year before his death. 

Page 112, concerning William Whiston. The following is 

gleaned from the New International Encyclopae- 
dia (New York, 1904) : In 1701, William Whiston 
was appointed deputy to Sir Isaac Newton, and 
in 1703 he was appointed to succeed him in the 
Lucasian professorship at Cambridge. In 1715 
he instituted a society in London for promoting 
primitive Christianity, and the meetings were held 
at his home. This society, it is but fair to assume, 



CORRECTIONS. XXV 

under all the circumstances, was a Seventh Day 
Baptist Church. Whether it was continued after 
his death does not appear. 
Page 113, at bottom of page. Add the following: "The 
ancient Mill Yard Seventh Day Baptist Church, 
at the date of this writing — ^June, 1909 — ^meets in 
Momington Hall, Canonbury Lane, Islington, 
London, North, where the pastor, Lieutenant- 
Colonel Thomas W. Richardson, conducts the reg- 
ular weekly service on every Sabbath afternoon. 
Lieutenant-Colonel Richardson is also, by recent 
appointment, pastor of the ancient Natton Church. 

Page 315, in third paragraph from bottom of page. For 
"Silas Davis", read "Silas C. Davis.'' 

P^g^ 315? second line. For "Greenbriar", read "Greenbrier.' 

Page 428, eleventh line from bottom of page. For "Gordon 
Evans", read "Gurdon Evans." 

Page 562, line nine* from the bottom of the page. "Grim" 
should be "Greene." 

Page 567, DeRuyter Institute. Mrs. Marie (Stilbnan) Wil- 
liams, the wife of the Rev. Thomas R. Williams, 
D. D., is the author of this sketch of DeRuyter 
Institute. 



**WHAT HATH GOD 
WROUGHT!" 



REV. D. BURDETTE COON. 
See Biograflvcal Sketches, p. 1361. 



"WHAT HATH GOD WROUGHT!" 

(Niunben 23; 23, lait claase.) 



Rev, D. Burdett Coon, B. D. 
Sermon delivered on Sabbath-day, at Conference, 1902. 



The children of Israel were encamped in the plains of 
Moab. Balak, king of Moab, was much worried because of 
their presence. Calling his princes together, it was determined 
that certain positive steps must soon be taken toward driv- 
ing the Israelites away. To make their way sure for this end 
they sought the services of a certain Balaam, a heathen 
prophet, or sorcerer. He seems to have been a man of wide 
influence. Balak, knowing the power of Balaam's word, 
thought that the quickest and best way to be rid of his enemy 
was to get Balaam to pronounce a* curse against Israel. To 
make sure, as he thought, of Balaam's help, he frankly told him 
that he would promote him to honor in his kingdom if the 
desired curse were pronounced. In these hopes Balak was 
sadly disappointed. Balaam had met God on the way, and, 
for the time, seemed to be wholly under his influence and 
power. He had heard "the words of God," and had seen the 
"vision of the Almighty." As the Spirit of God came upon 
him he could do no other than to utter the words of Jehovah. 

In the midst of the wonderful parables which he spoke 



4 SEV^ENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

upon this great occasion we find the words of our text, *'What 
hath God wrought!*' This text is not a query; but is rather 
calling attention to some tremendous facts. Whether Israel 
should die or live was wholly dependent upon whether God 
was working with them. This text was a forcible reminder 
to Balak and all his subjects that God was with the Israelites, 
and therefore all the machinations of man against them would 
be vain. 

We are here to-day to celebrate what God hath wrought 
among us as a people. We are here to learn the lessons that 
God would teach us from our past. Some one has wisely said, 
"He who regards not the past, cares little for the present and 
less for the future." This Centennial Anniversary should 
give us a higher regard for our past and greater hope for the 
future, because w^e may here the better see the wondrous ways 
in which God has led us. 

Anniversaries ever have been and ever will be our teach- 
ers. The little girl calling her friends together to celebrate 
with her her fifth anniversary is on the way to knowledge. 
She has begun to mark the meaning of the years as they come 
and go. The children of Israel held their three great annual 
feasts, and in them learned what God had wrought. True 
words were those uttered by McKinley last September, in that 
great, last memorable speech, given to the people at the Expo- 
sition in Buffalo, when he §aid, "Expositions are the time- 
keepers of progress." And if expositions mark the progress 
that man hath made in material and intellectual things, our 
religious anniversaries as truly mark what God hath wrought 
for us in moral and spiritual attainments. For we are not 
here to-day to celebrate the progress we have made in material 
things. As happy as the comparison may be to us of the poor 
and simple homes of a hundred years ago with the large and 
beautiful ones of to-day; as cheering as may be the thought 
that we have discarded the ox cart and now take our journeys 
in the palace or Pullman car ; and as awe-inspiring as may be 
the material changes we have witnessed on land and sea 
within the century, it is not of these we must think and speak 
to-day. It is of greater wonders than these. 

Neither do we celebrate to-day our moral and spiritual 



WHAT HATH GOD WROUGHT! 5 

perfections, for we have them not. It would have been vain 
for priest or prophet to have claimed that the Israelites had 
made no mistakes, and had committed no sins. For all that 
they might say could not blot out the record that the children 
of Israel had often wandered far from God and duty. The 

m 

facts remained that they had complained of Moses and of 
God. They had longed for the leeks and garlics and flesh- 
pots of Eg}'pt. They had been guilty of making and wor- 
shiping the golden calf. They deserved not the protection 
they enjoyed. God could as easily and as justly have blotted 
them from the face of the earth as you, by the turn of the 
hand, brush away a troublesome fly. The wonder was not at 
their perfections, but that God could see any possibility of 
good in them, and could forgive them, and had preserved 
them in spite of their weaknesses and sins. And so the won- 
der to me is not that our numbers are not larger, but that we 
are as many as we are ; yea, that we exist at all. Seeing the 
many things that have crowded upon us from without, and the 
inconsistencies from within, the many numbered with us 
whose hearts are not with the Lord, the marvel is that God 
hath preserved us as a people. It is a miracle of divine grace 
that we are here to-day. 

And if we look for what God hath wrought for us we 
shall find that grace manifested in places and ways usually 
unsought and unseen by man. It will not be seen so much 
in pur more splendid homes, in our thriving industries, in 
our manifold material comforts, or even in our more compact 
organization of church and denomination, as in the cross- 
bearing and self-sacrificing spirit of our forefathers. 

.Not a child is born, not a mind grows, not a soul develops, 
not a church prospers, not a denomination endures, not a 
reform advances without pain, sorrow and suffering. Men's 
reaching toward wisdom and perfection hath ever been 
attended with expenditure of blood, treasure and life. Going 
from darkness to light, from poverty to wealth, from weak- 
ness to strength, from sin to righteousness, from bondage to 
liberty, from earth to heaven, means toil, struggle, sacrifice. 
From the excellent historical papers to which we have listened 
in these sessions we have heard much concerning the struggles 



6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

of our forefathers. And it is in these struggles we shall find 
the hand-dealing of our God with us. A few days ago I was 
in the home of an old lady in Little Genesee, who was born 
among these Rhode Island Rocks, ninety-eight years ago. 
She is still alert and active, working in her garden every day. 
Her mind is keen, and it is a real pleasure to visit with her. 
In talking of the Conference soon to convene here, she had 
many things to say touching our history of nearly one hun- 
dred years ago. Among the most striking things I noted the 
spirit of sacrifice that the Lord put into our people in that 
far-off day. She told of how, because of the love of Christ, 
whole families, men and women, boys and girls, walked six, 
eight, or ten miles, and how others went long distances with 
ox teams to attend "meeting" upon the Sabbath. We have heard 
here of how they used to drive a hundred miles with ox teams to 
attend the "Great Sabbatarian Yearly Meeting." And when these 
sturdy men and women pushed through the wilderness west- 
ward, they went, not so much to make themselves rich in this 
world's goods, as to make Christian homes, to establish Chris- 
tian churches, and to build up Christian schools. They went 
prepared to do these things at whatever cost. Witnessing 
their perseverance in and endurance for the truth of God in 
the midst of the most adverse circumstances, we can but say, 
Behold, "What hath God wrought!" None but an infinite 
God could have kept them. None but an infinite God can 
keep us to-day under the changed circumstances in which we 
live. With faith divine, we founded the home, the school and 
the church, that the whole truth of God might be taught. 

God Hath preserved our schools, not for the sake of the 
schools, not that the teachers in them might have a place for 
service, not that the young men and women going from them 
might fill important places in governmental, professional, or 
industrial aflFairs; but that the boys and girls we send there, 
while getting intellectual culture, may obtain heart culture 
that shall fit them for sticking to the truth of God forever. 
We praise God because in these latter days he hath put it into 
the hearts of so many of our fathers and mothers to take 
their boys and girls from the large opportunities offered in 
the High Schools and place them under larger opportunities 



WHAT HATH (lOD WROUGHT! 7 

offered in our denominational colleges. Not larger because 
of material advantage, but far larger because of moral and 
religious advantages. We rejoice because there are so many 
who prefer to sacrifice the material advantage offered their 
children now than to sacrifice the children themselves to the 
world a few years later. 

God hath wondrously wrought in that he has put it into 
the hearts of so many to go to the uttermost parts of the 
earth as his missionaries to proclaim his entire truth when 
there could be no natural expectation that large numbers 
would soon be converted through their preaching. The self- 
sacrificing labors of these men and women of Jesus Christ 
in home and foreign lands declare to us what God is doing 
in human hearts to-day. God hath been very kind and merciful 
unto us in preserving our churches when things without and 
worse things within threatened their destruction. We marvel 
at the goodness of God when, in the midst of those things, 
we discover so many homes that are homes of prayer, homes 
where God's name is revered, his Word is read, and his com- 
mandments observed. We rejoice because there are so many 
going into the world to-day to stand, everywhere they go, 
for God and his holy Word. The voices and lives of our 
3'oung men and young women foremost for the truth and love 
of God in home and church, and school, and state, declare 
to us in no mistakable terms what God hath wrought. 

God hath chosen us to stand among other denominations 
much as the children of Israel stood among other nations, 
and here we shall stand. Great honor and dignity hath God 
placed upon us in calling us to stand for such spiritual ends. 
Our strength for the conflict that must come lies not in our 
great learning, not in our wealth, not in our numbers. We 
look to things in vain for victory. **Not by might, nor by 
power, but by my Spirit, saith Jehovah of Hosts." We shall 
win by our willingness to be filled with the love of God. We 
shall win by following the track that our forefathers trod, 
the track of toil and sacrifice for the sake of Christ and his 
truth. By willingness to obey his Word, even at the cost of 
business or life itself. 

We can not do otherwise than look into the future for 



8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

a moment. Coming on the train the other day from New Lon- 
don to Westerly, I overheard two men, sitting a little ahead, 
talking about Seventh-day Baptists. They were, apparently, 
business men, and thought they were looking at the question 
from a business standpoint. I judged that they were of the 
Moabites. One said to the other, "These Seventh-day Bap- 
tists have got to go pretty soon. They can not last much 
longer. Everything indicates that they are near the end of 
their history." Poor, deluded man! I thought, Have you 
read the words of the prophet in reference to the query and 
hope of the Moabites of old? They hoped for the early 
destruction of the Israelites. The prophet answered them 
according to the Word of God, that the history of the children 
of Israel had but just begun. They would live to enter the 
promised land, and would drive every enemy from the field. 
Listen to his words. Immediately after he asked Balak and 
his subjects to behold "what God hath wrought'' in Israel's 
past, he calls upon them to see what God will do for them in 
the future. "Behold the people riseth up as a lioness, and as 
a lion doth he lift himself up; he shall not lie down till he 
eat of the prey, and drink of the blood of the slain." 

No pity need be expressed for us and the position we 
occupy. Pity for him who is in the majority in the wTong. 
Under the blessing of God the Seventh-day Baptists are here, 
and the Seventh-day Baptists are here to stay, I have no dis- 
couraging note to sound to-day. "If God be for us who can 
be against us?" Our history is but just begun. The prom- 
ised land lies before us. Contrary to the predictions of 
the world, we shall possess it. In the name of our God, 
through the grace of his Son, and by ^*the sword of the Spirit 
which is the Word of God," we shall drive every enemy 
from the field. God's truth shall triumph and his people .be 
led to victory. 



THE SABBATH FROM THE 

TIME OF CHRIST TO ITS 

APPEARANCE IN 

ENGLAND. 



ABRA.M HERBERT LEWIS D. D.. LL. D. 

See Biosrapl'hai S'-:elclu-s. p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH FROM THE TIME OF 
CHRIST TO ITS APPEARANCE 

IN ENGLAND. 



Rev. A. H. Lewis, D. D., LL. D. 



One can not take up the history of an institution like 
the Sabbath at any given point without considering its history 
previous to that point and its character and standing at the 
point where the consideration begins. Before the time of 
Christ the Sabbath had held a prominent place in the life 
of God's ancient people. Much of the religious and social life 
of the Hebrews gathered around the Sabbath because it was 
God's representative among the days, and their oft-Fecurring 
day of worship. During the centuries more immediately pre- 
ceding Christ, excessive ceremonialism and non-spiritual form- 
alism had crept into all departments of the Jewish church. 
Because of its prominence, the Sabbath was especially affected 
by this formalism and by unscriptural restrictions and eva- 
sions. 

These restrictions and evasions were burdensome, many 
of them foolish, and their adoption cultivated the spirit of 
dishonesty and disobedience. There were thirty-nine prin- 
cipal occupations which were prohibited on the Sabbath. 



12 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

These occupations were varied by subordinate distinctions as 
to places where they might occur; for example, "a public 
place," a "private place," a place which is "neither public 
nor private," and a "free place." The last being described 
as "that which is more than three hands deep or high, but not 
more than four hands square in width." Examples of these 
restrictions are as follows: 

If a beggar reaches his hand within a house and gives 
or takes something from the hand of the master, the beggar 
is guilty and the master is free. A man must not sit before 
the barber near to evening prayer until after he hath prayed. 
A tailor must not go out with his needle late on Sixth-day 
afternoon nor the scribe with his pen, lest they forget and 
carry these implements on the Sabbath. One may not light 
a lamp with cedar moss, nor with unbroken flax, nor floss 
silk, nor wick of willow, on the Sabbath. A man may extin- 
guish a lamp on the Sabbath if he fears the heathen, or 
robbers, or an evil spirit, or that the sick may sleep. If he 
extinguishes the lamp that he may save the lamp, the oil, or 
the wick, he is guilty of sin. A male camel may be led forth 
on the Sabbath with a headstall, but a female camel must be 
led by a nose ring. A woman may not go out on the Sabbath 
with laces of wool or flax, nor with straps on her head. A man 
may not go out with hob-nailed sandals, nor with one sandal, 
unless the unsandalled foot is sore. A woman may not go 
out carrying a needle having an eye, nor wearing a signet 
ring, nor a spiral head-dress, nor a bottle of musk. A cripple 
may not go out wearing a wooden leg. If a man does one 
principal work, and twenty secondary works on the Sabbath 
they will be regarded as one sin. The thirty-nine principal 
works are these: 

"Sowing, ploughing ,reaping, binding sheaves, threshing, 
winnowing, sifting, grinding, riddling, kneading, baking, 
shearing wool, whitening, carding, dyeing, spinning, warping, 
making two spools, weaving two threads, taking out two 
threads, hoisting, loosing, sewing two stitches, tearing thread 
from two sewings, hunting the gazelle, slaughtering, skinning, 
salting, curing its skin, tanning, or cutting it up, writing two 
letters, erasing in order to write two letters, building, demol- 



THE SABBATH TO THE FIFTEENTH CENTURY. 1 3 

« 

ishing, quenching, kindling, hammering, carrying from private 
to public property. Lo, these are the principal works — forty 
less one." 

A priest might replace a plaster on a wound in the tem- 
ple on the Sabbath, but not elsewhere. One might borrow 
jars containing wine, or oil on the Sabbath, but he must not 
say: "lend it to me." Through many other restrictions, sim- 
ilar to these, insincerity was cultivated, in that a large number 
of actions were reckoned as "commixtures" or "connections," 
entitled "Erubin" in the Talmud. These commixtures were 
of every conceivable sort, notably those pertaining to trav- 
eling on the Sabbath, in order to evade the commandment, 
"Abide ye every man in his own place, let no man go out of 
his place on the Sabbath-day." 

CHRIST CHARGED WITH SABBATII-BREAKINCJ. 

One of the prominent features in Christ's work was the 
condemnation of these false restrictions concerning the Sab- 
bath. By precept and example he denounced this formalism, 
ignored these restrictions, and taught those larger views and 
better practices concerning the Sabbath which fitted it for 
a place in his Kingdom. His opposition to the false notions 
of the Jews increased their enmity toward him and toward 
the development of Christianity. They could not rise high 
enough to appreciate the true view of the Sabbath which he 
presented, while their religious zeal and national pride spurred 
them into more bitter opposition to Christ because of his atti- 
tude toward these false notions concerning the Sabbath. Thus 
the correct conception of the Sabbath became a strong and per- 
manent barrier between the Jewish leaders and Christ, and the 
Christian movement within the Jewish church. 

ATTITUDE OF THE GENTILES. 

It is clear from the history of Christianity after the New 
Testament period that there was a strong tendency on the part 
of Gentile converts to object to the Sabbath as a Jewish insti- 
tution. With the death of the apostles and the passage of 
Christian history westward from Palestine, the men of culture 
who became associated with Christianity were nearly all from 
the ranks of Grecian and Roman Pagan philosophers. For 



14 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

generations there had been strong dislike of the Hebrews 
l^ecause of their unwillingness to grant any recognition to the 
various heathen deities. The attitude of the Jews toward 
Christ because of his teachings concerning the Sabbath, gave 
new impetus to this anti-Jewish prejudice, and as Pagan lead- 
ers became prominent in the development of the Christian 
church, their opposition to all Sabbath-keeping became more 
pronounced. 

Beginning with Justin Martyr, about the middle of the sec- 
ond century, these leaders gave utterance to the largest type 
of no-Sabbathism, claiming that the Salpbath was only a Jew- 
ish institution, that Jehovah to whom it was sacred was only 
an inferior deity, and that the Old Testament had little or no 
binding force upon any but Hebrews. This doctrine with its 
attendant errors, was one of the leading influences which 
changed Christian history, soon making it more Pagan than 
Christian, according to the standard set by Christ and his 
immediate followers. Hence a sharp struggle ensued in which 
the Sabbath maintained its place with the common people 
long after it was theoretically set aside through the influence 
of the Pagan-Christian leaders. That struggle continued for 
four or five centuries. 

FNTRODUCTION OF SUNDAY. 

Through the combined influence of ancient Sun worship 
and the tradition that Christ rose from the dead on the first 
day of the week, in which fact men sought to find an analogy 
between the risen Christ and the rising sun, the Sun's day 
together with many other Pagan festivals found a place in 
the Christian church under the growing influence of Roman 
Paganism and the political influences which were brought to 
bear upon Christianity in the Roman Empire. When Chris- 
tianity ascended the throne of the Caesars, early in the fourth 
century, it was destructively remodeled according to the 
genius of the Pagan state-church. In that remodeling, the 
Sunday and other Pagan festivals were supported by the Civil 
power, while public opinion and civil legislation combined to 
degrade and drive out the Sabbath. Thus the struggle went for- 
ward for four or five hundred years until the full development 
of the Roman Catholic church and the completed union of 



THE SABBATH TO THE FIFTEENTH CENTURY. 1 5 

church and state in the declining Roman Empire practically 
annulled the Sabbath in the Roman branch of the Christian 
church. 

DURING THE DARK AGES. 

The term "Dark Ages" is used here in a general sense 
to cover the time from the fifth to the fifteenth century. Dur- 
ing that time the Papacy never succeeded in driving the Sab- 
bath wholly from its dominions. There is much evidence 
showing that as the Roman church gradually expelled the Sab- 
bath, those who were loyal to the law of God and the prac- 
tices of the apostolic church, stood firm, regardless of excom- 
munication and persecution. Dissenters who kept the Sab- 
bath, existed under different names from the time of the Pope 
to the Reformation. They were either the descendants of those 
who fled from the heathen persecutions previous to the time 
of Constantine, or else those who, when he began to rule the 
church and force false practices upon it, refused subm'ssion, 
and sought seclusion and freedom to obey God. In their 
earlier history they were known as Nazarenes, Cerinthians and 
Hypsistarii, and later, as Vaudois, Cathari, Toulousians, Albi- 
genses, Petrobrusians, Passagii, and Waldenses. We shall 
speak of them in general, under this latter name. They 
believed the Romish church to be the Anti-Christ, spoken of in 
the New Testament. Their doctrines were comparatively pure 
and Scriptural, and their lives were holy, in contrast with the 
ecclesiastical corruption which surrounded them. The reign- 
ing church hated and followed them with its persecutions. In 
consequence of this unscrupulous opposition, it is difficult to 
learn all the facts concerning them, since the only available 
accounts have come to us through the hands of their enemies. 
Before the age of printing, their books were few, and from 
time to time these were destroyed by their persecutors, so 
that we have only fragments from their own writers. At the 
beginning of the twelfth century they had grown in strength 
and numbers to such an extent as to call forth earnest oppo- 
sition and bloody persecution from the Papal power. Their 
enemies have "made many unreasonable and false charges con- 
cerning their doctrines and practices, but all agree that they 
rejected the doctrine of "church authority," and appealed to 



l6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

the Bible as their only ruk of faith and practice. They con- 
demned the usurpations, the innovations, the pomp and formal- 
ity, the worldliness and immorality which attended the devel- 
opment and supremacy of the Romanized church. They made 
the Bible their only standard of faith and practice and rejected 
all changes and additions which the Roman Catholics had 
made. Benedict in his history of the Baptists says of t^e 
Waldenses : 

"We have already observed from Claudius Seyssel, the popish arch- 
bishop, that one Leo was charged with originating the Waldensian 
heresy in the valleys, in the days of Constantine the great. When those 
severe measures emanated from the Emperor Honorius against re- 
baptizers, the Baptists left the seat of opulence and power, and sought 
retreats in the country, and in the valleys of Piedmont; which last 
place, in particular, became their retreat from imperial oppression." 

Rainer Sacho, a Roman Catholic author, says of the 
Waldenses : 

'There is no sect so dangerous as Leonists, for three reasons: 
first, it is the most ancient; some say it is as old as Sylvester, others, 
as the apostles themselves. Secondly, it is very generally disseminated ; 
there is no country where it has not gained some footing. Third, 
while other sects are profane and blasphemous, this retains the utmost 
show of piety; they live justly before men, and believe nothing con- 
cerning God which is not good." 

Sacho admits that they flourished at least five hundred 
years before the time of Peter Waldo. Their great antiquity 
is also allowed by Gretzer, a Jesuit, who wrote against them. 
Crantz, in his "History of the United Brethren," speaks of 
this class of Christians in the following words: 

"These ancient Christians date their origin from the beginning of 
the fourth century, when one Leo, at the great revolution in religion 
under Constantine the Great, opposed the innovations of Sylvester, 
Bishop of Rome. Nay, Rieger goes further still, taking them for the 
remains of the people of the valleys, who, when the Apostle Paul, 
as is said, made a journey over the Alps into Spain, were converted to 
Christ." 

The extent of their position and influence is shown by 
the fact that in the thirteenth century, from the accounts of 
Catholic historians, all of whom speak of the Waldenses in 
terms of complaint and reproach, they had founded individ- 
ual churches, or were spread out in colonies in Italy, Spain, 

Germany, the Netherlands, Bohemia, Poland, Lithuania, 
(i) 



THE S\DBATH TO THE FIFTEENTH CENTURY. I7 

Albania, Lombardy, Milan, Romagna, Vicenza, Florence, 
Velepenetine, Constantinople, Philadelphia, Sclavonia, Bul- 
garia, Diognitia, Livonia, Sarmatia, Croatia. Dalmatia, Briton, 
and Piedmont. 

OUR DENOMINATIONAL ANCESTORS. 

These widely scattered Sabbath reformers were our 
denominational ancestors, in fact, if not by direct organic con- 
nection. Through them we are in touch with the last repre- 
sentatives of the Sabbath-keeping apostolic church, and with 
the first genuine Protestants. This fact is set forth by many 
of the older writers of the Reformation Period, and by Cox 
and Hessey, the two ablest English writers of the last century 
on the Sabbath question. The Sabbath found little recog- 
nition on the continent of Europe during the first stage of the 
Lutheran movement. As Protestant principles were more 
definitely formulated, and the Second General Stage of the 
Reformation was developed in England, the Sabbath question 
underwent a radical change. English Seventh-day Baptists 
were brought out and organized and our present denomination- 
al life began. It is not the province of this paper to deal with 
that phase of our history, but the results of the survey made 
in this paper support and emphasize the fact that this cen- 
tennial year is an epoch in the history of Sabbath-keeping 
Christians which links us with the earliest Seventh-day Bap- 
list churches, those which were founded by the Sabbath-keep- 
ing Christ, Lord of the Sabbath and Head of the church uni- 
versal. Herein is an honor too lightly prized, and a sacred 
trust too little appreciated. This persistent perduring of the 
Sabbath in spite of opposition and obloquy is highest proof of 
its value in the eyes of God who overrules the affairs of men in 
history. 

Standing at this point in the history of Seventh-day Bap- 
tists, the example of Christ and his teachings concerning the 
Sabbath ought to be given first place. He is supreme authori- 
ty as to the interpretation of the Ten Commandments. Being 
a Jew and the Messiah of God, he was not only the founder 
of Christianity, but the authoritative interpreter of Judaism, 
and of the relation of the Ten Commandments to the kingdom 
of God and the Christian church. The basis of Sabbath- 



l8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

keeping, at the present time, is found in the interpretation 
which Christ made and in the example which he set. Too 
much importance can not be given to the fact that what Christ 
said and did concerning the Sabbath was by way of pruning 
it — as one prunes over-growth from a vine. He interpreted 
the Fourth Commandment and purified the Sabbath from 
fonnalism and false casuistry, that it might be fitted for its 
place in the New Dispensation. The almost universal, popu- 
lar error concerning the Sabbath under the Christian Dispen- 
sation has come because men have assumed that Christ dis- 
carded the Sabbath instead of cleansing and uplifting it, thus 
fitting it for a new place and a higher mission. Upon that 
broad basis the faith of Seventh-day Baptists finds secure 
foundation. Even they have not fully appreciated the value 
of appealing to Christ as the first and foremost authority in 
all matters connected with Sabbath observance. It is to be 
hoped that this anniversary of our Conference may induce 
such a restudy of Sabbath-keeping and of the work now de- 
manded of us, as will place Christ and his interpretation of 
the Sabbath more prominently before us and before the world. 
His own words — "The Son of man is Lord of the Sabbath 
day" — have a far deeper meaning than is usually apprehend- 
ed. The Jews complained because Christ discarded and con- 
demned their formalism and disobedient evasions in the mat- 
ter of Sabbath-keeping. Christ gave a larger interpretation 
and new meaning to each of the Ten Commandments, includ- 
ing the Sabbath law. He did not weaken nor discard the 
commandment. He did reject and condemn those false inter- 
pretations which the Jews had heaped upon it. Let us begin 
the work of the coming century from a higher denominational 
standpoint than ever before — the standpoint of the law of 
God, interpreted by Christ and enforced by his example. 



SEVENTH DAY BAPTISTS 
IN THE BRITISH ISLES. 



PREFACE. 

The author would first of all acknowledge his obligation 
to Mr. Charles H. Greene for the valuable materials, in the 
way of books, papers, letters, etc., which he has gathered with 
much diligence and labor. Mr. Greene has for years been an 
enthusiastic collector of matter bearing upon English Seventh- 
day Baptist history, purchasing at considerable expense to him- 
self rare books, and carrying on an extensive correspondence 
with Sabbatarian churches and individuals in the British Isles. 
Hearty thanks are due him from the denomination for this 
service. 

The writer has examined the files of The Sabbath Re- 
corder in Alfred University, read most of the authorities cited, 
and verified the quotations given. The interested reader is 
invited to consult, for his own assurance, the works referred to ; 
and to report any errors that he may discover. 

The author's task has been a tedious and difficult one, un- 
satisfactory in many instances because of the meagre results 
obtained; but, on the whole, one full of fascination and inspi- 
ration. If the reader shall find in these pages as much to 
awaken his interest, to warm his heart and to make him re- 
joice in the privilege of sharing in such a heritage — as the 
writer has derived from his labors and researches, this publi- 
cation will not be in vain. 

Seventh-day Baptists have no reason to be ashamed of 
their ancestry. Sabbath advocates and defenders have been 
among the ablest and best of the communities and countries in 
which they have lived and labored. We can only regret that 
we know so little of them; yet cannot but rejoice that what 
we do know is all worthy of being remembered and handed 
down to posterity. J. L. Gamble. 

Alfred, N. Y., Jan. 7. 1904. 



CHARLFS HENRY GREENK. 
See Biographical Sketches, p- 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN THE BRITISH ISLES 

Including Organized Seventh-day Baptist Churches and Prominent 
Authors and Defenders of the Bible Sabbath. 



Rev. J. Lee Gamble and Charles H. Greene. 



I. EARLY CIVILIZATION OF THE BRITISH ISLES. 

It may not be uninteresting or unimportant to note that 
the earliest known inhabitants of these isles were not so rude 
and uncivilized as is sometimes supposed. That the Britons 
were of Asiatic origin seems to be supported by the testimony 
of Theophilus, bishop of Antioch, (A. D. i6o), and by the sim- 
ilarity between Druidisni and the rites of Baal and Ashtoreth 
as practiced in the East. Certain traditions indicate that 
Britain may have been settled by a Trojan colony someT time 
after the fall of Troy, and took its name from the leader of 
that colony. There is evidence that the British Isles were 
known in the time of King Solomon, and that before their 
conquest by Julius Caesar they were as civilized as the Greeks 
who fought about Troy. The Britons were versed in poetry and 
music, mathematics, geometry, astronomy, philosophy, psy- 
chology, geography, rhetoric, metallurgy, agriculture, naviga- 
tion, and a form of writing, now all but lost, by which their 
sacred mysteries were preserved from generation to genera- 
tion. The island was divided into a number of petty king- 
doms which were always at war with one another, except in 
case of great common danger, or when one kingdom developed 



22 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

unusual strength; then an arch-king, called "Pendragon," rul- 
ed over them all while the danger lasted, or while his strength 
endured. This was the condition of England when Julius 
Caesar discovered the islands, B. C. 55. 

George Smith shows that their religion "bore some 
resemblance to that professed by the Hebrew patriarchs before 
the giving of the law ;" that they had "clear and correct views 
of the divine unity, nature, and attributes ;" that they "seemed 
to have fully believed, and clearly taught, the doctrines of a 
divine superintending Providence;" and that in many other 
points they approached, in doctrine and worship, the stand- 
ards of the Old Testament Scriptures. (Smith's "Religion 
of Ancient Britain;" pp 35-54.) 

Hence, to say the least, they were not in a condition 
unfavorable to the reception of Christianity. 

II. EARLY PLANTING OF CHRISTIANITY IN THE 

BRITISH ISLES. 

That Christianity was established in Britain between the 
years A. D. 51 and A. D. 61, either by the Apostle Paul him- 
self or by converts made by him during his Roman imprison- 
ment, is the testimony of many credible historians. Gildas, 
the earliest British writer of history, born A. D. 520, says 
of the introduction of Christianity into the islands: "Mean- 
while these islands, stiff with cold and frost, and in a distant 
region of the world, remote from the visible sun, received 
the beams of light, that is, the holy precepts of Christ — who is 
the true Sun, and who shows to the whole world his splendor, 
nor only from the temporal firmament, but from the height of 
heaven, which surpasses everything temporal — at the latter 
part, as we know, of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, by whom 
his religion was propagated without impediment." Compar- 
ing this with the previous passage, the events mentioned 
appear to be limited by the "meanwhile" to a period between 
the defeat of Boadicea, A. D. 61, on the one hand, and on the 
other to events not far distant — such as the defeat of Carac- 
tacus, A. D. 51. Therefore the testimony of Gildas is to the 
effect that the gospel was preached in Britain before the year 
Cn, (Yeowell, p. 22.) 



THE SABBATfl IN ENGLAND. 23 

TESTIMONY OF THE FATHERS. 

Irenaeus, A. D. 178, says that the church m his time was 
spread throughout the world; and especially mentions the 
churches in Germany Spain, Gaul, and Britain. He adds: 
There is no difference of faith or tradition in any of these 
countries." 

Eusebius, Bishop of Caesarea, A, D. 325-340, in showing 
that the Apostles who first preached the gospel to the world 
could be no imposters or deceivers, names many countries 
in which they labored, and then adds particularly, that *'some 
passed over the ocean to those which are called the British 
Isles." 

Chrysostom, A. D. 398, mentions "The Britannic Isles*' 
as having felt the power of the Word, and says: **To what- 
ever quarter you turn — to the Indians or Moors or Britons, 
even to the remotest bounds of the West, vou will find this 
doctrine." 

Theodoret, A. D. 423-460, especially enumerates the 
Britons as one of the nations converted by the Apostles. 

DID PAUL PREACH THE GOSPEL IN BRITAIN? 

The credit of introducing Christianity into this region 
has been claimed not only for Paul, but also for Peter, Philip, 
John, Simon Zelotes, and Joseph of Arimathea ; but the most 
of the church fathers, and other authorities, favor the mission 
of St. Paul. 

Clement of Rome, A. D. 96, says: **St. Paul preached 
in the East and West, leaving behind him an illustrious record 
of his faith, having taught the whole world righteousness, and 
having traveled even to the utmost bounds of the West." 

Jerome, A. D. 392, says : "St,. Paul, having been in Spain, 
went from one ocean to another." **His diligence in preach- 
ing extended as far as the earth itself." *'After his impris- 
onment he preached in the western parts." 

Venantius Fortunatus, A. D. 560, says: **St. Paul passed 
over the ocean tp the Island of Britain, and to Thule, the 
extremity of the earth." (Ireland?) 

Many similar testimonies might be given to the early 
planting of Christianity in Britain, and that this was done 



24 SEVENTH-DAY BAiniSTS : 

by the Apostle Paul between his first and second imprison- 
ments. 

MORE MODERN HISTORIANS. 

In addition to the authority of the historians of the nine 
first centuries, the interested reader may find the subject ably 
discussed and defended in the learned works of Archbishops 
Parker and Ussher ; Bishops Stillingfieet, Lloyd and Burgess ; 
Camden, Cave, Gibson, Godwin, Nelson, Rapin, Roberts, Row- 
land, Soames, and others. 

Bishop Stillingfleet, in his ^'Antiquities of the British 
Church," spoken of as the most complete and learned work 
on the subject, containing a full account of the early ecclesi- 
astical history of Britain from the first introduction of Chris- 
tianity to the conversion of the Saxons, while rejecting many 
of the traditions respecting the British church, yet believes in 
the visit of St. Paul to this country. (Yeowell, p. viii.) 
With this view agree the authors named above. 

Dr. Hales, however, author of "Primitive British Church" 
(1819), differs from the other learned antiquarians, ancient 
and modern, as to Paul's preaching in Britain ; and the intro- 
duction of Christianity into this island, he refers to Bran, 
the father of Caractacus, during the apostolic age. There 
is neither need nor time to introduce here this interesting story. 
Nor can we more than simply refer to the Welsh "Triads," 
and "Genealogy of the Saints," the earliest historical writ- 
ings relating to the Britons, both testifying to the preaching of 
the gospel and the founding of the Christian church in the 
British Isles early in the first century, either by Paul or by 
converts to Christianity made by him in his Roman prison. 

George Smith, after summing up the evidence, given in 
part in the preceding lines, says : "We can not avoid saying that 
many accounts, supported by a much less amount of evidence, 
are generally regarded as portions of undoubted history." 
(Religion of Ancient Briton, pp 130, 131.) 

We need not doubt, therefore, that Christianity was 
])lanted in the British Isles centuries before the advent of 
Augustine. (A. D. 596), the first papal missionary to these 
islands, sent out by Pope Gregory the Great. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 2^ 

III. THE SABBATH IN THE BRITISH ISLES. 

There are many reasons for believing that the British 
church was a Sabbath-keeping church from the first, and for 
several succeeding centuries ; in fact, the Sabbath-keepers have 
continued in unbroken succession from the first introduction 
of Christianity down to the present day. 

1. The first proposition is certainly true, if the church 
was founded by the Apostle Paul or his immediate converts. 

2. Many church fathers testify that Sunday had not dis- 
placed the Sabbath as late at least as Socrates, the church histo- 
rian who wrote about the close of the fifth century that, with 
the exception of Rome and Alexandria, "all the churches 
throughout the whole world celebrate the sacred mysteries on 
the Sabbath-day." (Socrates: "History of the Church," p. 
289. London. 1880.) 

3. In the biography of Augustine who came from Rome 
A. D, 596, to convert the heathen Saxons, we are told that he 
found the people of Britain in the most grievous and intoler- 
able heresies, "being given to Judaizing, but ignorant of the 
holy sacraments and festivals of the church." That is to say, 
they kept the Bible Sabbath and were ignorant of the Roman 
"Sunday-festival." (Mrs. Tarmar Davis: "History of Sab- 
batarian Churches," p. 108. Phila 185 1.) 

Watson, (Annals, p. 136), says: "Rome through Augus- 
tine did more mischief in one year toward the subverting 
of the Christian church and See of Britain than had the 
Saxon pagan done one hundred and fifty years before." 

4. The Easter controversy indicates the hold which the 
Sabbath had upon the British Christians. If we remember that 
Christianity came to Britain from the Eastern church rather 
than from th^ Western, it will help us to understand this dis- 
cussion. 

Dr. Schaflf says: "The observance of the Sabbath gradu- 
ally ceased in the West. Yet the Eastern church to this dav 
marks the seventh day of the week, excepting the Easter Sab- 
bath, by omitting fasting and by standing in prayer." (Church 
History, p. 37. 1859.) 

Gibbon ( 1854. vol. 1. pp 515-517), writes: "As for the 



26 SEVEXTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

observance of Easter, others in other parts of Asia vary in 
the month, but hold it on Saturday." 

John Price, in 'The Ancient British Church," (pp 90, 94. 
Note), says: "The original diflference (about Easter) was that 
the Western church, followed herein by the churches of Jeru- 
salem and Antioch and Alexandria, observed Good Fridav 
either on the 14th of the month Nisan, if it fell on Friday, 
or, if not, on the next Friday; and Easter on the following 
Sunday. The Eastern church did not do that way." And 
then he adds, **There is, however, an unfair insinuation that 
the British Christians were Judiac in their observance of 
Easter day, in a letter of Pope elect, John (A. D. 634), to 
the Scoti ; and in Aldhelm's Epistle to Geruntius." This *'insin- 
uation," far from being unfair, is rather the more a true state- 
ment of the Sabbath observance of the Celtic church, which 
even celebrated its Easter or resurrection festival on the dav 
which the Scriptures point out as the one on which the Saviour 
rose from the grave, (which was "late on the^ Sabbath." Matt. 
28: 1-4). 

Peter Heylyn, in speaking of the early church in Britain 
observing its Easter on some other day than Sunday, says: 
"Which they certainly had not done had the Lord's day 
obtained amongst them that esteem which generally it had 
found in the Western church." 

The British-Celtic church observed Easter on the seventh 
day of the week until A. D. 664, when Rome triumphed in the 
controversy through the action of Oswald, king of Northum- 
berland, whom the CathoHcs convinced of their succession 
from St. Peter, "the gate-keeper of heaven." Oswa^'^ thought 
he had better be on good terms with Peter, else he might not 
get inside the golden gate! Thus Sunday began to be hal- 
lowed in Northumberland. 

Colman the Culdee, rather than submit to this decision, 
took his monks and retired to lona and then to Ireland. 
(O'Halleron's "Hist, of Ireland," p. 195.) 

Yet after all their pains to establish Sunday as the Sab- 
bath, it appears that Christians generally, and in England and 
Scotland particularly, kept the Seventh-day Sabbath until the 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 2J 

13th century. ("The Sabbath-day: Remember to keep it 
holy," p. 6: William Stillman. 1843.) 

In the further study of this subject we will consider 
separately the various geographical divisions of these islands: 

/. Ireland, 

We believe the Sabbath was observed here because: 

1. Ussher says that the church in this island was estab- 
lished "statim post passionem Christi" — soon after the passion 
of Christ ; and therefore before Sunday was thought of. 

2. The constant enmity between Ireland and ancient 
Rome prevented any kind of friendly intercourse. The doc- 
trine of Christ came not from thence here, but from the 
churches in Asia. (OUalleron's "Hist, of Ireland," pp 146- 

74.) 

3. O'Halleron further says in this connection (p 172), 

"In the present reign (Dermond, A. D. 528), Smd for nearly 
a century preceding it, Christianity was in the most flourish- 
ing condition in Ireland. They received it from Asiatics. 
These last, in many instances, adhered more closely to the 
Jewish customs than did the Roman Christians." 

4. There is ample evidence that St. Patrick, "the Apostle 
of Ireland," never had any connection whatever with Rome, 
and that he was a Sabbath-keeper. The establishment of the 
Sabbath-keeping community on the island of lona, under the 
headship of St. Columba, was manifestly the result of Pat- 
rick's preaching. Like begets like. 

5. Celtic Ireland was neither papal nor inclined to sub- 
mit to the papacy, until Henry II. riveted the Roman yoke 
upon them. (Froude's "England in Ireland," p. 17; O'Hal- 
leron's "Hist, of Ireland," p. 19.) In A. D. 11 55 Pope Adrian 
gave Ireland to King Henry to bring into the Romish fold. 

A small remnant of Sabbath-keepers has persisted in 
Ireland unto this time; a church or society being found there 
as late as 1840. 

2, Scotland. 

Prof. Moifat, ("Church in Scotland," p. 140), says: "It 
seems to have been customary in the Celtic churches of early 
times, in Ireland as well as in Scotland, to keep Saturday, the 



28 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS'. 

Jewish Sabbath, as a day of rest from labor. They obeyed the 
commandment literally upon the seventh day of the week." 
This is an important concession from a Princeton professor of 
church history. 

The same author, speaking of the Culdees of Columba's 
time, and of the Scottish church of Queen Margaret's time, 
says: "Christianity was still taught in Scotland by the church 
of which Columba had planted the seeds in lona, for the 
Guldees had substantially maintained the succession." (Mof- 
fat, p. 128.) 

We know that Columba was a Sabbath-keeper to the day 
of his death. We also know that at the time to which Moffat 
refers the Sabbath was observed by a majority of the Scot- 
tish church; for we are told that Queen Margaret, in trying: 
to harmonize the Scottish church with the rest of Europe, 
found "her next point of complaint against them was that 
they did not reverence the Lord's day, but that they held Sat- 
urday to be the Sabbath." (Skene's "Celtic Scotland," vol. 
2, PP 348, 349.) To this fact of history the Encyclopedia 
Britannica bears testimony- (Article: St. Margaret, vol. 

15. P- 544.) 

It seems therefore unquestionably established that Scot- 
land kept the Bible Sabbath from the very first on down to 
as late, at least, as 1069-1093. And it was not until as late as 
A. D. 1203 that Scotland bowed the neck to Rome and relin- 
quished the faith of her fathers, — and with it the Sabbath. 

This end was accomplished through the impious ruse of 
the mysterious roll commanding Sunday observance under 
severest penalties, said to have fallen from heaven upon the 
altar of a saint in Jerusalem. (See Lewis' "Sabbath and Sun- 
day," PP 197-202.) And yet for all this, as late as A. D. 
1557, we find Sunday classed with "other festival days" of 
the church; for a meeting of barons and nobles was held in 
Scotland that year, when it was thought expedient "that in 
all parishes of this realm the Book of Common Prayer be 
read on Sunday and other festival days publicly," &c. 

In Frank Leslie's "Popular Monthly" for Nov., 1897, 
is an article on "Fisher Folks of Scotland," in which it is said 
that among the fishermen of Scotland of the present time 



THE SABBATH IX ENGLAND. 20 

"Sunday is strictly kept as a day of rest ; no boats ^o out after 
Saturday morning." The writer thinks this is because they 
fear they might be kept out on the water over Sunday. But 
is it not rather a remnant of the old Sabbath-keeping princi- 
ples and practices of Scotland ? 

3. Wales. 

There is much evidence that the Sabbath prevailed in 
Wales universally until A. D. 1115, when the first Roman 
Bishop was seated at St. David's. The old Welsh Sabbath- 
keeping churches did not even then altogether bow the knee 
to Rome, but fled to their hiding places "where the ordinances 
of the gospel to this day have been administered in their prim- 
itive mode without being adulterated by the corrupt church 
of Rome." (J. Davis' Baptist History, Ch. i.) 

Vavasor Powell, (1617-1671), was one of several com- 
monly called "first reformers of the Baptists in Wales," who 
were successful in quickly gathering many followers at 
Caerleon and its vicintiy. Joshua Toulmin says of Powell: 
"His sentiments were those of a Sabbatarian Baptist." (Neal's 
''History of the Puritans," 2, 274.) Thomas Armitage, 
("Baptist History," pp 600, 601), states that Powell and his 
churches were not in the Baptist Association. Toulmin *s state- 
ment furnishes the reason. This writer also says he gathered 
"above twenty distinct societies consisting of from two hun- 
dred to five hundred members." 

Dr. Lewis, in "Sabbath and Sunday,'* p. 159, says there 
is no trace of Sunday legislation in Wales before its union 
with England in A. D. 1282. All this is convincing evidence 
of the ancient and continued Sabbath-keeping principles of 
the Welsh people. They were Sabbath -keeping Baptists. 

4. England. 
The history of the Sabbath in England proper leaves no 
doubt that the seventh day was originally observed, and for 
centuries, and that in this part of the Island, as in other parts, 
the banner of Sabbath truth has never been without brave 
defenders- 

NOT DIFFERENT FROM IRELAND AND .SCOTLAND. 

What has been said in general about Ireland and Scot- 



30 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

land is equally true of England. The Christians of Britain 
were of the same character as those of Scotland, at least befdre 
the coming of Augustine. Laurentius, Melitus and Justus, 
when making to Augustine their report of the Christians of 
Great Britain, said they "had found by conversation with them 
that the Scots do not differ from the Britains." (Venerable 
Bede, ii. 4, p. 118.) 

Since the church in Scotland was a Sabbath-keeping 
church, and the Britons of the southern part of the island 
were not drfferent from them, it follows that thev also 
observed the Seventh-day as the Sabbath. (Moffat, p. 140, 
as already shown, testifies that Scotland kept the Sabbath as 
late as the eleventh century.) 

ALWAYS DIFFERENT FROM ROME. 

England was always different from Rome and not 
dependent upon it. James Yeowell, ("Chronicles," p. 109), 
in speaking of exemptions from the Roman patriarchate and 
others, mentions certain ancient MSS. in the Bodleian Library, 
and then says:— "In which MSS. neither England, Scotland, 
nor Ireland is reckoned as depending on the Roman patriarch- 
ate: altho it is as certain there was a complete and absolute 
Church settled in this island long before these MSS. w^erc 
(or can be supposed to have been) drawn up, as that there 
was one at Rome itself." 

That the British Church was different from that of Rome, 
we may learn from the fact that when the Roman missionary 
to the heathen Saxons inquired of the Pope how he was to be- 
have toward the Bishops of France and Britain, the Pontiff 
answered him : — "We give thee no authority over the Bishops 
of France, for we ought not to deprive the Bishop of Aries of 
the authority which he hath received from us. But all the 
Bishops of Britain we commit to thee." (Lloyd's "Church 
Gov't," p. 80.) 

And in "Burgess Tracts," pp. 253, 254, we have this: — 
"It appears that these northern churches were shut out from 
her (Rome's) communion, and were called the schismatics 
of Britain and Ireland for no other reason than that thev would 
not receive Rome's attentions, nor submit to the authority bv 
which they were imposed." They certainly would not have 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 3 1 

■ 

been called "schismatics" if they had been in doctrine and faith 
like the Church of Rome. 

Burgess further says:^"In our country the authority of 
the Pope was unknown during the six first centuries — was not 
acknowledged by the Saxon princes, tho submitted to by some 
of the sovereigns subsequent to the conquest, and was not 
admitted bv those who were nearest in succession to the Saxon 
kings." 

It is apparent that the Anglo Saxons in their early settle- 
ment of Great "Britain" were many of them Seventh-day Bap- 
tists. (See Winebrenner's "History of all Religious Denomi- 
nations," p. 96; ed. 1853.) 

As Rome was in the observance of Sunday at this time. 
Britain was "schismatic" in that she still held to the doctrine 
of the early Church, both as to the Sabbath and other things. 

Bede (book 3, chapt. 4), says of Columba and his dis- 
ciples, that, "having no one to bring them the Synodal decrees, 
by reason of their being so far away from the rest of the world, 
they therefore practiced only such works of piety as they 
could learn from the prophetical, evangelical and apostolical 
writings." 

What further or better testimony is needed to prove that 
the British Church for at least six centuries kept the Sabbath 
of Jehovah, and practiced Scriptural baptism? Happy the 
Church universal if she had followed such "apostolic succes- 
sion." 

SUNDAY REGARDED SIMPLY AS A FESTIVAL. 

In all Saxon laws, beginning with A. D. 688, Sunday is 
spoken of as a "festival f and not the least reference is made 
to any divine law or sacredness. 

In A. D. 878 Alfred had a Sunday law under the head : — 
"Of working on a 'festival.' " 

King Edward, A. D. 959-975, enacted : — "Let the festivals 
of every Sunday be kept," etc. 

In A. D. 1017-1035 Canute, King of Denmark, became 
king of all England: his Sunday law reads, "let every Sunday's 
festival be held from noon of Saturday till noon of Monday." 



32 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Henry VI., A.- D. 1448: — "All manner of fairs and mar- 
kets in the said principal feasts, and Sundays, and Good Fri- 
days, shall clearly cease," etc. 

During the Puritan supremacy, A. D. 1640-1660, Sunday 
was called the "Lord's day," and the laws were strict and ex- 
plicit ; but previous to this date Sunday was simply a "festival 
day" without divine authority; and the **Book of Sports," by 
James I., in 1618, and by Charles I., in 1633, shows the way in 
which the day was regarded — ^held simply by expediency and 
by human authority only. (The above quotations are made 
from Dr. A. H. Lewis' "Sunday Legislation," 1902, pp. 73- 

115.) 

THE WALDENSES IN ENGLAND. IO7O-I315. 

Mr. George Molyneaux, a resident of Milford Haven, 
Wales, says: — "All the Christian Church were seventh-day 
observers during the early centuries. Sunday is from Rome 
and was but slowly pushed into the British Church." This 
is certainly a true statement ; but while the Sabbath was being 
gradually crowded out of the Establishment, a new lamp was 
being lighted whose brightness was to shine with splendor, tho 
the bearers should change, until the time of Charles IL And 
then, changing again, it was to blaze up once more ; and now, 
tho burning very low, the ancient light still shines with an 
eyer steady clearness and brilliancy. 

The ancient Waldenses had now spread themselves over 
nearly all of Europe, and in "the time of William the Con- 
queror (1070), and his son, William Rufus, it appears that the 
Waldenses and their disciples out of France, Germaii^s and 
Holland had their frequent recourse and did abound in Eng- 
land; and had, about A. D. 1080, generally corrupted all 
France, Italy, and England." (Crosby's History of the Eng- 
lish Baptists, 2: 43, 44.) 

Toward the middle of the twelfth century a society of 
Waldenses made its appearance in England, coming originally 
from Gascoyne, where, "being numerous as the sands of the sea, 
they sorely infested France, Italy, Spain, and England." 
(Lewis: "Sabbath and Sunday," p. 211.) 

In the thirteenth century the Waldenses had spread abroad 

through twenty-two countries of Europe. Britain being one. 
(2) 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 33 

(Benedict: p. 31.) There was not among them all perfect 
agreement in sentiments; yet that they were opposed to the 
pretensions and innovations of Rome, and that they clave only 
to the text of Scripture, is admitted by all. That they "despised 
the feast of Blaster, and all the festivals of Christ and the 
Saints," is also generally admitted. (Benedict: 1813; 2: 412, 

413.) 

"Purchase's Pilgrimage," a sort of universal history pub- 
lished in London, ^England, in 1625, says that they '*keep Sat- 
urday holy, nor esteem Saturday fasts lawful; but even on 
Easter they have solemn services on Saturday, eat flesh, and 
feast it bravely like the Jews." (Lewis: Sabbath and Sun- 
day, pp. 216, 217.) 

By A. D. 1260 these people had increased to at least 800,- 
000 — some say, upwards of 3,000,000. So there was no 
lack of Sabbath light even in these early times. (Benedict: 
1848, p. 31.) Having upheld the Sabbath truth for nearly 
three centuries, until A. D. 13 15, the Waldenses seem to have 
been merged into the Lollards. 

THE LOLLARDS IN ENGLAND. 

The Lollards were followers of John Wyckliffe, and were 
the adherents of a religious movement which was widespread 
at the end of the fourteenth century and the beginning of the 
fifteenth, and which, to some extent, maintained itself on to the 
Reformation. (Brit. XIV. Article, "Lollards.") The first 
official use of the word appears in 1387, when the Bishop of 
Winchester issued a mandate against five of these "poor 
preachers," as they were called, to suppress them. 

The movement took its name from Walter Lollard, a Ger- 
man preacher, who in the reign of Edward III., about the 
year A.D. 1350, came to England. He was called by Peter Per- 
rin, "a Waldensian Bard." Benedict, (History, p. 307), says he 
was "a man of great renown among the Protestants of that 
day in Germany; and was so eminent in England, that, as in 
France they were called Berengarians from Berengarius, and 
Petrobrussians from Peter de Bruys, so also did the Walden- 
sian Qiristians for many generations bear the name of this 
worthy man, being called Lollards." 

Benedict (History, p. 308), further says: — "They now 



34 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: ' 

abounded ; more than half of the nation became Lollards ; yea. 
they covered all England. In 1389 they formed separate and 
distinct societies agreeable with Scripture. In these churches 
all the brethren were equal, each could preach, baptize, and 
break bread. They were united in opinion as one, and were 
called "Bible men,'^ since they allowed no office not enjoined in 
the Word of God. Their hostility to the hierarchy, and their 
numbers, aroused their enemies to adopt severe measures. In 
the year 1400 a law was passed sentencing Lollards to be burned 
to death. In Norfolk they abounded, and there they suffered 
severely. Still the "Bible men" increased, and became danger- 
ous to the Church. They are said to have numbered 100,000." 
Henry VIII., while in conflict with the Pope, relieved and en- 
couraged the Lollards in his kingdom ; and this led their per- 
secuted brethren from all parts of Europe to flock to England 
in great numbers, to enjoy religious liberty, and to strengthen 
the cause of true religion. 

That these people were immersion Baptists, and generally 
refused to baptize infants, is admitted even by their enemies. 
Benedict (p. 308), says of Walter Lollard: — "He was in sen- 
timent the same as Peter de Bruys, who was the founder of 
the Petrobrussians of France." The Lollards were like the 
Petrobrussians, and these were Sabbath keepers. 

Dr. Allix ("Ecclesiastical History of the Ancient Piedmont 
Church," p. 162), gives evidence of their Sabbath-keeping prin- 
ciples; he refers to a Romish priest who said he had handled 
"five questions against the Petrobrussians which bear a great 
resemblance to the belief of the Cathari of Italy." That the 
Cathari did retain and observe the ancient Sabbath, is certified 
by their Romish adversaries. Dr. Allix quotes a Roman Cath- 
olic author of the twelfth century concerning three sorts of 
heretics — the Cathari, the Passagii, and the Arnoldistae; and 
says of this Romish' writer : — "He lays it down as one of their 
opinions that the law of Moses is to be kept according to the 
letter, and the Sabbath ought to take place." 

Bishop White, in speaking of Sabbath-keeping as opposed 
to the practices of the Church, says : — "It was thus condemned 
in the Nazarenes and in the Cerinthians, in the Ebionites and 
in the Hypsistarii. The ancient Synod of Laodicea made a 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 35 

decree against it ; also Gregory the Great affirmed it was Judai- 
cal. In St. Bernard's time it was condemned in tlie Petro- 
brussians. The same hath then and ever since been condemned 
as Judaish and heretical." (Treatise on the Sabbath, p. 8.) 

Dr. Hessey says : — "The Lollards, at the beginning of the 
fourteenth century, entertained a strong antipathy to Saints' 
Days, and extended it even to the weekly Festival of the Res- 
surrection" — Sunday. (Brompton Lectures, p. 95.) 

"Studies in English History," by Gardner and Spedding, 
(1881, p. 296), says: "The Lollards * * * Could not 
overlook the injunction contained in the Fourth Command- 
ment * * * here were most positive words of Scripture 
* * * and the clear tendency of Lollard teaching was to 
carry out the Scripture command to the letter." The "Sab- 
bath Memorial" for January, 1882, also bears testimony to the 
same eifect. 

With all this testimony before us we cannot doubt that the 
Lollards were Sabbath-keepers, observers of the seventh day 
of the week, the Sabbath which God himself enjoined at the 
beginning of creation, and which he has never repealed. It is 
clear also that as early, at least, as A. D. 1389 they were formed 
into regularly organized churches — "separate and dis- 
tinct societies agreeable to Scripture." Thus the succession of 
Sabbath witnesses is maintained unbroken from the first cen- 
tury down to the Reformation. 

In A. D. 1530, one of the pastors of the Waldenses, George 
Morel, published the Memoirs of his church. He said there 
were then 800,000 professing the Waldensian faith. This can 
well be believed when one considers the host of martyrs that 
they furnished ; and that in 1315 there were 80,000 in Bohemia 
alone. (Benedict, p. 80. Wm. Jones' History of the Chris- 
tian Church, p. 440.) 

THE ANABAPTISTS IN ENGLAND. 

About the time of Luther's Reformation, early in 1520. 
certain of the old evangelical Baptists of Germany were called 
"Anabaptists," because they rebaptised all who entered their 
communion. That they had a comparatively pure creed, and 
were faithful in their testimony against the corruption of the 
Romish Church, is admitted by all. That they were immersion 



36 SEVENTH-DAV BAPTISTS*. 

Baptists, the very name indicates ; and that they were observers 
of the seventh-day Sabbath will be presently shown. 

About the year 1565 they made their appearance in Eng- 
land, which had always been a cave of Adullam and a city of 
refuge to those who were persecuted for righteousness sake. 
These Anabaptists lasted as such for a little over one century, 
and then they were merged into some of the other evangelical 
churches. As further evidence that they flourished in Eng- 
land, the "Broadmead Records: Historical Introduction," p. 
53, states that "In 1568 the Dutch Anabaptists held private 
Conventicles in London, and perverted many." 

In 1525 certain fanatics of Munster, Germany, thought to 
set up the kingdom of Christ on earth, "taking heaven by 
storm." These people ran to wild extremes, and cast much 
discredit upon the cause of true religion. The true Anabap- 
tists, however, had no part nor lot with these ranting visiona- 
ries, yet they were unfortunately classed with them; and this 
was used as a pretext for renewed persecution. 

Many, if not all, of the Anabaptists observed the seventh- 
day Sabbath. Dr. Francis White (Treatise on the Sabbath 
Day, p. 132), says: — "They who maintain the Saturday 
Sabbath to be in force, comply with the Anabaptists." 

Russen (On Anabaptists, London, 1703. p. 79), speak- 
ing of heresies, says : — "Under this head I could conclude some 
of them under those of Anabaptists, who have been inclined 
to this personal reign of Christ, and have embraced the seventh- 
day Sabbath." 

In "Sabbath Redivivum," by Cawdrey and Palmer, Lon- 
don, 1562, it is said: — "It seems the Anabaptists, who usually 
cry down the Sabbath either as antichristian or ceremonial, 
began to see the necessity of a Sabbath ; and will rather return 
to the old Sabbath with the Jews than have none at all." 

James Ockford, whose book on the Sabbath was "sharply 
confuted with fire," in 1642, was called an Anabaptist. 

Thus the Anabaptists, who were clearly Sabbath-keepers, 
took the torch from the Waldenses and Lollards, and carried 
it for about a century in England. 

It may be asked, What became of the Sabbath-keeping 
Waldenses and Lollards? Benedict (History of Baptists, 



THE SAUJIATH IX ENGLANJ). 37 

1848, p. 79), in speaking of these people in connection with 
the Reformation, says: — "The multitudes who lay concealed 
in almost all parts of Europe hailed with joy the dawn of that 
day which should relieve them from the persecuting power 
of the despotic heads of the Roman Church. But soon they 
found themselves in their expectations mistaken, became en- 
tirely dissatisfied with some of the principles on which the 
Reformation was conducted, and so far as their voice could be 
heard they entered their decided protest against the Protes- 
tants, and believed — ^that the Reformation needed reforming. 
}>ut at length these afflicted Waldenses were ready to submit 
to almost any condition for the sake of gaining new friends 
and protectors : and one company after another became asso- 
ciated by way of correspondence, as an incipient measure, and 
in the end were amalgamated with the Reformed or Protes- 
tant party, (Benedict, 1848, p, 83.) 

"The Baptist Cyclopedia" (1881), states the case thus: — 
"In 1530, according to Du Pin, the Waldenses united with the 
Reformers, and were persuaded to renounce certain pecu- 
liarities which heretofore they held, and to receive doctrines 
which till then had been foreign to their creed. This new ar- 
rangement harmonized the reformations of the twelfth 
and sixteenth centuries, and probably removed Baptist doc- 
trines from the valleys of the Piedmont. This ancient com- 
munity is now Presbyterian, and had its delegate in the. recent 
Pan-Presbyterian Council in Philadelphia." 

However, in spite of this great defection, many remained 
faithful; and from Reformation times until the present day, 
the British Isles have not been without organized Seventh-Day 
Baptist Churches. 

IV. ORGANIZED SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 

CHURCHES. 

Thus far we have endeavored to show, and think we have 
done so, that Christianity was planted in the islands of Great 
Britain in the apostolic age; that it was Sabbath-keeping in 
character; that for some six centuries, at least, the Sabbath 
prevailed in these islands, and that, on down to the Refor- 
mation, Sabbath advocates and adherents abounded in un- 
broken and persistent succession. 



38 SEVENTU-DAY BAPTISTS I 

We now come to the subject of organized Seventh-Day 
Baptist Churches. 

A. D, 1558. 

Chambers' Cyclopedia states that "many conscientious and 
independent thinkers in the reign of Elizabeth (i 558-1603) 
advocated the seventh-day." 

A. D. 1552. 

The Sabbath Recorder of June 11, 1868, says: — ''In 1552 
many in England were known as Sabbatarians." 

A. D, 1545. 

Dr. Samuel Kohn, chief Rabbi of Budapest, Hungary, in a 
recent work (Sabbatarians in Transylvania^ 1894, pp. 8, 9), 
says:-r-"In Bohemia Sabbatarians sprung up as early as 1530. 
Such Sabbatarians, or similar sects, we meet about 1545 among 
the Quakers in England. Several leaders and preachers of 
the Puritans have re-transferred the rest day from Sunday to 
Saturday; and the Christian Jews who arose in England and 
partly emigrated to Germany, and settled near Heidelberg, 
believed, indeed, in Jesus, but they also celebrated the Sabbath 
and regarded the Jewish laws in reference to meats and 
drinks." 

A, D. 1536. 

Both Robert Cox and Dr. Hessey trace the origin of the 
Seventh-Day Baptists of England to the time of Erasmus 
(1466- 1 536), who wrote of Sabbatarians in Bohemia early in 
the Reformation. Descendents of the Waldenses in Bohe- 
mia and Holland formed material for Sabbath-keeping 
Churches, which appeared with the dawn of the Reformation. 
(Lewis: Sabbath and Sunday, pp.3 17-320.) 

A, D, 1389. 

We have already noted that Benedict (History of Bap- 
tists, p. 308), speaks of "separate and distinct societies" of 
Sabbath-keeping Lollards as early as A. D. 1389. 

From the multiplicity of testimony we cannot but be con- 
fident that there were organized Sabbath-keeping Churches 
much earlier than any definite date which can be fixed by 
historical documents. Existing records and accounts, take us 
back no further than about 16 17 A. D. From that date until 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 39 

the present we have learned more or less of something like 
thirty-two Seventh-Day Baptist Churches in England, Scot- 
land and Ireland. But our information in manv instances is 
very meagre ; of very few do we know the exact date of organ- 
ization; of many we simply know that they were in existence 
as early as a given date, or that they were alive as late as a 
certain time ; of a few we have been unable so far to discover 
any date, altho the evidence of their existence at some time is 
quite clear. 

We shall endeavor to give them in as nearly chronological 
order as possible. 

(A) BRIEF HISTORY OF KNOWN CHURCHES. 

(l) MILL YARD, LONDON. 1617. 

1. Origin, Some have supposed that this church owes its 
origin to the labors of John James, who was martyred Oct. 
19, 1661. President Daland goes back as far as about 1580. 
In 1617 (or i6i6)John Trask came to London from Salis- 
bury, and held revival meetings. One of his disciples, named 
Hamlet Jackson, was the means of bringing Trask and many, 
if not all, of his congregation to the observance of the seventh- 
day Sabbath in about 1617, and Elder William M. Jones says 
that this Traskite congregation was the origin of the Mill 
Yard Church. All the records of this church, prior to 1673, 
were destroyed in the fire of 1790; the "Old Church Book," 
dating from 1673 to 1840, refers to an older Record ; the **New 
Church Book" dates from 1840 to the present time. 

2. Place of worship. From the beginning until 1654 they 
worshipped "near Whitechapel ;" in 1661 their meeting place 
was in "Bull Stake Alley," and in 1680 they were at East 
Smithfield — for from here they addressed a letter to the New- 
port (R. I.) Church, dated East Smithfield, London, Dec. 
21, 1680. From 1691 to 1885 they worshipped in Mill Yard 
Goodman's Fields, County of Middlesex, a part of London, 
now in the heart of the metropolis. Their chapel here waj> 
burned in 1790, and in September of the same year the first 
stone of a new edifice was laid by John, Joseph and William 
Slater, the only trustees for some years. 

After being dispossessed of their Mill Yard property in 
1885, they "i^t ^^^ worship in the Commercial Street Baptist 



40 SEVENTH-DAY HAFTISTS : 

Church until 1892, and then in the Welsh Baptist Church in 
Eldon Street, where once worshipped a Calvinistic Seventh- 
clay Baptist Church, which became extinct about 1840. For 
some time since 1900, the congregation assembled in private 
houses; and, to accommodate the widely scattered flock, two 
separate meetings were held — one at the residence of Lt. Col. 
Thomas W. Richardson, and the other either at the house of the 
Church Secretar}', or at the home of the deacon. On the 
4th of April, 1903, this Church began to hold services in St. 
Thomas' Hall, Gillespie Road, Highbury Vale. 

3. Pastoral service. The early pastorates are difficult to 
determine ; the following arrangement is probably very nearly, 
if not entirely, correct : 

John Trask 1617-1619 

Dr. Peter Chamberlen 1653 ? 

John James ?-i66i 

William Sellers ^ *i67o-i678 

Henry Soursby 1678-171 1 

John Savage 1712-1720 

John Maulden 1712-1715 

Robert Cornthwaite 1726-1755 

Daniel Noble 1752-1783 

Peter Russell 1755-1789 

William Slater 1784-1819 

William Henry Black 1840-1872 

William Mead Jones 1872-1895 

William C. Daland 1896-1899 

William Sellers was pastor when the present records began, 
1673. After William Slater's death, in 1819, there was a 
period of about twenty-one years without a pastor; the Mill 
Yard Chapel was closed until 1826, when the pulpit began to 
be supplied by various First-day Baptist ministers, until Elder 
Black became pastor. At the death of Elder Jones, in 1895, 
some desired to close the chapel and give up the long and 
l)rofitless struggle; but others thought differently, !and in 
March, 1895, a church meeting was held and an appeal made 
to their American brethren for ministerial aid. Rev. W. C. 



• Hldcr Black says, 1657. 



run SAIIIIATH IN KN(iLANl). 4I 

Daland was sent over to them, and remained about two months ; 
on his return he recommended that the Missionary Society 
send the Mill Yard Church a missionary pastor suited to their 
needs, for the space of three years. This recommendation was 
adopted by the Missionary Society, and the Mill Yard Church 
called Dr. Daland to be its pastor ; he returned to England in 
the Spring of 1896 (May ist) and served the Church as its 
pastor until Dec. 31, 1899. Since that date the Church has 
been without a pastor. Rev. A. T. <}e Learsay and Lt. Col. 
Thomas W. Richardson have acted in that capacity. 

With the pastorates of John James and William Sellers 
arose a custom of dual pastorates which continued until 1780; 
hence the overlapping of pastoral dates. 

4. Membership, The first members, as given in Jubilee 
Papers, were John Trask and wife, William Hilly ard, Christo- 
pher Sands, Rev. Matthew Coppinger, Mary Chester, Mr. 
Hebden, Mr. Wright, et al. A little later, about 1653, appear 
the names of Peter Chamberlen, John Light, John Spittlehouse. 
John Davis, Richard Ellis, Richard Smith, Robert Feak. 

The time of greatest prosperity seems to have been dur- 
ing the pastorate of Robert Cornthwaite ; the Church records 
of 1730 give accounts of meetings for thanksgiving and prayer 
in view of the interest manifested in various places respecting 
the Sabbath. The chapel seated two hundred and fifty, had a 
gallery, and was* well filled in the eighteenth century ; the 
society was in a flourishing condition, many persons of quality 
being members of this ancient church. These brethren would 
come to meeting in fine equipages, with servants and liveried 
footman; for the latter the gallery was provided, where they 
might receive the benefits of the gospel and yet be by them- 
selves. 

Among the persons of eminence who belonged to this 
church were such as Joseph Davis, the generous benefactor; 
George Carlow and Edward Elwall, authors of Sabbath pam- 
phlets; Nathanael I'ailey, the lexicographer; William Tem- 
pest, F. R. S., barrister and poet; et al. 

In 1673 there were seventy members; seventy-nine in 
1681 ; but thirty-eight women in 1737; in 1763 the number 
reached eighty-seven, the largest figure ever attained by this 



42 , SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

church. When Dr. Black became pastor, in 1840, there were 
five members — Ann Slater, Harriet Slater, Charlotte Slater, 
Sophia Slater, and Rev. William H. Black, who in 1844, mar- 
ried Harriet Slater as his third wife; in 1845 there were seven 
members; in 1855, thirteen; in i860, twenty; in 1870, eight; in 
1872, but four — ^Deacon Thomas Rix, Rev. W. M . Jones, who 
joined that year, Mrs. Solomon Carpenter, and Mrs. W. M. 
Jones, the last two being daughters of Elder Black ; and in 
1895 there were nineteen members — nine resident and ten non- 
resident, eleven males and eight females. 

The Mill Yard Church has been recognized as a member 
of the General Conference since the visit of Rev. George B. 
Utter from America in 1843, ^^^ ^ letter of fraternal greeting 
from that church to the Conference in 1844, June 4th. Since 
that date it has continued to report from time to time with con- 
siderable regularity. 

5. Creed and name. The church records show that "on 
the first day of the month (September, 1698), the ten Com- 
mandments were set up in the meetinghouse." In 1704, the 
ten commandments, together with Matt. 5: 19; Rev. 12: 17 
and 14: 12, are mentioned in such a way as to leave the im- 
pression that these were the Church's Articles of Faith; and 
indeed it seems never to have had any other. 

The first mention, in the records, of the title ** Seventh-day 
Baptists," is under date of October 6, 1754, when there occurs 
the following entry: — "The Congregation of Protestants dis- 
senting from the Church of England, commonly called the 
Seventh-day Baptists," etc. How long they had been "com- 
monly" so called, we do not know. 

6. Property interests. In 1691. in connection with others, 
Joseph Davis, Sr., purchased the Mill Yard property, consist- 
ing of chapel, burying ground, three cottages, almshouse and 
parsonage. The chapel seated two hundred and fifty, and had 
a gallery. This chapel was burned in 1790, and the same year 
the corner stone of a new edifice was laid. In 1700, for the 
benefit of the eight Seventh-day Baptist Churches then exist- 
ing in England, Mr. Davis conveyed a portion of his property 
in due form to nine trustees, providing for their perpetuation 
in case of deaths. The first were Joseph Davis, Sr.. Henry 



o ._ 

-J is 

r,- I? 



I in 



THE SABBATH IN EN(iLAM). 43 

Soursby, Peter Lawrence, John Savage, Thomas Slater, Juciah 
Gadbury, Joseph Davis, Jr., William Sellers and John Moore ; 
Mr. Moore died that year, and John Smith, a linen draper, was 
appointed in his place. In 1706 Joseph Davis, Sr., died, and 
the bulk of his property went to his son, Joseph Davis, Jr., 
subject to an annual "rent charge" in favor of the Mill Yard 
and seven other Seventh-day Baptist Churches then existing in 
England. The son died in 173 1 without issue, and, by pro- 
vision of his father's will, the estate became vested in the 
trustees for the use of the Mill Yard Church; and all these 
years,from the income of this property, have been paid th« 
salaries of the pastors of the Mill Yard and Natton Churches. 
The total income in 1880 was six hundred pounds sterling; 
and in 1902, over seven hundred pounds. 

In the Sabbath Recorder of Aug. i, 1895, Rev. Dr. W. C. 
Daland stated that Joseph Slater, Jr., Nov. i, 1809, "out of 
malice against his uncle, William Slater, and out of opposition 
to the religious principles of the congregation," filed in the 
High Court of Justice an information against his uncle, the 
minister. This Joseph Slater afterwards left the membership 
of this church and became attached to the Church of England, 
but retained his trusteeship and secured his own friends to be 
trustees ; and so the whole property has ever since been in the 
Court of Chancery. 

In 1885 this location was desired bv the London. Tilburv 
and Southend Railroad for a terminus; and instead of nego- 
tiating with the owners of the property, they went to 
representatives of the Crown, stated their wants, and agreed 
upon a price — 5,500 pounds sterling — which was paid into the 
Court of Chancery to be passed over to the rightful owner. 
The Church vacated the property June, 1885, and the railroad 
took possession. 

Such a splendid sum of money seemed too much to be al- 
lowed to go to a small, struggling congregation of a despised 
sect ; and as, owing to the small number of male members in 
this church, the majority of the trustees had come to be first- 
day Baptists, they represented to the Court of Chancery that 
the Seventh-day Baptists were dead — or so nearly so as to be 
in no condition to carry out the objects for which the property 



« 



44 Si:VEXTH-DAY BArTlSTi?: 

had been given; and that they, being next of kin to the de- 
ceased, were the proper persons to receive it. For a time it 
seemed that they would succeed in altogether depriving the 
rightful owners of any share at all in the property ; but finally 
a "Scheme'' was agreed upon providing, on certain conditions, 
for the erection of a chapel for the joint use of the Mill Yard 
people and the (first-day) General Baptist Church of the New 
Connection ; and also directing the trustees of the Joseph Davis 
fund to pay one hundred pounds per annum to the Mill Yard 
Society "towards the expenses, including any minister's sti- 
pend and the rent of a place of meeting," until said chapel 
should be built. But nothing has been done to carry out this 
"Scheme," no steps have been taken by the trustees to erect 
such a chapel, and the one hundred pounds have not been given 
to the Society. As previously stated, the little church met for 
worship until April 4, 1903, in the homes of its members ; and 
it looks very much as tho their enemies would prevail against 
them after all, in depriving them of all benefits of the property 
which rightfully belongs to them alone, and thus succeed in 
utterly diverting this property from the original and only pur- 
pose of the testator. 

This, in brief, is the history of this ancient church, which, 
for nearly three hundred years, has maintained unremitted 
worship, and held aloft the banner and torch of Sabbath truth. 

(2) NATTON. 1640. 
I. Location, Natton is a small hamlet about two or three 
miles from Tewkesbury, in Gloucestershire, in the west of 
England; it is about ninety miles from London, fifteen from 
Gloucester, and thirty-five from Birmingham. 

2. Organisation. There is evidence that there were Sab- 
bath-keepers here as early as 1620, and this church was prob- 
ably gathered not later than 1640 ; but a complete organization 
may not have been effected until about 1650. Prior to 1680. 
Natton seems to have been a mixed congregation consisting 
of both first-day and seventh-day observers. 

3. Pastoral scnnce. 

John Cowell ?-i68o 

John Purser 1660-1720 

Edmund Townsend 1720-1727 



GRAVEYARD AT NATTON. NRAR TEWKESBURY, ENGLAND. 

fCnrlliw Fiti Randolph StntidliiK n'itli iiolr liunk In hnnd.) 

THE Cri.M'El, AT XATTON. 

iCIupcl to thv left, ntliiched (a tbe FiirnibDusp. rorllan Fllz Rniidolpli. nod 

JaiDH Pnrner — ■ deBcendaDt at Brnfamtn Purwr wtao built Iht cbapal — ntaadlni 

Id thp forpKround.) 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 45 

Philip Jones 1727-1770 

Thomas Hiller 1 770-1790 

An interim of several years. 

Henry Matty ?-i845 

John Francis 1845-1870 

Thomas Wilkinson 1870-1903 

Mr. John Cowell, author of the **Snare Broken," was prin- 
cipal preacher in the beginning of the mixed congregation. 
He began to keep the Sabbath in 1661, and left it in 167 1. Mr. 
Purser preached at Ashton while Cowell was his superior and 
senior. Cowell was not in all points in harmony with Purser, 
and this caused some friction between the two. 

At Elder Coweirs death, July 31, 1680. Elder John Purser 
took sole charge at Natton, with the best of results. He was 
descended from a family of considerable wealth and influence, 
but was disinherited by his father because he kept the seventh- 
day Sabbath. Yet it pleased the Lord to give him prosperity 
when he became a farmer in the country. He suffered much for 
conscience sake between the years 1660 and 1690. He reared 
a large family of children who "all walked in his steps," also 
many of his grandchildren. He served the church faithfully 
for about sixty years, until his death in 1720. The descend- 
ents of Mr. Purser continue active in the work of the Natton 
Church to the present day. About fifty years ago the deacon 
of this church was Isaac Purser; he died May 17, 1864, aged 
seventy-five years. The present deacon is John Purser, who 
has served in that capacity since 1870. He was baptized 
by Elder John Francis in 185 1. 

Edmund Townsend succeeded John Purser as pastor, in 
1720, until he was called in 1727 to London, to succeed Joseph 
Stennett as pastor of the Pinner's Hall Church. At the same 
time there had been preaching to other branches of the widely 
scattered flock two young men who gave great promise of 
usefulness — Philip Jones and Thomas Boston. 

Philip Jones was chosen to succeed Elder Townsend ; and 
having served the church faithfully for about fifty years, forty- 
three of which he was "leading elder" or pastor, he died in 
1770. He was a man of untiring energy, going where duty 
called him, braving storm and flood that he might meet his ap- 



t 



46 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

pointments. He had regular preaching stations at Chatten- 
ham, Ashton, Parford. Natton and other places. He was a 
man of great earnestness and power, and "a good and lively 
preacher of the gospel." During his pastorate the Natton 
church increased to thirty or forty. 

His nephew succeeded him, and served until his death in 
1790; he is buried in the chapel burying ground, dedicated for 
that purpose by Benjamin Purser. This nephew, Thomas 
Hiller, was at the same time pastor of a first-day Baptist church 
in Tewkesbury, and is said to have been "successful at Nat- 
ton as well as at Tew^kesbury." 

After Elder Hiller's death there was an interim of some 
years, during which the church was without a regular pastor ; 
but meetings were sustained by the aid of the Baptist preacher 
in Tewkesbury. One Henry Matty, deacon of the first-day 
Baptist church, had the pastoral oversight of the Natton church 
for a while, receiving for the same twenty pounds a year from 
the Davis Charity. He died Dec. 14, 1845, ^^ the age of 
seventy-five years.' 

After this. Elder John Francis, a Welshman, took the 
oversight of the church and sierved until his death, in 1870. 
His salary, at first sixty pounds, and afterwards one hundred 
and forty pounds, was paid out of the Davis Charity. Deacon 
John Purser says he was not a Sabbath-keeper. 

After the death of Elder Francis, Thomas Wilkinson, a 
first-day Baptist minister of Tewkesbur>', became pastor of the 
Natton church. He received eighty pounds a year from the 
Davis Charity, as his salary. For about eighteen years before 
his death he was bed-ridden with spinal trouble, and his duties 
were performed by a deputy. Sometimes when this assistant 
arrived at Natton he found no audience, and then, of course, 
there was no service for that Sabbath ; but when three persons 
appeared at high noon of a Sabbath-day, he would preach 
with as much earnestness as tho there was an audience of thous- 
ands. Elder Wilkinson died Feb. 9, 1903, at the age of nearly 
ninety years, and the church is now without a pastor; but 
meetings are sustained by Alfred Appleton and Deacon Purser. 

There was baptism at Natton as late as 1858 ; and the last 



JOHN PURSER. 
See Biographxcat Skelcbes, 



THE SABBATH IX ENGLAND. 47 

report of membership was seven. Deacon Isaac Purser, of 
this church, died in 1864, at the age of seventy-five years. 

4. Place of meeting. The churches' principal place of 
meeting in those early days was at Ashton, where Elder Purser 
resided ; but meetings were held at other places within a range 
of twenty-five or thirty miles. 

In 17 18, Benjamin, youngest son of Elder John Purser, 
purchased a small place at Natton, and fitted up part of his 
house as a chapel for divine service; and this is still used as 
the meeting house of this church. This building is probably 
the only one now standing in England which is distinctively a 
Seventh-day Baptist chapel. It is to all intents and purposes 
a part of the farmhouse which it adjoins. It is built of brick 
and wood, with a thatched roof. The room is a small one, 
not capable of seating over a dozen people at most ; it contains 
a small high pulpit, a communion table, a fireplace, a sedilium 
(seat) below the pulpit for the clerk. A gallery extends over 
about half the space of the chapel. The entrance is thru the 
dooryard of the farmhouse. Mr. Purser walled off a portion 
of his orchard for a graveyard, and here sleep many of the 
saints, pastors and people, of those early days. 

The meeting-house and burying ground, with five pounds 
per annum from his estate for all succeeding ministers, were 
left by Benjamin Purser (d. 1765) for the use of the Natton 
Church for all time. This was considered a sacred legacy in 
the Purser family, down to the middle of the first quarter of 
the nineteenth century, when Benjamin Purser, the father of 
the present deacon, having married for his second wife a 
woman who was not a Sabbath-keeper, changed the entail so as 
to benefit her children. Thus has that legacy been alien- 
ated. 

5. Decline. Appropos to tlie causes of Natton's decline, 
and the fact that for many years it has had only first-day pas- 
tors, Deacon John Purser writes, under date of Aug. 20, 1902 : 
"My opinion is that Natton will not go on well until there is a 
true Sabbath pastor there ; then I think it would likely prosper, 
and not till then. Also, I think the break in the deacon's office 
was when Rev. Francis caused a law suit between Natton 
Church and Kinsham Church, and the Commissioners decided 



4«^ SKVEXTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

in Francis' favor, putting Kinsham Church before Natton. I 
understand they were very near knocking out Natton alto- 
gether; so we have to be thankful for the old chapel." He 
inquired if it would be possible to get from the United States, 
*'a tnie Sabbath-keeping pastor, one who would throw his 
whole heart and soul into the work of Christ." 

Note. — By the scheme of 1823, promulgated by the Trus- 
tees of the Davis Charity, the rent from the Maplestead estate, 
fifty pounds, was given to Natton ; the other country churches, 
formerly beneficed by the Davis Charity endowment, having 
ceased to observe the Sabbath, or become extinct. 

See Mill Yard publications, W. H. Black. (Page XII. pre- 
face.) 

An interesting article appeared, April 13. 1901, in the 
Birmingham Weekly Post, from which the following is an ex- 
tract: — '*A11 the other Seventh-day Baptist churches in the 
provinces died out, except that at Natton, in the parish of Ash- 
church. There the congregation meets on Saturday mornings 
when all their neighbors are about their secular occupations, 
and generally are ministered to by a nonconformist minister 
of another denomination from Tewkesbury. It is long years 
since a seventh-day keeper was pastor of Natton Qiurch, and 
the first London pastor was sent over from the li^nited States. 
There is nothing in the type of service to differentiate it from 
that of an ordinary nonconformist service, and necessarily little 
or nothing is said in advancing the peculiar views whose prev- 
alence founded the sect. There are large charities connected 
with the general body, and the Natton property is vested in 
nine trustees. The existence of the sect is known to but 
few people, and rarely does a stranger make an addition to 
the regular congregation of half a dozen or eight persons. 
But it is certainly an interesting fact that such a body should 
have existed for two centuries and a half. The curious in such 
matters would do well to store up a record of the sect before 
it passes out of existence altogether. There appears to be little 
attempt to propagate the faith, and without such effort the 
number of adherents is not likely to increase. The tiny congre- 
gation — ^the only meeting of the kind out of London — is one of 

the oddest things in the ecclesiastical world. Not merely is 
(3) 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 49 

the gathering inconvenient, one would think, but the place of 
assemblage is a remote comer — in a farmyard/' 

How could there be anything but decline under the cir- 
cumstances ? No apparent attempt to propagate the faith : and 
how could there be such efforts under first-day pastors ! ! ! 

(3) BURTON-ON-TRENT, DERBYSHIRE. 165O. 

From several sources we learn that in 1831, or '32, there 
was a Seventh-day Baptist Church at Repton, near Burton-on- 
Trent, in Derbyshire, having William Witt as pastor, and 
William Patterson as deacon. They had a large brick meeting 
house of their own, in which meetings were held every Sabbath- 
day ; and many of the members were among the most prosper- 
ous and respected tradesmen in the town. 

This is doubtless the same as the Sabbatarian church at 
"Burton," mentioned in the Birmingham Weekly Post, as in 
a flourishing condition in the middle of the seventeenth cen- 
tury; hence the date we give this church, 1650; but it was in 
all probability organized years before this time. 

Burton has now become the Milwaukee of England; 
almost every one in the city being connected with the brewing 
interests. 

What became of the Sabbatarian church there, we do not 
know. 

(4) LEOMINSTER, HEREFORDSHIRE. 165O. 

That a Sabbath-keeping church was in existence here, and 
in a flourishing condition in the middle of the seventeenth 
century, is stated in the Birmingham Post article referring to 
this church and the one at Burton. This church, says Ivimey, 
was gathered by John Toombs. A Mr. Feak (probably Rob- 
ert) was a member; as was also Joseph Stennett, in 1719. 

It is hoped that some record of this society may yet come to 
light. 

(5) HEXHAM, NORTHUMBERLAND. 1652. 

Elder Thomas Tillam was pastor of a church at Hexham, a 
market town on the Tyne river, twenty miles west of New- 
castle. There was certainly such a Seventh-day Baptist church 
here as early as 1652, which became extinct before 171 5. 
Ivimey says, the Hexham Baptist Church, organized 1652, 
was the first Baptist church in Northumberland. 



so SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

(6) DORCHESTER^ DORSETSHIRE. 1652. 

Elder W. M. Jones mentions that Francis Bampfield*s 
London church sent him as a special messenger "to the Sab- 
bath churches in Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorsetshire, Glouces- 
tershire, and Berkshire." There is evidence that a Seventh- 
day Baptist church existed in Dorchester, altho we know but 
little about it. 

In 1645 2t Baptist church of fourteen members was gather- 
ed in Poole, Dorsetshire, by Thomas Collier. This is supposed 
to be the first Baptist church in this county. In 1655 Henry 
Jessey, of London, a first-day Baptist minister, visited the 
Sabbath-keeping church in Dorchester; and mention is made 
of another meeting there in 1658. 

In 1689, and again in 1692, Thomas Cox attended the 
meeting of the General Assembly as the minister of the church 
in Dorchester. But as to when this church was founded, or 
as to how long it continued, we have no information. 

We know, however, that it was there, and can only mourn 
that our churches have been so negligent in keeping and hand- 
ing down exact and complete records of their history. Would 
that existing churches might now learn the important lesson. 

(7) NORWICH^ NORFOLK. 1656. 

In a biography of Theophilus Braboume, by Rev. Alex- 
ander Gordon, M. A., of Manchester, and published in the 
Sabbath Memorial of January and April, 1887, the following 
item occurs: — "It may be gathered from Brabourne's will 
that there was a congregation of Sabbath-keepers at Norwich, 
and to this flock Brabourne left the sum of ten pounds, to be 
distributed by Mr. Poolie, one of the elders." 

This Mr. Christopher Poolie was probably the one who on 
Aug. 18, 1656, re-baptized Mrs. Boote, "at the staithe in the 
river," according to the Beccles Congregational Church Book. 
Mary Gill, also of Beccles, "was likewise re-baptized at Nor- 
wich sometime before the other." 

Here then was a church of baptized believers, Seventh-day 
Baptists, organized and watched over by Theophilus Bra- 
bourne, who, altho a minister of the Established Church, wrote 
a book on the Sabbath, and suffered much for this truth. This 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 5 1 

church was in existence in 1656, but must have been gathered 
much earlier ; but of its beginning we are in ignorance. 

(8) COLCHESTER^ ESSEX. 1657. 

Rev. Thomas Tillam was pastor of a Sabbatarian church 
in Colchester as early as 1657. In that year he wrote a book 
entitled, "The Seventh-day Sabbath sought out and celebrated, 
or the Saints last Design upon the man of sin." On page 
113 of this book there is "A hymn celebrating the Lord's Sab- 
bath, with joyful communion in the Lord's Supper by two hun- 
dred disciples at Colchester, in profession of the Law's pre- 
cepts (Ex. 20) and the Gospel's principles (Heb. 6.)" 

Although we know but little about Elder Tillam, this 
church is evidence enough of the progress of Sabbatarian 
ideas, and the steadfastness of their defenders even in those 
times of fierce and persistent persecution. 

Elder Jones, in "Jubilee Papers," exults greatly over the 
account of this church, as we all well may. 

(9) BELL LANE, LONDON. 1662. 

This church was organized about the year 1662, according 
to Benedict's "History of the Baptists," page 339. It was in 
a flourishing condition in 1668, having John Belcher as pastor. 
In the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial, (1-24), may be found 
a letter from this church to the Sabbath-keepers of Newport, 
New England ; it is dated March 26, 1668, and signed by eleven 
brethren — among whom are Edward Fox, William Gibson, 
and John Belcher. The letter breathes a most piotis and fra- 
ternal spirit. On page 26 of the same publication is a "Letter 
from Dr. Edward Stennett of the Seventh-day Baptist church 
in Bell Lane, London, to the Sabbath-keepers in Rhode Island ; 
dated Abingdon, Berkshire, February 2, 1668." 

Toward the close of the century the church removed to 
Pinner's Hall, meeting there one part of the Sabbath, and Elder 
Stennett's church the other part. It was considered highly 
desirable by both parties that each church should attend the 
other's meetings. Elder Belcher died in 1695, and was suc- 
ceeded by Henry Coote; during this time the church was 
greatly reduced because of many joining Elder Stennett's 
church. At Elder Cooke's death, (in 1704, or possibly not 



52 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

until 1707), the Bell Lane church was merged with Pinner's 
Hall Church. 

(10) DORCHESTER JAIL, DORSETSHIRE. 1665. 

Elder Jones in "J^t^^^^c Papers," (page i6), speaks of 
Francis Bampfield as embracing "the Sabbath and baptism 
while a prisoner in Dorchester jail, where he had converts to 
these views." In a biography of Mr. Bampfield in the Sabbath 
Recorder of October lo, 1844, there is reference to his "com- 
ing to the knowledge of the weekly Sabbath" while a prisoner 
in Dorchester jail, where he was thrown, being one of 
two thousand ministers ejected in 1662. In 1665 a brother in 
the country wrote asking his opinion as to the Sabbath. This 
letter was laid aside until a second was received. After thor- 
ough investigation of both Old Testament and New Testa- 
ment, he saw that the seventh-day was obligatory, never hav- 
ing been annulled. Several of his fellow prisoners joined with 
him in keeping the Sabbath ; and thus was formed the Seventh- 
day Baptist church in Dorchester jail, where Mr. Bampfield 
was confined for eight years, suffering thus for conscience' 
sake. 

Dr. A. H. Lewis, in "Sabbath and Sunday," quotes from 
"Nonconformists Memorial" as stating that Mr. Bampfield 
"preached in the prison, almost every day, and gathered a 
church there." Dr. Armitage, "History of Baptists," bears 
testimony to the same fact. 

(11) WALLINGFORD, BERKSHIRE. 1668. 

Reference is made to the existence of this church in the 
writings of Dr. A. H. Lewis, Rev. George B. Utter and Dr. 
W. M. Jones. It is named as early as 1706 in the will of Joseph 
Davis, Sr., and is doubtless one of the five or more churches to 
which Francis Bampfield was sent as a messenger from the 
Pinner's Hall church. In the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial 
for 1852, there is a letter from Edward Stennett of Walling- 
ford to the Newport (R. I.) church, dated February 2, 1668; 
and there is evidence that this church was in existence perhaps 
ten vears earlier than this. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 53 

(12) SALISBURY, WILTSHIRE. 1675. 

Several writers testify to the existence of this church. It 
is named in the will of Joseph Davis, Sr., and this places it as 
early as 1706. 

About 1671 or '^2, Mr. Bampfield was imprisoned in Sal- 
isbury jail; and here, just after his release from Dorchester 
jail in 1671, he baptized himself. It is likely that this may 
have had some connection with the beginning of a Seventh-day 
Baptist church at Salisbury. It is said of Mr. Bampfield, 
"Being set free (from Dorchester jail), he formed a congre- 
gation at Salisbury, but was again imprisoned for eighteen 
months." This was in the Salisbury jail. 

(13) pinner's HALL, BROAD ST., LONDON. 1676. 

1. Organization, and creed. This church was gathered 
by Francis Bampfield in the reign of Charles II, (1660-1685), 
and was organized as a church March 5, 1676, upon two great 
principles: — "We own the Lx)rd Jesus Christ to be the One 
and Only LORD and Lawgiver to our Souls and Consciences. 
And we own the Holy Scriptures of Truth as ye One and Only 
Rule of Faith, Worship, and Life, according to which we are 
to Judge of all our Cases." This creed is given in the words 
of Mr. Bampfield, and attested by the handwriting of his suc- 
cessor, Joseph Stennett. 

2. Name and places of meeting. There has been some 
confusion on this point, but all is made clear by reference to 
Mr. Bampfield and the record : They first met in Mr. Bamp- 
field's house in Bethnal Green, and then at his home in Great 
Morefields ; at this point an interesting account is given of the 
choice of Pinner's Hall by lot, in which they believed them- 
selves to be divinely guided — ^this was in 1681 ; in 1727 they 
removed to Currier's Hall, Cripplegate; to Red Cross in 1800; 
to Devonshire Square in 18 12 ; and in 1827 they removed again, 
this time to Eldon Street, which they occupied until 1849, 
when the church became extinct. This church never owned 
any meeting-place of its own. Eldon Street chapel was torn 
down in 1901. 

3. Pastors. 

Francis Bampfield 1676-1684 

Edward Stennett 1686-1689 



54 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Joseph Stennett 1690-1713 

Supplies 1713-1727 

Edmund Townsend 1727-1763 

Supplies 1763-1767 

Thomas Whitewood 1767-1767 

Samuel Stennett 1767-1785 

Robert Burnside 1785-1826 

John B. Shenstone 1826-1844 

Francis Bampfield died in Newgate, February 16, 1684; 
Edward Stennett remained pastor at Wallingford while serv- 
ing Pinner's Hall church ; Joseph Stennett began his pastorate 
January 4, 1690, and died July 11, 1713; Edmund Townsend 
became pastor December 3, 1727 ; Thomas Whitewood entered 
upon the pastorate in June and died in October of the same 
year; John Brittain Shenstone became pastor June 26, 1826, 
and died on Sunday evening, May 12, 1844, at the age of about 
seventy years ; he was the last pastor. Services were sustained 
for awhile after his death, but the church became extinct about 
five years after Mr. Shenstone's death. 

4. Membership. After Mr. Bampfield's death the church 
was scattered for about two and a half years; but on the 14th 
of October, 1686, it was "reunited as the church formerly gath- 
ered by Mr. Francis Bampfield;" and this form of title is re- 
peated several times in the records. At this time the church 
had forty-two members; in 1690 it had fifty-five; and reached 
the maximum number of one hundred and twenty under 
Joseph Stennett. There were six members in 1823. 

The following record stands in the church book: — **The 
last surviving member (Mrs. Shenstone), of this ancient and 
honorable Society of Sabbath-keeping Christians is departed 
on the nth of October, 1863." 

(14) SHERBOURNE^ DORSETSHIRE. 1680. 

Sherbourne is seventeen miles from Dorchester, thirtv- 
nine miles from Salisbury, and a hundred, seventeen and a half 
miles from London. 

Three authorities mention Sherbourne in a list of several 
churches known to have existed, but about which very little 
information can be obtained. Dr. Jones refers to churches in 
Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dorsetshire, etc., visited bv Francis 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 55 

Bampfield. Mr. Utter places Sherbourne in Buckinghamshire ; 
but as there is now no such place in this county, it must be the 
one in Dorset, notwithstanding also that Cox puts it in Buck- 
inghamshire. 

Sherbourne is one of the eight churches named as bene- 
ficiaries in the will of Joseph Davis, Sr. ; it therefore dates back 
at least as far as 1706. There is evidence that a Seventh-day 
Baptist church existed here as early as 1680; and if this was 
the one in Dorsetshire visited by Francis Bampfield, it must 
have been in existence at a still earlier date. Bampfield was 
rector at Sherbourne, from which he was ejected in 1662 in 
consequence of the Uniformity Act ; he was arrested on Friday, 
September 19, 1662, and imprisoned, but afterwards, being 
released, he spent several years in Sherbourne. 

Ivimey, ("History of English Baptists"), says: — ''Pos- 
sibly he was the only Seventh-day Baptist there." Almost an 
impossible supposition; for such a man as Francis Bampfield. 
who could not be in prison without forming a society, would 
hardly be anywhere outside of prison very long without a band 
of followers. Thank God for such a man, whose name will 
never lose its heavenly fragrance. 

(15) HAMPSHIRE. 1680. 

We can siinply record that there was here a Seventh-day 
Baptist church, since Francis Bampfield was sent by his Pin- 
ner's Hall church in London to visit a society of like faith in 
this county; but we have no information as to the name or 
exact location of such church. It is but one of many concern- 
ing which everything has perished save the fact of its past 
existence; it lived and did its work, and died. (John 12: 24). 

(16) URAINTREE, ESSEX. I706. 

Several historians recognize the existence of a Seventh- 
day Baptist church at this place but we know little of it. except 
that it is named as one of the beneficiaries of the will of Joseph 
Davis, Sr. It was therefore in existence at least as early as 
1706. 

(17) CHERTSEV, SURREY. I706. 

See remark under Braintree. 



56 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS*. 

(18) NORWESTON, OXFORDSHIRE. I706. 

As to date, see remark under Braintree. 

This was North Weston, a small hamlet of but a few 
houses. It was formerly owned by the Quartermains, then by 
the Clarkes, several of whom represented Oxford in Parlia- 
ment. About 1745 they sold it to Charles, duke of Marlbor- 
ough. The manor house was converted into a farm house, 
and at one time used as a school. Near it was a chapel which 
was taken down about 1812; and this was probably the chapel 
used by the Seventh-day Baptist church of Norweston. 

This church is mentioned in the will of Joseph Davis, Sr., 
1706. In 1718, Mill Yard voted to send Pastor John Savage 
to "Norwatson" (July 6th). The Mill Yard pastors went out 
to this little country church with considerable frequency. 

(19) WOODBRIDGE, SUFFOLK. I706. 

What is said under Braintree applies to this church; the 
earliest date that is positively fixed is 1706, altho it is certain 
the church was organized years before that time.* 

George Carlow, who wrote a book, "Truth Defended," 
in support of the Bible Sabbath. (1724), was a member of the 
Seventh-day Baptist church at Woodbridge. 

(20) MANCHESTER, LAN CASTERS HI RE. I73O. 

Elder W. M. Jones, (Jubilee Papers, page i8), mentions 
the existence of a Seventh-day Baptist church at this place. 
The Rev. Alexander Gordon, who wrote a life of Brabourne, 
was a resident of Manchester; but whether a Sabbath-keeper 
or not, we do not know. 

For the above date we refer to the Sabbath Recorder for 
June 25, 1846. 

Manchester sent a Church Letter to the Baptist Associa- 
tion, June II, 1794. 

(21) SWANZEY, WALES. I73O. 

See ''Elder Wheaton" in biography, page 



• This date is taken from Dr. A. H. Lewis's " History of Sabbath and 
Sunday," p. 336. The Mill Yard Records, under date of "September 1st, 1706," 
give the following: — "George Carlow of Woodbridge, in Suffolk, by a letter of 
recommendation from the church he belongs to in the countrie was admitted a 
member of this congregation and was set down in fellowship at the next Lord's 
Supper." Shortly afterwards he was elected a Davis Charity trustee and so 
remained all his life. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGL.\ND. 57 

(22) PORT BANNATYNE, ISLE OF BUTE^ SCOTLAND. l802. 

Our attention was first called to the existence (in times 
past) of a Seventh-day Baptist church on this isle, by a letter 
in the Sabbath Recorder of February 20, 1890; written by a 
Mr. Joseph La Mont of Nortonville, Kansas, asking for infor- 
mation as to such a church, and stating that his grandfather 
(Archibald LaMont) and his grandmother, who came to 
America in 1809, were members of such a church at that place. 
Mr. C. H. Greene addressed a letter to General Campbell, 
Karnes Castle, Isle of Bute; which being published in the 
"Rothesay Express" of March 25, 1903, has brought to light 
some interesting facts in letters and articles published in the 
same paper since that date. 

1. Location. First, it may be well to note its position. 
Bute is a small island of 31,161 acres situated in the Firth of 
Clyde, about thirty miles from Glasgow and one mile from 
lona, 'famous for its association with St. Columba, the Sab- 
bath-keeping apostle of Scotland. Bute and several neighbor- 
ing islands form the county of Bute, with Rothesay as the 
county seat. The inhabitants for the most part belong to the 
"Free Kirk of Scotland." 

James Moffat in **Church in Scotland'' says : — "One can 
not resist the obtruding conjecture that fond hankerings after 
the earlier faith had survived thru all the obscurity, .... 
and awakened again to activity in the warmth and light of the 
liberated gospel" of the Reformation. With this thought in 
mind, and considering that this island was at the very centre of 
the activities of the Sabbath-keeping Celtic Church, we can 
scarce resist the conjecture that here some remnants of the 
Seventh-day Sabbath have survived until very recent years. 

2. Constitution. Archibald La Mont appears to have 
been the founder of the Seventh-day Baptist church here. In 
1802 he came from Hafton and settled on an estate at Port 
Bannatyne. According to the testimony of his grandson, he 
was a Seventh-day Baptist. On the property which he bought 
he built a spacious residence, fitting up one room as a chapel 
(seating about one hundred persons) in which he placed a pul- 
pit "of the same design as the one then in St. Giles, Edin- 
burgh." The house is now used only as a dwelling, and the 



58 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

person who occupies it writes, that "it was the first church of 
any kind in North Bute ;'' and he adds, that "the congregation 
originated in 1802." 

Mr. La Mont was a man of great energy and abiHty, and 
belonged to a family of note, several members of w-hich held 
various positions of prominence. Whether he found in Bute 
any of his belief is not now known, but sure it is that before 
the year closed he had gathered a congregation of his own 
faith. Mr. La Mont himself does not seem to have done anv 
preaching, but he was, it is said, "a great supporter of Donald 
Macarthur." 

3. Preaching'. Donald Macarthur seems to have been 
in the beginning a Presbyterian, but was converted to the Bap- 
tist faith about the year 1800, and at this time was associated 
with the Haldanes. He is said to have become a Seventh-day 
Baptist in 1802. He is described as a "lay-preacher" of burn- 
ing zeal and acceptability. He not only preached in the chapel 
at Port Bannatyne, but all over the regions round about, wher- 
ever he could gather an audience. He was "very popular w-ith 
his followers," and indeed with the common people generally. 
Thos6 who adhered to him were called by the people, "Mac- 
arthurites." He belonged to an honorable family of great lon- 
gevity, and "some members of the same family are still to the 
fore in the Loch Striven district." 

4. Opposition. Notwithstanding Macarthur's popular- 
ity, one writer says : — "The regular church people at that time 
looked askance at the Macarthurites ;" and another writes, 
"that their practices w^ere disapproved by the orthodox of the 
day." As a matter of fact, on one occasion (Oct. 20, 1805), 
w'hile preaching on the shore at Colintraive, Mr. Macarthur 
was seized by a colonel and three constables and "pressed" for 
the Navy. This was in the days of what is known as the "press 
gang." The local volunteers who were ordered to seize Mac- 
arthur greatly disliked the duty thrust upon them, and many 
refused obedience; and there is a local tradition to the effect 
that none of those who took part in the seizure came to any 
good thereafter, but all suffered violent deaths. 

Thru the efforts of friends, who employed eminent attor- 
neys, Macarthur was released November 27, 1805. But little 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 59 

is known of his labors after this ; he appears to have emigrated 
to Canada in 1811 where he became a prosperous farmer and 
stock raiser. He died in 1850. 

Archibald La Mont came to America in 1809, as we have 
already noted; and of the Seventh-day Baptist church in the 
Isle of Bute we have no trace later than 1840. However, their 
memory has not perished, nor the interest of residents of the 
locality — ^judging by the newspaper articles and letters called 
out by Mr. Greene's letter of inquiry. 

(23) BIRMINGHAM, NO. I. l822. 

Pastor, Thomas Wilson. See note under Tyrone. 

(24) BIRMINGHAM, NO. 2. l822. 

Pastor, James Steward. See note under Tyrone. 

25) LONDONDERRY, IRELAND. l822 

Pastor, William Wilson. See note under Tyrone. 

(26) TYRONE, IRELAND. l822. 

Pastor, John Buchanan. All we know of the four last- 
named churches is found on page i68 of Elder James Bailey's 
"History of Conference." 

In 1822 Elder Eli S. Bailey, who was Corresponding Sec- 
retary of the General Conference, wrote under date of May 
5th, the following letter to Robert Burnside, then pastor of the 
Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist church: "We are informed by 
people from Europe, that there are two Seventh-day Baptist 
churches in Birmingham ; the pastors' names are Thomas Wil- 
son and James Steward. And that there are two in Ireland: 
one in the County of Londonderry, William Wilson, pastor; 
another in the County of Tyrone, John Buchanan, pastor. We 
wish you to make inquiry, and if there are such churches in 
those places, give us information; and inform them that we 
wish to open correspondence with them." The present writer 
is unable to say whether Elder Burnside ever made any reply 
to this inquiry, or whether he even made any search into the 
matter. We have examined several of his subsequent letters, 
but found no reference at all to this subject; hence we judge 
he never found time or opportunity to look up these churches. 
So far as we have any evidence, its weight, however light, is 
on the side of the existence of the churches indicated. In a 
letter from Mr. W. O'Neill, deacon of Mill Yard church. 



6o SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

mention is made of "the old Rinningham church;" and he 
says he has "heard the late Dr. Jones speak about some (Sab- 
bath-keepers) there with whom he used to correspond." He 
adds that the Seventh-dav Adventists have a church there 
now. 

(27) BANAGHER, KINGS COUNTY, IRELAND. 1825. 

There seems to be credible evidence that a Seventh-day 
Baptist church existed here as late as 1825, but as to its origin 
and history we know but little as yet. For many years, in the 
family of Dr. Phoebe J. B. Wait, there were two domestics, 
sisters, born in the village of Banagher, Kings County, Ireland, 
on the banks of the river Shannon. Their name was Donno- 
hew (or Donnahue), and from them we have the following 
account : — 

"About the year 1825, there came to Banagher from the 
north of Ireland a certain Charles Monk, who was a Protestant 
and a Sabbath-keeper, probably also a preacher. He estab- 
lished a school to fit young men for Trinity College, Dublin. 
Very soon he gathered about him a little band of Sabbath-keep- 
ers, who met' for regular worship in the chapel of Mr. Monk's 
Academv." 

One of the converts was William Buchanan, one of the 
local lords, who was a man of marked individuality. He, with 
his w'ife and family, lived in a large stone castle on one side 
of the village ; and it was a source of diversion to the children 
of the village to gather of a Saturday and watch him drive 
by in his fine equipage, with gilded harness and liveried ser- 
vants, on the wav to church. The Misses Donnohew often saw 
both these men. 

(28) WESTMANCOTE, WORCESTERSHIRE. 1829. 

Westmancote was about four miles from Tewkesbur}'^ in 
Gloucestershire. In 1829 there was here a Seventh-day Bap- 
tist church, with Rev. John Miller as pastor, and an elder. 
Rev. John Miles, formerly of the Establishment. 

In the Protestant Sentinel of April 14, 1830, is published 
a letter to Elder Eli S. Bailey from Rev. John Miller, dated 
August 20, 1829, as follows: — "We are but a little flock, but 
there is that sweet Tear not' addressed to us — Tear not little 
flock,' etc. We have lost by death two members belonging to 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 6 1 

the Seventh-day Sabbath, within these few months: one a 
female ; the other, the Rev. J. Miles, who was formerly a cler- 
gyman of the Establishment — a middling preacher, but very 
learned in Hebrew, Greek, Chaldee, and Latin." 

Deacon John Purser of Xatton thinks it ceased after 
awhile to be a Sabbath-keeping church, and became connected 
with the General Baptist Church, possibly about the year 1835. 

(29) ST. ASAPH, FLINTSHIRE, NORTH WALES. 1851. 

Mrs. Tamar Davis, in her History of Sabbatarians, (page 
129), writing in 185 1, says: — "I have been informed that there 
is at this time a small society of Seventh-day people in the West 
part of England, in the vicinity of St. Asaph ; but I will not 
vouch for the accuracy of the statement." This is quoted here 
in hope that the statement may lead others to such investigation 
as may result in interesting and valuable information. 

(30) GLASGOW, SCOTLAND. 1874. 

Elder Nathan Wardner arrived in Glasgow, June 23, 
1875 ; and on October 7, 1875, he organized here a Seventh-day 
Baptist society. 

Elder Jones, in "Sabbath Memorial," says : — "Besides the 
churches of Natton and Mill Yard, there is now a Sabbath- 
meeting establishment in Glasgow, the result of the Sabbath 
Conference held there on the 8th of October, last." 

Persons were found in Scotland and Ireland who had 
embraced the Sabbath ten and twenty years before, without 
knowing of any others of like faith. How many there may be 
still who are waiting for some one to gather them and shep- 
herd them. 

(31) BELFAST, IRELAND. 1876. 

Soon after Rev. W. M. Jones went to London in 1872, 
there developed a correspondence with lone Sabbath-keepeis 
which increased to such an extent that it was decided to send 
over Rev. Nathan Wardner to act as his assistant. Eldet* 
Wardner went to Glasgow, and from that centre began to send 
out tracts to nearly every part of the world. As a result many 
more lone Sabbath-keepers were discovered, and the Haarlani, 
Holland, Seventh-day Baptist church was organized. 

One of the most hopeful centres of Sabbath influence was 
at Belfast, Ireland. After working in the city of Glasgow 



62 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

for a year or more, Elder Wardner and some of the Glasgow 
friends went over to Belfast and organized a Seventh-day Bap- 
tist church of four members. Angus Chism and Isaac Hamp- 
den were ordained deacons, and Sarah Courtenay was elected 
clerk. The church prospered : Elder Wardner was quite often 
called to Belfast to administer baptism, and the brethren there 
were enthusiastic in spreading the Sabbath truth, both by tract 
and by tongue. 

The church was organized January 31, 1876; and the 
membership increased to nearly one dozen communicants, 
while the Sabbath congregations were from sixty to one hun- 
dred. 

About the year 1878, the Societies in America, under 
whose patronage Elder Wardner was laboring, thought best 
to recall him to America — altho seemingly the interest was 
never more encouraging than it was just at that time. 

The Belfast brethren reported thru the Sabbath Recorder 
with considerable regularity up to 1880; after that we hear 
nothing more of them. In the year 1896 and 1901 Mr. C. H. 
Greene made repeated efforts to find these brethren. In 1896 
he learned that Angus Chism was yet alive, but he was unable 
to get an answer to his letters; and there is reason to believe 
that Deacon Chism was still living in 1901.* 

It is possible that the Belfast Seventh-day Baptist church 
has been absorbed by the Seventh-day Adventists who came 
to labor in Belfast about 1879. 

(32) SOUTHPORT^ LANCASTERSHIRE. 189O. 

In the Conference Minutes of 1890, reference is made by 
the Secretary of the Missionary Society, (Rev. Dr. Main), to 
the reported existence of a Seventh-day Baptist church at 
Southport ; nothing further, however, has been discovered con- 
cerning it. It is hoped this notice may result in inquiry and 
further information. 

Here we close our history of Seventh-day Baptist churches 
in the British Isles, conscious of the meagreness of the accounts 
we have been able to give simply because of the poverty of 

* In a letter received from Deacon Chism, since the above was written, he speaks 
of "the Seventh-day Baptist Church, which meets at my house." We infer that 
Belfast yet maintains a name. 



THE SABBATH IX ENGLAND. 63 

necessar\- materials. These churches (nearly all of them) 
committed the mistake which multitudes of American churches 
have made and are still making — that of failing to prepare and 
preserve complete records of their career. 

We close this part of our task with the finn cortViction 
also that there have been manv societies and churches of which 
we know nothing with sufficient accuracy to chronicle am - 
thing- whatsoever. 

There is evidence that all over England there have been 
and are many lone Sabbath-keepers, and among these a goodly 
number of ministers of the Established church, who reverently 
observe the Seventh-day Sabbath while they continue to serve 
their congregations in the Establishment. 

