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1863. ^tP^tistics of w
United
ANNALS AND STATISTICS
<^C.'.'FP''«C?>
OF THE V^* ' ' " -^
UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
BY THE LATE
REV. WILLIAM 'MACKELVIE, D.D.
BALGEDIE, KINROSS-SHIRE.
ISSUED UNDER THE SUPERINTENDENCE OF A COMMITTEE OE THE UNITED PRESBYTERIAN SYNOD.
EDINBURGH:
OLIPHANT & COMPANY, AND ANDREW ELLIOT;
GLASGOW: DAVID ROBERTSON.
1873.
EDINBURGH !
PRINTED BY M'FARLANE AND ERSKINK,
date Schcnck &= M'FarlaneJ
ST JAMES SQUARE.
TO THE
i d 0 lu and ^ o n
OF THE
REV. WILLI/M MjlCKELVIE. D.D.,
HIS
COMPLETED ''ANNALS"
ARE NOW
!|j$|it5ttf«j[!j| ^n$tri!i0h.
CONTENTS.
Preface,
Biographical Notice,
PAGB
vii
SUMMARIES.
CAUSES OPERATING IN THE FORMATION AND
INCREASE OF CONGREGATIONS.
IV.
I. Anterior to the Secession —
Praying Societies, . . i
Marrow Controversy, . 4
Patronage, ... 6
II. At the Secession, . . 8
III. Subsequent to the Secession —
(External) —
Continued Exercise of Pa-
tronage, ... 8
Porteous Act, . . g
Negative Theology, . 14
Accessions from other De-
nominations, . . 15
View of the Progressive Extension of
ferent Branches, from 1733 to 187 i,
Absolute, Average, and Relative Increase
Results of Secession, ....
Congregations which have changed names.
The Secession in Ireland,
The Secession in the United States, .
The Presbyterian Church in Nova Scotia,
The " Run - line " — Para-
phrases — Open - air Ser-
vices, . . . 16
Subsequent to the Secession —
(Internal) —
Burgess Oath, . . 18
Doctrinal Disputes, . 19
Ritual Observances (" Lift-
ing"), ... 20
The Magistrate's Power, 21
Convenience, . . 22
Minorities in Calls, . 26
Itineracies, &c., . . 29
the Church in its dif
shown in Decades, .
OR become extinct,
31-35
35-40
41
42-43
43
46
48
VI
Contents.
PRESBYTERIES.
Aberdeen,
51
Glasgow, .
291
Annandale,
65
Hamilton,
358
Arbroath,
76
Ireland, .
372
Banff, ....
88
Kelso,
376
Berwick, ....
94
Kilmarnock,
395
Buchan,
. 114
Kinross, .
424
Carlisle, ....
. 119
Kirkcaldy,
440
Cupar, ....
125
Lanark, .
461
Dumfries,
142
Lancashire,
474
Dundee, ....
157
London, .
494
Dunfermline, .
171
Melrose, .
507
Edinburgh,
187
Newcastle,
524
Elgin and Inverness,
249
Orkney, .
550
Falkirk,
263
Paisley and Greenock,
558
Galloway,
282
Perth,
589
Stirling
>
. 628
LISTS
OF .
STUDENTS.
H.
Theological Hall of Asso-
ciate Presbytery, . -652
General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Hall, . . 654
III. Associate (Burgher) Hall, 664
IV. United Secession Hall, . 674
V. Relief Theological Hall, 688
VI. United Presbyterian Hall, 693
REFERENCES TO IMPORTANT CASES AT LAW.
PAGE
PAGE
Dun versus Brunton,
53
Kirkintilloch,
ZZ^
A. Fyfe, Dumfries, .
144
Campbelton,
zz^
Wilson versus Jobson,
160
Kilpatrick,
339
Auchincloss, .
165
Kilmaurs,
402
Adam Gib, &c.,
189
Leslie, ....
448
Dr M'Crie, &c.,
194
Cartsdyke,
558
W. C. Arniel, &c., .
243
Craigdaillie, &c., .
592
Falkirk Case, .
266
H. Hill versus A. Thomson,
647
PREFACE.
^Inlnf^HEcompilationof" Annals and Statistics of the United Presbyterian
^1?^ Church " which is now issued in this goodly vokime, labours under all the
pIC disadvantages of posthumous publication. Its lamented author — an appre-
ciative sketch of whose life and work, from the pen of his friend, the Rev.
