'069 'A. PRESBYTBRIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY, NEW JERSEY BY HARLAN G. MENDENHALL THE PERTH AMBOY PUBLISHING COMPANY PERTH AMBOY, N. J. 1903 Copyright 1903 II Y Harlan G. MenrenHall. TO the Members of The Presbyterian Church, perth amboy, n. j., WHOSE HARMONY, ZEAL AND CONSECRATION HAVE MADE POSSIBLE OUR NEW SANCTUARY, THIS VOLUME IS Dedicated. Authorities consulted in the preparation of this book: Wodrow's History of the Suffer- ings of the Church of Scotland, Whitehead's Contributions to the Early History of Perth Amboy, Smith's The Thirteen Colonies (G. P. Putnam's Sons, Publishers), Webster's History of the Presbyterian Church, Presbyterian His- torical Almanac, and the Presbyterian Histor- ical Society. The photographs of buildings, when not otherwise credited, were taken by Edward W. Barnes; we are also indebted to W. R. Tobias for courtesies of a similar kind. CONTENTS. NO OF PAGE CHAPTER I.— BEGINNINGS I CHAPTER II.— THE FOUNDATION 8 CHAPTER III.— MANY CHANGES 14 CHAPTER IV.— DIFFERENCES 23 CHAPTER V. — A LONG PASTORATE 26 CHAPTER VI.— growth 31 CHAPTER VII.— expansion 35 CHAPTER VIII.— arise and build 45 ADDENDA 57 .A *D * 1802 THE OLD CORNERSTONE. CHAPTER I. BEGINNINGS. 7THE disintegration of Cromwell's Commonwealth and the restoration of the Stuarts, in the person of Charles II., to the throne, not only destroyed religious liberty, but inaugurated bitter persecution against the Independents of England and the Presbyterians of Scotland. But the blood which reddened the soil of Great Britain germinated the seed of a larger hope in dis- tant lands. The intolerance of a state church made possible the political freedom of a republic; and the men and women who, more than two centuries ago, sailed across the Atlantic for con- science sake, had heard God's voice as Abram heard it, — Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will show thee; and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing. The state of New Jersey, with other sections of our country, profited by these emigrations, and in the middle of the seven- teenth century the Puritans had established settlements between the Passaic and Raritan rivers; while still farther to the south, with Shrewsbury as the chief town, the Friends had colonized. Under the wise and beneficent government of the two proprietors, Sir George Carteret and Lord Berkeley, who guaranteed religious protection, established political equality and offered special land inducements, the population rapidly increased. In 1679 that part of the state known as East Jersey was, on the death of Sir George Carteret, then the sole proprietor, pur- chased by an association of twelve men; two years later the num- ber was increased by the addition of twelve more members, who in their religious views were largely Presbyterian and (Quaker. 2 PRESBYTKRIANISM IX PERTH AM BOY. Among these proprietors were James, Earl of Perth; Robert Barclay, Robert Gordon, William Penn and Gawen L-awrie. These purchasers not only had in view the securing of an asylum for the persecuted of their sects, but they also desired to increase their income by the development of their investment. To this end it was necessary to found a city which should outdistance New York and at the same time be the capital of the growing colony. The proprietors selected Amboy Point as in every way suit- able for this purpose and named it Perth, after the leading mem- ber of the association. The first governor of the province was Philip Carteret. In 1681 Robert Barclay succeeded him, with Thomas Rudyard as his deputy, both Friends. The second deputy governor was Gawen Lawrie, a Scotchman. Under his euthusiasm and influence the new city on the Raritan was born and his inauguration saw it as the metropolis of the New World. Indeed, in one of his letters to his associates he wrote: " Now is the time to send over people for settling here. The Scots and William Dockwra's people, coming now and set- tling, advance the Province more than it hath been advanced these ten years. Here wants nothing but people.'* In the meantime, while these plans were being carried for- ward, unlooked-for events in England were shaping the destinies of America. Jame^ II became king, and persecutions, increasing in their fury, made life and liberty impossible to the Presby- terians. New settlers sought these shores, not willingly, but to escape torture and death. Among the number was Lord Neill Campbell, whose life was threatened and whose brother, the Marquis of Argyle, had been beheaded. He brought with him more than fifty persons, and on his arrival was appointed deputy governor. ' ' Rich men came over to occupy their own estates with large families, servants and tenants. Poor men joined the stream to take up the new life on any terms they could make. ' ' * On September 5, 1685, a body of refugees set sail from Leith, Scotland, whose heroism, loyalty to truth and lofty purpose are ♦Smith's Tin- Thirteen Colonies. BEGINNINGS. 3 equaled only by that Puritan expedition which sixty-five years earlier consecrated Plymouth Rock to God and freedom. George Scot, laird of Pitlochie, had charge of the company of almost two hundred souls. Within ten years he had been thrice imprisoned and fined for attending services of the proscribed faith. He was finally released on condition that he "go to the plantations. ' ' Many of his friends sought release from the same intolerable bur- dens and in the same way. Others were ordered " to be trans- ported to his Majesty's plantations in East New Jersey in the ship lying in the road of Leith, now bounding thither. * * * At L,eith these were re-examined by counsel; some recanted and took an oath to James; others very weakly had friends intercede and got off upon a bond. The rest were perpetually banished to America."* Before the ship sailed the following protest was signed by those who were compelled to leave their native land: ' ' That now being to leave their own native and covenanted land, by an unjust sentence of banishment, for owning truth and holding by duty, and studying to keep by their covenanted en- gagements and baptismal vows, whereby they stand obliged to resist, and testify against all that is contrary to the word of God and their covenants; and that their sentence of banishment ran chiefly because they refused the oath of allegiance, which in con- science the> T could not take, because in so doing, they thought the}' utterly declined the Lord Jesus Christ from having any power in his own house, and practically would, by taking it, say he was not King and head of his church and over their con- sciences; and, on the contrary, this was to take and put in his room a man whose breath is in his nostrils, yea, a man that is a sworn enemy to religion, an avowed papist, whom by our cove- nant we are bound to withstand and disown, and that agreeably to the Scripture, Deut. 17: 14, 15." The vessel was small, three hundred and fifty tons, and the voyage was tempestuous throughout. The ship sprung a leak and was in danger of sinking; the sails were rent and the small boats lost. "After they had turned the land end the fever began to rage in the ship. Not a few were sick when they came aboard, 'Wodrow. The Church of Scotland. 4 l'KKSHYTKKIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. and no wonder, considering the barbarous treatment they had met with; besides much of the flesh which the captain of the ship had provided for the prisoners began to stink before they sailed out of Leith road, and in a few days it was not eatable. In a month's time the fever turned malignant, and a few or none in the ship escaped it, insomuch that it was usual to cast overboard three or four dead bodies in one day. Most of the ship's crew, except the captain and boatswain, died. Pitlochie and his excel- lent lady died likewise; and near seventy persons died at sea. Notwithstanding of this raging sickness and great death much severity was used toward the prisoners at sea by the master of the ship and others; those under deck were not allowed to go about worship by themselves, and when they assayed it the cap- tain would throw down great planks of timber upon them to dis- turb them, and sometimes to the danger of their lives."* With the death of Scot the captain sought to influence the company to sail to Virginia, and while the matter was being dis- cussed heavy winds turned the vessel toward the Jersey coast, and, passing Sandy Hook, the " Henry and Francis " dropped anchor in Raritan bay. It was a bleak December day; snow was on the ground; but when this wan and wasted company of pil- grims set foot on shore they sang a hymn of praise to God, and Rev. David Simson, the ship's chaplain, led them in a prayer of thanksgiving. The accommodations in the city were not sufficient for so many persons, and while a few remained as permanent residents, many settled in Woodbridge, New York and New England. Among these emigrants were Walter Ker, who was one of the founders of the Presbyterian Church at Freehold, and David Jamison, who aided in the formation of the First Presbyterian Church of New York City. Thus New Jersey became ' ' the cradle of Presbyterianism in America." David Simson remained as the pastor of the little flock and died here. He was the first minister, so far as is now known, who held religious services in Perth Ambov. This was two hun- 'Wodrow. The Church of Scotland. BEGINNINGS. dred and seventeen years ago. Another colony was brought over in the ship "Caledonia," which landed its passengers in 171 5 and was soon after wrecked. Some of these emigrants are repre- sented in the Crowells and Harriotts of our city. Just when a church organization was completed, if at all, is not known, but that one was early contemplated is evident from the following record, which is found in the minutes of the Synod of Philadelphia: September 17, 1724. The overture of the committee, with reference to a supplication from some of the inhabitants of Perth Amboy, desiring sermons sometimes, being referred to the Pres- bytery of Philadelphia, was approved by the Synod, and Mr. Anderson was appointed to write a letter to them and bring it in to-morrow morning. September 18. Morning session. A letter to be sent to Perth Amboy brought in and approved. The "Mr. Anderson" mentioned in this minute was Rev. James Anderson, the first settled Presbyterian pastor in New York City, where he had gone in 17 17. The next important item is found in the records of the Eastern Proprietors, when on July 22, 1731, the following petition was presented: The humble petition of some of the inhabitants of some of the city of Perth Amboy humbly petitioneth — To the Hon. Council of Proprietors now sitting in Perth Amboy: WHEREAS several of your petitioners have in the old Burial place, so called, our parents, wives and children interred, we, your petitioners, humbly beg that your honorable house would take into consideration and grant us a right of that piece of ground, that we may have a right to erect a meeting-house for the worship of God, and likewise for a Burial place; and that it may be your Honorable Council's order that the said piece of ground may be dedicated to the said use and no other, and your humble petitioners will forever pray. John Matthie, John Gaschrie, Wm. Thompson, Thomas Ingi.is, Thomas Loggans, James Leigh, John Moore, John Herriott, John Thompson, Samuel Moores, Alexander Carnes. Which petition being taken into consideration by this Board, they are of opinion that the said piece of land do remain as for- 6 PRESBYTKRIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. merly intended for a public Burial place for the inhabitants of this city. But that the petitioners have liberty to erect and build a meeting-house on the southeast corner of the same, and this Board do hereby lease, as far as in them lies, unto the said Peti- tioners, so much of the said piece of land, in the said southeast corner, as shall be necessary for that purpose, not exceeding one chain square, for the term of one thousand years. The ' ' old Burial place ' ' occupied the ground where the High School building now stands, and for many years was called the "Presbyterian burying ground." The above petition having been granted, a building was erected thereon in 1735, the dedi- cation sermon being preached by Rev. Gilbert Tennant, pastor at New Brunswick. In 1740 the congregation united with Basking Ridge and Staten Island, Rev. John Cross being the minister. At his suggestion George Whitfield visited the city and held ser- vices in the City Hall, which was always crowded, and the suc- cess which attended his services elsewhere was seen here. He said of Mr. Cross: " He is a dear soul, and one that the Lord de- lights to honor. ' ' At this time Governor Morris wrote to the Duke of NewCastle: " Perth Amboy is a poor, inconsiderable place, and there is little probability of its being much better." On August 2, 1742, a petition was presented to the presby- tery of New Brunswick for the services of Rev. Charles McNight, but this he declined. In 1761 Rev. Elihu Spencer supplied Mid- dletown, Shrewsbury and Amboy. In October, 1762, he was directed to spend one-fourth of his time at the latter place. Mr. Spencer was a man of great weight in the public and ecclesiastical affairs of the colonies. Webster says of him in his History of the Presbyterian Church in America: "What must Spencer have been! Loved by Brainerd and Edwards in his youth; the suc- cessor of Dickinson and Rogers in his pastoral work; selected by the governors of two colonies as chaplain to the forces on im- portant expeditions; intrusted by the synod with momentous re- sponsibilities among the new settlers in Carolina; and performing these duties so well that, at the lapse of ten years, the Provincial Congress called him from his distant home to allay the conscien- tious scruples deterring the Scots from throwing off their alle- giance to Britain." BEGINNINGS. 7 In 1764 the church building became so dilapidated as to be- come dangerous, and a petition was presented to the assembly asking permission to hold a lottery for the purpose of raising money to repair it. The recpiest was refused. During the war of the Revolution it was used as a stable by British cavalrymen, and about 1785 it disappeared. It may not be out of place to state that in 1771 the Presby- terians of the province of New Jersey, through their clergymen, presented a petition to the council for the incorporation of a so- ciety "for the better support and education of the widows and children of deceased Presbyterian ministers. ' ' Governor Frank- lin, in writing to England concerning it, objected to it on the ground that the Presbyterians should not be granted "any other privileges than they are entitled to by the laws of toleration;" and that "a similar fund had been used in Pennsylvania in order to propagate and support the Presbyterian religion among the new settlers in different parts of the continent of North America. ' ' The council finally granted the request on condition that instead of clergy the words minister or teacher should be said. "The King," writes the attorney general, "can not know nor with propriety call an}- men clergymen but those of the established Church of England, at least in England, Ireland and these col- onies. In acts of Parliament the ministers of dissenting congre- gations are stiled ministers and teachers, never clergymen. I dare say they have not the same stile with the clergy of the es- tablished church." During the Revolutionary struggle the life of our church was severely tried, and at its close and for many years thereafter services were held occasionally either in private houses or the court house, which was located where the present City Hall stands. PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. CHAPTER II. THE FOUNDATION. 7THE opening of the next century found the Presbyterians de- sirous of uniting in a permanent organization. Many new settlers who had taken up their residence in the city were without a church home of their own faith. Although the population only numbered seven hundred souls and the ambition of the founders had become a memory, this did not discourage those who believed in the perseverance of the saints from rebuilding the walls of their beloved Jerusalem. Captain John Angus was the energetic citi- zen who breathed life into this movement. He called a meeting of those who had faith in the project, which was held on the first of October, 1801, and this was the result: At a Meeting of the Subscribers for Building a Presbyterian Church in the City of Perth Am boy, the Sum Subscribed Amount- ing to more then Limetted on the Subscription paper, Agreeable to public Advertising, The following Gentlemen were Unanimously Chosen, as Managers for Receiving Subscriptions and Carrying on the Building. John Angus, David Wait. JAmes Harriott. By Order of the Meeting. David Wait, Clk. Captain Angus appeared before the Presbytery of New York, then in session at Woodbridge, Oct. 8, stated the case and the following action was taken: Captain John Angus, from the City of Perth Am boy, applied to the Presbytery of New York in behalf of an association of Gentlemen of that City who have it in view to build a place of worship and to form a Presbyterian Congregation for Such aid as the Presbytery can afford them in accomplishing their object. Whereupon the Presbytery taking into Consideration the once promising State of the City of Perth Amboy that there was THE FOUNDATION. 