The decline of Sabbath-keeping churches in the British 
Isles naturally awakens thoughtful inquiry as to the causes. 
Doubtless there have been reasons of which we arc in ignor- 
ance ; three things, however, we believe, have contributed in a 
measure toward this result: — i. A lack of organized fellow- 
ship among the churches; 2. Dependence upon charitable 
bequests developes weakness in individuals and churches as 
well ; 3. Employment of First-day pastors must necessarily 
blockade all aggressive Sabbath work. 

(B) PROMINENT ENGLISH SEVENTH-DAY BAP- 
TISTS: PREACHERS, AUTHORS, ETC. 

I. Alsop, Mrs. Ann, England has not been without able 
women in the ranks of Sabbath defenders. Among these we 
find Mrs. Ann Alsop, a member of the Natton Seventh-day 
Baptist Church. The Rev. T. Edmonds published "A Scrip- 
tural Representation of the Abolition of the Fourth Command- 
ment, as far as it relates to a particular day ; and a \'^indication 
of their conduct who observe the first day as their Sabbath.'' 
To this writing, Mrs. Alsop replied, in 1801, in a book entitled, 
"Remarks on the Rev. T. Edmond's pamphlet, etc., and an 
attempt to vindicate their conduct who observe the seventh- 
day Sabbath according to the express words of the Fourth 
Commandment." This work was written with such ability 
tod vigor as to call forth a reply the same year in the form of 
"A Further Consideration of the Arguments of the Sabba- 
tarians.'' Mrs. Alsop's defense of the Sabbath was considered 



64 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

worthy of notice by Robert Cox in his "Literature of the Sab- 
bath Question," vol. II., p. 409. 

2. Bailey, NathanaeL Nathanael Bailey was an eminent 
English philologist and lexicographer, whose ''Universal Ety- 
mological English Dictionary," published in 1721, was the first 
English dictionary which aimed at completeness. His w^ork 
was a great improvement on anything of the kind which had 
preceded it, and formed the real basis of Dr. Samuel Johnson's 
great work published in 1755. Bailey was a schoolteacher near 
London, and' the author of several educational works, among 
which was a "Dictionarium Domesticum." He was a worthy 
member of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church. He 
died June 27, 1742. 

3. BampHeld, Francis, Francis Bampfield descended 
from a distinguished faniily in Devonshire, England. He was 
born in 1615, the third son of James (or John) Bampfield. 
His brother JThomas was at one time Speaker of Parliament 
under Cromwell. In his i6th year he became a student in 
Wadham College, Oxford. He finished his course in College 
in 1638, with the degree of M. A. His reputation was that of 
a "scholarly man, and one of the most celebrated preachers 
in the West of England." He. prepared for the ministry of the 
Established Church, and was ordained deacon by Bishop Hall, 
and elder by Bishop Skinner. His first settlement was in the 
parish of Rampisham, Dorsetshire, about 1640. About 1653 
he removed to the parish of Sherborne, and remained here 
until ejected by the Act of Conformity in 1662. He could 
not conscientiously take the oath of allegiance, not because of 
any disloyalty, but because he believed all oaths to be in viola- 
tion of the teachings of Jesus. After his ejection, he preached 
in his own hired house at Sherborne for about one month, when 
he and twenty-six others who were holding a meeting were 
arrested and imprisoned in one room with a single bed; they 
were soon released on bail. Not long after this he was again 
arrested and put in Dorchester jail, where he spent nearly nine 
years (from 1662 to 1671). Here he preached almost daily; 
and Armitage says, "he not only preached but formed a church 
within the prison walls." This was a Seventh-day Baptist 

Church, for soon after entering that prison he embraced the 
(4) 



NATHANAI-X BAll.KY. 
See Biographical SkrUli^s. p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 65 

Sabbath doctrine and that of believer's baptism. After a short 
release, he was imprisoned in Salisbury (Wiltshire) for about 
eighteen months, which, he says, "filled up my ten days of trib- 
ulation in the letter of it — Rev. 2 : 10." On his release from 
Salisbury prison he came to London and labored in the vicin- 
ity of Bethnal Green in the East of London. 

A few Sabbath-keepers met with him in his own house for 
about a year, and on March 5, 1676, he organized a church, 
which, after the choice by lot of a place of worship, was known 
as Pinner's Hall Seventh-day Baptist Church. The reason for 
this separate organization was in the fact that Mr. Bampfield 
differed from the Mill Yard Church on the subject of Cal- 
vinism. 

From London he was sent by his church as a special mes- 
senger "to the Sabbath churches in Wiltshire, Hampshire, Dor- 
setshire, Gloucestershire, and Berkshire, which was undertaken 
by him, and prospered with desired success, the report whereof, 
at his return, caused joy to all the brethren and sisters in fel- 
lowship." He and his church sent a letter of "Brotherly love/' 
etc., to all Sabbath-keeping churches, including those of Hol- 
land and New England. He also wisely advocated a "Yearly 
Meeting of all Seventh-day Baptist Churches." 

Three times, while preaching in Pinner's Hall, he was 
arrested. The first was Dec. 17, 1682. On his second arrest, 
he was sent to Newgate from Dec. 24, 1682, to August 12, 
1683. The last time, as he was led thru the streets, one said, 
"See how he walks with his Bible in his hand like one of the 
old martyrs." He could not long endure the cold and damp of 
Newgate, but died here, Feb. 16, 1684, at the age of sixty- 
eight years. His funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. 
John Collins, a fellow prisoner ; and his remains were interred 
in the burying ground of the Baptist Church in Glass-house 
Yard, Goswell street, London. 

He published something like nine or ten books, which was 
doing well considering his troubled life, and his constant 
preaching in prison and out. Two of his works are especially 
mentioned in Cox's "Sabbath Literature:" — In 1672 he pub- 
lished "The Judgment of Mr. Francis Bampfield, late Min- 
ister of Sherborne in Dorsetshire, for the Observation of the 



66 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Jewish or seventh-day Sabbath; with his reasons and Scrip- 
tures for the same : Sent in a letter to Mr. Ben of Dorchester." 

In 1677 he sent forth a little work of 149 pages, with the 
title in both Greek and Latin, "The Seventh-day Sabbath the 
Desirable Day," etc. 

The character of this eminent servant of God was remark- 
able for purity, generosity and devotion. At Rampisham he 
spent his entire income from the Church for Bibles and relig- 
ious books for the poor, in providing work for those able to 
work, and in giving alms to those who could not labor. He 
was regarded as "above all things a living servant of Jesus." 
The frow^ns and smiles of men were vainly used to turn him 
from his Master. Worldly losses and bodily suffering appeared 
to him as trifles compared to the supreme felicity of a con- 
science void of offense before God. ^*He was a giant in defense 
of truth, and a devout man full of the Holy Spirit." 

4. BampHeld, Thomas. Thomas Bampfield appears less 
prominently in history than his brother Francis, because not 
involved in the ecclesiastical controversies of his day, as was 
his brother ; but he was not less eminent in his profession, that 
of the Law — Shaving been the last Speaker of the Common- 
wealth, in 1659. Nor was he less able as a defender of the 
Sabbath. 

It is supposed probable that he was converted to the Sab- 
bath thru the little book, "An Appeal to the Consciences of 
the Chief Magistrates of this Commonwealth touching the 
Sabbath-day," by W. Sailer and J. Spittlehouse, 1657; and that 
he was the means of the conversion of his brother Francis. 

His first book, "An Enquiry whether the Fourth Com- 
mandment be repealed or altered," appeared in 1692, and was 
immediately answered by John Wallis, D. D., Professor of 
Geometry in the University of Oxford, in a book entitled, "A 
Defence of the Christian Sabbath : In answer to a treatise of 
Mr. Thomas Bampfield pleading for Saturday Sabbath." The 
next year Bampfield issued "A reply to Dr. Wallis, his Dis- 
course concerning the Christian Sabbath;" to which Wallis 
rejoined in 1694. 

Mr. Bampfield held that Jesus Christ, the Jehovah of the 
Old Testament, instituted and sanctified the Sabbath-day in 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 67 

the beginning, before the fall of man ; that the Sabbath was not 
only a seventh day, but the seventh day, and was so to continue 
as long as the world lasts ; that the Sabbath was binding upon 
the Gentiles as well as the Jews, and that it was always to begin 
at sunset. He affirmed that the Saturday- Sabbath was 
observed in England till the reign of Edward VI., 1537-1553, 
when the first act of Parliament for the observance of the 
Lord's Day was passed. Mr. Bampfield also contended that 
public worship should not be attended more than once on the 
Sabbath Day. His statement as to the observance of the Sab- 
bath in England is in harmony with the facts of history as 
given in the first part of this article. During the time he was 
Recorder of Exeter, he voluntarily devoted the income of his 
office to the poor of that city. He was born in 1659 (possibly 
1654) and died in 1693. 

5- Begg, James A, James A. Begg was born in Paisley, 
Scotland, at the begining of the nineteenth century and died 
Jan. 3rd, 1869. We know of Mr. Begg thru his correspon- 
dence with the Sabbath Recorder, for nearly twenty-five years. 
His first letter to Rev. George B. Utter, editor of the Recorder, 
was dated at 35 Argyll Arcade, Glasgow, Scotland, April ist, 
1845. Elder Utter speaks of him as having embraced the 
Sabbath a dozen years before that date. He and three others 
were baptized at Glasgow, by Elder Joseph W. Morton about 

1853. 

He was the author of several valuable works on the sub- 
ject of prophecy, and was a staunch defender of the Sabbath, 
both with voice and pen. Cox's "Literature of the Sabbath 
Question" mentions his work entitled, "An Examination of 
the Authority for the Change of the Weekly Sabbath at The 
Resurrection of Christ; Proving that the practice of the 
church in substituting the First day of the week for the 
appointed Seventh day is unsanctioned by the New Testament 
Scriptures," by James A. Begg. Glasgow, 1851. This book is 
also noticed in Kitto's "Journal of Sacred Literature" for Oct. 
1851. These notices by opponents indicate the value of the 
work. 

In the Sabbath Recorder of May 13 and 20, 1869, is a 
memorial sermon for Mr. Begg, preached by William Fulton. 



68 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

His text was Psa. 119: 97. He spoke: ist, of his love for the 
Bible; 2nd, What he believed the Bible taught respecting the 
Gospel of the Son of God ; 3d, His understanding of the Bible 
in relation to the subject of prophecy ; 4th, His view of the Bible 
in its bearing on the signs of the times; 5th, The preacher's 
knowledge of him as an eminent scholar, and a true man. He 
stated that Mr. Begg kept the Sabbath to the day of his death. 

^ 6. Bekher, John. John Belcher, son of Rev. William 
Belcher, a Puritan preacher of London, was pastor of the Bell 
Lane (London) Seventh Day church as early as 1668, when 
he and his church addressed a letter to the Sabbath-keepers of 
Newport, New England. He assisted at the ordination of 
Joseph Stennett, March 4, 1690, at Pinner's Hall, and deliv- 
ered one of the exhortations. He died in March, 1695, and 
Joseph Stennett preached his funeral sermon, April ist, from 
2 Cor. 5 : 4, under the title, "The groans of a saint under the 
burden of a mortal body;" the sermon is to be found in the 
"Life and Works of Joseph Stennett," and was also published 
separately in 1695. 

7. Black, William H, Wm. H. Black was a convert to 
the Sabbath, who began to keep the sieventh-day, Dec. 30, 
1837. He was ordained to the ministry, Nov. 9, 1843, by the 
Rev. J. B. Shenstone and five others. He was the able pastor 
of the Mill Yard Church from 1840 to his death in 1872. Dr. 
Black was a Fellow of the Society of Antiquarians, and is 
referred to as "the learned antiquary." Robert Cox speaks of 
him as "my talented antiquarian friend who preaches to a little 
family on the Jewish Sabbath." 

Dr. Black was a vigorous defender of the Sabbath, pub- 
lishing periodicals and books upon the subject. In 1838-9 he 
sent out, "Doubts on the authority of what is commonly called 
the Christian Sabbath :" "Thirty-two reasons for keeping holy 
the seventh-day of the week as the true and only Christian 
Sabbath;" and a number of others. In 1848-49-50, he pub- 
lished "The scriptural calendar and chronological reformer." 
After his death several of his works were published by his 
son-in-law. Dr. Wm. M. Jones. 

8. Boston, Rev, Thomas. We know but very little of 
Mr. Boston, but the little we know entitles him to mention here. 



REV, WILLIAM H1^^'RY BLACK. 
See Biografh-.al Sketchfs, p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 69 

He was an elder of the Natton Church and a co-laborer with 
Philip Jones. He was living in 1694, and was a faithful keeper 
and defender of the truth. 

9. Brabourne, Theophilus, Theophilus Brabourne was 
born at Norwich, Norfolk, in 1590; for he writes in 1654, in 
his answer to Cawdrey, page 75, "I am sixty-four years of 
age." The time of his death is not known, but he was living 
in 1 67 1, which would make him over eighty years old at that 
date. 

He was a learned minister of the Established Church, but 
probably founded a Seventh-day Baptist Church at Norwich, 
of which he was pastor, and to the poor of which he willed ten 
pounds. Robert Cox says of him that he was "a much abler 
writer than Trask, and may be regarded as the founder in 
England of the sect at first known as Sabbatarians, but now 
calling themselves Seventh-day Baptists." 

Between the years 1626 and 1659 he published four books 
upon the Sabbath question. In 1628 appeared the first, "A 
Discourse upon the Sabbath-day," arguing that the Lord's 
Day is not the Sabbath by Divine Institution ; but that the Sev- 
enth-day Sabbath is now in force. However, he exhorted that 
"there be no Rent from our Church." In 1630 he issued a 
more complete work, of which a second edition was printed in 
1632, entitled, "A Defense of that most ancient and sacred or- 
dinance of God, the Sabbath Day." 

Such was the quality of this work, so able and strong its 
arguments, that the King appointed one of his most talented 
bishops, Francis White, to answer it ; which he attempted to do 
in "A Treatise on the Sabbath-day, Containing a Defense of 
the Orthodoxal Doctrine of the Church of England, against 
Sabbatarian Novelty." Also, because Mr. Brabourne's book 
was considered heretical and calculated to do much mischief, 
and because he had been so bold as to dedicate it to the King 
(Charles I) himself, he was summoned before the Lord Arch- 
bishop of Canterbury and the Court of High Commission, 
many other eminent persons being present at his trial. Such 
arguments and persuasions were brought to bear upon him, 
that for the moment he wavered, signed a recantation, and 



yo SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

returned to the Church, "possibly to regain his liberty, as he 
appears to have retained his views." 

In 1654 he published a work which plainly showed that 
he stood firmly by the Sabbath of the Bible ; and whatever may 
be the exact facts as to his recantation, so called, it is cer- 
tain that "he continued to maintain that if the Sabbatic insti- 
tution was indeed moral and perpetually binding, then his con- 
clusion, that the seventh-day of the week ought to be kept as 
the Sabbath, was necessary and irresistible." 

His Sabbath steadfastness is manifested in his last book, 
published in London in 1659, being an answer to two books on 
the Sabbath : one by Mr. Ives, entitled, "Saturday no Sabbath 
Day ;" and the other by Mr. Warren, "The Jews' Sabbath Anti- 
quated." As an index of his mental vigor, as well as the 
strength of his character, we may give his own words as con- 
tained in the preface to this last book : — "The soundness and 
clearness of this my cause giveth me good hope that God will 
enlighten them (the magistrates) with it and so incline their 
hearts unto mercy. But if not, since I verily believe and know 
it to be a truth, and my duty not to smother it, and suffer it to 
die with me, I have adventured to publish it and defend it, 
saying with Queen Esther, *If I perish, I perish ;' and with the 
Apostle Paul, 'neither is my life dear unto me, so that I may 
fulfill my course with joy.' What a corrosive would it prove 
to my conscience, on my deathbed, to call to mind how I knew 
these things full well, but would not reveal them. How could 
I say with St. Paul, that I had revealed the whole counsel of 
God, had kept nothing back which was profitable ? What hope 
could I then conceive that God would open his gate of mercy 
to me, who, while I lived, would not open my mouth for 
him?" 

10. Brerewood, Edward. Edward Brerewood was a 
Professor in Gresham College, London, who died in 161 3. In 
161 1 he wrote a book entitled "A learned Treatise of the Sab- 
bath to Mr. Nicholas Byfield, preacher in Chester." This seems 
not to have been published until 1630, sometime after the 
author's death. He maintained that the Sabbath was a part 
of the moral law, and on that account perpetual; and defied 
Mr. Byfield to prove his assertion that the Sabbath had been 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 7I 

"translated by the same authority that originally at first com- 
manded it." He referred to the fact that for centuries after 
Christ the seventh-day alone was ever called the Sabbath, as 
disproving Mr. Byfield's assumption that Christ referred to the 
first day and not the seventh in his injunction to his disciples 
to pray that their flight might not be on the Sabbath-day, when 
Jerusalem should be invested by her enemies. 

Mr. Brerewood wrote "A Second Treatise of the Sabbath, 
or an Explication of the Fourth Commandment," which was 
published in 1632. In this he critically examined the Fourth 
Commandment, and maintained the view that altho "the cele- 
bration of the Lord's day hath warrant of apostolic example 
that it may be done, warrant of commandment it hath not, 
that it must be d9ne." 

A Life of Mr. Brerewood may be found in Ward's "Lives 
of the Professors of Gresham College." 

He was a man of ability and influence, and a staunch 
defender of the Bible Sabbath. He was born in 1565 and died 
Nov. 14, 1613. 

11. Broad, Thomas, Thomas Broad was born in 1577 
and died in 1639. In 1621, he published "Three 
Sabbath Questions," a work which led Brabourne to 
investigate the subject. The three questions were: ist, 
What should our meaning be, when, after the read- 
ing of the fourth commandment, we pray, Lord, incline our 
hearts to keep this law ? Second, How shall the Fourth Com- 
mandment, being delivered in such form of words, bind us to 
sanctify any day but only the Seventh, the day wherein God 
rested, and which the Jews sanctified? Third, How shall it 
appear to be a law of nature to sanctify one day in every week ? 

12. Burnside, Robert, Robert Bumside belonged to a 
Sabbath-keeping family, and himself became a member of the 
church in 1776. He was educated for the ministry at Maris- 
chal College, Aberdeen, and became pastor of the Pinner's Hall 
Seventh-day Baptist Church (London) in 1785, and continued 
in this position until his death in 1826. .Much of his time was 
devoted to instructing the children in families of wealth and 
position. In 1805 he published "Fruits of the Spirit;" and in 
1819, "Religions of Mankind," in two vohimes 8 vo. In 1825 



72 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

he sent out a work of 354 pages, entitled, "Remarks on the Dif- 
ferent Sentiments entertained in Christendom relative to the 
Weekly Sabbath." This book contained thirteen chapters on 
the nature, the obligation, the antiquity, the commencement 
and termination, and the supposed repeal of the weekly Sab- 
bath, etc., etc. Robert Cox says : — "The work is a calm, clear, 
and ample statement of the grounds on which this sect of 
Christians keep Saturday as the Sabbath, and maintain that 
all who believe in a primeval Sabbath-law and in the universal 
and perpetual obligation of the Decalogue are bound to do 
the like." 

13. CarloWj George, George Carlow was a member of 
the Seventh-day Baptist Church at Woodbridge, Suffolk. On 
going to London, possibly to see to the publication of a book, 
he took a letter of commendation to the Mill Yard Church; 
hence his name appears upon the record of that church as a 
"transient member." His book was published in 1724, with the 
title: — "Truth defended, or Observations on Mr. Ward's 
expository discourses from the 8th, 9th, loth, and nth verses 
of the 2oth chapter of Exodus, concerning the Sabbath." The 
book was re-published at Stonington, Conn., in 1802 ; and, later, 
by the American Sabbath Tract Society of New York. "The 
whole work is characterized by a spirit of evangelical piety and 
earnestness which must make its influence powerful and sal- 
utary wherever read." Mr. Carlow is described as a plain man, 
not schooled in logic, but learned in the Scriptures. 

14. Chamberlen, Dr. Peter. Dr. Chamberlen was bom 

■ 

in 1 60 1, baptized in 1648, began keeping the Sabbath about 
1651, and died in 1683. The termination of his name is vari- 
ously given, as Iain, laine, lane, layne, Ion. He wrote from 
1642 to 1662 on medical and scientific subjects, and on the Sab- 
bath and baptism. He has been regarded as the pastor of Mill 
Yard Church from 165 1 to the time of his death ; but whether 
he or the martyr, John James, gathered this church, is uncer- 
tain. He appears as the leader of the Whitchapel Congregation 
(the precursor of Mill Yard) in 1653, (Nov. 6.) 

Dr. Chamberlen \Yas a graduate of Immanuel College, 
Cambridge, studied medicine and surgery at Heidelberg and 
Padua, and became senior doctor of both Oxford and Cam- 
bridge, and w-as physician to three British Sovereigns. 



REV. PETKR CHAMBIiRLEN. M. D. 
See Biographii-al Sketches, p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 73 

He was not only a voluminous writer on the Sabbath ques- 
tion, but appears also as a co-operator with Coppinger (one of 
Trask's followers), and Thomas Tillam, in a Sabbath discus- 
sion against Jeremiah Ives. 

15. Cooke, Henry, Henry Cooke succeeded John Bel- 
cher as pastor of Bell Lane Seventh-day Baptist Church, Lon- 
don, in March, 1695. At the death of Cooke, the Church 
merged with Pinner's Hall. Mr. Cooke was alive in London 
in 1704, as he is known to have preached and published a ser- 
mon that year. 

As he is said to have died August 2, (New Style, August 
13) 1704* at Hochstadt, Germany, near which the battle of 
Bleinheim was fought on that date, it was thought he might 
have been chaplain or soldier in the British Army, and that he 
was killed in that action ; but as he is mentioned in Joseph 
Davis' will, made in 1706, and as his own will is said to have 
been proven in 1707, he must have died that year. 

16. Coppinger, Rev, Matthew. We know but little con- 
cerning Mr. Coppinger, but that little is connected with his 
brave defense of the Sabbath. In 1659, he was associated with 
Dr. Chamberlcn and Thomas Tillam in a Sabbath discussion 
against Jeremiah Ives. He is mentioned by Gilfillan as one 
among others who "contended for the perpetuity of the Sev- 
enth-day Sabbath against the Christian world." 

17. Cornthwaite, Robert. Robert Cornthwaite was born 
in Bolton, near Lancaster, in 1696. He was first a Presby- 
terian, altho his parents were members of the Church of Eng- 
land. His first settlement was at Chesham, in Buckingham- 
shire, where he changed his views regarding baptism and 
began to preach to a Baptist congregation near I>oston in Lin- 
colnshire ; here he remained about one year. He then went to 
London, where he met the Sabbath question, and became con- 
vinced as to the sound Scriptural position of the Seventh-day 
Baptists ; this was in 1726, and the same year he became pastor 
of the Mill Yard Church, remaining such until his death. April 
19, 1755, in his fifty-ninth year. Mr. Daniel Noble, his pupil 
and successor, preached his funeral sermon. 

He was "faithful and assiduous in the discharge of his 



74 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

ministerial duties." His publications were devoted mainly to 
the Sabbath ; six works to this effect are still extant : — 

"Reflections on Dr. Wright's Observation on the Lord's- 
day," etc. 1729. 

"The Seventh-day of the Week the Christian Sabbath.*' 

1735. 

"The Seventh-day Farther Vindicated, an answer to Dr. 

Wright." 1736. 

"A Second Defense of Some Reflections on Wright's 
Treatise," etc. 1736. 

"An Essay on the Sabbath." 1740. 

"Mr. Foster's Sermon on the Sabbath, examined with 
candor." 1745. 

Dr. W. M. Jones speaks of these as "thoroughly convinc- 
ing on the Sabbath question." And Robert Cox, in Sabbath 
Literature, says: — "Mr. Cornthwaite is one of the ablest 
defenders of the positions taken up by the Seventh-day Bap- 
tists ;" and quotes quite at length from one of his works. His 
books were of a controversial character, had an extensive cir- 
culation, and called forth replies from some of the most emi- 
nent men of his time. 

18. Cowell, John, During the licentiate of John Purser, 
John Cowell was the chief preacher at the Natton Seventh-day 
Baptist Church. Elder Cowell began to keep the Sabbath 
"about the beginning of the year 1661," but in 1671 he returned 
to the first-day and gave his reasons for so doing in a book 
entitled, "The Snare Broken," published in 1677. Mrs. Tamar 
Davis says : — "Mr. Cowell appears to have been rather waver- 
ing and unstable, but withal a pious and well-meaning man." 
The Natton Church, of which he was pastor, seems to have 
been composed of both first-day and seventh-day observers 
until after his death in 1680. 

19. Davis, Joseph, Sr. Joseph Davis, Sr., son of John 
Davis, was born in 1627. In 1646 he was apprenticed for nine 
years. At the expiration of this time, in 1655, he was married. 
Sometime before this event, just how long we cannot tell, he 
began keeping the Bible Sabbath ; and was probably a member 
of the Mill Yard Church at the time of the martyrdom of John 
James. His own brave defense of the Bible Sabbath and Bible 
truth brought upon him severe persecutions which he bore 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 75 

with meekness and fortitude. He was first imprisoned for a 
few days, and about the time of the suffering of Mr. James, 
in 1661, he was confined for some weeks or months. In 1662 
he was imprisoned in Oxford Castle where he remained, (with 
the exception of a short respite to visit his dying wife in 1665), 
until released by Charles II, in 1672, with John Bunyan and 
four hundred eighty-nine others. While in prison for the 
truth's sake, January 26, 1670, from a "cold high tower" in 
Oxford Castle, he wrote a letter to the Sabbath-keepers in 
Newport, R. I., which is characterized by a sweet and most 
devout spirit, indicating a man of superior mind and exalted 
piety. The letter is published in the Seventh-day Baptist 
Memorial, vol. i. page 74; and in the Sabbath Recorder for 
August 8, 1844. 

After his release from Oxford jail, he went to London 
and prospered in the business of a linen draper. In 1691 he 
purchased the Mill Yard property, and erected a chapel and 
other buildings. In 1700 this property was conveyed by him 
to trustees chosen by the church. In his will, made in 1706, 
he bequeathed his property to his son, Joseph Davis, Jr., pro- 
viding for an annual payment, for ministerial support, to Mill 
Yard and seven other Seventh-day Baptist Churches then in 
existence; and so conditioned his will that, on the death of his 
son, the Mill Yard Church came into possession of his entire 
property. This property yielded an income of six hundred 
pounds in 1880; and in 1902, the income was more than seven 
hundred pounds. So rich a legacy has so excited the cupidity 
of the enemies of the Sabbath, that by some scheming it has 
been diverted from the purpose of this noble benefactor. 

Mr. Davis died February 16, 1707 ; and is justly character- 
ized by Dr. Wm. M. Jones as a "man of influence, sound judg- 
ment, and ardent piety." Ivimey says he was an elder. 

20. Dawson, Henry. Rev. Henry Dawson was formerly 
of London, but came to America in 1767. Gilfillan mentions 
him in a list of twenty-four with Matthew Coppinger. On 
coming to America he seems to have been fellowshipped by 
the first-day Baptists until found to be keeping the seventh-day 
Sabbath. In the Minutes of the Philadelphia Baptist Associa- 
tion for 1773, he is spoken of with commendation. From New- 
port, R. I., he went to Trenton, N. J., where he was residing 



76 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

in 1774, and conducting revival meetings with the Shrewsbury, 
N. J., Seventh-day Baptist Church; there is no record, how- 
ever, to indicate that he was a member of this church. He 
was alive' as late as 1777, and probably still at Trenton. The 
date of his death we do not know. 

In 1776 Mr. Dawson published "A short essay on Rev. 
1 : 10, showing the Lord's day means the real and perpetual 
Sabbath;" and in 1777, "The Genuine Sabbath, Commonly 
called Saturday, Vindicated." 

21. Elwall, Edward, Edward El wall was born Novem- 
ber 9, 1676, and died November 29, 1744. He was a member 
ol the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church, and was one 
of the very first in England to advocate "Disestablishment," 
or separation of Church and State. In 1728 he published a 
tract, "The True and Sure Way to Remove Hirelings out of 
the Church ;" in this he wrote : — "As Christ has declared that 
his kingdom is not of this world, so there never ought to be 
any worldly force to bring men into it, nor any forced main- 
tenance to support it. All must be free and not forced. We 
read of Christ's whipping the buyers and sellers out, but never 
in. All Christ's followers must be volunteers, — he calls and 
they follow." (See Recorder for January 28, 1886). 

As an evidence of his Sabbath-keeping, he was known 
among the common people of Wolverhampton by the name of 
"Jew Elwall." (See Jones' "The Sabbath Memorial" for 
April, 1881, page 241). 

In 1727 he published "True Testimony for God and for 
His Sacred Law; being a plain and honest defense of the 
Fourth Commandment of God. An Answer to a Treatise on 
the Religious observance of the Lord's-day." This book passed 
thru several editions. In it, says Dr. Wm. M. Jones, "Elwall 
launches swift darts against the papal pagdn Sunday, and 
defends the Sabbath with great earnestness and solemnity." 

22. Fox, John. We can gather but little information con- 
cerning John Fox, but such as we have indicates that he was a 
vigorous defender of the Bible Sabbath. John Cowell, who 
kept the Sabbath for ten years and then gave it up, in his 
*'The Snare Broken," published in 1677, speaking of his asso- 
ciate Sabbath-keepers in 1664, says : — "And for many of the 
persons concerned, they were no small ones either amongst 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. ^J 

that people, as Thomas Tillam, Christopher Pooley, Edward 
Skipp, John Fox," etc. Thus we find Fox classed with doughty 
champions of the Bible Sabbath. We can but regret that we 
have no other records concerning him. 

23. Fryth, John. John Fryth, (or Frith), was a man of 
learning and influence who assisted William Tyndale in the 
translation of the Scriptures. Frith was born in 1503, and mar- 
tyred in 1533. He has been spoken of as one of the very 
earliest "Sabbatarian Baptists" to be found in England; but 
he was scarcely such, altho he uttered sentiments worthy of a 
defender of Sabbath truth. He wrote : — "The Jews have the 
Word of God for their Saturday. Sith It is the Seventh Day 
and they were commanded to keep the Seventh Day solemn. 
And we have not the word of God for us, but rather against 
us ; for we keep not the Seventh Day as the Jews do, but the 
First, which is not commanded by God*s law." Thus Mr. 
Fryth became a true witness for the Bible Sabbath. 

24. Gadbury, Judah, Mr. Gadbur}^ appears as early as 
1673 ^o haive been an elder of the Mill Yard Church. He 
was one of the original nine trustees of the Mill Yard prop- 
erty given to the church by Joseph Davis, Sr. He was associat- 
ed with Joseph Davis, Sr., and several entries in the church 
records were made by him. He died about July 31st, 1734. 

25. Hebden, . Mr. Ephraim Paggitt in his 

"Herisography," London, 1661, speaks of "one ^Ir. Hebden, 
a prisoner in the new prison, that lay there for holding Sat- 
urday Sabbath." This is all we know of him ; but from this 
we know that he was a suflFerer for the truth — brave and true. 

26. Hubbard, Thomas. Thomas Hubbard is not known 
to have been a Sabbath-keeper, but for the truth's sake he was 
burned at the stake, March 26, 1555, in the reign of Bloody 
Mary, Queen of England. We refer to him here because he 
was the ancestor of Samuel Hubbard, one of the seven who 
united to form the first Seventh-day Baptist Church in Amer- 
ica, at Newport, R. I. 

27. Jackson, Hamlet. When John Trask came from 
Salisbury to London in 161 7, and held revival meetings, Ham- 
let Jackson became one of his disciples; and was afterward 
the means of bringing him and others to the observance of the 



/S SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

seventh-day Sabbath — ^thus forming the nucleus of the Mill 
Yard Church. Jackson was an ordained evangelist. 

28. James, John. Rev. John James was one of the first, 
if not the first, pastor of the Seventh-day Baptist Church wor- 
shipping in Bull Stake Alley, Whitechapel Road, London, 
(since known as the Mill Yard Church). He was born of poor 
parents, and became a ribbon weaver, afterwards a small coal 
man; but finding this business too much for his health, he 
returned to ribbon weaving. Sabbath-day, October 19, 1661, 
while preaching to his people at their meeting place, he was 
twice rudely interrupted by officers of the law and commanded 
to come down. He was then dragged out of his pulpit. The 
charge of uttering treasonable words against the king was 
made by a journeyman tobacco-pipe maker, named Tipler; 
but so disreputable a person was Tipler that the justice refused 
to commit Mr. James on his testimony unless it was corrobor- 
ated ; this was done, and the good pastor was sent to Newgate 
prison. On the 14th of November he was brought before 
Chief Justice Forster, and three other judges, at Westminster 
Hall, where he was charged with "endeavoring to levy war 
against the king, with seeking a change in government, with 
saying that the king was a bloody tyrant, a blood sucker and 
a bloodthirsty man, and that his nobles were the same ; and that 
the king and his nobles had shed the blood of the saints at 
Charing Cross, and in Scotland." But there was no show of 
evidence to substantiate any of the charges. Mr. James was 
remanded to Newgate for four days, when his trial came oflF. 
Previous to this he received a letter from a friend of distinc- 
tion, informing him that for many years there had not been 
such eflForts to pack a jury, and that his only hope of safety lay 
in challenging them, or "most of the chief men of them." 
When Mr. James was brought into court, the chief justice 
exclaimed, "Oh, Oh, are you come?" and this was a specimen 
of the way in which his trial was conducted. He was con- 
demned in accordance with the plot of those who planned his 
murder, and was sentenced to be hanged at Tyburn, near Hyde 
Park, and while still alive to have his entrails drawn and his 
heart taken out and burned ; his head to be taken oflF and placed 
first on London Bridge, and afterward set up on a pole in 
^^'hitechapel Road opposite to the meeting place in Bull Stake 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 79 

Alley ; his body to be cut in quarters and placed on four of the 
seven gates of the city. The next day after sentence was pro- 
nounced against him, his wife presented a petition to King 
Charles II, proving his innocence and appealing for mercy; 
but the only reply of his majesty was, "Oh ! Mr. James, he is 
sweet gentleman!" and the door was shut against her. The 
next morning she made another appeal to the King, and his 
cruel response was, "He is a rogue, and shall be hanged/' 
When asked if he had anything to say why sentence of death 
should not pronounced against him, he answered: — "As for 
me, behold, I am in your hands : do with me as it seemeth good 
and meet unto you. But know ye for certain that if ye put me 
to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon yourselves, 
and upon this city, and upon the inhabitants thereof. Pre- 
cious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints. He that 
toucheth you toucheth the apple of mine eye." And when Mr. 
James heard his sentence, he immediately added, "Blessed be 
God: whom man hath condemned, God hath justified." The 
sentence was executed November 26, 1661. He was bound to 
a sled and drawn through the slush of the streets to Tyburn, 
where he spoke with such power and prayed with such fervor 
that the hangman would not execute the full sentence, but per- 
mitted life to be fully extinct before he was drawn and quar- 
tered. On the same sled which brought him to the place of 
execution, his quarters were taken back to Newgate and then 
placed upon Aldgate, Bishopgate, Moorgate, and Aldergate — 
the four gates nearest to the meeting-place in Bull Stake Alley, 
in front of which his head was exposed upon a pole. Elder 
James gained great sympathy and respect for his devotion and 
submission to God. At the place of execution his remarks 
were gentle and loving, and his soul brave and full of hope. 
He was an inoffensive and benevolent man, free from any 
blemish in his character, and guiltless of every charge in the 
indictment. He was savagely murdered by Charles II, his 
courtiers and his tools (the judges) to terrify the Dissenters, 
and especially the Baptists, into loyalty. And undoubtedly the 
vengeance of God, invoked by the innocent blood of John 
James, had something to do with driving the Stuarts from the 
throne of England. 

29. Jones, Philip. Philip Jones was pastor of the Natton 



8o SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Seventh-day Baptist Church, following Edmund Townsend in 
1727, and continuing in this relation until his death in 1770. 
As a young man, and licentiate, he gave promise of much use- 
fulness; and as pastor he "served the church with great abil- 
ity." It is said of him, "he was a holy man of God, a good and 
lively preacher of the gospel." 

30. Jones, William M. On the death of Rev. William H. 
Black in 1872, Elder Jones, his son-in-law, became pastor of 
Mill Yard Church, and ably served the church in this capacity 
until his death in 1895, February 22nd. He was born at Fort 
Ann, Washington Co., N. Y., May 2, 1818. His father, Nathan 
Jones, was a member of the Baptist Church, and on the last 
Sunday of January, 1836, William was baptized in the Che- 
nango River. In March, 1838, he preached his first sermon 
from Matt. 25: 31, 32. In October, 1838, he entered Madison 
University, Hamilton, N. Y., and on January 12, 1840, he was 
licensed to preach. 

He began ministerial work at Mill Creek, Huntington 
Co., Penn., in June. January 5, 1841, he was ordained at the 
Mill Creek Baptist Church. In May, 1844, he was appointed, 
with Elder Bingham, as a missionary to Burmah, but was sent 
to the island of Hayti in the West Indies, for which he 
embarked at Boston, January 10, 1845. December 2, 1845, 
he preached his first sermon in French, from the text, i 
John 1 : 7. 

His first knowledge of the Sabbath came from the fact 
that an uncle, Joel Jones, then living in Canada, was keeping 
"Saturday for Sunday." After this the Sabbath was several 
times brought to his attention, but his doubts were allayed by 
a Baptist brother who said that "Saturday was the Jewish Sab- 
bath, but Sunday is the Christian Sabbath," and several others 
of the most plausible statements on the wrong side of the 
Sabbath question. While attending a missionary meeting in 
Sansom Street Baptist Church, Philadelphia, in November, 
1843, ^^ found some tracts lying on the seats, three of which 
he picked up and found to be, "The Sabbath Vindicator," 
"An address to the Baptists by the Seventh-day Baptist Gen- 
eral Conference," and "The True Sabbath Embraced and 
Observed." He was dismayed as he read these, and said to 
himself: — "Are these things so? If so, then I am involved in 
(5) 



REV. WILLIAM M. JONES, D. D. 
Sac Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 8l 

the trans^ession of God's law, and am a Sabbath-breaker/' 
His wife said : — "I think we have no more Scripture for Sun- 
day-keeping than my father has for infant sprinkling." Thus 
the subject was dropped for awhile. 

In 1847 ^^ visited his uncle, Joel Jones, at Clarence, N. 
Y., and wrote in his diary: — "Saturday, August 21st. This 
day is kept by my uncle as the Sabbath of the Lord God. Am I 
wrong in keeping the first day, or not ? Is it not a serious ques- 
tion? .... I preached for the Seventh-day Baptisf 
Church, and was peculiarly impressed when the whole congre- 
gation sang with much fervor Stennett's hymn : — 

"Another six days' work is done. 
Another Sabbath is begun," etc., etc. 

Two months after this he called on Rev. Eli S. Bailey 
in Brookfield, N. Y., on a Sabbath evening; and of this visit 
he writes: — "I inquired for a book on Seventh-day Baptist 
doctrine and history — one containing a summary of arguments. 
The Doctor replied, *Yes, sir, we have a book on these sub- 
jects — a very good book we think it is ) indeed we know of no 
better one, and if you haven't one, I shall take great pleasure in 
presenting you with a copy. It is the Bible, sir.' " This 
recalled to Mr. Jones the oft repeated Baptist aphorism: — 
"The Bible is the only rule of faith and practice." 

Finally he settled the question, and began keeping the 
Bible Sabbath on the first Sabbath in July, 1848. This resulted 
in his recall as a Baptist missionary to the Island of Hayti, 
from which he sailed August 17, 1850. He was welcomed in 
New York by Seventh-day Baptist friends, and in the follow- 
ing November he became pastor of the Church at Shiloh, N. J. 

March 11, 1854, in company with Mr. and Mrs. Charles 
Saunders, he and his wife sailed for the Holy Land, whither 
the Church had sent them to found a mission at the ancient 
Joppa. Here he studied Arabic, Hebrew, Latin, Greek, Ger- 
man and Italian; and was able in March, 1855, to use Arabic 
in public worship to some extent. His first public service con- 
ducted wholly in Arabic was on March, 13, 1858. In January, 
1859, he conducted part of a service in German. 

Being recalled from this mission, he left Jerusalem Decem- 
ber 23, i860, passed through Paris and arrived in London 
February 22, 1861, where he first met the Rev. William Henry 



82 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Black, F. S. A., pastor of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist 
Church. May 6th he arrived in New York, and in October 
became pastor of the Walworth (Wis.) Seventh-day Baptist 
Church. In 1863 he became pastor of the Church at Scott, 
N. Y. ; and in August, 1868, he removed to Rosenhayn, near 
Vineland, N. J. He and his family were the first settlers 
here, built the first house, and cleared a small plot of ground. 

On the death of Rev. W. H. Black, April 12, 1872, he was 
called as pastor of the Mill Yard Church. Reaching London, 
September 14, 1872, he found only three members belonging to 
the Church; but during his pastorate twenty-six others were 
added to the number. He at once began to print and distribute 
tracts ; and issued the first number of the "Sabbath Memorial" 
in January, 1875. This quarterly he published for fourteen 
years, and made it a faithful and strong advocate of Sabbath 
observance. 

One of the most unique and important of his many Sab- 
bath publications is his "Chart of the Week" in 160 languages : 
this he issued in 1887. By this he showed that in over one hun- 
dred languages the seventh-day or Saturday was referred to 
as the Sabbath. Of this Chart, the Christian Leader said, 
"It is a marvelous production of patient as well as erudite 
toil, giving a bird's eye view of the language history of the 
seven days' week from the remotest antiquity to the present 
time." 

In 1882, Sir Walter Besant, in his famous novel, "All 
Sorts and Conditions of Men," describes Mill Yard Chapel, 
and refers to Mr. Jones, under the title of the Rev. Percival 
Hermitage. Mr. Besant says : — "As for the position taken by 
these people, it is perfectly logical, and in fact, impregnable. 
There is no answer to it." 

In June, 1886, Alfred University conferred upon Mr. 
Jones the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity. He was 
Professor of Arabic and Hebrew at the City of London Col- 
lege, Moorfields, for several years, and was a. member of 
many societies — Seamen's Christian Friend Society, London 
Board of Baptist Ministers, Northwest London Fraternal, 
Board of the General Baptist Assembly, Society of Biblical 
Archeology. The Oriental Congress, The Southern Pro- 
vincial Assembly of Free Churches, etc., etc. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 83 

He Spent much time in studying the Scriptures in the 

original languages ; and his advice to students for the ministry 

was always to learn Hebrew first and then Greek, holding that 

the New Testament Scriptures should be studied through 

Hebrew spectacles. 

His funeral services were conducted on Febntary 26, by 
Rev. G. J. Hill of the Seamen's Christian Friend Society, at 
Abney Park Cemetery. Mr. Hill said, among other things, 
"I never knew a more consistent follower of the Lord Jesus 
Christ. I never heard a single word fall from his lips which 
I might wish had not been uttered, never an uncharitable or 
unkind word in reference to any one absent, nor the manifesta- 
tion of any but a Christlike spirit to those who were present." 

31. Kiddle, James Jonas. Rev. J. J. Kiddle was bom in 
1802, and died December 29, 1886. (Mill Yard Records.) His 
Sabbath experience, written by himself, is published in the 
"Sabbath Memorial" for October, 1878, page 102. He became 
convinced on this subject in 1848 thru an argument with a 
skeptic, but did not commence to keep the Seventh-day until 
1877. November 29, 1879, he was admitted as a non-resident 
member of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church. 

32. Maulden, John. John Maulden was for forty years 
an elder in the General Baptist Church. He was pastor of a 
Baptist Church in Goodmans Fields at the time when he 
became a Sabbath convert in 1708; the same year he united 
with the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church. About the 
year 1712 he became joint pastor of Mill Yard Church with 
Elder John Savage, and so continued until his death, February 
17, 1715, at the age of seventy years. He published a work 
entitled, "A Threefold Dialogue; Whether the Seventh or 
First Day of the Week is the Sabbath of the Lord ;" and also, 
"The Ancient and Honorable Way and Truth of God's Sacred 
Rest of the Seventh-day Sabbath." These are able works. 

33. McFarlane, Elder Patrick. Elder McFarlane was 
a member of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church, and 
an able and learned man. In 181 5 he published an "English 
and Gaellic Vocabulary;" and in 1826, "Strictures on the Rev. 
Greville Ewing's Speech at Bible Society Meeting in Glas- 
gow." This last work was answered by a Mr. McGarvin, 
author of "The Protestant." 



84 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Robert Cox, "Sabbath Literature/' vol. II., p. 410, refers as 
follows to one of his writings: — "In a recent pamphlet, en- 
titled System in Revelation, by Patrick McFarlane, p. 25 
(Edinburg, i860), there appears a strong tendency to the 
opinion that the first day of the week has been rashly and un- 
warrantably substituted for the seventh." He is mentioned 
by Gilfillen ; and his name also appears in the Minutes of Con- 
ference of forty years ago. 

34. Noble, Daniel Daniel Noble was bom in White- 
chapel, London, June 14, 1729, of Sabbatarian parents — Daniel 
and Sarah Noble. When very young he manifested a pious 
disposition, and began early to prepare for the ministry. He 
was baptized by Elder Robert Cornthwaite into the membership 
of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church. 

He first learned grammar of a local tutor, after which Mr. 
Cornthwaite directed his studies. He then came under the 

r 

instruction of Dr. Rotherham at Kendall, and afterwards com- 
pleted his course at the University of Glasgow in 1749-52. 
For a time he conducted a school at Peckham. 

He commenced authorship in his sixteenth year, his first 
work being, "Letter against the Young Pretender, to the Peo- 
ple of England." From 1755 to 1767, he published books of 
sermons. 

In June, 1752, he began to preach at Mill Yard as assistant 
pastor, having the morning service while the pastor conducted 
the afternoon appointment. On the death of Elder Corn- 
thwaite in 1755, he preached his funeral sermon, which was 
published in the "Protestant Dissenters Magazine," vol. 6. 
He now received ordination to the ministry, and became pastor 
of the church; which position he held until his death. He is 
said to have been faithful and diligent in the discharge of his 
j pastoral duties, preaching with the Spirit and in power. Dr, 
Benson said, he was the best composer of sermons he knew. 

He had three daughters named. Experience, Eusebia, 
Serena. 

He died Dec. 24, 1783, and was buried Jan. 7, 1784. Dr. 
Jeffreys wrote his funeral sermon ; but, dying three days later, 
was unable to deliver it. It is printed in the "Protestant Dis- 
senters Magazine," vol. 5. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 85 

35. Ockford, James. Of the early history of this able 
defender of Sabbath truth, we have no available record. It is 
said that he "wrote boldly against the adversaries of the Sab- 
bath," and "turned the weapons of opposing parties against 
themselves." Being familiar with the discussions in which 
Trask and Braboume had been engaged, and not satisfied with 
the pretended conviction of Brabourne, he published a book 
entitled, "The Doctrine of the Fourth Commandment." The 
value and force of his arguments are attested by two facts : — 
First, that his book was burned by order of the authorities of ' 
the Established Church, suffering, as it was said, "a sharp 
confutation by fire ;" and, second, that it was counted worthy 
of an extended review by Cawdrey and Palmer, members of 
the Assembly of Divines, in their book, "Sabbatum Redivivum." 
One copy of Ockford's "Doctrines" is known to have been in 
existence as late as 1868, at least. 

36. Pooly, Christopher. Mr. Pooly appears to have been 
one of the elders of Mr. Brabourne's church in Norwich, Nor- 
folk. It is recorded that he re-baptized a Mrs. Boote on the 
18th of August, 1656, "at the staithe in the river;" and that 
he performed a like office for others sometime before this. In 
1652 he published in London a "Vindication of Christ and His 
Ordinances from Glosses." John Co well (see Cox, 2-58) 
mentions Pooly with Tiilamand Fox as "no small ones" 
among the Sabbath-keepers and defenders of his day. 

2,7. Powell, Vavasor. Vavasor Powell was born in Rad- 
norshire in 16 1 7, and descended from an ancient and honora- 
ble stock : — on his father's side, from the Powells of Knocklas 
in Radnorshire ; and on. his mother's side, from the Vavasors, 
a family of great antiquity, that came out of Yorkshire into 
Wales, and was related to the principal gentry in North Wales. 

He was educated in Jesus College, Oxford. On leaving 
College, he took orders in the Established Church about the 
year 1640, and at first officiated in Wales as curate to his uncle, 
Erasmus Powell. 

He had not been long, however, in that situation when he 
joined the Puritans, (probably about 1642-43), from a convic- 
tion that their principles and proceedings were more consonant 
with the Scriptures than those on which the National Establish- 



86 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ment is founded. About this time he left Wales and took up 
his residence in the neighborhood of London. 

It appears that now he was in high estimation with the 
Presbyterian party; and soon after an act of Parliament, Feb. 
22, 1649, "for the better propagating and preaching of the Gos- 
pel in Wales," he returned to his native land where he con- 
tinued some years diligently exerting himself in promoting the 
objects of that act, and especially in preaching the Gospel 
throughout the country. There was scarcely a neighborhood, 
a parish, or a village in the country which was not visited by 
him, and that did not hear from his mouth the cheering invi- 
tations of the Gospel. There were few, if any, of the churches 
or chapels in Wales in which he did not preach ; very often he 
preached to the poor Welch in the mountains, at fairs, and in 
market places. Even to this day places are pointed out, it is 
said, in the most obscure and unfrequented parts of the prin- 
cipality, where Vavasor preached to numerous congregations. 

When Mr. Powell left Wales in 1642, there was not above 
one or two gathered churches ; but as early as 1654 his follow- 
ers were calculated to amount to not less than twentv thousand, 
organized into distinct societies of from two hundred to five 
hundred members each — all chiefly planted and formed by his 
care and industry. 

Rev. Dr. Richards of Lynn, Norfolk, who bestowed much 
industry in tracing out the history of this eminent Noncon- 
formist, says that he embraced the sentiments of the Baptists 
and was himself baptized toward the end of the year 1655. A,f- 
ter this he steadily persevered in the work of the Lord, till the 
new order of things under Charles II deprived him of his lib- 
erty and compelled him to desist. He was among the first vic- 
tims of the tyrannical measures of Charles II. On the 28th of 
April, 1660, he was seized in his own house by a party of sol- 
diers and conducted to the county jail. He was secured first 
at Shrewsbury, afterward in Wales, and at last in the Fleet. 
In the year 1662 he was shut up in South Sea Castle, near 
Portsmouth, where he continued five years. In 1667 he was 
released, but, venturing to preach again in his own country, he 
was imprisoned at Cardig; and on Oct. 16, 1669, he was 
brought to London and committed once more to the Fleet, 
where he remained till discharged by death October 27, 1670, 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 87 

in the fifty-third year of his age — eleven years of zdiieh he had 
passed in prison for preaching a pure Gospel. He was buried 
in Bunhill Fields, in the presence of an innumerable crowd 
of Dissenters. The inscription on his tomb calls him "a suc- 
cessful teacher of the past, a sincere witness of the present, 
and a useful example to the future age ; who, in the defection 
of many, found mercy to be faithful, for which, being called 
to many prisons, he was there tried, and would not accept 
deliverance, expecting a better resurrection." 

Dr. Toulmin, editor of Neal's "History of the Puritans," 
in a footnote on page 274, says: — "So active and laborious 
was he in the duties of the ministry, that he frequently preached 
in two or three places in a day, and was seldom two days in 
the week, throughout the year, out of the pulpit. He would 
sometimes ride a hundred miles in the week, and preach in 
every place where he could gain admittance, either by night or 
day. He would often alight from his horse, and set on it any 
aged person whom he met on the road on foot, and walk by 
iheir side for miles together. He was exceedingly hospitable 
and generous, and would not only entertain and lodge, but 
clothe the poor and aged. He was a man of great humility, 
very conscientious and exemplary in all the relations of life, 
and very punctual to his word. He was a scholar, and his 
general deportment was that of a gentleman. His sentiments 
were those of a Sabbatarian Baptist, Dr. Richards says there 
is not sufficient ground for considering him a Sabbatarian; 
but Dr. Toulmin refers to Crosby's "History of English Bap- 
tists," of which Dr. Black says that it is the only real history of 
English Baptists. We may confidently rest upon this authority 
until facts are adduced to prove the contrary, and rejoice in 
this eminent example of apostolic labor and suffering for the 
cause of divine truth. 

38. Purser, Benjamin, Mr. Benjamin Purser was the 
youngest son of the first pastor of the Xatton Church, Tewkes- 
bury ; and has the record of a pious, thrifty and benevolent man. 
In 17 1 8 he bought an estate at Xatton, and fitted up one room 
of his dwelling as a chapel for Sabbath worship ; and this has 
been the meeting place of this ancient church from that day 
until the present time. At his death in 1765, he bequeathed 
this chapel and a burying place to the church, together with 



88 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

an annuity of five pounds to all succeeding pastors. Tho we 
know but little more of this godly man, with these facts as a 
basis, we can picture a happy life of industry and well-doing. 

39. Purser, John. Elder John Purser was the first pas- 
tor, so far as we have any account, of the Natton Seventh-day 
Baptist Church in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. His father 
was of an honorable family, and wealthy, but disinherited him 
because he persisted in keeping the seventh-day Sabbath. 
However, notwithstanding this injustice, God prospered him 
in his business as a farmer, so that he attained to comfortable 
circurtistances, and to good standing in his County. Between 
the years 1660 and 1690 he suffered much persecution for con- 
science' sake — ^at one time having taken from him the team and 
plow with which he was cultivating his farm ; but in this case 
a neighboring Conformist interposed in his behalf and caused 
to be returned to him these necessary articles for procuring a 
livelihood. But despite all his losses, God blessed and pros- 
pered him ; and he was enabled to bring up in comfort a large 
family. All his children, and many of his grandchildren, walk- 
ed in his steps, keeping the commandments of God. 

40. Rix, Thomas. Thomas Rix was born in Maiden, 
Essex. England, in 1806, and died in London, December 26, 
1886. He was brought up in the Wesleyan denomination of 
which he became a minister at an early age. Becoming dissat- 
isfied with infant baptism, he was baptized and joined a Bap- 
tist Church. Soon after this he read a series of articles on the 
Sabbath question, in a magazine called "The Church;" these 
articles led him to become a Sabbath-keeper. He then sought 
out the Mill Yard Church, which, after a time, he joined ; and 
in 1854, was chosen as one of its deacons. 

He was a man of sterling integrity and conscientious- 
ness ; for altho his place of residence was four miles from Mill 
Yard he always walked both ways so as not to break the Sab- 
bath. For several years before his death he preached in a free 
church which he had erected at his own expense. 

. On Sunday, December 26, 1886, he was visiting some 
friends at Wood Green in the North of London, and in the 
evening went to the Wesleyan chapel. During the singing of a 
hymn he suddenly fell forward and expired. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 89 

He was twice married ; and his second wife still survives 
him, and is a member of the Mill Yard Church. 

41. Rogers, John. John Refers is not known to have 
been a Sabbath-keeper, but is given here because he was 
probably the ancestor of James Rogers, one of the first mem- 
bers of the Newport Seventh-day Baptist Church. In the 
reign of Bloody Mary, John Rogers was burned at the stake, 
Monday, February 4, 1555. 

A striking incident is related of him in the Latin edition 
of Fox's Book of Martyrs, but omitted in the English transla- 
tion: — In King Edward's reign some were put to death for 
heresy ; among these was a woman, Joan of Kent. Rogers at 
this time was divinity reader in St. Paul's Church, who there- 
fore was in position to have influence with the higher author- 
ities. A friend plead with him to use his interest with the 
Archbishop that this woman might be saved from the stake; 
but to all the arguments and persuasions of his more humane 
friend, he turned a deaf ear, saying that she ought to die, and 
that burning was no cruel death. Hearing this, the friend 
struck Rogers' hand which he held, and with great vehemence 
exclaimed : — "Well, perhaps it may so happen that you your- 
self shall have your hands full of this mild burning." And 
so it came to pass that John Rogers was the first man who 
was burned in Queen Mary's reign. It is supposed that his 
friend, referred to above, was no other than Fox himself. 

42. Rogers, Thomas. Nicholas Bounde's book, though 
written in the interest of Sunday, was suppressed by Arch- 
bishop Whitgift and Lord Chief Justice Popham because it 
aroused thoughtful popular attention to this great question, 
with the result that many questioned the divine authority for 
Sunday keeping; and the complaint was entered that **somc 
built on this foundation, endeavoring to bring back again the 
Jewish Sabbath and abrogate the Lord's day as having no 
foundation in the Fourth Commandment." 

Whether Thomas Rogers kept the seventh-day Sabbath 
of the Bible, or not, it is certain that his work was not favor- 
able to Sunday sacredness; for in i(yoy he wrote a treatise on 
the Thirty-nine Articles of the Established Church, in which 



90 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

he vigorously denounced the idea that to do servile work on 
the Lord's day (Sunday) was a sin. He died in 1616. 

43. Russell, Peter. Peter Russell was one of the 
pastors of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist Church, 
being ordained to the ministry at the same time with 
Daniel Noble. Upon the death of Robert Cornthwaite, in 
1755, Xoble and Russell were together appointed to succeed 
him — the first preaching in the morning and the other in the 
afternoon. When Mr. Noble died in 1783 he was succeeded 
by William Slater as morning preacher; while Mr. Russell 
continued as afternoon preacher until his death, in 1789, when 
Mr. Slater became both morning and afternoon preacher. 
Mr. Russell is said to have served the church very acceptably. 

44. Saunders, Lazvrence. We include the name of Mr. 
Saunders not because he was a known Sabbath-keeper, but 
for the reason that he was an ancestor of Tobias Saunders, 
one of the members of the first Seventh-day Baptist church in 
America. 

Rev. Lawrence Saunders was born in Gloucestershire, 
England ; educated at Cambridge, and became a preacher of 
the gospel at Frothingham and Litchfield in the reign of Ed- 
ward VL He was martyred by fire outside the city of Cov- 
entry February 9th, 1555 (Sabbath day). 

45. Savage, John. Elder John Savage became pas- 
tor of the Mill Yard church in 1712; and during his 
term of service, the church was moved from Bull-stake Alley 
to Mill Yard. He had as assistant pastor John Maulden, un- 
til Maulden*s death, February 17, 1715. After a faithful pas- 
torate of eight years, Elder Savage died March 20th, 1720. 

46. Sellers, William. The name is variously spelled — 
Seller, Sailer, Sallars, Salter; but the dates identify the per- 
son as one. Ivimey, Maitland and others give John James 
(who was martyred in 1661) as the first pastor of the Mill 
Yard Seventh-day Baptist church. Mr. Sellers is named by 
these writers as the next pastor of this church, and as having 
served in this capacity from 1670 to 1678. The church is said 
to have been in a flourishing condition during his pastorate. 

As early as 1657, in conjunction with John Spittlehouse, 
he published *'An Appeal to the Consciences of the Chief Mag- 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 9I 

isirates touching the Sabbath Day." In 1679 an enlarged edi- 
tion of this work was issued. 

In 1671 Mr. Sellers published '^Examination of a Late 
Book by Dr. Owen on a Sacred Day of Rest," in which he de- 
fended the Sabbath of the Bible. He also published a work 
on "Christian Instruction," in the form of Question and An- 
swer; but no date is given. 

In the 1679 edition of the "Appeal," he mentions "The 
oath and protestation that I and this Protestant kingdom took 
in 1641." Supposing that at that date he was not under twen- 
ty, this would make him about ninety years old at the time 
of his death, May 26, 1713. 

It was during his pastorate, in 1673, that the present 
records of the Mill Yard church began. He is spoken of as 
a man of considerable power in debate and controversy, using 
his gift in defense of the Sabbath. It is said that he greatly 
interested the Jews, who came often to hear him preach. 

47. Shalder, Robert, David Benedict, in his "History 
of Baptists," says that Mr. Shalder was a Seventh-day Bap- 
tist. A testimony to his faithfulness, and to his suffering for 
the truth's sake is given in Neal's "Puritans," Vol. II, page 
382 : — "The rage of the people, sanctioned by the conduct of 
the magistrates and the clergy, towards the Baptists, rose to 
such a height as to deny them the benefit of the common bury- 
ing places. Nay, there wanted not instances of their being 
taken out of their graves. The inhabitants of Croft in Lin- 
colnshire treated in this manner the corpse of Mr. Robert Shal- 
der in the year 1666. He had suffered much by imprisonment 
and died soon after his release. He was buried among his 
ancestors ; and on the same day his grave was opened and his 
l>ody was taken out, dragged on a sledge to his own gate and 
left there." Thus have faithful men suffered for Sabbath 
truth. 

48. She fist ouc^ John Brittain. Elder Shenstone was 
bom January 29, 1776; baptized April 22, 1792; called to the 
ministry August 14, 1797; ordained elder of the General Bap- 
tist Church April 23, 1799. For over forty years he was con- 
nected with the Board of Baptist Ministers of London; and, 
as the senior member, was called the father of the Board. But 



02 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS*. 

about the year 1822 he became convinced as to the Sabbath, 
and began to attend the ministry of Robert Burnside, whom 
he succeeded, in June, 1826, as pastor of Francis Bampfield's 
old church (Pinner's Hall, London). He died on Sunday, 
May 12, 1844, ij^ his sixty-ninth year. He was the last pastor 
of this ancient church. His wife, who survived him, died 
October 11, 1863 — the last member of this church. 

In 1826 Elder Shenstone published a book entitled "The 
Authority of Jehovah Asserted; or a Scriptural Plea for the 
Seventh-day Weekly Sabbath as the Only Sabbath Given by 
God." 

49. Skipp, Edward. Edward Skipp wrote in defense of 
the Sabbath in- 1664. Furtlier than this we have no record of 
him. Robert Cox in "Sabbath Literature" (2-58) refers to 
his book. 

50. Slater, William. William Slater was born May 24, 
1754, and died July 21, 181 9. He was a member of the Mill 
Yard Church; and on the death of Daniel Noble in 1783-4 he 
succeeded him as morning preacher and upon the death of 
I^eter Russell in 1789 he became afternoon preacher also, and 
so continued until his death. In 1783 he wrote in defense of 
the Sabbath. 

The church experienced much trouble during his pasto- 
rate, one of the trustees having thrown its affairs into the 
Court of Chancery, for a private purpose. Being a quiet, in- 
offensive man, he took these troubles So to heart as to cause 
his death. 

He kept a school for boys, and was a most successful 
teacher; two of his pupils (one who became a doctor, and the 
other Secretary of the Royal Astronomical Society) spoke 
very highly of him. 

He had one son and six daughters, who survived him. 

51. Smith, Robert. Robert Smith was born in 1590 and 
died in 1675. He was a member of the Mill Yard Seventli- 
(lay Baptist church. Reference is made to him in the "Bap- 
tist Cyclopedia," and also in Hoyt and Wheeler's "Biographi- 
cal Dictionary," where he is spoken of as a book collector; he 
is mentioned in The Sabbath Recorder of January 14, 1858. 



JOHN SI-ATKR. 
See Hiografhical Skehh.-s. p. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 93 

52. Soursby, Henry. Henry Soursby was a mem- 
ber of the Mill Yard church and was chosen elder in 
1673; in 1678 he succeeded Elder William Sellers as pas- 
tor of the church, holding this position until his death, Sep- 
tember 8, 171 1. He was gifted in debate, and used his tal- 
ents vigorously in defense of the Sabbath. In 1683 he pub- 
b'shed "A Discourse on the Sabbath." 

53. Spittlehouse, John. About the year 1654 there was 
published a "Declaration of the several churches of Christ 
and Godly people in and about the citie of London, concern- 
ing the Kingly Interest of Christ, and the present sufferings^ 
of His Cause and Saints in England;" and among the 150 sig- 
natures is a group of seven names representing the Sabbath- 
keeping church "that walketh with Dr. Peter Chamberlen:" 
in this group is the name of John Spittlehouse. He also ap- 
pears as joint author with William Sellers of "An Appeal to 
the Consciences of the Chief Magistrates of this Common- 
wealth Touching the Sabbath-day," published in 1657. Gil- 
fillan includes him in a list of eminent names of men who, 
"spread over a space of more than two centuries, have con- 
tended for the perpetuity of the seventh-day Sabbath against 
the Christian world." Elder Black calls him "Reverend;" 
and says he was alive as late as 1671. Alas, that we have so 
scanty records of the lives of men of this stamp! 

54. Stennett, Edward. Edward Stennett was born in 
Lincolnshire, but the exact date we do not know. The earliest 
notice we have of him states that he was alive and not a Sab- 
bath-keeper as early as 163 1 ; at which time, according to Rob- 
ert Cox's "Sabbath Literature," Theophilus Braboume wrote 
against him and other preachers a "Defence of the Most An- 
cient and Sacred Ordinance of God, the Sabbath Day." 

He appears to have held the sequestered rectory at Wal- 
lingford ; but having taken the side of Parliament, and having 
served as chaplain in the Parliamentary army, he was, on the 
Restoration of Charles II., in 1660, deprived of his living in 
the Established Church. He now applied himself to the study 
of medicine, by the practice of which he was able to support 
his family in comfort and give his children a liberal educa- 
tion. 



94 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

When he embraced the Sabbath, we cannot say, but we 
find him in charge of a Seventh-day Baptist congregation in 
WalHngford at the time, or soon after the Restoration. At 
the request of his son, Joseph, he undertook the pastorate of 
Pinner's Hall church, and came to London at intervals, but 
continued to make WalHngford his home. 

He suffered much of the persecution to which the Dis- 
senters were exposed at that time, and more especially for his 
faithful adherence to the cause of the Sabbath. For this truth 
he experienced tribulation, not only from those in power, by 
whom he was a long time kept in prison, but also much dis- 
tress from unfriendly dissenting brethren who strove to de- 
stroy his influence and ruin his cause. WalHngford Castle, 
in which he resided, possessed, among other privileges, ex- 
emption from search warrants issued by any under the rank 
of Lord Chief Justice; he was thus enabled to defy the local 
magistrates. In this castle he fitted up a room for worship, 
and took great care to admit no strangers. The 'squire and 
parson were his chief enemies, who, failing to trouble him by 
law, hired false witnesses against him. Knowing the just- 
ness of his cause he decided to appear at the trial which was 
fixed for the assizes at Newbury. Just as the time for the 
trial approached, the son of the Judge who was to have been 
a witness against him absconded with some strolling players, 
the rector of WalHngford was seized with illness, another wit- 
ness broke his leg; and in one way or another all were pre- 
vented from appearing against him, except one man, a gar- 
dener, whose conscience smote him so that he refused to ap- 
pear. And so the servant of the Lord was delivered from 
the hands of his enemies; there were also other instances in 
which the plain hand of Providence appeared in his behalf. 

In the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial may be seen a let- 
ter "from Dr. Edward Stennett, of the Seventh-day Baptist 
church, in Bell Lane, London, to the Sabbath-keepers in 
Rhode Island, dated Abingdon, Berkshire, February 2, 1668." 
The truly humble spirit of this great man is manifest in the 
opening and closing of his letter. He begins: — "Edward 
Stennett, a poor, unworthy servant of Jesus Christ, to the rem- 
nant in Rhode Island who keep the commandments of God 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 1)5 

and the tesliniony of Jesus, sendeth greeting;" and in closing 
he begs then- **eamest prayers for a full supply of all grace 
for me, a poor sinful wretch, that I may be found worthy to 
praise him/' This letter also indicates that many Seventh- 
day Baptist churches once flourished in England. He says: — 
"Here are in England about nine or ten churches that keep 
the Sabbath, besides many scattered disciples who have been 
eminently preserved in this tottering day when many once emi~ 
nent churches have been shattered in pieces." This opens up 
to us a much larger view than we have been accustomed to 
take of the once ilourishing condition of Sabbath truth and 
principles in England. 

In 1670 Mr. Stennett wrote a second letter to the Rhode 
Island church; this was of like spirit with the first. 

In 1658 he published **The Royal Law contended for : or, 
Some Brief Grounds serving to prove that the Ten Command- 
ments are yet in full force, and shall so remain till Heaven 
and Earth pass away.'* The same year he wrote "The 
Seventh-day Sabbath proved from the Beginning, from the 
Law, from the Prophets, from Christ and his Apostles, to be 
a duty yet incumbent upon Saints and Sinners." Also, in 
1664, he published **The Seventh-day is the Sabbath of the 
Lord: in answer to Mr. Russell's book. No Seventh-day Sab- 
bath recommended by Jesus Christ." The first work was re- 
printed by the American (Seventh-day) Sabbath Tract So- 
ciety in 1848, and is included in their volume of Tracts on the 
Sabbath published in 1853. 

An extract from his book, *' Penalty for Sabbath-break- 
ing," written in 1664, may be seen in The Sabbath Recorder 
for April 25, 1845. 

Besides asserting the duty of keeping the seventh-day 
Sabbath, Mr. Stennett taught that its observance ought to be 
commenced after the manner of the Jews, at sunset on Friday. 

All his writings **breathe the genuine spirit of Christiani- 
ty, and in their day were greatly conducive to the prosperity 
of the Sabbath-keeping churches." 

In early life he was united in marriage with Miss Mary 
Quelch, a lady of culture and refinement who belonged to an 
Oxford family of good repute; and who was his most aflFec- 



96 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

tionate and helpful companion through a long and eventful 
life. They became the ancestors of a series of Sabbatarian 
ministers who, for four generations, continued to be among 
the foremost of Dissenters in England, and whose praise is 
still in all the churches* 

Jehudah, their eldest son, became an eminent scholar and 
physician at Henley-on-Thames, and at the age of nineteen 
wrote a Hebrew Grammar which was the standard text-book 
of the schools of that day. 

Their daughter (Mary) was an excellent Greek and He- 
brew scholar; and married a William Morton, of Knaphill, 
Buckshire. 

All their children were members of Pinner's Hall Seventh- 
day Baptist church. Benjamin and George were both worthy 
representatives of the name ; Benjamin was useful in the min- 
istry, but died yoiing ; George is said to have been an eloquent, 
sound and able preacher of the gospel. But of all their child- 
ren, the one who reached the greatest eminence was the Rev. 
Joseph Stennett I. 

Rev. Edward Stennett died at Wallingford in 1690. The 
following epitaph was written by his son Joseph, and placed 
over the grave of his father and mother: — 

**Here lies a holy and a happy pair: 

As once in grace, they now in glory share: 

They dared to suffer, but they feared to sin ; 

And meekly bore the cross, the crown to win. 

So lived, as not to be afraid to die; 

So died, as heirs of immortality. 

Reader, attend: tho dead, they speak to thee; 

Tread the same path, the same thine end shall be." 

55. Stennett, Joseph, D, D,, L Joseph Stennett (ist) 
was born at Abingdon, County of Berks, England, in 1663. 
Through God's blessing upon the prayers and efforts of his 
pious parents, he was very early in life born from above. Af- 
ter his death, among his papers were found these words: — 
"O God of my salvation, how abundant was thy goodness! 
O invaluable mercy ! Thou didst season my tender years 
with a religious education, so that I sucked in the rudiments 
of Christianity, as it w^ere, with my mother's milk, by the gra- 

(6) 



REV. JOSEPH STENNETl. 
See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 






. • • 






THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 97 

cious admonitions and holy discipline of my godly parents. 
This was an antidote sent from heaven against the corroding 
poison of sin; this made conscience speak, while my childish 
tongue could but stammer; this is a branch of thy divine 
bounty and goodness, for which my soul shall forever bless 
Thee." 

After finishing the branches of an ordinary education at 
the Grammar School in Wallingford, he mastered the French 
and Italian languages, acquired a thorough knowledge of He- 
brew and other Oriental tongues, and successfully studied 
philosophy and the liberal sciences. In 1685 he removed to 
I.x)ndon, and for the first five years employed himself in the 
education of youth. He here cultivated the acquaintance of 
persons eminent for piety and learning. 

In 1688 he married Susannah Gill, the daughter of an 
eminent and worthy French merchant who had fled from 
France after the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685. 
This was a most happy union, and was blessed with noble 
children, some of whom reached great distinction as preachers. 

On coming to London he joined the Pinner's Hall 
Seventh-day Baptist church September 28, 1686. His 
brethren soon discovered his gifts and grace, and prevailed 
upon him to exercise in exhortation and expounding the Scrip- 
tures. These exercises proving so satisfactory to the church, 
his ordination took place on "ye 4th day of ye ist month, 1690." 

He preached on Sunday to other Baptist churches, but 
remained the faithful pastor of the Pinner's Hall Seventh-day 
Laptist church until his death. His ministry was eminently 
evangelical, faithful and eflFective. In preaching he never 
used written sermons, and took but few notes into the pulpit. 
*'His diction was easy and natural, for he had great command 
of the English language. His voice was low, sweet and musi- 
cal ; and as he spoke the true sense of his own heart — the suit- 
able air of his countenance, and the agreeableness of his ad- 
dress, seldom failed to recommend what he said to the atten- 
tion of judicious hearers. When he preached, few in the as- 
sembly could remain immoved." So says the editor of his 
published works. 

His polished manners, ready address, fine intellect and 



98 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

extensive learning speedily gave him a high position among 
the Baptists; and, a little later, in other dissenting denomina- 
tions. At the request of the Baptists he drew up and pre- 
sented an address to William III on his deliverance from the 
''Assassination Plot." This document was highly commend- 
ed. When he published his thanksgiving sermon for the vic- 
tory at Hochstadt, in 1704, a nobleman, without his knowl- 
edge, presented a copy of it to the Queen (Anne), who was 
so pleased with it that she sent a gift to the eloquent and pa- 
triotic preacher. 

He wrote and published many books, but he excelled 
especially as a poet. He composed many beautiful hymns, 
some of which are still used in the churches, and which drew 
forth at the time of their composition commendations from 
Mr. Tate, the poet laureate. He composed many hymns for 
use at the Lord's Supper ; among these were : — 

"I own I love; 'tis no uncomely fire." 
"Jesus! O word divinely sweet." 
" 'Tis finished, the Redeemer cries." 
"Thus we commemorate the Day ;" etc., etc. 

There were many others on the Sabbath and baptism, 
f. g.:— 

"Blest Day ! Ordained of God, and therefore blest." 

"See how the willing converts trace." 

"The great Redeemer we adore." 

"Thus was the great Redeemer plunged," etc., etc. 

But the h>Tnn for which he is chiefly remembered, found 
perhaps in all standard church hymn books, is that begin- 
ning— 

"Another six days work is done." 

Multitudes sing this hymn to-day and apply it to Sun- 
day, the first day of the week ; but the author wrote it for the 
seventh-day Sabbath of Jehovah, of which he was a faithful 
keeper all his life and an ardent defender. 

His version of the Song of Solomon, and his hymns, se- 
cured for him such a reputation as a poet and a Hebrew 
scholar, that he was requested to revise the English version 
of the Psalms of David. Dr. Sharp, Archbishop of York, 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 99 

speaking of this proposition, declared" that **he had heard such 
a character of Mr* Stennett, not only for his skill in poetry, 
but likewise in the Hebrew tongue, that he thought no man 
more fit for that work than he." 

In 1702, when David Russen assailed the Baptists in his 
book, "Fundamentals Without a Foundation, or a True Picture 
of the Anabaptists," Mr. Stennett was invited to refute the 
work; and he accomplished the task with so much learning, 
such solid reasoning, and such an utter rout of all the forces 
of Mr. Russen, that he was satisfied never again to meddle 
with the Baptists. The reputation acquired by this work 
prompted his friends to secure his services in writing a com- 
plete History of Baptists. He intended to comply with this 
request, and for some years he collected materials for it; but 
on account of failing health he was unable to finish the task. 
After his death, however, this history was edited and publish- 
ed with his other works in five octavo volumes, in 1732. 

He was offered preferment in the Established Church, 
and there is reason to believe he could have reached an exalt- 
ed position in it. An eminent prelate is said to have remark- 
ed to an intimate friend of Mr. Stennett, "that, if he could but 
be reconciled to the church, not many preferments in it, he be- 
lieved, would be thought above his merit." But the conscience, 
of Mr. Stennett was not for sale, though all the wealth of 
earth had been offered for it. 

His health seriously declining, on advice of his physi- 
cians he left London for change of air and went to the house 
of his brother-in-law, Mr. Morton, at Knaphill in Bucking- 
hamshire; here he declined rapidly and peacefully fell asleep 
in Jesus, July 11, 1713, in the forty-ninth year of his age and 
the twenty-third of his ministry. A lengthy and most appre- 
ciative epitaph in Latin was written by his friend, Dr. Ward, 
of Gresham College, and placed on his tombstone; a transla- 
tion of which may be seen in "The Sabbath Memorial" (Lon- 
don, 1883), page 384. 

56. Stennett, Joseph, D. D., II, Dr. Joseph Stennett 
(2nd) was born in London November 6, 1692. He was the 
son of Joseph and Susannah Stennett. His educational ad- 
vantages, of which he made the best use, were of the highest 



TOO SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

order. He became a noted linguist, and an adept in the use 
of the French, the Italian and the Hebrew languages. His 
only sister became, by his instruction, so familiar with the 
Greek and Hebrew languages that she was able to read the 
Scriptures in those languages as readily as she could in the 
English. 

When fifteen years of age he gave his heart to the Saviour 
and was baptized. At twenty-two he entered upon the Chris- 
tian ministry. He was at one time solicited to become the 
pastor of Mill Yard church, but declined. It was quite cus- 
tomary in those days for a seventh-day minister to serve a 
first-day church ; and so Dr. Stennett, at the age of forty-five, 
became pastor of a Baptist church in Little Wild street, Lon- 
don, although himself a faithful Sabbath-keeper to the day of 
his death. Dr. Gill preached one of the two sermons deliv- 
ered on the occasion of his settlement in London. At that 
time he was in possession of splendid powers, matured by a 
wide range of experience, and by information from all ages 
and regions. 

He was among the most eloquent preachers of his day, 
jind soon his talents were recognized throughout the great 
metropolis. He was on agreeable terms with Dr. Gibson, 
Bishop of London; a true follower of Jesus. He was per- 
sonally known to King George II., who cherished a warm 
regard for him. He was an eloquent defender of the doc- 
trines of grace against Socinianism. 

On behalf of the Dissenting ministers of the "Three de- 
nominations in London (Congregational, Baptist and Presby- 
terian), on October 3, 1745. Mr. Stennett presented an ad- 
dress to the King congratulating his majesty on his return to 
England, on the triumph of his arms in America, .and on his 
successes on the Continent of Europe." The address also 
deprecates "the present unnatural attempt to impose upon 
these kingdoms a papist (Charles Edward) and an abjured 
Pretender." 

In 1754 the University of Edinburg created him Doctor 
of Divinity on the recommendation of his royal highness the 
Duke of Cumberland, its Chancellor, who sent Mr. Stennett 
the diploma by his secretary. 



Ri-:v. SAMUKL sti-:nni:tt, d, i>. 

Set Hiograflr.til Sl.-cl.li,:^. p. 1361. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. lOI 

He was the author of eight small, but valuable, works. 

Dr. Stennett died February 7, 1758, in the sixty-sixth 
year of his age. His funeral sermon was preached by Dr. 
Gill, and in it he stated that "his death was a public loss, par- 
ticularly to the whole Dissenting interest." 

57. Stennett, Joseph, III. Joseph Stennett (3rd) was 
the son of Joseph Stennett (2nd), and in 1740 became his 
father's assistant at Little Wild Street Baptist church; after 
serving with his father for two or three years he became the 
pastor of the Baptist Church of Coats, Oxfordshire. Not 
much besides this is known of him, except that, like his father 
and grandfather he was a faithful keeper and defender of the 
Sabbath. He died in 1769. 

58. Stennett, Samuel, /. Samuel Stennett (ist) was 
the son of Rev. Joseph Stennett (ist).. After a few faithful 
years as his father's assistant in the pastorate of Pinner's Hall 
church, his promising career was suddenly ended by death. 

59. Stennett, Samuel, D, D,, 11, Dr. Samuel Stennett 
was born in Exeter, in 1727, and was converted and baptized 
when young. Like his father he was a man of superior talents 
and of great erudition. Ivimey says: — "His proficiency in 
Greek, Latin and Oriental tongues, and his extensive acquaint- 
ance with sacred literature, are so abundantly displayed in his 
valuable works that they cannot fail to establish his reputation 
for learning and genius." 

He had been accustomed to move in the society of per- 
sons of refinement; and on entering upon his pastoral duties 
in London he was remarkable for the ease and suavity of his 
manners, for the good breeding, the polished language, and 
the graceful ways of the true gentleman. He was frequently 
in company with persons enjoying the highest social distinc- 
tion and in such situations as gave him an opportunity to com- 
mend Baptists and aid Dissenters of all denominations. 

In 1763 he was made a Doctor of Divinity by King's Col- 
lege, Aberdeen. Among the noble men who waited upon his 
ministry and loved him with the affection of a friend was John 
Howard, the philanthropist. In a letter from Smyrna, writ- 
ten to Dr. Stennett August 11, 1786, Mr. Howard says: — "I 
bless God for your ministry; I pray God to reward you a 



I02 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

thousand fold. My friend, you have an honorable work; 
many seals you have to your ministry." 

He ministered to the Little Wild street church as his 
father's assistant for ten years; and as its pastor, after his 
father's death, for thirty-seven years. The meeting house was 
rebuilt during his ministry. His father, Joseph Stennett, D. 
D. ; his grandfather, Joseph Stennett; his great-grandfather, 
Edward Stennett; his brother, Joseph, and his son, Joseph, 
were all Baptist ministers — ^and Sabbath-keepers. 

Dr. Samuel Stennett was a hymn writer of note. He 
wrote the beautiful and well known hymn, "Majestic sweetness 
sits enthroned upon the Saviour's brow;" also *'On Jordan's 
stormy banks I stand." 

Most of his works were reprinted in 1784 in three octavo 
volumes. In 1772 he published a work entitled "Remarks on 
the Christian Ministei's Reasons for Administering Baptism 
by Sprinkling." In 1775, "An Answer to the Christian Min- 
ister's Reasons for Baptizing Infants." He was also author 
of two productions treating of appeals to Parliament by Prot- 
estant Dissenters for relief from persecuting enactments. 

He died August 24, 1795, in the sixty-eighth year of his 
age. 

60. Stuart, Charles James. Dr. Stuart was bom in 1758 
and died about the year 1828. He was considered singular 
in his own city, Edinburgh, for holding Seventh-day Baptist 
views. This seemed all the more peculiar to those who knew 
him, not only because he was alone, but also because of his 
position — having inherited the estate of Dunearen, being re- 
lated to the nobility of his country, and having in his veins 
the royal blood of the Stuarts. 

He was educated for the regular ministry of the Church 
of Scotland, and for a time had charge of the parish of Cra- 
mond ; but from this he was suspended by the General Assem- 
bly for refusing to administer the rite of baptism and the ordi- 
nance of the Lord's Supper to any but believers. He there- 
upon withdrew from the church; and further study of the 
Bible led him to become a Baptist — connecting himself with 
the Scotch Baptist Church. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. IO3 

Having been checked in his career as a minister of the 
gospel, he now took a medical course and henceforth devoted 
his life to the practice of medicine; in this profession he be- 
came successful and celebrated, having extensive practice in 
the first families of the land. 

After a few years in the Baptist church, he was constrain- 
ed to sever his relations with this people on account of his 
conviction as to the Sabbath — having become convinced from 
careful Bible study that the. seventh-day was the only Sab- 
bath of the Lord. After this, although without ecclesiastical 
connections, he maintained Christian fellowship with the 
pious of all denominations, and was one of the first to patron- 
ize the Baptist Missionary Society of England. He was an 
intimate friend of Andrew Fuller, Carey, Marshman, and 
Ward. 

He married a daughter of Thomas Erskine, D. D. 
He was wealthy and also very benevolent. 

It is said of Dr. Stuart, that, "as a Hebraist and Biblical 
critic, he was not surpassed by many, if by any, in the coun- 
try." 

Thus lived and died a lone Sabbath-keeper, won to the 
truth by the faithful study of the Word of God alone — that 
Word which liveth and abideth forever. 

61. Tanny, Philip. Mr. Tanny was educated in the 
Church of England, and became a minister in the same; but 
having changed his views as to baptism and the Sabbath, he 
began at once to spread abroad the truth as he now saw it. 
He is said to have been a man of piety and learning, remarka- 
bly active and zealous in promulgating the truth — and that 
he became "a mark for many shots." In prosecuting his work, 
he held several public disputes. His field of labor was in the 
northern part of England. 

Mrs. Tamar Davis, in her "History of Sabbatarian 
Churches," calls him Philip Pandy, but this is a mistake; he 
was, however, sometimes called "Tandy," as he himself tes- 
tifies. His- only publication in existence, so far as we know, 
is a sermon on Rev. 3 : 20, entitled, "Christ Knocking at the 
Door: the substance of a sermon intended to be preached in 



104 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Pauls Upon the Sabbath Day which fell upon April 15th last; 
but not preached — by Philip Tanny, commonly Tandy, 1655." 

This sermon was dedicated to Oliver Cromwell, and the 
dedication is signed "Philip Tanny vulgo Tandy." 

Of the time of his birth, and other facts of his life than 
those given above, we have at present no knowledge. The 
date of his published sermon shows that he was alive as late 
as 1655. 

62. Tempest, Sir William, William Tempest was a mem- 
ber of the Inner Temple, a lawyers' guild of London, May 9, 
1692; and was admitted to the bar July 2, 1704. He became 
a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1712. He was baptized at 
his home, Cran brook, March 28, 1725, and joined Mill Yard 
September 2, 1732. He was a lay preacher and often occu- 
pied the Mill Yard pulpit much to the satisfaction of both the 
pastor and people. ((Gleaned from **The Mill Yard Publica- 
tions.") Mr. Tempest is styled "the conscientious barrister- 
at-law, and poet." If a case came up for trial on the Sabbath 
day, he Would plead the case lest injustice be done his client, 
but he would take no pay for such services. As a mem- 
ber of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist church, he was 
chosen a trustee of the Davis Charity ; and in this he succeed- 
ed Mr. Davis himself. The church record is as follows: — 
"Whereas our honored brother, Joseph Davis, Esq., departed 
this life the 9th of March, 1732; who was a Trustee for Mill 
Yard; the Trustees undermentioned have unanimously chosen 
William Tempest, Esq., in the room and place of the above de- 
ceased Mr. Joseph Davis, for a Trustee of Mill Yard, being a 
member of the congregation of Mill Yard, London, September 
3, 1732." This was signed by Elder Cornthwaite and five 
other Trustees. 

Sir William Tempest died August 15, 1761. 

63. Tillam, Thomas. Elder Thomas Tillam appears as 
the pastor of two different Seventh-day Baptist churches: one 
in Hexham (from 1651 to 1654 at least), Northumberland, 
England, a market town on the Tyne river, twenty miles 
west of Newcastle; the other in Colchester, Essex, some two 
hundred and fifty miles southeast of Hexham. As to the first 
j>astorate he is said to have organized the first Baptist church 



SIR WILLIAM TEMPEST, F. : 

Sae Biographical Sketches, p. t'. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. IO5 

in Nortliumberland County, of which he became the first pas- 
tor. 

As to the second, we learn from one of his books that he 
was the minister of a church of two hundred baptized believ- 
ers in Colchester, all keeping the seventh-day Sabbath. He 
wrote and published a hymn in celebration of the event of the 
two hundred joining in the Lx>rd's Supper on the Lord's Sab- 
bath. 

Robert Cox quotes from Cowell, who says of the Sabba- 
tarians of His day, **they were no small ones either, amongst 
that people, as Thomas Tillam, Christopher Pooley, Edwani 
Skipp, John Fox, etc." 

Some of his writings indicate that he was greatly perse- 
cuted on account of his principles, and one of his books is 
styled *'A present from prison." 

He was the author of a number of works: — In 165 1 he 
published "The Two Witnesses; their Prophecy, Slaughter, 
Resurrection and Ascension or an Exposition of Revelation, 
chapter eleven." In 1654, **Banners of Love Displayed over the 
Church of Christ, walking in the order of the gospel at Hex- 
ham. An answer to a Narrative stuffed with untruths bv 

m 

four Newcastle Gentlemen." The preface of this book is dat- 
ed **Hexham, 1653;" and in the book he states that "sprink- 
ling is not baptism." 

In 1655 he issued a work entitled, **The fourth principle 
of Christian Religion: or the foundation doctrine of Laying 
on of Hands, asserted and vindicated." This was a reply to 
Lieutenant Colonel Paul Hobson, who had asserted the oppo- 
site. The laying on of hands seems to have been generally 
practiced by the early Seventh-day Baptists in America as well 
as in England. 

His last book, of which we have knowledge, appeared in 
'657, entitled, **The Seventh-day Sabbath sought out and Cel- 
ebrated: in answer to Mr. Aspinwall's late piece against the 
Sabbath." This was replied to by William Jennison, in "A 
Lash for a Liar: or a Word of Warning to all Christians to 
take heed of Thomas Tillam, who is now discovered by his 
preaching and printing to be a common slanderer of as many 



I06 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

as are contrary to his opinions." 1658. An answer was also 
made to Tillam's book by '*G. T." in 1659. 

Thomas Grantham, in a work published in 1678, in his 
chapter **Of the Seventh-day Sabbath/* refers to Thomas Til- 
lam as an "Apostate from the Gospel/* and again as **that pro- 
digious apostate" who had incumbered truth "with his Jewish 
ceremonies/' He speaks of him as "T. Tillam of Colchester/* 
showing that he was still pastor there as late as 1678. 

So the enemies of the Sabbath maligned this man of God, 
and illustrated again the proverb that when a cause lacks good 
arguments, mud and stones are apt to be resorted to. But the 
truth stands forever, while the names of its enemies perish and 
are forgotten. 

64. Tombes, John, J. Davis* History of the Welsh 
Baptists (p. 41) shows Mr. Tombes to have been a Baptist, 
strongly defending immersion as the only Scripture baptism. 
In Joseph Stennett's answer to David Russen*s book on bap- 
tism, London, 1704 (page 249), he quotes from the House of 
Lords as saying: *'There was a very learned and famous 
man that lived at Salisbury, Mr. Tombes, who was a zealous 
Conformist in all points but one, Infant Baptism.*' 

And now as to the Sabbath : Mr. Tombes was the author 
of an able work on "Christian Baptism,*' and fourteen other 
polemical works, published in England during the Protecto- 
rate of Oliver Cromwell. A quotation from his work on 
Christian Baptism (pages 674, 675) is a strong argument for 
the seventh-day Sabbath. Mr. Stennett says that some Pedo- 
baptists observe the seventh-day while they remain in the com- 
munion of the Church of England. 

There is then fair evidence that Mr. Tombes was a rep- 
resentative of a numerous class of ministers in those days who 
lemained in the Establishment, or in some Dissenting body, 
and at the same time strictly observed and faithfully defended 
the Sabbath of the Bible. 

65. Toumsend, Edmund, We first know of Mr. Town- 
send as the second pastor of Natton Seventh-day Baptist 
church (succeeding Elder John Purser about 1720). He did 
not remain here long, however, but removed to London, and 
became a member of the Mill Yard church. On December 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. IO7 

3. 1727, he was ordained as the successor of Joseph Stennett 
(ist), who had died in 1713. After Mr. Stennett's death the 
congregation at Pinner's Hall had moved to Cripplegate, so 
that Elder Townsend is spoken of as "Pastor of the Cripple- 
gate Fraternity." The records state that "The Church gave 
themselves up to Mr. Edmund Townsend." 

Ivimey says: — '*He was a worthy and respectable man; 
and though not particularly distinguished for literary attain- 
ments, was yet a useful minister, and greatly esteemed in his 
day. He died January 5, 1763, having been for some time 
previous rendered incapable of preaching. His remains were 
interred in the burial ground behind the Baptist •Meeting 
House in Mill Yard, where he had buried his wife a few years 
before. She appears to have died in the year 1755, in the 
sixty-eighth year of her age." 

66. Traske, John. This name is variously spelled, Trask, 

Trasque and Thraske. Mr. Traske was probably born about 
the year 1583; but we know nothing of his early life. He be- 
came a school teacher, and must have enjoyed something of a 
liberal education ; although he is said not to have been a uni- 
versity man. He is accredited with being a Latin scholar, 
and as having studied Hebrew and Greek while in prison for 
his religious views. 

We first know of him as a schoolmaster in Somersetshire, 
where he seems to have sought ministerial orders, which were 
refused him by the Establishment. He then removed to Sal- 
isbury, where he became a Puritan, and obtained the "orders" 
which he desired. After this he came to London, in just what 
year is uncertain: Rev. George B. Utter puts it in 1618, about 
the time that the Book of Sports for Sunday was published 
under the direction of the Archbishop of Canterbury and King 
James I ; Rev. Dr. William M. Jones says that Mr. John Trask 
came to London in 1617; however, there is reason to believe 
that his pioneer work was begun in the metropolis as early at 
least as 1616. 

As to his religious views and teachings, we have already 
noted that at first he was in the fellowship of the Established 
Church, and that subsequently he adopted the views of the 
Puritans; such were his convictions on coming to London. 



Io8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Being a man of strong personality, and most zealous as a revi- 
val preacher (preaching much upon the streets and in public 
places), he soon had a large number of followers, who were 
called ''Traskites/' Among these was one Hamlet Jackson 
( whom he afterward ordained as an evangelist), who, through 
searching of the Scriptures, was led to embrace the Bible Sab- 
bath, and through whose influence it is said that Mr. Traske 
and others were brought to like views. Traske began at once 
with all earnestness to propagate the Sabbath doctrine; and 
from among the many who were won by him, no doubt sprang^ 
the nucleus of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist church. 

As «i result of his advocacy of the Scriptures as sufficient 
to direct in all religious services, and the duty of the State 
not to impose anything contrary to the Word of God, great 
opposition was awakened and his enemies became very bitter 
against him ; he was denounced as "a wolf in sheep's clothing, 
a seducing importer, and cunning deceiver." 

Failing to silence him in any other way, he was arrested 
by the authorities, and brought before the infamous Star 
Chamber presided over by Bishop Andrews, who made a lonff 
speech against his views. The indictment against him was 
that of Judaizing, seeking to make "Christian men, the people 
of God, his majesty's subjects, little better than Jews, both in 
the matter of abstaining from eating meats which the Jews 
were forbidden in Leviticus, and that they were bound to ob- 
serve the Jewish Sabbath." Writing and preaching in de- 
fence of the Sabbath was his *'crime." Paggitt's Heresiog- 
raphy says that he "was sentenced, on account of his being a 
Sabbatarian, to be set upon the pillory at Westminster, and 
from thence to be whipped to the Fleet prison, there to remain 
a prisoner for three years." Another account says he was 
*'tied to the cart's tail and whipped all the way to Fleet prison, 
probably about two miles, there to remain a prisoner." Still 
another account adds that his sentence included the branding 
Gi the letter **I" upon his forehead. The sentence against him 
was executed in full. 

For some reason, not now known, he made a recantation 
December i, 1619, and ceased to keep and defend the Bible 
Sabbath; but the seed of Sabbath truth which he had sown 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. IO9 

has never ceased to bear fruit. It may be noted incidentally 
that if he remained in prison the full three years, and was re- 
leased in December, 1619, his evangelistic work in London 
must have been as early at least as 16 16. 

Among his published works were. Sermon on Mark 16: 
16, published in 1615; A Treatise of Liberty frv>m Judaism, 
etc., in 1620, when leaving the Sabbath ; The Power of Preach- 
ing, in 1623; A Letter to Mistress Traske, who lay prisoner in 
the Gatehouse many years for keeping the Jewish Sabbath, 
and for working on our Lord's Day, and signed T. S., De- 
cember 26, 1634; The True Gospel, etc., in 1636. 

Various works were published against him at different 
times. Among these were the Speech by Bishop Andrews in 
the Star Chamber, «against the Judaical opinions of Traske ; 
A Treatise maintaining that Temporal Blessings are to be 
sought and asked with submission to the will of God — also 
a discovery of the late dangerous errors of Mr. John Traske 
and most of his strange assertions, by Edward Norrice, 1636 ; 
The New Gospel not the True Gospel, or a discovery of the 
life and death, doctrines and doings of Mr. John Traske, and 
the effects of all in his followers, Wherein a mysterie of iniqui- 
ty is briefly disclosed, a Seducer unmasked, and all warned to 
beware of imposters, by Edward Norrice, 1638. 

As to his death — he was living December 26, 1634, when 
he wrote to his wife in prison, and he was probably alive when 
he published "The True Gospel" in 1636; and yet he must 
have been dead when Edward Norrice wrote of his **late dan- 
gerous errors" in 1636. Hence he must have died sometime 
within the year 1636: not later, certainly, than 1638, when 
Norrice wrote of the "Life and Death, doctrines and doings 
of Mr. John Traske." 

He died in the house of one of his followers in Lambeth, 
and was buried in Lambeth Churchyard. 

67. Traske, Mrs, John. The wife of John Traske well 
deserves mention in any list of ancient English Seventh-day 
Baptists. It is easy to believe that she was indeed a woman 
"endowed with many and particular virtues." As to her birth, 
parentage, and many other matters of interest, we are in ig- 
norance; but what is known renders her memory fragrant. 



no SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

She must have been a person of considerable learning, 
since she successfully conducted a private preparatory classi- 
cal school. She would teach for no less per pupil than four- 
teen pence per week, but she would sometimes return a part 
of the tuition to poor parents, or in the case of a student from 
whom she thought she deserved not so much ; all this, it is said, 
she did "out of conscience and as believing that she must one 
clay be judged for all the things done in the flesh." Her esti- 
mate of punctuality was shown in that she would not receive 
any child whose parents would not send him (or her) prompt- 
ly at seven in the morning, and send the child's breakfast at 
nine o'clock. Testimony as to her skill as a teacher is given 
by Ephraim Pagitt in the following words: — "There was 
found hardly any one that could equal hey for so speedy be- 
ginning children to read. She taught a son of mine who had 
only learned his letters in another place, at the age of four 
years, in the space of nine months, so that he was fit for the 
Latin into which he was then entered." That she was very 
popular as a teacher, is clear from the fact that parents were 
so eager to send their children to her school that she was oblig- 
ed to make a rule to receive only so many as she could prop- 
erly teach, and yet many were "waiting their turn for admit- 
tance for a very long time ahead." 

But that which has preserved her memory until this time 
was her Christian spirit, her love of truth and her long and 
fatal sufferings for the truth she held dear. She was one of 
the most noted and faithful of her husband's converts to the 
Sabbath, never forsaking it as did he; but for this devotion 
she was called to suffer. When it was discovered that she did 
not honor Sunday, and would not teach in her school on Sat- 
urday, she was arrested and cast into prison — ^first. Maiden 
Lane, and then Gatehouse — where, for Sabbath-keeping, she 
suffered "fifteen or sixteen years," until released by death. 

Some of the characteristics of her faith and her independ- 
ent spirit are shown in an account by a contemporary (Eph- 
raim Pagitt), who was not friendly to the Sabbath: — 

"Mistress Trask lay for fifteen or sixteen years a prisoner 
for her opinions about the Saturday-Sabbath; in all which 
time she would receive no relief from anybody, notwithstand- 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. Ill 

ing she wanted much, alleging that it is written, *It is a more 
blessed thing to give than to receive.' Neither would she bor- 
row. She deemed it a dishonor to her head, Christ, either to 
beg or borrow. Her diet for the most part of her imprison- 
ment, that is till a little before her death, was bread and water, 
roots and herbs. No flesh, nor wine, nor brewed drink. She 
charged the keeper of the prison not to bury her in church nor 
churchyard, but in the fields only; which accordingly was 
done. All her means was an annuity of forty shillings a 
year; what she lacked more to live upon, she had of such 
prisoners as did employ her sometimes to do business for them. 
But this was only within the prison, for out of the prison she 
did not go ; so she sickenei and died." 

Confined in the same prison was a Mr. Richard Love- 
lace, who was there because of his royalist sympathies; while 
there he wrote the poem, "To Althea from Prison." In the 
following lines he is supposed to refer to Mrs. Traske: 

"Stone walls do not a prison make, 

Nor iron bars a cage; 
Minds innocent and quiet take 

That for a heritage." 

The date of Mrs. Trask's imprisonment is not certain; 
but if Lovelace was imprisoned from 1643 to 1654 (as it is 
said), it seems probable that her term may have overlapped 
that in part. 

68. Wheaton, Elder . Elder Wheaton ap- 
pears to have been pastor of a Seventh-day Baptist Church at 
Swanzey, Wales, as late at least as 1730. The "Baptist Cyclo- 
pedia" in an article on "The Hollis Family," says : — "In a let- 
ter to Elder Wheaton, of Swanzey, Thomas Hollis writes — 
God, that hath shined into our hearts by his gospel, can lead 
you sleeping Sabbatarians from the Sinai covenant and the 
law of ceremonies into the light of the new covenant and the 
grace thereof. I pity to sefe professors drawing back to the 
law, and desire to remember that our standing is by grace." 

Thomas Hollis, an eminent and liberal patron or benefac- 
tor of Harvard in Massachusetts, was born in 1659 and died 
in 1731 ; he was baptized and became a Baptist in 1679, but 



112 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

(lid not go as far as the Sabbath. His letter, however, indi- 
cates clearly that Wheaton was a Seventh-day Baptist, and 
presided over a congregation of such. 

6g. Whiston, William, William Whiston is mentioned 
by Elder Black in Mill Yard Publications, **Lays and Le- 
gends," as the ejected Mathematical Professor of Cambridge, 
a learned and voluminous writer. Though an Episcopalian 
Clergyman, he advocated and observed the seventh-day Sab- 
bath." 

The Encyclopedia Britannica (24-578) gives him over a 
column and speaks of him as leaving the Church of England 
iu 1747 and becoming a Baptist. He was born in 1667, and 
died August 22, 1752. 

70. Whitewood, Thomas, In 1767 Mr. Thomas White- 
wood became the successor of Edmund Townsend as pastor 
of Pinner's Hall church, and is said to have died the same 
year. He appears to have come from Portsmouth, Hampshire. 
He was one of the subscribers to Dr. Gill's Sermons and 
Tracts; and wrote in 1764 a letter to Rev. S. Pike with re- 
marks on his Sermon on Faith. He was a scholarly man 
and in his writings makes free use of Greek. 

71. Wilkinson, Thomas, Thomas Wilkinson was bom 
in 1823 and died February 9, 1903. He was a regular Bap- 
tist, and is not entitled to a place in this record but for the 
fact that he was the pastor of Natton Church from 1870 until 
his death — thirty-three years (although a Sunday man). 

J2. Wyncup, N, Mr. Wyncup is mentioned by Gilfil- 
ian in a list of two dozen Sabbatarians. In 1731 he published 
a book entitled "Remarks on Dr. Wright's Treatise on the 
Religious Observance of the Lord's Day — in which the Indi- 
vidual Obligations Remaining on the Christian Church to the 
Religious observance of the Seventh Day, are stated and vin- 
dicated." 

A copy of this book, with many still older Sabbath writ- 
ings, may be seen in Alfred University Library. 

The above list of Sabbath advocates and defenders — ^pas- 
tors, authors, etc., is simply representative and suggestive; of 
many, all records have perished ; of others, we find but the 

name, and possibly a single item of information concerning 
(7) 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. 113 

them, as, for example: — Eliza Bedford wrote in 17 16 "The 
Widow's Mite," showing why the Seventh-day is to be kef)t in 
Christ; James Oxley in 1882 published 'The Seventh-day 
of the Week the Sabbath of the Lord ;" James Scott, in 1874, 
"The Only Sabbath-day by Divine Appointment;" Mehetable 
Smith, in 1683, ivrote a part of Henry Soursby's "Discourse on 
the Sabbath." 

Names of living writers on the Sabbath question are not 
included in the purpose of this history. 

These ancient worthies, though dead, yet speak to us; 
they bid us let not the sacred cause of truth, for which they 
sacrificed everything, perish ; they bid us be of good courage, 
the Lord will give the final victory. In 1520 Luther said of 
Carlstadt, "Indeed if Carlstadt were to write further about 
the Sabbath, Sunday would have to give way, and the Sab- 
bath — ^that is to say, Saturday — ^must be kept holy." Keep on 
with faithful, persistent testimony, and Saturday alone will 
yet be known only as the Sabbath of the I^rd. 



BIBLIOGRAPHY. 

Manual of the Seventh-day Baptists. Rev. George B. 
Utter. 1858. 

History of Sabbath and Sunday. A. H. Lewis, D. D. 
1886. 

Jubilee Papers. 1892. Article by Rev. W. M. Jones, 
pp. 9-18. 

Sunday Legislation. A, H. Lewis, D. D., LL. D. 1902. 

History of the Anglo Saxons. Sharon Turner. 

Origin and Independence of the Ancient British Church. 
Bp. Burgess. 1815. 

Chronicles of the Ancient British Church. James Yeo- 
well. 1847. 

Religion of Ancient Briton. George Smith, F. A. S. 
London. 1846. 

Annals of the Ancient British Church. Rev. T. Watson. 
London. 1862. 

History of the Government of the Church in Great Britain 
and Ireland. Bishop Lloyd. London. 1703. / 

Ancient British Church. John Pryce. London. 1878. 

Church History of Britain. Thomas Fuller. London. 
1868. 

History of the Church ; A. D. 305-445. Socrates. 

History of the Ancient Piedmont Church. Allix. Lon- 
don. 1690. 

History of the Puritans. Daniel Neale. 1855. 

Treatise on the Sabbath. Bishop White. London, 1635. 

General History of the Baptist Denomination. David 
Benedict. 1848. 

History of the Welsh Baptists; A. D. 63-1770. 

Baptists. T. G. Jones. 

History of English Baptists. Crosby. 

History of the Baptists. Thomas Armitage. 1887. 

History of the Christian Church. William Jones. 1824. 

History of the Sabbath. William B. Maxson. 1853. 

Literature of the Sabbath Question. Robert Cox, F. S. 
A. Scot. London. i86q. 



THE SABBATH IN ENGLAND. II5 

Venerable Bede's Eccl. History of England. J. A. Giles, 
D. C. L. London. 1890. 

The Church in Scotland. James C. Moffat, D. D. Phila- 
delphia. 1882. 

Celtic Scotland. William F. Skene. 

Scottish History. Hector Boethius. 

History of Ireland. Sylvester 0*Halleron. 

English in Ireland in 18th Century. Froude. New 
York. 1881. 

Roger de Hovedon's Annals; A. D. 732-1201. London. 

1853. 

The Hermits. Charles Kingsley. 1868. 

Dictionary of National Biography. 
Mill Yard Publications : The Last Legacy of J. Davis Sr. 
Black. London. 1869. 

Genealogy of the Chamberlens. Aveling. 
History of Free Churches in England. H. S. Skeats. 
J 869. 

History of the Baptists. Joseph Ivimey. 4 vols. 181 1. 
1830. 

Files of The Sabbath Recorder, 
Bampton Lectures. 

History of Sabbatarian Baptists. Mrs. Tamar Davis. 
Seventh-day Baptist Memorial. 

Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Lit- 
erature. Mc. & S. 

F$aptist Encyclopedia. Cathcart. 1881. 
History of Conference. James Bailey. 
History of the Sabbath. Peter Heylyn. 
The Sabbatarians in Transylvania. Samuel Kohn. i8(X). 
(German.) 

Sabbath Memorial. W. M. Jones. 1875- 1890, 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS 

IN AMERICA, 

1664 TO 1802. 



REV. LEWIS ALEXANDER PLATTS, D. D. 
See Biographical Sketches, p. IJ6L 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS IN AMERICA 

PREVIOUS TO 1802. 



Rev. L. A. Platts. 



The writer of this paper does not claim for his work the 
merit of originality. He has sought to bring together in a 
more connected form inaterial the most of which has been 
before published in fragments. He acknowlctlges his indebt- 
edness to The Seventh-day Baptist Metnorial, published in 
1852, 3, 4 ; James Bailey s History of the General Conference, 
1866; The Seventh-day Baptist Quarterly, 1884; sundry arti- 
cles published at different times in The Sabbath Recorder; A 
History of Washington County, R, /., found in the Library 
of Milton College, and to Mr. C. H. Greene, of Alfred, X. Y-, 
for some unpublished data gathered by him from various 
records to which he has recently found access. The writer 
has verified some points, especially in the Xew Jersey history, 
by his own examination of original records. 

INTRODUCTION. 

The history of the first Seventh-day Baptists in America 
i< a chapter of that general struggle for religious liberty and 
the rights of conscience which is so familiar to the student of 
our colonial times. It is the purpose of this paper to describe 
briefly the origin of this people in America, and trace their 



I20 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

growth to the organization of the General Conference in 1802. 
This will be done, after this Introduction, under five heads, 
viz.: First Seventh-day Baptists in America; Church Exten- 
sion ; Doctrinal Standards ; Religious Spirit and Life ; Business 
and Public Life. 

The coming of Jesus Christ into the world was heralded 
by the song of "Peace on earth, good will toward men ;" and 
the Bringer of the good tidings was called, with the utmost 
appropriateness, 'The Prince of Peace." With great pro- 
priety it should be expected that the followers of the Prince, 
possessing his spirit, would bear the same good tidings to the 
dwellers of all lands, and in the final outcome, make an end 
of all bitterness and strife. Notwithstanding this reasonable 
expectancy, it is an acknowledged fact that, of all controver- 
sies waged by men, none have been characterized by greater 
vehemence and bitterness than those which have grown out of 
differences in religious faith and practice. It is not the prov- 
ince of this paper to inquire after the causes of this paradoxical 
phenomenon, but its bearing upon the origin of Seventh-day 
Baptists in America cannot be ignored. The particular 
phases of religious belief and practice for which men have 
striven and suffered have been many and varied ; the processes 
of the struggle have been essentially the same. He who has 
dared to believe outside of the prescribed creed, or to act con- 
trary to the established ritual, has first been ridiculed, then 
denounced, and finally persecuted until he has been compelled 
to leave the church which he has vainly hoped to reform and 
take his stand alone for a better way. If his cause has been 
worthy, there have gathered about him others of similar faith 
and experience, and thus has been born a movement which 
has become of world-wide importance. Thus when Martin 
Luther framed his immortal theses against the corruptions 
of the Church of Rome, it was his sole purpose to correct the 
abuses against which he raised his clarion voice. His sepa- 
ration from the church, which he loved, and the Protestant 
Reformation, with which his name will always be associated, 
formed no part of his original thought or plan. The great 
Protestant movement was the result of the efforts of the 
church to force him and his followers into unquestioning sub- 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 121 

mission to the iron tyranny of the Papacy. The controver- 
sies of the next centui-y, which arose within the Protestant 
church, resulted in a similar way in a separation of the Inde- 
pendents from the English Established Church, giving what 
is more familiarly known as the Puritan movement. A little 
later, the English Baptists were compelled to become inde- 
pendent of the Independents, or stifle their convictions on the 
question of Bible baptism. The Baptist rule, applied to the 
Bible teaching concerning the Sabbath, made many of these 
Baptists Seventh-day Baptists ; and these, too, soon found that 
all hope of reform within the church was hopeless, and were 
compelled to take their stand alone for conscience's sake. 

As the Seventh-day Baptist cause in America dates back 
almost to Plymouth Rock and the Mayflower, a brief state- 
ment of conditions at that time seems necessary to a proper* 
understanding of its origin. 

During the first decade of the seventeenth century, the 
church of Independents at Scrooby, England, in order to es- 
cape the growing intolerance of the Established church, had 
emigrated, under the leadership of John Robinson, to Hol- 
land. Ten years of experience sufficed to convince them that 
the liberty of conscience which they sought was not to be 
found in that country. Face to face with failure if they re- 
mained, and almost certain of sorer trials should they return 
to England, they determined to try their fortunes in the new 
world. Accordingly, after many discouragements, and great 
suffering, the ever-famous Mayflower band of Pilgrims landed, 
December 20, 1620, at Plymouth in the Massachusetts Bay 
Colony, and began that struggle for life and the rights of con- 
science for which they had already suffered much, and were 
destined to suffer yet much more. Soon their numbers were 
increased by other emigrants from Holland and by larger num- 
bers who fled from the cruel tyranny of Archbishop Laud in 
England. Strange as it may seem, these sufferers for con- 
science's sake began, almost from the beginning of their set- 
tlement, to formulate their doctrines and practices into laws 
which were quite as severe against those who dissented from 
them as were those of the mother church from which they 
had fled. To escape these severities colonists of the Baptist 



12J SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

faith pressed their way through the unbroken forests to the 
New Haven Colony, now Connecticut. Here again they were 
driven from place to place until finally they took a more united 
stand on the island of Rhode Island, where now stands the 
city of Newport. Here was organized the first Baptist church 
in the colonies, which was destined to become the principal 
source of the great Baptist family of churches in the United 
States. These Rhode Island settlements, including Newport, 
Providence and Portsmouth, soon became the basis of the 
Rhode Island Colony, afterwards assuming the more preten- 
tious name of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plan- 
tations. Foremost among the names of the men who carried 
these movements to success stands that of Roger Williams. 
Associated with him, and scarcely less efficient and influen- 
tial in this pioneer work were Samuel Hubbard, the Clarkes — 
John, Thomas and Joseph — and a number of others, some of 
whose names have become household words in many Seventh- 
day Baptist homes to the present day. 

