JEl^TEflflmL ;byterian chdrch TtagjowuBwai [TICELLO, N. y. 1910. ^ -H « CB >-l -,-1 • > s o o f-H (B O •H -P C3 O Is! O r-^ > O «! o .^ as •H 4-3 o •H (D CO •on c^ o .11 su > 0) T3 m ay ■H m rTl CO C3 CD O ro r-f o ® -p te "Qfi ■> > a e o «^ >> , . ra » ,, rct a> ^ M o 5-^0 0) to 05 •"Td S-! o o -/: -on oft a ^ o 1-1 4J CI 0,'' +3 n J-3 !ll Dj > •H O iU o ■IS = o ■r-3 C! m >-. CO -it) CO 0) ^;i to =-1 O O Q. n b 0) -p Cornell University Library BX 8949.M79P92 Centennial celebration of the Presbyteri 3 1924 010 099 244 Cornell University Library The original of tiiis book is in tine Cornell University Library. There are no known copyright restrictions in the United States on the use of the text. http://www.archive.org/details/cu31924010099244 X810— 19X0 Centennial Celebration of tbc IPresb^terian Cburcb fiDonticello, iRew l^orK. ©bserveb SunDai?, fiDon&a? an& ^uesJ)ai?, ^..un'-i",,,^^ September 4, 5 an& 6, I9l0. ',.„.■ ;/^ ''^ ■ <^)^'^ 'A- %> ""•• -A ■fln&ei Page Picture of Present Church Building 5 Present Church Organization 7 Centennial Committees 9 Foreword 10 Ministers and their Terms of Service 11 Glimpses of Our Church History 12 Alexander Thompson's Story of the Celebration 13 Rev. Dr. R. A. Davidson's Sermon 20 Rev. A. J. Waugh's Historical Discourse 25 Picture of Elder Samuel Pelton 28 Picture of Rev. James Adams 33 Picture of Rev. Richard C. Shimeall 3 6 Picture of Rev. S. Bayard Dod 38 Picture of Rev. Robert A. Davison, D. D 39 Picture of Rev. T. Madison Dawson 41 Picture of Rev. Henry A. Harlow 42 Picture of Rev. John P. Scott, D. D 44 Picture of Rev. Penwick S. Williams 45 Picture of Rev. James A. McGowan 46 Picture of Rev. Robert B. Perine 49 Picture of Rev. Hugh B. McCauley, D. D 5 Picture of Rev. Arthur J. Waugh 51 Picture of Church Interior Decorations ... 54 Rev. Robert B. Perine's Sermon 5 5 Rev. Walter S. Brown's Sketch of Samuel Pelton. ... 59 Mrs. S. T. Ostrom's Paper 61 J. W. Decker's Poem 66 Page Picture of First Parsonage 69 Rev. James A. McGowan's Sermon 70 Kenneth D. L. Niven's Paper 72 Picture of Second Parsonage 75 Mrs. E. H. Strong's Paper 76 Mrs. Reuben C. Strong's Paper 79 Mrs. John R. Osborne's Paper 81 Rev. Dr. Hugh B. McCauley's Sermon 84 Picture of Present Manse 87 John F. Tymeson's Paper 88 Mrs. Hannah J. Roosa's Paper 91 ■ Rev. Edward A. McLaury's Address 95 Rev. Duncan C. Niven's Remarks 98 Rev. Henry A. Harlow's Discourse 100 Picture of Group 104 Communicants Received Into this Church 105 ^ - I i'-^..— .at ■^ jl^p® ttbe iPresbBterian Cburcb. fiDonticello presb^pterian Cburcb, present ©rganisation Session of tbe Cburcb. Moderator, Rev. Arthur J. Waugh. Elder Levi C. Lounsbury, term expiring January, 1913. El^er Stephen L. Strong, term expiring January, 1912. Elder John D. Lyons, term expiring January, 1911. Elder John M. Yeager, term expiring January, 1911. Elder Kenneth D. L. Niven, term expiring January, 1913. Urustces. Joseph H. Pelton, John T. Ferrie, John L. Pelton, Jehiel W. Decker, Rev. Emmet Sloat, Andrew J. Hammond. SunOagsscbool. Superintendent— John D. Lyons. Assistant Superintendent— Kenneth D. L. Niven. Secretary— Mary Mearns. Treasurer— John D. Patterson. Organist— Cecelia Mapledoram. Librarian— E. Harold Strong. Assistant Librarian— Arthur N. Patterson. XaOies' atD Society. President— Mrs. Sanford T. Ostrom. Vice-President— Mrs. Willian B. Niven. Mrs. Charles S. Thornton. Mrs. William L. Thornton. Mrs. John D. Lyons. Secretary— Mrs. Reuben C. Strong. Treasurer— Mrs. Hiram Post. Presbyterian Church Centennial. XaOies' /iftieslonars Society. President— Mrs. Hannah J. Roosa. Treasurer— Mrs. Hiram Post. dboir HurillarB ?lssociation. President— Jehiel W Decker. Vice-President— George N. Dann. Secretary— John M. Yeager. Treasurer— Reuben C. Strong. jgoung ipeople'9 Soctetie of Christian EnOeavor. President — Mrs. John R. Osborne. Vice-President— Ethel M. Strong. Corresponding Secretary— Mary D. Niven. Recording Secretary — Chester A. Hawthorne. Treasurer — Frank J. Smith. Junior EnOeavor. President — Georgianna Winterberger. Vice-President — Evelyn Strong. Secretary— Mary Johnson. Treasurer — Edith M. Patterson.* Superintendent— Mrs. Reuben C. Strong. Assistant Superintendent— Mrs. John R. Osborne. Instructor— Rev. A. J. Waugh. (* Deceased) ©ooOsTHIliU Mission Circle. President — Mrs. John R. Osborne. Vice-President — Mrs. Frank Taylor. Secretary— Mary Mearns. Treasurer— Mary Green. Directress— Mrs. Martin LaTourette. Presbyterian Church Centennial. Centennial Committees. Arrangements— Rev. A. J. Waugh, S. L. Strong, K. D. L. Niven, Mrs. S. L. Strong, Mrs. M. H. Couch, Mrs. D. C. Pelton, Mrs. W. B. Niven, and Mrs. J. D. Lyons. Financial— Geo. N. Dann, Reuben C. Strong, and Miss Ida Decker. Editorial Work— Rev. A. J. Waugh, J. M. Yeager, Alexan- der Thompson, and Mrs. 3. T. Ostrom. Historical Exhibit— Mrs. F. E. Geraghty, Mrs. D. S. Avery, and Mrs. W. L. Thornton. Decorations— Alexander Thompson, E. Harold Strong, T. C. Rider, Frank E. Geraghty, Miss Anna Ferrie, and Mrs. T. C. Rider. Entertainment— J. W. Decker, J. M. Yeager, and Mrs. H. Roosa. Presbyterian Church Centennial. fforeworO It seems to be the unanimous conclusion that the celebra- tion of the Centennial of our church was a preeminent success. Without the favoring providence of God and His gracious smiles upon us, there never could have been such a glorious occasion. He so arranged matters that every living ex-pastor could come, granted dehghtful weather, and put Interest into the hearts of our own people, and brought a large number of old and new friends from afar. Long preparation also gave opportunity to carry out a con- sistent scheme. Every speaker and reader on the program was on hand and did his or her part well. Every paper showed pains- taking. All the committees carried out their part of the prep- arations with great willingness. The decorations and exhibits and supper and reception were all so interesting as never to be forgotten. Mr. C. Guy Smith as choir-leader and Mrs. F. N. Rutan at the organ, leading the great chorus choir, lifted all the services to a high plane. Nineteen ministers graced the occasion, and there were many of their wives present, together with former members and officers and other interested parties from out of town. From town, besides the pastor, were the Rev. Duncan C. Niven, Rev. Edward A. McLaury, Rev. Emmet Sloat, connected with the church; also Rev. Walter I. Stecher of St. John's Church; Rev. .J. J. Billingsley and Rev. James Dill of the Methodist Church. From out of town were the Rev. F. N. Rutan of Bos- ton, Rev. Adrian Van Oeveren of Livingston Manor, Rev. Sam- uel R. Spriggs of Bethel, Rev. Joel C. Glover of Canisteo, Rev. Theron Brittain of Middletown, Rev. Walter S. Brown of Sand Lake, Rev. E. Van Dyke Wight, D. D., Middletown, Rev. Rob- ert A. Davison, D. D., Falls Church, Va. , Rev. Henry A. Har- low, Nyack, Rev. Robert B. Ferine of Binghamton, Rev. Hugh B. McCauley, D. D., Trenton, N. J., Rev. James A. McGowan, Salt Point. It has been a great experience for us who are connected with this church to have had this opportunity. A Centennial only comes to about each third generation, and it has been ours to have enjoyed this one. Who and of what sort will be those who shall be here at the celebration of the next century? We have gathered a great material, honored the fathers, brought matters down to date. It will be easier for others to carry ior- ward the work, for we have now blazed the way. The oldest two of the living members of the church, Mrs. D. L. Decker, joining July 1, 1848, and Elder Ambrose D. Smith, joining June 30, 1849, both hale and hearty, were pres- ent at nearly every service. The Centennial of 1910 has come and gone. It has been such a pleasure, we could almost wish it were ours to have it 10 Presbyterian Church Centennial. over again. We are sorry for the people who may have missed it. The three blessed days of Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, September fourth, fifth and sixth, will be red-letter days for all time to come. /Iftinisters anO Cbeir tterms ot Service Temporary Supplies, 1810 to 1819. Rev. Eliphalet Price, 1819 to 1820. Rev. John Boyd, 1820 to 1827. Rev. William McJimsey, 1827 to 1830. Rev. Stephen Sergeant, temporary supply, 1831 to 1832. Rev. James Adams, 1833 to 1853. Rev. Richard C. Shimeall, 1864 to 1857. Rev. John N. Lewis, 1858 to 1861. Rev. Samuel E. Dod, 1862 to 1864. Rev. Robert A. Davidson, 1865 to 1869. Rev. T. M. Dawson, 1870 to 1872. Rev. Henry A. Harlow, 1872 to 1877. Rev. John P. Scott, D. D., 1873 to 1882. Rev. Hugh B. McCauley, 1882 to 1883. Rev. Fenwick S. Williams, 1884 to 1888. Rev. James A. McGowan, 1889 to 1896. Rev. John P. Scott, D. D., 1896 to 1897. Rev. Robert B. Ferine, 1897 to 1903. Rev. A. J. Waugh, 1904 11 Presbyterian Church Centennial. ©Hmpscs Of ©ur Gburcb Iblstorg Organization, Wednesday, September 5, 1810. First building erected, 1828. Dedication of church, Friday, January 9, 1829. Building lot for parsonage purchased, Liberty Street and Broadway, Saturday, October 24, 1835. County buildings and church destroyed by fire, Saturday, January 13, 1844. Present building erected in 1844. Second building dedicated, Thursday, January 2, 1845. Church enlarged, about 1863. First parsonage sold to John D. Ludlum, Saturday, July 1, 1865, for $2,975. Pipe organ purchased, 1868. Second parsonage, corner Pleasant and Broadway, pur- chased of Dr. G. B. McCabe, Monday, June 9. 1873 Repairs and stained glass-windows in church, 1880. Second bell purchased, 1888. Present oak pews put into church, 1891. New church parlors opened publicly, Wednesday, June 22, 1904. Second parsonage sold for $4,500, summer of 1905. Lot purchased on North Street and new manse erected, lat- ter part of 1905. Manse occupied, Tuesday, November 28, 1905. Public opening of manse, Wednesday, December 27, 1905. .New cushions and carpets in auditorium, 1907. New carpet and repairs in church parlors, September, 1910. 12 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Ube Storg of tbe flelcbratton. Alexander Thompson SunOaig Bright and beautiful was Sunday morning, September 4th, 1910, the beginning of the celebration of the Centennial. The church was artistically decorated .with evergreen and mountain ash berries, and far more elaborately than had ever been attempted here before; an immense triple arch was built clear across the church just in front of the pulpit, forming a reredos or choir screen, that was most pleasing in its design and artistic proportions. In the center of the middle arch in large white figures on a green back ground, illuminated by concealed electric lights, were the significant dates "1810-1910". The choir loft, gallery, chandelier and side lights were festooned with ground pine and the red berries. The service began with the organ prelude "Marche Solem- nelle", Lemaique. The Scripture lesson was read by the Rev. Dr. R. A. Davison, and prayer offered by Rev. H. A. Harlow, the two oldest living ex-pastors of the church, after which Dr. Davison preached a most eloquent sermon, which is given in full further on in this book. The anthem "Cantate Domino", Buck, was rendered by the choir, and the duet, "Art Thou Weary" by Mr. and Mrs. C. Guy Smith. At the conclusion of the Divine Service, the Sunday school celebration was held and most interesting addresses made by Dr. Davison and Rev. R. B. Ferine, both of whom told of their Sunday school experiences and held the attention of all. It is to be regretted that it is impossible to give these ad- dresses in this book; they were impromptu, and no stenographer was present. At 2:30 P. M. the afternoon service began with "Pastorale", Gulmant, on the organ, by Mrs. Rutan. The devotional exer- cises were conductea by the Rev. Joel C. Glover, of Canisteo, N. Y., after which the present pastor, the Rev. Arthur J. Waugh, delivered the "Historical Discourse" which is given in full turther on. Discourses of this sort, especially where they cover a period of one hundred years are apt to be rather dry and 13 Presbyterian Church Centennial. uninteresting, but this one was not. Lengthy as it had to be to thoroughly cover the subject, it held the attention of the Ikrge audience from start to finish, so many hitherto unknown or forgotten facts and interesting incidents being told. The anthem "Oh Day of Rest and Gladness", Lang, was sung by the choir, and Mrs. C. Guy Smith gave "The Ninety and Nine", by Campion. At 6.30 P. M. the union meeting of the Y. P. S. C. E. and the Junior C. E. Society was held, being led by Miss Mary Green. It was a most inspiring service, over thirty members taking part, and short addresses were made by several of the visiting clergymen. The Misses Harriet and Mary D. Niven sang a duet. The evening service was opened with "Grande Offertoire", Batiste, on the organ, by Mrs. Rutan, after which followed the devotional exercises by the Rev. Samuel R. Spriggs, of Bethel, N. Y. The Rev. Robert B. Perine then delivered another grand sermon in his usual eloquent style, so well known to the people of Monticello. At this service was sung the Centennial poem, composed by Mr. Perine. The salient points of the,sermon and the poem are given further on. The choir sang the anthem "Magdalene", and Mr. C. Guy