Dr Macfarlane of London, will be found in some following pages — devoted to its
preparation many of his best years. He brought to his task a combination of faculty
and taste and knowledge singularly adapted to its successful accomplishment. He
delighted in facts ; his mind was imbued with the love of denominational antiquities
and fnemorabilia ; and he never wearied in his efforts to complete and authenticate
the records which he sought to preserve from the oblivion into which many of them
were rapidly falling. It was his earnest desire that his work might see the light
in his own lifetime, and under his own eye ; but disabling illness overtook him
while little past the mid-time of his days, and his busy brain and hand were stilled
in death while yet a considerable portion of his self-appointed labours remained
undone.
After Dr Mackelvie's death, the mass of MSS. which he left behind him in a
more or less finished state was presented by his widow and sons to the United
Presbyterian Synod. The Synod, highly appreciating the gift, and recognising its
value as a Thesaurus of denominational lore, and as throwing many interesting side-
lights across an important page of the ecclesiastical history of Scotland, resolved to
complete a work which had so generously been placed in their hands, and to under-
take its publication. A Committee was accordingly appointed, with the writer of
these lines as Convener, to whom the MSS. were intrusted, with instructions to pre-
pare them for the press, and superintend their issue. The Committee were fortunate
enough to induce the Rev. William Blair, M.A., of Dunblane — with whose name,
after the author's own, the "Annals" should in all coming time be associated — to
undertake the labour of revising all that Dr Mackelvie had left completed, and of
bringing down the statistics of congregations and students to the present day. Mr
Blair entered upon his work con amore; he has verified or supplemented thousands
of facts and dates; and the sketches of congregations, from 1854 downwards —
amounting in all to about one hundred and forty — have been written by himself
He has also supplemented the " Lists of Students" from 1834 to 1872, and drawn
up entirely the Lists of the Relief Hall from 1825 to 1847. The Committee desire
to express their cordial satisfaction with the manner in which Mr Blair has dis-
charged the trust reposed in him, and gratefully congratulate him on the result
which has been attained.
In passing the sheets through the press, the Convener and Mr Blair have con-
Vlll
Preface.
joined their efforts to secure as much accuracy as the nature of such a work, in a
first edition, will permit. They have read and re-read every proof with an earnest
desire to let nothing dubious slip which they had any means of certifying. They
are far from supposing that some mistakes may not still be discovered, and they
invite detection of these, and communications regarding them from any readers who
may be able to bring special knowledge to bear on particular portions of the book.
It will be remembered that the text and style and structure of the "Annals" are
Dr Mackelvie's own ; and that all his editors have done has been to correct, and,
to the extent already specified, to complete what he had \\Titten. This they have
done with the loving care of friends, and at least without sparing time and pains
to do it faithfully and well. For the occasional editorial notes, Mr Blair and the
Convener are jointly responsible. The congregations will be found arranged, under
Presbyteries, in chronological order, except where the order is interfered with for
the sake of presenting in one group those which are situated in the same city or
town.
Almost simultaneously with the work of Dr Mackelvie, another, and in some
respects similar, compilation was presented to the United Presbyterian Synod. This
was a body of MSS. carefully prepared by the late Rev. Dr George Brown, of
Liverpool, and kindly handed over to the Church by the writer's family after his
death. Dr Brown's MSS. would have been invaluable had Dr Mackelvie's not
existed ; as it is, they have been most useful to the editors of Mackelvie — seldom,
indeed, as supplying facts which were altogether wanting in the latter, but frequently
as furnishing a ready means for their correction or verification. This acknow-
ledgment is due to the memory of Dr Brown, whose papers are arranged in
admirable method, and with singular accuracy, but the plan of whose work, being
much more purely statistical than that of his fellow-worker in the same field, renders
it less eligible for publication.
The Editors of Mackelvie now present his completed work to the public,
impressed themselves with a sense of its value, which they hope a general verdict of
approval will show to be just. They cannot doubt that a generous reception
awaits the volume throughout the congregations and families of the United Presby-
terian Church, and of the offshoots of Scottish Secession in other lands. " The
Fathers" live before us again in these pages, and the old times come back, with
all their sufferings and contendings, their noblenesses and their faults. Nor will
these " Annals" be found beneath the notice of the thinker, of whatever class or party,
who would get to the real complexion and meaning of the ecclesiastical history of
Scodand during the period they embrace. A philosophy is to be read between the
lines of such a book as this, pregnant with lessons which are as yet far from being
obsolete, and which laymen and ministers, politicians and ecclesiastics, Seceders and
Churchmen, have equal need to lay to heart. He who would gather up these lessons,
and present them thoughtfully to the public, would do the times a useful service.