9 formerly a Presbyterian Congregation and place of worship in it, and its present destitute Situation with Respect to the institutions and ordinances of Religion, desiring of testifying their approba- tion of the commendable zeal and activity of Captain Angus and the other Gentlemen engaged in this business, and hoping that their endeavors may be Crowned with Success, agreed to express their approbation of the Measure and to Recommend it to the Attention of all Christian and charitably disposed people, as likely to have an happy influence upon the Interests of said City and neighborhood both in Religious and civil point of view. Signed by order in Presbytery at Woodbridge, Oct. 8, 1801. Henry Cook, Moderator. Among the subscribers to this fund were Stephen Girard, John Quincy Adams, Elias Boudinot, Lewis Claflin, Abraham Varick, Alexander Stewart, General Ebenezer Stevens and Peter Schermerhorn. Of this fund Philadelphia contributed $1,342, New York City $1,058, Elizabethtown $188, and Newport and Providence, R. I., $52. General Stevens gave the pulpit Bible still in our possession, on which are printed the following words: THE GIFT OF GEN. EBENEZER STEVENS, of new york, to the Presbvterian'Church at Pkrth Amiiov SEPT. 21, 1802. Captain Angus donated the lot which is in part the site of the present edifice, and in May, 1802, the foundation of the build- ing, which was used until last year, was laid. The church, sixty feet by thirty-six, was most commodious at that time and had the largest auditorium in the city. Finished in a neat and handsome style, it was opened for public worship on Thursday, June 9, 1803, the dedication sermon being preached by Rev. Samuel Stanhope Smith, D. D. , president of Princeton College, from the text, 2 Timothy II: 8.: Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead. Captain John Angus, who did so much to promote this present organization, was a Scotchman by birth and derived his militarv title from service in the war of the Revolution. He was w , I 1 I ^••'•^f «'«' THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, ERECTED IN 1803. Photographed from Whitehead's History of Perth Amboy. By Tobias. THE FOUNDATION. I I a tall, broad-shouldered man, living in a house which is now No. 24 Smith street. Newspapers were rare a century ago, and very few were found in the city. It is said of the good captain, who was a subscriber, that as soon as his paper was received he ap- peared with it on the street and, gathering a group of eager lis- teners, read the news of the day. He died January 10, 18 17, and lies buried in our cemetery. David Wait, who, with Captain Angus and John Lewis, con- stituted the first session and the first board of trustees, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1754. He ran away from his native land to escape service in the army, but the troublous times in America aroused his sympathy and he enlisted in the Continental army. He was captured by the British forces and incarcerated in the Barracks. When peace was declared he became a resident in the city and his descendants are now on the rolls of our church. He died 18 10. John Lewis was a carpenter. He died 18 15. General James Harriott took an active interest in the organization and did much to bring it about. He united on profession of his faith March 29, 1804. He was an early trustee and in 18 14 became an elder. Being a builder, he erected the church and also the manse. He early displayed a fondness for military tactics, and was called captain in 1800. He was a general in the war of 18 12. He identified himself with the city's interests and was postmaster in 1830. The postoffice was in his residence, which is the building at 130 Rector street. Here he died November 13, 1848. In January, 1802, a congregational meeting was held for the election of a pastor, and Rev. Elias Riggs, a licentiate of the presbytery of New York, was chosen. Mr. Riggs was born at Mendham, N. J., April 1, 1770, and graduated at Princeton Col- lege in 1795, where he remained as tutor for one year. He studied theology privately, was married in 1801 to Mrs. Margaret Condar, widow of Daniel Hudson, of Newark, and removed to Perth Amboy in 1803, where he began his labors on Sunday, March 7. The next day he opened an academy, for he was to be a teacher as well as preacher, and in this building Sabbath ser- vices were held until the church was completed. He was or- 12 PRRSBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. dained August 2, and acted as pastor until October, 1806, when he became pastor at New Providence (West Summit), N. J. He was installed June 10 of the year following, and remained in this charge until his death, which occurred February 25, 1825, under the following circumstances: "He attended with his son Elias, then a lad fifteen years old, a funeral in a distant part of his par- ish. A heavy snow had fallen, and, on their way home, the horse taking fright, the sleigh was upset and its occupants thrown into a snow bank. A heavy cold was contracted, which devel- oped pneumonia, and in eight days he died. This was on the day and at the hour appointed for a lecture preparatory to the celebration of the Lord's Supper. The following Sabbath in- stead of the communion the members attended his funeral. "He was a man of scholarly tastes, a godly man and faithful pastor, and commanded by his exemplary life and conversation the affec- tions of his people and respect of the community." Of his six children two became eminent clergymen, Rev. Joseph L,., a pastor in Elmira, N. Y., and Rev. Elias, D.D., IX. D., for thirty-two years a missionary in Persia; and two of his daughters became the wives of clergymen, Rev. J. G. Montfort, D.D., of Cincin- nati, and Rev. Joseph L,. Potter, D.D., missionary in Persia; and this blessing has been given to his grandchildren. In his work of three and a half years Mr. Riggs laid the foundations strong and deep, and not only saw completed and dedicated the building in which his people worshiped with com- paratively few changes for a century, but also received into mem,- bership twenty-seven persons. There were only two church or- ganizations in the city at that time, and a feeling of fraternity existed between them, as is evident from this action of the ses- sion, which is dated Oct. 25, 1804: ' ' In consecpience of the Episcopalians having appointed Thursday, the first of Nov. to be observed by them, as a day of public thanksgiving, Agreed, that we recommend to the members of our congregation, to abstain on that day from such work as might tend to disturb their devotion." The salary of the minister was not large, the only subscrip- tion list found showing one hundred and seventy-four dollars as the full amount for one year, and at the end of the year sixty- THE FOUNDATION. 1 3 four dollars had not been paid. Whatever other income Mr. Riggs received came from the fees of students in the academy, but even this account shows an indebtedness for the first year of twenty- six dollars. 14 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AM BOY. CHAPTER III. MANY CHANGES. ZTHE church was vacant for one year when the Rev. John Keys accepted an invitation to act as supply. Mr. Keys was born at Wilton, New Hampshire, August 28, 1778. His father, a soldier in the Continental army, was in the battle of Fort Ti- conderoga. The son entered Dartmouth College and graduated in 1803; taught school in New York City one year, and then re- moved to Morristown, N. J., where he studied theology under Rev. James Richards, D.D. The presbytery of New York, in session at Orangedale, N. J., October 3, 1805, licensed him to preach; and the same presbytery ordained him in Perth Amboy August 4, 1807. He remained here, however, only one year. In 1808 he was pastor at Sand Lake, near Albany, N. Y., where he remained four years. He resided in Albany for two years, and in 18 14 was pastor of the Congregational church of Wolcott, Connecticut. His next pastorate was in the Congregational church at Tallmadge, Ohio, beginning in 1S23 and closing in in 1832. He then supplied churches for brief seasons in Ohio, Illinois, Missouri and Iowa. He died at Dover, Ohio, January 21, 1867. The year before coming to Perth Amboy he was mar- ried to Miss May Carmichael, of Morristown. Mr. Keys "was an industrious, hard-working man, though to labor in the cause of Christ was delightful to his soul. He was a prayer loving Christian, making many matters subjects of special prayer that are often merely referred to in general terms; owing to the weight of years reducing the tone of his sytem, he was at times despond- ent, but his last end was peace, his last words being, — 'O, wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.' "* ♦Presbyterian Historical Almanac. MANY CHANGES. 15 The year of Mr. Keys' residence in this city was a dis- couraging time. The session regarded it with sorrow, as we conclude from the following record made in January, 1808: ' ' There being no business before us, some time was passed in free conversation concerning the low state of religion among us. The remainder of the evening was then spent in humbly im- ploring the Iyord of life to regard us in mercy, and if it could be consistent with his sovereign will, to send us also His Holy Spirit as he has done to neighboring churches." In 1808 Rev. Daniel Hopkins supplied the pulpit. In this year Mrs. Doziah Blood good, wife of William Blood good, became a member of the church. She was born in 1779 and died the old- est member at the time of her death, and the oldest inhab- itant of the city. From 1829 to 1847 she was a member of the Woodbridge church, but in the latter year her membership was renewed with this organization, making her term of service fifty- three years. In December, 1879, she celebrated her one hun- dredth birthday and at this anniversary there were present her seven living children aged respectively eighty years, seventy- seven, seventy-four, seventy-two, sixty-nine, sixty-six and fifty- nine ; grandchildren, great- grandchildren and two great- great-grandchildren. At this celebration she sang in a clear and distinct voice, "My Days are Gliding Swiftly By. ' ' She died February, 1880. The first pastor of the church was Rev. Peter Stryker, who was installed November 20, 1809, Rev. Mr. Pictou preaching the sermon from I. Corinthians, II: 2 : For I determined not to know any- thing among you save Jesus Christ and him crucified. Rev. A. Roe, D. D., pre- REV. PETER STRYKER. l6 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH A.MBOY. sided and gave the charge to the pastor, and Rev. Mr. Carll the charge to the people. New life and new hopes had come back to the church when suddenly the next year Mr. Stryker was recalled to his former congregations at Belleville and Stone House Plains, the reason given being ' ' the peculiar circum- stances of his present situation." In going, which he did in December, he expressed regret " at leaving a people whose affectionate regards and marked attention have laid me under great obligations ever to esteem and love them. This brief pastorate cannot be allowed to pass without a more detailed reference to the man who in his short life in this city left a blessing which continued for many years. He was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, December 23, 1763, of ancestors who came from Holland in 1652, and who held honorable posi- tions in the community and were devoted members of the Dutch Church. He early became a believer in the Christian religion. Young Peter was a fifer in the army of the Revolution. He was a student at Columbia University; licensed May 8, 1788, and be- came pastor of a church on Staten Island. Here he remained until 1794, when he was called to the Reformed Dutch Church of Belleville; from this church he was called to Perth Amboy, but returning to Belleville in 18 10 he remained until 18 12, ill health compelling him to resign. He died March 16, 1847. He was a refined, dignified gentleman of the old school, and a strong man in his denomination. Although retired from the active pastorate, he was not idle, but sought avenues for advancing the Redeemer's kingdom. In 18 15 he mad^ a missionary tour of eleven months in all kinds of weather to Easton, up the Susquehanna valley, across to Troy and down the Hudson. His sou Harmons, grand- son Peter and his great-grandson-in-law. Rev. W. W. Conner, have all preached in the Bellvelle church, Mr. Conner being the present pastor. The grandson, Rev. Peter Stryker, D. D., was for many years a much beloved minister in the Presbyterian de- nomination. He was, however, pastor of the Reformed Dutch church at Asbury Park when he died in 1900. We can see this pastor of the long ago as with stately mien he entered the door and walked to the winding stairs which led MANY CHANGES. I 7 to the pulpit. These he ascended and seated himself in the an- tique chair. It was a curious place, that pulpit, stuck high up like a tiny box at the east end of the church. Above it was a sounding board, and on top of this was perched a "gilt dove." An hour glass measured the length of the sermon. The pews were box in shape, with backs so high that the children had great difficulty in seeing the preacher. Doors shut in the occu- pants during service. In the winter bricks and soap-stones were heated and placed in the pews in lieu of the modern stove. The geese, a common product of the city, had no regard for the Sabbath, but browsed around for pickings as on other days. Often their cackling, as the noise came through the open doors and windows, so disturbed the congregation that the sex- ton would rush out and drive them away. Dogs re- garded the day with more solemnity, and, seeking their mas- ters through the same open doors, were welcomed to their pews. The communicants were seated at tables extending the length of the aisles, and tokens were deposited by those who participated before the elements were passed. The minister having no permanent home, the church in 1808 decided to build a manse. A subscription was made that year, and although the house was occupied the year following the costs continued until 18 1 7. The original cost was $1884, exclusive of the lot which was another donation from Captain Angus. That parsonage had a long drawn out expense account, as is seen in looking over the bills which the trustees paid. Perhaps some of the material which aided in the construction, had much to do with the interminable cost, for the word "spirit" occurs very often among the charges. Following in quick succession in one account are the items "1 quart spirits, 6 lb white lade, 1 lb putty, 1 lbneils." Workmen were paid one dollar a day. Hard brick were worth fifty shillings a thousand and soft brick twenty-five shillings. It cost "towe shilings pur pose for seder posts," five dollars for "diging seller," one dollar and twenty-five cents for " blowiu stone," and twelve shillings for " plasterin hare." In 1 8 10 a "celler drean under said house" was dug ; the i8 PRESBYTERIANP3M IN PERTH AMBOY. next year "one sistern ;" and the year following an "ovan." Then the ' 'seller of the parsonage house' ' had to be filled up with sand and the "kitchen harth" laid. Six years after its supposed completion it needed a new coat of paint; a fence was built, and in their anxiety for the minister's welfare the trustees had ne- glected the church. This called for attention and money was ex- pended for "conducting the bell rope through sealing of gallery," THE PARSONAGE, 1809-1869. repairing the "steple," painting the building at a cost of two hundred dollars and putting posts into the "burying ground." This house is now 101 Rector street. Rev. Joshua Young of the Congregational council of Maine supplied the church for six months in the fall and winter of 1S14. MANY CHANGES. 19 The next year Rev. Elias Riggs was re-called on a salary of $300 and the use of the parsonage, but this call he declined. In 18 16 Rev. Joseph Bishop Andrews became stated supply. He occupied this relation until June 16, 18 19, when he was installed as pastor. At this service Rev. Samuel H. Cox of Mendham preached the sermon from Romans I: 16, — For I am not ashamed of the gos- pel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every- one that believeth ; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. Dr. Andrews was born at Southington, Connecticut, March r 7> x 775 : graduated at Yale College, 1797 ; married August 17, 1801, Miss May Bissell of Windsor, who died December 24, 1848. He became a licentiate June 5, 1799, and was ordained pastor in Killingworth, April 12, 1802. In 181 1 he removed to New York City, where he established a private school, and organized a Sabbath scbool in the vicin- ity of Franklin street and Broadway. He also studied medicine, graduating at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, March n, 1816. This was the year he entered upon work in this church. His pastorate terminated De- cember 19, 1822. He re- mained here for some time, practising medicine, acting as health officer of the port, and in 1S29 was president of the Middlesex County Medical Society. He then removed to his old home in Connecti- cut where he resided for many years, representing his town in 1836 in the legislature. His home after that was in New York City; he died April 26, 1853, aQ d is buried in Alpine Cemetery. Dr. Andrews was a linguist and scholar and a man of intense energy and perseverance. He believed in total abstinence at a REV. J. B. AXDREWS, M. D. 20 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. time when it was unpopular to advocate such a cause ; he spared not in his denunciations against intemperance ; and members were disciplined for their overindulgence in intoxicating liquors. His granddaughter, Mrs.Sarah A.Whitman, resides in New York City. Her father, Dr. Solomon Andrews, was a physician in this city for many years. The population of Perth Amboy in 1820 was about eight hun- dred, and of this number thirty persons were slaves. From very early days it was desirable that the "province have a constant and sufficient supply of merchantable negroes, at moderate rates, in money or commodities. ' ' * Many advertisements were inserted in the papers offering rewards for runaway slaves. Two negroes were burned at the stake in our city for murder, and fears of an uprising were frequent. But from the time above mentioned by an act of the legislature slavery gradually passed away. The stocks opposite the church in the Square, where drunkards, wife- beaters and other offenders were punished, were in use. In the centre of the Square the old market stood, where on Tuesdays and Saturdays the farmer with his produce and his fowls and the butcher with his meats welcomed their customers. This building was divided into two sections running east and west, each fifty feet long and twenty wide, seperated by the walks which now divide Market Square ; and on other days the children as they came out of the old Court House turned it into a gymnasium. Where the Packer House stands was Arnold's City Hotel, a pub- lic house which was erected before the Revolution, and at that period was the chief hostelry of the city. Washington stopped here on his visit to Amboy in 1776, as did Adams, Franklin and Rutledge when they were on their way to meet L,ord Howe at the Billop House Conference. The walls of this old building are doing service now as in the years gone by. Many of our streets had not the same names that designate them in our day, as for example, Gordon was Gully street; Rec- tor, Cross street; Fayette, South Dock street; Commerce, North Dock street; and State, Backstreet. The Barracks were used by * Smith's New Jersey. 22 PRESBYTKRIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Dr. Solomon Andrews as a manufactory for government locks. The Westminster Home was the residence of Matthias Bruen, reputed to be at that time the wealthiest citizen of the United States. He had long been a member of this congregation and early identified himself with its interests. His home had within its walls many costly paintings and rare pieces of statuary. John Jacob Astor was a frequent guest and on one occasion visited and addressed the Sabbath School. The modes of traveling were primitive compared with our day. A small steamboat conveyed passengers to New York. The schedule time was four hours, leaving here at nine o'clock and arriving at one in the afternoon. The stasre coach was used instead of the railroad and trollev car. DIFFERENCES. 23 CHAPTER IV. DIFFERENCES. |T were better no doubt if this chapter could be omitted, but a true history of this church can not be given without at least a cursory glance at the unfortunate state of affairs which existed for almost eight years, causing alienation, the interference of presbytery, the action of the General Assembly and the with- drawal of members to other denominations. Just how these dif- ferences began it is difficult at this period of time to determine, but the presumption is in favor of a statement made by one of the witnesses in court, viz. : The remarks made by the minister who was then pastor against the prevailing sin of intemperance in the congregation. Some of the members had been guilty of intoxication and the reproof was of too personal a character. Misunderstanding grew until the session and trustees were in conflict. The latter sought to direct the congregation and usurped the duties of the elders. Finally two boards of trustees were acting and the case was appealed to presbytery. Ministers were sent by this body to supply the church but in 1824 the conflict was so bitter that their supplies were not al- lowed to preach in the building. Each board of trustees had locked the doors, and neither would remove their lock lest the opposition might take an undue advantage. Then the case was taken to the Supreme Court of New Jersey. Among the lawyers engaged on the case was the Hon. Theodore Frelinghuysen. For one year this state of affairs existed. Sendees were held at the academy and in private houses ; and each side fought with an energy worthy a better cause. Beside the members of presbytery who were sent on special Sundays, other ministers were engaged for short periods. 