Amos S. Hayden's 1875 History of the Disciples #4

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Amos S. Hayden
(1813-1880)
History of the Disciples...
(Cincinnati: Chase & Hall, 1875)

Part 4 of 4 Parts

1: i-115 | 2: 116-236 | 3: 237-368 | 4: 369-476

Contents

Ch. XVIII, p. 369 Ch. XIX, p. 387

Ch. XX, p. 408 Ch. XXI, p. 424

Ch. XXII, p. 438 Ch. XXIII, p. 454

Ch. XXIV, p. 465 Index, p. 473

Transcriber's Comments

Wm. Baxter's Life of Walter Scott | The Millennial Harbinger | The Evangelist

Go back to: Page 368

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 369

CHAPTER XVIII.

The gospel in Ravenna, in Aurora and Stowe, Franklin and Hudson.

THE CHURCH OF CHRIST IN RAVENNA.

THIS is one of the most stable of the churches. From its establishment, early in May, 1830, to the present time, a period of over forty-five years, it has never once ceased to meet on the blessed Lord's day, except as they agreed to omit in favor of the regular yearly meeting.

The conversion and baptism of Ebenezer Williams, the Restorationist minister, living in Ravenna, by Aylett Raines, has already been mentioned. From this event the work opened, as Bro. Williams immediately began to preach the gospel which he now understood, and most ardently loved. His preaching being mostly abroad, no stand was taken for the apostolic gospel in Ravenna. In the winter of 1830 Marcus Bosworth sent an appointment to the Clement district, three miles north-west of the town of Ravenna. His audience was small, but it yielded the fruit of one conversion, a brother Jonathan Stewart. The 12th of March, William Hayden came. Seven souls turned to the Lord. From this time the tide of interest swelled. The subject of the new preaching was in every one's mouth. No lack of hearers now, and there were converts at every appointment.

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The seeds of a pernicious infidelity had been early sown in Ravenna. They were bearing their bitter and baleful fruits in a reckless indifference to all sacred things, and the revolt of the soul from all religious obligations. Hayden was the man for such a people. Well prepared on the evidences of the Bible, and very expert in exposing the subtle and sophistical refuges of the unbelieving heart, his sermons were heard with great satisfaction and profit. Early in May, he collected the disciples together, numbering twenty-six, and formally set them apart as a church of Jesus Christ. Bro. Sturdevant, a licensed preacher of the Baptist order, uniting, the new church was placed under his charge. It continued to prosper, gathering additions almost every time a preacher came in among them. Bros. Ryder, Atwater, Green, and the Deerfield brethren came, like Apollos and Timothy, to comfort their hearts and confirm their faith; but Hayden and Bosworth were their chief reliance. In the absence of a preacher, the members assumed the duties of edification, and broke the loaf of blessing among themselves; a practice in which the disciples on the Western Reserve were correctly taught in the beginning. In the summer of 1830, Scott delivered a discourse in the Methodist church, in the village, to a full and delighted audience. Fisher, of Kentucky, was with him. It was here he compared the creed to a silver quarter-dollar, which, though small, may be held so close to the eye that the sun can not be seen: Thus the creed, though a little thing, may hide the Bible from sight.

In June, 1831, Mr. Campbell came to the Western Reserve. Mormonism had recently burst forth, and

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 371

the emissaries of that crude and strange delusion were every-where active in calling victims into the snare. On his way he made Ravenna a point for a few addresses. William Hayden, with whom he had communicated in regard to his trip, obtained, with the assistance of the brethren, and fitted up with seats a grove in the environs of the town. A vast crowd of people came to hear the gifted advocate and defender of the Bible. The bold and prattling infidelity, rampant in Ravenna, found no quarter at his hands. Like a pestiferous atmosphere, it was poisoning and demoralizing all piety, all truth, all moral health, and was destructive to all social order and happiness. Mr. Campbell was at home in this department of Christian labor. He surveyed his audience, and directing well the range of his artillery, within two hours and a half the flotilla of their skeptical crafts was shattered and sunken. "Heavens! what an eye he has!" said one of the master men to F. Williams; "he scorches wherever he looks!"

Court was in session. The presiding judge sent a note of invitation to Mr. Campbell to deliver a discourse in the court room--the court, under resolution adjourning for that purpose. He accepted the invitation, and on opening the service, with full and ringing emphasis, he read the hymn:

"I'm not ashamed to own my Lord,
Nor to defend his cause!
Maintain the honor of his word,
The glory of his cross!" His masterly and convincing argument for the truth of the Bible, founded on prophecy, was then delivered in his own best style. Mr. John Harmon was then

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publishing, in Ravenna, a little paper, the "Ohio Watchman," an infidel sheet of some pretensions. The editor was in the assembly. In the sermon, Mr. Campbell, having made a climax in his argument, paused on it, remarking: "He who can not see this, has closed his ears and shut his eyes, and is blind--as blind" -- gathering force by delay, "as blind as the 'Ohio Watchman!'" At the dinner table, at the hotel, where the judge and several of the lawyers were dining, the argument of Mr. Campbell was the topic of conversation. One of the young lawyers remarked: "I could not see the point of Mr. Campbell's argument to-day!" "Very likely," replied the judge; "arguments are always obscure to persons who can not understand them!"

Frederick Williams, long a prominent citizen of the county, an elder and useful preacher, was born in Hampshire County, Mass., March 2, 1799. He came to Ravenna, July 2, 1815. On the 17th of September, 1828, he married Miss Marcia Underwood, an alliance of uninterrupted happiness to the present time. His mind had been imbued with Winchesterian Universalism, but on hearing the gospel as proclaimed by the apostles, his candid heart laid hold of it. In the year 1833, he and his wife were baptized in Sandy Lake by Amos Allerton.

Bro. Charles Judd, a man of good sense, an excellent heart and devout mind, entered the kingdom about the same time. The accession of these two men added much weight to the cause. Father Sturdevant had been the chief presiding officer. These brethren were soon called to the bishop's chair, in which position, they co-operated by counsel and by

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 373

public discourse to maintain the church for a whole generation. Few churches have been blessed with so judicious and efficient elders. Bro. Judd, full of honor and of hope, went to await his crown, November 17, 1864, and was laid beside his foster son, the beloved and lamented Sterling McBride. Bro. Williams tarries yet a little longer.

The Congregation continued to meet in the Clemment district about ten years, when they moved into the village. They built their house in 1844. Bro. A. B. Green conducted the dedicatory exercises in December, from which time they have not only held the ground but gained in numbers, wisdom, and social power.

Bro. John T. Smith was employed, Bro. Charles McDougal also. Bro. C. C. Foot served four years. He was followed by Bro. A. B. Green -- five years. Bro. Lowe and Bro. Amzi Atwater came afterward. The congregation now flourishes under the administration of Bro. George Darsie.

The first yearly meeting held in Ravenna was in June, 1838. It was held in a large barn fitted up for the purpose. The preachers in attendance were Hubbard, Marcus Bosworth, William Hayden; Moss, Allerton, J. W. Lanphear, A. B. Green, Robison, Moody, A. P. Jones and A. S. Hayden.

Ravenna church has always hospitably entertained the brethren, and numerous conventions have, from time to time, found there a welcome.

Present overseers: George Darsie, Albert Underwood, Samuel J. Gross. Deacons: John Mahard, R. B. Johnson, Whiting Carter, P. P. Dawley, E. C. Belding, Alex. Clements. Members: 319.

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Among the early fallen is Bro. S. McBride, reared in this church, the foster son of Bro. and Sister Judd. His serious and contemplative character in youth gave promise of a devout and earnest manhood. After progressing far in his studies in Hiram, he was graduated in Bethany, and immediately devoted himself to preaching. In many places, especially in Salem and New Philadelphia, he gained for himself the permanent esteem of the people for his amiable manners and efficient services in the gospel. He died of a fever while young. Intelligence of his death was received while the preachers' meeting was in session in Newburg, October 4, 1864. "A committee was appointed to report resolutions expressive of the merited respect we owe to the memory of our dear Bro. Sterling McBride, just this day laid in the grave:

"Whereas, We have learned with great sorrow of the unexpected death, only day before yesterday, of our beloved fellow-laborer in the gospel, Bro. Sterling McBride; therefore,

"Resolved, That we fully appreciate the great loss we have sustained in the sudden demise of that brother, of gentle and amiable spirit, a highly appreciated preacher of the gospel. With great assiduity he struggled under pecuniary embarrassments till he gained a college diploma, and with it a clear and sound education. Of modest manners, an earnest and confiding heart, firm and decided in character, he possessed a high and honorable friendship, and a well regulated Christian character. As a preacher he already controlled a wide influence. We feel that the churches in Ohio have suffered a great loss in the fading from our sky of a bright star; and we in this meeting

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also, as he was one of the most diligent members of this association.

"Resolved, That we have a deep sense of the loss sustained by his afflicted wife and children, in the early demise of her devoted husband and their affectionate father.

F. M. GREEN, Sec.

A. S. HAYDEN,
F. H. HAWLEY, } Com.
L. COOLEY,

THE CHURCH IN AURORA.

This church was established October 17, 1830, by the indefatigable William Hayden. He laid his plan and pursued it. He visited the community at regular intervals, and by much private conversation, as well as by his cogent and instructive discourses, he laid the foundation of a permanent work in the solid instruction of the people. No man has less confidence in mere revival processes. No one ever had more in the illumination of the understanding as the method of reaching the heart and persuading the will. Discarding the arts of revivalism, he was strong in reasons for his statements, and often attained a high degree of argumentative eloquence in his appeals. To such a nature, a measure of opposition was necessary to awaken his reserve forces and to marshal them in the best position and order. This stimulus was not wanting in Aurora. No wonder, then, that the city of the great King was built up there on granite, and that it has remained to this day. The earlier converts included some of the most sensible, shrewd, and intelligent citizens of the community. Upon the organization of this congregation, they had such men as Gamaliel Kent, Russell G. McCarty and Samuel Russell, to whom, as elders,

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they committed the management of their affairs. For four years the church met in the south school-house, by Eli Cannon's; after this they moved the meetings to the center of the township.

Bro. Marcus Bosworth was early on the ground. Happy the people who heard the weeping Bosworth. He was brimful of tenderness. "Little children, let us love one another, for love is of God;" came as naturally from him as from the lips of the beloved disciple. He and Hayden were greatly attached, and they were counterpointed in a most admirable manner to be co-workers in the gospel. Soon after the church got under way the serene and stately Bentley came among them, adding the weight of piety, experience, and great personal dignity, elements both needful and rare, to enforce and carry on the work of reform.