The volume has been printed with unusual care by an Edinburgh firm, whose
senior partner, Mr W. H. M'Farlane, has been anxious to do all justice to the
posthumous work of an old and valued friend.
6 Richmond Street, Glasgow,
\%th April 1873.
DAVID YOUNG,
Convener of United Presbyterian SyuoiVs Comtnittee
oil the MSS. of the late Dr Mackelvie.
BIOGRAPHICAL NOTICE
BY THE
Rev. JOHN MACFARLANE, LL.D., London.
ffflLLIAMMACKELVIE, D.D., the author of these "Annals and Statistics,"
was born in Edinburgh on the yth March 1800. His father died when
WiUiam was only nine months old, and from that time the mother and
her child became the peculiar care of Him who " relieveth the fatherless
and the widow." His mother very soon thereafter removed to Leith, where he
passed the days of childhood and youth. He had scarcely got the elements of a
common education, when he was apprenticed to a draper in Leith. Very shortly
thereafter he became the subject of religious impressions, and decided to study for
the Christian ministry. Hitherto he had attended the Estabhshed Church. The
importance of earnest piety dawned upon him while a scholar in one of the Leith
Sabbath-schools. He now left the " Kirk," and joined the congregation of the Rev.
Mr Aitchison, who was then the minister of the Kirkgate Secession Church.
How the young Mackelvie managed to get the elementary classical books and
the funds necessary to his education, is not known. He was always reticent as to
this portion of his early days. According to his circumstances, however, he was
both a diligent and successful student. After shop-hours he had to ply the hard,
but to him the pleasant, tasks of conning his rudiments, preparing his grammatical
exercises, and deciphering his Greek. Few of our distinguished men have had to
fight their way through more discouraging obstacles. It was a proud day for him
when he matriculated in the Edinburgh University, which he did in November
1819 ; and still more elating was his becoming a student of theology at Glasgow
under the late Dr Dick. Alike by the professor and the students he was esteemed
for his carefully-prepared discourses and transparent integrity of character. During
the five years of his theological career he supported himself by teaching. Towards
its close he became tutor in a private boarding-house at Dollar Academy. Some
time before his license to preach, he became the travelling companion of a young
gentleman, moving about with him among the counties and cities of England —
an arrangement which gratified his appetite for general knowledge, and supplied to
some extent the lack of other means of information, if not of learning. During this
peripatetic schoohng he got into some public discussions, the details of which he
was wont to give with genuine humour and glee.
On quitting the Hall he returned to Leith, where he passed the winter of 1 826-
1827 in diligently preparing his "trials" for license. He reached this interesting
crisis on his birthday, 7th March 1827, His trial discourses were delivered before
X Biographical Notice.
the Presbytery of Stirling and Falkirk, from whom he received his license to preach
the glorious Gospel. His first sermon was preached in the pulpit of the Rev. Pro-
fessor Harper, D.D., of Leith, under whose pastorate he had placed himself after
Mr Aitchison's death. His text on that occasion was i Peter ii. 25, " For ye
were as sheep going astray ; but are now returned to the Shepherd and Bishop of
your souls." It was a well-composed discourse, of logical arrangement, as to lan-
guage tersely and tastefully expressed, and upon the whole of striking effect. His
utterance was rapid and a little thickish, his manner natural, and his earnestness
warm though not effervescent. To the end of his life there was a certain degree of
flurry in his style of utterance, traceable to a constitutional nervousness he could
not altogether control. He became an acceptable but not a popular preacher. He
desired a speedy settlement. One year after another, however, found his name
still upon the list of probationers. He got dispirited, and meditated the adoption
of some other calling. About this time he was sent up to London to supply the
pulpit of Albion Chapel, which was vacant by the death of Mr Gray. This was
quite a place to his liking. He was much appreciated by the congregation. He
was for six weeks the guest of the late Alderman Sir John Pirie, one of the mem-
bers of Albion Church. The former minister had died under Sir John's roof.
To IMr Mackelvie Sir John proposed the writing of a memoir of Mr Gray, and the
editing of a volume of his sermons. To this he consented. There was much in
Mr Gray's antecedents which reminded Mr Mackelvie of his own, andjie betook
himself to the task with a keen relish. He accomplished it creditably.