24 PRKSBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Among the ministers were Rev. Michael Osborne for six months, 1823-4, who was then called to the pastorate of the Metuchen chnrch ; Mr. Jeptha Harrison, a licentiate of the pres- bytery of Newark; Mr. Henry G. Ludlow, a student at Princeton Seminary ; Rev. Abner C. Morse, for six months in 1826, and Rev. Nathaniel A. Wilson, 1828-31. Mr. Wilson's influence was most marked and in his residence of two years and a half he did much to bring order out of chaos. He was born at Elizabeth and united with the First Church at fourteen years of age; grad- uated at Princeton college, 1823, and Princeton Seminar}', 1826. He was licensed October 5 and ordained in this church April 29, 1828. Rev. William Gray preached the sermon from Proverbs n: 30, — The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he that winneth souls is wise. Rev. David Magie, D. D., presided and gave the charge to the minister. Mr. Wilson's health failing, he removed to Philadelphia in 1831, where he became pastor of the Fairmount Church, but he died that year. He was followed by Rev. Peter H. Shaw, who came from the presbytery of New York. Rev. David R. Gillmer of the Congregational church sup- plied in 1834. The members of the church felt very deeply their position before God and in this city, and the session met once a month "for the purpose of imploring the Great Head of the Church and the influences of His grace to heal the division, to quicken and enliven both ourselves and the members." The state of piety was very low. Many members absented themselves from the services. A committee of session waited on the absentees and tried to reconcile the differences. Revs. John McDowell, D. I)., and David Magie, D. D. , of Elizabeth were sent by presbytery to seek ways by which harmony might be restored. A special day of prayer both in private and this church was appointed, but it was not until the summer of 1830 that peace came. A compro- mise was reached between the parties in which both agreed to cease their contentions, unite in the election of a new board of trustees and the support of the church. The law suit was with- drawn, both parties uniting in paying the costs, and the election of trustees took place harmoniously and unanimously. DIFFERENCES. 25 For twelve years ministers came and went and for four years the church sought to restore its energies after the discussion which almost destroyed it. It is a surprise it did not die altogether, but the prayers of the few who took no part in the controversy brought the healing and harmouv. 26 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. CHAPTER V. A LONG PASTORATE. SHE sky was now brightening and better days had come. The man for the occasion was the Rev. Benjamin Cory. A congregational meeting was held on March 30, 1835, and a call made for Mr. Cory's services. It was signed by James Harriott, Charles Ford and Samuel R. Ford, elders, and John Young, Benjamin Maurice, David Crowell, George Hampton, William J. Ford and Edwin Ford, trustees ; Rev. Shepard K. Kollock mod- erating the meeting. The salary promised was three hundred dollars per anum "and as much more as can be raised by the congregation together with the use of the parsonage." Benjamin Cory was born near Westfield, New Jersey, February 24, 1807. In early youth he accepted a position in a store in Eliza- beth and during a revival in the First Presbyterian Church was converted and soon after entered Princeton College, from which he graduated in 1832. He was licensed 1834 and ordained and installed pastor of this church, May 6, 1835. Rev. H. \V. Hunt of Metucheu preached the sermon, Rev. Lewis Bond of Plainfield pre- sided and gave the charge to the pastor and Rev. Thomas REV. benjamin CORY. L- Janeway of Rahway, the A LONG PASTORATE. 2 J charge to the people. Mr. Cory had a twin brother named Joseph and these young men graduated from college in the same class, studied theology together, were li- censed at the same time and ordained at the same session of pres- byter}-. Quietly and patiently was the work carried on, and each year showed an increase in membership and income. The roll had on it in 1835 only twenty-six active members, but when this ministry closed there were one hundred additional members. Two blessed revivals aided in this result, the first in 1837 when twenty-one persons united and the other in 1855 when forty- seven members were received. This ingathering was brought about largely through the earnest prayers of the session which had for its members Samuel G. Woodbridge, Daniel Selover, Cornelius Selover and C. C. Pierson. Without even the knowl- edge of the pastor meetings were held at the close of Sunday services to pray for a revival. Soon there was heard "the sound of a going in the tops of the mulberry trees" and Mr. Cory was urged to call a public meeting in the lecture room for prayer. The little room was thronged ; then other meetings followed with different pastors to help in the preaching and the result was seen in many conversions. The salary was increased in 1840 to $400 and in 1855 to $600. The most marked change was in the addition of the Sun- day School or session room which was built in 1850 on the lot north of the church. This was used until ten years ago when it was sold to the Swedish Congregational church as a place of worship. It is located on Gordon street near State. The com- munion table's were discarded and elements distributed as is now the custom. In the interior of the building the "gilt dove" came down with its perch, and a pulpit of modern style was built with a sofa instead of chairs for the minister's comfort. Stoves took the place of the heated bricks. One was bought and another bor- rowed. So much comfort was derived from the experiment that in 1838 two large wood stoves were purchased and placed in the northwest and southeast corners. One pipe ran the entire length THE CHURCH AND. SESSION ROOM, 1850-1869. A LONG PASTORATE. 29 of the building, and one Sabbath morning during the delivery of the sermon the wire holding it in place broke, and down came pipe, soot and sparks of fire upon the heads of the worshipers. Consternation soon gave place to laughter at the ridiculous ap- pearance of those who received the full benefit of the baptism. The sermon was not resumed. The box pews were displaced with new ones of more modern design. The choir occupied the gallery over the entrance and there soon came an evolution in the musical instruments used, with the tuning fork no longer holding first place. It dis- appeared before a bass viol played by Dr. L. D. Morse and the flute by Edward Crowell. The next change was to a melodeon so small that James Crowell, its possessor, carried it to and from his home every Sunday. The congregation finally was rich enough to purchase its own reed organ, with James Crowell as organist. But its introduction brought about unlooked-for complications, for no interludes or preludes could be played without offending some of the officers. The choir in 1859 was composed of Dr. Morse, Edward Crowell, Robert Freeman, David F. Wait, Thompson Wait and Misses Anna See, Jennie Dunham, S. M. Freeman, Sarah Crowell, Amelia Crowell and Rachel Hull. It was a very serious offence in those far away years for members of the church to engage in the "ungodly sin of danc- ing," and offenders were waited upon by the elders and "urged to refrain." The principal amusement of the winter was the donation party at the parsonage when young and old gathered with edible gifts which they helped to sample, but left enough for the minister and his family for a few days thereafter. Money was also contributed. The Sunday School gave "exhibitions" in the City Hall. Until the lecture room was built the prayer meetings were held in private houses. Sunday service was held morning and afternoon, but on the first Sunday evening of each month a missionary concert was given. A Bible class was taught during the week by Mr. Cory. On Sabbath, June 17, i860, Mr. Cory resigned, but the con- gregation did not act upon it, and then only with reluctance, un- til September 24. His next pastorate was the First Church of 30 PRKSBYTKRIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Plainfield, where he remained five years and then removed to Elizabeth, where he resided until he died, March 18, 1888, in the eighty-second year of his age. For fifty-three years he was a member of this presbytery. Despite his advancing age and conse- quent weakness, he gave earnest and useful public service to the last of life. He was married November 18, 1835, to Miss Man- Crane, who died November, 1901. Two children survive — Mrs. Dr. F. W. Seward, of Goshen, New York, and Mrs. I. C. Kiggins, of Elizabeth. GROWTH. 31 CHAPTER VI. GROWTH. ZTHE Church had grown in strength and usefulness and was not long vacant. A congregational meeting was held Octo- ber 1 1, i860, for the election of a pastor, and Rev. Charles Clark Wallace of Tremont, New York, was unanimously chosen. He was received by Presbytery October 29, and installed on the even- ing of that day. Rev. Benjamin Cory presided. Rev. V. EeRoy Lock wood of Railway preached the sermon from the text, Isaiah 60: i, — Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Rev. Edward B. Edgar of Westfield charged the pastor and Rev. Gardiner S. Plumley of Metuchen the people. Mr. Wallace was born in New York City, June 3, 1832. He prepared for college at Cornelius Institute, entered New York University in 1849, taking the full course, and graduated at Union Seminary, 1856. In June of that year he was ordained and installed by the presbytery of New York as pastor at Tre- mont where he had done mis- sionary work during his semin- ary course. There he remained until coming to Perth Amboy. The first act of this new pas- torate was to arouse enthusiasm REV. CHAS. C. WALLACE, D. D. 32 PRESBYTER I ANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. in missions. ' ' The first Monday evening of each month was set apart as a season for engaging in the concert of prayer for mis- sions," the time that is now used for that purpose. Regular Sabbaths were designated for taking collections for benevolent objects, and the offering on communion Sabbath was appropriated for the poor and the expenses of the session. Inspired by Mr. Wallace's fraternal feeling union services were held with the Bap- tist and Methodist Churches in observing the week of prayer, which is now "the custom. A precious revival stirred the Church in 1862, twenty-two persons uniting at one time. A Church manual was published in this year, giving a history of the Church with the list of members of the congregation. The evening Sabbath service was begun and the afternoon service discontinued. In December, 1863, Mr. Wallace announced his resignation, that he might accept a call to Placerville, California. This was accepted on the twenty-first of the same month, presbytery ac- quiesced on the twenty-ninth and on Sunday, January 3, 1863, Mr. Wallace preached his last sermon and declared the pulpit vacant. Dr. Wallace, (he received his degree from Rutgers College,) remained in California until 1868. After a short pastorate at Watertown, N. Y., he was called to Mahopac Falls in 1S71. Here he remained for ten years. He then received a call to the his- toric Old South Church of Newburyport, Massachusetts, which was his last pastorate and which he resigned in 1888 on account of failing health. One year was passed in Florida and, returning to New England, he died December 22, 1889. He is buried at Westfield, New Jersey. He married Miss Mary Sutherland Bayley of Newbury, Vermont, November 15, i860, who, with one daughter, survives him, living at Newbury. This pastorate was during the trying years of the Civil War, but the Church was carried successfully through the crisis. Dr. Wallace was a most efficient worker, a sensible, earnest preacher, faithful pastor and in all his relations a Christian gentleman. He was a frequent contributor to religious magazines and journals. In 1887 he was elected moderator of the Synod of New York. For six months many candidates had appeared and meetings GROWTH. 33 of the congregation had been held, but no unanimous action could had. Rev. James A. Little of the Third New York Presbytery was invited to supply the Church for nine months, which he did, but his labors were so successful that only half the time had elapsed when he was elected pastor. The meeting held for this purpose was on March 23, 1865. On April 27 he was installed. Rev. G. S. Plumley of Metuchen presided and preached the ser- mon from Ezra 7: 10, — For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments. Rev. G. C. Lucas of Woodbridge gave the charge to the pastor and Rev. E. H. Reinhart the charge to the people. James Andrew Little was born in New York City, July 20, 1837; graduated from the College of the City of New York, 1854 and Union Theological Seminary, 1859, having been a resident graduate of the college one year and a teacher in Wooster street public school one year. For two years he supplied pulpits in New York City and vicinity and in July, 1861, he became stated supply of the Church at Canastota, New York, having been ordained by his own pres- bytery. Thence he came to Perth Amboy. His pastorate ended the last Sabbath in May, 1868, and on March 27, 1869, he entered upon his long and successful pastorate at Hoken- dauqua, Pennsylvania, where his bow still abides in strength. No communion service has passed without additions to the roll of the Church. He has a united congregation, happy family and is beloved by the people of the Lehigh Valley. He received the degree of doctor of divinity REV. JAMES A. LITTLE, D. D. 34 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. from Lafayette College in 1887. He married November 12, 1868, Miss Sarah J. Cooper of New York City. There have been born to them two sons, James E. of Harrisburg, Pa. , and John L. of Allentown, Pa., and three daughters. During Dr. Little's ministry many were added to the Church. The parsonage was renovated and greatly improved and negotiations were begun at the suggestion of William Hall, who for sixteen years was trustee and for nearly that period Church treasurer, for the sale of the Presbyterian burying ground. EXPANSION. 35 CHAPTER VII. EXPANSION. FOR one year or from the departure of Dr. Little the pulpit was supplied by Rev. John F. Pingry, Ph.D., of Elizabeth, New Jersey. Dr. Pingry was born September 26, 1818, at Newbury- port, Massachusetts. He graduated at Dartmouth College, 1836, was a student in Union Theological Seminary, 1 840-1, and was ordained to the ministry, June 28, 1842, at Fishkill, New York, where he was pastor four years. But his chief work was that of teaching, in which he made marked success. He was principal of academies in Fish- kill, Newark and Elizabeth, in the latter city extending from 1 86 1 to the time of his death, February 16, 1894. However, during these many years he preached as oppor- tunity offered in vacant churches, and when he went from here so blessed was his work that the Church was united and ready to call a permanent pastor. This call was extended to Rev. Aaron Peck at a meeting held July 22, 1S69. He began his work in December of that year and was installed January 19, 1870. Rev. Benjamin Cory presided; Rev. H. h. Teller of Plainfield preached the sermon from Pslam 96: 6, — Honor and majesty REV. JOHN I". PINGRY 36 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. The charge to the pastor was given by Rev. Everard Kempshall, D.D., of Elizabeth, and the charge to the people by Rev. J. F. Pingry, Ph. D. Aaron Peck was born in Orange, New Jersey, June 7, 1836. His preparatory studies for college were under the supervision of Rev. D. H. Pierson, D. D., of Elizabeth. His college was Princeton, where he graduated in the class of '57. While a student there he made a public confession of his faith in the Roseville Church, near New- ark, at the age of twenty. In 1858 he entered Princeton Seminary, but spent the next three years in Union Semin- ary where he graduated in 1864. He was licensed by the presbytery of Newark, April 19, 1864, and spent three years as district secretary of the American Sunday School Union, and as supply of churches in Cleveland, Ohio, at the expiration of which service he removed to Perth Ambo}'. The coming of Mr. Peck infused new life into the congrega- tion and started it upon an era of prosperity. The old building which had stood without many changes for almost seventy years, was remodeled and made more comfortable. The lofty spire gave place to a cupola, and an organ alcove in the rear of the pulpit and a new vestibule at the entrance were built. The other changes were the removal of the gallery, elevation of the ceiling, decoration of the walls, replacing of the old windows with stained glass, painting the outside of the church and a furnace taking the place of the stoves. A pipe organ was also bought, new hymn books were introduced and a pul- REV. AARON PECK. EXPANSION. 37 pit and chairs donated. The cost of these improvements amounted to ten thousand dollars. To defray these expenses the manse in Rector street was sold for three thousand dollars; the burying ground on State street for one thousand dollars and the remainder subscribed or provided for by bond and mortgage. At a congregational meeting held on February 22, 1871, the rotary system of electing elders was adopted instead of an active THE CHURCH AND CHAPEL, 1870. service for life, and the elders are now chosen for a term of five years. The time of celebrating the Lord's Supper was changed from the first to the second Sunday of January, April, July and October, which is the time now set apart for the celebration 38 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. of the sacrament. The next important change was in the finan- cial affairs of the Church. At a meeting of the congregation in 1873 it was decided to dispense with pew rentals and depend upon the pledged monthly collections. To each family a pew was assigned by the trustees. This plan continued until 1900. Dur- ing the pastorate sixty persons were received into membership; and in an historical sermon preached in July, 1876, which was printed, Mr. Peck gave this interesting statement: ' ' To-day the Church is better temporally and spiritually than in days gone by. There never has been a time in the his- tory of the Church when there was truly less defection in Christ- ian life than now. Never a time, when, if the memory of those who knew the Church in its childhood and youth be not faulty, the congregations were larger, or its benefactions more num- erous. In 1870 the present Board of Education was constituted with Mr. Peck as president, in whice office he served for six years, and the first public school building in our city was erected, the schools using heretofore the City Hall for that purpose. In the fall of 1874 on account of ill health Mr. Peck re- signed, but this the congregativn refused to accept. A six months' vacation was granted, with Rev. S. C. Hay of Wood- stock, Illinois, as a supply. At another time the pulpit was sup- plied by Rev. James G. Patterson, D. D., of New T York City. On September 2, 1877, his resignation was again offered and ac- cepted in October. From October 14, 1878, to November 2, 1881, Mr. Peck was pastor of the First Church, Williamsburg, Brook- lyn, New York. In October, 1883, he took up his residence in New York City, where he did efficient w r ork in the missions for the lowly and suffering. He died July 3, 1901. On June 16, 1859, Mr. Peck married Miss Julia Manning, who with one daughter survives him. On December 1, 1878, Rev. Norman W. Cary became the stated supply of the Church and continued in this relation until April, 1880. Mr. Cary is a native of New 7 York City. He was a student at Phillips Academy, Andover, Yale College, (class of 1870,) and Princeton Theological Seminary (class of 1873). His license came from the presbytery of Philadelphia, EXPANSION. 