| SOUVENIR | OF THE | 125th ANNIVERS~ ARY OF THE | GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH Od Greenivier Church DUKE UNIVERSI Ta LIBRARY Digitized by the Internet Archive in 2022 with funding from Duke University Libraries https://archive.org/details/souvenirof125tha01unse ERRATA As a result of haste on the part of the printer and proof-reader, the fol- lowing errors have crept into the book. We would suggest that each per- son make the corrections in the proper places in his own copy of the work, and then tear out this sheet. Page 10, line 4—for ‘‘Lewis Alderson,’ read Lewis A. Alderson. undvT Pe oe Spee ee ene Gey cee eee . 26, line 20—for ‘‘as,’’ read like. . 12, line 19—for ‘‘in 1816,’’ read Mur. 5, 1821. _ 12, line 23—for ‘West Virginia,”’ read Western Virginia. . 12, tine 35—for ‘‘his,’’ read ‘‘in.’ . 14, line 29—insert a period after Va. . 19, line 2—for ‘‘ever,’’ read every. . 19, line 29—insert comma after he and atter Kalloch. . 19, line 39—for ‘‘Atchson.’’ read Atchison. . 20, line 18—for ‘‘church,’’ read church. . 23, line 27 and 30—substitute periods for interrogation points. . 25, line 3—for ‘‘one year,’’ read two years. 25, line 5—substitute capital C for small ¢ in ‘‘christian.”’ 27, line 20—substitute comma for semicolon. 27, line 24—for ‘‘inseperable’’ read inseparable. . 30, line 9—place quotation marks after them. . 30, line 18—substitute small s for capital S in summer. 31, line 3—insert comma after Evangelist. 52, line 12—for ‘‘ambitious’’ read ambitions. . 32, line 31—substitute capital C for small ¢ in ‘‘christian.”’ . 34, line 38—substitute capital C for small c, in ‘‘christian.”’ . 34, line 38—for ‘“‘sompathy”’ read sympathy. Te 35, line 23—for ‘‘T. C.’’ read C . 35, line 31—substitute small f for capital F in ‘‘fall.”’ . 36, line 1—for “‘he.’’ read the. : 37, line 3—sutbstitute small p for capital P. in ‘‘Pastor.’’ . 37, line 11—substitute all for ‘‘everyone.’’ . 57, line 20—insert period after ‘“‘lost ”’ . 87. line 35—for ‘‘retrained’’ read retained. 39, line 1—for ‘‘Kelly,”’ read Kelley. 40, line 18—omit comma after ‘‘soul-winning.”’ . 40, line 837—for *‘baptistry’’ read baptistery. . 41, line 119—fer ‘‘every-wheel,’’ read everywhere. .41, line 28—for “‘choirister’’ read chorister. 41, line 31—substitute capital Bfor small b in ‘‘Baptist.”’ 42, line 18—for ‘‘aparatus’’ read apparatus. . 43, line 27—substitute small t for capital Tin ‘‘The.”’ . 48, line 29—omit comma after ‘‘field.’’ . 46. line 15—for ‘‘untill,”’ read until. . 48, line 2H for ‘2 yrs.’’ (after ‘‘Harvey Mcl.aughlir ),’’ read 4 yrs. . 55, line 12—for ‘‘gymnasium,’’ gymnasia. . 57, 6th line from bottom add after August ‘‘meeting 1809, denying de- , linquents a voice in the church’’ . 60, line 14—for ‘‘show”’ read shows. 60, line 22—for ‘‘ex-efficio,’”’ read ex-officio. 69 after ‘‘Silas Livermore,’, for ‘‘1858-1859,”? read 1857-1859. 79, line 10—for ‘‘antidate’”’ read antedate. wonky rT i Paha ee Se Rt aur iy termat = a, L8ZL bo YSEWSAON “VA “AM ‘NOSHSCIW LY agaqNnno4 yuunyp jrpieg anaquassg aio 171-1906 Souvenir of the 125th Auntuersary of the Greenbrier Baptist Church Edited by Rev. J. W. Morgan Alderson, West Ha. \ 2 ; \ . ( ( Bi eet de ea t +i \ pe : ery Bt ‘ hen , ’ Nh Pe Gi DM a te i thy SWAN PRINTING & STATION ! PRINTERS, Mt NON HUNTINGTON, WEST VA pith * iy \ , } { i fl fj . 4 i { i fi Peis i i a! Catal 7 Ma, Lieaeainae ss Ne Nah (A) ih ei DEDICATED TO THE Memory OF GEORGE ALDERSON, JR., (Aucust 10 1875—JUNE 29, 1907) GREAT GRANDSCN OF THE FOUNDER OF THE OLD GREENBRIER CHURCH, AND ONE OF ITS MOST FAITHFUL AND USEFUL MEMBERS, WHO PASSED TO HIS REWARD WHILE THIS BOOK, TO THE SUCCESS OF WHICH HE HAD CON- TRIBUTED LARGELY, WAS IN THE PRESBbW......... INTRODUCTION. It is entirely by accident that this little volume furnishes another justification of the complaint ‘‘Of making many books there is no end.’’ When the work was begun, nothing was de- signed beyond a simple souvenir of the anniversary, that should be a brief sketch of the church’s history. It is difficult, how- ever, to condense into a few pages, the deeds of a century and a quarter. Accordingly, the work continued to grow, until, in its present form, it is many times as large as it was originally intended to be. The work is unsatisfactory in many respects. Our time for book-making was limited, the data needed was frequently lack- ing (our churches should record more of their current history), and consequently what we have written is but a bare outline of the history of the church for this long period of years. Then, the arrangement of the matter of the books may be open to some criticism. There is a little overlapping of the dif- ferent portions. Parts II., III., and IV. might have been com- bined, but there is some advantage in having the story told by different persons, even at the cost of a little space, and some slight repetition. In part II. we have endeavored to save from oblivion the names and the deeds of all the godly men who have served as pastors of the Greenbrier Church. Their pictures have been given as far as possible, and some mention has been made of all, though in several cases this is very brief because of lack of in- formation. How nearly true seems the gloomy reflection of the discouraged preacher of Ecclesiastes: ‘‘There is no remembrance of the former generations; neither shall there be any remem- brance of the latter generations that are to come among those that shall come after!’’ In part III. Mr. Withers has given a connected history of the church allowing the story to be told, in the main, by the records themselves. In some cases he has brought out things that are not wholly complimentary, but in doing so he has fol- lowed the example of the inspired writers of sacred history. Part IV. gives, with some slight variations, the paper as read by Mr. Alderson at the anniversary exercises. Upon the work asa whole there has been an amount of labor expended that the size of the volume does not indicate. Besides the reading of thousands of pages of time-dimmed records, hundreds of letters had to be written in order to collect information needed for bridging the chasms, and making the history continuous. In doing this work I have received much valuable assist- ance from members of this church and others. Especially we are indebted to Rev. A. B. Withers for his laborious and pain- staking work in preparing the Records of the church. Articles by Prof. B. C. Alderson and Geo. Alderson, Jr., in The Green- hrier Baptist have also been of much value. Major J. Coleman Alderson, Mrs. Eliza Floyd Alderson, Geo. Alderson, Sr., and J. Cary Woodson, have, through their acquaintance with the early history of the church, rendered aid that has been invalu- able. In preparing the sketch of Professor Alderson, with whom I was not personally acquainted, I relied, to a great ex- tent, upon notes furnished by his cousin, Miss Bettie M. Alder- son. Also to my wife and to Mrs. Butler Y. Rhodes, am I under obligations, for their work in correcting the MS and the proof sheets of the book. The work as a whole has been done with a desire to do honor to the memory of the faithful men into whose labors I have entered, and with the earnest prayer that I might, in some small measure, serve the church which the Lord has so richly blessed, and thus hasten the coming of His kingdom. J. W. MorGan, Part I. Part II. Part III. ParT IV. Part V. CONTENTS. A Report of the Auniversary Exercises 1-8 The Pastors of the Greenbrier Baptist Church__9-44 The Records of the Greenbrier Baptist Church __45-83 Some Lessons from Our Church History Life of Professor B. C. Alderson REV. J. W. MORGAN A REPORT (a) Binll= ANNIVERSARY EXERCISES By J. W. MORGAN PROGRAM. Of the One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Anniversary of the Greenbrier Baptist Church, November 24-25, 1906. (PREPARED BY GEO. ALDERSON, JR.) The Pastor, REV. J. W. MORGAN, Presiding. SATURDAY MORNING. 10:30—Devotional Exercises________ Rev. Harvey McLaughlin 10:45—‘‘Lessons from our Church History”’ Hon. Geo. Alderson, Sr. 11:15—Greetings from The Old Stone Church, Lewisburg, John A. Preston, Esq. 11:30—Greetings from the Old Rehoboth Church, near Union, C. Lon Johnson, Esq. 11:45 —Greetings from Local Churches. ____Rev. J. M. Sloan Rev. John A. G. Shipley SATURDAY EVENING. 7:00—Devotional Exercises— 7:15—Reading of Letters from former pastors. Quartette—‘*Home Sweet Home.’’ SA aL Rev. Baylus Cade Rev. Harvey McLaughlin Rev. Geo. E. Davis 8:30-—Present Outlook Rev. J. W. Morgan 8:45—9:45—Reception. SUNDAY MORNING. 11:00—Organ Prelude. Doxology. Invocation. Hymn—‘‘How Firm a Foundation.’’ Scripture Reading (Isaiah XXI)____Rev. Baylus Cade 1 1s =) SUMMA MMM aaa Ee a ely AC eT Rev. J. W. Morgan Solo —‘‘The Plains of Peace”’_.__ .___.. Miss Rose Hill Announcements. Offertory. Hymn—‘‘Watchman, Tell us of the Night.’’ 11:30—Anniversary Sermon__..........-Rev. Baylus Cade Text: Isaiah 21:11—‘‘Watchman, What of the Night?’ Hymn—‘‘Lead, Kindly Light,’’ Benediction Rev. H. McLaughlin ANNIVERSARY EXERCISES Inasmuch as this booklet was designed to be a Souvenir of the 125th Anniversary of the founding of the Greenbrier Church, it is fitting that it should contain a brief acount of the anniversary exercises themselves. If the Master leaves his church in the wor!d for twenty-five years more this body will again be assembled to celebrate its 150th anniversary. By that time numerous changes will have taken place, Many of us who were recently assembled to participate in the exercises outlined above will then be enjoying a reunion in the Church Triumphant. We desire however to leave upon record some account of these exercises in which we were permitted to have a share, and which proved to be successful and helpful beyond what any of us had hoped. The day itself was favorable to the success of the services. The air was cool and crisp and clear. The sun rose upon an al- most cloudless sky. An unwonted stillness and quiet seemed to prevail, as if to make it easier for us to hear the voices that were to speak out of the distant past. _ At the time set for the exercises to begin a representative congregation had assembled in the church, which had been beau- tifully decorated by Miss Emma C. Alderson. From the very opening of the services the Holy Spirit was manifestly present. After a hymn had been sung and the Scripture lesson had been read by Rev. H. McLaughlin, Rev. Baylus Cade, a former pas- tor, who had just returned to the church after an absence of about 24 years, led in a prayer full of feeling and fervor, and ere he had closed, many eyes were wet with tears. Bro. Geo. Alderson, Sr., then read a paper, printed else- where in this booklet, entitled ‘‘Lessons From Our Church His- tory.’’ It was made up largely of interesting incidents culled from the experiences of pastors of the olden time, but it con- tained enough of genuine history to put us into the spirit of the occasion. Next came an address by the Hon. John A. Preston, repre- senting the ‘‘Old Stone Church’’ (Presbyterian) of Lewisburg, W. Va. ‘This address formed one of the most interesting parts of the entire program. It was polished and eloquent, and it was pervaded by an earnest, sympathetic, spiritual tone that touched the heart of every one who beard it. We wish that our space would permit us to print the whole of this address for the bene- fit of our readers. One quotation, however, must suffice: ‘“As we look back over this more than a hundred years, we see, coming from the sunrise side of our mountains, a hardy band, bringing with them Bible and rifle, and simple household goods. And walking with them, ready, willing and eager to share the hardships, the privations, the toils and the perils, were those who, I ween, were as fair and pure as any for whom, in ye olden time, lance was ever shivered, or knight unhorsed. By their rude cabins they planted the vine, the lily, and the rose— indications of their innate refinement. Not alone, however, did these tangible evidences attest the refinement of those people. In and about their homes was a hospitality, a generosity, a grace, and a charm, which only spring from hearts of women softened, refined, and purified by the love of Christ dwelling therein, and shedding over all around a holy and tender radiance. In that community of over one hundred years ago, no wayfarer sought in vain for a place to lay his head, The latch string of the door was ever on the outside. They gave hearty welcome to the coming guest—and most of all, to the godly preacher who came proclaiming the old, old story, and setting up the banner of the Cross. Whence came this spirit so honorable to them, and of which we, who are assembled here today, justly feel so proud? I here proclaim, as far as my feeble voice will reach, that it was not from goodness of heart, but from the grace of God shed abroad in those hearts, moulding the lives of the people of that day. * * * * Naught but a noble Christian people could have accomplished such a work, and transmitted such an inheritance. Standing here upon ground made holy by such a godly people, + across the more than a hundred years, I salute the Christian character they established and the example they left. ‘Let their great example stand collossal,’ and make the Christian firm and pure.—But peace; ‘Speak no more of their renown, Lay their earthly honors down; And in the quiet sepulcher leave them.’ Rest assured their excellence and worth * * * * “Will be sung By some unmoulded tongue Far on in summers that we shall not see.’ ”’ The story of the Old Stone Church as related by Mr. Pres- ton is so interesting that we are strangely tempted to turn from our main subject to give a history of this remarkable body. ‘The church was founded in 1788, and is therefore but two years younger than the Greenbrier church. The church has ever been noted for its stability, Its massive stone walls, two and a half feet in thickness were erected in 1796, and though they were ‘built upon the sand,”’ they stand as firm today as they stood 100 years ago. In the terms of service of its pastors and others, a similar stability has been shown. An early pastor, the distinguished Dr. McElhenney, served the church for 62 years; one of their choir leaders served for 55 years; and a certain sexton held his office during a period of 80 years. During its entire history of 128 years the church has had only 10 pastors, while the Green- brier church has had 23 pastors during the 125 years of its his- tory. Following Mr, Preston’s address, a brief letter was read from C. Lon Johnson, Esq., conveying in the most cordial terms greetings from the Old Rehoboth Church, near Union, the old- est Methodist Church west of the Alleghany Mountains. It was established in June, 1786, and is thus about 3 years younger than the Old Stone Church at Lewisburg, and about 5 years younger than the Greenbrier Baptist Church. The original church, which was built of logs, is still standing. A new roof had been placed over the building a few years prior to this writ- ing, and some of the old logs had also been replaced by new ones, but the bulk of the old church stands as it did when the house was first completed in June, 1786. ‘The house in which 5 the congregation now worships was erected several years ago, and stands near the old one. In regard to its house of worship, the history of the Green- brier church differs very materially from that of either of the churches just mentioned. Our present house of worship is the third that has been erected since the organization of the church, and this has recently been remodeled to an extent that renders it almost new. Appropriate words of greeting from Rev. J. M. Sloan and Rev. J. A. G. Shipley, representing respectively the Presbyter- ian and Methodist Churches of Alderson, closed the exercises of Saturday morning. At the evening session letters of greeting were read from former pastors, Kelley, Meath, Killian and Davis. Brief ad- dresses were then made by Rev. Baylus Cade, Rev. Harvey Mc- Laughlin and Rev. J. W. Morgan, after which a reception was tendered to the visiting friends. The reception was held in the body of the church, and a committee of young ladies, of which Miss Pattie Haywood Feamster was chairman, served 1efresh- ments, ice cream and cake, to the entire congregation. On Sunday morning a large congregation assembled for the concluding exercises. An episode worthy of mention was the recognition at this time of two of the oldest members of the church. Mrs. Lena Lobban Ensign had sent 125 carnations to be used in the decorations, and afterward to be distributed among the old and invalid members of the church. At the morning services a bouquet of these, bearing a beautiful scrip- ture motto-card was presented to the oldest living member of the church, Mrs. Margaret. Dotson, of Palestine. She was in her 90th year, but had walked from her home a mile away to be present at the services. Another bouquet with a similar card was sent to Mrs. Geo. Boyd who has been a member of the Greenbrier church longer than any one else living; about 63 years. The Anniversary exercises culminated in the sermon preached by a former pastor, Rev. Baylus Cade, at this writing of Lincolnton, N. C. He took as his text Isa. 21:11, ‘‘Watch- man, What of the Night?” and for one hour held his immense audience spellbound. Our hearts swelled with varying emotions as he vividly portrayed the trials of the Baptists in the days of their poverty and persecution; the prosperity and power to which 6 they have since attained; and the glorious future that lies be- yond them. In closing this account of the anniversary exercises we deem it fitting to give an outline of this sermon: ‘Watchman, What of the Night?’? Isaiah 21:11. INTRODUCTION: (1) The Poetical Imagery of this passage. (2) The Historical Explanation of this passage. (8; The Resemblances betwixt the Watchman and Bap- tists. 1. Like him of the olden time, the Baptists were the Watchmen of a long, dark night. That this may appear, consider— (1) That State Interference in religion was universal. (2) That of Individualism in religion, there was none. (8) That Church Government was either despotic, or oli- garchic. (4) That the Ordinances were perverted. (5) That Regeneration was a ceremonial affair. 2. Like him of the olden time, the Baptists were the Watchmen of a forlorn hope. That this may appear, consider— (1) That Baptists had no place in public administrations. (2) That Baptists were without material wealth. (8) That they were few in numbers. (4) That they were without culture, and the machinery of culture. (5) That they held no commanding social stations. (6) That they were looked upon as dangerous Enthusiasts. 3. Like him of the olden time, the Baptists were the Watchmen of a growing dawn. That this may appear, consider— (1) That they secured the separation of Church and State. (2) That they have acquired material resources, (3) That they have acquired both culture, and the ma- chinery of culture. i (4) That they have drawn the line betwixt the church and the world. (5) That they have vindicated Individualism for the reli- gious world. : 4. Like him of the olden time, the Baptists are the Watch- men of a splendid future, which holds itself out in the two great religious cries of our time— (1) Back to the Bible! (2) Back to Jesus! CONCLUSION. 1. Let the Baptists behave themselves with a large activity for the uplift of all men. 2. Let the Baptists behave themselves with a larger love for all their brethren. Let them do these things, and the day is not distant, when the Lord’s prayer in the 17th of John will- have been blessedly answered. Amen! THE PASTORS OF THE GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH I. JoHN ALDERSON. II. JAMES ELLison. III. James O. ALDERSON. IV. LEWIS ALDERSON. V. JAMES REMLEY. Vl. JouN P. CorRoN. VII, Wi1ti1AM MARGRAVE. VIII. Martin T. Biss. IX. SriLAs LIVERMORE. X. MarraErw EL.ison. XI. WILLIAM FISHER. XII. THEODORE GIVEN. XIII. Bayius CAveE. XIV. Martin Biss. AV. VB. eles: XVI. W. H. Apams. SOW es TS KR, VILL “Po Gown ra: XIX. HARVEY McLAvuGHLIN. XX. M. A: KeEtty: ©. Nr eo Orel Goes eNce XXII. Gro. HE. Davis. XXIII. J. W. Morcan. I. REV. JOHN ALDERSON (1781-1821.) Rev. John Alderson, Jr., founder of the Greenbrier Baptist Church, was born in New Jersey, March 5th, 1758. His father, John Alderson, Sr., who came to New Jersey in 1719, and also his grandfather, John Alderson, of Yorkshire, England, were distinguished ministers of the gospel. In 1755, Elder Alderson removed with his father to Rock- ingham Co., Va. While here his call came to enter the ministry, and in 1775 he took charge of the Lynville Creek Baptist church. Shortly after this time he made two missionary tours across the Alleghenies into the valley of the Greenbrier. Evidently he be- came impressed with the duty of carrying the truth into this destitute section, and in 1777, he went with his family to live and teach the gospel of Christ among the scattered settlers in the great wilderness west of the mountains *‘On reaching Jackson’s River, he learned that the Indians had attacked the house of Col, James Graham, in Greenbrier, and had killed one of the family, and taken another prisoner; in consequence of which he remained there some two or three months, reaching the place of his destination some time in Oc- tober. His first location was in Jarrett’s fort on Wolf Creek, now Monroe County. Soon after, he settled on the Greenbrier river (where the town of Alderson now stands), where he opened a farm and often followed the plow with a gun swung from his shoulder. In a little time he was able to collect as many as twelve members, himself and wife included. They considered themselves a branch of the Lynville Creek church in Rocking- ham Co., of which Mr. Alderson had been pastor, but transacted business asa separate body. On the 24th of November, 1781, they were regularly constituted into a church, called ‘The Green- brier Baptist church,’ and the following year they connected themselves with the Ketokton Association.’’ “Such was the introduction of this apostle of the Baptists in western Virginia. The Indian depredations above referred to, continued a number of years; the inhabitants, for their mutual protection, mostly resided in forts; and from one to another, pro- tected by a small guard through the woods, this zealous and laborious minister traveled in pursuit of his dangerous and arduous vocation. In some of the forts he was received with kindness and heard with attention; while in others, the rough 11 mountaineers, notwithstanding their perilous condition, threat- ened to exclude him from their rude defenses, and leave him exposed to the merciless savages, who were continually prowling about them. Such a barbarious policy, however, was never car- ried into effect.’’ ‘Under all the disadvantages of such a peculiar location, and amidst all the dangers and privations of a pioneer life ona mountainous and most rugged frontier, for seven long years, Mr. Alderson labored on without ever seeing one minister of his own order, and but very few of any other.’’ ‘‘At length, Elder James Johnson and Josiah Osborne came to his aid, and by these three ministers, the Greenbrier Associ- ation was formed (1801); James Ellison and Edward Hughes were soon after added to the number of this little band of Baptist elders; the last three of whom were raised up in the newly formed churches in this region.” ‘‘Eider Alderson continued his ministry in this wide field of labor about forty years, and o a long life in the full con- fidence of his brethren, ia T8416.” Pz 12 if Oi eae Elder Alderson was evidently a man of much more than ordinary ability. Dr. Taylor, in his ‘‘Lives of Va. Baptist Min- isters’’ says that he was without doubt one of the most promi- nent men of the Baptist denomination of West irginia, and adds, ‘‘had he had the educational advantages now offered, he doubtless would have shown among the most distinguished of his age.’’ But it is his deep consecration to his Master’s work, shown under such trying circumstances, that calls forth our highest admiration. Besides the trials incident to work upon the fron- tier, he had, like his father, the distinguished privilege of suffering in behalf of Christ for the promotion of religious liberty, having been imprisoned for preaching and performing matriage ceremonies, contrary to the laws of the Established Church of England. In fact, the greater part of Paul’s list of . perils must be applicable to this Apostle to the Greenbrier, ‘‘INs 1-2- journeyings often, in perils of rivers, in perils of robbers, in perils from my countrymen, in perils from the Gentiles, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, * * * * * * in perils among false brethren; in labor and travail, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness.” 12 And, judging from the extracts herein printed from the church records of his day, we may add, that, like Paul, he found his chief burden in his anxiety for the church, which seems to have sorely vexed his righteous soul with its indifference and its _ worldliness. But how successful under God were his labors! For nearly a century he has quietly slept in a humble grave just a few feet back of the church that was for so many years the scene of his labors and the object of his love; but his work has continued to move on till it has reached dimensions of which he, perhaps, never dreamed. He established a numerous family whose mem- bers have ever been staunch defenders of the faith, and a num- ber of whom have been zealous and efficient heralds of the Cross in this and other states; from the bosom of the church which he founded there have come, directly or indirectly, at leasta score of other churches; while through the instrumentality of agencies which he set in motion, thousands of men and women have been led into the Kingdom of God. And yet the results of his work have just begun to appear. This mighty stream of in- fluence will continue to grow broader and deeper as the years and the centuries rollon. What an incentive have we here to live and labor for the Master. Truly no toil for him shall be in vain. In connection with the life of Elder John Alderson, the beautiful words inscribed upon Moody’s tomb are strikingly ap- propriate: ‘‘The world passeth away, and the lust thereof; but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.’’ J. W. Morecan. II. ELDER JAMES ELLISON (1821-1828.) Elder James Ellison, the second pastor of the Greenbrier Baptist Church, was born in Farley’s fort, New River, April 29th, 1778. His parents, like those of Elder John Alderson, the founder of the church, were also from the State of New Jersey. Not long after the birth of James, their eldest son, the parents ‘“hecame the subjects of religious concern, and united with the Baptist church. They were poor and unable to educate their children.”’ “In his 18th year the subject of this sketch married Miss Mary Calloway, a person who was near his own age and circum- stances in life. For several months he was a most rigid forma- 18 list, maintaining family worship, and regularly attending the house of God. But he again lapsed into sin and became more wicked than before. “But the omnipotence of divine grace was manifested in plucking this brand from the burning * * * * He joined the Indian Creek Baptist Church in 1800. ‘“He was soon discovered to possess talents which might be useful, and he was frequently invited to conduct social meetings. For three years he embraced every opportunity of exhorting those around him to prepare for death. At length he was li- censed to preach. Considerable portions of his time were now employed in studying. ‘Elder Ellison was not ordained until 1808, being then about 80 years of age. At this time he took charge of the church with which he first united, but afterwards removed to Coal Mar- ‘shes in Fayette. * * * * For many years he was one of the most active ministers of the Greenbrier Association. In the counties of Giles, Monroe, Greenbrier, Bath and Nicholas, he traveled much dispensing the word of life. * * * * ‘‘He was justly called a doctrinal preacher, but seldom failed to apply the truth to the hearts of his hearers. He was a con- siderable reasoner. Some of his appeals to the unconverted in the latter part of his life were very powerful. ‘‘Hider Ellison was an uncompromising friend to the cause of missions. His addresses on the subject of missions were pro- ductive of great good. * * * * It is said that in the latter part of his life he gave away to various good objects more than he received from the churches.” Dr. Taylor in his ‘‘Lives of Va, Baptist Ministers,’’ from which the above is quoted, gives an interesting account of the closing days of Elder Ellison’s life, In the spring of 1834, not- withstanding poor health, he went with his son, Matthew, to at- tend the Southern Baptist Convention at Richmond, Va., stop- ping several times on the way to visit congregations to which he had formerly preached. Before the Convention had adjourned he was compelled to leave the city to fill an appointment pre- viously made. On the evening after leaving Richmond he be- came extremely hoarse and was unable to preach until Sunday evening, when he delivered a sermon—his last—from the text, ‘‘And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so 14 must the Son of man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in him may have eternal life. Two days later he became too ill to travel and stopped at the home of a friend near Fincastle, Va. Here he continued to grow worse until the 27th day of the month (May), when the end came. On this day, says Dr. Taylor, ‘‘after lying for some time, as though he were asleep, he opened his eyes, and with a smile repeated: ‘All my capacious powers can wish, In thee doth richly meet, Nor to mine eyes is light so dear Nor friendship half so sweet.’ ”’ A friend asked him how he was, and he replied, ‘‘If I die I shall be well,’’ and soon after this ‘‘he bid farewell to earth’s low cares, and mounted upward to be with God.’’ J. W. MorGAn, III. REV. JAMES 0. ALDERSON (1828-1832. ) Rev. James O. Alderson was the youngest son of George Al- derson, Sr., and Sarah Alderson, and grandson of Rev. John Alderson, Jr. He was born in Kanawha County, Va., now W. Va., Oct. 1800, and died in Greenbrier County, April 13th, 1882, and was buried in the Amwell Cemetery. At the age of five his father died, leaving a wife and seven children. His mother then moved from Kanawha to Monroe Co., and settled on Greenbrier River, where he lived until 19 years of age, when he began teaching school. At the age of 21 he married Miss Abigail McClung, a most estimable woman. Of this union there were born, James G. Al- derson, who resides at Alderson, W. Va., Margaret (Peggy) widow of Thos. G. Alderson, who resides at Cross Roads, Mon- roe Co., W. Va., and Amanda J. McCutchen. He was converted and became a member of the Baptist Church in 1827, and was ordained and licensed to preach the gospel, at the Greenbrier Baptist Church in Sept. 1830, and was its pastor for a short time. Dr. Taylor says in his ‘‘Lives of Virginia Baptist Ministers,’’ that James O. Alderson became a most zealous laborer in the Vineyard of the Lord. * * * * He engaged as a missionary in the Greenbrier Association, and im- proved most rapidly, During 1831, he baptized between 80 and 15 100 converts. Although his health failed him he continued his indefatigable labors through all kinds of disagreeable weather and did not cease to preach until two weeks before his death. Though always physically delicate he was a hard student and an indefatigable worker. The few still living who remem- ber him, say that ‘‘he was the most devoted and persevering minister of his day, that he traveled from church to church of which he was pastor and would call at every house on his way and ask permission for religious conversation and prayers.” Notwithstanding his labors were brief, James O. Alderson accomplished much good and of him it might truly be said: “There is no death; the stars go down To rise upon some fairer shore, And bright in heaven’s jewelled crown They shine forever more.’’ J. CotEMAN ALDERSON. a Serko Pee Rev. Lewis A. ALDERSON. Mrs. ELizA COLEMAN ALDERSON Wife of Rev. L. A. Alderson. Born at Ambherst Springs, Va., August 4, 1819. From a picture made for this book in her 88th year. IV. REV. L. A. ALDERSON (1834-1837, 1839-1840, 1847-1850.) Rev, Lewis A. Alderson was born at Palestine, his father’s plantation in Greenbrier County, Va., now W. Va., on May sth, 1812, in the large stone house built in 1788, and died May roth, 1881, at Atchison City, Kansas. He was the youngest son of Joseph and Polly Alderson, and grandson of Rev. John Alderson, Jr., founder of the Greenbrier Baptist Church, His father, though not an ordained minister, was always an active Christian worker. He acted as moderator of the Greenbrier Baptist Association for about 40 years, and just before his death he presided at a meeting of the General As- sociation of Virginia. He was always very generous with his means, and it was a common saying in those days that ‘‘as long as Squire Alderson would build the churches, pay the preacher, and feed the congregation, we would have preaching,”’ At the age of twelve, young Alderson entered the Lewisburg Academy under the tutorship of Rev. Dr. John McElhenney and Mr. Dutton. He continued here for four years, and at the age of sixteen he entered the University of Ohio, at Athens, where he was graduated in 1832, at the age of twenty, with the highest honors of his class, taking the degree of A. M., and delivering the salutatory address. He wasa hard student and never re- ceived a demerit during those four years.. The year before grad- uating he rode horseback from Athens to Palestine, where he made a public confession of religion in the church of his fathers, and was baptized in the Greenbrier River by Rev. Valentine Mason. He was Clerk of the old Church until 1833, when he determined to prepare himself for the ministry. He went to Williamsburg, Va., and studied theology for one year under the distinguished ‘‘Servant’’ Jones. While there he wasordained to preach, at the age of twenty-one, and the first sermon he ever delivered was in the old octagonal magazine, which had been erected by Gov, Spottswood, and transformed into a Baptist Church, known as ‘‘Powder Horne Church.”’ It has been said that he was the first native Baptist minis- ter, in the state of Virginia, who had graduated at a college or 17 university and studied theology before beginning the ministry. The day after Mr. Alderson was graduated from the Uni- versity of Ohio, he married Miss Lucy B. Miles, of Athens. He took her to Virginia where she lived only three months after their marriage. In 1834, he returned home and took charge of the Academy at Union, Monroe County, and preached to the Greenbrier, Union, and other Baptist churches, until 1836, when he was ap- pointed agent of the Sunday School Board of the Virginia Bap- tist Publication Society. He traveled throughout most of the eastern counties of Virginia, preaching and organizing Sunday Schools. In 1837 he was sent to Georgia, by the American Sun- day School Union, where he remained until early in the year 1838, when he was called to Richmond as the first pastor of Grace Street Baptist Church. While pastor of this church he married Miss Eliza Floyd Coleman, daughter of Captain John Coleman, at Locust Grove, Amherst County, Virginia. Of this union there were eight children, four of whom are still living at the time of this writing,—Joseph Coleman, the eldest, who resides at Charleston, West Virginia; Mrs. C. J. White, of Atch- ison, Kansas; Cary Trimbal, of Atchison, Kansas; and Lewis Allen, the youngest, of Sheridan, Wyoming. After remaining pastor of the Grace Street Baptist church for one or two years, he again accepted a second call to take charge of the academy at Union, in order to be nearer his father and his old church. He remained there teaching, and preach- ing to the Greenbrier, Union, Sinks Grove, Peterstown, and other Baptist Churches, for three years, when he was appointed by the Virginia Baptist Sunday School and Publication Society, as their general agent, a position which he held until the death of his father, July 24, 1845. After this he returned to Alderson and took charge of his father’s estate. For about twelve years he resided here, managing his farm and preaching to the Green- brier, Broad Run, Peterstown, Union and other churches, until Oct. 1857, when he disposed of his property and moved his fam- ily to Lewisburg, so that his children could attend school; and then visited Atchison, Kansas territory, where he purchased property. In April, 1858, he moved with his family to Atchison, Kan- sas. On April 25th, the day after his arrival, he preached the 18 first Baptist sermon delivered in Atchison, in Gen. S. C. Pom- roy’s office. After this he preached everySunday in empty rooms over saloons and gambling dens. He organized the first Bible Class, which was composed of the prominent men of the town, among whom was Gen. Pomroy, who was the first U. S. Senator after the State of Kansas was admitted into the Union, and who taught the class when Mr. Alderson was absent preach- ing and organizing churches and Sunday Schools thioughout Eastern Kansas. On August Ist of the same year, he organized the first Baptist church ever organized in the Territory of Kan- sas. He immediately took the initiatory step for building a church, which was completed in the fall of 1859. This was the only Baptist Church for four years in Kansas; this organization has grown strong and wealthy and remains a monument to his work. This was a large brick building, constructed almost entirely by him and Dr. Choliss and family, out of their private means. The church increased rapidly in membership and prospered wonder- fully under his ministration. It has now nearly four hundred active communicants, after organizing a large branch church from its membership. He remained pastor of this church and established other churches and Sunday Schools until his health failed. He freely devoted his entire time, talents, energy and fortune, to the cause of religion for 50 years without any pecun- iary consideration. He preached his last sermon, by special request, in his old church, in April, 1880, over the remains of Mrs. Emma Bryan, a devoted member of his church, who was the first white person born in the territory of Kansas. In July, 1859, he,in company with Rev. I. $. Kalloch, went to Franklin County, Kansas, and entered into a contract with the Chief and Council of the Ottawa Indians, by which the lat- ter agreed to give 20,000 acres of land for the Ottawa University, to be erected near by. Heand Mr. Kalloch selected the town site of Ottawa University, which has grown tobe the largest Bap- tist educational institution west of the Mississippi River. Mr. Alderson was highly educated and talented. He was offered the presidency of several colleges and educational institu- tions, preferring to devote his life to the work of the ministry. The day after his death, the editor of the leading paper of Atch- son, who was not a believer, in publishing a notice of his death, 19 said, ‘‘Mr. Alderson was a man of striking appearance. His massive form and marked commanding features impressed every one who looked upon him for the first time. He was a man well calculated to obtain and hold the attention of his hearers. He was a man of kindly heart and a lover of nature and an observer of natural phenomena. His life was devoted to good aims and ends, the maintenance of which he believed to be the eternal truth; he believed that there is for man a hope that lights the way to another world than this, and after resting in this hope for 50 years he died trusting in it to the last. His monument will be in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and after they are gone, a memento will exist in the beautiful Alderson Grove, which has so long borne, and we trust will forever bear, his name.’’ After standing for 80 years this first church in Atchison was replaced by a larger and more costly one, to meet the growing needs of the congregation. Nearly the whole front of this new chur@h is taken up by a beautiful memorial window, given by his devoted members. ‘This will also stand asa monu- ment to his sacred memory, with those who knew and loved him, and their descendants. Dr. Hardwick, of Texas, who wrote a short sketch of Mr. Alderson’s life, for the Christian Repository, said of him: ‘‘When in his prime, there were few men who excelled him asa preacher, and those in the state of Kansas, wish to add one compliment to a man who gave his best years to the church gratuitously. The world might soon become converted if there were more such noble hearted, self-sacrificing Christian men.’’ And a Kansas paper adds, ‘‘It has been many days since Atchison lost a citi- zen so universally respected and highly esteemed by every one. His kindly heart, genial good humor, pleasant greetings, and good wishes, were valued by all who knew him, and hundreds of our citizens will sincerely mourn his loss.’’ J. CoLEMAN ALDERSON. 20 MLEY E REv. JAs. R | V. REV. JAMES REMLEY (1841-1844.) The Rev. James Remley was born near the White Sulphur Springs in Greenbrier County, West Virginia, January 15th, 1811. His parents were Elias and Catherine Remley, who at an early time immigrated from Pennsylvania. He early developed a thirst for knowledge, but the school facilities at that day were limited. He pursued his studies privately while at home and taught school for a number of years, preparing himself for col- lege. He took the regular course at William and Mary College, but a few weeks before graduation he accepted an appointment as Colporteur of the American Sunday School Union. He en- gaged in that work for the General Baptist Association of Vir- ginia until he was ordained as minister of the gospel. He was married to Jane C., the daughter of the late Col. George Alderson of Fayette County, in 1838. In 1842 he be- came the pastor of the Lewisburg Baptist Church, and continued to supply the church until about 1850. In the meantime he was pastor of the Greenbrier Church and also supplied other churches in the vicinity of Lewisburg. In ’49 he bought a farm near Ronceverte and lived there for six years, and during these six years preached at Sinks Grove church, and also at Union. He also conducted a private school, which had a large attendance for a school in the country. In October, 1855, he moved with his family to Iowa, and the following year moved to his farm some fifteen miles distant from Iowa City. While in Iowa, because of his ill-health he did not devote his attention to the ministry, but organized two churches and preached for them until they were able to procure a regular pastor. He made friends in his new home, and served for a number of years as member of the Board of Supervisors of the County. The nomination for State Legislature was urged upon him but he thought it incompatible with his character to do anything to secure his election, and was defeated by eight votes. He served as school officer and justice of the peace as long as he lived upon his farm. In 1873 he moved to [owa City and on Feb. 6th, 1875, he peacefully passed away, His wife survived him nearly twenty years. His oldest son, Lycurgus, fell a victim to disease, with Grant’s army, before Vicksburg. His second son, George 21 Alderson, was slain in the battle of Winchester, Sept. roth, 1864. This son was Sergeant Major of the 22nd Iowa. How- ard Marshall lives at Anamosa, Iowa, where he has been prac- ticing law, except when District Judge, thirty-five years. The next son, Milton Remley, resides at lowa City, Iowa, where he is engaged in the practice of law with his son, George. He served the state for three terms as Attorney General. The old- est daughter, Alice, is the wife of Hon. John D. Glass, of Ma- son City, Iowa. Fred A. Remley, the youngest son of the fam- ily, graduated from the State University of Iowa, afterwards at Morgan Park Theological Seminary, and spent four years in Europe, taking his doctor’s degree at Leipsic, making a thorough preparation for the Christian ministry. On his return home he failed in health and has been unable to accomplish anything since. Rev. James Remley was naturally a student, and was char- acterized by broad and common sense. He was of a very kind- ly disposition, courteous, and always had the courage of his con- victions. All of his children who attained their majority were graduates of the State University of Iowa, and all became active workers in the church. Milton, for four years was president of the Baptist State Convention, and has seryed as moderator and clerk of different associations. For many years he was president of the Board of Trustees of the Des Moines College. Judge Howard M. Remley likewise served for several years as President of the Baptist State Convention. Also was mod- erator of associations and both sons have held important posi- tions on educational boards. - Both James Remley and his wife are buried in the beautiful Woodlawn Cemetery at Iowa City. MILTON REMLEY. VI. REV. JOHN P. CORRON (1845-1846.) Rev. J. P. Oorron was the next pastor of the Greenbrier Church. He served for only a short time, and we have been unable to learn much concerning his life or his work. Those few who remember him speak of him as having been a preacher of average ability, dignified, and yet very genial in manner. His home was near White Sulphur Springs. J. W. MorRGAN. 