I. FIRST SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS. 
About the year 1664, Mr. Stephen Mumford, a member 
of the Bell Lane Seventh-day Baptist church, in London, 
came to Rhode Island, and finding no church of his faith, he 
affiliated with the Baptist church in Newport. During the 
next few years, a number of the members of that church em- 
braced his views concerning the Sabbath and the perpetuity 
of the Ten Commandments. Prominent among these were 
Samuel and Tacy Hubbard and their daughter, Rachel ; Wil- 
liam Hiscox, Roger Baster, Nicholas Wild and wife and John 
Solmon and wife. Most of these had suffered with the Puri- 
tans for their faith and thus were trained for the trials 
through which they were soon to pass. It was not their in- 
tention to sever their connection with the Baptist church, for 
they thought surely a people who had suffered as the Baptists 
had done for Bible baptism would fellowship those who ob- 
served and defended the Bible Sabbath. They soon discov- 
ered, however, that, even in the church of Roger Williams, 
liberty of conscience meant liberty to believe and practice ac- 
cording to established dogmas and decrees. Elder John Clark, 
Mark Luker and Obadiah Holmes, who were leaders in the 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 1 23 

church, began to preach against the practice of the Sabbath- 
keepers and to denounce them as heretics and schismatics. Mr. 
Clark, especially, taught that the whole of the Ten Command- 
ments was done away, and that, therefore, these Sabbath-keep- 
ers had denied Christ and gone back to the **beggarly ele- 
ments." His associates, while not always agreeing with his 
doctrines concerning the law, were quite agreed in opposini^ 
the course of these Sabbath-keepers. The controversy became 
so sharp that four of the number — Nicholas Wild and wife 
and John Solmon and wife gave up the struggle and returned 
to First-day keeping. This was not only a serious loss to the 
little company, but it also complicated, in no small degree, 
their relations to the church. The tension of feeling, caused 
by the controversy, had already raised the question of the pro- 
priety of taking the communion with the church. Now that 
four of their number, who had been enlightened on the Sab- 
bath truth and who had forsaken it, were still members and 
regidar communicants in the church, the question of commun- 
ing with them became more difficult. After much prayer they 
decided that they could not commune with these persons and 
consequently could not commune with the church. This 
brought the case to an open trial. The Sabbath-keepers were 
cited to appear before the church and show cause why they 
had denied Christ not only in going to Moses Tfor the Law, 
but had again denied him in refusing the emblems of his body 
and blood. They joyfully appeared at the appointed time and 
place, expecting a fair hearing. But they soon found that the 
purpose of the meeting was not to hear the reasons for their 
faith and practice, but to point out to them their "error," and 
to compel them to abandon it. When they proposed that 
William Hiscox speak for the company, in which they were 
all agreed, the church persistently refused to hear him. After 
a long controversy, in which feelings, on both sides, grew 
more intense, the accused came to consider themselves the ag- 
grieved rather than the offending party, and Tacy Hubbard 
'gave forth the grounds" for their grievance in three pointed 
items : 

1. The apostasy of those four persons. 

2. That speech of Brother Holmes, "Woe to the world 



124 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

because of offenses;" in which discourse he said, ^'Offenses are 
such as arise from brethren of the church, such as deny Christ, 
and have turned to Moses in observing days, times, years, 
etc., and that it is better that a mill-stone were hanged about 
the neck of such, and they be cast into the sea/* 

3. The dismal laying aside of the ten precepts together 
with the leading brethren denying of them at the meeting. 

In the discussions which followed, Elder Hiscox, and 
Tacy and Samuel Hubbard stoutly defended both the posi- 
tions which they held and their right to hold them, in precise- 
ly the same way as that in which they, together with those 
who are now opposing them, had defended the cause of the 
Baptists in the Puritan controversy. They also bore grateful 
testimony to the joy they found in keeping God's Holy Sab- 
bath. Failing to obtain any relief from the strain of the situa- 
tion, and becoming convinced that they could not keep the 
Sabbath and walk in fellowship with the church, the faithful 
five formally withdrew December 7, 167 1. A little later, De- 
cember 23, 1671, they, with Stephen Mumford and wife, seven 
in all, entered into solemn covenant with each other, as the 
First Seventh-day Baptist church of Newport — the first church 
of that faith on the American continent. 

In the year 1684, only thirteen years after the organiza- 
tion of the first church of Newport, Abel Noble came to 
America and purchased a large tract of land in Bucks County, 
Pennsylvania, about twenty-five miles north of Philadelphia, 
and about twenty-five or thirty miles west of Trenton, N. J. 
It has been generally believed that Mr. Noble was a Seventh- 
day Baptist preacher in England. Data more recently discov- 
ered lead to the conclusion that this was a mistake. What his 
church connection was is not clear; but soon after his settle- 
ment in Pennsylvania he began to travel somewhat extensive- 
ly in various sections of New Jersey, where he met the Rev. 
Thomas Chillingworth, an eminent Baptist preacher, who was 
befieved to have organized the first Baptist church in New 
Jersey at Piscataway, near New Brunswick. By him Mr. 
Noble was baptized. At this time there were large numbers 
of Quakers in the vicinity of Philadelphia both in New Jer- 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 1 25 

sey and Pennsylvania. Among these there arose a dissension 
concerning the sufficiency of the "Inner Light" and the value 
of the Scriptures as the rule of faith and practice. This result- 
ed in a division, large numbers embracing substantially the 
Baptist doctrine under the leadership of George Keith. Abel 
Noble appears to have been prominent among these people, 
where he seems to have had great influence. Not far from 
this time, while on a tour through East New Jersey, Mr. 
Noble met the Rev. William Gillette, M. D., from Saybrook, 
or Milford, Conn., who was a Seventh-day Baptist, and 
through his teaching Mr. Noble accepted the Sabbath doctrine 
and returned to his home to proclaim it. Through his labors 
a considerable number of the Keithian Baptists were converted 
to the Sabbath, concerning whom more will be said in the next 
chapter of this paper. 

In the last decade of the seventeenth century, Edmund 
Dunham was a deacon and licensed preacher in the Baptist 
church at Piscataway, New Jersey. In 1702 he took occasion 
to reprove a Mr. Bonhaili for performing labor upon the First 
day of the week. Whereupon Mr. Bonham challenged him 
for the proof that it was sin to labor on that day. Whether 
Mr. Bonham was a Sabbath-keeper or not is not clear ; but the 
challenge caused Mr. Dunham to make a thorough investiga- 
tion of the whole subject, which resulted in his conversion to 
the Sabbath. The whole community appears to have been 
deeply stirred over the matter and many people betook them- 
selves to a prayerful study of the Scriptures, and a number of 
persons were led to acknowledge the claims of the Sabbath. 
Like the little band at Newport, little more than a generation 
before, it was not the intention of these brethren to separate 
themselves from the Baptist church. But the agitation be- 
came so strong and the feeling on both sides so intense that 
the only hope of peace and the enjoyment of freedom of speech 
and practice lay in their separation and the organization of a 
Seventh-day Baptist church. This was accomplished in the 
summer of 1705 under the name of the First Seventh-day 
Baptist Church of Piscataway, New Jersey. It was composed 
of 17 members. From these three centers — Newport, Phila- 
delphia and Piscataway, the truth of the Sabbath, following the 



126 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

tides of emigration westward, moved forward in three distinct 
lines. 

II. CHURCH EXTENSION. 

From tlie organization of the first church at Newport in 
1671 to the organization of the Seventh-day Baptist General 
Conference in 1802, the period covered by this paper, was 131 
vears. They were eventful years in the history of the coun- 
try — years of consecrated Christian living, of clear thinking 
and of earnest defense and propagation of religious truth, as 
well as years of hard fought battles for civil and political lib- 
erty. The pioneer Seventh-day Baptists were men and 
women of marked character. They bore well their part in 
all these great movemients. 

The little church at Newport grew, both by the coming of 
Seventh-day Baptists from England and by frequent conver- 
sions to the Sabbath in the colony ; but whether by one method 
or the other, the new accessions were accessions of real 
strength. 

The first pastor was William Hiscox, one of the first Sab- 
bath converts under the teaching of Stephen Mumford. He 
was a man of great ability and sterling integrity. He was 
chosen by the Baptist church in Newport to defend the Bap- 
tist faith in an open discussion with the Puritans in Boston, af- 
ter he had become widely known as a Seventh-day Baptist 
and the pastor of a church of that faith. As was to have been 
expected the church grew rapidly under his able. and faithful 
ministry. A considerable number having settled in the town 
of Misquamicutt, afterward called Westerly, on the main land, 
meetings were held among them as well as upon the island. 
Mr. Hiscox was assisted in his labors during the latter part 
of his pastorate by Elder William Gibson, who was a Seventh- 
day Baptist preacher in London, England, before coming to 
America. On the death of Elder Hiscox, in 1704, after a 
fruitful pastorate of 33 years, Elder Gibson became the pas- 
tor in full charge, and continued in the office for the next 13 
years. In the early part of his pastorate, 1708, a church on 
the main land was organized. At first this church was known 
as the Seventh-day Baptist church of Westerly; But years af- 
terwards, when the township was divid'M and the northwest- 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 1 27 

ern part became the town of Hopkinton, the church took the 
name of the First Seventh-day Baptist Church of Christ in 
Hopkinton, the name by which it is still known. This step 
was not taken, however, without much thought and earnest 
prayer, for, though the number of those residing in Westerly 
was rapidly outgrowing the number remaining in Newport, 
and, although the advantage of having a church with the or- 
dinances of the gospel in their midst was apparent to all, the 
common experiences and labors of those who had stood to- 
gether for a generation, had formed ties too strong to be 
easily severed. It was not until some plan for joint meetings 
of the two churches, and apparently for the interchange of 
ministerial labor had been made that the Newport brethren 
consented to the division. As early as 1696, twelve years 
before the organization of the church in Westerly, an Annual 
Meeting was appointed to be held at Newport, at which it was 
expected that all the brethren from the mainland, as well as 
those upon the island, should be present. This annual meeting 
was continued through this entire period and may be regarded 
as the nucleus around which the General Conference was fin- 
ally gathered. As the number of members grew and the diffi- 
culty of getting a general attendance at Newport increased, 
the sessions began to be held in Westerly. These meetings 
were occasions of great spiritual refreshing. The preaching 
was with much fervor, strengthening and encouraging the peo- 
ple of God, awakening the careless, and often leading multi- 
tudes to the foot of the cross for peace and pardon. In the reg- 
ular work of the two churches, although each had its own pas- 
tor, there appears to have been much preaching and pastoral 
work performed interchangeably, or in co-operation. Eld. 
Gibson, the second pastor of the Newport church, resided in 
Westerly both while assistant to Eld. Hiscox and after he 
became his successor. The third of the Newport pastors was 
Joseph Crandall, who served the church continuously for 37 
years. During this long period sixty persons were added to 
the church by baptism. He was followed by John Maxson, 
\^ho served the church 24 years, under whose labors nearly as 
many more were added to the church. 

The next and last pastorate of this period was that of 



128 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Wm. Bliss, which extended from 1779 to 1808, six years 
beyond the organization of the General Conference. During 
this pastorate ninety-five were added to the church. While the 
figures can not be accurately given, it is probable that not less 
than 250 persons, during these years, were added to the New- 
port church, although at the organization of the Conference 
the church reported 80 members. Making a liberal allowance 
for losses by death and some falling away from the faith, there 
must have been a large number who had moved to other local- 
ities. Without doubt, the larger part of these united with the 
church at Westerly, which, meanwhile, had grown to a mem- 
bership of more than 600, living in Western Rhode Island, 
Eastern Connecticut and the eastern end of Long Island. The 
scattered condition of the church made the labors of* the pas- 
tor arduous, so that for much of the time, men were called by 
the church to the ministry and ordained as assistant pastors, 
and not infrequently deacons were given authority to admin- 
ister the ordinances as occasion might require. On account 
of this joint pastorship, it is difficult to give, with accuracy, 
the succession of pastors of the Westerly church. Among them 
we find the names of John Maxson, Sen., John Maxson, Jr., 
Thos. Hiscox, Thos. Clarke, Joshua Clarke, John Burdick, 
and others. 

Before the organization of the Conference, settlements 
had been extended to New London, Conn., where a church 
was organized in 1784 ; to the Little Hoosic Valley,' in Rens- 
selaer County, New York, where a church was organized in 
1780, which took the name of Hoosic, later Petersburg, and 
now Berlin; and to Brookfield, in Madison County, New York, 
where the First Seventh-day Baptist church of Brookfield was 
organized in 1797. All of these churches continue until the 
present time. Besides these, churches were organized along 
this route of emigration, which have long since ceased to 
exist, but some of which contributed largely to the strength 
and growth of our people in other localities. Chief among 
these were Burlington, Conn., 1780, — Bristol, Conn., some- 
times called Farmington, 1790, — and Oyster Pond, L. I., about 
1790. Besides these organized churches, there were small 
groups of Sabbath-keepers, or families of lone Sabbath-keep- 

(8) 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 1 29 

ers, all along this line. From Oyster Pond, \.on^ Island, from 
Saybrook, Conn., where lived the Gillette family, and from 
Rhode Island, originated the church in Monmouth County, 
New Jersey, sometimes called the church of Squam. These 
nine churches, the result of the Xew England movement, were 
all in active existence at the time of the organization of the 
Conference and numbered, in all, about 1,200 members. 
The church last named had a short and somewhat peculiar 
history. It was organized in 1745, and about 1790, under the 
lead of its third pastor, the Rev. Jacob Davis, it removed 
bodily to Woodbridgetown, Fayette County, Pennsylvania, 
where a church was organized which reported to the Confer- 
ence as late as 1853. The pastor, and a few others, soon after 
the settlement at Woodbridgetown, resumed the line of emi- 
gration, until they reached New Salem, Virginia, now Salem, 
West Virginia. Three or four years later than this. Eld. Davis 
returned to Woodbridgetown on a missionary visit, where he 
was taken sick and died. His descendants, in large numbers, 
continue till the present time, and form a considerable part of 
the Sabbath-keepers in West Virginia, and elsewhere. It is 
said that there has not been a generation of this family with- 
out a representation in the ministry of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist church from Wm. Davis, who came to this country in 1682, 
to the present time, — a period of 221 years, the writer of this 
paper being one of the number. The venerable Samuel D. 
Davis of Jane Lew, West Virginia, is a grandson of Eld. Jacob 
Davis, above mentioned. 

The Seventh-day Baptist movement begun by Abel Noble 
among the Keithian Quaker Baptists, near Philadelphia, had 
a rapid development. Almost within the first quarter of the 
i8th century there had sprung up four or five churches of 
considerable size among these people. Comparatively little is 
known of them now, but we have the names of French Creek, 
Pennepek, Upper Providence, Nottingham, and Newtown. 
We also have the names of several men who preached to the 
people of these churches. Foremost among these stands the 
name of Abel Noble, though no record has been found which 
would indicate that he was ever a member of any of the 
churches. After him is Enoch David, some of whose descend- 



130 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

t 

ants are still living among our people, and then follow Thomas 
Martin, William and Philip Davis, Lewis Williams, Thomas 
Rutter — and possibly some others, concerning w^hom little is 
known, except that they were preachers of the Gospel in these 
churches. While each church had its own place of meeting 
and maintained its own appointments for worship, they had a 
Yearly Meeting, which all were expected to attend. As the 
churches were located in adjoining counties, this was not diffi- 
cult. While this Yearly Meeting was sometimes held with one 
church and sometimes with another, Newtown appears to have 
been the principal place of assembly, which leads to the con- 
clusion that this was regarded as one of the stronger churches. 
To a Yearly Meeting held at French Creek, in 1745, the church 
at Piscataway, New Jersey, sent Jonathan Dunham for ordi- 
nation. This service was performed by Elder Lewis Williams 
and Abel Noble. 

One of these churches, probably Nottingham, was located 
close to the line between Pennsylvania and Maryland, and some 
of its members lived in Cecil County in the latter named state. 
Among these were several families of Bonds who soon moved 
on through Maryland and Delaware, and finally settled on Lost 
Creek, in Virginia, thus forming a second center from which 
has sprung another large part of the Seventh-day Baptist 
family in West Virginia of the present day, and thence spread 
to various other points throughout the denomination. Other 
families from these churches took a line of emigration still 
further southward and formed settlements and organized 
churches in Georgia and South Carolina. These little settle- 
ments were short lived, and the active life of the group near 
Philadelphia was limited to this period, the only visible, perma- 
nent result of the movement being the portion which was trans- 
planted into the Lost Creek region. A burying ground near 
Newtown still marks the site of that church. 

The Piscataway movement, though not as wide spread as 
the New England movement, w^as more permanent than that 
just described. At the organization of the church in 1705, 
its founder, Edmund Dunham, was chosen pastor, and was sent 
to Newport for ordination. The Yearly Meeting convened that 
year in Westerly, and there Mr. Dunham was ordained by Eld. 



THE SABBATH IX AMERICA. 13! 

Gibson, the Newport pastor. The members of this church 
were widely scattered so that the pastor, in the performance of 
his duties, had to make long journeys, which he did either on 
foot or on horse-back, covering the country for a distance of 
thirty or forty miles. Though the principal place of meet- 
ing was at Piscataway, regular meetings were also held in 
Hopewell Township, and at Trenton ; meetings were also held 
at numerous other places, but less statedly than at the three 
principal points just mentioned. Eld. Dunham performed 
these labors for a period of 29 years, during which time the 
church grew to over 70 members. His son, Jonathan Dunham, 
succeeded him, serving the church for eleven years as a 
licensed preacher, rather than as pastor, finally accepting ordi- 
nation, which took place at the Yearly Meeting at French 
Creek, in Pennsylvania, as already stated. After his ordina- 
tion, he continued to serve the church until his death in 1777, 
a period of 32 years,' making a continuous service of 43 years. 
As will be seen by the date above given. Eld. Dunham died in 
the early part of the Revolutionary War. l^few Jersey forming 
the coast line between Eastern New York and Eastern Penn- 
sylvania, was naturally the storm center of that great contest ; 
and the town of Piscataway, lying in the direct route between 
the port of New York and the port of Philadelphia, by way of 
Bordentown and Trenton, the church at Piscataway was 
exposed to the manifold hardships of such a struggle — the 
desolations of war. Many of its able-bodied men, as privates 
or officers, joined the patriot army; others gathered together 
their live stock, and, taking such of their household effects as 
they could conveniently carry, with their families, sought 
greater safety in the mountains lying a few miles to the north 
of them ; and still others, who could not get away or would not 
go, remained to give such aid as they could, from their fields 
or from their scanty stores, to the suffering patriots, or to see 
their possessions wasted by the British soldiery, as the varying 
fortunes of war might determine, tinder these distressing con- 
ditions, the church was sadly broken up. There was no pastor 
to hold the scattered remnants together, and for a number 
of years, Sabbath meetings were held only at irregular inter- 
vals.- After the successful issue of the great struggle the sur- 



132 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

vivors returned from the army, or from their temporary homes 
in the mountains, and began to resume their peaceful vocations 
in homes desolated by war. Under these conditions, Eld. 
Nathan Rogers came from New London (Water ford) Con- 
necticut, and took the pastoral care of the scattered flock in 
1786, and during the next eleven years, 65 persons were added 
to the church. He was followed in 1797 by Eld, Henry 
McLafferty, who was still the pastor when the General Con- 
ference was organized in' 1802. 

In the decade between 1730 and 1740, families from dif- 
ferent points within the boundaries of the Piscataway church, 
made settlements on the Cohansey Creek, in Cumberland 
County, New Jersey, about 40 miles south from Philadelphia. 
These were joined by others from Shrewsbury, and in 1737 
they were constituted a church in sister relation. The first 
pastor was Eld. Jonathan Davis, who, together with several 
others of that name, was a descendant of a family of Davises, 
who came to this country from Glamorganshire, Wales, about 
1649, ^"d settled somewhere in New Jeraey. Subsequently 
they lived on Long Island, then near Trenton, N. J.; thence 
they removed to Cohansey. Somewhere, probably in the course 
of this itinerary, they came in contact with Sabbath-keepers, 
and most of them appear to have embraced the Sabbath. It is 
believed that Eld. William Gillette, M. D., who was a Sab- 
bath-keeping French Hugenot refugee, was the man through 
whose influence this was brought about. Elder Davis served 
the church faithfully and acceptably for 32 years, during which 
time the church grew to several times its original numbers. 
The pastor, at the end of this period, was Eld. Nathan Ayers, 
when the church numbered 80 members. Within the next ten 
years, in 181 1, a number of the members of this church, living 
principally in Salem County, north-west from the Cohansey 
settlement, were organized into the church known as the Sev- 
enth-day Baptist church of Marlboro; and in 1838, fifty-one 
members, principally of the Piscataway church, were duly 
organized as the Seventh-day Baptist church of Plainfield. in 
Union County. Thus this movement resulted eventually in 
four churches in New Jersey, which with subsequent acces- 
sions, have continued strong and active to the present- day. 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. I33 

Besides those who have remained to maintain the Hfe and use- 
fulness of these churches, members have gone out from them 
to find a place of usefulness and honor in almost every Sev- 
enth-day Baptist church of the central and northern streams 
of emigration from the Atlantic to the Pacific coasts. 

Thus from these original centers, Newport, Rhode Island ; 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and Piscataway, New Jersey, 
streams of Seventh-day Baptist emigration flowed westward 
through Connecticut into New York State, through Long 
Island, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, into Virginia, and south- 
westward into the Carolinas and Georgia, until in 1802, there 
were not less than 20 churches and settlements of Sabbath- 
keepers, in nine or ten colonies or states, and numbering about 
2,000 members. Eight of these churches, being the larger ones, 
numbering between 1,100 and 1,200 members, reported to the 
General Conference at its first anniversary in 1803. 

III. DOCTRINAL STANDARDS. 

As we have already seen, the earliest Seventh-day Baptists 
in America were adherents of the Baptist church. In general 
terms, therefore, they may be said to have held the tenets of 
that body, parting company with them on the doctrine of the 
Sabbath, and the perpetuity of the Ten Commandments. The 
extreme Congregationalism of the Baptist people, which gave 
absolute independence to the individual church in all matters 
of discipline, extended itself quite generally to the adoption of 
articles of faith. For this reason they never had formal stand- 
ards of doctrine applicable to all churches in any such sense as 
such standards apply to Presbyterian and ritualistic churches. 
Seventh-day Baptists were even more independent than the 
Baptists, from whom they came. If there was general agree- 
ment between the articles of faith of different churches, it was 
the agreement of individuals having common experiences, 
purposes and hopes, rather than the uniformity arising from 
the acceptance of a creed imposed by some central, authorita- 
tive body. All Seventh-day Baptist creeds, so far as they have 
come to the knowledge of the writer, have recognized the per- 
son and attributes of God, together with his sovereign power 
over all his creatures, the nature and destiny of man, salvation 
through Jesus Christ, sanctification by the Holy Si)irit, and 



134 SKVENTH-DAY IJAPTISTS: 

the sufficiency of the Holy Scriptures as the rule of faith and 
practice. They have also generally added special statements 
concerning the Bible doctrine of Baptism, the Sabbath, the 
Lord's Supper, the Resurrection of the dead, the judgment and 
the future existence of both the righteous and the wicked. 

A few specifications will serve to show where the empha- 
sis of doctrinal thought in these early times was laid. For gen- 
erations, running down to, and through, the period covered by 
this paper, were the parallel doctrines of the Sovereignty of 
God, and the Free-will of man. Ultra-Calvanism, on the one 
hand, exalted the Divine Sovereignty in such a manner and to 
such a degree as to render any exercise of the human will prac- 
tically impossible ; Ultra-Armenianism, on the other hand, gave 
so much prominence to the freedom of the human will, that 
it seemed to leave very little room for the work of the Holy- 
Spirit upon the heart of a man in his conversion or in his sub- 
sequent religious life. The original Baptists were strongly Cal- 
vinistic. Leading men among Seventh-day Baptists early, 
sought the medium ground on w^hich the doctrine of Divine 
Sovereignty might be held consistently with the doctrine of 
the freedom of the human will, without which, they held, 
there could be no human choices and, consequently, no human 
responsibility. Thus, all unconsciously, our fathers became 
forerunners in the adoption of that modified Calvinism now 
generally adopted by churches once severely Calvinistic. 

Again, there appears to have been pretty well defined 
notions upon the doctrine of the person of Christ. When a 
certain brother from New Jersey went to Rhode Island and 
offered himself for membership in the church at Newport, 
warning was sent from New Jersey that he was not orthodox. 
On examination it was found that he held that Jesus Christ 
was not a divine person, nor a human person, but a mix- 
ture of the two. **The Divine nature," he said, 
"united with the human nature to form a third nature 
that was neither divine nor human." He illustrated his 
thought by saying that when water and wine mix 
in a glass, the content is thenceforth neither w^ater nor wine. 
In other words, the union of the two natures in one person 
without destroying the distinction of the natures was, by him. 



THE SAHIIATII IN AMERICA. I35 

denied. On this account he was for some time refused mem- 
bership, although there appear to have been some considera- 
tions, other than doctrinal unsoundness, which operated 
against his request. When he was finally admitted, it w^as 
agreed that his doctrinal notions were of such a nature that no 
practical harm could come from them. 

The Sabbath-keepers were forced to face the doctrine of 
restricted communion in a very practical way before the first 
Seventh-day Baptist church was organized. In fact, it was 
the determining point of their separation. Being members of 
the Baptist church, they were communicants with that body. 
But when four of their company, who had been keeping the 
Sabbath, forsook them and went back to Sunday-keeping, they 
were compelled to recognize the inconsistency of keeping fel- 
lowship with Sabbath apostates. After much earnest, prayer- 
ful thought they decided that they could no longer continue 
this inconsistent practice, whereupon they refused to go to 
the communion. As we have already seen, this brought on the 
controversy which resulted in their withdrawal from their 
Baptist brethren, and the organization of a church of their 
own faith and practice. The logic of the event, unavoidably 
placed the new church on the restricted communion basis, 
where it has consistently remained, though in this, as in most 
other matters of faith and practice, large liberty of individual 
opinion has been allowed. Occasionally also the experiment 
has been made of conducting Sabbath-keeping churches on the 
so-called free communion basis, almost always with disintegrat- 
ing and destructive effect. A notable example of this, within 
this period, is the *'Wilcox Church," in Rhode Island. This 
appears to have been an effort to eliminate all ''tests of fellow- 
ship," and, although their records speak often of their "cov- 
enant," no form of it has ever been found, and no articles of 
faith. One case of discipline for performing secular labor on 
the Sabbath is on record, which, together with the fact that 
their early members were Sabbath-keepers, and that their 
meetings for worship were held on the Sabbath, shows that 
the movement was a revolt from the Seventh-day Baptist 
Church on the communion question. It was promoted by 
Isaiah Wilcox, who was the first, and, apparently, the only 



136 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

pastor. He was joined by his brother, David Wilcox ; Elisha 
Sisson and Valentine Wilcox. It is first mentioned in 1765, 
and the last record was niade in 1810. In this brief time the 
church numbered in all three or four hundred members, em- 
bracing both Sabbath-keepers and First-day-keepers. They 
insisted so strenuously upon the doctrine of free communion 
that they positively refused to grant one, Charles Babcock, a 
permit to join the Seventh-day Baptist Church, of Brookfield, 
lest he should be brought into bondage to the creed of that 
church. He was finally told that he might go if the Brook- 
field church would allow him still to commune with them, other- 
wise he must remain with them or be thrust out as a covenant 
breaker! The site of this church, on th'e "post road" some 
two and a half miles southeast of the present village of West- 
erly, is still pointed out. The heterogeneous character of this 
church, its swift decline and its utter extinction is a striking 
commentary upon the doctrine of free communion among 
Seventh-day Baptists. 

What is known as the Rogerene Quaker movement sprang 
up considerably earlier than the free communion movement. 
Its chief promoters appear to have been the brothers, John and 
James Rogers, of New London, Connecticut. They, with 
many of their family connections, were Seventh-day Baptists, 
principally members of the church at Newport. They had 
suffered much for their faith in their Connecticut home. The 
defection grew out of a peculiar method of applying Scripture 
tests to all religious practices. They said whatever does not 
rest upon a direct Scripture command or warrant, is unscriptu- 
ral, and, therefore, wrong. Christian people of that time gen- 
erally held family prayers night and morning; also when sick 
or suffering any physical injury they took medicine, or called 
in the doctor. The Rogerenes found no direct warrant in the 
Scriptures for such practices; therefore, they discontinued 
family prayer, and refused medicines in sickness, or the ser- 
vices of the surgeon in case of serious accident. They also 
had much to say against stated formal public services, the em- 
ployment of a "hireling ministry," etc., though they continued 
to observe the Sabbath, to baptize their converts, and to par- 
take of the communion. The movement began when as yet 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. .137 

the membership of Sabbath-keepers in America was confined 
almost exclusively to the church at Newport, and ran through 
this period, although it never became very strong or wide- 
spread. They finally became a part of the New England 
Quaker body. With the exception of this sentimental and 
abortive effort to establish a free communion Seventh-day 
Baptist Church, and the more permanent but not widespread 
Rogerene movement, the doctrinal standards of the churches 
of this period were eminently Scriptural and, therefore, in the 
truest sense, orthodox. The people were first Protestants, 
then Independents, then Baptists and then, still following the 
Protestant doctrine of the Scriptures as the final authority on 
questions of faith and practice, they were logically and neces- 
sarily Seventh-day Baptists. 

IV. SPIRIT AND DISCIPLINE. 

In spirit the early Seventh-day Baptists in America were 
remarkably charitable. In common with the Puritans of the 
time, they had suffered much for the rights of conscience ; and 
in common with their brethren, the Baptists, they had main- 
tained, sometimes at great cost, the right of private interpre- 
tation of the Scriptures. But their own trials had taught 
them the sweet lessons of charity. Unlike the severer Puri- 
tanism, which sought to press everything into its own peculiar 
mold, they had no doctrines or practices which they wished 
to force upon others, save through an enlightened conscience. 
While they were strict in their own observance of their faith, 
and were ready always to defend that faith against all comers, 
they freely accorded to others the liberty of thought, con- 
science and speech which they asked for themselves. They 
were defenders of the principles of religious liberty of the 
truest and highest type. In this broad spirit of Christian 
charity they struck, at the very outset, the proper attitude of 
Seventh-day Baptists on the question of legislation in religious 
matters. For themselves, they never asked of the civil au- 
thorities anything but the right to read their Bible and to prac- 
tice its teachings at such times and in such manner as an en- 
lightened conscience might dictate, and to be protected in such 
txercise. For 'others they demanded only that liberty and 
protection which they so strenuously demanded for themselves. 



138 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS*. 

There can be no other consistent attitude for Seventh- 
clay Baptists to-day upon this question of civil legislation upon 
leligious subjects, which is occupying so large a place in the 
minds of many religious reformers of the present time. The 
logic of their faith put our fathers early in the right attitude 
on this question. We shall be worthy sons of such noble 
fathers only as we stand consistently on the same broad plat- 
form of the truest charity. 

The discipline of these early churches of our denomination 
was well nigh ideal. The brethren exercised the most jealous 
watchcare over each other. Absence from any public meet- 
ing of the church was noted; and absence from three or four 
consecutive appointments became a matter of official inquiry. 
The cause of such neglect of covenant obligation was sought, 
and if no good reason for it could be shown, the delinquent was 
earnestly exhorted to again "take up his walk" with the church. 
Page after page of the early records of some of these churches 
is filled with accounts of such labor. Through it all ^ran a 
manifest spirit of love for the brotherhood, and the course of 
discipline usually resulted in the reformation of the delinquent. 
When, however, the case proved to be one of deliberate intent 
to violate the covenant vows of a member, or an obstinate dis- 
regard of their claims, with no promise of reformation, the of- 
fending member was cut off, not without loving exhortations 
to an amendment of life, and with a wide-open door for a re- 
turn with suitable evidence of repentance and reformation. 

This loving regard among the members of the individual 
church for each other appears to have run through the entire 
fellowship of churches. Thus it was common for one church 
having trouble of some sort to ask counsel and help from some 
sister church. This was especially the case when one of the 
newer churches or settlements was in difficulty. Appeal would 
be made to the mother church or churches from which most 
of them had come. In such cases delegates — generally the 
pastor with one or two of the leading men — would be appoint- 
ed to visit the troubled church to help in settling the case. 
Their work was done with the utmost pains to learn all the 
facts in the case, with the deepest spirit of love for all con- 



HENRY COLLINS. 
See Biographical Skelchci. p. I36T. 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 1 39 

cerned, and with the sincerest desire to preserve the purity 
and power of the church. 

Again, it is gratifying to be able to note that no import- 
ant action affecting the interest of the church or churches 
C9ncemed was allowed to be taken until the personal opinion 
and preference of the members was first obtained. When a 
group of persons, living remote from any church of Sabbath- 
keepers desired to be organized into a church by themselves, 
they sent request for' such organization to the church of which 
most of them were members. A committee was then ap- 
pointed to visit the community. This committee passed from 
house to house and took a complete census of their desire. 
Returning to the home church they reported the result of their 
investigations, and made a similar canvas of the home church 
to ascertain the personal views of the members on the pro- 
priety of granting the request. The desire on the part of the 
petitioners being found to be unanimous, and the motion to 
grant the request being without opposition, the organization 
was then effected. The new church was thus, in the deepest 
and truest sense, a church in sister relation. 

In like manner, men refused appointment to office, or to 
positions of service in the church, such as that of Elders or 
Deacons, if there was any possible reason to suspect that the 
choice was not unanimous. The candidate, if he felt called 
to the work, made diligent inquiry for the reason or reasons 
why any member made objection to his election. If the an- 
swer revealed obstacles which he could remove, he removed 
them; if not, he patiently waited for conditions to change, or 
for the objector to withdraw his objections. This is a most 
striking example of the fulfillment of the instruction of Jesus : 
— "If thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest 
that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift 
before the altar and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy 
brother, and then come and oflfer thy gift." 

From this brief sketch of the spirit and discipline of the 
early church, it must not be inferred that the work always 
went smoothly. A Scripture writer of the olden time had oc- 
casion to remark: "There was a day when the sons of God 
came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came 



T40 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

also among them, to present himself before the Lord/* It 
may be fairly questioned whether there has ever been a period 
in the history of the church, ancient or modern, when this 
was not true; certainly our fathers found it true in their ex- 
perience; and sometimes it gave them serious trouble. But 
the dominance of the spirit of love and forbearance generally 
led them to righteous decisions and in the end to peaceable 
settlement of all their difficulties. 

V. BUSINESS AND PUBLIC LIFE. 

No sketch of the first Seventh-day Baptists in America 
would be in any sense complete which did not take account of 
the fact that they were early identified, in a most practical and 
efficient way, with the material, the intellectual and the po- 
litical, as well as the religious, welfare of their country. While 
spirituality and loyalty to the truth of God, as he reveals it 
by his Spirit and Word, are the center of real power in the 
church, those sturdy qualities in its members which put them 
at the front in business enterprises, in the arts and sciences, 
and in governmental aflfairs, widen their influence and deep- 
ens their power. Spirituality and consecrated talent is of far 
greater worth than spirituality and ignorance. Our fathers 
were sturdy, intelligent, and able men. The limits of this 
paper forbid the record of incidents which bear unmistakable 
evidence of the truth of this statement, beyond a few typical 
cases. 

We have already spoken of the Puritan intolerance which 
drove the Baptists from Massachusetts into the wilderness of 
the New Haven colony, and following them there, again drove 
them to the necessity of seeking a more quiet home in the 
Rhode Island colony, for which Roger Williams and others 
obtained a charter from England about 1647. It was a colonist 
from Newport who settled in the western payt of this colony 
in what was then called the "Narragansett" country, bought 
realty rights of the Indians and organized the first township 
in the Rhode Island colony, which they named Misquamicutt. 
It was bounded on the south by the Atlantic ocean, on the 
west by the Pawcatuck river, which separated it from the New 
Haven colony, and from these boundaries extend northward 
fifteen or twenty miles, and eastward twelve or fifteen miles, 



HON. SAMUEL WARD. 
Sec niograt'r.al Sk-elclu-s, p. I: 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. I4I 

and included the present towns of Westerly, Hopkinton, Rich- 
mond and Charlestown. The men, almost without exception, 
who did this pioneer organizing and developing work either 
were, at the time, or soon after became, members of the 
Seventh-day Baptist Church at Newport. A few years later 
the town was incorporated and took the name of Westerly. 
The land of this township, acquired from the Indians by pur- 
chase, was apportioned among the forty or fifty settlers on a 
sort of contract, consisting of quite a series of articles, the 
most important of which was the prompt payment of their 
proportionate part of the purchase, and an agreement to enter 
at once upon the possession of the purchase and remain sub- 
ject to call for the defense of the settlement. The manage- 
ment of the affairs of the town was entrusted to a small com- 
mittee of able men, all of whom save one were Seventh-day 
Baptists. The making and holding of the deeds and other 
papers relating to the landed rights of the settlers was in the 
hands of one William Vahan, or Vaughan — a member of the 
Seventh-day Baptist Church at Newport The article in the 
settler's contract which pledged him to the defense of their 
rights of possession, meant much and required a degree of 
character and manly courage of which we can have little con- 
ception. The Indians, although they had been fairly bought 
out, were naturally jealous and suspicious of the white settlers. 
and gave them some annoyance ; but the Puritans were worse 
enemies than the Indians. The Baptist, and Seventh-day 
Baptist doctrine of the rights of private interpretation of the 
Scriptures, and of holding assemblies for worship where and 
how they pleased, were, in the minds of these Puritans, the 
rankest kind of heresies. Naturally, they were very unwill- 
ing that a colony should spring up in their midst, the distin- 
guishing feature of which was not only the toleration but the 
propagation of these heresies. I am not sure also that they 
were not covetous of their goodly possessions. Whatever the 
motive, they sought by every means to subjugate the settlers 
or drive them out. The jealousies between Massachusetts 
and Connecticut, to use modern names, added to the severities 
which the settlers endured. On the one hand Massachusetts 
sought to extend her jurisdiction over the entire territory of 



142 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Rhode Island to the Connecticut boundary ; on the other hand 
the Connecticut authorities crossed the Pawcatuck river and 
sent their surveyors to establish the eastern boundary far 
enough to the eastward to include, at least, the whole of Mis- 
quamicutt, Westerly, in Connecticut territory. Thus between 
the suspicions of their keen-eyed Indian neighbors, the bigoted 
intolerance of the heresy-hating Puritans, and the land hun- 
ger of rival colonies, the settlers who had pledged their lives 
and fortunes in the defense of their rights, soon found that 
they had taken no small contract. They did not flinch, and 
in the end they won, on every point. 

Among those chosen as conservators of the rights of the 
settlers and of the Rhode Island colonists, were Tobias Saund- 
ers, Robert Burdick, John Crandall, Joseph Clarke, all 
Seventh-day Baptists, with others whose names are familiar 
in all our churches to-day. For the peaceful performance of 
their duties, Saunders and Burdick were forciblv seized bv 
the Massachusetts authorities, dragged to Boston, condemned 
to pay a fine of £40 each, and cast into prison until the fine 
should be paid, and the prisoners should give bonds in the 
sum of £100 to observe the peace of the commonwealth for 
the future. In a similar way Crandall was dragged to the 
Hartford jail. Clarke was a member of the Colonial Assem- 
bly, of Rhode Island, and ably presented the cause of the 
Rhode Island colonists before the Governor of Connecticut. 
Samuel Hubbard, who was a life-long friend and associate of 
Roger Williams, until the death of the latter in 1683, though 
not one of the Misquamicutt settlers, was, with his wife, Tacy, 
among their most devoted friends and defenders. The mar- 
riage of their three daughters, Ruth, Bethia and Rachel, re- 
spectively, to Robert Burdick, Joseph Clarke and Andrew 
Langworthy, linked three of our largest Seventh-day Baptist 
families, with their outbranching lines, almost everywhere, to 
those two names which ought to be enshrined in every grate- 
ful Seventh-day Baptist heart — Samuel Hubbard and Tacy 
Cooper. 

It would extend this paper to unwarrantable limits to 
mention, with any detail, the many venerable names of these 
early times, which deserve mention beside the names of the 



LIEUTENANT-COLONEL SAMUEL WARD. 
See Biographical Skelchts, p. IJ61. 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. I43 

great men of our country. Mum ford, Hiscox, (iibson, Clarke, 
Maxson, Crandall, Babcock, Bliss, etc., of Rhode Island ; 
Rogers, Bebee, Gillett, Satterlee, of Connecticut; the Coons, 
Clarke and Satterlee. of New York; Elisha Gillette, of Long 
Island; the Davises, and the Dunhams, of New Jersey; the 
Davids, Bonds, etc., of Pennsylvania, and many others arc 
names which tempt the pen of the genealogist and the his- 
torian. 

A few names, however, deserve especial mention. John 
Ward was an officer in the English revolution of the seven- 
teenth century under Oliver Cromwell. His son, Thomas 
Ward, came to the American colonies at the restoration of 
Charles the II., in 1666. Shortly after this date, his name ap- 
pears on the records, as a member of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Church of Newport. He was a prominent member of the 
Legislature of the colony. He married, as his second wife, 
Amy Smith, a grand-daughter of Roger Williams. His son, 
by this second marriage, Richard Ward, was born in 1689, the 
year in which Thomas, the father, died. Richard was Govern- 
or of the colony in 1741-2. Samuel Ward, another descend- 
ant of this same family, was Governor from 1762-1765, and 
then a member of the Continental Congress in Philadelphia, 
where he died during the first year of the Revolutionary War — 
1776. He was greatly beloved and deeply mourned by his asso- 
ciates as well as bv his Rhode Island constituencv. He 
was an earnest promoter of the higher education in the colo- 
nies; and, as Governor of Rhode Island, gave the charter in 
1764 for the Rhode Island college at Providence, an institu- 
tion which still lives, now known as the Brown University. 
His estate was located in the present town of Westerly, on 
what is familiarly known in that country as the "Shore road," 
and looks out upon the open sea, between Block Island and 
Montauk Point. This entire family of Wards in this coun- 
try, for many generations, were staunch Seventh-day Baptists. 
Though the name of Ward has ceased from among us, their 
descendants are still with us. 

Aftir the death of Thomas Ward, his widow, the mother 
of the first Governor Ward, married Arnold Collins, a thrifty 



144 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

merchant of Newport, and member of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Church of that city. To them was born a son — Henry 
Collins, whose name ought to be ah inspiration to every ambi- 
tious Seventh-day Baptist young man. The half brothers, 
Richard Ward and Henry Collins, though separated in age 
hy several years, grew up together, attending the same 
schools, until Ward entered into business and young Collins 
was sent to England for a college education, in Oxford or 
Cambridge. After finishing his education, he returned to the 
colonies, and entered into the business, in Newport, of a gold- 
smith. His business was properous, and, for that time, he 
became very wealthy. He did a large business with foreign 
countries. His wealth was used for the promotion of such 
enterprises, public and private, as would benefit those among 
whom he lived. He educated, at his own expense, a large 
number of young men; he took the lead in organizing and 
maintaining in the city a society, or club, for the regular study 
of social and economic questions — such as would make better 
business men, better citizens. He was also a patron of the 
fine arts, and established, at his own expense, an art gallery 
in which were placed some of the best paintings, by the ablest 
painters of that time. An enthusiastic historian of a little 
later date pronounced him the "Lorenzo de Medici of the Colo- 
nies." His gifts to public objects were many and generous. 
One which remains to the present day. and which will pass 
on to succeeding generations, was the gift of a beautiful plot 
of ground in the finest part of the city, to the city, for a pub- 
lic library. A wealthy Jew, Redwood, by name, donated a 
valuable collection of historical works as the basis of the 
library, which is known by his name — ^The Redwood Library, 
— being one of the principal places of interest in that city of 
magnificent homes, of fabulous wealth, and fashionable foibles. 
In all this whirl of business, this busy thought and care for 
the welfare of others, this planning and giving and doing for 
the well-being of his city and country, Collins was a humble, 
faithful, consistent Seventh-day Baptist — member of the 
church of that faith in the city. He was the architect and 
principal member of the building committee for the principal 
house of worship owned by the church, and gave the work as 

(9) 



THE SABBATH IN AMERICA. 145 

much personal attention as though that had been his regular 
calling. 

I cannot forbear mentioning one other New England 
name — that of Deacon John Tanner, also a wealthy merchant 
of Newport. Though his will is on record, and bears date 
of Stonington, Conn., August 26, 1776. In this will Deacon 
Tanner made generous remembrance of various public and 
religious institutions or organizations, as well as to a large 
list of relatives and personal friends. Among the former were 
the Seventh-day Baptist Churches at Newport and Westerly, 
R. I., and Piscataway, N. J., and the Rhode Island College. 
Some of Deacon Tanner's descendants are still among our 
people in New England. 

In Western Connecticut settled a thrifty Seventh-day 
Baptist family, whose home lay in the path of the contending 
armies of the Revolution until they had given nearly all their 
substance to the patriot cause. Under the stress of this drain 
upon their resources, they sold what they had left, and moved 
on to Rensselaer County, in New York State; and this gave 
to Petersburg, afterwards Berlin, Elder William Satterlee, 
and the large Satterlee family in various parts of New York. 

The part which the Seventh-day Baptists of New Jersey 
look in the Revolutionary struggle has already been mention- 
ed, a part for which any people may justly feel proud. 

^ The Seventh-day Baptist cause of Philadelphia and vicini- 
ty also had its list of eminent and worthy names. We have al- 
ready mentioned the Rev. Enoch David as one of the strongest 
men in the Philadelphia Sabbatarian movement. His son,Ebene- 
zer David, was a young man of marked ability and great prom- 
ise. He graduated from the Rhode Island College, and was 
ordained a Seventh-day Baptist minister at Hopkinton, R. I. 
Returning to Philadelphia, he entered the Federal Army. He 
was soon after appointed chaplain, and died in the service near 
Philadelphia in 1778. Descendants of this family are still 
among us. 

Abel Noble, the founder of the Pennsylvania movement, 
notwithstanding his great activity as a preacher of righteous- 
ness and propagandist of the Seventh-day Baptist faith, built 



146 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

up a large landed estate in Bucks County, known far and near 
as one of the largest and wealthiest in the county. 

I forbear further individual mention. There is ample 
evidence that in private business enterprises, in political and 
public affairs, in local trusts, in colonial government positions, 
and in the National Congress our fathers were men of ster- 
ling character, of marked ability, and of thrifty and worthy 
achievements. They were loyal to all public interests and 
were trusted and honored by their fellow-citizens. At the 
same time they were staunch in their defense of their own re- 
ligious faith, constant and consistent in its observance. They 
were trusted and honored because they were men of character 
and conscience. 

In the midst of all this struggle for personal religious 
liberty; these hard fought battles for subsistence first, after- 
wards for competence; throughout these times which tried 
men's souls ; times which wrought out the religious, the social, 
the economic, the political character of these colonies destined 
to become a great republic, our fathers earnestly cherished 
and jealously promoted the spirit of Christian love and fel- 
lowship. They were first of all honest hearted Christian men, 
true to God and loyal to his Word. This made them, in the 
truest sense, brethren in sweetest charity. This, again, made 
them true in spirit, aim, and effort to all that was best in 
human society. They thus laid the foundations of the Seventh- 
day Baptist Church in America where it could stand the 
shock of coming revolutions, of topling monarchies, or crumb- 
ling republics — in characters built on the word of eternal 
truth — tried and toughened by the fires of trials and polished 
by the disciplines of the best possessions of men. 

Accepting the inheritance which they have handed down 
to us, let us see that it holds the high place on which they left 
it. 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 
GENERAL CONFERENCE, 

1802 TO 1902. 



REV, ARTHUR F.LWFXL MAIN, D. D. 
S« BiografbUal Skelchrs. p. 1361. 



THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST GENERAL 
CONFERENCE, 1802 to 1902. 



Rev. Arthur E. Main. 



Our General Conference was not the child of a day or a 
year, but the product of many years of deepening and extend- 
ing life. 

Let us note, then*, some of the events by which we trace 
its evolution up to the time of its actual organization. 

Just when or how the Sabbath truth first came to America 
from England we cannot tell; but such had its influence 
grown to be that, as early as 1646 it was the occasion of much 
earnest discussion in New England. 

In 1664 the London Seventh-day Baptists sent Stephen 
Mumford to America, and in 1671 the Newport, R. L, church 
was organized. 

In 1675 ^hc ^GV. William Gibson came; and thus our 
English brethren "did as much, in proportion to their ability, 
as had been done by any society, for propagating the gospel 
in foreign parts." 

In 1684 Abel Noble, son of a wealthy Quaker, of Bristol, 
Eng., came to America, and lived in Bucks County, Pennsyl- 
vania. He became the "apostle of Sabbatarianism in Penn- 
sylvania;" and under his influence there arose the German 



150 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Seventh-day Baptists, and English-speaking Sabbath-keepers 
in the South and West. 

In New Jersey, about 1700, Edmurtd Dunham, a Baptist 
deacon and licensecl minister, changed to Sabbath-keeping; 
and in 1705 the Piscataway or New Market Church was or- 
ganized. 

But it is most probable that both Dunham and Noble 
were the fruit of earlier Sabbath teaching and practice by 
Rev. William Gillette, M. D., and Rev. Jonathan Davis, Sr. 

Dr. Gillette was a Huguenot minister and physician of 
France, who fled to America from the papal persecution in 
the latter half of the seventeenth century. After acquiring: 
the English language he preached in Connecticut; and, it is 
said, on Long Island and in New Jersey also ; and was a Sab- 
bath-keeping member of the Baptist Church. 

Jonathan Davis was a native of Wales; turned to the 
Sabbath in this country, and preached on Long Island, his de- 
scendants moving to New Jersey. 

But our chief historical stream had its source in Newport ; 
for, in 1696, there was appointed a General or Yearly Meet- 
ing of Rhode Island Seventh-day Baptists ; and our conference 
is a direct descendant of that general meeting. From that 
meeting there sprang up a "Union and Communion" among 
such churches as entered into the fellow^ship, which continued 
for 105 years, without written constitution or very formal or- 
ganization. 

m 

In 1703 and 1704 the Rhode Island Yearly Meeting aid- 
ed the Pennsylvania brethren in the settlement of some dif- 
ficulty, by the appointment of a visiting committee, and the 
sending of a fraternal letter; and in 1705 it ordained Ed- 
mund Dunham and admitted the New Jersey brethren **into 
Christian association and communion." 

In 17 17 four persons were appointed to "sign, on our 
behalf, our letter to our brethren in Pennsylvania and places 
adjacent in fellowship with us;" and in 1734 two brethren 
were appointed to visit New Jersey. 

There was also correspondence between this Meeting and 
Sabbath-keepers in England. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. I5I 

The years 1762 and 1763 were a critical period in the his- 
torical development of the Conference. 

In the former year the "General Meeting was laid down ;" 
but in 1763 there was substantially this minute : 

Our General Meeting was, for sundry good reasons, vot- 
ed down and to cease last year; but upon considering how 
necessary it is for brethren to meet together, to stir up one 
another and likewise to commune together, in order to provoke 
one another to Christian love and unity, that the weak may 
become more strong, that God may have glory and our souls 
peace, we have thought fit that, for the future, the Sixth-day 
before the third Sabbath in September be a church meeting, 
and the Sabbath following an annual communion, that all our 
distant brethren and sisters may be present, in order to be 
helpers of our joy; and that the first-day following there be 
held a meeting, if then thought proper. 

This brotherly action, in those troublous political times, 
witnesses to the Divine Providence in our denominational his- 
tory. There were other general meetings in New Jersey, Con- 
necticut and Pennsylvania ; and, later, among Sabbath-keepers 
who found their way to Eastern and Central New York. These 
were seasons of social joy, increased fellowship, and spiritual 
refreshing, the time being largely given to preaching and de- 
votional exercises. For the sake of these blessings some would 
travel a hundred miles by ox teams. 

These several General or Yearly Meetings began to ex- 
change fraternal greetings, letters and delegates; and out 
of their union with Hopkinton, R. I., as the center of interest 
and influence, because of its location, numerical strength and 
intellectual, business and religious vigor, grew our General 
Conference. 

At the Hopkinton yearly church meeting, on sixth-day, 
there were elders, brethren and letters from distant sister 
churches ; and it was considered to be a day not for common 
church business, but a preparation day before communion. 
The Sabbath, with its general communion, was indeed an high 
day. And the character and work of first-day depended upon 
the already awakened devotion and accumulated ppwer. 



152 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

In 1794 action was taken looking toward fuller statistics 
and more messengers from the churches. 

In 1795 Rev. Henry Clarke was commissioned an evan- 
gelist to labor in the Unadilla country. Central New York. 

At the yearly church meeting in 1796 there were letters 
and messengers from Petersburg, N. Y., and from Bristol and 
New London, Conn., all expressing love and fellowship. And, 
in return, brethren were appointed to attend the Bristol year- 
ly meeting, and to write letters to the churches at Newport, 
Bristol, New London, Piscataway and Petersburg. 

The yearly meeting of 1797 indicated progress towards 
a still closer union of the churches. The letters received from 
other churches were more complete in information; and the 
letters sent out from Hopkinton to the brethren at Newport, 
Bristol. New London, Petersburg, Piscataway, and Cohansey 
(Shiloh), contained a "vote and resolutions of this church to 
keep a correspondence by letter or messenger, or both, at the 
several Yearly Meetings." 

The letters of 1798 gave still fuller statements concern- 
ing the churches; and the request of Elder Henry Clark and 
the Brookfield church for a change in the time of the Rhode 
Island Yearly Meeting, looked towards a General Meeting for 
all the churches. 

In 1799 it was voted to cliange the time of holding the 
Yearly Meeting, or Communion, to the second Sabbath in 
September, annually, at the Hopkinton Lower Meeting House ; 
and a committee of ten was appointed to prepare general rules 
for the direction of the associated churches, upon their ap- 
proval. But there is no further record relating to this com- 
mittee. 

About 50 brethren and 15 sisters were "at a church meet- 
ing at the Lower Meeting House in Hopkinton, the 12th day 
of September, 1800, being the day before the Annual Com- 
munion, according to adjournment ;" and a letter was received 
from Brookfield urging enlarged and united plans for the 
preaching of the gospel and the spread of the truth, under the 
leadership of the Rhode Island Yearly Meeting. 

Before the Revolutionary War there appear to have been 
Sabbath-keeping churches in the Southern States of Virginia, 



SILHOUETTE OK KKV. HENRY CLARKE. 
S« Biographical Sketches, p. I36T. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO ig02. 1 53 

North Carolina, South CaroUna and Georgia; but, for the 
most part, tliese, with many Baptist churches, did not survive 
the disasters of that period. 

And in 1800 there were ten or twelve churches or Sab- 
bath-keeping settlements in Massachusetts, on Long Island, 
and in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Kentucky and North Carolina 
that had not yet become associated with the Rhode Island 
General Meeting. 

1801. 

At this Yearly Meeting about 60 brethren and 12 sisters 
were in attendance representing 7 churches in Rhode Island, 
Connecticut, New York and New Jersey; and "Elder Henry 
Clark, of Brookfield, N. Y., brought forward a proposition for 
the several churches in our Union to unite in an institution for 
propagating our religion in the different parts of the United 
States, by sending out from the different churches in said 
Union missionaries, at the expense of the several churches 
which may fall in with the proposition." 

It was voted to approve the proposition and to communi- 
cate it to the different churches, requesting their approval. 

Instead of the former individual letters to the churches, 
it was voted to send out a circular letter in behalf of the Hop- 
kinton church, but written by Elder Clark, of Brookfield, and 
Elder Jabez Beebe, of New London. 

This memorable letter went, however, in the name of the 
Sabbatarian Baptists in their General Conference assembled 
at Hopkinton, R. I., September 11, 1801, to churches, branches 
and people of the same faith and order in the States of 
America. , 

It gave information concerning the churches, whose re- 
ported membership was 1,031 ; pleaded for greater devotion 
and loyalty; recommended the sending forth of missionaries 
or travelling preachers; and urged all churches in the com- 
munion to send letters or messengers or both to the next Year- 
ly Meeting in Hopkinton in September, 1802. These mes- 
sengers were to appoint the missionaries, determine their re- 
muneration, and direct their labors. 

This circular letter of 1801 thus closed: 



154 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. 
Amen. 

Signed per order and in behalf of the General Confer- 
ence. 

John Burdick, President, 
Joseph Potter, Clerk. 

This united and enlarged plan of a few brave, believing 
and purposeful spirits in the first year of the nineteenth cen- 
tury, for the advancement of God's cause and the good of 
souls, appears to have been due to the holy zeal of Elder Henry 
Clark more than to any other one man ; but our General Con- 
ference was not the creation of one man, or born of a day or 
year. It was the product of many years of deepening and 
enlarging life, and a growing missionary spirit; a strikingly 
interesting example of the ancient fact but modern doctrine 
of evolution in religious history ; a revelation of God's method 
in the world's moral progress. 

1802. 

About 70 brethren and 8 sisters, representing 7 churches, 
assembled in Hopkinton, at the Lower Meeting House, Sep- 
tember 10, 1802. 

Some letters were addressed to the Hopkinton Church, 
some to the General Conference. 

Four churches — Newport, Hopkinton, New London and 
Brookfield — indorsed the proposed missionary movement; and 
Newport sent the first contribution toward the work, $20.69. 

The Cohansey church did not refer to the matter ; the Pis- 
cataway church opposed the movement; and the Petersbiirgh 
church favored only the voluntary support of voluntary mis- 
sionaries "sent out by the Lord." 

But, still, a committee was appointed representing the 
churches of Hopkinton, Newport, Waterford, Cohansey and 
Peteisburgh, with Elder Abram Coon, of Hopkinton, as chair- 
man, to report upon some method of procedure. This com- 
mittee recommended (i) that missionaries be sent out, in- 
structed and supported by the General Conference. (2) That 
the Conference ^'circulate" year by year, to Hopkinton, Peters- 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. I55 

burgh and Piscataway. (3) That a copy of the report be 
sent to each church of the Union. 

The circular letter exhorted the brethren of all the 
churches to lead holier lives, in gratitude for a great salvation ; 
to make Sabbath truth known by better practice, and by great- 
er unity; to hold meetings for testimony and prayer, if with- 
out preaching gifts ; to send money to the Conference treasury 
for the support of travelling ministers ; and to remember that 
the General Conference is not intended to prevent the several 
Yearly Meetings, or visiting from church to church by el- 
ders, deacons or others. 

The letter closed with these fervent appeals : 

Brethren we have great cause- to be thankful to you all 
for your information, by your letters and messengers, con- 
cerning your circumstances and travel. We feel refreshed to 
hear of so general a conformity to the rules of the gospel, and 
to hear of revivals of religion in various quarters. We pray 
that they may universally prevail, and overspread the Union 
of our churches, as well as in all other places. Pray, brethren, 
send messengers to the Conference appointed, or it cannot be 
held; and send your letters the year ensuing directed to the 
Annual Sabbatarian Conference, to be held at Petersburgh, 
State of New York, with the account of your circumstances 
and travel. Pray, brethren, make a zealous point of it, for it 

appears to this Conference to be important And 

now, brethren, as purity of heart and holiness of life consti- 
tute our chief happiness, let us purge the old leaven of malice 
and hypocrisy, and let us love as brethren. Be cautious, kind 
and tender-hearted, forgiving one another as God, for Christ's 
sake, hath forgiven us. Finally, brethren, farewell; be per- 
fect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and 
may the God of love and peace be with us all, for Christ's sake. 
Amen. 

Signed by order and in behalf of all the Conference. 

Abram Coon, Moderator. 
Joseph Potter, Clerk. 

1803. 
Petersburgh, N. Y. — ^This Conference represented 8 
churches in Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York and New 



156 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Jersey; 9 ministers; 2 brethren with preaching gifts; 13 dea- 
cons; and 1,119 members. 

The letter from the Hopkinton church was long, but of 
a beautiful and devout spirit. 

Opening with warmest Christian salutations, it developed, 
in fervent language, the following points: 

Thanksgiving for divine goodness seen in temporal and 
spiritual blessings. 

Lament over declension in religion ; and a desire for heav- 
enly grace and zeal, while in the midst of error, superstition, 
and iniquity. 

The importance, to the spread of true religion, of the 
Conference and of more laborers for the harvest fields. 

The necessity of a holier militant church. 

A request to be remembered in prayer, and a promise to 
pray for the brethren in their "several situations and circum- 
stances," looking forward to the time when the earth shall be 
covered with the knowledge of Jehovah. 

The Cohansey church approves the forward movement; 
and the Piscataway church *'seems to be free to contribute 
its part;" but the Waterford church withdraws its approval 
of the previous year. 

Respecting the raising of missionary funds the Brookfield 

church said: 

« 

We are fully able, as a sect, would we but unite and 

eequally bear the cost If we love the Lord and 

his cause as well as we do ourselves — and we should much bet- 
ter — can we not afford something to forward the cause? . . 
Shall we be more backward to propagate truth than other sects 
are error? 

This letter speaks of the Hopkinton church as numerous 
and abounding in wealth as well as graces, and as capable with 
its 605 members, of being a good example for other churches. 

The following committee was appointed to prepare rules 
of procedure, in the place of those agreed to in 1802: 

Elder Henry Clark, Brookfield; Deacon Daniel Babcock, 
Hopkinton; Deacon Abram Dunham, Piscataway; and Caleb 
Sheppard and Jacob West, of Cohansey. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I9O2. 157 

These brethren set forth the powers and duties of the Con- 
ference in the following four particulars: 

1. The Conference shall be composed of as many mes- 
sengers as the churches see fit to send ; but the voting shall be 
by churches, each church having from one to four votes, ac- 
cording to membership. 

2. The Conference, in itself, shall be self-governing, but 
its relation to the churches shall be advisory and helpful, and 
to the world, missionary. 

3. The financial relations of the churches to Conference 
are voluntary; but the church where Conference sits will be 
expected to see "that the members of said Conference are pro- 
vided with places to lodge and victuals, whilst there." 

4. The public proceedings shall be printed for the in- 
spection of all ; and this bill or constitution is subject to alter- 
atibn by the Conference. But when any material change is 
thought necessary, previous notice must be given by Confer- 
ence to the churches, or by the churches to Conference. 

The circular letter of this year was almost exactly like 
that of 1802. 

1804. 

PiscATAWAV, X. J. — The letter from Hopkinton was 
characterized by great ability, piety and hope. Wars and 
troublous times have not been forgotten, and there is gratitude 
for national and religious blessings. The whole letter might 
well be read, but let us take to ourselves the following noble 
appeal : 

"We entreat you to guard against all unhappy debates 
and everything that tends to strife, and be careful to walk 
softly and do nothing to wound the weak and feeble lambs of 
Christ, who cannot endure much; and be not offended with 
those who cannot see as far and walk as fast as you ; for, bet- 
ter it is for the people of God to get along by slow degrees 
and with united hands, than for the wise and strong to speed 
their way with hasty strides, and leave the feeble lambs to 
mourn in the wilderness. Therefore, dear brethren, let the 
strong bear the infirmities of the weak, and establish nothing 
new, although it might be for the better, until the whole be 
generally agreed thereon, that peace and harmony may be 



158 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

established among ourselves, and we better prepared to spread 
the truth abroad." 

The Cohansey brethren write: 

"We are convinced of the great utility of the General 
Conference ; for we think that the united eflForts of messengers 
from every church will greatly contribute to the stability of 
our profession,. and the spread of the gospel." 

They also renew their request for a minister to come to 
Ihcm from the Conference. 

The Brookfield church, in the straitened circumstances 
of pioneer life, and "having been building a meeting house, 
sends only a letter, in which the bretliren say : 

"When we consider the worth of souls, the cause of God, 
the freedom of our national Constitution, and the favorable 
opportunities God, in his good providence is giving us, we la- 
ment lliat no method has been hit on of sending out preachers 
of our order." Also, "Mere speculative ideas in religion, 
and especially in mysterious points, as original sin, personal 
election, final perseverance, universal salvation, and the like, 
may be borne with while those who hold them are really con- 
formed to God's law and gospel, and are not too 'impetuous.' " 

The Petersburgh church disapproves the present mode of 
holding General Conference ; but asks for its assistance in or- 
daining Brother William Satterlee. 

The Conference refused this assistance because, it is said, 
of an impediment in his speech. The church then applied to 
tlie "Mother Church" at Hopkinton ; Elders Abram Coon and 
Matthew Stillman, and Deacons Daniel Babcock and Joseph 
Stillman were sent; and Mr. Satterlee was ordained. 

Immediately following his ordination, wrote the late 
President Allen, there was a great revival; and, in a few 
years, the church increased from 179 to 447 members. 

The constitution of 1803 not being satisfactory, the sub- 
ject was referred to a committee consisting of Deacons David 
Ayars, Abraham Dunham, James Greenman and Joseph Still- 
man, and Brethren Jacob West, Lewis Titsworth, William 
Satterlee, Joseph Potter, James Dunn and Joel Dunn. 

The draft proposed by them for the consideration of the 
churches was less formal than that of the year before; and 



A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVE PASTORS, 
Rev. Daniel Coon. Rev. Simeon Babcock. 

R«v. James H. Cochran. Rev. Lewis A. Davis. 

See Biographical Sketchet, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I9O2. I59 

took special pains to safeguard the independence and individu- 
ality of the churches, and to reduce in number and scope the 
rights of Conference. 

The circular letter, after grateful mention of religious lib- 
erty and redeeming grace, exhorts to greater activity and holi- 
ness, and urges the scattered to put themselves under the 
watch-care of the nearest Sabbath-keeping church. 

1805. 

HoPKiNTON, R. I. — ^The letter from Newport, probably 
the last paper of the kind written by the venerable Elder Wil- 
liam Bliss, approves the General Conference, and as President 
Allen said, has the spirit of immortal vigor and the beauty 
of true religion. 

It was the opinion of the Piscataway church that each 
elder should preach for the destitute churches nearest him at 
their expense, and for more scattered members at the expense 
of his own church. 

The Cohansey letter was addressed to the "Circular Gen- 
eral Meeting," and expresses gratitude for the visits and labors 
of Elders Coon and Lafferty. 

Hopkinton, of course, is reported as favoring the new 
mode of holding the General Meeting. 

The church at Bristol, Conn, (later the Burlington 
church), was opposed to the new missionary movement for 
two reasons : ( i ) The elders and brethren had not been dele- 
gated for the express purpose of "changing the custom and 
usages of the church." (2) And the second and more for- 
midable objection was that they did not believe in the "money 
call," but in keeping "our money out of sight until it shall 
please the Lord to move upon the hearts of some of his faith- 
ful servants to visit their brethren ;" and when they shall first 
do this, then "communicate to them of our carnal things." 

The Waterford church had no objection to the new move- 
ment if preachers were to be allowed great freedom in the 
expression of their sentiments, and the churches liberty of 
conscience and discipline, especially when all walk in the ex- 
ample of Christ and the commandments of God, and keep in 
union. And the letter goes on to say, "Although we believe 
immoderately long sermons are not so salutary in general, yet 



l6o SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

let not a man be censured for a long discourse, for we find 
the Apostle Paul preaching till midnight. Let us be careful 
not to stint the Spirit of God." 

The Brookfield church favors the General Conference and 
asks for the next Annual Meeting. 

The Petersburgh church (later Berlin) also approves the 
General or Annual Conference, but urges certain changes in 
the articles of union. These further protect church independ- 
ence; favor yearly church meetings and communions, with 
visits from sister churches; recommend that the relation be- 
tw^een the churches of Conference be like that between mem- 
bers of the same church ; oppose entering into contract to pay 
the missionaries a certain sum; and favor uniformity of faith, 
order and fellowship; and the church submits a brief state- 
ment of its own faith and practice. 

Again the subject of constitution-making was referred to 
a committee that was made up as follows : 

Deacon Abraham Dunham, Piscataway. 

Elder Henry Clarke, Brookfield. 

Jedediah Davis, Cohansey. 

Elder Matthew Stillman, Hopkinton. 

Deacon Clark Burdick, Newport. 

Elder Jabez Beebe, Waterford. 

Stephen Maxson, Petersburgh. 

Elder Amos Stillman, Bristol. 

This committee reported a constitution of ten articles 
which provided (i) a name, "The Sabbatarian General Con- 
ference;" (2) for a yearly meeting of the same; (3) that the 
Conference have only the power to give counsel ; (4) that, in 
any given church, the Conference and the church's yearly 
meeting be at the same time; (5) for the usual officers; (6) 
that each church have one vote, that of a majority of its mes- 
sengers; (7) for the determination by Conference of contro- 
versies between churches ; (8) for the report of the disorderly 
walk of non-resident members by any church clerk having 
knowledge thereof; (9) that only immersed Sabbath-keepers 
are eligible to church membership; and (10) for amendments 
to the constitution by the joint agreement of Conference and 

the churches. 
(10) 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 16I 

1806. 

Berlin, N. Y. — Twelve messengers, outside the Berlin 
church. 

Not one church has voted against the proceedings of the 
last Conference, and its organization is now completed. 

The gracious, fraternal spirit of these years of differing 
opinions, continued deliberations, and scattered condition, 
must be recorded as a witness to the moral and intellectual 
greatness of the men, and to the more than human power of 
true religion. 

Hopkinton rejoices in the addition of 202, Newport of 
about 40, and Brookfield 74; and the total membership of 
about 1,200 in 1805 is in 1806 over 1,500. 

The circular letter, pervaded by spiritual warmth, exhorts 
to brotherly love as a duty of the first magnitude, and as an 
evidence to ourselves and the world of our having passed 
from death unto life. 

1807. 

CoHANSEY, N. J. — It was voted, this year, to have the 
minutes and circular letter printed, and a committee was ap- 
pointed to prepare them for the press. 

A letter to open correspondence with brethren in Eng- 
land was "approved and committed to the care of Elder Mat- 
iliew Stillman, to be forwarded to the church at Hopkinton, 
for them to forward to its place of destination." 

A letter for opening correspondence with brethren in the 
western parts of America was left to the care and inspection 
of the church at Cohansey. 

The recommendation of the Conference of 1806, that 
there be printed a brief history of the rise and progress of the 
Sabbatarian churches in North America, having met with the 
approval of the churches in general, it was* voted that all the 
information respecting such rise and progress be forwarded 
to the church at Hopkinton; that they prepare the same for 
the press, and present it to the next (leneral Conference for 
inspection, approbation, etc. 

The circular letter makes grateful mention of past bless- 
ings, additions to the churches, conversions to the Sabbath, 
and the harmony of the Conference ; and exhorts the churches. 



l62 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

in the enjoyment of great religious freedom, to strive with all 
their might to promote the declarative glory of God and the 
happiness of one another, and to this end to be more zealous 
in sending letters and messengers to the Yearly Conference. 
Three new members had been added and one restored to the 
Cohansey church since this Conference opened; and the at- 
tention and countenance of the congregation were a promise 
of further blessings, such as God was able and willing to grant 
unto all. 

1808. 

HoPKiNTON^ R. I. — ^The largest churches were Hopkin- 
ton, 764 members; Berlin, 316; Cohansey, 166, 74 having been 
* added; and Brookfield, 151, 32 additions. 

Among the more important items of business it was 
voted — 

Not to receive into the fellowship of the Conference the 
church on the west fork of the Monongahela river, Harrison 
County, Va., because of its practice of communing with First- 
day Baptists. 

That non-resident members who may be walking disorder- 
ly ought to be reported to the churches where they are in cove- 
nant. 

That four or five ministers visit, in turn, the church at 
Burlington, Conn. 

That it be recommended to the churches to call forward 
and set apart suitable brethren, if such they have, for their 
pastoral care. 

By request of Brother Daniel Babcock, that it be recom- 
mended to the churches, after a Psalm or hymn shall have 
been read, to sing the same without lining and to provide 
themselves with books for the purpose. 

That Brother Henry Burdick, of Newport, and others be 
a committee to collect information respecting the rise and 
progress of the Sabbatarian order. 

And that 250 copies of the minutes be printed. 

The Conference of 1808 had "the most numerous attend- 
ance and extensive information of our order that ever has 
taken place on the American continent; and a large share of 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 163 

unity, comfort and consolation has been the consequence, 
through the love of our common Lord." 

The circular letter emphasized the duty of love and chari- 
ty for others, but as regulated by God's law; condemned the 
course of those who tried to preach and teach without ability 
to show themselves called of God or their brethren; and of 
those who called their venerable teachers by such names as 
formalists and oppressors, and refused to submit to the order 
of the Lord's house ; and urged upon all to put themselves un- 
der the watchcare of the church into the bounds of which they 
might move. 

The long letter to the church in Virginia that was prac- 
ticing communion with the Baptists, is a model of gentleness 
and strength. It opens with praise for the redeeming love of 
God and a declaration of love for the distant brethren ; and af- 
ter a brief reference 'to the disputed doctrines of election and 
final perseverance, it says, in part: 

Dear brethren, we do not blame you for loving Christians 
of any denomination, . . . for we find many sweet and 
comfortable hours in joining with our First-day brethren in 
the worship of our God ; yet, for the sake of good order and 
discipline in God's house, we think it necessary to take up the 
cross in that one point, that is, to withhold our external fel- 
lowship, in token that we do not fellowship that error. . . . 
We hope you will see the propriety of our conduct and put on 
charity for us. 

1809. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — The Hopkinton church reported 171 
members "absent in different parts of America." 

Elder Henry Clarke was authorized to collect informa- 
tion, and when sufficient funds should be subscribed, to pub- 
lish a book on the rise and progress of Sabbatarian Baptists 
in America. 

It was voted, as the opinion of Conference, that, in the 
sacrament of the Lord's supper, once serving round of the 
bread and wine at one meeting answers the design of the in- 
stitution. 

The churches of our order were advised to send messen- 
gers to their remote and scattered branches for the purpose 



164 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

of organizing them either into churches, or into classes or so- 
cieties under well-chosen leadership. 

The circular letter deplores the failure to subscribe funds 
for the proposed history of Sabbatarian Baptists in America, 
as an evidence of "a general want of engagedness in the great 
and important concerns of religion;" and mentions with sor- 
row that many are inclined to stop travel and fellowship with 
their brethren on account of difference of judgment in small 
matters. 

On Sabbath day, or, as the record is, Saturday, Elder 
Abram Coon preached *'a very pathetic and animated dis- 
course" and about 300 partook of the communion. 

On Sunday there was preaching by Elders William Sat- 
terlee and Abram Coon, and "the discourses were solemn and 
impressive; the greatest attention paid by a numerous assem- 
bly (near 1,000), the youth behaved uncommonly modest; 
and scarce one person but what appeared instructed by the 
solemn truths delivered." 

1810. 

PiscATAWAY, N. J. — A petition from the Berlin church 
that there be two Conferences, one for the Eastern and North- 
ern churches, and one for the Southern and Western, was re- 
ceived and its discussion postponed ; as were questions brought 
before Conference by Elder Henry Clarke, (i) whether a 
church is fully officered without a pastor, (2) relative to the 
duty of a church to members who refuse to bear any part of 
the expense, and (3) concerning a pastor, when the church re- 
fuses to give him a living in some proportion to the time he 
spends in its service. 

The circular letter "acknowledges with sorrow the gen- 
eral declension of the religion of Jesus Christ throughout our 
Union ;" and exhorts to diligence, spiritual and peaceful striv- 
ing, and family prayer. 

1811. 

HoPKiNTON^ R. I. — About 26 members of Hopkinton and 
Berlin, living in the town of Rome, N. Y., request the prayers 
of Conference and ask for visits. 

The consideration of the subject of two General Con- 
ferences and of the questions presented by Elder Henry 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO ig02. 165 

Clarke last year, was again postponed ; and the question of 
dismissing members to churches of other denominations 
''without so hard a censure as excommunication" was refer- 
red to a committee. 

The circular letter laments "that a day of trial generally 
prevails in the churches of our order/' though recognizing a 
degree of union and some buddings of grace; warns against 
antinomianism, that one-legged system upon which some 
would hop on for heaven ; exhorts to good works not as meri- 
torious of salvation; regrets that many of the brethren, near 
and remote, were adopting the, seventh-part-of-time theory ; 
and condemns the practice of open communion as being an 
external fellowship of error. 

1812. 

Berlin, N. Y. — ^The Berlin church reported 102 addi- 
tions and a membership of 437. 

The proposition to have two Conferences, after a short 
deliberation, was dismissed "as not being thought proper at 
this period." 

With reference to the questions stated by Elder Henry 
Clarke in 18 10, it was recommended to the churches to call to 
the pastorate only persons of ability, and "endowed with quali- 
fications for co-operating with the word of God;" and the 
brethren were exhorted to contribute cheerfully for the support 
of the gospel. 

It was agreed by the Conference that a church has the 
right to withdraw communion or fellowship from its elder or 
pastor. 

The church at DeRuyter, "not being in a state of gospel 
travel," it was voted that a committee be appointed to visit the 
church; decide on the difficulties, and report at the next Con- 
ference. 

And it was recommended to each church to draw up in 
outline a system of gospel discipline and forward the same 
to the next Conference. 

The circular letter rejoices "that the increase of the 
churches of the Sabbatarian order has been considerable dur- 
ing the year past, especially in the Northern and Eastern 
churches;" sorrows that "barrenness has been experienced by 



l66 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

some of our sister churches" in the South ; and calls to greater 
faithfulness in the means of grace and the work of the Lord. 

1813. 

CoHANSEY, N. J. — Hopkinton reported a great reforma- 
tion and large additions, a private communication saying up- 
wards of 200. 

It was "recommended to every church of our order that 
can with convenience to send out a travelling preacher to visit 
brethren and destitute churches in the Union." 

Also, that every church write a letter of information to 
the church where the Conference is to be held three months 
before the Conference ; and that that church, aided by this in- 
formation, draft the yearly circular letter. 

The circular letter regrets the backwardness of several 
churches in sending letters and messengers, which are so essen- 
tial to the ends of Conference ; but speaks of that annual meet- 
ing as a happy feast of love. 

The letter, which was unusually long, breathes both piety 
and patriotism; and its burden is indicated by such words as 
these : 

"We do solemnly warn you to be upon your guard 
against the evils to which you are exposed in consequence 
of the present state of our country. Never was there a time 
in which there was greater need than at present, of the repeti- 
tion of that loud and solemn injunction on all the people of 
God, 'Be not conformed to this world.' " 

1814. 

Hopkinton, R. I. — Seven of the nine churches represent- 
ed sent messengers and 8 reported additions. 

The Conference voted to "utterly refuse" to consider a 
difficulty between an individual member and his church. 

The DeRuyter church being in a "disconsolate situation," 
having laid down discipline, and in the judgment of Confer- 
ence, disorganized itself, it was recommended to the brethren 
and sisters of that place, as many as .can consistently, to put 
themselves under the watchful care of some other church or 
churches of our fellowship, or embody themselves into a 
church." The latter course was deemed the more consist- 
ent. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 167 

The circular letter rejoices that even when the world is 
in commotion, our nation involved in the horrors of war, and 
iniquity abounding, the Lord is visiting his people everywhere 
with copious effusions of grace, and his servants "are march- 
ing forth to bear the lamp of the Lord's anointed amidst the 
gloom of deserts and regions where the human frame is al- 
most stiffened with cold or scorched with the burning sun;*' 
and, in view of the danger of annexing human inventions to 
the fast increasing Baptist sentiments, the letter exhorts the 
brethren to deepest humility. 

1815. 

Brookfield^ N. Y. — Eleven churches, including Alfred 
and Rome, not yet organized, were represented by 27 messen- 
gers ; and the Hopkinton church reported 880 members, Ber- 
lin 443. 

DeRuyter requests the prayer of the fraternity and visits 
from the brethren. 

Caleb Shepard was appointed agent for the Conference in 
all matters relative to "a lot in the city of Philadelphia given 
to the Seventh-day Baptists for a burying ground." 

It was voted to send minutes to the churches in propor- 
tion to the money each pays toward their printing. 

The discourses by Elder Henry Burdick and Elders Sat- 
terlee and Stillman, "were pathetic, solemn and impressive; 
the audience was large, serious and attentive. It is worthy 
of remark that there was not the least disorder apparent." 

The circular letter rejoices over the return of peace to 
our beloved country; condemns offensive war as unchristian; 
in the interest of world-wide peace favors the spread of the 
Scriptures and of the knowledge of the Redeemer throughout 
every clime; and exhorts to steadfastness in gospel truth, in 
the work of the Lord, in obedience, and in Sabbath-keeping. 

1816. 

PiscATAWAY, N. J. — Eleven churches and societies were 
lepresented by 26 messengers. 

Hopkinton reported 947 members; Berlin, 416; Brookfield, 
180; Cohansey, 115. 

Voted that it would not be according to good order for 



l68 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

an ordained elder to administer the ordinances, unless a mem- 
ber of one of our churches. 

The receipt of a number of copies of the annual report of 
the Baptist Board of Foreign Missions was thankfully ac- 
knowledged. 

Five sermons were preached on Sabbath, Sunday and 
Monday, and the sacrament administered Sabbath afternoon. 

The circular letter exhorts to prayer and the service of 
others, and to efforts for the conversion of the heathen. 

1817. 

HoPKiNTON, R. I. — Eleven churches, the Virginia 
churches seldom reporting, were represented by 35 messen- 
gers. 

Alfred and DeRuyter were received into union with the 
Conference, which, this year, was called the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist or Sabbatarian General Conference. 

The Alfred church requests the Conference to take "the 
lead of the missionary plan which is already begun in several 
churches of our order." 

Accordingly, with the exception of the Waterford messen- 
gers, a method of procedure was unanimously agreed upon for 
the consideration of the churches and local societies. 

The General Conference, in its annual sessions, was to 
be the central society; but to be represented, in the direction 
of missionary operations, by a committee consisting, if practica- 
ble, of one member from each local society, and to be denomi- 
nated The Board of Trustees and Directors of Missions of the 
Seventh-day Baptist Order in America. 

The circular letter mourns over the flood of opposition 
to the Sabbath and the neglect of it by both parents and child- 
ren; and exhorts to diligence in discipline — self, family and 
church. 

1818. 

Berlin, X. Y. — The Lost Creek and Salem churches, of 
Virginia, report a destitute condition, and request ministerial 
assistance. 

It was recommended to the churches, branches and socie- 
ties "to set apart the first Second-day of the week in each^ 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 169 

month, at 4 o'clock P. M., for special united prayer for the 
prosperity of Zion, the promulgation of the gospel/' etc. 

On Sabbath-day there were three sermons and the Lord's 
supper, on Sunday two sermons and the ordination of deacons. 
The discourses "were well adapted to convey the most useful 
knowledge and instruction in the principal doctrine and duties 
of the Christian religion. The auditory, though numerous 
and crowded, remarkably solemn, decent and attentive." 

The Conference was "unanimously agreed that the time 
was fully come for putting the missionary plan in motion ;" and 
a Board of Managers was appointed consisting of Elder 
Henry Clarke, Brookfield, N. Y. ; Deacon Daniel Babcock, 
Hopkinton, R. I. ; Deacon John Green, Berlin, N. Y. ; Barzilla 
F. Randolph, Piscataway, N. J., and Abel Burdick, Alfred, 
N. Y. 

It was voted to substitute the words Seventh-day Bap- 
tist for Sabbatarian in the name of the Conference. 

The Board of Missions chose Elder Matthew Stillman as 
leading missionary, with Brother Amos R. Wells "as his con- 
comitant or assistant." 

The long circular letter of this year, prepared by Deacon 
Daniel Babcock, of Hopkinton, Deacon John Green, of Ber- 
lin, and Brother Abel Burdick, of Alfred, was a hopeful, able 
and eloquent missionary address to the churches, in favor of 
world-wide preaching and Bible distribution by the ministry, 
liberally supported by the laity; and on the ground of holy 
prophecy, the promises of Jehovah, our Savior's command, the 
signs of a leading Divine Providence, and the already mani- 
fest results pf foreign missions. 

1819. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — Messengers, ^2. Brethren in 
Adams, N. Y., request to be visited by preaching gifts. A 
letter was received from the Rev. Robert Burnside, of London, 
an answer to which was prepared by William B. Maxson. 

Brookfield having requested the ordination of Eli S. 
Bailey, and DeRuyter, of John Green, the Conference "heard 
a declaration of their views respecting their call to the minis- 
try," and voted that each of them preach Sabbath morning. 

On the Sabbath the sermons of these brethren, after an 



I/O SE\TiNTII-DAY BAPTISTS: 

intemiission of 20 minutes, were followed by a sacramental 
discourse. 

The exercises in the ordination of Brethren Bailey and 
Green to the work of evangelists, first-day morning, consisted 
of the ordination sermon, consecrating prayer, charge, right 
hand of fellowship, prayer, and a closing discourse. 

The Conference recommended to the Missionary Board 
for missionaries Elders William Satterlee, Amos R. Wells and 
William B. Maxson. 

The subject of the circular letter was the duty of separa- 
tion from the world as essential to discipleship ; and the allied 
duty of wholesome church discipline. 

The recommended constitution for a Board of Trustees 
and Directors of Missions was approved by Conference. 

Elder Eli S. Bailey was instructed to write to the Baptist 
Board of Foreign Missions expressing thanks for copies of 
their report, and stating our views of the Sabbath ; also to send 
them the minutes of our Conference and Board of Missions. 

The first report of missionary labor, that of Amos R. 
Wells, who had visited New Jersey, Virginia, Ohio and Penn- 
sylvania, was made that year. But it does not belong to this 
paper further to record the history of our missions. 

1820. 

PiscATAWAY, N. J. — Messengers, 27. The question of 
publishing a "Seventh-day Baptist Magazine'' was referred to 
the Board of Missions. 

The office of Conference Secretary was this year made a 
standing one ;. and Elder Eli S. Bailey w^as elected to the po- 
sition of Recording and Corresponding Secretary, and in- 
structed to write to the churches in Europe. 

Steps were also taken looking toward more complete and 
systematic Conference records and church reports. 

The circular letter extolled the divine love; exhorted the 
brethren to keep themselves in the love of God, and to love 
one another and all mankind; and pleaded with "our dear 
brethren in the ministry" to walk carefully, preach faithfully, 
encourage those young in the work, and to practice kindness 
toward preachers and people of other denominations. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. I7I 

LETTERS. 

The letters received by the Yearly Meetings and Confer- 
ences, chiefly from the churches, are productions of great merit, 
value and interest. 

They generally open with a gracious, devout and extended 
salutation; and sometimes close as fomfally as this, from 
Brookfield, in 1814: "We think it improper, respectable 
brethren, to detain you with a lengthy epistle; therefore, with 
due deference and respect we conclude." 

Differences of opinion as to ways and means, and doctrine, 
are held and expressed in a most Christian spirit. 

There was a more or less widespread belief in the near- 
coming of our Lord; and, generally, the letters discoursed 
upon brotherly love, faith, piety and holiness; prayer for one 
another, for foreign churches, and for the world; and loyalty 
to truth and duty, to church and denomination. Sometimes 
there is deep sorrow over backslidings ; sometimes great joy 
over religious and moral revivals. 

Emphasis was placed upon the necessity of having for the 
ministry men of learning, piety, zeal and uprightness. In 1818 
the Lost Creek and Salem churches of Virginia join in ask- 
ing Conference to "send forth to our relief a teacher whose 
superior ability, external deportment, and innate virtues are 
such as will insure confidence and adorn the doctrine of God 
our Saviour. Let him be furnished with such a recommenda- 
tion, in addition, as will remove every doubt (fear) of his be- 
ing an impostor, as we have been much imposed on by men 
of that description ; which hath brought reproach on the Sab- 
batarian societies in this quarter. Let his system embrace a 
belief that he hath been called to preach to sinners, for such 



are we." 



But a high type of the breadth, depth and far-seeing vis- 
ion of those days is a letter from the then venerable Elder 
Henry Clarke, of Brookfield, to the Conference in 1814. 

After expressing gratitude for consolation and instruction 
obtained from the General Conferences ; a sense of loss in the 
death of six of the most able preachers ; and regret for the di- 
visions and disorderly conduct of some sections and churches, 
he proceeds to urge upon the attention of his brethren the great 



172 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

grace of God, and then the importance of better and more 
faithful church government ; of a learned ministry ; of a care- 
fully and ably prepared gospel "Discipline/' for the doctrinal 
and practical regulation of the life and action of the churches ; 
and of the General Conference, as the highest earthly tribunal 
before which to bring the more weighty problems that may 
from time to time confront the churches. 

He further urged the need of a printing and publication 
enterprise for our own order; and, in view of the great ex- 
pense involved, suggested that "perhaps the States may en- 
courage by granting a lottery ;" also the importance of having 
"a seminary of learning under the Sabbatarian control suffi- 
cient to teach such pious, well-established youth who are de- 
signed for the ministry, all necessary learning in the ancient 
languages, for a right understanding of the Bible. . . Is 
there no zealous, wealthy man or men in our order," he asks, 
"that will send his son to acquire suitable knowledge to be an 
instructor or to preside in such seminary? And is there no 
one who can send his son to learn the printer's art?'* 

Toward the needed funds he himself offered to subscribe 
freely. 

Hia approval of the lottery is an illustration of our growth 
in moral standards; but, as years before. Elder Clarke was a 
leader in advocating the missionary movement, so, by this same 
large-hearted and broad-minded man, the Conference, in tlie 
early years of its history, had brought before it the very ideas 
for which our Tract and Education Societies now stand. 

182 1. 

HoPKiNTON, R. I. — Thirteen churches were represented 
by 51 messengers. 

The Brookfield church made inquiry concern-'ng the re- 
ception of members baptized by an unordained adminis'rator; 
and Conference pronounced as valid baptism "by immersion by 
some one whom the candidates thought at the time of their 
baptism was gospelly qualified. Nevertheless we view it to be 
improper for any one to attempt to administer that holy ordi- 
nance unless he be legally authorized." 

It was recommended to the churches of Hopkinton, 
Waterford and Berlin that they send ministers or messengers 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. I73 

to the Burlington church, that, if possible, diflficulties might 
be settled and relief administered. 

To the question. Is it gospel wise to discipline a brother 
out of the church on account of his belonging to a Masonic in- 
stitution, provided his moral character in other respects be ir- 
reproachable ? the Conference answered, No. 

There were seven discourses preached — three at overflow 
services by the waterside. The Sabbath assembly was "atten- 
tive and solemn," and the communion was administered to 
nearly 300 persons. 

The circular letter was devoted chiefly to the importance 
of family prayer. "What horror must seize the mind to see 
children sinking down to endless woe," crying, "Oh cruel 
parents, you have taken much pains to teach us things of less 
concern, but you never once told us we had souls to save ; you 
never taught us the fear of the Lord ; you never once in our 
hearing put up one prayer to the throne of grace for our poor 
souls; we have followed your cursed exampljss until it is now 
all too late." 

1822. 

Petersburgh, N. Y. — Of the 16 churches reported, 10 
were represented by 21 messengers, and 5 by letter only. 

In answer to inquiries, Conference expressed the opinion 
that Titus 3: 10 refers to heresy only ; and Matt. 18: 15 to pri- 
vate trespass. 

The Cohansey (Shiloh) church requested that the time 
of Conference be changed from October to June. 

There were five "solemn and impressive" discourses to 
"very large and attentive congregations," and "no circumstance 
of disorder or confusion occurred during the meeting." 

The circular letter rejoices in the progress of the Re- 
deemer's cause at home and abroad ; and that the Sabbath is 
becoming a subject of inquiry in many parts of the land. And 
for the sake of the Sabbath it exhorts the brethren to be more 
pure in moral conduct ; to give due attention to the public wor- 
ship of God ; not to endanger religion and truth when moving 
to new parts ; not to sacrifice the Sabbath in marriage ; to pro- 
mote the preaching of the word of life by encouraging the im- 



174 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

provement of talents and by supporting the ministry ; and, final- 
ly, in meekness and love, to avoid unprofitable disputations. 

1823. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — ^There were 40 messengers from 15 
churches, and letters only, from two. 

With broad and sweet charity the circular letter makes 
grateful mention of the gospel's progress in heathen lands, and 
of revivals of religion in various parts pf America; rejoices 
that some who once called us Jews and heretics now call us 
fellow-Christians, and even accept the Bible Sabbath ; and then 
eloquently pleads for more labor and larger contributions for 
the cause of home missions. 

1824. 

Shiloh, N. J. — Conference met this year and the next in 
June instead of in the autumn. There were 38 messengers 
from 12 churches, and four sent letters only. 

A committee was appointed, by request, to visit the Al- 
fred church, and if thought advisable, to ordain Daniel Bab- 
cock and Richard Hull as evangelists. 

A committee was appointed to make a selection of hymns ; 
and in case of sufficient encouragement, to publish the same. 

There were six discourses and the Lord's supper, besides 
"several discourses delivered in different places in the vicinity 
during the sitting of Conference." 

The circular letter sees in the increased number of Zion's 
travellers, through the effusions of the Holy Spirit, and in the 
Divine blessing upon Bible and Missionary Societies, signs 
that "that bright era begins to dawn when truth shall dif- 
fuse its mild yet powerful influence through every clime;" 
and exhorts the churches to acknowledge the supreme excel- 
lencies of the Bible, obediently and practically. 

1825. 

HoPKiNTON, R. I. — ^Thirty-four messengers from 12 
churches, and letters only, from five. Two letters were read 
from the Rev. Robert Burnside, of London. 

Fourteen brethren were recommended as suitable to be 
employed by the General Board of Missions. 

There were eight discourses and the Lord's supper. 



A GROLP OF DRXOMIXATION'AL LAV WORKKRS. 
Joseph Goodrich. llviij.iniin Maxson. 

William Stillman. Lcs;cr T. R<.kits. 

See Bu'grafhiral Skflchrs. p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 1 75 

In view of low religious and moral standards, the circular 
letter dwells upon the importance to Christian character, es- 
pecially in the ministry, of unshaken firmness in one's own 
principles, and of unbounded love towards others. 

1826. 

Berlin^ N. Y. — Fifteen churches sent 38 messengers, and 
two, letters only. 

Two brethren were appointed to visit Fox Townsliip, 
Pennsylvania, at the expense of Conference, and, if deemed 
advisable, to organize a church. 

The proposed selection of hymns had been published ; and 
a committee appointed to examine the work, reported most 
favorably and recommended its general use. 

It was also recommended that a book by Rev. Mr. Burn- 
side, of London, entitled "Remarks on the Different Sentiments 
Entertained in Christendom Relative to the Weekly Sabbath,*' 
be republished in America. 

Conference voted that it was not gospel wise to dismiss 
from church membership one in good standing, merely upon 
his request, and without reference to his joining some other 
church. 

There were six discourses before Conference, besides sev- 
eral others in the vicinity, "all of which were numerously at- 
tended ;" and, on the Sabbath, the Lord's supper. 

The circular letter was a solemn and stirring charge to 
the churches to be pure in heart and Hfe, and to help send the 
gospel beyond the "confines of illuminated America" into all 
the world. 

A letter from the Rev. Mr. Bumside, who had died in 
April, acknowledges the receipt of an interesting Magazine; 
but requests that nothing except letters be sent him, on ac- 
count of the "enormous expense;" describes certain fanatical 
and unworthy observers of the Seventh-day; mentions a book 
on "The Christian Sabbath," by the Rev. G. Holden, A. M. ; 
gives an account of the kind reception of his own book; and 
tells of his efforts to spread Sabbath truth. 

1827. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — Letters only from four churches ; 48 
messengers from 16. 



1/6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

It was declared to be the sense of the Conference that the 
Sabbath begins at evening; that brethren who are in the Ma- 
sonic fraternity be asked to withdraw from that body; that 
churches not now belonging to the Conference be asked to 
represent themselves by letter or messenger ; and that the last 
Fifth-day in December be recommended as a day of fasting 
and prayer for a revival of religion, and for the spread of the 
gospel throughout the world. 

The circular letter, in view of the promise of a finally tri- 
umphant gospel dw^ells upon the duty of Christians to be mor- 
ally separate from the world, and to love and labor for the 
spiritually poor and needy everywhere. 

1828. 

PiscATAWAY^ N. J. — Letters only from eight churches; 
22 messengers from 10. 

Copies of the funeral sermon of the late Rev. Robert 
Hurnside ; pamphlets in defence of the Sabbath ; and a letter, 
had been received from the Rev. J. B. Shenston, of London; 
and, in return, a letter and three copies of our minutes were 
ordered sent to Mr. Shenston. 

Conference recommended *'the institution of Sabbath 
schools, to all our churches ;" and requested that churches ask- 
ing for admission send written "statements of their religious 
sentiments." 

**A large and attentive assembly was present to hear the 
word preached ; and during the deliberations of the Conference 
a perfect harmony prevailed." 

The circular letter set forth with great fullness the right 
of church government ; and its usefulness, when administered 
righteously. 

1829. 

HoPKiNTON, R. L — Thirty-nine messengers from 13 
churches ; letters onlv from lo. 

In recording the admission of two churches into Confer- 
ence, it is stated that, in "the opinion of the committee those 
churches embrace in their articles the doctrine of justification 
bv faith in the atonement of Christ." 

The Conference voted to send a statement of its views 

"on the subject of justification" to the church in Hayfield, 
(11) 



A GROUP OF DENOMINATIONAL LAY WORKl'RS. 
Alfred Stilltnan. Paul Stillman. 

John Bright. }^^"" B. Wells. 

See Biograpkica! Sketches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 1 77 

Pa. ; "disclaimed having dominion over the discipline of any 
individual church;'* instructed the Corresponding Secretary 
"to communicate with the Congress of the United States re- 
specting their passing any law relative to the Sabbath, provid- 
ed he shall deem it necessary;" pronounced the "practice of 
members withdrawing from churches" as unscriptural ; and 
recommended to the denomination a proposed weekly paper, 
to be published by John Maxson, of Homer, N. Y. 

At the several and largely attended preaching services 
**good order and seriousness remarkably prevailed." 

The circular letter, after reference to the great privileges 
of united effort and fraternal fellowship afforded by the Con- 
ference, discourses plainly and forcibly upon the necessity of 
consistency between profession and walk, on the part of both 
ministry and people. 

1830. 

Alfred, N. Y. — Seventeen churches sent 42 messengers; 
and seven, letters only. 

There had beeen interesting correspondence with several 
Seventh-day Baptist ministers in England, and with the Rev. 
Mr. Frey, a converted Jew, on the subject of the Sabbath. 

In reply to a memorial relating to Free Masonry, Con- 
ference recommended that the churches withdraw fellowship 
from all Masonic brethren who could not be prevailed upon, 
by mildness and forbearance, to sever their connection with 
the fraternity. 

In the matter of reprinting Rev. Mr. Burnside's treatise 
on the Sabbath, the statement was made to Conference that 
because many subscribers had not taken the book and others 
had not paid, only about $200 had been received toward the 
cost, which was nearly $600. 

At this Conference there were eight sermons to large, or- 
derly and serious audiences; baptism; and the Lord's supper. 

The subject of the circular letter was unity of faith and 
action ; and special mention was made of The Protestant Sen- 
iinel as a promising means of denominational growth. 

1831. 

Petersburgii^ X. Y. — Twenty-five churches represented, 
•7 ^^y 55 messengers, and 8 by letters only. 



178 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

A request from the church in Hayfield, Pa., relating to 
the establishment of a yearly meeting in that region was re- 
ferred to the Missionary Society. 

A committee of five was appointed to draft an expose of 
doctrinal views, and to present the same at next Conference. 

The Conference recommended the formation 6i local tract 

« 

societies, auxiliary to a General Tract Committee to be appoint- 
ed by Conference, for the purpose of encouraging the publica- 
tion and circulation of denominational tracts. The Execu- 
tive Committee of the Missionary Society was made said Gen- 
eral Committee for the first year ; and the editor of The Prot- 
estant Sentinel was requested to publish an article concerning 
the subject. 

Again with characteristic breadth and hope the circular 
letter rejoices in the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom 
within our own connection and throughout the land. But 
great revivals are often followed by indifference and even di- 
visions ; and, with much warmth and power, the letter exhorts 
to diligence and faithfulness in Sabbath-keeping and public 
worship; in prayer for the spread of righteousness and an 
increased ministry ; in contributions and work for the Master's 
cause ; and in all holiness of life. 

1832. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — Twenty churches send 45 messen- 
gers, and nine, letters only. 

The custom of appointing committees on petitions, on the 
state of the Union, etc., seems to have begun at about this 
time. 

Some difficulty existed between Elder Amos Satterlee 
and the Missionary Board; a committee reported in favor of 
referring the question to the Missionary Society; but Confer- 
ence refused to accept the report, and kept the matter in its 
own hands. This illustrates how gradually the missionary or- 
ganization became independent of the Conference. 

It was voted to receive ministers into Conference only af- 
ter examination. 

The Conference appointed a day of humiliation for sin, 
and of prayer and fasting that God would save the nation from 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 179 

threatened judgments; and revive his work throughout the 
world. 

The circular letter dwelt upon the importance of foreign 
as well as home missions, to spiritual prosperity, the welfare 
of sinners and the glory of God. 

1833. 
Shiloh, N. J. — There were 25 messengers from 11 

churches, and letters only from 16. 

This Conference voted unanimously in favor of total ab- 
stinence from the use of ardent spirits except as a medicine. 

A plan was instituted for the supply of the Newport 
church, by funds from the churches in Rhode Island, Connec- 
ticut, New York and New Jersey. 

Conference declined to give advice relative to the location 
of The Protestant Sentinel; but recommended that subscribers 
express opinions, and that the people give the paper a more 
hberal support. 

It was recommended that the days of the week be distin- 
guished, "ordinarily," according to Scripture. 

The expose of doctrines submitted for the consideration 
of the churches and for action at the next Conference related 
to God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit; to sin, the atonement, 
justifying faith and regeneration, and to good works as the 
necessary fruit of the new birth ; to the resurrection, judgment, 
eternal life and eternal damnation; to the inspiration of the 
Scriptures and the authority of the Decalogue; to the Sab- 
bath, the church, baptism and the laying on of hands; and to 
the Lord's supper, to which only those deemed worthy of 
church membership should be invited. 

There appear this year abstracts of 18 church letters. 
They reveal the need and desire for a revival ; and the message 
of the circular letter was. Watch ! 

1834. 
DeRuyter^ N. Y. — Of 34 churches represented, 30 sent 

61 messengers. 

At this Conference a committee was appointed to draft 
rules of order; and by request of the Missionary Society ar- 
rangements were made for a missionary discourse and collec- 
tion, on First-day. 



l8o SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Again and again Conference refused to consider the case 
of disaffected individuals; but it would send brethren even 
long distances to help a church settle difficulties affecting the 
whole body. 

By request of tlie Scott church it was voted to send an 
efficient minister beyond the bounds of the connection, fur- 
nished with tracts, to speak in public and private in behalf of 
God's holy Sabbath. He was to be given credentials, and the 
churches were asked to take collections for the support of the 
movement. 

William B. Maxson, Alexander Campbell, alternate, was 
named by the presbytery to labor thus for the ''extension of 
the doctrines and observances of the church.'' 

A suggestion to form the denomination into Associations, 
delegates from which should constitute the General Confer- 
ence, was laid on the table. 

Again it was recommended that local Tract Societies be 
organized to obtain funds, that a General Tract Society might 
be formed. 

It was also recommended that local Educational Socie- 
ties be formed, to raise funds for the aid of young men study- 
ing for the ministry. 

The first recorded vote of thanks was tendered to the 
brethren and friends of DeRuyter for their hospitality. 

At a session of the presbytery or ministers, resolutions 
were passed against Sabbath journeys and weddings ; and in 
favor of an annual session of the presbytery previous to the 
annual meeting of the Conference, the next session to be ad- 
dressed by William B. Maxson. 

The circular letter discoursed upon the nature, evidences, 
advantages and necessity of union in Christian feeling and ef- 
fort. 

1835. 
HoPKiNTON^ R. I. — There were 45 messengers from 20 

churches and letters only, from 17. 

The subject of further Sabbath extension work was re- 
ferred to the Missionary Society. 

It was voted to recommend the forming of the churches 
into three Associations — the Eastern, Middle and Western. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 181 

Unnecessary absence from the Lord's supper was declar- 
ed to be matter for church discipline. 

A delegation of three ministers and *hree laymen was 
appointed to attend the annual meeting of the Rhode Island 
Evangelical Consociation. 

Again Conference recommended a day of fasting, humili- 
ty and prayer, for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. 

The communion on the Sabbath was "a comfortable and 
refreshing season." 

The abstracts of 28 church letters reveal a state of re- 
ligion only moderately encouraging. 

After reference to widespread antinomian and liberal sen- 
timents regarding many errors, and to the Sabbath as a bul- 
wark against these, the circular letter dwells upon the import- 
ance of the Biblical instruction of the youth ; the purity rather 
than the size of a church ; and of parental government in the 
homes of ministers, deacons and private Christians. 

1836. 

Alfred, N. Y. — Thirty-three churches reported to Con- 
ference, some directly, and some through their Associations; 
and were represented by 58 messengers or delegates. 

It was voted that Conference meet next year, and there- 
after once in three years : and be composed of delegates from 
Associations. 

One Elder, R. W. Jones, was "suspended from the work 
of the ministry" because of unfitness for the office. 

Strong resolutions were passed against human slavery; 
"the use of ardent spirits, wines and fermented liquors as a 
l>ev^rage;" "clothing ourselves in black at the death of a 
friend ;" and in favor of higher standards of church, family and 
individual piety. 

The constitution was amended to provide for triennial ses- 
sions, and make the relation of Conference to Associations and 
churches that of an advisory council. Further amendments 
could be made by Conference after their consideration, first, 
bv the Associations. 

This Conference arranged for the preparation of a volume 
of questions relating to New Testament history, doctrines and 



l82 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

duties, for use in our Sabbath schools and Bible classes; and 
for the writing of tracts. 

The committee on the state of religion reported "general 
coldness and apathy;" and a resolution was adopted calling 
upon all who were alive to the dangers to "put forth all their 
moral energies, in spite of popular sentiment and the opposi- 
tion of formalists, for the salvation of the church." 

The circular letter rejoices over a number of extensive 
revivals, but mourns over the unhallowed influence of Sabbath 
desecration, even by some who censure severely the first-day 
observer. * 

1837. 
Berlin, N. Y. — ^Thirty-five churches were reported from 

the three Associations; but as four of the Eastern churches 

had not joined the Association, it was voted that such 

churches shall have direct representation in Conference. Also 

that the Conference, at every session, shall appoint the time 

(whether in one, two, or more years) and place of its next 

session. 

Elder Joel Greene was appointed to visit and labor among 
the Seventh-day Baptist churches and also the Jews of Lon- 
don; and the churches of the Conference were asked to raise 
the necessary funds by collections; but there is no record of 
such visit and work. 

The monthly missionary concert for prayer and offerings ; 
The Protestant Sentinel or a similar publication; and the De 
Ruyter Institute, received cordial indorsement. 

The Conference pronounced against giving letters to 
members of churches who wished to join another denomina- 
tion. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that in 
some parts there had been revivals and a greater interest in 
benevolent operations ; in other parts the cause of religion was 
unusually low — due in large measure, it was believed, to a 
neglect of the Scriptures. And Conference recommended in- 
creased attention to the private and social study of the Bible ; 
the erection of family altars; the lending of prayers and co- 
operation to the Missionary, Tract, and Educational Societies ; 
and faithful attendance upon the appointments of the church. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I9O2. 1 83 

The circular letter set forth the Scriptural and historical 
obligation to observe religiously the holy Sabbath of the Lord, 
as one Divinely ordained barrier against the incoming of sin, 
error, discord and division. 

1838. 

PiscATAWAY, N. J. — The report of the Committee on Ed- 
ucation set forth the privilege and duty of becoming educat- 
ed; the growing interest among our young people, but the 
apathy of parents; the superior advantages of DeRuyter In- 
stitute and the obligation to support it; the importance of lo- 
cal educational societies, Sabbath schools and Bible classes; 
the value of the new Question Book; the boasted purpose of 
Romanism "to seize on the country by taking possession of 
the rising generation ;*' and the great importance of our being 
furnished with Sabbath-keeping teachers. 

Lucius Crandall was appointed to write a series of articles 
for The Sentinel on the subject of education. 

The committee on the state of religion recommended that 
young Christians especially be urged to take their place not 
only in meetings .for social worship, but in business meetings 
also. 

An amended constitution was approved for submission 
to the churches and Associations, which provided for the rep- 
resentation of churches either directly or as Associations ; for 
annual meetings; and against the creation of expense for the 
churches beyond what was incidental and necessary. 

The accompanying address emphasized clearly the import- 
ance of annual Conferences to denominational unity and the 
work of the societies. 

The subject of the circular letter was order — order in the 
individual and associated lives of Christians and churches. 

1839. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — At this Conference it was voted, as 
a compromise, that each Conference shall determine whether 
the next meeting shall be in one or more years. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that with 
the exception of a few revivals the religious condition was low, 
and denominational enterprises ill supported; and the circu- 



184 SEVENTH-DAV BAPTISTS*. 

lar letter exhorts the people to cherish higher and yet higher 
regard for the institutions and spirit of the gospel. 

1840. 

HoPKTNTON, R. I. — It was resolved that Sabbath schools, 
local missionary societies, Bible classes, and the monthly mis- 
sionary concert for prayer, be considered as institutions of the 
church and recorded as such; and that the title "Rev." be 
omitted before the names of ministers. 

The committee that published the Question Books found 
it difficult to dispose of them and pay the bills. 

The committer on the state of religion reported that while 
the mighty energies of the Holy Ghost had been manifested in 
some places, apathy and backsliding were widespread, and the 
Redeemer's cause was languishing; and the circular letter ex- 
horted to humility, prayer, and the cultivation and exercise of 
the fraternal spirit of the gospel. 

1841. 

Alfred^ N. Y. — At this Conference there was protracted 
debate upon the question whether individual churches, now 
that they are members of Associations, could communicate di- 
rectly with Conference ; and the messengers seem to have been 
divided about evenly. 

A difficulty in the DeRuyter church was referred to the 
Central Association, which body was asked to accept the as- 
sistance of a committee from Conference. 

Brethren who should know of other church members 
journeying or otherwise violating the Sabbath, and persisting 
in it against remonstrance, were requested to report them to 
their respective churches without delay. 

The question whether one should be ordained to the min- 
istry, or, if ordained, held in fellowship, who disavows the 
practice of laying on of hands at the reception of members; 
and whether persons admitted to church membership without 
this ceremony are really members, was referred to the 
churches. 

Again the committee on the state of religion report that 
although some churches have been awakened and revived, the 
denomination, as a general thing, is very deficient in fervid 
and active piety. 




A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVE PASTORS. 
Rev. Lucius R, Swinney. Rev. Seth 1. Lee. 

Rev, Azariah A. F. Randolph. Rev. Frederick F. Johnson. 

See Biographical Sketches, p, 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 185 ' 

1842. 

Berlin, X. Y. — It was voted to hold a one-hour prayer- 
meeting each morning. 

The churches not having generally taken action upon the 
subject of laying on of hands, the whole matter was dis- 
missed. 

It was recommended to the ministers that they deliver 
two or three temperance lectures to their congregations, in the 
course of the year. 

There was decided pronouncement against allowing 
minors, domestics, or others under one's control, to labor on 
the Sabbath ; against receiving into membership one known to 
be a subject of censure by another church ; and against busi- 
ness co-partnerships with non-Sabbath-keepers ; and Elder 
Thomas B. Brown was chosen to deliver a discourse on the 
subject of the Sabbath, on Sixth-day evening. 

The committee on the state of religion reported ''that in 
their opinion the spirit of religion and personal holiness is on 
the advance, although far below the standard required by the 
Bible ; and they would respectfully recommend that our benevo- 
lent institutions be still prosecuted with vigor and persever- 
ance." 

It was at this Conference that resolutions, a report, and a 
constitution were prepared, presented and approved, under the 
leadership of that master mind, Thomas B. Brown — who, also, 
was to send out an address to the churches — that led to the or- 
ganization of our Missionary Society, and made a way for the 
other societies to follow. 

1843. 
Plainfield, X. J. — At this Conference it was voted: 
To send an address to our brethren of the Baptist de- 
nomination, urging them to examine the subject of the Sab- 
bath as one of great importance to the cause of God ; 

To recommend that the first day of Xovember next be 
observed by our churches as a day of fasting and prayer that 
Almighty God would arise and plead for his holy Sabbath ; 

That as a rule churches ought not to be organized with- 
out the aid of ordained ministers; but when this cannot be 



l86 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

had, brethren may organize into a church and arrange for 
the administration of gospel ordinances; 

To instruct the Corresponding Secretary to continue 
friendly correspondence with the pastors of our sister churches 
in London ; 

That, according to the Scriptures, the Sabbath begins on 
what is commonly called Friday evening; 

That the location of the Newport church makes its con- 
tinuance of the greatest importance to our denominational 
prosperity ; 

That the days of the week, excepting the Sabbath, ought 
to be called by numeral titles ; and 

That the condition of over 2,000,000 of people held in 
bondage demands our sympathies and prayers; that we dis- 
claim any religious connection with the institution of slavery; 
and exhort any members of this Conference who are concern- 
ed in the practice to abandon it immediately. 

The committee on the state of religion reported, this year, 
an encouraging increase of interest in the Redeemer's cause, 
and in the work of disseminating long neglected Sabbath truth. 

1844. 

Verona, N. Y. — Seventy-six messengers were in attend- 
ance. This Conference voted: 

To prepare an address to all First-day Evangelical denom- 
inations in America, and to refer its publication to the Tract 
Society ; 

To appoint a business committee for next Conference; 

To commend the highly deserving Sabbath Recorder; 

To grant the request of the ^lill Yard Church, London, 
to be considered, for purposes of friendly correspondence, a 
member of Conference, while lamenting the important doctri- 
nal differences between them and us; 

To recommend, in view of the Divine blessing since last 
Conference, that the first day of January next be observed as a 
day of fasting and thanksgiving, and of prayer that God 
would continue to plead for His Sabbath and prepare us for 
the labor thus devolved upon us ; and. 