On his return to the north, he was appointed to supply the church at Balgedie,
Kinross-shire, by which he was unanimously called on the i6th of April 1829. On
the 6th of August following he was ordained the minister of Balgedie by the Pres-
bytery of Dunfermline. He was introduced to his new charge on the next Sabbath,
by his early friend the Rev. William Lourie of Lauder. His first text was taken
from Heb. xiii. 17, "Obey them that have the rule over you," etc. And so life's
steep ascent was thus far reached. It was well and bravely done, though the issue
was not what he had wished and hoped it should be. " London " was his proposal ;
Balgedie was God's disposal. His inexperience led him to take a false estimate of
his own qualifications ; the wisdom and mercy of the " Master " he was to serve led him
forth by another way. Many a time in after years he blessed God for that " way."
Two great works were before him, besides those of the Gospel ministry — " The Life
and Vindication of Michael Bruce," the earliest poet of the Secession Church, and
" The Annals and Statistics of the United Presbyterian Church." It is next to cer-
tain that he would never have thought of either had he been settled down in any
other part of the country. It is well for themselves, and best for Christ's cause,
when the ministers of religion receive their appointments from above — otherwise they
may be found to be " of the earth, earthy."
Balgedie is a small straggling hamlet at the foot of one of the Lomond Hills, Kin-
ross-shire, and upon the north-eastern bank of Loch Leven. It is one of those places
which may be called " Patmos." Of society it cannot boast ; of trade there is scarce a
murmur ; and the noise of the far-off world seldom crosses the bosom of the sweet lake
upon whose shores stand the church and manse of the United Presbyterian Church.
At the first the young minister felt as if exiled. He liked some of the world's stir,
and rather courted than refused its bracing excitements. But in the manse at
Balgedie he felt the danger of degenerating into the anchorite. The parishioners
were for the most part like Jacob of old, "plain people," and though not living in
Biographical Notice. xi
" tents," inhabited humble dwelhngs, and soared no higher than respectable pro-
prietors of their own farms, or labourers thereon. Everything about was intensely
rural. Many had misgivings as to Mr Mackelvie's suitability for the situation. He
himself doubted it. He had studied men, and considered that he knew them. The
light, and not the shade, he reckoned ought to have been his lot ; and from the
depressions and disadvantages of an unpatronised youth-time he claimed the right
to go up to the battle and the breeze of manhood experiences, in the hope that, if
he did not " cut a figure," he should at least be more useful.
The Balgedie pastor was, from the beginning to the close of his ministry, per-
severingly diligent. His heart was really in " the work," of which no portion was
neglected. His chief labour, however, was in his library and upon his discourses.
These were prepared with care, as the volume published since his death testifies
and proves. He fed his people with the "finest of the wheat." He constantly
enriched his own mind by reading. He collected a large and select library, and no
man could make a better use of it. This appeared in the varied and useful infor-
mation of his public prelections, and in those powers of conversation which made
him an intelligent and instructive companion. He particularly excelled in expound-
ing Scripture ; he went at once to the root of the matter, and pointed morals with
a clearness and force which won for him the confidence and admiration of his
Hock. He was ever busy also without the manse. He regularly visited once a year
the members of the congregation, especially the sick, the bereaved, and the dying,
to whom he was indeed "a son of consolation," To the young he was a most
interesting instructor, and never failed to intensify their attention upon the subjects
which he handled in the Bible-classes, His extensive reading highly qualified him
for this important duty. The consequence of all was, he brought together one of
the most intelligent and pious congregations in the district, and he kept them in
peace and prosperity while he lived. Still, with plenty to do, and a heart to do it,
he felt that something should be devised by him to prevent ennui and sloth while
in the seclusion of his rural abode. For a time he had his hands filled with
improvements of the ground and garden around the manse, where, as he found them,
there were neither walks nor fences, fruits nor flowers. It was a little wilderness,
but, under his horticultural taste and care, it soon became beautiful and attractive.
He for long divided his time between that garden and his study. Both were models,
and from both came forth good fruit. He studied botany to enrich the one, and
theology to empower the other. A paradise, however, though it became, " Eve "
was awanting to make his happiness complete; so he took to himself an "help-
meet" on the 6th of May 1836, when he was married to Miss M'Intosh, daughter
of the late Dr John M'Intosh, of Long Acre, London. His prudence and sagacity
were never more conspicuous than in this choice. The manse became as "paradise
regained" — never "lost." Mrs Mackelvie and her two sons still live, else more
might be added concerning them. Let it be here recorded to their praise, that in
them he found valuable encouragement and help in the preparation of his great
work — the present volume.