39 t»72, and the next year by the same presbytery he was ordained. Mr. Cary came to this Church from Bismarck, North Dakota, and after his faithful service here he accepted a call to Still- water, Minnesota. He has been also pastor at Grand Forks, North Dakota and Moorhead, Minnesota; profes- sor at Fargo, North Dakota, Wilson College, Pennsylvania, and the Michigan Military Academy. He is at present secretary of the Wayne Coun- ty Sabbath School Association of Michigan and actuary of the Citizens' Life Insurance Company with a residence in Detroit. Mr. Cary married Miss Hannah S. Craig, July 20, 1885. The next year after he came to the Church a revival — one of the greatest in our history — stirred the city and as a result thirty-one persons united at one communion season. In July, 1880, Rev. David Stevenson, D. D., was chosen pas- tor. Dr. Stevenson was born in Newry, County Down, Ireland, in 1820 and came to this country when quite young, residing at Cambridge, New York, where he united with the church. He spent two years at Princeton College in the class of '47 and was a student in Princeton Seminary. He was licensed by the pres- bytery of Elizabethtowm April 18, 1850, and ordained an evangel- ist by the presbytery of Indianapolis, June 11, 1851. He resided in Indiana until 1877, being pastor of the following churches in that state: Knightstown, 185 1-2; Third, Indianapolis, 1852-60; Union, 1862-3; Eighth, Indianapolis, 1871-2. He was librarian of the state for two vears and in 1864 published " Indiana's Roll of Honor and Patriotic Dead." He removed to Branchville, N. J., where he was pastor from January 1, 1878, until 1880, when he REV. NORMAN W. CARY. 4° PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY accepted the call to the church at Perth Amboy. Dr. Stevenson was installed October 15, 1880, Rev. E. Kempshall, D. D., pre- sided and gave the charge to the people. Rev. J. G. Mason, D. D., the charge to the pas- tor and Rev. John Ewing preached the sermon. His pastorate of this Church con- tinued for four years, or until October, 1884, and these years are lovingly remembered by all who were in connection with the Church at that time. He was a perfect gentleman and manly man through and through, ever charactized by true courtesy. His grasp of gospel truth was very clear and his method of putting it enegetic, masterful and eloquent. His direct and earnest style and persuasive tone, brought him into close sympathy with his hearers and made his preaching highly effective, and the result was seen in the conver- sion of many souls. The churches which Dr. Stevenson afterward served were, the First, Williamsburg, Brooklyn, from 1884 to 1886 and Gloucester, N. J., from 1889 to July, 1895, when he was honora- bly retired from the active work of the ministry. He was much beloved by his brother ministers and was conscientious in the discharge of his duties as a presbyter. As a commissioner he rep- resented his presbyteries in the general assemblies of Charleston, 1852; New Orleans, 1858; Indianapolis, 1859 and Saratoga Springs, 1890. He died October 25, 1901. He was twice mar- ried, — September 15, 185 1, in Indianapolis to Miss Mary P. Alvord who died in 1868; and in Perth Amboy, December 6, 1887, to Miss Adele Manning. Dr. Stevenson returned to this city in 1899 and was most usefnl in teaching the children in our REV. DAVID STEVENSON, D EXPANSION. 41 Sabbath school and instrumental in enlarging the chapel at Bonhamtown. During his pastorate he was superintendent of schools and did much to advance the standard of teaching. Many candidates appeared for the vacant pulpit but it was not until June 22, 1886, that a final decision was reached, which was a most fortunate one for the Church in a call made to Rev. James H. Owens, who was at the time pastor of the Reformed Dutch Church of Bushnell, Illinois. He was installed Thurs- day evening, August 12, the sermon being preached by Rev. B. S. Everitt of Jamesburg. Rev. J. A. Laggett, D. D., gave the charge to the pastor and Rev. J. G. Mason, D. D., the charge to the people. This pastorate was greatly blessed in the large additions to the membership, two hundred and twenty six persons having been received in eight years. The old Sunday school room which had done service for nearly half-a-century gave place to the pres- ent chapel which was erected in 1891. The year following an addition was made to the chapel, a new furnace bought, water motor attached to the organ, roof repaired, church painted, opera chairs instead of the pews placed in the church, the wall re-decorated and new carpet laid, the whole cost be- ing $4,000. A manse was built on High street in 1887. The Christian Endeavor So- ciety was organized, the For- eign Missionary Society brought to life again and mis- sion work inaugurated at First and Washington streets. In 1892 Rev. Wilbur F. Chap- man, D. D. , conducted Evan- gelistic services with re- sults of great value to the Church. REV JAMES H. OWENS. THE MANSE, 1887-1901. EXPANSION. 43 Mr. Owens' ill health compelled him to go South in the winter of 1892-3, the Church readily giving him a vacation; the pulpit was supplied by Rev. E. A. Holdridge. To the regret of the congregation he accepted a call to the East Side Church of Paterson, N. J., in 1894 and the relations which had existed so pleasantly were dissolved in February of that year. Mr. Owens was born at Hyde Park, N. Y., and at thirteen yearsof age united with the First Reformed (Dutch) Church of Yonkers, N. Y. He graduated at Rutgers College and New Brunswick Theological Seminar}-, was ordained by the classisof Passaic and settled at Fair- field, N.J. , from which church he was called to Bushnell. He mar- ried Miss Letitia Van Nuis of Jamesburg. The church was sup- plied after Mr. Owens' retirement and until the election of a pastor by Rev. W. A. Rice, D. D. , Secretary of the American Tract Society. On May 3, 1894, Rev. George B. Van Dyke of Watertown, New York, was called to the pastorate, and installed July 17. Rev. J. A. Blauvelt, D.D., presided and preached the sermon. Rev. George Swain, D.D., gave the charge to the pastor and Rev. James H. Owens the charge to the people. Mr. Van Dyke was born at Bloomsbury, New Jersey, but his parents soon after moved to Cranbury, where his father, Rev. Joseph S. Van Dyke, was pastor of the Sec- ond church. He graduated from Princeton College, 1888, and after teaching a year en- tered Princeton Seminary, graduating in 1892. He was ordained by the presbytery of Monmouth, May 12, and on June 1, took charge of the work in Hope chapel, Water- town, a mission of the First church, where he remained until his removal to this city. The mission work in the Washington street district was REV. GEORGE b. van dyke. 44 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. transferred to a building on Smith street. Mr. Van Dyke promoted the sabbath school work and was instrumental in opening a Sun- day school at Keasbey which is now in a flourishing condition. The mission at Washington and First streets was removed to Smith street, near Prospect, where the services were largely at- tended, but in 1898, it was combined with the church school. On February 9, 1898, the congregation accepted Mr. Van Dyke's res- ignation that he in turn might accept a call to the church at Ham- monton, N. J. In December, 1899, he removed to Lowville, N. Y. He was married September 14, 1899, to Miss Mary E.. daughter of Rev. George Swain, D. D., of Allentown, N. J. After Mr. Van Dyke's removal the church was supplied for a year by Rev. Henry Ketcham, of Westfield, N.J. ARISE AND BUII.D. 45 CHAPTER VIII. Arise and Build. 77 HE twentieth century found the village of Perth Amboy with its seven hundred people expanded into a city of twenty thousand inhabitants. The tiny seed planted one hundred years ago, had grown into a great tree. The great grandchildren of the founders of this organization greeted the new century with the same faith and confidence that inspired their parents in the misty- past. The needs of the growing population demanded a building larger and better suited to modern church work; and the voice of Nehemiah was heard. — The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore, we his servants will arise and build. On January 10, 1900, a meeting of the congregation was held to consider the whole question of building and at its close a com- mittee, consisting of the elders and trustees, was appointed as a ways and means committee to determine what action could be best taken that would increase the accommodations of the church. Charles D. Snedeker was appointed chairman and Wilbur LaRoe, secretary. In March at another meeting of the congregation, it was decided to erect a new building, and in pursuance of this deci- sion this committee was authorized to purchase the lot at the south- east corner of Market Square for $4,500, which was done. The different societies and members of the church entered heartily into this movement, secured a sufficient amount of money to make the first payment on the lot, and committees were appointed at later meetings to secure subscriptions to the amount of $10,000 at least for a new church, and invite designs from architects. A.F.Leicht's plans were adopted, and contracts were made for the construction of a building to cost $20,225. The building committee was chosen consisting of John H. Gregory, Edward W. Barnes, John J. Errata — For 1900, read 1901. 4 6 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Deitche and C. D. Snedeker, president of the Board of Trustees. The parsonage and the old church were sold, the latter now being used for dwelling houses on Catalpa avenue ; an ad- ditional lot on the southwest corner of Market and Rector streets CHAPEL, ERECTED 1891. was bought for $1,500, the church then coining into possession of the entire property bounded by the Market Square, Market and Rector streets. Ground was broken for the new church on Tuesday, Novem- ber 20. Preliminary exercises were held in the old building, with prayer by Rev. H. G. Mendenhall, and an address by Rev. J. H. ARISE AND BUILD. 47 Owens. The congregation then gathered on the vacant lot where our new sanctuary stands and the first shovelful of earth was lifted by the pastor, followed by Rev. J. H. Owens. Then follow- ing in order were the three members of the church who had been in connection with the organization for fifty years and longer, Elder C. C. Pierson, Mrs. Frances W. Coutts (represented by Miss M. C. Hight) and Mrs. Ellen Sneath (represented by Mrs. Herbert Dayton), Edward W. Barnes for the Sunday School, Charles D. Snedeker for the trustees, Adrian Lyon for the session, Miss A. E.VanNuis for the Foreign Missionary Society, Mrs. A. C. Mount for the Home Missionary Society, Mrs. S. C. Conipton for the Ladies' Mite Society, Mrs. E. W. Barnes for the Ladies' Auxiliary, William W. Henry for the Young People's Society of Christian Endeavor, Miss Ella Ram- say for the Junior Endeavor Society, John A. Banner for the Westminster Cadets, Mrs. James Chalmers for the Choir and C. Lee Straub for the ushers. The cornerstone of the new building was laid Saturday, April 12, 1902, with the following order of service : Hymn, Christ isour Corner Scone ; Scripture Reading, Rev. R. White ; Prayer, Rev. A. W. Sproull, D. D. ; Hymn by the Junior Endeavor Society; Addresses by Hon. Charles Keen Seaman, Mayor ; Rev. S. Trevena Jackson, Pastor Simpson M. E. Church ; Rev. Percy R. Ferris, Pastor Baptist Church ; Rev. Andrew Hanson, Pastor Danish M. E. Church ; Hymn, Blest be the. tie that binds ; Ad- dress, Rev. Henry Elliott Mott, D. D., Moderator Elizabeth Presbytery ; Reading List of Articles Deposited in the Corner Stone, Hon. Adrian Lyon; Laying the Stone, by Rev. H. G. Mendenhall, D. D. ; Hymn, O Lord of hosts, whose glory fills; Benediction, Rev. J. M. McNulty, D. D. A silver trowel used in laying the corner stone was presented by Architect Leicht to the Church. The list of articles placed in the box is as follows : Bible, roll of Church, Sabbath school and officers, of- ficers of the Church, Women's Foreign Missionary So- ciety, Women's Home Missionary Society, Ladies' Mite Society, Ladies' Auxiliary, C. E. Society, Junior C. E. Society, Westminster Cadets, Men's League ; topic cards of C. 48 PRKSBYTERIANISM IN PKRTH AMBOY. E. and Junior C. E. ; program Women's Foreign Missionary So- ciety for 1 901 -2 ; copies daily Chronicle and Republican of April 1 1 ; photographs of the old church and chapel, two inside and one outside ; account of breaking ground for new church in Chronicle of November 20 ; sermon on President McKinley by the pastor ; annual Church report for 1902 ; program of corner stone laying ; Presbyterian hand book for 1902 ; history of Pres- byterian Church of Perth Amboy by Rev. Aaron Peck, 1876 ; first record of the Church organization ; coins of 1901 and 1902 ; Presbyterian papers, Banner, Presbyterian, Herald and Presbyter, Interior, Evangelist and Observer ; New York Times, Herald, Tribune, Sun; Shorter Catechism; Presbyterian publications, As- sembly Herald, Women's Work for Women, Home Mission Month- ly, Session Helps; Middlesex Sunday School Association minutes. The church was dedicated with appropriate ceremonies on Sunday, January 25, 1903, the centennial anniversary exercises continuing during the week. The church is constructed on the lines of the old English Gothic style, with a stately tower on one corner and two small towers, one on each side of the building, with large gables fronting on Market street and the Park. The entrance to the main auditorium is through all three towers. The build- ing is 78 feet wide and about 115 feet long on the outside, and is constructed of Stockton Peach Blossom granite, from the Stock- ton quarries, located in the western part of New Jersey. The main auditorium is a perfect circle, 64 feet in diameter, with seating capacity of 520 persons. The pulpit platform and organ loft are circular and beautifully paneled. On the same floor are located pastor's study, ladies' parlors, and choir rooms with all the necessary conveniences. The ceiling of the auditorium is constructed of an open truss and paneled in hard wood, with ventilator in the centre. This church is one of the most modern and comfortable meeting houses in the State of New Jersey. It is lighted throughout with electricity, and has a perfect steam heating plant located in the cellar, which will be sufficient to make the church comfortable in the coldest weather, and is well ventilated for warm weather. Above the main vestibule in the large tower is located a room for the meet- insrs of the board of trustees. INTERIOR OF CHURCH, 1869-1891. INTERIOR OF CHURCH, 1891-1901. 5Q PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY THE CHURCH AND CHAPEL, 1891-19OI, EDUCATION. The history of Presbyterianism in Perth Amboy can not be closed without recalling the fact that in the matter of education our church and ministry have had much to do. The first pastors were also principals of academies, and their positions were taken, as the city grew, by others who were members of the congregation. Rev. Job Halsey, D. D., in 1836, established a Ladies' Seminary in the building at the northwest corner of Market and Water ARISE AND BUILD. 5 1 streets, and in 1846, Rev. Luther Halsey was associated with him. Students from distant places in our land and the West Indies made this school very popular. In 1869 the Raritan Fe- male Seminary was opened in the building at the southwest cor- ner of Water and Market streets by Misses Marianne and Jennie F. Manning, assisted later by Miss Adele Manning. This was also prosperous and continued for twenty-seven years. An academy for boys was opened in 1835, by Mr. Stephen G. Woodbridge, and this was in successful operation for nearly thirty years. A library was established very early in the history of this church. Its books were of a high character and for a long time it was popular and extensively patronized. In 1861 the books were sold. In 1888, Mrs. Annie Bower Hesser, who was a resi- dent of the Westminster Home, called a meeting of women from all the churches to discuss the founding of a public library. This meeting began a work which developed into a library association, from which has come the present Perth Amboy Public Library and the Carnegie Library building. The Westminster Home is the government building, dating back to 1762, and was the residence, in 1776, of Governor William Franklin. It was given in 1883, to the Board of Ministers' Relief of the Presbyterian Church, by Dr. Alexander Bruen, son of Matthias Bruen, as a home for retired Presbyterian clergymen, their widows and children. It has had as its guests many men and women who have done valiant service for Christ, in our own land, and foreign fields. They have been helpful in the work of the local church, as well as a blessing to the city. MEMBERSHIP FOR HALF A CENTURY. This volume must not end without a record of our mem- bers whose names have been on our roll for fifty years and more. The first in service was Mrs. Frances H. Coutts, who died during the preparation of this history, December 5, 1902. Her maid- en name was Frances H. Wheaton. She was born in this city, December 23, 1820, and united with the church in 1834, her membership extending through sixty-eight years. She was married in 1840, to George M. Coutts. 52 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Mrs. Eleanor Sneath has been a member for fifty-nine years. She was enrolled in 1843. Her birth place was Perth Amboy, and the time, 1821. Her maiden name was Eleanor Wood. She was married to John W. Sneath in 1846. Caleb C. Pierson. See page 53. Mrs. James Wait's membership covers fifty-one years. Her maiden name was Emma Hughes, and she was married in 1848. Mrs. Emma Compton united with the church in 1853. Her maiden name was Emma Disosway, and she was married in 1846, to George Alfred Compton. OUR FOREIGN MISSIONARY. This church is honored in having one of its members enrolled as a foreign mission- ary in far-off India — Miss Emma Morris. Miss Morris, daughter of Frank B. and Emma Girvan Morris, was born in Mauch Chunk, Pa., where she became a member of the Presbyterian Church. She was educated in the public schools of her native city and Miss Gertrude Smith's Seminary, in Perth Amboy. She became a raem- miss Emma morris. ber of this church in 1886, and in 1892 was appointed by the Board of Foreign Missions, of the Presbyterian Church, a missionary teacher in India. For five years she labored at Eodiana, and for two years was a teacher in the Woodstock School. She then returned to her home land on a furlough for one year, but, in 1901. was back again in India. Her present station is Jagraon, Punjab, where she is engaged in Zenana Work. ARISE AND BUILD. 