The following were the original members: Isaac H. Streator and his wife Clarina Streator; their children Charity, Cyrus and Marius Streator; Alonzo Root and his wife; Whitney Smith and his wife; Simon and Sally Norton; Polly Ruggles, Mary Lake, Gamaliel H. Kent and his wife; Russell G. McCarty and his wife; Samuel Russell, Joel Giles, and Sophronia Stanton. In a short time, both Henry and Alanson Baldwin, with their wives, came in. For many years they were leading men, and their bountiful hospitality was an efficient means of sustaining the cause. Bro. Henry Baldwin, for many years one of the overseers, moved twenty years ago to Niles, where he fell peacefully asleep June, 1875, aged 82 years.

The next year, June, 1831, following the outburst

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of Mormonism, there was held a grove meeting in Aurora, east of the center. Mr. Campbell was present, as were likewise many of the preachers. Hon. A. G. Riddle, in his recent work, entitled: "The Portrait: a Romance of the Cuyahoga Valley,"a has written so truthfully concerning it that I transfer his description to my page:

"The woods were full of horses and carriages, and the hundreds already there were rapidly swelled to many thousands; all of one race--the Yankee; all of one calling, or nearly--the farmer; hardy, shrewd, sunburned, cool, thoughtful and intelligent. The disciples were, from the first, emancipated from the Puritan slavery of the Sabbath; and, although grave, thoughtful and serious, as they were on this Sunday morning, it was from the gravity and seriousness of the occasion, and little from the day itself--an assemblage that Paul would have been glad to preach to.

"At the hour of eleven., Mr. Campbell and his party took their places on the stand, and after a short, simple, preliminary service, conducted by another, he came forward to the front. He was then about forty years old, above the average height, of singular dignity of form, and simple grace of manner. His was a splendid head, borne well back, with a bold, strong forehead, from which his fine hair was turned back; a strong, full, expressive eye, aquiline nose, fine mouth, and prominent chin. He was a perfect master of himself, a perfect master of his theme, and, from the moment he stood in its presence, a perfect master of his immense audience.

"At a glance he took the measure and level of the average mind before him -- a Scotchman's estimate of the Yankee -- and began at that level; and as he rose from it, he took the assembled host with him. In nothing was he like Rigdon; calm, clear, strong, logical, yet perfectly simple.

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Men felt themselves lifted and carried, and wondered at the ease and apparent want of effort with which it was done.

"Nothing could be more transparent than his statement of his subject; nothing franker than his admission of its difficulties; nothing more direct than his enumeration of the means he must employ, and the conclusions he must reach. With great intellectual resources, and great acquisitions, athlete and gladiator as he was, he was a logician by instinct and habit of mind, and took a pleasure in magnifying, to their utmost, the difficulties of his positions, so that when the latter were finally maintained, the mind was satisfied with the result. His language was copious, his style nervous, and the characteristic of his mind was direct, manly, sustained vigor; and under its play he evolved a warmth which kindled to the fervor of sustained eloquence, and which, in the judgment of many, is the only true eloquence. After nearly two hours, his natural and logical conclusion was the old pentecostal mandate of Simon Peter, and a strong, manly and tender call of men to obedience. There was no appeal to passion, no effort at pathos, no figures or rhetoric, but a warm, kindling, heated, glowing, manly argument, silencing the will, captivating the judgment, and satisfying the reason; and the cold, shrewd, thinking, calculating Yankee liked it.

"As the preacher closed and stood for a response, no answering movement came from any part of the crowd. Men were running it over, and thinking. Unhesitatingly the orator stepped down from the platform upon the ground, and moving forward in the little open space, began in a more fervid and impassioned strain. He caught the mind at the highest point of its attainment, and grasping it, shook it with a half indignation at its calculating hesitation, and carrying it with a mighty sweep to a still higher level, seemed to pour around it a diviner and more radiant light; then, with a little tremor in his voice, he implored

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it to hesitate no longer. When he closed, low murmurs broke and ran through the awed crowd; men and women from all parts of the vast assemblage, with streaming eyes, came forward; young men who had climbed into the small trees from curiosity, came down from conviction, and went forward to baptism; and the brothers and sisters set up a glad hymn, sang with tremulous voices, clasping hands amid happy tears.

"Thus, in that far off time, in the maple woods, under the June sun, the gospel was preached and received."

For the next three years there was a steady increase. In June, 1834, the yearly meeting was in Aurora. It was one of much historic importance; a large number of preachers attended it, many of whom, before this, were nearly strangers. Hymns and tunes, known by leaders, were caught and transfused throughout the mass of eager disciples, and carried home to animate the rising churches every-where. Chauncey Forward, from Somerset, Pa., was present as the chief speaker. Aurora was his home in his youth. He had attained a distinguished position at the bar and in Congress; but having confessed the Lord Jesus, he renounced the professions of law and the rulership of men, and he appeared on this occasion among the scenes of early years; to plead the cause of primitive Christianity. His abilities as a reasoner and eloquence in appeal, commanded the profound attention of large audiences daily. There were thirty-one converts, some of whom afterward became public advocates of the gospel.

In the year 1837, under the charge of Henry and Alanson Baldwin and A. V. Jewett, as building committee, the meeting-house was erected, and dedicated by John Henry. The next year, brethren Clapp and

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Green held a meeting in it, with thirty conversions. In 1855 it was burned. A better one was immediately erected at a cost of $1500, and dedicated by A. S. Hayden. In 1843, a great meeting was conducted by Bros. J. H. Jones and John Henry, which brought in thirty additions. The same year, M. L. Wilcox came and preached for two years with great acceptance.

There were churches formed in Streetsborough and in Bainbridge in the year 1845, which drew members from this church and reduced its strength. These societies, after flourishing a number of years, have both become extinct; but the parent church, though weakened, has never failed to keep the light burning. "From first to last the church has had as teachers, William Hayden, M. Bosworth, A. S. Hayden, A. Bentley, J. J. Moss, John Henry, Charles McDougall, J. T. Smith, T. Munnell, J. Hartzel, A. Allerton, A. B. Green, W. Collins, B. F. Perky, M. L. Wilcox, N. Dunshee, T. J. Newcomb, H. W. Everest, J. A. Garfield, C. P. Bowler, E. Doolittle, S. A. Griffin, B. A. Hinsdale, O. C. Hill, and some others." But to the home membership all credit is due for faithfulness and devotion to the cause in all times and amidst many trying discouragements.

A good story went the rounds, in early day, of one David Shepherd, a blacksmith, who came into Aurora about the beginning of this Bible reform. His wife and a female relative of hers, professors of religion, were, before coming into town, warned by their friends against the "Campbellites," and straitly charged, and were put under formal pledge, not to hear them. Having received so strict a charge, they

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retired into the inner prison, secured by high and strong walls of prejudice. Isaac Streator, Esq., already a convert to the faith, coming to Shepherd's shop on business, talked freely about the preachers, the preaching, and the interest aroused on all sides. He concluded by inviting Shepherd to come to the south school-house and hear John Henry, a man of native wit, of good sense, and great power. Shepherd went, timidly. Unexpectedly he was greatly pleased, hearing for the first time a gospel he could understand and read in his Bible. Buying a cheap testament, convenient for the pocket, he examined the passages referred to in the sermon, and found, truly enough, the doctrine of baptism of the repenting person for the remission of sins clearly and fairly taught by the apostles. He ventured to read the portions of Scripture containing this truth in the presence of his family. They "pitched into" him. "There, you have gone and got one of those Campbellite testaments, which they have made just to suit their doctrine! I wonder you are not afraid to have it about you. That reads so, of course, and teaches the doctrine, for they made it so." Shepherd smiled, but only inwardly, willing to bear the reproach, for he wished to enjoy the joke a little longer. At length, he asked them to take the old family Bible, which they were sure contained no such awful heresy, and carefully compare the two. They consented, and the comparison began. Passage after passage was slowly read over, word by word. To their utter amazement and confusion the good old trusty Bible actually contained the very words and language, and of course the doctrine, denounced as "Campbellism!" What

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was to be done? They could scarcely believe their own eyes. His testament was then examined. It was found to contain the imprint of the "American Bible Society!" They saw the "situation"--their ignorance of their own Bible and its plain teaching. He relished their confusion, but was generous enough to listen to their earnest and repeated charges to "tell nobody!" But it told itself. They came out to hear, and all of them obeyed the gospel, despite protests, vows, and cautions, choosing nobly and rightly to obey God rather than man.

Another incident is related of a woman of good sense and intelligence, who came to Aurora from the State of New York to visit her relatives. She was at once told of the new heresy--that they took the people, and if they just said they believed, they baptized them without any change of heart, and then they were sure of heaven.

This woman, in deep astonishment, said: "Surely they get no persons of intelligence or respectability to follow them?" "O, yes, some of the best and most substantial people in town are among their converts." She replied, "There is certainly something wrong about this; for no person of common sense can believe such things as you tell me they preach: I must hear them myself." She went, heard, saw the truth, obeyed it, and returned home rejoicing in the new light of gospel truth which shone upon her heart.

RISE OF THE CONGREGATION IN STOWE.

In 1831, the gospel was introduced into Stowe by William Hayden. David Darrow was the first fruit. All who knew him counted him just the man to

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break ground. Honest, frank and decided, he grasped the gospel with wonderful energy. The cause owed much to his zeal and decision. John Henry was also early on the ground. At one time Henry, Hayden, and E. Williams met here by agreement, when many heard the truth and several converts were gained. Rev. A. Bronson, presiding elder of the M. E. Church, had an appointment in the house at the same time. No little stir was created, as the militant elder had already gained a reputation for zeal against the disciples. He used every opportunity to attack the new doctrine, as he represented it. In this case the appointment of these brethren was prior to his, but they yielded to his contentious determination, and sat down to hear him. In opening, he announced with full voice the hymn:

"Jesus, great Shepherd of thy sheep,
To thee for help we fly,
Thy little flock in safety keep,
For O, the wolf is nigh!"

No one doubted to whom he meant to apply the term wolf. But like the terms orthodoxy and heterodoxy, its meaning depends much on who uses it. The shrill-voiced singers in the audience, looking up to the large, dark form of the preacher, sang "wolf" as well as he. Henry, in reporting it, said they all sung "wolf," "wolf," but himself; and he neither sung wolf nor howled! The sermon which followed was a perversion of the views of the disciples. But ample correction followed, and the cause of reform gained by the opportunity.