22 VII. REV. WILLIAM MARGRAVE (1831-1851.) Rev. William Margrave was born in Lexington, Rockbridge County, Virginia, November 23d, 1793, his parents being of German descent. His father, who wasa hatter by trade, died when William was yet achild. His mother, who was a devout Christian woman holding the Presbyterian faith, was left in somewhat straitened financial circumstances, but she determined that her children should be sent to school, and young William had educational advantages that were probably above the ordi- nary at that time. However, whether because of habitual ill health or because of a wild and wayward disposition, the lad did not so profit by his opportunities as to ever become a ripe scholar. In his 17th year Mr. Margrave left Lexington and came to Lewisburg, Greenbrier County, where he learned the trade of tailor. ‘This practical knowledge afterward stood him in good stead, for, like Paul, he laboured with his own hands while in the ministry, both for the support of his family and to obtain money for the liberal contributions which he was constantly making to his churches and work. During the years of his early manhood in Lewisburg Mr. Margrave was the acknowl- edged leader of all the wild and dissolute youths of that commu- nity. He wasa ‘‘confirmed drunkard, a profane swearer, a gambler, a reckless Sabbath-breaker and a heaven-daring scoffer at religion.’’ He told of his conversion in these words: ‘‘One morning after consuming about half a pint of whisky I went to my bottle and took it in one hand, while I held a glass in the other. Just then an inward monitor seemed to say, ‘Drink and you die—quit and youlive!’ I said, ‘I willlives * * * Finally, about 12 o’clock one night, I resolved to give myself to God. I prayed that I might be forgiven, if that were possible, and early the next morning I found peace to the joy of my soul,’’ After his conversion Mr, Margrave decided it was his duty to connect himself with God’s people. Some time before his conversion he had heard Rev. Dr. McEHlhenney, of Lewisburg, preach a sermon on baptism, and it had led him to look up the subject for himself in the New Testament. He said then that if he ever obtained religion he would be a Baptist. Ministers of the latter denomina- tion were few in this section then, and it was not until four months after Mr. Margrave’s conversion, in the year 1881, that Rev. James O. Alderson passing through Lewisburg, heard of 23 the new convert, looked him up, and took him to the creek two miles west of town and baptized him. From the very moment of his conversion Mr. Margrave was zealous for the Lord. In 1832 he was licensed as an exhorter, in 1833 he was licensed by the Big Levels church to preach the gospel, and on May 10th, 1836, he was regularly ordained at Hopewell Meeting House by Elders Wm. ©. Ligon, Alex Free- man, Thos. Harman and James Mitchell. For over 85 years he coiled incessantly and energetically for the salvation of souls, He was at different times colporteur for the American Tract So- ciety, Am. Bap. Pub. Society, Western Association and Virginia Tract Society, andit wasin this personal, house-to-house ser- vice. that he did his greatest work. His came to be a familiar face and figure in the mountain homes and the people, in great affection, called him ‘‘Uncle Billy.’’ During his ministry he baptized four hundred and twenty-two persons. Mr. Margrave was twice married, the first time to Jane Linn, who died in 1830, the second time to Margaret (Aunt Peggy) Wetzel, who died in 1868. The good old minister was himself gathered to his fathers Feb. 24, 1867, full of years and good deeds. Elder M. Bibb once said of him, ‘‘He was certainly the most zealous Christian I ever knew!’’ Let that be his glor- ious epitaph. Gro. ALDERSON, JR. VIII REV. MARTIN T. BIBB (1852-1857.) The ‘‘Elder’’ Martin Bibb is an uncle of the ‘‘Younger’’ Martin Bibb who also served as pastor of the Greenbrier Church. Martin T. Bibb was pastor for five years, but we have not gotten many of the facts connected with his life. He seems to have been rather an austere man, intolerant of everything that sav- ored of worldliness, and rigid in the enforcement of discipline. There seem however to have been quite a number of additions to the church, as the minutes record 120 baptisms at his hands. J. W. MorGAN. 24 ELDER MATTHEW T.. ELLYSON AND WIFE. IX. REV. SILAS LIVERMORE (1857-1859.) The next pastor of the church, Rev. Silas Livermore, must also be slighted here because of lack of data. He was principal of a private school at Sinks Grove, W. Va., and for ghe yeary served as pastor of the Greenbrier and other churches. He is remembered as a scholarly, polished, @hristian gentlemen, and we feel sure that a fuller and more accurate account of his life and labors has been kept in the records of the church above. J. W. MorGAan. X. REV. MATTHEW ELLISON. (1859-1865, 1881-1883.) ‘Rather Ellison’’ as he is familiarly called by those who knew and loved him, was born in Monroe Co., W. Va., Novem- ber the 19th, 1804. He belonged to a family of preachers, his father, Rev. James Ellison, the second pastor of the Greenbrier Church, and three of his brothers, having been Baptist ministers. Bro. Ellison was converted and baptized when he was 16 years of age. Not many years after his conversion he was li- censed to preach, and in 1887 he was regularly ordained to the work of the gospel ministry. His first efforts in the pulpit were not very promising, but he continued to develop until he became one of the leading preachers of his day in this section of the country. He was a man of boundless energy, and he was un- tiring in his efforts to prosecute the work of his high calling. He traveled almost continually, preaching in schoolhouses, in private homes, or in the open air whenever an opportunity was presented. In his delivery he was simple, earnest, eloquent. He was loyal to the word of God, and was an uncompromising defender of the faith as held by the Baptists. His ministry was an unusually long one, extending through a period of 65 years. During this time he traveled many thou- sands of miles, preached 7,000 sermons, baptized 2,000 persons, and was instrumental in organizing 25 churches. His longest pastorate covered a period of 44 years. Besides his work in the pastorate, he was agent of the Western Virginia Baptist Associ- ation for four years, and of the American Bible Society for two 25 years. He served as moderator of the Greenbrier Association for about twenty-five years, and of the Raleigh Association for about ten years. He was also once president of the General Association of West Va. Many interesting stories are told concerning the life and labors of this rather remarkable man. One, illustrating the readiness of his wit, and the directness of his argument, especial- ly deserves mention here. At acertain meeting, in which Bro. Ellison was acting as chairman, regeneration was the theme for discussion. Through courtesy, a Campbellite minister, who was present, was invited to participate in the discussion. This man, taking as his topic, ‘‘Baptismal Regeneration,” consumed the whole time allotted to the discussion. When he concluded, Bro. Ellison announced that the time was up, and added: ‘'‘I should like very much to reply to the address we have just heard, if the time would permit, but as it is I shall simply say this much, ‘the mother never washes the child until it is born,’ ” The minister who had made the speech left the house with a sense of utter defeat. ‘‘I am beaten,’’ he said, ‘‘worse than I / have ever been before, and no one else could have done it “ke ‘Mr. Ellison.’’ On anothor occasion, while traveling through some part of Virginia, Bro. Ellison, it is said, sent an appointment ahead of him, naming a time when he would preach at a certain church. For some reason the notice failed to reach its destination, and when Bro. Ellison arrived at the church, prompt to the moment, as his custom was, he found no one present but himself. When the time appointed for service arrived, the minister went into the pulpit and began singing a hymn. A stranger passing by, hear- ing the singing, and seeing only one horse hitched, was, through curiosity, constrained to enter. To this audience of one, Bro- Ellison proceeded to preach with his usual earnestness, and as a result the man accepted Christ and afterward became an efficient Christian worker. Father Ellison was twice pastor of the Greenbrier Baptist Church. His first pastorate began in August, 1859, and ex- tended to May, 1865. His second term of service covered just two years, from November, 1881, to November, 1888. During the last few years of his life he held no regular pastorates but occupied his time mainly in writing. Heis an author of some 26 celebrity, having written a book on ‘‘Dunkerism,’’ a ‘‘Plea for the Union of Baptists,’ and other works. The closing days of his life were spent in his home—in the town of Alderson, W. Va. His house, which was built partly with his own hands, stands just across the street from the Bap- tist Church, and is at the time of this writing occuped by Bro. John H. Johnson. Here, at 9 o’clock on Monday morning, April 3, 1889, Elder Ellison’s earthly career quietly came to a close. Upon the Sunday preceeding he had attended church, and there made a prayer which was said to be one of the most beautiful ever heard, On the following morning he suddenly became ill and was compelled to lie down upon a couch. Friends soon en- tered and lifted him to the bed where his sick wife was lying. Here in a few moments he quietly breathed his last. For about seventy years he had walked with God, and now without sick- ness, or struggle, or pain, he is translated to dwell with Him in the courts on high. His wife, who had been his faithful companion through his long life of toil, who had often accompanied him in his journeys, riding with him upon the same horse, and who, fortunately, ac- companies him in the picture given in this book, survived him by several years. She died at Raleigh, W. Va., and unfortun- ately, was laid to rest there. We trust, however, that this ar- rangement will be only temporary. These two, who were in- seporarable in life, should not be separated in death. The body of the wife should be removed and placed beside the husband, who sleeps in the cemetery of the Old Greenbrier Church not many yards from the spot where he stood through seven years and proclaimed with burning eloquence the message of the blessed gospel. The tombstone—it has fallen and lies prone upon the grave— which marks the last resting place of this noble saint and_ be- loved pastor, bears an inscription which, in view of his life and labors, is eminently appropriate: ‘‘Well done, good and faith- ful servant.” Soldier of the Lord, rest! until the last trumpet’s sound shall summon you to hear the words from the lips of the Judge himself. J. W. MorGAn. From notes furnished by J, C. Woodson. 27 XI. REV. WILLIAM FISHER. (1865-1866.) We are unable to give many dates in connection with the life of the next pastor, Rev. Wm. Fisher, He remained with the church only one year, but he is distinctly remembered after the lapse of more than forty years. He came from Accomac Co,, Va,, and no one ever knew him without learning of his loyalty to this division of ‘*The Old Dominion.’’ It is said that while in this section he never but once made a public speech or preached a sermon without men- tioning Accomac, and on that occasion, he, with some difficulty, left it out that he might gain five dollars, promised him for mis- sions as a reward for omitting from one address the name of the place of his nativity. He was very genial in manner, and, judging from the fol- lowing incident, he was not altogether without appreciation of the humorous side of life. During the time he was pastor of the Greenbrier Church he lived at Lewisburg, and money being scarce at that time, the war having just closed, the people were accustomed to pay his salary in produce, delivered at his home. On one occasion the load that was sent to him contained a large quantity of pork, but it was all ‘‘side meat’’ or shoulders,—no hams were to be found. Mr. Fisher fully appreciated the situ- ation, and instructed the driver as he was leaving to ‘‘ask the people in his neighborhood if their hogs grew without hind legs.”’ Mr. Fisher was an earnest preacher, an active worker, and an excellent pastor, and the church seems to have flourished dur- ing his short ministry. From one of the copies of the Green- brier Baptist we quote thefollowing: ‘‘Our older members still speak of the great revival of 1865 under the ministry of Rev. Wm. Fisher. Mr. Fisher was pastor of the church only a year and he baptized into the church one person for each week of his pastorate—52 in all. This revival is not remembered especially for the number of converts—although the number seems large when the thinly settled condition of the country is recalled,— but principally because it continued in Spirit and power during the whole year, and religion seemed the main topic of thought and speech in all the community. It is perhaps true that the 28 REV. THEODORE GIVEN adversities, which found cause in the terrible war just ended, opened the hearts of the people to the Lord’s blessings.’’ J. W. Morcan. XII. ELDER THEODORE GIVEN (1866-1877.) Elder Given was born on Middle Run, in what is now Brax- ton Co., W. Va., on Feb. 1,1827. He was the eldest. son of Mr. and Mrs. William Given, who were numbered among the most respectable of the original settlers of Nicholas County. As a boy he had but few educational advantages. He was, how- ever, a careful student of nature, and of the Bible, which was ever his favorite book. Often while yet a mere child he was found alone in the beautiful forests about his home memorizing the Word of God,—an exercise to which he undoubtedly owed much of that strength of character and beauty of life manifested in later years. According to his own statement, Elder Given’s religious im- pressions began at a very early period in his life, ‘“‘At the age of seven,” said he, ‘‘I was convicted of sin by reading a reli- gious book written by John Flavel, but was not saved until I was fourteen, as I had but few religious instructors’’—a state- ment that would indicate his precocity in intellect as well as in religion. In Sept. 1849, he was licensed to preach, and in Aug. 1851, he was ordained at the Elk River church. For over fifty years Elder Given faithfully and efficiently labored in his sacred call- ing. He belonged to a class of ministers whose names are graven high on heaven’s honor roll. As missionary colporteur for the American Tract Society he traveled and preached through the mountain wilderness, often risking his own life for the cause that he loved. During this long period of labor he built many houses of wor- ship, and served as pastor more than thirty congregations. He served the Old Greenbrier church for eleven years, and his work here, as elsewhere, seems to have been characterized by a spirit of faithfulness and love. The writer knows of no one else among the former pastors of this church whose name is remembered with more affection than is the name of this honored servant of God. 29 On Jan, 5, 1904, he was taken from the scenes of his earthly labors to dwell in the Courts on high. The wife of his youth, who was his faithful helpmeet for nearly fifty years, preceded him by alittle more than four years. His second wife, to whom he was married in 1900, survives him, Concerning the end of such a life, as that of Elder Given, how appropriate are the words, ‘‘Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from henceforth: * * for their works follow with them” J. W. Morecan. XIII. REV. BAYLUS CADE. (1878), (1879-1881), (1884-1885). Rev. Baylus Cade was born in Barker’s Settlement, Barbour County, Virginia (now West Va.), Sept. 3, 1844. In 1862, at the age of 18, he entered the Confederate army and served throughout the war. During the Summer following the close of the war, he worked on the farm, but early in the winter of 1865 he began to study under his pastor, Dr. J. Wm. Jones of Va. In the Spring of 1866 he was appointed Colporteur for the Amer- ican Tract Society, and in the fall of the same year entered Richmond College. Up to this time he had attended school only eleven mouths, all told. He remained in college three years, leaving in June 1869 to become pastor of the churches at St. Al- bans, Mt. Vernon, and Hurricane Bridge, and of Union Church. Bro, Cade took an active part in the establishment of Shel- ton College, W. Va., and taught for one year in that institution in connection with Prof. P. B. Reynolds. In 1878 he was called to the Greenbrier Church, and from the records it seems that he served as pastor three different times. His first pastorate extending from Mar. 1878, to Nov. 1878; the second from Sept. 1879, to June 1881; and the third from Jan. 1884, to May 1885. After this he was for a short time pastor of the Venable St. Church in Richmond, Va., and for six years, of the church at Lewisburg, N. ©. He then served for two years as chaplain of the United States Penitentiary at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas, and afterward was appointed private Secretary to His Excellency, Governor E. lL. Russell, of N. C., and served in this capacity for three years. After this he returned to the pastorate. He had 30 Rev. BAyLus CADE. charge of the church at Murphy, N. C., for three years, and is - now pastor at Lincolnton, N.C. Heis also chief editor of The Piedmont Evangelist,a Baptist paper published at Lincolnton, In his ability as a -speaker, a thinker, and a writer, Bro. Cade easily stands among the first of the pastors of the Green- brier Church. When stimulated by excitement of some sort— or, as one of his most ardent admirers expressed it, ‘‘when about half mad’’—he would often rise far above himself, soaring to heights of eloquence not often attained in public speech. As a debater he had few superiors. His broad and accurate knowledge, his ability at repartee, and the scathing sarcasm which he was capable of using, made him a dangerous anta- gonist in this field. But while he could be relentless in crushing one who opposed him, he was nevertheless very tender-hearted, a most loyal friend, and an unfailing sympathizer of the suffering and the oppressed, As achild he was left alone to struggle in an unequal contest with a world that had but little sympathy for him, and the ex- periences of those days rendered him forever the friend of those who were trying to rise. As a preacher, Bro. Cade is loyal to the Word, and always fresh and interesting. ‘Those who know him best testify to the sincerity of his motives, the loftiness of his aims, and the genu- ineness of his faith in God. From the account given above of Bro. Cade’s work it will be seen that he has accomplished far more than is accomplished by the average life, but still it is manifest that his achievements are not commensurate with his extraordinary ability, while they fall very far short of hisideals and his aims. He was ever striv- ing to reach the fruit that hung on the topmost bough, and more than once it seemed to be within his reach; but just as his hand was closing upon the prize, it suddenly evaded his grasp, and vanished from his sight. Out of such disappointments to his sensitive and aspiring soul, grew his beautiful poem, entitled, ‘“‘Somewhere, Somewhen.’’ In closing this sketch of Bro. Cade’s life I cannot do better perhaps than quote a few lines from this poem, which reveals so much of the inner life of this man, ever struggling upward, but so often baffled in efforts to rise, 31 “There be acts that have never come out into fact, There be loftiest deeds that have never been done; The capacious of soul, who were broken and racked On the frowning adverse ere the race was begun; Shall the acts and the actors meet not any more! Shall the deeds and the doers be always estranged? Is there not a wide place—an inviting, fair shore, Where the man and the moment shall meet, nor deplore The evanishing old order of things gone before? * * * * * * * O, there must be!—there must be, fruition for hope! Hid away in the bosom of the swift coming years, When the able may climb up ambitiof’s wild slope, Nor occasion the down-pour of innocent tears! O, hands unseen !—O, waiting men !— Somewhere !—Somewhen!”’ J. W. Moreayn. XIV. REV. MARTIN BIBB (1879) Rev. Martin Bibb was a nephew of Rev. Martin T. Bibb, who was pastor of the Greenbrier Church from 1852 to 1857. He was also a son-in-law of Rev. M. Ellison, another pastor of this church. Bro. Bibb is said to have been one of strongest men in the ministry in this part of the state. He had no school ad- vantages, and yet he became a considerable scholar, able to read Latin and Greek. This knowlecge he acquired in private study, working at night by the light of a pine torch, after his day’s labor upon the farm. Asa preacher of the gospel he was considerably above the average. His fine physique gave him acommanding and im- pressive appearance in the pulpit, and his language and style of delivery were always attractive. In addition to this he was humble, meek, and unassuming, and his un- impeachable Ghristian life was a constant vindication of the truth of the gospel which he preached. The main theme of his preaching was ‘‘Christ and Him Crucified,’’ and many of the saints who are yet living thank God for this faithful preacher as the instrument of their salvation. In all the public gatherings of the Baptists of this section, Bro. Bibb was well known in his day, and he was always relied upon for the strength of his judgment, and for his ability to 32 REv. MARTIN BIBB. REV. B. P. PHILLIPS. meet any emergency that might arise. In illustration of the latter point the following story istold: ‘‘At a meeting of the Greenbrier Association, Dr. W. P. Walker was preaching to a large congregation, and M. Bibb occupied the rostrum with the preacher. From some unknown cause Dr. Walker broke down in the midst of his sermon and had to take hisseat. Immediate- ly, and as though nothing unusual had happened, Bro. Bibb arose, and taking up the thread of Dr. Walker’s discourse, com- pleted the sermon in a most satisfactory manner, and redeemed the occasion. Bro. Bibb’s term of service in the Greenbrier Church was short, but he is lovingly remembered by many of the older mem- bers of the church. We regret that we are unable to give the dates in connection with the events of his life. Also that we could not give a more accurate account of his life’s work. ‘ J. W. Morecan. Compiled from notes furnished by J. C. Woodson. XV. REV. BARNIE HAMILTON PHILLIPS (1886-1888). Rev. B. H. Puillips was one of the most beloved pastors of the Greenbrier Church. His deep sincerity, his genuine but un- assuming worth, his thorough but unaffected consecration, his genial manner, and his loving heart, bound him by the strongest ties to those who see beneath the surface of things and of men. But I will let the story of his life he told by one who is better qualified than any one else to speak of him—his faithful and loving wife, who has striven so nobly and so successfully to train the children that were left in her care. ‘‘Barnie Hamilton Phillips was born in Carrol County, Tenn., May ::, 1854. He graduated from Wake Forest College with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, in June 1880. He was bap- tized into the fellowship of Selma Baptist Church, N. C., by Rev. N. B. Cobb, on the third Sabbabth in November, 1874. ‘‘He had his first impressions that God was calling him to the ministry while he was a student at college, but he fought against it, fearing that he might be mistaken. In the spring following his graduation, however, while ill with typhoid fever, he decided that the Lord did wish for him to preach, and he promised that if God would let him get well he would obey the call. He 33 preached his first sermon in New Friendship Church, near Win- ston Salem, N. C., July 3, 1881, and was ordained at Reidsville, N.C., April 4, 1882, ‘*The first year of his ministry he served country churches, being employed by the State Mission Board. He became pastor of Reidsville Baptist Church in February, 1883. He was also pas- tor at Rockingham, N. C. From there he was called to Alder- son and Ronceverte, W. Va. After resigning at Alderson in October, 1888, he returned to N. C., and took work in the Rich- mond Co. Association. From there he was called to Whiteville, N. C., and from this charge he was called to heaven, where he ever lives with Jesus, who died that we all might have eternal life. “In August of the year, 1890, he was compelled to give up his work, and from Whiteville he went to Colorado Springs in hope of restoration, but returned to Reidville about December, 20, 1890, and died January 29, 1891. ‘‘He met death without a fear, and was bright and cheerful to the end. His only concern was for the family he was leaving. He was fond of children, loved his own devotedly, and was never happier than when at home with his own little family. . ‘In his work he always tried to get down ona level with the people, that he might be able to lift them up. He had no ene- mies, and always had an enccuraging word for every one. He tried to be faithful and true in the discharge of all of his duties. On his death bed he remarked that he had preached 760 ser- mons. ‘I go hopefully,’ he said, ‘but not depending on any- thing that I have done for salvation.’ His last words were, ‘The will of the Lord be done.’ ’’ The following lines written by Geo, Alderson, Jr., for The Greenbrier Baptist, of February, 1902, fittingly close this sketch: ‘Among the most pleasing early recollectioes of this writer are the kindly face, the benignant manner, and the cheery voice of Mr. Phillips. He was gentle as a woman, and yet firm when need be, a man of great power and persuasion in the pulpit, a beloved visitor in the homes of his people. He was a thorough Baptist, yet of such @hristian love and s¥mpathy as endeared him to all the people. The writer has heard a loving tribute paid to his memory by the minister whose charge of the Presby- 34 Rev. C. T. KIRTNER. terian church here was contemporaneous with Mr. Phillips’ pas- torate. He died not a great while after his return to the South- ‘land. Weak from long suffering, he was unable to lift his hands, and his dying request was that his wife might lift his arms toward Heaven.’ Thus he softly fell on sleep.” J. W. Morean. XVI. REV W.H. ADAMS (1889). Rev. W. H. Adams succeeded Bro. Phillips as pastor of the Greenbrier Church. He was born in Campbell County, Va., March 15th, 1840. He was baptized by Rev. G. W. McGraw in 1867, and was ordained to the gospel ministry in 1869, He has been actively engaged in the work of the ministry for over thirty-five years, serving churches in Fayette, Greenbrier, Nich- olas and Kanawha counties. He was pastor of the Jennette Church in Fayette Co. for twenty-five years. This writer is not personally acquainted with Bro. Adams but he has heard him spoken of as a strong man, an earnest and forceful preacher, and a faithful pastor. More than one thou- sand persons have been baptized and added to the church under his ministry. Bro. Adams served the Greenbrier Church for only a short period. He began his work in April, 1889, and in October of the same year resigned in favor of Rev. L. E. Peters, who, how- ever, declined to accept the call of the church. J. W. MorRGAN. XVII. REV CHARLES THOMAS KIRTNER (1890-1892. ) Rev. GF. Kirtner was called to the pastorate of the Green- brier Baptist Church June 18, 1890, and served for two years, devoting three-fourths of his time to the work. He is a native of Mercer Co., W. Va., and was born March 17th, 1860. As most other ministers of the gospel, he was born in the country, and during his early years he had the incomparable advantages of life upon the farm. Bro. Kirtner was not converted until he was about 23 years of age. Inthe Fall of 1883 he was convicted of sin, and he be- gan earnestly to seek the Lord. One night in his room in hls boarding-house he kept up the struggle till about 2 o’clock in 35 €he morning, when suddenly the light broke in upon him, and he obtained peace. With his surrender to the Lord there came the conviction of duty to devote himself to the work of preach- ing the gospel. He studied for three years in the Normal School at Athens, W. Va., and afterward attended Richmond College, Crozer Semi- nary, and the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, spending one year in each of these institutions. On Mar. 14, 1889, he was united in marriage, by Rev. J. P. Campbell, to Miss Rebecca Florence Nowlan, of Alderson, W. Va. She is an excellent Christian woman, and has been a faith- ful assistant of her husband in his important work. Up to the present time Bro. Kirtner has held seven pastor- ates. After leaving the Greenbrier Church in March 1892, he served Milton Church for four years, Hinton Central for two years, St. Albans for five years, Russell, Ky., for one year, and he is now serving St. Albans again for half of his time, and is devoting the other half to Montgomery. Under his pastorate in the Greenbrier Church the Mission Circle seems to have been vigorous. The