Smith, "Gloria", Buzzi-Peccia. All the services of the day were very largely attended, especially the evening service, as the Methodist Church had graciously given up its evening worship to permit its members to attend this Centennial service. /iRonOag On Monday forenoon, so that the ladies would have an opportunity to put their homes in order, and would be fairly free for the rest of the day and Tuesday, there was no session. The Congratulatory Service began at 2.30 P. M. This was opened by singing the hymn, "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord", followed by Scripture reading by Rev. Walter S. Brown, of Sand Lake, N. Y., and prayer by Rev. Duncan C. Niven, of Monticello. Mr. Waugh then introduced Rev. E. Van Dyke Wight, D. D., pastor of the Westminster Presbyterian Church of Middle- town, N. Y., who as Moderator of the Presbytery of Hudson brought the greetings from that body. His remarks were very felicitous. He called attention to the fact that when the church was organized here, there was not then much of a Presbytery 14 Presbyterian Church Centennial. as to the number of churches in it. He congratulated the church on its age and spoke at some length on how this church and this country were founded and built by sacrifice, and that the time for sacrifice was not passed. That people who are in the vineyard of the Lord are not there to eat the grapes but to hoe. He concluded with the thought that the children should be the especial care of the church, and the future of the church depends on the care of its children. The congregation then sang "The Church's one Foundation is Jesus Christ our Lord", after which Miss Dann charmingly rendered "The King of Love my Shepherd is." The Rev. Walter L Stecher followed with the greetings of St. John's Protestant Episcopal Church, of Monticello. This cele- bration, he said, was of more than peculiar interest to him, inasmuch as the Episcopal Church is nearly as old as the Presby- terian Chuich, being organized only six years later, and also on account of the intimate relations existing between the congrega- tions and their pastors in the early days. He also spoke most interestingly on the necessity of continuing the glorious work of the future ot' the church and to have as the watchword, "Let us live like Christ." Rev. J. J. Billingsley on behalf of the Monticello Methodist Episcopal Church presented their greetings and congratulations. His remarks were very apropos. He told briefly, yet vividly, of the many wonderful changes, discoveries and inventions thau have come in the hundred years of this church's life, dwelling particularly on the position that woman has finally and right- fully taken in life; how bitterness and bigotry between churches have been succeeded by broadmindedness and Christian love. He spoke of the debt he personally owed to Presbyterian theology. He concluded with some cogent remarks on the necessity of man being regenerated, being born again, in order to be a follower of Jesus Christ. Again it is to be regretted that no stenographer was present so that it would be possible to report in full the remarks of these three speakers. The Rev. Walter S. Brown then gave a number of most interesting reminiscences of the Rev. Samuel Pelton, who be- fore he had become a minister, was the means of organizing this church. These reminiscences are included in this book. In the evening a large audience again gathered to continue the celebration. Devotional services were conducted by the Rev. Adrian Van Oeveren of Livingston Manor, who is well known here. Mrs. Sanford T. Ostrom read a most interesting paper on "The Women of the Church", telling in detail the many good works that they have accomplished. Mr. Jehiel Decker then read a Reminiscent Centennial Poem, written by him, in which 15 Presbyterian Church Centennial. he recalled in verse old pastors and many of the laymen from the time of Rev. Mr. Adams down. Rev. James A. McGowan, of Salt Point, N. Y., who was pastor for over seven years here, then delivered a most excel- lent sermon. The leading features of this sermon will be found further on in the book, as will also Mrs. Ostrom'spaper and Mr. Decker's poem. Mrs. S. S. McLaughlin sang "These are They" (from the "Holy City") Gaul. ttuesOag Tuesday, the last day of the celebration, was the busiest of them all; The morning service, devoted to "Our Young People," began at 10:45 A. M. Rev. Theron Brittain, of Mid- dletown, N. Y., conducted the devotional exercises. Mr. Kenneth D. L. Niven, Asst. Supt. of the Sunday school and for many years its Superintendent, read a paper on the Sunday school that showed hard and intelligent work in its preparation and was very interesting. He was followed by equally interesting papers on the Y. P. S. C. E. by Mrs. Edwin H. Strong, which was read by her daughter. Miss Ethel Strong, and on the Junior Endeavorers, by Mrs. Reuben C. Strong. Mrs. John R. Osborne then read about the Good Will Mis- sion Circle, the baby Missionary Society of the church. As their history has been very uneventful, Mrs. Osborne made her paper of much interest by describing the origin, growth and purpose of the Good Will Mission among the Sioux, in South Dakota, the assistance of which is the object of the Circle. All of the foregoing papers appear in this book. Rev. Hugh B. McCauley, D. D. , of the 4th Presbyterian Church, of Trenton, N. J., then delivered the most forcible sermon of the celebration, using as his text, John 9: 3; "I must work the works of him who sent me while it is yet day, the night Cometh when no man can work." This sermon bristled with good thoughts and striking illustrations. It is given in brief further on. Miss Jennie L. Dann and Mrs. C. Guy Smith sang charm- ingly the duet, "Jesus the very Thought of Thee," by Hosmer. The afternoon session was equally as interesting. The de- votions were led by Rev. Walter S. Brown. John F. Tymeson read a paper on the choir and music, 16 Presbyterian Church Centennial. which was most largely made up from his own wonderful recollections, extending back to the time of Rev. Jas. Adams' ministry. He enlivened his paper with considerable humor, which was fully appreciated. Mrs. Hannah Roosa, the first and only President of the Ladies' Missionary Society, read about her society, which dates back to 1882. Rev. Edward A. McLaury, one of the sons of the church, spoke very interestingly. Rev. Duncan C. Niven related a number of anecdotes con- cerning the early days of the church and gave considerable valuable history not contained in any of the previous papers. The afternoon session was Concluded by an interesting dis- course by Rev. Henry A. Harlow, of Nyack, N. Y., over five years pastor of the church, entitled "A Forward Look into the Opening Century." The final prayer was offered by Rev. K. A. Davison, D. D. 0. Guy Smith sang "The Plains of Peace," by Barnard. Immediately following, a photograph was taken of all the clergymen present, which is reproduced in this book, when the audience repaired to the church parlors to view the historical exhibit, partake of the supper and enjoy the reception. The church parlors had been very prettily decorated by the young ladies of the Y. P. S. C. E., and on the west side was ar- ranged the historical exhibit, consisting of souvenirs of the church. The ladies in charge of this work had been very suc- cessful in securing a large number of articles, among the most interesting of which were: The first melodeon in the church. This tiny mstrument looks very insignificant alongside of the present organ. It was presented to the church by Mr. Charles riall, who in his day was choir master and his wife the first oiganist. Their portraits were also on exhibition. The study chair of the Rev. James Adams. A comfortable sturdy chair it is too, being still in good condition. 'ihe old church communion service. How many sacred mem- ories did this revive! A large bell-shaped hat that belonged to John P. Jones, Esq., founder of Monticello, and donor of the church site. A daguerreotype of the Rev. Samuel Adams. Photographs of Mrs. Adams, Rev, Richard C. Shimeall, Rev. Samuel Pelton, Mrs. Pelton, Rev. S. B. Dod, Rev.- J. M. Dawson, Rev. Dr. J. P. Scott, Rev. F. M, Williams and many others of note in the history of the church. A century old collection of Bibles and hymn books. Original subscription list to the pipe organ, 42 years old. A collection of old deeds and other interesting papers. The supper provided by the ladies and the reception were a most fitting conclusion to the mental and spiritual feast that had been served up for the three days. There have been nine- 17 Presbyterian Church Centennial. teen ministers present and participating in the exercises. A loaded table was set in the northeast corner of the main room, seating eighteen, which was reserved for ministers only. In the adjoinmg two dining rooms^ there were three other tables set and reset for hours; and the impression of the ladies was that perhaps they had never fed such a multitude. Those tables furnished a constant buzzing; but, after the clergymen had satisfied the inner man, there was an evident desire for speech-making and reminiscences. A crowd of those already served at the adjoining tables and others awaiting their turn, gathered within earshot of the ministers, and the fun began. The pastor said the time had been so filled to overflowing by the printed program for the three days that the old pastors had enjoyed very little time for reviewing their experiences in the same field of labor, covering a period of forty-five years. He therefore called upon Dr. Davison, who came in 1865, to recount his joy and sorrows. The Doctor stated that Monti- cello then had something like 600 people, in it. He had seen to the purchase of the pipe organ, enjoyed the Bushnells, Hamil- tons and other promment families, and declared the best peo- ple were within the old Presbyterian Church. He narrated some of the country weddings he had to attend in the mighty drifts and how on one occasion he had to call upon the neighbors to dig him a passage to his happy destination. He said he now loved his Virgina home, and closed with a poem on her beauties. Judge Low, he said, and General Niven used to quarrel like dogs during the week but sat near together on the Sabbath, and they were as peaceable as lambs. Mr. Harlow followed in a jovial strain, told of his brother in the U. S. navy, how he had lost money himself on a farm in Maryland, which happened near that same famous Virginia, which caused a roar on Dr. Davison. Dr. McCauley followed. He stated he had traveled all. around the watering-places this summer, and every wheie were those same people from Virginia, showing how anxious they were to get away, especially in summer. Dr. McCauley paid the usual respects to the slowness of the Erie R. R., but was thankful he was able to get to the delightful Centennial as tarly as Monday night. He spoke of the old days of cord wood and the Sullivan County beef they used to buy. He is a most delightful and entertaining speaker. Mr, McGowan was in a happy mood and reviewed some- thing of the vicissitudes of his seven and a half years in Monti- cello. He told how he used to live in the Gopher State, then sojourned in New Jersey, and finally received an invitation to come to Monticello. He had. never before heard of the place, and had a great time in discovering how to reach it. He thought, in coming up on the train in those days, that he was getting to the end of all things. Mr. Ferine, who served as the last pastor.beforethe present .18 Pre sbyterian ' Church Centennial. one, was called upon. Like many another modest map, he told how he could not make an after-dinner speech, then proceeded to make a good one just the same. Rev. J. C. Glover, who had come to the Centennial on the pastor's account as an ,old friend of eighteen years' standing, was called upon. He had a most spicy speech, and kept the people in the best of humor. During his very brief stay in Mon- ticello, Mr. Glover has found and made many a friend and left a most delightful impression. The Hon. J. M. Maybee, standing among the listeners, was suddenly called upon by Mr. Waugh for his opinion of ministers. He came forward and in his usual ready and elegant manner not only added his appreciation of the occasion, but paid a eulogy to Monticello that was well received and deserved. He commented on the name, which he declared meant, '.'little mountain." Rev. J. J. Billingsley was enjoying himself to the full when he was called upon for a closing speech. He did himself great credit for the manner in which he acquitted himself. As a good Methodist, he seemed to be having a good time among the Pres- byterians. He was happy in his remarks, and the table broke up with a vote of thanks to the good ladies of i the church for their hospitality. For the third time the writer regrets the absence of a sten- ographer to take these most interesting speeches down ver- batim, so they could have been reproduced herein, for all of them were worth preserving. Thus ended the celebration. All of us who have taken a part in it in any way can feel more than satisfied with the re- sults of our labors. But especial praise must be accorded Mr. C. Guy Smith, the musical director; Mrs. Charlotte Starr Rutan, the organist, and the soloists for the beautiful music. It has been three days of soul-inspiring joy; three days of sacied pleasure and rejoicing. The lessons it has taught us:— to "despise not the day of small things;" that everything worth having is gained by sacrifice, and appreciating the eft'orts of those who have gone before us, we should redouble our efforts and "work while it is yet day, for the night cometh when.no man can work;" remembering with the poet "We live in deeds, not years; in thoughts, not breaths; In feelings, not in figures on a dial. We should count time by heart throbs. He most lives Who thinks most, feels the noblest, acts the best. And he whose heart beats quickest lives, the longest: Lives in one hour more than in years do some Whose fat blood sleeps as it slips along their veins. Life is but a means unto an end; that end, Beginning, mean, and end to all things — God. The dead have all the glory , of the .world." 