Dr Mackelvie was the planner of what was called " The Dick Club," an associa-
tion formed of those ministers who had studied under Professor Dick at Glasgow.
It is referred to simply because at its first meeting, in the saloon of the " Royal
Hotel," Edinburgh, he mooted the idea of a " Life of Michael Bruce," whose birth
and burial places were in the vicinity of Balgedie. The paper he read upon that
occasion so excited the enthusiasm of the Club, that there and then he was unani-
xii Biographical Notice.
mously requested to draw up and publish a new and extended life of the poet. He
consented, on condition that the profits of the volume, if any, should be applied to
the erection of a monument to Bruce in the churchyard where his remains lay. In
August 1837 this work was published. In addition, however, to the "Life" and
the "Poems," it contained a careful, discriminating, and eminently successful
vindication of Bruce's right to the authorship of certain " Paraphrases and Odes "
hitherto claimed for Logan,* who had been his companion in early life. Kinness-
wood, the village where Bruce was born, was in the immediate neighbourhood of
" the manse," and by some of its inhabitants the poet was remembered, and to
them certain of his poems were quite familiar. In his intercourse with them, Dr
Mackelvie speedily discovered that Logan must have pirated some of the best of the
poems of the weaver's son, and published them as his own. This set him to work.
He hunted up and down for evidence wherever it could be found, and in the end
he was successful. Thus he rescued from the hands of a pilferer " The Ode to the
Cuckoo," pronounced by the Lord Chancellor of England to be the " finest ode in
the English language," and some of our most beautiful paraphrases. The work is
in every way most creditable to him, and brought him golden opinions from other
quarters than his own club. Literary men discerned the act of justice, and com-
plimented the author accordingly. Among other tributes, he got the thanks of
" the Lord Chief-Commissioner Adam " of Blairadam ; of Dr Baird, Principal of the
Edinburgh University; of William and Robert Chambers, Esqs., the eminent authors
and publishers; of William Young, Esq., W.S., etc., etc. Mr Young invited him to
Harburn (his country seat, near West-Calder), and had the generosity to say, in his
letter of invitation, " I am really at a loss to express to you my approbation of the
manner in which you have executed the work, and the justice you have done to the
talents and memory of a most extraordinary youth, more especially by rescuing
them from the fangs of a poisonous reptile." The edition of the work was soon
sold, and with the profits he at once erected the present chaste monument that rises
upon the poet's grave in the churchyard of Portmoak. It was about this time that
the honorary degree of D.D. was conferred upon him by the College of Hamilton,
Ohio, an honour which he highly appreciated, and all the more because it came to
him from America. It is perhaps not much to the credit of the United Presbyterian
Church that the poems of Bruce, her earliest and best poet, are by no means so
widely known and patronised as they assuredly ought to be.
Dr Mackelvie was not sectarian. He preferred his own, but regarded with
fraternal love all other Churches. Indeed, he could not endure the bigotry of sect.
This catholicity of spirit led him at an early i)criod to take a deep interest in what
used to be called " The Relief Union." He has the merit of having introduced the
first motion upon the subject to the Presbytery of Dunfermline in April 1834.
This led to other similar motions in several Presbyteries ; and for thirteen years
thereafter, amid good and bad report, he stuck gallantly to his union colours,
and had the satisfiiction of seeing that union consummated in Edinburgh upon
the 13th ]\Iay 1847. '^ 'i^' United Synod appreciated his services, appointed him to
draw up "The Narrative of the Union," which he most creditably executed, and
elected him as its "Moderator" in 1856. After this he retired to the amenities of
his peacefiil retreat. Plaving gained the object of his heart, he never again aj^peared
in the public actions of the Chunli, seemingly (juite satisfied that he had done his
duty, and done it effectually. It is just to him, however, to record that, during
* One of llic ministuis of llic Establislicd Church in I.cilh.
Biographical Notice. xiii
the thirteen years of this "Union" agitation, he published in the United Secession
Magazine a series of seven letters upon the subject, thereby preparing the minds of
both Churches for what was before them. Perhaps these compositions are the most
creditable to his head and heart of all his publications. They were no doubt
ephemeral in their nature and influence, but the object at which they so wisely and
eloquently aimed has been reached, and will ever redound to his praise.
