Cornell University Library BX 8958.K62H67 A History of the Presbytery of Kittannin “A iS tony oF THE PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING, OF THE | PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, WITH ITS CHURCHES AND SCHOOLS. PREPARED UNDER THE DIRECTION OF ITS CoMMITTEE ON History. EDITED BY REV. D. H. SLOAN, STATED CLERK. “ Walk about Zion and go round about her; tell the towers thereof. Mark yc well her bulwarks, consider her palaces, that ye may tell it to the generation following.” Psatm 48: 12, 18. PRINTED BY BARRows & OSBOURNE, 90 DIAMOND STREET, PITTSBURGH. 1888. BX 895% Koo H67 ihe Chasch, TYYYYYTY es Qh, where are kings and empires now Qf eld that went and came ? Jaut, Lsord, thy Church Is praying yel, A fhotisand years the sane. We ier ber goodly betlemen Aid hex fecgdatiens trong y We hear within thé solemn Voice OF her myending ceuu: For not like kingdoms of the world hy holy Ehurch, Q, God! Phough earthquake shocks are threatening ber, And tempests are abroad, Clnshaken as efernal bills, Immovable she stands, A mountain that shall fll the carlh, a house net made by bands.” CONTENTS. Page PREPATORY NOTES wacccscnasicscosesss azevssetin soa chs sodtcetauamoieecenmammeese 9 THE PRESBYTERY :— Geographical and Industrial..................::ceeseeeseeeeceneeecececeenneeerees 13 Presbyterial Boundaries and Connections.............. Sevanvawlonsesbinveve 17 Synodical Connections...............ccccseceeeccceeeceeeeeee anneeceassesaeenenes 18 Planting and Growth of Churches...........ccccececeeesceneeece seeesenenses 19 Organization of Presbytery .............c.cccceseeseeeesesesenerseesereeeeenaeee 20 Roll of Mimisters.............cscccccsssnsesees dis batuuev baaginiessses veeweeeeetee sores 24 Officers of Presbytery... . QT Roll of Churches...........ccceceeeeeseseesceesereeeee 2 cheshire aes aeabaisa sayiesmers 29 Commissioners to General Assembly................ccescceee ceeeeeeeeeeee 31 Commissioners to Synod of Pennsylvania.... . 382 Contributions to the Ministry............ pid eatedsaavn ug uxt suseseniussecanateena 33 Licensures icc icicuscscsesonevsiccnesnsesecaiec: Seecnak ose vanssebarseersbeeeecetecs 35 Ordinations................. 3t Other Contributions 39 ‘Meetings: of Presbytery. ssc cescavssscereneciescnceanedsane osvecsesereereseses 40 Special Services.................ccecesesssseceeees ithes bnigee. tuacre esate des 43 Action on Overtures................. slats Svea Poon tevpaennec aan saute ebenwensioecn 47 Temperance...............0008 patie un Gitano rvowies end sake le erekeemeReeo Nee 52 Record in the War for the Union.......cc. cece ccsseseeseeesneeseeee 58 Miscellany su. ssececescteea waspasvazceenseien - 62 Summary of Statistics 66 Women’s Home Missionary Society. .............cccceseeeeeseeecesseeeeee 68 Women’s Foreign Missionary Society...............00-0000 eo gO Centenary Discourse of Gospel Work and Workers...............00 9 CHURCHES :— Apollo (formerly Warren)..................cceeseeeseencsccaeaeneeceseeenenssenens 95 Appleby Manor...... ..... dbarisecteenerevenewaimiaeisesess FOG , Atwood....... iavaaieeie se easdnele ene ae ons stimageccavlssneamnieseaemereyedeerieruetatsbserers 110 Bethel 6 CONTENTS, CHURCHES :— Page BGthe 808 coiswesiveneveaivevsn awaccnnsiatavesasaatewanassvine neande nis omeadacrensexentieales 118 Blacklick ......... cues eanenanaeceaanca ice emeee 120 Boiling: ‘Springs os sceseversaneveaaseavesteweseeedead fasisauapusethieveesannicce seams 122 Brady’ § Bends, wczve.scoacesenmsiarscedaseivsed anceanvgyaetesemmaseeciattereaes dense 127 Centre CONGO. sc assaicacnaie-assanbiineaciaviei sda vaaasseoenniusers cauienesasi euneteeeaneinte 149 Crooked :Cr66 Rice, sac. uansaididec suebesdenbeanatasnnwdiawanseshtuwanenssticdsewansOeies 156 Currie’s Run.. aS UI O ths oaves vustceceuceue veesd dete cee ue evdeeeaateasen ado ca neta on dont eee PUDONG ZEN Sood cguaiaciace lane auaaated dagricondl tant vaelse tus susuenManailauseaevieana Elder's: Rad ges syansnvseuse ctv enesumenavensceneeuanpevatennoepaninenamesstestaces Bld erton sri suessswarvetencrneneacsaanvneneedaveadacuiaciantadneauheaa anaes Freeport i asiib cleave notaiet neta sors raien Grains Seta sbsio(s esses Mele eelalnstamsy nieinrawineieicaeereewrataam JRCKSON VIN Css. co ace sccndlaguiasepsanesiaateence esis aensaugach saatansd csecauapatae denen Kittanning, First......... faidchaaiaiastivajemutoavamnnunndedaun oeiaieaiep eg a AtaaeRRa 238 Kittanning, Second ..oiicccs scssassatenssierceaemnccteeus oieiiwiaieienyssceeeanens 245 DSSS CHD UT Biss ces ous anseiseg sete cae vesecais Auidctigedas enews eden eae 249 Man Onin gi .cecaewcspsandawussieii deineresansaenalesia vaseavese didi dasban dhdawesiaaiouey eee’ 259 Mariotscisne wensaesesncatrenespearenbecvacsipenesentivewsin nedsecacentatvecereedaceas 261 Mechanicsburg... catiasice ssincsvsnsissilevenduasiestenceas Parker City (formerly Ebenezer, Lawrenceburg)............cccssseseees 277 Parnasgasiccsssuvssnvcassecvensdueveedavneoscsasias ian segeewteeedeass 2PIENO | OLD 8199 200'9 9689 188'9 RE eS. son | *syuvoTUnMUWIOZD JaquinN soy A, JOLT uo poppy ‘ON | soqyeayiyiead uO Popp “UOISS2. “suodveqd jo “SOP JO “ON | a t | ! “soyoinyd JO “ON, | “sIOISIUIJ, JO ‘ONT | ava 68 HISTORY OF THE WOMAN'S PRESBYTERIAL HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY. BY MRS. M. W. BELL. The missionary idea came into the world with Christianity itself. Christ came to emphasize and to illustrate God’s infinite longing for the salvation of men. He was sent as a missionary from Heaven to earth, while the heralding angels sang “Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth, Peace, Good Will Toward Men,” and all down the ages every missionary, every missionary society, every children’s band has taken up the joyful chorus, “ Peace on Earth and Good Will Toward Men.” And woman, although “last at the cross and first at the sepulchre,” had these later years been wont, Sarah like, to knead her cakes and roast her veal behind the tent door, while the Abrahams dined with angels; but by and by she steps out and inquires: “ How to begin, how to accomplish best, Her end of being on earth and mission high.” Yes, “mission high,” high as the star of Bethlehem, old as Christianity and wide as the earth. In the summer of 1881, a committee of the Presbytery of Kittanning appointed Mrs. D. J. Irwin, Mrs. D. Hall, Mrs. George W. Mechlin, Mrs. Eva G. Thompson, Mrs. Wm. G. Parks, Mrs. S. W. Miller, Mrs. Alexander Donaldson, Mrs. Pollock and Mrs. Fullerton as a Presbyterial Committee of Home Missions. ‘YPRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 69 August 26th, 1881, the committee met at Elder’s Ridge ‘and organized for Home Mission work, electing Mrs. D. J. Irwin, President; Mrs. George W. Mechlin, Vice President; Mrs. Eva G. Thompson, Secretary; Mrs. William G. Parks, “Treasurer. On November rst, 1882, the Society met in Kittanning. ‘Those who were anxious for the child of one year, inquired with eager faces: “ What of the night,” and joyfully received the reply, “ The morning cometh.” Instead of the $1,000.00 asked of the Presbytery of Kittanning, $1,400.00 was contri- buted in money, and over $400.00 in boxes and packages; twenty-six churches reporting societies and bands. Sixteen have separate organizations for Home Missions, five divide their funds between Home and Foreign Missions, and five raise money in “ mite boxes ” and by donations. Five “ bands ” are reported, some of which contribute alternate years to Home and Foreign Missions, and the others exclusively to Home Missions. The following churches report societies: Apollo, Bethel, Clarksburg, Ebenezer, Elder’s Ridge, Freeport, Glade Run, Indiana, Kittanning, Leechburg, Marion, Mechanics- burg, Saltsburg, Slate Lick, Tunnelton, Worthington. And the following churches report contributions to Home Mission work by “bands,” “mite boxes,” “donations” and «« H. and F.” societies: Appleby Manor, Clinton, Concord, Curries’ Run, Cherry Tree, Elderton, Homer City, Jacksonville, Parker City, West Glade Run, West Lebanon, Washington. October 16th, 1883, the Society met in Indiana, and the reports from the auxilliary societies were quite encouraging, showing an advance in organizations, contributions and interest. June 18, 1884, the Society met in Apollo, and here we walked alone. Hitherto we had held closely the strong and 0 HISTORY OF THE tender hand of our brother, (Presbytery) but realizing that “ whosoever hath to him shall be given,” we timidly stepped forth. To our little strength “shall be given.” To our blundering efforts “shall be given.” To our whispered prayers “ shall be given.” June oth, 1885, the Society met in Parker City. An elec- tion of officers resulted as follows: Mrs. Eva G. Thompson, President; Miss Maggie B. Irwin, Mrs. D. J. Irwin, Mrs. T. B. Elder, Mrs. H. W. Lowry, Vice Presidents; Mrs. A. T-. Bell, Secretary; Miss Juliette Robinson, Treasurer. June 16th, 1886, the Society met in Elderton, where the reports showed twenty-eight auxiliary societies, five bands and five hundred and twenty-eight (528) members. Money paid to W. E. C. for Home Missions, $586.00, and boxes and packages amounting to $702.00. June 15th, 1887, the Society met in Leechburg, and although no new auxiliaries were reported there was an increase in membership and liberality. |“ Nothing in this world keeps but the human soul,” everything else lives but to decay, but this mission work, with the sweet word “ Home” attached lies so near the human heart that we may assure ourselves it will live perpetually. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 71 WOMAN’S PRESBYTERIAL FOREIGN MISSIONARY SOCIETY. BY MRS. T. B. ELDER. VVVYTTYTTTT TTY In April, 1874, the Presbytery of Kittanning, after some discussion appointed a committee to make arrangements for a missionary convention, which should have special reference te « woman’s work for woman” in heathen lands. This conven- tion was called to meet in Apollo on the 17th of June, 1874. There were present about 160 delegates, representing two- thirds of the churches in the Presbytery. The report of that meeting speaks of it as a convention marked from the first by great enthusiasm, with evident tokens of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. The interest of that convention was largely owing to the soul-stirring addresses of the returned missionaries present—Rev. W. F. Johnston, D. D., India; Rev. S. G. M’Farland and wife, Siam; Miss Loring, of Syria, (now wife of Rev. W. M. Taylor, of Mt. Jackson, Pa.,) and Dr. George P. Hays, then President of Washington and Jefferson College. | The interest was much intensified by the great sympathy of the audience with the object of the con- vention and the earnestness with which the women of our churches seemed ready to enter anew upon the great work of bringing the world to Christ, showing how groundless the fears expressed by many members of the Presbytery, that the churches were not ready for this convention. At the close an 72 HISTORY OF THE executive committee of fifteen ladies was appointed to take- charge of this work in the Presbytery. The following are- the names of that committee: : Mrs. T. D. Ewing, Kittanning; Mrs. B. F. Boyle, Slatelick;: Mrs. James Bovard, Marion; Mrs. T. B. Elder, Elder’s Ridge; Mrs. E. M. Forrester, Freeport; Mrs. Dr. Hall, Indiana; Mrs. S. H. Holliday, Brady’s Bend; Mrs. D. J. Irwin, Ebenezer; Mrs. Alice A. Magill, Apollo; Mrs. Dr. Mechlin, Glade Run; Mrs. M. W. M’Mullen, Mechanicsburg; Mrs. Franklin Orr, Jackson- ville; Miss Dorcas Russell, (now Mrs. Elwood,) Clarksburg; Mrs.. D. H. Sloan, Leechburg; Mrs. M. A. Sutton, Indiana, This committee held its first meeting in Freeport, July oth, 1874, Mrs. T. D. Ewing was chosen President, Mrs. M. A. Sutton, Vice President; Mrs. Dr. Hall, Treasurer, and Mrs. T. B. Elder, Recording Secretary. With the aid of Rev. T. D. Ewing, of Kittanning, and Rev. J. J. Francis, of Freeport, members of the co-operative committee of the Presbytery, a plan of work was adopted, as follows: The territory was first districted, and from two to three churches assigned to each member of the committee, and they severally enjoined to effect, if possible, an organization in connection with the Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society in the churches under their care, and to have general oversight of these societies, and aid them in every possible way in developing and sustaining an interest in mission work. Six societies were organized prior to this time—Marion, Kittanning, Elder’s