In view of the difficulty in obtaining a hearing in other 
conventions, to appoint a committee of twelve, with authority. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 187 

to arrange for Sabbath conventions at various places, during 
the year. 

The committee on the state of religion reported revivals ; 
converts to the Sabbath, including several ministers; young 
men preparing for the ministry; and a general steadfastness 
in the gospel; but exhorted the churches to realize the needs 
of a perishing world; to practice peace and love where dis- 
cord prevails; and to give for the cause of Christ with far 
greater liberality. 

1845- 

Alfred, N. Y. — There were in attendance 38 messengers. 

It was voted: 

To request the churches and Associations to express their 
opinions as to the continuance of the Conference ; 

To indorse the plan of the Missionary Board to enter the 
foreign field, and to open a subscription for the mission at once ; 

To petition the New York Legislature to place Sabbath- 
keepers on an equality with First-day people, with reference 
to the action of the law in civil matters on the Sabbath ; and 

To co-operate with the American and Foreign Bible So- 
ciety. 

But few revival seasons and a time of dearth, yet a good 
degree of unity and interest in the gospel were reported to be 
the state of religion. 

1846.* 

Shiloh, N. J. — From 10 churches there were 38 dele- 
gates, and from the Western Association one; and five visit- 
ing brethren accepted seats in the Conference. 

The following order of business was adopted: Prayer- 
meeting, 9 o'clock to 10; business, 10 o'clock to half past 3, 
with an intermission of one-half hour; preaching every even- 
ing not otherwise occupied by the Conference. 

A letter was received from the German Seventh-day Bap- 
tists, of Ephrata, Pa., relating to the subject of Sunday legisla- 
tion. 

It was voted : 

To hold the Conference once in three years, as an advis- 
ory council, and a medium for collecting statistics ; 



l88 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

To co-operate with brethren of the Eastern Association in 
the publication of a denominational hymn book ; 

That legislation designed to enforce the observance of 
any day as Sabbath is unconstitutional and opposed to religious 
freedom ; 

To address the people of the United States, and the State 
Legislatures, with reference to Sunday laws ; 

That the expense of efforts and prosecutions pertaining 
to Sunday laws in any State should be met by the churches 
of that State ; but should a suit be carried to the United States 
Supreme Court, that ought to be treated as a denominational 
measure; and 

That the minutes of past conferences be recorded in a 
book worthy of their importance. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that let- 
ters had been received from a small part of the churches only ; 
but that these, while mourning over the want of greater spirit- 
uality, manifest a real interest in denominational matters. 

1849. 

HoPKiNTON^ R. I. — A letter was received from the Ger- 
man Seventh-day Baptists of Ephrata, Pa., expressing their 
desire to co-operate with us in Christian effort; and Dr. Wil- 
liam M. Fahnestock was welcomed as their delegate. 

There was also a letter from the Mill Yard Church, Lon- 
don, giving an account of its condition and prospects. 

The Corresponding Secretary reported a gift to Confer- 
ence, by Elder William H. Black, of London, of all the pub- 
lications of the Hanserd Knollys Society. 

The Business Committee presented a series of resolu- 
tions relating to : 

The designating of days numerically; 

The beginning of the Sabbath at sunset on Sixth-day ; 

The better observance of the Sabbath; 

The high-handed sin of slavery; 

The evils of secret societies; 

The recognition of the Seventh-day Baptist Publishing 
Society ; 

The morallv bad influence of circus and similar exhibi- 
tions ; 



A GROUP OF SEVENTH DAY I 
Edwin S. Bliss, 
Isaac D. Titsworlh, 



APTIST LAY WORKERS. 

William Clarke Burdick. 
David Ro^e Siillman. 



Se« Biographical Sietchet, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO 190^. 189 

The importance of having church membership where one 
lives; and 

The need of a denominational college and theological sem- 
inary. 

A "respectable minority" voted against recommending 
the disciplining of members of secret societies; and, for the 
sake of harmony and expressing the feelings of the body at 
large, dissuasion by all possible Christian motives was recom- 
mended instead. 

The Associations were asked to co-operate with the Con- 
ference in determining the best location for a college and sem- 
inary ; in the interests of this movement, an Educational Com- 
mittee was appointed which should hold annual sessions; and 
the importance of higher education for the ministry was em- 
phasized. 

By request of the President of the Baptist Free Mission 
Society a delegate was appointed to attend the next riieeting 
of that body. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that, not 
in respect to numbers but as a whole, the prospect was cheer- 
ing; interest in missions was encouraging; there were indica- 
tions of denominational reform in Sabbath -keeping ; and the 
people might well offer both thanksgiving and supplication. 

1852. 

Plainfield, X. J. — Twenty-one churches and the Cen- 
tral Association were represented by 97 delegates. 

Resolutions were adopted, some of them after "long and 
warm discussion," relating to: 

The collection of Conference documents for the use of 
the Seventh-day Baptist Publishing Society ; 

The importance of membership in some Association, to 
all churches ; 

The duty of strict Sabbath observance and of aggressive 
Sabbath reform work; 

The legal prohibition of the liquor traffic: 

The inhuman "Fugitive Slave Law ;" 

The good work of the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary 
Society ; 

The need of a new English version of the Bible; 



190 , SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The importance of a Year Book ; 

The vahie of more complete statistics ; and to 

The denominational expose as being of no binding force 
as such, but an exhibition of views generally held. 

The amended expose declared the decalogue to be bind- 
ing upon all mankind, not merely upon the church; but no 
longer set forth the practice of laying on of hands as being 
apostolic. 

1855. 

Leonardsville^ N. Y. — Eighteen churches and the Cen- 
tral Association were represented by 76 delegates. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Essays on The Lord's supper, and on The application of 
discipline to churches, in their inter-church, Association, and 
Conference relations ; 

Secret societies, as adverse in principle and practice to 
Christianity ; 

The case of Pardon Davis, imprisoned in Louisiana, on 
the charge of aiding slaves to escape ; 

The. organization of an Educational Society; and to 

Prayer for the emancipation of the slaves in our beloved 
country. 

An effort was being made to raise an educational fund of 
$100,000; and of 769 votes, by 19 churches, on the question 
of a location for the college and seminary, Alfred received 690 ; 
and of the remaining 79, Plainfield received 51. 

It was reported that Brother John Maxson had sacrificed 
about $95.00 for the publication of The Protestant Sentinel; 
and it was recommended that friends subscribe for his relief. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that, in 
their opinion, while the denomination had advanced greatly in 
wealth and knowledge, it had not made equal advancement 
in piety, love to God, and Christian fellowship; and urged the 
importance of more attention to family religion. 

A fraternal and able letter from Mill Yard, London, was 
read, relating to that church ; the need of a revised translation 
of the Bible, a subject to be brought before Parliament; to 
dread war in Europe; and to American slavery, and closed 
with these words : 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I902. I9I 

"Our elder and his family hold not infrequent communi- 
cations with your devoted brethren in China and Palestine ; we 
rejoice to hear of their welfare, and offer our prayers every 
Sabbath for them and for you." 

1858. 

Alfred^ N. Y. — Twenty-four churches sent 85 delegates. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

The promotion of the godliness and purity of the churches 
as the first and great care of Conference ; 

The open doors for the gospel, especially in China; 

The morally destructive license system ; 

The late disgraceful attempt of our general government 
to force slavery upon Kansas; 

The American Tract Society, as having forfeited its right 
to our support, because it republished several books in a muti- 
lated form, and refused to publish anything against slavery ; 

The wrong in receiving, by one church, an excommuni- 
cated member of a sister church ; and to 

War for the settlement of national difficulties as unchris- 
tian. 

A motion to hold the Conference annually ; and one, that, 
upon adjournment, it adjourn sine die, were both lost. 

The committee on the state of religion reported an appar- 
ently growing regard for prayer-meetings, Sabbath schools, 
and other local interests ; but a lack of outgoing benevolence. 

1861. 

« 

New Market, N. J. — ^There were 45 delegates from 14 
churches. 

In view of the expressed desire of the Warren Baptist 
Association of Rhode Island, for a closer union among mem- 
bers of the Baptist family, a delegation was appointed to at- 
tend the next meeting of that body. 

It was voted that religious interests and the denomination's 
welfare, demand an annual meeting of the Conference. 

Eight resolutions were discussed and adopted that set forth 
slavery as the cause, and its overthrow as the desired result of 
the Civil War ; and pledged to the Union loyal support, "what- 
ever it may cost." 



192 SEVENTH-DAY DAPTISTS : 

1862. 

Little Genesee, N. Y. — Resolutions were adopted relat- 
ing to : 

The importance of keeping religious interests in view, 
when choosing new homes; 

The endangering of Sabbath-keeping by business ar- 
rangements ; 

The encouragement of young men to enter the widening 
harvest fields awaiting the gospel ministry; 

The special danger from intemperance in time of war; 
the duty of watchfulness on every hand ; and the obligation to 
pray to the God of nations for our civil and military rulers; 
and to 

The Sabbath school as a pillar of the church. 

A Memorial upon Emancipation was prepared and order- 
ed sent to the President in the name of the Conference; and 
there was a special season of prayer for our country's salva- 
tion. 

General harmony prevailed among the churches, and sev- 
eral had been cheered by additions. After prolonged discus- 
sion it was voted to hold the next Conference in 1863, and to 
refer the question of meeting annually or triennially to the 
churches. 

1863. 

Adams, X. Y. — Two essays were presented, one by Jona- 
than Allen on 'The Church, Its Nature and ]\Iission;" and 
one prepared by William B. Maxson, on ''The utility of con- 
tinuing an Annual Conference, and the relations of the Gen- 
eral Conference to our denominational societies." 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

The dormant power of the church for evangelism ; 

The need of more public teaching in regard to the time 
and manner of Sabbath observance ; 

The evils of incroaching materialism. 

The writing of tracts on materialism, the communion and 
the obligations of our youth ; 

The annual meeting of Conference, in view of the action 

of the churches ; 
(12) 



S E c ^ScQ S"© 






-3 "■si -SB 



pQ<ua.^tca 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. I93 

The gathering of statistics pertaining to those who em- 
brace or leave the Sabbath; and who keep the Sabbath, but 
are not church members; 

The appointment of a Historical Board ; and to 

The support of the government against "the slave-hold- 
ers' rebellion" — ^the last being adopted by a rising vote. 

A motion to recommend that the Missionary Board em- 
ploy one or more evangelists to labor among our own churches 
was lost. 

Most of the churches had regular preaching; several had 
enjoyed precious showers of grace; and prayer-meetings and 
Sabbath schools were maintained; but there was need of 
watchful activity. 

1864. 

Milton, Wis. — Essays were presented by James Bailey, 
on The History of Conference; John Maxson, on Feet-wash- 
ing; D. E. Maxson, on Materialism; Jonathan Allen, on Spirit- 
ualism; and L. C. Rogers, on The Resurrection. 

The paper by Elder Bailey finally appeared in valuable 
book form. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Our widely scattered condition, and the necessity of cul- 
tivating unity in spirit and action; 

Our institutions of higher learning. Sabbath schools and 
kindred movements ; 

Our special duty to defend and propagate the Bible doc- 
trine of the Sabbath ; 

The reinforcement of our foreign missions, and the well- 
deserving work of the Missionary Society ; 

The protracted struggle for the Union, liberty and good 
government, in connection with which there was a special 
prayer of thanksgiving and confession; 

Better SabbatK teaching and practice, that we may pre- 
sent the truth to others with more confidence; and to 

The proposed endowment of a professorship in the theo- 
logical department of Alfred University. 

The churches, for the most part, were in unity, and in the 
steadfast enjoyment of the ordinary means of grace; although 
greatly absorbed in national affairs. 



194 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

1865. 

AsHAWAY (Hopkinton), R. I. — Thirty churches were 
represented by loi delegates. 

It had been learned, by correspondence, that there were 
once six Seventh-day Baptist churches in Ohio, west of the 
Scioto river; but, that, principally owing to emigration, there 
were left only scattered groups of Sabbath-keepers, and the 
Jackson Center church of 74 members, with a Sabbath school 
of 91. Also, that in Kansas and Nebraska there were four 
churches with an aggregate membership of about 80. 

Essays were read by Nathan Wardner on the question of 
baptizing one who will not join the church ; by J. M. Todd on 
the work of the Holy Spirit in elevating the church and saving 
sinners; and by A. H. Lewis on the future of the Sabbath 
cause in this country. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Gratitude for the overthrow of the rebellion, and its great 
cause — slavery ; 

The right of suffrage without regard to color; 

The alarming increase of intemperance; 

The importance, to our future, of the new western coun- 
try; 

Consecration to the development and propagation of our 
faith ; 

Spiritual declension, incident to war; 

The duty of aiding feeble churches to build meeting 
houses ; 

The publication of a Denominational Quarterly ; and to 

The wrong of habitually neglecting the communion ser- 
vice. 

To an encouraging degree the churches reported them- 
selves as interested in local work, education, and benevolent 
enterprises. 

1866. 

Alfred^ N. Y. — One hundred and fifty-five delegates from 
35 churches. 

Essays were read by D. E. Maxson, on the Sabbatic law ; 
Stephen Burdick, on the cultivating power of the church ; T. B. 



A GROUP OF REPRHSiLSTATlVE PASTORS. 

Rev. Joel Greene. Rev. George B. Kagarii 

Rev. Henry P. Greene. Rev. Stillman Coon. 

See Biografhkal Skelchcs, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO ig02, I95 

Brown, on regeneration; and A. B. Burdick, on the duty of 
identifying oneself with the church where one resides. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

The morally wrong and unpatriotic reconstruction methods 
of the nation's chief executive and the so-called "Union" party ; 

Our institutions of learning, their good work and their 
need of endowment; 

Intemperance as the foe of society and religion ; 

Sabbath-breaking business engagements ; 

Our duty to aid the Freedmen, especially in the way of 
teaching ; 

The equal rights of all church members in the church's 
business ; and to 

The appointment of a Sabbath School Committee. 

A resolution against any essential change in the consti- 
tutional character and the work of Conference; and one in 
favor of opening the Sabbath service with an invocation, were 
laid on the table. 

The Historical Board reported the collection of many 
valuable documents for safe-keeping at Alfred University, 
among them, Cranmer's New Testament of 1549; and urged 
the continuance of efforts to obtain and preserve all matters of 
historic interest and value. 

The majority report of a committee condemning all secret 
organizations ; and a minority report, that churches ought not 
to make war upon secret orders whose objects are good, were 
both tabled. 

Many revivals, and general religious activity among the 
churches, gave reason to rejoice and take courage. 

1867. 

Leonardsville^ N. Y. — Thirty-two churches sent 145 
delegates. Essays were read by George E. Tomlinson, on 
"Dignity and Purity of Style in the Pulpit ;" and by Jonathan 
Allen, on "Secret Societies." 

A resolution declaring secret societies to be adverse to 
Christianity was adopted by a vote of 42 to 24 ; and one advis- 
ing churches to discipline members who would not withdraw 
from them was laid on the table. 



ig6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

The Historical Board reported progress, and emphasized 
the importance of denominational history and biography. 

It was agreed at this Conference that a lay member could 
not be dismissed, regularly, to join a First-day church, even if 
continuing to observe the Sabbath ; that a minister could not be 
dismissed, regularly, to become the Sabbath-keeping pastor of 
a First-day church ; that a Seventh-day Baptist minister ought 
not to accept a pastorate in another denomination; and that 
members can be dismissed, consistently, only by letters com- 
mending them to sister churches. 

» _ 

Upon the recommendation of the Sabbath School G)m- 
mittee, this Conference appointed a Sabbath School Executive 
Board. 

A resolution recommending the transacting of "all of our 
work as educators and reformers through one organization of 
the nature of the General Conference," was referred to a spe- 
cial committee of five, to report at next Conference. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Increased interest in Sabbath schools; 

Our institutions of learning, their prosperity, and the 
cause of education ; 

The spirit of benevolence, and the appointment of a com- 
mittee to devise a system of giving ; 

The importance of existing political issues ; 

The appointment of a committee to consider and report 
concerning a denominational hymn and tune book ; and to 

Petitions to Legislatures, for the repeal of "Sunday laws." 

Grateful tribute was paid to the life and labors of Presi- 
dent William C. Kenyon, who died in London, June 7, 1867, 

With reference to a communication from the Eastern As- 
sociation, concerning a denominational ecclesiastical council, 
it was voted that the matter is "not at present in form for con- 
sideration and action." 

The year was felt to have been one of substantial religious 
prosperity, and the outlook hopeful. 

1868. 

Albion^ Wis. — Thirty-four churches, represented by 157 
delegates. 

Acting upon a communication from the Northwestern Sab- 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO ig02. I97 

bath School Association, a committee was appointed to recom- 
mend, through The Recorder, from time to time, books suitable 
for our Sabbath school libraries ; and George B. Utter, Thomas 
R. Williams and L. R. Swinney were requested to edit and pub- 
lish a Sabbath school paper adapted to the wants of our chil- 
dren. 

After receiving a majority and minority report from the 
Committee on Hymn and Tune Book, the committee was re- 
quested to publish a selection of tunes adapted to our present 
hymn book if found desirable, and it could be done without 
involving Conference in expense. 

The committee on the reorganization of the Conference 
presented their report in the form of a constitution, which gave 
Conference the prerogative of an advisory council in matters 
of faith and practice between churches and their members, and 
the right to exclude churches for lack of harmony with the 
denomination ; and the power to promote missionary, Sabbath, 
education and other denominational interests; and constituted 
the Missionary, Tract, and Education Boards, boards of the 
Conference, provided their societies would predicate member- 
ship in them, on church membership, and make their annual 
reports to Conference. 

The constitution was approved, evidently, though not 
clearly so stated, for submission to the churches and societies. 

An essay on Sanctification was read by Nathan Wardner. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Greater care for non-resident church members ; and to 

The duty of illustrating Sabbath truth by better observ- 
ance of the Sabbath. 

Through a committee, Conference recommended that fel- 
lowship be withheld from all who preach or practice open com- 
munion, and through another, pronounced feet-washing not 
to be a church ordinance, though not improper as a rite of hos- 
pitality. 

The Historical Board stated that Rev. W. B. Gillette had 
presented more books and documents than all tlie rest of the 
denomination. 

A ""'Roll of Honor," of soldiers, was referred to the His- 
torical Board for preservation and additions. 



198 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

A resolution against having First-day ministers occupy 
our pulpits was laid on the table. 

Reported conversions, and increase of interest in Sabbath 
schools, missions. Sabbath reform, and other lines of work, 
were encouraging; but churches and other fields were suflfer- 
ing because without the preaching of the gospel. 

1869. 

Shiloh, N. J. — One hundred and twenty delegates from 
37 churches. 

Of the 55 churches represented by delegate or letter, 29 
voted in favor of the new constitution, and 18 against; but as 
there was not a two-thirds approving vote, the constitution was 
declared not adopted. 

In order, apparently, that the churches might have oppor- 
tunity to better understand the movement, they were asked to 
vote on the constitution again, next year. 

It had not been found practicable to start the proposed 
Sabbath school paper. 

Essays were read by A. B. Prentice, on what constitutes 
a call to the ministry; and by L. C. Rogers, on the time of 
Christ's resurrection. 

A resolution declaring the open communion view and 
practice not to be a bar to denominational fellowship, was 
amended and referred to a special committee, to report next 
year. 

The Committee on Sabbath School Literature reported 
progress in their work of aiding Sabbath schools in the selec- 
tion of books. 

Communications concerning the deacon's office and rela- 
tions, and the receiving of ex-communicated members, were 
carefully answered through special committees. 

Conference adopted a fraternal reply to a communication 
from the Seventh-day Adventists, and appointed Jonathan Al- 
len a delegate to the next meeting of that body. 

The Hymn and Tune Book Committee reported in favor 
of an adapted edition of some extant work; and a committee 
was appointed to continue the investigation. 

A resolution inviting young men and women to consider 



A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVK DENOMINATIONAL LAY WORKERS. 
Amos B. Spaulding. Clarke Rogers. 

Abram D.' Titsworth. David Dunn. 

See Biographical Sketches, p, IJ6I. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. I99 

the question of entering the ministry was tabled; but resolu- 
tions were adopted relating to: 

Our extending work as Sabbath-keepers and our need of 
consecration ; 

The growing and well-deserving work of the Tract So- 
ciety ; 

The improvement of our Sabbath schools; and the sup- 
port merited by The Sabbath School Gem, published by J. E. 
N. Backus ; and to 

The consideration of a bicentennial meeting in 1871. 

The year i>ast was believed to have been one of increased 
effort and solid growth. 

1870. 

Little Genesee^ N. Y. — From 42 churches there were 
175 delegates ; and Elder M. R. Kelly was welcomed as rep- 
resenting Sabbatli-keeping interests in Southern Illinois. 

Of the 57 churches represented by delegate or letter, 34 
voted for the proposed new constitution, and 20 against — 38 
being necessary to its adoption. 

Upon the subject of communion there were prolonged dis- 
cussions, and motion after motion. But, finally, the doctrine of 
restricted communion was reaffirmed. 

Resolutions were approved relating to: 

The alarming increase of strength in the rum power; 

The anti-slavery struggle and its results to freedom; 

The growing need of education; 

The Sabbath as memorial and type ; 

Co-operation with the Seventh-day Adventists, but with- 
out compromising distinctive principles; and to 

The appointment of a committee to further amend the 
constitution; and another to arrange for a bicentennial meet- 
ing. 

A motion to send a delegate to the Adventist Conference 
was tabled. 

In reply to a communication, Conference advised with- 
drawing fellowship from a member who adheres to the Ma- 
sonic order. 

It had been found that even an adapted hymn book wouM 



200 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

be too expensive ; and the committee recommended for congre- 
gafional singing a small book called "Songs of Devotion." 

A preamble and resolutions relating to the organization of 
a Sabbath School Department of the Conference were ordered 
printed in The Recorder and Sabbath School Gem. 

Jonathan Allen, delegate to the Adventist Conference, re- 
ported a cordial welcome and the exhibition of a fraternal 
spirit towards our denomination. 

Reports from the several fields indicated both external 
and spiritual growth during the year. 

1871. 

Adams Center^ N. Y. — From 38 churches 140 delegates. 

A Mr. Prescott was received as representing the Central 
Association of Baptists, and J. N. Andrews from the Advent- 
ists. 

The subject of the communion again coming up, it was 
referred to a committee whose duty it was to procure a pub- 
lished discussion on both sides. 

Resolutions were approved relating to: 

The bicentennial anniversary of the organization of the 
Newport church; 

A return to the Lord's Sabbath as greatly to be desired 
and labored for ; 

An average contribution of one dollar a member to our 
benevolent funds, by weekly giving; 

Missionary work by pastors for from one to three months; 
and to 

The evil traffic in and use of tobacco. 

Free Masonry was again discussed, opposition to it was 
reaffirmed. 

This Conference adopted a program for a bicentennial 
celebration in 1872. 

The Board of Denominational History had received from 
1,500 to 2,000 MSS. documents from Mrs. T. B. Stillman — 
Conference minutes, church records, biographies, letters, etc. 

The year had been one of advancing interest in all depart- 
ments of Christian labor; but there was increasing need of a 
diligent use of all means of growth in grace, for we must not 
be satisfied with present attainments. 



A GROUP OF REPRKSKNTATIVF, PAS10RS. 
Rev. EUston M. Dunn, Rev. James Sumincrbell. 

Rev. Joshua Clarke. Rev. Julius M. Todd. 

See Biogralihicat Sketches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I9O2. 20I 

1872. 

Southampton (West Hallock), III. — One hundred 
and two delegates from 40 churches. 

Uriah Smith was welcomed as delegate from the Advent- 
ists.. 

The following papers and essays were presented: 

James Bailey, on the history of the settlement and growth 
of Sabbath-keekers in America; 

N. V. Hull, on the history and exposition of the general 
doctrines of Sabbath-keepers in America; 

A. H. Lewis, on the history and exposition of the doctrine 
of the Sabbath as held by Sabbath-keepers in America; 

L. A. Platts, on the history of the Sabbath schools of the 
denomination ; 

W. C. Whitford (of Wisconsin), on the history and 
genius of the educational interests of the Sabbath-keepers of 
America ; 

D. E. Maxson, on the future duties and prospects of the 
Sabbath-keepers of America ; and another by 

D. E. Maxson, on the atonement. 

The chairman of the committee on the subject of the com- 
munion, reported that the committee had secured but little dis- 
cussion of the question in The Recorder. 

Nathan Wardner, delegate to the Adventists, gave an ac- 
count of the spirit and work of that body. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

The publication of the bicentennial essays; 

Our duty and privilege at this point in our history ; 

The propagation of the Sabbath truth as a fundamental 
doctrine of religion; 

The organization of a Sabbath School Department of the 
Conference ; 

The Theological Department in Alfred University; 

The importance of thorough literary and religious edu- 
cation ; and to 

The indorsement of the action of the Associations for 
raising a Memorial Fund of $100,000 or more, with special re- 
gard to a centennary educational fund; and the appointment 
of a Board of Trustees. 



202 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

The Board of the Education Society reported to the Con- 
ference encouraging progress in the raising of the Memorial 
Fund; and letters from the churches suggested thoughts of 
gratitude, hope, courage and consecration. 

1873. 

Westerly^ R. I. — From 39 churches, 174 delegates. 

J. N. Andrews was cordially received as delegate from 
the Seventh-day Adventists; and an interesting letter from 
William M. Jones, of London, was read. 

Stephen Burdick, delegate to the Conference of the Ad- 
ventists, reported concerning the work and organization of 
that people. 

There were essays by : 

A. B. Prentice, on system in raising funds, read by George 
E. Tomlinson; 

H. P. Burdick, on tobacco, read by Mr. Tomlinson; 

D. E. Maxson, Nathan Wardner and Lucius Crandall, on 
the communion; and one on the same subject prepared by S. 
S. Griswold, two years before, was requested for publication 
with these in The Recorder; and by D. E. Maxson, on secret 
societies. 

It is interesting to note that the Conference Committee 
on Religious Exercise included in its report the annual ser- 
mons of the Missionary and Tract Societies. 

Re&olutions were approved relating to: 

Work for missions, out of love to Christ; 

The duty of sacrificing stewardship in the use of our sub- 
stance ; 

The brightening prospect of education, and the need of 
endowments ; 

The disciplining of ministers and people who use the Sab- 
bath for unnecessary work, visiting, or ordinary journeying ; 

The support of The Sabbath School Gem; 

The encouragement of young men to prepare for the min- 
istry ; 

The unchristian treatment of the Chinese in this country ; 
and to 

The appointment of a special committee to report upon 
denominational reorganization at the next annual meeting — 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 203 

the committee to have in mind a definite basis of representa- 
tion in Conference ; a constitution enabling Conference to man- 
age legally all interests intrusted to it; and a possible legal 
transfer to Conference by the Missionary, Tract and Educa- 
tion Societies, of their property and work. 

The publication .of the bicentennial essays was referred 
to the Tract Society. 

The committee on the state of religion reported a clearer 
perception of our calling as a people; praiseworthy benevo- 
lence ; peace in the churches ; and a hopeful outlook for home 
and foreign missions, Tract and Educational interests, and 
Sabbath reform work, and emphasized the increasing demands 
made upon us in God's good providence. 

1874. 

DeRuytfr, N. Y. — There were reported from 28 churches 
129 delegates. 

L. C. Rogers, delegate to the Adventist Conference, told 
of the enlarged missionary, publishhig and educational work 
of that body. 

N. V. Hull gave an account of the visit of about 150 per- 
sons to the old meeting house in Newport, R. I., after the Con- 
ference in Westerly, in 1873 ; and of the interesting exercises 
held in that historic place. 

Essays were read by Jonathan Allen, on the divine life in 
the soul ; and by George E. Tomlinson, on the New Testament 
doctrine of woman's political, moral and ecclesiastical status. 

The committee on the reorganization of Conference pre- 
sented, as its report, an amended constitution, which was like 
that of 1868 in principles and purpose, but more simple in 
form ; and it was approved and referred to the churches. 

It was voted at this Conference that the church ought 
to deal with a minister who teaches doctrines manifestly sub- 
versive of truth ; and, neglecting this, should be disfellowship- 
ped by the Association. 

A memorial to be sent to Congress, should occasion re- 
quire it, and one to the Pennsylvania Legislature, were adopt- 
ed, against all enactments that favor the religious views of 
one sect above another. 

Resolutions were approved relating to: 



204 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

The progress of the Sabbath cause in Great Britain ; 

The pernicious practice of some churches, which, when 
looking for a pastor, address several ministers at the same 
time ; 

Business co-partnerships in which our capital is used on 
the Sabbath; 

The use of intoxicants, whether alcohol or tobacco, and 
the faithful temperance work of women; 

The evil tendencies of secret, oath-bound societies; 

The need of an indwelling Christ; 

The repairing of the meeting house of our mother church 
in the ancient city of Newport, R. I., and to 

The appointment of a committee of seven aged ministers 
and seven aged deacons to draft a new expose of our Chris- 
tian doctrines. 

The committee to report a plan for aiding young men 
studying for the ministry recommended that churches, pastors, 
and parents encourage pious and talented youth to consider 
the claims of the gospel ministry ; and that the Conference com- 
mittee be given power to raise and disburse funds to aid 
students enrolled in some college or theological seminary of 
our own denomination. 

The committee on the state of religion reported increase 
in spiritual life and in numbers. Over 400 had been baptized ; 
the Sabbath school cause was most hopefully advancing; and 
home and foreign missions had been blessed. But the benevo- 
lent contributions had been only $3,217.10; whereas one cent 
a day from each communicant would produce the greatly need- 
ed $30,065.05. 

1875. 
Alfred, N. Y. — Two hundred and two delegates from 

50 churches; and Elder Canright, accompanied by Elder 

Smith, from the Adventists. 

N. V. Hull, delegate to the Adventists, reported a cordial 
reception, and mentioned evidences of their prosperity. 

Essays were read by L. C. Rogers, on the Scriptural idea 
of the denomination, and its relation to individual churches; 
and bv T. R. Williams, on the Biblical doctrine of the future 
state. 




THE HULL FAMILY. 
Rev. Nathan Vars Hull, Rev. Varmmi Hull- 

Mrs. Martha (Hull) Er.ist, 
Rev. Hamilton Hull. Rev. Oliver Perry IFull. 

Sm Biographical Skelchct. p. 1361, 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I902. 20$ 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

Our denominational vigor as depending on the life and 
work of each church, as a moral and spiritual unit ; 

Spirit-filled hearts and Christian living, as a supreme 
need, in our work; and to 

Larger and more regular contributions. 

The committee on an expose of faith presented a majori- 
ty and minority report, both of which were recommitted. 

A blank form for letters and reports from the churches 
was approved. 

The committee to aid students for the ministry reported 
having helped seven young men to the amount of about $i6o; 
and asked for $500 for the ensuing year. 

Fifty-one churches had voted on the new constitution — 
37 for and 14 against; and it was declared adopted. 

Communications were received from two churches in 
serious trouble. The discussion of one was postponed indefi- 
nitely ; and Conference declared that the other belonged to the 
Association, but offered special prayer for the help of God. 

A committee was appointed with authority to publish a 
hymn and tune book, if thought best, and if it could be done 
without involving the Conference in a financial way. 

1876. 

Walworth, Wis. — Elder James White appeared as dele- 
gate from the Adventists, and, kiter, gave an address on the 
relations of the two denominations. 

W. C. Whitford, delegate to that body, reported their ac- 
tivity and advancement, vigor and religious fervor. 

There had been an interchange of communications be- 
tween Conference and the Mill Yard church, London. 

Essays were read by O. U. Whitford, on the New Testa- 
ment doctrine of the resurrection ; and by James Bailey on the 
philosophy of the Sabbath. 

The Executive Board reported having procured a char- 
ter for the Conference, dated July 4, 1876; and that the doors 
of Conference were open for the incoming of the societies as 
constituent members, without the loss of leg^l rights or pre- 
rogatives. 



206 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Young men studying for the ministry had been aided to 
the amount of $104.53. 

The new constitution was the occasion of much discus- 
sion and committee work, especially with reference to the 
election of officers and the conditions of membership in the 
Conference by churches. 

Resolutions were approved relating to: 
The increased attention given to the claims of the Sab- 
bath ; 

The duty of ministers to grow in mind and heart; 

The interchange of delegates with the Adventists, but 
not the consolidation of two bodies holding such opposite views 
concerning important doctrines; and to 

The asking of one's church for a letter of standing only 
to join, at once, some sister church. 

Resolutions and recommendations, characterized by great 
Christian wisdom and grace, were adopted with reference to 
a church sadly torn by dissensions ; but the churches as a whole 
were in a prosperous condition, and Sabbath reform work had 
been greatly extended. 

1877. 

Salem, W. Va. — From 26 churches, 68 delegates were in 
attendance. 

Communications were received from William M. Jones, 
of London ; and from the Hon. Horatio Gates Jones, of Penn- 
sylvania, concerning the oppressive Sunday laws of that State ; 
and R. S. Welch, of the Methodist Episcopal church, was in- 
vited to an honorary seat in the Conference. 

The new constitution was amended so as to provide for 
the admission of churches by vote of Conference. 

Rcbolutions were approved relating to: 

The thanks due Mr. Jones for his efforts on behalf of 
religious liberty; 

The fining of two men in Pennsylvania for working on 
Sunday, as an act in violation of the rights of conscience; 

Oui great need of consecration, faith, and self-denial for 
Christ and truth's sake, in view of God's care and the opening 
fields; and to 



A GROUP OF REPRI-;SF,NTATlVIi PASTORS. 
Rev. Leroy F, Skaggs. Rev. James B, Davis. 

Rev. Jacob Davis. Rev. Andrew P. Ashiirst. 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I9O2. 207 

The advancing gospel temperance reform, the last being 
adopted by a rising vote. 

A memorial to the Legislature of Pennsylvania was adopt- 
ed, petitioning for the repeal of the oppressive Sunday law of 

1794. 

The committee on a hymn and tune book recommended, 

again, an adapted edition of the "Book of Worship," to be pub- 
lished by some one who would assume all financial risks. 

A minority report, on a denominational expose, was pre- 
sented, and action upon it deferred for one year. 

A serious difficulty, involving two ministers and 
churches, was referred to a committee, from whose report the 
following is taken: 

"On the part of both it would have been better if there 
had been a larger exercise of that charity which suflFereth long 
and is kind, as described in i Cor. 13: 1-8. To the cultiva- 
tion of that spirit the committee respectfully calls the attention 
of the parties concerned, and of all parties similarly situated, 
as the agency most likely to restore alienated feelings, and to 
promote individual piety and church prosperity. 

The letters from the churches indicated that our people 
had been growing up into Him who is the Author and Fin- 
isher of our faith. 

1878. 

Plainfield, N. J. — There were 172 delegates represent- 
ing 43 churches ; and Elder J. H. Waggoner was welcomed as 
delegate from the Adventists. 

The committee on hymn and tune book reported that it 
had seemed best to depart from the letter of their instructions, 
so far as to substitute "The Service of Song" for the "Book of 
Worship." 

Resolutions were adopted relating to: 

The abridgment of business so as to have more time for 
other exercises; 

The special need of unity of faith and action, in view of 
our scattered condition ; 

The vital importance of gospel discipline ; 

Our responsibility with reference to the Decalogue, the 
Sabbath, and Sabbath reform; and to 



208 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The substitution of a report prepared by the Secretary, 
for the reading of letters from the churches in full. 

Hon. Horatio Gates Jones addressed Conference on the 
efforts to secure full religious liberty in Pennsylvania. 

Essays were read by A. H. Lewis, on evolution; and by 
Varnum Hull on the differences between our denomination 
and the Adventists. 

The expose presented in 1877 was referred to a commit- 
tee of five to report in 1879. 

Our cause was progressing, though slowly. Many small 
churches had neglected to report to Conference; and it was 
felt that our people were seriously lacking in the sense of in- 
dividual responsibility. 

The Executive Board of the Education Society reported, 
this year, to the General Conference, as an executive board 
of that body, under its new constitution ; and the constitution 
of the Education Society was amended to conform to this new 
relation. 

1879. 

Brookfield, N. Y. — From 41 churches there were 190 
delegates. 

Of the 52 churches reporting to the Secretarj', six or 
seven had enjoyed revivals; and many spoke of the value of 
the Sabbath school and prayer-meeting. 

More than one-third of the churches made no report at 
all to Conference ; and over three-fourths failed to report any 
denominational contributions. 

A fervent and fraternal letter was read from Hon. Ho- 
ratio Gates Jones, of Philadelphia, a State Senator, who was 
working bravely for religious liberty, and against the unjust 
Sunday law of 1794. Once, in the Senate, he lacked only four 
votes of securing the passage of his bill. 

Nathan Wardner, delegate to the Seventh-day Adventist 
General Conference, expressed the opinion that that people 
were modifying in their sentiments; and that each change 
brought them nearer to us in belief. 

Elder James White, of the Adventists, was introduced 
and welcomed to a seat in our Conference; and his report of 
(13) 



A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVE LAY WORKERS. 
Jacob D. Babcock. 
Edwin G. Champlin. 



GENEIL\L CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I9O2. 209 

their prosperity was met by a resolution expressing fraternal 
joy. 

A report from the Executive Board was adopted, looking 
toward a great improvement in the Conference exercises. The 
chief feature of this report was a program of subjects for gen- 
eral discussion, each subject to be first presented in a carefully 
prepared paper or address. 

Essays were read by A. E. Main on "Influences which 
draw our young people from the Sabbath, and the best means 
of counteracting them ;" and by T. L. Gardiner on "True Spir- 
itual Freedom." 

The resolutions approved related to "the abundant bless- 
ings of God;" to the nature and need of revivals of religion; 
to temperance work in connection with our churches ; to a Sab- 
bath school paper; to the good work by Senator Jones for 
greater liberty of conscience in Pennsylvania ; to higher educa- 
tion for our ministry, and the theological department at Al- 
fred, N. Y. ; and to home mission work by our pastors for a 
month or more each year. 

The work of the committee on denominational history 
still continues, as very important, but ever unfinished. 

An expose of faith and practice was presented, and its 
uiscussion postponed for one year. 

1880. 

Little Genesee, N. Y. — Fortv-six churches sent about 
200 delegates. 

The opening address was by the President, Rev. A. E. 
Main, upon "Our mission, and the best ways and means of ac- 
complishing it." 

According to the Secretary's report the contributions of 
the churches generally had greatly increased during the year. 
The prevailing spirit was hopeful; and the uplifting feelings 
of the last Conference had continued. 

The important subject, "Duty of the churches in refer- 
ence to the future supply of ministerial labor," was discussed 
by many brethren ; and Rev. O. U. Whitford presented an es- 
say upon "Denominational literature." 

.In answer to a letter of inquiry. Conference declared its 



2IO SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

belief that night and the following daylight constitute the 
day of Scripture. 

The committee on the state of religion made an encourag- 
ing report; and placed special emphasis on the importance of 
Missionary, Tract Society, and individual church work. 

Resolutions were adopted calling for the repeal of exist- 
ing Sunday law^s in Pennsylvania, and expressing gratitude 
for the untiring efforts of Senator H. Gates Jones ; indorsing 
the liquor prohibitory movement in Western New York ; com- 
mending the labors of Rev. William M. Jones in London ; re- 
commending the use of "The Seventh-day Baptist Praise 
Book ;" and suggesting that, hereafter, if practicable, an entire 
day be given to each of our societies. 

1881. 

Farina, III. — From 40 churches there were 130 dele- 
gates. The opening address by Rev. Joshua Clarke, Presi- 
dent, was upon "Denominational growth." 

The report of a committee on civil and religious liberty in 
Pennsylvania, told of many earnest efforts, and how a Senate 
bill for the promotion of larger liberty failed to pass by only 
one vote. 

Rev. A. H. Lewis gave an address on "The verdict of his- 
tory concerning Sunday legislation." 

It was voted to hold Conference among the Associations 
in the following order: Eastern, Western, Southeastern, 
Central and Northwestern. 

The committee on the state of religion made encouraging 
mention of harmony, revivals, additions by letter, the drop- 
ping of unworthy members, and growth in missionary zeal. 

The committee on denominational history dwelt upon the 
need and the probable preparation of a history of our denomi- 
nation in England and America. 

1882. 

AsHAWAY (First Hopkinton), R. I. — Forty-five 
churches sent 250 delegates. Opening address by Professor 
A. R. Crandall, the President. 

The importance of the Sabbath school was discussed with 
unusual interest. 



A GROUP OF PRESIDENTS OF THE GENERAL CONFERENCE 
^ev. Eari P. Saunders, 1901. Sands C. Maxson, M. D., 1900. 

Walton H. Ingham, 1896. Nathan H. Langworthy, 1862. 

See Biographical Skelchtt, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 21 1 

There were two special sermons, one by Rev. A. B. Pren- 
tice upon "Future Retribution ;'* and an expository sermon by 
Rev. E. M. Dunn, on i Cor. 5: 14, 15. 

Of the 70 churches sending letters, 30 reported baptisms ; 
and grateful mention was made of larger church attendance; 
growing interest in Bible study; the erection of family al- 
tars; more contributions for denominational work; and labor 
by churches at neighboring outposts. 

Q)ncerning letters from the churches it was well 
urged that "they are absolutely essential to the work of the 
committee on the state of religion, which is one of the most im- 
portant in the whole Conference." 

One of the leading subjects discussed was the need of 
providing facilities for the education of our pastors and mis- 
sionaries. 

The Associations were asked to arrange, if found practi- 
cable, for the binding of their minutes in connection with those 
of the Conference and societies. 

Conference thought it not best to appoint a day of fast- 
ing and prayer with reference to the securing of religious lib- 
erty in Pennsylvania. 

Added interest was given to the anniversary by the pres- 
ence of Rev. G. Velthuysen and daughter, of Haarlem, Hol- 
land. 

. 1883. 

Adams Centre, N. .Y. — From 51 churches there were 
about 190 delegates. 

Eighty-two churches reported, including 6 newly organ- 
ized; and 19 neglected to report. 

The opening address by Professor W. A. Rogers, Presi- 
dent, related to the history of the Conference and its lessons 
for the present hour. 

Rev. Nathan Wardner preached a sermon on "The duties 
of Seventh-day Baptists in view of the demands of the hour." 

The committee on denominational history reported the 
publication by the author, Rev. Alexander Campbell, of his 
autobiography. 

A committee was appointed to take preliminary action 



212 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

upon the matter of establishing Seventh-day Baptist headquar- 
ters at Chautauqua, N. Y. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to the importance of 
helping feeble churches, occupying opening fields, and pray- 
ing for more laborers ; and to prohibitory laws against the evils 
of intemperance and the wickedness of the liquor traffic. 

1884. 

Lost Creek, W. Va. — Thirty-six churches were repre- 
sented by 120 delegates. 

The subject of the opening address by Professor Albert 
VVhitford, President, was "Progressive revelation of God." 

Resolutions were adopted, changing the constitution so as 
to provide for the election of officers by the show of hands 
upon the report of a nominating committee; indorsing total 
abstinence and prohibition; commending a prohibition- move- 
ment in West Virginia; providing for the appointment of a 
Ministerial Bureau and the election of a Woman's Executive 
Board; setting apart thereafter Fourth and Second days for 
the Conference, and the whole of Fifth, Sixth and First days 
for the Missionary, Education and Tract Societies, respective- 
ly ; assigning the work of the committee on the state of religion 
to the Executive Committee; and requesting the Sabbath 
School Board to transfer, if practicable, its publishing work 
to the Tract Societv. 

The committee on the state of religion reported that while 
there was reason to hope for larger results in the near future 
than had been witnessed for a generation, still had the mem- 
bership put themselves in a right attitude with God and men, 
much greater increase would have come. 

The Conference was glad to welcome brethren J. B. and 
George B. Kagarise from the German Seventh-day Bap- 
tists of New Enterprise, Pa. 

1885. 

Alfred Centre, N. Y. — The 295 delegates represented 
60 churches. 

The subject of the opening address by the President, Wil- 
liam L. Clarke, was, "Christianity the religion of progress." 

A cordial message was ordered sent by telegraph to the 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 2I3 

National Centennial Temperance Convention, in session at 
Philadelphia, Pa. 

A memorial was received from the W. C. T. U. of Alfred 
Centre, urging that there be more temperance instruction from 
the pulpit and in the Sabbath school. 

A temperance resolution, taking radical political grounds, 
was earnestly advocated and opposed, and at last adopted by 
a vote of 62 to 25. 

Engrossed copies of a minute protesting against the un- 
christian treatment of Chinese immigrants in our country 
were ordered sent to the Chinese Legation and to the Secre- 
tary of State, at Washington, D. C. 

Rev. W. C. Titsworth was appointed to furnish impor- 
tant Conference items to the New York Independent; and other 
papers, according to his judgment. 

Resolutions were adopted leaving it with the church 
where Conference meets to arrange for the Sabbath services, 
and commending the progressive efforts of the societies. 

A resolution stating a definite and literal doctrine of the 
second coming of Christ was laid on the table. 

Mr. Edward Ronayne gave a Bible reading on the "Re- 
lation of Christ to the Sabbath;" and papers and addresses 
were given as follows: 

The Topical Study of the Scriptures, Rev. A. McLearn ; 
Our Educational Outlook, Professor E. P. Larkin; Our Re- 
formative Outlook, Rev. A. H. Lewis ; and Our Financial Out- 
look, Rev. George B. Utter. 

1886. 

Milton, Wis. — There were 225 delegates representing 60 
churches. 

The annual address by the President, Mr. George H. Bab- 
cock, was on denominational growth. 

Many speakers discussed the report of the Sabbath School 
Boi.rd: and it affirmed that our Sabbath School work needs 
revolutionizing, in the way of securing a higher grade of 
teaching. 

A resolution sent by the Shiloh church, opposing the em- 
ployment of traveling agents, on salaries, for the purpose of 
raising funds, and recommending that pastors be urged to la- 



214 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

bor for more systematic and liberal giving for our cause, was 
approved by Conference. 

Three important questions were discussed by many 
brethren : _ 

Is denominational growth desirable? And if so, why? 

What are the elements of denominational growth? 

By what methods can denominational growth be secured ? 

As is so often the case the failure of many churches to 
send prompt and full reports had to be regretted ; and then as 
now the great need was a deeper consecration of heart and 
life to Christian service. 

Resolutions were adopted indorsing the doctrine of the 
certain and personal comjng again of our Lord, and of the 
resurrection of the dead; repeating the strong no-license and 
prohibition sentiments of the year before, and favoring the ap- 
pointment of a committee of five to correspond with persons 
outside the denomination known to be interested in the Sab- 
bath; and with power to advise the organization of new 
churches; to recognize ministers coming from. other denomina- 
tions, and to recommend new laborers. 

Rev. W. C. Titsworth read a paper on Young People's 
Work, in which he took high ground on the relation of child- 
ren to the church, urging their early baptism, and participa- 
tion in Christian worship, work, and giving. 

The committee on denominational history dwelt upon tlie 
importance of historical sketches of our older churches, and 
recommended that the publication of The Seventh-day Baptist 
Quarterly be resumed as soon as practicable. 

1887. 

Shiloh, N. J. — From 34 churches there were about 140 
delegates. 

In his opening address, Vice-President Rev. A. B. Pren- 
tice spoke of the nature, value, and work of Conference; and 
said. We are not too denominational, but we need to be more 
consecrated to the one central aim and work of all Christian 
people. 

Special prayer was offered for Rev. G. Velthuysen, of 
Holland, who was suffering from overwork. 

A Baptist paper in London, it was learned from Rev. W. 



A GROUP OF REPRESKNTATIVF, PASTORS. 
Rev. Jared Kenyon. Rev. George J. Crandall. 

Rev. Hiram P. Burdick. Rev. Calvcrl \V. Threlkeld. 

See Biographical Skftches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 21 5 

M. Jones, had opened its columns to Sabbath discussion, and 
The Memorial was doing good work; but the Mill Yard 
church was passing through trials. 

There had been a general manifestation of interest in non- 
resident and delinquent church members; and also a healthy 
reJigious condition and revivals in many places. 

In the interests of denominational history and biography 
it was recommended that The Seventh-day Baptist Quarterly 
be revived, or a historical department be opened in The Sab- 
bath Recorder, 

The committee appointed to correspond with interested 
Sabbath inquirers, reported having reached by encouraging 
correspondence and the distribution of tracts about one hun- 
dred persons. 

Resolutions were passed, of sympathy for Mr. Velthuy- 
sen; referring to a more complete report, through the Cor- 
responding Secretary, of the general state of the churches; 
committing the Conference again to warfare against the 
liquor traffic ; and recommending the celebration of the Lord's 
supper at the Conference, but leaving the matter with the en- 
tertaining church. 

The following subjects were discussed in the closing ses- 
sion: 

The Conference a bond of unity ; 

The Conference an inspiration; 

The Conference a promoter of doctrinal unity; 

The training of our young people in work ; 

Systematic contributions ; 

The Conference and our Sabbath school cause; 

Conference and the Education Society ; 

Conference and Missions; 

Conference and the Tract Society; 

Closing words by the President. 

1888. 

Leonardsville, N. Y. — Fifty churches w- ere represented 
^y 23s delegates. 

The annual address by Rev. L. A. Platts, President, was 
upon "Our resources and our opportunities." 



2l6 SEVENTH -DAY BAmSTS : 

An interesting letter was read from the recently organized 
Southwestern Association, Rev. J. F. Shaw, Corresponding 
Secretary, Texarkana, Ark. 

In reply to a request from the Missionary Society that the 
anniversaries be held not earlier than September, Conference 
expressed the opinion that the largest attendance of young 
people, teachers, and business men could be secured in August. 

The importance of collecting and preserving the histori- 
cal and biographical material was again emphasized; and it 
was recommended, in view of the failure to revive the Qiior- 
terly, that a historical department be opened in The Recorder. 

Resolutions were adopted, in recognition of the large at- 
tendance of our young people, and of their valued co-opera- 
tion in organized work; approving the employment, by the 
Woman's Board, of a secretary who should devote her entire 
time to its work ; expressing gratitude for the advance move- 
ments of the Missionary, Tract, and Education Societies; in- 
dorsing total abstinence for the individual and prohibition for 
the State; condemning legislation against rightful business 
on Sunday; recommending special contributions for the meet- 
ing house fund, in the hands of the Missionary Board ; urging 
the necessity of complete and accurate statistical reports from 
the churches; commending the principles of international ar- 
bitration ; recommending that the larger churches supply neigh- 
boring feeble churches with preaching, as far as practicable; 
providing for the appointment of committees to consider and 
report upon the question of holding the Conference in some 
place where delegates and visitors could obtain entertainment 
at their own expense; to report to the next Conference some 
plan for the organization of our young people for denomina- 
tional work; to memorialize the Court of Chancery and the 
("leneral Baptists of London, England, on behalf of the right 
of the Mill Yard church to certain property and funds left in 
trust; and to petition State Legislatures against Sunday legis- 
lation. 

In the report on the state of religion special mention was 
made of the need of pastors in the Southeastern Association; 
of the pruning of the membership in the Central and Western; 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 21/ 

and of the many missionary churches in the Northwestern As- 
sociation. 

Miss Jessie F. Briggs read a paper upon the Christian En- 
deavor movement ; and Rev. A. E. Main was appointed a com- 
mittee to correspond with pastorless churches, and with min- 
isters without pastorates. 

The committee on correspondence with interested per- 
sons on new fields, reported communication with i8 persons, 
and a visit by A. E. Main to Fayetteville, N. C. ; Beauregard, 
Miss., and New Orleans and Hammond, La. 

• 1889. 

Alfred Centre, N. Y. — There were 264 delegates from 
50 churches. 

The opening address was given by Mr. I. J. Ordway, 
President. 

The committee to put into communication with each other 
unemployed ministers and churches in need of preaching, re- 
ported correspondence and Recorder articles, but no known 
results. 

Upon the recommendation of a committee, Conference 
elected this year, the Permanent Committee on Young Peo- 
ple's Work. 

There had been correspondence with about 30 persons, 
most of whom had learned of the Sabbath through our pub- 
lications. 

The committee to memorialize legislative bodies reported 
the following items : ( i ) The names of about 7,000 petition- 
ers against the Blair Sunday-rest Bill. (2) A hearing be- 
fore the Senate Committee. (3) The death of the bill in that 
committee. (4) Petitions to the conventions held to adopt 
constitutions for the new States of North Dakota, South Da- 
kota, Montana and Washington, against the petition from the 
American Sabbath Union that Sunday observance be constitu- 
tionally required, and against calling Sunday the Sabbath. 

The opinion was formally expressed that the examina- 
tion and ordination of candidates for the ministry would better 
take place in connection with the local church than at Confer- 
ence. 

By the adoption of a long and able report of a special 



2l8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

committee, Conference declared its judgment that the losses in 
having a permanent location for its annual meetings would 
far outweigh all advantages; and voted to procure a suitable 
audience tent from year to year. 

It was decided that it would be impracticable to apportion 
among the churches the amounts they ought to raise for the 
Missionary and Tract Societies. 

The historical and biographical department in The Sab- 
bath Recorder was awakening interest. 

The committee appointed to memorialize the Court of 
Chancery and the General Baptists' of London concerning the 
Mill Yard church, reported having performed the task as- 
signed. 

Committees were appointed to memorialize Congress 
against the liquor traflSc with Africa ; and to consider and re- 
port upon the moral effects of lotteries in general, and of the 
Louisiana lottery in particular. 

It was voted to recommend to the Associations that they 
consider the question of meeting in the late autumn or winter 
of each year. 

Conference again testified against the liquor habit and 
traffic and social impurity, as enemies of home, community, 
church and State ; and, in view of the importance of the Sab- 
bath, exhorted our young people to be true to truth, and our 
business men to furnish all possible opportunity for earning 
places in the great world of industries. 

1890. 

Salem, W. Va. — Between 80 and 90 delegates represent- 
ed 31 churches. 

The annual address by the President, Mr. H. D. Babcock. 
was upon "Denominational Economy." 

Forty-nine letters had been written to 29 persons inter- 
ested in the Sabbath doctrine, 13 of these being new corres- 
pondents. 

At this Conference arrangements were made for that 
great meeting now known as the Chicago Council of 1890. 
Great progress was being made in reporting the condition of 
the churches. Our growth in financial strength, opportunity 
and responsibility far surpassed our growth in numbers. From 



A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVE PASTORS. 
Rev. Mordecai B. Kelly. Sr. Rev. Oliver P. Hull. 

Rer. Anthony Hakes. Rev. Daniel Babcock. 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I902. 219 

the closing words of the Corresponding Secretary I quote the 
following : 

There is, no doubt, more demonstrative Sabbath teaching 
in the living example of one true Sabbath-keeping family in 
a Sunday-keeping community than could be accomplished in 
any other way. * * * Let us not be too severe with other 
people till we can experience in our own churches and busi- 
ness establishments, a real revival of conscience in vitality, 
fervor and happy obedience to the spirit of God's law. * * 
A more important and far-reaching work never came to any 
people. Are we sufficient for it? * * * * I am more 
than ever impressed with the conviction that we as individuals, 
as churches, as business men, as ministers of the gospel, as col- 
lege faculties, as Christian students, need to bow our hearts 
before God and in repentance for all our past failures seek 
for a complete and continued consecration. 

The committee appointed to memorialize Congress against 
the liquor trade with Africa reported having sent addresses 
to both Houses. 

Resolutions were approved as follows: Against the 
"Chinese Exclusion Act of 1888," and in favor of honorable 
treatment for the Chinese; providing for the communication 
of this action to the President of the United States, to the 
Chinese Representative at Washington, and to the Govern- 
ment in China; against the opium policy of Great Britain in 
China, and providing for the report of this resolution to the 
Chinese Government ; in favor of some unifying denomination- 
al head ; in favor of uniform courses and degrees in our schools, 
and of some kind of supervision in this matter, by our Educa- 
tion Society; against the curse of intemperance; urging the 
adoption of the so-called five-cent plan of systematic benevo- 
lence ; in recognition of the importance of reading the publish- 
ed minutes and reports of the Conference and societies; in 
favor of strengthening the work of the Tract Society ; in con- 
demnation of the persecution of Sabbath-keepers under the 
Sunday laws of Tennessee; and urging the more prominent 
and practical recognition, in our denominational gatherings, 
of the importance of religious education through home, church 
and Sabbath School. 



220 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

It was voted to recommend to the Associations that they 
hold their annual meetings as follows: the Southeastern, the 
last week in May ; the Eastern, the week following, and so on. 

Sabbath day was appointed as a day of prayer for our 
denominational work. 

1891. 

Westerly^ R. I. — Forty-seven church were represented 
by 190 delegates. 

The subject of the opening address by the President, 
George B. Carpenter, was, "The Counting of our Forces." 

The Executive Committee reported that the memorials 
sent to Washington were respectfully received and promised 
attention. In the case of those sent to China the American 
Minister at Pekin declined to present them to the Chinese 
authorities because tliey censured the governments of the Uni- 
ted States and Great Britain and attacked a trade established 
and favored in China. 

The report of the delegates to the Chicago Council, and 
one directly from the Council itself, were received. That truly 
great representative body was made up of delegates from the 
Conference, societies, boards and seventy-nine churches; and 
its published proceedings belong to one of the most important 
stages of our denominational history. 

A resolution requesting delegates and visitors at this and 
future Conferences to pay twenty-five cents a day for their 
dinners, the money to be divided equally between the Mission- 
ary and Tract Societies, was laid on the table. 

The number of churches reporting through the Corres- 
ponding Secretary was an increase over 1890 of twenty; and 
his report is a paper of great value, both general and special. 

The committee on correspondence reported the sending 
of about 50 letters besides printed matter to 21 persons, the 
majority of whom had come to the observance of the Sab- 
bath. 

Resolutions were adopted, setting forth the importance of 
Sabbath reform work, missions, and higher education; con- 
demning the licensing of the liquor traffic ; declaring it to be 
un-politic and un-christian for our government to make dis- 
tinctions among immigrants based on prejudice, race, or color ; 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 221 

commending the importance of our studying the questions and 
issues raised by "higher criticism ;" urging non-resident church 
members to join, if practicable, where they live ; and express- 
ing great satisfaction with the spirit and work of our young 
people. 

1892. 

NoRTONViLLE, Kan. — There were 146 delegates, repre- 
senting 45 churches. 

The opening address was by Vice-President Professor 
Edwin Shaw, upon "Our outlook and our duties." 

The committee on the state of religion made a hopeful 
report, and emphasized the importance of love and evangelism. 

The committee on denominational history called atten- 
tion to the department of history and biography in The Re- 
corder; to historical papers relating to the Mill Yard church, 
London, and the church of Salem, W. Va. ; to "Jubilee Pa- 
pers" to be published by the Missionary Board; and to "Pa- 
ganism surviving in Christianity," by Rev. A. H. Lewis. 

Those interested in the history of Our Sabbath Visitor 
would find much information in the elaborate report of a spe- 
cial committee made at this Conference. 

The Corresponding Secretary reported an "enormous per 
cent, of non-resident members," and made most fitting mention 
of our obligations to needy fields and small churches. 

The committee on correspondence reported having writ- 
ten to 32 persons ; and some of the cases were of great interest. 

Resolutions were approved and votes passed, providing for 
denominational exhibits at the Columbian Exposition; urging 
the importance of teaching our children, by precept and exam- 
ple, in regard to the Sabbath and all matters of truth and duty ; 
providing for addresses on the doctrine of the Sabbath as a 
bona 01 union, to be sent to the conventions, conferences, and 
assemblies of other Christian bodies; declaring that a New 
Testament Christianity must be missionary in spirit and ef- 
fort; again putting Conference on record as opposed to the 
use and licensed sale of alcoholic beverages ; providing for the 
appointment of a manager of an Employment Bureau ; author- 
izing the sending of minutes to lone Sabbath-keepers ; and in 
most fraternal and appreciative recognition of the life and 



222 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

labors of Rev. George B. Utter, news of whose death had been 
sent to Conference. 

■ 

1893. 

Milton, Wis. — Forty-eight churches were represented 
by about 280 delegates. 

The subject of the annual address by the President, D. E. 
Titsworth, was "Our indebtedness." 

Devotional exercises, in song and prayer, filled an un- 
usually large place in the meetings of this Conference. 

The committee on denominational exhibits at the Colum- 
bian Exposition or Word's Fair, reported that arrangements 
had been made ^or such exhibits, and representation secured 
in the World's Religious Congress and in its published proceed- 
ings. 

"The church and business men" was the special subject 
of earnest and valuable discussion by two ministers and three 
la)anen. 

There had been great activity, during the year, in the va- 
rious lines of denominational activity; and the increase of 
membership was unusually large. 

The committee on denominational history gave a some- 
wha^ detailed description of our exhibit at the World's Fair. 

The Labor Bureau reported having found places for nine- 
teen persons. 

The committee on addresses to other denominations made 
an interesting report and presented a copy of a most able ad- 
dress. In the history of our Sabbath reform efforts the work 
of this committee deserves an honored place. 

Resolutions were adopted expressing special gratitude for 
the favoring circumstances of that Conference, for successful 
evangeUstic labors, and for the spirit and work of our young 
people ; urging our people to read all of our publications, and 
especially The Sabbath Recorder; condemning the protection 
of the liquor traffic by law ; protesting against the attitude of 
our government toward the Chinese, as expressed in the 
"Geary law;" providing for an address to Congress on behalf 
of international peace; and recommending renewed and sys- 
tematic efforts to raise the greatly needed money for our col- 
leges. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I902. 223 

About $i;200 were at once subscribed for Milton Col- 
lege. 

1894. 

Brookfield^ N. Y. — Fifty churches were represented by 
200 delegates. 

Vice-President C. C. Chipman presided; but an address 
from the absent President, S. W. Maxson, was read, on "The 
relation of Seventh-day Baptists to the business world." 

The committee on addresses to other denominations re- 
ported having sent about 700 copies, mostly to Baptist Asso- 
ciations; and that, as a rule, the least cordial treatment had 
come from the Baptists. 

The special and important subject, "Our theological in- 
terests," was thoroughly discussed by ten or twelve speakers. 
There was added interest, because the University of Chicago 
was opening the way for different denominations to establish 
theological departments there. 

Eleven churches reported special revival seasons ; and both 
small and large churches were asking for the labors of evan- 
gelists. 

By resolution and vote Conference committed itself again 
to all forms of work to which divine providence has called us, 
including aggressive opposition to intemperance and kindred 
vices ; magnified the Bible school work as of vital interest, pro- 
vided a place for its discussion in future programs, and re- 
commended home classes and conventions; indorsed the po- 
sition of the President's address that there is room for young 
Seventh-day Baptists in all honorable callings, provided, how- 
ever, they possess the needful faith, fitness, and firmness; and 
declared that if our denominational position is according to 
Scripture and reason, it must be grounded in the history of 
the past and be making history for the future. 

A resolution to close Conference on Sunday instead of 
Monday was lost by a vote of 32 to 17, in a substitute that set 
forth the importance of carefully prepared lists of delegates 
and statistical reports from the churches; of shortening the 
daily sessions so as to give more time for social enjoyment 
and necessary committee meetings; of having all regular an- 
nual reports presented in printed form for circulation so as 



224 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

to dispense with their public and full reading as much as pos- 
sible; and of making larger provisions for religious services, 
and for addresses and papers on great living questions. 

1895. 

Plainfield, N. J. — There were present 270 delegates 
from 55 churches. 

After formal and cordial welcome by Pastor A. H. Lewis, 
President George H. Utter gave the annual address upon 
"Evangelism." 

Of 100 churches 94 sent reports ; 13 had enjoyed revivals ; 
great harmony prevailed; benevolent contributions had been 
larger than ever before ; and the spirit of forward-looking and 
forward-moving seemed to prevail. 

By resolution and vote, Conference appointed a commit- 
tee to prepare a catechism for Junior Endeavorers ; expressed 
gratitude to God for the good work and encouraging results 
of the year; recognized the home as one of the best schools 
of temperance ; commended our denominational institutions of 
learning as of fundamental and essential value ; extended sym- 
pathy to Sabbath-keepers in various States who were suf- 
fering from unjust Sunday laws; recommended to the Mis- 
sionary Society that if found practicable, it send help to the 
Mill Yard church, in London ; recognized the existence of sin- 
cere diflFerences of opinion concerning amusements, but warn- 
ed the churches of the danger of becoming lovers of pleasures 
more than lovers of God ; asked that lists of delegates be fur- 
nished at the opening of the meeting ; expressed gratitude for 
the temporal and spiritual blessings of the anniversary season ; 
urged the envelope plan of systematic benevolence, and the 
giving of at least five cents per week by each church member, 
for the enlarging work of the Missionary and Tract Societies ; 
provided for $300 toward the expense of a denominational ex- 
hibit at the Atlanta, Ga., Exposition; appointed a committee 
to consider and report upon the question of a popular and com- 
prehensive history of the denomination ; decided that, at pres- 
ent, no change in the plan of holding our anniversaries was 
desirable; appointed a committee, with power, to confer with 
the First Alfred Qiurch in regard to manner of entertainment, 

and one to organize and conduct a Labor Bureau for the next 
(14) 



r 

GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 

year; amended Article 2 of the constitution by inserting the 
words "or fraction of twenty-five," after the words "twenty- 
five members of the church;" declared its judgment that the 
time had come for new and forward movements in the way 
of trying to bring the church of Christ to the faith and prac- 
tice of the Sabbath; and recommended that the Tract Board 
call the Rev. A. H. Lewis to devote the rest of his active life 
to this special and important work. 

1896. 

Alfred, N. Y. — Fifty-four churches were represented liy 
about 265 delegates. 

Words of welcome by pastor J. L. Gamble were followed 
by the annual address of the President, W. H. Ingham. 

It was announced that President William C. Whitford, 
of Milton College, had arranged with the Tract Board to 
place in their hands, within two years, the materials for an il- 
lustrated 400 page "Popular History of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tists" in this country and in Europe. 

That this plan was not accomplished is occasion for deep- 
est regret. 

There were five short addresses on "The demands of our 
work and how best to meet them." 

By resolution and vote, Conference decided to meet m 
the following order, by Associations: Southeastern, Nordi- 
western, Eastern, Central and Western; that a church's invi- 
tation should come through its Association, the Association to 
be requested to arrange for assisting the entertaining chiirdi» 
as might seem best ; that Conference meet the expense of din- 
ing hall or tent, rented crockery and purchased cutlery; and 
recommended that the bill of fare for public dinners and sni- 
pers be substantial and plain ; provided for the sending of fra- 
ternal letters to ministers not at that Conference ; discontinued 
the committee on correspondence; expressed thanks to God 
for the more than usual success attending missionary and Sab- 
bath reform work ; recognized our schools as indispensable to 
the fulfillment of our denominational mission; recommended 
thai pastors preach at least once a year on the need of nioral» 
political and social reform ; urged again the importance of ac- 
curacy, completeness and promptness in the reports due to 



226 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

boards and secretaries; called upon our government to inter- 
vene in behalf of the atrociously treated Christians of Arme- 
nia; protested against the oppression of Sabbath-keepers in 
some of the States and in Canada ; recommended that the Sab- 
bath School Board consider the question of publishing pri- 
mary lesson helps; witnessed again in favor of total absti- 
nence, and against legalizing the manufacture and sale of in- 
toxicating liquor; and expressed grateful appreciation of the 
tabors of the late Elias R. Pope, who, for a quarter of a cen- 
tnry, had served as Treasurer of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Memorial Fund, with rare faithfulness and ability. 

The Rev. A. H. Lewis reported having attended as dele- 
gate from Conference and addressed the National Purity Con- 
gress, held in Baltimore, Md. r 

A committee reported having secured the preparation of 
a catechism for Junior Endeavorers ; and urged its use. 

The reports of the committee on the state of religion, and 
of the Corresponding Secretary, exalted evangelistic work; 
and emphasized the cry of pastorless churches for help, the 
opportunities afforded by outlying preaching stations, and the 
great need of more laborers. 

1897. 

Salem^ W. Va. — Thirty churches were represented by 
105 delegates. 

"Seventh-day Baptists as an Educational Factor" was 
the subject of the opening address by the President, Frank 
L. Greene. 

As had too often been the case before, so this year there 
was just cause for complaint by the Corresponding Secretary 
that so many churches failed to report — over one-fourth. 

Church letters showed that the people desired a deeper 
consecration, and that small and isolated churches needed pas- 
toral care. 

Interest and effort with reference to denominational his- 
tory and biography were evidently growing. 

Addresses on the following denominational topics were 
given : Our future pastors ; The social elements in our 
churches ; The isolated brother ; and A higher standard of edu- 
cation. 



A GROUP OF PRESIDENTS OF THE GENERAL CONFERRNCE. 
N. Wardner Williams. 1898, Henry D. Babcock i8qo. 

Frank L. Greene, 1897. S. Whiiford Maxson, 181)4. 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l802 TO I902. 227 

The Conference minutes give larger space to records of 
religious exercises, such as morning prayer-meetings, preach- 
ing, the Sabbath schools and Endeavor meetings. 

At the close of the young people's prayer-meeting the en- 
tire congregation went forward and shook hands with the ven- 
erable Elder and Mrs. S. D. Davis. 

By resolution and vote the Conference added to its com- 
mittees an Advisory Council consisting of representatives of 
the Boards and fifteen other persons; urged upon churches 
and individuals the importance of sending historical and bio- 
graphical material to the libraries of our colleges; called the 
attention of the churches to our great and growing opportu- 
nities, and of our young people to the privilege and duty of 
fitting thejnselves for highest places in their chosen callings; 
recommended the disuse of tobacco, and placed itself on the 
side of abstinence and prohibition in the battle between the 
church and the saloon; approved of eflForts to secure certain 
books published by the English Seventh-day Baptists about 
the sixteenth century; and authorized a uniform system of 
church record books, and the publication of a leaflet contain- 
ing the Endeavor pledge, topics and daily readings. 

The report of the Advisory Council, after surveying the 
work and needs of the societies and Conference Boards, re- 
commended that each church or a group of churches send at 
least one delegate to Conference, defraying, if necessary, the 
expenses; that young people attend, as much as possible, our 
annual denominational meetings; that we cultivate a deeper 
interest in the cause we represent; that a standing committee 
be appointed to seek to secure from the churches the contribu- 
tions needed by the Missionary and Tract Societies ; that every 
church, however small, be urged to complete its organization, 
if now incomplete, by selecting a religious leader or elder 
from its own members; that young people be encouraged to 
exercise their gifts, and to do gospel work, and also to fit 
themselves for rendering valuable service in many fields of 
industry; that our foreign work be sustained, and home mis- 
sions increased; and that Sabbath reform and evangelism be 
advanced, in closest fellowship. 



228 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

1898. 

Milton Junction, Wis. — There were 212 delegates rep- 
resenting 53 churches. 

The annual address, following the welcome by Pastor 
George W. Burdick, was given by the President, N. Ward- 
ner Williams. 

The excellent report of the Corresponding Secretary 
showed that the year had been one of more than average 
prosperity with nearly all the churches. There had been de- 
cided gains in the benevolent contributions, and an increase 
in the work done by the churches in surrounding neighbor- 
hoods. Harmony and efficiency in existing organizations pre- 
vailed ; but the small and scattered churches needed permanent 
leadership and regular, even if not weekly preaching. And 
there were many Sabbath-keeping ministers and hlmdreds of 
others in America and other countries, not connected with the 
Conference. 

The Advisory or Permanent Committee favored some 
pro rata plan for raising funds for the societies ; reported hav- 
ing worked through their associational members with a fair 
measure of success, it was believed; and earnestly urged en- 
larged and more aggressive Sabbath reform efforts. 

Great progress had been made in gathering historical and 
biographical material, and in realizing the extent of the field 
open to research. 

One valuable part of this Conference was an unusually 
large number of short addresses upon various phases of our 
denominational life and mission, on the regular program, and 
on the special program of the Brotherhood. 

The Bureau of Employment and Correspondence report- 
ed having received and written hundreds of letters, and placed 
many employers and unemployed in communication with one 
another, and believed that the organization was one of great 
possible usefulness. 

By resolution and vote Conference indorsed the Tract 
Board and the Rev. A. H. Lewis, our leader in Sabbath re- 
form, and expressed the belief that there was a widespread 
feeling that more field Sabbath reform work ought to be done 
among our own people and beyond the bounds of our churches ; 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 229 

recorded its appreciation of the President's address, pledged 
itself to greater unity of spirit, purpose, and labor, and ap- 
proved of a denominational Advisory Committee to consist of 
the present Executive Committee increased by the addition of 
the Corresponding Secretaries of the three societies; referred 
the case of Mr. Joseph Booth, a returned missionary from 
British Central Africa, and a convert to the Sabbath, and his 
plan for an industrial mission, to the Missionary Board; cor- 
dially commended the work of our Boards, permanent com- 
mittees, and schools; condemned the army "canteen," and the 
liquor traffic as a great moral, social and political wrong ; ap- 
proved of securing a special edition of some standard hymn 
book for the use of our churches ; recommended to the Educa- 
tion Board the publishing of Rev. J. L. Gamble's paper on 
Christian Education ; requested the Corresponding Secretary of 
the Tract Society to memorialize the Executive Committee of 
the National W. C. T. U. against Sunday laws ; and expressed 
"most devout gratitude to God our Father for his great good- 
ness and mercy; his we are, and him we would serve." 

President Williams had devoted a great deal of time to 
the preparation of the program; and two prominent charac- 
teristics were a large amount of music; and an unusually 
large number of different speakers, from all parts of the de- 
nomination, before both Conference and the societies. 

1899. 

AsHAWAY/ R. I. — By the appointment of 66 churches 
tliere were 313 delegates present. 

A formal address of welcome by Pastor Clayton A. Bur- 
dick was followed by the annual address of the Conference 
President, Rev. O. U. Whitford. 

There were addresses upon the following subjects: 

The need of deeper spiritual life in view of our work in 
evangelism and Sabbath reform; 

What ought our pastors to do to deepen spiritual life in 
their churches; 

The influence of family and social life upon the spiritual 
life of the church; 

How can money and business be made to promote spiritual 
life; 



230 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The Bible and the future of Seventh-day Baptists; 

Training of the young, and the future of Seventh-day 
Baptists ; 

The importance of adult attendance at Sabbath-school, 
and how to secure it ; 

The common problem, a plea for sunshine; 

Children and the church; and 

The relation of the Christian Endeavor movement to the 
activity of our young people. 

The Rev. A. H. Lewis, committee, reported a letter from 
the National Woman's Christian Union in which the Corres- 
ponding Secretary says : "I sincerely trust we may be able to 
come to some basis of agreement (with reference to the pro- 
motion of Sabbath observance) in the not distant future." 

The Hymn Book Committee reported progress. 

The Committee on Denominational History reported a 
growing interest in their work, and called attention to the in- 
creasing importance of preserving all matter, MSS. or print- 
ed, relating to our past ; to the plan of the Tract Board to se- 
cure and bind six sets of all available publications, for the use 
of the Board and for our schools at Alfred, Milton and Sa- 
lem; to the proposed dedication of a beautiful monument, by 
the First Hopkinton Church, to its earlier pastors, and located 
on the spot where a meeting house was built in 1680; and to 
the impressive fact that that Conference met on historic 
ground. 

The minutes contain the dedication addresses and poem. 

By resolution and vote Conference continued and enlarg- 
ed the committee to correspond with the National W. C. T. 
U. ; indorsed the Ecumenical Conference on Foreign Missions 
to be held in New York City in 1900; arranged to furnish, 
when needed, an auditorium tent, and to purchase more sil- 
verware ; reaffirmed its opposition to the saloon and the "can- 
teen;" appointed a committee to consider the advisability of 
organizing a Mutual Church Insurance Society; established 
a Board of Pastoral Supply ; extended thanks to the Seventh- 
day Adventist New England Conference, owner of the audi- 
torium tent ; acknowledged all the mercies of God, and prom- 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO ICp2. 23 1 

ised to "seek, for the coming year, a more consecrated devo- 
tion to the work committed to our hands." 

1900. 

Adams Centre, N. Y. — From 56 churches there were 
214 delegates. The Conference was welcomed by Pastor A. 
B. Prentice, in behalf of the Central Association and the 
Adams Church; and the annual address was delivered by the 
President, S. C. Maxson. 

The committee appointed to attend a meeting of certain 
Sabbath-keepers in Jersey City, N. J., reported that, although 
cordially received, their doctrines and customs were too far 
, removed from our own for any close fellowship to be practi- 
cable or profitable. 

The committee that was -continued to appeal to the Na- 
tional Woman's Christian Temperance Union to treat the Sab- 
bath question solely as a religious one, reported that two of 
their members attended and addressed the convention, and, it 
was believed, considerably modified the opinion of the W. C. 
T. U. as to Sunday legislation in general, and its relation to 
Sabbath-keepers. 

^ Many churches had failed to send reports; but so far as 
these made it possible, the report of the Corresponding Secre- 
tary was a model outline survey of the state of our cause and 
the work of the churches. 

The Committee on Denominational History reported cor- 
respondence by Mr. Charles H. Greene, of Alfred, N. Y., with 
Sabbath-keepers in South America, England, Denmark, Ger- 
many, Galatia, Norway, Holland, Italy, and Africa; and the 
securing of valuable materials for the history in course of 
preparation by President Whitford, of Milton College. 

One evening was given to the newly organized Sabbath 
Evangelizing and Industrial Association, which had begim 
I work in British Central Africa and on the Gold Coast. 

' The committee on the state of religion reported, for the 

Eastern Association, an encouraging condition ; for the South- 
eastern, several churches revived and strengthened through 
the efforts of evangelists and the Salem College quartet; for 
the Central, small churches blessed by evangelistic work; for 
the Western, several precious revivals, pastors and Alfrerl 



2^2 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

quartets laboring together; for the Northwestern, good work, 
also, by pastors and quartets ; for the Southwestern, better or- 
ganization and higher spiritual life ; and for Holland, additions 
at both Rotterdam and Haarlem. 

The Board of Pulpit Supply and Ministerial Employment 
rqiorted having brought together several ministers and 
dmrches and needy fields ; and were hopeful as to the Board's 
increasing usefulness. 

There were addresses before Conference upon the follow- 
ing subjects : 

The brotherhood idea ; 

How may our churches help one another? 

How may we magnify brotherhood in Christ? 

Industrial missions ; 

The Gold Coast, West Africa, by Rev. William C. Da- 
land, lately from that field ; 

The Bible as the Word of God; 

The Bible as our hand book ; 

The Bible as literature; 

Denominational history and doctrine in the Sabbath 
school; 

The practical side of the Ecumenical Conference; 

China ; 

Emphasis ; 

Personal responsibility ; 

The kind of young people needed to-day ; 

The Junior Society; its place and work; and 

The conditions of success in Christian Endeavor work. 

By resolutions, votes, and adopted reports, Conference 
requested the Rev. A. H. Lewis to attend the meeting of the 
National W. C. T. U. in Washington, D. C, in November, 
1900; recommended that the constitution be so changed as to 
give each church four delegates as a church, and two for every 
twenty-five members or fraction thereof; that every church be 
arged to send at least one delegate to every Conference, even 
though it have to be by special appointment and at the expense 
of the church ; that all annual reports be given to Conference 
in printed form, if possible, and read in the briefest possible 
ftnnmaries ; that only one full obituary sketch of the same per- 



A GROUP OF MINISTERS, 
Rev. Edward B. Saunders. Rev, Lebbeus M. Cottrell, 

Rev. Oliver D. Sherman. Rev. James E. N. Backus. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 233 

son be printed, and in the minutes of the Conference or of a 
society, as may seem most fitting ; "that representatives of the 
G)nference proper, its Board and Permanent Committee, the 
/ denominational societies, and our institutions of learning, meet 
on the Tuesday before Conference and the Tuesday after Con- 
ference, for the purpose of fraternal and deliberate discussion 
of subjects of present and vital interest to our people, in the 
hope of increasing still more the unity and efficiency of all our 
agencies;" that the Conference meet in 1902, its centennial 
year, with the First Hopkinton Church, Ashaway, R. L, the 
place of its first meeting, and that a committee of arrange- 
ments be appointed, to consist of one member from each As- 
sociation and one additional member from the First Hopkin- 
ton Church; decided that it was not advisable to organize a 
Denominational Church Insurance Association; appointed a 
committee to study and recommend ways and means of enter- 
taining Conference, and report at the next annual meeting; 
pledged itself anew to the grateful support of our denomina- 
tioi^ial boards and societies; and condemned all efforts to es- 
tablish a "civil Sabbath." 

1901. 

Alfred, N. Y. — ^There were present 380 delegates to rep- 
resent 57 churches. In connection with a service of praise and 
prayer the Conference was welcomed on behalf of the Western 
Association and the First Alfred Church by Pastor L. C. Ran- 
dolph; and the annual address was given by Rev. Earl P. 
Saunders, President of the Conference. 

A Convention representing the Conference and nearly 
all the denominational societies, boards, and schools, called for 
the discussion of common interests, had been held at Alfred 
on the day preceding Conference, and was reported to that 
body. 

The Corresponding Secretary reported correspondence 
with the representatives of about two hundred Sabbath-keep- 
ing Baptists then living principally in South Dakota and Ok- 
lahoma, and who were largely converts from the Lutherans. 
His report also showed the too common neglect of church 



233<» SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

officials in the matter of furnishing statistical information ; and 
the unfortunate condition indicated by a large number of non- 
resident members. 

The trustees of the Memorial Fund reported an endow- 
ment for vat:ious denominational purposes of $323,013.15. 

The Sabbath School Board reported the prosperity of the 
Helping Hand; the failure of efforts in the direction of pri- 
mary leaflets and a Seventh-day Baptist Quarterly; a good 
financial condition; little institute work: the recommendation 
that a series of small tracts on denominational history and 
doctrine be published; and the hope of soon coming into the 
possession of Our Sabbath Visitor. 

The Committee on Denominational History reported most 
encouraging progress in the work of collecting and binding all 
the publications of our people, past and present, for the use 
of our general societies and schools. President Whitford of 
Milton, Wis., was still engaged in the preparation of his popu- 
lar and illustrated history of Seventh-day Baptists in England 
and America. And the committee referred to the great im- 
portance of the Centennial Conference to be held in Rhode 
Island in 1902. 

One afternoon eleven group meetings were held, attended 
by representatives of different classes of Christian workers 
and departments of church work, such as ministers, superin- 
tendents, teachers, deacons, clerks, etc 

The Sabbath Evangelizing and Industrial Association, 
engaged in industrial missions in Africa, presented its third 
annual report. Notwithstanding difficult and perplexing prob- 
lems the outlook then seemed by no means to be without hope. 

On Sixth-day evening there were three prayer and con- 
ference meetings, and they were well attended and full of 
interest. 

The Woman's Board was still showing itself to be an im- 
portant factor in denominational work, for the promotion of 
which it had expended about $2,200.00. 

On Second-day morning, in connection with the sunrise 
meeting, the Lord's Supper was celebrated for the benefit of 
isolated Sabbath-keepers. 

The committee appointed in 1900 to prepare a program 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 2336 

for the Centennial Conference presented a comprehensive and 
elaborate report. 

The report of the Committee on Obituaries contained the 
following names: Elder Peter Sorensen, a Dane, Yorkville, 
Wis.; Deacon H. H, Williams, West Edmeston, N. Y. ; Deacon 
J. D. Rogers, Leonardsville, N. Y. ; Ella F. Swinney, M. D., 
Shiloh, N. J., a medical missionary to China; J. A. Baldwin, 
M. D., Dover, N. J.; Elder J. P. Lindquist, a Swede, Con- 
cordia, Kan. ; Deacon Geo. H. Lilly, Albion, Wis. ; Deacon J. 
B. Whitford, Nile, N. Y. ; Deacon Joseph West, State Bridge, 
N. Y. ; and Deacon Eugene Ellis, Dodge Center, Mina. 

The committee on a denominational hymn-book recom- 
mended "Life-Time Hymns" in a special Seventh-day Baptist 
edition ; and the committee was continued. 

The Finance Committee recommended an apportionment 
of $762.08. 

It was voted to send Rev. F. J. Bakker of Rotterdam, 
Holland, on a mission to Denmark and Germany. 

The second article of the constitution was amended so as 
to double the number of delegates that could be appointed by 
the churches. 

The committee on pulpit supply and ministerial employ- 
ment reported correspondence, help given, and the growing 
importance of its work. 

Resolutions were adopted relating to the great mercies 
of God and to increased devotion to our work; to the good 
work done by the various societies and boards; to industrial 
missions; to the preparation of our children and young peo- 
ple for life's work under the best possible Seventh-day Bap- 
tist influences; to the unholy business of the saloon; and to 
the economical and moral evils of tobacco using. 

The report of the committee on the entertainment of Con- 
ference, which was adopted, recommended special plans for 
the Centennial Conference of next year ; and that a committee 
be appointed to canvass the whole general subject of Confer- 
ence entertainment and report in 1902. 

The treasurer of the Young People's Permanent Com- 
mittee reported an expenditure of $547.60 for various denomi- 
national purposes. The secretary's report was an able, very 



233^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

complete, strong, and inspiring statement and appeal. "We 
are cheered and encouraged," it said, "as we realize the earnest 
effort that many of our young people have put forth during 
the past year." The new Junior Superintendent made her 
first and an important annual report. The purpose in this 
line of effort was to promote "the religious training of the 
boys and girls." The Junior societies had raised $208.51, 
largely for missionary purposes; five new societies had been 
organized; and 26 Juniors had joined the churches. 

The most encouraging statement wa^ made that the sum 
of $10,500.00 had been pledged for the increase of the endow- 
ment of the Theologplcal Department of Alfred University. 
This Conference was an important and far-reaching turning 
point in the history of theological education among Seventh- 
day Baptists. 

Sermons, addresses, and papers were given on such sub- 
jects as the following: Industrial Missions in Africa; The 

« 

Joy of the Harvest of Righteousness; He will not suffer thy 
foot to be moved ; The Bible school, its ways and work ; Tith- 
ing; Our China Mission; The Second Commandment; The 
Model Seventh-day Baptist Minister; The Outlook for Sab- 
bath Reform; (the last three addresses were in the Brother- 
hood Hour); The Sabbath: a present crisis; The great re- 
sponsibility resting upon our young people; and, Jesus gives 
drink to the thirsty. 

As there had been a convention before Conference so one 
was held on the day following, when topics of general denomi- 
national interest were discussed, such as Industrial Missions, 
the Sabbath Recorder, and Theological Education. 

Summary of Statistics: — Number of churches, 116; num- 
ber reporting, 84 ; number of ministers and missionary pastors, 
122; number of licentiates, 9; number of churches organized 
before 1800, 9; number organized between 1800 and 1850, 45; 
between 1850 and 1900, 59; in 1900-1901, 3; number of mem- 
bers reported, 9,257 ; additions, 334 ; losses, 288 ; resident Sab- 
bath-keepers, 10,575 ; money raised, not including personal 
gifts, $50,409.27, an average per member of $4.77. 

The Seventh-day Baptist General Conference always took 
a broad-minded and warm-hearted view of the world's work; 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 233d 

hence its influence and scope steadily increased. And at the 
end of a century we find it earnestly seeking to solve the old 
and the new problem of still further strengthening and unify- 
ing all lines of our growing work. 

1902. 

First Church of Hopkinton, Ashaway, R. I. — This 
meeting of Conference was called its One Hundredth Anni- 
versary.* There were in attendance 428 delegates representing 
58 churches ; 32 from the Southeastern Association ; 192 from 
the Eastern; 62 from the Central; 97 from the Western; 42 
from the Northwestern ; i from the Southwestern ; and 2 from 
Shanghai, China. 

Pastor Clayton A. Burdick gave the address of welcome ; 
Rev. L. A. Platts, Corresponding Secretary, responded in 
behalf of the delegates; and the President of Conference, 
Henry M. Maxson, .presented the annual address, his subject 
being "The Home." "Of all the discoveries of the age, the 
greatest is the discovery of the child. ... If we hope to have 
a strong church twenty years from now, we must lay the 
foundation in our training of the children of today." 

The Corresponding Secretary reported a roll of 108 
churches, with reports from 86. Available statistics showed 
a membership of 9,292, with a gain of 98. 

TTie Trustees of the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial Fund 
reported a total endowment fund held for the benefit of 
various denominational interests of $412,063.21. 

The Sabbath School Board reported an average edition of 
the Helping Hand of 3,033 ; the purchase of the Sabbath Vis- 
itor; a good financial support from the schools; progress in 
the preparation of a series of tracts on denominational history 
and doctrines; and recommended more institute work, more 
home departments, and a general increase of manifested in- 
terest in the Sabbath school cause. The Tract Society had 
published the Helping Hand at a cost of $616.1 1, with re- 
ceipts from subscriptions of $695.85. Other expenses of the 
Board had been $618,57. 



I. There are those who think it was the One Hundred and Second. 



233^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The Woman's Board reported the receipt and disburse- 
ment of nearly $1,900, besides over $400 raised by local so- 
cieties but not paid into the treasury of the Board. 

The Board of Pulpit Supply reported helpful correspond- 
ence with some ten churches, and several young men and 
ministers. 

In the report of the Committee on Obituaries appear the 
names of the following ministers : Austin H. Williams, Amos 
R. Cornwall, L. Elias Dilday, Henderson C. Brazeal, John O. 
Quillen, Julius M. Todd, Halsey Stillman, Orville D. Wil- 
liams, and William C. Whitford (Milton, Wisconsin), and 
deacons Perry Cole, J. F. Morgan, C. J. Ericson, Willard P. 
Maxson, Frederick G. Jarl, Henry D. Burdick, and Samuel P. 
Griffin ; and to the list was added the name of Mrs. Ruth 
Hemphill Whitford. 

The report of a Committee on Ways and Means of en- 
tertaining Conference, which was adopted, recommended the 
so-called "Harvard Plan", delegates and visitors paying for 
their dinners and suppers ; and that a committee be appointed 
to consider, and report at the next Conference, upon the ques- 
tion of having one or more fixed places for holding our Anni- 
versaries. 

Joint recommendations from the Executive and Finance 
Committees were adopted, relating to provisions for the pub- 
lication in book form' of the proceedings and historical papers 
of that anniversary of the Conference and the societies. 

The report of a committee on the readjustment of our 
denominational organization, which was adopted, recom- 
mended that both women and men be elected as members of 
the various denominational boards; that the three societies 
(Missionary, Tract, and Education) be invited to so arrange 
their programs as to give all the evenings to the work of Con- 
ference ; and that an Advisory Council be appointed, represent- 
ing all lines of our work, which shall meet before the next 
anniversary for the purpose of carefully considering means 
and methods for unifying and strengthening all of our de- 
nominational interests. 

The Sabbath morning sermon was preached by Rev. D. 



HENRY M. MAXSON, D. FED. 
See Biograplrcal Sketches, p. 1361, 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l8o2 TO I902. 233/ 

Burdett Coon, a great grandson of Elder Abram Coon, 
Moderator of the Conference from 1802 to 1806. The text 
was from Numbers xxiii, 23, What hath God wrought! 

The Young People's Secretary reported 44 Endeavor so- 
cieties; a membership of 1,994; and receipts of over $1,800. 
The report urged greater enthusiasm, greater devotion, and 
greater efficiency in the Lord's work. 

The Junior Superintendent reported 31 Junior societies 
with a membership of 733; 4 Intermediate, with a member- 
ship of 81 ; the raising of $192 ; and that 179 Juniors were 
church members, 56 having joined the past year. "The hope 
of our future as a denomination is in our children." 

The chief feature of the session was the celebration of the 
one hundredth anniversary of the reorganization, for which a 
special program had been prepared in accordance with the 
report of the special committee appointed for that purpose 
two years before. Their report presented and adopted 
a years ago is as follows : 

To the Seventh^day Baptist General Conference: 

Your Committee appointed in 1900, to arrange a programme for 
appropriate celebration of the Centennial of the General Conference, 
at Ashaway, R. I., in 1902, composed of the following: Deacon 
Charles C. Chipman, Eastern Association; Rev. Clayton A. Burdick, 
First Hopkinton Church; Rev. L. R. Swinney, Central Association; 
Pres. B. C. Davis, Western Association; Pres. W, Clarke Whitford, 
Northwestern Association ; Pres. T. L. Gardiner, Southeastern Associa- 
tion; Dea. W. R. Potter, Southwestern, beg leave to report as follows: 

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME, I902. 

1. Historical Sketch of the Sabbath from Christ down to its ap- 

pearance in England, Rev. Abram H. Lewis. 

2. Historical Sketch of Seventh-day Baptists in England, Rev. Wil- 

liam C. Daland. 

3. Historical Sketch of Seventh-day Baptists in America previous to 

1802, Rev. William Qarke Whitford. 

4. Historical Sketch of the Seventh-day Baptist General Conference 

from 1802 to 1902, Rev. Arthur E Main. 

5. Address. "Lessons from the Past," Rev. Stephen .Burdick. 

6. Address, "A Forward Look," Rev. Theodore L. Gardiner. 

7. Work of the Board of Trustees of the Seventh-day Baptist Me- 

morial Fund. 



233^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

8. Work of the Woman's Board. 

9. Work of the Young People's Permanent Comimittee. 

10. Work of the Sabbath School Board, including all Sabbath-school 

work among Seventh-day Baptists. 

11. Work of the Employment Bureau. 

12. Work of the Committee on Pastoral Supply. 

13. Work of the Brotherhood. 

14. Historical Sketches of the Associations: 

a. Eastern, Hon. George H. Utter. 

b. Central, Rev. Asa C. Prentice. 

c. Western, Rev. William L. Burdick. 

d. Northwestern, Rev. Lewis A. Platts. 

e. Southeastern, Corliss F. Randolph. 

f. Southwestern, Rev. James F. Shaw. 

15. Historical Sketch of the Seventh-day Baptist Home and Foreign 

Mission Work. 

16. Historical Sketch of the American Sabbath Tract Society, includ- 

ing all Seventh-day Baptist Publications and Sabbath 
Reform Work. 

17. Historical Sketch of the Seventh-day Baptist Education Society, 

including all educationail work among Seventh-day 
•Baptists. 

18. Historical Sketch of the Sabbath Evangelizing and Industrial 

Association. 

Acceptances have been received from all persons whose names 
appear on the foregoing programme. The plan of the Committee in 
preparing this, a largely historical programme, is with the belief that 
with a careful review of the past, future efforts along all lines of 
work will be greatly strengthened. Our young people know but little 
of our history, rich though it is, and a history which is highly prized 
end admired by those who are conversant with it. We believe this 
review of the past will quicken our young people in denominational 
pride and loyalty as nothing else will. This plan will also accomplish 
another thing which is very much needed, viz., preserve permanently 
our history in a popular and convenient form for general use. 

Our plan is to gather up the history of all lines of denominational 
work from the date of organization to 1902, so that all subsequent 
history can date from that time. The papers and addresses will make 
a valuable historical collection and furnish data of inestimable value 
to future historians. They will be highly prized by the coming 
generations. 

Every society and board has been invited to prepare its own his- 
torical paper and present it during its day or hour at the Conference. 

For the sake of the record it is desired that all papers be carefully 
prepared and be full in detail, but concise; and where papers are too 
long for a public presentation, extracts covering the more important 



CHARLES CLARENCE CHIPMAN. 
See Siografhu-al Sketches, p. 136L 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 233/i 

features can be selected and presented. All papers and addresses will 
be printed in full in the minutes of the Conference for that year. - 

HISTORICAL SKETCHES OF THE ASSOCIATIONS. 

The Committee desires that these papers be historical of our 
people, in the various sections covered by the Associations, along 
lines of education, church and reform work, in the broad sense, and 
not confined to the exclusive work of the denomination. Each As- 
sociation is rich with historical facts concerning our people, and his- 
torical events in which Seventh-day Baptists have been engaged. 
Our people have been among the leaders in the public school system, 
and in temperance reform movements. Take for example the Sev- 
enth-day Baptist influence in the colony of Rhode Island and later 
in the state. The Seventh-day Baptists cooperating with the Baptists 
of Rhode Island in founding Brown University, the fact that the 
Charter of the University was drawn by a Seventh-day Baptist, Sam- 
uel Ward, and Seventh-day Baptist representation on the Board of 
Trustees for many years of its early life, are facts worthy of record, 
and facts of which every Seventh-day Baptist, old or young, should 
be proud. Similar instances of Seventh-day Baptist influence and 
worth can be recorded of the other Associations. 

It would be extremely interesting if each of these articles should 
record the names of the Seventh-day Baptist ministers who have come 
out from that Association together with the name of the church. 
Converts to the Sabbath should be indicated by star or otherwise. 

The name and date of organization of each church established, 
and where churches have disbanded or become extinct the date they 
were dropped from the conference should be given. The two items, 
ministers and churches, could be handled by a statistical table with 
economy of space for publication and convenience for reference. 

A brief mention of prominent Seventh-day Baptists who have lived 
in the Association and who were actively engaged or deeply interested 
in denominational work would be interesting. For example, in the 
Eastern Association, Thomas B. Stillman, George H. Babcock, Charles 
Potter, Prof. William A. Rogers, Mrs. Ann Lyon. In the Central 
Association, Rev. Alexander Campbell, Doctor C. D. Potter, Rev. Eli 
S. Bailey, Deacon Amos R. Wells, Mrs. Lucy Carpenter. In the 
Western Association, President William C. Kenyon, Jonathan Allen, 
Rev. Thomas D. Brown, Rev. Nathan V. Hull, Mrs. Melissa B. Ward 
Kenyon. 

It is not contemplated by the Committee that the papers of the 
Associations will be read at the Conference, for want of time, interest- 
ing as they would be, but that they will be presented to the Conference 
for adoption and publication. 

We feel confident that all persons selected and whose names are 
placed on the program will cooperate with the Committee to the 



233* SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

end that the Centennial Celebration of the General Conference at 
Ashaway, Rhode Island, August, 1902, may be a great success, and 
that the minutes of the session will be the most valuable collection 
of historical facts that have ever been compiled and published by our 
people. 

For and in behalf of the Conunittee, 

Charles C. Chipman, Chairman. 

220 Broadway, New York, Aug. 28, 1901. 

The hand of death had claimed President William C. 
Whitford before the completion of his paper, and Rev. Wil- 
liam C. Daland reported that he was unable to write the paper 
assigned to him. Arrangements were made for completing 
the one, and for writing the other of these papers. 

A committee was appointed with instructions to have 
printed and published in book form these various historical 
productions. 

What hath God Wrought— "In the Worid ;" "In the Na- 
tion;" "In us personally;" "In our denomination;*' "That will 
make us fruitful;" and "In this session of the Conference;" 
and A forward look, were subjects of early morning and of 
two evening meetings. 

Other subjects of discussion or of addresses were: "Re- 
adjustment of our denominational organization;" "What the 
Sabbath School Board is doing;" "What the Sabbath School 
Board hopes to do;" "Communion and Transformation;" 
"True courtesy;" and "The future for women." 

The resolutions adopted related to the value of the Chris- 
tian home; to the importance of the Sabbath school; to the 
need of a purer press ; to the evils of strong drink and tobacco ; 
to the indebtedness of Conference to Mr. Charles C. Chip- 
man and others for the Centennial programs; and to the 
gratitude due to the President of Conference, entertaining 
friends, and others, for efficient labor and valued help. 

This survey of a hundred years can not better close than 
with the first resolution from the report of the Committee on 
Resolutions as follows: 

Resolved, That this Centennial Anniversary of the Con- 
ference is an occasion for profound gratitude and sincere 



ii 



si 

8 ff 



■III 
■s ^ "a 



111 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 233; 

thanksgiving to God for his mercies, and for the good measure 
of success that has attended the labors of our people during 
the century. For enlarged borders, enlarged opportunities, 
and responsibilities, and a widening field, we render humble 
and hearty thanks, and pledge ourselves to renewed consecra- 
tion and faithfulness to all our varied and important lines of 
work. 

In Conclusion. 

This paper, dedicated to the memory of one now gone, 
whose interest and sympathy were inspiration and strength 
and who herself began the preparation of some of the statisti- 
cal parts, does not aim to be a history of individuals, churches, 
or the denomination ; or of the societies ; or of boards and 
permanent committees of the Conference, appointed for 
special and continued work through the year. But the pur- 
pose is to give such a general survey' or outline sketch of every 
meeting of Conference as will help the reader to apprehend, 
fairly well, the spirit and work of each anniversary that was 
held, and put him in the way of further study, if he shall so 
desire. 

The Conference Minutes have been, in the nature of the 
case, the principal source of information. Many things are 
necessarily omitted that would have been of interest; and, 
quite likely, there has been written what might well have been 
left out. The writer has received pleasure and benefit from 
the study ; but no one can regret the imperfections in the re- 
sult more deeply than himself. 

Denominational statistics have not been reported, in the 
Minutes of Conference, with uniformity of method and com- 
pleteness; and no more is claimed for the figures given here 
than approximate and working accuracy. 

The help of others is gratefully acknowledged, especially 
the valuable work done by Prof. Gamble. 

Our denominational fathers made mistakes, as we our- 
selves have done ; nevertheless, they wrought nobly and made 
a grand history, one that ought to inspire us to render better 
service than we have ever given before. 



233^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

OFFICERS OF CONFERENCE AND THE SOCIETIES. 

1902. 

GENERAL CONFERENCE. 

President — H. M. Maxson, Plainfield, N. J. 
Corresponding Secretary — Rev. L. A. Platts, Milton, Wis. 
Treasurer—Rev. W. C. Whit ford, Alfred, N. Y. 
Recording Secretary — A. W. Vars, Dunellen, N. J. 

THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 

Organized in 1842. 

President — William L. Clarke, Westerly, R. I. 

Corresponding Secretary — Rev. Oscar U. Whitford, Westerly, R. I. 

Recording Secretary — Albert S. Babcock, Rockville, R. I. 

Treasurer — George H. Utter, Westerly, R. I. 

Board of Managers — George B. Carpenter, Ira .B. Crandall, Rev. Samuel 
H. Davis, Joseph H. Potter, Albert L. Chester, Lewis T. Clawson, 
Rev. Simeon H. Babcock, Charles H. Stanton, Rev. Clayton A. 
Burdick, Sanford P. Stillman, Charles P. Cottrell, George H. 
Greennwn, Rev. Oliver D. Sherman, Gideon T. Collins, Benjamin 
P. Langworthy 2d, Albert S. Babcock, George T. Collins, Rev. 
Lewis F. Randolph, Rev. Alexander McLearn, Eugene F. Still- 
man, Rev. Nathan M. Mills, Paul M. Barber, Rev. Arthur E. 
Main, Elisha C. Stillman, J. Irving Maxson, Rev. Ira Lee Cottrell, 
Rev. Lewis A. Platts, Rev. Theodore L. Gardiner, Rev. Lester 
C. Randolph, Irving A. Crandall, David E. Titsworth, Rev. Jud- 
son G. Burdick, Preston F. Randolph, Rev. William L. Burdick, 
Rev. Scth I. Lee, Rev. Geo. J. Crandall. 

THE AMERICAN SABB.\TH TRACT SOCIETY. 

Organized in 1843. 

President — ^J. Frank Hubbard, Plainfield, N, J. 

Vice-Presidents — Stephen Babcock, David E. Titsworth, Rev. Leander 
E. Livermore, Rev. Asa B. Prentice, Rev. Arthur E. Main, Rev. 
Edward B. Saunders, Rev. Samuel D. Davis, Rev. George M. 
Cottrell. 

Corresponding Secretary — Rev. A. Herbert Lewis. Plainfield, N. J. 

Treasurer— FraiTik J. Hubbard, Plainfield, N. J, 

Recording Secretary — Arthur L. Titsworth, Plainfield, N. J. 

Assistant Recording Secretary — William M. Stillman, Plainfield, N. J. 



INTKKIOR 0[- KFKST MOPKIXTON CIIIKCEI. AT ASMAWAV. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE^ l8o2 TO I902. 233/ 

Directors—]. Frank Hubbard, Stephen Babcock, David E. Titsworth, 
Rev. Leanfler E. Livermore, Rev. Asa B. Prentice, Rev. Arthur 
R Main, Rev. Edward B. Saunders; Rev. Samuel D. Davis, Rev. 
George M. Cottrell, Rev. A- Herbert Lewis, Frank J. Hubbard, 
Arthur L. Titsworth, William L. Stillman, J. Denison Spicer, 
Rev. Frank R Peterson, Rev. Stephen Burdick, Ira J. Ordway, 
Rev. J. Bennett Qarkc, Qiarles C. Chipman, Edgar R. Greene, 
Joseph M. Titsworth, Henry V. Dunham, Joseph A. Hubbard, 
Rev. William C. Daland, Rev. Judson G. Burdick, William C. 
Hubbard, Frank S. Wells, Rev. Ira Lee Cottrell, Rev. Herman D. 
Clarke, Edwin H. Lewis, Rev. Oscar U. Whitford, Edwin Shaw, 
Corliss F. Randolph, George B. Carpenter, Henry D. Babcock, 
Henry M. Maxson, Edgar H. Cottrell, George H. Utter, Rev. 
Lester C. Randolph, Rev. George W. Lewis, Rev. Theodore L. 
Gardiner, Frank L. Greene, Alfred A. Titsworth, Rev. George 
B. Shaw, Alex. W. Vars, Uberto S. Griffin, George W. Post, 
Rev. Martin Sindall, Sherman E. Ayers, Orra S. Rogers, Will 
H. Crandall, Mrs. C. D. Potter, Mrs. H. D. Witter, Mrs. George 
H. Babcock. 

SEVENTH -DAY BAPTIST EDUCATION SOCIETY. 

Organized in 1858. 

President — Edward M. Tomlinson, Alfred, N. Y. 

Corresponding Secretary — Rev. William L. Burdick, Independence, 
N. Y. 

Recording Secretary — Terrenoe M. Davis, Alfred, N. Y. 

Treasurer — Alpheus B. Kenyon, Alfred, N. Y. 

Vice-Presidents — Rev. Lewis A. Platts, Rev. Leander E. Livermore, 
Rev. Theodore L. Gardiner, Rev. Stephen Burdick, Albert Whit- 
ford, Rev. James F. Shaw, Rev. Boothe C. Davis, Rev. J. Bennett 
Clarke, Rev. William C. Daland. 

Directors — Elwood R Hamilton, George H. Utter, David R Titsworth, 
Henry M. Maxson, Ira B. Crandall, Rev. W. Calvin Whitford, 
S. Whitford Maxson, Rev. Earl P. Saunders, Jesse F. Randolph, 
Rev. George J. Crandall. 

woman's EXECUTIVE BOARD. 

Organized in 1884. 

President— Mrs. S. J. Clarke, Milton, Wis. 

Vice-Presidents — Mrs. J. B. Morton, Milton, Wis.; Mrs. G. J. Cran- 
dall, Milton Junction, Wis. 
Corresponding Secretary — Mrs. Albert Whitford, Milton, Wis. 
Recording Secretary — Mrs. L. A. Platts, Milton, Wis. 
Editor Woman's Page — Mrs. Henry M. Maxson, Plainfield, N. J. 



233^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Associational Secretaries — ^Mrs. Anna Randolph, Plainfield, N. J.; 
Miss Elsie Bond, Salem, W. Va.; Miss Cora Williams, New 
London, N. Y.; Miss Agnes L. Rogers, Belmont, N. Y. ; Mrs. 
A. H. Booth, Hammond, La.; Mrs. Nettie West, Malton Junc- 
tion, Wis. 

SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 

m 

Organized in 1872. 

President—Rev. George B. Shaw, Plainfield, N. J. 
Recording Secretary-— Corliss F. Randolph, Newark, N. J. 
Corresponding Secretary—]. B. Cottrell, Brooklyn, N. Y. 
Treasurer— 'Fr3ink L. Greene, Brooklyn, N. Y. 

Vice-Presidents— Mrs. Henry M. Maxson, Plainfield, N. J.; Rev. L L. 
• Cottrell, Hornellsville, N. Y.; M. H. Van Horn, Salem, W. Va.; 

Rev. L. R. Swinney, DeRuyter, N. Y. ; Rev. H. D. Clarke, Dodge 

Center, Minn.; Mrs. Elizabeth A. Fisher Davis, 

YOUNG people's PERMANENT COMMITTEE. 

Organized dn 1899. 

President— Rev. M. B. Kelly, Milton, Wis. 

Secretary — Miss Mizpah Sherburne, Chicago, 111. 

Editor of Young People's Page—Rtv. L. C. Randolph, Alfred, N. Y. 

Treasurer— J. Dwight Clarke, Milton, Wis. 

General Junior Superintendent — Mrs. H. M. Maxson, Plainfield, N. J. 

Associational Secretaries — ^^Roy F. Randolph, New M-ilton, W. Va. ; 
Miss L. Gertrude Stillman, Ashaway, R. L; G. W. Davis, Adams 
Center, N. Y.; B. Frank Whitford, Nile, N. Y.; Miss Abbie L 
Babcock, Albion, Wis.; Miss Leona Humiston, Hammond, La. 



CONFERENCE STATISTICS. 

1801. 

At the beginning of the century, and with Conference yet 
incompletely organized, there were 8 churches in fellowship, 
located in Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and New 
Jersey, and having a membership of nearly 1,200. 

1811. 
Twelve churches, 1,782 members. 

1821. 
Sixteen churches, 2,547 members. 



GENERAL CONFERENCE, l802 TO I902. 233» 

1831. 

Twenty-nine churches, 3,793 members. 

184 1. 
Fifty-two churches, 5432 members. 

1852. 
(No meeting in 1850 or 185 1.) 
Seventy churches, 6,345 members. 

1861. 
Sixty-seven churches, 6,700 members. 

1871. 
Eighty churches, 7,750 members. 

1881. 
Ninety-three churches, 8,720 members. 

1891. 
One hundred and two churches, 8,675 members. 

1901. 
0>nference begins the 20th century with a list of 116 



churches, reporting a membership of 9,340. 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 
MEMORIAL FUND. 



DAVri) v.. TITSWOR'IH. 
See Biographical Sketchei, p. 1361. 



THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 
MEMORIAL FUND. 



David E. Titsworth. 



At the session of the Seventh-day Baptist General Con- 
ference, held at Shiloh, N. J., in 1869, President William C. 
Whitford, of Milton College, Milton, Wis., called the atten- 
tion of the Conference to the fact that on Dec. 21, 1871, the 
Seventh-day Baptist Church in this country would reach its 
two hundredth birthday, and proposed that the Conference for 
that year hold some suitable memorial service. Acting upon 
this suggestion a plan for these services was matured at the 
session of the Conference held at Adams Centre, New York, 
in 187 1. Soon after this session it was proposed by President 
Whitford, of Milton College, and ably seconded by President 
Jonathan Allen, of Alfred, through the Sabbath Recorder, that 
in addition to the memorial services our people should com- 
memorate this important event in our history by raising a Fund 
of not less than $100,000.00 for the endowment of our Schools, 
and for aiding our Denominational Societies in prosecuting 
their respective labors. 

This proposition met with the hearty approval of leading 
members of the Denomination. At the session of the Easterh 
Association, held with the First Church of Hopkinton, at Ash- 
away, R. I., in June, 1872, the Committee on Education 



238 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS I 

reported a plan for raising a "Memorial Fund." This plan was 
adopted and forwarded by the delegates to the other Associa- 
tions, all of which concurred in the plan. 

In the interim between the sessions of the Associations and 
the meeting of the General Conference, Rev. Jonathan Allen, 
Rev. Thomas R. Williams and President William C. Whitford, 
acting under instructions from the Seventh-day Baptist Edu- 
cation Society, made an extensive canvass of the churches of 
the denomination and received more than one-half of the sum 
named, either in money, notes, or some other form of obliga- 
tion. 

At the Conference held at Southampton, 111., in Sept., 
1872, the following plan, which had been previously recom- 
mended by the Association, was adopted unanimously by the 
General Conference. 

Whereas, the five Associations of our denomination have adopted, 
with great unanimity, a proposition and plan for raising funds for 
Educational and other denominational purposes; and have invited this 
body to concur with them in their action; therefore, 

Resolved, That we unite with our Associations in the adoption of 
their proposition and plan as follows: This being the Bi-centennial 
year of the Seventh-day Baptists in America, it should be remembered 
with devout thanksgiving and by liberal thank-offerings. The grati- 
tude of the heart ever seeks expression in some appropriate outward 
act We therefore invite, as a spontaneous thank-offering to our Heav- 
enly Father, contributions from each one, as God has prospered him, 
to be so appropriated as to render more efficient, in the centuries to 
come, those institutions and agencies to which we, as a people, as 
well as the whole Christian world, are so deeply indebted, in the past 
and present. To this end, the General Conference concurs with the 
Associations in the recommendations: 

1st. That a Memorial Fund be raised of at least one hundred thous- 
and dollars. 

2d. That, while each individual be allowed full freedom in deter- 
mining the object to which his subscription shall be devoted, yet we 
recommend that a centennary educational fund be made the prominent 
object of those contributions, as it is, of all the objects before us, most 
clearly monumental and enduring, as to its methods and uses. 

3d. All funds subscribed directly for our benevolent societies, or 
for our literary institutions, shall be passed over to those societies or 
institutions, as the donors may direct. 

4th. All funds subscribed to the Centennary Educational Fund, as 
well as all others that may be so directed by the donors, shall be placed 
in the hands of a Chartered Board of Trustees. These funds shall be 



GKORGE HERMOX BABCOCK. 
See HiograpliUal Sketches, p. 1361. 