Dr Mackelvie also took a great interest in the cause of " National Education."
Had he Uved till now, it would have gratified him to find his liberal views not only
in the ascendant, but actually embodied in the legislation of his native land. To
him, above all his brethren, must the recent appointment of his learned and revered
friend, Dr James Taylor, to the office of "Secretary to the Scotch Board of
National Education " have been specially gratifying, had he been spared to witness
it. In furtherance of his views, he sent five long and elaborate articles to the
Voluntary Church Magazine. The topics he discusses in them are — " National
Education as to Quantity," " as to Quality," " Claims of the Church Clergy,"
" Legislative Interference," and " Legislative Interference continued." He pleads
for Government aid in behalf of schools, but denounces it in behalf of Churches.
" No Voluntary," he writes, " need fear that he is in any way committing himself
when he contends for the one and opposes the other. The inhabitants of the
United States are not dunces, and they have practically shown how broad is the
distinction between them ; for while they have made the most ample State provision
for their schools, they have left each sect to support its own place of worship ; and
let this truth be indelibly impressed upon the mind of every well-wisher of Britain,
that till a system of universal education be established, the great proportion of its
inhabitants will never be anything else than semi-barbarians and intolerant bigots."
The great work by which Dr Mackelvie is to be remembered in our Church is
" The Annals and Statistics," which are now given to the world. In the beginning
of 1839 he informed the writer of this notice that he was considerably advanced in
preparing a complete Hst of the ministers and students of the Secession Church for
a hundred years. His design was to publish these statistics as soon as he got the
lists completed. The approaching union with the Relief Church caused him to
halt, and on its consummation he had entirely to recast them, that the names and
congregations of that denomination might be incorporated. To execute this
work, he underwent a vast deal of worrying labour. If Dr Johnson and Dr Jamie-
son had earned the tide of " Lexicographers," that of " Statist " is certainly due to
the patient and painstaking pastor of Balgedie. How he came to think of such a
work is not known. In all probability, however, the idea was suggested to his
mind by a request from Dr M'Kerrow of Bridge of Teith at the time he was
preparing his " History of the Secession Church." He had sent out circulars to
all the ministers of the Secession, at that time numbering 360, asking information
regarding the origin of their congregations, the erection of the places of worship,
the ordinations and removals of the ministers, the number of members, the means
of instruction for the young, and other points of interest. Only 210 returned
answers to this circular ; and, in consequence of this, he altered his intention, as
stated in his Appendix, of giving the statistics of each congregation. It was in
September 1830, thirteen months after his ordination, that Dr Mackelvie sent the
desired information to Dr M'Kerrow. Was this the nest-egg of the volume
which is now hatched? He continued to work upon this '■'magnum opus" till
he injured his health. In 1S43 he thus writes: "I have done very little to the
xiv • Biographical Notice.
'Statistics' since winter, and will not be able to return to them with constancy
till the long evenings set in. I am done with the Presbytery of Paisley and
Greenock ; so that, by looking at the almanac, you will see how much remains
in the history of the congregations. But I am only half through the work when
that is finished. I mean to give a summary of all the matters contained in the
lists in the form of narrative ; so that I have at least a year's work before me,
even though I do nothing besides." Again, in 1844, he writes : "I am toiling
night and day at my 'Statistics,' and do not wish to be taken away one hour from
them that has not some imperative demand upon me ;" and again, in 1855 : " You
urge me to delay not the ' Statistics.' There is no hurry. They will lose nothing by
delay, but rather gain by it. A time of war, high income-tax, and stagnation of
trade, is not a suitable time for publishing books, especially books of limited
interest, large in size, necessarily expensive, and adapted for consultation rather
than reading. I am afraid the work will not be a very valuable one at any time,
and confess to some hesitation about publishing it at all. Of its utility I have no
doubt, but that utility would be chiefly confined to United Presbyterian ministers
and students. I do not expect that it will even reimburse me for the labour
bestowed upon it and the expense incurred by it, much less that it will aftbrd me
any profit. I have already injured my health by it, for I ascribe much of a former
illness to a fit of intense application to it. I am not disposed to subject myself to
a shnilar ordeal again, if I can avoid it ; and therefore the ' Statistics ' must bide my
leisure, inclination, and slow progress, though their continuance in my portfolio till
death be the result." And in his portfolio they did lie till the diligent hand that