19 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Xibe Cburcb'0 Source of Strength. Rev. Robert A. Davison, D. D. Isaiah 52: 1. — "Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem." Here the church of God is presented to us under the highly poetic figures of Zion and JerusAL^m. The templet- Stood on Mount Zion and was a type of the church of all ages. The church of God is composed of believers and their children. I wish at this time to speak of the strength of the Christian church. In what does this strength principally consist? I.— First it consists in pure doctrine. The great mission of the church has been the reception, the preservation, and the transmission of the truth of God, from age to age, and generation to generation; and grandly has she performed her mission in this respect. The church of God, in all ages, has held to the great fundamental doctrines of Christianity and has had the greatest influence in the world, when she has been most faithful to these doctrines. One of these great foundation truths of Christianity is che doctrine of Divine Inspiration of the Scriptures. The Bible is divinely inspired from the first word in Genesis to the last word m Revelation. It not only contains the Word of God— it is the Word of God. All parts of the Bible are equally inspired, the historical portions as well as the moral precepts. The book of Joshua is as much inspired as the Sermon on the Mount. Another of the great doctrines of Christianity is the Deity of Christ— that Christ is very God of very God, of the same substance with God the Father. The Deity of Christ is the great foundation stone up6n which the whole superstructure stands. "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the right- eous do?" These and similar doctrines are held and emphasized by the church of God. No organization that repudiates these doctrines has any right to call itself a church. We belong to a branch of the church of God that makes much of the doctrines of Christianity. We require our ministers to subscribe to them, to preach them, to live them. "Preach the word," unfold, illustrate and apply these great doctrines if you expect the church to grow in faith and holiness. II. —A second element of strength in the church of God is a consecrated ministry. Awake, awake to the character of the church; its strength, its influence, its services depend very 20 Presbyterian Church Centennial. much upon the character of its ministers. If the ministers are worldly, inefficient, lukewarm, you need not look for any ag- gressive movement on the part of the church. But on the contrary, if the ministry are devoted to God, consecrated to His service, full of zeal and earnestness, longing for the salva- tion of souls, laboring with this object in view, the church will move out along these same lines and will become a mighty power in the community. Joshua and Caleb had. the right spirit when they said to the hosts of Israel that were hesitating and wavering: "Let us go up at once and possess the land, for we are well able to over- come it." If old Israel had been of their way of thinking, had their zeal and consecration, they would have marched right over the river Jordan and have entered into the possession of the land immediately and saved themselves those forty years of wandering in the wilderness. If all ministers had the zeal and consecration of John Knox when he said: "Give me Scotland or I die," it would not be long till this whole land of ours would resound with the shouts of victory and all heaven be vocal with joy over the salvation of multitudes. If the minister is all on fire for the salvation of men, this fire will communicate itself to the people and awaken in them an earn- est desire for the salvation of men. One brave soldier has sometimes saved the day and brought victory to his cause by hoisting his banner aloft and calling on his fellow soldiers to follow him. And one minister, full of zeal and earnestness, will somstimes move a whole community Christwards and heavenwards. Robert Murray McCheyne, of Dundee, Scotland, was so full of zeal and unction and con- secration that those who heard him said he seemed almost dy- ing to have people converted to Christ. That is the consecra- tion every minister ought to cultivate and aim at; and, when we ministers aim at that point, we will see a mighty movement in our congregations, men and women and children crying out and saying, as on the day of Pentecost: "Men and brethren, what must we do to be saved?" III. —A third element that enters into the strength of the church is a consecrated membership. The minister may be full of zeal, but, if his congregation be lacking in earnestness and consecration, it will be difficult for him to do much good. To do effective work, the minister and people must be in ac- cord—must be of one mind. If the congregation is moved by the minister, the minister is moved by the congregation. When the people are full of zeal and earnestness, this zeal will fiow up into the pulpit and surge around the minister and quicken his energies and awaken him out of sleep. Zeal is contagious, whether it be found in minister or people. How can we have a consecrated church? By each individual consecrating himself and herself to God. When all the church 21 Presbyterian Church Centennial. consecrate themselves to God, we will have a consecrated church. And, when the church is thoroughly consecrated to God and His cause, its influence will resound throughout the whole land. O, for a consecrated church! "Awake, awake, put on thy strength. O, Zion!" Clothe yourself in the armor of God. and then go forth to the conquest of -the world for Christ, our Lord and King. IV. —A fourth element that enters into the strength of the church is the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. This is more important than anything I have mentioned. A church may have a sound creed, a consecrated ministry and a conse- crated membership, but without the presence and power of the Holy Spirit it will be useless, yea, worse than useless. It is the Holy Spirit that gives power and efficacy and success to the church of God. What was it that gave the church such super- natural power on the day of Pentecost? It was not the preach- ing of Peter, grand as that was; it was not the fact that the disciples were all earnestly at work for the salvation of souls, glorious as that was, but it was the fact that "they were all filled with the Holy Spirit." They were so full of the Holy Spirit that there was not room for anything else. Filled thus with the Holy Spirit, they went forth to witness for God, and their words had power— almighty power — all-conquering pow- er. The people felt th^ power of their words and cried out: "Men and brethren, what must we do to be saved?" They would have been weak as other men had it not been for the Divine Spirit giving efficacy and power to their words. It was not they who spoke, but the Holy Spirit speaking through them, and, when the Holy Spirit speaks to human hearts, those hearts capitulate and surrender to Christ. Every soul that surrenders to Christ does so under the mighty power of the Holy Spirit. If you hear that anyone has become a follower of Christ you may be sure the Holy Spirit has been at work in his heart. "Not by woiks of righteous- ness which we have done but according to His mercy, he saves us by the working of regeneration, and the renewing of the Holy Spirit;" and the emphatic part of that passage is the re- newing of the Holy Ghost. What we ministers need— what the whole church needs is this presence and power of the Holy Spirit. And where can we obtain this power? On our knees. "If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your chil- dren, how much more shall your Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him." He is given to them that ask Him. No one who really desires the presence and power of the Holy Spirit need be long without this power. To your knees. 0, Israel! Plead with God earnestly for the presence of the Holy Spirit in the fulness of His mighty power. We read: "They were all baptized with the Holy Spirit and with power." The figure of the text is that of a giant asleep and now the 22 Presbyterian Church Centennial. prayer is that this giant may arouse himself, shake off his lethargy, and go forth to the conquest of the world. "Awake, awake!" Awake out of sleep. Arouse yourself. Too long have you been slumbering and sleeping. Now awake out of sleep and exert your powers. Awake, awake out of sleep, put on your strength, Zion, put on your beautiful garments, Jerusalem. We have reason to believe and rejoice in the fact that the church of God is beginning to awake out of sleep. There is re- newed activity all along the lines. This is the morning of the lay missionary movement— of the great missionary convention at Edinburgh. These movements are an indication of universal activity among the laymen of our churches. They are awaking out of sleep, are buckling on the armor for a forward, united movement for the conversion of the whole world to Christ in this generation. There never was such activity among the lay- men of ouV churches as at the present time. This giant is put- ting on his strength, is moving out along new lines of activity. One shall chase a thousand and two shall put ten thousand to flight. In the days of the Crusaders, Peter the Hermit, who had little education and little eloquence, was so full of a desire to rescue the tomb of Christ from infidels, that he went all over Europe, telling of his project, and, so earnest was he, so full of zeal, that he enlisted the aid of popes and cardinals in his pro- ject. Men and women of wealth laid it down at his feet to hasten on his great plan. On one occasion a company had been organized in one of the provinces of Italy. Their vessel was at anchor in one of its cities. They were waiting for a breeze to waft their vessel, for it was before the days of steam. They waited several days but no breeze came. They were be- calmed. On the fourth day they all assembled on deck and lift- ing their helmets heavenward they stood and sang; "Veni, Creator Spiritus," "Come, Creator Spirit," and scarcely had they lowered their helmets when a breeze sprang up, and before nightfall they were moving rapidly over the waters to their destination in the distant East. We have assembled here today to celebrate the hundredth anniversary of the organization of this church. Let us stand with united heart and sing, "Come, Holy Spirit, Heavenly Dove, With all Thy quickening powers; Come, shed abroad a Saviour's love. And that shall kindle ours." If we are sincere and earnest in our desire, it will not be long till we see the desire of our hearts realized in the mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit and the salvation of many souls. These three days' meetings ought to result in a mighty spiritual 23 Presbyterian Church Centennial. uplift of this people and the salvation of many souls. You have all been looking forward with interest to these services, prepar- ing for them— I trust praying over them — and now we enter up- on these services. May they result in an old-fashioned revival of religion— a revival born in heaven, carried on by the Holy Spirit, resulting in a great blessing to this community and to all Sullivan County. May we have such an awakening as came to this church forty-four years ago, when from this pulpit I read out the names of thirty-one persons who united with this church on profession of their faith in Christ. We commenced observing the Week of Prayer, not intending to keep up the meetings longer than one week, but at the end of the week there was so much interest that we continued them four weeks. At the end of that period we welcomed thirty-one new members, their ages ranging from nine years to sixty-five. It was a blessed season for this church, and for the young minister who had just entered upon his life-work of preaching the gospel. It gave me a love for souls that has been a great stimulus to me in all my ministry, and I trust it will never die out of my soul till I reach the heights of glory at God's right hand. 24 Presbyterian Church Centennial. IbistoTical Z)l6couc0e. Rev. Arthur J. Waugh. Zechariah 