MEMORIAL FUND. 239 

securely invested in bonds and mortgages on real estate of not less 
than twice the value of the mortgages, or in United States, State, 
County or City bonds or other equally safe securities; and the interest 
only shall be used for the specified purposes. This Chartered Board 
of Trustees shall consist of the Treasurers of the societies and insti- 
tutions which may share in the benefit of «the fund held in trust, and 
nine others, to be elected by the General Conference. These shall be 
divided into three classes of three each, and the first class shall hold 
their office for one year, the second class for two years, and the third 
class for three years, the vacancies thus annually occurring to be filled 
by annual elections. 

The following brethren were appointed by the General Con- 
ference as the first Board of Trustees of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Memorial Fund: 

FOR ONE YEAR. 

Thomas S. Greenman, Mystic, Conn. 

Clark Rogers, Plainfield, N. J. 

Isaac D. Titsworth, New Market, N. J. 

FOR TWO YEARS. 

Charles Potter, Jr., Plainfield, N. J. 
Rev. Lewis A. Platts, New Market, N. J. 
Geo. H. Babcock, Plainfield, N. J. 

FOR THREE YEARS. 

Rev. Darwin E. Maxson, D. D., Plainfield, N. J. 
Calvert C. Cottrell, Westerly, R. I. 
Elias R. Pope, Plainfield, N. J. 

This Board was instructed by the General Conference "to 
organize and become incorporated in the State of New Jersey 
at its earliest convenience." 

The authority for the original canvass for funds, before 
referred to, is found in the following report made to the Gen- 
eral Conference by the Executive Board of the Education Soci- 
ety, which contains the general plan of the canvass and the form 
of notes and receipts used : 

The Executive Board of the Education Society would respectfully 
submit to the General Conference, through their Corresponding Sec- 
retary, the following report: 

The Board was recommended by the several Associations, at their 
last annual sessions, to employ two or more agents to secure subscrip- 
tions for as much of the proposed Memorial Fund, before the Bi- 
centennial Meeting, as possible. 



240 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS : 

In conformity with the above recommendation, the Executive Board 
of the Education Society appointed J. Allen, W. C. Whitford and T. R. 
Williams, General Agents, with George Greenman, J. B. Clarke, A. R. 
Cornwall, and Preston F. Randolph, as Associate Agents for the East- 
ern, Central, North-Western and South-Eastern Associations. 

The following resolution was adopted by the Board: 

"Resolved, That these agents shall receive pay for their services 
upon the audit of the Board of Trust, to be drawn from the several 
organizations benefitted, in the ratio of the benefit received by each, at 
the rate of eight hundred dollars a year and expenses, for the time 
actually employed in this service." 

The following was adopted as the form of the subscription notes: 

I do hereby obligate myself, my heirs and assigns, to pay to the 
Treasurer of within — years from date, the sum of dol- 
lars, with annual interest, payable on the first day of September of each 
year. 

"The avails of this subscription shall be accounted a part of the 
Seventh-day Baptist Memorial Fund, and shall be appropriated as fol- 
lows: . 

"[This subscription is made with the understanding and agreement, 
on the part of the maker, that in case the object of the subscription 
herein named shall ever, in the judgment of the Chartered Board of 
Trustees, fail, the sum obtained from it shall pass entirely under the 
control of said Board, and the income from said sum shall be applied 
to promote such objects, connected with the Seventh-day Baptist denom- 
ination, as they may deem most closely allied to the object named 
herein.] 

"Received from , — dollars, to be accounted for as a part 

of the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial Fund, and applied as follows: 



"[It is understood and agreed, by the person paying as above, that 
in case the object named in this receipt shall ever, in the judgment of 
the Chartered Board of Trustees, fail, the sum shall pass under the 
entire control of said Board, and be applied to promote such objects 
connected with the Seventh-day Baptist denomination as they may deem 
most closely allied to the object named herein.] 

, Agent," 

The first meeting of the Board was held at the Seventh- 
day Baptist parsonage, Plainfield, N. J., on Oct. 27, 1872, 
seven members being present. The Board was temporarily 
organized by the election of the following named officers : 

President, Charles Potter, Jr., Plainfield, N. J. 

Secretary, Rev. Lewis A. Platts, New Market, N. J. 

Treasurer, Elias R. Pope, Plainfield, N. J. 
(15) 



MEMORIAL FUND. 24I 

A committee was appointed to secure a charter from tbe 
State of New Jersey. 

It was voted to accept the work already done by the Rev- 
erend Messrs. Jonathan Allen, Thomas R. Williams and Wil- 
liam C. Whitford, and to appoint them to complete the can- 
vass of the denomination. 

At a meeting held on June 15, 1873, the following charter 
granted under the Laws of the State of New Jersey was pre- 
sented and accepted by the Board of Trustees : 

ACT OF INCORPORATION. 

An Act to incorporate the Board of Trustees of the Seventh-day 
Baptist Memorial Fund, of Plainfield. 

(i)'Be it enacted by the Senate and General Assembly of the State of 
New Jersey, that Darwin £. Maxson, Calvert B. Cottrell, Elias R. 
Pope, Charles Potter, Junior, Lewis A. Platts, George H. Babcodc, 
Thomas S. Greenman, Clark Rogers, Isaac D. Titsworth, and their 
successors are hereby ordained and declared a body corporate and 
politic in fact and in law, by the name of "The Board of Trustees 
of the Seventh-day Baptist Memorial Fund," and by that name shall 
have perpetual succession and shall be capable of purchasing, hold- 
ing and conveying any lands, tenements, hereditaments, goods and 
chattels, necessary or proper for the objects of the corporation. 

(2) And be it enacted, That the above named persons or a majority 
of them shall be the first Board, and shall be divided or allotted into 
three equal classes, as follows : One class of which shall hold office 
for three years ; one class for two years ; and one class for one year 
(or until their successors are elected, by the General Conference 
of the Seventh-day Baptist denomination at the regular annual 
meeting thereof), and said Board of Trustees shall make amioal 
report of the proceedings to said Conference. 

(3) And be it enacted. That the Business of said Board of Trustees 
shall be to hold in trust the Memorial Fund of the Seventh-day Ba^ 
tist denomination, and to expend the principal or interest accruinK 
therefrom in accordance with the object for which the Fund is 
raised; and in pursuance of this object shall have power to hold real 
estate by purchase, by bequest, by will or otherwise, and to have 
power to make good and legal title and conveyance in law for 
same; they shall sue and be sued, and make and use a corporate 
seal and alter the same at pleasure. 

(4) And be it enacted, That the said Trustees shall have power to fill 
all vacancies that may occur in their Board, except by expiration of 
term of office, to make all by-laws, rules and regulations necessary 
for the government of their members, and as may be necessary for 
carrying out the object of said corporation. 



242 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS I 

• 

(5) And be it enacted, That a majority of said Board shall reside in 
the State of New Jersey, and five shall constitute a quorum for 
the transaction of business. 

(6) And be it enacted, That the treasurers of the several societies and 
institutions which may receive benefits arising from this Fund, 
shall be ex-officio members of the Board and be entitled to par- 
ticipate in its deliberations, but not to vote upon questions afifect- 
ing the investment of the Fund, or the disposition of the interest 
accruing therefrom. 

(7) And be it enacted, That the said trust board shall invest no money 
in any public stocks, other than such as are created under the laws 
of the United States, or the States of New Jersey, New York, 
Connecticut, Rhode Island, Wisconsin, Kansas, Minnesota, Vir- 
ginia, Illinois, or Iowa, and stock and bonds of the different cities 

and counties in the states above mentioned or such other bonds or 

__ * 

stocks as the Board of Trustees should deem expedient. 

(8) And be it enacted. That the annual meeting of tliis Board for the 
election of a president, secretary and treasurer or such other officers 
as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this act shall be 
held in October of each year. 

(9) And be it enacted. That this act shall be deemed a public act and 
take effect immediately. 

Approved March 21, 1873. 

The officers who had been elected temporarily were then 
duly elected as the officers of the Incorporated Board, and the 
classification of Trustees with respect to their terms of office 
was made the same as that made by the Conference in appoint- 
ing them. The canvassing agents were reappointed and the 
Board entered formally upon its work. 

The original Fund, known as the Bi-Centennial Education 
Fund, included sundry subscriptions made by individuals direct 
to the several schools, which subscriptions were by agreement 
to be considered as part of the Bi-Centennial Fund, although 
the moneys never entered into the accounts of nor under the 
supervision of the Trustees of the Memorial Fund. 

Quite a portion of the original subscriptions are still 
unpaid, owing to the changed circumstances of the donors mak- 
ing it impossible for them to meet the obligations. Since the 
founding of the Fund there have been a number of gifts and 
bequests which have largely increased the Fund. 

During the 29 years of the existence of the Fund the fol- 
lowing brethren have served as Trustees : 

Thomas S. Green, Clark Rogers, Isaac D. Titsworth, 



MEMORIAL FUND. 243 

Charles Potter, Rev. Lewis A. Platts, George H. Babcock, 
Rev. Darwin E. Maxson, Calvert B. Cottrell, EHas R. Pope, 
Joseph A. Hubbard, J. Frank Hubbard, Rev. Leander E. Liv- 
ermore, Rudolph M. Titsworth, George B. Utter, Joseph M. 
Titsworth, Henry V. Dunham, William M. Stillman, David E. 
Titsworth, Joseph Denison Spicer, Clark T. Rogers, and Henry 
M. Maxson. Of these ii are living and lo have gone to their 
reward. But one member of the original Board is now living, 
the Rev. Lewis A. Platts, D. D., the field secretary. 
The officers of the Board have been as follows : 

Presidents, 

Charles Potter, 1872- 1899. 
(Died Dec. 2, 1899). 
J. Frank Hubbard, 1900- 

Vice-Presidents, 

J. Frank Hubbard, 1898- 1900. 
Joseph M. Titsworth, 1900- 

Secretaries, 

Rev. Lewis A. Platts, D. D., 1873-1877. 
Rev. Darwin E. Maxson, D. D., 1877-1879. 

(Died Feb. 22, 1895). 
Rev. Leander E. Livermore, 1879-1883. 
J. Frank Hubbard, 1883-1888; 1890-1896. 
Henry V. Dunham, 1888-1890. 
David E. Titsworth, 1896-* 

Treasurers, 

Elias R. Pope, 1873-1896. 

(Died Aug. 10, 1896). 
Joseph A. Hubbard, 1896- 

Thus it will be seen that two officers served the Fund from 
its foundation until they were called to higher service and 
richer rewards in the Life Eternal. It is worthy of note that 
Brother Elias R. Pope handled the finances of the Fund for 23 
years without pay and in all that time he was not absent from 
a meeting of the Board, excepting the one held on Aug. 9, 
1896, the day before his death. 

The Geo. H. Babcock Bequest of $200,000.00 so largely 
increased the Fund and added so much to the care of moneys 
and investments that a salary was fixed for the Treasurer. 



244 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS : 

Aside from this the labor of the other Trustees has always been 
a voluntary service, a service of large responsibility and some- 
times of great anxiety, yet cheerfully borne for the cause for 
which they stand. 

The endowments confided from time to time to the care of 
the trustees of this fund now amount to $412,063.21, as shown 
by the list appended below. 

During the existence of the Fund our Schools and pub- 
lishing interests have been largely helped by the income from • 
the Fund, and it has been said by two of our college presidents 
that this Fund has kept their institutions alive, and thus those 
who by sacrifice and self-denial have g^ven to the Master, and 
those, who from their abundance have poured riches into His 
treasury, have united in founding that which shall go on long 
after they have ceased to live, bringing blessing to many and 
great honor to the cause of Him in whose name the gifts were 
made. 

SUMMARY OF ENDOWMENT FUNDS, AUGUST 6, 1902. 

Plainfield Chair of Doctrinal Theology $ 9,767 01 

Babcock Chair of Physics 22,030 15 j 

Chair of Greek Language and Literature 1,00000 

Chair of Church History and Homiletics 6,66500 

Chair of Pastoral Theology 50 00 

Alfred University 212 50 

Missionary Society 1469 47 

Charles Potter Chair of History and Political Science 28,931 44 

Milton College 22,602 00 

David P. Rogers Fund for Milton College 2,567 66 

American Sabbath Tract Society i,iiS 22 

Bi-Centennial Education Fund 6,66398 

Delos C. Burdick Bequest 10,293 12 

Delos C. Burdick Farm, 243 acres 

Young men preparing for ministry, 10 acres land 

George H. Babcock Bequest 289,69024 

OFFICERS AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD, I902: 

J. Frank Hubbard, President. 
Joseph M. Titsworth, Vice-President. 
Joseph A. Hubbard, Treasurer. 
David E. Titsworth, Secretary. 
Henry V. Dunham. 
Joseph D. Spicer. 



MEMORIAL FUND. 245 

William M. Stillman. 
Qark T. Rogers. 
Henry M. Maxson. 

Ex-Officio Members: 

Will H. Crandall, Treas. Alfred University. 

Albert Whitford, Treas. Milton College. 

George H. Utter, Treas. Seventh-day Baptist Missionary 
Society. 

Frank J. Hubbard, Treas. American Sabbath Tract Soci- 
ety. 



THE WOMAN'S BOARD 



MRS. EMMA TEFFT PLATTS. 
See Biografhica! Skclchei. p. 1361. 



THE WOMAN'S BOARD 



Emma Tefft Platts. 



So far as can be learned from the earliest records, the first 
person upon this continent to begin the observance of the Bible 
Sabbath, March ii, 1671, was a woman, Tacy Hubbard, wife 
of Samuel Hubbard, who commenced its observance a little 
later. The two became prominent members of the first Seventli- 
day Baptist Church of Newport, but before their separation 
from the First-day Baptist Church, when they, with several 
others, were called to account for absenting themselves from 
the "breaking of bread," it was Tacy Hubbard, who, before the 
stern assemblage, "gave in the grounds," numbered consecu- 
tively I, 2 and 3, with great clearness and force. Among the 
forefathers of our people, men of sterling worth, intellectually 
and spiritually, eminently fitted to stand shoulder to shoulder, 
as they did, with Roger Williams, in the maintenance of relig- 
ious liberty, let this pre-eminent foremother retain her first 
place-— ever first, down through the generations of loyal suc- 
cessors, in reverence and affection. 

Since that auspicious beginning, the women of our denom- 
ination have never ceased to stand fearlessly for their con- 
scientious convictions of right and righteousness, and side by 
side with their brothers, to work valiantly and efficiently for all 



250 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS I 

that has made for the strengthening and enlargement of the 
interests of our people. 

In the first company of missionaries to China, it was the 
gifted pen of Mrs. Lucy Clarke Carpenter, pointed with the 
devotion of a pure, lofty, consecrated spirit, which touched 
the entire denomination with a thrill of missionary ardor which 
has never been, and, we trust, never will be, lost. 

Mrs. Ann Lyon, in her grief at the loss, of her talented, 
only son, made the first large gift to Alfred University, in the 
establishment of the Industrial Mechanics Department as his 
memorial. Other and larger benefactions have since been 
received ; hers led the way. 

Outwardly, Milton College was founded by Joseph Good- 
rich ; the real, true foundatioji was laid in the prayers of the 
saintly woman, his wife, Nancy Goodrich, of blessed memory, 
whose devout spirit is preserved in the institution to this day. 

In later years, a desire has been growing in the minds of 
many of the most active and progressive of our women that we, 
like the women of other denominations, might be organized, 
especially for missionary work; that we, too, might have our 
Woman's Board, — ^believing that by this means we would be 
more universally enlisted in the work being carried on by our 
people at large. 

This thought had entered into conversation and corre- 
spondence among the women of the denomination. Early in 
the session of Conference at Lost Creek, W. Va., 1884, Mrs. 
A. K. Witter, who had been very much interested in the 
movement, spoke upon the subject, and an informal meeting 
of the women in attendance was called. 

Previous to this session thus called for, that there might 
be something definite upon which the meeting should take 
action, Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Platts, then Secretaries of the Con- 
ference, drew up a very simple plan for the organization of 
such a Board. This was approved by the meeting, which was 
fully attended by both ladies and gentlement, and was presented 
by Miss Mary F. Bailey, Secretary of the meeting, to the Con- 
ference, which adopted the plan and referred the nomination 
of the contemplated Board to its own regular Committee on 
Nominations. This plan, with some slight modifications as to 
the officering, has remained the working plan of the Board 



WOMAN S BOARD. 25 1 

in its relations to the Conference during the past twenty 
years. 

Since its organization the Woman's Board has been cour- 
teously and cordially recognized by similar bodies, and has been 
ably represented in International and World Conferences by 
such delegates as Miss Bailey, Dr. P. J. B. Wait, Mrs. George 
H. Babcock, and others. 

LOCATION. 

The Board was located for the first two years at Alfred, 
during which time, as stated in its first Report to Conference, 
1885, the effort made was pricipally to secure the co-operation 
of existing Ladies* Societies, the organization of such Societies 
in all churches where they did not already exist, and to make of 
these Societies strong radiating centers for the work of the 
Master in the home churches and outward throughout the 
denomination. The first Report showed a creditable amount 
of work accomplished and several new Societies organized. 
During the second year it became more apparent that the rul- 
ing spirit of the movement represented in the founding of the 
Board was Miss Bailey, of the Northwest ; that she was priv- 
ileged with rare opportunities for observing the workings of 
similar organizations in other denominations, and that her 
native abilities and force of character developing powerfully 
through this channel, were making of her the natural leader 
of our body of women. Accordingly, an urgent request was 
forwarded to the Conference at Milton that the Board might 
be located there, with Miss Bailey as Corresponding Secretary. 
This was done by the Nominating Committee, and for eighteen 
years Milton ladies have done the work of the Board; Miss 
Bailey filling the position of Corresponding Secretary with 
extraordinary ability until a few months before her death in 
the spring of 1893. 

RECORDER WORK. 

About the time of the removal to Milton the Tract Society 
was publishing that bright little paper. The Light of Home, 
and the Woman's Board procured for it large lists of names, 
and addressed them for mailing, relieving the Society of con- 
siderable expense and much routine work. Miss Bailey also 
became connected with it editorially, having charge of the 
Home Department. This little paper was discontinued after 



252 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS : 

a time, but during the spring of '88 a Department of Woman's 
Work was opened in the Sabbath Recorder, occupying about 
one page of that paper. This was very ably conducted by Miss 
Bailey, chiefly along missionary lines, her fertile pen furnish- 
ing most of the material for the page, and her own personal 
enthusiasm arousing general interest and zeal. After her death, 
the Board appointed as its editor of the page, Mrs. Rebecca 
Titsworth Rogers, who greatly endeared herself to our women 
by her gentle, loving fidelity. After seven years of faithful 
service, failing health compelled her to relinquish the work, in 
which, like her predecessor, notwithstanding its exactions, she 
had taken great pleasure. The Board was again fortunate in 
securing the present incumbent, Mrs. Henry M. Maxson, who, 
joining culture and refinement to a broad view-point, continues 
to hold firmly this silken cord that binds us more closely 
together and keeps Societies, isolated Sabbath-keeping women 
and all in touch with each other. 

MISSIONARY TO SHANGHAI. 

The pressing need upon the China field for a lady to have 
sole charge of the girl's school work appealed strongly to our 
women, and Miss Bailey opened correspondence upon the sub- 
ject with Miss Susie Burdick, of Alfred. Under date of Jan. 
21, 1888, Miss Burdick, then at Wellesley College, writes: "If 
it is the work for me I am sure that I shall do it gladly, joy- 
fully." In November of the same year she committed herself 
fully to that work. Carefully defined agreements had been 
made between the Woman's Board and the Missionary Board 
relative to their mutual relations and obligations in sending 
out missionaries, and in February, '89, the Missionary Board 
duly appointed Miss Burdick to the China field as teacher of 
the girl's school, the women of the denomination, through the 
Woman's Board, becoming responsible for her support. At 
the Annual Session of the Missionary Society at the Second 
Alfred Church, in August, '89, in a tender farewell service, 
Miss Burdick was consecrated to the foreign missionary work, 
leaving the home land for her field of labor in November of 
that year. Since then she has been the successful and beloved 
missionary of all our people, though we women claim her as 
belonging, in a very near and dear sense, to us. 



MRS. HARRrr:T E. (SAUNDERS) CLARKK. 
See Biographical Sbeti-hei, p. I36T, 



WOMAN S BOARD. 253 

FOREIGN AND HOME MISSION BOXES. 

Early in the history of the Board, regular systematized cor- 
respondence was taken up with our China missionaries. This 
led to the wish to do something practical in their work, and 
this to the sending of what was called the Christmas Box, 
including articles for the missionaries themselves, and such 
things as might be useful to them, for others, in the prosecu- 
tion of their work. Miss Sarah Velthuysen, of Haarlem, Hol- 
land, ha3 been remembered in the same way. Acknowledg- 
ment of the good cheer and practical help thus received natur- 
ally turned the eyes of our women toward the Home Mission 
fields, where occasional work of that kind had been done and 
where it would be equally as beneficent as upon the foreign 
field. Accordingly, boxes, or Christmas gifts of money, under 
the direction of the Board, have been sent to different points, 
by different Societies, changing about from year to year, and 
in the year 1890 aggregating in value on the home field over 
one thousand dollars. In carrying forward this work, mention 
should be made of the following ladies who have been especially 
helpful : Mrs. O. U. Whitford, Westerly, R. I. ; Mrs. I. A. 
Crandail, Leonardsville, N. Y. ; and Dr. P. J. B. Wait, New 
York City. 

THANK-OFFERING BOXFS. 

For ^vcral years, thank-offering boxes Avere distributed 
by the Board and used with much spiritual profit to the indi- 
vidual worker and also with material benefit to the treasury 
of the Board. They have gradually fallen into disuse since 
their novelty has worn away, but the box-openings held regu- 
larly in many Societies were occasions of special interest, and 
the rich experience gained in their use must have led to a more 
conscientious laying aside of means for the work of the Master. 

NATIVE HELPERS. 

Our women have always been deeply interested in the 
Medical Mission, at Shanghai, and contributed from the first 
to the support of Dr. Swinney. Her work increased upon her 
hands, until she was carrying a burden of labor almost super- 
human; and a request to send her a nurse for hospital work 
bore heavily upon all hearts. Under the urgency of this call 
Miss Rosa Palmborg was impelled to offer herself with the 



254 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS I 

understanding that she be given time to take the training neces- 
sary to fit herself for the position. She finally took a full course 
of medical study, and so qualified herself not only to be the 
helper of Dr. Swinney, but to take her place, which she is doing 
so nobly at the present time. The Woman's Board wished her 
to go out for them, but the Young People, through their Per- 
manent Committee, insisted that she be considered their charge 
and special representative on the foreign field, and our Board 
yielded. 

Early in '91, two native Chinese women of marked ability 
and experience gave themselves unreservedly to the help of 
Dr. Swinney. These were Lucy Tong and Mrs. Ng, the sister 
of Erlow. These two women had been accustomed to receive 
high wages as amahs, or nurses, in the families of foreigners. 
As helpers and Bible women, they wished to receive a compara- 
tively slight remuneration, that their influence with their coun- 
trywomen might not be lessened through the imputation of any 
mercenary motive. The payment of the salary of these two 
women has been joyfully met by the Woman's Board, year by 
year. Others now take the place of Mrs. Ng, who is incapac- 
itated for active service by ^partial paralysis. Living near Dr. 
Palmborg's new station, she is regarded by her as a dear 
friend and counsellor. 

EDUCATION FUND. 

The young women among our people who are clependent 
upon their own resources in obtaining an education are com- 
pelled to surmount greater difficulties than our young men, for 
reasons which are evident. The time required for a young 
woman to complete a course of study in either of our schools, 
when she must needs earn her own means, is so great as 
many times to discourage to the extent of the abandonment 
of the purpose. This is particularly true of the Northwest, 
where the location of the Board has given abundant occasion 
for observation. Four years ago, in 1897 and 1898, the Board 
asked for contributions to a fund for the assistance of such per- 
sons in paying tuition in each of our schools, and has continued 
this line of work since that time. 

The sums raised for this purpose have not been large, but 
by this means many most worthy young ladies have been ena- 
bled to begin and to remain in school who must otherwise 



WOMAN S BOARD. 255 

have been compelled to prolong indefinitely their school course, 
if not to drop out of it altogether. Pres. Whit ford, who was 
always on the alert for occasions to inspire, encourage and help 
students, told the writer that, during a certain recent term, 
sixteen young women in Milton College, some of them our 
very best students, and who must be helped in this way if they 
remained in school, were being assisted. We strongly com- 
mend this line of work to all our women. 

FINANCES OF THE BOARD. 

Despite the difficulty experienced from the beginning, of 
securing the entire co-operation of our Ladies' Societies, and 
the fact that personal gifts from many of our women are not 
made through our treasury, the financial showing of the Board 
for the twenty years of its existence has been, we are pro- 
foundly confident, far beyond what would have been done by 
our women without this organized agency. It has united our 
f6rces, directed in our planning and given a new and power- 
ful impetus to our efforts. For the first few years, while organ- 
ization was necessarily incomplete, estimates of value and 
actual money expended were not carefully kept distinct. 
Including these estimates, the amount raised by our women 
aggregates $53,877.45, while the amount of money passed 
through our treasury, beginning with the report in 1887, is 
$39,869.71. 

The general fund of our denominational societies has 
received regular unappropriated contributions, and many spe- 
cial sums have been raised, such as $1,000 to increase Dr. 
Swinney's dispensary facilities, the sum necessary for her 
return to the home land for rest, outfits for missionaries, a fund 
of over $1,100 to the teacher for the Boys' School, $1,000 
to diminish the debt of the Missionary Society, vari- 
ous amounts to send Recorders to lone Sabbath-keepers, 
the work for African women, and others which need not be 
mentioned, but which have touched the hearts and busied the 
hands of our women in cheerful acquiescence to repeated calls 
for increased giving. 

ASSOCIATION HOUR. 

At the sessions of the Associations in the spring of 1886, 
the interests of the Woman's Board were presented success- 



256 DENOMINATIONAL BOARDS: 

ively by Mrs. O. U. Whitford, in the Eastern ; Rev. Perie F. 
Randolph, in the Central; Mrs. Platts, in the Western; and 
in the North-Western was held a ** Deliberation on the Organ- 
ization of a Woman's Missionary Board," led by Miss Bailey. 
In the following spring presentations of efforts and aims were 
again made before these bodies, and these have continued, 
until the "Woman's Hour" is a recognized, legitimate part of 
each Association program, arranged for and presided over by 
the Associational Secretary. 

CONFERENCE SESSIONS. 

The first report of the Board to the Conference, 1885, was 
made as a part of the business of the evening of Wednesday. 
The Corresponding Secretary included in her own the Report 
of the Treasurer, only a very small sum of money having 
passed through her hands, the work of the Societies being 
almost entirely reported to the Board. Much had been accom- 
plished in the first year, and a most hopeful outlook was ex- 
pressed. The second report, in 1886, was made on the evening 
of the first day of Conference, and was accompanied by a pro- 
gram, in which Mrs. A. H. Lewis treated ably of "How the 
Woman's Board Can Aid in the Work of the Tract Society ;" 
and Mrs. O. U. Whitford, of "What Can the Woman's Board 
do for Missions?" On the adoption of the report. Dr. A. H. 
Lewis spoke, emphasizing the importance and possibilities of 
woman's work for the Master. So began the series of woman's 
sessions in the Conference, to which has been given the best 
thought of the ablest minds among our women, and which is 
anticipated by the lady delegates to Conference as a means of 
information, inspiration and encouragement in olr own spe- 
cial work. For several years, the evening after the Sabbath 
has been given to this department of the Conference. 

CONCLUSION. 

Such, in briefest outline, is the history of the Woman's 

Board. Of the unwritten history, the anxious planning, the 

painful solicitude, the earnest, united prayers of our body of 

women, secured through the use of the prayer-calendars, the 

glad fruition of hope long deferred, the looking forward to the 

oncoming future with unfaltering trust, who shall speak ? 

With unshaken faith in the purpose and ability of our 
(16) 



WOMAN S BOARD. 257 

women, born of the manifold experience of the past, we con- 
fidently leave the unfoldings of the future in their hands; 
believing that they will be directed and blessed by Him who is 
all-patient, all-loving and all-powerful. 

MANAGING OFFICERS OF THE BOARD. 

Presidents — Mrs. L. A. Hull, 2 years; Mrs. H. S. Clarke, 8 years; 
Mrs. O. U. Whitford, 2 years; Mrs. J. B. Morton, 3 years; Mrs. L. A. 
Platts, 3 years. 

Honorary President — Mrs. H. S. Clarke, 4 years. 

Corresponding Secretaries — Mrs. L. A. Platts, 2 years; Miss Mary 
F. Bailey, 6 years; Mrs. O. U. Whitford, i year; Mrs. Albert Whit- 
ford, 9 years. 

•Recording Secretaries — (Made a separate office in 1889) — Mrs. 
C. M. Bliss, 3 years; Mrs. E. M. Dunn, 5 years; Mrs. E. D: Bliss, 
5 years. 

Treasurers — Miss Susie M. Burdick, 2 years; Mrs. M. E. Post, 
I year; Mrs. Nellie G. Ingham, 6 years; Miss Elizabeth Steer, i year; 
Mrs. E. B. Saunders, i year; Mrs. George R. Ross, 5 years; Mrs. L. A. 
Platts, 2 years. 



THE YOUNG PEOPLE'S 
PERMANENT COMMITTEE. 



MISS AGNES BABCOCK. 
S« Bwg,rafbhal Sketches, p. 1361, 



THE YOUNG PEOPLE'S PERMANENT 

COMMITTEE. 



Agnes Babcock. 



Young people's work and young people themselves are 
now such prominent factors in the Christian church that we 
often lose sight of the fact that the conditions of twenty-five 
years ago were totally different from those of the present time. 
The last quarter of a century has witnessed the development 
of this branch of the church's work, and it has been in many 
ways a remarkable instance of the rapid growth, the enthusi- 
astic grasp after new methods, and the putting forward of 
younger men and women to places of responsibility, which 
characterizes the twentieth century in matters secular as well 
as sacred. And while the nfovement has not proved the 
unmixed blessing which the reading of mere statistics might 
indicate, — that it has marked a decided advance step as to 
methods in Christian work and has been a power for good, 
there can.be no question. 

In the early days the activities of the church were in the 
hands of men and women of mature years ; the ministers were 
the dignified and very often venerable counsellors and admon- 
ishers of the youth ; the pillars of the church were men and 
women of sober maturity ; and it was the voices of these which 



262 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

were heard in the prayer meeting — not those of the younger 
people. Later the Sabbath School was instituted for the spe- 
cific instruction and guidance of children and youth, but 
it is within a comparatively recent time that young people have 
taken active part in church work. Now the younger men are 
sought for the ministry, young men and women take the lead 
in church affairs, and the presence of young people in the 
prayer meeting is the rule, not the exception. 

The conservation and direction of the energies and enthus- 
iasm of the young people of the church was the unsolved 
problem which faced the pastors and leaders of two decades 
ago. Among our own people, the attempt at solution was made 
by a man who was known as a progressive leader, and who af- 
terwards proved himself, by his generous gifts to our educa- 
tional institutions, a true friend to young people — Mr. George 
H. Babcock. He worked out the idea of a young people's soci- 
ety which should be identified with church work, at the same 
time giving place for social enjoyment and literary activity. 
This society was called the Excel Band, and through his influ- 
ence was instituted in many of our churches about the year 
1881. It had a pledge, and in purpose if not method, was quite 
parallel to the Y. P. S. C. E., which began in the Congrega- 
tional church at about the same time. 

The beginning of the Y. P. S. C. E. was quite unpreten- 
tious, — the plan originating in the mind of a pastor who wished 
to find a channel for the enthusiasm of his young people. 
When, in February, 1881, the Rev. F. E. Clark put his idea for 
this purpose into effect by the organization of the first Y. P. 
S. C. E. in his church in Portland, Me., he was building better 
than he knew. The plan was one which appealed to those 
interested in the welfare of young people, as a practical solu- 
tion of the problem, and it was tried in other churches with 
decided success. From the local and experimental stage, the 
growth of the Christian Endeavor idea presents a well known, 
but, nevertheless, almost phenomenal, picture of the success 
of a movement which numbers its adherents by the millions, 
whose influence has been felt in nearly every religious denomi- 
nation and has extended around the world. 

It was in October, 1884, three years after the original 
society was organized, that the first Seventh-day Baptist Y. P. 



YOUNG people's PERMANENT COMMITTEE. 263 

S. C. E. was formed in Westerly; this was followed by Water- 
ford, Ashaway, West Hallock, and Alfred, within the year, 
so that the close of 1885 found us with five societies having 
219 members. 

Meanwhile, the Y. P. S. C. E. had been extending in 
other denominations, and the United Society had been formed, 
so that, although originating in a Congregational church, it 
was not looked upon as belonging to that denomination exclus- 
ively, but all churches felt free to adopt the plan, the methods 
being quite general in their application. Among our own 
churches, the Excel Band, previously mentioned, had been 
filling the need which the Y. P. S. C. E. met, and many 
churches not having the Exel Band had held prayer-meetings 
for young people, so that the transition to the Y. P. S. C. E. 
was not an abrupt one. For two or three years several 
churches maintained both the Y. P. S. C. E. and the Excel 
Band, but the latter soon gave way, as the Y. P. S. C. E. 
grew in popularity and as the merit of its methods came to 
be recognized. 

It is interesting to notice that while the churches of the 
East were the first to adopt the Christian Endeavor idea, its 
growth in the earlier years was most rapid in the Northwest, 
from 1886 to 1888 nine Societies having been formed in that 
Association. 

Considering the denomination as a whole, the greatest 
growth was from 1887 to 1894, when, on the average, six Soci- 
eties were organized each year. During this time the number 
increased from 11 to 55, and the total membership from 
494 to 2,619, ^h^s marking its highest point, according to not 
always reliable reports. 

In 189 1 the first Junior Society was formed at North Loup, 
Neb. The following year saw the Juniors established at Milton, 
Ashaway and Alfred. From that time the growth has been 
steady, until now there are reix)rted 35 Societies, Junior and 
Intermediate, having a membership of 813. The Junior work 
has been largely systematized and strengthened since the addi- 
tion to the Permanent Committee of a General Superintendent 
of Junior Work, Mrs. Henry M. Maxson having been 
appointed to that office in 1900. 



264 SEVENTH-DAY DAPTISTS : 

As to the present distribution of the Young People's Soci- 
eties, the Xorth-West has the largest number of Senior Socie- 
ties, 15, with next to the highest average membership, 49; 
the average membership of the Socities of the Western Associ- 
ation being 50. The North-West also has more Junior Socie- 
ties than any other Association, the number being 13. The 
activity of the young people of this section is attested not alone 
by these figures, but by the reports of the work of their Socie- 
ties. 

In the South-Eastern Association the young pepple have 
been especially active, and, since the formation of the first Sev- 
enth-day Baptist Christian Endeavor Society in that section in 
1889, ^hey have appreciated the help and impetus of organiza- 
tion. The Salem Society has been prominently identified with 
the state work and was instrumental in fonTiing the West Vir- 
ginia State Union. Upon its invitation, the Y. P. S. C. E.'s 
of all denominations met with the Salem Society when the 
state organization was perfected in 189 1. 

The Rhode Island Societies have also been prominent in 
the State Christian Endeavor work, at one time the Ashaway 
Society being the largest in the state. In 1895, ^he Rev. W. C. 
Daland, who was pastor of the Westerly church at the time, 
was President of the Rhode Island State Union. 

The Milton Societv, with the other Societies of Southern 
\Visconsin, has been prominent in district union work; the 
Alfred, Westerly and Plainfield Societies have figured largely 
in the Christian Endeavor work in their localities. In fact, 
all our Societies have co-operated in local union, district and 
state Christian Endeavor aflfairs, and have worked side by side 
with the Endeavorers of other denominations in making these 
organizations successful. 

The International Convention of 1892, held in New York, 
was especially marked for us by the large number of Seventh- 
day Baptists in attendance, and the Seventh-day Baptist Rally, 
held in Plainfield. Meetings of the diflferent denominations, 
which later became a feature of the International Conventions, 
were first held on an extensive scale at this time, and that 
of the Seventh-day Baptists was held at Plainfield. Upon the 
invitation of that Society, all of the Seventh-day Baptists in 
attendance at the Convention spent the Sabbath at Plainfield, 



REV. MORDF.CAI BARTLEY KELLY, JR. 
See Biographical Skelchcs. p. I36L 



YOUNG people's PERMANENT COMMITTEE. 265 

where a most inspiring rally was held, addressed by our most 
prominent Christian Endeavor workers. This was the most 
enjoyable feature of the great Convention to those who were 
present, and was a source of courage and inspiration in Chris- 
tian Endeavor work for our denomination. 

Following the New York Convention there was an inter- 
esting correspondence between Dr. A. H. Lewis and the officers 
of the United Society, growing out of the fact that our Chris- 
tian Endeavor Societies were not recognized in the official pro- 
gram by a place on the roll of denominations. Dr. Lewis called 
the attention of Dr. Clark, the President of the United Society, 
to this, and the subsequent correspondence developed the fact 
that the omission was intentional. An official letter from the 
General Secretary stated that, while the United Society wel- 
comed the. Seventh-day Baptist Christian Endeavor Societies, 
it could not consistently grant them recognition, officially, in 
conventions, nor give them representation on the Board of 
Trustees, stating as reasons for such decisions that we had 
refused to sign petitions for the Sunday closing of the World^s 
Fair, and that our position on the question of the Sabbath was 
directly opposed to that of the United Society in its efforts to 
promote better Sunday-observance. This statement from an 
official source in the Christian Endeavor Society, for a time, 
threatened to antagonize many of our young people, but, upon 
mature thought, considering the fact that the United Society 
had refused us as a denomination that for which we had never 
asked; and, feeling secure as to the points in question, those 
who had the matter in hand dropped it, and the affair was 
ended. Since then the Christian Endeavor rnovement has had 
as loyal support, locally, among Seventh-day Baptists as before, 
and the Society has held its place as the recognized form of 
organization for young people throughout the denomination. 

The influence of the Christian Endeavor movement in 
developing the interest of young people in church and denom- 
inational affairs was felt even before the organization of Socie- 
ties became general among our churches, and it was largely 
in deference to this recognized tendency that the General Con- 
ference changed the date of holding its session from Septem- 
ber to August, in order not to conflict with the school year. 
The first Conference in August was held in Leonardsville in 



266 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

1888, and the attendance of young people was marked. Since 
that time there has been an increasing interest in denomina- 
tional work upon the part of the young people, shown by their 
presence at Conference and their participation in its exer- 
cises. 

At the Conference of 1888, a committee was appointed to 
consider the matter of denominational organization of the 
young people, which should tend to strengthen their interest 
and make united action in denominational work possible. 
Among those who urged this action were B. C. Davis, L. C. 
Randolph and Miss Susie Burdick, prominent Christian 
Endeavor workers. The following year, 1889, this committee, 
whose chairman was Dr. A. E. Main, presented to the Con- 
ference a report which recommended the appointment 
of a permanent committee of young people, which 
should consist of three members, located near each other 
as the executive officers, and Associational members represent- 
ing the different sections. This committee, besides seeking to 
promote general Christian culture among our young people, 
was to endeavor to promote united action in lines with our 
various denominational enterprises. In accordance with the 
recommendation, the Conference appointed the first Permanent 
Committee, locating it in Leonardsville, N. Y., with W. C. 
Daland, President; Agnes Babcock, Secretary; W. C. Whit- 
ford, Treasurer. 

The work of the committee at the beginning w^as, to a 
great extent, tentative and experimental, as the ground was 
new; but the interest of the young people in denominational 
matters was strengthened, and they were soon prepared to 
unite their efforts in enterprises which were afterwards suc- 
cessfullv carried on. 

In 1891, the Permanent Committee pledged the support 
of Rev. J. L. Huffman, who was employed b}- the ^lissionary 
Board, as a missionary evangelist. He gave special attention, 
in connection with his work, to the young people and organized 
a number of Christian Endeavor Societies in the one and one- 
half years that he was thus engaged. 

In 1892, the Tract Depository work in New York and 
Chicago received the particular efforts of the young people, 
through the Permanent Committee, both in contributions and 



YOUNG people's PERMANENT COMMITTEE. 267 

in the work of securing mailing lists and in the distribution of 
Sabbath literature. 

In 1893, the Student Evangelistic Movement claimed their 
attention, and in 1895, one-half of the salary of Dr. Rosa Palm- 
borg, Medical Missionary to China, was pledged. 

These are the distinctive lines of work in which the Perma- 
nent Committee has lead our young people during the past thir- 
teen years. These alone would have justified its existence; 
but not less important have been its constant efforts to increase 
the contributions of the young people to the general benevolent 
work of the denomination, to keep them informed as to all 
lines of work and the resulting growth of unity and denomina- 
tional spirit among the young people. 

The funds reported by the Treasurer of the Permanent 
Committee are to a certain extent an index of the work accom- 
plished. Beginning with $148.64 the first year, the amounts 
rapidly increased, until in 1897, there was reported $1,211.46 
passing through his hands. This does not represent the total 
amounts raised by the Youiijg People's Societies, as all does 
not go through the Permanent Committee treasury. For the 
last ten years the reports show a total average of $1,737.16 
paid out each year by all our young people's societies. 

The funds have been used bv different Societies in car- 
rying on special work in addition to that supported by the 
Permanent Committee. Individual Societies have taken up the 
various lines of denominational enterprise; the Gold Coast 
Mission, Sabbath Evangelizing and Industrial Association, 
Student Evangelist Work, Mizpah Mission for Sailors, have 
all received special contributions at different times. The 
Societies also contribute to local work; one Society clothes 
and educates a girl at Alfred; another helps support a Bible 
woman in Holland; another publishes a little paper in the 
interests of Christian Endeavor; another starts a building fund, 
and has the satisfaction of seeing a church building completed, 
largely through its efforts. 

The local work which has had the greatest development 
and which should receive special mention is that of the Socie- 
ties having their center at Milton. In 1889, the Local Union 
of Seventh-day Baptist Christian Endeavor Societies of South- 
ern Wisconsin appointed a committee to assist in organizing 



268 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Y. P. S. C. E.'s, and to do work in needy churches. This com- 
mittee did excellent work along this line, helped to re-establish 
at least one church, and gave very welcome assistance to other 
weak ones. The Union paid the traveling expenses of L. C. 
Randolph and E. B. Saunders in carrying out this work. 
Growing out of these efforts and under the patronage of a 
friend of young people, Mr. I. J. Ordway, in the summer of 
1892, six young men, students at Morgan Park Seminary, went 
out to spend their vacation in evangelistic work. They were 
L. C. Randolph, G. B. Shaw, T. J. Van Horn, F. E. Peterson, 
D. B. Coon and W. D. Burdick. Their work was so successful 
that the following year three quartets were sent out from Mil- 
ton. This work was then taken up by the Missionary Board, 
and from it their evangelistic work has been largely extended. 
In 1900, nine quartets, representing Alfred, Milton and Salem, 
spent the summer vacation in the field. 

As the Student Evangelistic Work is the direct product 
of the Christian Endeavor, it can also claim workers in other 
lines. Alfred has sent out three missionaries from its ranks: 
Susie Burdick to China, Peter Velthuysen to Africa, Jay Crofoot 
to China; Hannah Larkin Crofoot, his wife, while a member of 
the Alfred Society at the time of their departure, had been an 
active worker in the New Market Christian Endeavor ; Plain- 
field gave Jacob Bakker to East Africa, and Milton, Dr. Rosa 
Palmborg to China. These fellow-workers, who received their 
training in Christian work in part in the Christian Endeavor, 
have bravely devoted their lives to the Master's service. The 
grave of the one who gave up his life for the colored people 
whom he had come to love, as well as the lives of the others, 
speak of the power of united service and the influence of 
association in developing the spirit which is ready to give 
the best of life and talents in the service of others. 



THE SABBATH SCHOOL 

BOARD. 



REV. IRA LEF, COTTRFXU 
See Biogta/ihical SkeUhes, p. 136l> 



THE SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 



Rev. Ira Lee Cottrell. 



Dr. Trumbull in his Yale lectures on the Sunday-school 
says, "It was in the city of Gloucester, England, on July i, 
1780, that Robert Raikes, the editor and proprietor of the 
Gloucester Journal, who had already interested himself in phil- 
anthropic efforts at prison reform, gathered the poor children 
of a manufacturing quarter of that city, into the rooms of a 
private house of the neighborhood, for their Sunday instruc- 
tion in reading and in the elementary truths of religion * * 
and this was the beginning of the modem Sunday-school move- 
ment. This was the revival under new auspices, of the di- 
vinely appointed Church Bible School. This was the starting 
point of a new period of life and hope to the Church of Christ, 
and through the church to the world." 

It is especially interesting to us to know that a Seventh-day 
Baptist Sabbath school was organized about 1740, forty years 
before Robert Raikes' Sunday-school. This Sabbath school 
was organized at Ephrata, Pa., by Ludwig Hocker among the 
Seventh-day Baptist Germans, and continued until 1777, when 
their room with others was given up for hospital purposes, 
after the battle of Brandywine. and the school was never af- 
terwards re-organized. For the encouragement of girls and 
lady helpers in Sabbath school work, I wish to quote from Mr. 



2^2 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Julius F. Sachse's book, "The German Sectarians of Pennsyl- 
vania." "All traditions, however, appear to agree that Brother 
Obed (Ludwig Hocker) was seconded in his efforts by his 
daughter, Maria (Sister Petronella), who is described as a 
lovely and beautiful girl, not only comely in form, but love- 
ly and beautiful in her Christian character, as ardent and ac- 
tive in the Sabbath school as she was in every Christian virtue. 
Maria Hocker was undoubtedly the first female Sabbath school 
teacher of whom we have any record. Another thing which 
makes it evident that the Seventh-day Baptists were among the 
first promoters of Bible school work, is a catechism published 
in 1761, twenty years after this first Sabbath school in modern 
times, of which we have any record, and nearly twenty years 
before Robert Raikes called together his memorable Sunday- 
school. A manuscript copy of this book is now in the Alfred 
University library ; made by Elder W. B. Gillette, in 1849, from 
the only copy then known, which was found in New Bruns- 
wick, N. J., in the possession of some of the descendants of 
Mr. Dunham, and they permitted Elder Gillette to take and 
transcribe it, which act he dates. New Market, February i, 
1849. This catechism is entitled, ''A Brief Instruction in The 
Principles of the Christiait Religion, by. way of questions and 
answers, for the general use of all persons both young and old, 
by Rev. Jonathan Dunham," "Train up a child in the way he 
should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it." 
Woodbridge. Printed by James Parker, 1761. There are one 
hundred and sixteeh questions and as many answers. 

CONFERENCE QUESTION BOOK. 

In the minutes of the Seventh-day Baptist Conference for 
1836, held at Alfred, N. Y., September 7-9, one item of the 
report of the "Committee on Publications" reads as follows: 
*'We recommend the appointment of a committee of three to 
compile a volume of questions of convenient size, embracing 
the prominent historical facts, doctrines and duties, contained 
in the New Testament for the use of Sabbath schools and Bible 
classes in our connection. The recommendation was adopted." 
Elders A. Campbell, W. B. Maxson and John Davis were ap- 
pointed the committee to compile said volume, and it was vot- 
ed that their remuneration shall be received from sale of the 
(17) 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 273 

book, and whatever that may fall short be made good by Con- 
ference at its next session. This is a small book of 206 pages, 
mostly simple questions on the facts of the four gospels, and 
Acts of the Apostles. One or more questions are asked on 
nearly every verse of a given chapter, and numbered by the 
chapter and verse, so that any ordinary child could find the 
answer in the chapter and verse corresponding thereto. A few 
questions are found with answers, and but a few. These are 
usually about persons, places, dates, etc., not found in the text 
of the Bible or in other portions from the one under consid- 
eration. 

This "Series of Questions on the Historical Parts of the 
New Testament," etc., may have been a helpful stepping-stone 
in Sabbath school teaching, but would seem to possess no great 
merit for our present times, except to show the development of 
Sabbath school teaching. The questions are similar to those 
on the lessons in our ordinary Bible School Quarterlies. It 
seems to have come into very general use by the denomina- 
tion. A copy of this book also may be found in Alfred Uni- 
versity Library. 

SABBATH SCHOOL INSTITUTE ORGANIZATIONS. 

It seems that there were in the sixties, and up to 1873 
separate organizations of Sabbath schools for promoting their 
interests, by conducting normal classes, and doing institute 
work, but as these were not connected with the associations 
and so far as we know, the minutes of these institutes are not 
preserved, our knowledge of them is incidental, and from recol- 
lections of persons who knew something of *their work. There 
are reports of the annual meetings of the Sabbath School In- 
stitute in the bounds of the Western Association, in the files 
of the Sabbath Recorder of 1867 and some later years. In the 
minutes of Conference for September, 1873, the Sabbath 
School Board in making its first report says: *The Sabbath 
School Institute of the Western Association took measures at 
its last annual association in August, for transferring the work 
of the institute to the Western Association, thus placing the 
Sabbath school work on the bosom of the church where it be- 
longs." This appears to have been done at the next session 
of the Western Association in June, 1874. The same report, 
speaking of the Eastern Association, has the following : "From 



274 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

the reports sent us by this association, it appears that the sepa- 
rate organization which has hitherto had in charge the Sabbath 
school interests of the Association, has this year given place 
to a Sabbath School Board appointed by that body. Some 
very interesting institute exercises were held in connection 
with the meeting of the association in Plainfield, during the 
first week in June (1873), at which time the change referred 
to was made. Speaking of that meeting the report says : The 
spirit that pervaded what was said and done, indicates a grow- 
ing appreciation of the importance of Sabbath school work. 
One most prominent thought was — that the membership of our 
churches is taking a more active part in Sabbath school inter- 
ests. This is healthful, for the Sabbath school is not distinct 
from, but vitally connected with the church itself.' *' The 
Southeastern Association had no special Sabbath school or- 
ganization, but the work from the beginning was recognized 
as part of the associational work, and "Sabbath school teachers' 
institutes were held with very encouraging results." 

The Central Association had a Sabbath School Executive 
Board, centrally located. In 1873 the Sabbath School Board 
of the Northwestern Association was represented as "doing a 
vigorous work," holding two or three institutes or conventions 
each year. Good work was evidently accomplished by these 
special organizations or through the different associations or 
their boards, which aroused and quickened the Sabbath school 
interest, years before the organization of the Sabbath School 
Board of the General Conference. 

THE SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD OF CONFERENCE. 

At the Conference at Little Genesee, 1870, O. D. Sher- 
man presented a preamble and resolutions in which reference 
was made to the "Sabbath school as a most efficient mpans of 
developing Christian growth and culture, especially in thfe 
hearts and minds of the young, thus sustaining and building 
up our churches," and favored the formation of a Sabbath 
school department of the General Conference. This resolu- 
tion specified the duties of said department and the form of an 
organization similar to our present Sabbath School Board. 
The vote on the resolution was taken by churches. There 
were 57 churches represented; thirty-eight votes, or two- 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 275 

thirds of the churches present, were required for adoption. 
Thirty-four churches voted for it, twenty against it, and three 
did not vote, so the matter was defeated for the time, but two 
years later substantially the same resolution was adopted by 
the General Conference in session at Southampton (West 
Hallock), 111., and the following named persons were elected 
the first Sabbath School Board in 1872: President, D. E. 
INIaxson ; Vice-Presidents, C. Potter, Jr., C. H. Maxson, O. D. 
Sherman, O. U. Whitford, C. A. Burdick; Treasurer, I. D. 
Titsworth; Corresponding Secretary, L. A. Platts. 

The first annual report in 1873 showed that the secretary 
had conducted institutes, visited superintendents, teachers and 
other Sunday-school workers, and advocated the importance 
of normal classes "for the better qualification of teachers for 
the duties of their high calling." Since then the general Sab- 
bath school work of the denomination has largely been super- 
intended by this board. 

THE SABBATH SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS. 

(See Jubilee Papers for first three publications.) 

The Sabbath School Visitor. The Board of the Seventh- 
day Baptist Publishing Society began the publication of The 
Sabbath School Visitor in January, 1851, with George B. Utter 
as editor. In the following September it had reached a cir- 
culation of 1,500, a self -sustaining basis. It was under the edi- 
torial management of Mr. Utter until the close of the seventh 
\olume, December, 1857, and then came under the supervision 
of the editorial committee of the Publishing Board until the 
close of the tenth volume, December, i860, when it was dis- 
continued. 

The Sabbath School Paper, This paper was edited and 
published by George B. Utter, Westerly, R. I., in 1863 and 
1864. 

The Sabbath School Gem. Rev. J. E. N. Backus, assisted 
by his efficient wife, edited and published The Sabbath School 
Gem, at DeRuyter, Port Leyden and Scott, N. Y., and Albion, 
Wis., in 1861-62, then 1868-74. It won favor. Its receipts 
paid cash expenses, and from time to time it was endorsed by 
the Conference. 

The Sabbath School Journal. The Sabbath School Board 



276 . SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

■ 

at its first report recommended the publishing of a monthl> 
Sabbath school journal for the use of superintendents, teach- 
ers and advanced pupils in the study of the International les- 
-sons. As an experimental test they issued at their own ex- 
pense a specimen number of the proposed journal, embracing 
lessons for October, 1873. Denominational interests and doc- 
trines, and Sabbath school work w-ere to be presented by this 
means to our Sabbath schools. Samples of this journal were 
placed before the Conference for inspection and the recom- 
mendation was adopted. The Board accordingly commenced 
the publication of the Sabbath School Journal for teachers, and 
the lesson leaves for pupils, January, 1874. Rev. D. E. Max- 
son, D. D., and Rev. L. A. Platts were appointed editing com- 
mittee, and the latter was also appointed publishing agent. At 
the end of two months Brother Maxson was obliged to give 
up all labor on account of ill health, after which the work fell 
entirely on Brother Platts. The lessons were prepared for 
one month at a time, mostly by different individuals. The 
Journal and Lesson Papers were used by nearly every school 
in the denomination. Seven hundred Journals and 4,500 Les- 
son Papers were used monthly. Six hundred and twenty-five 
copies of the Journal were taken at the regular price of $1.25, 
while the Lesson Papers were free. The income w^as consid- 
erablv less than the cost of the Journals and left a deficiencv 
of $165 after the first year. The Sabbath School Journal wsls 
discontinued on the completion of the first volume. It was 
a periodical of merit and strength, but the field was too limited 
to sustain it. 

The Bible Scholar. (We are largely indebted to Brother 
O. D. Shemian for the following) : 

For several years prior to 1877 much had been said and 
\vritten and expressed in resolutions at associations, of the 
need of a denominational Sabbath school paper. To meet this 
demand the Executive Board of the Sabbath Tract Society 
agreed that they would publish such a paper at cost, provid- 
ing they were guaranteed against loss and the editing should 
be provided for outside the society. In response to this offer 
the following named brethren at Alfred accepted the proposi- 
tion of the Tract Board on the conditions stated : O. D. Sher- 



REV. GEORGE BLY SHAW. 
Ste Biographical Sketchei, p. 1361. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. • 277 

man, David R. Stillman, X. V. Hull, A. H. Lewis, A. B. Ken- 
\on, B. F. Langworthy, J. G. Burdick, T. R. Williams, H. C. 
Coon, John M. Mosher, A. C. Burdick, I. L. Cottrell, L. M. 
Cottrell. 

A notice was issued in The Recorder of Alay 31, 1877, 
that such a paper would be published when a subscription list 
of 1,500 was assured, and Rev. O. D. Sherman was invited to 
be the editor and David R. Stillman financial agent. Append- 
ed to this was an appeal, and a statement of what was pro- 
posed, that the paper should be a quarto 8x10 inches, issued 
monthly, and if the patronage would warrant it would be illus- 
trated, and the price would be 25 cents a copy. 

The Recorder of July 12 announced that subscriptions 
and pledges amounted to 1,276 copies, and the issue of July 
26, that the paper would surely be published, commencing with 
the August number. It was called The Bible Scholar, 

After the first year the paper was enlarged to 10x12 inches, 
so that larger type and more cuts could be used. This consid- 
erably increased the cost of the paper without increasing the 
patronage. This and the removal of the editor from Alfred, 
and a seeming decline of interest in the paper on the part of 
the denomination finally led to its discontinuance after com- 
pleting the second year. It had reached a circulation of 1,600, 
and the income paid or nearly paid expenses. 

OUR SABBATH VISITOR. 

The Bible Scholar had been discontinued in 1879, and 
many felt that the demand of the 6,000 children in our Sab- 
bath schools for a paper should be supplied, and that it should 
be one in which the Bible truths should be taught, unadulter- 
ated with poisonous errors and false teachings of those **who 
teach for doctrine the commandments of men" (Mark 7\ 7)- 
At the General Conference in 1880, the Tract Society instruct- 
ed its board to publish a weekly Sabbath school paper. Soon 
after Conference the Tract Board invited the Sabbath School 
Board to edit the same, but the Sabbath School Board located 
in the East, felt it would be impossible to edit satisfactorily a 
weekly paper, published so far away as Alfred Center. The 
Tract Board finally consented to the publication of the paper 
in New York, but were unwilling that a paper printed as job 



278 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

work should bear the imprint of the Publishing House of the 
Tract Society, although they offered to contribute $*^oo a year 
to its support. The Sabbath School Board, fearing that the 
paper thus published would appear as hostile to the denomina- 
tional publishing house, thought best to submit the matter to 
the decision of the Conference of 1881. 

Thus another year had passed without a Sabbath school pa- 
per. The interest throughout the denomination was focal- 
ized and stimulated even by these vain attempts and bore fruit 
at this Conference. The hearts of Brother Edwin S. Bliss 
and his wife had been touched, and they were led to make a 
very generous offer toward the establishment of such a paper. 

At this Conference the writer was authorized by Mr. and 
Mrs. Bliss to offer the proceeds of certain oil lands near Rich- 
burg, Xew York, for the establishment of a fund for the sup- 
port of a weekly Sabbath school paper. In the course of a 
few years this fund amounted to about $12,000. This liberal 
offer of Brother and Sister Bliss was thankfully accepted by 
the Conference, and the paper, ''Our Sabbath Visitor/' an il- 
lustrated w^eekly, was first issued March 2, 1882, under the 
auspices of the Sabbath School Board. Mr. George H. Bab- 
cock was chosen editor and Miss E. Lua Clarke, assistant. It 
was published in New York at 60 cents a single copy; ten 
copies to one address, each 50 cents. !Mr. Babcock and Miss 
Clarke edited the paper one year, and though earnestly re- 
' quested to continue in that capacity, resigned the editorship 
and at their suggestion Miss Flora Randolph, of Plainfield, 
was engaged to fill the position for the second year. But the 
expenses of the beautiful and excellent paper were much more 
than the subscription. The first two years $3,814.78 of the 
bequest was consumed. At the session of Conference for 1884 
a special committee appointed to consider the matter, suggested 
that since the annual expense of publishing Our Sabbath J Visi- 
tor at the present prospects would be about $750 above the 
income from the permanent fund and the subscriptions, if 
Brother Bliss w^ould give his consent to the use of the perma- 
nent fund for sustaining a paper issued once in two weeks in- 
stead of a weekly, until such time as the fund may become suf- 
ficient to support a weekly, such a paper could be supplied, with 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. IJi) 

the present circulation, and made self-supporting at the sub- 
scription price of 35 cents per annum. This report was adopt- 
ed by the Conference, but Brother and Sister Bliss wished it 
to remain a weekly. Later in the session it was voted that we 
request the Sabbath School Board to consult with the Tract 
Board, and if found practicable, to transfer to them our Sab- 
bath school publishing interests. The' Tract Board did not 
see their way clear to accept the offer, and thus the Sabbath 
School Board came to the Conference of 1885. It was then 
decided to accept an offer of Mr. and Mrs. Bliss which was 
made with the condition that it w^ould nullify their first offer 
and be substituted in its place, by which arrangement they 
were to continue the publication of Our Sabbath Jlsitor un- 
der the editorial management of the Sabbth School Board and 
pay all expenses of the same under conditions and specifica- 
tions that may be found in full in minutes of General Confer- 
ence of 1885. At this time the Board announced the resigna- 
tion of Miss Flora Randolph to take effect September 27. Miss- 
Randolph's services had been very acceptable. Mrs. L. T. 
Stanton, of Shiloh, N. J., was invited to take the editorship 
of the Visitor and wis assisted by Miss Anna S. Davis, of 
Shiloh, and the paper was published at Alfred, N. Y. They 
were succeeded by Miss Edna A. Bliss and she in turn by Miss 
Laura Randolph, all of whom did good and acceptable work. 
The latter continued her services until the paper was trans- 
ferred to the Sabbath School Board under the presidency of 
George B. Shaw, February, 1902, and published at the office 
of the Tract Society in Plainfield, X. J., with Miss Ernestine 
C. Smith as editor and Mrs. Henry ^^. Maxson consulting edi- 
tor. It is now an eight-page illustrated weekly with primary 
lessons and a Junior Christian Endeavor column. The trans- 
fer of the paper was made by the payment of $500 to Mr. 
Bliss for the good will, subscription list and the cuts. 

There are few of our schools in which The Sabbath J'isi- 
tor is not taken and read. 

LESSON LEAVES AND LESSONS IN SABBATH RECORDER. 

The lesson leaves for scholars were issued monthly by 
the Sabbath School Board in connection with the Sabbath 
School Journal, and were furnished to schools free. As many 



28o SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

as 4,500 copies were published the first year. The second year, 
1875, they were published by the Tract Board at 75 cents per 
hundred. The Sabbath School Journal being discontinued at the 
end of 1874, the lessons were published in the Sabbath Re- 
corder, edited in 1875 by C. A. Burdick, A, E. Main, S. R. 
Wheeler and L. E. Livermore. Since that time different ones 
have assisted in editing the lessons. For a time in 1879 and 
'80, the Sabbath School Board decided to omit the Scripture 
lessons from the leaf, giving only the reference and a few of 
the questions, and in place of giving brief notes, references and 
helps, intended to make the leaf more valuable. This change 
proved too radical for general acceptance, and w-as discontin- 
ued. It would seem that the lesson leaves w-ere discontinued 
in 1884, upon the appearance of The Helping Hand, while the 
lessons have been continued in the Sabbath Recorder to the 
present time, taken from Helping Hand. 

THE HELPING HAND. 

The report of the Tract Board for 1885 has the following: 
"For some years there has been a growing feeling on the part 
of the Sabbath school workers, that the lesson leaves were 
an insufficient means of inducing study of the lessons, and a 
demand has been created for something more useful. Elder 
A. E. Main having offered to conduct a quarterly devoted to 
the Sabbath school lessons and aids to study, it was decided at 
the beginning of the year to publish such a periodical in place 
of lesson leaves. Three numbers of The Helping Hand have 
been published. It was well received by the Sabbath schools, 
some 1,700 copies being taken at 25 cents a year per copy. This 
will leave a balance of $5 or $6 profit over actual charges." 
The first issue was for the quarter beginning January i, 1885. 
After the first year, owing to the sickness of Brother Main, 
the charge of this publication devolved on Brother L. A. 
Platts, editor of the Sabbath Recorder, and different ones were 
asked to help in preparing notes on the lessons. By request 
of the Tract Board the Sabbath School Board took the edito- 
rial charge, probably commencing with the first quarter of 
1895, and the former method of soliciting different ones to as- 
sist w^as continued until 1898, when the services of Rev. W. C 
Whitford, of Alfred, were secured to edit the comments on the 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 281 

lessons which he has continued to do very satisfactorily to the 
present time. The Helping Hand has been appreciated and 
generally accepted by our people. The Tract Society in its 
leport for 1901 says, "This quarterly has been published as 
usual with an average issue of 2,856 numbers, at a cost of 
$551.96, with receipts amounting to $576.26, leaving a credit 
balance of $24.30. More than 3,000 copies are now being is- 
sued. Primary notes on the lessons were published in The 
Helping Hand for a short time and then discontinued. 

THE INTERMEDIATE LESSON LEAVES. 

Under the auspices of the Sabbath School Board during 
the year 1900, the Tract Society published an intermediate les- 
son leaf, which reached a circulation of 846 copies. It was dis- 
continued after the first year for want of support. 

THE EXCEL BAND. 

The report of the Sabbath School Board for 1881 says: 
"During the past winter the President of the Board (George 
H. Babcock) brought out a neat device combining a pledge, 
mottoes, monogram and certificate of membership for an or- 
ganization within the Sabbath schools designed to enlist all 
the children, old and young, in works of temperance, kindness, 
love and personal purity. A copy of the certificate and state- 
ment of the plan were sent to all known superintendents and 
pastors for examination and action, if the plan met with favor. 
Thus far only ten organizations of Excel Bands have been 
formed." We have no means of knowing how many were 
organized in all. The wTiter was connected with two that con- 
tinued for some years. They gradually gave way to the young 
and vigorous Christian Endeavor Society. The Excel Band 
probably preceded by a few months the Christian Endeavor, 
but like the Sabbath school of Ludwig Hocker, as compared 
to the Sundav-school of Robert Raikes, it did not have so 
strong support, and probably was not so thoroughly organized. 

IN CONCLUSION. 

( I ) We have attempted not only to give this general his- 
tory of Sabbath school work, but to gatlier a history of the 
separate schools. This proved to be too voluminous to be 
printed in this volume, but typewritten copies including this 
history of the general work, together with the individual 



282 SEVENTII-DAY BAPTISTS: 

schools SO far as we have succeeded in getting them, are placed 
in the libraries of Alfred University and Milton and Salem 
Colleges for reference. Many of these individual school his- 
tories have been contributed entirely or in part from the mem- 
ory of aged people, where the records had not been kept or have 
since been lost. These histories contain much valuable mat- 
ter that otherwise must have perished with this rapidly disap- 
pearing generation. 

(2) We wish to urge upon the attention of our Sab- 
bath schools the need of having all the acts of the scholars, 
together with items of school interest carefully recorded and 
preserved, as matters that will be of great value to succeeding 
generations. .It has been impossible to find any reliable ac- 
counts of the beginnings of some of our important schools. 
We suggest that competent and faithful secretaries be select- 
ed to hold the office as permanently as possible. 

(3) The following are a few condensed statements re- 
garding our schools: 

From the best obtainable evidence some of our schools 
were organized in the second decade of the last century. 
There was evidently a widespread interest in Sabbath school 
work, which increased and intensified until the last quarter, 
and formed one of the great religious movements of the 
Christian era. 

(4) We have been assisted in this work by those who 
have kindly prepared the original school histories, which have 
sometimes been condensed or added to ; to bring them into some 
degree of uniformity. The Vice-Presidents of the different 
associations: Moses H. Van Horn, of Salem, W. Va. ; Rev. 
Lucias R. Swinney, DeRuyter, N. Y. ; Rev. Herman D. Clarke, 
Dodge Centre, Minn., and Miss Elizabeth Fisher, of Fouke, 
Arkansas, have solicited and gathered histories from the 
schools of their respective associations, while Mrs. H. M. Max- 
son, of Plainfield, N. J., has also re-edited the reports from 
the Eastern Association, and others in various ways have con- 
tributed their assistance toward the w^ork. 

(5) The Bible school has often been the foundation of 
the church : it should always be its nursery, its strength. 

(6) Read the Conference minutes and see how the 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 283 

late George H. Babcock, in his report for the Sabbath School 
Board in 1878 and 1886 claimed that revivals followed in the 
associations where the sessions of the General Conference 
were held, showing the influence of Conference especially on 
our youth. 

(7) The greatest lesson perhaps of all is the grand op- 
portunity given Sabbath school officers And teachers of teach- 
ing God*s living word and impressing the souls of thousands 
of Sabbath school scholars, largely our young people as they 
come weekly before them in our Bible schools. 

I. L. COTTRELL. 



HISTORY OF THE SABBATH SCHOOLS OF THE 

EASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

So few of our Sabbath schools have any record of organi- 
zation and subsequent history that the account of the schools 
of the Eastern Association must of necessity be incomplete. We 
have had some report from thirteen of our sixteen schools, 
though some reports were too meager' to be of much value and 
from others we were able to get no response. It is known by 
tradition, however, that Sabbath schools have been held at 

some time in connection with nearly all our churches. 

« 

WATERFORD, CONN. 1827 ( ?) 

Though there is no written record of a school here before 
1878, the older members are positive that one was organized 
about 1827. There is now a mem'bership of fifty-six. 

Cortland Rogers, R. C. Davis, Earle Darrow and Andrew 
Potter have been connected with this church and are well 
known as faithful ministers throughout the denomination. Miss 
Lena Burdick has been engaged in the work of a home mis- 
sionary. 

FIRST IIOPKINTON, ASHAWAY, R. I. 183O. 

The first school of which we have any written record is 
that of the First Hopkinton, which was organized in 1830. 
Previous to this time, the church had been using the West- 
minster Catechism for the instruction of the children in reli- 
gious matters, but some of the church members thought this 



284 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

did not contain just the right kind of teaching, for Seventh- 
day Baptists. They decided to have a school of their own 
where their children could receive instruction in Bible truths, 
and the principles of their own faith, and this Sabbath school 
was the result. A library of well-selected and instructive books 
was connected with the school and this as well as the school 
itself met with considerable opposition from the older church 
members. 

According to the diary of Miss Maria L. Potter, one of 
the first teachers of the school, Mr. Boggs, of New Jersey, an 
agent of the Sunday-school Union, visited the church on June 
5, 1830, for the purpose of interesting the people in Bible 
sclioor work and with the hope of organizing a school in this 
place. Probably as a result of this visit, the school w^as organ- 
ized with Hon. Jacob D. Babcock as leader. The early teach- 
ers beside the leaders were Miss Emeline Truman (Mrs. 
Joseph Crandall, of Westerly), Maria and Sarah Potter, Mary 
and Emily Babcock, Lavinia Lanphear, Miss Maria L. Potter, 
of Potter Hill; Peter C. and Silas C. Wells. "So, as the gen- 
erations have come and gone, the school has, I think, been well 
sustained and all in all has been a strong supporter in church 
work." (Mrs. H. B. Cundall, a daughter of Hon. Jacob D. 
Babcock.) 

SECOND HOPKINTON, HOPKINTON CITY, R. I. 184O. 

This school was organized probably about 1840, during 
the ministry of Elder John Greene. It now has a member- 
ship of sixty, with five teachers. 

MARLBORO, N. J. 184O. 

In 1840, when Rev. David Clawson was pastor of the 
church, the Sabbath school was organized. Question books 
'vere in use during the early history of the school when the 
questioning was conducted by the pastor of the church. This 
method was followed by the regular lesson helps. The school 
now numbers about sixty. The names of Joseph C. Bowen, 
John G. Hummell, Eber Davis, Rev. Perie R. Burdick are a 
few of the names among the workers since i860. (All 
records previous to this date have been lost.) 

Miss Elizabeth A. Fisher (Davis), a member of the school, 
spent a year in mission work in Arkansas. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 285 

PLAINFIELD, N. J. 184I. 

The Sabbath school at Plainfield was organized in 1841 
by Mr. Thomas S. Alberti and conducted by him for four 
years. During this time he filled the offices of Superintendent, 
Secretary, Librarian and teacher of the Bible class. 

The school has been fortunate in having superintendents 
who held the office for many years. William Dunn was Su- 
perintendent for fifteen years, beginning in 1846. George H. 
Babcock filled the office for nine years, from 1874 to 1883, 
and David E. Titsworth has been Superintendent, with the ex- 
ception of one year, since 1883. This period of service is the 
longest in the history of the school, and to his faithful and 
untiring labor in that capacity is due the high standard main- 
tained by the school. 

The membership of the school is about one hundred, with 
sixteen teachers. Three of these are in the Primary Depart- 
ment with Mrs. John P. Mosher as Primary Superintendent. 

In January, 1899, the Home Department began work un- 
der the efficient leadership of Miss Nan Randolph as Superin- 
tendent, assisted by ten visitors. Aside from interesting 
many in the systematic study of the Sabbath school lesson at 
home, the contributions from this branch of the work aid ma- 
terially in paying the current expenses of the school and help- 
ing benevolent objects. Though this branch of the school is 
still young, the result already attained is most gratifying. 

Since its introduction in 1873, the International series of 
lessons have been used. The following helps are provided for 
the school: The Helping Hand, The Sabbath J^isitor and 
The Sunday-school Times is furnished for the teachers. In 
the Primary Department, The Scholar's Magazine, Picture 
Lesson Leaves, Berean Leaf Cluster and Picture Cards have 
been used. In 1895, the sand map was introduced and in 1808 
Mrs. Craft's Kifidergarten Seunng Cards and The Primary 
Class and Kindergarten Illustrated Lesson Leaflets, published 
by the M. E. Publishing House, Boston. ]Mass. 

The school has contributed from the treasury, after pay- 
ing the regular running expenses, to many objects of denomi- 
national and local interest. The Missionary and Tract So- 
cieties, State and County Sunday-school work, Children's 



286 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Home, Hospital, Relief Association, Fresh Air work, temper- 
ance work in Holland, hospital bed in Shanghai, evangelistic 
work, India famine fund, Y. M. C. A. army work, Sabbath 
Evangelizing and Industrial Association, and Southern Schools 
are some of the ways in which the interest has been shown in 
a material way. 

Special services of the school are held on Decision Day, 
Easter and Christmas. 

On February i6, 1901, Mr. Jacob F. Bakker, an active 
and faithful member of our school, was set apart to do mission 
work in British Central Africa. 

Out Superintendent, Mr. D. E. Titsworth, has been prom- 
inently connected with the State Sunday-school Association, 
having been elected Vice-President of that body in 1898, and 
given a place on important committees. 

PAWCATUCK (westerly, R. I.)^ 1843. 

On February 4, 1843, ^ meeting was held by the church 
to make arrangements for a Bible class. This Bible class soon 
developed into a Sabbath school, which was formally organized 
December 12, 1843, ^vith Dr. Henry W. Stillman, now of Ed- 
gerton, Wisconsin, as Superintendent. His first report, dated 
February 17, 1846, gives the whole number of scholars as 78, 
and the attendance as 50. There were 150 volumes in the lib- 
rary and the total expenses to date had been $32.50 and the 
receipts $29.49. 

The present membership is 160, with an average attend- 
ance of 100. 

The Primary Department use chart and lesson leaves, the 
Intermediate use the Cook International Lessons with the Sab- 
hath Visitor in both these departments. The other classes use 
the Helping Hand. 

The following members of the school have been promi- 
nent in denominational work : Rev. L. A. Platts, Hon. George 
H. Utter, Henry M. Maxson, Charles Potter, George H. Bab- 
cock, Rev. O. U. Whitford, Rev. W. C. Daland, Dr. A. H. 
Lewis, Rev. George B. Utter, Professor W. A. Rogers, Rev. 
George E. Tomlinson, Rev. S. H. Davis. 



SAIJRATH SCHOOL BOARD. 287 

NEW MARKET, N. J. 1844. 

The Sabbath school at New Market was organized in 1844 
during the pastorate of Rev. Walter B. Gillette, who was also 
Superintendent of the school. The following men and women 
were instrumental in organizing the school and were the first 
teachers: Rev. Walter B^ Gillette, Jeremiah Dunharh, Lewis 
C. Dunn, Isaac N. Dunn, Mrs. Rachael M. Davis, Mrs. Han- 
nah A. Dunn, Susan Dunn, Mrs. Cornelia M. Dunn and Ann 
Dunn (colored). 

At the time of organization the school had about sixty 
members. It now has sixty-nine. The largest enrollment, 
one hundred and ten, was in 1890. 

The school is divided into eight classes, two of these (pri- 
mary classes) occupying a separate room. 

The Helping Hand, Peloubet's Notes, Cook's Publications 
for Primary Classes and International Quarterly are the les- 
son helps in use. 

Wardner C. Titsworth was one of our faithful ministers 
of the gospel and a member of this school. 

ROCKVILLE, R. I. 1845. 

The school was organized in 1845, during the ministry of 
Rev. A. B. Burdick, who filled the office of Superintendent un- 
til 1849. Previous to 1871, the superintendents were appoint- 
ed bv the church, but since that time the school has elected its 
own officers. The school now has about fiftv members. 

MYSTIC, CONN. 1850. 

There are no records of this school, though it is known 
that there has been one connected with the church, since its or- 
g-anization in 1850, with sessions held throughout the year. 

NEW YORK, N. Y. 1 876. 

The Sabbath school of the New York church was organ- 
ized probably January i6, 1876, with Frank H. Stillman Su- 
perintendent and Mrs. Phoebe J. B. Wait as Assistant Super- 
intendent. At this time. Rev. Lucius Crandall was supplying 
the pulpit. The school was divided into two classes, with six 
or seven in the Junior class and ten or fifteen in the Senior. 
The school now has fortv-one members. 



288 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

SHILOH, N. J. 

No record of a Sabbath school at Shiloh could be obtain- 
ed previous to 1885, though it is probable that a Sabbath School 
existed there for many years before that time. 

The school has Christmas entertainments and special ser-" 
vices at Easter, Children's Day and Thanksgiving. 

The Helping Hand is used in the Intermediate and a Pri- 
mary Quarterly in the Primary Department. 

The school now has a membership of two hundred and 
sixty-three with a Home Department of about forty-five mem- 
bers. 

Rev. D. H. Davis and Mrs. Davis, Dr. Ellen Swinney, 
Rev. S. O. and Mrs. Carpenter in China and Elder William 
M. Jones in England have been members of the school. 

DAYTON A, FLORIDA. 189O. 

A Bible class composed of the winter residents was or- 
ganized at Daytona about 1890, and has continued to hold its 
sessions since then during the four or five months of cold 
weather. As there is no church building or organization, the 
class meets at the home of the members. Since 1898 the class 
has been taught by Miss Amelia Potter and occasionally in 
her absence by Mrs. D. D. Rogers. A general attendance of 
winter residents and visitors has made the average attendance 
from eighteen to twenty. The contributions have averaged 
about $20 annually and have been used for denominational 
benevolent purposes. The lesson helps used are the Sabbath 
School Quarterlies, Sunday-school Times and others. 

CUMBERLAND^ N. C. 189I. 

Previous to the organization of the Sabbath school in 
1891, religious services had been held only once a month and 
it was largely due to the efforts of Elder J. L. Huffman, who 
had been holding revival meetings in the vicinity, that the peo- 
ple decided to meet every week for the study of the Bible. 

June 6, 1 891, the Cumberland Seventh-day Baptist Bible 
School was organized with fourteen members. Three of 
them are colored people who came to the Sabbath about the 
time of Elder Huffman's visit. They were Methodists, al- 
though they observed the Sabbath. (Only two of these re- 
mained faithful to the Sabbath.) 
(18) 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 289 

Elder David N. Newton, who was pastor of the church 
at the time the school was organized, was chosen Superintend- 
ent and Miss Emily P. Newton was appointed Secretary. Both 
have retained these offices ever since. 

It was agreed at the organization of the school that each 
of the members in turn, if he wished to, should choose the 
topic and chapter for study for each Sabbath and should have 
the opportunity of expressing his views on the subject. Such 
subjects as The Moral Law, Obedience, The Word Made 
Flesh, Giving, What is Sin? and many others were consid- 
ered. Sometimes the order is varied by having a Bible read- 
ing instead of the regular lesson. 

It is thought that more good is gained by the direct study 
of the Bible than in any other way and the class is composed 
of those who love to search the Scriptures and manifest a good 
degree of interest in such a study. 

The school now numbers fourteen, most of whom are 
church members. When the Bible school was first organized 
there was only one class, as the members were all adults, but 
in 1892, a small class of four members was formed with Miss 
Emily P. Newton as teacher. These are now in the Bible class, 
so there is again only one class, except on rare occasions. Three 
members of this Primary class have since become members of 
the church. 

CENTRAL ASSOCIATION. 

SCOTT, N. Y. 

The early records of the Scott Sabbath school have been 
lost and much of the following is necessarily from memory. 
The school was organized by Dea. John Maxson about 1828, 
who was its first Superintendent. His successor was Jerome 
R. Babcock, who served many years. Other Superintendents 
have been Alonzo D. C. Barber, John Barber, Thomas Dye, 
Rev. W. M. Jones, Rev. J. E. N. Backus, Rev. A. W. Coon, 
Rev. J. B. Clarke, S. T. W. Potter, Rev. B. F. Rogers, E. H. P. 
Potter, George M. Frisbie. Stennett C. Stillman, Mrs. A. T. 
Stillman, Rev. J. White, Mrs. M. A. Burdick, Miss Estelle 
Babcock, Rev. F. O. Burdick, C. F. Cobb, Rev. J. A. Platts, 
Mrs. Adelia Maxson, Ernest L. Barber, Mrs. D. D. L. Burdick 



290 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

and Rev. J. T. Davis. This list is made up from very imper- 
fect records, but supplemented by the memory of Dea. E. H. 
P. Potter, now over eighty years old. In the fifties an essay 
and a declamation formed a part of the weekly exercises. 

Several revivals have passed through the Sabbath school 
into the church, notably in 1861. Rev. J. B. Clarke and Rev. 
A. H. Lewis, as well as many prominent laymen came from 
the Scott Sabbath school. The school is now quite small, as 
compared with former years, but its members are brave and 
hopeful. 

FIRST BROOKFIELD (LEONARDSVILLE, N. Y.) 

The first record obtainable of the Sabbath school of this 
church is from the minutes of a church meeting at which $15.70 
was appropriated for the Question Book compiled and sold by 
order of the Conference, from which it would appear that the 
school was organized about the year 1840. The first Superin- 
tendent was Amanda, wife of Rev. W. B. Maxson. Other 
Superintendents to the present time have been William A. Bab- 
cock, Ransom T. Stillman, Amos B. Spalding, J. Delos Rog- 
ers, John T. Rogers, Norman L. Burdick, Sands C. Maxson, 
Edwin Whitford, Francis L. Clarke, Abert Whitford, Alfred 
T. Stillman and Ethel A. Haven. 

Members of the school who afterwards became ministers 
were Charles M. Lewis, Henry B. Lewis, Joel West, William 
Clarke Whitford, George J. Crandall, Oscar U. Whitford and 
Henry D. Clarke. The following have been Presidents of 
Conference: Amos B. Spaulding, Henry D. Babcock and 
Sands C. Maxson. 

ADAMS CENTER, N. Y. 

The Sabbath school of this church was organi/ed on May 
1st, 1852, by Rev. James Summerbell, the pastor of the church. 
The officers at that time were: Superintendent, James Sum- 
merbell ; Assistant Superintendent, Nelson Babcock ; Chorister, 
Librarian and Secretary, O. D. Greene. The school was or- 
ganized with thirteen classes. In 1901 the school consisted of 
seventeen classes with a membership of 196 and an average 
attendance of 115. The present officers are: Superintendent, 
O. D. Greene, Jr. ; Assistant Superintendent, Grant W. Davis ; 
Chorister, Roy D. Greene. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 29 1 



BROOKFIELD, N. Y. 



This school was organized probably in the first years of 
the pastorate of Rev. J. M. Todd, between 1858 and 1861. As 
early as 1865 there were two schools in active operation, one 
at the site of the old North Church, four miles north of the 
village of Brookfield, where the first church building was erect- 
ed in 1822 ; and the other in the village. Rev. J. M. Todd and 
Dea. Collins Miller were Superintendents of the old North 
Church school, and C. V. Hibbard and DeWitt C. Coon of the 
village school. The list of Superintendents since 1868 is as 
follows: Edwin Whitford, C. E. Clarke, J. M. Todd, H. L. 
Spooner, W. J. Whitford, H. C. Brown, W. C. Whitford, C. 
A. Burdick, L. P. Curtis, O. S. Rogers and E. E. Whitford. 
Some of the secretaries have been Mrs. J. A. Clarke, Julia C. 
Babcock, R. B. Church, Hattie Greene, Alice Miller, Hattie 
Stillman, Fannie E. Clarke, Merletta Langworthy, Mabel 
Langworthy, William Bond and Clarence Beebe. Members 
of the school who have become ministers are : George J. Cran- 
dall, David P. Curtis and William Calvin Whitford. The 
present membership of the school is 98. 

SECOND VERONA, N. Y. 

This Sabbath school was organized August 12, 1876. Its 
first officers were: Francis Mills, Superintendent; George 
Hunt, Assistant; Mrs. E. Witter, Treasurer; Mrs. Francis 
Mills, Secretary, and Frank Williams, Chorister. The school 
has suffered much by reason of many removals from the so- 
ciety, but still maintains its regular work. The few who re- 
main are strong in their faith in God and their love for the 
Bible. 

UTICA. N. Y. • 

The Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath school of Utica had its 
beginning in the spring of 1888. There were a part of four 
families that could be depended on to gather on Sabbath after- 
noon at the home of some Sabbath-keeper to study the Sab- 
bath school lesson. The prime mover in this work was Dr. 
Sands C. Maxson. Slowly the company grew. After some 
} ears it was thought best to have the assistance of a minister 
and arrangements were made with the Verona churches to 
have the pastor of those churches, Rev. Joshua Clarke, visit 



292 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

■ 

Utica on one Sabbath of each month. This plan was continued 
till the death of Elder Clarke, who preached his last sermon 
in the parlor of Dr. Maxson at 22 Grant street. 

A similar arrangement was continued through the pas- 
torates at Verona of Rev. Martin Sindall and Rev. George 
W. Lewis. At the present time, 1902, Rev. W. C. Daland 
visits this Sabbath school occasionally, coming from Leonards- 
ville. The membership July 20 was 17. The Bible school in 
Utica has been and still is a source of great good. 

WATSON, N. Y. 

In 1873 the school at Watson is reported to Conference 
as follows: Superintendent, Thomas R. Reed; number of 
pupils, 40 ; number of teachers,. 7 ; number of officers, 5 ; aver- 
age attendance, 30 ; volumes in library, 75 ; copies of children's 
paper taken, 7. 

At the present time there is a small school with Rev. 
Madison Harry as Superintendent and teacher. 

FIRST VKRONA, VERONA, N. V. 

This Sabbath school was organized in 1842, or possibly 
a year or two later, by Mr. C. M. Lewis. It was known as 
the Bible class. The Bible was used as a text book. The 
records have been lost. On May 5th, 1877, the school was 
reorganized with E. S. Bennett as Superintendent and William 
H. Lewis as Assistant. On June 8th, 1878, the school was 
\isited by the Sabbath School Board, consisting of Stephen 
Burdick, E. P. Larkin, D. K. Davis, J. Clarke and J. L. HuflF- 
man. At that time the membership of the school was 60. In 
December, 1879, Rev. O. D. Sherman visited and addressed 
the school. At that time there were six classes. The follow- 
ing is the list of Superintendents: E. S. Bennett, Rev. J. E. 
N. Backus, W. C. Perry, Harriet Greene, O. A. Williams. H. 
W. Palmiter, A. A. Thyer, O. J. Davis and Mrs. E. C. Lea. 
At present there are about eighty scholars enrolled in eight 
classes. E. S. Bennett is the Superintendent. The outlook 
as reported is very encouraging. 

SYRACUSE, N. V. 

Seventh-day Baptist Bible class work began at Sherman 
Park, in the southeastern part of the city, in 1894, when Miss 
G. A. Cross gathered together on the Sabbath some of the 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 293 

children of the neighborhood and taught them from the Bible. 
In May, 1895, Rev. L. R. Swinney, of DeRuyter, began 
preaching at Sherman Park and a new Bible class was formed. 
With a few breaks this has continued to the present time 
(1902). The meeting is held at some private house, on Sab- 
bath afternoon or on Friday night. 

A second effort at Seventh-day Baptist Bible class work 
in Syracuse began May 7th, 1898, at the office of Dr. F. L. 
Irons, who had recently located at 117 Grace street. These 
meetings were also held at private houses on Sabbath after- 
noon. Sometimes there have been union meetings of the Cen- 
tral class with the Sherman Park class and they are usually re- 
ported as one school. 

DERUYTER, N. Y. 

The Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath school of DeRuyter has 
a large and honored place in our Sabbath school history be- 
cause of the prominent persons who have been its leaders and 
teachers. The early records have been lost and the faithful 
workers of those early days have all gone to their reward. 
Soon after the erection of the church building in 1833 there 
was a revival. It was felt that the converts and especially the 
children should be taught the Bible. These were invited to 
slay after the morning service- and were taught in one class 
by one teacher. About this time the question of Sabbath 
schools was being agitated in the public papers and a school 
was organized at DeRuyter with two classes, one for adults 
and one for children. The leading spirit in this was Rev. Al- 
exander Campbell. In 1837 DeRuyter Institute was opened 
and the Sabbath school quickly felt the effect of the presence 
of many men and women of the highest ideals. The Sabbath 
school at DeRuyter was indeed fortunate. Listen to the roll 
call of those honored names — Alexander Campbell, Henry 
Crandall, Solomon Carpenter and wife, Giles M. Langworthy, 
James Bailey, James R. Irish, Josephine Wilcox, Miranda 
Fisher, Ella Weaver, W. C. Whitford, Albert Whitford, L. C. 
Rogers, E. M. Dunn, O. U. Whitford, B. G. Stillman, J. B. 
Wells, D. Delos Wells, George E. Tomlinson, John Maxson, 
C. H. Maxson, H. D. Maxson, Stephen Burdick, William A. 
Rogers, L. E. Livermore, Henry C. Coon, S. W. Maxson, 



294 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

Joshua Clarke, J. H. Babcock, L. R. Swinney, Mrs. George W. 
Burdick, George A. Stillman, Mrs. Marie S. Stillman, C. J. 
York and manv others of whom time would fail to tell. 

As would be expected, this school was, especially during 
the years of the prosperity of DeRuyter Institute, the best of 
its time. In the 70 years of its history there have been three 
distinct periods marked by different methods of Bible instruc- 
tion. 

The first extended to about 1870 and might be called **The 
Memorizing Period." In this method the Bible study con- 
sisted almost entirely of committing to memory and reciting 
the Holy Scriptures. The small children learned one verse 
each week and the older ones seven or more. The bright ones 
would often learn a whole chapter. Verses of hymns were 
also learned and recited. Thus the time of the class was large- 
ly taken up by hearing the members recite to the teacher. This 
plan has its advantages and should not be entirely given up, 
but another and better method took its place, a method which 
required thought and study. This new period, which lasted in 
the DeRuyter school for about ten years, might be called "The 
Question and Answer Period." The thoughtful teacher who 
did not want to hear the scholar repeat mechanically the Scrip- 
tures began to ask questions on its deeper and spiritual mean- 
ing. This soon led to the adoption of printed question and an- 
swer books. In this exercise the whole class joined. The De- 
Ruyter school began the study of Matthew about i860 and fol- 
lowed it 15 years. Then they used the question books printed 
by the American Tract Society and also the Mimpriss Series. 
The adoption of a definite passage for study by the school, or of 
a question book, made it easy and natural to have a teachers' 
meeting; and also weekly and quarterly reviews in which the 
DeRuyter Sabbath school has done noble work through the fol- 
lowing years. 

As the memorizing method prepared the way for the ques- 
tion and answer method, so this in turn was a preparation for 
the uniform International Series with its selections from the 
whole Bible, its vast array of helps and all the blessed spiritual 
results that have followed. The DeRuyter school adopted the 
new system about 1877 and has used it heartily ever since. At- 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 295 

tention ought to be called to the publication, at DeRuyter, for 
many years, by Rev. J. E. N. Backus, of The Sabbath School 
Gem, The school reached its greatest numbers under the 
pastoral care of Rev. Joshua Clarke, when there were more 
than one hundred scholars enrolled and an average attendance 
of seventy-five. Though greatly reduced in number the 
school is still doing good work. 

WESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

HARTSVILLE, N. Y. 

t 

In 1834 or 1835 H. P. Burdick, a member of the First 
Alfred Sabbath school, gave out notice in the school house 
near Kis home of his plan to form a Bible class. Six persons 
responded. From year to year the class grew. Miss Eliza 
Potter and A. R. Cornwall were added as assistants. In 1847 
the Hartsville Church was organized with twenty-three mem- 
bers, all of whom were from the Bible class. About this time 
Horace W. Palmiter was Superintendent. The school was 
held at 4 o'clock. Among its leaders were W. C. Kenyon and 
Jonathan Allen. About 1866 Daniel Whitford became Su- 
perintendent. He gave the school its real organization with 
a roll, graded classes, officers, etc. He also kept up the school 
throughout the entire year. Other Superintendents have been 
D. K. Davis, who organized the Young Married People's 
Class; E. B. Fisk, Matthew Potter, F. S. Whitford, H. E. 
Crites and C. P. Ormsby. The present Superintendent is 
Mrs. Hulda Whitford. The enrollment is 83 and the average 
attendance 50. 

FIRST ALFRED, ALFRED, N. Y. 

There are no records of this school earlier than 1863, yet 
il: is known that there was a school long before that date. About 
1838 Dea. Amos Crandall organized a school at Five Corners, 
about two miles from Alfred. He was Superintendent of this 
school for thirty years. He had heard of a Sabbath school, 
but had never seen one. A few years after the beginning of 
the school at Five Corners one was formed at the village of 
Alfred by Rev. Ray Greene. No records were kept in those 
days. The first record of an election is in 1863 and the follow- 
ing is the list of Superintendents to the present time : O. D. 



296 SEVEXTII-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Sherman,. S. C. Burdick, Albert Whitford, T. R. Williams, 
H. C. Coon, A. H. Lewis, I. L. Cottrell, A. B. Kenyon, Charles 
Stillman, E. P. Saunders, V. A. Baggs, E. M. Tomlinson, E. 
H. Lewis, O. S. Rogers, L. E. Livermore, J. W. Crofoot, B. F. 
Rogers. 

The first record of the school contains one hundred and 
fifty names, and there are now on the roll three hundred and 
forty-six names, besides the one hundred and thirty-five who 
are members of the Home Department recently organized by 
Rev. A. E. Main. In the early history of the school literary 
entertainments were common. For revenue class collections 
are depended on. The money is spent by and for the school. 
Decision Day was observed for the first time in February, 1902, 
with the result that several joined the church. The lesson 
helps used are The Helping Hand, The Sabbath Visitor and 
The Sunday-school Times. 

Those who were children in the Sabbath School and have 
since become ministers are Jonathan Allen, Earl P. Saunders 
and Judson G. Burdick. 

INDEPENDENCE, N. Y. 

There are no records of the early history of tlie Independ- 
ence Sabbath school. There are references to the school in 
the very early church records. The school may have existed 
before the church was organized in 1834. About 1840 we 
meet the name of N. R. Crandall and find that the school meets 
each w^eek during the summer months. About 1850 a good 
library was in use. Since 1868 the school has been well at- 
tended throughout the entire year. For some time we have 
had a good primary department. The school is loyal to our 
own papers and "helps." The school meets following the 
preaching service with an attendance of about sixty-five. 

SCIO, N. Y. 

A Sabbath school w^asj)rganized in Scio in 1842 or 1843 
with Stephen Coon as leader. There w^as little organization 
about it. The school was not continued during the winter 
months. The school now numbers about forty and is in good 
working condition. Once in two months the school unites 
with schools from the Methodist and Disciple churches, under 
the name of the Bible School Association, in presenting a liter- 



. SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 297 

ary program, which is followed by the discussion of some ques- 
tion. The list of Superintendents is incomplete, but includes 
the following names: J. S. Flint, Thomas Williams, A. A. 
Place, E. D. Cartwright, Mrs. A. A. Place, A. E. Rogers, John 
Canfield, Alfred Benjamin, Minnie Tuttle, Myrtle Hull and 
E. B. Davis. 

SECOND ALFRED, ALFRED STATION, N. Y. 

About sixty years ago a Bible school for adults was con- 
ducted in Pleasant Valley. Among those who led was the late 
E. P. Larkin. The children were first gathered in a school in 
the pastorate of Rev. Nathan Wardner, Mrs. Wardner being 
the Superintendent. Other Superintendents have been Selina 
Burdick, Lyman Lewis, F. \V. Hamilton, N. N. Forbes, A. H. 
Lewis, D. E. Alaxson, James Summerbell, W. S. Edwards, 
Warren Walker, Will Edwards, Mrs. F. W. Hamilton, Mrs. 
J. C. Edwards, L. C. Rogers, L. W. Lewis, Eola Hamilton, 
Charles Palmer, Mrs. S. E. Potter, Mrs. Rachel Burdick, Mrs. 
Eva Champlin and Mrs. Nettie ^L Prague. 

Special record should be made of the faithful service 
throughout the entire history of the Sabbath school of Deacon 
and Mrs. F. W. Hamilton. The school has been carried on 
about as other schools and has had little of special historic 
value come to its records. It is a wide-awake, up-to-date and 
loval school. 

HEBRON, PA. 

The Sabbath school of the First Seventh-day Baptist 
church of Hebron, Pa., was organized July 21, 1849. The fol- 
lowing were officers: Superintendent, E. S. Main; Asst.,J.A.R. 
Greenman ; Secretary and Treasurer, G. W. Stillman. On De- 
cember I of the same year a constitution and bv-laws w^ere 
adopted and the following trustees were elected : William Hy- 
dorn, Isaac Brock and A. R. Stillman. At the same time the 
school was "classified'* and the following teachers were ap- 
pointed: Orpha Stillman, Isaac Brock, Cordelia Hydorn, 
Joel P. Crandall, William Hydorn, Electa Stillman, and Al- 
mina Brock. Even before the constitution had been adopted 
this school had purchased a library of one hundred volumes. 
This has since been enlarged from time to time and has al- 
ways been a strong factor in the intellectual and spiritual life 



298 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

of the neighborhood. On October 19th, 1867, ^ "^w consti- 
tution was adopted, which changed the name and other feat- 
ures, which made it a strictly denominational school. The ses- 
sions are held following the church service and are continued 
throughout the entire year. On July 28, 1902, there were 
sixty-six names on the roll divided into five classes. 

RICHBURG, N. Y. 

The records show that there w-as a Sabbath school in Rich- 
burg as early as 1849 under the leadership of Pastor Andrus. 
A written constitution was adopted in 1864. The first Superin- 
tendent was O. A. Kenyon. Miss L. M. Burdick was Secre- 
tary. The following quotations are from the record book: 
3846. "The greatest number of verses learned by any one 
scholar during the year was 543. The greatest number learn- 
ed by a scholar at one session was 104. The whole number of 
verses learned during the. year was 3,295." 1865. **Moved 
and carried that we have essays from the ladies, at the end of 
the quarter, subject, 'Repentance,' and that w-e give a prize for 
the best essay." May 20th of the same year: "Moved and 
carried that we have essays from the gentlemen, subject, Tor- 
giveness,' prize one dollar." May 27, *'\^oted that we change 
the order of exercises and have declamations from the child- 
ren." July isth, "Voted that AFrs. Fuller relate a Bible story 
in two weeks, and that Mr. Dye have an essay, *IIow to Keep 
the Sabbath,' at some future time." 

Teachers made quarterly reports of attendance, progress 
and deportment. The list of Superintendents is as follows: 
William S. Burdick, Edwin Daniels, E. S. Bliss, A. B. Cottrell, 
:\I. D. Crandall, E. M. Mix, Ellen A. Lyon, Mrs. M. G. Still- 
man, Walter Brown, Mrs. Sarah Gardner and Stanley Brown. 

HEBRON CENTER, PA. 

The Hebron Center school was organized February, 187 1, 
with J. A. R. Greenman as Superintendent. Other Superin- 
tendents have been F. K. Welch, L. W. Dible, C. D. McKee, 
^lark Rosboom, Fanny Greenman, S. Greenman, S. P. Hemp- 
hill, M. J. Clare and Joseph Clare, Jr. The present member- 
ship is thirty. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 299 

ANDOVER^ N. Y. 

The Andover Sabbath school was doubtless organized 
about 1870. No records. The Superintendents have been: 
D. L. Langworthy and the present Superintendent, John M, 
Mosher. The school has done and is doing about the usual 
work of the small and loyal school. 

PORTVILLE, N. Y. 

This Sabbath school was organized January 9th, 1875, 
with sixty-five scholars and with S. L. Maxson as Superin- 
tendent. He has been followed by R. A. Barber, A. H. Cran- 
dall, B. A. Barber, A. C. Sanford, J. P. Remington, Mrs. B. 
A. Barber, Mrs. Georgia Langworthy, Delwin Crandall and 
Mrs. H. A. Place. The present enrollment is fifty-three. The 
school subscribes for The Helping Hand and The Sabbath 
Visitor, 

HORNELLSVILLE^ N. Y. 

The Hornellsville Sabbath school was organized in 1876 
with about twenty members. The meetings for some time 
were held in private houses. The session room of the Baptist 
church was soon hired. There are now fortv members of the 
school. Dea. O. G. Stillman was Superintendent in 1878. The 
present Superintendent is C. A. Stillman. 

WELLSVILLE, N. Y. 

This school was organized in 1885. It has always been 
a small school, especially in its Primary Department. The 
first officers were: Superintendent, A. W. Sullivan; Secre- 
tary and Treasurer, Mrs. J. W. Coller; Chorister, Dr. J. W. 
Coller. Other Superintendents have been Mrs. A. A. Almy, 
Mrs. Dr. Crandall, J. W. Crofoot, Dea. I. S. Crandall, Agnes 
Rogers and E. E. Hide. The attendance has been from ten to 
twenty, taught in one, two or three classes. The school has 
always been loyal to our publications and has contributed in a 
small way to the Missionary and Tract Societies. In connec- 
tion with the Wellsville school, honorable mention should be 
made of the late Rev. Henry L. Jones. For many years he 
* was the main dependence of the school. He was a teacher of 
unusual ability. A brave, kind, hopeful. Christian gentleman, 
whose death was a very great loss to the Wellsville Sabbath 
school. 



300 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

NILE, N. Y. 

The Nile Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath school records 
can not be found of the school prior to the year 1854, but early 
in the thirties a school was organized and probably has con- 
tinued to the present time. A branch school in Wirt Town- 
ship was also held for several years. A. A. Place, S. P. Wit- 
ter and Dr. B. Babcock were leaders in the branch school. I 
am unable to learn who the leaders in the organization were, 
except W. B. Gillette and Mrs. Keziah Noble — the latter was 
one of the earliest teachers. Mrs. A. A. Allen was one of the 
earliest scholars in the school. 

For many years the older classes studied various Scrip- 
ture passages, while the children committed to memory Bible 
verses which were repeated during the class hour. In 186 1 the 
children committed to memory 5,081 verses — 106 to each child. 
In 1862 they learned 5,888 verses. Since December 25, 1886, 
the school has been studying the International Series of lessons. 

For many years the school had anniversary programs. 
At one time papers were read at each session of the school. 
Picnics are now usually held at some time during the summer, 
and Christmas exercises during the holiday week. Memorial 
services are now held each year, when memorials are read of 
each of the scholars who have died during the year. 

The Helping Hand, The Sunday-school Times, Peloubefs 
Notes, David C. Cook's helps, and. various other helps have 
been used in the study of the lessons. For many years $25.00 
has been spent every year for this purpose. 

The Superintendents of the Nile Sabbath school since 1854 
have been : Avery Lanphere, Joel G. Saunders, S. P. Witter, 
T. C. West, E. R. Clarke, W. W. Gardiner, W. D. Crandall, 
A. A. Place, W. B. Gillette, L. H. Kenyon, C. R. Gardiner, 
George A. Stillman, George W. Burdick, Mrs. Lora Stillman. 

On the list of names of those who have gained considera- 
ble denominational distinction, who once were members of the 
Nile school, the following should be placed. 

Elder W. B. Gillette was baptized and united with the 
church, was ordained to the ministry and served as pastor many 
years. Prior to 1840 he was an earnest worker in oiir Sab- 
bath school. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 3OI 

Elder A. A. F. Randolph was ordained here and was also 
a worker in the Sabbath school. 

Rev. E. A. Witter was a member of the Sabbath school, 
and was baptized and united with the church September i6, 
1865. 

President T. L. Gardiner was a member of the school and 
was baptized and united with the church in '66. He was af- 
terwards licensed to preach by the church. 

Rev. A. G. Crofoot was also a member of the school and 
was baptized and united with the church April 2, 1870. 

Jay Crofoot was a member of the school several years. 
Professor C. E. Crandall was also. 

Professor F. S. Place was for years a member of the 
school and was here baptized. 

Henry N. Jordan was a member of the school and was 
baptized in 1885. 

Mrs. Abigail A. (Maxson) Allen was one of the early 
members of the school. She united with the church after bap- 
tism in April, 1843. 

The following persons were also members of the school: 
Mrs. E. M. Dunn, Mrs. O. U. Whitford, Mrs. Elnora A. Cro- 
foot, Mrs. D. H. Davis, Mrs. Horace Stillman, Mrs. Eva G. 
Jordan. 

Prior to the time when the school subscribed for the 
Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath school papers, they were taken 
by individuals in the school. Besides collecting money for 
school purposes, money has been raised for the Missionary 
and Tract Societies. For several years monev was raised in 
the classes for our China Mission School, but in 1887 the 
school adopted the birthday offering plan, inviting each scholar 
to give after his birthday, as many cents as he is years old. 
In this way about $30.00 has been raised each year for the 
support of a scholar in the China Mission School. 

The school has probably raised from $50 to $75 each year 
for twenty years. 

The total enrollment in 1854 was 62. The enrollment in 
1901 was 116. The greatest enrollment was in the year 1892, 
when 180 names were on the roll. 



302 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The greatest average attendance for any year was in 1885, 
when the average Sabbath attendance was 98. 

NORTHWESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

MILTON, WIS. 

The Milton Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath school was or- 
ganized March 9, 1839. It consisted almost entirely of the 
families of Joseph Goodrich and Henry B. Crandall, who had 
reached Du Lac Prairie five days before, moving from Alfred, 
N. Y. They formed articles of agreement covenanting to 
meet weekly for worship and for the study of the Scriptures. 
The inspiration for this movement, under God, came from 
Nancy Maxson, wife of Joseph Goodrich. Twenty-two per- 
sons signed these articles. At first the school consisted of but 
? single class, but two years later a young people's class was 
also formed, and shortly after classes for the smaller children. 
The superintendents for several years for the most part were 
the pastors of the church, Stillman Coon and Zuriel Campbell. 
During some of the earlier years the school was not always 
regularly maintained, but was reorganized in 1855 upon a more 
permanent basis. Albert Whitford, a teacher in Milton Acade- 
my, was chosen its superintendent. Over a hundred, old and 
young, divided into about a dozen classes, attended its sessions. 
He was succeeded by A. C. Spicer, Principal of the Academy. 
His successor was William C. Whitford, pastor of the church. 
The membership of the church up to this time was largely ru- 
ral, no small part of it coming to its place of worship a distance 
of four or five miles and so the sessions of the school followed 
the church service. But soon after the setting off of the Rock 
River church, the plan was adopted of holding the school in 
the forenoon, a plan that has ever since been followed. 

During the Civil War the attendance upon the school was 
considerably lessened. More than a score of its members, 
among them its Superintendent, H. M. Havens, enlisted in the 
army of the United States, and nearly half a score never re- 
turned. They gave their lives in the battlefield, or in camp or 
hospital, for their country. At this period, A. H. Lewis, S. R. 
Wheeler, L. A. Platts and the pastor of the church, D. E. 
Maxson, served as Superintendents. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 303 

At first the Sabbath school lessons were selected from the 
New Testament and a study was made of each book, chapter 
by chapter, in consecutive order. But it adopted the Interna- 
tional course of lessons soon after their first publication, and 
in this way enlarged its scope of study and increased its facili- 
ties in the use of the books and periodicals edited for this pur- 
pose. 

For several years after the close of the Civil War the 
school was in a very prosperous condition. Its numbers were 
over two hundred. Solomon Carpenter took charge of the 
weekly teachers* meeting and by his zeal, tact, and knowledge 
of the Scriptures contributed greatly to its success. The Su- 
perintendents at this time were C. H. Greenman, \\\ C. Whit- 
ford, L. C. Rogers, the pastor of the church, and Albert Whit- 
ford. 

In the spring of 1889 the school celebrated the fiftieth year 
of its organization. The meeting was largely attended, not 
only by the mother church, but also by the membership of the 
churches of Rock River and Milton Junction. Letters, remin- 
iscences and addresses made the occasion one of great inter- 
est. 

Of the nineteen superintendents of the Milton Seventh- 
day Baptist Sabbath school during the sixty-three years since 
its organization, William C. Whitford has served fourteen 
years, Albert Whitford eleven, and Edwin Shaw seven years. 
Mrs. Ruth H. Whitford has been a teacher in the school for 
twenty years, Mrs. Ezekiel B. Rogers for about the same 
length of time, and E. P. Clarke for more than thirty years. 
The average number of members of the school for the past 
fifty years has been about one hundred and fifty. It was some- 
what less during the Civil War, and again for a few years fol- 
lowing 1875, ^ third greater some thirty years ago, also a third 
greater for the last few years. 

The exercises of the school from the first have been re- 
garded by the society as next in importance to the preaching 
service. Sixty years ago the church voted that *'it highly ap- 
proves of the support of the Bible class and that it recommends 
its members to endeavor to induce their children to attend the 
study of the Scriptures." Ever since it has religiously observ- 



304 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ed this recommendation, and its members have been faitliful 
laborers in this field. Their labor has not been without its 
reward. Hundreds have been trained in the school for mem- 
bership in the church, and such to-day are its main strength 
and support, and its hope for the future. 

WALWORTH^ WIS. 

The Walworth Sabbath school was organized in February, 
1851. The place of meeting was a school house two miles 
east of Walworth, known as the Cobblestone school house. 
Alfred Maxson and L. M. Heritage were Superintendents and 
William S. Clarke was Chorister. In 1856 Nelson Smith was 
elected Secretary and Librarian. In 1862 the office of Treas- 
urer was created and N. J. Reed elected to that place. In 187 1 
George Walters was elected Assistant Librarian and Ella 
Covey Organist. A temperance pledge with 155 signers was 
secured in 1873. Much has been made of the library. Teach- 
ers' meetings have been held. The school has been financially 
independent and loyal to denominational interests. The list 
of Superintendents is as follows : Alfred Maxson, O. P. Hull, 
W. H. Redfield, W. B. Maxson, Daniel Maxson, E. R. Maxson, 
A. C. Spicer, L. M. Cottrell, W. H. Randolph, James Bailey, 
L. E. Livermore, W. C. Titsworth, O. U. Whitford, Mrs. O. U. 
Whitford, T. A. Saunders, M. G. Stillman, S. H. Babcock, 
Mrs. Lillie Greene, N. D. Maxson and W. R. Bonham. 

UTICA, WIS. 

The minutes of the Northwestern Association in 1853 re- 
port a Sabbath school at Christiana, since called Utica. There 
had been a Bible class meeting after church service for some 
time. The first statistics are given in 1856, when there were 
thirty scholars reported with William B. West as Superintend- 
ent. The following year there were fifty scholars and the Su- 
perintendent was Rev. R. G. Burdick. Three years later 
Daniel B. Crandall was made Superintendent. About this 
time the school changed its name to Utica, and became inde- 
pendent of the church in its organization and management. In 
1867 the school for*the first time ran through the entire year. 
Credit for this is given to W. B. West, R. G. Burdick, A. B. 
Prentice and H. E. Miner. During this year the school studied 
the life of Christ, and the membership was almost doubled. 
(19) 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 305 

The next year the subject was the life of Paul. This was, of 
course, without any such helps as we now have. In 1872 F. O. 
Burdick became Superintendent. He was successful. The 
next year the school attained its maximum membership of 74, 
with an average attendance of 64. From that time on the 
school declined oh account of removals from the community. 

The last report was made in 1890. The list of Superin- 
tendents may not be complete, but should contain the names of 
A. P. Stillman, W. B. West, D. B. Crandall, R. G. Burdick, 
James A. Coon, F. O. Burdick, A. B. Prentice, Clayton A. Bur- 
dick and D. B. Coon. 

WEST HALI-OCK^ ILL. 

In 1848 two brothers, Daniel and A. Hakes, were living 
at West Hallock. They and their wives met each Sabbath 
and together they studied the Bible. Others joined with them 
and in 1853 an organization was formed, with officers and 
teachers. Daniel Hakes has been connected with the school 
throughout its whole history. He has been Superintendent for 
twenty-four years. Other Superintendents have been: A. 
Hakes, William Spicer, C. Estee, C. H. Thompson, H. Estee, 
Mrs. C. C. Socwell, M. Crosley, W. M. Simpson, E. B. Saund- 
ers, A. U. Potter, H. C. Stewart, L. McWhorter. The high- 
est number on the roll was 180 in 1876. The number has been 
largely reduced by removals. Present enrollment is 91. 

WELTON, IOWA. 

It is confidently believed that an organized Bible class 
has been maintained at Welton since the first Seventh-day Bap- 
tists settled there in 1853. It is known that Rev. Lewis A. 
Davis was Superintendent of such a school in 1854. The 
school was reorganized in 1858 or 1859 with Thomas Babcock 
as leader. Since i860 the school has been reported regularly 
to the Northwestern Association. In 1864 the Welton Sab- 
bath school took a life membership certificate of $25.00 in the 
Soldiers' Orphans' Home of their State, located at Davenport. 
Among the earlier Superintendents may be mentioned Elder 
L. A. Davis, Thomas Babcock, Elder C. A. Burdick, Elder 
Benjamin Clement, Dr. Charles Badger, Elder Varnum Hull, 
J. O. Babcock, L. A. Loofboro and Elder H. B. Lewis. 



306 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ALBION^ WIS. 

The Albion school was organized by Elder Thomas E. 
Babcock in 1855. During the early history of this school its 
sessions were held before the preaching service ; and for some 
years the meeting was in the chapel hall of the academy. In 
more recent years the session is held following the Sabbath 
morning service. During the best days of Albion Academy 
this school was an unusually strong and interesting one. 

Teachers' meetings have been held throughout these 
years. The school now has an average attendance of 55; and 
is doing good work. The following is an incomplete list of 
Superintendents: Thomas E. Babcock, Joshua Clarke, S. R. 
Potter, J. E. X. Backus, R. B. Thomas, B. I. Jeffrey, C. A. 
Emerson, M. J. Babcock, Mrs. D. L. Babcock, D. L. Babcock. 