had designed and arranged them lay motionless. The work is now his legacy to
the Church, and the Synod has done well in sending it down to the congi-egations
in its present completed form. It is only just to Dr Mackelvie to add, that in
plodding for his materials, he left no stone unturned. He searched keenly the
session records of all those congregations to which he had access. He laid under
obligation to help him his numerous personal friends throughout the Church, and
he spared neither labour nor expense nor health to make the work complete. To
realise the length and breadth of these researches, one has only to imagine the
amount of correspondence they entailed, and the innumerable dates and facts
which had to be secured and compiled, and that, too, often after repeated appeals
and vexatious delays, and sometimes uncourteous refusals. One of his sons thus
writes : " His hours of labour, as well as his correspondence and outlay, it is im-
possible to estimate. I have but too vivid a recollection of my school holidays
being utilised every forenoon to transcribe at his dictation collected materials, or
to copy into his note-book the newspaper accounts of kirk meetings and congrega-
tional jubilees when any statistics could be got. Put this was in the later times of
the ' tri-weekly ' newspaper, and afterwards the ' penny daily.' The earlier and
chief part of his work was, as you know, done at a time when news were scanty, and
the multitudinous letters about it were written and received for a long time during
the high rates of postage. This, and the many journeys he undertook when
travelling was not so cheap as now, will give you some idea of his labours and
sacrifices in connection with the work. As to his disapi^ointments and discourage-
ments, you will readily understand their number and their nature. He did not
reveal them to us. He was too real a man to let such circumstances daunt him,
much less to show his discomfiture to others."
The work at the " Statistics" continued less or nioie up to about 1S60. He then
Biographical Notice. xv
broke down in health, and having put his finishing touches to the manuscripts, laid
them aside for ever. The volume will speak for itself, and is certain to be received
alike greedily and gratefully by the ministers, elders, and members of the United
Presbyterian Church. True, it is strictly of denominational interest, but to the
denomination it is sure to prove a volume of invaluable reference. The interest,
too, that must be taken in it must increase by the lapse of time. The sympathies
and associations of memory grow with age, and the indifference that the rising
generation may feel now, shall give place to the keen relish of maturer years. And
again, should the ecclesiastical unions now on the faj>is be accomplished, the value
of the work as a repertory of dates and facts in the history of Scottish Presby-
terianism must be greatly enhanced. Unquestionably Dr Mackelvie has laid the
whole Church under a debt of gratitude, which we cannot help wishing he had
lived to enjoy.
Dr Mackelvie had very few intimate friends. In his intercourse with his neigh-
bours and brethren he was alike frank and obliging. The Presbytery and the County
of Kinross alike testify to this. But he had too much of the sensitive plant in his
nature to go and act upon society with petitions for its benisons. He was, how-
ever, decidedly and sincerely the friend of those whom he honoured with his
confidence. " No person," he once vi'rote, " ever yet charged me with ingratitude.
I never lost a friend save by death. Those who were my friends in youth are still
my friends in advancing age ; and I am as ready to accept kindness at their hands
as ever I was. I confess I cannot weep when I am not grieved, nor laugh when I
am not merry. I leave it to the other sex to show their passions upon all occa-
sions, to shed tears like summer showers, and as short-lived ; but experience tells
me that my passions, if not as prompt, are much more strong and lasting. Feel-
ing ! Why, sir, the intensity of it has often befooled me, and, what is worse, has
made me the dupe of designing men. I have seen a dog come fawning to a man,
and then bite his heels. I have seen another growl at his approach, and after-
wards fly to his defence. In the world's judgment the one was a kind dog, the
other a surly mastiff. In delineating their character, it was not taken into account
that the latter had often been beaten for manifestations of affection, and driven
into his apparent surliness by suffering. It was denied he had a heart, and so he
was chained in his kennel, while the puppy was admitted into the parlour, and
caressed as a dog of feeling. So fares it often with men as well as dogs." From
such extracts as these, it will be at once discerned that he excelled in letter-writing.
He may be said to have cultivated it as an art. With ease an entire volume of his
correspondence could be compiled, to challenge competition with the worthiest in
that line. Indeed, he studied his letters, and elaborated many of them, as he did
his literary contributions or pulpit discourses. In such exercises he had his
excitement. Too sensitive for the platform, or indeed for any public exhibition, he
surrendered himself to such influences as led him to a systematic demonstration of
his feelings and opinions in this sacred and unobtrusive way.