53 OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH. — THE SESSION. The pastor, Harlan G. Mendenhall, D. D., is a native of Coatesville, Penn. He was educated at Williston Seminary, Lafayette College and Western Theological Seminary; licensed by the presbytery of Chester, and ordained by the presbytery of Fort Wayne. He came to this church from the First Church of Kansas City, Kansas, March, 1900, but was not installed until May 9, 1 90 1. At that service, Rev. J. G. Mason, D. D., of Metuchen, presided ; Rev. W. R. Richards, D. D., of Plainfield, preached the sermon; Rev. W. A. Rice, D. D., of Newark, gave the charge to the pastor ; and Rev. E. B. Cobb, D. D., of Elizabeth, the charge to the people. Caleb C. Pierson has been a member of this church for fifty-two years. He united on profession of his faith with the Montclair Church in 1843, and transferred his membership to Perth Amboy in 1850. In 1855, he was elected elder and has served continuously for forty-seven years. In 1858, he was elected trustee, and served as such for sixteen years. Edward W. Barnes united with this church on certificate from the church in Tamaqua, Pa., in 1865. In 187 1, he was elected elder and clerk of session. He continued to act as clerk for twenty-eight years. In 1878 he became superintendent of the Sunday School. He was mayor of this city in 1894-6. He was a member of the school board in 189 1-4. Adrian Lyon united with this church in 1888, on certificate from the church of Pluckemin, N. J. He was chosen elder in 1898, and clerk in 1899. Mr. Lyon is also assistant general superintendent of the Sunday School. He was superintendent of public schools in Perth Amboy, in 1894-5 > member of the legislature in the sessions of 1900 and 1901; and appointed judge of the first district court of Perth Amboy, 1901. Samuel E. Shull transferred his membership from ^he church of South Easton, Pa., in 1895, and was elected elder in 1898. Mr. Shull has been superintendent of the schools of this city since 1895, and is a member of the Public Library Board. CALEB .('. PIEBSON. SAMUEL E. SHUliL. ADRIAN LYON. WILBUR I. IROE. EDWARD W. BARNES. CHARLES 1>. SNEDEKER. John .r. deitche. HENRY PETTV. JOHN H. GREGORY. C. DOUGLAS ERASER. ARISE AND BUILD. 55 TRUSTEES. John J. Deitche became a resident of Perth Amboy in 1867, bnt his membership in this church did not begin until 1879, when he was received by letter from the church of Metuchen. That year he was elected a trustee and has served continuously since that time. Mr. Deitche is superintendent of the Inter- mediate department of the Sunday-school. In 1896-7 he was an alderman of the city. He is engaged in the retail and wholesale grocery business. C. Douglas Fraser united with the church on profession of faith in 1889. He was elected trustee in 1900. Mr. Fraser is Over- seer of the Silver Refinery of the American Smelting Company. John H. Gregory was received into membership on certificate from the church of Red Bank in 1888. He was elected trustee in 1900. Mr. Gregory's business is that of wrecker and dealer in vessels. Wilbur LaRoe became a member of the church is 1889 on a certificate from the church of Westfield. He was elected trustee in 1899. Mr. LaRoe is assistant Editor and Manager of the daily "Chronicle." Henry Petty united with the church on profession of faith in 1892. He was chosen trustee in 1894. Mr. Petty is a member of the firm of Petty & Applegate. Charles D. Snedeker became a member of the organization in 1895 on certificate from the Second Reformed Dutch Church in New Brunswick, N. J. He was elected trustee in 1899. Mr. Snedeker is a member of the Public Library Board and is sec- retary and treasurer of the Perth Amboy Dry Dock Company. Samuel S. Shull was elected trustee in 1900. SPECIAL GIFTS AND MEMORIALS. In addition to the large and generous gifts of individuals and socities, the following special gifts have been made to the new church : Desk for pastor's study by Ladies' Mite Society. Carpet for church and study by Ladies' Auxiliary. Collection plates by Mrs. Charles D. Snedeker and Mrs. John J. Davison. 56 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Pulpit furniture by Adrian Lyon. Pulpit cloth and Bible marker by Miss Bertha M. Mitchell. Hymn board and chairs for communion table by Mrs. Ella Men- denhall Baldwin and Howard L. Mendenhall. Two collection plates by Edward W. Barnes. Table for platform by the Junior class of the Sunday school in memory of their teacher, Rev. David Stevenson, D. D. Communion table by Misses Emma and Mary Morris and Mrs. Lindsay Morris Stirling, in memory of their father, Frank B. Morris, for thirteen years a trustee of this church and for many years a teacher in the Sabbath school. Collection plate by Mrs. Amelia G. Hadden in memory of her husband, Cornelius Hadden, a trustee for ten years and an elder for twenty-seven years. Collection plate by Mrs. Georgia Mitchell Watson, in mem- ory of her mother, Mrs. Sarah B. Mitchell, a member of this church, 1879-1900. Baptismal Font by Mr. and Mrs. James W. Lupton, in memory of their children, Carrie May and Edna M. Memorial window by Mrs. Julia Peck, in memory of her hus- band, Rev. Aaron Peck, pastor of this church 1869- 1877. This window pictures the miracle recorded in Luke 5: 1-11 — the draught of fishes. In the foreground are Peter and James toiling at the breaking net ; John stands behind them. On the opposite side of the ship is Christ, who speaks to Peter the precious words — Fear not ; from henceforth thou shalt catch men. ADDENDA. EARLY DOCUMENTS. RECORD OF THE FIRST SESSION MEETING. Perth Amboy, Jan'y 23, 1804. The following persons, viz. Elias Riggs, minister, and John Angus, David Wait and John Lewis, who had been previousl)- chosen, and set apart by prayer, to the office of Ruling Elders in the Presbyterian Church in this place, met by agreement, at the house of John Angus and constituted a Session. Began with prayer. ' The Session thought proper to begin their minutes with a his- torical account of the rise and progress of this church. The fol- lowing, drawn up by Mr. Riggs, being deemed as full and satis- factory as can be obtained, was ordered to be inserted. [Here follows the history already printed elsewhere.] On the 27th of August, agreeably to previous notice such per- sons as had been members of the Presbyterian Church met to- gether in the house of God, and there, as in His presence, sub- scribed the following covenant: "We, whose names are hereunto subscribed, professing faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of sinners, and having for- merly, according to this our faith, publicly dedicated ourselves to God, and connected ourselves with his professing people, being now removed to an inconvenient distance from our former christian connections, and still desirous, in this place, as in every place where the Lord may cast our lot, of enjoying the privilege of christian fellowship and of testifying our attachment to our Lord, by waiting upon him in the ordinances of his appointment, in a regular manner, do solemnly engage to unite together for these good purposes, mutually to watch over and mutually to submit ourselves under Christ, to the watch and guardianship of one another, hoping and praying, that, in due time, under the 58 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. divine blessing, we may be more fully organized and built up to- gether a holy church of God." John Angus, Elizabeth Coddington, Margaret Clark, Phebe Harriott, Margaretta Clark, Rachel Friend. Mr. Jno. Lewis, who was unexpectedly prevented from at- tending this meeting, assented to the covenant and subscribed his name in the evening of the same day. Lord's day, August 28, 1803. The sacrament of the Lord's Supper was celebrated. This was ye first time, so far as we know, that this holy ordinance was ever observed in Amboy, after the Presbyterian manner. On this day Mr. David Wait joined himself to our little flock. Mrs. Susanna Thomson, who had been a member of the Metho- dist Church, was received to communion with us. Lord's day Jan'y 22, 1804. Messrs. John Angus, David Wait and John Lewis were solemnly set apart by prayer, to the office of ruling elders in this church, and on the following even- ing entered upon their office as above related. Concluded with prayer. — THE OFFICIAL RECORDS OF THE FIRST TRUSTEES. "In the Presbyterian Church at the City of Perth Amboy, Saturday evening, July 14th, 1804 The male members having met for the purpose of choosing trustees for this church in conformity to the act of incorporation, public notice having been given by advertisement at least ten days previously, The Rev. Elias Riggs was chosen moderator after which they proceeded to the choice of three trustees, when John Angus, David Wait and John Lewis were unanimously elected. Attest. Elias Riggs, Mod. of the meeting:. We the subscribers, being duly elected on the 14th day of July, one thousand eight hundred and four, as trustees of the Presbyterian Church of the City of Perth Amboy, in the County of Middlesex and State of New Jersey, and having taken the oaths required by law, do call and subscribe ourselves as above expressed, the Trustees of the Presbyterian Church in the City of Perth Amboy. Witness our hands and seals this 10th day of December, 1804. Jno. Angus [l. s.] David Wait [l. s.] John Lewis [l. s.] Trustees. ADDENDA. 59 Came to the clerk's office of Middlesex County, December 13, 1804, and was recorded in book entitled "Incorporated Societies" hv Wm. P. Deare, Clerk. Middlesex County ) State of New Jersey ) SS Personally appeared before me, Ephriam Harriot, "one of the Justices of the Peace in and for said county, John Angus, David Wait and John Lewis, trustees elect for the Presbyterian Church of the City of Perth Amboy, and have taken the oaths prescribed by the fifth section of religious societies, viz: The oath to sup- port the constitution of the United States, the oath of allegiance prescribed by law and an oath for the faithful execution of the trust reposed in them. Sworn before me this tenth day of December, 1804, one of the Justices of the Peace in and for said county. Ephr'm Harriott, Justice of Peace. SUBSCRIPTION LIST FOR CHURCH BUILDING, l8o2. We the subscribers have paid into the hands of Capt. John Angus, the sums affixed to our respective names for the purpose of building a Presbyterian Church in the City of Perth Amboy, in the State of New Jersey, where there was formerly one which was destroyed in the Revolutionary War. New York Subscribers — Arch Gracie, 20; Jno. Munro, 20; Daniel Gordon, 10; Samuel Campbell, one doz. Psalm book's for the poor; William Cumberland, one Gilt Dove for the Pulpit; Thomas Buchanan, 20; Gilbert Robertson, 20; Peter Kemble, 5; Alexander Stewart, 2 kegs and a half of yellow paint and 5; Charles Smith, Water street, 5; Thomas Post, 5; Thos. Carpen- ter, 10; Nat. Bloodgood, 2.50; Thomas H. Smith Jr., 2; Matthew Roger, 3; Edward Reid, 3; Henry Ten Brook, 5; John B. Clark, 5; T. Satten, 3; Garrit Gilbert, 3; Edward Etting, 2.50; John McKillop, 3; Walter Rutherford, 25; John Roe, 25; Ebenz. Stevens, one large Bible for the use of the church; Brockholst Livingstone, 15; W. Neilsen, 20; Margaret Douglas, 15; Henry Rutgers, 30; J. G. Warren, 15; Daniel McCormick, 20; Andrew Smith, 20; David Bethune, 20; Peter Schemerhorn, 1=;; Samuel Burling, the Mahogany for the Pulpit equal to 40; George Cald- well, Communion vessels; James Scott, 20; Andrew Anderson, 10; John Hone, 10; Wm. Renwick, 15; J. N. Griffith, ro; A. Y. 60 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Tuyl, 5; H. Kermit, 10; Geo. Barnewall, 10; James Tillary, 10; John MacGregor, 10; Benj. Page, 5; John Stevens, 20; Jas. Rob- ertson, 5; H. Scott, 10; Isaac Roe, 5; Robt. Cocks, 10; Robert Stewart, 5; Ambraham Varick, 5; R. Richer, 5; Andrew Morris, 5; Robert Gosman, 5; H. G. Rutgers, 5; cash, 258. Philadelphia Subscribers — Elias Boudinot, 20; Robt. Ralston, 20; Robert Smith, 20; Thos. Ewing, 20; Thomas Leiper, 20; Magnus Miller, 20; James Crawford, 20; Thos. M. Kean, 20; Geo. Latimer, 20; John Maybin, 20; Stephen Girard, 20; J. B. Hennesey, 20; Geo. Z. Reinnour for Paul Siemen, 20; Geo. Z. Reinnour, 20; Hugh Jackson, 20; John Steinmetz, 20; John G. Wachsmuth, 20; Lewis Clapier, 20; Benjamin Wickes, 20; Ed- ward Bard, 20; Richard Stiles, 10; Henry Pepper, 10; J. Cnoly, 20; Chas. S. Baneker, 10; Lewis Neill, 20; G. Hamilton, 20; Joseph Higbee, 20; William Bainbridge, 20; Walter Lowrey, 50. Newark and Elizabethtown Subscribers — D. W. DeCamp, 20; Elisha Boudinot, 10; Archibald Mercer, 10; James Hadden, 3; Jas. Ten Brook, 3; J. M. Cunning, 10; Arch Gifford, 5; Alex C. McWhorter, 6; Isaac Ailing, 10; Stephen Hays, 4; Benjamin Coe, 5; Ezra Baldwin, 5; Samuel Whitaker, 2; Caleb Wheeler, 2; Uzal Sayrs, 5; Nath'l Beach, 10; Abiel Campbell, 2; Daniel Banks, 1; Jacob Plum, 1; Timothy Anderson, 2; George Scriba, 10; Moses McCombs, 6; Adam D. Crane, 2; F. Burnet, 3; John Wallis, 1 ; Samuel Hay, 3; Samuel Remington, 1; S. Gould, 1; I. Parkhurst, 2; Nath'l Seabury, 2; Jonathan Sayre, 5; Henry Kol- lock, 20; Lewis Woodruff, 2; Elias Dayton, 10; E. B. Dayton, 4; John Chandler, 5; Ralph Price, 1; Wililam Dayton, 1; Ralph Marsh, 2. Boston Subscribers — Samuel Elliott, 50; Benj. Bussey, 20; Ed- ward Blake, Jr. , 20; Jeremiah Allen, 20; Thomas & Andrews, in books to the academy connected with the church at Amboy, one hundred volumes; Eben Dow, 25; J. E. 5, K. J. 5, D. J. 5, 15; Thos. K. Jones, 20; Win. Ritchie, 10; Friends, 75; Joseph Coolidge, 20; Jed. Morse. 5 and fifteen books; K. G. Shaw, 10; Robert Murry, 10; Gid Snow, 10; Charles dishing, 5; Samuel Bradford, 10; J. Q. Adams, 10; Samuel Ingalls, 10; Simon For- rester, 10; Jacob Ashton, 10; Edward Allen Jr., 10; John Derby, 16; B. Parkman, 20; George Crownishield & Sons, 20; George Dodge, 10; Samuel Derby, 5; Clifford Crownishild, 10; Samuel Snelling, 10; J. White & Co., thirty-five volumes books to the Academy; Eben Lackin, twenty volumes books to the Academy; Wash Greenleaf, twenty volumes books to the Acad- emy; John Boyle, 10, in books to the Academy; Samuel Hall, 10, in books to the Academv; A. F. Gregone, 10. ADDENDA. 6 1 Porthsmouth, N. H. Subscribers — John Rangoon, 10; Elijah Ladd, 10; E. Cutts, 3; Samuel Hill, 5; James Sheaff, 10. Misplaced while on board the packet a paper subscribed to the amount of 152 dollars by the inhabitants of Newport and Provi- dence, R. I. COPY OF THE FIRST SUBSCRIPTION LIST FOR PASTOR'S SALARY. We the subscribers promise to pay the sums affixed to our re- spective names in quarterly payments, for the support and main- tenance of a Presbyterian Minister in the City of Perth Amboy for one year to commence as soon as he shall begin to officate in his duty. Commenced March 7, 1802. Margaretta Clark . . . .20 David Marsh 8 J no. Angus 20 George Compton 8 David Wait 10 William Chase 6 James Harriott 10 Abraham Webb 4 Richard Stevens .... 10 Thomas Crow 5 Abraham Ay res .... 10 Benj. Ford 8 Joseph Golding 4 Shubal Merritt 8 Caleb Ward 8 Cornelius Disosway .... 5 James Compton 10 Joseph Wright 2 William Cross 6 William Hamilton 6 John Roe 6 70 REV. MR. RIGGS EMPOWERS TRUSTEES TO COLLECT HIS SALARY. Know all men by these presents that I Elias Riggs have con- stituted and do hereby constitute my worthy friends John Angus, Esq., John Lewis, Esq. and Mr. David Wait or either of them, my lawful attorney, with full power, jointly or severally, as to them may seem expedient, to act for me in collecting and re- ceipting for all monies which are now due to me for services per- formed in Perth Amboy. Witness ray hand and seal this 24th day of March, A. D., 1807. Elias Riggs. Witness: Lewis Compton. GEORGE COMPTON'S BUILDING ACCOUNT. Amboy City, July 5, 1802. July 1802. To making 15 spikes £ 0.15.06 To altering a spiar 6.00 To 12 staples and keys 6.06 To 2 hinges 1.2.06 To making a lightning rou . . . . . _\ 12.00 62 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. To making staples 3-° 6 To 12 i^ bolts 12.06 To making staples 5.00 To 12 plates, 2 beams pnlpit 1. 11.00 To 1 Hook, 2 bands 11.06 To Gudgeons boxes and rivets 16.00 To 11 locks and rivets 3.06 To 6 screw bolts 6.06 To hinges, 1 rod iron 14.06 To 1-2 the amount of work by Web and Comp- ton 1. 16.01 12. 2.7 Deduct by subscription to the church $20 . . 8. 4.2.07 SUBSCRIPTION LIST FOR PARSONAGE, 1809. We the subscribers promise to pay into the hands of John Angus, David Wait or John Lewis, or their successors, trustees of the Presbyterian Church and Academy in the City" of Perth Amboy, the sum affixed to our respective names, for the purpose of building a Parsonage House for the accommodation of the pastor and principal of the said church and academy. It is ex- pressly understood that the object of this donation is for the com- bined purpose of procuring a competent teacher for the seminary of Amboy. Having found by experience that the emoluments heretofore have not been sufficient to support a proper character; it is therefore proposed to subscribe a sufficient sum to build a a house for the pastor of said church and teacher of the academy. Perth Amboy, Sept. 22, 1809. James Harriott, $20; William Cross, 25; Abraham Avers, 15; Elizabeth Codington, 20; William Bloodgood, 10; Daniel Avers, vSr., in timber or stone, 7.50; Joshua Bloodgood in mason work, 5; John Lewis, 40; Rev. D. C. Hopkins (all due on pew rent) 3; James Flate, 2; Rev. Elias Riggs, 30; May Cook, 5; Margaret Clark, 2.50; John Angus, the ground to build the Manse in 120 and 100 in cash; Samuel Angus, 50; Alex Sample, 30; Robert Bethel, 25; Tutor Brown, 10; Arthur Harper, 10; James Rich- ards, 5; John McDowell, 5; John Mills, 5; Barclay Carll, 5; Sam- uel D. Smith, 5; Samuel Miller, 5; Edward D. Griffin, 5; Ebenez- er Grant, 10; Matthew LaPerrine, 5; Noah Crane, 2.50; Asa Hill- yer, 5; John Woodhull, 5; Nathan Woodhull, 5; Win. Lawson, ADDENDA. 63 2.50; G. Williams, 3; Phin Manning, 25; John Brewster, 1; J. Manning, 18; Mrs. Sarah Malcom, 10; John Bayard, 5; M. Chrystie, 3; Thomas Brown, 10; Governor Crawford, 5; Robt. Bethell, 10; Daniel Perrine, 20; Nath'l Manning, 15; James Mor- gan, 10; Daniel Perrine, 20 on condition that the parsonage house is not mortgaged; George Compton, 5; Charles Ford, 3; John Viof, 3; Thomas Avers, 5; David Wait, 55; Jas. Edgar, 10; Thomas Akin, 25; N. K. Taylor, 10; Wm. Hamilton, 5; Lewis Arnold, 5; Benj. Ford, 2; Charles Ford, 3; Wm. Ford, Jr., 2; Isaac Potter, 5. bill rendered by alex sample for parsonage. Perth Amboy, 1809. Trustees of Presbyterian Church. To Alex Sample, Dr. May 31. 1 lb Rought Neils £ o. 1 .05 8.02 July 3i 2 3 15 19 20 21 22 23 26 27 28 3 4 8 12 26 28 Augt. 15- Sundreys to Black Benn 14 oz. Powder for Blowing Stone 1 quart Spirits 1 ' quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 3 pints Spirits t . . 4 lb Rought Neils 1 gallon Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 1 lb Putty 1 quart Spirits 1 quart Spirits 4 papers lamblack @ l /> . . . . 1 quart Spirits 7 lb iod Neils 18 lb iod Neils 7.00 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 3-05 5.08 9.00 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 2.03 1. 00 2.03 2.03 4.08 2.03 7.00 18.00 64 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AM BOY. 28. 4 lb whiteing, 1 lb Rought Neils 3.05 30. 22 8d Neils 1.2.00 Sept. 1. 6 lb Neils, 1 lb Rought Neils 7.05 3 pints Spirits 3.09 2. 1 quart Spirits, 4 lb Neils 6.06 4. 12 lb Neils 12.00 9. 13 lb Neils 13-00 14. 7 lb Neils 7.00 15. 1 quart Spirits 2.06 16. iolb Neils, 2 Rought Neils 12.10 28. 4 lb Putt}- 4.00 Oct. 3. 1 quart Spirits 2.06 13. 3 lb Yallow Paint, 1-2 lb Litchragh .... 5.00 1 quart Spirits 1.06 19. 6 lb White Lade 11.00 1 lb Putty, 1-2 lb Litchragh 2.06 23. 8 lb Neils 8.00 To cash paid Bonnenton for diging seller . 