In September, 1833, Green preached here and baptized his first convert. The cause gained constantly,

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forcing its advancement through intense opposition Students, and occasionally a professor, from, Hudson college, only a few miles distant, practiced their skill in attempted refutation of an imaginary novelty which they styled "Campbellism." The converts, however, were too well grounded in the Scriptures to be alarmed by these misdirected assaults. If the school-houses were closed, private houses were opened. The Darrows, the Sawyers, the Starks, the Stowes, the Thomases, the Lindsays, and the Gaylords received the truth in the love of it, and soon united to sustain meetings on the Lord's day. In June, 1834, Timothy Wallace obeyed the gospel in Aurora, at the yearly meeting. These principles were making progress at the same time, and by the same agencies, in Franklin, and in Hudson township. In the north-west part of Hudson, Williams and Hayden were successful in teaching the people the difference between the church of Christ founded on the New Covenant, and all ecclesiastical organizations established on human foundations. Zina Post and his family, with his son-in-law, Bro. A. E. Foote, "hearing, believed and were baptized;" Sherman Oviatt also, and others, in such numbers that they founded a church there which continued many years. In Franklin the Converses, the Wadsworths, the Clapps, and the Burts were the beginning of the congregation known afterwards as the church in Kent.

Among the proclaimers who aided in planting the churches of Stowe, Hudson, and Kent, were Allerton, Hubbard and F. Williams also, of Ravenna. Wm. Hayden and A. B. Green were the most frequently with them. Several times in the great yearly meetings

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Bro. D. S. Burnett, of Cincinnati, has plead here, with his great abilities, the claims of the Lord Jesus.

Over the most of this region the sentiments of Universalism prevailed. With these the principles of the gospel came in sharp collision; constantly in private, and several times in public, there were discussions on the subject. A debate of several days was held in Franklin between A. B. Green and Rev. Davis, which opened the eyes of many to the dangers of the slippery rock on which they were standing, and led them to Christ.

After several years, the church in Stowe suspended meetings as the result of removal and other causes. But the remaining members kept the fire burning, and a reorganization of the church was made January 9th, 1844. It was effected during a meeting held by Charles F. Bartlett, J. P. Robison and A. S. Hayden. The members then, were David Darrow, Zebulun Stowe, Eli Gaylord, B. Stark, C. Thomas, J. C. Willis, Datus E. Lendsay and Constant Rogers, with their wives, and Miss C. Stark--sixteen members. In April, 1873, twenty-nine years after, it had one hundred and twenty members.

This church has long been a light to the county. With lavish hospitality the members have repeatedly welcomed the great Tent meetings, and have been richly repaid in the fruits of edification and conversion. Among its honorable and most useful names now gone to rest, should be mentioned David Darrow, Zebulun Stowe and Edwin Wetmore, faithful leaders, who long, zealously, and cheerfully gave a powerful support to the cause. These, with the names of many others, are cherished in grateful hearts.

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As resident preachers, they have had W. T. Horner, S. R. Willard, A. C. Bartlett, H. J. White; while scarcely any of the preachers known in north-eastern Ohio can be named who have not aided them in meetings. This church is the religious birth-home of L. Southmayd and J. C. Stark, brethren who have done, and are still doing, effective service as preachers of the gospel.

Her present elders are U. Marvin, A. S. Wheeler, and William Southmayd. Deacons, A. C. Stowe, J. R. Ream, and L. Hartle. They have sustained a lively Sunday-school for twenty years, and have a valuable church property with a parsonage.

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CHAPTER XIX.

Origin of the Church in Bedford -- Yearly Meetings -- Sermon by A. Campbell -- Bartlett -- Robison -- Jones -- Prominent Preachers -- The Gospel in Newburg -- Great Yearly Meeting -- Quarterly Meeting -- Incidents.

THE congregation in Bedford arose in the following manner: E. Williams came in May, 1830, and preached the way of salvation, where formerly he had taught Restorationism. Newell C. Barnum was the first convert. He came monthly during the summer; and in June, Enoch Allen and some others were baptized. In July, Mrs. William Williams, of Newburg, Livonia Payne, "Grandmother Barnum," Julia Barnum, and Laura Gould came in. In the fall, Wm. Hayden held a meeting and baptized eight, and from this time he held the ground. In November, 1832, he held a meeting with Bro. Moss, and in the following month he formed the church with twenty members. Thomas Marble was chosen the overseer, and Enoch Allen and Geo. M. Payne, deacons. Bro. Green, on his first tour of preaching, came in September, 1833. The next year Moss became a resident of Bedford,, and for five years he assembled with them and taught many.

In August, 1835, a new appointment of officers took place. Allen Robinett and Enoch Allen were elected overseers; Samuel Barnes, N. C. Barnum, and W. W. Walker, deacons. These served till December, 1837 when Sidney Smith and James Young were

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chosen to serve as the bishops, and Enoch Allen, Alanson Gray, George Comstock, and Charles F. Bartlett, who was baptized the month before, came in as deacons.

In July, 1840, James Young and Sidney Smith were re-appointed elders, together with C. F. Bartlett and R. S. Benedict, while the ever-faithful Enoch Allen continued to serve the church as a deacon, his co-deacons being now S. F. Lockwood, Augustine Collins, and S. A. Hathaway. The congregation had now become numerous, and in her board of rulers were men of much solidity and judgment.

The year 1837 was one of marked prosperity for the church. In August, James Young and his wife united, also Dr. J. P. Robison, Sidney Smith, and others, whose position gave weight to their influence. In November, Chas. F. Bartlett and John S. Young came to Christ. Two of these, Robison and Bartlett, arose to extensive usefulness as proclaimers of the gospel. About thirty souls united between August and December. The church, thus lifted up to great strength, and filled with a zeal "according to knowledge," added constantly to her numbers, seldom a week passing without accessions.

The year 1838 was no less prosperous. In March, of this year, James Egbert, moving in from Salem, and finding the liberty of the gospel as a ground of union and fellowship among Christians more congenial to his views than the creed basis of his former profession, he gave up the sect for the church of Christ. Mrs. Fanny Willis, a person of intelligence, and a worthy member of the Baptist church,

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laid aside the name and terms of party in favor of the union of Christians in the new covenant.

This enterprising church opened a "door of faith" in school-houses and private dwellings, in all available places, and by unremitting appeals the community became thoroughly leavened.

The yearly meeting for Cuyahoga County was held with the church in Bedford, in the year 1839, its first assembling in that town. It was held on the Lord's day beside the meeting-house which was erected by the generosity of Sister Willis, a house intended for the use of the Baptists, but which, with her change of views, became the property of the Disciples. This house was filled on Friday the first day of the meeting. After a discourse by Bro. J. Hartzel, and an exhortation by Bro. M. Bosworth, Bro. Campbell followed with a eulogium of much power, beauty, and eloquence on the Holy Scriptures.

This meeting was noteworthy for several reasons: The principal men of the Western Reserve who had risen up for the advocacy of the gospel were present. Some came from Canada and the State of New York. Bro. Joseph S. Havener, now of Barnwell District, S. C., then young, recently arrived from Ireland, added interest by his gentle and genial speech. But the overmastering attraction of the occasion was due to the presence and discourses of Mr. Campbell. With all the great powers of his manhood in full energy, he came before the vast auditory as comes a man only once in an age. His attendance at the first yearly meeting in the county, in Newburg, in 1835, at the still greater occasion at Euclid, in 1837, and more especially his defeat of the allied forces

390 EARLY HISTORY OF THE DISCIPLES

of infidelity in the city of Cleveland, in June, 1836, gave him a reputation all along this region of the lakes, as the first and ablest of living orators.

His discourse on Saturday was from Jer. vi: 16: "Thus saith the Lord, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein." This subject was taken at the instance of Cyrus Bosworth, and grandly did he plead that day for a return to "the good old way" of the Savior and his apostles. On Lord's day he held the great audience of five thousand in fixed attention for two and a half hours by the watch, in a discussion of the atonement, a theme offering little attraction to a popular assembly. Yet he made this difficult subject so luminous with his rich stores of biblical learning, that time passed unconsciously to his listening auditors, very many of whom, for want of seats, stood the whole time of the sermon.

This discourse was regarded as very able by those best capable of judging, yet it was valued less on account of its eloquence than for the scriptural light it shed on this most important subject. Instead of the partial views of it taken by many, Mr. Campbell surveyed the whole field. He viewed it not merely as intended to propitiate God, and so to procure favor for man, nor chiefly as a motive to lead man to repentance. He rose above all scholastic philosophies, and treated the sacrifice of our holy Redeemer as having a relation

To God;
To his government;

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 391

To Sin;
To the Sinner; and
To the suffering Savior; and discussed all these bearings of the subject in the clear light of the teachings of the Holy Spirit.

The effect of this sermon was immediate and salutary. It presented this vital theme in a breadth and comprehension in which few, perhaps none, had been accustomed to view it; it asserted clearly and convincingly the death of Christ as a sacrifice, essential to the salvation of sinners; it vindicated the Holy Scriptures in their teaching on that subject, so often objected to by skeptics; it delivered the minds of his hearers from limited views, and opened to them the richness and extent of the subject to which they were not accustomed, and greatly exalted Christ and his salvation in the conceptions of the people. It set the pleadings for reformation on a new and solid basis, and greatly enhanced the importance of it as distinguished from the limited creed views of the religious parties. It may well be doubted if Mr. Campbell ever delivered a sermon of greater power, or of more direct and useful purpose. There were twenty-six converts at this meeting.

Three years afterward, September 2, 1842, the great anniversary was again in Bedford. The first tent prepared by the brotherhood for these yearly gatherings was now brought into use. The brethren of Bedford stirred themselves to have it ready for this occasion, and the ample canvas afforded protection from the falling rains. Bentley, W. Hayden, Robison, O'Connor, and A. S. Hayden, resident in the county, were present; and from other counties,

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Henry, of Trumbull; Collins, of Geauga; Green, of Summit; Lanphear, of Medina; J. H. Jones, of Wayne; Arny, of Bethany, Virginia; besides Moss, Cooley, and Lillie. This was Bro. Jones' introduction to the Western Reserve. He became immediately identified with all our religious work. At this meeting the blessed gospel gave abundant proof of its power to turn the people to the Lord, fifty-four coming penitently to Jesus Christ. This was the largest number yet received at any of these meetings. Brethren Henry and Jones were the Jupiter and Mercurius of the meeting, and their talents formed a good combination for public effect. Henry came as a storm; he spoke with authority, calling to repentance with the fire and zeal of Elijah; while Jones flowed in exhortations of persuasive tenderness, which gained all ears and won many hearts.

He was born June 15, 1813, lived for a time in Brookfield, Trumbull County, then became resident with his parents in the county of Wayne, where he was nourished up in the faith and order of the Baptist churches. At the age of nineteen, he heard the gifted John Secrest, near Bucyrus, on the waters of the Whetstone, where he confessed his faith in Christ. From that day he was the Lord's. He traveled awhile with Secrest; immediately and every-where exhorting sinners to "flee from the wrath to come." He improved by the ardent and persuasive manner of that bold and successful preacher, and, like him, he excelled in touching the heart, and bringing souls into the kingdom.