Ridge, Brady’s Bend, Leechburg and Freeport. Marion being organized in October, 1871, has the honor of being the first organization in the Presbytery. These societies fell in all the more heartily with the general movement on account of a prior organization. But with all available helps the work of this committee was somewhat difficult, as there were few land- tharks to serve as guides. A new path was to be made, and care must be taken not to depart from good old Presbyterian ways; women must be brought out of their tranquil, irre- sponsible position in regard to Foreign Mission work, and PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 73 assume new and more public duties. Many timidly shrank at first from going forward, and were inclined to shake off responsibility -by quoting Paul’s saying, “That women keep silence in the churches.” In view of these things the pioneers had to move softly, thoughtfully and prayerfully, and study to win the opposers and to encourage the shrinking and timid ones to go forward. One rule was carefully observed from the first, that of consulting the pastors and seeking their advice and encouragement This committee owes much of its success in the work, in its earlier years, to the ministers of Kittanning Presbytery for their valuable aid in holding district conventions in different parts of the Presbytery, and thus awakening a more general interest in the cause of missions. In this and many other ways we have had their “ God bless you” from they very beginning of our work. At the close of our first year we were able to report thirty-seven auxiliaries and seven mission bands, with a con- tribution of $2,076.29. It has been with joy that we have closed the record of each year bringing to the Master of the vineyard his $2,000.00, and, in the year 1877, including the centennial offering, lacking but $75.00 of $3,000.00. It has been said that the earlier years of a society are marked by many experiences similar to those of a child—its beginnings feeble, its steps uncertain, and its ignorance amusing. So we have found it. But in 1879 and 1880, we had grown into a family of forty-four auxiliaries and thirteen mission bands, leaving but five small churches unorganized, and they without settled pastors. Some feeble, struggling churches had zeal enough stirred up to organize and continue for a time, but discouragements came and the good work was allowed to cease. In 1880, a call to Rev. T. D. Ewing, of Kittanning, which transferred him to the Presidency of Parson’s College, Iowa, took from us our much-loved President, Mrs. Ewing. She had most faithfully served as President for six years. She had 10 74 HISTORY OF THE rare tact for organization and general management, and was most admirably qualified with manner and voice to preside at popular meetings, and commend the cause to the general public. But our loss was only other’s gain, as all her zeal and helpful activity in missionary work was but transferred to another field. It was written of her by an eminent minister, near her western home, after her death on September 12th, 1884, that «although her life was not lived out to the full, it was lived beautifully and well.” Mrs. J. J. Boyd, of Slate Lick, was chosen President after Mrs. Ewing’s resignation, and served with great faithfulness for two years, when failing strength constrained her to resign. In the beginning of the work the position of an officer in our association was full of unfamiliar duties, and, at times, peculiarly trying, and the will- ing and capable official was more difficult to find than now, after the training of years and the growth of a sentiment favorable to the movement. The officers were at first elected without a limit to the time of service, and that without any of those little jealousies that are apt to attend their selection where such places come to be looked upon as positions of honorable distinction and their duties are better known and more narrowly defined. It was proposed at the annual meet- ing in Indiana in October, 1883, that the term of serving in office be limited to a period of three years, and, in accordance with this decision Mrs. Alice A. Magill accepted the office of President, to which she had been unanimously chosen. A committee was also appointed at this meeting to make such a revision of the constitution as would bring the society more into harmony with the work at large, and present it for adoption at the next meeting in June, 1884. At the delightful reunion held in Apollo, June 17th, 1884, where nearly all the workers of the first decade were gathered, the revised constitution was submitted, and after some discussion adopted. It called for an enlarged board of officers, four Vice Presidents instead of one, and in accordance with this requirement, the following persons were elected to serve for three years: Mrs. S. W. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 75 Miller, Saltsburg; Mrs. J. J. Boyd, Slate Lick; Mrs. Eva G. Thompson, Marion; Mrs. E. R. Dain, Freeport. Three Secretaries were also required instead of one, and the follow- ing were elected: Foreign Corresponding Secretary, Miss M. B. Irwin, Ebenezer; Home Corresponding Secretary, Mrs. M. J. Elder, Elder’s Ridge; Presbyterial Secretary, Mrs. T. B. Elder, Elder’s Ridge. Mrs. Dr. Hall handed in her resigna- tion as Treasurer, and Mrs. M. A. Sutton, of Indiana, was chosen, and most faithfully performs the duties of that office. In less than one year from this time the President’s chair was again left vacant by the removal of Rev. H. Magill and wife to a western field of labor. Mrs. Magill had been one of our most earnest workers for both Home and Foreign Missions for eleven years, and her loss was much felt, especially in the churches left vacant by her husband’s removal. Mrs. S. W. Miller, first Vice President, filled the vacancy and successfully carried the work forward until the close of the thirteenth year, June 17, 1887. At this time the following officers were elected, viz: President, Mrs. Samuel Crawford, Kittanning. Vice-Presidents, Mrs. C. E. Barr, Indiana; Mrs. T. M. Thompson, Freeport; Mrs. D. J. Irwin, Ebenezer; Mrs. A. T. Bell, Kellysburg. Secretaries: Home Corresponding, Mrs. T. C. Watson, Elder’s Ridge; Foreign Corresponding, Miss M. B. Irwin, Ebenezer; Presbyterial Sec- retary, Mrs. T. B. Elder, Elder’s Ridge. Treasurer, Mrs. M. A. Sutton, Indiana. The following table will show the several places of holding the annual meetings and the total contributions for each year: Date. Place of Meeting. Contributions. 1875. Tia Nats sce csocets eeceisvncswenesig ooxeegae $ 2,076 29 1876 Pree por tives, aadeecdasnaneutincensccs 2,715 00 TOT exc Saltsburg....... isan oat Ui 1878 Freeport secsceviesyesenasssseascnvodneers 2,587 00 1879 Indiana............ seengvener ee 2,662 00 1880, Slate Lick......... 2,589 00 1881... Elder’s Ridge... 2,597 70 1882 Kittanning ...... 2,369 26 1883 Indiana............ 2,373 96 1884 .. Apollo........... 2,531 00 1885.. ..Parker City...... 2,454 37 1886..... ..Elderton ........ 2,671 15 1887 TE CCH DUE Bias acconuaccesureneniaaacisaes 2,477 41 LOtal .cscwevsen -$33,052 14 16 HISTORY OF THE The annual meetings have been held in different parts of the Presbytery, and since 1881, the date of the Home Mission organization, have been at the same time and place. At these meetings the story of missionary work has been frequently told by those who have “touched it with their own hands” on both home and foreign fields, among whom have been Dr. Hunter Corbett, Rev. T. F. Wallace, Dr. W. F. Johnson and wife, Drs. Coan and Wherry, Rev. S. G. Wilson, Mrs. Dr. Happer, and by the secretaries of the Foreign Board, Drs. Ellinwood and Gillespie. The home field has been repre- sented by Miss Wray, of Utah; Miss Robertson, of Indian Territory, and by the secretary of the Board, Dr. W. C. Roberts. The claims of the Freedmen have been loyally urged by Dr. Allen and his now sainted wife, Mrs. Mary Allen, and later by Dr. H. T. McClelland, of the Western Theological Seminary. In addition to thus providing, as a stimulus to effort, contact with the zeal and fervor of active laborers in the field, it has been our constant aim to secure a regular supply of missionary intelligence among our member- ship, by as wide a circulation as possible of the monthly magazines printed by our board. Of these there are in circu- lation 216 copies of “ Woman’s Work,” and of “Children’s Work,” 151 copies. The present roll of membership contains 1,451 names, but a part of our “unsolved problem” is how to reach the more than 2,000 women, whose names are on the rolls of the churches of Kittanning Presbytery, who as yet have neither “‘ part nor lot” in this organized work. We turn now to look briefly at some of the work taken up by this Presbyterial society. Its contributions have found their way into almost every mission field in the world. Kit- tanning auxiliary took up the support of Mrs. W. F. Johnson in 1875 at Allahabad, India, and continued it until her return to America in 1885. Since then it has been transferred to Mrs. J. H. Judson, China. Apollo, Leechburg and Freeport, took as their missionary, in the same year, Mrs. Vandyke, of PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 74 Siam. Miss Wherry, we claim in a special manner, not only supported by our Presbyterial Society, but going out from us with her brother, Rev. E. M. Wherry, and his wife, on their return to India in the fall of 1879. Her work had been associated with that of her brother until in 1884 she was transferred to the girl’s school at Dehra. A glance at the statistical reports shows contributions to schools and scholar- ships in China, India, Siam, Persia, Syria, Africa, Japan, Mexico and South America. The record also shows the “little ones” helping to launch Rev. E. P. Dunlap’s mission- ary boat, aiding in the printing press for the Laos and the Missionary Home at Woodstock. Saltsburg was organized in 1873, and the band there is recorded as the first mission band in the Presbytery. For thirteen years they have deposited their pennies and busied their fingers in fancy work for fairs, and tuned their voices for concerts, that they might swell the amount weekly dropped into their “mite” and “birthday ” boxes. ‘The amount given from their “ mite boxes” alone to Foreign Missions is $458.85, while their “birthday boxes” gather up their contributions for the Home Mission fund. Apollo has its “ Hopeful” and “ Faithful ” workers, that come to the front each year with their $40. Freeport’s young ladies’ branch contribute their $50 for Zenana work, and the “ Do What We Can” band, $40 for their scholarship in Tungchow; Jacksonville, their $50 for a scholarship in Beirut Seminary. Then there is the “Don- aldson Band,” of Elder’s Ridge; the “ King’s Gardeners,” of Homer City; “Band of Mechanicsburg” and Harmony’s “ Willing Workers;” the Sabbath School Band of West Lebanon; and the “ Fruit Buds” of Slate Lick. Let us thank God, that when our hands shall no longer be able to carry on the work of this missionary association, a corps.of thoroughly trained Christian workers will be ready to take our places, and act with a power we have never known. 78 HISTORY OF THE Having endeavored briefly to give the prominent features. of these thirteen year’s work, there comes to us a feeling of dissatisfaction in view of the meagre details given of so great a work. Ina review like this, much of its history lies hidden, much of it is too sacred to touch, much of it is too lofty to reach. The following is a list of all the organizations from the beginning of the work, with the date of their organization as far as known: Appleby Manor, December, 1874; Apollo, June, 1874: Bands, “ Hopeful,” « Faithful Workers” ; Bethel, July, 1874;. Bethesda, May, 1886; Boiling Spring, October, 1874; Brady’s Bend, March, 1873: Band, “Loring” ; Centre, October, 1874; Cherry Run, October, 1874; Cherry Tree, 1885; Clarksburg, July, 1874; Clinton, July, 1874; Concord, August, 1874; Crooked Creek, December, 1874; Currie’s Run, March, 1875; Ebenezer, January, 1874; Elder’s Ridge, January, 1873: Band, “ Donaldson” ; Elderton, October, 1874; Freeport, April, 1874: Band, “Do What We Can”; Gilgal, October, 1874; Glade Run, June, 1874; Harmony, September, 1874: Band, “ Willing Workers”; Homer City, ?: Band, “ King’s Gardeners”; Indiana, August, 1874; Jacksonville, August, 1874: Band, “ Sabbath School ”; Kittanning, November, 1873; Leechburg, January, 1884; Mahoning, August, 1874; Marion, October, 1871; Mechanicsburg, August, 1874: Band, “ Mission”; Midway, ?; Middle Creek, November, 1874; Mount Pleasant, ?; Parker City, December, 1874; Rayne, January, 1875; Plumville, ?; Rockbridge, ne Rural Valley, October, 1874; Saltsburg, June, 1874: Band, “Little Sunbeams”; Slate Lick, October, 1874: Band, “Fruit Buds”; Srader’s Grove, July, 1874; Tunnelton, ?; Union, December, 1874; Washington, August, 1874; West Glade Run, September, 1874; West Lebanon, May, 1874: Band, “Sabbath School”; Worthington, May, 1874. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 719 A CENTENARY DISCOURSE OF GOSPEL WORK AND WORKERS IN THE BOUNDS OF KIT- TANNING PRESBYTERY, DELIVERED AT PARKER, DEC. 21, 1887. BY REV. A. DONALDSON, D. D. VVTTVTVYTYYVYYTTY “Remember the days of old, consider the years of many gen- ‘erations; ask thy father and he will show thee, thy elders, and they will tell thee.”—Deut. 32: 7. A life covering four-fifths of the century under review, and a personal knowledge of all the laborers in the present boundaries of Kittanning Presbytery, are the sole induce- ments to attempt the service required for this day. The book of God’s unfolding providence, like the cloudy pillar, all darkness to the Egyptians in its rear, shines benignly on the Israelites in front. So his providential dealings with his people can be comprehended only by those looking back upon them. “God has made his wonderful works to be remembered.” Hence the Saviour’s declaration,” ‘“ What I do thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter,” and the historical record, “These things understood not his disciples at the first; but when Jesus was glorified then remembered they that these things were written of him and that they had done these things unto him.” The aim of this discourse is simply to put on record things proper to be “remembered” and handed down for “ many generations ” respecting our field, our work and our workers. 8&0 HISTORY OF THE The comfort and even success of ministerial labor depends much on the population of any territory. Our population is mostly of Scotch Irish descent. Some, indeed, are fresh from the sod of the Emerald Isle and a few from the banks and braes of Scotland. To all these Presbyterianism, in any of its families, is congenial, and labor among them is generally as pleasant as anywhere else in this fallen world. But in and near the Crooked creek valley lying in Armstrong county, it is largely of German origin and inclines to the Lutheran and German Reformed churches, and, to their credit tt should be remarked, that during the last half century they have culti- vated their field with growing success and find that Germans, molting into English habits of life, are in many respects tracta- ble and are easily induced to take a leading part in social religious exercises. OUR FIELD. Labor was commenced in it as early as 1787, the year before the General Assembly was organized. But the first pastor in it was Rev. Joseph W. Henderson settled in 1799 over Ebenezer and Bethel churches. Slate Lick and Union were organized in 1799; at least ministerial labor began there as early as that time. But Rev. John Boyd, settled in 1802, was the first pastor. These laborers with all that served Harmony, Indiana, Gilgal, Glade Run, Kittanning, Saltsburg, Apollo and Crooked Creek, being members of Redstone Presbytery, had a field immensely large, being liable to be sent as supplies to any part of its original territory. It narrowed down, however, at the organization of Ohio, Hart- ford and Allegheny Presbyteries, as they were successively formed. In 1830, when Blairsville was organized, any part of its territory might claim their labors as supplies until Clarion Presbytery took the portion north of the Red Bank creek, and then all south of this continued to be their field till 1857, when Saltsburg Presbytery was organized. For fourteen years afterward the field was about as large as at present. At the reconstruction of church courts in 1870 our PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 81 boundaries were so changed as to include all Armstrong county and Indiana county north of the Black Lick, and the Presbyterial name was changed to Kittanning. The territory is not likely to be further curtailed. Thus our territory has been included in five Presbyteries and one of them under two names, also it has been amenable to the Synods of Pittsburgh, Erie and Pennsylvania. Our Presbyteries have all been unusually harmonious, free from everything like clique or clan. So, too, was the Synod of Erie, electing its first four moderators by acclaim. What it will be since two whole States are included remains to be more fully seen. CHANGING ASPECTS OF THE WHOLE COUNTRY. Only a quarter of a century had elapsed under the Con- stitution and our General Assembly, when the nation was involved in a war with the mother country for more than two years, and by its success was relieved from the impressments of our citizens into her navy and other associated troubles. To this day childhood’s memory recalls many incidents of that war. Little more than half a century had passed, when the country was involved in war with Mexico, because the “lone star ” state had been received into our Union. By the success of this war we gained large accession of territory. Severe as these confiicts were they were mere skirmishes in compari- son with what awaited us between the third and fourth quarters of the century. The storm of civil war had been brewing for nearly half a century. The country, boastfully called “the land of the free and the home of the brave,” was largely wrapped up in slavery. About this institution people were more and more divided in sentiment. Some, regarding it as the sum of all villanies, sought immediate and unconditional emancipation, glorying in the name of abolitionists. Some regarding it as a great and growing evil but so intertwined with our civil affairs that it could not be unceremoniously swept away. rot 82 HISTORY OF THE They prayed and believed that God, in his righteous provi- dence, would develop some way of bringing it to an everlast- ing end, not at all foreseeing that “by terrible things in righteousness God would answer them.” They called them- selves anti-slavery men. But most of those personally involved in it claimed that it was a righteous and even beney- olent institution, defended it by Scripture, sought its perpetua- tion and even extension over free territory. Incurring oppo- sition in various ways they were so infuriated as to fire on Ft. Sumter. This quickly kindled the blaze of civil war. Those fight- ing for the unbroken Union, after four years of furious con- flict, and the loss of a million men, gained their object, and God had wiped the blot of slavery from our glorious escutcheon. Indian wars had been in progress most of the time. Frequently they arose from injustice on the part of our citi- zens, and their final adjustment remains an unsettled problem. Still, on account of them there is reason to “tremble when we remember that God is just.” INTEMPERANCE. As has been intimated, a million men by a glorious death secured the success of the civil war, but millions on millions will soon fall in ignominy and woe if the recent rate of increasing intemperance keeps on its way. Those engaged in the liquor traffic, with enormous profits, chiefly foreigners, too lazy to gain an honorable livelihood, are becoming intoler- ably bold in demanding that restraints on the traffic should be removed and that half of the Lord’s day shall be given over to their unholy gains. This, like the firing upon Ft. Sumter, arouses considerate men everywhere, and especially the unwearied efforts of the glorious W. C. T. U. to put it under the ban of prohibition as quickly and as thoroughly as it can be done. May God’s efficacious grace soon cause victory to perch upon their banner. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 83 ECCLESIASTICAL DIVISION. Wars and commotions outside the church are less unseemly than when they occur within its pale. Native depravity, total depravity, and divine grace necessary to overcome it, with other allied topics, about the year 1830 became subjects of humiliating discussion in all our church courts for seven years and then issued in the division of our church for thirty-two additional years. No doubt the eye of God detected faults on both sides, but the analogy of faith during these years brought the parties back to harmony again and the Schools were reunited in 1869, since which time the churches have enjoyed uninter- rupted peace and prosperity. Was truth sacrificed in the case? Other denominations sometimes represent our church as gradually receding from its Calvinism, Augustinianism, or Paulism, if they would use the best term. But if any attempt were made to vote down a single article of our faith the mass of the church would rise in uncompromising opposition to it. The labored statements of Drs. Palmer, Dabney & Co. in the endeavor to prove that we have forsaken ancient Presbyterian faith while the southern church retains it inviolate, are only a round-a-bout way of saying, “Stand by thyself. Come not near me for I am holier than thou.” The best men in their own church regard the whole argument as perfect “ bosh.” THE PRESBYTERIAL WORKERS. Seventeen ministers were included in the organization, Painter, Kirkpatrick, Colledge, McClung, Donaldson, Graves, Caruthers, Stark, Woodend, Morton, McElwain, Leason, Mills, Moore, Bollman, Orr and Morgan. Twenty-eight more were added before the name was changed and sixty-two have been added to it since as the Presbytery of Kittanning. Thus the whole number enrolled has been one hundred and seven. The whole number licensed by Presbytery is seventy- four. Forty-seven have been ordained also. 84 HISTORY OF THE CLERKS OF PRESBYTERY. Recording clerks are chosen semi-annually with the mod- erator and have been too numerous for record here. In 1877 Presbytery established a “ permanent” clerkship, and Rev. T. D. Ewing was chosen to fill it. He was succeeded in 1880 by Rev. John Gourley, and he again in 1883 by Rev. A. T. Bell, who is in the office still and likely to hold it for a long time. He is qualified for it both by his acquaintance with business rules and his well known taciturnity. His record would get sadly confused if he were prompted to rise every few minutes and adjust the switch to prevent Presbytery from running off the track, or to speak three or four times on one motion. The Stated Clerk has always been a permanent officer of Presbytery. Rev. W. W. Woodend filled the office from 1857 till 1865; Rev. D. W. Townsend from 1865 till 1867; Rev. G. W. Mechlin from 1867 till 1872; Rev. J. J. Francis from 1872 till 1879, and Rev. D. H. Sloan from 1879 until the present time. To all these brethren Presbytery feels indebted for their accuracy and faithfulness. When our last Stated Clerk leaving Presbytery resigned his office and our records were under review in Synod, the reviewer expressed his sympathy with the Presbytery of Kit- tanning in losing “the best Stated Clerk in the world.” We felt sad to lose such accuracy and embellishment as he had shown. When his succcssor, Rev. D. H. Sloan, was elected many feared a falling off. But all were greatly gratified with records embellished as perfectly as before, and also by a com- plete docket of business for a coming meeting of Presbytery, sent a month in advance to each member, and a perfect index of all Presbyterial' transactions in a separate book. CONGREGATIONS, Our Presbytery at its origin contamed thirty-seven con- gregations and since then has organized thirteen, Clarksburg, Bethesda and Jacksonville in 1857, Marion and Mahoning in PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 85 1860, Plumville in 1864, Rockbridge in 1869, Homer in 1870, Srader’s Grove in 1871, Atwood in 1874, Midway in 1875, ‘Tunnelton in 1879, and Kittanning 2d in 1884. Thus fifty are now on our roll. Is Presbytery free from guilt in allow- ing some of them to remain so long vacant? Supplies are regularly sent by Presbytery and inquiries made as to their general condition. STYLE OF SERMONIZING. The seventeenth century style of preaching prevailed at the beginning of the period under review. Subjects were divided and sub-divided and separately discussed. This method greatly aided the memory of the preacher, (for read- ing sermons was not then in vogue) and of the people in hear- ing and retaining the discourse for purposes of meditation. Expository preaching also prevailed among many. A group of related