membership of the Church numbered 163, and the Sunday School had an attend- ance of 64. The parsonage was completed in his pastorate. In his preaching Bro. Kirtner is earnest and decidedly evangelistic. His work has been largely blessed in the salvation of souls, there having been about 1000 professions of faith under his sermons during the last twelve years of his ministry. J. W. Morcan. | XVIII. PATRICK GREGORY MEATH (1892-1894). Rev. P. G. Meath was born in Clare County, Ireland, Feb. 6, 1842, but removed to America with his parents when a mere lad. He attended district schools, the Christian Brothers’ at LaSalle, Ill., St. Mary’s of the Lake in Chicago, Illinois State Normal, and the Theological Seminary at Louisville, Ky. He was pastor of the Baptist Church at Newhamed, Ill., and Newtown, Ind. Also of the following in the State of Iowa— Rockwell City, Tarhville, Tama, Toledo, and Afton. He be- came pastor of the Greenbrier Church in the autumn of 1892. After his resignation of this church he went to Newark, Ohio, 36 REv. P. G. MEATH tw } and from there to Chicago where he now is, attending a Medical School. While Pastor of the Greenbrier Church, he was seldom idle. He was a man of great energy and of undoubted piety. His preaching was all along the line of obedience, and he practiced what he preached. He said to the writer at one time, that he never knew what true happiness was until he learned to trust and obey. He traveled on foot over hills and mountains, looking after his members as well as others. When he entered a house he would question evéfyorie present about their spiritual condition. For all true Christians he had words of encouragement, but those who were negligent of duty he had the courage to reprove. A man of such type seldom escapes persecution. He had strong faith in the power of prayer, and was willing to trust God for small favors as well as greatones. While mak- ing his rounds over the hills, he once called at a home where the family consisted of husband and wife, ‘The fruit trees were in bloom, and the weather having become unusually cold, the wife expressed her fear that the fruit would be lost. Bro. Meath bade her be of good cheer, and in making the inevitable prayer at the conclusion of his visit, he asked that the fruit might be saved, and that there might be an abundant crop. The prayer was answered. When fall came the farmer had to put props un- der his trees to keep the limbs from being broken by the weight of the fruit, He took such a deep interest in every one, that some doubt- ed his being a Baptist, but we heard him preach one sermon that would convince the most skeptical that they were mistaken. He favored all reform movements which would build up Christianity. He organized the first society among the young people of the church. He believed in the Covenant meeting, which he considered the life of the church. The writer of this sketch admired him for his noble traits of character, and as long as he retfains his memory (though not a Baptist) will cherish with high regard, and grateful recollections the memory of P. G. Meath. JOHN G. STEVENS. 37 XIX. REV. HARVEY McLAUGHLIN (1894-1898). Rev. Harvey McLaughlin was born in Nicholas Co., W. Va., in the year 1852. At the age of 17 he was haptized into the fellowship of the Middle Run Baptist Church, ‘Two years later he was licensed to preach by the Mouth of Greenbrier Church, and in 1875 he was ordained to the full work of the ministry. In 1872 he entered Dennison University, but owing to ill health he was not able to finish the course. He entered the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in 1879, but again his health forced him to give up his work, During his ministry he has been pastor of Kirkersville, Per- rysville and King’s Creek Churches in Ohio, and of Broad Run, Sinks Grove, Wolf Creek, [ndian Mills, Greenbrier, and other churches in West Virginia. Mr. McLaughlin is one of the most eloquent and profound preachers who have served the Greenbrier Church within the memory of this writer. His forte is the peculiar ‘doctrines and tenets of the Baptist Church. His wide reading, receptive mind, and remarkably retentive memory, have made him the superior, perhaps, of any other man in the state, in his ability to expound and defend the beliefs of his denomination. Another thing in which he excels is the art of adjusting personal and church difficulties, The blessing pronounced upon the peacemaker will surely be his. Perhaps no one within a similar sphere of influence has been instrumental in settling more quarrels than he. His unusual tact in this direc- tion is also illustrated in his ability to discuss, with men of other denomirations, the points of difference between the churches without giving any offense to his adversary. His social qualities may well be inferred from the fact that he was on friendly terms with practically every man, woman and child in the neighborhood of the Greenbrier Church. The term ‘‘Christian gentlemen’’ is as truly applicable to Mr. McLaughlin as to any one known to this writer. He is always courteous and kind, honorable in all the relations of life, and he is possessed of a type of piety whose genuineness no one who knows him can doubt. Emma C. ALDERSON. 38 . MCLAUGHLIN H REV Rev. M. A. KELLY. XX. REV. MICHAEL ANGELO KELLEY (1899-1900). Rev. M. A. Kells was born near Cumberland, Md., on the 80th of December, 1848. He was converted Dec. 15th, 1875, when he was 27 years of age, and was ordained April 29th, 1890, at 42 years of age. His education was received in the common and normal schools. His theological training was obtained in private study. He has been pastor of the following churches:— Hebron, Olive, Milton and Guyandotte in Cabell County, of Lo- gan in Logan County, of Danville in Boone County, of Virginia Avenue in Charleston, of the Greenbrier Church in Alderson, and of Cross Roads and Blackville in Monongalia County, all in West Virginia. At the time of this writing he is pastor of the Wahoo Baptist Church in Sumpter County, Florida. Bro. Kelley occupies a place that is unique among the pas- tors of the old Greenbrier Church. At times he was very gen- ial and exceedingly interesting in conversation, while at other times he was inclined to be reserved, He was a man of intense feeling, and his opinions when once formed were always reso- lutely adhered to. In his views as to truth and duty he was wholly uncompromising, and he made few efforts to practice the art of diplomacy. Bro. Kelley possesses an intellect unusually vigorous and penetrating. His views of the truth seem never to be obscured by any mist of thought, and his ideas are stated with rare pre- cision and accuracy. With him language is for the expression of ideas, and few words are ever wasted in his discourses. He seems to know precisely what to say, how to say it, and, best of all it has sometimes seemed to us, he knows how to stop when the last word had been said. As a preacher Bro. Kelley is always interesting and always helpful. He never fails to have food both for the head and the heart. His sermons are short, pointed, and practical. In his address he is earnest, animated, and often positively eloquent. One of his most intelligent hearers said of him while pastor of the Greenbrier Church: ‘‘I would rather listen to Bro. Kelley from year to year than any other man I know,’’ His sermons are of uniform excellence, and uniformly excellent, 39 As a Christian, Bro. Kelley seems to have had the confidence of all who knew him, and a number of persons in the neighbor- hood of the Old Greenbrier Church have spoken to this writer of the high esteem in which they hold this former pastor and taithful servant of the Master. J. W. MorGan. XXI. JOHN OALVIN KILLIAN (1901-1903.) Rev. J. C. Killian, was born at Reading, Pennsylvania, July 6th, 1870. In January 1882, at the early age of eleven years, he gave his heart to the Lord, and united with the church. He attended the Lebanon Valley College, Pa., for a little over three years. It was while in school here, that young Killian was doctrinally converted, and became a Baptist. After leaving Le- banon Valley College, he attended Mount Hermon School, near Northfield, Mass., that splendid institution, founded and carried on under the supervision of Mr. D. L. Moody. Here he spent a part of one year, coming in touch with the leading Christian workers of this country and Europe, who are accustomed to gather each summer at Northfield. Here, doubtless, Bro. Killian’s love for soul-winning was kindled afresh, and became a characteristic of his life. He had resolved to give himself to the work of the ministry, and to prepare himself for this great work, he entered the Crozer Theological Seminary at Upland, Pa., from which institution, he graduated in the summer of 1894. His first pastorate was at Hammonton, Pa. From this church, he was calledto Trenton, N. J., to be the associate pastor of the First Church. In November 1900, he was recom- mended to the Greenbrier Baptist Church, and was invited to spend one month with the church, with a view to a call toits pastorate. During this time he so endeared himself to the peo- ple of Alderson, that he received a unanimous call to become pastor, and entered into this relation, in January 1901. During his pastorate here, and largely through the untiring efforts of Bro. Killian, supported by loyal Baptist business men in South- ern W. Va., the Alderson Academy was founded, fuller mention of which will be made in another place. The church paper ‘The Greenbrier Baptist;’’ was begun in Bro. Killian’s admia- istration, and has become a potent factor in the church life since. About this time the baptistry was put into the church. Much 40 Rev. J. C. KIL ian. a Se . Davis Rev. GEORGE E evangelistic work was done during these years, and the member- ship of the organization was increased with a net gain of 51. Bro. Killian, while here, preached 882 sermons, and made over “ ¥700 pastoral visits. The weekly envelope system of church finance was introduced, and the monthly business meeting was superseded by the quarterly meeting, which has continued to ‘the present time. After a stay of two and a half years, on June 21, 1903, Bro. Killian offered his resignation, which was accepted with great ‘reluctance by the church, July 5th. From Alderson he went to the pastorate of the New Britain Church, Pa. Later he was called back to West Virginia to be- ‘come District Missionary of the Northern District, which posi- tion he held until called to the pastorate of Grace Baptist Church _of Trenton, N, J., where he is located at this time, [he Green- brier Church has had no pastor more universally loved than Bro. Killian. He is a man of untiring energy, and great enthusiasm in the work of the Lord. He has the faculty of making friends, and every-where he goes he has a host of them, He is fortunate in the possession of a splendid wife, who is an untiring church- ‘worker and a woman of culture and refinement, whose help has, in no small degree, enabled her husband to attain the success he has had. A. B. WITHERS. XXII. REV. GEORGE EDWARD DAVIS. (1903-1905). The subject of this sketch is a native of Baltimore, Md., where he was born November 20th, 1874. His parents, Thomas Benton Davis and Mrs. J. H. Magruder Davis are members of the high Episcopal Church, and Bro. Davis for some time served as altar boy and cho rister in the same. At the age of eighteen, while in business at Ellwood City, Pa., Bro. Davis began to attend the Raptist Church. He had become dissatisfied with the Episcopal Church, and going to a baptist minister he asked to be directed in the study of Baptist doctrines and beliefs. The pastor wisely gave him no literature on the subject except the New Testament, which he directed him to study. The result of his investigation was what usually follows upon such a study of the scriptures,—his decision within a few weeks to be baptized and to unite with the Baptist Church. 41 Soon after his baptism, Bro. Davis became convinced that it was his duty to preach the gospel, and, giving up his business position in Ellwood City, he entered Hall Institute, a Baptist School, located at Sharon, Pa., where he remained for several years. In the fall of 1900 he entered Crozer Theological Semi- nary at Chester, Pa., and in 1903 he graduated in the English department of this institution. While at Hall Institute, Bro. Davis was married, Sept. 10, 1894, to Miss Katherine Test of Sharon, Pa. She is accom- plished-and consecrated, and has proved a most efficient help- meet for her husband in his important work. In the fall of 1903 Bro. Davis accepted the pastorate of the Greenbrier Baptist Church and served in this capacity until May 1905, when he resigned to take charge of the church at Clifton Forge, Va. During his administration the Greenbrier Church was prosperous, and made definite progress along various lines. Under his leadership the church building was remodeled, and provided with new seats, electric lights, and heating aparatus, at a cost of about $3,000.00. Asa preacher of the Gospel Bro. Davis is earnest, forceful, and direct. His style of address is attractive and his sermons have been instrumental in leading quite a number of persons to profess faith in Ohrist. At the time of this writing his min- istry in Clifton Forge is being abundantly blessed, and the church is making much progress. J. W. Morcan. XXIII. REV. J. W. Morgan (1905- De The subject of this sketch, was born among the hills of the Blue Ridge, near Sperryville, Rappahannock County, Virginia, July 1, 1870. When he was about seven years of age, his father removed to the neighborhood of Washington, in the same coun- ty, and some years later, to Eggbornsville, Culpeper County. The boy was born heir to neither poverty nor wealth, but to what is far better than even the latter, a healthy body, a sound mind, and areligious bent of nature, transmitted by a virtuous ancestry. His early life was spent on his father’s farm, and attending the country schools. From a child he was stud- ious, and a lover of books. At the age of eighteen he went to y 42 Missouri, attending, for a year and a half, the preparatory de- partment of the State University. Two years spent in teaching in the public schools in the home state, followed this. About this time came the call to preach the Gospel, to which he re- sponded by beginning his special preparation for the work. For a number of years he had been a Ohristian, but had not, up to this time sought and found the Lord’s will for himin a life work. Before his birth, a godly mother had prayed that a son of hers might some day preach the Gospel, and her prayer was more than answered, in the fact that two of her sons are today engaged in the work of proclaiming the message of salvation. The younger brother, Rev. S. L. Morgan, is, at this writing, pastor of the Baptist Church, at Littleton, N. C. In the fall of 1894, the two brothers entered Richmond Col- lege, from which they graduated in June 1899, with the degree of B. A. In the autumn of the same year, Bro. Morgan began his theological course in Crozer Seminary, and in June 1904, graduated in the Greek-English course of this institution. While in Crozer Seminary, he met Miss Adela R, Coulter, a young lady of splendid accomplishments, and on the first day of July, following his graduation from the last mentioned insti- tution, they were united in marriage. Mrs. Morgan is justly entitled to share in whatever of glory there shall come to her husband in his noble work, for she is a most faithful and efficient helpmeet. Several months after his marriage, Bro. Morgan accepted the pastorate of the Baptist church at Weldon, N. C., where he remained until called to take charge of the Greenbrier Church, October 15th, 1905. His work on this field has been characterized by a quickened missionary interest, and an evan- gelistic spirit. Asa preacher, Bro. Morgan is thoroughly evan- gelistic, and scriptural. He has no patience with men or the- ories that disparage the authority of God’s Word. He is modest in his estimation of himself, and is, in every respect, a thorough Christian gentleman. It affords the writer of this sketch, pe- culiar pleasure to speak thus concerning one whom he holds in highest esteem. A. B. WITHERS. 