But all hearts were warm then, and each one was ready with a word in season, an exhortation, a

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 393

prayer, or a stirring song to sustain the life and animation of the meetings. The memory of those scenes is inspiring to the heart. They were joyful with holy enthusiasm, and the new converts were filled with hope. The hymns -- and all sung them -- were, many of them, millennial in sentiment; and held to the heart the hope of the coming of the Lord, and of the glory to be soon revealed. Some described the day of judgment in such pathos and power, as to fasten conviction on many souls. So great was the ardor and zeal, that the gospel in some of its great themes was the subject of general conversation in private houses, as well as of discourse in public assemblies.

This congregation has ripened many souls for the eternal kingdom. Among those deserving a record is Bro. Charles F. Bartlett, who, immediately on his conversion in the autumn of 1837, was called by his brethren to positions of responsibility, first as a deacon, then as an elder. Possessed of a genial and affable manner, with a social and warm heart, and ready in speech, his improvement was so satisfactory that on the 22d of May, 1842, he was called to the work of the ministry. His influence increased constantly. He preached in surrounding churches, every-where respected and beloved. But his life was cut short in the midst of his days. On the 5th of February, 1848, he went to his reward. His cheerful, companionable manners and unstinted hospitality, won him many friends. The mourning for him was deep and general. He sustained himself from his farm while laboring for the good of others.

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Like most of the early preachers, the warfare was mostly at his own charges.

Dr. J. P. Robison, whose accession as a member occurred August 20, 1837, soon became a leader by the concurrent wish of the congregation. His intellectual and social qualities, together with his talent for business management, naturally brought him to the front. Few were the enterprises which rendered this church numerous, which were not either prompted or led on by him. Ready to serve, as well as prompt to direct, with the co-operation of the generous helps in the church who stood with him, Bedford rapidly became a radiating center. Bro. Robison yielded to the unanimous voice of his brethren, and on the 25th of October, 1840, he was appointed and ordained as a preacher of the gospel.

For several years he "gave himself wholly to the work." For it he laid aside an extensive ride as physician, a profession in which he was very successful; and, until driven from the field by scanty support, an experience which he shared in common with others, he preached extensively, and brought many converts into the churches. Throughout the Western Reserve, in Pittsburgh, Bethany, and Cincinnati, he became known by his zeal and success. He labored with all the preachers, but Bro. J. H. Jones and "the Doctor," associated in meetings more than others. During the animating period of the "holy war," from 1840 to 1844, these evangelists proclaimed the glad tidings with unbounded success. Their work was heroic--their dispatches Napoleonic. The following from the Doctor's hand are good specimens of the life and spirit of the times:

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 395

"ALLEGHENY, 21st Feb., 1842.
"DEAR BRO. HAYDEN:

"Yours is to hand. I am quite happy to learn that the good cause is still progressing in the land of my friends. We have a great excitement here. Many are inquiring, and many are astonished at the doctrine. Up to this time the converts number fifty-seven,1 and the brethren on the other side are waiting with great anxiety for us to come over and help them. They think there never was the like of Bro. Jones, and well may they, for he waxes warmer and bolder in the good cause. All the friends are in health. I may get to see you in Wellsburg. I will, the Lord willing, be at Ohio City the third Lord's day in March. When will you be in Wellsburg, and how long? I hope to go to Bethany. I have said something to them on the prophecies; so has Bro. Jones, who backed me up. My love to all who love the appearing of our blessed Lord.

"Yours in the hope,
"J. P. ROBISON."

"BEDFORD, October 6, 1842.
"DEAR BRO. HAYDEN:

"I get joyful news from Euclid. I hear from twenty to thirty are immersed. I have been with you for days in the spirit of the great turning to the Lord. Bro. Collins and myself are to be in Ohio City, the Lord willing, on Friday two weeks. We would be happy to see you there for a few days, or some time during our stay. Please ride up if you can.

"What do you think of the Canada excursion? We ought to let those dear friends know beforehand if we go.

__________
* There were one hundred and forty-two converts in the meeting; thirty of them in Pittsburgh.

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"I am very busy bringing my business to a close. May the Lord bless you and strengthen you with all strength. I feel for you, and should have been over ere this if I had been more propitiously circumstanced. But those bright 'stars' -- heaven alone can reward your exertions.

"Yours in the blessed hope,
"J. P. ROBISON."

The following relates to the planting of the church in Munson, which arose chiefly by the labors of Bro. Robison. It was written the day fixed by Mr. Miller and his friends for the coming of the Lord and the end of the world:

"BEDFORD, 3d April, 1843.

"DEAR BRO. HAYDEN:

"I am just home from Munson where I got seventy-six additions. I am, as you may calculate, nearly exhausted, after speaking almost incessantly for ten days. But the Lord be praised for his goodness, and mercy, and long-suffering, not willing that any should perish.

"Bro. Hayden, I want to see you. If I knew you to be at home, I think I would almost come over. You have heard, no doubt, of the Ohio City thirty. I have got since I returned home from Pittsburgh, one hundred and twelve in all -- four Lord's days.

"Yours in the Beloved,
"J. P. R:OBISON:."

"P. S. The 3d of April is past, and we are still to 'cleanse the sanctuary' by preaching the gospel I suppose. J. P. R.

"AKRON, February 2, 1844.

"DEAR BRO. HAYDEN:

"I am at Akron -- have been here since Wednesday.

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 397

Spoke three times, and baptized fifty; among which are Mr. Pickands and family. Speak this evening, and start in the morning for Wooster. Bro. Cook had left some four days before I reached here. Pray for me, Bro. Hayden. I wish you was here. The brethren are happy -- Middlebury brethren and all. We have a happy time.

"Yours in the hope of Jesus Christ,
"J. P. ROBISON."

"P. S. My love to Bro. Fitch.

"Spoke this evening -- fourteen more. Baptize at eight in the morning, and then start for Wooster.
"J. P. R."

The church was sustained by its internal strength, and by aid from abroad in yearly meetings and protracted meetings, till the year 1856, when Bro. J. O. Beardslee was secured to labor in the congregation. He preached till his appointment as a missionary to Jamaica. After him, the church has been served successively by J. H. Jones, E. H. Hawley, Hiram Woods, A. B. Green, and Robt. Moffett.

As overseers, she has had Thomas Marble, Allen Robinett, Enoch Allen, Sidney Smith, J. P. Robison, James Young, C. F. Bartlett, R. S. Benedict, S. F. Lockwood, Augustine Collins, Samuel Barnes, James Egbert, W. B. Hillman, A. T. Hubbell, A. Drake, R. J. Hathaway, Hiram Woods.

For nearly twenty years the Board of managers of the Ohio State Missionary Society was located in Bedford, of which Dr. Robison was the continued chairman; and this enterprising church has always contributed liberally to sustain the missionary work. The number of members rose at one time to nearly five hundred -- it is now considerably diminished.

398 EARLY HISTORY OF THE DISCIPLES

SKETCH OF OUR MISSIONARY, J. O. BEARDSLEE.

He was born in Bridgewater, Ct., September 11, 1814. In his fourteenth year he united with the Congregational church, and was sprinkled at the time. He would have preferred immersion, but that church would not immerse him; nor would the Baptists, unless he joined them, which would, by their rules, exclude him from "fellowship" with other Christians. In this dilemma he preferred to him the least objectionable course.

He entered the Western Reserve College in Hudson, in 1833, at the age of nineteen years. His antislavery proclivities took him to Oberlin when presidents Mahan and Finney assumed control there. His class of four was the first that graduated in that institution, in 1837. His studies were all in view of the ministry, and before he left Hudson he had his heart on some foreign mission as his ultimate purpose. While in Oberlin he gathered some converts, one of whom was afterward his co-laborer in Jamaica. In pursuit of better health, he took a voyage to that island, in 1838, just after the emancipation of the 300,000 slaves on the island. Inspired by the congenial climate, and, still more by the necessities of that people, he felt that Providence had selected this as his field of life work. He returned, collected funds in Connecticut and Ohio; was ordained to the ministry in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, and sailed again for Jamaica. For the first seven years his receipts from abroad were only three hundred dollars. He was invited to take charge of the Normal Institution, under the auspices of the British Board of Managers, for fitting native teachers. This post he held seven years, and resigned it to take charge of the Mission church in Kingston, in connection with the London Missionary Society. He lost his companion in 1847; and married again in Kingston, in 1848.

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 399

His change of views, and of ecclesiastical position, can give from his own pen:

"When I left Jamaica in 1855, on account of failing health, I had arrived at the conclusion that the immersion of believers was the only authoritative baptism. After a time, I accepted the charge of a small Congregational church at Rawsonville, (Grafton,) a village comprising representatives of several denominations, no one of them being able to support a preacher. This led me to search for some basis of union. I preached on the subject; and, without knowing the position of the Disciples on that point, I presented what I afterward found to be precisely their views as the only true basis of Christian unity. It was to satisfy the scruples of a young lady on the subject of no creed and infant baptism, that I was led to review the whole matter; and I came to the conclusion that I ought to be immersed forthwith in obedience to the command of Christ. I applied to Elder Nesbitt, a Baptist, who resided in Grafton, to baptize me. He could not attend to it for two weeks, and I went to Wellington to see a Baptist preacher there. But as he would not immerse me except on condition of my uniting with the Baptists, I concluded to wait for Elder Nesbitt. I made known my intentions to the church, and met with no opposition. On the 23d of March, 1856, I was buried with my Lord in baptism. Before leaving the water, I immersed the young lady referred to and another convert. I was then on the eve of a change of location, having accepted a call from the Congregational church in Collamer, with which, and its results you are familiar."

Bro. Beardslee came to enter on his engagement in Collamer, and after his first sermon, which was on a practical theme, he frankly made known his change of sentiments; he was willing to fraternize with them, and they would probably have borne with his baptism, as they were much pleased with him. But on learning, in answer to a

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direct question, that he could not conscientiously christen their children, they reconsidered their call, and, by a small majority, rescinded it. Thus, and for this reason, turned away by that people from their fraternity, he came that Lord's day evening to hear me, and there commenced our mutual and cordial acquaintance.

Meantime William Hayden had heard of him, and of his baptism by Elder Nesbitt. He went to Bro. S. R. Willard, and urged him to go at once and make known to him our plea and ground of union. Bro. Willard was prompt to visit him, and his message of love was favorably received. Hayden also went to Bedford, and made known the case to Dr. Robison, by whose influence the church extended a call to him to visit them, with a view to settlement among them. "On the second Lord's day," continues Beardslee, "we were mutually prepared to accept each other as brethren in the common faith. That was the beginning of a new and blessed era in my life's history. Before, I had been as he who saw men 'as trees walking;' now as the same man who saw 'clearly.'"