4:10. — "For who hath despised the day of small things?" These words of Jehovah to His prophet disclose God's ap- preciation of the day of small things. Matter-of-fact men Ignore and ridicule feeble beginnings, but not so the Lord of hosts. His all-searching eyes, seeing the past and future as well as the present. His eyes which run to and fro through the whole earth, discern the value of faithful efforts. The human view in contrast with the divine view is the difference between derisive laughter and fine appreciation. The plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel seemed a mere joke to the enemies of God and almost a cause for tears to some of the pious Jews them- selves. To the Almighty it meant a new temple that should stand for ages, have great honors and crowds of worshipers. What a blessing it would be if we could only see things a little more as God sees them! Oh, for a divine vision! There always seem to be two classes of people in the world, the despisers and the enthusiasts. Where God's promises are concerned, there are the doubters on the one hand and the be- lievers on the other. When Abraham and Sarah and Isaac, their boy, were all, it was a day of small prospect indeed. God said, however: "In thee and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed." A thousand years later, in the days of Solomon, when the empire of Abraham's descendants extended irom the River of Egypt to the very Euphrates, affairs wore quite a diffeient aspect. But God sees the end from the be- ginning. Hence there is great pertinence in His question, "Who nath despised the day of small things?" It requires a good imagination to see a stately oak when you are simply gazing at an acorn in the palm of your hand. The larmer finds it difficult to grasp the conception of a thous- and bushels of luscious apples annually, while he is setting out in faith long rows of mere seedlings; but he will be likelynever to have his apples if he despises the day of small trees. Romulus and Remus nardly supposed they were laying the foundations of an empire that would one day cover the greater part of the known world and have 120,000,000 people within its bounds. When the Mayflower buffeted the waves of the broad Atlantic in 1620 with a few saints on board, did they really have any conception that they were the despised beginning of the great- est Republic ever lounded among men'? John P. Jones and Samuel Pelton were the type of men that God admires and loves. They were men of faith, seers of the invisible, foundeis and builders. Jones saw a Monticello and gave it a beautiful name when actually what he saw was a little t)rook, forest trees and rhododendron bushes galore. Jones' faith, however, was more business sagacity and pluck. Pelton's 25 Presbyterian Church Centennial. was more of a spiritual kind. He seemed to hear the Master saying: "I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it." He did nut despise the day of small things; but did even he realize that the church which he and his co-laborers were then starting would receive over a thous- and members and still be fat ana flourishing? This particular region of country where we are now situat- ed used to belong to the town of Mamakating and the county of Ulster, with the county seat at Kingston. The town of Thomp- son was set otf trom the town of Mamakating on the nineteenth of March, 1803. It received its name from the first permanent settler within its bounds, William A. Thompson, Esq. He came from Connecticut, was a graduate of Yale College and later a lawyer. In 1795 he built a log house on Sheldrake Creek where Thompsonville is now located. Mr. Thompson was a typical gentleman of the old school, a great admirer of the English and of lordly ways. He was made a judge of Ulster County. When Sullivan County was incorporated by the legis- lature and set off from its parent, he became a judge of this county. This was April 27, 1809. The next year he erected an imposing mansion, which was called Albion Hall, and where many prominent people of the day were delightfully entertained. But Thompsonville, though begun with promise, did not obtain the county seat. This came to Monticello. The very first settlers here were two brothers, John P. Jones and Samuel F. Jones. The latter was dissipated, but the former was a builder of a great community, rie came in 1803. He built a sawmill by the brook near our present station. He did not spend the following winter here, and so the centennial of Monticello really dates from 1804. That year he was again on hand and his brother Samuel also. They proceeded to build a grist-mill near the site of the other property. John set about building a home for himself. With his own hands, he cut down the first tree, and erected a house ere the coming winter was upon him. This was the first house in town and is the present residence of Mrs. Cady. These Joneses were far-seeing and prophetic men. The highway from Newburgh and the east passed over the Neversink River at Bridgeville ana then bore to the south west onto Sackett Lake. It passed to the sonth of this point. However, that year of 1804 it was decided that the route of the Newburgh and Cochecton Turnpike should be right through the forest at this point. Of course the JonQS brothers were largely instrumental IS bringing that delightful decision about. They seemed to see a new county set off, just as afterwards it happened. They saw their village its capital, just as it came about. Being great admirers of Thomas Jefferson, they decided that their embryo village should bear the name of his Virginian home. Monticello was then the word, but there was not much more observable than 26 Presbyterian Church Centennial. the mere name. However, one house, a saw-mill, a grist-mill, and a river-to-river turnpike, are great things to men of faith. The Latin scholars will recognize Monticello as meaning "the mountain of heaven", and it certainly enjoys one of the most heavenly atmospheres that earth affords. In 1805 went up the second home in this place. It was erected by Piatt Pelton. Gradually others followed. Miles Custis put up a house. The Exchange Hotel was soon erected, and it was situated on Broadway, a little to the west of what is now Pleasant St. The Geraghty home and the Niven residence on the south of Broadway are among the early ones. Sackett Lake had settlers even before Monticello. Samuel Pelton came there in 1802. His godly father had dedicated him to the Lord and hoped and desired that some day he would become a minister of the gospel. Hence he had bestowed a classical education upon his son. He was greatly disappointed when Samuel came into the wilds of this region. That same son, however, laid the foundation of this church and was also instrumental in seeing other churches started in the vicinity. The first store in Monticello was opened by John P. Jones in 1806. People then began to come in here to buy goods. They came from the lake district, also from what was called the North Settlement, guiding their steps by blazed trees. By 1807 there was Presbyterian preaching in the place. The Presbytery of Hudson sent ministers here, and the many Pres- byterians in the vicinity were anxious for gospel privileges. These services were conducted probably in a room in the Exchange Hotel. Some one has said that in a dozen years there were as many as twenty-three different ministers thus preaching in the embryo town. When 1809 came, and Sullivan county was set off, and Monticello won the honor of the county seat among several rivals, the Jones families were as active as ever. They had long advertised free lots of an acre for the coming settlers. Now they gave a park to the new county. We give the words of a record from our clerk's office. The indenture is "between Samuel F. Jones and the Supervisors of the County." It describes the lot, running north 433 feet, giving it to the county for the county buildings, and then proceeds: "And also to the society or citizens of Monticello the privilege of erecting a house of public worship or an academy on the premises describ- ed, provided it shall not interfere with nor incommode the site of the county buildings." This explains how it is that this church building is situated on property deeded to the county. The clerk's records also speak of an election of trustees of a religious organization at the home of Curtis Lindley, Feb. 12, 1810. The organization of the church proper occurred that fall, Wednesday, September fifth. The Sessional records of this great event read as follows: "The congregation of Monti- 27 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Elder Samuel Pelton, First Elder, Later a Minister. cello met, agreeably to public notice given the Sabbath before, for the purpose of having a church organization among them. Present Rev. Daniel C. Hopkins, a missionary from the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in th? United States. The following persons appeared and requested to be constituted a distinct church, viz; Jacob Smedes. Susannah Smedes, Samuel Peltm, Cyrus Lyon, members of the church of Walkill, Orange county; Horace Sedgwick of Hartford, Conn.; Garret Tymeson, Eleanor Pelton, IMartha Ketcham, Hannah Allyn, Margaret Goldsmith, who had never before made a public profession of religion; Sarah Hoyt of Norwich, Conn.; Sarah Reynolds of Rutgers St. Church, New York." Thus this church began its history with these twelve souls. A summary of the Confession of Faith was read to them, 28 Presbyterian Church Centennial. which they adopted. "They then all," we are told, "solemnly renewed their profession of and covenant obligation to God and each other, after which they were by prayer formally consti- tuted a distinct branch of the church militant, and commended to the great Head of the church. " Samuel Pelton and Cyrus Lyon were duly elected "as ruling elders and deacons." This great occasion for Monticello was concluded with a sermon. Oh, how manifoldly God has blessed for a long century the simple religious services of that day of small things, of those dozen God-fearing souls! Monticello then had not even a post office. That only came a year later, when Samuel Jones was made postmaster. As yet the people had to journey as far as Montgomery either to post or receive their mail. The whole county had but 6,108 inhabitants. Monticello could not have had more than a dozen or fifteen houses, perhaps fifty people. A wooden court house was erected and completed in 1814. No church building or pastor appeared upon the scene for many, many years. Just supplies continued to come occasionally; but the people were hungry for the gospel. On October 6, 1810, the church being a month old, the two elders were set apart to their office; and the Session met, moderated by a Rev. Andrew King. Mrs. Garret Tymeson now appeared, being desirous to be received into the young organization. She was the first one received after the charter members. We read: "The Session conversed freely with Mrs. Tymeson as to her knowledge and experience in religion, and in Christian charity agreed to admit her; and she was accordingly received." So. there appearing to have been no deaths, the membership on the first of April, 1811, was 13. May 29 two more were received on certificate and eight on profession. On August 3 Rev. James I. Ostrora was Moderator, and one was received on letter and nine on profession. In December Rev. D. C. Hopkins was present again, and 24 persons had been received during the year 1811. In the middle of the following year, Mr. Lyon no longer appeared in Session, and probably removed from town. On June 20 therefore William Morgan and Garret Tymeson were made elders. Six were received. On July 17, 1813, a Rev. William Rafferty moderated the Session. On May 21, 1814, Rev. Methuselah Baldwin was present. At this Session meeting, Mrs. Phebe Jones, the wife of Jones P., was examined and received. The Sessional records here for the first time bear the evidence of having been carried to Presbytery for approval. We read: "Walkill, Sept. 8, 1814. Thus far examined and approved by the Presbytery. Eli Hyde, Moderator." That fall John P. Jones presented himself for examination and reception into the church on profession of his faith, also Nehemiah Smith with him. We read that on Nov. 11, 1815, the "Session examined and admitted to the communion 29 Presbyterian Church Centennial. of this church, Rose, a black woman belonging to Dr. Foot." Samuel Pelton served as elder from the the founding of the church until 1816 or 1817, when he removed. Though nearly forty years of age. he now carried out the early desire of .his father, and he became a minister. He served the church at Haverstraw and other important charges. His health being impaired when he was about 64 years of age, he returned to Sullivan County, and resided here for the next 24 years, dying in the year of 1864 at 88 years of age. He was a great help to the church, often preaching when there was no resident pastor. Claudius Webster, a man who left a great impress upon this church, came from Litchfield, Conn., m 1815. Two years later he was added to the list of elders and served the church until 1852. There is no record of any mseting of the Session from the middle of 1817 until the first of 1820. Quinlan, how- ever, in his "History of Sullivan County," makes the following record: "April 20-22, 1819, a call was presented to the Rev. Eliphalet Price for one-half of his time. He accepted the call from Monticello and Wappings Creek, and was installed July 1, 1819, at 2 P. M. The Rev. Mr. Osborn preached the sermon from Isaiah 4}:1. His pastorate was of one year's duration. " Nj members were received into the fellowship of" the church at this time, and perhaps this fact may account for the absence even of the name of Mr. Price. Rev. John Boyd was made pastor for half of his time July, 1820. We have little concerning him, but his record in the pastorate shows for itself. He was giving only half his time to this field and was here over four years; but he welcomed into the church 45 persons. 