2.0.00 To do for Blowin Stone 14.00 To do for Plasterin Hare 12.00 To do for Wikes Mans Bording 2.00.00 ,£17.2.09 FOR A PARSONAGE WELL — l8lO. Persons composing the congregation of the Presbyterian Church of this city, who wish to see its property improved by having a well made on the parsonage lot as well to render it more convenient and comfortable for their pastor, as to add to its value hereafter, are now called upon to contribute towards that object in any way that may be most convenient to themselves either in money, labour or material. These therefore who feel disposed to lend their aid will affix opposite their respective names whatever they choose to give towards so useful and neces- sary appendage to the property of their church. The amount required not being great the contribution, if general, will fall light upon all. Then follow twenty-four names with $58 in cash and labor and material. PEW RENTALS WITH NAMES OF OCCUPANTS — [809-IO. Number Name Annual Tax 1 James Wait 8 2 David Smally and Isaac Andrew 5.00 3 Mrs. Dorset 3-5 $3 5.00 ADDENDA. 65 4 Caleb Ward 5.00 5 John Angus, Esq 8.00 6 The estate of Phineas Mailing, dec'd .... 8.00 7 Henry Hampton y? $4 8.00 8 Vacant 8.00 9 " 3-5o 10 L,ewis Arnold 3.50 11 Vacant 3.50 12 Thomas Akin 3.00 13 Nathaniel K. Taylor 3.00 [4 Vacant 2.50 15 i-50 16 1.50 17 " x -50 18 " 4.00 9 i Taken up for Library 4.00 21 Vacant 2.50 22 " 3.00 23 3-00 24 " 3-5o 25 William Bloodgood 3.50 26 Thomas Griggs 3.50 27 Mrs. Coddington 8.00 28 James Compton 8.00 29 Col. James Harriott 8.00 30 Daniel Perrine, Esq. ^$5 and Dr. Mailing . 8.00 31 Mrs. Cook v ? $2.50 5.00 32 John Lewis 5.00 33 George Compton 5.00 34 Vacant 5-°° 35 " 8 -°° 36 John Angus, Esq. and Alex Semple .... 7.00 37 Daniel Manning % $3.50 7.00 38 Simeon Drake 7.00 39 Benjamin Ford 7.00 40 Abraham Ayers 7.00 41 Vacant 7-°° 42 Daniel Ayers Y? $3.50 Thomas Seamen 2. . . 7.00 43 William Cross 6.00 44 Vacant 6.00 45 " 6.00 46 " 5-00 47 " • 5-oo 66 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. SUBSCRIPTION LIST FOR REV. PETER STRYKER S SALARY. We the subscribers do hereby promise to pay unto the Rev. Peter Stryker the sums annexed to our names, annually for his labour as a minister of the Gospel, as long as he resides in the City of Perth Amboy or till such time as we remove or withdraw our names, which notice we will give in writing to him or the trustees of the Presbyterian Church of Perth Amboy. The sums annexed to be paid in quarterly payments viz, the one fourth part to be paid on the first day of February next, the second on the first day of May, the third on the first day of August and the fourth on the first day of November following, and so much yearly as long as he remains the pastor of the said church or we his hearers. As witness our hands November i, 1809. John'; Angus . . . 20.00 Alexander Sample . 10.00 Daniel Perrine . . 12.00 Jeremiah Manning . 10.00 Nath'l Manning . . 10.00 John Lewis . . . . 6.00 James Compton . . 8.00 N. K. Taylor . . . 8.00 Thomas Griggs . . 4.00 Thomas Seaman . . 3.00 A Friend 2.00 George Compton . 5.00 Daniel Mailing . . 3-5o Thomas Akin . . . 4.00 Dr. Hempton . . . 8.00 Elizabeth Dorset . 2.50 Jacob Lewis . . . 10.00 Ruel Hampton . . May Cook Abraham Ayers . . Elizabeth Coddington G. Conrad Bender William Ford, Jr . David Wait .... Lewis Arnold . . . James Harriott . . . William Cross . . . David Smalley . . . Rebecca H. Brown Simeon Drake . . . Elizabeth Andrew Wm. Bloodgood . . Daniel Ayers, Jr . James Edgar . . . 4.00 2.50 7.00 8.00 4.00 6.00 8.00 3-50 8.00 6.00 2.50 3-5o 3-50 2.50 4.00 3-50 5.00 206.50 SUNDRY EXPENSES ATTENDING CHURCH SUITS — 1824-30. PARTIAL LIST OF ITEMS. Sept. 24 — To cash paid Mr. Hardenburg (lawyer) . .$20.00 To cash paid for brandy .75 April 1825 — To fee paid Theodore Frelinghuysen . . . . 20.00 May 1826 — To cash Mr. Mann his bill 4 dinners 1.50 . . To cash half pint liquor ordered at Posts .50 2.00 July 13 — To cash 3 dinners at Mann's, 1.00 To cash Posts half liquor ord. .50 1.50 ADDENDA. 67 May 1827 — To cash Tolls 2 gates, horsefeed 1.87 To cash Stage hire from Amboy to Trenton . 3.00 To cash Palmer's bill 3 days, 1 meal at Trenton 3.50 To cash Gulich stage hire to New Brunswick 2.00 To cash boat house .25 The whole bill amounted to $317.78. RECEIPT OF MR. OSBORNE FOR SALARY. Received from Mr. John V. Crawford, on February 14, 1824, thirty-nine dollars and fifty cents; and from Mr. Alexander Semple, on April 26, 1824, fifty-eight dollars and fifty cents, be- ing payment in full, exclusive of board and lodging, for minis- terial services performed, as a stated supply appointed by the Presbytery of Jersey, in the Presbyterian Church of Perth Am- boy from the second Sabbath in November 1823, to the last Sab- bath in April 1824 inclusive. Michael Osborne. MINUTES OF TRUSTEES SEPTEMBER 24, 1 838. Board of trustees met at 7 y 2 o'clock. On motion Resolved — 1st. That we raise $70 for warming the church. 2d. That the old stove loaned by Mr. Bruen be cleaned and returned with the thanks of the Board for its use. 3d. That with the sum raised we procure three cylinder stoves and other fuel. 4th. That J. F. Halsey, S. Andrews and C. F. Maurice be the committee to raise money. 5th. That committee be authorized to sell the old stove. 6th. That the monthly collection for church expenses be taken in the evening as well as morning. 7th. That the pews taken from where the stoves now stand be replaced. 8th. That Dr. Andrews be authorized to carry out his propo- sition and alter the pews of the middle block according to the plan of the first two. 9th. That the holders of side pews be allowed to alter their pews to correspond with the middle block. 10th. That the superintendent of the Sunday-school be re- quested to notify the teachers that the seats occupied by the scholars must be put in proper order after the school is dismissed. Adjourned. C. F. Maurice, Sec'v. 68 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. BILL FOR STOVES MENTIONED ABOVE. New York, Oct. 27, 1838. Chas. F. Maurice, Esq. for Presbyterian Church, P. Amboy. Bought of St ratten & Seymour (Successors to H. Nott & Co. ) Wholesale & Retail Stove Dealers, 242 Water street. To ( 2 ) Cylindrical Sheet Iron Stoves $23.00 50 lbs Russia Iron Pipe @ 2-s 12.50 1-2 Cartage 19 35-69 Donation to church . . 5.69 $30.00 Dear Sir: We herewith send you the Two Stoves ordered. Ornamental instead of Plain as ordered by Dr. Andrews, which we take the responsibility to alter and have made a small donation which we hope will be acceptable to you. With Respect, Yours truly. Stratten & Seymour. also 2 Shakers & Pokers. MINUTES OF TRUSTEES, OCT. 21, 1 839. The object of this meeting was stated to determine on the best means of raising the funds now wanted for the church. After consultation it was Resolved: 1 st. That hereafter a collection shall be taken every Sabbath to defray the expenses incurred for fuel, lights, etc., and to dis- charge the debts now due by the church. 2tt. That all persons having unsettled accounts against the church be requested to present them before Saturday, 2d of Nov. to Mr. D. Crowell. 3d. That this res. be read on Sunday next by the chairman. 4th. That Mr. Halsey prepare a short appeal to the congre- gation on the necessity of better liberality in the contributions showing the need of it. ADDENDA. 69 THE ACADEMY. Perth Amboy, Oct. 6, 1818. At a meeting of the trustees of the Perth Amboy Academy, present Rev. Dr. Andrews, chairman; Matthew Bruen, Major Lamb, Mr. Semple and John Brewster. John Brewster was chosen secretary pro tern. Roger W. Griswold offered himself to take charge of said Acadamy as Preceptor and haveing prodused his credentials of having graduated at Yale College and Prodused Letters of recom- mendation which we approved, unanimously agreed to envite Mr. Griswold to take charge of said Academy and depend on the School for Compensation at the following prices for Tuition: For the Languages and the higher Branches of Mathe- maticks . $5-QO Geography and English Grammer 3.50 Reading, Wrighting and Arithmatick 3.00 Reading and Wrighting 2.50 Spelling and Reading ... 2.00 Mr. Griswold to continue the school for at least one year. To commence on Mondav the 12th Instant. [to the trustees] Apl. 12, 1823. An application was made by Mr. Miner the teacher in the Academy for the loan of a pair of Globes belonging to the con- gregation, whereupon it was unanimously resolved that the Globes be loaned to the teacher and that a receipt be taken for them to be returned at any time when called for by the trustees. FROM A PAPER ISSUED BY THE TRUSTEES IN 1 862. "The means for defraying the current expenses are derived from annual assessments upon the pews and by voluntary sub- scriptions. Each pew has a specific valuation and is held only so long as the assessments are met. These are received quarterly, falling due on the first of May, August, November and February, but are payable one month in advance. Prompt payment is in- dispensible in order that the trustees may honorably meet their engagements. Pews may be rented at any season of the year, by making application to any of the trustees. Sittings will also be furnished to the poor with a due consideration of their circum- stances. Persons occupying pews will be expected in all cases to pay for their use, unless special arrangements have been made with the trustees. As the trustees occupy their office without re- 70 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. ward, it is highly proper that all who are interested in the wel- fare of the church should facilitate their efforts as far as possible, in order that the temporal interests of the congregation may be promptly and efficiently administered." MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS. The church sexton in 1822, was Joseph B. Wood. He re- ceived an annual salary of $16 and half a pew free. In 1857 when Samuel Teller was sexton, the salary was increased to $50 per year. In 1857 the trustees ordered the bell rung at all meetings of the congregation during the week as well as on Sunday. That same year the members of the church were asked to stand at the singing of the second hymn and the last prayer. In the receipts of that year reported in the accounts of the trustees, was a "$5 counterfeit bill." The Board of Trustees in 1857 adopted as the seal of the church "the reverse side of a gold eagle." In 1821 the church had its accounts "lodged in a Savings Bank in New York." The trustees in 1861 appointed one of their number to "inform the sexton that sweeping the church and filling lamps must be done on week davs instead of Sundavs. ' ' COMMITTEE TO REPAIR CHURCH IN 1 869. William Hall, Ch. Keen, I. S. Harned, H. D. Tyrrell, D. T. Wait and Capt. C. White. COMMITTEE TO BUILD MANSE IN 1887. F. A. Seaman, E. W. Barnes, W. B. Mount, Wm. H. Hall. COMMITTEE TO BUILD CHAPEL IN 1 889. E. W. Barnes, William B. Mount, William H. Hall, Frank B. Morris, F. A. Seaman, I. D. Shay, Rev. J. H. Owens. ADDENDA. 71 ELDERS. The following is the list of those who have filled the office of Ruling Elders since the organization of the church: John Angus 180. David Wait 1804 — ] John Lewis 18a Alexander Semple 181 2 — i James Harriott 1814- John V. Crawford 1822 — ] Samuel R. Ford 1822 — i Charles Ford . . . ; 1826 — John D. See 1836 — Samuel E. Woodbridge 1836 — Zadok Mundy 1836- David Crowell 1849 - Daniel Selover I 849 — ] Stephen G. Woodbridge ^49 — ] Caleb C. Pierson 1855 — Cornelius D. Selover 1855- William Laforge 1856- Henry D. Tyrrell 1856- Cornelius Hadden 1871- Edward W. Barnes 187 1 — - Frank Grimstead 1892 — 1897 Philip Gibson 1897 — Adrian Lyon 1898 — Samuel S. Shull 1898 — William H. Hall 1898— 1899 807 810 815 826 848 824 855 847 840 865 837 853 871 853 871 898 TRUSTEES. In 1 840 the records of the Board of Trustees were destroyed by fire and it is impossible to know definitely all the trustees who served prior to that time; but from old papers the following per- sons have served in that office from 1804 to 1840: John Angus, David Wait, John Lewis, Benjamin Maurice, William Paterson, James Harriott, William Ford, Simeon Drake, John Wait, Lewis Compton, Matthias Bruen, Alexander Semple, David Crowell, Charles Ford, Mr. Lamb, Daniel LaTourette, John Brewster, Col. Griggs, John Bender, John Patrick, Oliver Ogden, John Young, Edward Ford, George Hampton, Dr. Solomon Andrews, J. F. Halsey, C. F. Maurice. 1840. Benjamin Maurice, David Crowell, Charles F. Maurice, Edwin Ford, William I. Ford, John Wait. 72 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. 1846. Stephen G. Woodbridge. 1847. Alexander M. Bruen, William Paterson, Cornelius H. Schaps, David T. Wait. 1855. Henry D. Tyrrell, Edward J. Hall, William Hall, Charles Keen, Robert Freeman. 1858. Cornelius Hadden, James T. Crowell, Caleb C. Pierson, Nathaniel H. Tyrrell, Ephraim Martin. 1859. Thomas Vernon, Henry M. Stone. i860. Cornelius White, James Gibson, Daniel Selover. 1861. William Ray, Cornelius D. Selover, John M. Coutts, C. C. Pierson. 1862. Isaac Harned, H. D. Tyrrell. 1863. James H. Hart, James Davison. 1864. E. H. Hall, William Ray, William Hall, C. D. Selover. 1865. Jas. T. Crowell, H. D. Tyrrell, C. C. Pierson. 1866. Charles Keen, Cornelius Hadden, James Gibson. 1867. Win. Hall, Cornelius White, Charles Hunter. 1868. H. D. Tyrrell, C. C. Pierson, T. S. Harris. 1869. Charles Keen, Cornelius Hadden, Isaac Harned. 1870. William Hall, I. S. Harned, H. V. Creemer. 1 87 1. H. D. Tyrrell, C. C. Pierson. 1872. S. G. Phillips, George H. Tice, Charles Keen, Joseph Burns. 1873. S. Manning, William Hall, John H. Best, Alfred Wipple. 1874. William B. Mount. 1875. Charles Keen, Joseph Burns, George H. Tice. 1876. William Hall, W. B. Mount, S. Manning, Fred A. Sea- man. 1877. N. H. Tyrrell, F. A. Seaman. 1878. Charles Keen, Samuel Hall. 1879. J. J. Deitche, Win. Hall, Stelle Manning, Wm. B. Mount. 1880. J. H. Vogel, N. H. Tyrrell, F. A. Seaman. 1 88 1. Samuel Hall, J. J. Deitche, John R. Shay. 1882. Wm. B. Mount, John R. Shay, J. H. Vogel, John G. Martin. 1883. N. H. Tyrrell, F. A. Seaman. 1884. J. J. Deitche, J. G. Martin. 1885. Wm, B. Mount, John R. Shay, Wm. H. Hall. 1886. N. H. Tyrrell, F. B. Morris. 1887. J. G. Martin, J. J. Deitche. 1888. W. B. Mount, John R. Shay.W. H. Hall, A. D. Brodhead. 1889. N. H. Tyrrell, F, B. Morris. 1890. J. J. Deitche, F. A. Seaman. ADDENDA. 73 1891. W. B. Mount, J. D. Shay, George Hadden. 1892. F. B. Morris, N. H. Tyrrell, F. O. Pierson. l8 93- J- J- Deitche, F. A. Seaman, Adrian Lyon. 1894. F. O. Pierson, W. H. Hall, Henry Petty. 1895. F- B - Morris, A. Lyon. 1896. F. A. Seaman, J. J. Deitche. 1897. F- O. Pierson, H. Petty, W. H. Hall, W. James Lyle. 1898. F. B. Morris, A. Lyon, Geo. E. Hadden. 1899. Charles D. Snedeker, J.J. Deitche, Wilbur LaRoe. 1900. C. Douglas Fraser, S. E. Shull, H. Petty, W. LaRoe, John H. Gregory. 1 901. C. D. Fraser, C. D. Snedeker. 1902. J. J. Deitche, J. H. Gregory. THE SABBATH SCHOOL. For many years a union school was held in the City Hall and later in the building at the southeast corner of High and Gor- don streets. In 1835 the Presbyterian Sabbath school was organ- ized and services were transferred to the church building. The superintendent was Miss Nancy Stewart, a sister-in-law of Ben- jamin Maurice, a coal, lumber and hay dealer, and for many years a trustee of the church. Miss Stewart died in 1845. Another lady followed Miss Stewart in this office, Miss Harriet Bruen, daughter of Matthias Bruen. She was afterward the wife of Bishop Whitehouse of Illinois. This tribute has been paid to her: "A most devoted and successful Sunday-school teacher, winning many to the love of Jesus." In 1876 the school numbered one hundred and fifteen scholars and fifteen officers and teachers. The present enrollment is: Officers and teachers, 37; scholars, 437; Keasbey school officers and teachers 2, scholars, 58; total, 534- The superintendents have been as follows: Miss Nancy Stew- art, Miss Harriet Bruen, Miss Eveline Brown, Richard K. Todd, Stephen G. Woodbridge, Daniel Selover, Dr. C. H. Schaps, Henry D. Tyrrell, Dr. Warren, D. Thomas Vernon, Henry D. Tyrrell, Rev. Aaron Peck, Cornelius Hadden, E. W. Barnes. CONSTITUTION ADOPTED FOR FIRST SUNDAY-SCHOOL, 1 835. Art. 1. This school shall be known as the Sab. School of the 1 st Pres. Chh. of Perth Amboy. Art. 2. This school shall be subject to the control of the Pas- 74 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PKRTH AMBOY. tor and his session whose duty it shall be to make or make pro- vision for all necessary appointments. Art. 3. The officers shall consist of first and second superin- tendents, librarian, secretary and treasurer who with the assist- ance of the teachers shall manage the affairs of the school. Art. 4. It will be expected of the teachers that they recog- nize the system of doctrines taught in the Pres. Ch. which are summarily expressed in the "Confession of Faith" and the "Westminster Catechism" which we as a Ch. adopt as containing the system of doctrines taught in the Holy Scriptures. Art. 5. As to the exercises of the school it shall be left to the discretion of the superintendents and teachers with the advise of the session to adopt such as in their judgment shall be most pro- motive of the best interests of the scholars, commencing and clos- ing always with prayer or singing. MISSIONS. Very early in the history of the organization the cause of Home Missions interested the members. The first report that is found from this church in the Minutes of the General Assembly shows an annual contribution of two dollars and fifty cents for Domestic Missions. Eighty years ago on the first Sunday even- ing of each month a prayer and praise service, a Missionary con- cert in other words, was held and in i860 this service was changed from Sunday to Monday evening. The following in- teresting papers have been found. Cash taken from Missionary Box, Monday 4 June 1827: 1 Gold piece $5-°° Silver & cents 4.50 $9-50 Perth Amboy 28 Sept. 1829. We the subscribers having counted over the Money in the Missionary box belonging to the Presbvterian Church of this place found it contained as follows: "Silver $8.60 Amboy B'k Note 1.00 Hoboken Manf'gCo., bad $1.00 Cents 68 $10.28 Ten dollars 28-100 besides one dollar note Broken Bank sent Missionary N. Jersey Society by Mr. Wilson. James Harriott, Benj. Maurice. ADDENDA. 75 No permanent organization was made, however, until 1870 when under the leadership of Mrs. Henrietta Manning, the Womans Foreign Missionary Society was formed. Mrs. Man- ning was the first president, Miss Virginia Griffith, secretary and Miss Olivia Seaman treasurer. A Harriet Newell Mission Band was at the same time organized among the young women of the church. This society did good work for ten years when it became only a name. In December 1881, the ladies of the church met at the house of Mrs. Alfred Compton for the re organization of the Missionary Society. Mrs. Edward W. Barnes, Sr., was elected president, Mrs. J. A. Hall, vice-president; Miss Phebe Hall, secretary and Mrs. Sarah Mitchell, treasurer. A constitution was adopted and the membership fee fixed at one dollar. This society was, how- ever, devoted exclusively to home mission work as is our present Home Missionary Society. Its meetings are held monthly, and money and gifts have not only been made t<-> the Board of Home Missions but to churches, schools and individuals in the West. Many boxes of clothing have been sent to pastors in the home mission field. FOREIGN MISSIONS. The present Foreign Missionary Society was organized in 1889. A mass meeting was held at the parsonage on May 6 for that purpose when a constitution was adopted and the following officers elected: President, Mrs. W. H. Hall; vice-president, Mrs. J. H. Owens; secretary and treasurer, Oscar Arner. Among the missionaries directly aided have been Miss McGilvray, of Siam, and Miss Emma Morris of India. These have addressed the society from foreign lands: Rev. Mr. Ford. Persia, Yung Wing, Huie Kin and Rev. A. A. Fulton, China; Rev. Mr. Lopez, Chile; Rev. T. S. Pond and J. D. Chamberlain, D. D., South America; Miss Schenck, Persia; Misses Emma Morris and Brown and Mrs. Rev. C. A. Janvier, India; Dr. Irwin, Korea. Other speakers from out of town have been: Rev. Wilson Phraner, D. D., Rev. Mr. Davis, Elliott Field, Mrs. Stevenson, Mrs. John T. Kerr, Miss L. B. Allen, Rev. A. W.Halsey, D.D., and Miss Williams. MITE SOCIETV. Very early in our history the ladies sought ways and means by which they might aid in meeting the expenses of the church. In 1 Sss there was a Ladies' Association which contributed $50 for painting the church. The present Mite Society dates from 1878. 