From this time his heart was set to return to Jamaica. He longed to reveal to them the light which was so clear and joyful to him. Our general missionary society sent him out, and in January, 1858, he set sail with his family from New York, for Kingston. He began his labors in that city, and on the 1st of May he organized the first church on the island, on the New Testament basis, with seven members. The work went on with great success, but amidst violent opposition. In five years there were nine churches, and about a thousand members. This was followed by eighteen months of absence in the United States. The work in the hands of the native preachers was less prosperous. But Bro. Beardslee returning again to their aid, two and a half years of unremitting labors revived the interest, and more than doubled the number

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 401

of churches. Bankruptcy in the missionary treasury compelled his surrender of this most promising field. He left Jamaica in 1868, greatly to the disparagement of the mission work, as he was the needed leader of that great work, of which he had been the father and the founder. From that time to the present, his efforts to collect funds to enable him to go to their aid have only resulted in disappointment to him, and to the greater disappointment of the expecting churches of the island.

Among the happy children of this church in Bedford, arose the benignant Harry S. Glasier, a brother, who, in a short time, won to himself the sincerest regards of many friends. He was born in Twinsburg, November 7, 1836, though reared in this church as a nursing mother. He graduated in Bethany, July 4, 1863, and was ordained as a preacher the same day, by Bros. Campbell and Bentley.

His devotion and earnestness in preaching brought many to repentance. He was gifted with a warm, friendly heart, was a good talker, and never failed to improve every opportunity for Christ. He married a companion of equal sincerity, and well adapted to his work -- Miss Eliza E. Clapp -- and settled with the church in Belair, Ohio. The congregation grew in numbers and religious feeling during the three years of his ministry there. He was naturally a pastor--"naturally caring for the state" of all the members. He became tenderly attached to the people, and they to him; so that when death came and seized him from them, they mourned as for a near kinsman. He went to assist in a meeting in Pittsburgh where he fell, September 8, 1866. He was carried and laid in the cemetery in Bedford. He left his devoted companion and daughter to inherit his virtues and his excellent name.

Bro. Glasier was frank, free-hearted, generous, and unselfish; attentive to all his friends, and of a very sympathetic temperament. He served the people. He served his God, and he took him early.

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THE CONGREGATION IN NEWBURG.

As far back as 1827 and '8, Ebenezer Williams, then an advocate of Restorationism, gathered some converts in Newburg. When the scales of that pernicious speculation fell from his eyes, and he learned the gospel, he sought to undo his work there, and to repair the damage. Some time in the fall of 1828, he appeared among his former admirers, delivered a few addresses, which awakened a marked interest, and left without farther results.

In June, 1832, the first convert was gained. It was under the vigorous appeals of the heroic W. Hayden. Two years before, he had started a church in Aurora. Henry Baldwin, of that place, carried an appointment to Newburg, and urged his sister and her husband, Col. John Wightman, to go and hear this original preacher. A large audience assembled in the town-house. Such preaching took them all by surprise. It was neither Universalism, to which they had been accustomed, nor the doctrine of any of the religious parties. It was only and simply the gospel as taught in the New Testament.

Many saw the truth, but only one man arose to take his lamp to meet the bridegroom. This was John Hopkinson. He was afterward elder of the church, and stands yet,2 after an interval of over forty years, on precisely the same ground assumed at the beginning. Hayden and Williams continued their visits, holding the ground, and gaining converts.

__________
* Bro. Hopkinson has just fallen asleep in the hope of immortality.

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 403

September, 1833, Wightman and wife, and Eliza Everett, and several others, were baptized by Bro. Williams. Great awakening of the people, and farther conversions followed. At one of his visits Williams baptized a young lady of social attractions, by the name of Julia Parshall. She was gifted with superior musical powers, and as soon as she was lifted above the baptismal water, she sang full and clear:

"Now my remnant of days
Will I spend to his praise
Who has died my poor soul to redeem;
Whether many or few;
All my years are his due,
They shall all be devoted to him." Williams writes, "There were more than half a dozen infidels standing within a few feet, who were very much moved by the scene."

The Disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit. They studied the Scriptures daily and diligently to learn the truth themselves, and to be able to teach it to others. They met often for songs, and prayer, and mutual encouragement, and when a preacher came, they had many questions to propound. Thus light rapidly increased, and they became intelligent in the Christian religion. They were zealous to propagate the gospel which shed so much light and joy on their own souls. It was common for the Disciples of Newburg to come to Euclid, (now Collamer,) to meeting, a distance of seven miles; and for these in turn to attend at Newburg to help the brethren there. Each was filled with the joy which inspired all the rest. Happy times! Will they ever return to gladden our hearts?

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Such zeal with our present numbers would in a twelvemonth set the whole land ablaze!

Society in Newburg was full of infidelity. But the gospel never lost a battle. Strong arguments and powerful appeals from such men as Hayden, Hartzel, Green, Allerton, and Moss, laid the foundation of a lasting work, and soon established a church on Bible principles, which has never ceased to meet, nor failed to hold forth the word of life.

The "yearly meeting" for the year 1835 was held in Newburg, on the farm of Colonel Wightman. Collins well said of him, "he was a princely man." With the noblest generosity and breadth of views, he made provision both for the entertainment of the people, and for the best business management of the occasion, that the widest possible benefits might flow from it. It was duly announced in Cleveland. Prominent citizens were especially informed and invited. A grove was selected, seated, and covered with boards. All the other members also came heartily to the work, and there was nothing wanting to make the people welcome. Bro. Wightman lodged a hundred guests, and supplied provisions without numbering the participants of his bounty.

This meeting was historic. The Disciples, now numerous, came from long distances. Discourses were delivered by Alex. Campbell, Wm. Hayden, A. B. Green, M. S. Clapp, and a few others; and evening meetings were held in neighborhoods around. For four days the meeting, like the manna about Israel, lay round among the people, the subject of thought and conversation by all. A large number of converts were baptized on Monday by Bro. Green.

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 405

At 8 o'clock Monday morning, the preachers, at Mr. Campbell's invitation, met him in the rear of the tent, to whom he submitted the proposition to hold meetings for mutual improvement. He spoke of it as a school to be continued, in which there should be sermons delivered, subject to examination in matter and style. It was unanimously approved, and the first one was appointed to be held in New Lisbon in the following December. About fifteen preachers met with him that morning.

The brethren becoming now well established, they assumed the duties and prerogatives of a congregation of the disciples of Jesus Christ. From that period to the present, the candlestick has not been removed.

None of our churches, Warren only perhaps excepted, had preachers or "pastors" settled among them. The casual watch-care and aid given them by the traveling ministers, many of whom were more intent on extending than building up the churches, was insufficient to check dissensions, and to guard the folds from encroaching dangers. Many churches suffered greatly, and some perished. This in Newburg ran low, and its light was nearly extinct. In their extremity they appealed to Bro. Hartzel, who came in April, 1842, and immediately commanded attention by his able statement and defense of the gospel. He lifted it above all mere "church" or partisan religions, and powerfully beat back the forces of infidelity, which had grown strong and defiant. On Lord's day, the twenty-first of that month, he reorganized the church, with twenty old, and fifteen new members. At this time Youngs L.

406 EARLY HISTORY OF THE DISCIPLES

Morgan and Caleb Morgan came in with their families. The congregation gained such strength that soon after, under the able ministrations of Bro. J. D. Benedict, they built a good house. They have maintained a good testimony, and are now flourishing under the labors of J. H. Jones. For many years their Sunday-school has prospered, and for the last few years especially, by the skillful management of Bro. Browning; and the children are rising up to take the place of their parents in handing down the gospel uncorrupted to generations after them.

INCIDENTS OF THE YEARLY MEETING IN 1835.

On Saturday night some son of Belial thought to break up the meeting by cutting down a large tree, so its immense brushy top might fall directly upon the seated tent. His mischief failed. The tree fell merely along the edge of it, displacing some of the boards, but not otherwise doing any injury. The incident probably added emphasis to many a philippic against sin and sectarianism. Mr. Wightman had no doubt who the malicious man was who perpetrated the deed. He went to him in the morning and said to him: "If it is any satisfaction to you to commit such depredations, you can do it with the assurance that you can never incite me to retaliate. You may depend on my doing you a kindness whenever it is in my power."

Mr. Wightman's hospitality has been mentioned. Tables were carried out in the yard, under the shadowing maples, plentifully loaded with provisions. There was neither stint in the supply nor attempt to number the people who partook thankfully the profusion

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 407

set before them. After disposing of his guests one night, Wightman came to Wm. Hayden and said: "Bro. Hayden, the best lodging I can give you is on the floor, for every thing is full." "I will not sleep on your hard floor," said the witty William. So taking two benches he placed them together and camped down on them, saying "Now I am comfortably fixed for the night."

408 EARLY HISTORY OF THE DISCIPLES

CHAPTER XX.

Rise of the cause in Euclid -- Church formed by T. Campbell -- Preachers arising, and growing success -- The Church in Cleveland established -- Planting of the congregation in East Cleveland.

THE first church in Euclid was Presbyterian. Luther Dille was a member of it. In 1820, Elder Hanks, a Baptist, preached in that town, and Dille, becoming convinced by the New Testament that immersion was the true baptism, united with the Baptists. Having buried his wife, he married, September 7, 1828, Mrs. Clarissa Kent, sister to Benjamin Blish, of Mentor. She was a disciple; her husband and William Hutchinson were the deacons of the Baptist church. Returning from the "Communion" one Sunday, Mrs. Dille asked her husband why she could not commune with them. "I could myself," said he, "but our church could not." "Why not?" "Because you are not of the same faith and order." "That's the creed," she replied; adding, "I can never put my hand to a creed!" He said: "Then we can never be together." She asked him, "If you should see that we are right, would you unite with us?" "I would," was his prompt reply; not thinking, it is presumed, that he would be put to that test. But she was satisfied and comforted by his answer, convinced of his scrupulous honesty and independence of character. Her confidence in these excellent qualities

IN THE WESTERN RESERVE. 409

was, not misplaced, neither were her expectations of his early change destined to be disappointed.