43 REV. A. B. WITHERS THE RECORDS OP THE GREENBRIER BAPTIST CHURCH BY A. B. WITHERS REV. A. B. WITHERS. Rev. A. B. Withers was born in Mason Co., W. Va,, Dec. 28, 1871. His father was a farmer, and the boy’s early years were spent in the quiet of the country home. He had but few Sunday School and church advantages, the nearest church being four miles off, while the church of which his mother was a mem- ber, was eight miles distant. But whatever he may have missed through lack of church advantages, was supplied in the home training. His father, though not at that timea professor of reli- gion, sought to inculcate in his children the virtues of Christian morality. His mother, however, was an earnest Christian, and the piety of her life was strongly impressed upon the character of her children. Such influences as I have mentioned, early led the subject of this sketch to seek the way of salvation. Whena mere boy he was impressed with the thought that he must some day preach the gospel, though he did not accept Christ until he was nineteen years of age. In April 1890, Bro. Withers entered college at Lebanon, Ohio, and in 1896 graduated with the degree of B. A. In the fall of the same year he entered the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he continued for two years, completing Hebrew, Greek, the English Bible, Homiletics, and Biblical Introduction. In the summer of 1898 he was married to Miss Nellie E. Waunzer, of Mesopotamia, Ohio, a schoolmate of his college days in Le- banon. For three years after leaving the Seminary, Bro. With- ers taught in the Fayetteville Academy, and at Oak Hill, W. Va. While at the former place he was called to his first pastor- ate, that of the Cotton Hill Church and was ordained to the work of the ministry in the Spring of 1900. After this he was called to take charge of the Mission work at Gypsy, W. Va., and later he became pastor of the Hepzibah Church in Harrison Co. In April, 1904, he entered the employment of the American Baptist Publication Society as colporter and Sunday School missionary, assistant to Rev. L, E. Peters, and at this writing he is still en- gaged inthis work. In addition to this he accepted in April, 1906, the W. Va. management of the ‘‘Journal and Messenger.”’ 46 As aman, as a Christian, and as a minister of the gospel, Bro. Withers has the esteem of all who know him. He is genial in manner, sound in the faith, consistent in his practice, and earnest in his proclamation of the truth delivered once for all to the saints. Though never pastor of the Greenbrier Church Bro. Withers has frequently supplied the pulpit, and his presence in the pew has often given inspiration to the present pastor. J. W. MorGAan. 47 oN Pastorates of the Greenbrier Babtist Church. Joun ALpErson, 1781-Mar. 5, 1821_________._..40 yrs. James Exnison, 1821-1828 /|__ 7 ee James O. ALDERSON, 1828-Aprit 13, 1832________4 yrs. Interim 1882-1834. Lewis ALLEN ALDERSON, 1884-1837______________8 yrs. Interim 1837-1888. LEwis ALLEN ALDERSON, 1839-1840______________ 2 yrs. Interim 1841, JAMES REMLEY, Dec. 1841-Oct. 1844._.____._____3 yrs. Joun P. Corron, 1845-1846 |... _._ J Lyre; Lewis ALLEN ALDERSON, 1847-1850_____________ 4 yrs. Wm. G. Marcrave, 1851, Jan.-Dec.______.__1_]_ 1 yr. MARTIN TT. Bigs, Feb. 1852-Mar. 1857____________ 5 yrs. SILAS LIVERMORE, Apr. 1857-May 1859____ ._____2 yrs. MATTHEW ELLISON, Oct. 1859-May 1865 ._____ va gS Wo. FISHER, June 1865-June 1866____..._________1 yr. THEODORE Given, Aug. 1866-Nov. 1877....____11 yrs. BAyius OapE, Mar 1878-Nov. 1878). See 9 mos M. Biss, Mar. 1879-Sept. 1879_____. __ __ 3G BAYLus CapbE, Sept. 1879-June 1881__ ) See 2 yrs. MATTHEW ELLIson, Nov. 1881-Nov. 1888________- 2 yrs BAyLus CADE, Jan. 1884-May 1885____ __________16 mos. Interim.—T. H. Fitzgerald supply. B. H. PHLres, Sept. 1886-Oct. 1888-23 ee 2 ,ts W. H. Apvams, Apr. 1889-Oct. 1889___. .______.__.6 mos. C. T. Kreiner, Apr. 1890-Mar. 1892)-) eee 2 yrs, Patrick G. MkaTuH, Oct. 1892-June 1894_____.21 mos. Harvey McLaucuuin, Aug. 1894-June mae Interim 1 yr. M. A. Kuriey, Aug. 1899-July 1900___ 2 22a icyr. JoHN Carvin Kitiian, Feb. ’01-Aug. ’03 Gro. Epwarp Davis, Oct. 1903-May 1905 JoHn W. Morecan, Oct: 1905 48 THE RECORDS Before us as we write, lie four record books. ‘Two of these are very venerable in appearance. Though one-hundred and twenty-five years have passed away since the first words were written in the oldest of these records, and though time has yel- lowed its pages, yet the writing stands out remarkably clear. The two oldest of these books are bound in boards and are backed with leather, and, unless handled very carefully in future years, can not long survive. These records are exceedingly precious to some of us, for they tell us somewhat of the story of the heroic struggles of the men who laid the foundations of our Baptist Zion in Southern West Virginia. Let us turn through these yellowed pages, and glean from them some of the facts of value and interest written therein. On the title page is printed with pen, and by careful letter- THE MINUTES OF THE BAPTIST Church Wherein is contained the preceedings of the ing: Church from its constitution to this present. On the following page are found the names of seventy-three persons—membership of the church up to 18385, when the first book closes. Of these, the first twelve (said to be the charter members) are JoHN ALDERSON, Mary ALDERSON, THomAs ALDERSON, JOHN KIPPERS, JOHN SHEPPHERD, JOHN Scaccs, KATHARINE Scaces, JoSEPH Scaccs, Lucy SCAGGs, BaiLEkY Woop, ANN Woop and JAmES Woop. On the next page the Church Covenant, dating Nov. 24, 1/81, is recorded, and we deem it fitting to transcribe it here. It is as follows: “‘God of his Infinite mercy and free grace has been pleased to spare a few of his unworthy creatures in this remote part of the earth having as we hope called us out of darkness into the marvellous light of his Dear Son plucking us as fire brands from the Burning of Eternal Hell and placing our feet on the Rock of Ages Christ Jesus—We, therefore believing it to be our duty as in the presence of Almighty God, whois the searcher of all hearts to Covenant and agree one with another, to maintain the great duties of religion. First, our duty to God; Secondly, our Duty to one another, and first our duty to God. We will en- deavor through grace to Assemble ourselves together in order to worship God, we, and as many of our familyes as can be in- fluenced upon by our precept and example, to hold up the wor- ship of God in our Familyes and to Instruct them in the prin- ciples of Christianity as far as it pleases God to give light and liberty, to be mindful of the Lord’s Day, to fill our Seats in the house of God, there to call upon his name and celebrate his praise. Secondly, our Duty to one another. We will endeavor through Divine Assistance to promote the Interest of one another, as far as it is consistent with God’s glory, and our good to watch over one another in love, to pray with and for one another, to contribute to our minister’s necessity, as far as our ability per- mits, and to assist the poor as much as in us lies, believing it to be duty, if God should callany of us by Death, the children of the Disceased, where provision is not made, and necessity so re- quires, are to be taken into the care of the Brethren, that they may be brought up and instructed in the fear of the Lord, be- lieving that these Dutys, and all others that God hath appointed in his Word, we endeavor to comply with, in testimony of the same we have set our hands, Believing that it is approved of God, and ratified in heaven, even so Come Lord Jesus, Amen and Amen. Greenbrier County nigh Muddy Creek, constituted Novem- ber 24, 1781.”’ On page six, the Records Proper begin. In this sketch we shall endeavor as far as possible, to let the Records tell their own story, addiug only such observations of our own as we deem nec- cessary to make the original writer's meaning clear, or to call attention to points of value or interest likely to be overlooked by the reader. 50 It is an old adage, ‘‘Blessed is the nation that has no his- tory,”’ for history is usually the record of successive wars. It is too true that historians dwell more largely on the times of trou- ble than times of peace. This is, perhaps, due largely to the fact that the annals of war are, to the average reader, more in- teresting than the annals of peace. The demand therefore, cre- ates the supply. This is illustrated by the columns of the mod- ern newspaper, which are filled with reports of murders and scan- dals. But there is another element entering into the explana- tion of this peculiarity of history—ancient and modern, secular and church. It is the fact that these troubles recorded are the exceptions in life and history It is the unusual that attracts attention, and for this reason, it is recorded. Isthis not mainly the explanation why church records are made up largely of the troubles of Zion? As we traverse the records of the Greenbrier Church, if we find what we think an undue amount of trouble, let us bear in mind this characteristic of all recorded history. Let us remember that no mention has been made of the stirring sermons that were preached by the godly, earnest men who filled her pulpit, that the records of heaven alone chronicle the songs and shouts of praise and the fervent prayers that went up to God from these honest and sincere hearts that met in these early years for the worship of God. The testimony of hundreds of new-born souls is not recorded in these pages. The deeds of benevolence, the watchings beside the sick-bed, the humble self- sacrificing acts in rigors of winter and heat of suimmer—no men- tion is made of these. JOHN ALDERSON, 1781-1821 (40 yrs.) As is well known, the first pastor of Greenbrier Church was John Alderson. Jan. 25, 1782, ‘The first monthly church meeting of which we have any record, is that of Jan. 25, 1782: ‘‘Meeting was opened by reading a small improvement upon the 4th chapter of Nehemiah after prayer for direction a Door was oppened for Receiving of Experience, Rachel Davis was received by telling a law and gospel experience. It is the mind of the church that any of the members, or non members, may offer their Children to be prayed for.” May 24,1783. ‘‘Having taken it into consideration res- pecting a place for public worship, it was thought a place most 51 convenient on Mr. William Morris land nigh Baughmans Ford, Green Brier River, an acre of which being granted by Sd (said) Morris for the building of a Meeting house and timber Bends Drawn for the adapting of the Sd (said) Meeting house for the use of the Baptist Society, and for a publick place of Interment to Bury the Dead.’’ July 25, 1783. ‘‘The church having formed a plan for the building of our meeting house (viz) 25 by 17, a chimney in the niiddle in the Breadth of the house, to Begin building August next. * * * The church matters lying somewhat difficult, and times Intricate, so that we can not senda messenger to our Annual Association this year.” Nov. 29, 1783. ‘‘Met at Bro. John Osborns according to appointment. After invoking the Divine Aid proceeded, which was to collect church expenses amounting to One Dollar, being Levyed on nine members, male & female, Bro. John Alderson and wife, exempted which ammounted to eight pence apiece.’’ July 24, 1784. ‘‘Our Meeting House has so fixed that we can do business altho not finished.’’ Oct. 29, 1784. ‘‘Ordered that communion be held the last Sunday in May and the last Sunday in November.”’ May 28, 1785. ‘‘Query proposed to the church Whether it was consistent with a Christian Character to encourage frolicking in their houses or not. Answered unanimously not right. The church has suspended Br. John Vincy from communion for the above crime until he gives satisfaction to the church by repent- ance.’’ We see that thus early, the church put itself on record against dancing. Oct. 29, 1785. Note the sacred regard for the communion season, as indicated by the following extract. ‘‘As next meet- ing is our stated time for Communion Ordered that Friday be appointed for fasting and prayer, Saturday for taking in exper- iences and other Business. Sunday for the administration of the Supper.’’ Jun. 24, 1786. ‘“The Asn. (Association) having requested an answer or advice respecting Slavery from the churches they personate, we Believe it to be an evil in keeping them in bondage for life. Ourchurch having but few in their Possession, we hope our Brethren will not think it hard if we lie neuter in this 52 matter.’? Here we find a symptom of the great national trouble which the country was already beginning to grapple with. July 26, 1788. The church territory wis divided into three districts: ‘‘Those that are nigh (are required) to attend once a month: the second division those within 15 miles once a quarter and those at a further distance oncea year.’’ Thus we get some idea of the area over which the membership were scattered. A close scrutiny of the records during the first seventy-five years of the church’s history, reveals the fact that rigid discipline was enforced. There seems to have been frequent occasion for it also. Several peculiar expressions are characteristic of these early records. New converts are said to have related a ‘‘Law and Gospel experience.’’ Excluded members are spoken of as ‘‘ex- communicated.’’ The pastor is called ‘‘Our Laboring Brother,’’ and ‘‘Elder’’ is the title given to ministers. The word Reverend does dot appear in the records until 1820, and we wish that this unscriptural title might never have been applied to ministers of the gospel. Jan. 26,1793. ‘‘The meeting house being out of repair and going fast to decay it was concluded upon to draw a sub- scription in order for the members and non members to give a sum, voluntarily, to cover it with shingles and build a stone chimney.’’ It will be noted that the house now ‘‘going fast to decay”’ is scarcely ten years old. Apr. 26, 1793. ‘‘A motion was made for assisting Br. Al- derson in providing him in wearing apparel. Br. Skaggs and Br. Hylare was to advance ten shilling apiece for that purpose.’’ Feb. 28, 1794. ‘‘The church has taken into contemplation the Contributing toward the Support of our Minister, especially in Cloathing.’’ Mar. 29, 1794. ‘‘According to the motion made last meet- ing in assisting Br. Alderson yearly, John Viney two Dollars Sister Davis one Dollar, Thomas Scaggs one Dollar, to be paid against our stated meeting in December.’’ Four dollars seems to have been the stated salary of the pastor at that time. The records show that he had a great deal of trouble in getting that much, some years. At that time, it will be noticed, and from the reading of the records it seems significant, that they spelled **dollar’’ with a big ‘‘D.’’ 53 Jul. 26, 1794. The names of the Moderator and Clerk here appear for the first time, appended to the minutes—John Alder- son Mod., John Walker Clerk. This does not become a practice until after 1880. It seems, however, from evidences of style and hand writing, that the same clerk officiated during all these years. From July 1794 to Feb. 1796, the clerk was ‘‘out of the country,’’ consequently no record was kept. Apr. 27, 1796. ‘‘Our district meeting (called otherwise ‘“‘vearly meeting,’’) being upon hand it was thought necessary to attend the same; It may not be amiss to give a small definition of the nature or cause of district meetings, as we live a great dis- tance from the body of our Association (the New River Associ- ation) so that we could not always attend, it was thought By ap- pointing such a meeting it would be a means of Drawing the members together, likewise to propagate the gospel call in get- ting the people together, trusting the Issue to great ruler of the Universe.’’ These District Meetings, it appears, were usually held in the early summer, the time and place of meeting being fixed at the associational meetings. Aug. 27, 1797. ‘‘A complaint was brought before the Church By Bro. John Alderson against Sister Susannah Taylor for publickly rebuking him not having taken Gospel steps. The Sister acknowledged she was in the fault and a reconciliation was made Between them and the members of the church.’’ July 29,1799. ‘‘The brethren look upon it as a duty to as- sist our labouring Brother in a Days work, or the Vallue thereof, for his services in going to the Kenawa Society Meeting—The Church has recommended an old Treatise on Baptism by H. Danvers, printed in the year 1694, to be reprinted for the Benefit of the publick as there are but few copies in the states.’’ Aug. 20, 1801. ‘‘Motion made whether this church is will- ing to be constituted into an Asn. (Association) or not Ans’r in the affirmative.’’ (This new Association was the Greenbrier, formed from the New River Association, with Peters Mountain as its eastern boundary line, and was at its organization, 1801, composed of four churches, viz: Green Brier, Big Levels at Lewisburg, Kanawha at Pratt, and Indian Creek.) Feb. 27, 1802. ‘‘Sister Washburn being very aged unable to help herself, being in want, the Church has taken her case into 54 consideration and so has contributed something toward her re- lief,’’ Mar. 27, 1802. ‘‘ * * * * the meeting house wants finis- ing, in laying the floor and finising the gallery.’’ Jan. 29, 1808. ‘‘Query—-Whether mercy was an atribute of the Deity or an act proceding from an atribute, the church not being fully satisfied with the voice of the Asn it was brought Be- fore the church for hearing * * * * it was laid over for further investigation against our next meeting.’’ Next month, after considerable discussion, it was decided that mercy is an attribute as wellasanact. These early church meetings seem to have been a sort of theological gymnasitus, in which the intellectual ex- ercises were somewhat severe. Nov. 26, 1808. ‘‘Bro, Thomas Scaggs is exempted in fu- ture from paying any church expence by reason of his Old age and infirm state of health.”’ Feb. 26, 1804. ‘‘Acomplaint lodged against Br. Abraham Riffe for exercising his gift Contrary to the voice of the Church, Bro. Walker is appointed to cite him to ap. at the next meeting to render an account of his proceedings in the above matter.’’ There are frequent references in these records to the money due Br. Alderson, and the brethren seem to have kad a great deal of difficulty in collecting it. ‘*The Church has chosen Bro. John Alderson and Br. John Kippers to make application to William Morris, Senior, Owner of the land whereon the meeting house is situated, to obtain a Deed for an Acre of Sd (said) land which was granted by bond on William Morris, Junior, now Disceased but the title never ob- tained.” Aug. 24, 1805. ‘‘Sister Sarah Alderson has put a quarter Dollar into the fund.’’ This must have been extraordinary giving at that time, to be thought worthy of a place in the minutes! Jan. 25, 1806. ‘‘Br. Christian Smith Came before the Church and gave a relation of a matter that he had acted, that was in Communing with the Methodist Brethren it Being con- trary to the Discipline of this Church. But the Brother not be- ing acquainted with the rules of the Church, we therefore thought him excusable and so lookt upon his confession as Suf- ficient to Satisfy the Church.” 55 Mar. 28, 1806. ‘‘A motion made by the Church whether the kissing of the Book before a magistrate was agreeable to the Scriptures or not. The Church thinks not, but rather the mode of Affirming is most Scriptural and hopes the legislature will take it into consideration and grant us liberty of Conscience in this matter.’’ Jun. 28, 1806. Our black Brother Wapping by request with the consent of the Church has made application that he might praise God on his way after meeting. The Church has granted his request & chose Br. Alderson and Br Kippers to talk with him on that Subject.’’ Nov. 29, 1806. ‘‘This meeting was appointed to settle with our ministering Br. John Alderson respecting the contribution of the members toward the support of our Elder. But the mem- bers not appearing there was little Done postponed until our next.’’ (This item reads like an extract from a modern church record. ) Dec. 29, 1806. ‘‘The members not being present to settle with Br. Minister, it was therefore laid over until the members should make their appearance.”’ Jan. 1807. ‘‘There appears to be some dissatisfaction be- tween the members and Br. Alderson respecting their Delin- quency and not performing their obligations and promises to the Church and our Elder Br. What it will terminate in we know not.”’ Mar. 25, 1806. ‘‘A matter of Difference between our Elder Br. and William Johnston respecting the quotto of money that each member was to pay to Br. Alderson according to their sev- eral abilities, Br. Johnston being behind in the matter Br. Alder- son put him in remembrance of his engagement Br. Johnston thinking it rather a Demand (it being a few Days before the time of meeting) throws Down or gives our Br. Minister Nine pence for three years pay, this was brought before the church as an accusation against the Br. Some of the church agreed to be debated others Split in their oppinions one crying here and an- other lo there, some for having tried then others for putting it off. Our Br. Alderson insisted upon the trial then for he was going on a journey, if it was not tried it would be taking advantage of him in his absence and that he was agrieved with Br. Johnston’s 56 conduct toward him which Did belong to the Church, at length they agreed to take up the complaint. Br. Johnston related his story withour interruption. Br. Alderson related his but was oposed in the last part of his speech, which threw the whole into confusion and Disorder, and so Broke up the meeting.’’ Apr. 25, 1807. Elder Josiah Osborn was chosen moderator, Br. Alderson being absent. ‘‘The church thought it expedient as Br. Osborn was present to hear the matter between Br, Alder- son and Br. Johnston, matters were canvassed for and against, it was thought most advisable for them both to make Confession in order to satisfy the Church.’’ June 27, 1807. ‘‘Br. James Ellis being present the church chose him as moderator our Elder Br. not being come back. According to the Command of Our great lord master JEsuS Christ head of the Church we Declare a non-felowship By Ex- Communicating formerly a member of this church, for his immoral conduct getting into unruly passions fighting and neglecting to hear the church, we therefore deliver him to the kingdom of the world until the lord please to give him repent- ance.’’ Dec. 26, 1807. ‘‘Br, John Alderson having made his return from the old settlement, the church chose him as moderator, * * * * Br. Alderson made his confession to the church ac- knowledging the badness of his temper—being sorry that such matters should happen—having offered to supply his place in the ministry if the church would return to their duty and contribute something toward his support.’’ Br. Johnston failed to give satisfaction to the church and was excommunicated the follow- ing April. During the next decade, there are recorded no facts of much interest or importance. Delinquency in the matter of church attendance seems to have troubled the faithful. A rule was adopted at the August meetings until they gave a lawful reason for their past delinquency. This rule seems to have had a good effect upon the membership in securing a fuller attendance. In the record for July 1810, we find this comment upon the spiritual condition of the church, ‘‘The old complaint little love for religion and for one another this makes our number small.’’ 57 The meeting house now nearly thirty years old, and having been repaired several times, seems to be getting into a pretty bad shape. Note the following reference: Jan. 18, 1812. ‘‘The meeting house Being out of Repair the chimney likely to fall and the seats broken, the glass in the windows broke,” a committee was appointed to see to repairing it. The spiritual state of the church seems to have been declin- ing during these years, as frequent references are made concern- ing it. The minutes for April 1814 report non-attendance, ‘‘dis- sention and hard speeches and disorder;’ during the past months, Sometimes the records were not kept for a whole year. April 1816, lukewarmness is complained of, and Jul. 27, 1816. ‘‘Through a long Series of neglect the mem- bers not filling their Seats, it being Discourging to our Elder and likewise to the few that Did attend, no Exact register has been kept this two years past, the Clerk being from home, a general coldness and languor of spirit taking place altho we Bless our good GOD we live in peace among ourselves.” It must have weighed heavily upon the spirit of this faithful, self-sacrificing pastor, as he was consciously nearing the end of a life, forty years of which had been given to planting and tender- ly caring for this little vine, to see in it so little of that vigor and fruitfulness which had been his hope for so many years. How well he had wrought did not remain for him to see, but for us, who are enjoying the fruits of his labors. It is with a touch of sadness that we pen this reference from the minutes of Jan. 22, 1820. ‘‘On motion by Elder John Alderson the members present unanimously Called on the Revd James Ellison to supply them in preaching and administering the ordinances of the church, who being present agreed thereto, so long as it might suit himself and the Church to do so, with the liberty of admin- istering the ordinance of Baptism in the bounds of the Church; it being understood that Elder John Alderson is to retain his former place in the Church.’’ In the record of the following month, Elder Alderson is again mentioned as being present, but this is the last reference to him found in the minutes. They do not mention his death, but in the minutes of the Greenbrier Association, (p. 100), it is stated that it occurred March 5th, 1821. 58 JAMES ELLISON, 1821-1828. The second pastor of the Greenbrier Baptist Church, was James Ellison. In the Minutes of the Greenbrier Association for 1833 (p. 100), we have the following: ‘‘During his (John Alderson’s) latter days, age and its attendant infirmities made it necessary that the services of an assistant should be procured, and the church obtained the stated labotirs of Elder James Ellison whose services continued until the year 1827-28.”’ “The first reference of interest in the new administration is Apr. 21, 1821. ‘'Entered on a plan for Building a meeting house and trustees appointed to superintend the same. Jos. & Jon Alderson, Wm. Johnson, senior, John Paterson & John Kippers.’’ These trustees were succeeded in April 1824 by a new set, viz: ‘‘Joseph Alderson, River John Alderson and little John Alder- son.’’ Distance lends enchantment, but it appears to one wading through these old records, that pastors in these good old times had their problems, as well as those of our time. Note the following: Apr. 28, 1822. James Ellison offers to resine his care of the Church and the Church then inquires to know the caus and he states two reasons viz their inattention to Church Meeting and neglect in communicating to the wants of him their preacher and the Church resolves that thare shall be an alteration and that the members who shall neglect to attend to their duty as have been named shall be cauld on and if they will not comply shall be excluded from Church privileges.” Here is an interesting item from the minutes of Oct. 27, 1823. ‘‘Resolved that James Ellison receive thirty Dollars pr year from the members that attend the river meeting house which sum is to Content him and may be rased in any way the Church may prescribe.’’ We learn the method of receiving members, practiced in the early history ot the church from the following: Jun. 24, 1826, ‘“The church was not satisfied, but for the candedit to come forward and stand and tell what the Lord had done for their sole, not interrogate by asking leading questions, 59 till they distinctly shone how they become ded to the law and then made alive by the gospel, then questions may be asked if need be by any of the church.’’ The records are missing from 1826 to 1830, but in the min- utes of the Association of 1833, appears the following entry; ‘‘After this time (1827-8) the church was supplied with preaching by Elder J. O. Alderson (grandson of the late pastor) who continued until his death in the winter of 1832’’ (a foot-note to this page says ‘‘Apr. 13, 1882”) Elder J. O. Alderson, re- ferred to above, was the father of Jas. G. Alderson, now living in this community, and was the grandson of the founder of the church, JAMES O. ALDERSON. 1828-1882. Nov. 20, 1880.