verses was taken and analyzed, the chief thought brought to the front and subordinate ones discussed in due order. This method was greatly helpful to Bible students and taught them how to analyze for themselves the word of God. Later still it was common to divide every subject into three parts, and many preachers restricted themselves to such texts as would in any way allow of this division. Now the growing custom is to bring out the leading thoughts of a passage and make it the main subject of discourse and only notice other parts as may be subordinated to this. A very simple style of language, or, as Paul expresses it, “ great plainness of speech” is used. Thus our young ministers readily gain the popular ear and heart and “the common people hear them gladly;” and the competence of our profes- sors becomes generally known and admired. In all these methods*the aim has not been to persuade men to become Christians, but simply to take away the stone from the cave where Lazarus lies in the sleep of death, and by pleading, wrestling prayer to secure the intervention of Him who is “the resurrection and the life,” with the Almighty call, 86 HISTORY OF THE. « Lazarus come forth.” And then the great work remaining: for us is skillfully and thoroughly to “loose him and let him go” in all the activities of Christian life. MISSIONARY WORK Blessed be God, in one particular he has granted us a little reviving. The field of missionary operations is coming: into prominence. . Young men and maidens in growing, cheering numbers offer themselves as candidates for the foreign field. «“Woman’s Work for Woman” also assumes grand dimensions. But this inviting department of the subject. will be presented by a smoother pen, a Iady’s pen, and needs. no further discussion here. THE FATHERS, WHERE ARE THEY? Our faith replies, among “the spirits of just men made perfect;” “forever with the Lord.” Our ardent feeling adds: * With us their names shall live, Through life’s succeeding years, Embalmed with all our hearts can give, Our praises and our tears.” Here allow brief reminiscences of the character of those who labored on our territory and left their bodies with us, and also of a few who afterwards did brief service outside our borders. As dates and changes in their pastorates will be given in congregational histories they may be omitted here. Rev. Joseph W. Henderson, of Bethel, whose life has been briefly recorded by another writer, is simply remembered as a stately, polished godly man. He is said to have been a per- fectly punctual man, an accectable preacher, a faithful pastor, and the first, in all this region, to advocate total abstinence from intoxicating drink. When from debility he resigned his charge and it became dependent on supplies, a wag suggested «If you bring Mr. Henderson’s old overcoat and hang it up in front of the pulpit for the congregation to look at, it will PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 87 ‘do them more good than another man’s preaching.” His influence was perpetuated by nine daughters, who diffused refinement and intelligence wherever they went. Mrs. Lint- ner, the youngest, now over eighty years, lives in Blairsville, Pa. Rev. John Reed, of Indiana, Pa., was a very rapid speaker and monotonous in delivery, leaving the impression on occasional hearers that he did not feel the truths he uttered, but private intercourse with him while assisting in communion service effaced this impression entirely. For twenty years he had served a congregation, one half of his time at a distance of fifteen miles from home. When he resigned this his health began to fail from inactive habits, and in two years his earthly labors were at an end. Rev. Robert Johnston, of Bethel, was a lineal descendent of Oliver Cromwell and described as one who never feared the face of man. He was a dauntless, earnest preacher and very successful in early years. Feeling the infirmities of age coming on, he resigned his charge and lived with his son for a while in Indiana and then at New Castle, Pa. There, at nearly eighty-seven years of age, he entered the rest that “‘remaineth for the people of God.” Rev. David Lewis, of Ebenezer, was a warm-hearted Welshman. In point of eloquence and holy unction he sur+ passed all our other members and was held in universal esteem. None that ever heard him could forget him. He felt great satisfaction in doing the work of the Lord. On one Sabbath he had preached with unwonted freedom, power and tender- ness, both in the morning and evening. Attempting to kindle his fire on Monday morning he felt ill, lay down on a sofa and in a few minutes “ was not, for God took him.” “ Many die as sudden, few as safe.” Rey. Watson Hughes, of Saltsburg, Pa., who was the son of a godly minister and had three ministerial brothers of dis- tinction, gained a high place in the estimation of all that knew 88 HISTORY OF THE him, and especially among his own favored people. He was. peculiarly courteous and kind to ministers entering on their work. From a failure of voice he resigned his charge in -middle life. When a successor took charge of the church, he, removed from its bounds in order that the affections of the congregation might have a better opportunity to concentrate: on their new pastor. His voice improving he assumed another charge, but soon gave it up for the same reason as in the former case. Removing to Pittsburg, as a retired minister, in the act of winding up his time piece his own time suddenly ended. “Let me die the death of the righteous and let my last. end be like his.” In the portion of territory added to our Presbytery im 1870, Rev. John Redick, of Slate Lick, held a high place in the esteem both of his own congregations and the entire Presbytery of (old) Allegheny of which he was a member. He stood fair as a preacher but was chiefly famed as a kind, faithful pastor. But as memorial exercises, an account of which is to: be published, were held at Slate Lick on the last days of August, this year, in which his characteristics were brought to remembrance by those who knew him intimately, further notice now is unnecessary. Rev. Wm. F. Kean, of Freeport, Pa., was zealous and fervent as a preacher, cordial in greeting his friends, and gained and retained the esteem of all who knew him. For reasons not meeting the approbation of all his brethren, he resigned this charge and took another in an adjoining Presby- tery. In order that they might obtain a younger pastor, he resigned it also and retired to Sewickley as the “ Saints Rest.” Not indeed that he might spend an inactive life, for he soon set out for a tour of visitation among our foreign missionaries including his own nephew, Rev. T. F. Wallace in Mexico. But on our Pacific coast God’s awful hand stopped the current of his life. “In that very day his thoughts perish.” Along with others west of the Allegheny river, Rev. Alex. S. Thompson, of Worthington, Pa., may be mentioned. : PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 89 He had a faultless physical frame, a well balanced mind, and a warm brotherly heart. As a preacher he was earnest, laborious, faithful. As a pastor the care of the churches pressed constantly upon his heart, nor did he fail to gain their entire confidence and affection. As a Presbyter, though an infrequent speaker, he showed a desire that all things should be done in a proper manner. What an awful stroke came upon his people, his family and his brethren, when they heard that he was found cold in death between his stable and his house! “ Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Thy sight.” Rev. Joseph Painter, D. D., of Kittanning, Pa., had a good mind, was a good scholar and a good, though unassuming, preacher. He took charge of this congregation when it was in a very low condition. By extreme difficulty in hearing he was precluded from many kinds of pastoral work. He highly appreciated the companionship of cultivated minds and expressed sympathy for his brethren whose situation did not allow them to enjoy it. As only part of his ministerial labors were at first taken by this congregation, though traveling was very difficult, he served other congregations, eight and then twelve miles distant. When he was debilitated by age, the congregation of Kittanning gained great credit by retaining him in the charge and securing a co-pastor, while his salary was running on, that he might preach only at his option. “The end of that man is peace.” Rev. Wm. Colledge, of Crooked Creek, Pa., spent the early part of his ministry in the M. E. church. But his able preaching showed no traces of Arminianism. It would have been well, if there had been a holy accommodation like that of Paul, who said, «I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” Rev. L. M. Graves, of Appleby Manor, Pa., was a brother known in the Seminary where he was held in good esteem. His mind was well cultivated and his conversation quite acceptable, bating the lowness of his voice. His sermons 12 90 HISTORY OF THE would have appeared better in print than to the ear for his delivery was somewhat dull and dragging. He early resigned his charge and engaged in husbandry. Rev. John Stark, of Cherry Run, Pa., came to us from the Associate Reformed church. His theological training had been thorough. His performances showed great acquaintance with the Scripture. His pronunciation was peculiar and his prayers would have been more acceptable, to men at least a each one had been divided into three or four. ‘ Rev. W. F. Morgan, of Rural Valley, was an aitearding man and very sociable. He excelled in pastoral intercourse with his people and could readily “‘condescend to men of low estate.” Though possessed of a seemingly good constitution, his decline was rapid and the first intimation of his sickness, to many of his brethren, was the announcement of his death. Rev. J. H. Kirkpatrick, of Harmony, was severely crippled, but managed to surmount the difficulty remarkably. He could do many things on his farm and even became a suc- cessful hunter. Some thought he spent too much time in these pursuits, but those who assisted him on communion seasons best knew his solicitude for the people of his charge. Probably his lameness had some influence in causing him to resign his charge sooner than age alone would have required. Rev. John Caruthers, of Gilgal, Pa. “ Behold an Israelite indeed in whom is no guile.” He, too, was a brother in the seminary and regarded there as an eminently godly man. He was unambitious, unassuming and a self-denying man. His scattered, changing charge required exhausting pastoral labor, and much additional toil was incurred in attending annually four meetings of Presbytery from his remote position. His heart was in his work and he thought nothing hard that was necessary to fulfil it. His vocabulary contained little else than Anglo Saxon words. Much of his time was spent in com- munion with his God. Though a pronounced Abolitionist, which was very unpopular in his day, no person was alienated PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 91 from him on that account; nor were his affections cooled towards any brother who took the other side. Under symptoms of declime he resigned his charge and soon was severely paralyzed, disabled from mental labor as well as bodily activity. The last article in the Banner from his pen was on the words of good king Hezekiah, “O Lord! I am oppressed! undertake for me.” The hearts of those who knew him alone could appreciate the touching, tender, plead- ords of that production. It is consolatory to know that iaPhis years of helplessness he enjoyed every care and comfort which the tenderest affection could afford. Rev. Jas. E. Caruthers, of Leechburg, youngest brother of John, was long kept back from his cherished desire, the holy ministry, by dutiful attendance on his declining mother. Though thirty-two years of age at her death, he immediately commenced preparation for his work. Being quite talented, and because “ bene orasse est bene studuzsse,” two years sufficed him in the academy, two in the college and two in the semin- ary. Inthe last year he supplied four congregations, riding out on one Saturday fifty miles in one direction and supplying two congregations six miles apart, and on the next Saturday riding out forty miles in another direction to supply two others seven miles apart. Thus he completed his thirty-eighth year with the impression that his iron constitution was proof against any measure of toil. He accepted calls to the last two congregations referred