Soon afterwards, meeting Rigdon in Mentor, she related the conversation to him. He remarked: "I will go up and take their deacons from them." In the autumn of 1829, he came, preached a few days, and baptized Eri M. Dille, Lurilla Dille, Leonard Marsilliott and wife, Mrs. Perry, Mary Ann Perry, Clarissa Perry, Mrs. Cranny, and her daughter Fanny Cranny. These, with Sister Dille, were associated together for meetings. Rigdon, taking Luther Dille's hand, said: "Will you not go with these young converts and take care of them?" "I will." This was his change; a happy one to him, and blessed to hundreds. He was so full of joy on discovering that salvation is offered to all men in the gospel that he could not sleep. "I always thought," he said, "I was like some whom Paul spoke of, 'ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.' The creed and the doctrines of Calvinism I never could see through, but I thought I must accept them, and thought I believed them; but now the gospel plan of salvation is so plain, it fills my soul with joy unspeakable." "I am tired waiting on the people," said Mrs. Dille; "you must let me rest." But he could not sleep. He rose, got his hymn-book and sung, then prayed, and so he spent the night -- too happy to sleep.

Elder Baily and deacon Beebee came to recover him from the error of his ways. The elder was full of assurance and pomp. "Uncle Luther," new in the faith, was not well prepared for defense. Mrs. Dille wished to help him, but refrained. She stepped

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across the way and called in A. P. Jones from his school-room, who entered and sat quietly down on a low seat. At a juncture, Baily having quoted Scripture in disproof of the "new" doctrine, Jones spoke: "If you would read the whole of that passage it would make directly against your views." "Modesty becomes a young man," said Baily, in contempt. "And wisdom becomes age," quickly replied the young teacher, and then quoted the language. "It does not read so," said the elder. "We shall see," said Jones; and taking out his testament, he read out the exact words he had quoted. Mr. Baily was discomfitted. He was persuaded with difficulty to remain till after dinner. He returned to deacon Hutchinson's, who asked, What have you done with deacon Dille? "O, he has fallen asleep in the lap of Delilah!"

In April, 1830, Elder Thomas Campbell came and organized the church in scriptural order, setting apart, by imposition of hands, Luther Dille as elder, and Leonard Marsilliott and Eri M. Dille as deacons.

Bro. William Collins came about the same time, laboring with great acceptance, and adding to their numbers. Lanson O'Connor heard him, and said to him: "You are the first man I ever heard preach the gospel." He obeyed it, and plead it zealously till his death. To Bro. J. J. Moss also the church was, and ever will be, greatly indebted for his zealous labors in teaching the people, and defending the principles of the gospel. Rigdon's fall staggered many, but Mormonism never made a convert in Euclid. This is much owing to the presence of Moss. He debated with one of their elders, and so routed him that he fled from the community. Bro. Washington O'Connor

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rose up in the church and became very useful in keeping the members together, and adding to their numbers. This young brother was soon on the wing, encouraged by the church, and became very useful as a proclaimer of the gospel. He traveled extensively in Lorain, Huron, Erie, Wayne, and Holmes counties, bringing many souls to Christ. He married Miss Elizabeth Dille, and after a few years he settled in Mishawaka, Ind., where his useful life terminated May 12, 1859, aged fifty-one years.

Damon O'Connor, also, was many years a prominent member; and Armon O'Connor, one of the first to embrace the faith, baptized by A. P. Jones, October, 1832, was chosen associate in the eldership with Luther Dille, a position he held with credit for many years, and till he removed to another church.

William Hayden was one of the first to sow the seed of the kingdom in this community. A meeting held by him and Bro. Moss in Shumway's barn made a great impression, and is talked of yet, after nearly forty years, as a notable occasion.

The first of the great yearly meetings in Euclid was in September, 1837, and was a memorable occasion. The attendance was by thousands. Mr. Campbell's former visits to the county, and especially his signal triumph over the Anakims of skepticism the year before; in the city of Cleveland, freshly and favorably remembered, called crowds to hear him. His discourse on Lord's day was one of his most masterly efforts. It was founded on Gen. iii: 15; and showed the nature and design of positive institutions as tests of obedience. It was a powerful argument against infidelity. Assisting in the

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meeting, were Butler, of Indiana, Hayden, Green, Bentley, Clapp, Moody, Williams, Allerton, Collins, Moss, Veits, O'Connor, Atwater, Brown, and A. S. Hayden. The immediate result was nineteen conversions. This meeting formed an epoch in the history of this church and of the cause of primitive Christianity in all that region. The plea was lifted high into public notice, and many, from this hearing, afterward became obedient to the faith.

In October, the following year, a successful meeting was conducted in Euclid by A. P. Jones, Moody, and Robison. Eight additions.

A few months after, February, 1839, John Henry came for eight days. The brethren not having a meeting-house, they rented a vacant store-room in the village. This, for nearly three years, was their meeting place. It was crowded nightly to hear this invincible champion of the truth. There were ten added to the number, seven of them conversions. Among these last was an old sea captain, Jephtha G. Nickerson, from New Bedford, Mass. In command of a vessel, he had made most of the commercial ports of the world -- had visited Malta, the island where Paul was cast ashore. He had been ship-wrecked on the Mediterranean; and now, spending a quiet winter in the secluded village of Collamer, he turned in to hear the stranger. Henry's manner, bold, decided, energetic, exactly suited the captain, whose own nature was a compacted tempest. He understood the preacher. For the first time he heard something plain, tangible, and common sense on the subject of conversion, and well backed up with Scripture. He obeyed, and his soul was as tender as the

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mourning-dove. Sleep left him, but "songs in the night" came to him. He learned the hymns, and his mouth was opened with a "new song."

He said to Bro. Henry: "I have a brother David. I'll have him here next winter. You must come back and convert him." So spoke the earnest sailor. Henry made a promise, and he never forgot one, that a year hence he would return.

Intervening, June, 1839, J. J. Moss and A. S. Hayden held a two days' meeting in the same store-room, resulting in nine conversions. The next February, at Bro. Henry's arrival, both the captains were at home. The younger one discovered in the teachings of the gifted preacher what had never been suggested or hinted in all the preaching to which he had listened; that in the gospel God has made known the way of salvation through faith, repentance and baptism, into the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; that this, his established order, is open to all men to the end of time. His soul was kindled as he saw the way so plain that "the wayfaring man could not err therein;" and he also turned to the Lord. Several others also were added.

The yearly meetings this year, 1840, one of which was in this church, were marked with peculiar interest. Bro. Campbell says of them:

"We attended the yearly meetings in Warren, and in Euclid, Ohio, held annually in the last week in August and the first week in September. Both meetings were well attended with public laborers. Present at Warren, were brethren C. Bosworth, J. Hartzel, J. Henry, S. Church, E. Williams, A. Allerton, M. S. Clapp, Dr. Robison, A. S. Hayden, S. Ryder, W. Collins, M. Martin, C. McNeely,

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Z. Rudolph, H. Brockett, W. Beaumont, C. E. Vanvoorhis, Abijah Sturdevant and Dr. A. W. Campbell. Besides a number of these, there were at the Euclid meeting, Elder A. Bentley, W. Hayden, J. J. Moss, and others.

"....From a number of detailed statements we concluded that the number of disciples on the Reserve has nearly, or altogether, doubled during the last year. The churches also are in the very best order; the laborers have been more industrious, more engaged, and, consequently, more successful during the present season. Bro. William Beaumont has immersed 75 in New Lisbon; Bro. Henry, 140 since the beginning of the year; Bro. Wesley Lanphear and J. H. Jones have baptized many; and, indeed, all the laborers have reason to bless the Lord and to renew their courage in the glorious work of saving men."

There were 43 immersed at the meeting in Warren, and ten in Euclid. On Monday, Bro. Moss made a stirring appeal for greater liberality in support of the gospel, asserting strongly the need of a brother to be sent out among the churches to arouse them to this duty. William Hayden was his man. He offered to be one of four who would give him the sum of three hundred dollars for a year's labor to this end. "Who will be the other three?" Samuel Miller, late of Willoughby, was quick on his feet. "Who next?" Casper Hendershot, of Euclid. "Now the third?" holding firmly to his point. Bro. Webster, of Mentor, completed the quaternion, and William Hayden accepted the mission.

There was a great ingathering here in October, 1842. A. S. Hayden began the meeting in the audience room of the meeting-house, which was yet unfinished. The work of conversion began with the

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meeting. After several days, and the baptism of twenty-eight, the laborer dispatched a note to Bro. Robison, of Bedford, who was in his carriage in thirty minutes after receiving it, and in ninety minutes more was on the ground, a distance of twelve miles, ready for work. He remained five days. Forty souls were brought into the kingdom.

In March, of 1847, Bro. Isaac Errett labored a week, gathering in twenty; and in 1851, the church was increased by the addition of twenty more by Calvin Smith and B. F. Perky. After this, W. A. Belding and J. H. Jones held very successful meetings at different times. The new meeting-house was erected in 1862-3.

Elder Luther Dille, having served as bishop of the church over thirty years, with great efficiency and universal esteem, fell asleep, April 18, 1863, aged 79 years. The other churches closed their meetings at an earlier hour than usual, that the people might come and mourn together over a man whose Christian character won the respect of all who knew him. That day the church lost its first elder, who, in all his administration, had been a model of firmness, integrity, impartiality and philanthropy.

THE CHURCH ESTABLISHED IN CLEVELAND.

The first discourse in this city, on the "ancient gospel" as plead by the disciples, was delivered by the pioneer, William Hayden. It occurred under the following circumstances: Coming to Armon O'Connor's, a new convert from Euclid, then living in Brooklyn, two miles west of the Cuyahoga River, Bro. O'Connor asked him to preach in the village, down

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near the river. This was before even "Ohio City" was known or named. Hayden replied that he would do so, if an audience could be obtained at 10 o'clock on a certain Monday morning which he mentioned. O'Connor agreed to these terms. About 8 o'clock of the appointed morning, Bro. O'Connor started and canvassed the entire community, visiting every house. One hour and a half accomplished the patrol. Every family was invited, and nearly every one came. The preacher took up the subject of "election," much discussed those times, and in a full and vigorous argument he stated and replied to the leading proofs relied on in support of the foreordination of a select few to eternal life; and in contrast with this unscriptural hypothesis, he opened a free salvation through faith and obedience to Jesus Christ. The sermon was listened to with marked attention, as well for the boldness and novelty of the preacher's manner, as for the freshness and power of the scriptural views he presented. This was in October, 1833. The ground thus gained was never lost. He introduced Bro. Moss and Bro. Green, who astonished the people by their knowledge of the Bible and power in teaching it. Among the first converts were Mrs. Armon O'Connor, baptized by Bro. Moss; and W. B. Storer and his wife, who were baptized by Hayden at the yearly meeting in Richfield, September, 1834. Bro. Hayden preached in the old academy in Cleveland to full assemblies. Some of the converts recently gathered into the church are the fruits of those sermons delivered thirty years before.