23 of these came on profession, while the goodly number of 22 came by certificate. This would seem to indicate a fine growth to the village as well as to the church. Elder Garret Tymeson died in 1824. The church elected two new elders, John Young and Nehemiah Smith. William Morgan and Claudius Webster with these two newly elected constituted the Session. Mr. Boyd resigned in 1825. As yet there had never been a church building in the town, but the desire for one seemed to be growing. The first person received after the departure of Rev. Mr. Boyd was Seth Conant. He is another man who figures largely in our history of those early days. He came with his family from Forest- burgh, where he had served as a ruling elder. He immediately became the choice of this church for the same office. Probably most of the services were still held in the Exchange Hotel; but the town was growing, and the offer of the lot on the Park was open for our organization to accept. Rev. William McJimsey entered upon his pastorate in June, 1827. The membership on Sept. 10 following was 87 persons. The next year the church was built. It was put on the same site as this present edifice. Of course it was not as large. Some of the older residents can 30 Presbyterian Church Centennial. dimly remember it. It probably had a tower, like the present structure. However, the pulpit stood between the two front doors, so that any one entering the service late had to face the entire congregation. This no doubt was a good remedy for tardiness, but it was certainly efficacious in distracting atten- tion from the speaker. The building was finished the last of 1828 and was dedicated to God on Friday, January 9, 1829. The sermon of Rev. Mr. McJimsey on this auspicious occasion is still preserved. It was a fine, strong sermon. In fact he must have been a good preacher. He came of a ministerial line. His father, Rev. Dr. McJimsey, belonged to the Associate Reformed Church. The young man, however, was not of very robust health. He was also a bachelor. It seems too bad that he did not remain in Monticello longer to enjoy the new structure. What a glorious period it must have been, the village the county seat, and a church building now their own, around which to rally! He ceased his labors here about the middle of the year 1830. As far as we have been able to learn, he did not later serve churches for any great length of time. Only eight persons were received during his ministry here. The church during those early days suffered at times from offences on the part of her members. During this year a certain man was suspended from the Lord's Supper for intem- perance. Temptations were no doubt increasing as well as good works. Monticello had now become such an important place that the legislature incorporated it.as a village. This was m 1830. A census was taken; and it had 376 inhabitants. The church on the first of the next April reported 68 members. And now we come to a most remarkable spiritual advance in the church. Our heavenly Father seems to have filled the new structure with the manifest token of His blessing. There was no pastor from the departure of Mr. McJimsey in 1830 until the coming of Mr. Adams in 1833; but the church went forward by leaps and bounds. The human agent of this great advance was Rev. Stephen Sergeant. He moderated the Session during the period from November, 1831, to April, 1832. Mr. Ambrose D. Smith informs us that he was engaged to supply the pulpit for a period of six months. He was here probably for less than a year, but he received into the church over eighty people. He seems to have been like Melchizedek. We know not whence he came or whither he went; but his presence was powerful. To reveal again, however, the difference in the divine and human estimate of men and affaits, we will quote what Mr. Quinlan has to say of him. "In the fall of 1831 and the succeeding winter months, the pulpit of the Presbyterian Church of Monticello was temporarily filled by Rev. Stephen Sergeant. By some he was esteemed a saintly man; by others sour and se- 31 Presbyterian Church Centennial. vere— one of that class who would rebuke the Saviour for speak- ing kindly and affectionately to the sinful and erring. He was bitterly opposed to social enjoyment, and regarded the long faces of the dyspeptic and desponding as unerring indicia of holiness. He was not in favor of clothing the bodies of Christians in hair-shirts and putting peas in their sandals, as were the ascetics of medieval times; but he was inclined to lacerate their souls with immaterial tortures, and render them unhappy during their earthly pilgrimage, so that they would be entitled to bliss in the next world. He denounced vehemently the frivolities and frailties of the day, and inveighed against dancing as if the immortal souls of all who indulged in it were lost in its mazes." This is what the historian says. What our records say would lead us modern ministers to search more carefully for the hiding of his power. The simple narrative informs us that the Session met at the residence of Elder Claudius Webster on January 24, 1832, and examined two for church membership. The following day they met and examined fifteen more. The third day seven more Four days later six more presented themselves for membership. The Thursday following, February 2, still eight additional. On Sunday one came on certificate and two others on profession. Many were baptized on that memor- able occasion. A few maj' have failed to complete their full membership, for over forty are named in the above lists; but the record declares that 37 were publicly received that day, all on profession but one. The Supper was administered to about one hundred, and it was a communion season never to be for- gotten by the generation that witnessed it. Here was evidently a man of God, even though he was despised by the fast set. Perhaps Mr. Sergeant preached in school houses as well as in the church, for in April he moderated a Session gathering at the school house near Captain Crain's; and another large num- ber were examined. Others followed at the church; and, on Sabbath the fifteenth, at least 45 were publicly welcomed into the household of faith. Soon after this Mr. Sergehnt disap- peared as mysteriously as he had come; but the church roll was about 161, as large as it was at the beginning of the present pastorate in 1904- That young church was a vigorous little giant. Let us pause also to remark that reputation and records differ materially; but it is on records that we are to be judged, not on reputation. Rev. James Adams entered upon his ministry in this church as early as July. 1833. He remained for twenty years, longer than any other. When he came, Monticello had two hotels, five merchants, two tailors, and four lawyers. We have the like- ness of Mr. Adams, and he is well remembered by all the old settlers. He was a spare man, with drooping shoulders; and his dark hair stood upright upon his head, giving him a rather 32 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Ada startling appearance. In the county records, you will discover that a home for the pastor was another of the improvements of that early time. John P. Jones sold a "building lot" on the corner of Liberty St. and Broadway to the trustees of the church for the sum of $700. The lot is a very large one and a very valuable one today. A house was erected upon it, which stands at this moment. Mr. Quinlan speaks in glowing terms of Mr. Adams. He says: "His uniform kindness, gentleness, and piety, tempered, as they were, by a rigid sense of duty, endeared him to the people of his charge. During his pastorate, that peace which passeth all understanding prevailed among them, and the church steadily increased in numerical as well as spiritual strength. As a laborer, he was faithful and untiring." Mr. Adams is 33 Presbyterian Church Centennial. said to have superintended his own Sunday-school, to have often preached in outlying schoolhouses, and to have been zealous in all good works. The church continued to grow, although there were no very large additions until 1840. That year 31 were received at different times. Elder William Morgan died in 1838 and Seth Conant in 1840. Mr. Morgan had served from 1812, or for 26 years. Stephen Decker and Reuben Clerk were elected to the Session in October, 1835, also Ahial Decker in January, 1840. A terrible disaster to the church and town occurred on Saturday, January 13, 1844. In the dead of winter, with a fierce gale blowing from the northwest, a disastrous fire swept away much property. A burning home sent its flying embers to the wooden court house, then the clerk's office, then the new church, and on and on. But the sturdy people went to work and renewed the house of the Lord. A subscription list is headed by Claudius Webster with $200. D. B. St. John gave $150, N. S. Hammond $200, P. B. Webster $100, and others correspondingly. By the following December, the new structure was complete and occupying the former site. The dedication took place on Thursday, January 2, 1845; and the Rev. Dr. Cummins, of Orange County, is said to have preached the sermon. A beautifully toned bell was also bought that year and elevated to its exalted position to call the wor- shipers, tell the number of the years of the departed, and to look down upon the changes of half a century. Sheldon Strong became an elder in 1846, and he continued to serve in that capacity until 1871. The church also prospered spiritually. Mrs. Adams was a great worker as well as her husband. In addition to all the classes in the Sunday-school, she had a few barefooted children, some of whom are yet among us, who assembled in her kitchen at the parsonage on Sunday afternoons, and received instruction from her lips. Mr. Adams used to be provided with logs by the members of his congregation; and, as winter drew near, some of his parishion- ers would have a bee at his home and cut up his fuel for him. Mr. Adams' health began to fail him, although he ought to have been in his prime. Possibly he exposed himself too much to the Sullivan County winters. He was born in the South. It is related of him that, by the death of a relative, he came into possession of several slaves. The sale of these, had he been so inclined, would quite have enriched him, aided him in buying books for his library and other luxuries; but no, this could not be. He had the slaves educated and eventually attempted to have them given their liberty. As the poor blacks did not pre- fer freedom, by the laws of the State he could not manumit them against their will. He chose to remain poor rather than to profit by their labors. After the burning of the church above mentioned, this con- 34 Presbyterian Church Centennial. gregation was offered the use of the Episcopal Church, then situated on Broadway, for Presbyterian services on Sunday afternoons. The Episcopal Church had been organized in 1816, was the second in the town, and the Rev. E. K. Fowler, a large-hearted and liberal man, was then the rector, as he con- tinued to be for over forty years. Mr. Adams resigned his pastorate here on September 14, 1853. He remained in Monticello for a time, but later he re- turned to his Southland. He preached and taught for a while, but he was soon compelled to lay down life's burden. He died on the 7th of February, 1857, at Union Church, Miss. It is said of him: "He gently closed his own eyes and mouth; then folded his hands on his breast, as if to engage in some act of devotion, while a celestial smile settled on his countenance, and every feature expressed the serenity and meekness of his soul. ' ' This pastorate was the longest that this church has ever enjoyed. He baptized, married, and buried almost a generation of people. During that period, he received into the fellowship of the church 194 persons, 95 on profession and 99 by letter. Monticello had grown greatly, as the fact that a larger number had been received by certificate would indicate. The member- ship in fact reached a point which it has never reached since, and yet the date is more than sixty years ago. In 1842 the two-hundred mark was passed. In 1850 the church reported 224 members. This has been the topmost limit so far. But the records say the roll needed purging, and it was cut down to 166. Thus Mr. Adams left the church only shghtly increased. In 1851 occurs the first account of the amount of the benevolent gifts, which was $127.74. Several cases of discipline are men- tioned. They are mostly for continued absence from the Lord's Supper and the privileges of the sanctuary. The elders evidently kept a good watch over the members of the flock. One man was admonished, then suspended, and finally excom- municated for what was regarded as disorderly conduct. Claudius Webster died in April, 1862. Mr. Adam paid a high tribute to his long service. He say: "Seldom was his seat vacant in the house of God on the Sabbath or at a meet- ing of the Session. For the last twelve months, the Bible was his constant companion; his mind was filled with peace, and his conversation was chiefiy upon thmgs above. He contemplated approach of death with great composure and looked forward to that rest which remains for the people of God." In 1853 Lewis Smith and Luther Pelton were ordained and installed as elders. The Presbytery of Hudson met on Septem- ber 14 of that year in this church, and that was the meeting at which Mr. Adams severed his relations. 