ROCK RIVER, WIS. 

At the organization of this school in 1856 there were 40 
pupils. Ten years later there were 93 ; and in 1871 the school 
numbered 135. In 1901 there were 43 pupils. In 1871 there 
were 30 baptized; in 1877, 20; and in 1901, 11 ; and many at 
other times. In the earlier years the school was suspended 
during the winter months. The following Superintendents 
have served the school: Rev. V. Hull, Dea. A. C. Burdick, 
Rev. R. Hull, B. F. Rogers, H. L. Coon, Henry Ogden, James 
Price, P. M. Greene, W. H. Monroe, J. L. Huffman, W. L. V. 
Crandall, Rev. J. C. Rogers, George X. Coon, William Lille- 
john, Jasper J. X^oice, E. D. Van Horn, W. J. Loofboro, C. D. 
Balch, Mary Rose. Besides these E. B. Saunders, G. B. Shaw, 
C. S. Sayre* and W. C. Whitford have been prominent in the 
historv of the school. 

DODGE CENTER, MINX. 

This Sabbath school was organized in 1857. The first 
settlers met in covered wagons, groves or their log cabins and 
together studied a portion of Scripture. Singing and prayer 
made up the service that could be called a Sabbath school. For 
some time the meetings were in private houses. All classes 
did not studv the same lesson. 

The plan for the children and young people was to com- 
mit to memory as much as possible. At the roll call each per- 
son would respond with a verse of Scripture containing a cer- 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 3O7 

tain word which had been given out the week before. This 
plan was continued till the school became too large to give the 
time to it. In 1871 there were seven classes and seventy-eight 
scholars. The first record of lesson helps is in 1872, when 
"The Gem Lesson Leaf" was used. The year following we 
find "The National Lesson Leaf" in use. In 1874 the school 
for the first time continued the entire year. In 1875 the name 
was changed from "The Wasioja and Ashland Seventh-day 
Baptist Sabbath Shcool" to "The Dodge Center Seventh-day 
Baptist Sabbath School." In 1876 the number of scholars was 
121. The International Lessons were adopted in 1877. In 
t88o the first collection of each month was devoted to home 
missions.^ In 1883 the missionary money was given toward 
the expense Ci Dr. Ella Swinney. 

In 1882 it was taking 50 copies of Our Sabbath Visitor, 
A teachers* meeting was first held in 1886. The same year 
at a special meeting held for that purpose a Sabbath school 
temperance department was created "to take charge of the 
pledge book, secure signers, distribute literature." This depart- 
ment of work has been to this day a strong factor for good in 
the village of Dodge Center. 

The school has been denominational. It helped the 
Boulder Church, took stock in the African Industrial Mission, 
contributes to the Tract and Missionary Societies, etc. The 
membership was never larger than now. Old and young stay 
after church to the Bible school. The Superintendents have 
been: A. Jones, H. R. Maxson, Charles Hubbell, S. R. Or- 
cutt, G. W. Hills, G. M. Cottrell, O. S. Milk, G. W. Lewis, E. 
S. Ellis, Giles Ellis, Flora Tappan, E. A. Sanford, F. E. Tap- 
pan and K. R. Wells. 

TRENTON, MINN. 

• A Bible school was organized about 1859 and was a very 
important feature in the religious work of Freeborn township 
for many years. The meetings were held in private houses 
for a time and afterwards in diflFerent school houses. The 
first teacher is said to have been Mrs. Lemuel Scovil. Other 
workers in the school have been: Elder Joel West, Elder 
Phineas Crandall, Henrv West and wife, A. P. StiUman and 
wife, H. S. Olin and wife, Dighton Burdick and wife, J. L. 



308 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Shaw and wife, John Wilson and wife, and very many other 
faithful ones whose names are written in the "Lamb's Book 
of Life," which will not be lost as the last record of the Tren- 
ton school has been. The school was closed in 1896. This 
school may be like the body of John Brown, but its influence is 
like his soul, "marching on." 

NORTONVILLEj KAN. 

In 1863, when the Nortonville church was organized, the 
members used to remain after service and study the Bible. 
This they did in two classes. In 1864 ^ small library was do- 
nated to them by Mrs. Hannah Wheeler, of Salem, N. J. Meet- 
ings were held in private houses till the first school house was 
built in 1866. In 1869 a more formal organization was made 
and the 40 scholars were placed in four classes. Mrs. Nellie 
Titsworth was the first organist. In 1877 the school numbered 
85. In 1880 a temperance society was formed in the school 
and very many signed the pledge. Isaac Maris was the first 
President of this society. The school reached its highest num- 
ber in 1899, which was 226. The number of classes for some 
years has been 13. The sessions are held following the church 
service. Of those who were members at the beginning in 1863 
there are left Mrs. Maria Wheeler, Eunice W. Petty, Eliza 
Griffin, Emily F. Randolph and Kate E. Perry. Among the 
faithful teachers of long standing in the school may be men- 
tioned Joshua Wheeler, S. R. Wheeler, Mrs. N. E. Buten, 
Sarah Tomlinson, Kate Perry, O. W. Babcock, R. J. Maxson, 
Nelson Stillman, U. S. Griffin, B. O. Burdick, L. E. Hummel. 

• 

Those who have served as superintendents are: Daniel 
Stillman, J. H. Titsw^orth, R. J. Maxson, U. S. Griffin, Joshua 
Wheeler, Elder S. R. Wheeler, Isaac Maris, C. H. Babcock, 
L. E. Hummel and Fred. Maris. 

In 1870 Elder Wheeler and Isaac Maris were prominent 
in tlie organization of the Atchison County Sabbath School As- 
sociation, and the school was prominent in the county work 
until the school, by the removal of the church building in 1900, 
came into JeflFerson County. 

At the present time the school is doing good work. Good 
seed is being sown. May it bring forth many fold. 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 3O9 

t 

NORTONVILLE (BRANCH SCHOOL), KAN. 

From 1892 till the removal of the church building to the 
village in 1900 there was a branch school in Norton ville. It 
began by Mrs. Susan Clarke inviting children to her house on 
Sabbath afternoons to study the lesson, but grew till a hall 
was hired and a regular school organized. It was a branch 
school from 1897 and so supported, governed and reported. 
The Superintendents of this school were: L. E. Hummel, 
W. E. M. Oursler, Mrs. Ida Stillman. The teachers were: 
H. E. Babcock, L. E. Hummel, W. E. M. Oursler, Jacob 
Brinkerhoff, Mrs. H. D. Burdick, Mrs. Lucy Knapp, Mrs. 
Mary Say re and Mrs. Nettie Perry. In 1898 forty scholars 
signed the following pledge: "God helping me, I solemnly 
promise to abstain from the use of alcoholic drinks, including 
wine, beer and cider as a beverage, and from the use of tobac- 
co in any form, and I will abstain from profane arid impure 
words." 

NEW AUBURN, MINN. 

In the summer of 1864 several Seventh-day Baptist fami- 
lies settled in Sibley County, Minnesota. Among these were 
Wells K. Greene, A. C. Coon, C. A. Coon, Z. W. Burdick, O. 
C. Burdick, Roswell Crandall, Nelson Stillman and G. G. 
Coon. A Sabbath school must have been organized at once, 
for in September of this year Elder B. F. Rogers, the mission- 
ary pastor, was ^hosen Superintendent. At that time there 
were 12 scholars and 2 teachers. In 1867 Elder H. W. Bab- 
cock was chosen Superintendent. The school now has 30 
scholars and 3 teachers. In 1876 the school was given up, 
but was reorganized in 1877, when G. G. Coon became Super- 
intendent. The same officers conducted the school for 8 years. 
The church being without a pastor, was largely indebted to 
the Sabbath school for its life and power. The Superintend- 
ents in more recent years have been: Rev. A. G. Crofoot, 
Miss Cleora Ramsdall, Elder E. H. Socwell, and Frank Hall. 
Rev. D. B. Coon was one of our Sabbath school boys. The 
school has always been a strong factor in the religious life of 
the church. 

FARINA, ILL. 

Ih May, 1865, a Sabbath school was organized at Farina 



3IO SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

in the home of Anson Goodrich, with Arnold C. Davis Super- 
intendent, Hattie Goodrich "melodianist," A. S. Coon teacher 
of the Bible class and Mrs. Carrie Davis teacher of the primary 
class. The school numbered 25. 

During the same year Mr. Davis moved away and A. S. 
Coon was chosen Superintendent. The house of Mr. Good- 
rich was soon too small for the school and the upper room of 
a grain elevator was secured. In 1866 the school was reor- 
ganized with Rev. L. ^I. Cottrell as Superintendent. Xo 
records have been found dating earlier than 1868, and these 
are very unsatisfactory. During the 37 years there have been 

14 Superintendents, as follows : A. C. Davis, A. S. Coon, L. 
M. Cottrell, O. B. Irish, J. F. Greenman, Mrs. M. E. Rich, E. 
W. Irish, O. U. Whitford, W. R. Potter, T. P. Andrews, B. 
F. Titsworth, A. A. Whitford, C. H. West and H. P. Irish. 
For about 20 years the plan has been followed of electing a 
superintendent and having him name the other officers. About 

15 years ago the school adopted the plan of furnishing every 
family in the society with The Sabbath Visitor and The Help- 
iiig Hand. The average number of sessions a year since 1875 
is 49, the average weekly attendance is 92, and the average 
enrollment 160. 

About 180 members of the Sabbath school have united 
with the church during its history." 

BOSCOBEL, WIS. 

Beginning about 1870 and continuing for some years 
there was a very successful mission Sabbath school conducted 
by Miss M. M. Jones at Boscobel, Wis. At one time there 
was a Band of Hope, and a Gem Temperance Army, includ- 
ing 140 boys and girls. Much lasting good was done. 

STONE FORT, ILL. 

In the earlv davs of the Stone Fort church the Sabbath 
school and the church were so nearly the same that it does not 
seem to have been thought necessary to have separate organi- 
zations. After church service most of the congregation re- 
mained to study the Bible lesson. The lesson would be read 
verse by verse and questions asked by the pastor or some other 
appointed leader. The lesson was taken from The Sabbath 
Recorder. This public study began about 1871. Everyone 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 3II 

in the society was considered a member of the school. The 
church records state that on June 12th, 1887, Elder F. F. 
Johnson was chosen Superintendent for one year. 

Since 1890 the records have been kept. Among those 
who have contributed much to the life and success of the school 
are: Rev. and Mrs. Robert Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Matthew 
Bracewell, B. D. Grace, M. B. Kelly, Sr. 

The school now numbers 44, with an average attendance 
of 28. The Superintendents have been : F. F. Johnson, Rob- 
ert Lewis, B. D. Grace, Howell Lewis, Oliver Lewis, Mary 
Bozarth, Paul Johnson, Pierce Bracewell. 

CHICAGO, ILL. 

In June, 1875, Elder James Bailey came to Chicago and 
organized a Sabbath school and a Woman's Auxiliary Tract 
Society. At first the meeting of the school was held in pri- 
vate houses, but was soon removed to one of the ante-rooms 
of the platform of Farwell Hall ; and the time made 1 1 o'clock 
in order to give the class the benefit of the '*Xoon Meeting" 
that would follow. Added interest came from the fact that 
Rev. E. M. Dunn, who was a student in the citv, usuallv staved 
in the city over the Sabbath and taught the class. The school 
grew slowly but steadily. In 1882 Brother X. O. !Moore con- 
ceived the idea of organizing a Sabbath mission school. On 
the 25th of March, 1882, that was accomplished. Through 
the generosity of Colonel George R. Clarke, formerly a 
Seventh-day Baptist, this school was held in the Pacific Gar- 
den Mission, 100 Van Buren street, for the nominal sum of 
$50.00 a year. The officers first elected were as follows : Su- 
perintendent, N. O. Moore; Chorister, George W. Post; Or- 
ganist, Ella Covey; Secretary, C. C. Eaton; Treasurer. J. M. 
Maxson; Aisle Manager, Ira J. Ordway. The school grew 
and soon became a prominent factor in the church work. The 
children were largely from the families of the Jews of the 
neighborhood south of \^an Buren street. Many strong men 
and women received training as workers in the school, which 
was carried on for 12 years. For much of the time Mr. Moore 
was Superintendent. The school has had much help from 
students, medical, dental, theological and others. 

In 1889 a separate school was started for the children of 



312 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Seventh-day Baptist families, which has since been kept up in 
connection with the church services. 

CARTWRIGHT, WIS. 

In the winter of 1878-9 Mrs. Perry Sweet organized a 
Sabbath school of about a half dozen children. In Mardi, 
1879, Mrs. Sweet was elected Superintendent. At that time 
there. were 26 members. At one time there were 50 mem- 
bers. The average attendance at the present time is 25. 

PLEASANT GROVE, S. D. 

This school was organized in December, 1887. For some 
years members of Seventh-day Baptist families had been meet- 
ing to study the Bible lesson together. At one time the school 
had 60 scholars, but has been discontinued on account of re- 
movals. The Superintendents have been: H. H. Severance, 
George Lanphere, Rev. D. K. Davis, R. J. Maxson and Stiles 
Lanphere. The school closed in 1900. 

BIG sioux^ s. D. 

This school was organized in 1890 with 23 members. 
There were three classes. For several years the Superintend- 
ent was Miss Anna Nelson. Other Superintendents have been : 
James Jenson and Charles Nelson. Miss Alice Nelson (now 
Mrs. C. A. Davis) and Mr. George Georgeson have also acted 
for brief periods in this capacity. This school has never been 
a large one, but has been made up of faithful, earnest students 
of God's word and will. It now numbers 18. 

BOULDER, COL. 

In 1891 Elder G. M. Cottrell made a missionary trip 
through the West. He called a meeting of the Seventh-day 
Baptists in Boulder. The meeting was held in the Christian 
church. About 40 were present. Elder Cottrell presided. 
This was April 4th, and a school was organized to be known 
as "The First Seventh-day Baptist Sabbath Shcool of Colo- 
rado." The following officers were elected: Deacon A. G. 
Coon, Superintendent; John Babcock, Assistant; Mrs. Mary 
Larkin, Secretary; Walter Rood, Treasurer; Will Davis, 
Chorister; Mrs. Mattie Burdick, Organist. The first session 
of the school was held on April 11 with an attendance of 36. 
The teacher of the infant class has been Mrs. Terry up to the 
present time. Before the Boulder church was built the meet- 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 313 

ings of the school were in the Christian church, in private 
houses and in the Swedish church. The membership has 
changed very much, but the school has always been well at- 
tended and interesting. At one time the enrollment was as 
high as 70. On account of removals the number is much less 
at the present time. The school has been a financial help to 
tlie church, purchasing an organ, helping on the building fund, 
etc. 

FARNAM, NEB. 

In 1891 the families of R. L. Van Horn and A. A. Bab- 
cock met on the Sabbath to study the Bible lesson. In 1894 
there were 7 families and a school was organized. The school 
has held its own through prosperity and through trouble. Mrs. 
Ella Davis is the present Superintendent. 

COLONY HEIGHTS, CAL. 

It was probably in November, 1895, that the Colony 
Heights school was organized. The meeting was at the home 
of Rev. J. T. Davis, who was chosen Superintendent. It open- 
ed with a membership of 24 and reached its largest number, 
38, about two years later. The life of the school depended on 
the success of the colony, hence it died in igoi. Many of its 
members removed to the neighboring town of Riverside, where 
a Sabbath school has been organized, which is practically a 
continuation of the one at Colony Heights. 

ROCK HOUSE PRAIRIE, WIS. 

This Sabbath school was organized in 1896 by Rev. 
George W. Hills. There were 28 members. E. Atkins was 
Superintendent and Mrs. E. F. Babcock was Secretary. The 
members are widely scattered, but loyal to the school. 

Mrs. L. Crandall is the present Superintendent and the 
school numbers 25. The Saviour is taken as the pattern and 
the children are taught his ways. 

TALENT, ORE. 

A Sabbath school was organized at Talent, Ore., January 
i6th, 1897. Previous to this time the same work had been 
done in an unorganized way. Mrs. M. C. Hendricks was 
made Superintendent and Ethelyn Hurley Secretary. The av- 
erage attendance the first year was 19. At first the meetings 



314 SEVENTir-DAY BAPTISTS: 

were held in the home of W. H. Hurley and later in the Ander- 
son Creek school house. 

This being the only Bible school in the neighborhood there 
have always attended it several from First-day families. It 
has been the custom to hold devotional services following the 
school, when there is no church service. The school was large 
in 1898, but has since been greatly depleted by removals. Like 
the Sabbath school in many other small churches it has been 
the center and strength of the church work. 

HOLGATE, OHIO. 

Rev. A. G. Crofoot, then of Jackson Center, Ohio, organ- 
ized the Holgate Sabbath school in 1898. There were 28 
members, with the following officers: Superintendent, Mr. 
Nollen; Treasurer, Mrs. Anna C. Mengersen; Secretary, Mrs. 
Maria Snyder; Chorister, Olla Nollan. The present Superin- 
tendent is Mrs. Mengersen, in whose home the school is held. 

JANESVILLE, WIS. 

For several years there have been meetings on Sabbath 
afternoon for the study of the Bible lesson. In November, 
1900, a school was organized. Dr. A. L. Burdick is the Super- 
intendent, at whose home the meetings are usually held. There 
are 16 members. This school is a great source of strength to 
the Sabbath-keepers living in the city. 

SOUTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

LOST CREEK, W'. VA. 

A Sabbath school was organized at Lost Creek about the 
year 1865, by Rev. A. H. Lewis, who held a series of meetings 
here at that time. 

After the organization of the Sabbath school, Moses H. 
Davis served as Superintendent. 

In the absence of records, a satisfactory history of the 
school is difficult to give, but it is remembered that the follow- 
ing named persons have filled the office of Superintendent: 
A. R. Jones, Charles N. Maxson, Luther A. Bond and M. 
Berkeley Davis. 

At the time of the organization in 1865, Rev. Samuel D. 
Davis was pastor of the Lost Creek church. Prominent among 
the members were the following: William Kennedy. Eli 



SABBATH SCHCX)L BOARD. 315 

Bond, Levi Bond, Jessie Davis, Joshua Davis, George Paugb, 
Boothe Bond, Abel Bond, Broomfield Bond. These with their 
respective wives were among the oldest members at that time. 

In 1880 the school had grown to its present proportions, 
its membership numbering about 90. 

The class method of instruction is in vogue, and the chief 
lesson help is The Helping Hand. 

Owing to the scattered condition of the school, few en- 
tertainments are held. All money raised for benevolent pur- 
poses is secured by means of collections. 

Two former members of the school have entered the min- 
istry — Rev. Boothe C. Davis, President of Alfred University, 
and his brother, Rev. Samuel H. Davis. 

SALEM, w. VA. 

The Salem Sabbath school was organized in 1868 by 
Preston F. Randolph. At first its membership was composed 
almost wholly of children. Few of the older people attended, 
except Phineas F. Randolph and his wife, Marvel, together 
with their grand-daughter, Miss Columbia Jeffrey. 

Among those who attended occasionally and encouraged 
the movement, were Fenton F. Randolph and Emily his wife, 
P. Chapin F. Randolph and Margaret his wife, Lloyd F. Ran- 
dolph, and Mrs. Mary Davis, the widow of Silas Davis. At 
first these came as occasional visitors and afterward as regu- 
lar attendants. They, together with their children; Walton 
F. and Belle F. Randolph, the son and daughter of Daniel 
and Nancy F. Randolph; and Lafayette Sutton, were the 
most prominent members of the Sabbath school. 

Preston F. Randolph, who organized the Sabbath school 
in the first instance, served as its Superintendent almost con- 
tinuously from the beginning down to about 1890, except at 
such time as he was away from Salem teaching school. On 
such occasions, the .following served as Superintendents at 
different times: Jesse F. Randolph, Terrence ^I. Davis and 
Deacon Lodowick H. Davis. 

Since 1890, the following have served as Superintendent : 
Cora F. Randolph (now Mrs. Charles Ogden), Ernest F. Ran- 
dolph, Flavius J. Ehret, M. Wardner Davis, Cortez R. Claw- 
son, Moses H. Van Horn, Stillman F. Lowther, Dora Gardi- 



3l6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ner (now Mrs. Okey Davis), Beatrice Lowther (now Mrs. 
Dwight Clarke), and Samuel B. Bond. 

The Sabbath school was organized with about fifteen pu- 
pils. At the present time, the enrollment numbers about nine- 
ty-five. 

Among those who have been members of this Sabbath 
school may be mentioned the following: Hon. Jesse F. Ran- 
dolph, member of the Legislature of the State of West Vir- 
ginia ; Professor Terrence M. Davis, at one time a member of 
the faculty of Alfred University; Rev. Boothe C. Davis, Presi- 
dent of Alfred University; and Rev. Samuel H. Davis. 

The funds raised by the Sabbath school have been used 
chiefly for the purcliase of lesson helps for the teachers and 
children, the purchase of Sabbath school papers for the child- 
ren, and for the support of the regular church and denomina- 
tional work. 

BUCKEYE RUN, ( SALEM, W. VA.) 

■ 

About the year 1875 there was organized in a log school 
house on Buckeye Run a few miles west of the village of New 
Salem, at the forks of the Sistersville and the Northwestern 
turnpikes, a Sabbath school, with Stillman F. Lowther as Su- 
perintendent. The new Sabbath school was composed almost, 
if not quite, wholly of members of the New Salem Church 
and their families living in that vicinity. The original mem- 
bership numbered about twenty-five. At the present time, 
the enrollment is thirty-seven. 

MIDDLE ISLAND, (nEW MILTON, W. VA.) 

This Sabbath school was probably organized about the 
year 1865 or 1866, but there are no available records before 
1872. 

Among the early Superintendents were Franklin F. Ran- 
dolph and Abner J. Davis. The first Superintendent of exist- 
ing record was Daniel Fillmore F. Randolph. Among the 
subsequent Superintendents were the following: Rev. James 
B. Davis, Albert Shock, Luther F. Randolph, Clementina 
Davis, Walter Fields McWhorter, Johnson J. Lowther, James 
E. Willis, Corliss F. Randolph, Iseus F. Randolph, Esle F. 
Randolph, Roy F. Randolph, Archibald W. Kelley, Charles 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 317 

Compton Davis, Samuel Albert Ford, Wesley C. Lowther, 
Linville B. Davis, Manville O. Polan, William L. Davis, Eva 
Noble. 

At the time of the organization, the following were among 
the more prominent members : Deacon Jepthah F. Randolph, 
Rev. James B. Davis, Amaziah Bee, Franklin F. Randolph 
and Abner J. Davis. The membership was small. ' At the 
present time the enrollment numbers thirty-four. 

If the church had a pastor at the time of its organization, 
it was Rev. James B. Davis. At all events, he was the pastor 
soon afterward. From about 1871 to 1875 Rev. Charles A. 
Burdick was with the church and Sabbath school for a short 
time at frequent intervals. 

The following ministers have been prominently identified 
with the Sabbath school : Rev. James B. Davis, Amaziah Bee, 
William L. Davis, Samuel Albert Ford, all licentiates. 

RITCHIE, (bEREA, W. VA.) 

While the exact date of the organization does not seem 
to be known, it is certain that the Ritchie Sabbath school was 
organized in the year 1870. immediately after the organization 
of the Ritchie church, if not in immediate connection with the 
organization of the church. The chief promoters were Wil- 
liam Jett, William F. Ehret, Asa F. Randolph and Levi Stal- 
naker. 

From 1870 to 1889, no records are found, but we learn 
from other authentic sources that Levi Stalnaker was the first 
Superintendent, and that during this period, William F. Ehret 
and William Jett each served a term as Superintendent. 

Since 1889 the following named persons have served as 
Superintendent: Alva F. Randolph, Rev. Orpheus S. ^lills. 
Ellsworth F. Randolph, Luther Brissey, Festus Kelley, Al- 
bert Brissey, C. F. Meatherel, Clyde Ehret, Elva Maxson and 
Erlow Sutton. 

The present enrollment of the school is sixty-three. 

Rev. James B. Davis was pastor of the church at the time 
of the organization of the Sabbath school. 

The funds for the use of the Sabbath school are raised by 
penny collections, for the most part. 

Rev. Experience (Perie) F. Randolph (now Mrs. Leon 



3l8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

D. Burdick was formerly a member of this Sabbath school. 

GREEXBRIAR, W. VA. 

According, to the best available information, this Sabbath 
school was organized in the summer of 1866 by Preston F. 
Randolph. 

Officers are elected twice each year. The following have 
served as Superintendent: Rev. Lewis F. Randolph, Ethel- 
bert J. Davis, Judson F. Randolph, John F. Randolph, Festus 
P. Ford, Rev. Riley G. Davis, Mrs. Marcus E. Martin, Fenton 
R. Clarke, Milton Clarke, Fenton Williams, Lewis B. Stutler 
and F. W. Williams. 

The enrollment has never been large. At present, it num- 
bers about twenty-seven. 

The Greenbrier church was organized in 1870. At that 
time. Rev. Jacob Davis was chosen pastor. Rev. Walter B. 
Gillette was with us more or less during the early years of 
the church and later Rev. Charles A. Burdick was with us at 
frequent intervals during a period of four or five years. 

Rev. Jacob Davis was associated with us until his death, 
and Rev. Lewis F. Randolph until he removed to Rhode 
Island in 1883. Rev. Riley G. Davis was also a member of 
the Sabbath school for many years. 

ROANOKE, W. VA. 

The Roanoke Sabbath school was organized April 14, 
1872. The Roanoke church had just been organized, but as 
the church had no resident pastor, and no other arrangement 
for regular preaching services, it was thought best to organize 
the church into a Sabbath school. 

The Superintendents have been as follows: J. J. Heven- 
er, Mansfield M. Hevener, Festus Kelley, Samuel D. Bond, 
Ina Hevener, B. W. Bee and Ahva John Clarence Bond. 

At the time of the organization of the Sabbath school 
there were twenty members. The membership now numbers 
thirty-four. 

SALEMVILLE, PA. 

The Salemville Sabbath school was organized in March, 
1887. The most prominent members at that time were Rev. 
George B. Kagarise, G. C. Long, A. D. Wolfe, C. F. Shriner, 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 319 

and others. Rev. Samuel D. Davis was present and took an 
active part in the work of organization. 

. The first Superintendent was Wilson Kagarise. Those 
since then have been as follows : John Wolfe, Sr. ; Noah 
Blough, A. W. Walter, A. D. Wolfe, George E. Negley, C. C. 
Wolfe, G. C. Long and Jerome Kagarise. 

The original membership numbered eight. The present 
membership is about forty-five. 

The money raised by Sabbath school collections, besides 
supporting the work of the Sabbath school, is paid into the 
treasuries of the Missionary and Tract Societies. 

John H. Wolfe, one of the members of this Sabbath 
school, recently graduated from Alfred University, and has 
been formally licensed by the church to preach. 

SOUTHWESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

LITTLE PRAIRIE, ARK. 

This school was first held on "Grand Prairie" at the homes 
of A. S. Davis, T. C. Monroe and Orrin Wilber. The school 
was organized in 1881. A. S. Davis was Superintendent. Miss 
Nettie Knapp was one of the teachers. The next year the 
families of Zachery Lewis and J. L. Hull were added to the 
circle. In 1893 the meetings were held at De Luce and Mrs. 
Amanda Stephen was Superintendent. This year the meet- 
ings of the school began to be held at Little Prairie and J. L. 
Hull was made Superintendent. The school has usually num- 
bered about 20. Other Superintendents have been Deacon 
I. Parish, Elder W. H. Godsey, Miss E. A. Fisher and Mrs. 
Parish. 

The present membership is 25. 

HAMMOND^ LA. 

In the winter of 1886 and 1887 a small colony of Sabbath- 
keepers settled at Hammond. They met each Sabbath to 
study the Bible lesson. Leaders were appointed from week 
to week in advance. Others joined the company till a private 
house was not convenient. For some time the school met in 
a school house owned by a leading and generous citizen, C. E. 
Gate. Still later the meetings were held in the town hall till 
the church was built. The school, containing men and women 



320 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

of recognized ability, has had a large influence in Bible 
school work throughout the State. The school has prospered 
through the years. It has never taken a vacation. It is not 
now as large as it once was, but is still a large factor in the re- 
ligious life of the community. The officers now are: Super- 
intendent, B. R. Crandall ; Assistant, W. R. Potter ; Secretary, 
Mabel C. Sayre; Chorister, Myrtle Davis; Organist, Grace 
Saunders. 

ATTALLA^ ALA. 

A Sabbath school has been kept up regularly at Attalla 
for about a dozen years. There was a Bible class before that 
time. The membership is 40 and the average attendance 
about 20. W. L. Willson is Superintendent and Lena Will- 
son is Secretary. 

Crowley's ridge^ ark. 

In September, 1901, Miss E. A. Fisher organized a class 
of boys which met on the Sabbath at the home of R. J. Ellis. 
After Miss Fisher's departure the class was taught by William 
Bruce till his removal to Gentry, since which time it has been 
taught by Mrs. R. J. Ellis. 

FOUKE^ ARK. 

Seventh-day Baptist families began to move to Fouke in 
September, 1890. In January, 1891, a school was organized 
on the dirt floor of a blacksmith shop belonging to Rev. B. F. 
Granberry. The Superintendents have been (the order is un- 
certain), Rev. J. F. Shaw, Rev. S. I. Lee, Rev. B. F. Gran- 
berry, Stephen Hills, Mrs. Elizabeth Roper and Mrs. G. H. F. 
Randolph. The attendance at one tune reached 60. In 1899 
it had declined to 10. Since that time it has gained w€ll. The 
school has a good Home Department that is a valuable addi- 
tion to its work. The present Superintendent is Mrs. G. H. 
F. Randolph. 

GENTRY, ARK. 

The Gentry Bible school was the outgrowth of a desire 

on the part of four families to unite in some religious service. 

These families were those of R. J. Maxson, of Pleasant Grove, 

S. D. ; J. L. Williams, of North Loup, Neb. ; M. L. Maxson, 

of Nortonville, Kan., and William Ochs, of Dell Rapids, S. D. 

The school was organized October 20th, 1900. R. J. Maxson 
(20) 



SABBATH SCHOOL BOARD. 321 

was chosen Superintendent. There were i8 present. The at- 
tendance now is more than loo. 

FOREIGN. 

SHANGHAI^ CHINA. 

The Sabbath school in Shanghai was organized about 
1884. Among those who have been Superintendents are: D. 
H. Davis, Dr. Ella Swinney, G. H. F. Randolph, Mr. Dzau- 
Sing-Chung, Mr. Tong, Koeh-Yau-Tsong, and Koo-Pau-Zi* 
In the Sabbath school connected with the church and held di- 
rect^ after the services the number present is usually about 
80, but has been more than loo. There are 8 or 9 classes and 
the usual officers of such a school. The International lessons 
are used. 

Within the walls of the native city of Shanghai are two 
(lay schools, which on the Sabbath are united in a Bible class. 
Verses of Scripture are selected which the children learn and 
which are made the topic of a little talk by some teacher or 
missionary. About 40 children are in this school. There is 
still another school a mile west of the mission in the country, 
where 25 children are taught by a native teacher, assisted by 
the foreign missionaries. The International lesson is used, 
but the school is not divided into classes. 

HAARLEM^ HOLLAND. 

A Sabbath school was organized at Haarlem on July 15th, 
1882. This was done at the suggestion of Rev. W. M. Jones, 
of London, who had visited Haarlem the year previous. Be- 
fore this time a regular Bible class had been held on Sabbath 
afternoon. The following named persons were present at the 
organization: Brethren J. M. Spaan, J. N. Vander Steur, K. 
Taekema, H. Vermeulen, G. Velthuysen, Sr. ; Sisters S. L. 
Velthuysen, M. Taekema, M. Spaan- Vander Laan and Catha- 
rina de Boer. H. Vemeulen was made Secretary, J. M. Spaan 
Treasurer and G. Velthuysen Leader. The present member- 
ship is 20. Regular offerings are taken and any amount con- 
Iributed above the running expenses is given to the China 
mission. From this little school have gone out many strong 
men and women. Two are missionaries in the East Indies, 
two are in the Midnight Missions, one lies buried in the fever- 



322 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

coasts of West Africa. And these are not all the faithful and 
brave ones. This school studies the Bible by topics or books. 
The gospel of Mark, the book of Acts, the life of Abraham, 
divine healing, the book of Romans, the doctrine of baptism, 
etc. Rev. G. Velthuysen is the acknowledged leader and 
teacher. 

ROTTERDAM, HOLLAND. 

This Sabbath school was organized April 15th, 1893. J. F. 
Bakker was Superintendent and A. Schouten Clerk. The pres- 
ent attendance is from 15 to 20. The Bible is studied by 
books or topics, the leader giving out written questions a ^^eek 
in advance. 



THE 

SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 

MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 



REV. OSCAR UBERTO WHITFORD. I 
See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



HISTORICAL SKETCH OF OUR HOME 

AND FOREIGN MISSION WORK 

FOR ONE HUNDRED YEARS. 



Rev. O. U. Whitford. 



Seventh-day Baptists have always been a missionary peo- 
ple. Seventh-day Baptist mission work in this country is 
over two centuries old. In 1664 the London Seventh-day Bap- 
tists sent Stephen Mumford to Newport, R. I., and it was 
chiefly through his labors that the first Seventh-day Baptist 
church was organized at Newport on the 23rd of December, 
1671. In 1675 ^he Rev. William Gibson came from our Eng- 
lish brethren as a missionary into the new country. In 1684 
Abel Xoble, son of a wealthy Quaker of Bristol, England, 
came to America and lived in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. 
He becarne the apostle of Sabbatarianism in Pennsylvania, and 
under his teaching and influence, sprang up the German 
Seventh-day Baptists. Many English speaking people em- 
braced the Bible Sabbath and churches were organized about 
the year 1700 near Philadelphia. In New Jersey, about 1700, 
Edmund Dunham, a Baptist deacon and licensed preacher, 
came to the Sabbath. Largely from his teaching and influ- 
ence others embraced the Sabbath and in 1705 the Piscataway 



326 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

church, at New Market, N. J., was organized. But the mis- 
sionary work of our people had its beginning chiefly in the 
Newport church. As soon as it became strong enough it sent 
out the minister and sometimes with him a layman, into other 
parts of Rhode Island and into the neighboring State of Con- 
necticut, to preach the gospel and the Sabbath truth. As the 
churches increased in Rhode Island and Connecticut they met 
together in a Yearly Meeting for Christian fellowship, mutual 
benefit, and for unity of effort in missionary work. Through 
the influence and direction of the Yearly Meeting, Elder Henry 
Clarke and Abel Burdick were sent from the Hopkinton 
church to a new settlement of Seventh-day Baptists in Brook- 
field, Madison County, N. Y., to labor among the people. The 
result of their missionary visit and work was the organization 
of the Brookfield Seventh-day Baptist church in 1797, and 
soon afterwards Elder Henry Clarke became its faithful and 
honored pastor, and served it for many years with marked 
ability and success. The mission work at this time was to 
visit and preach to the scattered Sabbath-keepers, to the new 
settlements of our people, organize churches, to nourish, 
strengthen and build them up. 

This seemed to be the chief work of the Yearly Meeting 
in those years. These Yearly Meetings here in Rhode Island 
Connecticut and also those held in New Jersey and West Vir- 
ginia, were a source of good fraternal feeling, and unity, and 
of spiritual strength and -growth to the churches. They re- 
sulted at length in the formation of the General Conference, 
for wider church fellowship and for greater concert of action 
in missionary effort. It was chiefly the missionary spirit and 
work that led to the organization of the Conference, that by 
it, missionary labor might be better carried on. In our His- 
torical Sketch of our mission work as a people for the last 
century we shall for convenience and clearer following, pre- 
sent it in decades. 

FIRST DECADE, 180O-181O. 

The Conference now became the directing power in mis- 
sionary work. In the Conference held at Hopkinton, R. I., 
September 8-12, 1808, it was voted that the church at Bur- 
lington be visited by Brother Matthew Stillman on the sec- 



HON. WILLIAM L. CLARKK. 
See Biographical Sketches, p. I36L 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 327 

ond Sabbath in November next ; by Brother William Satterlee 
on the second Sabbath in February; by Brother Abram Coon 
the second Sabbath in May, and by Brethren Jabez Beebe, Jr., 
and Matthew Stillman the second Sabbath in August. In the 
General Conference held September 7-10, 1809, at Brookfield, 
N. Y., it was voted, "That it be recommended to the churches 
of our order that they appoint messengers to visit the remote 
branches of their respective churches, and where there may 
be gifts competent and members sufficient, to form or organize 
sister churches; and in case such gifts are not apparent, to 
form such branches into classes or societies, and to encourage 
them to keep up meetings on the Lord's Sabbath ; to improve 
such gifts as they have, and keep a faithful and loving watch 
care over each other," and it was also recommended to the 
ministers of the several churches in our Union to visit our sis- 
ter church at Burlington, State of Connecticut, in their desti- 
tute condition as often as convenient. In this period or decade 
there were the Newport and Hopkinton churches, Rhode 
Island; the Waterford and Burlington churches, in Connecti- 
cut; the Piscataway and Cohansey (Shiloh) churches, in New 
Jersey; the Berlin, Brookfield, DeRuyter churches, in New 
York, and the Salem, Lost Creek churches, and the church on 
the west fork of the Monongahela river, Virginia, that consti- 
tuted the body of the General Conference and carried on the 
best they could home mission work. 

SECOND DECADE, 181O-182O. 

In this decade there was quite an increase in the number 
of Seventh-day Baptist churches, and in the membership of 
the churches. This was due to increased missionary effort. At 
the Conference held with the Cohansey (now Shiloh) church, 
June 10-13, 1813, it was recommended *'to every church of our 
order that can with convenience, to send out a traveling preach- 
er to visit their brethren and destitute churches in the Union.'' 
In this period missionary work was organized. In the churches 
were formed missionary societies for raising of funds and for 
sending out traveling preachers. In the minutes of the Con- 
ference held at Hopkinton, R. I., September 25-29, 1817, it 
appears that missionary societies had been organized in sev- 
eral churches for carrying on missionary labor in the destitute 



3^8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

churches and among the scattered Sabbath-keepers. The mis- 
sionary spirit had deepened and broadened and was taking on 
a wider thought and scope. In the circular letter of the Con- 
ference held the year before, with the Piscataway church, 
N. J., to the churches, we find these words: "We presume, 
brethren, you are not unacquainted with the exertions that 
are making in these days for the spread of the gospel, and con- 
version of the heathen, and the diffusion of the light of the 
gospel amongst those that are in darkness ; we recommend to 
you to join in so laudable and excellent a duty. Already has 
the missionary breeze descended on the waters of the church, 
and some have entered into the plan of seizing the favorable 
gale and begin to form societies for that purpose. Bear in 
mind the value of the souls of your fellow-mortals, and lend 
your aid for their relief, believing that he that feedeth and 
teacheth the hungry and ignorant soul, lendeth to the Lord, 
who will repay in due season." There was felt and seen by these 
church missionary societies, the need of some central society 
to take the lead and direct the missionary work. Among the 
brethren of this decade who were interested and active in mis- 
sionary effort, was Elder Henry Clarke, pastor of the Brook- 
field church, who was the chief leader, no doubt, in organizing 
the work. He was a man of broad mind, a. warm heart, of 
sterling character, of progressive ideas, and great energy. He 
took the initiative in the steps of missionary organization by 
reading and presenting a letter of request from the Alfred 
Seventh-day Baptist church, N. Y., respecting this Confer- 
ence, taking the lead of the missionary plan which had been 
already begun in the several church missionary societies. The 
request was fully discussed by the Conference, and by vote the 
following proposition was recommended "to the several 
churches and societies for their consideration and proceeding 
thereon — and if approved of and acted upon by them at next 
Conference it will be considered the proper method of send- 
ing out missionaries in our fellowship: — 

"In answering to the request of Sunday churches and mis- 
sionary societies, particularly the society at Alfred, and in or- 
der for the systematical arrangement of sending out mission- 
aries, or traveling preachers of our fellowship — this Confer- 
ence unite in commending the zeal and liberality of those so- 



MISSIOXARY SOCIETY. 329 

cieties already formed for that purpose, and also recommend 
to all the churches and societies in our fellowship (which have 
not already formed for that purpose) to form themselves into 
societies in their vicinities, for the promulgation and spread 
of the gospel in its purity. And it is also proposed that the 
Seventh-day Baptist General Conference, in their annual ses- 
sions, be considered the central society of the Seventh-day 
Baptist order in North America, so far as to designate the can- 
didates, or persons to be sent on such missions, etc. And that 
in the course of their annual sessions, to appoint a committee 
of their number and fellowship, to consist of one member of 
each society, if practicable (that may have formed themselves 
into a missionary society) which committee shall be denomi- 
nated the Board of Trustees and Directors of the Missions of 
the Seventh-day Baptist Order in America. That said Board 
elect their necessary officers for carrying into effect the mis- 
sionary plan. But no officer of said Board shall receive any 
emolument, or pecuniary pay for his services, excepting for 
necessary expenses, as writing and printing their minutes, etc. 
That said Board shall have the control of all the funds or 
money sent in or entrusted to them, by the several societies 
and of all private donations for missionary purposes, and shall 
also direct the route and give suitable instructions to, and re- 
commendations of, in writing, and also fix the sum to be al- 
lowed any person concerned in the missionary business under 
their direction." This proposition goes on farther to state the 
qualifications of the missionaries to be sent out, their duties, 
the authority given them, how funds shall be raised, to carry 
on the work. It also advises that no church missionary so- 
ciety shall send out at its own expense any missionary with- 
out first obtaining the approbation of the General Conference, 
for the person so sent out, and further it shall be understood 
that nothing in the foregoing proposition or plan should go 
to prevent any church in our fellowship from sending out their 
elder or preacher, to visit particular places, at their own ex- 
pense. 

At the next Conference, held with the Berlin church, 
X. Y., September 24-28, 1818, this plan of missionaryorganiza- 
tion for carrying on missions was unanimously adopted, and 
the following Board of Trustees and Directors of ^lissions 



330 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

was appointed to put the plan into execution, viz.: Elder 
Henry Clarke, of Brookfield, N. Y. ; Deacon Daniel Babcock, 
of Hopkinton, R. I.; Deacon John Green, of Berlin, N. Y.; 
Barzilla Randolph, of Piscataway, N. J., and Abel Burdick, 
Alfred, N. Y. **After the adjournment of Conference busi- 
ness the Board organized by electing their proper officers and 
after thorough examination, recommended and unanimously 
made choice of Elder Matthew Stillman to take the lead in 
the mission for the year ensuing, and Brother Amos R. Wells 
as his concomitant or assistant, which was to the full and en- 
tire satisfaction of all the messengers and brethren of the Con- 
ference present. The President of this Board was Elder 
Henry Clarke and the Secretary Abel Burdick. At this Con- 
ference a committee was appointed, consisting of Deacon 
Daniel Babcock, Deacon John Green and Abel Burdick, to 
draft a circular missionary address to all the brethren and sis- 
ters of our order and present it to the Conference for their in- 
spection. This address was prepared, examined and approved 
by the Conference and was ordered to be published in its min- 
utes. This first address issued by the General Conference was 
upon missions and its thought and argument upon the na- 
ture, extent and design of missions, the duty of our people to 
engage in missionary efforts, the warm missionary spirit per- 
vading it, make it one of the most able and admirable ad- 
dresses ever given by our people. It is printed in full in the Rev. 
James Bailey's History of the Seventh-day Baptist General 
Conference. It is now seen in thus far following up the mis- 
sion work of our people that in September, 1818, was organ- 
ized the first denominational missionary society for carrying 
on missions and that the General Conference itself was that 
societv, under the name of the Central Missionarv Societv, 
with a constituencv of church missionarv societies, and the 
churches themselves, and that the work was managed and di- 
rected bv a Board of Trustees and Directors of Missions of 
the Seventh-day Baptists in the United States of America. 

At the Conference held with the Brookfield church, N. Y., 
September 23-27, 1819, a constitution of the Board of Trus- 
tees and Directors of Missions drafted by a committee appoint- 
ed at the previous Conference, consisting of Elders Henry 
Clarke and Matthew Stillman and Brother Abel Burdick, was 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 33 1 

adopted, giving rules governing membership, the employ- 
ment of missionaries, the raising and expenditure of funds, 
and the duties of officers and of the missionaries employed. 
By the appointment and direction of this Board of Missions, 
Elder Amos R. Wells became the first Seventh-day Baptist 
missionary under this new plan of conducting missions. 

At this time there were fourteen churches constituting 
the General Conference, having an aggregate membership of 

2,173. 

At this session Elder Amos R. Wells presented a short 

summary of his missionary labors during the summer of 1819. 
He left Hopkinton, R. I., May 31st. Visited the Seventh-day 
Baptist churches in New Jersey, tarrying with them three 
weeks. He traveled on horseback. From there he went to 
Virginia, visiting the churches and scattered Sabbath-keepers, 
arriving at Lost Creek July loth. After a short stay there he 
went to the New Salem church and labored about three weeks, 
having the pleasure of witnessing the profession of a number, 
who were hopefully converted, and waited upon them in the 
ordinances of the gospel. He departed the first part of August 
and went to a small church at Mad River, Ohio, that was once 
in a flourishing condition, but from some cause had fallen 
much to decay. His going among them diffused a general joy 
and was productive of great good to them. On his way to 
this place, some 250 miles from New Salem, he attended a num- 
ber of meetings among people of different persuasions. He 
returned from Mad River to Harrison County, Virginia, to the 
work which he had left a few weeks before and had the joy 
of baptizing more, which made in all 35 that he baptized in 
that county. From Virginia, accompanied by Major Richard 
Bond, he went to visit Samuel Bond and family, living in Lib- 
erty Township, Columbia County, Pa., held one meeting there 
and then went, direct to Brookfield, N. Y., to attend the Gen- 
eral Conference. We have thus given as briefly as we could 
the first missionary trip of our first general missionary, in 
these early times of missionary labor. He went on horseback, 
largely through dense forests, with but few roads, probably 
on trails and t)aths, directed by marked trees, fording streams, 
sometimes camping out at night, disturbed by the cry of wild 
animals. If one of our general missionaries of to-day should 



33^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

make that missionary trip on horse back he would find good 
roads, guide boards at four comers, beautiful cultivated fields, 
fine farm houses, iron bridges, and pass through flourishing 
towns and cities — well, he would not travel bv horseback or 
stage coach, he would take the steam car and the trolley. 

THIRD DECADE, 1820-1830. 

In 1820 at the Conference held at Piscataway, N. J., Sep- 
tember 21-25, there was a change made in the officers of the 
Missionary Board. Eli S. Bailey was chosen President, 
Matthew Stillman Vice-President, Abel Burdick Recording 
Secretary, Lewis Titsworth Corresponding Secretary, and 
John Langworthy Treasurer. As some changes appeared to 
be necessary in the constitution it was voted that Abel Bur- 
dick, Henry Clarke, Jr., and William Utter be a committee to 
revise our general missionary constitution, or draft a new one, 
as they may think proper, and present it to the general mis- 
sionary society at their next session. The missionary spirit and 
work ran so strong it was thought best to print a missionary 
periodical to promote and strengthen the missionary interest 
among the people. The Conference proposed to the Mission- 
ary Board that a new periodical work, to be entitled "The 
Seventh-day Baptist Magazine," be published by subscription. 
It was considered and it was voted unanimously that this work 
be encouraged by the Board, and Henry Clarke and Eli S. 
Bailey, of Brookfield, and William B. Maxson, of Scott, N. Y., 
be appointed editors of the work; and that they open and circu- 
late subscriptions and go on with the publication as soon as 
sufficient encouragement can be obtained. General Mission- 
ary Amos R. Wells presented to the Board of Missions at this 
Conference a report of two missionary tours, one made in the 
fall and winter of 1819, the other in the spring and summer 
of 1820. His first missionary journey extended through the 
churches and settlements in the State of New York. He was 
gone over five months. He went on horseback and traveled 
one thousand and fifty-five miles, preached one hundred and 
eleven times, and baptized nine persons. His second tour ex- 
tended from Rhode Island through Connecticut, New York, 
Western Pennsylvania, Western Virginia and thence to New 
Jersey. He was gone four months, traveled 1,566 miles, 



REV, WILLIAM B. MAXSON. M. D.. D. D. 
S« Uiugrafliical Skelchei. p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 333 

preached 69 sermons, baptized 24 persons, and assisted in or- 
ganizing two churches, viz., Verona and Scott. His traveling 
expenses in his first trip were $14.55 ^^^ he received in dona- 
tions for missionary work and expenses $14.04. In his sec- 
ond missionary trip his traveling expenses were $19, and he 
received on the field $41.31. In the two missionary trips he 
traveled 2,621 miles; absent from home 9 months and 13 
days, and his expenses in all were $33.04. The Board ap- 
pointed the following missionaries for the ensuing year, Elder 
John Davis on a mission for three months to Woodbridgetown 
and French Creek, Pa., and Lost Creek and Salem, Virginia ; 
Elder Amos R. Wells, general missionary for the year, and 
Elder William B. Maxson, three months in the northern and 
western parts of New York. 

In the sessions of the Missionary Board of the years 182 1, 
1822, 1823, 1824, of this third decade, we find reports of mis- 
sion labor in detail which are too full to incorporate in this^ 
sketch. We will simply outline them. In 1821 Elder John 
Davis made a missionary journey through Southern Pennsyl- 
vania, W^estern Virginia, Ohio and into Indiana, and then by 
a northern route through Ohio to Hayfield, Pa., ordaining there 
Isaac Davis to the gospel ministry, baptized six persons. El- 
der Amos R. Wells made a trip from Hopkinton through Con- 
necticut, to Rensalaer and Madison Counties, New York. El- 
der William B. Maxson traveled from Scott, N. Y., through 
Madison, Oneida and Chenango Counties, baptized 23 per- 
sons. 

In 1822, Elder Amos R. Wells gave a detailed account of 
an extended tour from Rhode Island through Connecticut, 
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Ohio, Indiana and New 
York, occupying 10 months and 22 days, preaching 205 ser- 
mons, baptizing 5 persons. 

Elder Amos Satterlee made a missionary trip of ten weeks 
through Central and Western New York and Elder John 
Green went from Western New York and visited the churches 
and scattered Sabbath-keepers in Virginia and Pennsylvania. 

In 1823 Elder John Green reported missionary labor per- 
formed chiefly in Piscataway and Shiloh, N. J., was gone 
three months, administered baptism six times, baptizing thirty 



334 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

persons in all. Elder Amos Satterlee also labored one month 
and nineteen days in Allegany and Erie Counties, N. Y. 

In 1824 Elder John Green reported mission work extend- 
ing from DeRuyter, N. Y., through Western New York, into 
Virginia, baptized one person and assisted in the ordination of 
Peter Davis and Lewis A. Davis, New Salem, Va., to the gos- 
pel ministry. 

Elder Joel Green labored in the towns adjacent to Scott 
and DeRuyter, N. Y. Elder Daniel Babcock and Elder Rich- 
ard Hull performed missionary labor at Independence, N. Y., 
and in Northern Pennsylvania. 

Elder William B. Maxson labored in Adams, N. Y., and 
adjacent towns, visiting Whitesboro, Verona and Mexico, X. 
Y., baptized nine persons, two of whom were converts to the 
Sabbath. 

The result of the missionary labors in these years gave 
encouragement, growth and strength to our people. 

At this session of the Board in 1824 a new constitution 
was reported by the con\mittee appointed, in 1820 to consider 
the changes needed ; and adopted. Under this constitution the 
Board was denominated the Seventh-day Baptist General 
Board of Missions. The Board was composed of delegates 
from the several missionary, Bible, or mite societies which may 
be disposed to vest their funds in the Board for the purpose 
of promoting the spread of the gospel. The societies contri- 
buting annually to the funds of this Board were entitled to a 
representation, and every such society so contributing was en- 
titled to one vote. The object of this Mission Board was to 
promote pure and undefiled religion, by employing mission- 
aries among the scattered and destitute of our connection, and 
other parts where a door of usefulness may be opened, and by 
printing or purchasing tracts and other religious books and 
causing them to be distributed. The Board under this new 
constitution, which took in a wider scope of mission work, 
held its first annual session at Hopkinton, R. I., June 8, 1825. 
At this session the following missionaries reported missionary 
labor: Elder Lewis A. Davis in Ohio and Indiana, baptized 
six persons and organized a church at Pipe, Clark County, 
Ohio ; Elder Joel Green, in Central and Northern New York, 
baptized four persons and assisted in ordaining one elder; El- 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 335 

der Job Tyler labored in the same section ; Elder Richard Hull 
in Western New York, baptizing several persons ; Elder Daniel 
Babcock on the same field baptizing five persons ; Elder Amos 
Satterlee labored in the same territory with good results; on 
this field two churches were organized, one at Troupsburg 
and one at Independence, N. Y. Elder Matthew Stillman la- 
bored eighteen days in Rhode Island and in Massachusetts, 
and Elder William Green in JeflFerson County, N. Y., twelve 
days. In 1826, 1827, 1828 the Board under the new constitu- 
tion held their annual session in connection with the General 
Conference. ^lissionaries were appointed, nearly the same 
persons as above named, having the same fields of labor as 
before, who presented their reports of labor each year. The 
funds to support this home mission work were furnished by 
the auxiliary missionary societies in the different churches, and 
by individual contributions. 

In this decade was published the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Magazine. Its first number was published in 
August, 1821. The editors were Eli S. Bailey, Henry Clarke, 
Jr., and William B. Maxson. This magazine continued 
through two volumes of sixteen numbers, from August, 182 1, 
to September, 1825, four years, when it was suspended be- 
cause of inadequate support. 

In 1828 it was deemed advisable by the leaders and work- 
ers in missionary effort, in order to interest our people more 
generally in missions, and for more efficient work, and greater 
usefulness in spreading the gospel, to have a new and more in- 
dependent organization by which to prosecute missionary 
labors. Accordingly they ftiet in the Seventh-day Baptist 
meeting house in Piscataway, X. J., October 3rd, 1828, to or- 
ganize such a missionar}'' society by considering a constitution 
previously drafted, which they adopted and formed the new 
organization, which was called "The American Seventh-day 
Baptist Missionary Society." The basis of membership in this 
society was the payment of one dollar into the funds of the 
society and engaging to pay the same annually ; by paying ten 
dollars at one time, or the same at two payments, constituted 
one a life member ; and anv missionary, mite, or Bible Society 
contributing annually to the funds of this society was entitled 
to a vote for every two dollars so paid. The object of this new 



33^^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

society was to aid in sending the gospel to the destitute and 
scattered of the Seventh-day Baptist denomination, and to im- 
prove opportunities of disseminating gospel truth wherever a 
door of usefulness shall be opened. 

The officers chosen under this new missionary organiza- 
tion were: Eli S. Bailey, Brookfield, N. Y., President; Mat- 
thew Stillman, Hopkinton, R. L, First Vice-President; John 
Davis, Shiloh, N. J., Second Vice-President; John Watson, 
Piscataway, X. J., Third Vice-President ; John Maxson, Hom- 
er, N. Y., Fourth Vice-President; Nathan Green, Alfred, X. 
Y., Fifth Vice-President; William B. Maxson, Brookfield, X. 
Y., Recording Secretary; Jonathan R. Dunham, Piscataway, 
X. J., Treasurer ; John Bright, Stoe Creek, N. J., Correspond- 
ing Secretary : Charles Davis, Abram D. Titsworth, Randolph 
Dunham, of Piscataway ; Jacob D. Babcock, Hopkinton ; Wil- 
lard D. Wilcox, Scott, N. Y. ; Samuel B. Crandall, Brookfield ; 
Silas Stillman, Maxson Green, Alfred, and Clarke Stillman, 
Homer, were appointed Directors. Agents for the society 
were appointed for the various parts of the denomination. Or- 
son Campbell, Joel Greene and John Watson were chosen to 
be employed as traveling preachers and missionaries the ensu- 
ing year. 

The American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society 
having assumed the missionary work of the denomination, the 
General Missionary Board of the General Conference con- 
cluded its business at its next session held at Hopkinton, R. I., 
September 30, 1829, transferred its affairs to the Missionary 
. Society and adjourned sine die. From this date the manas^e- 
ment *and direction of our missionary work are more separate 
from the General Conference, and hence its history is more 
separate from that of the Conference. 

The second session of the American Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held at Hopkinton, R. I., Septem- 
ber 30, 1829. Reports of officers and missionaries were pre- 
sented and approved. Officers were chosen, mainly the same 
as the previous year. The missionaries chosen to labor, most 
of them six months of the vear, were Lewis A. Davis, William 
B. Maxson, Matthew Stillman, John Watson. Daniel Coon and 
Alexander Campbell. 

This third decade of the past century of our mission work 
(21) 



A GROUP OF REPRESKNTATIVE MISSIONARY WORKERS. 
Rev. A70r Estee. Rev. Samuel R. Wliecler. 

Rev. David Qawson. Rev. John Greene 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 337 

was marked for its increased missionary spirit and great ac- 
tivity in the work. Our people thereby made a rapid growth 
in those ten years. At the close of this decade the General 
Conference was composed of 27 churches, of an aggregate 
membership of about 3400. 

FOURTH DECADE, 183O-184O. 

There was no change in the management of our missions 
in this decade. All the missionary work was carried on by the 
American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society. There 
were more or less changes in the officers, directors and agents 
of the society. The society increased in membership, in means 
and in efficiency. By its earnest and broad work, the needy 
and destitute churches were well cared for, much evangelistic 
work was done, the scattered and isolated Sabbath-keepers 
were visited and encouraged to be faithful. The following 
new missionaries came on to the field of action and did ef- 
ficient mission work : Nathan V. Hull, Azor Estee, Stillman 
Coon, David Clawson, Walter B. Gillette, James Bailey. With 
these many of the old missionaries mentioned in the previous 
decade were also employed. In this period our people became 
much interested in disseminating the gospel among the Jews. 
In the session of the Missionary Society held in 1837, the Com- 
mittee on Fields of Missions recommended the consideration 
of the question of promoting Christianity among the Jews. In 
1839, ^t *h^ session of the Missionary Society held at Piscat- 
away, N. J., a committee of five was appointed after much 
discussion, consisting of William D. Cochran, David Dunn, 
Daniel Coon, John T. Davis and S. M. Burdick to take into 
consideration the subject of a mission among the Jews. The 
committee reported at that session in favor of such a mission, 
but that it be separate from the domestic or home mission work 
which the General Missionary Society was carrying on, and 
recommended "the formation of a Hebrew Missionary Society, 
whose sole object shall be to propagate the gospel among the 
dispersed of that ancient people." According to this recom- 
mendation the friends of the movement met at the meeting 
house in Piscataway, N. J., September 6, 1838, to consider the 
question. David Dunn was made chairman of the meeting 
and Paul Stillman, Secretarv. After due consideration a com- 



338 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

mittee of five was appointed to draft a constitution for a He- 
brew Missionary Society. William Stillman, W. D. Cochran, 
Paul Stillman, John T. Davis and B. F. Langworthy were ap- 
pointed said committee. . They reported in the afternoon of 
said day a constitution for such an organization, which, after 
some amendments, was adopted. The society was called 
*The American Seventh-day Baptist Society, for the promo- 
tion of Christianity among the Jews." The officers chosen of 
this society were: David Dunn, President; Randolph Dunn, 
George Tomlinson, J. D. Babcock, Maxson Greene, W. B. 
Gillette, Vice-Presidents; A. D. Titsworth, Corresponding 
Secretary; Randolph Dunham, Recording Secretar}'; T. B. 
Stillman, Treasurer. A long list of Directors was appointed 
from all parts of the denomination. The Board of Directors 
was instructed to obtain a suitable person to engage in a mis- 
sion to the Jews, for an indefinite period of time, and as soon 
as a person was obtained the society should proceed to solicit 
subscriptions for carrying on the mission. In the first session 
of the society after its organization held at Brookfield, N. Y., 
September 13, 1839, it appears that the Board of Directors had 
engaged the services of Elder William B. Maxson as a mis- 
sionary to the Jews and that he entered upon his labors in the 
city of New York in January, 1839. He devoted the greater 
part of his time at first in visiting the principal Jews in the 
city in their houses, places of business, and in the synagogues 
and forming their acquaintance. He was treated kindly and 
with sociability. They were willing to converse upon. their 
religious sentiments, but this was limited to what related to 
opinions. They uniformly declined offering any opportunity 
of religious exercises, not excepting prayer in their houses by 
a Christian. There was no opportunity of oflFering them any 
instruction in their synagogues, as they allow none but Jews 
to perform any part of religious service among them. From 
repeated assurances on the part of some of the Jews that they 
would attend his preaching, if Mr. Maxson would hold his 
meetings at a convenient place for them to attend, the lecture 
room of the "Lyceum of Natural History," in Broadway, was 
rented for Sabbath afternoons for a term of three months at 
the rate of $200 per annum. The opening of this place of wor- 
ship on the Sabbath was published in a number of city papers. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 339 

and notices carried to the officers of the principal synagogues 
in the city, but they declined to publish a meeting for Chris- 
tian worship. While some Jews attended these meetings on 
the Sabbath, there were no steady attendants, and as the pros- 
pects were not favorable for an enlargement of the congrega- 
tion from the Jewish people, the lecture room was not occu- 
pied longer than the three months, and services were held af- 
terwards alternately in the house of T. B. Stillman, in New 
York City, and Sister Rogers, in Brooklyn, N. Y. In the re- 
port of the directors of the society it is stated that from the 
difficulty of communicating religious instruction directly to 
this people, and of calling their attention to the claims of 
Christianity by preaching and conversation it has been thought 
expedient by the Board to direct a tract to be written, address- 
ed particularly to them, which should be calculated to direct 
their attention to the subject of Christianity. Such a tract 
was written, entitled "An inquiry into the prophetic character 
cf the Messiah," and was published, containing about forty 12 
mo. pages, for distribution among such Jews as could and 
would read it. There were stated in this report also the fol- 
lowing difficulties, which the missionary had to contend with 
in his labors among the Jews : 

1. The great proportion of foreigners among them. 
There were two classes of them; the Portuguese and Spanish 
Jews, and the German and Polish Jews. These had but little 
intercourse in their synagogues. As they were little acquaint- 
ed with the English language labor among them was much 
limited either in preaching or conversation. 

2. In general the Jews appeared not only to be destitute 
of everything like spirituality, but seemed entirely to misap- 
prehend the Christian idea of the new birth. They considered 
conversion to Christianity from among them, as apostasy to 
a corrupt and idolatrous religion. They paid but little atten- 
tion to Judaism, and mostly carried on their business on the 
Sabbath and seldom attended the synagogues except on festi- 
val occasions. 

3. Another difficulty was found in their bigotry in favor 
of their own religious opinions. Those of them who believed 
in the Mosaic Revelation strongly contended that they were 



340 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

in the right, and Christians were wrong in regard to the very 
foundation* of their religion. 

4. A missionary among them encounters this difficulty, 
that those who understand the Hebrew deny our translation 
of the Scriptures, and our application of the prophecies, and 
by their expertness in the original, have a decided advan a^^e 
in verbal debate. They say that our Scriptures abound in er- 
rors, occasioned either by the translators* ignorance of the He- 
brew, or by an intention to conform the translation to the doc- 
trine of the Christian religion, hence the missionary can take 
no common ground with them. 

5. Another difficulty with them is in the doctrine of the 
divinity of the Messiah. They contend that such a character 
is not given him by the prophets — the Scriptures of the New 
Testament they do not allow to be witness on this subject. 

6. There is found in them this difficulty: their strong 
prejudice against the Christian religion from the great suffer- 
ing of their nation under Christian powers. From these dif- 
ficulties in the way of the conversion of the Jews aside from 
the prophecies and promises of the Scriptures the Board hoped 
for but little success in their undertaking. The Board propos- 
ed, if the society should decide to continue the work, that the 
missionary laboring in New York City as his headquarters, ex- 
tend his visitation to Jews in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Rich- 
mond and other cities south, as far as practicable, and that 
the tract in press be published also in the German language 
to be circulated among the German Jews in New York. The 
constitution was revised, and the society was called "The 
American Evangelical Board of Directors for Disseminating 
Religious Truth among the Jews." Under the revised con- 
stitution the following officers were chosen: David Dunn, 
President; Eli S. Bailey and Stillman Coon, Vice-Presidents; 
Isaac H. Dunn, Corresponding Secretary; Thomas S. Alberti, 
Recording Secretary; T. B. Stillman, Treasurer; Randolph 
Dunham, A. D. Titsworth, Randolph Dunn, Executive Com- 
mittee for one year; Thomas S. Alberti, John D. Titsworth, 
Asa Dunn, Executive Committee for two years. 

FIFTH DECADE, 184O-185O. 

The American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society 
met with the first church in Hopkinton, R. L, September 6th, 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 34I 

1840. The following officers were chosen for the ensuing 
year: Alexander Campbell, President; David Dunn, John 
Maxson, Halsey H. Baker, Azor Estee, James R. Irish, Vice- 
Presidents; Azor Estee, Recording Secretary; James Bailey 
and Walter B. Gillette, Corresponding Seretaries; Henry C. 
Hubbard, Treasurer; George P. Maxson, Henry Clarke, I. D. 
Titsworth, Auditing Committee; J. R. Irish, Maxson Greene, 
Charles Langworthy, Luke Maxson, Jr., Nathan Lanphear, 
Executive Committee. 

Elder James Bailey reported missionary labor performed 
during the year and he received $14 per month for his ser- 
vices. Elder James H. Cochran was appointed missionary for 
the ensuing year to labor within the bounds of the denomina- 
tion, to preach the gospel among the feeble churches and to 
''visit the more highly privileged churches for the purpose of 
receiving their contributions in aid of the objects of this so- 
ciety." Local agents of the society were appointed in all the 
churches to represent and labor for the interests of the society. 
The Society for the Promotion of Christianity among the Jews 
met also in connection with the General Conference at Hop- 
kinton. Elder W. B. Maxson had been continued during the 
year as a missionary among the Jews in New York and had 
spent a few weeks among the Jews in Philadelphia. He found 
the same difficulties this year attending his efforts to press 
upon them the doctrines of Christianity as in the previous year. 
The tract which was published by the society on "The Pro- 
phetic Character of the Messiah" was freely distributed among 
the Jews in New York and Philadelphia, but the funds did not 
warrant its publication in the German language. 

In 1841 the American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary 
Society held its annual meeting at Alfred, N. Y., September 
7th, in connection with the General Conference. Reports 
were received from James H. Cochran and Varnum Hull of 
missionary work performed among the feeble churches and 
scattered Sabbath-keepers. It was voted, "That this society 
will, with the blessing of God, employ one or more minister- 
ing brethren during the coming year to travel through our so- 
cieties and the regions where our brethren have made settle- 
ments, to preach the gospel and solicit funds in aid of the so- 
ciety's object." The appointment of such missionaries was re- 



342 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ferred to the Executive Committee with instruction that they 
see that the vote of the society be carried out. 

The following officers were chosen for the ensuing year: 
William B. Maxson, President; David Dunn, David Stillman, 
John Whitford, Jacob D. Babcock, William Greene, Vice- 
Presidents; Walter B. Gillette, Corresponding Secretary; 
Henry C. Hubbard, Treasurer ; David Maxson, Ephraim Max- 
son, A. A. F. Randolph, Auditing Committee ; Ephraim Max- 
son, Adin Burdick, Benjamin Burdick, William B. Maxson, 
Samuel B. Crandall, Executive Committee. In this year no 
work was done among the Jews because no missionary could 
be obtained. According to a resolution that had been passed 
the previous year by the Board of Directors for disseminating 
religious truth among the Jews, that some suitable person 
should be preparing for such a field of labor, "the Executive 
Committee conferred with Brother George B. Utter on the 
subject of preparing himself for the work. Mr. Utter short- 
ly after located himself in New York City and obtained a place 
in one of the best schools in the city, in which he continued 
until its vacation in May. He was unable to render any very 
essential service to the Board, as his studies required the whole 
of his time." The officers of the society for mission work 
among the Jews elected for the ensuing year were: David 
Dunn, President; Lucius Crandall and Eli S. Bailey, Vice- 
Presidents; Thomas S. Alberti, Secretary; T. B. Stillman,- 
Treasurer. 

In 1842 the American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary So- 
ciety held its annual meeting at Berlin, N. Y., September 6th, 
in connection with Conference. Several of the pastors of the 
churches reported the formation of Auxiliary Missionary So- 
cieties in their churches. 

Walter Gillette, Varnum Hull, James L. Scott, Stillman 
Coon and N. V. Hull reported missionary work performed 
during the year, but the places or churches where they did 
such work are not given in the minutes. The constitution of 
the society was amended in the fourth article, making ten dol- 
lars the amount of money to be paid for life membership. 
S. S. Griswold had served the society a part of the year as 
traveling agent, to secure funds for the society. James L. 
Scott in his report of missionary labor, stated that he labored 



REV. HALSFY H, BAKER. 
Sea B'wgraphkat Skriches. p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 343 

• 

in the States of Ohio, Illinois, Wisconsin, the territory of 
Iowa, passed through Pennsylvania, Indiana and Michigan, 
spent seven and one-half months, traveled by his own convey- 
ance 3,800 miles, made 400 family visits, attended 150 meet- 
ings, baptized 43 persons and organized three churches. The 
officers of the society, appointed for the ensuing year, were: 
William B. Maxson, President; David Dunn, John Whitford, 
Azor Estee, Jacob D. Babcock, Joel Greene, Vice-Presidents; 
W. B. Gillette, Corresponding Secretary ; Charles H. Stillman, 
Recording Secretary ; Henry C. Hubbard, Treasurer. An Ex- 
ecutive Committee, an Auditing Committee wpre appointed 
and local agents of the society in all the churches. 

In view of the crippled condition of the benevolent enter- 
prises of the denomination, the General Conference appointed 
a committee consisting of Thomas B. Brown, Eli S. Bailey, 
Alex. Campbell, Paul Stillman, David Dunn, James R. Irish, 
William B. iSlaxson, Joel Greene, Azor Estee, Daniel Coon, 
William Satterlee, to devise some plan by which these benevo- 
lent enterprises may be promoted with the greatest efficiency. 
The committee outlined a plan for advancing the cause of do- 
mestic missions as follows: 

I. Each church to consider itself a missionary society, 
raising funds each year for the missionary cause. 2. The As- 
sociation to which such churches belong, become a Central 
Missionary Society, to which these churches shall be auxiliary. 
3. A general society be organized, to which all these central 
societies or associations shall be auxiliary. 4. An individual 
church not belonging to an association, wishing to help in the 
operation of the general society, may become an auxiliary mis- 
sionary society. 5. A number of brethren located in a neigh- 
borhood remote from a church might combine for the promo- 
tion of the missionary cause. A committee was appointed 
composed of T. B. Brown, G. B. Utter, E. S. Bailey, H. C. 
Hubbard, W. B. Maxson, B. F. Langworthy, A. Estee, John 
Whitford and L. Crandall. to draft a constitution to be the 
platform of an organization of a domestic missionary society. 
Such a constitution was drafted, which constituted the begin- 
ning of our present missionary society. 

The Hebrew Missionary Society convened at Berlin, N. Y., 
on the evening after the Sabbath, September 10, 1842. 



344 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

An essay upon "The Condition and Prospects of the He- 
brew Nation" was read by George B. Utter, which was pub- 
lished in the Register by request of the society. From lack of 
funds no missionary was employed among the Jews during the 
year. The officers elected for the ensuing year were David 
Dunn, President; Lucius Crandall, Eli S. Bailey, Vice-Presi- 
dents; Charles H. Stillman, Secretary; T. B. Stillman, Treas- 
urer ; Randolph Dunham, W. B. Gillette, A. D. Titsworth, Ex- 
ecutive Committee for two years. 

In 1843 there were three Missionary Societies, i. The 
American Seyenth-day Baptist Missionary Society. 2. The 
Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Association, a new organiza- 
tion for missionary work recommended at the Conference of 
1842, and for which a constitution was drafted. 3. The He- 
brew Missionary Society, or Board of Directors for dissemi- 
nating religious truth among the Jews. The American 
Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society held its anniversary 
at Plainfield, N. J., in connection with the General Conference. 
Its mission work reported was in the usual line of labor. The 
report of the Executive Committee was not published in the 
minutes, so the missionaries who performed mission work are 
not given. The officers elected for the year were the same 
elected last year. There was some difficulty in obtaining funds 
during the year to carry on missionary labor. The new or- 
ganization, called the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Asso- 
ciation, also met with the Conference and after amending the 
constitution was fully organized and the officers elected were : 
Thomas B. Brown, President; Azor Estee, Clark Greenman, 
T. B. Stillman, Vice-Presidents; W. B. Gillette, Recording 
Secretary; Lucius Crandall, Corresponding Secretary; Daniel 
Babcock, Jr., Treasurer; Directors, William Potter, F. W. 
Stillman, Randolph Dunham, John Whitford, David Dunn. 
The purpose of the new Missionary Society was to do wider 
and more efficient missionary work. Five dollars contributed 
annuallv constituted one a member, and each subscriber of 
$25, at one time, a life member. Its regular meetings were 
held once in three months, and five members constituted a 
quorum. 

The Evangelical Board of Directors for prosecuting mis- 
sion work among the Jews met on September 7th, 9 a. m. The 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 345 

Executive Committee in its report stated the feeble condition 
of the society from the want of funds, and proper agents. They 
had employed George B. Utter, of New York, to labor as 
Providence might direct among the Jews while on his visit to 
London, Liverpool and other places he might visit in Europe. 
They also recommended to continue the effort to provide the 
tract on "The Destiny of Jews and Unfulfilled Prophecies Con- 
nected With Them." The Rev. I. P. Labagh, of the Reform- 
ed Dutch church, and agent of the American Society for the 
Meliorating the Condition of the Jews, was present with them 
in this meeting, who by invitation gave a very interesting dis- 
course upon "The present condition and prospects of the Jews 
and the unfulfilled prophecies in relation to this ancient people 
of God." Mr. Labagh was requested to prepare a treatise upon 
the unfulfilled prophecies relative to the Jews, and it was voted 
that contributions be solicited from the churches to defray the 
expense of its publication. 

The Corresponding Secretary was requested to address a 
"letter to the Christian public, setting forth the difficulty un- 
der which the missionary to the Jews meets from the unwar- 
lanted substitution of the First-day of the week, for the Sab- 
bath, as the time of Holy rest." Mr. Labagh by resolution 
was requested to deliver an address before the body at its next 
anniversary. The constitution was amended at this session of 
the Board of Directors. The name of the body was changed 
to "The Seventh-day Baptist Jewish Missionary Society," and 
some minor amendments were made to several articles. The 
same officers were elected for the ensuing year, with the addi- 
tion of Isaac P. Labagh, of New York, as Corresponding Sec- 
retary. 

The American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society be- 
came merged in this decade, about 1846, into the new organi- 
zation, the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Association. The 
name of the Association was changed afterwards to society, 
and thereafter the missionary organization went under the title 
which it now has under its incorporation under the laws of the 
State of Rhode Island. In 1844 the Board reported that five 
missionaries had been employed during the year ; one at New- 
port and adjacent parts of Rhode Island; one in New York 
and Pennsylvania ; two in Virginia and adjacent parts of Ohio 



346 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

and Pennsylvania ; and one in Illinois and Wisconsin. In 1844 
also began the agitation of the question of carrying on a for- 
eign mission. The interest became so great and earnest that 
subscriptions were opened in 1845 for the purpose of estab- 
lishing a foreign mission and "that the Board use their best 
endeavors to procure one or more individuals who may be 
willing and qualified to engage in such a work." Brother Sol- 
omon Carpenter and his wife, Lucy M. Carpenter, were ac- 
cepted as candidates in 1846, for foreign rnission work and 
were instructed to prepare for that work. Abyssinia Proper 
was chosen as the foreign field. In this year four missionaries 
labored on the home fields, viz: Lucius Crandall in Rhode 
Island ; T. E. Babcock in Western New York ; Azor Estee as 
an itinerant missionary, and R. C. Bond in Virginia. In 1847 
Brother Nathan Wardner and wife were accepted as mission- 
aries to go with Brother and Sister Carpenter. The Abyssin- 
ian field was given up as impracticable and China was chosen 
as the foreign mission field. In the afternoon of December 
31st, 1846, at Plainfield, N. J., meetings were held to ordain 
Nathan Wardner to the gospel ministry, and as consecration 
services to set apart Mr. Carpenter and Mr. Wardner as mis- 
sionaries to China. January 5, 1847, the missionaries sailed 
from New York in the ship Houqua, bound for Canton, China, 
After a voyage of 112 days they arrived at Hong Kong. Mr. 
Carpenter sailed from Hong Kong for Shanghai May 19th to 
learn the desirableness of that city, in regard to healthfulness 
of climate, and also the facilities for a mission station. July 
7th, 1847, Mr. Carpenter was living in a rented house in Shang- 
hai. The other missionaries left Hbng Kong for Shanghai 
July i8th, arriving there August 2nd. In 1849 a Chinese 
house had been rented and fitted up for a chapel and dedi- 
cated. This occurred two years after their departure from 
the home land. Six months after the dedication of this chapel 
their labors were blessed by the hopeful conversion to Christ 
and the Sabbath of four of the Chinese. About this time a 
day school was opened by Mrs. Wardner. The need of a 
chapel of their own was felt by the missionaries, and measures 
were taken to raise sufficient funds in the home land to buy a 
lot and build a chapel. In the latter part of this decade but 
little was done on the home fields. The foreign mission work 



RKV. SOLOMON CARPKNTER. D, D. 
See Biunraphual Skelchrs, p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 347 

had absorbed the interest of the people and also the funds for 
missions. 

SIXTH DECADE^ 1850 TO 1860. 

CHINA MISSION. 

• 

In July, 1850, the Shanghai Seventh-day Baptist church 
was organized with seven members. 

On November 22, 185 1, the new chapel built within the 
walls of the native city was dedicated to the service of the 
Lord. 

They built also two dwellings, one directly over the chapel 
and the other outside of the west gate of the city. 

In 1850 the Tai-Ping rebellion broke out, which spread- 
over the empire and carried great destruction and devastation. 

In September, 1853, a local insurrection began in Shang- 
hai. Our missionaries were driven from their homes and were 
compelled to seek safety and shelter with friends in the foreign 
settlement. The home at the west gate was partially destroy- 
ed, but the Chinese government made it good and it was re- 
built. The chapel in the city was but little injured. Our mis- 
sionaries resumed their work by making necessary repairs and 
opened the chapel March 17, 1855. 

Because of the sickness of Mrs. Wardner and one of her 
little boys they found it necessary to return to the home land. 
She and her boys sailed February 19, 1856, on the ship Rock 
City and arrived io America the last of May. By her over- 
taxing herself in visiting the churches and soliciting funds, 
she was not able to return to China as she hoped to do. 

By consent of the Board, Mr. Wardner returned to 
America, sailing April, 1857, and arrived in September at 
Plainfield during Conference and the anniversaries. Mr. and 
Mrs. Wardner never returned thereafter to the China mission 
because of the poor health of Mrs. Wardner. In November, 
1858, because of failing health, Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter re- 
turned to their native land. The mission and the little church 
of eleven members was left witHbut missionaries and there was 
no native preacher then, but the Rev. Mr. Lowry kindly con- 
sented to preach to the little church and care for the mission. 
A native convert, Dzau Tsuny Lau, came with Mr. Carpenter. 
They arrived in New York May 27, 1859, and went to Plain- 



348 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

field, X. J., where the Eastern Association was in session. 
Their presence there gave great interest to the occasion. While 
Brother Carpenter and his wife remained in the home land 
they visited the churches, accompanied by Dzau Tsuny Lau, 
which greatly incr^sed the interest and zeal in the China mis- 
sion. 

JEWISH MISSION. 

It appears that the "American Evangelical Board of Di- 
rectors for Disseminating Religious Truth Among Jews" did 
not do anything after 1843, from lack of funds. The effort 
ceased. After the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Associa- 
tion engaged in the work of foreign missions there was a 
.meeting held in 1852 to consider the question of establishing 
a mission in Palestine. The subject was referred to the Board 
of the society and in 1853 it decided to take measures to estab- 
lish a mission in Palestine. At a full meeting of the Board 
held in May of that year a call was extended to Jonathan M. 
Allen and William M. Jones and their wives to go as mission- 
aries to Palestine. Mr. Allen could not be released from his 
connection with the Alfred Academy as teacher and therefore 
declined the call. Mr. Jones accepted the call. It was thought 
best by the society that an industrial or agricultural depart- 
ment be included in the mission work in Palestine, that em- 
ployment might be given to the poor Arabs and Jews, and 
thereby bring them more directly under Christian influence and 
instruction. Mr. Charles Saunders, of Westerly, R. I., and 
his wife were chosen to have charge of this department and 
Mr. Jones was to devote himself wholly to missionary work. 
A farewell meeting was held at Pawcatuck, R. I., on the 8th 
of January, 1854, and on March nth they sailed for Palestine. 
On arriving at Jaffa our missionaries found temporary accom- 
modations till they should be able to select a location for the 
permanent establishment of the mission. After some time 
Mr. and Mrs. Jones removed to Jerusalem, but Mr. and Mrs. 
Saunders remained at Jaffa, where they carried on a mission 
with an industrial effort connected therewith. Yet the agri- 
cultural project did not prove a success, though not fully car- 
ried out. Mr. Saunders conducted services in Jaffa for four 
years in Arabic, which were attended by many Jews and Arabs. 
Tracts were distributed in the markets, which induced manv 



MRS. LLXV CLARKE CARPKNTF.R. 
See Biograplvcal Sketches, p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 349 

to come to the services which were held regularly every Sab- 
bath. Mrs. Saunders did considerable medical work, treating 
many who came to her. Mr. Jones did some missionary work 
in Jaffa, but labored most of the time in Jerusalem. Both Mr. 
Jones and Mr. Saunders were interrupted in their missionary 
work a good deal by sickness. Mr. Jones lost his youngest 
child and his wife died near Jerusalem on the 12th of Octo- 
ber, i860, and both mother and child were buried on Mt. 
Zion. The mission did not succeed in the lines of work for 
which it was undertaken. For lack of adequate support and 
from some mismanagement, the work failed, the missionaries 
were recalled and returned to the home land in i860. • 

HOME MISSIONS. 

But little missionary work was done in this decade on the 
home fields. In the first half of the decade Elder Samuel Dav- 
ison, Elder Lewis A. Davis and Elder Stillman labored as mis- 
sionaries in Illinois and Indiana ; Elder Julius M. Todd in Cen- 
tral Wisconsin at Berlin, Dakota and Coloma, and Elder O. P. 
Hull in Walworth, Wis. In the last half of the decade Elder 
Lewis A. Davis labored in Iowa at DeWitt and Welton, Iowa. 
Elder H. W. Babcock for several years at Coloma, Wis., and 
« mission was begun in Dodge and Freeborn Counties, Minne- 
sota, in 1859, at Mantorville, Trenton and Farribault, with El- 
der Phineas S. Crandall as the missionary. The General 
Society and the Northwestern Association looked after these 
fields, sharing the expense. The General Board in one of their 
reports stated "that the West is yet a great missionary field 
and affords a better opportunity for the successful presentation 
of the truths we hold sacred than any other locality. Settle- 
ments are constantly forming with an unformed religious char- 
acter. Many of our people are locating in them. Timely aid 
furnished would enable them to pre-occupy the ground with 
Sabbath-keeping churches." 

SEVENTH DECADE^ 1860-187O. 
CHINA MISSION. 

Brother and Sister Carpenter with Dzau Tsuny Lau re- 
turned to China, sailing from New York in the ship N. B. Pal- 
mer on the 25th of February, i860. An earnest appeal was 
made by the Missionary Board this year for a reinforcement 



35^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

of the China mission. Brother and Sister Carpenter arrived 
in Shanghai July 2nd, i860, and found the members of their 
little flock steadfast in the faith. One member, Anna, had died. 
An earnest appeal is again made at the anniversary of the so- 
ciety, 1861, for reinforcement of the mission. In 1862 the China 
mission had as missionaries only Brother and Sister Carpenter. 
The Board was relieved from the responsibility of the support 
of Mr. Carpenter, he providing for his own support, hence the 
Board urged the increased responsibility resting on the de- 
nomination to reinforce the mission. 

In 1863 Mr. Carpenter was employed for some months 
as interpreter at the United States Consulate in Shanghai, re- 
lieving the Board in part for his support. One of the constit- 
uent members of the church, Le Chong, died in December, 
1862, trusting in Jesus. Mr. Carpenter in July of 1863 bap- 
tized five persons. On account of poor health of himself and 
wife, Brother Carpenter decided to leave the mission and re- 
turn to America, and to start in January or February, 1864. 
On the last Sabbath he spent in Shanghai before he sailed he 
baptized two persons who were added to the church; one of 
whom had been a Buddhist priest. In 1865 Brother Carpen- 
ter and wife were in the home land and there was no mission- 
ary on the China field except natives. By the suggestion and 
advice of Mr. Carpenter there were appropriated twenty-five 
Mexican dollars to four native preaching brethren, Chan 
Chung Lau, Kiang Quang, Erlow and Lah Chin San, for them 
to use in part for their own benefit and for the benefit of the 
poor members of the church. At the anniversary of the so- 
ciety held with the First church in Hopkinton, R. I., the fol- 
lowing resolution was voted : That we recommend to our Ex- 
ecutive Board to extend a call to Brother O. U. Whitford and 
wife, and to such other persons as it may deem suitable candi- 
dates, to become our missionaries in China. A call was ex- 
tended to Mr. and Mrs. Whitford, but after prayerful con- 
sideration, they decided to decline the call. Proposals were 
invited from any who might desire or feel it their duty to en- 
ter upon the China mission work. Several were applied to to 
engage in the foreign field mission work, but none responded. 
At the anniversary of the society held at Albion, Wis., Septem- 
ber, 1868, the following resolution was unanimously adopted: 



MRS. OLIVF. FORBES WARDNKR. 
See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 351 

That we extend to Brother and Sister Carpenter a cordial invi- 
tation to return to China at an early day, if they can consist- 
ently with their health, and that we pledge them our support. 
They gave this earnest call most prayerful attention and decid- 
ed that as soon as they could dispose of their home in Milton 
they would return to their beloved charge. This was not ac- 
complished in this decade. 

HOME MISSION. 

This decade was one of increasing interest and activity in 
home mission work. The Great West and Northwest were 
opening up grand opportunities and sent forth the Macedonian 
cry, "Come over and help us." The Associations were Auxil- 
iary Missionary Societies with Associational Boards working 
in connection with the General Missionary Society. The la- 
borers on the home fields during this decade were L. A. Davis 
in Iowa; Hiram W. Babcock in Central Wisconsin; Phineas 
S. Crandall in Minnesota, in i860 and 1861. In 1861 the Kan- 
sas field at Pardee and Emporia was opened and A. A. F. Ran- 
dolph was employed as missionary with a view to a permanent 
location on the field. 

Russell G. Burdick labored on the Berlin, Wis., field. In 
1863 Elder Alfred B. Burdick was engaged to labor in Minne- 
sota and vicinity for one year. In his labors in the Northwest 
he visited Rock River, Edgerton, Albion and Christiana. At 
Albion there was a precious revival and while there he bap- 
tized forty-three persons and fifty-one were added to the 
church. He also labored with the Berlin and Dakota churches 
and from there entered the Minnesota field, laboring with the 
Wasioja, Trenton and Carleton churches. Elder Thomas E. 
Babcock was employed on the Kansas field during this year 
(1863), making his headquarters at Fremont, and to visit the 
Sabbath-keepers in the State. By request he went into Ne- 
braska to labor with Sabbath-keepers who had come from 
Ohio. He remained some ten days with them and on July 
9, 1863, th^ Long Branch church was organized with twenty 
members, and after the organization twelve young converts of- 
fered themselves as candidates for membership by baptism. 
This year Elder James R. Irish entered into the service of the 
Missionary Board to labor six months in the Second and Third 



352 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Genesee churches, New York ; Hebron and Ulysses, Pa. ; Will- 
ing, N. Y., and their vicinities. Elder Libbeus M. Cottrell 
was employed six weeks in Clifford and Greenfield, Pa. In 
1864 there was but little change in the laborers on the home 
fields. Elder A. B. Burdick closed his labors in the Northwest 
and on his wav home to Rhode Island he visited some of the 
churches in the Western and Central Associations to lay the 
subject of missions before them to arouse greater interest and 
zeal in the cause and to raise funds for mission work. Bolder 
Joel C. West was settled as pastor over the Trenton, Minn., 
church, and Elder George C. Babcock over the Berlin church, 
Wis. Eider A. B. Burdick and Elder S. S. Griswold raised 
money in the East to aid the Wasioja and Trenton churches in 
erecting suitable houses of worship. Brethren A. A. F. Ran- 
dolph and Thomas E. Babcock are on the Kansas field and Eld- 
er James R. Irish, after laboringin the feeble churches of the 
Western Association, settled as pastor of the church at Cusse- 
wago, Crawford County, Pa., which church was aided by the 
Missionary Society in the support of a pastor. 

In 1865, Brother Solomon Carpenter and wife were in 
the home land and the China mission was cared for bv four 
native preachers, Chan Chung Lau, Kiang Quang, Erlow and 
Sah Chin San. The Board appropriated twenty-five Mexican 
dollars to each, for them to use in part for their own benefit 
and in part for the benefit of the poor members of the church. 

The Board expressed its admiration and gratitude to 

Brother Carpenter and wife for their long-continued service 

in the China mission, and it wished for them to return with 

co-laborers to that field when health and circumstances shall 

permit. Being desirous of immediately supplying the field 

with missionaries the Board invited proposals from any who 

may desire, or feel it their duty to enter upon that work. .On 

the home fields under the direction and help of the Board, 

Brother A. A. F. Randolph was at Pardee, Kansas ; J. R. Irish 

at Cussewago, Pa.; A. W. Coon at Clifford, Pa.; O. P. Hull 

at Wasioja, Minn.; Joel C. West, with the Trenton church, 

Minn. ; B. F. Rogers as a missionary in Sibley County, Minn. ; 

Charles A. Burdick on the Berlin field. Wis. ; Charles M. 

Lewis, at Woodville, R. I., and DeRuyter, N. Y. EflForts had 

been made by the Board to obtain laborers to go among the 
(22) 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 353 

freedmen of the South, and to occupy the foreign field, but 
without success. This year Elder James Bailey and Deacon 
I. D. Titsworth did some voluntary mission work in the West, 
the good deacon bearing the expense. They labored chiefly 
among the small churches and scattered Sabbath-keepers in Il- 
linois and Kansas. From this missionary trip they gathered 
much valuable information which they gave to the Missionary 
Board, and also wise suggestions in regard to mission work, 
which needed to be done on those fields. 

From November, 1865, to July, 1866, Miss E. Cordelia 
Hydorn, of Hebron, Pa., under an appointment from the 
American Missionary Association, labored as a missionary 
teacher among the freedmen near Norfolk, Va., on a planta- 
tion known then as the Taylor farm. As she wished to be con- 
sidered as a missionary teacher of our own Missionary So- 
ciety, the Board granted her request, and appropriated $150 to 
her for such work. In the report of the Corresponding Sec- 
retary for 1866, a summary of the finances showed $2,302.42 
received during the missionary year, including the balance in 
hand at last report, and $1,675.50 paid out, leaving a balance in 
the hands of the Treasurer of $626.92. On the home field the 
following churches were aided by the Board in the support of 
missionary pastors : Pardee, Kansas, A. A. F. Randolph, pas- 
tor ; Cussewago, Pa., J. R. Irish, pastor ; Clifford, Pa., A. W. 
Coon, pastor; Trenton, Minn., J. C. West, pastor; Wasioja, 
Minn., part of the year, J. C. West, pastor ; Carleton, Minn., 
O. P. Hull, pastor; Berlin, Wis., Charles A. Burdick, pastor; 
Woodville, R. I., D. Forbes Beebe, pastor; New Auburn, 
Minn., B. F. Rogers, pastor. Brother Charles M. Lewis was 
sent by the Missionary Board to labor at Farina, 111., com- 
mencing his evangelistic work there in the fall of 1865. He 
remained there during the winter and on April 14th, 1866, he 
organized the Farina church, with about seventy members. He 
settled there as the pastor of the church, the Missionary So- 
ciety aiding the church in his support. Brother Lewis spent 
some weeks in the summer of 1866 in canvassing among our 
larger churches for aid in building a house of worship at Fa- 
rina. He was successful and a meeting house was built. El- 
der James Bailey was called this year to labor "as an evangelist 
in the West." He entered upon his labors in June and spent 



354 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

the summer in evangelistic and missionary work in the State 
of Illinois. 

On the foreign field, the Corresponding Secretary of the 
society reported that no apparent progress had been made in 
supplying the Qiina mission with a missionary. The native 
converts held loyally to the faith of the true religion. One of 
them, Kiang Quang, an elder in the Shanghai church, had lo- 
cated as a missionary at Lieu-oo, "a place some thirty miles 
from Shanghai, where six members of the church resided, and 
where they had hired a chapel room, for the purpose of hold- 
ing services and dispensing medicines." The Missionary So- 
ciety in its annual report for 1867 showed an increase of labor 
on the home fields. James Bailey spent the year in evangeli- 
cal labor in the West, chiefly in Iowa and Minnesota, strength- 
ening the small churches and the scattered Sabbath-keepers. 
A. A. F. Randolph was still at Pardee, Kansas ; J. R. Irish at 
Cussewago, Pa. ; A. W. Coon had left the church at Dundaff, 
Pa., and located with the church at Lincklaen, N. Y. ; J. C. 
West was the pastor of the Wasioja church, Minn. ; O. P. Hull 
served the Carleton church, Minn.; Hamilton Hull located with 
the church at Emporia, Kan.; H. W. Babcock served the 
church at New Auburn, Minn. ; C. M. Lewis labored the entire 
year with the church at Farina, 111. ; A. C. Spicer spent seven 
months with the church at Trenton, Minn. ; S. S. Griswold a 
part of the year at Woodville, R. I. ; S. R. Wheeler commenced 
his labors in April at Hebron, Pa. ; Thomas Fisher spent one 
month at Otselic, N. Y. ; J. E. N. Backus was with the church 
at Watson, N. Y. ; A. B. Prentice located with the church at 
Christiana, Wis.; George J. Crandall was laboring with the 
Third Genesee church, and B. F. Clement had accepted the 
pastorate of the Long Branch church, Nebraska. All these 
were sustained by the funds of the Missionary Society cojoint- 
ly with other Associations, societies, or churches. The Ex- 
ecutive Board of the Central Association decided this year to 
place the missionary interests formerly under its charge in the 
hands of the General Missionary Society and so notified the 
society. 

FOREIGN MISSIONS. 

No reinforcement of the China mission this year. The 
Shanghai church was cared for by native pastor Chan Chung 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 355 

Lau, assisted by two elders. One of the church members died, 
one was expelled for bigamy, three were added by baptism. 
Chan Chung Lau wrote Brother Solomon Carpenter: "I re- 
gret my inability to oversee all the affairs of the church like a 
foreign bishop, according to the custom already established. 
Hence I long for your early return. And if you cannot return, 
please induce some other one to come and take charge of the 
flock in China." The Corresponding Secretary, E. G. Champ- 
lin, wrote in his report: "Thus the longings of these poor 
souls, who dwell in the glimmering twilight of Christianity, 
should put to blush the apathy of those who bask in the noon- 
day light of the gospel dispensation." 

The Treasurer's report for 1867 showed that the working 
fund was $2,909.42, moneys paid out for missionary labor, etc., 
$2,278.22, leaving a balance in the treasury of $631.20. 

The anniversary was held at Albion, Wis., September ii, 
t868. 

On account of the sickness of Corresponding Secretary 
E. G. Champlin the Missionary Board appointed George B. 
Utter to prepare the annual report. Brother Champlin, who 
had served the society as Corresponding Secretary for nearly 
nine years, was succeeded this year by George E. Tomlinson. 
Two former missionaries of the society died within the yea'r: 
Elder Lewis A. Davis, of Welton, la., and Elder A. A. F. Ran- 
dolph, of Pardee, Kan. 

THE CHINA MISSION. 

An earnest effort was put forth to obtain a missionary for 
China. Correspondence was held with Brother L. R. Swin- 
ney, in reference to his entering upon that work, but after care- 
ful and prayerful consideration of the question, he did not feel 
it his duty to engage in the work of a missionary to China. Ap- 
propriation was made to the church in Shanghai to encourage 
native missionary and pastoral work and to assist needy mem- 
bers of the church. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

Elder James Bailey was employed the entire year as a gen- 
eral missionary in the West. Elder Stephen Burdick was em- 
ployed nine months as a general missionary, visiting the feeble 
churches and scattered Sabbath-keepers wnthin the Central and 
Western Associations. 



356 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Elder J. E. N. Backus was missionary pastor of the Wat- 
son church, N. Y., part of the year. 

Elder A. W. Coon completed his year with the Lincklaen 
church, N. Y. 

Elder George J. Crandall supplied the Third church in 
Genesee, N. Y. 

Elder S. R. Wheeler labored throughout the year with 
the church at Hebron, Pa. 

Elder J. R. Irish was still with the Cussewago church, Pa. 

Elder C. M. Lewis labored with the Farina church, 111., 
till May ist, 1868, and because of poor health he was granted 
a leave of absence for a time. 

Elder A. A. F. Randolph served the church at Pardee, 
Kansas, till his death, June 25th, 1868. 

Elder O. P. Hull continued the whole year with the church 
in Carleton, Minn. 

Brother Henry B. Lewis labored with the church in Wasi- 
oja, Minn. 

Brother Hiram W. Babcock was the pastor of the Transit 
church, Minn, aided by the society. 

Elder Benjamin Clement served the Long Branch church, 
Neb., part of the year, then moved to Welton, la. 

Brother L. C. Jacobs was with the Berlin church, Wis., 
six months of the year. 

Elder Hamilton Hull was sustained as pastor at Fremont, 
Kansas. 

The churches mentioned above were aided by tlie Mis- 
sionary Society in the support of their pastors. The Board 
in its October meeting voted, "That in the opinion of this 
Board, the churches of our denomination ought to raise $2,500, 
during the coming year, for missionary purposes." A com- 
mittee was appointed to prepare and place before the denomi- 
nation a circular on the subject, which they did. 

The anniversary of the society was held in 1869 at Shiloh, 
N. J., September 30th. President George Greenman presid- 
ed. Charles A. Burdick was Recording Secretary. George 
E. Tomlinson, Corresponding Secretary, presented tHe annual 
report. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 357 



CHINA MISSION. 



Brother Solomon Carpenter and wife did not see their 
way clear to return to China, though they desired to be at work 
again among the Chinese. 

A. E. Main was invited to enter upon the work of a mis- 
sionary to China. He was favorably disposed to go, but he 
had just entered upon a three-year course in theology and was 
not then ready to accept the call. The little church in Shang- 
hai was in a better condition than could naturally be expected 
of one under such influences, left so long to itself. The mem- 
bers, numbering twenty, were steadfast in the faith, and active 
in service. On the home field the following churches were 
aided in the support of a pastor: Woodville, R. I.; Cusse- 
wago, Pa. ; Jackson Centre, Ohio ; Berlin, Wis. ; New Auburn, 
Minn.; Wasioja and Ashland, Minn.; Trenton, Minn.; Carls- 
ton, Minn.; Brookfield, Mo.; Pardee, Kan.; Elder Stephen 
Burdick labored as general missionary until November 3d in 
the Western Association, and was directed by the Board to 
labor in the Northwestern Association, with headquarters in 
Minnesota. He labored at W^asioja, Ashlancl, Carlston, Tren- 
ton, Transit, Wilton, Minn.; at Welton and Carlton, Iowa. 
Elder James Bailey was general missionary in the West, head- 
quarters at Milton, Wis. He labored at Lima Centre, Bosco- 
bel. Wis., in the small churches and among the scattered Sab- 
bath-keepers in Iowa; Brookfield, Mo.; Long Branch, Neb.; 
Manhattan, Pardee, Fremont and Emporia, Kansas. In view 
of the much needed missionary work on the home field, C. Pot- 
ter, Jr., and J. F. Hubbard, of the firm of C. Potter, Jr., & Co., 
made the proposition to the Missionary Board to sustain a 
missionary in the field the coming year, through the Board, 
both field and laborer to be subject to their approval. The 
proposition was accepted, but at the time of the annual report 
the field and laborer had not been decided upon. 

EIGHTH DECADE, 187O-1880. 

The anniversary of the Missionary Society was held in 
1870 with the first church in Genesee, N. Y., September 8th, 
1870. Vice-President A. B. Burdick presided. Recording 
Secretary Charles A. Burdick; Corresponding Secretary 
George E. Tomlinson, who presented the annual report. 



358 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

CHINA MISSION. 

The condition of this mission much the same as last year ; 
the work done upon it was by native preachers and workers. 

HOME FIELD. 

The following churches were helped by the society in the 
support of pastors: Woodville, R. I., H. E. Babcock, pas- 
tor; Cussewago, Pa., J. R. Irish, pastor; Jackson Centre and 
Stokes, Ohio, Hamilton Hull, pastor; Transit, Minn., Hiram 
W. Babcock, pastor; Carlston, Minn., D. P. Curtis, pastor; 
Brookfield, Mo., George C. Babcock, pastor; Pardee, Kansas, 
S. R. Wheeler, pastor, to spend one-third of the year as gen- 
eral missionary, in Kansas, Nebraska and Southwestern Mis- 
souri. 

An appropriation was made to the recently organized 
churches, Villa Ridge and Pleasant Hill, in Southern Illinois, 
in supporting Elder Leman Andrus as a joint pastor for six 
months. 

Rev. James Bailey performed general missionary work 
in Wisconsin and Iowa until October 20th, when he closed his 
labors on account x)f poor health. Rev. Charles M. Lewis la- 
bored as general missionary in Northern and Central Wiscon- 
sin and in Minnesota. Elder Anthony Hakes did some mis- 
sionary work, giving his time and labor, the Board defraying 
his traveling expenses, in Illinois. 

The Rev. Walter B. Gillette was employed by the Board 
to labor six months as missionary in West Virginia, under 
the proposition of C. Potter, Jr., and Company, to support a 
missionary on some needy field. He labored at Quiet Dell, 
Lost Creek, Salem, Greenbriar, Middle Island, Hughes' River, 
Buckeye Run, West Union, and Berea. He traveled chiefly 
on horseback from place to place. His labors were greatly 
blessed in conversions, and in building up the churches. He 
commenced his labors in April and closed them in October. 
Charles A. Burdick received the call to succeed him at that 
t'-me, which he accepted. 

The twenty-ninth anniversary of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society convened at Adams Center, N. Y., 
September 7th, 1871. George Greenman in the chair; J. B. 
Wells, Recording Secretary pro tem. ; Rev. George E. Tomlin- 
son, Corresponding Secretary. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 359 

CHINA MISSION. 

In the annual report, the Corresponding Secretary states: 
"Nothing has been heard by the Board, during the year, di- 
rectly or indirectly, from the little flock in Shanghai, though 
measures have been taken to learn definitely their present con- 
dition and future prospects and needs. . Meanwhile, we would 
reaffirm the sentiments embodied in our report of last year, in 
regard to the importance of an early reoccupation of that 
field." 

HOME FIELD. 

A number of feeble churches have been helped during the 
year in the support of pastors, and others asking aid have re- 
ceived promises of help as soon as they can obtain acceptable 
pastors. 

The following small churches were aided during the year 
in the support of pastors: Rosenhayn, N. J., William M. 
Jones, pastor; Ritchie, W. Va., James B. Davis, pastor; Cus- 
sewago, Pa., H. B. Lewis, pastor ; Jackson Centre and Stokes, 
O., Hamilton Hull, pastor ; Pleasant Hill and Villa Ridge, 111., 
Leman Andrus, pastor ; Berlin, Wis., M. B. True, a recent con- 
vert to the Sabbath, pastor; Transit, Minn., H. W. Babcock, 
pastor ; Carlston, Minn., D. P. Curtis, pastor ; Brookfield, Mo., 
George C. Babcock, pastor ; Pardee, Kan., S. R. Wheeler, pas- 
tor, two-thirds of the time, one-third of his time as general 
missionary. 

GENERAL MISSIONARY WORK. 

C. M. Lewis re-entered the missionary work and was di- 
rected to spend the time between the time of beginning his labor 
and the meeting of the Northwestern Association, in Southern 
Illinois. He spent a month and a half among the little churches 
composed mainly of converts to the Sabbath, visiting Pleas- 
ant Hill, Villa Ridge, Reynoldsburg, Stone Fort, meeting with 
Elders M. B. Kelly, Robert Lewis, W. F. Vancleve, F. F. 
Johnson, ministers converted to the Sabbath. After attending 
the Northwestern Association at Farina, 111., Brother Lewis 
proceeded to the Northwestern field, where he spent the rest 
of the year, laboring at Berlin, Dakota and Marquette, Wis. ; 
Wasioja, Carlston, Alden, Minn. 



360 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

WEST VIRGINIA MISSION. 

Brother W. B. Gillette, closing his labors in this mission 
in October of last year, visited, on his way to his home in 
Shiloh, N. J., the German Seventh-day Baptists in Bedford 
County, Pa., by the invitation of Brother David C. Long, one 
of their ministers. One of the results of this visit was the ap- 
pointment of a committee by "the Eastern Association to cor- 
respond with them, and effect, if practicable, a further ac- 
quaintance and co-operation." Brother Gillette in his six 
months of labor on the West Virginia field, traveled 2,000 miles 
on horseback, visited 341 families, preached 95 times, helped 
organize 4 Sabbath schools and 2 churches, baptized (by him- 
self and those with him), 19, and ordained one minister. 
Brother Gillette, feeling the infirmities of age, would not en- 
gage to continue his labors on that field, and he was immedi- 
ately succeeded by Brother Charles A. Burdick, in October 
last. He visited from home to home the families, held extra 
meetings in the churches, and gave "attention to the interests 
of the Sabbath, of general education, systematic benevolence 
and whatever aflForded promise of present or future benefit." 
He labored at Long Run, Buckeye Run, Lost Creek, Salem 
and other places. Brother S. R. Wheeler spent the time he 
was engaged to do general missionary work at Dow Creek, 
Kan., Brookfield and Carthage, Mo.; Long Branch, Neb. He 
in his report of labor makes an earnest appeal for Seventh-day 
Baptist missionary and Sabbath reform labor on the frontier 
in the great West, while new settlements are being made and 
societv is in a formative state. 

In view of such needed general missionary work in the 
West and Northwest, calls were extended to several brethren 
to engage in such work, but only two could accept the call, 
C. M. Lewis and James Summerbell, who would proceed West 
in the spring as soon as present engagements expired. 

« 

In 1872 the thirtieth anniversary of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held at Southampton, 111., Sep- 
tember 12, 1872, Vice-President A. H. Lewis in the chair, 
L. A. Platts, Recording Secretary pro tem., George E. Tom- 
linson, Corresponding Secretary. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 361 

HOME FIELD WORK. 

During the whole or part of the year, the following per- 
sons were under the employment of the Missionary Board as 
missionary pastors: William M. Jones, Joshua Clarke, Her- 
bert E. Babcock, Joel Green, Hamilton Hull, L. M. Cottrell, 
M. B. True, Zuriel Campbell, Hiram W. Babcock, D. P. Cur- 
tis, George C. Babcock, S. R. Wheeler ; the most of them over 
the same churches as last year. Those who were employed in 
general missionary work were: Charles A. Burdick in West 
Virginia; Alexander Campbell, in the Central Association; 
Theodore L. Gardiner, on the Clarence and Pendleton fields, 
in the Western Association ; S. R. Wheeler and C. M. Lewis 
in the Northwestern Association, the former in Missouri, the 
latter at Villa Ridge, Pleasant Hill, Southampton and Farina, 
111.; Berlin, Dakota and Marquette, Wis.; Wasioja, Alden, 
Carlston and Transit, Minn.; Carlton, Iowa; Long Branch, 
Neb. 

CHINA MISSION. 

No ^missionary sent to China. Chan Chung Lau, pastor 
of the Shanghai church; Elders, Kiang Quang and Erlow. 
The pastor was engaged to care for the church another year. 
Erlow was engaged as Bible reader at Shanghai; and Kiang 
Quang at Lieu-oo, they to receive each $ioo per year for their 
services. 

FINANCIAL. 

The receipts for the year for missions are much less than 
ordinary. In 1873, the thirty-first anniversary of the Seventh- 
day Baptist Missionary convened at Westerly, R. I., Septem- 
ber nth. President George Greeman presided; Thomas V. 
Stillman, Recording Secretary; George E. Tomlinson, Cor- 
responding Secretary. 

HOME FIELD. 

The following church were aided by appropriations in 
the support of pastors: West Fork, W. Va., S. D. Davis; 
Otselic, N. Y., Joshua Clarke; Cussewago, Pa., Joel Greene; 
Jackson Centre, O., Hamilton Hull; Villa Ridge and Pleas- 
ant Hill, 111., L. M. Cottrell ; Raleigh and Harrisburg, 111., C. 
W. Threlkeld; Berlin, Wis., H. B. Lewis; Wasioja and Ash- 
land, Minn., Zuriel Campbell ; Transit, Minn., H. W. Babcock ; 



362 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Carlston, Minn., D. P. Curtis; Pardee, Kan., S. R. Wheeler; 
North Loup, Neb., Oscar Babcock. 

GENERAL MISSIONARY WORK. 

Charles A. Burdick in West Virginia. Besides his usual 
missionary work, he held Sabbath school institutes, also nor- 
mal class meetings for Sabbath school teachers and others, and 
also taught singing classes in meeting the needs of the churches 
in singing for their public worship. Alexander Campbell and 
Theodore L. Gardiner labored in the Central Association in 
Preston, Otselic, Second Verona, Lincklaen and Cuyler Hill. 

In the Northwestern Association Charles M. Lewis la- 
bored in Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa. 

CHINA MISSION. 

Brother and Sister Carpenter returned to Shanghai. They 
left Chicago for Shanghai by way of San Francisco, March 
4th, and arrived at Shanghai about the first of May. Brother 
Carpenter writes May nth: "And such a reception by the 
native members, and indeed by all our old friends that'we have 
met, has been refreshing to us. Chan Chang Lau was on the 
wharf for us when we dropped anchor. * * * Yesterday, 
Sabbath, we held our first service in the chapel. I think there 
were more than a hundred, old and young, present, many of 
them drawn, very likely, by the novelty of our presence. But 
they were orderly and attentive." Under date of June 4th, 
Brother Carpenter writes: "We have been here a little more 
than a month, and have seen all the members of the church 
whom we left nine years ago, except two, who have passed 
away, and one, whom we expect to see in a few days. There 
are now, including ourselves, twenty living members." July 
nth Brother Carpenter writes: "By taking good care of our- 
selves, we are enjoying good health, not by finy means robust, 
but comfortable. * * * Kiang Quang, the Bible reader, 
who entered upon his duties about a month ago, has just fin- 
ished his W'Ork on earth and gone, we trust, to his reward 
above." 

The Corresponding Secretary closes his report on the 
China report as follows : "This mission should certainly have 
a warm place in our affection, and a prominent place in our 
prayers. On the whole, it is with thankfulness and satisfac- 



REV. DAVID H. DAVIS, D, 
Sts Ilw^yal-hi.-al SkcLlu-s. p. I; 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 363 

tion, that we bring to you our report relating to our njission 
in China." 

1874. 

The thirty-second annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held in DeRuyter, N. Y., Septem- 
ber 24, 1874. 

Society called to order by A. H. Lewis, Second Vice- 
President. A. E. !\fain, Recording Secretary pro tern. George 
E. Tomlinson, Corresponding Secretary. 

Among the resolutions adopted at this session are the fol- 
lowing: Resolved, That the reinforcement of the China Mis- 
sion is more than ever demanded, in view of the growing in- 
terest of that field, and the imperfect health of our aged mis- 
sionaries. 

Resolved, That we recommend to the Board that they put 
forth vigorous efforts to enlarge the missionary work, as far 
as practicable, beyond the present limit of the denomination. 

An obituary of Edwin G. Champlin, of Westerly, R. I., 
who died September loth, 1874, is given in the annual report. 
He served the society as Corresponding Secretary from Sep- 
tember 8th, 1859, to September, 1868 — nine years. . 

HOME FIELD. 

Appropriations were made by the Board to the same feeble 
churches as last year. The missionary pastors over these 
churches were: S. D. Davis, Joel Greene, L. M. Cottrell, T. 
L. Gardiner, part of the year; T. R. Williams at Andover, 
while teaching in Alfred University; C. W. Threlkeld, H. B. 
Lewis, C. P. Rood, Z. Campbell, V. Hull, S. R. Wheeler, Os- 
car Babcock. 

The mission in the Southeastern Association was sus- 
tained during the year under the labors of Charles A. Bur- 
dick. The mission resulted in the organization of three 
churches, a large development of Sabbath school work, and the 
organization of the Southeastern Association. One of the 
great needs of this field, so reports the general missionary, bet- 
ter educational facilities for our young people. 

In the Central Association W. B. Gillette labored as gen- 
eral missionary from April to the middle of October, laboring 
at Cuyler, Preston, Otselic, Lincklaen and other places. "The 
ordinances of the home of God were restored. Sabbath schools 



364 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

re-established, a new interest created, with some cases of in- 
gathering." In the Western Association, D. H. Davis and 
Horace Stillman, students at Alfred, did, under the direction 
of the Board, some missionary work at Hebron Centre and 
Oswayo, Pa. 