to, and served them faithfully for ten years. Upon an urgent call from Yates City, Ill, he resigned his charge here and accepted another there. Soon, however, he found himself less at home than in Kittanning Presbytery where he was universally known and esteemed, and resigned again. Returning to the home of his affections, his overtaxed system gave way and he sank to repose “ where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary are at rest.” Rev. Robert McMillan, of Apollo, grandson of the renowned Dr. John McMillan, was received by our Presby- tery in a very cordial manner, “ beloved for the father’s sake.” 92 HISTORY OF THE But not content to rest merely on ancestral reputation, by a godly life, faithful preaching and affectionate deportment he gained the hearts of his brethren and especially of his beloved charge. “He was a good man and full of the Holy Ghost.” High hopes were entertained for his future, but in the midst of these brightening prospects a disease, which from boy- hood had slumbered inactive in his system, broke out afresh and unfitted him for his work. For years he enjoyed the best medical treatment in the endeavor to regain his healthal id vigor. Meantime his loving charge gained for themselves” no ordinary regard by refusing to accept his resignation. But at length his continued decline seemed plainly to say, “The Master is come and calleth for thee.” To that call he calmly responded and is “ safe in the arms of Jesus.” Rev. W. W. Woodend;D. D., of Saltsburg, Pa., entered the charge as successor of the Rev. Watson Hughes. He was a man born to activity, a Christian at fourteen years of age, a good scholar, a laborious preacher, and had such facility in the preparation of sermons asis seldom equaled. Withal he was a very watchful pastor. Whatever threatened the welfare of his flock he was quick to observe and shrewd to avert. Thus his church kept continually on the increase in numbers and distinction. When a third of a century had been spent in this laborious service, he resigned the charge. He traveled westward and eastward and then took another charge. Though he had been famed for vigilance as a Presbyter here, he took but little part in such services there, and early resign- ing returned to this Presbytery. Immediately he was in great demand as a supply to various churches. But before his appointments had all been fulfilled, with the loss of a single Sabbath, responding to the Master’s call, he laid down the cross and took up the crown. “ Very pleasant hast thou been to me, my brother.” The length of this service and the pressing demands of others yet to come, forbid me to enter on the enumeration of godly, faithful fathers in the eldership who have nobly held up PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 93 their pastor’s hands while the battles of the Lord were in pro- gress. Few topics would spring from a warmer place in my own heart and meet a more cordial response in the hearts of my brethren in the Presbytery. But yielding to the necessi- ties of the case our hearts may all join in the expression, «< In pace requiescant.” PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 95 GHURGHES. APOLLO. BY REV. J. Q. A. FULLERTON. TYVYYYYVYYVYYYYYY The Apollo Presbyterian Church was at first named “ Warren,” the former name of the place in which the church is located. In 1848, the town took its present name, Apollo, and the church has since borne the same title. Inthe -year 1816, this settlement was so small, it may be said to have been “in the woods.” Then the owners of the land, Messrs. Speer and Johnson laid out fifty lots, and on condition of their being sold, promised to give two acres for achurch and burial ground. The lots were sold, the promised property was accepted and entered upon but no deed was given. Some years afterward, when the first or stone church had been built, the Owens farm adjoining was sold to Mr. John Andrew, and he included the church and grave yard in his survey. Mr. Andrew proposed, however, that if the Presbyterian Church would give him $25, he would deed the property. This amount was immediately paid, and the deed was executed to David Watson, Samuel Gordon and George T. Crawford, trustees of the Presbyterian Church, and their successors in office, to have and hold tor church and burial ground. Elder Jacob McCartney mounted his horse on the next morning and had the deed recorded at Kittanning on that day. Previous to the erection of any church, worship was held in the open air, across the ravine, at the present south end of Apollo, the people being seated on logs, while the minister was covered 96 HISTORY OF THE by a tent. These services held every two weeks or less frequently, were mostly conducted by ministers of the Presbytery, among whom were Revs. Coe, Stockton, Bartley, Dunlap and Lee. As early as 1814, the congregation was regarded as part of the organization of Poke Run Church, when two elders, James Guthrie and James Jacksqn ,were chosen by that church with special reference to their services being given to that portion of the congregation lying within Armstrong county, and near Beaver Run. The pastor of Poke Run Church preached occassionally at or near this place. The first communion of the Apollo congrega- tion was held in a barn on the farm south of Apollo, now known as the Solomon Hilty farm, but then owned by Samuel McKee. The formal organization of the church by the Presbytery of Redstone must have taken place between sixty and seventy years ago. The records of Redstone Presbytery show that Mr. Laird was appointed to supply a Sabbath at Warren, April 16, 1817. Before any pastorate begun the Rev. Robert Lee was the stated supply for six months, having been appointed by the Presbytery of Redstone, and two additional elders, James Watson and James Miller were chosen. : In 1824, Rev. Joseph Harper accepted a call for one-half of his time, and he was duly installed pastor of Warren and Saltsburg. In 1826, soon after his coming, a house of worship, built of stone, was erected on the property above mentioned, and about one hundred yards south west of the present structure. It was at first somewhat rough in its exterior; was the only church building in Apollo for some time; stood for forty years, and was the mother- roof also of the Seceder or United Presbyterian, Methodist and Lutheran congregations of Apollo. The Seceders having assisted in the erection of the church, were granted regular occupancy, and contributed their quota toward keeping the church in order. The Presbyterian congregation at this time numbered about a hundred, nearly all being of the farming community. The pastor, Mr. Harper, resided in Saltsburg, and preached in Apollo on alternate Sabbaths. He was an educated man, married, and of family, of middle age and stature, and of robust health. He preached with much energy, and on one occasion, with a shout, fell in the pulpit, being over-wrought in exhortation. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 97 At this time two communions were held during the year. Fast day was observed on Thursday, and services were continued from then until Monday, tokens being distributed on Saturday. Watts’ version of the psalms was lined by one clerk and the music was led by another, both standing in front facing the people. The clerks at that time were John Jackson, John Crawford and John Paul. The services in the winter consisted of a single morning discourse, but in the summer they began at 10:30 o’clock a. m., and continued until 12 o’clock, when there was an intermission of half an hour, followed by another discourse in a scrvice of about three-quarters of an hour. Sabbath school and prayer meeting,—they were not, but at some place of assemblage previously announced, catechising was occasionally conducted. The duties of sexton were then per- formed in turn by the members. Mr. Harper resigned after a pastorate of four or five years. Following Mr. Harper, the Rev. Dunlap, “ a Scotchman,” sup- plied the pulpit for about six months. His superior power in the pulpit, it is said, very much deceived his unpretending appearance on the street or in the home. He was followed by the Rey. Watson Hughes, who, in April, 1830, was ordained and installed over Warren and Saltsburg for half time each. He also resided in Saltsburg. He was a man of medium size and fine appearance. While pastor he was married to Miss Caldwell, of New Jersey. Soon after he came the Sabbath Schoo] was started, he teaching the Bible class. | He was a very good man, of even temper, an excellent preacher, faithful pastor and good singer. Temperance meetings were conducted under his auspices, assisted as speakers by Elder James Guthrie and trustees Samuel Gordon and George T. Crawford. The latter would write his speech during the meeting, and rise and read it, being un- able to speak ex fempore. After about seven years of a pastorate here, Mr. Hughes’ throat becoming affected, his preaching appoint- ments in Apollo were frequently broken, so that finally he resigned and was released in 1837 to give his whole time to Saltsburg. During this pastorate elder James Miller withdrew from the church, and James Watson, because of age and infirmity, ceased to act as elder. Four elders were elected and ordained—William McGeary, Samuel Crosby, John Dible and James Chambers. 3 98 HISTORY OF THE For about a year after Mr. Hughes left the preaching was by supplies, among whom were the Rev. Drs. Kirkpatrick and McFarren. Now seems to have come a period of languishing, for a member of the church, who afterwards was made an elder, repaired unappointed to the Presbytery and reported that the church officials declared, in their opinion, the church was unable to sustain a pastor, and he inquired of the Presbytery whether it would allow the church to die out. The answer was, “ No,” and on October 2, 1838, the Rev. Dr. Alexander Donaldson, then just from the Seminary, was appointed by Blairsville Presbytery to supply the church one-zhird of his time for six months, At the close of his time the Apollo church was on the point of making out a call for his services as pastor, but was anticipated by Elder’s Ridge church, much to the disappointment of Apollo. It may be stated here that as Pine Run, Boiling Spring and Leechburg churches were respectively organized about this time they made telling draughts upon the strength of Apollo from among those members who lived nearer the newer organizations. The next pastor, the Rev. Levi M. Graves, who was installed in 1840, divided his time equally between Apollo and the new church at Boiling Spring. | He was tall and slender, and of rather a trail structure. He understood music well and taught among others Wm. James, who became a singing teacher and clerk at Boiling Spring church. He was very sociable, and had a marked fondness for horses. Apollo not providing him a help-meet, he married a lady of high accomplishments and of reputed good financial pros- pects, Miss Smith, of Crooked Creek. A new church being soon built at that point he resigned Apollo in 1843 and removed to Crooked Creek to labor as pastor. With many interruptions, because of failing health, he continued to preach until his death, January 1, 1881. In 1846, the Rev. Cyrus B. Bristol was installed over the same charge, and his pastorate of about twelve years is the longest in the history of this congregation. He was an aged man, resided at Spring Church, and preached in Apollo on alternate Sabbaths. He introduced the church prayer meetings, which were conducted by the elders. At the same time women’s prayer meetings were carriell on in their homes, assisted in the singing by a clerk. PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 99 Among the women most active were Mrs. Dr. McCullough, Mrs. J. J. James, Mrs. Amburst and Mrs. Alexander. The missionary cause also received special attention, and on one occasion the con- gregation raised thirty dollars, which was given to Mr. Bristol, to have his wife constituted a life member of this Missionary Society. Elder Wm. Miller was surprised one day at receiving through the post-office a certificate constituting him a life member. The stone church, which to this time had presented a rough exterior, was plastered on the outside and penciled, and the pew- Weg@jenewed thoroughout. When Mr. Bristol resigned, 1856, he we the West, and is still living, at an advanced age. ing this pastorate, and in the year 1844, J. Y. McCartney, Thomas Cochran and Matthew Barr were ordained elders, and William Miller