76 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. A meeting was held at the residence of William B. Mount on January 3 for the purpose of effecting an organization, its object being to "raise a parsonage fund for the Presbyterian Church, also to promote sociability among the congregation." The rec- ord of this first meeting is as follows: 1. It was resolved to call the society the Mite Society. 2. That the officers should consist of a president, vice-presi- dent, secretary and treasurer. On motion Mrs. E. R. Bulkley was elected president, Miss Amanda Wait vice-president, Miss Bessie Wait secretary and Mrs. William B. Mount, treasurer. 3. Further resolved that any person ma}* become a member on the payment of twenty-five cents. 4. That a collection be taken at each meeting; no contribu- tion to be less than five cents. 5. That a meeting be held on Tuesday evening of each week, 6. That a committee of four be appointed by the officers each week to arrange a program for the next meeting. 7. That dancing and refreshments be prohibited. 8. That meetings be held from 7.30 until ten o'clock. The next meeting was held at Mr. Bulkley' s residence on Jan- uary 15, and the program included music, recitations and tab- leaux. The report says, "the remainder of the evening was passed in playing games and singing college songs." So popu- lar were these socials that as many as one hundred persons have been in attendance at one time. In three months $48 had been collected. On May 1, an entertainment was held in the City Hall with the following program: Instrumental Solo Mrs. E. Mack Chorus O Hail Us, Ye Free Recitation F. A. Seaman Solo Miss Julia Arnold Instrumental Solo Miss I. L. Hall Tableau Rivoli Queens Recitation Miss G. P. Frazer Solo Miss A. H. Manning PART SECOND. Instrumental Duett Miss and Mr. Kent Solo Miss A. B. Manning Instrumental Solo Miss I. L. Hall Pantomime The Mistletoe Bough Solo Miss Julia Arnold Recitation Miss G. P. Frazer Solo and Chorus Jubilate Deo ADDENDA. 77 Committees on the program: Tableaux— Mrs. Bulklev, Mrs. Mount, Miss Coutts and Mr. Raiguel. Acting— Miss Nannie Wait, Miss Ella Kent, Mr. Thornall and Mr. Crowell. The net proceeds were $45. It was soon discovered that refreshments were necessary .but at a meeting to be held at the residence of Dr. E. B. P. Kelley, these were restricted by vote to "cake, nuts, raisins, fruit and "lemon- ade." The membership the first year numbered fifty-eight; twenty-three being gentlemen. In August Capt. Cornelius White gave the society a sailing excursion to Coney Island. This ex- cursion was repeated the next year to Sandy Hook, but on re- turning in the evening the party "encountered a severe wind and rain storm and it was only through the careful seamanship of Capt. White and his crew that they reached their homes in safety." At one of the annual meetings the "young folks occupied one room in which they hugely enjoyed the game of 'Blind Man's Buff.' ' In 1882 a fair was held in the City Hall. That year the money of the society was changed from a parsonage to a Sab- bath school building fund. In 1883 another fair was held and $145 realized which amount was used in buying a carpet for the church. Thus in various ways and in all seasons during these twenty-five years this society has benefited the church and con- tinues with strength unabated. THE LADIES' AUXILIARY Was formed in 1901 for the purpose of raising funds for the new church. Two bazars were held at which large amounts were secured. CHRISTIAN ENDEAVOR SOCIETY. This society is now sixteen years old, having been organized in 1886. Its first president was John J. Deitche and secretary Miss Meribah Roe. It began with thirteen active and three as- sociate members. The early records have been lost but from a topic card of 1887 we have the names of the following leaders for the first quarter — January to April: W. Hall, Rev. J. H. Owens, J. J. Deitche, A. D. Brodhead, E. J. Hadden, John G. Martin and E. W. Barnes. 78 PRESBYTKRIANISM IX PERTH AMBOY. JUNIOR ENDEAVOR. A society among the children was organized in 1891 by Misses Ella Lyon and Grace Thompson and Mrs. W. H. Hall. This became moribund in 1889, but was revived in 1900 by Robert M. Comings and is now, under the superintendency of Mrs. Adrian Lyon and Mrs. Wilbur LaRoe, a large and busy band of Juniors. THE BOYS' BRIGADE is composed of members of the Sabbath School between the ages of ten and eighteen years. It was organized November, 1900. In the summer of 1901 it made an excursion to New York City and Governor's Island, at which place a reception was given by Major General John R. Brooke. OFFICERS OF THE CHURCH, 1903. Pastor: Harlan G. Mendenhall, D. D. Elders: Caleb C. Piersou, treasurer; Edward W. Barnes, Philip Gibson, Samuel E. Shull, Adrian Lyon, clerk. Trustees: Charles D. Snedeker, president; Wilbur LaRoe, secretary; Samuel E. Shull, treasurer; Henry Petty, John H. Gregory, John J. Deitche, C. Douglas Fraser. SABBATH SCHOOL. Superintendent, Edward W. Barnes, Assistant Superintendent, Adrian Lyon, Secretary, Miss Emma Mac William; Libraiian, Harry Comings. Senior Department — Superintendent, Adrian Lyon; Assistant Superintendent, Wilbur LaRoe; Secretarv, Ravmond Comings. Teachers: Mrs. E. W. Barnes, S. E. Shull, Mrs. Dr. Tyrrell, Miss Anna Skea, Wilbur LaRoe, Adrian Lyon, Rev. R. White, Miss Grace Hawk, W. H. Henry, Miss Frances E. Kent. Intermediate Department — Superintendent, John J. Deitche; Assistant Superintendent, Edward R. Proctor; Secretary, Miss Anna McCylmont. Teachers: Mrs. H. Petty, John Frederick- son, Mrs. Frances J. B. Kelley, Ernest Hancock, Miss Ella Kent, E. E. Hill, Miss L. Gillis, Mrs". Theo. Bloodgood, J. H. Gregory, Mrs. L. Hancock, G. P. Gabriel, Charles K. Stevens, Miss Marion Owens. Junior Department — Superintendent, Miss Louise Ramsay; Sec- retary, Miss Carrie Morris. Primary Department —Superintendent, Mrs. Adele M. Steven- son; Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. H. P. Herbert; Secretary, Miss Ella Deitche. ADDENDA. jg Beginners' Department— Superintendent, Miss Hortense Rock; Secretary, Miss Bessie Barnes. Keasbey Sabbath School — Superintendent, Miss Maggie Mc- Clymont; Secretary, Miss Rose Lewis. LADIES' HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY. President, Mrs. Adrian Lyon; Vice Presidents, Mrs. A. C. Mount, Mrs. S. E. Shull; Secretary, Mrs. E. A. Bloodgood; Treasurer, Mrs. James Lupton; Secretary of Literature, Mrs M F. McConnell. LADIES' FOREIGN MISSIONARY SOCIETY. President, Miss A. E. VanNuis; Vice-Presidents, Mrs. W. H. Hall, Mrs. E. W. Barnes; Editors Meteor, Mrs. T. C. Dillon, Miss Louise Ramsay; Secretary, Mrs. Dr. G. W. Tyrrell; Treas- urer, Mrs. S. Riddlestorffer; Secretary of Literature, Miss Edith Sofield; Chairman Finance Committee, Mrs. S. Comings; Assist- ants, Miss Grace Hawk, Mrs. W. W. Henry. MITE SOCIETY. President, Mrs. Emma Compton; Vice-President, Mrs. H. P. Halpin; Secretary, Mrs. Amelia Hadden; Treasurer, Mrs. Amelia Mount; Work Directress, Mrs. S. Comings. ladies' auxiliary. President. Mrs. E. W. Barnes; Vice-President, Mrs.S. J. Ram- say; Secretary, Miss Emma Mac William; Treasurer, Mrs S E Shull. Y. P. S. C. E. President, Wilbur LaRoe; Vice-President, Adrian Lyon; Sec- retary, C. Douglas Fraser; Corresponding Secretary, Miss Frances E. Kent; Treasurer, Miss Laura Steele. JUNIOR ENDEAVOR SOCIETY. President, Walter Comings; Vice-President, Clementine Lewis; Secretary, Wilbur LaRoe, Jr. ; Treasurer, Jetta Stacey . WESTMINSTER CADETS. Captain, John Danner. 8o PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. ORGANIST. Mrs. E. W. Barnes. USHERS. William W Henry, Raymond Comings, John Sofidd, Charles Barnekov, Virgil Shull, William Graham, Charles Rossi. SEXTON. John Frederickson. NAMES OF ALL THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH FROM ITS ORGANIZATION. 1807 1803 Angus, John Angus, Margaretta Clark, Margaret Coddington, Elizabeth Harriot, Phebe Friend, Rachel Lewis, John Wait, David Thomson, Susanna 1804 Harriot, James Butler, Elizabeth Oliver, Elsy Runnion, Phebe Griggs, Thomas Lewis, Seviah Griggs, Anna Ay res, Anna Ayres, Abraham 1805 Jenkins, Benjamin 1806 Seaman, Letitia (Thomas) Northall, Mary Manning, Phineas Sullivan, Daniel Munday, Levi Mundav, Catharine Bender, George C. Bender, Christiana Edgar, James 1808 Leonard, Margaret (Battes) Randolph, Mary Acken, Phebe Wait, Margaret Semple, Alexander Semple, Mary Bloodgood, Doziah Tappen, Mrs. 1812 Barton. Rebekah Compton, Abigal (Lewis) 1814 Flood, Mary 1815 Drake, Simeon 1816 Moore, Mary Maurice, Margaret (Benj.) Ford, Margaret Mrs. Ford, Sarah (William) 1817 Angus, Susan R. Ford, Samuel R. ADDENDA. Young, Sarah (John) Wait, Ann (Joseph) Geldbreith, Margaret Semple, Ann Simpson, Elizabeth Bender, Johannes Wait, Elizabeth (John) Ford, Grace (Charles) Griggs, Susan LaTourette, Mary A. Ay res, Thomas Pembleton, Lettice Coddington, Jemima 1818 LaTourette, Hannah (Daniel) Crowell, Rebecca (David) Baisley, John Field, Rosetta Dunham, Clarkson Dunham, Margaret (Clarkson) Tyrrell, Esther (Elias) Bender, Mary (John) Lewis, Mary Ford, Charles Simpson, John Teller, Fanny (Samuel) 1819 Crawford, Clarissa (John) Crawford, John Morehouse, Hannah Vantine, Mary 1820 Pike, Mary Bloodgood, Margaret Ledger, Eleanor Lamb, Maria A. 1821 Kinsey, Mary 1822 Freeman, Clarissa (Linus) Noe, Elizabeth (Benjamin) 1823 Conover, Margaret (James) Edgar, Eliza N. (James) Aulick, Mary F. (John H.) LaTourette, Susan Ford, Jane (Charles) White, Elizabeth B. (Charles) Harriot, Sarah (Samuel) Benson, Ann Ogden, Augustus, O. B. White, Sarah (Cornelius) Thornell, Benjamin S. Thornell, Tabitha (Benj. S.) Ogden, Mary (Oliver) Patrick, Mary A. (John) Butler, Ann (Jonathan) Butler, Jonathan LaTourette, Hannah (Daniel) 1829 Noe, Mordecai 1830 Hampton, Mary Hampton, Frances Johnson, Hannah (James) Martin, Catharine (Jeremiah) 1831 Ford, Edwin Ford, Sarah J. (Edwin) McComb, Eliza (Joseph B. ) Young, Lavinia Brown, Evelina Mundy. Lucy Vanderhoven, Maria (Elkaneh) 1832 Maurice, Benjamin Wheaton, Mary A. Shaw, Anna M_. Langstaff, Hannah Bloodgood, Lydia (Abram) Hilliker, Arnold 82 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. 1834 Wood, Mary (Joseph B. ) Morehouse, Elizabeth (Ogden) Munday, Zadok Munday, Rachel (Zadok) Stewart, Nancy Moore, Mary Calhoun, William Calhoun, Mary (William) McCormick, Sarah (Patrick) Compton, Eliza Bloodgood, Catharine Skillman, Margaret Hampton, Nancy Seaman, Ann (Anthony) Crowell, Hannah (Joseph) Bloodgood, Martha Hampton, George VanBoekel, Harriet (A. J. ) Oilman, Reynolds Gilman, Elizabeth (Reynolds) Miller, Emily See, John D. Ford, James Langstaff, Catharine Martin, Elizabeth Ford, Mary A. (Samuel R. ) Redfield, Maria (George F. ) Hull, Eliza, (Benjamin) Compton, Susan Coutts, Frances (George) Harriot, Elizabeth A. Cutter, Phebe 1835 Reader, Elizabeth (William) Keene, Christiana (Charles) Newton, Euphemia Hilliker, Sabia ( Arnold ) Thorp, Eliza Cory, Maria, Mrs. Reader, Mary A. (Charles A.) 1836 Woodbridge, Samuel E. Bruen, Matthias Cory, Mary M. (ReY. Benj'm) Halsey, Elizabeth P. (ReY. Job) 1837 Pratt, Nancy (Benjamin) SeloYer, Elizabeth (Daniel) Selover, Mary Selover, Elizabeth SeloYer, Cornelius D. Selover, Gertrude (Cornelius) Wood, Jane Langstaff, Elizabeth Hull, Rachel R. Selover, Margaret H. Selover, John V. Langstaff, Hannah Selover, Daniel Sen'r Woodbridge, Elizabeth G. Martin, Mercy (Kemble) Vanderhoven, Jane A. Cossit, Parmelia M. Selover, Daniel Selover, Elizabeth ( Daniel ) Bloodgood, Martha Todd, Richard K. 1838 Selover, Peter V. Selover, James D. Selover, Catharine E. (Jas. D. ) English, Thomas Larkin, Sally, Mrs. Lewis, Margaret A. (Jacob) Andrews, Solomon, Dr. Andrews, Harriet (Solomon) 1839 Maurice, Cornelia F. (Chas. ) Anderson. Mary Maurice, Charles F. Mullen, Martha ADDENDA. 83 184O Hadden, Sarah (Jacob) Johnson, Franklin Johnson, Rizpeh (Franklin) English, Nancy (James) 1841 Tyrrell, Rebecca, Mrs. Vanderbilt, Mary, Mrs. 1842 Wait, Jane (David T.) 1843 Rail, Mary J. (Albert) Tyrrell, Nathan Crowell, David Westervelt, Mary J. (Daniel) Sneath, Eleanor (John H.) Sofield, Mrs. (Runyon) Kedey, James Woodbridge, Stephen G. Manderville, Benoni Manderville, Mrs. Benoni 1844 Vandoren, Caroline Arnold, Benjamin Martin, Ann E. (Ephraim) Tyrrell, Mary E. (Nathan) 1845 Johnson, Joel Johnson, Sally (Joel) McLaughlin, Julia D., Mrs. Coon, Martha, Mrs. Tyrrell, Henry D. Tyrrell, Sarah (Henry D. ) Laforge, William Laforge. Catharine (Wm.) Andrews, William 1846 Halsey, Mrs. (Rev. Luther) Gulick, Luther H. Gilman, Sarah Laforge, Cecelia Dick, John 1847 Morse, Dr. Lucius D. Morse, R. I. (Lucius D.) Tyrrell, Nancy (Rufus) Seguine, Harriet (James) Shotwell, Wm. B. Schaps, Dr. C. H. Schaps, Jane S. Schaps, Elizabeth Martin, Cornelia Martin, Luther J. Bloodgood, Doziah (William) 1848 Raymond, Amaranth H. (I.) Annin, John A. Andrews, Cornelia Woodbridge, Sarah (Steph. G. ) Raymond, Fanny, Mrs. Gibson, James Gibson, Marv (James) See, John D." See, Susan (John D. ) See, Anna Maria Snedeker, Mary Jane Larken, Lydia, Mrs. 1849 See, Thomas G. Masker, Aaron Masker, Phebe (Aaron) Bird, Mary Ann (Charles) Arburthnot, Jane A. (Steph.) Hart, Catharine R. (Henry J. ) 1850 Goodman, Martha A. (Geo. W. ) Ford, Margaret J. VanBoekle, Susan Selover, Mary H. Jacobie, John Jacobie, Mary (John) Pierson, Caleb C. Pierson, Dellah (Caleb C. ) Selover, Gertrude G. (Dan'll.) 8 4 PRESBYTERIANISM IN l'KRTII AMBOY. I 85 I Park, Jane Vandoren, Abram White, Sarah (Cornelius) Noe, Harriet, (Marsh) 1852 Hall, Mary (Edward) Wait, Emma (James) Newman, Charles Adams, John Adams, Emily C. (John) Bradner, Mary J. Brown, Mary L. Brown, Hannah M. 1853 Mathews, I. H., Mrs. Compton, Emma (Alfred) Brown, Isaac M. Mundy, Peter Scott, James Crawford, Margaret Wheeler, Horatio T. Woodbridge, Mary (Sam'l E. ) Boeram, Abigail A. (James) i854 Selover, Cornelia G. Measker, Joanna M. 1855 Davidson, Adelia S. (John) Bloodgood, Catharine (Wm. ) Bonham, Mary L,. C. (Lucius) Freeman. Robert Freeman, Susan (Robert) Hadden, Mary B. Hadden, Sarah Hadden, Cornelius Martin, Sarah A. (Moses) Wait, Mary Amanda Cory, Julia M. Cory, Jane W. Cory, Mary E. Ford, Jeannette Woglom, Margaret (Israel) Bloodgood, Elizabeth Selover, Isaac K. Selover, Margaret A. Selover, David V. Selover, Harriet A. (David V.) Selover, Elizabeth Selover, Benjamin C. Seaman, Mary E. Seaman, Robert Wood, MaryE. Wood, John Ford, Eliza H. Ford, Sarah F. Selover, William U. Masker, William A. Gibson, Philip Gibson, Margaret Hubbard, Voorhees Johnson, Alida (Edgar) Murray, Ann Tryner, Geo. F. Hall, William Hall, Charlotte ( William ) Seaman, Olivia Still well, Hannah E. Bloodgood, Lydia (Abram) Wilson, Dawson Wilson, Jane F. (Dawson) Robinson, James C. Robinson, Susan (J as. C. ) Robinson, Amanda Robinson, Eleanor H. 1856 Robinson, Harriet K. Crowell, Sarah E. (Edward) Bloodgood, Josephine 1857 Hoey, Mary (John) Hoey, Nancy Rhinehart, Eliza (Abraham) Jacobie, John Jacobie, Mary (John) ADDENDA. 85 1858 Backias, Anna Adams, Elizabeth M. Adams, Emily V. Rnss, Sarah M. (George) White, Mary (Cornelius) Ford, Sarah R. Hadden, Mary E. (Cornelius) Zellers, Samuel Dudley, Julius Beauer, Christian Beauer, Dorothy ( Christian ) Beauer, Lena 1859 Tyrrell, Margaret (Elias) Robinson, Charles M. i860 Gibson, Philip Selover, David V. 1861 Lyon, Margaret E. (Jacob) Selover, James D. Selover, Catharine (Jas. D. ) Selover, Mary H. Wallace, Mary S. (Rev. C. C. ] Selover, Gertrude E. Davidson, Martha (James) Page, Jane H. (Thomas D. ) Stevens, John W. Stevens, Mary A. (John W. ) 1862 Weston, Elizabeth C. (E. C. ) Russ, Joseph C. Gibson, Mary E. Gibson, James F. Gibson, Sarah A. Palmer, Joseph W. Palmer, Nancy (Joseph W.) Coutts, Jeannie Amelia Hunter, Carrie M. (Charles) Hart, Henrv J. Hall, Ella j'ane Myers, William D. Chester, Edwin S. Mowry, Bernard, R. O. Martin, Cornelia Laforge, Sarah A. Kline, Henrietta A. (Myndart) Russ, George H. Woodbridge, Mary E. Harned, Isaac S. Laforge, Nathaniel T. Bashford, Sarah (David) Harris, Thompson S. Ray, Elizabeth S. (William) Crowell, Sarah Frances Hall, Agnes Adelia Willis, Zibiah H. 1863 Webb, Abby Martin, Nancy Garretson, Cornelia D. Davidson, James Davidson, Martha 1864 Tenbroeck, Mary Laforge, Henrietta 1865 David, Julia Kingsbury, Mary A. Kingsbury, Mary David, Caroline Dunham, Elizabeth Hull, Sarah M. Barnes, Elizabeth W. (J. E. ) Hurlburt, Catharine R. VanDoren, Abigail McCrea, James A. McCrea, Jane Woodbridge, Samuel E. Woodbridge, Luther D. Barnes, Edward W. 86 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. 1866 Hunter, Mary I. Elliott, Walter E. Kent, Mary E. (Oscar) Williams, M. L. (Joseph) 1867 Pugsley, Henry D. Burns, Margaret G. (Joseph) Tice, Mary A. (G. H.) Hanson, Christian Tyrrell, Eeah A. Tyrrell, Moses H. Barnes, D. D., Rev. Stephen G. Hadden, Amelia D. (Cornelius) Burns, James W. Hall, Jane Hall, Eliza Hall, Helen Griffin, Eliza 1870 Mount, Amelia C. (W. B. ) Peck, Julia (Rev. Aaron) Selover, Ann (A. M. K. ) Smith, Ellen M. Shay, Elizabeth (John) Manning, Stelle Manning, Henrietta Coddington, William R. Coddington, Emma F. Hope, Emeline Ker, Phebe Smith, M. D., Samuel St. J. Griffith, Virginia Moore, Margaret Harned, Ann (Isaac) Walters, Charles L,' 1871 Manning, William Manning, Annie C. Stevenson, Adele E. (Rev. D.) Bent, W. C. Davidson, Alice (James) Sharrot, Mary A. Cramer, Herman V. Baldwin, H. (Robert) 1872 Whittle, Alfred E. Hull, Margaret Hughes, Rachel F. Hall, Julia A. (Samuel) Parsels, Phebe 1873 Campbell, John Rhodes, Hattie F. (G. N. ) Whittle, Sarah (A. E.) 1874 McQueen, Mary H. Tice, George H. Boswell, Mary S. (N. L. ) Morris, Sarah Morris, Eydia J. (John) Wait, Annie F. Crowell, Edith B. Tracy, Mary W. (Andrew) Schoch, Louisa Seaman, Frederick A. Seaman, Anna M. (F. A. ) Dayton, Mary E. (Herbert) Hall, William H. Shipman, Ann E. Kent, Fannie E. Kent, Mary Ella Garrison, Ida L. Pape, Josephine (Henry) Crowell, AdeliaH. (James) Thompson, Caroline B. (John ) 1875 Kelley, F. J. B. (Dr. E. B. P.) ADDENDA. 