35 Presbyterian ChurcK Centennia], Rev. Richard C, Shimeall. The fifth pastor was the Rev. Richard C. Shimeall. He was installed pastor on the 11th of May, 1854; and he served until October 7, 1857. According to his picture, Mr. Shimeall was a very sedate appearing gentleman. The corners of his mouth descended, and this fact made him awe-inspiring. He was a man of ability and an auther of some repute. He had quite a family. Mrs. Shimeall with Richard and Gertrude united with this church in 1854 by letter, and also Maria and Carolina on profession. During the years of 1856 and 1857, the pastor had fine additions to the membership. Among these we note James H. Strong, Beth Royce, and John F. Tymeson. He received 53 in the three years of his pastorate, 39 of these being on confession. Rev. John N. Lewis was the sixth pastor. He was settled over this church in September, 1858. His service was indeed briefer than that of Mr. Shimeall, covering but two years and a 36 Presbyterian Church Centennial. half. He closed his labirs here in April, 1861. He was privileged to receive 27 persons into the church, 17 of these being on profession. Amjng these we mte the name of Daniel H. Webster. It is also interesting to call attention to the fa^t that the Monticello Academy had its birth during this period, 1858. It was a choice educational center for many years to come. About the same time, Marcus Millspaugh and Joseph Wallace and John J. Brooks were set apart as elders. The Week of Prayer, which arose from the extensive revivals of religion that occurred in different parts of our country, was ordered observed in this church. Services were held daily, be- ginning with Monday, January 9, 1860, at 1:30 P. M. After Mr. Lewis left this church in April, at the fall meet- ing of Presbytery, held at Liberty, the elders prosecuted a call for the pastoral labors of Rev. William C. Stitt. Mr. Stitt had pursued his studies at Princeton, but was unordained. The church expected his ordination and installation the following December; but, because of ill health, the relation was never consummated. Mr. Stitt served later at Hagerstown, Md., and still later was literary editor of the New York Evangelist. But the congregation turned to the Rev. S. Bayard Dod. He was installed pastor on September 17, 1862. Mr. Dod was a man of great ability. Ke has only recently finished his earthly career. He was born in Princeton, New Jersey, where he was educated. He came here in his youth, but he never forgot his labors in this field. In fact he wrote a novel, which many of us have read with great interest and delight, the plot of which is laid in Monticello. It is entitled "A Hillside Parish," and has much to do with his own experieijces here as well as those of the Episcopal rector. He was also the author of "Stubble and Wheat." He remained as pastor of this church but two years and one month, closing his labors in October, 1864. He was pastor in Wilkes Barre for the next four years, and later he was head of the trustees of Stevens Institute, Hoboken, New Jersey. He received into fellowship but 24 persons, 16 on profession. Among these are the names of John A. Thompson, Esq., and his wife, also Levi 0. Lounsbury. Some changes occurred also in the Session. Stephen Decker was getting old, and he request- ed to be relieved of active service. He had already been an elder 28 years. And now comes a curious minute, curious to us living at this day. All the elders had been residents outside of the village; and now it was deemed best, as we read, in view of the large number of members in the village, that some new elders be elected properly to represent them. How different from today! We have positively no elders living in the country at this time. We have scarcely any driving in from the country. In that day the country people, the sturdy farmers, were the 37 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev, S. Bayard Dod. backbone of the church. A long line of teams, I am told, came in every Sabbath from the North Settlement, another long line from the West Settlement, and another line streamed in frcm the direction of Sackett Lake. Must the land be given over to those who are without God and without hope in the world? However, in the fall, after due notice, Seth H. Royce and Dr. Bartholemew G. McCabe were elected to this oflfice. They were then solemnly ordained "by piayer and the laying on of hands." Thus the village at last had some elders of its own. The revised roll of 1864 contained 155 names. On May 15, 1869, Mr. Robert A. Davison, a licentiate of the Central Philadelphia Presbytery was ordained and installed pastor. He was born in Geoigetown, Pa., :and had just gradu- ated at Princeton Theological Seminary. The young man who served this church for nearly four years and loved it, as most ministers do their first charges, with a peculiar affection, is the 38 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. Robert A. Davison, D. D. the older Doctor of Divinity who has already preached for us this morning. The young man is still in the old man, and the elder one was in a sense in the younger one whom the Monti- cello people used to admire. Under his devoted ministry, there was an ingathering of precious sojls to the number of 31 on April 1, 1866, all on Dro- fession but one. The very first one to join un !er Mr. Davison's preaching was Edward A. McLaury, who is the second son of the church in the ministry, coming after the venerable Samuel Pelton. During the entire pastorate, there were 73 souls received, all but 19 on profession. Among there are many names familiar today, many of those still in active service. Among them is the name of Stephen L. Strong. The church edifice had been enlarged by lengthening it some fourteen feet. This was during Mr. Dod's pastorate, perhaps in 1863. Mr. Davidson in 1868 set about a subscription 39 Presbyterian Church Centennial. for a pipe organ. He visited each member of the congregation, headed the Hst himself, and had great success. Eighteen hun- dred dollars were raised. Some of the people hesitated, for pipe organs were not very common in the country towns in those days. Also some of them feared that such an instru- ment would be like a modern automobile, a constant source of expense. This proved a false alarm; and there is not probably another instrument in this county that has the tone qualities of this one. It has been an inspiration to the congregation since the day it was bought. Under Mr. Davison's earnest and devoted ministry, there was a net gain to the membership of about 25. He resigned in February, 1869. Later he has served several important fields; and it is a blessed fact that h@ is still permitted to serve as a leader in the Lord's army. It is our prayer that he may at least fill out a half century of consecrated labor. The parson- age was sold just at the beginning of Mr. Davison '^ pastorate. John D. Ludlum purchased it for the sum of $2,975. "The young minister did not need a home of that kind, and spent his days here in Towner's hotel. The congregation was without a pastor now for nearly two years, or until November, 1870. These lengthy intervals are a great detriment temporally and spiritually, although we have the brilliant exception of Stephen Sergeant's case in the thirties. Generally the church will lose in membership all the gains of previous years and be compelled to gather momentum all over again. The year of 1870 was memorable for the building and open- ing of the Monticelio and Port Jervis R. R., which connected us nicely with the Erie and afforded quick access to the great city. Rev. T. M. Dawson became the pastor-elect. He was installed on December 6. On the coming of Mr. Dawson, it was decided to introduce the services by singing the long meter doxology. "Whereas the churches of this village, " the record reads, "had made arrangements to commence their Sabbath morning services at 10:30 o'clock instead of 11 o'clock," it was resolved to conform to that hour. At the installation of the newly elected pastor, ;Rev. Chas. Beattle of sacred memory presided and proposed the constitdtional questions. The ser- mon was preached by Rev. Dr. Seward. The charge to the pastor was given by Dr. Beattie, and the Rev. A. P. Botsford, then pastor at Port Jervis, gave the charge to the congregation. A minute records the death of Elder Lewis Smith, who died December 27, 1870, and who had served the church for seventeen years. It speaks of his consistent life and of his resignation to the divine will during his protracted illness. At the close of the year the elders all resigned in order that a new Session might be elected. The names of these elders were Luther Pelton. Dr. B. G. McCabe, Joseph Wallace, Shel- 40 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. T. Madison Dawson don Sti'ong and Seth H. Strong. At a church meeting, held January 7, 1871, these resignations were accepted, and the rotary system was adopted. The new Session was made to consist of six members. The election resulted in the choice of James H. Strong and Luther Pelton for a term of three years, Joseph Wallace and Levi C. Lounsbury for two years, and Am- brose D. Smith and Daniel H. Webster for one year. An appropriate action was taken by the Session on April 8, 1871, an action which seems to have passed into innocuous desuetude. The record reads: "Resolved that the money raised on communion occasions be used as a Sessional fund, to defray the expenses of the pastor and elders attending the meetings of Presbytery and Synod." It seems proper that those who freely give their time for these ecclesiastical gatherings should at least have their expenses borne. Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. Henry A. Harlow. The Session invited the Presbytery of Hudson to hold its fall meeting in September, 1872, in this church. This invitation was accepted, and the Rev. David Beattie was Moderator. The Rev. Mr. Dawson was a brilliant preacher and received the largest salary every paid by this congregation. He only re- mained, however, until November following. His pastorate was almost precisely two years in duration. IDuring that time, he received into membership 28 persons. Quite a company of young people joined in April, 1872. Rev. Henry A. Harlow became the tenth pastor, entering upon his labors on the first of December, 1872. This was fortunate, as there was only an interim of one month from the leaving of Mr. Dawson. Mr. Harlow found about 163 members on the roll. A parsonage again being deemed necessary, the large property on the corner of Pleasant Street was purchased by the trustees of Dr. McCabe, June 9, 1873. For the next 42 Preibyterian Church Centennial. thirty years, it continued to be occupied by the pastors. Many a donation party and reception was held within its spacious limits. Henry A. Powell, a teacher, I believe, joining on profession on March 2, 1873, that fall entered Union Theological Seminary, and later became a minister of the gospel. This is the third in the history of the church. We learn that a festival was held in 1874, the proceeds being $90. The Session appropriated half of this money to the village school and divided the remainder to the schools north, south, and west of the same. Edward A. McLaury, before mentioned, being now a sophomore in Lafayette College, was noted in the records as a candidate for the ministry. He graduated from that institution in 1878, studied at Union in New York and at McCormick in Chicago, where he graduated in 1881. He served as a home missionary in the West, later in Penn. and New Jersey and Tenn. May he, as a loyal son of the church, already tested and found faithful, be yet spared for years in the Lord's great vineyard. During the pastorate of Mr. Harlow, the imposing Centennial of our country was observed in Philadelphia. Mr. Harlow had served the church at Florida, New York, for six years previously to coming to Monticello. He left here in September, 1877, returning to that place. He also later served at Livingston Manor. His book, "The History of Hudson Presbytery," is a valuable production, concisely and graphical- ly giving a sketch of the churches within its bounds. He is a faithful preacher of the gospel and left his impress on Monti- cello for all time. His ministry was blessed in the reception of 44 new members. Among the names are those of Eli Fairchild, Mrs. Hannah J. Roosa, John Patterson, and William L. Thorn- ton. Rev. John P. Scott, D. D., entered upon his pastorate here in March, 1878, coming from Detroit, Michigan, from the United Presbyterian Church. He was installed on the 7th of May. Elder Daniel Webster having removed from town, Eli W. Fairchild was elected an elder, and was ordained to this office on the 9th of April, 1882. Dr. Scott was a man of imposing presence, and was great- ,ly admired and loved by the people, so much so that he had two pastorates among them. In 1880 quite extensive repairs were made in the church. Stained-glass windows were put in and the auditorium was frescoed beautifully. Having received a call from Lebanon, Ohio, he left this field after a little more than four years. The closing service was a union one, the Methodist congregation joining. The church was filled, and all felt that a spiritual leader was going from their midst. Dr. Scott received 32 persons into church fellowship, of whom 12 were on profession. John M. Yeager joined at this period. 