and William McKee, in 1847. Of these Mr. Barr was dismissed in 1850, Mr. Cochran in 1854, Mr. McKee in 1856, and Mr. McCartney died November 30, 1880. In the year 1857, the Rev. Robert McMillan, grandson of the pioneer of Presbyterianism in Western Pennsylvania,” began his services here, and first asa supply for six months, for he had not yet finished his theological course at the Seminary. The pastoral charge was now to include for one-half time Pine Run church instead of Boiling Spring, and, his studies completed, he was ordained, and then installed over this charge in the month ot August. He is the first pastor who made his home in Apollo. The congregation was now divided into districts, each being assigned to the labors of two elders, and for about two years they were quite active in visiting by two-and-two the homes of the members. Occasional prayer meetings were also held by the membership in their respective neighborhoods. The Sabbath School, which for several years had but one male member in regular attendance, was now reorganized, and Messrs. John Chambers, W. C. Bovard, and others, were chosen for officers. The pastor and elder William Miller acted as superintendent alter- nately. At the beginning of this pastorate clerks were dropped, and the choir which had been introduced in Mr. Bristol’s time now led the music exclusively. About this time quite an accession was made of families on the Westmoreland side from the Poke Run church, among whom were the Pauls, Blairs, Callens, Marshalls, Moores, Barbours, Chambers and Brattons, numbering twency-five 100 HISTORY OF THE in all, in full membership. While here Mr. McMillan married Miss Lizzie White, of Lancaster county, and the presence amons the people for the first time of a pastor’s wife as one of them, and she of sterling character, contributed new strength to the congrega- tion. After four years of labor Mr. McMillan began to fail in health, and his ministrations for two years or more were not rendered by himself more than half his time. He wished at once to resign his charge, that it might pass into the hands of another capable of per- forming its duties, but the people wou!d not consent.” His salary was continued in full,and the time not occupied by his ministrations was provided for by the congregation and the Presbytery." He was highly revered as a man, and as a preacher many thought him to be unsurpassed. On his way to Pine Runchurch he once spoke to certain “ whittlers” on the bridge of their violation of the Sabbath, and it is said the bridge was ever after well cleared when he passed. In the Presbyterian Historical Almanac for 1865, there is a warm tribute of affection for him from the pen of his friend and neighboring pastor, the Rev. Alexander Donaldson, D. D. In it there is a quotation from the words of Rev. John Stockton, D. D., Mr. McMillan’s pastor, viz: “He had talents of a high order, cultivated by thorough education. His manners were most modest and retiring, and in his whole conduct, candor and integrity stood forth with unusual prominence.” Not recuperating strength through the rest given, he resigned and was released June 29, 1864, and died August Ist of the same year. When Mr. McMillan was installed Dr. Donaldson was expected to preach, but did not arrive, his son being sick, when the Rev. John Stark, of Cherry Run, was called upon to give the discourse. He asked ten minutes to prepare, and after a walk in the grave yard, preached a sermon which has left its impress to this day, from the words, “ Brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified, even as it 1s with you.” On the 23d of September, 1858, James Paul, David Watt, David Kepple and William C. Bovard were ordained to the elder- ship. Mr. Paul was dismissed in 1868, and Mr. Watt died in September, 1875. Mr. Bovard was dismissed November 23, 1881. Succeeding Mr. McMillan came another well beloved pastor, the Rev. John Orr. Being in the Seminary he likewise supplied PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 10% the pulpit for six months before ordination and installation, at Pine Run church in 1865. At the close of his pastorate, also for a year or more he could only occasionally fill his pulpit on account of ill health, his ability to study being impaired by “neuralgia in the region of the eyes whenever he would apply his mind or even read for a short time.” The same generosity of the church, however, was extended to Mr. Orr that had been bestowed on Mr. McMillan, but like him, not improving, he was finally compelled to resign his charge on Apiil 3, 1872, and besides cease the functicns of a pastor. Mr. Orr is still living, doing good, and in business with his brother in Pittsburgh. He married Miss Lottie Weber, of Wisconsin, two or three years after he entered on his duties as pastor. His manner among his people was quiet, but he wes kind and sociable, and hi+ services as preacher and pastor were very acceptable to the con- gregation. The excellent savor of his name and work still lingers in many of the hearts of the members of this congregation, who often delight to revive the memory of his presence and work. Shortly after Mr. Orr came the present brick edifice was erected upon a foundation of the stones of the wall of the old church. The} are still doing their Master’s work, as are the living stones of the temple of God that worshipped within those walls, for being dead they yet speak. This new church building was not finished on the second floor at the first, and for several years all worship was conducted on the first floor. The inauguration of an elders’ prayer meeting was a feature of the early part of Mr. Orr’s pastorate. It met every Sabbath at 3 Pp. M., “for special prayer for the interests of the church, and guidance in the discharge of their duties asmembers of session.”’ It was maintained during the whole time of his pastorate, and the greater part of his successor’s. The young members of the church were invited to take part, which many did, giving a'iditional inter- est tothe meetings, as well as adding very materially to their use- fulness in the church. In 1869, James Watson and Labanah Townsen, elders from other churches were made elders of Apollo church. Mr. Watson was dismissed to Pine Run in 1881. The Rev. Hezekiah Magill, who followed Mr. Orr, was called from the church at Concord, same Presbytery, and was installed 102 HISTORY OF THE October 18th, 1872 over Apollo for all his time, preaching morning and evening. At the installation Dr, Donaldson surprised every one present by bringing out and placing on the pulpit the beautiful communion set now in use, and presented by Mrs. Joseph Shoemaker. Mr. Magill brought a wife and one child with him, the former giving a marked impetus to the missionary work, as she was recognized as a leader in such work in the Presbytery. The now prosperous Women’s Foreign Missionary Society of this church was organized in 1874, with 102 members, Mrs. Dr. Wm. McBryar, President; and in 1877, under the care of this society the mission bands were constituted with Mrs. Magill, President, which ever since have been of great assistance. In the first five years almost a thousand dollars was raised by the Women’s Society,. and nearly all was given to the support of Mrs. Van Dyke, missionary in Spain. A notable Presbyterial mission convention was held in this church just previous to this organization, being the first held in the Presbytery, and it has not been exceeded in interest to this day. Among those present were Dr. George P. Hays, lately Moderator of the General Assembly, Dr. Johnson, of India, and Miss Loring. As a preacher Mr. Magill was very interesting, as he was, as a worker, very successful. The congregation grew rapidly under his labors and those of his helpers, and his salary was advanced several times until it reached $1,500, the largest amount ever paid by the Apollo congregation. In 1878 the membership was 255, being nearly the same in number as when the present pastorate began. The upper room was now finished, and the church was regularly dedicated. An organ was for the first time introduced into the church, Miss Alice Bovard being the organist, and the music was thereafter conducted, as in the present, and we hope, as well. During the early part of Mr. Magill’s pastorate a young ladies’ prayer meeting was commenced, having their meeting every Sabbath afternoon at 3 o’clock in the gallery of the church, and at the same hour the young men’s prayer meeting was in session in the basement of the church. This is said to have been a time of tenderness of spirit, “and the mingling and commingling of voices in song and prayer from those young Christians was very impres- sive.” PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. a it US During the last two years of Mr. Magill’s pastorate one-fourth of his time was given to the Boiling Spring church. On August 17, 1879, he resigned this field, and accepted calls to Union and Midway, which, after serving until October 8th, 1884, he left te occupy a field in the West, in which portion of the country he still successfully labors. Up te this time Labanah Townsen, William H. Watt, S. M. Jackson, Thomas A. Cochran and R. R. Young had been superintendents of the Sabbath School. On the 22d of June, 1880, John Glass, Samuel M. Jackson and A. H. McKown were installed as ruling elders. On July 29, 1880, the year following Mr. Magill’s resignatior. the Rev. Samuel E. Elliott was installed pastor, supplying Boiling Spring one-fourth of his time. Mr. Elliott was a faithful student and zealous preacher, many of his sermons, it is said, appealing to the conscience with stirring effect. A number became very warmly attached to him, and still hold him in high esteem, admiring ‘him for his consciencious adherence to his convictions, for having the courage to express them, and for his faithiulness to the interests ‘committed te him. The increase and decrease of members were about equal during his ministry. While pastor he married Miss Kate E. Clark, of Washington county. After a work of a little more than four years he resigned this charge October 7, 1884, and is now pastor at Mt. Pleasant, Pa. It may be stated that while the Apollo church gave no com- panions to her own pastors, three of her daughters are now wives of living pastors, active in other churches, and this proved efficiency of those women should certainly make this a most attractive spot for unmarried students of theological intent. The new elders ordained in 1880, viz: John Glass, S. M. Jackson and A. H. McKown, with William Miller, David Kepple and Labanah Townsen constitute the session at this writing. The latter, while ordained at Boiling Spring in 1855, was chosen at Apollo in 1869, and has been a faithful presbyter, an efficient clerk of the session tor fifteen years, and Treasurer of the church contri- butions in all departments for eighteen years. Elder William Miller has performed the duties of sexton for the long period of nearly forty years,and continuously, save for two years by Mr. Joseph Hilty, and still keeps us all warm. The members of the Board of Trustees are William McBryar, M. D., President; F. T. 104 HISTORY OF THE Wray, Secretary; William Keppel, Treasurer; William Van ‘Tassel, Simon Grim and Philip McMullen. The congregation has been favored with an exceptionally capable and faithful corps of volunteer laborers in all its depart- ments of special lines of work. The choir now led by Major Thomas A. Cochran never fails to be represented, or to conduct the hymn to the end, and in every way possible has rendered most efficient service, while the organist, Miss Ada McBryar, has been faithfully at her post on-every occasion with scarce an exception, both in the public worship and Sabbath School, for over seven years. That most important department of the church, the Sabbath School, was never more flourishing, and is now carried on by a band of officers and teachers to be taught by whom is a privilege. Major Cochran has been superintendent for several years, and now reports 800 members. The Woman’s Foreign Missionary Society before mentioned, with Mrs. James McQuilkin, President, aided by the mission bands, has collected over $2,200 in the last thirteen years, and dur.ng eight years of that time $1,200 of that sum were contributed toward the salary of Miss Wherry, now missionary in India, supported in part by the Apollo church. In the rnidst of these flourishing activities the existing pastorate began. As this sketch is prepared by the present pastor, he