In the Northwestern Association, but little general mis- 
sionary work was done, as Brother C. M. Lewis had to leave 
the work for a time to seek rest and recuperation. 

In October last, C. Potter, Jr., ahd Co. proposed to put in 
the field "an evangelist who should labor chiefly outside of our 
churches in work of an evangelical character to be followed 
by the presentation of Sabbath truth as opportunity might of- 
fer, the laborer to report to the Board the results of his work, 
and to the brethren who sent him for ^orders and expenses — 
their contributions to his support to be accredited as so much 
missionary contributions." C. M. Lewis began an engage- 
ment for a year, under these terms, with the ist of January, 
1874. He held a series of meetings at Verona, N. Y.; Alfred 
Center, N. Y. ; Scott, N. Y., and other places, resulting in large 
conversions, and many additions to the churches. 

CHINA MISSION. 

Brother Carpenter reports that Chung Lau preaches every 
alternate Sabbath, twenty to thirty minutes in length, a good 
discourse. Erlow continues to read and explain the Book to 
individuals and families at their homes, and to strangers and 
acquaintances at tea shops, stores and market places and in the 
street. June loth, 1874, he reported that they had completed 
a new chapel at a cost of about $400 United States currency. 
It was dedicated May 24th, the day previous (Sabbath) being 
rainy. On June 2nd Mrs. Carpenter was taken ill with symp- 
toms of cholera, was very sick for twenty-four hours, when 
the disease was effectively controlled. On July 6th he writes 
of the returning health of his wife and that his own health is 
good, is able to attend chapel and do part of the sneaking four 
days each week. 

Financially, the contributions from the churches and the 
people are slight, and the Board is still drawing from the special 
fund. Another thousand dollars have been used to meet the 
current expenses of the year. 



MRS. SARA GARDINER DAVIS. 
See niografhi.al Skflches. p. I36I." 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 365 

1875- . 

Thirty-third annual session of the society held at Alfred 
Centre, N. Y., September 23rd, 1875. President George 
Greenman in the chair. A. E. Main, Recording Secretary 
pro tern. T. V. Stillman, the Recording Secretary, not in at- 
tendance. Corresponding Secretary, George E. Tomlinson. 

THE CHINA MISSION. 

Mrs. Carpenter yields to a fatal disease, dies peacefully 
and triumphantly at noon-day September 21st, 1874, in the 
64th year of her age. Her body was buried in the new ceme- 
tery in Shanghai. A monument of white marble (Chinese) 
set in a granite pedestal, was put at the head of her grave, on 
which was engraved : "In memory of Mrs. L. M. Carpenter, 
who died September 21, 1874, aged 63. 'Blessed are the pure 
in heart, for they shall see God.' " The same, with the excep- 
tion of the age, was engraved in Chinese on the lower part of 
the slab, the lines running perpendicularly. 

The following resolution was adopted at the annual ses- 
sion, September 23, 1875: 

Resolved, That as a society we hereby express our appre- 
ciation of the character and labors of our deceased missionary, 
Mrs. Lucy M. Carpenter, our sympathy with Brother Carpen- 
ter in his bereavement, and our devotion to the mission to 
which she gave her life. 

Brother Carpenter reports himself in a comfortable state 
of health, and able to devote himself to the service of the Mas- 
ter, reports also the purpose of opening an out-station at Lieu- 
00 for mission work, and that he has put some improvement 
on the house in which he lives. The Board expresses a rea- 
sonable hope of reinforcing the mission at no distant day. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

There is a change made in the method of missionary work 
on the home field. It is divided "into districts large enough 
to occupy the full time of a missionary, but not so large but 
that he could pretty thoroughly work up our interests in the 
territory committed to his charge; to place a competent mis- 
sionary in each district, so fast as the way should become clear, 
and the means in the possession of the Board should warrant, 
and suitable laborers could be obtained ; to cease for the most 



366 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

part appropriations to individual churches, leaving them to 
make whatever arrangements they could in regard to the set- 
tlement and support of pastors, while receiving their share of 
the labors of the general missionary in the district to which 
they belonged, but to make such occasional appropriations for 
individual churches as might be rendered necessary by special 
isolation of churches, or by demands of some special emer- 
gency in their condition." 

In the Eastern Association Horace Stillman was employ- 
ed to do missionary work with headquarters at Woodville, R. I. 
He reports twelve members added to the Woodville church. 
In the Southeastern Association, Charles A. Burdick closed 
his labors and was teaching with the purpose of establishing 
a school of a higher grade among our people in West Virginia. 
Evangelist C. M. Lewis spent a little more than three months 
in evangelistic work in this association. There were large con- 
versions, many added to the churches. 

In the Central Association W. B. Gillette closed his labors 
as general missionary and had accepted a pastorate. O. D. 
Sherman spent some time in visiting and laboring among the 
small churches. The Board extended a call to J. L. Huffman 
to become the general missionary in the Central Association, 
which he accepted and began his work in the Second Verona 
church; held meetings every night for nearly seven weeks, 
about seventy converted, baptism administered six Sabbaths in 
succession, thirty-three baptized before he left, and others 
ready who were afterwards baptized. He labored also at 
Lincklaen, Otselic and Cuyler. 

In the Western Association no general Missionary was 
employed by the Board, as the ground was occupied by the 
Executive Missionary Board of the Association. 

In the Northwestern Association no general missionary 
work was done by the Board for reasons similar to those in 
the Western Association. At the session of the Northwestern 
Association, at Christiana, Wis., it was voted to no longer con- 
tinue the Associational Missionary Board, and to give over its 
missionary work to the general Missionary Society of the de- 
nomination. The general Board accepted the responsibility, 
and employed Henry B. Lewis to labor in Wisconsin, L. C. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 367 

Rogers, in Minnesota, and S. R. Wheeler, in Kansas, Missouri 
and Nebraska. There were other districts, such as Southern 
Illinois, which were as yet unprovided for. 

The following feeble churches, because of special needs 
and isolated condition, received special appropriations, or for- 
mer appropriations were continued: Ritchie, W. Va., Jacob 
Davis, pastor; Oswayo and Hebron Centre, Pa., L. M. Cott- 
rell, pastor; Raleigh and Harrisburg, 111., C. W. Threlkeld, 
pastor; Berlin, Wis., W. B. Lewis, pastor; North Loup, Neb., 
Oscar Babcock, pastor. . The reasons given for withdrawing 
direct appropriations from the churches, except in cases of 
special need and isolated condition, were that "better service 
could be rendered by one efficient missionary in a district, de- 
voting his whole time to the work, in addition to what the local 
churches and their pastors might do, than by simply furnish- 
ing to the several churches in the district small sums to aid 
in the support of pastors whose time was largely occupied in 
other directions." There were two prominent difficulties in 
the way of the growth and permanency of the churches helped 
by appropriations. First. Some churches are organized that 
are uncalled for by location or circumstances ; the second, the 
readiness of the people to migrate as soon as they are once com- 
fortably fixed with hopeful prospects, both as regards family 
and church often stops all improvement, and decimates and 
breaks down our oldest and largest churches. "Combination, 
concentration, and the ability to hold on, must take the place 
of a roving, migrating habit if west of Wisconsin we are to 
have any strength in the future as a people." 

1876. 

The thirty-fourth annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society convened with the church at Walworth, 
Wis., September 28th, 1876. Vice-President J. B. Clarke in 
the chair. L. A. Platts, Recording Secretary pro tem. A. E. 
Main, Acting Corresponding Secretary. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. George E. Tomlinson, who had served the society 
for nearly seven years as Corresponding Secretary, died May 
1 1th, 1876. Charles Saunders, who was a missionary in Pal- 
estine for seven years, died April 8th, 1876. 



3^8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

THE CHINA MISSION. 

Brother Solomon Carpenter married for his second wife 
Miss Black, of London, England. A letter from his 
wife dated June I2th, 1876, informed the Missionary Board of 
his severe illness. Partly recovering it was found necessary 
for them to return to the home land for his full recovery and 
health. They left Shanghai June 28th, 1876, and arrived at 
Stephentown, N. Y., about the middle of August. 

Again the little church and band of Sabbath-keepers in 
Shanghai are left without a leader. The need is pressing for 
a missionary to go to China. 

GENERAL MISSIONARY WORK. 

Brother Horace Stillman labored as general missionary in 
the ^Eastern Association, at Woodville, Ashville, Carolina Mills 
and Niantic, R. I. 

Elder C. M. Lewis was the general missionary and evan- 
gelist in the Southeastern Association, laboring with his usual 
zeal and success. 

Brother J. L. Huffman was general missionary on the Cen- 
tral Association field ; labored mainly at Cuyler, Lincklaen, Ot- 
selic, Preston. He gives the following summary of his year's 
work: "Have preached over six sermons a week for the en- 
tire fifty-two weeks. Have baptized forty-four persons, and 
I trust a goodly number have been converted whom others 
baptized. Though the labor has been hard, I think it has been 
the pleasantest year of my life." Brother S. R. Wheeler was 
the general missionary for the Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska 
field; Brother J. E. N. Backus on the Minnesota field. 

FEEBLE CHURCHES. 

The Missionary Board did no more for these churches 
than to continue the appropriation to the North Loup, Neb., 
church, to the end of September, 1875. 

1877. 
The thirty-fifth anniversary of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held with the church at New Salem, 
W. Va., September 20, 1877. President George Greenman ab- 
sent. Vice-President D. E. Maxson presided. L. A. Platts, 
(23) 



A GROUP OK MISSIONARIIiS TO CHINA. 
. Lizzie Nelson Fryer. Miss Susie M. Btirdick. 

. Hannah (Larkin) Crofcmt, Rev. Jay W. Crofoot, 

See Biographical Sketcket, p- 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 369 

Recording Secretary. Ahnual report was read by A. E. Main, 
the Corresponding Secretary. 

CHINA MISSION. 

"At the meeting of the Missionary Board on the 30th of 
January, 1877, a resolution was. passed inviting Brother Mor- 
ton S. Wardner to enter the service of the society as a mis- 
sionary in China. Brother Wardner was then in Scotland, 
where the invitation was sent to him. His reply, dated Glas- 
gow, Scotland, February 28th, was read to the Board, at its 
meeting, on the 19th of April, in which he accepted the invi- 
tation, and expressed his readiness to 'enter heartily into any 
satisfactory arrangement the Board may make.' At that 
meeting of the Board the making of a 'satisfactory arrange- 
ment' with Brother Wardner was referred to the Prudential 
Committee, who, by letter, asked Brother Wardner to inform 
them what arrangement would be satisfactory to him. His re- 
ply, dated Glasgow, May ist, 1877, and read at the Board 
meeting August 15th, 1877, stated that he had decided to return 
to America after a few weeks and asked time to consult with 
missionary friends in England and Scotland, and with Brother 
Solomon Carpenter,, before reporting upon the probable ex- 
pense of outfit, traveling expenses, and the amount of salary. 
At the same meeting another letter was received from him, 
dated Richburg, N. Y., August 12th, giving detailed state- 
ments of estimated cost of outfit and travel, requisite salary, 
and other specifications relative to a written contract which he 
should desire to have made between the Board and himself as 
its missionary, and suggesting the first of October as the time 
when it would be advisable to sail from San Francisco." On 
account of expected illness in his family and the lack of time 
to arrange the details of the contract which Brother M. S. 
Wardner desired, it was voted at the same meeting "that in 
answer to Brother M. S. Wardner, the Board express their 
judgment that, in view of all the circumstances of the case, 
it is unwise at present to make arrangements for his going to 
China, and that meanwhile the Prudential Committee be au- 
thorized to make arrangements with him to perform mission- 
ary labor among the destitute in the southern portion of the 
Western Association." 

Erlow served the Shanghai church as pastor. 



370 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

HOME FIELD. 

Elder L. F. Randolph labored on the West Virginia field 
four months during the year as general missionary, laboring 
at Greenbriar, Buckeye Run, West Fork River, Flint Run, 
Robinson's Fork, Middle Island and other places. 

Elder Horace Stillman continued his labors as general 
missionary in the Eastern Association field. 

No general missionary work performed during the year 
in the Central Association. At the annual meeting of the 
Western Association this year, 1877, it voted to pass over its 
missionary interests into the hands of the General Missionary 
Society. By this action, all the associational Boards and mis- 
sionary interest under associational supervision are now merg- 
ed into the General Missionary Society. 

In the Northwestern Association, H. B. Lewis labored this 
year as general missionary in Iowa, S. R. Wheeler in Kansas, 
Missouri, and Nebraska. 

FINANCE. 

Received during the year in contributions from the 
churches for missions, $1,059.93, and from bequests and other 
sources, $975; expended for missionary work, $1,251.05. 

1878. 

The Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society convened for 
its thirty-sixth annual session with the church at Plainfield, N. 
J., September 26th, 1878. 

President Greenman, after some remarks, called Vice- 
President J. R. Irish to the chair. L. A. Platts Recording 
Secretary. A. E. Main Corresponding Secretary. 

ON TRANSFERANCE. 

A resolution presented at the last session, looking toward 
a transferance of the work of this society to the General Con- 
ference, was called up, and a motion made to hear the report of 
members of a committee which was appointed to present the 
matter at this meeting, but the names of which were omitted 
from the records. After considerable discussion the motion 
prevailed and the report was read by C. D. Potter. On motion 
the report was laid on the table. 

THE CHINA MISSION. 

Le Eriow writes of the depredation of thieves, of locusts 
and grasshoppers destroying the cotton crops and famine upon 



REV. JOHN LIVINGSTON HUFFMAN. 
See Biografbicai SkeUhes. p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 37I 

the land, and the distress of some of the brethren and sisters. 
The Board made some appropriations to relieve those in dis- 
tress and need. 

There is no material change in the little church at Shang- 
hai, except the death of one member. No missionary is se- 
cured to go to China. 

SOUTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

Appropriation made to the Ritchie church, W. Va., for the 
year, Brother Jacob Davis, pastor, and also to the West Fork 
church. 

EASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

Brother Horace Stillman has continued his labors on this 
field during the year. Headquarters at Woodville, R. I. 

CENTRAL ASSOCIATION. 

The First Verona and Second Verona churches, N. Y., 
unite in the support of one man as pastor, the Board voting to 
aid the Second Verona church. 

WESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

Brother J. Summerbell, pastor of the Richburg church, 
N. Y., aided by the Board, looked after the Honeoye and Bell's 
R;un churches during the year. Brother Charles A. Burdick 
did some missionary work on the Clarence field, N. Y., which 
includes Alden and the Rapids. Ain appropriation was made 
to the Hornellsville church for one year and help promised 
Scio, Scio Branch and Stannards Corner churches when the 
Board shall have been notified that they have engaged pas- 
tors. 

NORTHWESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

General missionary work was performed three months 
by S. R. Wheeler at Nbrth Loup, Davis Creek, Mira Creek 
Valley, Orleans, Republican City, Neb.; Brookfield, Mo., and 
by H. E. Babcock several months in the Republican Valley, 
Nebraska. 

Brother Hamilton Hull labored for three months in Cen- 
tral Wisconsin. 

Brother C. M. Lewis labored as a missionary in Iowa, 
principally with the Welton and Carlston churches. 



372 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

FINANCES. 

Received from contributions during the year, $1,713.84; 
bequests, $818.87; expended in the support of missionary 
work, $1,393.83. 

1879. 

The thirty-seventh annual session of the Seventh-day 
Baptist Missionary Society was held at Brookfield, N. Y., 
September 25th, 1879. President George Greenman in the 
chair. T. L. Gardiner Recording Secretary. A. E. Main Cor- 
responding Secretary. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. Thomas B. Brown died May i6th, 1879. "He was 
chosen President of this society at its organization in 1843, 
continued to fill that office until 1847, when he became its Cor- 
responding Secretary, which office he filled until 1854. His 
name has appeared regularly in the list of officers of the so- 
ciety from the date of its organization until the present time." 

THE CHINA MISSION. 

Brother Wardner C. Titsworth, of Farina, 111., in a reply 
to a renewed call of the Board to go as a missionary to China, 
declined the call, saying: "I am compelled to decline the call 
of the Board, extended to me through you, to become their 
missionary to China. I do this because I anr convinced that 
my duty makes it necessary." 

At the regular meeting of the Board, held July 9th, 1879, 
the Board renewed the call to Brother M. S. Wardner to enter 
the China Mission. After considerable correspondence, in 
which it appeared that he would probably go, but on account 
of his family he ultimately declined the call. 

The condition of the China Mission is substantially the 
same as it was a year ago. 

THE EASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

Brother Horace Stillman is still continuing his labors as 
general missionary on this field. 

THE CENTRAL ASSOCIATION. 

Brother O. D. Sherman is engaged as general missionary 
on the field for the ensuing year. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 373 

THE WESTERN ASSOCIATION. 

Brother Charles A. Burdick is laboring at Rapids, N. Y., 
and vicinity. 

Brother James Summerbell at Honeoye, and Brother Wil- 
liam H. Ernst at Bell's Run. 

It was the judgment of the Board that the feeble churches 
in Western New York and Northern Pennsylvania should be 
divided, as soon as it can be found practicable, into two or 
three circuits, over which should be placed for regular and 
permanent work faithful and efficient missionary pastors. 

IOWA. 

Brother H. B. Lewis performed missionary labor in this 
State until he moved to Illinois. 

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS. 

Brother Wardner C. Titsworth made a missionary trip 
to the small churches on this field. He reports a great need 
of a good missionary on this field for permanent work. The 
whole field has been injured by neglect. The Board would put 
such a missionary on the field if he can be found. 

KANSAS, MISSOURI, NEBRASKA. 

Brother S. R. Wheeler still continues his faithful and ef- 
ficient labors on this field. 

Brother H. E. Babcock performed a few months of mis- 
sionary labor in the Republican Valley, Neb., outside of the 
little church at Orleans, which he serves as missionary pastor. 
Brother C. M. Lewis spent several weeks in evangelistic work 
in the North Loup Valley, Neb., right after the meeting of the 
Northwestern Association. 

MINNESOTA. 

No success in securing a missionary for this field during 
the year. 

WISCONSIN. 

The Board appropriated some money to the Cartwright 
church, established by Brother James Bailey, to aid them in 
building a house of worship. 



374 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

THE SOUTHEASTERN ASSOCIATION. 

All the Board has done for this field was to make an ap- 
propriation to the West Fork (W. Va.) church toward the 
support of preaching by Brother L. F. Randolph. 

MISSION OF TREAS. GEORGE B. UTTER AND SECRETARY A. E. MAIN. 

At our last annual session held at Plainfield, N. J., the 
following resolution was adopted: 

Resolved, That with a view to obtaining a thorough 
knowledge of the various fields on which the Board is bestow- 
ing missionary labor, and on which such labor is desired, it 
would be well to send out one or two of its members during 
the coming years, who shall visit, as far as practicable, all such 
fields, taking full account of the condition and ability of the 
churches, when such exist, and of the communities where there 
are no churches, noting carefully what churches and societies 
might be grouped together as a field for one missionary, mak- 
ing careful inquiry for the most available and suitable men 
for the diflferent fields, and, by their own personal labors, 
arousing the missionary spirit among the people, and report 
the result to the Board for their consideration in the prosecu- 
tion of their work. 

In accordance with this resolution, the above named 
brethren and officers of the Board visited various parts of the 
home field and gave a report of the same to the Board. They 
visited the following churches, and, in most instances, preach- 
ed to the people: First Alfred, Second Alfred, Homellsville, 
Nile, Richburg, Little Genesee and Main Settlement, N. Y. ; 
Honeoye, Bell's Run, Hebron and Hebron Center, Pa. ; Jack- 
son Center, Ohio ; Milton, Milton Junction and Albion, Wis. ; 
Welton, Iowa; Pardee, Kan.; Farina, 111., and New Salem, 
W. Va., and obtained, besides reliable information regarding 
some twenty other churches and communities in New York, 
Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri and 
West Virginia. Their visit and investigations were of great 
value to the Board and the mission work. 

FINANCES. 

Received during the year, $2,529.77. Expended, $1,- 
503-58. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 375 

NINTH DECADE, 1880-189O. 

Hon. Joseph Potter, of Potter Hill, R. I., died March 4th, 
1880, aged 92 years and 7 months. He was President of the 
Missionary Society in 1859. 

General William Potter, brother of Joseph, died at Potter 
Hill, R. I., May 12th, 1880, aged 80 years and 4 days. 

The reinforcement of the China mission by the Rev. D. H. 
Davis, pastor of the Shiloh (N. J.) church and wife and Miss 
A. Eliza Nelson, formerly a teacher at Alfred Centre, N. Y., 
who accepted the call of the Board to go as mission- 
aries to Shanghai, China. A farewell meeting was held at 
Alfred Centre, N. Y., December loth, 1879, with appropriate 
and impressive exercises. They sailed from San Francisco in 
the steamer City of Tokio, December 27th, arrived at Yoko- 
homa January i8th, 1880, whence they sailed January 
21 St for Shanghai, arriving there January 29th, where they 
were met and welcomed by three or four other missionaries 
and two of our native brethren. The missionaries settled in 
their homes, began the study of the language, and engaged 
in the work through interpreters. In 1880 the society obtained a 
charter from the General Assembly of the State of Rhode Island 
and organized under its provisions, thus becoming an incor- 
porate body under the laws of said State. This year some 
new departures were inaugurated. A Missionary Department 
was begun in The Sabbath Recorder under the editorial direc- 
tion of the Corresponding Secretary. Heretofore, the Corres- 
ponding Secretary, being a pastor, simply conducted the cor- 
respondence of the society and prepared the annual report and 
attended the association in the interests of the society. Also 
the anniversary of the society. The duties of the Correspond- 
ing Secretary had been performed without remuneration, only 
his traveling expenses paid. But these duties having increas- 
ed in importance and magnitude, requiring more time and 
labor, he has been paid at the rate of $100 per year and ex- 
penses. 

In view of the increased duties and labors of the Corres- 
ponding Secretary, and the increasing demands of the over- 
sight of our growing missionary interests, it was recommend- 
ed in the annual report of the society for 1880 that a Corres- 



376 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

ponding Secretary be appointed, "who with a moderate but 
adequate salary, shall devote his time to the interests of the 
missionary cause in the home and foreign work." This re- 
commendation was followed by nine good reasons for such a 
change. 

It was also recommended that the denomination be dis- 
tricted, "and brethren be invited to serve as district secretaries 
whose duty should be to co-operate with the Board and the 
Corresponding Secretary in accomplishing the ends of the so- 
ciety in their respective districts." 

1881. 

In 1881, September 5th, the Rev. Nathan V. Hull, D. D., 
died at Alfred Centre, N. Y. He became a member of the old 
American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society in 1834, 
and was for many years a member of the Board of the pres- 
ent society. 

In China our missionaries are in good health, prosperity 
has attended their labors. The old mission house has been 
rebuilt at a cost of $2,022.55, and so arranged that it can be 
conveniently occupied by two families. There are ten Sab- 
bath-keeping families connected with the church at Shanghai 
one added by baptism, one Bible school organized, and two 
day schools. 

It is recommended in the annual report that the Mission- 
ary Society assist the Haarlem church, Holland, in the support 
of its pastor, the Rev. G. Velthuysen. 

The Missionary Society is now working under the new 
charter granted by the State of Rhode Island, and a change 
was made in the election of the Board of Managers so that a 
working force would be in the immediate vicinity of the loca- 
tion where the business of the Board is transacted. 

On the home field missionary work has been done by mis- 
sionary pastors and general missionaries in the States of New 
York, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Iowa, 
Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, West Virginia and 
Kentucky. 

A good deal of interest was taken this year in the Chicago 
mission. Regular preaching was sustained there by the Mil- 
ton, Milton Junction, and Walworth churches, giving the time 



I 

J 



A GROUP OF FOREIGN WORKERS. 
Miss EHa F. Swim.ey. M. D. Miss Rosa W. Pa!m1)erg, M. D. 

Jacob Bakker. Rev. Frederik J. Bakker. 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 377 

of their pastors, E. M. Dunn, N. Wardner, O. U. Whitford, 
and paying their traveling expenses ; and T. R. Williams, Act- 
ing President of Milton College, was one of the supporters 
with whom the plan of supply originated, his expenses being 
met by collection and contributions. Rev. W. C. Whitford, 
James Bailey, J. C. Rogers, S. H. Babcock and others occa- 
sionally preached there. 

At the session of the Northwestern Association held this 
year at Albion, Wis., it was recommended by vote that the 
Missionary Board of the denomination make arrangements to 
place a man, as soon as possible, in the city of Chicago, to 
labor there permanently in the interests of Sabbath Reform 
and general missionary work, and it pledged itself to give the 
Board its hearty support for this special purpose. 

1882. 

The labor-ers in the China mission were Rev. D. H. Davis 
*and wife, Miss Nelson, two native preachers, one Bible woman 
and three teachers of day schools. Mr. Davis was authorized 
to buy a piece of land in the city of Ga Dene and to erect there- 
on a suitable building for a day school, at a cost not to exceed 
$300. Miss Lizzie Nelson was married on June 6th, 1882, to 
John Fryer, Esq., Professor of Chinese in the Department of 
the Translation of Foreign Scientific Books at the Kiangnan 
Arsenal, Shanghai. Our China mission loses thereby one of 
its working force, yet it is the purpose of Mrs. Fryer to aid 
the work of our China mission all that her new duties will al- 
low. 

The Board appropriated this year at the rate of $300 a 
year toward the support of the Rev. G. Velthuysen, of Haar- 
lem, as pastor and general missionary. 

Thirty churches received help this year from mis- 
sionary funds in having the living preacher, and twenty (20) 
more really needed help, but it could not be supplied. Those 
who performed missionary labor during the year either as mis- 
sionary pastors or in general missionary work, were: L. F. 
Randolph, Horace Stillman, W. J. Haight, Joshua Clarke, A. 
W. Coon, C. M. Lewis, Alexander Campbell, E. A. Witter, 
Charles A. Burdick, J. G. Burdick, B. E. Fisk, H. P. Burdick, 
James Summerbell, H. E. Babcock, S. R. Wheeler, F. F. 



37^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Johnson, H. B. Lewis, C. J. Sindall, G. M. Cottrell, J. M. 
Todd, J. T. Davis, George J. Crandall, C. W. Threlkeld. 

The Missionary Board decided to establish a mission in 
the city of Chicago and it extended a call to O. U. Whitford, 
of Walworth, Wis., to labor in that city, and so far as the in- 
terests in Chicago will allow, among the churches of the North- 
west. He accepted the call and began his labors in October, 
1882. The Missionary Society loses the valuable services of 
L. A. Platts as its efficient Recording Secretary, he having ac- 
cepted the editorship of The Sabbath Recorder, 

The question of publishing a missionary paper, a month- 
ly, was discussed at the annual session of <he society and it 
was recommended "that the matter be referred to the Board of 
Managers with power to undertake the project, if, in view of 
all the circumstances — including the understanding that The 
Recorder will continue to be a channel of general missionary 
mtelligence — they deem it advisable." 

1883. 

Rev. S. S. Griswold died in Hopkinton, R. I., November 
2, 1882. He was a member of the Missionary Board for about 
28 years, and served for portions of that time as Recording 
Secretary, Vice-President and Director. 

CHINA. 

Missionaries Rev. D. H. Davis and wife, two native 
preachers, Ching Lah and Le Erlow, one Bible woman and 
three teachers of day schools, these schools have 66 scholars. 

One baptism in the year. 

The China mission is reinforced by a medical missionary, 
Ella F. Swinney, M. D., Smyrna, Del., formerly of Shiloh, 
N. J. She sailed from San Francisco November 7th, 1883, on 
the steamer City of Tokio, and arrived at Shanghai, Decem- 
ber 7, 1883. Previous to her journey to China, on the even- 
ing after the Sabbath, October 27th, 1883, appropriate fare- 
well services were held at Plainfield, N. J., and she left New 
York City, reaching San Francisco November 3rd. Steps 
have been taken for a boarding school at Shanghai. "The nec- 
essary land has been purchased for about $250, and Mr. Davis 
has commenced a building designed to accommodate 20 or ^o 
boys and the same number of girls.'' 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 379 



HOLLAND. 



Brother G. Velthuysen has labored as the missionary pas- 
tor of the Haarlem church, the church receiving financial aid 
from the Missionary Society. He also publishes in the inter- 
ests of Sabbath Reform a monthly called "de Boodschapper." 

HOME FIELDS. 

Twenty-six missionary pastors, and missionaries labored 
on the home mission fields, in the following States: West 
Virginia, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Rennsylvania, 
Kansas, Nebraska, Missouri, Arkansas, Illinois, Wisconsin, 
Iowa, Kentucky, Alabama, Minnesota, Dakota. The work- 
ers: L. F. Randolph, W. E. Martin, Horace Stillman, O. D. 
Williams, W. J. Haight, A. W. Coon, Joshua Clarke, Alexan- 
der Campbell, H. P. Burdick, B. E. Fisk, D. E. Maxson, E. A. 
Witter, James Summerbell, J. G. Burdick, S. R. Wheeler, O. 
U. Whitford, G. J. Crandall, H. E. Babcock, F. F. Johnson, 
J. T. Davis, H. B. Lewis, D. K. Davis, C. W. Threlkeld, J. J. 
White, C. J. Sindall, Peter Ring. Churches supplied and visit- 
ed 41; other preaching places, 94; Sabbath-keeping fami- 
lies, 336; religious visits, 1,856; added to the churches, 
66 ; by letter or experience, by baptism, 23 ; converts to the Sab- 
bath, 25 ; churches organized, 4 ; Bible schools organized, 5. 

Rev. A. E. Main resigned the pastorate of the First Hop- 
kinton Seventh-day Baptist church and entered upon the Cor- 
responding Secretaryship as a salaried officer of the Mission- 
ary Society, giving his entire time and attention to the duties 
of that office and in looking after the missionary interests of 
the denomination. Salary, $900, and traveling and incidental 
expenses paid. The Missionary Society published this year 
a missionary monthly, "The Missionary Reporter," under the 
editorship and management of Corresponding Secretary A. E. 
Main. 

The anniversary of the society was held at Adams Cen- 
tre, N. Y., September 20, 1883. Income for the year, $8,- 
151.84; expenditures, $8,105.56. 

1884. 

Anniversary of the society held at Lost Creek, West Vir- 
ginia, September 25th. 



380 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

CHINA. 

Missionaries, D; H. Davis and wife, Ella F. Swinney, M. 
D., two native preachers, three teachers in the day schools. 

The school building has been repaired and fitted up for 
the school work. 

The building of a medical mission buitding inaugurated 
at an estimated cost of $600. 

HOLLAND. 

Rev. G. Velthuysen, missionary and pastor; appropria- 
tion to the Haarlem church, $400. Results for the year: two 
baptized, one of them the son of Brother Velthuysen ; converts 
to the Sabbath, a young man, a family of a husband and wife 
and four children, and the organization of a church at Gronin- 
gen, of eleven members. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

Twenty-eight missionaries and missionary pastors ; 58 dif- 
ferent churches supplied and visited; 93 other preaching 
places ; added to the churches, 55 by letter and experience, 24 
by baptism ; 8 churches organized and 5 Bible schools. 

O. U. Whitford, general missionary for Chicago and the 
Northwest, resigned and accepted the pastorate of the Pawca- 
tuck church, Westerly, R. I., and was succeeded by J. W. Mor- 
ton, with headquarters in Chicago. 

The Corresponding Secretary reports 83 sermons and ad- 
dresses in eleven different States; the preparation of the an- 
nual report ; large correspondence, arranging business for each 
Board meeting ; preparation and sending out of circulars ; edit- 
ing and management of The Missionary Reporter; writing and 
preparation of missionary matter for The Sabbath Recorder; 
attended the anniversaries of the Conference and societies, and 
five associations, and a few meetings of the Tract Board, trav- 
ling in all about 12,000 miles. Total receipts to September I4» 
1884, $10,239.51. Total expenditures to September 14, 1884, 

$8,383.25. 

1885-1886. 

In 1885 the anniversaries were held at Alfred Centre, N. 
Y., September 23-27. 

In 1886 they were held at Milton, Wis., September 22-27. 

In the China mission the workers were three missionaries, 
Rev. D. H. Davis and wife and Dr. Ella F. Swinney, three na- 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 381 

• 

tive preachers, four teachers, four regular and two occasional 
helpers in the medical mission. The three native preachers as- 
sisted Brother Davis in the evangelistic work. The girls' 
boarding school has been continued during the year, with nine 
scholars. In the medical mission Dr. Swinney has had 8,122 
patients in the year, of whom 6,966 were paying patients, 1,156 
non-paying. 

In Holland Rev. G. Velthuysen, Haarlem; F. Bakker, 
Frieschlo, have been the missionaries. Increase in the number 
of Sabbath-keepers, 13. 

On the home fields there have been 20 workers as general 
missionaries and missionary pastors. There has been prog- 
ress-in missionary lines on the home fields, some fields have 
been occupied that have been without missionary work for 
some time. Because of bronchial trouble, Secretary Main has 
not been able to give the usual amount of personal attention to 
the different parts of his work, but the work has been well 
sustained on account of efficient help. He reports, however, 
4,200 miles traveled; 32 sermons and addresses; 1,134 printed 
packages mailed ; 63 columns of editorial matter furnished for 
The Recorder; 422 written communications received, and 658 
written. Total receipts, including $2,293 from the permanent 
fund, $13,572.20. Total expenditures during the year, $10,- 

447-09- 

JEWISH MISSION. 

On the first of October, 1886, Brother Charles Theo. 
Lucky began mission work among the Jews directly in connec- 
tion with our society in New York City. Eight converted 
Jews joined the Piscataway church of New Market, N. J. A 
Hebrew paper is also in process of publication under the edi- 
torship and management of Brother Lucky. 

The Woman's Board, which was organized at the Con- 
ference held at Lost Creek, W. Va., in 1884, aroused a deeper 
and more wide-spread interest in missions among the women 
of our churches. The Missionary Board expressed its hearty 
and grateful appreciation of their earnest and efficient efforts 
in behalf of our missions. 

Secretary A. E. Main, because of his chronic bronchial 
trouble, spent most of the Conference year, by the advice of 
physicians, in Florida, yet he looked after the correspondence. 



382 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

the missionary editing of The Recorder, the mailing of printed 
matter, etc., etc., but the other duties incurring travel and visits 
were performed by willing and efficient helpers. 

1887. 

In 1887 the 45th annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held at Shiloh, N. J., September 
22nd. 

Rev. Alfred B. Burdick, for many years a life member of 
the Missionary Society ; for one year a home general mission- 
ary ; for twenty-one years a Vice-President, serving during fif- 
teen years as first Vice-President, died at Westerly, R. I., July 
3, 1887. Seven other life members of the society died during 
the year. 

In China there have been the usual number of workers. 
Girls in the girls' boarding school, 9 ; boys in the country day 
school, 27 ; in the city day school, 18 ; number of members in 
the church, 18. In the medical mission there was about the 
same aniount of work of last year. The chief interest in the 
China mission is in the re-enforcing the mission. 

» 

In Holland, on account of the illness of the Rev. G. Vel- 
thuysen, his son, G. Velthuysen, Jr., reported the work and the 
cause in Holland. Brother F. J. Bakker is the elder of the 
Frieschlo church, having seven members. There are 57 
Seventh-day Baptists at present in Holland, living in 12 diflFer- 
ent places, and 13 Christians who keep the Sabbath, but are 
not Seventh-day Baptists. Pastor G. Velthuysen, when able, 
led the meetings of our people in Rotterdam and Amsterdam. 

On the home fields, the missionary pastors and general 
missionaries were as follows: In the Southeastern Associa- 
tion, Elders S. D. Davis, H. B. Lewis; Eastern Association, 
Horace Stillman, U. M. Babcock; Central Association, L. C. 
Rogers, Perie Randolph Burdick; Western Association, L. A. 
Platts, H. P. Burdick; Northwestern, J. W. Morton, S. R. 
Wheeler, D. K. Davis, W. H. Ernst, A. G. Crofoot, C. W. 
Threlkeld; Southwestern Association, S. W. Rutledge, W. K. 
Johnson, J. F. Shaw, F. M. Mayes; Scandinavian mission in 
Minnesota and Wisconsin, C. J. Sindall. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 383 

FINANCES. 

The receipts during the year, from September 9, 1886, to 
September 12, 1887, for the general fund were $10,783.66; the 
receipts on the China ^eld by our missionaries from contribu- 
tions, prescriptions, etc., for the year ending June 30, 1887, 
were $317.36, making the total income $11,101.02. Total re- 
ceipts, including the $487.50 for the permanent fund, $11, - 
588.52. Expenditures directly out of our treasury were $10,- 
536.31. Additional expenditures reported from China, out 
of funds received on that field, $317.36, making the total ex- 
\penditures $10,853.67. The year was commenced in debt. 
The income during the year has met all expenses, paid all the 
debts and there is a balance in the treasury September 12, 
1887, the close of the year, of $247.35. 

1888. 

In 1888 the 46th annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held in connection with the 
Seventh-day Baptist General Conference at Leonardsville, N. 
Y., August 23rd. 

Mrs. Olive B. Wardner, wife of Rev. Nathan Wardner, 
a missionary with him in China, died at Milton Junction, Wis., 
October 5th, 1888, of paralysis. 

Secretary A. E. Main, Rev. O. U. Whitford and wife, and 
Miss Mary F. Bailey attend the London International Mis- 
sionary Conference in June, 1888, as delegates from the Mis- 
sionary Society. 

SUMMARY OF WORK. 

China: Three American missionaries; 2 native preach- 
ers ; 2 native teachers ; i Bible woman ; 5 other native helpers ; 
360 sermons and addresses ; 5 baptisms ; 4,220 patients at the 
dispensary ; 82 medical visits ; 40 surgical operations ; the call- 
ing of Gideon H. F. Randolph and wife as missionaries to re- 
inforce the China mission ; the call accepted and are to be ready 
to sail not later than October i, 1888. 

Holland : Rev. G. Velthuysen restored to health ; i paid 
missionary, but really 3 workers, besides Brother Bakker ; only 
21 weeks of labor, owing to the missionary's illness; 46 ser- 
mons, and 5 additions, one by baptism, not including one -bap- 
tism bv Brother Bakker. 



384 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

Mission to the Jews: Two workers: Brother Ch. Th. 
Lucky, in New York City, and Brother Joseph P. Landow, 
who sailed from New York for Galicia, Austria, in May under 
an appointment by the Board, extending from May i, 1888, to 
July I, 1889; 38 weeks of labor; 20 addresses, no baptisms but 
several adherents. 

Home Missions: Twenty- four workers, including the 
Secretary; 612 weeks of labor; 1,311 sermons and addresses; 
150 additions — 85 by baptism and 5 churches and 7 Bible 
schools organized. 

Scandinavian Mission: One worker; 16 weeks of labor; 
29 sermons. 

Total for America: Twenty-six workers; 662 weeks of 
labor; 1,360 sermons and addresses; 150 additions, 85 by bap- 
tism, and 5 churches and 7 Bible schools organized. Total ad- 
dition on the whole field, 160 — 91 by baptism. Receipts for the 
year were $7,197.12; expenditures, $7,311.58. 

1889. 

In 1889 the 47th annual session of the Missionary So- 
ciety was held at Alfred, N. Y., August 22d. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Deacon Nathan H. Langworthy, member of the Mission- 
ary Board nearly 30 years, who presided at the annual session 
held at Lost Creek, W. Va., in 1884, died at his residence. 
Westerly, May 28, 1889. 

REINFORCEMENT OF THE CHINA MISSION. 

Consecration services of Brother and Sister G. H. F. Ran- 
dolph at Alfred Center, N. Y., September 19, 1888. Sailed 
from San Francisco Sepember 29th. Safe arrival of G. H» F. 
Randolph and wife in China October 29th, 1888, and their 
entrance upon their labors with energy and zeal. 

Boys' Boarding School organized and opened February 
15th, 1889. Rev. Mr. Davis had in charge the instruction in 
Chinese. The English teaching in the hands of Mr. and Mrs. 
Randolph. Number of boys in the school, 16. 

The Girls' Boarding School, number of girls, 13. Mrs. 

D. H. Davis taught various classes, and had the management 

and supervision of the school. The daughter of Dzau Tsuny 
(24) 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 385 

Lau, one of the teachers, and one of her brothers assisted in 
teaching one of the classical studies. 

Miss Susie M. Burdick, of Alfred Centre, N. Y., accepted 
the invitation of the Woman's Board to go to Oiina as a mis- 
sionary teacher and the call of the Missionary Society, she to 
be ready to sail in the autumn. Consecration services were 
held at this annual session, relating to her appointment and 
departure, as missionary teacher at Shanghai, China. 

Mrs. Harriet S. Clarke, President of the Woman's Board, 
gave an address and an earnest appeal to the people. 

T. R. Williams, D. D., Miss Burdick's pastor, addressed 
the people and the candidate. Secretary Main spoke of our 
foreign and home mission work, their interdependence. Miss 
Susie Burdick said she did not enter into this work because 
she did not appreciate the home work. She did not go into 
it rashly. She went into it because she felt that God called 
her into the foreign work, and she desired to do that work — 
she felt that it was her work. 

A. H. Lewis offered the consecrating prayer, tender, 
touching, soul-melting, assisted by Mrs. Harriet S. Clarke, A. 

E. Main and T. R. Williams. 

The medical mission increasing in interest among the 
Chinese, and the work so increasing that Dr. Swinney needs 
an assistant. She had an attack of fever, so the dispensary had 
to be closed two months. 

HOLLAND. 

Rev. G. Velthuysen labors with energy and zeal during 
the whole year, distributing tracts, preaching and lecturing, 
and made missionary trips in Holland and in Germany. Rev. 

F. J. Bakker labors at Frieschlo, his support to the amount 
of $120 a year is assumed by Brother Nathan Wardner, of 
Milton Junction, Wis., in which he has the co-operation of in- 
dividuals and of the church of which he is pastor. 

MISSION TO THE JEWS. 

Bro. Ch. Th. Lucky still laboring in New York as mis- 
sionary among his people, also publishing the Eduth L. Israel, 
the Hebrew paper, and distributing it among Jews in this and 
other lands. 

Joseph P. Landow arrived in due time in his native land, 



386 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Galicia, Austria, and engaged in missionary work among his 
people in preaching the gospel ; at meetings for prayer, in per- 
sonal conversation, and in the distribution of Hebrew New 
Testaments and of the Eduth L. Israel, in many towns and vil- 
lages. He found difficulties, hard work, prejudice and oppo- 
sition. But he succeeded in removing prejudices, and in gain- 
ing some hearts, but suddenly he died at the home of one whom 
he had just led to Jesus, in Roumania, January, 1889, and thus 
a hopeful mission begun in Galicia among the Jews virtually 
came to an end. Rev. Z. H. Friedlander, who died in New 
York City November 12, 1888, was a co-laborer with Mr. 
Lucky in editing and publishing the Peculiar People, a paper 
in the English language for the spread of Christianity among 
the Jews. Mr. Friedlander had commenced keeping the Sab- 
bath and was looking forward to baptism. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

The following workers were during the year on the home 
fields: E. A. Witter in Rhode Island; S. D. Davis in West 
Virginia and Southern Pennsylvania; O. S. Mills, Berea, W. 
Va. ; D. N. Newton in North Carolina; Perie R. Randolph, 
Lincklaen and Otselic, N. Y. ; L. A. Platts, Hornellsville, N. 
Y. ; E. H. Socwell, part of the year at Andover, N. Y. ; Joshua 
Clarke at Andover and Wellsville, N. Y. ; J. G. Burdick, West 
Genesee, N. Y. ; J. W. Morton, Chicago and the Northwest; 
W. W. Ames, Berlin, Wis. ; R. Trewartha, Cartwright, Wis. ; 
A. G. Crofoot, New Auburn, Minn.; W. H. Ernst, Trenton 
and Alden, Minn.; J. T. Davis, Welton, la.; E. H. Socwell, 
larger part of the year at Garwin, la. ; U. M. Babcock, Hum- 
boldt, Neb.; Madison Harry in Kansas and Nebraska; H. E. 
Babcock, Western Kansas; R. ,S. Holderby in Southern Mis- 
souri ; C. W. Threlkeld and F. F. Johnson in Southern Illinois ; 
R. S. Wilson in Alabama ; J. F. Shaw in Arkansas and Texas ; 
D. R. Stratton in Southern Arkansas and Northern Louisiana ; 
W. C. Titsworth, six weeks in Hammond, La. These workers 
on the home field report 844 weeks or over 16 years of labor; 
1,832 sermons; 47,624 pages of tracts distributed; the ordina- 
tion of one minister and five deacons ; the organization of four 
churches and one Bible school; 133 additions to the churches, 
73 being by baptism. 



CHRISTIAN THI^OPHILUS LUCKY. 
S« ISiosmptu.al Skel.-lH-s. p. 1361, 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 387 

The Corresponding Secretary performed his usual work, 
excepting the one month he went to the London Missionary 
Conference and the four months in Florida for his health ; in 
these five months the missionary interests were cared for by 
his friends and friends to our missions. 

FINANCES. 

Total receipts (including balance) from September 20, 
1888, to August 1st, 1889, including loans, $12,238.81; total 
expenditures and payment in same time, $12,212.37; balance 
cash, August ist, 1889, $26.44. 

TENTH DECADE, 189O-I9OO. 

In 1890 the 48th annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held in connection with the 
Seventh-day Baptist General Conference at Salem, W. Va., 
August 2ISt. 

Our missionaries in China are Rev. D. H. Davis and wife, 
Ella F. Swinney, M. D., Rev. G. H. F. Randolph and wife and 
Miss Susie M. Burdick. Helpers: Two occasional native 
preachers, i native teacher and 2 assistants in Girls' Boarding 
School ; I native teacher and i assistant in the Boys' Boarding 
School, 3 assistants in the dispensary ; number of girls in Board- 
ing school, 12; number of boys in boarding school, 10. Added 
to the church, 2; deaths, 2; present membership, 30; 20,500 
pages of tracts, papers and calendars distributed. In the medi- 
cal mission 3,137 patients treated; paying patients, 1,790, un- 
paid, 1,347, number of visits by Dr. Swinney, 162. 

HOLLAND. 

Brother G. Velthuysen pastor at Haarlem, visits regularly 
the Sabbath-keepers in Amsterdam, has a Bible class there of 
thirteen boys and girls ; engaged in Sabbath Reform and tem- 
perance work, publishes the Boodschapper ; visited once the 
Sabbath-keepers at Gladback, Germany. 

A church organized at Rotterdam, of ten members. 
Brother F. J. Bakker is pastor, having moved from Frieschlo 
to Rotterdam. 

JEWISH MISSIONS. 

During the period embraced in this report, no work has 
been done among the Jews under our auspices. Since the close 



388 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

of the official year, however, an appropriation has been voted 
to aid Brother Ch. Th. Lucky, who seems to be doing good 
work in Germany and Austria. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

E. A. Witter, missionary pastor in Rhode Island; Mrs. 
Perie R. Burdick, missionary pastor Lincklaen and Otselic, N. 
Y. ; Joshua Clarke at Wellsville and Andover, N. Y. ; J. T. 
Davis at Hornellsville, N. Y. ; J. W. Morton, general mission- 
ary in the Northwestern Association, Chicago, 111.; E. B. 
Saunders at Rock River, Wis. ; E. H. Socwell at Garwin, la. ; 
T. T. Davis, eight months at Welton, la. ; J. M. Todd, Berlin, 
Wis.; R. Trewartha at Cartwright, Wis.; A. G. Crofoot at 
New Auburn, Minn. ; S. R. Wheeler, pastor at Dodge Centre, 
missionary in Minnesota; Madison Harry, general missionary 
in Kansas and Nebraska; U. M. Babcock, missionary pastor, 
Long Branch, Neb.; S. I. Lee, Taney, Idaho; C. W. Threl- 
keld and F. F. Johnson, missionaries in Southern Illinois and 
Kentucky; S. D. Davis, general missionary in West Virginia, 
Southern Pennsylvania and North Carolina ; O. S. Mills, mis- 
sionary pastor Berea, W. Va. ; J. F. Shaw, general missionary 
in Arkansas, Texas and adjacent fields ; L. F. Skaggs, general 
missionary Southern Missouri; R. S. Wilson, missionary in 
Alabama; Pastor E. M. Dunn made a missionary visit to 
Southern Missouri, the Milton church giving the time, the 
Board paying the traveling expenses; Pastor A. B. Prentice, 
of Adams Center, N. Y., on the same plan, spent three months 
at Hammond and Hewitt's Springs, Miss.; George W, Mc- 
Carty did some missionary work at DeWitt, Ark. 

Secretary A. E. Main, still in poor health, doing part of 
his work, others helping him out. 

LONDON, ENGLAND. 

The Mill Yard church property was sold in 18 — for £5,- 
500, or $27,500, having been condemned by The London and 
Tilsbury Railroad Company for a railroad track through it. 
The money was paid over to the Court of Chancery of Eng- 
land. "The question of disposing of the money received from 
the sale of the old Mill Yard church property has long been 
in law, an unrighteous effort having been made to divert the 
money and the funds from the John Davis Estate for the sup- 



A GROUP OF REPRESENTATIVE EVANGELISTS. 
Rev. L«ly D. Seager. Rev. Charles M. Lewis. 

Rev. Varnum Hull. Rev. Judson G. Burdick. 

See Biographical SktUktt, p. 1361 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 389 

port of the ministers from their originally intended purpose, 
on the ground that the Seventh-day Baptist cause was dead or 
rapidly dying. The old trustees of* the fund have stood by 
our interests; lawyers' fees have grown large; and the court 
has at length decided that a new chapel shall be built. But it 
must be for the joint use of the Sabbath-keeping and Sunday- 
keeping Baptists, and its location to be fixed, not by those 
whose right it is to fix it, the Mill Yard church itself, but by 
the trustees of the fund, under the court, the original number 
having been increased by the addition of First-day Baptist 
members." 

The Mill Yard church has a membership of fifteen (15). 
Dr. William M. Jones earnestly appeals to our people in Ameri- 
ca to send him a helper and to aid him in securing the funds 
and property for the support and perpetuity of the Mill Yard 
church. 

1891. 

In 1891 the forty-ninth annual session of the Missionary 
Society was held in connection with the General Conference 
at Westerly, R. I., August 20th. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

George Greenman died at his home in Greenmanville, 
Mystic, Conn., May 21, 1891, in the 86th year of his age. Mr. 
Greenman was one of the thirteen constituent members of the 
Missionary Society at its organization in 1843, ^ind one of the 
first life members. He was a Vice-President in 1846, 1847 
and 1859; a Director from 1848 to 1850 and President of the 
society from i860 to 1891 ; over thirty years. The last annual 
meeting of the society over which he presided was in 1882. He 
wsls present in 1887, and, after a few remarks, asked to be re- 
lieved from the duties of the presiding officer and called upon 
Mr. William L. Clarke, the first of the Board of Managers, to 
take his place. 

James R, Irish, D. D., died in Rockville, R. I., March 3, 
1891, in the 8oth year of his age. He became a life mem- 
ber of this society about 1852, was one of the Vice-Presidents 
a number of years, and a member of the Board of Managers 
from 1880 to the time of his death; 



390 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

Horatio S. Berry died at Cottage City, Mass., July 28, 
1891. His name appears early on the records of the Mission- 
ary Society and was a member of the Board of Managers from 
1862 to 1876. 

Thomas V. Stillman died in New York City, August 21, 
1891. He was a member of the Missionary Board from 1862 
to 1880, and 1890 and 1891, and served the society as Record- 
ing Secretary from 1871 to 1876. Rev. Solomon Carpenter, 
D. D., was born in Hancock, Berkshire County, Mass., March 
16, 1808, and died in London, England, December 21, 1891. 
He was a pioneer missionary with the Rev. Nathan Wardner 
to China and was at the head of that mission a number of years. 
He was a man of great consecration, devotion and gentleness, 
and his work in Shanghai, China, in the years i847-'s8, 1863- 
'64 and i873-'76 were marked by great faithfulness and wis- 
dom, and his relations with the Missionary Society with great 
Christian courtesy and generosity. 

CHINA MISSION. 

Rev. D. H. Davis and family are in the home land. Af- 
ter over eleven years of missionary labor in China, Mr. and 
Mrs. Davis with their children returned to the home land for 
rest, recuperation, change of climate and for fellowship and 
conference with our people. 

They arrived in New York on the morning of May 9th, 
1891, having come by the way of England. Mr. and Mrs, 
Davis attended the associations, visited churches until 
October. They attended the General Conference. Their 
labor among our people in the interests of the China 
mTssion was interrupted by the sudden death of their daughter, 
Susie, at Nile, N. Y., July 4, 1891, which brought overwhelm- 
ing grief and sorrow to her parents. 

The mission was successfully maintained by Rev. G. H. 
F. Randolph and wife, Dr. Swinney, and Miss Susie M. Bur- 
dick, with their native helpers. Added to the church, 4; dis- 
missed, I ; death, i ; present membership, 32. 

In Holland Brother Velthuysen is vigorously carrying on 
the work. He was much cheered by the visit of George H. 
Babcock and President W. C. Whitford, of Milton College. 

Brother F. J. Bakker is the pastor at Rotterdam, who in 



(;i:()R(;i-: gri: 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 39I 

addition to his pastoral labors, distributes a large amount of 
religious and Sabbath literature among the seamen and emi- 
grants coming to that port. 

WORK FOR THE JEWS. 

Mr. Ch. Th. Lucky is still at work in Austria. His work 
and influence are felt and acknowledged by prominent workers 
among the Jews. The Board has no Jewish mission, but con- 
tributes $100 to aid Brother Lucky in his work. 

MISSIONARY PASTORS. 

O. S. Mills, Berea, W. Va. ; M. E. Martin, Greenbriar, 
Middle Island and West Union churches, W. Va. ; E. A. Wit- 
ter, First and Second Westerly churches, R. L ; Joshua Clarke, 
Andover, N. Y. ; J. T. Davis, Hornellsville, N. Y. ; J. M. Todd, 
Berlin, Wis. ; E. B. Saunders, Rock River, Wis. ; A. G. Cro- 
foot. New Auburn, Minn. ; E. H. Socwell, Garwin, la. ; D. K. 
Davis, Pleasant Grove Church, South Dakota ; U. M. Babcock, 
Humboldt, Neb.; S. L Lee, Fouke, Ark.; George W. Lewis, 
Hammond, La. 

MISSIONARY EVANGELISTS. 

Brother S. D. Davis half of the year in West Virginia. 

J. L. Huffman, under the appointment of the Board, his 
salary provided for by the Young People's Permanent Com- 
mittee. Commenced April ist and labored in West Virginia, 
North Carolina and New York. 

GENERAL MISSIONARY WORK. 

J. W. Morton, Chicago, 111., in the Northwestern Asso- 
ciation, 43 weeks, then became pastor of the North Loup 
church, Neb. 

O. U. Whitford, late pastor of the Pawcatuck church. 
Westerly, R. L, succeeded Mr. Morton as general missionary 
in the Northwest with headquarters at Milton, Wis. 

C. W. Threlkeld and F. F. Johnson in Southern Illinois. 

S. R. Wheeler did a month's general missionary work in 
Minnesota. E. H. Socwell, in Iowa; Madison Harry in Kan- 
sas, J. F. Shaw in Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana ; S. I. 
Lee in Texas and Indian Territory ; L. F. Skaggs in Missouri ; 
R. S. Wilson in Alabama. 

Several pastors performed some missionary work during 



392 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

the year, the churches giving the time, the society paying the 
traveling expenses. 

The First National Seventh-day Baptist Council was held 
in Chicago, 111., October 22-29, 1890. The Missionary So- 
ciety was represented in said council by two delegates: the 
Treasurer, A. L. Chester; the Corresponding Secretary, A. E- 
Main. 

The work on the home fields this year is one of the most 
successful in the history of the Missionary Society. Twenty- 
nine laborers in twenty States and Territories, laboring, in to- 
tal over 18 years. Addition to churches by this labor, 148; 
two churches organized, 2 Sabbath schools, i Endeavor So- 
ciety. 

1892. 

The fiftieth annual session of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held in connection with the Seventh - 
day Baptist General Conference at Nortonville, Kansas, 
August 25, 1892. 

CHINA MISSION. 

The workers in this field the past year have been the Rev. 
G. H. F. Randolph and wife. Dr. Ella F. Swinney, Miss Susie 
M. Burdick, native preachers and teachers and other helpers. 
The Rev. D. H. Davis and family have spent the year in the 
home land with profit to the cause and benefit to themselves. 
They expdct to return to their labors in China in the late 
autumn or early winter. It is expected that the Rev. G. H. F. 
Randolph and family will return to America, leaving the 
China mission permanently as soon as practicable after the ar- 
rival of Mr. Davis at Shanghai. 

HOLLAND. 

The work in this country under the same workers, 
Brethren G. Velthuysen, Sr., and F. J. Bakker, is moving for- 
ward with encouraging success. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

The laborers are nearly the same as last year and in the 
same places, with a few additions : The Rev. T. L. Gardiner 



REV. GIDEON HENRY FITZ RANDOLPH. 
See BiographH-al Sketches, p. 1361, 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 393 

as missionary pastor at Salem, W. Va. ; Rev. Horace Stillman, 
Rhode Island, and the Rev. J. S. Powers, general missionary 
in Texas and Indian Territory. 

This year is marked as the beginning of the Student Evan- 
gelistic Movement. The following young men, F. E. Peter- 
son, L. C. Randolph, T. J. Van Horn, D. B. Coon, George B. 
Shaw and W. D. Burdick, students in the Theological Semin- 
ary, Morgan Park, 111., offered to go out together, under the 
auspices of the Board for missionary, evangelistic and Sabbath 
Reform work during the summer vacation; and their offer 
was cordially accepted. 

Mr. I. J. Ordway, of Chicago, deeply interested in the 
movement, greatly aided the young men in their plans and 
was chiefly instrumental in .^raising the needed funds. They 
labored with great success, arousing much enthusiasm, and in- 
terest by their quartet singing of the gospel as well as preach- 
ing it, at New Canton, 111.; Barry, 111.; at Welton, Marion, 
Garwin and Grand Junction, Iowa. They attended the Gen- 
eral Conference at Nortonville, Kan., and by their fine singing 
of stirring gospel songs added much to the interest and enthu- 
siasm of *Viis general yearly gathering. 

The Corresponding Secretary, besides his many duties 
and labors, edited and published the "J^l^ilcc Papers," as mark- 
ing the ".emi-centennial of the Missionary Society and as a 
valuable summary of its work for fifty years. 

On the home field there were this year 34 workers, in 18 
States and Territories, reporting 2,449 sermons, 4,378 visits, 
distribution of 58,780 pages of tracts and 1,082 papers; 260 
additions to the churches; one church organized, 4 Bible 
schools and 7 Christian Endeavor Societies. 

The Treasurer's report shows the actual income, includ- 
ing $250, for the permanent fund, was $13,686.99 — the largest 
ever received. The expenditures not including the payment of 
bink loans, were $12,556.30; the net indebtedness has been 
reduced $1,702.12, or from $4,293.29 to $2,591.17. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. George B. Utter died in his home at Westerly, R. I., 
August 28, 1892. He served the Missionary Society as Re- 
cording Secretary twelve consecutive years, beginning in 1847. 



394 * SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

He was chosen its Treasurer in 1862 and was continued in that 
office for the next twenty-one years. He preached in 1853 the 
missionary sermon before the society and subsequently at two 
of its annual sessions. For some time prior to 1867 he was 
the general agent of the Missionary Board. He was a mem- 
ber of the Board of Managers at his death. 

Rev. James Bailey died at Milton, Wis., July 31, 1892. 
Was Corresponding Secretary of the Missionary Society five 
years. He entered into the service of the society as mission- 
ary in 1865, and labored as general missionary in the West and 
Northwest until the summer of 1869, when, on account of 
feeble health he resigned his appointment. While as mission- 
ary he organized the mission school conducted by our people 
in Chicago at the Pacific Garden^ Mission. At one time he 
conducted a Sabbath discussion in the leading Chicago papers. 
Our people owe very much to Brother James Bailey as a Sab- 
bath Reformer and evangelistic laborer among us. 

1893. 

The fifty-first annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held at Milton, Wis., August 24, 
1893. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. Thomas R. Williams died in Alfred Centre, N. Y., 
March 5, 1893. He was for forty years a life member of the 
Missionary Society and for many years at different times a 
member of the Board of Managers. 

Rev. James Summerbell died in February, 1893. He 
labored as a missionary at different times under the Mission- 
ary Board, on the home fields. 

CHINA MISSION. 

The Rev. D. H. Davis and family returned to China, hav- 
mg set sail for China from San Francisco, Cal., February 14, 
1893, on steamship "China,'' and arrived at Shanghai March 
14th, 1893. 

The Rev. G. H. F. Randolph and family returned from 
China to America, having set sail from Shanghai on steamship 
"Empress of Japan" March 25, 1893, and arrived home April 
20, 1893. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 395 

Dr. Ella F. Swinney having received permission to re- 
turn home to visit her aged mother, relatives and friends and 
to receive the benefit of a short rest and change for at least 
three months, took passage on the "Empress of Japan," which 
left Shanghai May 2^, 1893, and arrived at the home of her 
brother, Dr. C. O. Swinney, Smyrna, Del., June 21, 1893, 
where she met her mother. While in the home land she will 
visit hospitals and see our people as much as she can in the time 
she is here. She attended the Conference and anniversaries at 
Milton, Wis., and received warm personal greetings and a 
warm welcome from the people, and her addresses and talks 
added much to the interest of the Conference. 

HOLLAND. 

Beside the labors of our missionary, Mr. Velthuysen, Miss 
Maria Van der Steur has been employed to do city missionary 
work in Haarlem. Brother F. J. Bakker has done good work 
as missionary pastor of the little church at Rotterdam. 

HOME FIELDS. 

Laborers: Horace Stillman, missionary pastor First and 
Second Westerly churches, Rhode Island ; O. S. Mills, Linck- 
laen and Otselic churches. New York; H. B. Lewis, Watson, 
N. Y. ; J. T. Davis, Hornellsville and Hartsville, N. Y. ; O. U. 
Whitford, general missionary in the West and Northwest; J. 
M. Todd, missionary pastor, Berlin, Wis. ; A. G. Crofoot, New 
Auburn, Minn.; E. H. Socwell, Garwin, Iowa; D. K. Davis, 
Pleasant Grove church. South Dakota; Madison Harry, gen- 
eral missionary, Kansas; S. R. Wheeler, general missionary, 
Colorado ; T. L. Gardiner, missionary pastor, Salem, W. Va. ; 
M. E. Martin, Greenbriar and West Union churches, West 
Virginia ; L. D. Seager, missionary pastor, Berea, W. Va. ; L. 
F. Skaggs, general missionary in Missouri ; George W. Lewis, 
missionary pastor, Hammond, La. ; S. I. Lee, general mission- 
ary, Arkansas, Eastern Texas, Western Louisiana and Indian 
Territory ; J. S. Powers, general missionary, Texas and Indian 
Territory. 

EVANGELISTIC WORK. 

J. L. Huffman, missionary evangelist, labored in Nebras- 
ka, South Dakota, Illinois, Ohio, Wisconsin, West Virginia. 
E. B. Saunders under the Missionary Board and Young 



/ 



396 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

People's Societies, assisted by T. J. Van Horn, L. C. Randolph, 

D. B. Coon, George B. Shaw and the Milton College quartet, 
consisting of Charles Sayre, Alva Van Horn, Eli Loofboro, 
Fred Whitford, labored in Nebraska, Iowa, Wisconsin, Ohio, 
Minnesota, Illinois and at Alfred Center and Alfred Station, 
N. Y. 

J. J. White labored under the employment of the Board 
as a missionary evangelist in Rhode Island, with the First and 
Second Hopkinton churches, and the Berlin church, N. Y. 

THE SOUTHERN FIELD. 

Under voluntary missionary work by pastors. Pastor S. 
H. Babcock, Albion, Wis., and Pastor George W. Hills, Mil- 
ton Junction, Wis., performed missionary labor together in 
North Carolina, with and near the Cumberland Seventh-day 
Baptist Church for the month of November. Secretaries A. 

E. Main and L. E. Livermore on their way to the Southwestern 
Association, in November, visited our brethren in North Caro- 
lina, and ordained D. N. Newton to the gospel ministry, .who 
became the pastor of the Cumberland Seventh-day Baptist 
church. 

On their return from the Southwestern Association, Sec- 
retaries A. E. Main and L. E. Livermore visited the Alabama 
field and reorganized the Flatswood church as the Seventh-day 
Baptist church of Attalla, Etowah County, Ala. They ordain- 
ed R. S. Wilson as minister and pastor of the church. They 
also visited our little church at Shepherdsville, Ky. 

Brother Charles Potter, of Plainfield, N. J., taking a deep 
interest in this Southern field, made an offer to the Board to 
support two missionaries on said field if such should be ap- 
pointed by the Board The Board accepted the offer and se- 
cured as general missionary in the Alabama and North Caro- 
lina field the Rev. George W. Hills, of Milton Junction, Wis., 
who is to commence his labors October i, 1893, to be located 
at Attalla, Ala., and the Rev. T. J. Van Horn, late graduate of 
the Theological Department of the Chicago University, as gen- 
eral missionary of the Southern Illinois and Kentcky field, 
who commenced his labors June i, 1893, with headquarters at 
Stone Fort, 111. 



MRS. LUCY GREKNK [-ITZ RANDOLPH. 
See liios'aflin-al Skruhes, p. 1361. 



J 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 397 

DENOMINATIONAL EXHIBIT AT THE COLUMBIAN EXPOSITION. 

In the reports of 1891 and '92, it will be found that initia- 
tory steps were taken by the Missionary Board and after much 
but successful correspondence with the proper authorities by 
Secretary Main, it was recommended at our last anniversary 
that the General Conference appoint a committee on denomina- 
tional representation and exhibit at the World^s Fair. An 
able and representative committee was appointed by the Con- 
ference last year. That committee did its work well, so that 
if we have Yiot the largest denominational exhibit at the fair 
we have at least a unique and complete one. It attracts atten- 
tion and is well visited. 

THE EVANGEL AND SABBATH OUTLOOK. 

The American Sabbath Tract Society, desiring to publish 
a paper that would associate evangelistic work with Sabbath 
Reform work, an arrangement was entered into by tlie Mis- 
sionary Society to aid them in the publication of such a paper 
by furnishing an editor for its evangelistic department. The 
Missionary Board obtained the services of the Rev. F. E. 
Peterson, pastor of the Piscataway church, New Market, N. J., 
as said editor. The first number of the Evangel and Sab- 
bath Outlook was issued June i, 1893, under the editorship of 
the Rev. A. H. Lewis, D. D., and the Rev. F. E. Peterson. 

THE CORRESPONDING SECRETARYSHIP. 

The Corresponding Secretary, A. E. Main, having accept- 
ed the call to the Presidency of Alfred University, tendered his 
resignation at the regular meeting of the Board of Managers 
held April 19, 1893. His resignation was accepted and to take 
effect upon the appointment of his successor. At a special 
meeting of the Board held in June, 1893, the Board appointed 
the Rev. L. A. Platts Corresponding Secretary to succeed Mr. 
Main, which appointment he accepted to enter upon his duties, 
July I, 1893.' 

The Trustees of Alfred University being unwilling to re- 
lease Mr. Platts from the chair of Church History and Homi- 
letics, he withdrew by the consent of the Board from the Sec- 
retaryship July 5, 1893. 

At a special meeting of the Board held July 5, 1893, the 
Board extended a call to the Rev. O. U. Whitford to become 



39^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Corresponding Secretary, which he accepted and entered upon 
his duties July 20, 1893. 

Rev. A. E. Main served the society as Corresponding Sec- 
retary from July 12, 1876, to July 20, 1893, 17 years, with 
great fidelity, ability and success. 

SUMMARY FOR THE YEAR. 

Thirty-four workers on the home field in 25 States and 
Territories, aggregating nearly 15 years of labor; 2,428 dis- 
courses; 4,877 visits; 38,342 pages of tracts, and 449 papers 
distributed; added to the churches, 402,332 by baptism; 25 
converts to the Sabbath ; 3 churches, 6 Bible schools and 2 En- 
deavor Societies organized, i church reorganized, some 30 or 
more converts joined other denominations. 

FINANCES. 

Total receipts, including loans $26,188 40 

Total expenditures, including payment of loans and 
interest 24,111 96 

Balance in treasury Aug. i, 1893 $ 2,076 44 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. Joseph W. Morton, born near Rose Point, Lawrence^ 
County, Pa., January 3, 1821; died in St. Paul, Minn., at the 
home of his daughters, July 27, 1893. Mr. Morton was an 
able writer, a fine scholar, and a consecrated Christian man 
and minister of the gospel. For seven years he was under the 
employment of the Missionary Board as general missionary in 
the Northwest with headquarters at Chicago, 111., and "proved 
most efficient in the service, undertaking long journeys, some- 
times on foot, with a courage and endurance that but few 
younger men could be found to manifest." 

Geo. H. Babcock was born at Unadilla Forks, N. Y., June 
17, 1832, and died at Plainfield, N. J., December 16, 1893. Mr. 
Babcock began life poor and died a millionaire. He was a 
strong denominational man, took a deep interest in all lines 
of work of the denomination both as a worker and in generous 
benefactions. Mr. Babcock was a member of the Board of 
Managers of the Missionary Society for twelve years. He 
had a warm missionary spirit, interested in mission work at 
home and on the foreign field, and was especially interested in 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 399 

the frontier work on the home fields, and in his various large 
bequests he remembered generously the small struggling 
churches. 

1894. 

In 1894 the fifty-second annual session of the Seventh- 
day Baptist Missionary Society was held in connection with 
the Seventh-day Baptist General Conference at Brookfield, 
N. Y,. August i6th. President William L. Clarke in the chair. 

On the foreign field, in China, the workers during the 
year have been Rev. D. H. Davis and wife, Dr. Ella F. Swin- 
ney, Miss Susie M. Burdick and native preachers, teachers and 
other helpers. Dr. Ella F. Swinney returned to China after a 
stay of six months in the home land, visiting her aged mother 
and her brothers and the churches as much as she could. She 
sailed from San Francisco, Cal., in the steamer Oceanic on 
December 31, 1893, and arrived at Shanghai January 30, 1894. 
Dr. Swinney needing in her work very much an assistant, a 
call was extended to Miss Rosa W. Palmborg, of the West 
Hallock church. 111., to become Dr. Swinney's assistant in the 
medical mission, which she accepted. She entered Hahnemann 
Medical College and Hospital, Chicago, and completed her 
medical course April 5, 1894. During the summer and early 
autumn she further pursued studies in New York City to more 
fully prepare herself for her work. At a regular meeting of 
the Missionary Board held April 18, 1894, the Board voted as 
follows : That it is the mind of this Board that Dr. Rosa W. 
Palmborg go to China on or before November i, 1894, as the 
assistant of Dr. Ella F. Swinney in the medical mission, at a 
salary of $600 a year. 

Dr. Palmborg accepted the time desired for her going and 
commenced preparing to set sail for Shanghai the latter part 
of October, 1894. At the anniversary of the Missionary So- 
ciety, August 16, 1894, she was set apart for that work by ap- 
propriate consecratory services. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. Nathan W^ardner, D. D., born in Wheatland, Mon- 
roe County, N. Y., April 12, 1820, died at his home in Milton 
Junction, Wis., April 6, 1894. He was a strong, logical 
thinker, a good scholar, a most able advocate of the Sabbath 



400 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

of the Bible. He and his wife were pioneer missionaries with 
Rev. Solomon Carpenter and wife of our denomination in 
China. His last days were spent as a missionary pastor over 
a small church. He was a member of the Missionary Board 
of Managers fourteen years. "Mr. Wardner began his pub- 
lic work in the ministry as a missionary and ended it in the 
same way." 

HOLLAND. 

Advancement was made in our Holland mission during 
the year. A church was organized in Amsterdam as a branch 
of the Haarlem church, and we have a neat little chapel there. 
Miss Maria Van der Steur, who was employed last year as a 
city missionary in Haarlem, went to the assistance of her 
brother, a missionary at Magelang, Java. Brother J. F. Bak- 
ker has continued his work in Rotterdam. 

The work and workers on the home fields have been much 
the same as last year. On the Southern field the Rev. George 
W. Hills labored as general missionary and evangelist, located 
at Atalla, Ala. His work has been largely of the evangelistic 
order. Labored in Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, Flori- 
da and Tennessee. He used a tent in his work. 

Brother E. D. Richmond, of Coloma, Wis., a sweet singer, 
assisted him a few months, giving his time, the Board paying 
his traveling expenses. The Board secured the services of 
Mr. T. B. Burdick, of Little Genesee, N. Y., to go with Mr. 
Hills as singer and helper, and they successfully carried on gos- 
pel tent work the larger part of the year. The Rev. T. J. Van 
Horn labored with energy, fidelity and with success as a gen- 
eral missionary in another part of the Southern field, namely, 
Southern Illinois and Kentucky. 

THE EVANGELISTIC WORK. 

The Board of Managers of the Missionary Society took 

the following action upon the evangelistic work at its regular 

meeting held October i8, 1893: In view of the great need of 

evangelistic work among our people, and of the success which 

has attended our eiforts in that direction during the current 

year, 
(25) 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4OI 

Resolved, That the Rev. O. U. Whitford, the Rev. W. C. 
Daland and George B. Carpenter be and hereby are appointed 
a committee to have charge of the evangelistic work for the 
year 1894 with authority to employ such person or persons for 
the prosecution of said work as may accomplish the greatest 
good with the men and means in their hands. They shall 
have the authority to make such changes in the personnel of 
the workers as may to them seem wise, but in no case shall 
they exceed in their expenditure the amount appropriated by 
this Board. 

The Board appropriated $1,300 for evangelistic work for 
the year 1894. It afterwards gave authority to the committee 
to pay all workers and all expenses connected with the work 
and draw upon the Treasurer of the society for the money need- 
ed to pay the bills. The evangelistic work for the remainder of 
the year 1893 was also put under their charge. The commit- 
tee employed Mr. E. B. Saunders, of Milton, Wis., and the 
Rev. L. C. Randolph, of Chicago, 111., to labor as evangelists 
as much time during the year as they could give to the work. 
They labored as evangelists in Illinois, New York and Rhode 
Island. They were assisted by other workers, especially dur- 
ing the summer vacation by evangelistic quartets from our 
schools. A brief summary of the evangelistic work shows: 
Thirteen workers as evangelists and singers ; 600 conversions ; 
185 united with our churches by baptism; 30 by letter and tes- 
timony; 315 joined other churches; no reclaimed, and 25 con- 
verts to the Sabbath. 

1895. 

The fifty-third annual session of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held in connection with the Seventh- 
day Baptist General Conference at Plainfield, N. J., August 
22nd. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Rev. William M. Jones, D. D., was born at Fort Ann, 
Washington County, N. Y., May 2, 1818; died in London, 
England, February 22, 1895. He was missionary in Palestine 
nearly six years, under the Missionary Society. He succeed- 
ed the Rev. W. H. Black, D. D., in 1872 as pastor of the Mill 
Yard Seventh-day Baptist church, London, England. 



402 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Rev. Joshua Clarke, bom in Brookfield, N. Y., Novem- 
ber 22, 1822, died in Verona, Oneida County, N. Y., February 
9, 1895. He was a member of the Board of Managers of the 
Missionary Society eighteen years, and labored at. different 
times as a general missionary in the home field. 

Rev. Darwin E. Maxson, D. D., was born in the town of 
Plainfield, Otsego County, N. Y., September 15, 1822, and 
died at his home in Alfred N. Y., February 22, 1895. He was 
a member of the Board of Managers of the Missionary So- 
ciety ten years and always took a deep interest in all our mis- 
sions. 

CHINA MISSION. 

Dr. Rosa W. Palmborg left New York for China Novem- 
ber 4, 1894, and embarked on the steamship "Empress of 
Japan" at Vancouver, B. C, November I2th,* for Shanghai, 
where she arrived December i, 1894. She was met at the 
landing by all our workers, and most joyfully received. She 
began at once with zeal the study of the Chinese language, 
making good progress in it, and is enthusiastic in her work. 

Dr. Ella F. Swinney had an attack of influenza the latter 
part of April, 1895, which resulted in pleuro-pneumonia. For 
a few weeks it was thought she could not recover. With the 
best of medical attendance, a surgical operation, and excellent 
nursing, she began to get better, but new difficulties set in 
which baffled the skill of the physicians. They decided that 
the only chance for her final recovery and restoration to health 
and strength was to return to her native land. Accordingly 
she embarked at Shanghai for the home land on Sabbath even- 
ing, July 6, 1895, accompanied by Miss Susie M. Burdick. 
They arrived in San Francisco August ist. Dr. Swinney was 
much improved by the voyage, the sea air proving very bene- 
ficial. After a week's rest at the home of Mrs. Lizzie Nelson 
Fryer, in Oakland, Cal., she resumed her journey, stopping a 
short time in Chicago for rest, and is now with her aged 
mother and her brother, Dr. C. O. Swinney, in Smyrna, Del., 
in a very hopeful condition. 

HOLLAND. 

Rev. F. J. Bakker is the earnest and faithful pastor of the 
Rotterdam church. Mr. John Van der Steur and his sister. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 403 

Maria Van der Steur, formerly workers in Haarlem and mem- 
bers of our church there, are engaged in mission work in Mag- 
elang, Java. 

Rev. G. Velthuysen, Sr., is still doing grand work at Haar- 
lem, Amsterdam and other places in Holland. 

ENGLAND. 

The Mill Yard church, London, upon the death of their 
pastor, the Rev. Williiam M. Jones, D. D., sent a statement of 
their financial condition and the need of a pastor and petitioned 
the Missionary Society to send them a suitable person for a 
pastor, or aid them in the support of one. The Board sent the 
Rev. W. C. Daland, the Recording Secretary of the Society, 
to London last May to investigate the religious and spiritual 
condition of the church, and the outlook for building up a suc- 
cessful working Seventh-day Baptist church in London. He 
returned in July and gave to the Board a thorough report. This 
report was published in The Recorder of August i, 1895. In 
the report Mr. Daland gave the following recommendation to 
the Board: "That if the Missionary Society can see its way 
clear to do it, they send them a missionary pastor suited to their 
needs for the space of three years. That would be a time long 
enough to see what can be done. Less than that I do not ad- 
vise." This recommendation was, by vote, referred to a com- 
mittee of three for consideration, to report at the next regu- 
lar Board meeting to be held in October. 

HOME MISSIONS — ^THE EVANGELISTIC WORK. 

The evangelistic committee of the Missionary Board em- 
ployed Evangelist E. B. Saunders the entire year; Rev. J. L. 
Huffman six months; Rev. L. C. Randolph as much time as 
he could give to the work, not to exceed six months. These 
evangelists were assisted by others, and by quartets. 

The summary of the evangelistic work is as follows : Four 
evangelists, 9 singers and helpers, equaling 2^ years in all of 
labor; held evangelistic meetings in 17 of our churches, in 
three of our associations ; 665 conversions ; 200 wanderers re- 
claimed; added to our churches by baptism 178; by letter and 
experience 65; joined other churches 97; converts to the Sab- 
bath 36. 

The home mission work this year was more extensive 



404 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

than last year and the results under the blessing of God have 
been good. Thirty-six workers in 24 States and i Territory 
report 1,102 weeks, or 21 years and 10 months of labor; 2,884 
sermons; 4, 852 visits; 89,746 pages of tracts, and 1,876 papers 
distributed; 314 additions, 216 by baptism, 42 converts to the 
Sabbath ; 2 churches organized, i in Tennessee, i in Kentucky ; 
also 2 Bible schools and 4 Christian Endeavor Societies. 

FINANCES. 

Total receipts from all sources, including loan. .. .$19,675 17 
Balance in treasury August i, 1894 61 51 



$19,736 68 
Total expenditures, including payment of loans. . .$19,059 31 



Balance in treasury August i, 1895 $ 677 37 

Outstanding notes August i, 1895 1,000 00 



$ 322 63 
1896. 

The fifty-fourth annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held at Alfred, N. Y., August 20th. 
George B. Carpenter presided. 

CHINA MISSION. 

The laborers on the China field the past year have been 
Rev. D. H. Davis and wife. Dr. Rosa W. Palmborg and native 
helpers. 

Dr. Ella F. Swinney soon after her return to the home 
land went to Walter's Sanitarium, Wernersville, Pa., for treat- 
ment and recovery of health, the Board bearing the expense. 
She remained there several months, greatly improving in health 
and strength. She has spent the most of her time with her in- 
valid mother in Smyrna, Del., lovingly and faithfully minis- 
tering to her in her old age and failing strength. Dr. Swin- 
ney 's full recovery of health and usual strength seems to be 
assured. She expects to return to China, but not this year. 
Miss Burdick has been during the year at her home in Al- 
fred, N. Y. She expects to return to China some time the com- 
ing autumn. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 405 

There have been added to the Shanghai Seventh-day Bap- 
tist church 7 members, making the present membership 38. 

HOLLAND. 

Rev. G. Velthuysen, Sr., is the pastor of the Haarlem 
church and of the branch church at Amsterdam ; and the Rev. 
F. J. Bakker of the Rotterdam church. Mr. Velthuysen, Sr., 
has engaged in a new plan of work on his field. He is using 
a gospel wagon, covered, having printed on its sides Scripture 
passages, appropriate mottoes, etc., a sort of a gospel Sabbath 
Reform, and general reform advertising wagon, in which he 
goes about and speaks from it to the people. In this way he 
gets a good gathering and as a rule an attentive hearing of the 
truths he presents. In Magelang, Java, John Van der Steur 
and his sister, Maria, still continue their mission, consisting of 
a home and school for poor children, and missionary and so- 
cial purity work among the soldiers. They are supported by 
the voluntary contributions of God's people. Some of our 
young people are interested in their work and have contributed 
liberally toward their support. 

ENGLAND. 

The matter of sending a missionary pastor to the Mill 
Yard church, London, was laid before the people at the last an- 
niversary of the society and at the Conference in an informal 
way. No formal action was taken, though many expressed 
the judgment that something should be done for this old 
mother church. After much deliberation, council and prayer, 
the Board, at a meeting held October 20, 1895, voted to send 
a missionary pastor to serve the Mill Yard church, of London, 
England, according to their request, for the term of three 
3'ears. It was voted that the Board ask the Rev. W. C. Daland 
to fill that place, and that the salary of the missionary pastor 
be $1,200, and the expense of transportation to London, all 
receipts on the field to be reported to the Treasurer. Mr. Da- 
land accepted the call of the Board, to take effect May ist, 
1896, and the following arrangements were made with the Mill 
Yard church: (i) The Mill Yard church on January 4, 1896, 
by unanimous vote, extended a formal call to the Rev. W. C. 
Daland to become their pastor. (2) It unanimously voted 
to pay annually to the Treasurer of the Missionary Society such 



406 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

a sum of money as it can raise in lieu of pastor's salary. Mr, 
I»aland accepted the formal call of the Mill Yard church. He 
sailed with his family from New York City May 9, 1896, for 
his field of labor, and arrived there May 20, 1896, and received 
a most hearty welcome. He settled in a home at once and 
commenced his work. He reports a good attendance of the 
membership on Sabbath service, and at every service thus far 
strangers have been present. Mr. Daland is in London not 
merely as the missionary pastor of Mill Yard church, but to 
represent our cause in Great Britain and Europe as far as he 
can, and to engage in evangelistic work as much as practica- 
ble and advisable, and to put himself in touch with all Sab- 
bath-keepers and those interested in Sabbath truth. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

The workers on the home fields as missionary pastors, 
missionaries, evangelists and quartet singers, during the year, 
were: Horace Stillman, A. E. Main, L. D. Seager, O. S. 
Mills, U. M. Babcock, Perie R. Burdick, M. B. Kelly, Jr., A. 
Lawrence, H. L. Jones, D. Burdett Coon, A. G. Crofoot, E. H. 
Socwell, S. R. Wheeler, D. K. Davis, W. D. Burdick, L. F. 
Skaggs, S. I. Lee, George W. Lewis, R. S. Wilson, C. W. 
Threlkeld, D. N. Newton, E. B. Saunders, T. J. Van Horn, 
J. L. Huffman, L. C. Randolph, George W. Hills, S. H. Bab- 
cock, L. R. Swinney, J. H. Hurley, Alva Van Horn, A. E. 
Whitford, Walter Greene, E. A. Witter. 

THE LOUISVILLE, KY., WORK. 

The Rev. T. J. Van Horn learned of some Sab- 
bath-keepers in Louisville, Ky., and by their invitation visited 
them in March, 1895. The result of this visit was, he organ- 
ized a church there April 2, 1895. The brethren in Louisville 
and Mr. Van Horn, because of the interest in the Sabbath 
truth and evangelistic work in that city, advocated that gospel 
tent work should be carried on there during the summer, and 
an appeal to the Tract and Missionary Boards to inaugurate 
and support the work. It resulted in the purchase of a tent 
and starting gospel tent work in Louisville by the two socie- 
ties. The tent was set up and the first meeting was held in it 
on the evening of June 19, 1895, with Brother Van Horn as 
conductor, assisted by the Rev. E. A. Witter, pastor of the AI- 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 407 

bion church, Wis. Mr. Witter labored with Mr. Van Horn 
nearly three weeks, then returned home. The meetings in- 
creased in interest, and the Rev. L. C. Randolph, of Chicago, 
was sent to the aid of Mr. Van Horn. The tent was not set 
up in the most favorable place, and it was moved to a more 
desirable place in the city, and the brethren, Van Horn and 
Randolph, were assisted by Alva Van Horn, A. E. Whitford 
and W. D. Burdick in quartet' gospel singing. The attend- 
ance increased, became large, interest grew; there was the 
manifest presence and power of the Holy Spirit. Souls were 
converted, wanderers were reclaimed, and an enthusiastic feel- 
ing and activity aroused in many to do evangelistic work in 
the city. The tent meetings continued to October i, 1895, and 
then closed because of the season and weather, with sermons 
upon the Sabbath question by Dr. A. H. Lewis, which were 
powerful and convincing. The gospel meetings were con- 
tinued in suitable rooms rented by interested parties, conduct- 
ed by Mr. Van Horn, assisted for awhile by L. C. Randolph, 
and upon his going to another field. Dr. A. E. Main was sent 
to the assistance of Mr. Van Horn, remaining over a month 
with him. 

This field was visited also by members of the Evangelistic 
Committee. The outcome of this gospel tent work was as 
follows : 

1. Ten or more persons were known to have found 
Christ* as their Saviour, many wanderers were reclaimed, a 
large number of Christian people were quickened to higher 
spiritual life and greater spiritual activity. 

2. Four persons came to the Sabbath and joined our 
church in Lx)uisville, two by baptism, two by experience, and 
others are studying the Sabbath question with interest and 
candor. 

3. Our people, through this tent work and its workers, 
are more widely and favorably known in Louisville. It brought 
to the people of Louisville a favorable impression and knowl- 
edge of the evangelistic spirit, the loyalty to truth and Bible 
teachings, the character, intelligence, purpose and work of 
Seventh-day Baptists. 

4. This gospel tent work resulted in some forty persons 
united together with a desire to be led in organized Christiani- 



408 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ty, evangelistic and philanthropic work in that city. Most of 
them are young or middle aged, a good class of people, repre- 
senting five or six evangelical denominations. They first la- 
bored together under the name of "Workers Gospel Mission," 
but were afterward reorganized by Dr. Main, at their request, 
upon a basis of rules and regulations under the name of 
"Christian Workers' Union.*' A Mr. McDowell was elected 
president, and other necessary officers chosen. Mr. Van Horn 
was unanimously chosen as their preacher, teacher and leader. 
Their work was evangelistic and philanthropic. They main- 
tained a good and interesting Sunday-school. A sewing 
school for poor children was organized, a committee was ap- 
pointed on finances. Services were held every Sunday, and 
several evenings in the week. Our people met in their rooms 
on the Sabbath and held a Bible class and other religious ser- 
vices. Mr. Van Horn remained as leader and preacher in this 
work during the winter and early spring of 1896. In April, 
1896, because of Baptist domination in the "Union" and other 
reasons Mr. Van Horn under the direction of the Missionary 
Board, withdrew from the leadership and the work in the 
"Christian Workers' Union" and resumed his general mission- 
ary work. Our interests in Louisville became a part of the 
general missionary field of Kentucky and Southern Illinois, of 
which Mr. Van Horn is the general missionary. 

The workers on the home fields labored in 24 States and 
I Territory, and reports 1,183 weeks, or 22^ years of labor; 
2,945 sermons; 1,501 prayer-meetings, 5,260 visits; 43,320 
pages of tracts and 1,275 papers distributed; 558 conversions; 
278 additions to the churches, 225 by baptism and 53 by let- 
ter or experience ; 56 converts to the Sabbath, 2 Bible schools 
and 2 Y. P. S. C. E. organized. 

FINANCES. 

Mr. Albert L. Chester, after serving the Missionary So- 
ciety as Treasurer for nearly twelve years with ability and 
fidelity, resigned the Treasurership and George H. Utter was 
elected Treasurer. 

The Treasurer's report for the year ending July 31, 1896, 
shows the following: 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4OC) 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1895 $ 677 37 

Total receipts from all sources, including loans 20,588 09 

Total $21,265 46 

Total expenditures, including payments of loans. . . 21,196 41 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1896 $ 69 05 

Outstanding notes, August i, 1896 $ 4,000 00 

Net indebtedness $ 3,930 95 

1897. 

The fifty-fifth annual session of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held in connection with the Seventh- 
day Baptist General Conference at Salem, W. Va., August 26, 
1897. 

George B. Carpenter in the chair. 

The Corresponding Secretary, O. U. Whitford, presented 
the annual report of the Board of Managers. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

The Rev. John L. Huffman, born near North Hampton, 
Ohio, August 22, 1837, and died in Farina, 111., March 31, 
1897. He labored under the employment of the Missionary 
Board at different times in his life as general missionary and 
as evangelist. He was one of our ablest and most successful 
evangelists and strongest preachers. Hundreds were gathered 
into the kingdom of Christ through his labors. 

Deacon Isaac D. Tits worth, bom in Piscataway Town- 
ship, Middlesex County, N, J., June 13, 1805, ^^^ ^^^^ at Dun- 
ellen, N. J., May 15, 1897. He served the Missionary Society 
as a member of the Board of Managers for thirteen years. He 
was a warm friend of all of our missions and gave liberally to- 
ward their support. He made himself and wife and all his 
children life members of the society. 

The Rev. James N. Belton, born in Calhoun County, Ala- 
bama, October 20, 1861, died in Attalla, Ala., June 23, 1897. 
Mr. Belton was a convert to the Sabbath, coming to it through 
the influence of the Sabbath Outlook and of the Rev. George 
W. Hills, the general missionary on the Southern field. He 
engaged under the employ of the Missionary Board as general 
missionary and evangelist on the Southern field, succeeding 



410 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

the Rev. George W. Hills, who had resigned that work and 
had accepted the pastorship of the Seventh-day Baptist church 
at Nortonville, Kan. Mr. Belton lost his life by a fatal acci- 
dent while raising the centre pole of the gospel tent which he 
and others were erecting in Attalla, Ala. His last words to 
his brethren were : "Do not let the work stop." 

CHINA. 

Workers on the China field the past year: The Rev. D. 
H. Davis, Dr. Rosa W. Palmborg, Miss Susie M. Burdick, 
part of the year, and native preachers, teachers and helpers. 
Dr. Ella F. Swinney, of the medical mission, has been in the 
home land during the year and has recovered her health. 

Miss Susie M. Burdick, after remaining in America 15 
months, returned to her school work in Shanghai, much im- 
proved in health and strength. She sailed from San Francis- 
co December 19, 1896, on steamship China, and arrived at 
Shanghai January 14, 1897. 

HOLLAND. 

The same workers at Haarlem and Rotterdam, the Rev. 
G. Velthuysen, Sr., and the Rev. F. J. Bakker. 

ENGLAND. 

The Rev. W. C. Daland has been the missionary pastor 
of the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist church during the year. 
The Trustees of the fund from the sale of the Mill Yard 
church property, and also of the Kent landed estates, all of 
which are under the control of the Court of Chancery, have 
presented to the Court a scheme which provides for the build- 
ing of a chapel in which scheme they do not give or deny any 
rights therein to our people. There is a possibility that when 
a chapel is built some use of it may be granted to the Mill 
Yard church. The scheme provides a small sum for our own 
use annually for rent or other purposes, grants nothing for the 
minister's salary, and the remainder of the income from the 
fund is to be used for other objects in no way connected with 
our people. Mr. Daland and the Mill Yard church have, by 
appeals and interviews, worked diligently and faithfully to ob- 
tain their rights. This scheme is not yet accepted, modified, 
or rejected by the court ; it is yet to be acted upon and time will 
eventually tell the result. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4II 



HOME MISSIONS. 



There is but little change in the missionary pastors and 
general missionaries and their work from last year. The 
evangelistic work has been under the direction and authority 
cf the Evangelistic Committee, O. U. Whitford, George B. 
Carpenter, G. J. Crandall. The evangelists employed during 
the year and part of the year were: E. B. Saunders, T. J. 
Van Horn, George W. Hills, J. N. Belton, S. H. Babcock, E. 
H. Socwell, J. H. Hurley, L. R. Swinney and C. W. Thelkeld. 

On the home fields there have been during the year 31 
workers, in 21 States and i Territory, who report 1,037 weeks, 
or 19 years and 49 weeks of labor; 2,208 sermons; 958 prayer- 
meetings; 4,364 visits; 55,126 pages of tracts and 1464 papers 
distributed; 160 additions to the churches, 64 by baptism, 96 
by letter and verbal statement; 40 converts to th^ Sabbath, 3 
churches organized and 3 Bible schools and i Y. P. S. C. E. 

THE EVANGEL AND SABBATH OUTLOOK. 

The Missionary Society was represented in this paper the 
first half of the year by the Rev. F. E. Peterson, the remainder 
of the year by Corresponding Secretary O. U. Whitford. The 
publici|tion of the paper was closed June 17, 1897. 

FINANCES. 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1896 $ 69 05 

Total receipts from all sources, including loans. . . . 27,166 79 

Total $27,235 84 

Total expenditures, including payment of loans .... 26,387 65 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1897 $ 848 19 

Outstanding notes August i, 1897 $ 7,500 00 

Net indebtedness 6,651 81 

Receipts direct from the people for missions this year are 
$1,497.32 less than last year. Chief cause, hard times. 

1898. 

The fifty-sixth annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held with the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist General Conference at Milton Junction, Wis., August 25, 
1898. 



412 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

George B. Carpenter in the chair. 

O. U. Whitford, Corresponding Secretary. 

G. J. Crandall, Recording Secretary. 

CHINA. 

Rev. D. H. Davis, Dr. Rosa W. Palmborg, Miss Susie M. 
Burdick and native helpers are the laborers on the China field. 
Dr. Ella F. Swinney, the head of our medical mission, is still 
in the home land with her aged, invalid mother. 

The land at Lieu-oo, given and deeded by Mrs. Ng and 
Dr. Palmborg for the use of the China mission, is not used as 
yet, but probably will be soon for the medical mission. Dur- 
ing the year one of the members of the Shanghai church was 
removed by death, another excommunicated. Seven have 
been added by baptism and two more next Sabbath will be 
baptized. 

HOLLAND. 

The same workers as last year : The Rev. G. Velthuysen, 
Sr., and the Rev. F. J. Bakker. Brother Velthuysen has edited 
De Boodschapper in the interests of Sabbath Reform, and a 
temperance paper called Christian Total Abstainer^ and has 
lectured on baptism. Sabbath Reform, temperance and social 
purity in different parts of Holland. He used the gospel wagon 
ill his work to great advantage. There had been added to the 
Haarlem church during the year i by baptism, i by letter ; dis- 
missed by letter 2, ex-communicated 2, net loss 2, total mem- 
bership 46. At Rotterdam Brother Bakker has had the pas- 
toral care of the little church and has labored in mission work 
faithfully among the emigrants and sailors that come to and 
go from Rotterdam, and also among the poor of the city. 

ENGLAND. 

The Rev. W. C. Daland has been faithful and energetic 
in his labors as pastor of the Mill Yard church. The church 
itself is taking higher ground and greater activity in church 
work. There is now a more favorable prospect of the Mill 
Yard church obtaining something from funds now in the Court 
of Chancery, yet the whole question is problematical. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

Missionary pastors: In the Eastern Association, N. M. 
Mills, Horace Stillman; Southeastern Association, L. D. Sea- 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. ^ 413 

ger, D. C. Lippincott ; Central Association, O. S. Mills, L. M. 
Cottrell ; Western Association, M. B. Kelly, Jr., H. L. Jones ; 
Northwestern Association, E. H. Socwell, S. R. Wheeler, Eli 
F. Loofboro, A. G. Crofoot, J. T. Davis, W. D. Burdick, L. D. 
Burdick; Southwestern Association, L. F. Skaggs, S. I. Lee, 
George W. Lewis, G. M. Cottrell; the Southern field, R. S. 
Wilson, A. P. Ashurst, D. N. Newton. 

General Missionaries: E. H. Socwell, Iowa; L. F. 
Skaggs, Missouri and Indian Territory; S. I. Lee, Arkansas 
and Texas; A. P. Ashurst, Alabama. 

EVANGELISTIC WORK. 

Evangelists: E. B. Saunders, S. H. Babcock, D. W. 
Leath, J. H. Hurley, L. R. Swinney, L. C. Randolph. Stu- 
dents of Milton College who labored during the summer va- 
cation in evangelistic and quartet work: E. A. Babcock, C. 
S. Sayre, R. B. Tolbert, W. Loofboro, E. D. Van Horn, E. B. 
Loofboro. 

SUMMARY. 

The number of workers and the work done on the mission 
and evangelistic fields, both foreign and home : 

In China, four missionaries and nine native helpers. In 
Holland, two. In England, one. On the home fields, 28 
workers in 22 States and i Territory ; 941 weeks, or 18 years 
and 5 weeks of labor; 1,956 sermons; 801 prayer-meetings; 3,- 
655 visits; 40,321 pages of tracts and 572 papers distributed; 
230 conversions ; 198 additions to the churches, 140 by baptism, 
58 by letter and verbal statement ; 53 converts to the Sabbath ; 
churches and 3 Bible schools organized. 



2 



FINANCES. 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1897 $ 848 19 

Total receipts from all sources, including loans. . . . 30,441 13 

Total $31,289 32 

Total expenditures, including payment of loans . . 30,327 26 

Balance, cash in Treasury August i, 1898 $ 962 06 

Outstanding notes, August i, 1898 $ 5,000 00 

Net indebtedness 4,037 00 



414 » SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

1899. 

The fifty-seventh annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held with the Seventh-day Baptist 
General Conference at Ashaway, R. I., August 24th, 1899. 

President William L. Clarke in the chair. 

Annual report was presented by George H. Utter, Treas- 
urer, and O. U. Whitford, Corresponding Secretary. 

CHINA. 

The laborers in China the past year were Rev. D. H. 
Davis and wife, Dr. Rosa W. Palmborg, Miss Susie M. Bur- 
dick and native helpers. 

REINFORCEMENT. 

The urgent need of a teacher of the Boys' Boarding 
School in our China mission led the Missionary Board to de- 
cide at its regular meeting held October 19, 1898, to reinforce 
the China mission with a teacher as soon as it could be done. 
At a. special meeting held November 25, 1898, a call was ex- 
tended to Mr. Dighton W. Shaw, of Milton, Wis., but who was 
at the time pursuing theological studies in Alfred University, 
to go to China as teacher of the Boys' School. He accepted 
the call and it was arranged for him and Miss Gertrude Camp- 
bell, to whom he was to be married, to sail for China Septem- 
ber, 1899. 

In January, 1899, he was taken sick with a nervous trouble 
and returned to his home in Milton, Wis. He went to a sani- 
tarium in Palmyra, Wis., but did not improve. While there 
he tendered, March 30, 1899, his resignation of the position 
to which he had been called and had accepted. His resigna- 
tion, in view of his never being able to go to China, if he should 
recover, was accepted at the regular Board meeting held April 
19, 1899. Mr. Shaw was removed to an asylum at Mendota, 
Wis., but gradually grew worse in body and mind, and died 
there June 25, 1899. At a Board meeting held June 28th, 
1899, prayer was offered that divine comfort and support 
might come to the family and friends of Mr. Shaw in their be- 
reavement ; and a resolution was unaniipously adopted express- 
ing the deep sense of loss the Board felt in his death, and ex- 
tending to the bereaved family its warmest sympathy. 

At the Board meeting in which the resignation of Mr. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 415 

Shaw was accepted, April 19, 1899, a call was extended to the 
Rev. T, J. Van Horn to go to China, as teacher of the Boys' 
School. After a careful and prayerful consideration, he de- 
clined the call. At a special Board meeting, held June 28, 
1899, a call was extended to Mr. Jay W. Crofoot, of Alfred, 
N. Y., to go to China as teacher, which he accepted. Mr. Cro- 
foot and his wife will sail for Shanghai about the middle of 
September, 1899. The service consecrating Brother Jay W. 
Crofoot as teacher of the Boys' Boarding School at Shanghai, 
China, was held at this annual session, held at Ashaway. The 
Rev. J. L. Gamble, of Alfred, N. Y., in eloquent and impres- 
sive words addressed the people and the candidate, to which 
Mr. Crofoot responded; his earnestness and evident sincerity 
making a marked impression upon the entire assembly. After 
a song by the Alfred quartet, the consecrating prayer was of- 
fered by the Rev. A. E. Main, of Plainfield, N. J., with the 
laying on of hands by Dr. Main, William L. Clarke, Presi- 
dent; Rev. O. U. Whitford, Corresponding Secretary; Rev. 
A. G. Crofoot, father of the candidate, and the Rev. J. L. Gam- 
ble, his pastor. The choir sang, "Lovest Thou Me?" after 
which the meeting closed with benediction by Pastor Gamble. 

There were added the past year to the Shanghai church 
eleven members, two lost by death; present membership, 
51. Number of different patients attended to by Dr. Palm- 
borg, of the medical mission, 3,106; number of prescriptions, 
5,928; number of visits, 177; number of in-patients, 18. Pu- 
pils in the Girls' Boarding School, 18; in the Boys' Boarding 
School, 25 ; in the four day schools, 122. 

ENGLAND. 

Our interests in England have been well maintained the 
past year by the energetic and faithful labors of the Rev. W. 
C. Daland. The Mill Yard church has grown in unity, spirit- 
ual life and activity. It is now doing its best work. The 
three years for which Mr. Daland was engaged to labor in 
England expired May i, 1899, but by the earnest appeal of the 
Mill Yard church and the wish of Mr. Daland, in order that 
some favorable interests there might be brought to a success- 
ful issue, the Board extended his stay till December 31, 1899. 



4l6 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

HOLLAND. 

The Rev G. Velthuysen, Sr., is still the missionary pastor 
o{ the Haarlem church, and its branch at Amsterdam, and Rev. 
F. J. Bakker of the Rotterdam church. Brother Velthuysen, 
because of physical and mental disability, had to give up his 
work in March of this year, and has not Seen able since to 
care for the church and attend to his editorial duties. One of 
his sons and a deacon of the Haarlem church have conducted 
Sabbath services and cared for the parish. G. Velthuysen, 
Jr., has edited the Boodschapper, The gospel wagon manned 
by a good worker, has been on the road during the year, doing 
good work in the interest of the gospel, temperance and Sab- 
bath Reform. Mr. Velthuysen's annual report was prepared 
and sent to the Board by his son, Peter Velthuysen. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

I. MISSIONARY PASTORATES. 

There have been the following churches aided the past 
year in the support of pastors: First and Second Westerly- 
churches, Rhode Island, the Rev. N. M. Mills pastor of the 
First, Rev. Horace Stillman of the Second; Salemville, Pa., 
Rev. D. C. Lippincott, pastor; Ritchie church, West Virginia, 
Rev. L. D. Seager, half year, Rev. R. G. Davis, half of the 
year; Cumberland church, North Carolina, Rev. D. N. New- 
ton ; Lincklaen and Otselic, New York, Rev. J. E. N. Backus ; 
Hornellsville and Hartsville churches, N. Y., Rev. M. B. Kel- 
ly part of the year at Hornellsville, Rev. I. L. Cottrell, of both 
churches, latter part of the year ; Shingle House church, Penn- 
sylvania, Rev. J. G. Mahoney ; Richburg church, N. Y., Rev. 
O. S. Mills; Stokes church, Ohio, Rev. A. G. Crofoot; Ber- 
lin field, Wisconsin, Mr. E. F. Loofboro ; New Auburn church, 
Minn., Rev. J. T. Davis ; the Carlton church, Iowa, Rev. L. D. 
Burdick; Boulder church, Col., Rev. S. R. Wheeler; Bethel 
church, Illinois, Rev. F. F. Johnson; Hammond church. La., 
Rev. G. M. Cottrell; Attalla church, Ala., Rev. R. S. Wilson. 

II. GENERAL MISSIONARIES. 

Rev. E. H. Socwell, the Iowa field. 

Rev. L. F. Saggs, the Missouri and Indian Territory 

field. 

Rev. S. I. Lee, Arkansas field. 
(26) 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 417 

Rev. G. H. F. Randolph, the Southwestern field. Rev. 
A. P. Ashurst first part of the year, the Rev. R. S. WUson the 
remainder of this year on the Alabama field. 

III. EVANGELISTIC WORK. 

0. U. Whitford, G. B. Carpenter, G. J. Crandall, Evan- 
gelistic Committee. 

EVANGELISTS EMPLOYED. 

E. B. Saunders, Milton, Wis.; L. C. Randolph, Chicago, 
111. ; J. G. Burdick, New York City ; D. W. Leath, Yum Yum, 
Tenn. ; J. H. Hurley, North Loup, Neb. ; L. R. Swinney, De- 
Ruyter, N. Y. ; E. A. Babcock, Milton, Wis. ; George W. Hills, 
Nortonville, Kansas ; George B. Shaw, New York City ; T. J. 
Van Horn, West Hallock, 111.; M. B. Kelly, Chicago, 111. 
Two of the above were employed the entire year, the rest 
portions of the year. 

THE STUDENT QUARTETS. 

Two Student quartets spent their summer vacation in 
evangelistic work. 

1. Alfred University Quartet: Wayland Wilcox, Walter 
Brown, Henry Jordan and George Ellis. *\. 

2. Milton College Quartet: Charles S. Sayre, Edgar 
Van Horn, W. R. Rood and Jesse Hutchins. 

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY. 

He reports during the year 71 sermons and addresses; 
1,150 communications received; 1,267 sent out; 169 packages 
of printed matter mailed; 21 informal missionary conferences 
held with churches; attended all the Missionary Board meet* 
ings, and two Tract Board meetings ; the Southeastern, East- 
em, Central, Western and Northwestern Associations, in the 
interest of our missions and of a new method for raising funds 
for their support; also the General Conference and the anni- 
versaries; edited the missionary page of The Sabbath Re-- 
corder; prepared the annual report of the Board and presented 
it at the anniversary of the society ; made five missionary trips ; 
served on several committees during the year and supervised 
the work and workers on several home mission fields. 



4l8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

FINANCES. 

There has been a falling off in the income for the support 
of our missions during the year. The Board inaugurated last 
April a new method of raising funds for our mission work: 
viz., the Monthly Pledge Card and Envelope System. These 
pledge cards and envelopes were distributed throughout the 
churches. This method is meeting with excellent success in 
raising mission funds. 

SUMMARY OF THE WORK OF THE YEAR. 

In China mission four workers and ten native helpers. 
Added to the church, ii. In Holland two workers; in Eng- 
land, one. Added to the Mill Yard church, 4. On the home 
fields 31 workers; added to the churches, 147 by baptism, 73 
by letter and verbal statement, total 220; converts to the Sab- 
bath, 31 ; Sabbath schools organized, 3; churches organized, 2, 
viz., Holgate, Ohio, and Wynne, Ark. 

1900.^ 

The fifty-eighth annual session of the Seventh-day Bap- 
tist Missionary Society was held in connection with the Sev- 
enth-day Baptist General Conference at Adams Center, N. Y., 
Aug. 23, 1900, the presiSent, William L. Clarke, presiding. 

The annual report of the Board was presented by George 
H. Utter, Treasurer, and Oscar U. Whitford, Corresponding 
Secretary. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Jonathan Maxson, was born Jan. 26, 1816; and died 
Nov. 12, 1899 ; for forty-two years a member of the Board. 

Charles Potter, bom April 21, 1824; died Dec. 2, 1899; 
for twenty-two years a member of the Board. 

FOREIGN MISSIONS. 

China. 

The laborers in China the past year were Rev. David 
H. Davis and wife, and Miss Susie M. Burdick, and Dr. Rosa 
W. Palmborg, with fourteen native helpers. 



I. Beginning with the year 1900, the remainder of this sketch was nre- 
pared by George B. Carpenter, after the death of the Rev. Oscar U. Whitford. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 418a 

Re-enforcement, 

The Mission was re-enforced in October by a teacher 
for the Boys' School. 

Mr. Jay W. Crofoot was formally consecrated to the work 
at the last session of the General Conference, held at Asha- 
way, R. I., in August, 1899. He and his wife sailed from 
San Francisco, Cal., Sept. 29, 1899. 

On account of the so-called "Boxer" disturbance in North 
China, involving the destruction of mission buildings, the 
massacre of missionaries, and the newspaper statements to 
the effect that the "Boxer" movement was spreading to South 
China, at a special Board meeting, held June 25, 1900, the 
President was instructed to send the following cablegram 
to the Rev. David H. Davis at Shanghai: "Leave if safety 
requires." This was sent from Westerly, R. I., June 26, 
1900. On June 28, 1900, the following cablegram was re- 
ceived from Mr. Davis, "Quiet." On July 24, 1900, President 
Clarke, of the Board, received a letter from Mr. Davis saying, 
he would "stay by his post until it became necessary to 
leave it." 

England. 

The time for which the Rev. William C. Daland, D. D., 
was engaged to labor in London expired May i, 1899. ^X 
the earnest appeal of the Mill Yard Church and wish of 
Mr. Daland, in view of important interests unsettled, the Board 
extended his stay until December 31, 1899, and subsequently 
to June I, 1900. 

At the regular Board meeting, October 18, 1899, a letter 
was received from Mr. David E. Titsworth, President of the 
Sabbath Evangelizing and Industrial Association, concerning 
interests at Ayan Maim, Gold Coast, West Africa, and re- 
questing that the Misisonary Board allow the Rev. William 
C. Daland to go to Ayan Maim to baptize converts and or- 
ganize a church there, the Board to give Mr. Daland's time, 
with, the understanding that the Sabbath Evangelizing and 
Industrial Association pay the expense of the trip from 
London and return. It was voted : "That the Corresponding 



4l8& SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Secretary be authorized to say to Brother David E. Titsworth 
that the Board is willing that Brother Daland shall go to 
West Africa upon that mission, and according to the terms 
suggested in Brother Titsworth's letter, provided Brother 
Daland shall be sent during the year 1899." Brother Daland 
sailed from Liverpool, December 28, 1899, for the Gold Coast, 
West Africa, and returned to London March 23, 1900, having 
been gone nearly three months. At the regular Board meet- 
ing held April 18, 1906, it was voted: "That the Treasurer 
be authorized to make all necessary arrangements for the re- 
turn of Brother William C. Daland and family to America." 
Mr. Daland and family sailed from England May 31, 1900, 
and arrived in New York City, June 11, 1900. He is now the 
pastor of the First Brookfield Church, at Leonardsville, N. Y. 
At a special Board meeting, held June 25, 1900, the Rev. 
William C. Daland gave a full account of his four years of 
service with the Mill Yard Church and the London field, stat- 
ing in a clear way the status of affairs, the condition, needs, 
and prospects of the Mill Yard Church. It was voted : "That 
the President appoint a committee of three to consider the 
conditions and the relation of this Society to the work in Lon- 
don, and to report to this Board at its regular meeting, to 
be held July 18, igoo." The President appointed as said 
committee George H. Utter, Cla)rton A. Burdick, and Joseph 
H. Potter. The time for the report of this committee was 
extended to the regular Board meeting, to be held October 
17, 1900. 

Holland. 

The Rev. Gerard Velthuysen Sr. is still in charge of 
our work in Haarlem as missionary pastor; and the Rev. 
Frederick J. Sakker at Rotterdam. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

The evangelistic work was continued throughout the year. 
Three evangelists were employed by the Committee during 
the year. They have labored in eight different states. There 
have been added to the church, through their labors, sixty- 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4l8c 

nine by baptism and twenty-one by letter and experience — a 
total of ninety. 

In the Home Mission work there have been twenty-five 
workers, through whose labors there were added to the church 
III by baptism, seventy- four by letter and experience — 3l total 
of one hundred and eighty-fivej with five converts to the 
Sabbath, and three Sabbath schools organized. 

FINANCE. 

Total receipts from all sources: 

Balance in Treasury Aug. i, 1899 $ 830 73 

Cash received during year 13492 29 

Loans 3,ooo 00 

$17,323 02 
Total expenditure $16,591 17 

Balance in Treasury '. $731 85 

Outstanding note, Aug. i, 1899, $4,000.00 

1901. 

The fifty-ninth annual session of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held in connection with the Seventh- 
day Baptist General Conference at Alfred,- N. Y., Aug. 29, 
1901, President William L. Qarke presiding. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Ella F. Swinney, M. D., was born Sept. 25, 1840; and 
died Nov. 14, 1900 ; for nearly twelve years she was a medical 
missionary in our China Mission in Shanghai. 

FOREIGN MISSIONS. 