At the conclusion of the meeting held on Mr. Wightman's farm, in 1835, it was arranged for Mr.

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Campbell to preach in the court-house on Monday afternoon at 4 o'clock. It was the old court-house which stood on the south-west corner of the public square. There were only two hours to circulate the word. No time for hand-bills. This appointment was at the solicitation of Thomas Hawley, an intelligent disciple, who not long before had moved from Shrewsbury, England, and was then a resident in Cleveland. At his suggestion, his son Joseph and Armon O'Connor went through all the principal streets, and in clear ringing tones announced in stores, shops, and private houses, that Alexander Campbell would preach in the court-house at 4 o'clock. These messengers were young and active. The whole city heard, and the court-room was overflowing before the hour arrived, all anxious to hear him.

Sheriff Wightman's influence was great with the officials, and with the people, by whom he was much respected. Through him the court-house was opened several times for William Hayden, whose discourses were listened to by full audiences. His brother held a two days' meeting in it. Discourses were delivered thereby Moss, Williams, and Collins. These sermons, like the leaven in the meal, were doing their work. They opened the way for the harvest which ere long was reaped in the city. But it was in June, 1836, the greatest advance was made in Cleveland. On a trip to New England, Mr. Campbell stopped in the city and delivered some discourses in favor of the Bible. These sermons aroused the skeptics in the city, and Irad Kelley volunteered as the defender of infidelity. A few speeches and rejoinders were made, when Mr. Campbell urged the infidel junto, for it

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appears they had no defined organization, to put forth their champion, as the discomfiture of any other would not be acknowledged by them as the overthrow of their cause. Skepticism in the city of Cleveland was then delivered into the hands of the intrepid Dr. Underhill, to make for it the best defense in his power. As court was to open the next day, the first Presbyterian church, of which the venerable Dr. Aiken was pastor, was freely granted for the continuance of the discussion.

The conclusion of this debate of four days, which attracted the attention of the whole city, is thus declared by Mr. Campbell:

"After hearing some other reiterations from Taylor, and some explanations from Mr. Kelley, and some very flattering compliments from my friend Underhill, with the greatest urbanity and good nature we came to a close--I recapitulating the whole, and showing that now, after so long and so patient a session, we had heard these leaders of the skeptics of Cleveland display, if not all they had, certainly the best and the strongest allegations they had to offer. It could not be difficult to see the nakedness of the land of infidelity, the poverty of its soul; when such an assiduous cultivator as my opponent had raised so poor a crop after the toils of so many moons. We contrasted the bearings, the prospects, and the ultimate termination of the two hopes--that of immortality; and that of eternal sleep; the present pleasures of religion and the pains of skepticism; and after a word of friendly exhortation to my antagonists, I bade them adieu.

"Thus, after enjoying, with many others, the very kind hospitalities of our benevolent brother Hawley and his amiable family for several days, and various demonstrations of respect and good will from all parties, we retired in the

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evening of that day to our good but afflicted brother Wightman's, in the country; and, after spending a pleasant evening with himself and family, on the next morning we embarked on Lake Erie for the State of New York.

"We had the pleasure," Mr. Campbell adds, "in the midst of our discussions, to be called to the river to hear the confession of six converts who were immersed into Christ by our brother Adamson Bentley."

This, it is presumed, is the first instance of baptism by our brethren in the city of Cleveland. The occasion is memorable. The administrator was as venerable as a patriarch; and the converts were trophies of a signal victory achieved over the allied forces of infidelity in the city.

The gentlemen who presided, at different times over this discussion, were Elder Bentley, Thomas Hawley, and Tolbert Fanning, of Nashville, Tenn., one of Mr. Campbell's companions in travel.

It is eminently worthy of special attention, that all the participants in that scene are now dwellers among the countless tenants of the grave. Campbell, Bentley, Fanning, Hawley, Wightman; M. S. Clapp also, and William Hayden. Bro. Clapp made two speeches in the discussion, in consequence of Mr. Campbell's hoarseness. All these have wheeled into the ranks of that long procession of immortal spirits who are awaiting their crowns. Dr. Underhill sleeps. And now, within a few days, Irad Kelley, Esq., the lone survivor of that group of historic names, is brought from the seaboard where he died, to rest among his kindred dead.

From that day the cause of infidelity withered. It was the blasting of the fruitless fig-tree. Long afterward

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in a public assembly of the citizens, Rev. Mr. Aiken declared that to Mr. Campbell was to be credited the downfall of infidelity in the city of Cleveland. In this opinion he only expressed the concurring judgment of other intelligent citizens, some of whom, legal gentlemen of reputation, have so said to me.

The cherished purpose of planting the ancient gospel in Cleveland seemed to be delayed by the death of Col. Wightman. This warm-hearted Christian was no less active than influential. On January 12, 1837, he fell asleep in good hope, after a long and painful illness. The removal of Bro. Hawley and family to Detroit, about this time, was also a blow to hope. It was not long, however, before a door of faith was opened, and in the following manner:

Capt. J. G. Nickerson and his brother, having moved to Cleveland, they importuned Henry to come and preach in the city. This panoplied chieftain opened the siege Friday, the 11th of February, 1842. In three days the meeting was all ablaze. Great numbers were not able to gain admittance. The overpowering mastery of that matchless man held his audiences for an hour and a half to two hours as under a charm. Gentlemen, and sometimes ladies, stood during the sermon unconscious of the time. During the ten days of his meeting there were twenty-six conversions. Three others united, and on Lord's day, the 20th of February, 1842, the church was constituted and left under the general oversight of Dr. J. P. Robison and A. S. Hayden. D. P. Nickerson and Geo. B. Tibbitts were the elders. The next Lord's day, Robison preached and baptized six more. Bro. Jones, whose prowess scents the battle from afar,

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was quickly on the ground, and made many accessions to the infant church. Soon after, the amiable and gifted Collins, with Robison, held a meeting which resulted in thirty conversions.

On the 10th of December, 1843, the church removed to Apollo Hall, east side of the river. In this and in Empire Hall it met about two years -- Dr. Robison and A. S. Hayden alternating in preaching; then, in 1846, the congregation re-established itself in Ohio City. Soon after this, Bro. L. Cooley, who had been an early member here, became their preacher. He was succeeded, in 1852, by Bro. Green, following whom, Bro. Cooley was again employed. In 1860, Bro. C. C. Foot became the pastor; then brethren B. A. Hinsdale, James Canon, and S. E. Shephard served the church successively; the present incumbent is Bro. A. Wilcox.

THE CHURCH IN EAST CLEVELAND PLANTED.

This church originated as a branch of the church in Euclid. A number of the members residing at this place, known as Doane's Corners, prepared the way for a meeting the 4th of July, 1843. It was held under a tent, and was attended by brethren Hartzel, Clapp, Collins, Robison, Benjamin and A. S. Hayden. All assisted, but the chief preaching was by Hartzel. There were over thirty additions; among them was Dr. N. H. Finney, who afterward attained considerable eminence as a preacher, and who died in the faith a few years after. Thus encouraged and increased, the brethren at the "Corners" presented a petition to the church of Euclid, dated August 7, 1843, signed by seventeen names, asking to

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be set off to form a separate church. The request being granted, the members met September 4th, at the dwelling of Col. Gardner, nominated their officers, and soon after entered on the exercise of their duties as a church of Jesus Christ.

Their first officers were W. P. Hudson and Theodore Stafford. This band of disciples held their position with great perseverance, having to contend much of the time with sharp opposition. Besides the help which they received from the parent church, Bro. M. S. Clapp was procured for regular visits. Few churches had pastors, or elders, those days, who gave themselves wholly to the care of them. They had "meetings" by Bros. Green, Robison, J. H. Jones, and others. William Hayden was a chief dependence, both for preaching and counsel. Among the last discourses he delivered was to this church, which he loved, and the importance of whose position he fully appreciated, in view of the prospective increase of the city of Cleveland. After meeting for a time in the old stone school-house, the church erected a plain, commodious edifice, which continued to serve them till the erection of their present large and attractive house of worship. In this excellent building, which is a rich credit to the architect, as well as to the liberality and enlightened impulses of the brotherhood, and a monument to the generosity of Dr. W. S. Streator, the church entered on a new and wider career of usefulness. Bro. J. H. Jones was called to the charge of the church. After him Bro. C. C. Foot was their help. Bro. J. B. Johnston, from Illinois, was their minister for a year, greatly beloved. His declining health compelled his

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resignation. The church has enjoyed the labors also of Isaac Errett and of Dr. L. L. Pinkerton. It is now widening its influence and enlarging its activities under the pastoral charge of Bro. Jabez Hall.

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CHAPTER XXI.

The Church in Royalton planted -- William Moody and the Church in LaFayette -- The Cause in Brunswick -- J. W. Lanphear -- The Gospel brought into Granger and Ghent. -- M. L. Wilcox.

WHEREVER the gospel was proclaimed it found men tired of sects, and possessed of qualities of character which would stamp them as extraordinary men in any enterprise. Noted among such men, was John Baker Stewart, of Royalton. He was born in Bristol, Vermont, May 10, 1791. He emigrated to Cayuga County, New York, where he united with the Baptists. He returned to the place of his nativity, and in 1817, he started with an ox-team for the Connecticut Western Reserve. Forty-two days steady traveling brought him to Royalton. The primitive forest reigned undisturbed. Not a road was laid out in the township. He selected his land on which he has resided ever since. Of education and solid sense above mediocrity he has held a prominent position in the county.

Henry Hudson, a Baptist preacher and a physician, established a church in Royalton. In 1828, through internal broils, it ceased to meet. Before they dissolved, Stewart, for himself and wife, obtained letters of honorable dismission. About this time Edward Scofield came in from Bazetta. He was abreast with the reformatory movement in Trumbull County, and though scarcely equal to Stewart in the stern qualities of leadership, he was a man of culture

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and independence. From Connecticut, where he was born in 1779, he came to the territory of Ohio in 1797. He assisted in surveying the lot lines in many of the townships. He was the first settler in Bazetta, the nearest neighbor being five miles distant. He built the first mills in that region. Every body was hospitable then -- Scofield notably so. In 1817 he was elected to the State Legislature, which position he filled with honor. He took membership with the Baptists in Warren, and soon rose to usefulness. He preached the gospel for many years, and was one of the "charter members" of the church of Bazetta.