will simply give a recital of the facts of record, and personal tracings, as stated in case of the previous pastors, leaving out encomium and the opinions of the living. He was called from eastern Pennsylvania after twelve years of pastoral labor in that locality, and installed January 13, 1885, three-fourths of his time over Apollo, and one-fourth over Boiling Spring church. He made his residence in Apollo, with his family, his wife being a daughter of J. B. Van Doren, elder of the First Church of Princeton, N. J., where Mr. Fullerton pursued the complete collegiate and theological course. There were twoh ndred and fifty meibers on his assumption of the pastorate of Apollo. There have been one hundred and twenty-five members added in those three years, all of whom are still striving to fulfil their Christian duties, although a number have in the same time died or removed. An increase has teen made in the financial record of each year, and at the close of the current ecclesiastical year the benevolent contributions therefor will be two-fold that of any previous year, but being partly special PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 105 subscriptions, that advance may not be maintained regularly. A Young Ladies’ Home Missionary Society was organized the first year, with Miss Katie McMullen, President, now presided over by Miss Annie Townsen. Ina little over two years of existence it raised $275, providing for numerous calls trom Utah and other western points. The young people have also organized a Young People’s Christian Endeavor Society, with Philip ‘Ic Mullen for President. This is one of the most popular and growing societies in the United States, and our home organization is, atter a few months’ existence, improving both in numbers and interest, and trying to solve the problem whether the young Christians are capable of maintaining a 1eligious meeting of their own. Apollo being a growing manufacturing centre, imitating the city churches, the congregation has, under like obligation with them, stepped outside of itself and with the co-operation of others begun the erection of a Sabbath Schoo] chapel on the confines of the borough. On the whole we have reason as pastor and people to be exceedingly thankful to God for our unbroken peace and pros- perity, which his presence and his power, according to his promise in answer to our prayers and labors, have so evidently vouchsafed unto us, fulfilling his own words, “ Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you,” and, “ Lo I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” Nor can we bring this record to an end without the honest testi- mony due to the faithful work of those sterling ministers, elders, and people who have gone before, into whose labors we have entered, and especially the fathers in the ministry in the agricult- ural districts, as attested by the lives and services of a loyal people whom they have contributed to the churches, and by the trequent happy farewells for the upper sanctuary of heaven of those who departed from us to enter into their rest and be with Jesus. May this sacred hill of Zion be the birth home of many more into the everlasting kingdom as it has been the upper chamber where so many have already in melting love leaned the tired head upon the Saviour’s bosom that now are with him in glory beholding him as he is, 14 106 HISTORY OF THE APPLEBY MANOR. TYVVYYVYYYVVTYYVT BY REV. DEWITT M. BENHAM. TYVYYTVYYYYYYYYYY At an early date, the Rev. Elisha McCurdy preached the gospel to the people of the Manor district. In the year 18389 Mr. John Kerr, a licentiate of Washington Presbytery, who was at the time engaged in teaching at Kittanning, held divine services in a school house standing near the site of the present church, Often, upon pleasant days, worship was conducted in the open air under the forest trees. The earnest Christians who were thus gathered together formed the nucleus of what is now known as the Appleby Manor congre- gation. They were organized into a church, November 20, 1842, by the Presbytery of Blairsville. The membership consisted of less than twenty persons. At the time of the organization the follow- ing names appear upon the roll: Mr. John Christy and wife, Mr. George Ross, Mrs. Margaret Ross, Mr. Josiah Copley and wife, Elizabeth Ross, Mary Ross, Mr. Samuel Slaymaker and wife, Mr. Charles Montgomery and wife, Mr. Richard Bailey and wife, Mr. William Wolf. The first pastor was Rev. Levi M. Graves. During his pastor- ate, the house of worship, still used by the congregation, was erected. Mr. Graves was born in Canaan, N. Y., May 12, 1810. He was graduated from Union College in the year 1835, attended Auburn Theological Seminary 1835-36, entered the Western Theological Seminary in the fall of 1836, and was graduated in the fall ot 1839. Mr. Graves was licensed to preach the gospel by the Presbytery of Washington in 1838, and was ordained to the PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 107 ministry by the Presbytery of Blairsville in 1840. He began his labors as pastor of the Presbyterian church of Boiling Spring, Pa., and in 1841 we find him preaching at Crooked Creek and Appleby Manor. He was installed regular pastor of the latter church at the time of its organization, November 20, 1842. In 1846 he resigned his charge, and from that date until 1850 the congregation was without a pastor. During the years 1850-62. Mr. Graves again ministered to the Manor people. From 1862 to 1873 he was stated supply of Crooked Creek congregation and part of the time of Mahoning. The Manor pulpit was vacant for a portion of this time and Mr. Graves acted as stated supply. This service he per- formed through a period of some five years. On the 25th of Jan- uary, 1844, he was married to Miss Sarah Smith. Mr. Graves died at Rosston, Pa., January 1, 1881. The second pastor of the Appleby Manor church was the Rev. William Colledge. Mr. Colledge was born in Birmingham, Eng- land, on May 16,1796. At the age of fifteen, he made profession ot his faith in Christ, and became connected with the Wesleyan Methodist denomination. He began to preach in his eighteenth year, remaining in England until 1829. Then he emigrated to America, and in the year 1832 identified himself with the Metho- dist Protestant denomination. Mr. Colledge continued in that body for five years. During this time he supplied churches suc- cessively at Uniontown and Connellsville, Pa., as one charge, at Middletown, Pa., and at Mt. Pleasant, O. He was received by the Presbytery of Steubenville on May 24, 1837. His successive fields in the Presbyterian church were Fairview, Union and Fair- field, Crooked Creek and Appleby Manor (1853-60.) Mr. Col- ledge died November 14, 1867. His faithful wife is still living, and has her home at Verona, Pa. From 1860 the pulpit remained unoccupied, except for occasional preaching, until 1867. In that year on the 8th of May, Rev. George K. Scott was installed pastor. Mr. Scott was born in Washington, Pa., August 17, 1837. He graduated from Wash- ington College in the class ot 1855, and from the Western Theologi- cal Seminary in the class of 1858. In April of the year 1858, he was licensed to preach the gospel by the Presbytery of Washing- ington, and in April of the next year was ordained by the same Presbytery. He preached at Lockart, Texas, in 1860, acted as 108 HISTORY OF THE stated supply for the churches of Wayne and Chester, O., during the years 1861-62; for the church at Virginia, Ill., 1863-65; and for Independence, Mo., 1865-66. He was pastor of Appleby Manor church from May 8, 1867 to April 4, 1871; Crooked Creek, 1867-70; Cherry Run, 1867-69, and Currie’s Run, 1869-71. After resigning these charges, Mr. Scott accepted a call to the church at Harrison City, 1871-78. He was pastor at Sewickley 1873-75; Clarksburg, W. Va., 1875-77; acted as stated supply at Hughes’ river and Pennsboro, 1877-81; taught during the year 1882; was pastor of the church of Schellsburg, Pa., 1884 * has since been stated supply at Greenfield, Ill, 1885; at Georgetown, Texas, 1886; at Mobeetie, Texas, 1887. Mr. Scott was married on November 24, 1859, to Miss Ella Taylor Beatty, now deceased. From 1871 to 1873 the Manor congregation was without a pastor and enjoyed only occasional preaching. But in 1873 the services of Mr. William W. McLane were secured as stated supply for six months. Mr. McLane was at the time in attendance at the Western Theological Seminary. He was born in Indiana county, Pa., November 13, 1846; graduated trom Bethel College 1871; from the Western Theological Seminary 1875; was licensed to preach by the Presbytery of Kittanning, July 2, 1872; ordained by the Presbytery of Redstone, May 13, 1874; installed pastor of the Presbyterian church of Brownsville, Pa., 1874, which charge he filled until 1878. Mr. McLane then became pastor of the Second Presbyterian church of Steubenville, O. He left this charge in 1883 and is now pastor of a Congregational church in New Haven, Conn. Mr. Perrin Baker supplied the pulpit of the Manor church during the fall and winter of 1874-75, and was installed pastor for one-third time, May 11, 1875, the remaining portion of his time being equally divided between Boiling Spring and Crooked Creek. July 10, 1878 he was released from Boiling Spring, after which his time was equally divided between the other two churches of his charge until January 29, 1883, when he was released to take charge of the church at Belle Vernon, Pa., where he still remains. His pastorate in these churches was marked by earnestness and fidelity and very encouraging success. Mr. Baker was born at Independence, Pa., October 18, 1847. He was graduated from the college of New Jersey in 1872, and from PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 109 ‘the Western Theological Seminary in 1875. He was licensed to preach April 29, 1874 by the Presbytery of Washington and was ordained by the Presbytery of Kittanning, May 11, 1875. He was married October 12, 1876, to Miss Anna M. Shoemaker. MIr. Baker was married a second time, October 138, 1887, to Miss ‘Susanna M. Barkman. For almost a year after Mr. Baker’s resignation, the Appleby ‘Manor congregation was without a pastor. The people at length, April 28, 1885, secured the services of the Rev. Samuel J. Glass, pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, for one- fourth time, which relation continued to October 12, 1886, when Mr. Glass accepted a call to the Presbyterian church of Knoxville, Pittsburgh. He is now pastor at Brookville, Pa. Rev. De Witt M. Benham, the present pastor, was installed over the Second Presbyterian Church of Kittanning, and the church of Appleby Manor, November 1, 1887. For a further notice of the last two pastors see the history of the Second Presbyterian Church of Kittanning. Mr. John Christy was the first elder of the Manor church, and for some time the only one. Mr. Christy was ordained in 1848 at the time of the organization of the church, and after a life full of good works, this faithful servant of God died at an advanced age, April 1,1887. Mr. William F. Logan was ordained an elder in 1865, Mr. John H. Huston in 1871, and Mr. Stephen H. Christy in 1885. Sabbath School is held nine months in the year. The present superintendent is Mr. John Logan. His predecessors in office were Mr. John Christy, Mr. John H. Huston, Mr. Thomas James, Mr. Stephen H. Christy. T10 HISTORY OF THE ATWOOD. BY REV. NEWTON B. KELLY. ORGANIZATION. Early in March, 1873, Rev. Andrew Virtue began to preach irs the school house at the village of Atwood. He was then asked for a part of his time, a number of families being desirous of having: services held and looking to the organization of a Presbyterian church. Mr. Virtue preached twice a month on Sabbath after- noons. In February, 1874, there was a special interest manifested under his ministry, and soon after it was decided to take steps toward the organization of a church. In April a memorial was sent up to Presbytery. A committee was appointed by Presbytery which, having visited and looked over the ground, recommended that the request be granted. By order of Presbytery a committee consisting of Rev. Andrew Virtue, Rev. W. F. Morgan and Mr. James L. Lewis, met at Atwood on September 18, 1874. Rev. W. F. Morgan preached the sermon and Rev. A. Virtue presided, The church of Atwood was organized with thirty-two members as follows: ORIGINAL MEMBERS. From Rural Valley Church: A. A. Marshall, Sarah Mar- shall, Alexander Guthrie, Nancy Guthrie, Mary