China, 

Rev. David H. Davis and wife, and Mr. Jay W. Crofoot 
and wife have been on the field the entire year, assisted by 
the fifteen native workers. Additions to the church seven. 
Miss Susie Burdick and Dr. Rosa Palmborg have been on 
leave of absence in the home land. 



41 8d SEVENTH-DAY B-^PTISTS : 

Ayan Maim, Gold Coast, West Africa, 

By the request of the Sabbath Evangelizing and Industrial 
Association of Plainfield, N. J., which had charge of our in^ 
terests at Ayan Maim, Gold Coast, the Missionary Society as- 
sumed the care of said interests January I, 1901. The Board 
appropriated the same amount toward the support of Bro. 
Joseph Ammokoo, as pastor of the church, and his son, Eb- 
enezer G. A. Ammokoo, as teacher of the school, which the 
Sabbath Evangelising and Industrial Asociation were paying 
them; viz., $160. The little church at Ayan Maim appealed 
to the Missionary Society to send them a missionary and 
teacher. The request and appeal have been considered in the 
meetings of the Board, but no definite action thereon has been 
taken as yet by the Board. Further consideration of the ques- 
tion of sending a missionary to the Gold Coast was deferred 
at the Board meeting of July 17, 1901, to the regular meeting 
of the Board, October 16, 1901. 

Holland, 

The Rev. Gerard Velthuysen Sr. has had^the pastoral 
care of the Haarlem Seventh-day Baptist Church in Haarlem, 
and also of the little gathering of Sabbath-keepers in Amster- 
dam. Having recovered in health and strength, he has per- 
formed his church and other work with his usual ability and 
energy. He stands as a Nestor in his city for every good cause. 
He is an able advocate of the Gospel and the Law. Besides 
his church and missionary duties, he edits the Boodschapper, 
a paper setting forth Gospel and Sabbath tnith, and labors 
with vigor and power in the interests of temperance and Sab- 
bath reform. i 

The Rfev. Frederick J. Bakker has been for the entire 
year the missionary pastor of the Rotterdam Seventh-day Bap- 
tist church, and a general missionary in the city. He has 
maintained the weekly Sabbath services of the church, and 
the sessions of the Sabbath school. He is very active and 
diligent in his general missionary work, which is chiefly in 
visiting steamers and ships, talking with the sailors and the 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 418^ 

emigrants, distributing evangelistic and Sabbath tracts in sev- 
eral languages, the Boodschapper and other papers. 

^ ^ England. 

At the close of the last year's report, the Rev. William C. 
Daland had returned from Lon(V)n, and had settled as pastor 
over the First Brookfield Seventh-day Baptist Church, at 
Leonardsville, N. Y. Soon after his return, the Mill Yard 
Seventh-day Baptist Church made an appeal to the Missionary 
Society to send them again a preacher and missionary, and 
aid them in his support. At a special meeting of the Mis- 
sionary Board, held June 25, 1900, the matter was considered, 
and a committee was appointed, consisting of George H. 
Utter, Clayton A. Burdick and Joseph H. Potter, "to con- 
sider the condition of the Mill Yard Church, and the relation 
of this Society to the work in London." The Committee pre- 
sented the following report at the regular Board meeting, 
held October 17, 1900: 

"Your committee to consider the future relations of the Mis- 
sionary Society to the work of our people in London, would respect- 
fully report that in accordance with the suggestion of Dr. William 
C. Daland, made in his statement concerning the work in that city 
on his^ return in June last, that Sabbath reform and missionary 
effort might advantageously be continued in London, a joint meeting 
of the members of the Board of the American Sabbath Tract Society 
and of the members of this Board, so far as was practicable, was 
held at the General Conference in Adams Centre, N. Y., when Mr. 
Daland told of the condition of the work much as he had previously 
done before this Board. It was the unanimous opinion of those pres- 
ent, expressed and unexpressed, that the London field demanded care- 
ful consideration before any definite action was taken. The members 
of the two Boards then assembled were informed fully of the action 
taken by this Board in appointing a committee to consider the subject, 
and a request was made that the Board of the Tract Society should 
take similar action, in order that the two boards might work in 
harmony. In accordance with that request, at the regular meeting 
of the Board of the Tract Society, held Sunday, October 14, 1900, 
a committee was appointed, consisting of David E. Titsworth, Henry 
M. Maxson, and Arthur E. Main, to confer with the committee of 
this Board. It is therefore, the recommendation of your com- 
mittee that it be continued with the purpose of conferring with the 
committee of the Tract Society, and authorized to report at such 
time as it deems best for the interest of all concerned." 



4l8/ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

« 

The report was received and the committee continued. 
In the meantime the Court of Chancery, England, had adopted 
a scheme for the regulation and management of the Charity 
known as Joseph Davis Charity for Sabbatarian Protestant 
Dissenters, in which the Mill Yard Church had an interest. 
In regard to the Mill Yard Church it was decided in the 
scheme that in case the General Baptist Association of the 
New Connexion shall contribute, or to the satisfaction of the 
Judge of Chambers, guarantee the payment of a sum not less 
than £i,ooo toward the purchase of a site and the erection 
thereon of a chapel or of a lecture hall, institute or school- 
building, then a like sum, or other such amount as the Judge 
in Chambers may approve, may be raised out of the Joseph 
Davis Charity Fund for the purpose of such a site and the 
erection thereon of such a building. Such building shall be 
primarily devoted on Saturdays to the use of the Seventh-day 
General Baptist church, formerly worshiping at Mill Yard 
Chapel. • 

In the application of funds it was decreed in the scheme 
that after all the proper costs, charges and expenses of, and in- 
cidental to, the administration and management of the Charity, 
that certain annual payments were to be made of what was 
left of the annual income, among which was the following: 
toward the expenses to be incurred in providing a minister, 
and until the completion of such a building as mentioned in 
Clause 35, a place of meeting for such of the members (if 
any) of the congregation formally meeting at Mill Yard, who 
shall bona fide continue to meet and to hold service as a Sev- 
enth-day General Baptist church — £ioo. 

Following the application of the funds in this decree: 
The amounts and conditions of the several payments and al- 
lowances which are prescribed by the scheme, may be varied 
from time to time by the Trustees, with the sanction of the 
Judge in Chambers. 

During the past year the services of the Mill Yard Church 
have been under the charge of Mr. C. B. Barber, the Secretary 
of the church, and Dea. N. O'Neil. They have had to give up 
their place of worship because no money was paid them from 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. -^ 4x8^ 

the income of the Charity Fund to pay the rent, and further- 
more no money has been paid them from said Fund toward 
providing a preacher;' therefore, they have conducted the 
services themselves, or when they have had a minister preach 
to them, they paid him out of their own pockets. 

No measures have been taken by the Trustees of this 
Fund, so far as known, to build a Chapel, according to the 
-decree of the scheme. 

After due consideration of the condition of the Mill Yard 
Church, and of the work of our people in London, by the 
joint committee of the two societies, the following was the 
report of our committee to its Board: 

"Your committee to consider the relations between this Board 
and the church in London, known as the Mill Yard church, would 
respectfully report that they have given the matter considerable con« 
sideration, and have conferred with those who are interested alike 
with this Board in the matter so far as the denomination which we 
represent is concerned. After a full consideration and weighing of 
all the facts to be obtained, it is the opinion of the committee that 
this Board should not take up the care of the Mill Yard church at 
this time, because: 

"i. The calls for assistance from the Board are so many that 
all cannot be answered, and, therefore, it becomes the duty of the 
Board to select those which are the most favorably situated for se- 
curring the results for which this Board labors. The expense ipvolved 
in sustaining a missionary pastor in London would be greater at this 
time than the Board is warranted in assuming under the present 
financial conditions, and with the conditions of the Mill Yard Church 
borne in mind. 

"2. Under the Scheme established by the Court of Chancery for 
the distribution of the Joseoh Davis Charity, the portion which is 
coming to the Mill Yard Church is fixed in amount, but the con- 
ditions surrounding it are so uncertam and so uependent upon the 
action of other parties to the Scheme, that the Board would not be 
warranted in entering upon work which required the financial as- 
sistance of this fund. Under that condition, therefore, your com- 
mittee is of the opinion that the present outlook for the Board's 
finances would not justify them in entering upon the work at London, 
which would of necessity be for a period of years. 

"3. Added to these two reasons already mentioned is the more 
serious one of the lack of harmony among the members of the Mill 
Yard Church. Their differences are of such a nature that your com- 
mittee sees no hope of successful work there under such conditions, 



4l8A SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS! 

atid when this is added to the conditions which surround the Board, 
your committee has reached the conclusion already stated. 

Geobge H. Utter, 
Clayton A. Bukdick, 
Joseph H. Potter, 

Committee, 

The report of the committee was adopted and the com- 
mittee discharged from the further consideration of the 
matter. 

HOME MISSIONS. 

During the past year thirty-seven churches have been 
aided by the Board of Managers of the Missionary Society*. 
in the support of pastors. Twenty-seven ministers have served 
these churches as missionary pastors. Some of these have been 
over their churches the entire year, others only part of the 
year. The most of them have served only one church, some of 
them have been joint pastors over two or three churches lo- 
cated near each other. The small churches thus aided are 
in the following states: Rhode Island, West Virginia, Penn- 
sylvania, New York, Ohio, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, 
Nebraska, Colorado, Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, 
Louisiana, Alabama. In the most of these churches there have 
been additions. In some of them it has been a time of seed 
sowing, which will in good time bring forth a harvest. There 
have been added to the churches, 66 by baptism, 37 by letter 
and experience; one convert to the Sabbath. 

General Missionaries. 

There have been employed five general missionaries during 
the year ; two of them the entire year, three only parts of the 
year. They have labored in the states of Wisconsin, Iowa, 
^Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama, Indian Territory, and 
Oklahoma, and in New Brunswick, Canada. Many churches 
and Sabbath-keepers have been visited, encouraged, and 
strengthened. Through their labors 20 have been added to 
the church by baptism ; 41 by letter and experience ; 9 converts 
to the Sabbath; i church and 2 Sabbath schools have been 
organized. 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4x81 

Evangelistic Work. 

1. Two evangelists have been employed by the Evan- 
gelistic Committee of the Board during the entire year. They 
have labored in six different states in the Union. Aggregate 
sermons, 506; visits, 606; conversions, 95; baptisms, 42; added 
to the churches, 33 by baptism, 20 by letter and experience; 
total 53 ; wanderers reclaimed, 12 ; converts to the Sabbath, 2 ; 
organized one Young People's Christian Endeavor Society, 
I Sabbath school. 

2. There were 7 quartettes of 28 young men ; 2 of 8 
young women; 15 preachers at different times; time, 2 months 
for each quartette (the months of July and August — ^the 
sumer vacation); conversions, 97; many quickened and re- 
claimed; baptisms 44; added to the churches by baptism, 40; 
by letter and experience, 9 ; total 49 ; converts to the Sabbath, 
15. The pastors who went with the quartettes as preachers 
were given the time by their churches, without loss of salary, 
and their travelling^ expenses paid from the Student Quar- 
tette Evangelistic Fund. The quartettes were paid and their 
traveling expenses, from said fund, raised by contributions 
from the churches and individuals, collections on the fields 
and appropriation by the Evangelistic Committee. Contribu- 
tions and collections for the work, $933.11 ; paid by order ')f 
the Evangelistic Committee, $664.47; ^o^^tl expenses of the 
Student Quartette work, $1,597.58. 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY. 

Balance in Treasury Aug. i, 1900 $ 731 85 

Received cash from Aug. i, 1900 to July 31, 1901 . . 10,876 66 
Loans 3,700 00 

$15,308 SI 

Payments $14,601 70 

Balance in Treasury 706 81 



$15,308 51 



Debt note, $2,200.00. 



4 1 8/ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

1902. 

The sixtieth annual session of the Seventh-day Baptist 
Missionary Society was held in connection with the General 
Conference at Ashaway, R. I., Aug. 21, 1902, President 
William L. Clarke presiding. 

IN MEMORIAM. 

Peter Hendrick Velthuysen, was bom in Haarlem, Hol- 
land; June I, 1874; and died at Salt Pond, Gold Coast, West 
Africa, Feb. 20, 1902, having been on his mission field two 
months and twenty-eight days. 

FOREIGN MISSIONS. 

China, 

In China there have been five workers and sixteen native 
helpers; added to the Shanghai Seventh-day Baptist Church, 
eight; present membership, sixty-six. The Medical Mission 
moved to Lieu-00 Feb. 28, 1902. 

Ayan Maim, Gold Coast, West Africa. 

The little church at Ayan Maim had frequently made 
appeals to the Missionary Board to send them a missionary 
and a teacher. The Board had not seen its way clear to 
do so. Peter H. Velthuysen, a student in Alfred University, 
had taken a great interest in the Gold Coast field, and had 
expressed a desire to go there as a missionary and teacher. 
He decided to offer himself to the Missionary Board for that 
work, if a move should be made during the General Confer- 
ence, held at Alfred, N. Y., to send one there. Such a move 
was made, and annual pledges were given for three years 
to the amount of $1,144 to send a missionary and teacher 10 
Ayan Maim. Mr. Velthuysen offered himself and the Mis- 
sionary Board extended to him a call to go to Ayan Maim 
early in the next October, which he accepted. On Sabbath- 
day, Sept. 28, 1901, appropriate and impressive consecration 
services were held in the First Alfred Church, N. Y., of which 
he was a member, setting him apart to the work of a teacher 



PETKR VELTHUYSEN. 
See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



V. 



i 

I 

i 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4l8fe 

and a missionary at Ayan Maim. He sailed from New York 
for Liverpool, on the steamship Cymric, October i, 1901, to 
go thence to Haarlem, Holland, to visit his parents, brother 
and sister, where he spent a week or more. He returned to 
England; after visiting friends in London, he sailed from 
Liverpool on the steamer Bathurst, October 26, 1901, for Salt 
Pond, Gold Coast, West Africa, and arrived there Nov. 20. 

Unfortunately, he died soon after he began his work, 
leaving one foreign worker and two native workers upon that 
field. 

Holland. 

In Holland, at Haarlem and Rotterdam, they have two 
workers. Rev. ' Gerard Velthuysen and Rev. Frederick J. 
Bakker. Brother Velthuysen's report closes with the fol- 
lowing: "I do not know what to tell you about our prospect 
here. We labor as much and as faithfully as we can, and the 
prospects are sure that God will bless his own testimony in 
his own good time. So it will be everywhere to the glory 
of his Name." 

HOME FIELD. 

Two evangelists, employed the entire year, have labored 

in seven different states in the Union. Aggregate number 
of sermons and addresses, 471 ; visits, 6^ ; added to the 

churches by baptism, 69; by letter, experience and restora- 
tion, 21 — total, 90; converts to the Sabbath, i; pages of 
tracts distributed, 7,490; one meeting-house dedicated; two 
Junior Young People's Christian Endeavor Societies organ- 
ized; I Sabbath school graded. 

There have been employed four quartettes of sixteen 
young women; seven evangelists and preachers at different 
times; time of labor, months of July and August (the sum- 
mer vacation) ; conversions, 48; reclaimed, \i; baptized, 35; 
added to the churches by baptism and letter, 46; converts 
to the Sabbath, 6. The labors were in the states of West 
Virginia, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Wisconsin and Minnesota. 

On the home field there have been sixty workers during 
the year, some all the time, others part of the time. Through 
their labors there have been added to the churches 141 by 



4l8/ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

baptism, 115 by letter, experience and statement; total, 256. 
Two churches, four Sabbath schools, and four Young People's 
Christian Endeavor Societies have been organized; ten con- 
verts to the Sabbath. 

FINANCIAL SUMMARY. 

Balance in Treasury Aug. i, 1901 $ 706 81 

Received from contributions 10401 62 

Loans 4400 00 

$i5» 508 43 

Payments $14,020 21 

Balance in Treasury 1,488 22 



$IS. 508 43 



Debt, notes, $3,900.00. 

CONCLUSION. 

In looking back over the year's work on all the various 
mission fields there are causes for joy and thanksgiving for 
the success and gains on some of the fields, also cause for 
sorrow from discouragements and losses on other fields. The 
death of a noble and consecrated worker on the Gold Coast 
field just as he b^an his work is a source of deep sorrow 
to us all, and it is a cause of discouragement and sadness 
to the little church at Ayan Maim. However, in it all God 
will bring out of it good and we will trust in his wisdom 
and goodness. We praise God that he has preserved the 
workers on other fields and graciously blessed their labors. 
The Gospel of Jesus Christ and the law of God have been 
preached on all the fields with earnestness and zeal. Souls 
have been saved from ruin of sin and some have accepted 
the Sabbath of Jehovah. The churches have had seasons of 
refreshing from the Lord, been revived and strengthened, and 
additions have been made to their memberships. Many have 
been renewed in their spiritual life and have become more 



MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 4l8fn 

active in the service of Christ. There is a good missionary 
spirit pervading the people, especially the young people in 
our churches and schools. This all is a cause for rejoicing, 
a source of encouragement, an indication of progress and a 
call to us all to greater endeavor and a more faithful service 
of evangelizing the world. 

HISTORICAL SURVEY. 

This is the centennial session of our General Conference. 
It leads us as a people to take a historical survey of our 
worlj: for a century or more. It is a survey of more than 
a record of events. There are underlying causes which, as 
operative forces, make history. There is no event in history 
without a cause. Therefore our historical survey is a view 
of the causes that have brought to us as a people prosperity 
or adversity, success or failure, gain or loss. Our mission 
work as a people is more than a century old. It began two 
hundred and thirty-one years ago, when the first Seventh-day 
Baptist church was organized at Newport, R. I. At the be- 
beginning it was missionary work by the local church, then 
of several churches united in sending out the evangelist and 
preacher, until it eventuated in organized missionary effort, 
and that gave birth to the General Conference. In the first 
century the work was purely home missionary effort, in the 
formation and organization of new churches in new settle- 
ments in a new country being settled by those who moved 
away from the old mother churches. 

In the second century we as a people enlarged our mis- 
sionary borders and engaged in foreign mission work. From 
these beginnings the fields have widened and the work has 
grown apace with the years on our hands, increasing our 
duty, our responsibility, to meet the increasing demands and 
with ever widening doors of opportunity for missionary and 
evangelistic labor. So from the very beginning of our exist- 
ence as a people in this country up to the present time, we 
have been a missionary people. We owe to this missionary 
spirit, which has ever been ours, our preservation and what 
we are today as a people; our growth and success, in the 
face of all prejudice and opposition. For a people not having 



41 8n SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

large numbers or great resources, we have done well through 
these years of missionary effort, and have good reason to 
take courage and press forward in the good work. 

What Shall be the Outcome of this Survey f 

This centennial celebration of our General Conference, 
and this historical survey of all the lines of our work as a 
people for a century past, should be of future" value to us. 
If we only notice the events, and the leading men and women 
in those events, we shall reap no good harvest from this 
survey. It should bring to us such a stock of wisdom, power 
and inspiration that shall enable us to make another century 
more successful and more glorious in every line of denom- 
inational work. It should enfold and bring to us a deeper, 
clearer and broader view of our mission in this world as a 
people, and imbue us from center to circumference with the 
spirit, purpose, inspiration, and enthusiasm of that mission. 
It should lead us before God, to possess the requisites to 
accomplish successfully the mission for which we have been 
kept these two centuries. It should lead us to a thorough 
study of the causes that have brought us success, and those 
as well that have produced failure and loss. Henceforth from 
this centennial historical celebration and survey, we should 
be a wiser and better and stronger people. It should bring 
to us a greater joy in service, a deeper and firmer faith in 
God and Christ and the Holy Spirit ; it should deepen our love 
of souls, deepen and broaden our missionary spirit, our love 
of the Sabbath, its better observance, give us the spirit of 
Sabbath reform as we have never had it before, make us one 
solid phalanx in all lines of denominational effort that will 
bring sure victory to the cause and the truth for which we 
stand, and crown Jesus Christ the Lord of all. 



(a6^) 



THE AMERICAN SABBATH 
TRACT SOCIETY. 



ARTHUR L. TITSWORTH. 
Sij Bionrafhu-al SkcU-ln-s. p. 1561 



THE AMERICAN SABBATH TRACT 

SOCIETY. 

INCLUDING ALL SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST PUBLICATIONS 

and SABBATH REFORM WORK 



Arthur L. Titsworth. 



EARLY EFFORTS TO PROMOTE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST PUBLISHING 

INTERESTS. 

"In the early history of the denomination, beginning with 
the organization of the Seventh-day Baptist church at New- 
port, R. I., in 1671, it met with bitter opposition. Its early 
struggles were struggles for the right to live, and its work was 
the work of self defense rather than aggressive propagation 
of truth. Its progress was slow, but when numbers were in- 
creased and new churches were formed along the lines of emi- 
gration, and ministers and evangelists were ordained and sent 
cut to preach the Word, and the missionary spirit was devel- 
oped among the people, there came with that spirit the desire 
for Seventh-day Baptist publications, and especially for a de- 
nominational paper or periodical, as a medium of communi- 
cation among the widely scattered churches and people, and 
a means of religious culture, unity and co-operation. This de- 
sire found expression in the year 1819, among brethren residing 
at Schenectady, N. Y., who united in an effort to organize and 



A22 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

maintain, through a stock company, a Seventh-day Baptist 
publishing establishment, which should issue a denominational 
periodical and such other publications as the circumstances 
might seem to deriiand. The project failed because it did not 
receive sufficient financial encouragement." , 

The agitation of the subject, however, was not without 
its fruitage. Attention was so generally directed to the im- 
portance of some medium of communication between the wide- 
ly-scattered brethren and churches, and so much interest in the 
subject was awakened, that in the year 1821 the denominational 
Missionary Society determined to commence the publication of 
a periodical; and accordingly, in August of that year, issued 
the first number of the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Maga- 
zine, Sixteen numbers of this work were printed in about four 
years, when it was discontinued, in consequence, mainly, of 
inadequate support. 

On the 14th of April, 1830, some five years after the dis- 
continuance of the Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Magazine, 
the Protestant Sentinel, the first weekly periodical established 
with a view to promote our denominational interests, was is- 
sued from Homer, N. Y., with the approbation and recommen- 
dation of the Seventh-day Baptist General Conference and the 
Seventh-Day Baptist Missionary Society. This paper was pub- 
lished by Deacon John Maxson, of Homer, N. Y., four years 
at Homer, two years at Schenectady, and two years at DeRuy- 
ter, N. Y. The removals from Homer to Schenectady, and 
then from Schenectady to DeRuyter, were made with the hope 
of increasing the patronage of the paper, which had always 
been inadequate to its support. They did not, however, serve 
to place the establishment on a living and permanent founda- 
tion ; and consequently the paper, after several suspensions, was 
discontinued with the issue of May 21, 1839. 

The Seventh-day Baptist Register was the next paper is- 
sued for the benefit of the denomination. The first number 
of it came forth from DeRuyter, N. Y., on the loth day of 
March, 1840. It was published weekly for four years, and 
then discontinued, on account of negotiations between the pub- 
lisher and a brother residing at the East, for its transfer to the 
city of New York. These negotiations having failed, however, 
snd the denomination being left without a periodical organ, a 



CHARLES POTTI-IR. 
: Hiiigraphual Skelches. p. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 423 

number of brethren residing in New Jersey, who were desirous 
of having the denominational paper issued from the city of 
New York, entered into negotiations with the former pub- 
lisher of the Register, for the transfer to them of his "sub- 
scription list, patronage, and favor" — an arrangement which 
was amicably consummated, thus opening the way for the de- 
sired change in the location of the paper. At the same time, 
eleven brethren, anxious that the paper should commence at an 
early day, and convinced from former experiments that its pub- 
lication would be attended with considerable risk, formed them- 
selves into an Association, with an Executive Committee of 
three, for the purpose of bearing mutually any loss which might 
result from the enterprise. Under this arrangement, the first 
number of the Sabbath Recorder was issued from the city of 
New York on the 14th day^ of June, 1844. During the first 
vear of its publication the receipts of the paper fell short of its 
expenses, and the deficiency was made up by the persons asso- 
ciated. The second, third, fourth, and fifth volumes of the 
paper were published under the direction of the same com- 
mittee, the income from the business equaling expenses, so that 
no demand was made upon the associates after the close of the 

first year. 

« 

THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST PUBLISHING SOCIETY. 

Its Origin. 

One of the most important questions brought before the 
Eastern Association, at its meeting in May, 1848, related to 
the condition and prospects of our denominational publications. 
It was then stated, that the Sabbath Recorder had been pub- 
lished nearly four years, under the direction of a few brethren 
associated together for that specific and sole purpose, and that 
there was a desire on the part of many others to have its pro- 
prietorship extended, so that it might become in fact the prop- 
erty of the denomination, and form the nucleus of a denomina- 
tional publishing establishment. After a free interchange of 
views upon the subject, and an assurance from the brethren 
associated that they were quite willing to make any arrange- 
ments which would be likely to promote the general interests, 
the Association passed the following resolution : 



424 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Whereas, our experience for years past in the publishing department, 
has convinced us that in order to meet the growing wants of the 
denomination, we need a more ample and permanent publishing 
organization than we have ever had: therefore — 

Resolved, That we invite the several sister associations, each to appoint 
three delegates to meet with the same number appointed* by this 
association, at New Market, N. J., on the fifth day of September, 
1848, to mature a plan for a Seventh-day Baptist Publishing Estab- 
lishment. 

Lucius Crandall and George B. Utter were appointed a 
committee to lay the subject of the above resolution before the 
other Associations, in order to secure the appointment by them 
of delegates to meet those appointed by the Eastern Associa- 
tion. They accordingly laid it before the Central and West- 
em Associations, both of which bodies appointed the specified 
number of delegates. The committee were prevented from 
laying the matter before the South-Western and Wisconsin 
Associations, by the lateness of the meeting of the former, and 
a mistake as to the time of meeting of the latter. 

In compliance with these appointments, the following 
brethren met at New Market, N. J., on the fifth day of Sep- 
tember, 1848, to consider the best means of promoting and 
giving permanency to our publi'^hing interests, viz: Lucius 
Crandall, DaVid Dunn and Thomas B. Stillman, of the Eastern 
Association; Eli S. Bailey, William B. Maxson, and James 
Bailey, of the Central Association; and Nathan V. Hull and 
John A. Langworthy, of the Western Association (Lenian 
Andrus, the third from the Western Association, being unable 
to attend). These delegates formed themselves into a con- 
vention, by appointing Eli S. Bailey, Moderator, and James 
Bailey. Secretary. The first question which came up was in 
regard to the necessity of a new organization. The subject 
was freely discussed, and a resolution was at length unani- 
mously passed, that such an organization is needed, and that it 
is expedient for the convention to prepare a constitution for it. 
There was some difficulty in deciding what form of organiza- 
tion would best suit the denomination, and at the same time 
answer the requirements of the general law passed by the State 
of New York for the incorporation of benevolent societies, un- 
der which it was proposed to act. It was finally agreed, that 
no form would answer all purposes so well as a regular society, 



TRACT SOCIETY. 425 

and accordingly the following constitution was prepared, and 
received the hearty sanction of all the delegates : 

Article i. This Society shall be known by the name of 
"The Seventh-day Baptist Publishing Society." 

Article 2. The object of this Society shall be to print and 
publish such periodicals, books, etc., as shall meet the wants 
of the Seventh-day Baptist denomination, and promote the 
cause of Christ generally. 

Article 3. Each contributor of five dollars may become 
a member of the Society, and each contributor of twenty-five 
dollars may become an Honorary Director, with the privilege 
of participating in the deliberations of the Board of Managers. 

Article 4. The Society shall hold an annual meeting, at 
which it shall elect a President, one or more Vice-Presidents, a 
Corresponding Secretary, a Recording Secretary, and a 
I'reasurer, who, together with four others elected for the pur- 
pose, shall constitute a Board of Managers to conduct the 
business of the society, having power to make their own by- 
laws, and to fill any vacancies that may occur in their body. 
Three members shall constitute a quorum. 

Article 5. The Board of Managers shall meet quarterly 
for the transaction of business, at such time and place as shall 
have been appointed at a previous me€<ing. The Recording 
Secretary shall call extra meetings of the Board, whenever any 
three members of the Board shall request him to do so. 

Article 6. The minutes of each meeting of the Board 
shall be signed by the Chairman and the Recording Secretary. 

Article 7. The first annual meeting of the Society shall 
be held in the city of New York on the fourth day of the week 
before the fourth Sabbath in May, 1849 (23rd day of the 
month) ; an4 subsequent annual meetings may be held at such 
times and places as the Society shall direct. At these meetings 
the Board of Managers shall present a report of their transac- 
tions, together with the Treasurer's account. 

Article 8. Should there at any time, on the presentation 
of the annual report of the Board of Managers, be a surplus 
on hand, over and above what may, in the judgment of the 
Board, be required to meet the wants of the establishment, the 
Society shall divide such surplus in equal sums among the fol- 
lowing benevolent objects, viz: missions; the circulation of 



4.26 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

religious tracts ; the education of candidates for the ministry ; 
and the support of indigent, superannuated ministers or their 
widows and orphans. Should the Society for any reason be 
dissolved, its property, if any, shall be divided in the same man- 
ner as above provided in case of surplus. 

Article 9. This constitution may be altered at any an- 
nual meeting of the Society, by a vote of two-thirds of the 
members present. 

The conventioji, having thus completed the work of fram- 
ing a constitution, appointed a Prudential Committee, consist- 
ing of Lucius Crandall, Thomas B. Stillman and George B. 
Utter, to take such steps as they should deem necessary to se- 
cure members and prepare for the organization of the society. 

Agreeably to a call published in The Sabbnth Recorder, a 
number of brethren met at the Seventh-day meeting house in 
New York City on May 23, 1849, ^^^ received the foregoing 
report, adopted the constitution as presented, and elected the 
following officers : 

President — Lucius Crandall, of Plainfield, N. J. 

Vice-Presidents — Matthew Wells, Jr., of DeRuyter, N. Y. ; 
Joshua B. Maxson, of Stephentown, N. Y. ; Charles Potter, 
Sr., of Adams, N. Y. ; John A. Langworthy, of Genesee, N. Y. ; 
Nathan V. Hull, of Alfred, N. Y. 

Corresponding Secretary — Thomas B. Stillman, of New 
York City. 

Recording Secretary — George B. Utter, of New York 
City. 

Treasurer — Benedict W. Rogers, of Williamsburg, L. I. 

Trustees — George Greenman, of Mystic, Conn. ; John D. 
Titsworth, of Plainfield, N. J. ; William M. Rogers, of Brook- 
lyn, L. L; Isaac D. Titsworth, of Shiloh, N. J. , 

The record of this first annual meeting cites the fact that 
Brother Lucius Crandall had served the society in securing 
members forty-seven days at a salary of $20 per month, and 
his report noted the receipt of a pair of gloves and a pair of 
stockings, both worth fifty cents. He also reported that nego- 
tiations had been entered into with the Publishing Committee 
of The Sabbath Recorder, and by them the paper with its equip- 
ment and patronage was offered to the society for $295, and 
on these terms the society purchased The Sabbath Recorder, 



REV. GRORGE B. UTTER, D. D. 
See Biographical Skelclics, p. 1361, 



TRACT SOCIETY. 427 

£nd secured George B. Utter as editor and general agent of 
the society, and Thomas B. Brown as joint editor. At the 
meeting of the Board in July, 1849, Thomas B. Stillman, as 
Corresponding Secretary, and George B. Utter as Recording 
Secretary, exchanged offices, the office of Corresponding Sec- 
retary being more naturally in the line of Brother Utter's 
work as editor and general agent. 

This society published The Sabbath Recorder from 1849 
to 1862; The Sabbath School Visitor from 185 1 to i860; the 
Seventh-day Baptist Memorial from 1852 to 1854 ; and a col- 
lection of hymns entitled 'The Carol," in January, 1855. 

These were its only publications, the essential work of the 
society being the publication of The Sabbath Recorder. 

The society relied entirely for pecuniary means upon the 
income from its publications, receiving no contributions from 
the people to support the work. 

The receipts were as follows: 

1849 $ 4,112 62 

1850 * 3,184 60 

1851 3,568 03 

1852 3,674 21 

1853 4,501 16 

1854 •• 3i298 16 

1855 3,794 41 

1856 3,521 70 

1857 3,164 06 

1858 3,062 31 

1859 2,546 49 

i860 4,71160 



$43,139 35 
This was an average of $3,600 a year. 

This income supported the work well until 1859-60, when 
the receipts fell off (owing in part to the financial stringency 
of the times), but by special efforts in i860 nearly $5,000 were 
secured, enabling the society to pay all expenses for the year 
and to liquidate $1,000 of its indebtedness, the indebtedness 
being paid in full later ; but financial difficulties seemed to con- 
tinue, so in 1862 The Recorder was transferred by sale to 
George B. Utter, individually. The Publishing Society main- 



428 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

tained its existence as a separate organization until 1866 ; but 
the last three years no work is recorded as having been done by 
the society, except to elect officers at the annual meetings. 

The officers of the society were : 

Presidents — Lucius Crandall, 1849- 1857; William B. Maxson, 1857- 
1859; Nathan V. Hull, 1859- 1865; Jonathan Allen, 1865-1866. 

Vice Presidents — Matthew Wells, Jr., 1849-1850; Joshua B. Max- 
son, 1849-1850; Chas. Potter, Sr., 1849-1857, and 1860-1861 ; John A. 
Langworthy, 1849-1857, and 1861-1866; Nathan V. Hull, 1849-1859; 
William B. Maxson, 1850-1857; James H. Cochran, 1850-1853; David 
Dunn, 1850-1857; Isaac D. Titsworth, 1850-1857; Alfred B. Burdick, 
1850-1857; Stillman Coon, 1850-1856; James Bailey, 1853-1857; Wm. 
Dunn, 1853-1857; Eli S. Bailey, 1855-1857; James R. Irish, 1855-1857; 
Benj. Maxson, 1855-1857; Abram D. Titsworth, 1855-1857; Ephraim 
Maxson, 1855-1857; Nathan Rogers, 1855-1857; George Irish, 1855- 
1857; Martin Wilcox, 1855-1856; Christopher Langworthy, 1855-1856; 
J. M. Allen, 1855-1856; D. C. Barber, 1855-1856; David Rogers, 2d, 
1856-1857; Jonathan Allen, 1857-1858; Chas. M. Lewis, 1857-1858; J. 
Croffut, 1858-1859; Leman Andrus, 1859-1866; George Greenman, 1859- 
1861; T. E. Babcock, 1859-1860; Jason B. Wells, 1861-1866. 

Corresponding Secretaries — Thos. B. Stillman, 1849-1850; Geo. B. 
Utter, 1849-1859; Jonathan Allen, 1859-1860; William C. Kenyon, 1860- 
i865;Thos. R. Williams, 1865-1866. 

Recording Secretaries — George B. Utter, 1849-1850; Tkos. B. Still- 
man, 1849-1859; David R. Stillman, 1859-1866. 

Treasurers — Benedict W. Rogers, 1849-1853; William M. Rogers, 
1853-1857; Eliphalet Lyon, 1857-1859; Clarke Rogers, 1859-1866. 

Trustees — William M. Rogers, 1849-1850; Isaac D. Titsworth, 
1849-1850; George Greenman, 1849- 185 1 ; John D. Titsworth, 1849-1858; 
Walter B. Gillette, 1850-1855; Randolph Dunham, 1850-1857; Jonathan 
Maxson, Jr., 1851-1855; Clarke Rogers, 1855-1857; P. L. Berry, 1855- 
1859; Lucius Crandall, 1857-1859; David Dunn, 1857-1859; William 
Dunn, 1858-1859; B. F. Langworthy, 1859-1866; Elisha Potter, 1859- 
1866; George Maxson, 1859-1863; Gordon Evans, 1859-1860; Barton M. 
Millard, 1860-1866. 

THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST GENERAL TRACT SOCIETY. 

The first action looking toward a concerted effort for the 
publication and circulation of tracts was taken at the close of 
Conference in 1831. Previous to that time there had been no 
united efforts, but a few tracts had been published on indi- 
vidual responsibility. Probably the earliest attempt at tract 
literature upon the Sabbath question was the publication of a 
tract by Jonathan Davis in 1740, entitled, "Some Queries sent 
to the Rev. George Whitefield, in the year 1740, which remain 



TRACT SOCIETY. 429 

yet unanswered," Mr. Davis had waited two years for an- 
swer to his queries, and receiving none, published the tract. 

After the adjournment of the General Conference in 1831, 
the following resolution was presented to the members of the 
Conference (generally met together), and approved: 

''Resolved, That we recommend the formation of tract 
societies in the several churches and societies in our connection, 
for the encouragement of publishing and circulating tracts 
which may be written in accordance with our views of Bible 
truth; and that these societies become auxiliary to a General 
Tract Executive Committee, which shall be annually appoint- 
ed by the General Conference for procuring, examining and 
publishing such tracts, as, in their opinion, may be thought use- 
ful in promoting the views of this General Conference, and that 
the American Seventh-day Baptist Missionary Society's Ex- 
ecutive Committee be the committee for the year ensuing." 

In 1832 the Conference reappointed the committee, and 
in 1834 recommended the churches to form tract societies and 
use due exertions to obtain funds to form a general tract so- 
ciety. 

In September, 1835, the Seventh-day Baptist General 
Tract Society, also called the American Seventh-day Baptist 
Tract Society, was organized, and commenced the issuing of 
tracts and other literature with John Maxson as general agent. 

In 1836 a committee consisting of William B. Maxson, 
John Maxson and W. D. Cochran was appointed to write or 
procure the manuscript of suitable tracts for the use of the 
Tract Society and for distribution. Six tracts were published 
in 1838, in editions of 2,000 each, but as no more original 
tracts were presented for publication, the Publishing Commit- 
tee advised the purchasing of tracts from the American Tract 
Society of New York City, which was done. The society 
continued until 1843 and accomplished what it could under 
adverse circumstances in the distribution of these tracts. The 
Anancial transactions during these years were not large, as 
the total receipts for 1838 were only $27.68; 1839, $34.50; 

1843, $13874. 

The officers, so far as records show that could be secured, 
were: 



J 



430 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Presidents — David Clawson, 1837-1858; William B. Maxson, 1838- 
1843. 

Vice Presidents — Benedict Wescott, 1837-1843; Walter B. Gillette, 
1837-1843; John Whitford, 1837-1843; Abram D. Titsworth, 1837-1843; 
Lucius Crandall, 1837-1843. 

Recording Secretaries — S. M, Burdick, 1837-1841 ; William C. Ken- 
yon, 1838-1839; F. W. Stillman, 1841-1843. 

Corresponding Secretaries — George Tomlinson, 1837-1838; William 
D. Cochran, 1838- 1839. 

Treasurers — William Maxson, 1837-1841 ; F. W. Stillman, 1841- 
1843. 

Directors— Wi\n?im Satterlee, 1837-1838; Nathan V. Hull, 1837- 
1839; S. B. Crandall, 1837-1838; B. C. Church, 1837-1838; M. Wells, 
Jr., 1837-1838; Adin Burdick, 1837-1841; Martin Wilcox, 1837-1838; 
Joel Greene, 1837-1838; Orson Campbell, 1837-1838; Azor Estee, 1838- 
1843 \ Ephraim Maxson, 1838-1843 ; Jason B. Wells, 1838-1841 ; Thos B. 
Stillman, 1838-1843; Collins S. Young, 1838-1843; Benj. F. Langworthy, 
1838-1841 ; Orra Stillman, 1838-1843; James H. Cochran, 1839-1843; 
J. M. Maxson, Jr., 1841-1843; John Maxson, 1841-1843; Alfred Still- 
man 1841-1843. 

Publishing Committee — John Maxson, 1837-1841 ; Solomon Car- 
penter, 1837-1841; James Bailey, 1837-1838; Orson Campbell, 1837- 1838; 
William B. Maxson, 1838-1843; William Maxson, 1838-1839; Thos. B. 
Brown, 1841-1843; Thos. B. Stillman, 1841-1843. 

Trustees — Orson Campbell, 1837-1839; Martin Wilcox, 1837-1839; 
Henry Crandall, 1837-1839. 

General Agents — ^John Maxson, 1835-1837; W. D. Cochran, 1837- 
1838; Barton G. Stillman, 1838-1841 ; Paul Stillman, 1841-1843. 

SOCIETY FOR THE PROMOTION OF CHRISTIANITY AMONG JEWS. 

In 1838 a Society for the Promotion of Christianity 
Among the Jews was organized and continued a few years. It 
published for distribution among the Jews a tract entitled "An 
Inquiry into the Prophetic Character of the Messiah," written 
by William B. Maxson in 1839. 

David Dunn was President and the other officials were 
Eli S. Bailey, Stillman Coon, Isaac H. Dunn, Thomas S. Al- 
berti, Thomas B. Stillman, William B. Maxson, Walter B. 
Gillette, Randolph Dunham, Abram D. Titsworth, Randolph 
Dunn, John D. Titsworth, Asa Dunn, George P. Maxson, 
Charles H. Stillman, Lucius Crandall. 

Several insuperable difficulties impeded the progress and 
success of the work of this society, and after a few years the 
labor was abandoned. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 43 1 

THE NEW YORK CITY SABBATH TRACT SOCIETY. 

In June, 1842, a local society was organized under the 
name of the New York City Sabbath Tract Society. The ob- 
ject of the society was to disseminate the Bible doctrine of the 
Sabbath, and collect and maintain a library of publications re- 
lating to the Sabbath. 

The society obtained the manuscripts for several tracts 
which were printed at its expense. It also arranged for the 
publication of The Sabbath Vindicator, a periodical whose ob- 
ject was the thorough discussion of all phases of the Sabbath 
question. George B. Utter was its editor and wrote most of 
the matter contained in its early issues. In February, 1845, ^he 
New York City Sabbath Tract Society was absorbed in its 
work of publishing by the American Sabbath Tract Society. 

THE AMERICAN SABBATH TRACT SOCIETY. 

On September 7th, 1843, *^ ^^e anniversary meeting of 
the "Seventh-day Baptist General Tract Society," held at 
Plainfield, N. J., Lucius Crandall presented the following reso- 
lution, which was adopted: 

Resolved, That a committee be appointed to present a plan 
for the reorganization of this society. Lucius Crandall, 
Thomas M. Clark, Nathan V. Hull, Daniel Coon, and Azor 
Estee were named as the committee. This committee report- 
ed the next day, September 8th, 1843, the following constitu- 
tion, which was adopted : 

CONSTITUTION. 

Article I. This society shall be known as the General Sabbath 
Tract Society; and its object shall be to promote the observance of the 
Bible Sabbath, and the interests of vital Godliness and sound morality, 
by the circulation of religious tracts. 

Art. II. Each person contributing annually to the Society shall 
be a member, and each subscriber of twenty dollars at one time shall 
be a member for life; each subscriber of fifty dollars at one time, or 
wh6 shall by additional payments increase his original subscription to 
fifty dollars, shall be a director for life. Annual subscribers shall be 
entitled to receive half the amount of their subscriptions in tracts; life 
members, 1000 pages annually ; and life directors, 2000 pages annually. 

Art. III. The Society shall hold its annual meetings at the time 
and place of the Seventh-day Baptist General Conference, and shall 
elect a president, vice presidents, two corresponding secretaries, a re- 
cording secretary, a treasurer, and directors, who, with an annual dele- 



43^ SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

gate from each auxiliary society, shall constitute a board to conduct 
the business of the Society. 

Art. IV. It shall be the duty of the corresponding secretaries to 
conduct the correspondence of the Society and of the Board* and to 
prepare, under the direction of the Board, their Annual Report. 

Art. V. The recording secretary shall notify members of the 
meetings and keep minutes of the Society and of the board. 

Art. VI. The treasurer shall take charge of all the funds, and 
report the state of the treasury at each stated meeting of the board. 

Art. VII. The board shall hold monthly stated meetings and shall 
fill all vacancies of their own body; shall aid in forming auxiliaries, 
and appoint such agents as they may deem necessary to advance the 
interests of the Society; shall examine all such tracts as may be pro- 
posed for publication; shall use all proper means to circulate the tracts, 
and shall annually report thieir proceedings to the Society. 

Art. VIII. Any tract Society formed to aid the objects of this 
society, and annually contributing a donation to its treasury, shall be 
considered an auxiliary; and the president and secretary of such aux- 
iliary, for the time being shall be ex-officio members of this Society. 

Art. IX. A vote of two-thirds of the members present at a meeting 
of this Society, regularly convened, shall be necessary to amend this 
constitution. 

Art. X, Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum to 
transact business of the Society. 

At the anniversary of the General Sabbath Tract Society, 
held at Verona, N. Y., in September, 1844, Article I of the 
preceding constitution was amended, by substituting the word 
American for the word General in the title, so from this date 
the society has been known as *'The American Sabbath Tract 
Society." 

The officers elected to serve the first year of the new or- 
ganization, September, 1843, to September, 1844, were as fol- 
lows: 

Prdsident — Lucius Crandall. 

Vice Presidents — J. P. Labagh, David Dunn, Alfred Stillman. 
Corresponding Secretaries — Paul Stillman, Geo, B. Utter. 
Recording Secretary — F. W. Stillman. * 

Directors — John Whitford, Solomon Carpenter, Wm. B. Maxson, 
Thos. B. Brown, Clarke Rogers. 

At a meeting of the Board held in New York City, Octo- 
ber 15, 1843, ^ constitution for auxiliary societies was adopted, 
and these were maintained many years throughout the de- 
nomination as valuable adjuncts to the society's work. 
(27) 



REV. JAMES BAILEY. 
Bwgraphkal Sketches, p. 13 



TRACT SOCIETY, 433 

"The American Sabbath Tract Society" was incorporated 
under the laws of the State of Xew York on April 9th, 1856. 

CHARTER. 

Whereas, in the year one thousand eight hundred and forty-three, 
a Society was formed for the purpose of sustaining the Tract Enter- 
prise of the Seventh-day Baptist Denomination under the name and 
title of the American Sabbath Tract Society: and 

Whereas, said Society has heretofore continued to act in behalf of 
such object in an unincorporated capacity, and being now desirous of 
becoming a body corporate under the laws of the State * New York, 
and having been duly authorized by a vote of said Society and of the 
Board of Directors: 

We, the undersigned, members of said Board, do hereby certify for 
ourselves and associates, in conformity with the laws in such case 
made and provided, viz : 

1st. That the name of said Society to be known in law shall be 
"American Sabbath Tract Society." 

2d. The object of said Society shall be to promote the Scriptural 
observance of the Sabbath in connection with the interests of vital 
Godliness and sound morality by the circulation of religious tracts and 
the employment of colporteurs and lecturers. 

3d. That the number of directors to manage the same shall be 
twelve or more. 

4th. That the names of the Directors for the present and first 
year of its corporate existence are, according to previous elections, as 
follows : 

N. V. Hull, Isaac D. Titsworth, Wm. H. Rogers, Nicholas Rogers, 
J. Croffut, A. D. Titsworth, S. S. Griswold, Geo. Tomlinson, Nathan 
Rogers, George B. Utter, Lucius Crandall, Walter B. Gillette, A. B. 
Spaulding, J. P. Hunting, J. Whitford, Chas. Maxson, Varnum Hull, 
Jared Kenyon, J. R. Irish, H. H. Baker, T. B. Stillman, Wm. B. 
Maxson, David Dunn. 

5th. That the usual and permanent place of business of said 
Society is the City of New York. 

Nathan V. Hull, (L. S.) 

Jonathan Croffut, (L. S.) 

H. H. Baker, (L. S.) 

T. B. Stillman, (L. S.) 

Geo. B. Utter, (L. S.) 

City and County of New York, ss. 

On the ninth day of April, in the year one thousand eight hundred 
and fifty-six, before me came Nathan V. Hull, Jonathan Croffut, Halsey 
H. Baker, Thomas B. Stillman, and George B. Utter, to me known to 
be the individuals described in and who have executed the within cer- 



434 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

tificate, and they severally acknowledged to me that they executed 
the same. Thos. Macfarlane, Commissioner of Deeds. 

Approved April lo, 1856. 

J. R. Whiting, Justice of the 

Supreme Court of the First District. 

PRESENT CONSTITUTION. 

Article i. This Society shall be known as The American Sabbath 
Tract Society; and its object shall be to promote the observance of 
the Bible Sabbath, and the interests of vital godliness and sound 
morality, by the publication and circulation of such periodicals, tracts, 
treatises, an^J books as shall best conduce to the objects of its organi- 
zation; and the employment of colporteurs and lecturers. 

Art. 2. All Seventh-day Baptist churches contributing to the 
funds of this Society shall have a voice in its meetings through dele- 
gates appointed by them, upon the same basis of representation as in the 
Seventh-day Baptist General Conference. When any church shall 
neglect to appoint delegates to any session of this Society, the delegates 
last appointed by such church to said General Conference, or to a 
regular meeting of the Society, shall be recognized as delegates to 
such session. Any person may become a life member of this Society 
by the payment into its Treasury of twenty dollars, in not more than 
two payments, by himself, or herself, or by any member of his or her 
family for that purpose. The money so paid shall be used in the dis- 
cretion of the Executive Board, for any of the legitimate purposes of 
this Society. Each life member constituted under this article, or 
regularly constituted heretofore, shall be entitled to vote in any meeting 
of this Society. Each life member shall be entitled to receive, annually 
for distribution, one thousand pages of the tracts published by this 
Society, and any other person shall be entitled to receive 
annually such tracts to the value of one-half of his contribution to the 
General Fund of the Society for any given year. 

Art. 3. The Society shall hold an annual meeting at such time 
and place as shall have been agreed upon at a previous annual meeting, 
and shall then elect a President, Vice Presidents, a Corresponding Sec- 
retary, a Recording Secretary, a Treasurer, and Directors, who with 
an annual delegate from each auxiliary society, shaH constitute a Board 
to conduct the business of the Society. 

Art. 4. It shall be the duty of the Corresponding Secretary to 
conduct the correspondence of the Society and of the Board, and to 
prepare, under the direction of the Board, their Annual Report. 

Art. 5. The Recording Secretary shall notify members of the 
meetings, and keep the minutes of the Society and of the Board. 

Art. 6. The treasurer shall take charge of all funds, and pay them 
out only on orders of the Board, make quarterly reports of the condi- 
tion of the treasury to the Board, and an annual report to be incor- 
porated in the Annual Report of the Board. He shall also keep a list 
of all members of the Society. 

Art. 7. The Board shall hold monthly stated meetings, and shall 



IRA J. ORDWAY. 
Biografhical Sketches, p. 1361. 



TRACT SOCIETY. . 435 

fill all vacancies in their own body; shall aid in forming auxiliaries, 
and appoint such agents as they may deem necessary to advance the 
interests of the Society; shall examine all such tracts as may be pro- 
posed for publication; shall use all proper means to circulate the tracts, 
and shall annually report their proceedings to the Society. 

Art. 8. Any tract society formed to aid the objects of this Society, 
and annually contributing a donation to its treasury, shall be consid- 
ered an auxiliary; and the President and Secretary of such auxiliary, 
for the time being, shall be ex-officio members of this Society. 

Art. 9. A vote of two-thirds of the members present at a meeting 
of the Society, regularly convened, shall be necessary to amend this 
Constitution. 

Art. 10. Three members of the Board shall constitute •& quorum tc 
transact business of the Society. 

OFFICERS, 1901-1902. 

President — J. Frank Hubbard, Plainfield, N. J. 

Vice-Presidents — Stephen Babcock, David E. Titsworth, Rev. 
Leander E. Livermore, Rev. Asa B. Prentice, Rev. Arthur E. Main, 
Rev. Edward B. Saunders, Rev. Samuel D. Davis, Rev. George M. 
Cottrell. 

Corresponding Secretary — Rev. A. Herbert Lewis, Plainfield, N. J. 
Treasurer — Frank J. Hubbard, Plainfield, N. J. 
Recording Secretary — Arthur L. Titsworth, Plainfield, N. J. 
Assistant Recording Secretary — William M. Stillman, Plainfield, 
N. J. 

Directors — J. Denison Spicer, Rev. Frank E. Peterson, Rev. 
Stephen Burdick, Ira J. Ordway, Rev. Julius M. Todd, Rev. J. Bennett 
Clarke, Charles C. Chipman, William C. Burdick, Edgar R. Greene, 
Joseph M. Titsworth, Henry V. Dunham, Joseph A. Hubbard, Rev, 
William C. Daland, Rev. Judson G. Burdick, William C. Hubbard, 
Frank S. Wells, Rev. Ira L. Cottrell, Rev. Herman D. Clarke, Edwin 
H. Lewis, Rev. Oscar U. Whitford, Edwin Shaw, Corliss F. Randolph, 
George B. Carpenter, Henry D. Babcock, Henry M. Maxson, Edg^ar 
H. Cottrell, George H. Utter, Rev. Lester C. Randolph, Rev. George 
W. Lewis, Rev. Theodore L. Gardiner, Frank L. Greene, Alfred /i. 
Titsworth, Rev. George B. Shaw, Alex. W. Vars, Uberto S. Griffin, 
George W. Post, Mrs. H. D. Witter, Mrs. C. D. Potter, Rev. Martin 
Sindall, Sherman E. Ayers, Orra S. Rogers, Will H. Crandall, Mrs. 
Geo. H. Babcock, Esle F. Randolph. 

The history of the American Sabbath Tract Society di- 
vides itself naturalW into two general divisions : 

1. The period from organization in 1843 ^^ ^^^ establish- 
ment of the denominational publishing house in Alfred Centre, 
N. Y., July I, 1872. 

2. From 1872 to the present (1902), the period the so- 
ciety has maintained a denominational publishing house. 



436 • SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

During the first period, 1843- 1872, the work of the society 
was pursued along the general lines of publishing, and then 
distributing through agents and colporteurs or distributors. 
The depository was first located in New York City. 

The primitive method of handing out tracts at public 
meetings, on steamboats, railroad trains, and through the towns 
along the line of the railroads was adopted, and eflForts were 
made to sell the tracts where possible, but were gratuitously 
distributed if not sold. In the early forties, "An appeal for 
the restoration of the Bible Sabbath" in an "Address to Bap- 
tists" by Thomas B. Brown, and Carlow's defense of the Sab- 
bath under the title of "Truth Defended," were most largely 
circulated. 

William B. Maxson, Nathan V. Hull, Azor Estee, Wil- 
liam Greenman, Paul Stillman, Samuel Davison, Alexander 
Campbell, and Varnum Hull were the first agents of the so- 
ciety. 

Caleb S. Titsworth, G. R. Scriven, Lebbeus M. Cottrell, 
and Dr. Jonathan CroflFut gave special attention to the railroad 
towns. 

Much general distribution was secured also through the 
Missionary Society by missionaries and missionary deposito- 
lies. 

The first "General Travelling Agent" was Eli S. Bailey, 
who served from 1849-52. His successors were Lucius Cran- 
dall, 1852-55; Halsey H. Baker, 1855-58; George B. Utter, 
1858-67; A. Herbert Lewis, 1867-72. 

Associated with these leaders were Joseph W. Morton, 
Sherman S. Griswold, C. A. Osgood, Henry O'Conner, Hiram 
Burdick, Elias Burdick, E. P. Larkin, Hiram W. Babcock, 
Thomas E. Babcock, Alfred B. Burdick, James Summerbell, 
Darwin E. Maxson, Leman Andrus, Lester C. Rogers, Nathan 
Wardner, M. B. Kelly, James Bailey, S. D. Davis, Henry 
Clarke, Wilson F. Van Cleve, Washington Donnell, Frederick 
F. Johnson, Lebbeus M. Cottrell, Joel Greene, Elston M. Dunn. 

How profitable it would be if we might dwell in particu- 
lar upon the self-sacrificing, consecrated labors of each of this 
noble band of warriors, but it comes within our province only 
to indicate the general character of the work. 

The published literature of the denomination up to the 



A GROUP OF SABBATH RKFORMERS AND MISSIONARY WORKERS. 
Rev. Lester C. Ropers, Correl! D. Potter, M. D. 

Rev. Joseph W- Morion. Rev. Henry B. Lewis. 

St* Biographkat Sketches, p. 1361. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 437 

close of the first period (1872) was chiefly periodical, in the 
form of magazines, papers and tracts, and devoted largely to 
•the vindication of the Sabbath of the Bible. The general 
agents and their associates covered the country very thorough- 
ly, East, West and South, through the associations and 
churches, in selling, distributing and lecturing, certain locali- 
ties being assigned to each. Efforts were not confined to our 
own people, the desire being that the truth should reach all. 
As early as 1852 bound volumes of tracts were placed in pub- 
lic libraries, and in the libraries of colleges and theological 
seminaries, so that the scholarship of the land had the Sabbath 
truth brought to its attention, and our workers were not awed 
into silence even by the most learned ; and so through tracts ; 
periodicals and books; lecturers and colporteurs; pastors and 
laymen ; discussions upon the platform and through the press ; 
our predecessors labored to secure recognition for God's Holy 
Day. These men wrought in their day and generation, and 
left an inheritance of the vantage ground they had gained, to 
men of wider experience, larger opportunity, and more perfect- 
ly matured methods of work. The succeeding history of the 
society bears its testimony as to how faithfully we have nur- 
tured this noble inheritance. 

The close of this period was marked by the agitation 
which led to the establishment of a denominational publishing 
house. At the annual session in September, 1870, at Little 
Genesee, N. Y., it was voted, "That a special committee of one 
from each Association be appointed to consider in detail, the 
probable expense of undertaking a publishing interest, and to 
recommend any definite measures." The following were ap- 
pointed : Charles Potter, Jr., Charles H. Maxson, H. P. Bur- 
dick, James Bailey and George B. Utter. This committee re- 
ported to the Board November 10, 1870, that the cost of print- 
ing press, engine, type, necessary supplies, etc., would be 
$5,000. The subscription list of The Recorder could be pur- 
chased for $2,000, $3,000 would be needed for working capital, 
making a total of $10,000. 

The Board decided that the first thing to be done was to 
test the interest and liberality of the people toward this move- 
ment, and accordingly, they instructed the general agent, A. H. 
Lewis; Corresponding Secretary, J. B. Clarke; Agent, L. C. 



4.38 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Rogers, and Ira J. Ordway to canvass the churches for sub- 
scriptions. Over $11,000 were obtained the first year of this 
canvass, so at the Board meeting, October 10, 1871, it was vot- 
ed to purchase The Sabbath Recorder of the publishers, G. B. 
and G. H. Utter, and equip a printing establishment. The 
question of location, which was referred to the Board by the 
subscribers to the fund, was decided by accepting the offer 
made by the citizens of Alfred Centre, N. Y., of a suitable 
building in that place, free of rent for three years or more. 
On February 12, 1872, Nathan V. Hull was elected by the 
Board, editor of The Sabbath Recorder, and David R. Still- 
man, business manager ; and they assumed their offices in June. 
1872, and under their personal supervision the first denomi- 
national publishing house began operations, completely equip- 
ped and fully paid for, July i, 1872, thus marking for us the 
close of the first general division of the history of the society. 

SECOND GENERAL DIVISION. 
1872- 1902. 

During the early years of this period the work of the so- 
ciety was promulgated along the same general lines as before, 
with agents in the field, but at the annual meeting in 1877, we 
find the element of evangelization coming to the front in the 
adoption of the following resolution: 

^'Resolved, That the past experience in propagating the 
doctrine of the Sabbath by means of lecturers sent out to 
spread that distinctive truth, shows it to be largely expensive 
in proportion to results, and points distinctly to the necessity 
of a change in our eflforts in that direction. In the future our 
lecturers should be sent out to evangelize with the broad com- 
mission : *Go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to 
every creature;' not one part, but the whole, and only with 
this can we be sure of a success worthv of our eflFort." 

This resolution found expression primarily in the inaugu- 
ration of **tent work" in the spring of 1878. Dr. C. D. Pot- 
ter, of Adams Center, N. Y., furnished the tent on condition 
that the Board would employ and sustain laborers to go with 
ii. So the Rev. Messrs. Charles M. Lewis and J. L. HuflFmau 
were secured as preachers, with Judson G. Burdick as singer. 
Later, Lester C. Rogers and Herman D. Clarke continued the 



TRACT SOCIETY. 439 

work, and much success attended this new method of aggressive 
work, and plans for enlarged labor along this line were made 
and carried out by the addition of a tent in the North-Western 
Association, with Morton S. Wardner as preacher, J. T. Davis 
and S. R. Wheeler being successors. 

Several years these labors were continued and with' one 
exception, conversions were reported from all the places where 
the tents were pitched, and many good results followed, but 
tent work was finally abandoned for the time, as not accord- 
ing to the genius of our people, and so did not receive their 
support. 

Following the "tent work" and during the eighties, resort 
was made once more to the assistance of General Agents, J. 
Bennett Clarke filling the position several years, and George 
M. Cottrell one year. 

In the fall of 1895, tent work was revived, by conducting 
an evangelistic and Sabbath Reform campaign in Louisville, 
Ky., maintained jointly by the Missionary and Tract Societies, 
under the leadership of their respective Corresponding Secre- 
taries, Dr. O. U. Whitford and Dr. A. H. Lewis. 

Large audiences of most intelligent and earnest Christians 
listened attentively to the entire series of Sabbath discourses 
and much interest was manifested. The seed was faithfullv 
sown, but the visible results were not so favorable to the 
cause as it had been hoped they would be. 

FOREIGN WORK. 

In the early seventies. Rev. William M. Jones, pastor of 
the Mill Yard Seventh-day Baptist church, London, England, 
interested himself largely in Sabbath Reform work in that 
country, by lecturing, correspondence and in making use of our 
publications furnished freely by the Board for distribution in 
London and elsewhere. Charles B. Barber rendered valuable 
assistance by voluntary labor in distributing in the city of Lon- 
don, and others engaged voluntarily in the work in England, 
Scotland and Ireland. Brother Jones also wrote a number of 
tracts pertinent to the times, and published "The Sabbath 
Memorial Quarterly" from 1875 to 1890 for free distribution. 

In 1874 a number interested in the Sabbath in Glasgow, 
Scotland, asked the society to send a Seventh-day Baptist 



440 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

missionary to Scotland, and in response the Board extended a 
call to the Rev. Nathan Wardner, which lie accepted and he and 
his wife arrived in Glasgow June 23, 1875. The friends 
there gave him a most cordial welcome. On June 30, he 
reached London for consultation with Brother Jones in regard 
to the work, and together they visited Great Grimsby, Glasgow, 
Elgin and Belfast, lecturing to assemblies in halls, after adver- 
tising the appointments. Brother Wardner later returning to 
Glasgow, established his home and headquarters there. As a 
result of Brother Wardner's labor in Belfast, a church of five 
members was organized as a nucleus around which the grow- 
ing interest might cluster. He described them as a "valiant 
little band, lifting with all their might." In August, 1876, 
Brother Wardner wrote that what he had done in lecturing, 
convinced him that it was by far the most expensive and least 
effective method of getting the subject before the people, so 
for the preceding two months tract distribution had been in- 
creased until it was thought Scotland had never before been 
so covered with printed matter in the interest of any cause. 
While in Scotland, Brother Wardner prepared and distributed 
a series of tracts, presenting different phases of the Sabbath 
doctrine. Tracts were distributed considerably by mail, 
which called out correspondence with ministers and laymen. 
Several of the ministers as well as others accepted the Sabbath 
doctrine. One pastor of a strict communion Baptist church in 
Haarlem, Holland, who was also an editor, commenced keep- 
ing the Sabbath with thirty-one members out of his church of 
sixty. We recognize this pastor as our beloved Brother Vel- 
thuysen, and were there no other results of the Scottish mis- 
sion, this alone would more than pay for the labor and means 
expended. 

Thus far the mission was looked upon as an important 
pioneer work of highly successful planting, but the path was 
not always smooth. Brother Wardner returned home in 1877, 
and on his retiring from the work, the Board passed the fol- 
lowing resolutions: 

^'Resolved, That our confidence in our late Sabbath mis- 
sionary in Scotland, Brother Nathan Wardner, remains un- 
abated, and while sympathizing with him in the trials and dif- 
ficulties encountered on that field, we hereby express our re- 



KiiV. GKRHARD VELTHUYSEN. 
See Biograpliical Sketches, p. 1361 



TRACT SOCIETY. 441 

gret that circumstances connected with the health of his family 
and the embarrassed condition of the treasury, have rendered 
his return necessary at this early date. 

Resolved, That we are well satisfied with the plans of labor 
pursued by Brother Wardner, and while we thank God for 
success already attained, we shall continue to pray in hope that 
an abundant ingathering may come from the truth sown by 
him and the others in Great Britain." 

At the annual session in 1878, the following resolution 
v/as also adopted : 

^'Resolved, That the simple effort of sending tracts 
through the mails, as by our brother, N. Wardner, when in 
Scotland, so that a single package of seven tracts within the 
short space of a year and a half, results in the formation and 
addition to our Conference of a church of thirty-one members 
with an efficient pastor and a weekly paper, should be regarded 
with greater attention by our people, as the cheapest and most 
effective way of spreading Sabbath, truth in regions remote 
from our churches." 

Aid and sympathy were soon extended to Brother Vel- 
thuysen in Holland, and Brother Rolf in Norway, through 
voluntary contributions, and at the annual meeting in 1882 the 
society recommended the Tract Board "to place such an 
amount of funds at the disposal of Brother Velthuysen as will 
enable him to circulate the Boodschapper extensively among 
the people of his country." The treasurer was able to send 
the following year, 1883, the sum of $420, and since that time 
yearly remittances of from $500 to $600 have been sent. 

ladies' auxiliaries. 

In the early seventies, as the demands upon the society 
increased and new fields opened up, plans were laid for secur- 
ing better local agencies for raising funds and promoting the 
interests of the society. The women of the denomination, 
ever loyal and true to its interests, 

"The friends to truth, of souls sincere. 
In action faithful, and in honor clear!" 

responded to the call most willingly and in one year (1875) 
!*Women's Auxiliary Tract Societies" were organized at Fa- 
rina, West Hallock, Walworth, Milton, Albion, Christiana, 
Leonardsville, West Edmeston, \'erona, Adams Center, De- 



442 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Ruyter and Chicago. These pioneers were soon followed by 
other Auxiliary, Benevolent, or Mite Societies, in the other 
churches generally throughout the denomination, and with un- 
abated zeal, money was raised and literature distributed for a 
number of years. Gradually, however, these associations be- 
came disorganized as auxiliary societies, though much of the 
work was accomplished through other avenues, until they were 
finally merged into the "Woman's Executive Board of the 
Conference," organized in 1884. Through this Board, created 
to raise funds for our various denominational enterprises, and 
to engage in general benevolent work, the Tract Society has 
been given regular and efficient support. 

TRACT DEPOSITORIES. 

As indicated by the title, these are locations apart from 
the place of publishing, where our publications are placed on 
deposit in quantities, both for sale and distribution. The first 
of these were placed in New York, Westerly, Alfred and mis- 
sionary stations. Others were established in Texarkana, Ark., 
and Minneapolis, Minn., in the early eighties. The most ex- 
tensive and eflfective work in this line was probably accom- 
plished by the depository located at 100 Bible House, New 
York City, from 1892 to 1895, and under the supervision of 
Rev. Judson G. Burdick. During these years this office was 
headquarters for general distribution, and was only discon- 
tinued when the work was naturally absorbed by the publish- 
ing house at Plainfield. 

Quite extensive work in this line was also accomplished 
by the Western Depository, located at Chicago from 1893 to 
1896, in charge of the Rev. Lester C. Randolph and Ira J. Ord- 
way ; at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893, 
in care of Mrs. A. A. Allen ; at the Atlanta Exposition in 1895, 
under the control of the Rev. George W. Hills ; and at Milton 
Junction, Wis., under the auspices of the North-Western As- 
sociation, and conducted by W. B. West. 

Since September, 1899, under the direction of the Board 
and as its salaried agent, Rev. A. P. Ashurst, at Atlanta, Ga., 
as distributing point, has circulated our tracts most extensive- 
ly and faithfully. He is sowing the field there with Sabbath 
truth, in the confident hope that Sabbath-keeping churches will 
spring up, yielding a bountiful harvest. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 443 

In conjunction with the Missionary Board, Rev. George 
Seeley, at Petitcodiac, New Brunswick, Canada, has been em- 
ployed as agent in Missionary, Sabbath Reform and Tract 
work since October, 1900. His reports show a large distribu- 
tion, and hopes are entertained for the * accomplishment of 
much permanent good on the Canadian field. 

CHANGE OF EXECUTIVE BOARD. 

At the annual meeting of the society held in Farina, 111., 
September 25, 1881, the personnel of the Board was changed 
almost entirely, and since that time the meetings of the Board 
have been held in Plainfield, N. J. It came under the province 
of this Board during the first year of its labors to inaugurate 
another advanced step in the history of the society, by the 
publication monthly of the Outlook, the first edition of 52,000 
being issued in April, 1882, under the editorship of Dr. A. H. 
Lewis and Dr. C. D. Potter. The general plan of the paper 
was to present Sabbath truth and Sabbath reform as part of a 
complete gospel of salvation. 

The entire editions were sent first to the ministers 
throughout the land, then to editors, lawyers and laymen, the 
important mission being to convince the Christian world that 
God's word alone is authority in religious faith and practice. 
In 1884 the publication was changed to a quarterly, under the 
title of The Outlook and Sabbath Quarterly, and its articles 
became more direct in their relation to the Sabbath question. 
Its discussions were historical, ethical and biblical, and it was 
chiefly designed to reach the religious teachers of the land. 

CHANGE IN LOCATION OF PUBLISHING HOUSE FROM ALFRED CEN- 
TER^ N. Y., TO PLAINFIELD^ N. J. 

Owing to the difficulties and inconveniences of carrying 
on the work of the society with the Board at Plainfield, four 
hundred miles from the publishing house at Alfred Center, the 
Board suggested in its annual report in 1885, the propriety and 
advisability of changing one or the other, so that the two 
might be in closer proximity. Each succeeding year revealed 
the necessity more forcibly of securing this advantage, and at 
the annual session in 1890, at Salem, W. Va., the following 
action was taken: 

"Your committee appointed to consider the question of the removal 
of the Publishing House would report as follows : 



444 SEVEXTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Whceeas, The Executive Board have in their annual reports re- 
peatedly expressed the embarassments under which they labor in regard 
to the location of the Publishing House; therefore 

Resolved, ist, That there ought to be made such a change in the 
location of the Publishing House as would bring it under the immed- 
iate supenision of the Executive Board and in close proximity thereto; 
and 2d, That this question be brought before the Denominational Coun- 
cil, expected to be held in Chicago in October, for their consideration, 
and before the next session of the Society, for definite and final action. 

W. C. Dalakd, 
S. L. Max SON, 
T- R- Williams. 
W. C. Whitford, 
T. L. Gardiner, 

Committee.*' 

In accordance with this action the Denominational Coun- 
cil adopted the following: 

"Your Committee on the Location of Publishing House would re- 
spectfully present the following report : 

We believe that the success of our publications, both for ourselves 
as a denomination and for Sabbath Reform, rises far above any ques- 
tion of persons or places, and that the location of the Publishing House 
should be decided entirely from that standpoint. And trusting the 
wisdom of the American Sabbath Tract Society, that they will act with 
due discretion in this matter, we do recommend the passage of the fol- 
lowing resolution: 

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Council that the American 
Sabbath Tract Society should instruct its Board to remove the Pub- 
lishing House to some great commercial center, conveniently located 
for our denomination, as soon as it can be done without serious em- 
barrassment, or loss to the interests involved. 

B. F. Rogers, 
A. McLearn, 
Oscar Babcock, 
A. G. Crofoot, 
A. B. Prentice, 
W. H. H. CooN, 

Committee" 

In pursuance of this action of the council, and the forego- 
ing action of the society, and in view of the fact that New 
York and Chicago had been informally considered by the peo- 
ple as desirable points for a new location, reports on the ad- 
vantages of each of these centers were embodied in the annual 
report of the society in 1891, and this portion of the report 
was referred to a special committee who presented the follow- 
ing: 



JAMES FRANKLIN HUBBARD. 
See BwKraFli''nl Sktlchcs. p. 1361. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 445 

"Your Committee to whom was referred that portion of the report of 
the Board relating to the removal of the Publishing House, begs leave 
to report. We recommend that the Society accept the advice of the 
Denominational Council held at Chicago, 111., Oct. 22-29, 1890, viz : 

Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Council that the American 
Sabbath Tract Society should instruct its Board to remove the Publish- 
ing House to some great commercial center, conveniently located for 
our denomination, as soon as it can be done without serious embarrass- 
ment or loss to the interest involved. 

Thos. R. Williams, 
B. F. Rogers, 
G. J. Crandall, 
G. W. Hills, 
N. Wardner, 
T. L. Gardiner, 
W. C. Whitford, 

A. B. Prentice, 

B. P. Lang WORTHY, 2d, 

Committee." 

As this report did not name a location, a substitute for it 
was adopted at the evening session, as follows : 

"In pursuance of the reconsideration, as voted at the afternoon ses- 
sion, of the report of the committee on the removal of the Publishing 
House, A. H. Lewis offered the following resolution as a substitute for 
the report of the special committee on that matter. 

Resolved, That we hereby instruct the Executive Board of this 
Society to move the Publishing House from Alfred Center to the city 
of New York, as soon as it can be done in accordance with the best 
interest of the work of the Society, and we do hereby pledge to the 
Board all necessary support in carrying out this instruction." 

The first step toward carrying out the instructions of this 
resolution was taken by the establishment in 1892 of a New 
York office at 100 Bible House, for use as editorial rooms for 
the Outlook and Sabbath Reform literature, and for a general 
tract depository. The office was maintained largely through 
the generosity of Calvert B. Cottrell until the close of 1894, 
when it was merged in the publishing house. 

At the annual session, held August 19, 1894, at Brook- 
field, N. Y., the Committee on Resolutions presented as the 
first item of their report, the following, which was adopted : 

''Resolved, That the Executive Board be hereby instructed and em- 
powered to make such changes in the publishing department as they 
shall find to be most conducive to economy and success in our publish- 
ing work.' 



446 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

The Board in their efforts to carry out these instructions, 
appointed at their meeting held September 9, 1894, the follow- 
ing committee to examine and report as to what action was 
advisable — Charles Potter, Jr., J. Frank Hubbard, David 
E. Titsworth, A. Herbert Lewis, Charles C. Chipman and 
Stephen Babcock. By conference and correspondence with 
members of the society at large, careful examinations into the 
business conditions, expense of maintenance, and advantages 
to be gained, the committee at the meeting December 9, 1894, 
recommended that the publishing house be removed to Plain- 
field, New Jersey, at the earliest practicable date, believing it 
to be in the interests of our publications and economy. The 
report was unanimously adopted, and arrangements completed, 
whereby the publishing house began operations in Plainfield 
January i, 1895, in commodious quarters, conveniently ar- 
! anged for the systematic production of our work. New type, 
material and machinery were added, making a thoroughly 
equipped and modern office, which was inventoried at a net 
value of about $8,000. Our publishing plant has been located 
there since that time. 

DR. A. H. lewis' work. 

Thus far very much of the work of publication was pur- 
sued under many difficulties and hindrances, and especially is 
this true of the literary work in research and editing, accom- 
plished by Dr. A. H. Lewis. The ponderous and scholarly 
work on the Outlook, was mainly done while he was pastor 
of the Plainfield church, that people generously donating one- 
half of his time for this purpose. The department of Sab- 
bath Reform had increased in its demands and opportunities 
to such an extent, that at the annual meeting in 1895, the re- 
port of the Board embodied the following: 

A RECOMMENDATION. 

The following communication from Brother William L. 
Clarke, of Ashaway, R. I., under date of August 27, 1894, was, 
by action of the Board, December 9, 1894, ordered to be in- 
corporated in this report, since the question involved was 
deemed to be too large for the Board to settle without instruc- 
tions from the society. Brother Clarke's recommendation is 
as follows: 



TRACT SOCIETY. 447 



"My interest in denominational matters prompts me to make the 
following suggestion concerning affairs that belong to your department, 
viz., that you call Bro. A. H. Lewis, D. D., to devote his entire time to 
the cause of Sabbath Reform. Since the death of Dr. Potter, of sacred 
memory, Bro. Lewis is pre-eminently our apostle in this work. The 
church of God needs the service that he is specially prepared to give; 
and it is due him from us as a people, that we unitedly stay up his 
hands until the going down of the sun. as he shall stand upon the top 
of the hill with the 'rod of God' in his hand." 

During the discussion of the Corresponding Secretary's 
report at the afternoon session, the Rev. O. U. Whitford, D. D.. 
of Westerly, R. L, presented the following preamble and reso- 
lution : 

"Whereas, The work of Sabbath Reform in our country has become 
so great, the opportunities so important, and the demands for aggressive 
effort so broad and imperative, therefore, be it 

Resolved, That the American Sabbath Tract Society recommends 
to its Executive Board, that it call Dr. A. H. Lewis to devote "his entire 
time to Sabbath Reform work." 

On motion of David E. Titsworth, the resolution was 
made a special order for the evening session, at which time 
after very general discussion the resolution was adopted. 

At once efforts were put forth to secure a special fund for 
this work, and while this was progressing, the Plainfield church 
granted lir. Lewis a leave of absence for six months, the time 
being employed in the revision of tracts; in compiling a new 
series of twelve tracts; and in Sabbath Reform work among 
the Associations and churches. The importance of securing 
Dr. Lewis for this special work was manifested at the annual 
session held at Alfred, N. Y., in 1896, by tHe presentation of 
the following: 

''Resolved, That we instruct our Executive Board to employ the 
Rev. A. H. Lewis, D. D., if his services can be obtained, to devote his 
entire time to the work of Sabbath Reform, under its direction. 

Respectfully submitted, 

Arthur E. Main, 
Clayton A. Burdick, 
M. B. Kelly, Jr., 
E. A. Witter, 
Theo. L. Gardiner, 
Committee on 
Resolutions" 



448 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS I 

When the question was called, the entire membership 
arose to their feet, and the President declared the resolution 
adopted by a unanimous vote. In accordance with this action, 
the Board at its regular meeting held September 13, 1896, ex- 
tended a call to Dr. Lewis to enter upon this work. His resig- 
nation as pastor of the Plainfield church took effect October 
I, 1896, and his engagement with the society began at that 
date. 

Rev, F. E. Peterson, having voluntarily resigned the of- 
fice of Corresponding Secretary at the September meeting of 
the Board, the resignation was accepted, and Dr. A. H. Lewis 
was appointed Corresponding Secretary. 

The first year was occupied largely in field work, by at- 
tendance on all the Associations; holding Sabbath Reform 
conventions ; visiting among the churches and conducting Sab- 
bath Reform conferences. 

This work aggregated for the year 10,500 miles of travel, 
and 87 sermons and addresses, besides subordinate work. As 
a necessary part of the new movement, the Secretary assumed 
editorial charge of a page in The Sabbath Recorder, under the 
head of "Tract Society Work." The new labors made it im- 
possible for the Secretary to continue the editorial charge of 
the ''Evangel and Sabbath Outlook/' so its publication was 
suspended in June, 1897, with many expressions of regret, yet 
with hopes that its suspension would be only temporary. 

In February, 1898, owing to serious ill health, Rev. L. E. 
Livermore felt compelled to resign the editorship of The Sab- 
bath Recorder, and the same took effect March i, 1898, and 
Dr. Lewis was requested by the Board to fill the editorial chair 
until the next annual meeting. He has filled the place contin- 
uously since March i, 1898. 

At the regular meeting of the Board in February, 1898, 
it was voted (the ''Evangel and Sabbath Outlook'* having been 
discontinued, and ground lost by our not being before the 
world in some tangible and impressive manner) that as soon 
a? possible, a Sabbath Reform edition of The Sabbath Re- 
corder be issued once a month, to be sent regularly to a care- 
fully prepared list of readers, the amount of funds at the dis- 
posal of the Board determining the number. The edition be- 
(28) 



TRACT SOCIETY. 449 

gan in 1898 with 4,000, and was gradually increased to 14,000 
monthly in 1901. 

At the meeting of the Board in November, 1901, it being 
learned that an edition of 10,000 copies monthly of a sixteen- 
page periodical, magazine size, could be published for about 
the same cost as the Sabbath Reform edition of 14,000 of The 
Sabbath Recorder sent out monthly, and, it was thought, would 
accomplish more lasting good, it was voted to publish such a 
periodical, and the Sabbath Reform edition of The Sabbath 
Recorder was therefore discontinued November, 1901, and 
The Sabbath of Christ, a new publication, was begun in 
January, 1902, with an edition approaching 10,000. 

The Sabbath of Christ is published monthly by the so- 
ciety, with Dr. A. H. Lewis as editor. 

This paper is set for the diffusion of knowledge upon the 
Sabbath question, and for the restoration of the observance of 
the Sabbath according to the authority and example of Christ, 
who declared himself to be the Lord of the Sabbath. It gives 
special attention to all important news concerning Sunday laws 
and their enforcement, and concerning the observance of Sun- 
day. It also presents the historic and Biblical claims of the 
Sabbath in distinction from the Sunday. It champions every 
form of religious liberty. 

Some difficulties arose in regard to mailing this periodical, 
which caused some delay in sending out the first numbers, but 
tRese were overcome, and editions are now mailed regularly. 
Copies have been sent to our pastors and Recorder subscribers, 
for the purpose of eliciting their interest in the work, by ac- 
quaintance with it. The various books published by Dr. Lewis 
since his special engagement in this work will be found in the 
catalogue of publications. 

During the past year efforts were made to secure a Sab- 
bath Reform revivalist, to arouse us as a people to more active 
Sabbath Reform work, but the Board were unable to secure 
an available man. It is hoped that this may be accomplished 
§oon, but if not, that some way be devised whereby our Sab- 
bath Reform work may be pushed forward, with some of the 
old time vigor. 

A work of special value to the denomination has been ac- 
complished recently, through the Committee on Distribution 



450 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

of Literature, and the special labor of Corliss F. Randolph as a 
member of that committee, in securing six files of our denomi- 
national publications and placing two of them at Alfred Uni- 
versity, one at Milton College, one at Salem College, and two 
at the publishing house in Plainfield, N. J. This committee 
has also recently compiled a list of valuable works suitable for 
a minister's library, which will be published in The Sabbath 
Recorder and also in pamphlet form. 

FINANCE. 

The income for the publishing interests of the denomina- 
tion has been derived practically from the people themselves, 
through various channels. Some of it has been paid directly 
for what may be termed self-sustaining publications, but these 
have been few, and the income from the sale of other publica- 
tions has been meagre indeed. This has left the great bulk of 
the work to be sustained through funds secured in various ways 
by voluntary contributions. Just to indicate some of the 
methods employed there may be cited: collections through 
agents; contributions from churches and organizations; col- 
lections at anniversaries; contributions of individuals; consti- 
tution of life directors and life members ; and finally, bequests. 

The following have been such contributions for each year 
during existence of the society, 1843 ^^ 1902: 

1844 $ 135 14 

1845 359 45 

1846 435 78 

1847 361 91 

1848 41s 14 

1849 .• 224 86 

1850 667 94 

1851 433 61 

1852 623 09 

1853 . 707 27 

1854 154 54 

1855 210 03 

1856 187 80 

1857 224 22 

1858 58 50 

1859 5 1 76 

i860 22757 

1861 91 25 

1862 165 00 



TRACT SOCIETY. 45 1 

1863 41 38 

1864 68 98 

1865 273 99 

1866 178 07 

1867 1,081 36 

1868 1446 93 

1 869 1 ,820 53 

1870 2443 84 

1871 3,487 26 

1 872 , 1 2 444 67 

1873 8452 34 

1874 3.000 00 

1875 • • 2,100 00 

1876 5478 64 

1877 2,321 86 

1878 2,361 54 

1879 2,280 75 

1880 3.322 58 

1881 2,769 75 

1882 5.753 80 

1883 8,968 15 

1884 8,630 29 

1885 6,635 44 

1886 10,316 57 

1887 8,502 10 

1888 5. 172 23 

1889 8427 07 

1890 8,534 73 

1891 . . .' 7.712 55 

1892 8,040 78 

1893 7.713 89 

1894 8,555 88 

1895 8,143 64 

1896 5422 84 

1897 5.651 62 

185^ 6,523 56 

1899 7.200 08 

1900 7.629 94 

1901 7.102 79 

1902 6,357 46 

$218,104 74 

During the first period of the society's history, 1843 ^^ 
1872, the aggregate income from these sources for 28 years 
amounted to $16,577.20, an average of $592.04 per year. 

During the second period, 1872-1902 inclusive, the aggre- 



452 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS : 

gate for the 31 years was $201,527.54, an average of $6,500.89 
per year. 

The grand total for the 59 years is $218,104.74. 

Two years stand out as mountain peaks in financial ac- 
complishment, viz: 1872 and 1886. The former, 1872, show- 
ing $12,400 raised, was due to special efforts toward the estab- 
lishment of a Publishing House; the latter, 1886, showing 
$10,300 donated, was due to special efforts to liquidate the in- 
debtedness of the society. 

This compilation of receipts has not embodied the busi- 
ness receipts of the publishing house, but embraces only what 
might be termed income through benevolence. 

It seems only just to record here our gratitude to some of 
those, who being blessed with means, held them as stewards 
of him who gave the increase, as exemplified by such men as 
Dr. C. D. Potter, William C. Burdick, George H. Babcock, 
Charles Potter, Jr., Calvert B. Cottrell, J. Frank Hubbard, and 
many others. 

When compiling this grand total of nearly $220,000 abso- 
lutely given to this society for the prosecution of its work, and 
bear in mind, representing only one branch of our denomina- 
tional labors, I said for a small people, not burdened with 
wealth, this large sum at least represents many sacrifices of a 
persistent and consecrated people. 

EXECUTIVE BOARD. 

The business transactions of the society have been con- 
ducted by an Executive Board, composed of the officers and di- 
rectors, elected by the society at its annual sessions. Board 
meetings were held in New York City, Plainfield, N. J., and 
New Market, N. J., from 1843 ^o 1858; Alfred Center, N. Y., 
1858-1861 ; DeRuyter, N. Y., 1861 ; Leonardsville, N. Y., 1862- 
1881 ; Plainfield, N. J., 1881-1902. 

At present, the various branches of the work of the Board 
are under the supervision of the following standing commit- 
tees: Advisory, a consulting committee for the work of the 
Corresponding Secretary; Supervisory, having an oversight 
of the work of the publishing house; Distribution of Litera- 
ture, having in charge the dissemination of tracts and publica- 
tions; Auditing, for the examination and verification of ac- 
counts. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 453 

OFFICERS AND THEIR TERMS OF SERVICE. 

Presidents — ^Lucius Crandall, 1843-1846; Nathan V. Hull, 1846-1858; 
J. R. Irish, 1858-1859, 1860-1861, 1862-1863; Jonathan Allen, 1859-1860; 
Amos B. Spaulding, 1861-1862, 1863-1879; Julius M. Todd, 1879-1881 ; 
Isaac D. Titsworth, 1881-1883; Charles Potter, Jr., 1883-1899; J. Frank 
Hubbard, 1900-1902. 

Vice-Presidents — J. P. Labagh, 1843-1844; David Dunn, 1843- 185 1 ; 
Alfred Stillman, 1843-185 1 ; Geo. B. Utter, 1844-1848, 1856-1858; W. M. 
Fahnestock, 1846-1851 ; Paul Stillman, 1848-1852; Wm. M. Jones, 1850- 
i8sis O. P. Hull, 1850-1851; Geo. E. Tomlinson, 1851-1856, 1861-1863, 
1870-1876; Abram D. Titsworth, 1851-1857; Sherman S. Griswold, 1851- 
1857; Amos B. Spaulding, 1851-1857, 1862-1863; Jared Kenyon, 1851- 
1857; Varnum Hull, 1851-1857; Isaac D. Titsworth, 1852-1857, 1876- 
1880; B. W. Rogers, 1852-1853; W. M. Rogers, 1853-1860; James Bailey, 
1853-1854; Charles Maxson, 1854-1856; Nicholas Rogers, 1855-1856; J. 
CrofFut, 1855-1857; J. P. Hunting, 1855-1857; J. Whitford, 1855-1858; 
Nathan Rogers, 1855-1858; J. R. Irish, 1855-1858, 1859-1860, 1861-1862; 
P. L. Berry, 1856-1858; Nathan V. Hull, 1858-1860, 1870-1881; A. B. 
Burdick, 1857-1860; Jonathan Allen, 1858-1859, 1860-1861 ; John Max- 
son, 1860-1861 ; D. D. Wells, 1860-1861 ; Charles M. Lewis, 1860-1861 ; 
Stephen Burdick, 1861-1862; John Maxson, 1861-1863; Jason B. Wells, 
1862-1863; Julius M. Todd, 1863-1874, 1876-1879; Alexander Campbell, 
1863-1866; Geo. B. Clarke, 1863-1871, 1873- 1875; Milton W. St. John, 
1863-1865, 1874-1876; N. L. Burdick, 1865-1867; Ephraim Maxson, 1866- 
1870, 1871-1872; James Summerbell, 1867-1868; Chauncey V. Hibbard, 
1868-1870, 1879-1881; Asa B. Prentice, 1870-1902; Joshua Clarke, 1870- 
1878; Nathan Wardner, 1870-1873; Sands C. Maxson, 1871-1873; J. 
Delos Rogers, 1872-1873; A. Herbert Lewis, 1873-1881; Lester C. 
Rogers, 1874-1877, 1889-1900; A. C. Rogers, 1875-1877; Benj. F. Lang- 
worthy, 1876-1881; Anthony Hakes, 1876-1877; Carrol D. Potter, 1877- 
1878; 1880-1881; Charles Potter, Jr., 1881-1883; Benj. F. Langworthy, 
1881-1883; S. H. Babcock, 1881-1883; Lucius R. Swinney, 1881-1883; 
Isaac D. Titsworth, 1883-1895; Leander E. Livermore, 1883-1888, 1896- 
1902; Nathan Wardner, 1883-1890; Samuel D. Davis, 1886-1902; Ward- 
ner C. Titsworth, 1888-1889; Geo. H. Babcock, 1889-1894; E. B. Saurf- 
ders, 1900-1902; David E. Titsworth, 1894-1902; S. I. Lee, 1894-1898; 
J. Frank Hubbard, 1896-1900; Geo. M. Cottrell, 1898-1902. 

Treasurers — Thomas B. Stillman, 1843-1862; Ephraim Maxson, 
1862-1866; J. Bennett Clarke, 1866-1867, 1868-1870; Chauncey V. Hib- 
bard, 1867-1868; Milton W. St. John, 1870-1873; JuHus M. Todd, 1873- 
1874; Stephen Burdick, 1874-1881 ; J. Frank Hubbard, 1881-1896; J. 
Dennison Spicer, 1896-1901 ; Frank J. Hubbard, 1901-1902. 

Corresponding Secretaries — Paul Stillman, 1843-1848; George B. 
Utter, 1843-1844, 1848-1856; Halsey H. Baker, 1856-1858; David R. 
Stillman, 1858-1860; Jason B. Wells, 1860-1862; Stephen Burdick, 1862- 
1863; Ira J. Ordway, 1863-1870; J. Bennett Clarke, 1870- 188 1 ; Geo. H. 



454 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

Babcock, 1881-1887, 1888-1890; Leander E. Livermore, 1887-1888, 1890- 
1893; Frank E. Peterson, 1893-1896; A. Herbert Lewis, 1896-1902. 

Recording Secretaries — F. W. Stillman, 1843- 1847; Thos. B. Brown, 
1847-1854; Halsey H. Baker, 1854-1856; Isaac S. Dunn, 1856-1858; 
William A. Rogers, 1858-1860; Barton G. Stillman, i860- 1 861 ; Ransom 
T. Stillman, 1861-1862, 1874-1875; J. P. Hunting, 1862-1864; James 
Summerbell, 1864-1867; J. Bennett Clarke, 1867-1868; Lester C. Rogers, 
1868-1872; Stephen Burdick, 1872-1874; Edwin Whitford, 1875-1881; 
Leander E. Livermore, 1881-1883; Earl P. Saunders, 1883- 1884; Jos. M. 
Titsworth, 1884-1885; Judson G. Burdick, 1885-1886; David E. Tits- 
worth, 1886-1890; Arthur L. Titsworth, 1890-1902. $ 

Assistant Recording Secretary — William M. Stillman, 1892-1902. 

Life Directors— Dr. C, D. Potter, 1876-1893; Mrs. C. D. Potter, 
1876; Jas. Bailey, 1876-1892; Mrs. Jas. Bailey, 1876-1891 ; Jas. R. Irish, 
1846-1891; Jno. P. Stillman, 1857-1879; J. L. Huffman, 1879-1897; Mrs. 
H. D. Witter, (Mrs. J. L. Huffman) 1879; Chas. M. Lewis, 1879-1883; 
Mrs. Chas. M. Lewis, 1879-1881 ; A. B. Burdick, 1857-1887; A. E. Main, 
1880; S. E, Ayres Barney, 1882; W. D. Ayres, 1882; G. W. Gardner, 
1882; Mrs. G. W. Gardner, 1882; Eliza Gardner Kenyon, 1882; O. 
DeGrasse Green, 1882; A. J. Green, 1882-1901 ; Mrs. A. J. Green, 1882; 
W. D. Green, 1882; Asa B. Prentice, 1882. 

Directors — John Whitford, 1843- 1848; Solomon Carpenter, 1843- 
1846; William B. Maxson, 1843- 1858; Thos. B. Brown, 1843-1847; 
Clarke Rogers, 1843-1846, 1848-1851 ; Walter B. Gillette, 1846-1848; 
1850-1858: Varnum Hull, 1846-1847; E. G. Champlain, 1847-1848; Azor 
Estee, 1848-1850; Lucius Crandall, 1848-1858; John D. Titsworth, 1850- 
1854; David Dunn, 1851-1858; Eliphalet Lyon, 1856-1858; Darwin E. 
Maxson, 1858-1861 ; Elisha Potter, 1858-1860 ; William C. Kenyon, 
1858-1860; T. E. Babcock, 1858-1861 ; Sherman S. Griswold, 1858-1860; 
Azra Muncey, 1860-1861 ; J. C. Crandall, 1860-1863; Julius M. Todd, 
1861-1863, 1874- 1876, 1881-1902; J. P. Hunting, 1861-1862; R. W. Brown, 
1861-1863; Ransom T. Stillman, 1862-1874, 1875-1881 ; John A. Lang- 
worthy, 1862-1863; Alonzo W. Crandall, 1863-1864; Chauncey V. Hib- 
bard, 1863-1867, 1870-1879; Ezra Coon, 1863-1870; J. T. Rogers, 1863- 
1864; W. M. Palmiter, 1863-1864; Roswell P. Dowse, 1864-1881 ; Asa 
M. West, 1864-1867; C. M. WTiitford, 1867-1877; E. B. Clarke, 1867- 
1869; Milton W. St. John, 1869-1870; Leroy H. Maxson, 1869-1881 ; 
Isaac D. Titsworth, 1870-1876; Charles Maxson, 1870-1877; Alanson C. 
Potter, 1870-1877, 1878-1881; Benj. F. Langworthy, 1870-1876; Ezra 
Goodrich, 1870-1872; Lester C. Rogers, 1872-1873; J. B. Whitford, 1873- 
1877; Anthony Hakes, 1873-1876; Amos L. Clarke, 1876-1877, 1878- 
1879; J. Delos Rogers, 1876-1877, 1878- 1881 ; Amos Stillman, 1876-1877; 
Silas Bailey, 1877-1880 ; Sands B. Maxson, 1877-1881 ; A. L. Clarke, 
1879-1881; Joshua Clarke, 1879-1895; J. A. Crandall, 1879-1881 ; Wil- 
liam J. Whitford, 1880-1881 ; J. G. White, 1880-1881 ; A. C. Rogers, 
1 880- 188 1 ; Stephen Babcock, 1881-1886, 1887-1900; A. Herbert Lewis, 
1881-1896; J. Dennison Spicer, 1881-1895, 1901-1902; Thos. H. Tom- 



TRACT SOCIETY. 455 

linson, 1881-1888; J. Bennett Clarke, 1881-1902; Edwin Whitford, 1881- 
1891 ; B. F. Rogers, 1881-1883; Edgar R. Greene, 1881-1902; J. J. White, 
1881-1883; Dr. C. D. Potter, 1882- 1893; Henry V. Dunham, 1882-1902; 
Wm. C. Burdick, 1883-1902; Jos. M. Titsworth, 1883-1884, 1885-1902; 
Jos. A. Hubbard, 1883-1902; George B. Carpenter, 1883-1885, 1890-1902; 
Jonathan Maxson, 1883-1885; Judson G. Burdick, 1884-1885; 1886-1902; 
Wm. C. Daland, 1885-1902; Rudolph M. Titsworth, 1885-1892; Stephen 
Burdick, 1886-1902; Henry D. Babcock, 1887-1902; Abel S. Titsworth, 
1887-1892; Elias R. Pope, 1888-1896; F. Adelbert Dunham, 1888-1892; 
Geo. E. Stillman, 1888-1900; Leander E. Livermore, 1888-1896; Frank 
S. Wells, 1889-1902; Arthur L. Titsworth, 1889-1890; Ira L. Cottrell, 
1889-1902; Herman D. Clarke, 1889-1902; Oscar U. Whitford, 1889- 
1902; Edwin H. Lewis, 1889-1902; Edwin B. Shaw, 1889-1902; David 
E. Titsworth, 1890-1894; Corliss F. Randolph, 1890-1902; Charles C. 
Chipman, 1891-1902; Henry M. Maxson, 1892-1902; Edgar F. Cottrell, 
1893-1902; George H. Utter, 1893-1902; Lester C.'Randolph, 1893-1902; 
Geo. W. Lewis, 1893-1902; Ira J. Ordway, 1894-1902; Theo. L. Gardiner, 
1895-1902; Frank L. Greene, 1895-1902; Alfred A. Titsworth, 1895- 
i902;Frank E. Peterson, 1896-1902; Wm. C. Hubbard, 1896-1902; Geo. 
B. Titsworth, 1896-1901 ; Geo. B. Shaw, 1897-1902; Alex. W. Vars, 
1897-1902; Uberto S. Griffen, 1897-1902; Dr. Geo. W. Post, 1898-1902; 
Martin Sindall, 1899-1902; Sherman E. Ayers, 1899-1902; Frank J. Hub- 
bard, 1900-1901 ; Orra S. Rogers, 1900-1902; Wm. H. Crandall, 1900- 
1902; Mrs. Geo. H. Babcock, 1901-1902; Else F. Randolph, 1901-1902. 

From this record of the officers of the society, with their 
terms of service, the long and faithful service of the following, 
are certainly worthy of special mention : 

PRESIDENTS. 

Nathan V. Hull 12 years 

Amos B. Spaulding 17 

Chas. Potter, Jr 16 



it 



VICE-PRESIDENTS. 

Nathan V. Hull 13 years 

Julius M. Todd 14 

Geo. B. Clarke 10 

Asa B. Prentice .* 32 

Lester C. Rogers 14 

Isaac D. Titsworth 12 " 

Leander E. Livermore 11 

Samuel D. Davis 16 



<< 
« 



(< 



<< 



TREASURERS. 

Thos. B. Stillman 19 years 

J. Frank Hubbard 15 " 

CORRESPONDING SECRETARIES. 

Geo. B. Utter 9 years 

J. Bennett Clarke ..11 

Geo. H. Babcock 8 



<i 



456 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

RECORDING SECRETARIES. 

Thos. B. Brown 7 years 

Edwin Whitford 6 " 

Arthur L. Titsworth 12 " 

SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST PUBLICATIONS. 

Our publications have embraced two general classes: 

1. Those designed to be financially self-sustaining. 

2. Those supported largely by contributions from the 
people of the denomination. 

The principal publications intended to be self-supporting 
have been The Sabbath Recorder, The Helping Hand, Lesson 
Leaves, and The Sabbath Visitor. 

The following have been the main denominational publi- 
cations since 1872: 

The Sabbath Recorder the entire time, with a Sabbath Re- 
form edition from 1898 to December, 1901. 

The Sabbath School Journal, 1874. 

The Bible Scholar, 1877-79. 

The Outlook (under various titles), 1882-97. 

De Boodschappcr (by assistance) since 1882. 

Our Sabbath Visitor, 1882-1902. 

The Sabbath Visitor, since February) 1902. 

The Sabbath Chronicle, 1883. 

The Missionary Reporter, 1883-85. 

Seventh-day Baptist Quarterly, 1884. 

Biblical Teachings Concerning the Sabbath and the Sun- 
day, 1884 and 1888. 

The Light of Home, 1885-90. 

Evan ge Hi Harold, 1885-90. 

Evangelii Budbarare, 1890-1902. 

The Helping Hand, 1885-1902. 

A Critical History of the Sabbath and the Sunday, 1886. 

Seventh-day Baptist Handbook, 1887. 

Sabbath Commentary, 1888. 

The Sabbath Outpost, 1888. 

A Critical History of Sunday Legislation, 1888 and 1891. 

Eduth le Israel, 1888-90. 

Peculiar People, 1889-98. 

Proceedings of the Seventh-day Baptist Council, 1890. 

Jubilee Papers, 1892. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 457 

Sabbath Reform Library, 1892. 
Paganism Surviving in Christianity, 1892. 
The Catholicization of Protestantism on the Sabbath Ques- 
tion, or Sunday Observance Non-Protestant, 1897. 
Studies in Sabbath Reform, 1898. 
STvift Decadence of Sunday — What Next? 1899. 
Letters to Young Preachers and Their Hearers, 1900. 
The Sabbath of Christ, 1902, and 
Millions of pages of tracts. 

The following names represent those who have contributed 
most largely to our publications, either as editors or authors, 
during the century whose close we are now celebrating: 

William B. Maxson, Eli S. Bailey, Henry Clarke, John Maxson, 
Joel Green, Alexander Campbell, James Bailey, William M. Jones, Geo. 
B. Utter, Lucius Crandall, Walter B. Gillette, Thos. B. Brown, Joseph 
W. Morton, Halsey H. Baker, Stephen Burdick, J. E. N. Backus, 
Nathan Wardner, Nathan V. Hull, Oliver D. Sherman, Lewis A. 
Plats, Lucius R. Swinney, Asa B. Prentice, Elston M. Dunn, Arthur E. 
Main, Darwin E. Maxson, E. S. Bliss, Abram H. Lewis, Correl D. 
Potter, Frank E. Peterson,Oscar U. Whitford, G. Velthuysen, Pres. 
Wm. C. Whitford, William C. Daland, Ch. Th. Lucky, Prof. Wm. C. 
Whitford, Leander E. Livermore, Wardner C. Titsworth, Lester C. 
Randolph, Herman D. Clarke, J. F. Shaw. 

In the compilation of the catalogue of publications which 
forms a part of this historical record, very valuable help was 
found in Rev. Stephen Burdick's most excellent article on 
"Our Publications" in the Jubilee Papers, published in 1892, 
the catalogue being so accurate and complete up to that date, 
that much of it has been incorporated in full in this history, 
for which the author of this paper desires to make grateful 
acknowledgment. Addenda have been embodied from 1892 
to 1902. The catalogue of all Seventh-day Baptist publica- 
tions compiled in connection with this history, proved too 
bulky for embodiment in this volume, but it may be issued at 
some future time as a separate publication. 

IN CONCLUSION. 

It is not perhaps within the province of this historical pa- 
per to draw the lessons we should learn from this record, as 
they have suggested themselves to us all the way along, but 
before concluding, it does seem that the occasion and the hour 



4S8 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

demand a closing word concerning the crowning work of this 
society on behalf of the cause, and the denomination. 

The work of the American Sabbath Tract Society in- 
volves the fundamental reason for our denominational exist- 
ence. The word of God is its sole foundation. The propaga- 
tion of the Sabbath holds the next place to its observance. In 
making the truth known outside ourselves, no force has been 
more potent than the publications of this society. 

The influence of the Outlook and its successors no man 
can measure. The Outlook had its power in its intensity and 
its unity. Its influence on the public mind grew steadily from 
the first. As a means of agitation and enlightenment, it w.as 
by far the most efficient agency in our denominational history. 
Brief publications as tracts, newspapers, magazine articles, 
etc., could not enter upon such research, hence our own litera- 
ture of other years had not attempted a complete and minute 
survey of the field. The Outlook accomplished a most care- 
ful and detailed examination of Egyptian, Asiatic, Babylonian, 
Assyrian, and early church history, in order to find the source 
of the sun worship cult ; the origin of the week ; the existence 
of the Sabbath outside the line of Hebrew history, and before 
the time of Moses. Few writers on the Sabbath question had 
attempted any careful survey of these fields, and in those por- 
tions which had been partially surveyed, many ultimate facts 
were still unknown, or were sadly perverted. Under such cir- 
cumstances the pages of the Outlook cost an amount of patient, 
careful and persistent labor, which those unacquainted with 
such work can scarcely appreciate. The Outlook and its suc- 
cessors never took facts or theories at second hand. They were 
traced to the fountain head, and all statements were verified 
by the original authorities. This work is worth to this de- 
nomination very many times its cost, as a permanent Sabbath 
literature ; a literature that is an acknowledged authority with- 
in and without our own ranks, among scholars engaged in 
historical research. Dr. C. D. Potter, one of the editors, who 
worked earnestly and wielded so trenchant a pen, has gone to 
the reward of his faithful labors, but his co-laborer. Dr. A. H. 
Lewis, the honored Corresponding Secretary of this society, is 
still left to the work, and is rearing in it his own immortal 
monument. 



TRACT SOCIETY. 459 

The presentation of our cause by Dr. Lewis before a com- 
mittee of the Senate of the United States ; before State Legis- 
latures; before Sabbath unions; before a host of assembled 
Jews ; before the Parliament of Religions at Chicago ; and be- 
fore our own people, as circumstances would permit, have been 
opportunities improved and fruitful of great good, but the Out- 
look; the Outlook and Sabbath Quarterly; the Sabbath Out- 
look; the Evangel and Sabbath Outlook; the Light of Home; 
and the Sabbath of Christ, coupled with Biblical Teachings 
and Critical Histories, have secured for this denomination and 
the truth that is the sole cause of its individual existence, a re- 
pute for being founded on the immutable law of God, that we 
believe could not have been accomplished in any other way in 
so brief a period. If this work and the work now in hand de- 
prive some of us of the magnetic influence of personal con- 
tact and social interview with the author, let us make the sac- 
rifice willingly, that a much more far-reaching and enduring 
work may be accomplished. 

The years have fallen behind, in which Gospel tent work, 
itinerant lecturing, and spasmodic revival efforts, were main- 
ly employed to sway the people. The present era is essentially 
that of the printed page and a reading public, and it behooves 
this society to conserve every remaining life energy of its 
authors and historians, that not one stroke of the slogan pens 
be lost to this people, ere they be laid down forever. 

Probably there never was a period when there was so 
little confidence in the claims of the first day of the week to 
religious regard, as at present. Everywhere clergymen and 
others are feeling after arguments to sustain the crumbling 
institution of Sunday. Let us again shower upon them the 
''thunders of Sinai," and give them food for thought that shall 
lead to conviction, as was done for many years. We have 
abundant evidence that our publications have guided a host of 
people to a knowledge of God's demands, and to a loving obe- 
dience to His law ; thousands of laymen and a hundred minis- 
ters. Other methods of Sabbath Reform work pale before 
this, the paramount duty of the hour. Then let us rally with 
a mighty determination to the support of the work of this so- 
ciety, so that soon the Sabbath of Christ and kindred publi- 
cations to follow it, may not only restore to us the prestige at- 



460 SEVENTH-DAY BAI>TISTS: 

tained through the Outlook, but lead us on and out to (bt 
mightier conquests. The work and the harvest are not for 
our time alone, but as well for the succeeding centuries, and 
for those who shall make history in them. Is is true that we 
have no destiny because of our insignificance? The broaden- 
ing and complexity of the field should not narrow our simple 
conception of duty, for the reward is not according to the 
magnitude of the work, nor the number of workers, but the 
faithfulness with which the work is performed. If we have 
been too spasmodic in effort, and too impatient of results, dis- 
couragement will not lead to conquest, but emphasizing our 
hopes; glorifying our encouragements; with concentration of 
power ; unity of effort, and consecration of means ; in the spirit 
of the Master, with line upon line and precept upon precept, 
let us sow ! sow ! sow ! and pound ! pound ! pound ! until the tot- 
tering strongholds of error shall fall in ruins. "Truth crushed 
to earth shall rise again, for the eternal years of God are hers." 



SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST 
EDUCATION SOCIETY. 



PROFESSOR EDWARD MULFORD TOMLINSON. 

LITT. D.. LL, D. 

See Biographical Sketches, p. 1361. 



THE SEVENTH-DAY BAPTIST EDUCA 

TION SOCIETY. 



Rev. W. L. Burdick. 



PIONEER EDUCATION SOCIETIES. 

The first education societies formed by Seventh-day Bap- 
tists so far as recorded, were organized in compliance with the 
following resolution adopted by Conference in 1834: 

"Resolved, That the Conference recommend the forma- 
tion of education societies in the several religious societies In 
the connection, for the purpose of raising funds to assist in the 
education of young men who give evidence of a call to the 
ministry." 

In accordance with this resolution societies were formed 
at Shiloh and Piscataway, N. J. ; Waterford, Conn. ; Westerly, 
R. I.; Independence and Friendship, N. Y., and perhaps else- 
where. These societies became auxiliary to a general educa- 
tion society formed at Westerly, R. I., September 14, 1835, 
called the American Seventh-day Baptist Education Society. 
This society was evidently organized to centralize the efforts 
of the societies formed by the churches. The object as set 
forth in Article 2 of its constitution was as follows: "The 
object of the society shall be to assist young men of the 
Seventh-day connection who shall give evidence of being call- 



464 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

ed to the ministry, in obtaining a suitable education for that 
important work." 

Eli S. Bailey was chosen President, Lucius Crandall Re- 
cording Secretary and John Bright Corresponding Secretary. 
A bound copy of the manuscript minutes of this society for its 
first two years has been placed in the library of Alfred Uni- 
versity. The minutes of the annual meetings, for two years 
longer, 1837 and 1838, are printed in connection with the Con- 
ference minutes for those years and then the society drops out 
of history. 

Solomon Carpenter, B. C. Church, L. D. Ayers and Wil- 
liam C. Kenyon were aided by this society. From time to 
time education committees were appointed by the General Con- 
ference with a view to advancing, in various ways, our educa- 
tional interests. In 1849, the Conference passed a resolution 
requesting "the different Associations of this denomination to 
appoint committees of five, at their next anniversaries, to act 
in concert, in making inquiries relative to the most feasible 
location for a college and theological seminary and report the 
result of these inquiries to the next session of the Conference." 
At the same time it passed this resolution : 

''Resolved, That the Conference appoint an educational 
committee, whose business shall be to labor to secure funds 
for educational purposes, hold annual sessions and take such 
other measures for the establishment of a college and theologi- 
cal seminary, as they may deem proper, with the exception of 
locating the institution." 

In accordance with these resolutions the committee ap- 
pointed by Conference, and those appointed by the Association, 
held a convention in connection with the anniversaries held in 
Alfred, in 1850, organized a society, adopted a constitution, 
and elected officers. This society met during the anniversaries 
of the benevolent societies in 1851. It had not been able to se- 
cure a quorum during the year, but had raised a little money. 
It re-elected the previous officers. Upon the organization of 
the present society in 1855 this society was disbanded. 

These movements were organized efforts for the accom- 
plishment of the end for which the present society was formed, 
(29) 



EDUCATION SOCIETY. 465 

namely, the promotion of education among Seventh-day Bap- 
tists. 

ORGANIZATION OF THE PRESENT SOCIETY. 

The Conference in 1852, held at Plainfield, N. J., ap- 
pointed T. B. Stillman, W. B. Maxson, W. C. Kenyon, J. H. 
Cochran, J. R. Irish, Lucius Crandall, J. Allen, G. B. Utter 
and O. U. Hull, an Education Committee, with instructions to 
"take such measures as it may deem proper in regard to our 
educational interests." At this time in our history the Gen- 
01 al Conference met only triennially, but the committee dur- 
ing the annual meeting of the benevolent societies, held at 
Adams Centre, N. Y., October, 1853, called a public meeting 
for consultation, at which the committee was recommended 
to make investigations regarding the best location for a liter- 
ary and theological institution. 

Again in 1854 the committee held several sessions during 
the anniversary of the Benevolent Society at Little Genesee, 
N. Y. It adopted a constitution as a basis for a new society, 
and passed the following resolution : 

"Resolved, That we appoint a general agent, whose duty 
it shall be to visit the entire denomination, and secure sub- 
scriptions in accordance with the provisions of the constitution 
and that we also appoint an assistant agent in each association 
to assist the general agent as he may require." 

J. Allen was appointed general agent, J. R. Irish alternate ; 
A. B. Burdick assistant agent for Eastern Association, W. B. 
Maxson for Central, N. V. Hull for Western, C. P. Hull for 
Northwestern, and Simeon Babcock for Ohio Association. 

At the same time this committee passed this resolution: 

'^Resolved, That we request the friends of the enterprise, 
either individually or by church action, as they may deem 
proper, to send to the secretary of the committee, before the 
next Conference, their choice for the location of the institu- 
tion." 

In the report of J. Allen, the general agent, made to the 
committee next year, we find the following: 

'*I entered upon the duties of the agency on the fourth of 
last December, commencing in the Eastern Association. 



466 SEVENTH-DAY BAPTISTS: 

"The form of subscription adopted was as follows: 
"We, the undersigned, hereby subscribe the sums set op- 
posite our names towards the permanent fund of the Seventh- 
day Baptist Education Society, provided one hundred thousand 
dollars shall be subscribed, and a like ratio for whatever sum 
less than that amount is subscribed. The subscription thus 
made shall be subject to the conditions and provisions of