43 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. John p. Scott, D. D. Although the membership was not materially increased, there was a most remarkable growth of the Sunday-school, and the numbers enrolled surpassed any record before or since. Kev. Hugh B. McCauley's stay in Monticello was of eleven months' duration only. It was decidedly a short and brilliant pastorate. In fact he was not installed. Every member re- ceived during his stay was on profession of faith, and there were fifteen of them on one Sabbath, two later. With the assistance of the elders, he quite insisted on the regular annual elections being held according to the rotary system. The schedule of benevolent offerings was also revised- Zeal cer- tainly characterized the opening pastorate, but he closed his labors on the first of November, 1883. Mr. McCauley was a graduate of the University of the City of New York, also of Union Seminary. He served at Hacken- sack before coming to Monticello. He has also been pastor at 44 Presbyterian Church Centennial. ;; ^^- ^ ^Pf '^ t^nH It y '^^^1 Bj 'yy/^/'i^^? '"' ■■ ■ ^ ^L 'ick S. Williams. Newark and Freehold, N. J., and is now occupying an impor- tant field in the Capital of New Jersey. He is both a speaker and writer of repute. Rev. Fenwick T. Williams was called in March, 1884. He was certainly a typical clergyman in appearance. At his in- stallation on September 30, the Rev. Chas. Beattie of Middle- town preached. Rev. R. A. Blackford, White Lake, charged the pastor; and Rev. Lee W. Beattie, of Goshen, charged the people. The roll contained 160 names. The Session removed the names of several non-residents and non-attendants, so that the next year the reported membership was 124. Surely this church, like many others, has had a checkered history. What an uncounted blessing for time and eternity is the spirit of harmony, peace, and devoted service for the Saviour of the world! A pleasing incident, showing it is better to be a door- 45 Presbyterian Church Centennial. F'^WB H^^^r '^ '' -***"'*'^^^^a ^^^Mi-if- rf0^ F' mm , ''^■^^ ; ^^^^^^^,,^''VHb|| IHHHBHIt Rev. James A. McGowa keeper in the house of the Lord than to dwell in the tents of wickedness, no matter how luxurious they may be, is found in the records of July, 1886. We are informed that a little before the sexton of the church, Mr. Edward Evans, who had served in that capacity for seventeen years, was received into the communion. At the close of the year 1886, Luther Pelton, on account of age and inability to be present at Sessional meetings, begged the privilege of resigning his office. He had already served for 33 years, and was excused from active service; but his resignation was not accepted. The membership of the church continued to take a drop, reaching even as low as 112 in 1888. However, the ounday-school reported 170, with an average attendance of 120. In the summer of 1887, Elder Joseph Wallace, for nearly 30 years an officer, was removed by death. Resolutions upon his 46 Presbyterian Church Centennial. useful career and triumphant death were put on record and read publicly from the pulpit. Rev. Mr. Williams retired from the pastorate soon after the spring meeting of Presbytery in April, 1888. He died a little later at Bay Ridge, L. T. , May 7. at the age of 74. He received into this church 28 persons, half on profession and half by certificate. February of this year was noted as the time of the raising of the new bell into the belfry. The old one, which had called the people for fifty years, became cracked; and another was a necessity. It cost $230, and the subscription list is still in preservation. It would be difficult to find anywhere a bell of finer tone than tne one that now graces our tower. In the early fall of 1888, the Session invited Rev. James A. McGowan, of Gloucester, N. J., to supply this pulpit for one year, beginning with January, 1889. He was a grad- uate of Lafayette College and of Princeton. He had served several churches in Wis. and Minn, previously to his charge at Gloucescer. His labors in Monticello were richly rewarded in spiritual fruit. His pastorate also continued longer than any other since the days of Mr. Adams. A petition coming to the Session for the full carrying out, or abandonment, of the rotary system in the eldership, a meet- ing of the church was called in May, 1889. Six elders were elected. One of these, Chas. E. Smith, refusing to serve, only Daniel S. Garrison was added, the former four, A. D. Smith, E. W. Fairchild, Jas. H. Strong and L. C. Lounsbury, being also reelected. Thus the long service of Luther Pelton came to an end He had been in this sacred office for a period of 36 years. His death came three years later. On the January following, Charles E. Smith was elected again, and this time accepted the office. The spiritual results of Mr. McGowan's strong preaching began to tell. A most gracious revival oc ;urred the second winter. On Sunday, March 2, 1890, 32 united, the candidates occupying Several seats and reaching across the church. The membership reported the April following was 170. The ben- evolent gifts also increased SO^fc, reaching $165. In 1891 these beautiful oak pews were places in position. In .January of that year, J. H. Strong ceased to serve as elder, and William Brice took his place. Charles Smith only serTed until October, 1891. The next January, John A. Thompson was elected for the un- expired term of Mr. Smith. Andrew McCuUough entered the Session in January, 1893, also Robert Hall. A year later Stephen L. Strong entered office snd is still serving. Mr. Wil- liam Brice continued to serve the church until this present Cen- tennial year. He was suddenly removed from earth while re- turning home from church with his wife Sunday morning, April 10. He was a man of most exemplary character and honored 47 Presbyterian Church Centennial. by all in the community. Rarely was he absent either from church or prayer-meeting during his long and useful career. Rev. Mr. McGowan closed his labors in May, 1896, having served about seven and a half years. During his ministry, the membership arose from 112 to 177. He had received into com- munion 104 persons, 82 on profession and 22 by letter. We rejoice that he is still in active duty. On June 15, 1896, a meeting of the congregation was held for the purpose of choosing a successor. By unanimous vote of those present, Rev. Dr. Scott was reelected, coming back from Ohio, He was on the ground in September. The Presbytery designated October 13 for the installation. Rev. George T. Galbraith, of Liberty, presided; Rev. L. W. Hones, of Roscoe, preached the seamon; Rev. D. F. Bonner, D. D., of Florida, gave the charge to the new pastor; and Rev. O. R. W. Klose, of Cochecton, gave the charge to the people. Alas! how brief was this time of expectancy and renewed service in Monticello! Great hopes gathered around the return of this beloved servant of the Lord Jesus; but God suddenly called him home. Dr. Scott departed this life on January 8, 1897. His second pas- torate was considerably less than half a year. His age was 67. The Session spread upon the records several resolutions ex- pressive of their shock and sorrow. The third of these is in the following terms : "Resolved, — That we will hold our now translated pastor in loving remembrance as an earnest and evangelistical preacher, a wise counselor, a faithful friend, a useful citizen, and an exemplary Christian gentleman." So a year or more of troublous times had reduced the mem- bership to 158. A congregational meeting was held on April 5, 1897, for the purpose of calling another pastor. The Rev. Robert B. Perine received a unanimous summons to undertake the work, the duty of ministering to the stricken flock. He was a graduate of Hamilton College in the class of 1890, and also of Auburn Seminary in 1894. He had preached at Sunside, New York, for about three years. He began his work here on June first. It was deemed best to hold the preparatory services be- fore communion on the evening of Thursday, the time of the regular weekly prayer-meeting. From time immemorial, these gatherings had been held on Saturday afternoons. In April, 1899, a new schedule for benevolences was adopted, which is still in use. By this system each cause is assigned two months, within which the offering may be presented; but, in the case of the smaller Boards, two are grouped together, while Home and Foreign Missions stand alone. The gifts usually ranged some- what above $200 per annum. In September, 1902, the Session had occasion to record their appreciation for a gift of 160 new 48 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. Robert B. Ferine. hymn-books, "In Excelsis," which had been placed in the pews by a giver whose name does not appear. Mr. Ferine joined with the Rev. Geo. W. Downs, pastor of the Methodist Church, in union services under the leadership of the evangelist. Rev. Dr. Munhall, of Philadelphia. The gospel was powerfully presented, and the results were large ingather- ings into both of the churches participating. On Sunday, Nov- ember 29, 1903, there were received into this church sixteen on jjrofession of their faith together with three others on certif- icates. Mr. Ferine, however, had already offered his resigna- tion in order to accept a call to the Immanuel Presbyterian Church of Binghamton, New York. The Presbytery dissolved the pastoral relation, to take effect on December first. Hence one of the most gracious occasions of the evidence of divine grace occurred on the last Sabbath of his pastorate. Mr. Ferine served this church six and a half years. He 49 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. Hugh B. McCauley, D. D. performed loyal service, and a good degree of peace and har- mony prevailed. He endeared himself to the people, and his repeated returns to his old field of labor have been seasons for renewing of friendships and expressions of joy. He is a plain gospel messenger. He does not fly from one place to another, but devotes himself to his work, which he enjoys. He has been in his present field ever since he left Monticello in the latter part of 1903. During his stay here, he received into the membership 62 individuals, 39 on procession, 23 by letter. With a noble figure and sound health, it would seem as if God had yet many years of usefulness before him. Concerning the present ministry, it does not se^im necessary to say much. Everything is of recent date, and the present membership are participants in what has been achieved. But our history is as much for the future as for today. What this people have done within the last six years should have recogni- 50 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Rev. Arthur J. Waugh. tion. The changes which have taken place in the village and church in these short years seem like a dream. Up-building and down-burning have done their work. The town have been growing with great rapidity, and that means great things. About forty-five new structures have risen hereabouts every year since the writer has become familiar with the place. That means new members and fresh workers. The present minister came from precisely seven and a half years' service at Phelps, and previously from six and a half years in Cleveland, Ohio. But we must speak of the ro\ al and loyal ladies and their achievements. On the following Wednes- day after the first Sabbath of the new pastor-elect, the parlors of this building were opened on a gala occasion. Many were present, and congratulations were in order. At an expense of about $1,800, all the space under the auditorium was excavated, enlarging and deepening the rooms that were, and renewing the 51 Presbyterian Church Centennial. whole affair. Rarely does another church have such ' beautiful and usable parlors. To the Ladies' Aid belongs the glory. The same beneficent personages had the colonial porch re- paired, the entire building painted, and the whole property put into condition for enlarged usefulness. The report for