In 1822, Ezra Leonard came into Royalton. He and Stewart, and Almon Eastman, were accustomed to meet and compare the doctrines of their creed with the teaching of the Scriptures. Light began to shine. When the "Christian Baptist" started, David Hays, of Canfield, who was father-in-law to both Stewart and Leonard, became a subscriber. His daughter, Mrs. Ruth Leonard, a woman of very remarkable knowledge of the Scriptures, obtained that work, and put it into the hands of Stewart. The first piece he read in it was Mr. Campbell's essay on the call to the ministry. Taught from childhood in the belief that preachers are immediately and divinely called as Moses was, this sharp and sifting analysis of the subject, though entirely successful in correcting his early teaching in regard to it, was very distasteful, as it produced the humiliating conviction that he had imbibed pernicious error. After a few days, he said: "Well, 'honesty is the best policy.' I will be honest, and let the truth have

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its full effect on my heart." This was his emancipation, and it opened to him a new era and a new career.

So stood matters till late in the fall of 1829, at which time Leonard, being in Canfield, invited William Hayden to Royalton. What were fifty miles, or the sleety storms of coming winter, to him? "I'll go," and Leonard gave notice in Richfield, at Bangs' Corners, that a preacher from Trumbull County would come and preach the everlasting gospel. Hayden's limping, white-faced horse, sharing the high enthusiasm of his martial rider, brought the bearer of glad tidings in prompt time. Curiosity to hear the advocate of a new religion, as the everlasting gospel without shadings and trimmings was supposed to be, filled the school-house. The candles were without candlesticks. Setting them here and there into pools of melted tallow, the meeting was opened. The preaching created great excitement. The place was full of skeptics. One night, when the sermon was ended, a man cried out: "Mr. Hayden, how long do you think a man will have to stay in hell?" Answered as quick as asked -- "I do n't know; I do n't expect to go there to see!" For awhile the cause trembled in the balances. Sectarian prejudice joining with infidel opposition, the school-house was locked. Not knowing it, he and the audience convened, and finding the house closed, a gentleman offered the use of his new blacksmith shop. Preacher and people went to work, it was seated, and the crowd filling it, he struck his best key, and for two hours the dark and withering systems of infidelity passed under rigid review in

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contrast with the true rights of man, the high civilization and exalted happiness which would follow the adoption of the Christian religion. From this, he turned toward the more willing inhabitants of Royalton. Supported by such men as Stewart, Scovill, and Leonard, the gospel was firmly planted, though fierce opposition attended every step of its progress. Dr. Hudson left no artifice unemployed. But the truth is mighty, and it won at every encounter. Converts came, and professors of various name saw the gospel ground of union and co-operation, that, in coming to Christ, they came to one another. Among others the manly Dougald McDougall and family, who had been with the "Bible Christians," the excellent and energetic Jewett N. Frost also, who, though they have gone to their "long sought rest," left witness behind them in their zealous labors for the gospel.

Others came in to help on the good begun work. Bro. Green and Bro. Moody rendered efficient and timely aid. The church was constituted in the fall of 1829. The record contains the following names as the beginning of the church:

Edward Scofield, Mary Scofield, Rufus Scofield, Roxana Scofield, John B. Stewart, Huldah Stewart, Jewett N. Frost, Dougald McDougall, Lucia McDougall, Adin Pike and wife, Wm. Hatch, Lydia Hatch, David Wallace, Adaline Wallace, Almon Eastman, Spencer W. Paine, Miranda Paine, White Paine and wife, Ebenezer Robinson, Oliver N. Paine, Renetta Paine, Henry L. Bangs, Almira Bangs, Elisha N. Bangs, Abigail Bangs, Chauncey A. Stewart, Jerry Meach, Lucinda Meach, Sylvia M. O'Brian,

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Marcia Whitney, Samuel Verney, Damaris Verney, Hannah Verney, Catharine Fuller, Decius Barnes.

Edward Scofield, J. B. Stewart, and J. N. Frost, were the bishops; Adin Pike and Dougald McDougall, deacons. Bro. Stewart, whose memory retains its wonderfully retentive power at eighty-three, writes:

"From this time forward Bro. William Hayden looked after, and took very great interest in the welfare of the church. And when we take into account the small amount of compensation he received for his many trips, over bad roads and through storms, the church hold him in grateful remembrance to this day. Most of the preaching was done by him, by Bro. Scofield, Bro. Green, and Bro. Moody. All these brethren are held in high esteem by the older brethren.

"In the year 1835, Bro. Scofield removed to Indiana. Falling sick, he was brought back all the way on a bed. He lived about two weeks after his return, when he went joyfully to meet his Lord."

The subject of unconditional personal election, the staple of many sermons in those days, was always a hard doctrine, and difficult to the studious mind of Stewart. He was relieved in the following manner: Hayden, in one of his sermons, declared: "Put election on character, not on person, and the subject is clear. God has always respected character. He has always blessed those who obey him, and punished the disobedient; this is the true election. It rests on character, not on person." This threw a flood of light into his mind, and he walked out of the entanglements of a subject which has bewildered thousands.

Conversing with a lady on the claims of the gospel,

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she said with deep emotion, "Oh, I would give all the world if my heart were changed so I could believe on Jesus." "What would you give," said Hayden, "to believe on Mohammed?" "Oh, nothing at all," she said. "Why?" "Because I believe him to be an impostor." "But why do you wish to believe on Jesus?" "Because I believe him to be the Son of God." "Then you do believe on him, do you not?" "Oh, yes, with all my heart!" "Then," continued the preacher, "if your heart were changed, you would disbelieve him, and be an infidel." She saw her mistake: with a heart already penitent and in love with Christ, she was vainly waiting for some miraculous change. She arose, and was baptized, and went on her way rejoicing.

That remarkable man waged a heroic battle for Jesus Christ. Stewart testifies, "A great war spirit was aroused by his preaching." He laid claim to the people as belonging to Jesus Christ, whom Satan has ruined in sin, stupefied in ignorance, and for whom the salves of sectarianism bring no healing. He "gave no quarter to sin, ignorance, nor the devil." In Richfield he preached in a ball-room. At one time he delivered a discourse sitting on horseback. A correspondent writes the first time she heard him was in a saw-mill. Like Paul, whom above all men he admired, and whom he somewhat resembled, he would go to the market, the theater, or the forum, if an audience could there be found to whom he might declare the great salvation.

While the public mind, like the sea, was greatly agitated, a great impetus was imparted to the cause by the yearly meeting held near Bangs' Corners,

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September, 1834. It was a large, orderly meeting, and made a favorable and enduring impression. It carried the force of a great public demonstration. In attendance were J. Hartzel, W. Hayden, E. B. Hubbard, A. Allerton, W. F. Pool, A. B. Green, Wm. Moody, and A. S. Hayden. Many converts crowned the meeting with success. Great harmony prevailed, and through acquaintance the hearts of the brotherhood were knit together. This is veritable Christian unity, which was uniting in the same kindred tie the brotherhood now Widening and extending in all directions.

The church of Christ in Royalton still flourishes, and is fulfilling its mission. McDougall became an elder, and died in the faith, honored of all. After a little, Bro. Wm. Tousley came in, was chosen an overseer, and for many years was a pillar. The ministry, who, from time to time have labored among them, have been zealous and faithful. Besides those already named, they have had Scott, Campbell, Burnett, Shephard, Buckbee, Robison, Jones, Cooley, Moffett, Hinsdale, and others on incidental occasions. They now have Bro. H. N. Allen for their minister.

WILLIAM MOODY, born in New Hampshire, August 29, 1810, was descended from English and Scotch ancestors. His twenty-third year found him in Ohio. After spending some time in Wadsworth, he settled in Chatham, Medina County.

At the age of nineteen be became a Baptist, in Franklin County, New York. Persuaded that he had a "call" to the ministry, he began preaching. But his call, as he felt and related it, was, that he loved God and loved men,

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and rejoicing in "the liberty wherewith Christ had made him free," he felt a strong impulse to speak of his saving goodness to others. After coming to Wadsworth, he heard Bro. Green on the subject of faith, in which the preacher asserted that "faith comes by hearing;" (Rom. x: 17) that it is the result of evidence intelligently apprehended by the mind. Moody determined to attack him and expose this false and pernicious position. It denied his notion of the infusion of faith, as a spiritual grace, by a direct act of the Holy Ghost. He thought to panoply himself for the onset by a fresh study and array of his proofs; but he found his strength was weakness. After that sermon his proof-texts did not read to him as before. He was disarmed. The encounter never took place.

Having engaged in service with Bro. Newcomb, the youngest daughter of the venerable elder took up the argument two hours an evening for five nights, chiefly on the work of the Holy Spirit and the design of baptism. He contended earnestly for the tradition of the fathers; but the young and heroic daughter of the covenant was too shrewd for him, well taught as he confessedly was in the general language of Scripture. He fell in the debate, and yielding up the ghost of tradition, he found new life and new joy in the clearer and more scriptural knowledge of the gospel.

From that hour his voice was raised more earnestly in the advocacy of the truth. Though working still as need required, he gave much time to the proclamation of the Word. In the fall of 1837, he stuck the pioneer stake in the town of LaFayette, Medina County. For two nights the people listened attentively, but would not sing. The third night, on approaching the meeting, his heart was gladdened by the sound of songs of praise. "Thank God," he exclaimed, "the waters are moving!" He continued three months, visiting, reading the Scriptures -- privately and publicly -- preaching the gospel, and exhorting the people. He brought into the covenant forty-nine

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by baptism, recovered others, and founded a church of sixty persons. He instituted meetings, for the new converts, in one of which, forty at a single meeting took a part in prayer and exhortation. Discovering that much feeling pervaded the assembly, he offered an opportunity for confessing the Lord. Seven arose, one after another, confessed their sins, and declared their desire for obedience to the merciful Saviour. They were baptized the next morning. This church has stood firm ever since. Bro. Earl Moulton has long stood as a leader and support to them. Bro. Moody has preached a fourth of his time there for thirty-five years, while his labors in surrounding regions has contributed much to sustain the churches in Sullivan, Wadsworth, Brunswick, Weymouth, Granger, Royalton, Birmingham, and many other places.

THE CHURCH IN POMPEY STREET, BRUNSWICK.

Early in the year 1835, five families came to Brunswick from Pompey, Onondaga County, New York. Settling together, their street was called "Pompey Street." They were, John Harris, Darius Wilson, Warren Wilson, ----- Chase, ----- Garrett, all, with their wives, members of the church in Pompey. Moss and Hayden soon found them. Great was the joy of these disciples to see again those zealous men who had imparted to them so much light in the east. These two brethren--Bro. Green also, and, after a little, Bro. Wilcox -- built them up and increased their numbers. Dr. John Clarke, a gentleman of weight and respectability, a member of the Presbyterian church, and a practicing physician, gave a candid hearing, and obeyed the gospel.

A reorganization of the congregation was made in December, 1839. Dr. John Clarke, Samuel Clarke,

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and Darius Wilson were elected overseers, and Dan A. Moulton and Geo. W.