87 1876 Meares, Henrietta Herbert, Sarah Kipp, Margaret Barnes, Idelette (E. W.) Slaght, Sarah (W. A.) Bnlkley, Sylvania (E. J.) Kipp, Sarah 1877 Greacen, Hester A. Hall, Mary A. 1878 Van Home, Elizabeth J. Thornall, Isabella S. Best, Mary E. Young, Mrs. Mary E. (S.C. 1879 Rathbun, Sarah M. (J. G. ) Martin, Elvira J. Cline, Eva K. Aeken, Crowell L. Hadden, Edward J. Mitchell, Sarah B. Mitchell, Bertha M. Watson, Georgia (John) Shay, Ira D. Moessner, George V. Moessner, Kunigunde Deitche, John J. Deitche, Bella H. Apgar, David K. Apgar, Anna M. Apgar, Theodore R. Apgar, Melvina A. Moessner, Louisa K. Brodhead, Andrew D. Brown, Lulu E. Dunne, Jean M. Mills, George E. Ferguson, Eliza B. (J. M.) Tyrrell, Mary E. (J. C. ) Herbert, Margaret Johnson, Alice A. Wait, Bessie H. Govern, Eliza B. (J. M.) Boswell, Elizabeth (H. L. ) Leaser, Man- J. Barnes, Henry R. Manning, Jennie F. Arnold, Annie E. Cluney, Jennie Afflerbach, Emma P. (Jos.) Coleman, Josephine W. Brodhead, Margaret L. 1880 Wainwright,MaryE. (Matthew) Vogel, John H. Vogel, Anna M. Bain, Mary J. (Hugh L. ) Martin, Mary E. Leaser, Ella Coyle, Hannah Murray, Margaret Sanford, Jerusha ( Elam ) Rathbun, John G. Todd, Meaora Bentley, Frances I. (W. B. ) Carr, Emilv P. Thoden, Julia S. 1883 Compton, Emma (J. L. ) Peters, Samuel K. Hadden, Nellie C. Druckenmiller, Franklin L. Druckenmiller. Anna N. Peters, Helen E. Hance, Joseph S. Malcolm, Mary Malcolm, Alberta 88 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AM BOY. Ramsay, Hugh Ramsay, Sarah J. Crowell, Eunice E.( Alfred) Harris, Sarah E. (Rev. Oscar) Murray, Belle Hall, Phebe P. Thomas, Sarah K. Mackenzie, Anna Thompson, Grace E. Truax, Mary E. (Rev. W. B.) Welles, Mary E. Dunning, Ellen M. Bryant, Mary Barnes, James W. Morrison, Ellen J. Henderson, John Henderson, Mrs. J. 1885 Coons, Hannah B. Williamson, Anna J. Mac William, Ann Chandler, S. F. Mac William, John 1886 Savage, Letitia W. Gray, Mary (William) McConnell, Louise J. Morris, Frank B. Morris, Mrs. Morris, Emma Morris, Mary 1887 Miller, Mary (Joseph) Mertz, Ella (Theodore) Craswell, Amelia M. Hill, Nellie C. (E. E.) Sofield, Alice E. Mac William, Eliza B. Craswell, Henry Thornton, Mary McClymont, David Smith, Clarinda C. Thornall, Jennie (William) Transue, Martha (Silas) English, Agnes A. Hall, Lizzie P. (Chas. H.) Roe, Meribah R. Mount, William B. Hall, Amelia A. Hall, Cora P. Hadden, Addie (Geo.E.) Petty, Mary A. (Henry) McClymont, Margaret Van horn, John Shay, Elizabeth Hoagland, Isaac Hoagland, Agnes Lanson, Elija Martin, Alice Satter, Hans P. Crisman, Ella G. Tyrrell, Nathaniel H. Tyrrell, Mary A. (N. H. ) 1888 Palmer, Nettie L. Stacey, Jennie E. ( W. T. ) Ford, Mary E. Jones, Edith (Charles) Kinney, Mary B. (C. W.) Owens, John Owens, Catharine Monroe, Mathilda E. Everett, Caddie D. (Dr. S. R. ) Gregory, John H. Gregory, Ella A. Mac William, Mary Emma Comings, Ella C. Comings, Robert M. Fraser, Susan (William) Knudson, Mary W. (John) Gillis, Alexander Gillis, Annie Lyon, William Lyon, Ursula Lvon, Ella S. ADDENDA. 8 9 Lyon, Adrian Marbach, Maggie L. (John) Will, Jennie F. (Otto) Hohnquist, B. B. V. Buhrer, Andrew Buhrer, Mary A. Fraser, Anna C. Frandsen, Joanna K. 1889 Ryder, Inez E. (Daniel) Walters, Alice M. Sofield, Laura A. (John) Henry, Emily A. (W. W.) Arner, Oscar Comings, Sarah (George) Slaght, William R. Douglass, Jessie (Frank) Satter, Christina (Hans P. ) Burns, Tillie A. (Joseph G. ) Sellect, Ethelbert H. Henry, John A. Hall, Ada (William H. ) Curl, Nellie M. Buel, Walter F. Buel, Arthur Stephenson, Alexander Fraser, C. Douglas LaRoe, Wilbur LaRoe, Araminta Hahn, William H. Martin, Jacob L. Martin, Fannie Lacey, George H. Lacey, Mary W. Cluuey, Charles Johnson, Charles Woglom, Laura A. Curry, Stella Field, Rose (T. U.) Ramsay, Isabelle L. 1891 Mount, Antoinette Johnson, Johanna (John) Johnson, Emma L. Hadden, George E. Talbot, Charles H. Gabriel, George P. Jyrgensen, Jeppe McComb, Mary C. (William) Becker, Henry E. Becker, Kate Sortore, Fred J. Martin, Joseph J. Hoagland, Louis M. Brose, Anthony F. Clark, Sallie F. Fetter, Margaret C. Grimstead, Edna B. Grimstead, Frank Grimstead, Ida Phillips, Maggie E. (J. C.) Pape, Augusta (Ernest) Boughton. Sarah McGregor, Margaret E. 1890 Rauch, James M. Seaman, Anthony Cluney, Charles S. 1892 Cluney, Lizzie Tuttle, Mary Snyder, Charles D. Ford, Herbert Pierson, Frederick 0. Farrington, Augusta M Pierson, Mary F. Fredericksen , John Ramsay , Oliver W. Fredericksen, John Jr. Murray, Hugh A. Tyrrell, Van vert H. Purnell, William R. Mac William, Charles M Purnell. Sarah K. Harper, Blake 9 o PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Wait, Mary E. Lewis, Mattie W. (Cicero) Fredericksen, George Schlapper, Conrad Fan\ Hattie (A.G.) Johnson, Agnes Stella McClymont, Maggie McClymont, Anna Hughes, Daisy E- (Lambert) Fraser, Edwin G. Mallett, Frederick Comings, Worthington G. Rudder, Ida M. Owens, John C. B. Henry, William W. Hoagland, George K. Neer, Eva Belle (Frank) Gall, William Lyle, William J. Everett, Stacey R. Gray, William G. Petty, Henry Gardell, John M. Acken, Crowell L. Acken, Mary E. Halpin, Hattie P. (John) Rick, E. W. Rick, Mrs. Waters, Christina C. Walters, Carl Louis Richters, Georgiana G. Conard, Elsie (Harry) Richters, Edna Oberholtzer, Henry L- Rice, Jeannette L. (Rev. W.A. Brown, Evelyn C. Mills, Richard Snyder, Mrs. Snyder, A. F. Richters, Percy VanNuis, Amanda E. Parsons, Lucy A. Proctor, Edward R. 1893 Christiansen, Matthias C. Christiansen, Anna Rick wood, William Rick wood, Elizabeth Shepherd, Theresa White, Estelle Trueman, Thomas Trueman, Ellen Caspar, Gideon Porter, Chastina A. Duryea, Daisy P. Brown, Nina M. Mullen, Anna R. (A. W. ) David, Charles W. Herrmann, Helen (F. R.) Graham, Bessie M. (Wm.) Sofield, Agnes B. Sofield, Edith L. Campbell, Lizzie Quick, Bertha L- Trafton, Alberta M. (George) Rodecker, Mary M. Woodcock, Julia S. (Geo.) Gillis, Clifford Dillon, Henry A. Gillis, Laura A. Brown, Sarah (John) Laing, Annie M. Compton, Elizabeth Hamed, Margaret (C. W.) Taylor, Joseph F. Skillman, John C. Skillman, Mary H. Caldicott, George E. ) Kiehl, Eliza Irving, Mabel Fraser, Mary A. Hall, Lillian E. (Brewer) Graves, Virginia Proctor, Carlton W. Mc Murray, William J. Fraser, Hattie L. O'Brien, William ADDENDA. 91 Caldicott, Clement Dunn, Joanna M. 1894 Herrman, Frederick R. Smith, Bella G. (H. Q.) VanDusen, vSarah O. (Chas. ) Campbell, William M. VanDyke, Mary S. (Rev. G.B Fritts, Annie M. Fredericksen, Peter Hall, Cora P. Wait, Amanda M. Sortore, EmmaL. (Fred) Llewellyn Jeanette ( Wm. ) Hesser, Charles H. Hesser, A. B. Hughes, Margaret H. Lupton James W. Lupton, Laura R. Han, Sam 1895 Field, Thomas U. Hall, William G. Snedeker, Charles D. Snecleker, Mary Meshrow, Alice ( W. H. ) Stevenson, Frank G. Stevenson, Mary A. Mason, Samuel McMurray, Maria G. (W. J.) VanHouten, William VanHouten, Aletta L. VanHouten, Fred S. Ramsay, M. D., William A. Laing, Rachel (Reuben) Laing, Raymond M. Tyrrell, Rose N. (Dr. George) Hornbeck, Bertha Lyon, Cornelia P. (Adrian) Shull, Samuel E. Shull, Laura C. VanHouten, Emma J. VanHouten, Marv L- Stirling, J. L. (C. B. ) 1896 Shirley, Sarah E. (D. A.) Burns, Margaret Fredericksen, John Klipp, Magdalene (George) x Klipp, Lilly M. Hoagland, Charles P. Hancock, Llewellyn Hancock, Priscilla Dwyer, Maud Gibson, Philip Gibson, Elizabeth G. Henricksen, Albert T. Snyder, Phebe A. (A. T. ) Gibbons, Emma Stemetz, Carrie C. Lyle, William J. Lyle, Emma S. 1897 Shirley, Samuel A. Hawk, Grace Bloodgood, Erne A. (Theodore) Brainard, Adeline (William A.) Crouse, Laura (Ira R.) Starr, Mary L. F. Rue, Jane S. Enbody, Sadie C. (Harry S.) 1898 Martin, William H. Martin, Marv G. Bechtel, Martha (R. G.) Tappen, Nettie O. (A. J.) Stevens, Charles K. Stevens, Jessie M. Fredericksen, Anna E. (Peter) 1899 Hornbeck, Mary E. Fredericksen, Juliet E. (John) Jensen, M. J. Hancock, Lewellvn Ernest H. 92 PRESBYTERIANISM IN PERTH AMBOY. Fraser. Margaret (C. Douglas) Smith, Henry Stevenson, Adele M. (Mrs. Rev.) Frost, Mabel E. (Robert E.) Worrell, Florence Kirk wood, Harry J. 1900 Proctor, Edward R. Proctor, Margaret Lydiard, Wilhelmina (E. L. ) Comings, Robert M. Deitche, Ella M. Owens, Marion Crowell, Edith H. Hoppock, Minnie S. (Peter A.) Kleinhans, Edgar H. Kleinhans, Mrs. Ramsay, Ella F. Stacey, Edith E. Seaman, Elizabeth Comings, Walter W. Comings, Harry Everett Compton, Lola B. Barnes, Bessie L. Olsen, Peder, Jr. Thornall, Isabel S. Straub, Bertha (Lee) Richard, Bella (Fred) 1901 Hill, Ernest Edward Clark, Edward Clark, Mrs. Richard, Fred Hanson, Florence fanning, Raymond V. LaRoe, Wilbur, Jr. Smith John A. Smith, Mina Deitche, Augustus Anderson, Earnest Young, Alvah C. Young, Elizabeth Straub, C. Dee Barnekov, Charles W. Barnekov, Emma Barnes, Edward H. Hadden, Amelia D. (Cornelius) Riddlestorffer, Sidney Riddlestorffer, Lillie May Cranston, Irving L. Cranston, Anna E. Peterson. Jennie Janderup, Annie Lewis, Rose E. Murdoch, William Murdoch, Mrs. G. Stafford, Helen (Dr. James) Metz, Catharine M. 1902 Hancock, Ruth W. Morris, Carrie Hansen, Christian C. Hansen, Hans M. K. Hansen, Mary E. Osman, William F. Torberg, Howard N. Johnson, Christine Hoffman, Minnie B. Binder, Harry J. Binder, Sarah Osman, Laura (W. F. ) Stainsby, Helena Smith, Catharine (HansS.) Peets, Harry G. Petersen, Andrew G. Petersen, Josephine Petersen, John G. ERRATA. Page 72. — H. V. Cramer for H. V. Creemer. Alfred E. Whittle for Alfred Wipple. Page 73— J- R- Shay for J. D. Shay. Page 75. — Mrs. Elizabeth W. Barnes for Mrs. Edward W. Barnes, Sr. Page 83. — Pierson, Delilah for Pierson, Dellah (1850) Page 86.— Add (George A.) to Shipman, Ann E. (1874) PROGRAM FOR THE FEAST OF DEDICATION a n d ONE HUNDREDTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION Held January 25 to February i f 1903 SUNDAY, JANUARY 25. 10.30 A. M. H)e5ication of Cburcb. Organ Prelude Doxology Invocation and Lord's Prayer Gloria Responsive Reading Pastor — The Lord is in His holy temple; let all the earth keep silence before Him. People— From the rising of the sun unto the going down of the same the Lord's name is to be praised. Pastor Return, O Lord, how long? And let it repent Thee, concerning Thy servants. People — O satisfy us early with Thy mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days Pastor — Make us glad according to the days wherein Thou hast afflicted us, and the years wherein we have seen evil. People — Let Thy work appear unto Thy servants, and Thy glory unto their children. Pastor — And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us; and establish the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish Thou it. Pastor and People -Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be ac- ceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Hymn— Tune "Old Hundred" All the people that on earth do dwell, Oh, enter then His gates with praise, Sing to the Lord with cheerful voice. Approach with joy His courts unto; Him serve with mirth, His praise forth Praise, laud, and bless His name always, tell, For it is seemly so to do. Come ye before Him and rejoice Know that the Lord is God indeed; Because the Lord our God is good, Without our aid He did us make; His mercy is forever sure; We are His flock, He doth us feed, His truth at all times firmly stood, And for His sheep He doth us take And shall from age to age endure Scripture Reading— i Kings, 8: 12-30; 9: 1-3; Rev. Robert White Anthem Te Deum Prayer- Rev. A. W. Sproull, D.D. Anthem—" I Have Surely Built Thee an House " Announcements and Offerings Hymn — Tune Xast Hope Lord of hosts, to Thee we raise Here to Thee a temple stand Here a house of prayer and praise; While the sea shall gird the land; Thou Thy people's hearts prepare Here reveal Thy mercy sure Here to meet for praise and prayer. While the sun and moon endure. Hallelujah ! earth and sky To the joyful sound reply; Hallelujah ! hence ascend Prayer and praise till time shall end. Sermon of Dedication Rev. Henry Collin Minton, D. D., LL. D., Pastor First Presbyterian Church, Trenton, N J Hymn — Tune "Cooling" Dear Shepherd of thy people here! The feeling heart, the melting eye, Thy presence now display; The humble mind bestow; As Thou hast given a place for prayer And shine upon us Irom on high, So give us hearts to pray To make our graces grow Within these walls let holy peace May we in faith receive the word And love and concord dwell; In faith present our prayers; Here give the troubled conscience ease, And in the presence of our Lord The wounded spirit heal Unbosom all our cares. Report of Building Fund— Prof. S. E. Shull, Treasurer Presentation of Keys — Mr. John H. Gregory, Chairman Building Committee Presentation of Gifts - Mr. John J. Deitche Presentation of Memorials — Mr. C. Douglas Fraser Acceptance of Keys, Gifts and Memorials — Mr. Chas. D. Snedeker, President of Board of Trustees The Dedication Pastor Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is my throne and the earth is my footstool: where is the house that ye build unto me ? People Who am I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn sacrifice before him ? Pastor Except the Lord build the house they labor in vain that build it People • We are laborers together with God Pastor But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willing ly after this sort? People For all things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee PASTOR — This is the word of the Lord unto Zerrubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit. People— The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it. Pastor The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the Lord of Hosts People — And in this place will I givt peace, saith the Lord of Hosts. Pastor— Hear Thou in heaven Thy dwelling-place and forgive and do, and render unto every man according to all his ways, whose heart Thou knowest People — Moreover, concerning the stranger, that is not of Thy people Israel, when he shall come and pray towards this house, hear Thou in heaven Thy dwelling-place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to Thee for Pastor - Arise, O Lord, into Thy rest; thou and the ark of Thy strength. People Let Thy priests be clothed with righteousness; and let Thy saints shout for joy. Pastor Let Thy work appear unto Thy servants, and Thy glory unto their children People And establish Thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish Thou it. Pastor — That all the peoples of the earth may know Thy name, to fear Thee, and that they may know that this house which we have built is called by Thy Name Pastor and People — To God, the Father, to Jesus Christ, His Son, Our Saviour, and to the Holy Spirit, the Comforter, WE DEDICATE THIS CHURCH. Pastor — For the worship of God, the confession of sin, and prayer for pardoning grace; for the proclamation of the Glad Tidings of Salvation in Christ Jesus, for instruction in the Holy Scriptures, for the administration of the ordinances of Baptism and of the Lord's Supper, and for the ingathering of souls into the communion of God's people, People— WE DEDICATE THIS CHURCH. Pastor — For the guiding of the young into the ways of holiness, for the strengthening of the weak, for the comforting of the mourners, for the uplifting of those who are bowed down, for the Christian observance of the Lord's Day. tor the development of the missionary spirit, for the giving of our substance as God prospers us. for the in culcation of the principles of patriotism, and of truth, and of righteousness, People— WE DEDICATE THIS CHURCH. Pastor — For our use and the use of generations to come in all ways that shall contribute to the glory of God and the salvation of man, Pastor and People— WE DEDICATE THE CHURCH. Declaration — By Pastor and People Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, to Thee, the only living and true God, we now solemnly dedicate this building erected under Thy gracious guidance. We dedicate it to Thee for Thy most holy worship, for the serv- ices of Thy blessed Son, and for the proclamation of His glorious gospel of the Kingdom of Truth We dedicate it to Thee that by Thee it may be owned and honored in fulfilling Thy people's prayer that Thy kingdom come, and Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever Amen. Prayer of Dedication Rev. Robert F. Sample, D. D, Hymn — Tune "Hebron" O God the father, Christ the Son, May Jesus here that power display And Holy Spirit, Three in One, Which changes darkness into day, Accept this gift our hearts have sought, Ami open wide those yates of love Our hands in Christian love have That lead to blessedness above, brought. Here may the light of gospel truth O Jesus Christ, our sovereign Lord, Illumine age enlighten youth; By angels and by saints adored, In many hearts that grace begin, Accept this tribute of our praise Which saves from sorrow and trom sin. And with Thy glory rill this place. Benediction afternoon Service AT 3 O'CLOCK. Mr. Edward W. Barnes, Superintendent of the Sunday School, presiding Singing - "Onward, Christian Soldiers" Scripture Reading — John J. Deitche Singing — "Come, Thou Almighty King" Prayer — Adrian Lyon Singing — "Trust and Obey" Offerings Singing — "Encamped Along the Hills" Address — "The Power of Small Things" General O. O. Howard Singing — "All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name" Benediction £r* t2?* *&* Evening Service AT 7 30 O'CLOCK. Organ Anthem — "Praise the Lord, O My Soul." The united choirs of the Baptist, Methodist and Presby- terian Churches Scripture Reading Hymn 129— "I Love Thy Kingdom, Lord" Prayer — Rev. Edward B. French Solo— "Open the Gates of the Temple," Mr. F. R. Conklin Offerings Hymn 130 — "The Church's One Foundation" Greetings From Our Sister Churches — Simpson M. E. Church, Rev. S. Trevena Jackson, Ph. D. Baptist Church, Rev. Percy R. Ferris Solo — "Hear My Prayer," Mrs. R. W. Macan Greetings from Our Sister Churches — Danish M. E. Church, Rev. Andrew Hansen Swedish Congregational Church, Rev. Theodore Englund Hymn 131 — "Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken" Greetings from tbe presbpten? of Elisabeth. MONDAY, JANUARY 26. AT 7.45 P. M. Organ Hymn 144 — "How Beauteous are the Feet" Scripture Reading and Prayer — Rev. I. A. Blauvelt, D.D., Roselle Anthem — Church Choir Offerings Addresses — Rev. John T. Reeve, Basking Ridge, Moderator of Presbytery Rev. Joseph M. McNulty, D. D., Woodbridge Rev. James G. Mason, D.D., Metuchen Hymn 170 — "O Still in Accents Sweet and Strong" Addresses — Rev, Eben B. Cobb, D.D., Elizabeth Rev. George H. Payson, D.D., Rahway Rev. George F. Greene, D.D., Cranford Hymn 145 — "Soldiers of Christ Arise" e^* «^* t&* fIDisstons. TUESDAY, JANUARY 27. AT 3.30 P. M. Somen's /iDeetino. Devotional Services — Conducted by Mrs. J. H. Owens Duet — Mrs. Wilbur LaRoe and Mrs. James Chalmers Address — "Home Missions," Miss Julia Fraser Address — "Foreign Missions," Mrs. Wellington White Vocal Solo — "O Love Divine," Holden Mrs. WiLBUk LaRoe Collection Evening Service AT 7.45 O'CLOCK. Organ Anthem — "The Lord is My Shepherd" . . . Schubert Carol Club Scripture Reading Hymn 191 — "Jesus Shall Reign Where'er the Sun" Prayer — Rev. George Buckle, Elizabeth Anthem -"Hark, Hark My Soul," Smart Carol Club Offerings for Missions Hymn 366 — "God Bless Our Native Land" Address — "Mormonism," Rev. S. E. Wishard, D. D., Utah Anthem — "Evening Peace," .... A.bt Carol Club Address — "Foreign Missions," Mr. David McConaughy, New York City Hymn 185 — "From Greenland's Icy Mountains" *£T* 1&* *£?* ©ur ipouna people. WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28. AT 7.30 P. M. Wilbur LaRoe, President Christian Endeavor Society, presiding A Song Service for 15 Minutes Hymn -"Countless Mercies," Choir Scripture Reading Hymn 9 — "Open Wide the Door" Prayer— Rev. R. J. Dick, South Amboy Vocal Solo — "I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say," . . Rathbun Mrs Wilbur LaRoe Offerings Hymn 75— "When the King Shall Come" Address— Rev. Wayland Hoyt, D.D., Philadelphia. Hymn 112 — "Loyalty to Christ" Evangelism ai^ tbe press. THURSDAY, JANUARY 29. AT 7.4-5 P. M. Organ Hymn I7J — "Work for the Night is Coming" Scripture Reading and Prayer — Rev. S. H. Thompson, D.D., Red Bank Anthem — "It is a Good Thing to Give Thanks" Address — "The Religious Press," Rev. John Bancroft Devins, D.D., New York City Hymn 368— "My Country 'Tis of Thee" Address — "Evangelical Work," Rev. John F. Carson, D.D., Brooklyn Hymn 247 - "Am I a Soldier of the Cross" ^3* «