April first, 1905, showed that this church had expended that year $3,460. At the same time, the beneficent gifts reached $319. The membership began the year at 155 and closed with 172, The fall meeting of Presbytery was held in the attractive building. A most gracious act was also performed by the trustees, who offered for sale the parsonage, sold it for $4,500, took the money and built the up-to-date Manse, where the minister now resides, and the whole tranaction cost them $22. The new Manse was opened with a religious service December 27, 1905; congratu- latory speeches were the order of the evening; and all passed off with great pleasure and profit. The records of the Session say that the occasion was "one of historic interest." There is perhaps no better built pastoral home or one more beautiful in appearance or location within the bounds of this Presbytery. On January 8, 1805, John D. Lyons, Esq., and John M. Yeager, were ordained and installed as elders. They both are still in service. January of this present year brought Kenneth D. L. Niven also into the Session. Thus 34 different men have officiated during the century. The first of 1907, The Chapel Hymnal was purchased and put into use for the prayer-meeting. This spring has witnessed the selection of a new hymn song book for the Sunday-school. The great advance in enrollment and attendance at the school is largely due to the efficient Superintendent, John D. Lyons, Esq., who has served for many years. The average attendance has increased 37%. The ladies again magnified their office, when, in 1907, they put in vhese fine cushions, this carpet, and renewed the face of things in the sanctuary. They have just come to the front again in the new carpet throughout the church parlors and beautified walls. The Choir Association has not only enlarged the choir loft, extended the position of the pulpit, but raised funds for expert musicians that have charmed both transients and residents. Mr. Kenneth R. Buchanan joined this church on April 1, 1900, during the ministry of Mr. Perine. Later he became a teacher. He was dismissed to the M. E. Church, Pawling, N. Y., Octo- ber 9, 1906. He very soon began to preach in churches in the New York Conference, has been pursuing his studies; and today should be accounted as the fourth and latest to enter the gospel ministry from our church. The minister has never called upon the services of an evangelist but, conducting special meeting himself, there have been four occasions of handsome additions. The membership 52 Presbyterian Church Centennial. started at 155 and is now over two hundred. During the six years past, 92 have been welcomed, 34 by letter and 58 by pro- fession. The benevolent gifts reach annually nearly $400. For all of God's mercies in this transition age of the world's history, we hope that we are truly grateful. They are times that try men's souls. But, after this review of the past and the time when many of the best of modern inventions were unknown, if we, the living pastors, are at all inclined to despise the day of small things, the little Monticello and the crude past, let us remember that spiritual truths never change at the base, and that the first fifty years of this church brought into its fellowship the magificent number of 512, while we moderns in fifty years of enlarged opportunity have only brought in 515. We have beaten the fathers by three counts! Let us listen again to God while He asks us: "Who hath despised the day of small things?" 53 Presbyterian Church Centennial. Ube Cburcb anO Some of llts IRelattonsbips. Rev. Robert B. Ferine. Shortly before the Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, there was published a beautiful picture. It represented the mighty waters of Niagara rushing over the precipice and throw- ing up their spray and foam, From the midst of the spray was seen a shadowy human figure rising with outstretched arms. The immediate suggestion was the thought of the unharnessed power contained in that greatest of all earth's water-falls. No action of wind or storm could be suflncient to drive away this vision or destroy this power. We have no desire to throw a mystery around the church in referring to this suggestive pict- ure, but surely, out of the midst of the visible things upon which we may all look, there arises a mighty invisible power from the church of God, which with an eye of faith we may see. It is the power of Jesus Christ in the hearts of men. The world today looks upon the church as an organization, which is separated into various denominations, and is composed of the great mass of Protestant and Catholic membership. It sees the human essentials and necessary expressions of bodies of men banded together with a common or similar hope, and ani- mated by a definite purpose of service in the world. This is the Visible Church, imperfect, and oftentimes inconsistent and in- efficient. It is not always coextensive with the Church' Invisi- ble, which Jesus Christ founded on His confessed truth, the rock upon which He said, "I will build my church." For, while it is true, that there are those within the church, as men see it, whose lives have not been transformed or hearts touched by di- vine power, it is also doubtless equally true that there are others outside the visible organization of the church in the world who have truly known the love of Christ and felt his power with- in them. The Visible Church is an organization, and in its vari- ous forms and expressions is an outgrowth of man's conception of the things which are necessary to band men together and render them efficient in the service for which they profess to stand. The Church Invisible is an organism, a living body with functions essential to life. Of this Jesus Christ is the head. The heart into which Christ has come through faith and love be- comes an essential part of the organism, for our life is one; we live in Christ, and He lives in us. So essential is the outer man- ifestation, that is the Visible Church, to the inner reality, that is the Body of Christ, which is made up of all true believers, 55 Presbyterian Church Centennial. that the organization upon which men look and its visible activ- ities become inseparable from the organism, and the world, see- ing the outward signs, places its judgments and sets its require- ments upon the Visible Church. A standard of service for the church is unconsciously set by the world, and it judges us, rating us as worthy or unworthy, according as we are efficient or inef- ficient. The church is in the world for two distinct purposes, both of which have to do with the world's betterment and uplift. Its first and primary purpose is to bring to individuals the knowl- edge and acceptance of salvation through Jesus Christ our Lord. This is the side in which the gospel deals with individuals. Up- on every soul rests a burden of sin, and the final condemnation of unrepented and unforgiven sin. It is the church's first duty to preach and teach the forgiveness of God, and the salvation of the soul through repentance and faith in the atoning grace of Jesus Christ, who offered himself as a sacrifice for our sins. Its second purpose, which comes through this first and can only come as a result of it, is to save and uplift men in their social, economical, industrial and political relations, and to bring socie- ty to an ideal state, wherein the spirit of brotherhood shall pre- vail in justice, fairness and unselfishness, and love shall rule all hearts, and all relationships shall be blessed. This is the side which deals with the mass of men, wherein it is the church's duty to labor for the correction of existing evils, to exalt the standards of righteousness, and to assist in changing conditions and environments so that men may be able to live right and true lives. The church is severely criticised as being too formal and dogmatic, seeking to advance its own power and glory, rather than devoting itself to the good of men, and that it is therefore out of touch and sympathy with the suflferings and wants of men, and inefficient in supplying the needs of the world. In a measure the criticism may be true, for there are none perfect,, and the church is made up of imperfect men and women, who oftentimes fail. In a large measure the criticism is unjust, though undoubtedly it is inevitable, for even our Lord Himself; who was not imperfect, was criticised and condemned by His enemies. The result of that spirit which has produced the criticism is shown in the increasing disregard for church services and the regular public worship of God. In order that the church may accomplish its two-fold mis- sion in the world, there must be on the part of its membership: 1. An absolute and unshakable conviction that spiritual life is God's gift through Jesus Christ, and that Chriet spoke truly when He said, "Ye must be born again." Here is the secret of the church's power, and the ideal here presented must never be relinquished if we are to continue to be of worth and service in the world. No standard of morality, or highest conception of 56 Presbyterian Church Centennial. man's power to change or transform himself can ever be allow- ed to take its place. "Ye must be bom again" is the divine mandate, and of its truth we must never lose sight, or waver in our conviction of it. 2. A determination to display honesty, justice and love in all relationships, at all times and under all circumstances; in other words,, to live every day as we profess to believe we ought to live, and as God in His Grace has promised to help us to live. It is not enough to feel good toward men, but to be or to do good is required. The trouble is too often we do not let our faith work itself out in practical ways of kindness and justice, or our emotions crystalize into that character which stands always for righteousness. ' 'Today you bow your head in prayer. And claim all men as brothers. How shall it be tomorrow, where You have been crushing others? * * 4: 4: Today the starved and lame and blind You gaze upon in sorrow; Today your heart is wonderous kmd. How shall it be tomorrow?" The conditions which prevail today in the social and indus- trial life of this great nation, of which we are a part, demand practical gospel living, if the church shall maintain its place in the world and accomplish its purpose. The enormous growth of our cities presents the problems of the congested masses, which can be solved only by the unselfish application of the principles of the gospel of Jesus Christ. The millions of foreign-born among our population, over half of whom dwell in 160 of our cities, call again for a teaching and a living of the gospel which can be satisfied by no half-way measures. The church in Amer- ica has its world-wide opportunity within its own borders. "The doors have swung both ways," and those who are strangers to our life and our traditions are here, getting from us that which shall either "make" or "break" them. Their masses have help- ed to complicate our social problems. The gospel taught and lived can alone solve these problems aright. JThe 300,000 dark bedrooms in a single city, and the thousands upon thousands of employed young men and women who have no real home but the streets, and whose free hours are filled with almost constant and irresistible temptations, present a demand of the church to raise the standard of justice and right for men in dealing with their fellowmen, and show them the opportunity, which is ever present, wherein men can do totheir fellowmen what they would like, under similar conditions, to have done to them. The con- test that is continually being waged in the industrial woild bs 57 Presbyterian Church Centennial. tween capital and labor, employer and employe, the man of wealth who controls large interests, and the man who with labor of hand and brain produces wealth, demands also the proper ad- justment of lives, and there is no adjustment like that which is brought about by the true and sincere application of the princi- ples and truths of Jesus Christ. The saloons are the centers of corrupt political powers, and the breeders of vice. • They afford the only social opportunity to thousands of peoples of our land. These conditions and others present a demand for practical gos- pel living, and a demonstration of the power of the gospel for needy lives. The church and Christians are not in the world to criticize its ways and needs, but to uplift and to enoble it, and in trying to do this must remember that we are essentially a companion with a clearer vision, which God has given to true Christian hearts, and a fellow-sufferer with a better hope, even the hope of an eternal life with its joys and rewards. The history of the church is glorious; its triumphs are mighty. May it ever go on to greater victories. That it may let us be true, and faithful, and practical in all our ways and life. 56 Preabyterian Church Centennial. IRcv. Samuel ©clton. By Rev. Walter S. Brown. Mr. Pelton was born in Montgomery, Orange Countj-, N. Y., March 25, 1776. His parents were members of the Presby- terian Church of Goodwill. In the third year of his age, he experienced a severe illness, dunng which his life was despaired of. His father earnestly pled for his s