McCausland, Mar- garet McCausland, Washington McLaughlin, Mary O. McLaugh- lin, William McCausland, Elizabeth McCausland, Mary A. Mc- McCausland, Andrew Campbell, Emma L. Campbell, John PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. iii ‘Guthrie, Fanny Guthrie, Jesse Henderson, Jane Henderson, James Campbell, Rachel Campbell, Sarah A. Guthrie, George Campbell Catharine Campbell. From Centre Church: Moses Foreman, Rachel Foreman, Violet Foreman, William Lewis, Mary Lewis, Matilda Dodson. From other churches: Charlotte Jamison, John Blystone, Mary Blystone, Horace Harding. CHURCH EDIFICE. In 1879 a frame building was erected at a cost of $2,000. The ‘people found it difficult to complete this house of worship, but finally by self-denial and devotion to their purpose they got it painted without and beautifully fitted up within. They have recently added pulpit furniture, and now have one of the prettiest ‘churches in this region. It is 35 x 48 feet. MINISTERS. Rev. Andrew Virtue is the man who brought this church into existence, and the man by whose energy and skill it was housed. He is now laboring in West Virginia. Rev. N. B. Keily is the first pastor. He began to preacu in. February, 1887. In the fol- lowing March there was a revival and twenty-six united with the church. Mr. Kelly was installed December 1, 1887. He preaches one-third of his time at Atwood and the remainder at Rural Valley. ELDERS. At the time of organization two elders were chosen and installed, Archibald A. Marshall and Wm. Lewis, Wm. A. Prugh and Miller M. Moorhead were inducted into office November 6, 1880. The last named has recently removed, and the other three constitute the present session of which Mr. Lewis is clerk. STATISTICS. The whole number of members has been 196. The number at present is 107. Sixteen adults and 104 children have been baptized. II2 HISTORY OF THE BETHEL.. BY REV. R. H. FULTON... ORGANIZATION AND: EDIFICES, As nearly as can be ascertained this church was organized in the year 1790. The “ History of Old Redstone” says: “George: Hill, grandfather of Rev. George Hill, of Blairsville, was licensed, December 22, 1791, at the church of Bethel, Indiana county, where the Rev. J. W. Henderson was afterwards settled.” The minutes of Redstone Presbytery show that at its meeting at Pigeon Creek, October 16, 1702, a call was presented from the churches of Bethel and Ebenezer for the ministerial services of Mr. Marquis. This eall was declined. Bethel continued on the roll of supplies until the year 1798, when the Rev. Joseph W. Henderson became its first pastor, the church of Ebenezer being connected with it. The territory included within the bounds of Bethel was settled largely by Scotch- Irish Presbyterians who, whilst they hewed their homes out of the wilderness, made provision likewise for the preaching of the gospel. It is handed down from father to son that the early supplies preached in a barn belonging to Major McCombs, within one mile of the present site. Here a tent was at first erected for the minis- ter, around which the congregation gathered, some seated on the ground and others standing, as circumstances determined. About the year 1797 a log house was built. It was commodious in arrangement and fashioned after the most improved style of the times. The pulpit occupied a place in the center of one side PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 113 where there was a recess in the wall. A corresponding recess was also made in the opposite wall and facing the pulpit. In this latter recess was a front door entrance. A door at each end also opened into the church. Seats were arranged facing the center of the build- ing. At the first, however, the enclosure was without either seats, floor or stoves, and eye witnesses have testified to those still remain- ing that the minister frequenely preached in overcoat and mittens, the hearers making themselves comfortable as best they could, stamping the ground and swinging their arms around their bodies. In the year 1842 a frame building was erected, being in size fifty feet by sixty. This house fronted to the south as did the former log building, and was furnished after the manner of its time with smooth flooring, pews and stoves. MEMBERSHIP. The original boundary was very extensive and yet the member- ship never became very great, owing to the many other church organizations that in time sprung up and still remain. These drew so largely in all directions from this mother church that dis- solution was apprehended. __ But she still lives and flourishes like the tree planted by the rivers of waters, and is bringing forth abundant fruit. Inthe year 1834, there were enrolled 136 mem- bers. In 1836 they numbered 160. By 1842 they were reduced to 142. Since that time the membership has ranged from 160 to 110. At present writing the roll calls for 125, but the visible and active membership is somewhat less. ELDERS. There have been ruling elders in Bethel as follows: Gen. Michael Campbell, Gen. James McCombs, John Allison, Mr. Sample, John Lewis, Maj. James Laughery, William Hamilton, John Robinson, William Anthony, Thomas Hamilton, Evans Lewis, Joseph Henderson, James Hunter, Alexander McMullin, James McKee, William Carson, N. P. Turner, William Johnson, James Reed, Robert McCluskey, J. L. Robinson, ‘'homas Hamil- ton, Daniel Wilson, S. W. Johnson. Present session—Jeremiah Lomison, John Shields, James W. George, Harrison Kauffman, Robert O. Allison. 15 114 HISTORY OF THE MINISTERS. Rev. Joseph W. Henderson ministered to the people from 1798 to 1823, or for the period of twenty-five years. To him asa minister and as a man is duly ascribed much of that good degree of moral and religious influence that has usually prevailed in this region of Indiana county. Those who knew him best always spoke of him in terms of highest commendation. Taking high moral grounds, he advocated total abstinence from all intoxicating drinks at a time when the evil was prevalent and of high social standing. The cause of missions found in him an ardent supporter. In the cause of education, the general intelligence of the people and the good of society at large he took a deep interest. He died September 19th, 1835, in the eighty-fourth year of his age, and twelve years after resigning his pastoral charge. He was buried in Bethel grave yard, and “his sepulcher is with us to this day.” Rev. Jesse Smith became the second pastor. He was a man of good natural abilities and high scholarly attainments; but, alas for the tempter! He tell a victim to strong drink. Continuing about eight years pastor, he was deposed from the gospel ministry for the sin of intemperance, and never restored. Rev. Robert Johnston came to Bethel, November 1833. The following spring he accepted a call, and was settled as regular pastor. He remained until October, 1841, when, on account of old age and other minor reasons, he resigned the charge. His ministry was active and useful here and elsewhere, and his labor: greatly blessed, especially in the church of Scrubgrass, where a powerful revival occurred during his pastorate there. He was a man of strong convictions and unsparing in denunciation of what he believed to be wrong. By this means he frequently encountered opposition, and drove from the church some who could not endure strong meat. Bethel was his last charge. Living to a good old age he testified to the grace of God through all his life, and died in the full faith of the gospel he so long preached to others. After Mr. Johnston came the Rev. R. W. Orr, a returned missionary from China. He, as a stated supply, ministered to the people for about one year. As the fourth pastor came the Rev. John Cross. In the spring of 1845 he was settled as pastor over Bethel and Ebenezer. This PRESBYTERY OF KITTANNING. 115 relation continued until the fall of 1850. Mr. Cross was a most faithful and laborious pastor. A foreigner by birth and education, and unacquainted with the ways of the people, he labored at times under disadvantage. He maintained a high scriptural standard ot piety. His earnest efforts to bring the members of his charge up to this high ideal in the Christian lite gave offence to some of the more worldly minded members in the church. These, by their opposition, succeeded in driving him away from his charge. The opposition came chiefly from the other part of his field of labor. He was truly a godly man. Not long after quitting his charge he returned to Scotland, his native land, where in a few years he died. For some three years following the pastorate of Mr. Cross, the church of Bethel was served by supplies. Of these were Rev. S. P. Bollman, J. Brown, Wm. Colledge and others. In April, 1855, Rev. Franklin Orr, a licentiate of the Presby- tery of Clarion, and coming from the Western Theological Seminary at Allegheny, preached six months as stated supply. A call was then received and accepted for half time in connection with Currie’s Run for the other half, each promising $250 of a salary. On November 9th, 1855, Mr. Orr was ordained and installed pastor, Rev. George Hill presiding and proposing the constitutional questions, Rev. A. McElwain preaching the sermon, Rev. George Morton charging the pastor, and Rev. George Hill the people. The call was twice modified. In 1855, it was changed from one-half to two-thirds time, and the salary advanced from time to time until it reached $600 for two-thirds time. In 1876 it was restored to half time, and the salary fixed at $500. This relation continued until April 1st, 1877. © Mr. Orr still remains a member of Kittanning Presbytery, and is laboring within its bounds. The writer of this, when a boy in Ebenezer, knew the Rev. Mr. Orr and heard him preach. And now himself the pastor of Bethel and Homer churches, he can testify to the fact that Mr. Orr can still come among his former people, receiving the kindest greeting, with manifest loving regard for his labors of love during a pastorate of twenty-two years. At the close of this last pastorate there began a term occupied in order by the following named snpplies: Revs. J. S. Axtell, J. N. Diament, Carl Moore, Mr. Wolf, A. H. Donaldson, A. B. Wilson. 116 HISTORY OF THE In the fall of 1879, Rev. John Gourley came to the field as pastor elect, preaching his first sermon, September 23d, 1877. The writer was a classmate of Mr. Gourley at the Western Theological Seminary. An earnest, devout and spiritually minded man, his labors here were blessed, and he is still held in respectful and loving regard by the people. He was released from Bethel, June 26th, 1888, but remained on the field until the latter part of July. Rev. J. H. Bausman came to the field as pastor elect September, 1883, and was installed January 31st, 1884. During a series ot special meetings in the month of February there were received into the church, on profession of their faith in Christ, thirty mem- bers. In the year 1886, a new church building was erected. It is aframe structure, neat and substantial, capable ot seating three hundred to three hundred and fifty persons. The total cost was $3,000. In the latter part of August, 1886, it was dedicated to the worship of God, free from debt. Recent changes in the eldership are noted as follows: George Johnston died October 14th, 1881; Daniel Wilson died August 9th, 1885. James George and Robert O. Allison were chosen ruling elders May 30th, 1885. These were ordained and installed July 12th, 1885. Mr. Allison is Superintendent of the Sabbath School. Mr. Bausman was released from his charge of Bethel and Homer in April, 18877. As to the ministers mentioned in the foregoing it is due to say here, that the people give willing testimony to the varied good qualities of all within their recollection. And we cannot refrain from suggesting the probable injury to the spiritual tone, and threatening to the future of all churches thus subjected to frequent changes of their pastorates. Rev. R. H. Fulton, licensed by the Presbytery of Blairsville in April, 1876, ordained by the Presbytery of Pittsburgh, May ‘th, 1887, is the present pastor of Bethel and Homer churches in com- bined charge. Having preached to both churches on the first and second Sabbaths of September, 1887, calls unanimous were made out. Mr. Fulton having signified his willingness to accept, his installation over the two churches took place in each church January 31,1888. Services are held one at each church every Sabbath in connection with the Sabbath School. Interest is strongly mani- fested, and the people are very faithful in attendance.