For several years before his death, Dr Mackelvie suffered from infirm health •
and in July i860 he underwent an operation from which he never completely
rallied. Still, on partial recovery, he attempted again his loved employ the
"Statistics." So lately as in 1861 he seems to have been looking at them. "I
have been doing nothing towards finishing my ' Statistics ' while I have been ill. I
resolve, however, on proceeding effectively when better, if God shall spare me, or
at least to leave them in a state that some one else will be able to finish them."
xvi Biographical Notice.
Among his papers there is a note-book containing memoranda for his ' Statistics.'
Some of these bear date 28th October 1861, and one is of date 17th March 1862,
regarding the call of the Rev. James M'Ewen to Hawick. The latest jotting, in a
tremulous hand, records the death of the Rev. N. Lind, Whitehill, 4th May 1862.*
His last appearance in his pulpit was upon the 21st April 1861. For two whole
years after this he was entirely laid aside from public duty. He died on the icth
March 1863. Seriously stricken with paralysis, he could speak with difficulty. No
deathbed sayings remain ; his memory does not need them. He lived the life of
the righteous, and died their death. His soul is now with Christ, and his body
rests in a grave near to that of Michael Bruce. His works now follow him. He
was a powerful and faithful minister of the Gospel, an affectionate husband, father,
and friend, a sound philanthropist, and one of the most useful men in his Church.
Let his memory be blessed. Such men, such pastors, and such friends, are really
the ornaments and props of God's house. May the good Lord multiply their
number in these days of rebuke and blasphemy !
J. M.
* Tn his note-book there are extracts from the Edinburgh Review, Sir John Sinclair's Essays,
and Macauiay's Essays, marked "for the preface." One of these is as follows :— "Where corre-
spondence is necessary, and investigation of dates and incidents has to be carried on with other
persons far and near, weeks and months waste away at a rate that experience alone can calculate."
Another from Whately's "Annotations on Bacon :"—" Geologists, when commissioning their
friends to procure them from any foreign country such specimens as may convey an idea of its
geological character, are accustomed to warn them against sending over collections of spars, stalac-
tites, etc., which are accounted in that country curious from being rarities, and which convey no
correct notion of its geological features. What they want are specimens of the commonest strata,
the stones with which the roads are mended and the houses built, etc. ; and some fragments of
these, which are accounted rubbish, they sometimes find, with much satisfaction, casually adhering
to the specimens sent them as curiosities, and constituting, for their object, the most important part of
the collection. Histories are in general to the political economist what such collections are to the
geologist. The casual allusions to common, and what are considered insignificant matters, convey
to him the most valuable information."
ANNALS AND STATISTICS
OF THE
UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH,
SUMMARIES.
SUMMARY OF CAUSES OPERATING IN THE FORMATION AND
INCREASE OF CONGREGATIONS.
SECTION I.
CAUSES OPERATING ANTERIOR TO THE SECESSION.
I. Praying Societies.
INURING the ascendancy of Prelacy in Scotland, many religious persons,
finding the ministrations of the spiritual guides appointed over them
tending little to their edification, withdrew from the respective churches
^-^ which they had been accustomed to attend, and formed themselves into
societies for prayer, mutual exhortation, and reading the Scriptures. The sub-
jects of exhortation in these societies were not always confined to practical dudes,
but frequently embraced points of doctrine, forms of church government, and
modes of ecclesiastical discipline. By such exercises the members became expert
theologians and skilful controversialists ; and they were fitted by them for the long
and arduous conflict they were called to maintain with their civil rulers. Even prior
to the Restoration, the Rev. Henry Guthrie, one of the ministers of Stirling, saw, or
thought he saw, in these societies, a power incompatible with ecclesiastical rule, and
under this impression induced the General Assembly, 1640, to pass an Act, pro-
hibiting the expounding of the Scriptures, except by ministers, or those training for
the ministry of whose quahfications the Presbytery had expressed approbation, and
limiting all acts of worship by other parties to members of each family. This Act,
however, soon became a dead letter, if ever it was anything else, and praying
societies again grew and multiplied. Nor did the Revoludon Setdement of 1688
supersede them. That setdement was too defective in the estimation of their more
discerning members to work out the benefits they had been seeking. It made no
mention of the Second Reformation or Nadonal Covenants ; it recognised the pre-
latic clergy who chose to conform and retain their incumbencies, as ministers of the
National Church ; it did not seem to aftbrd a security for religious liberty ; and it
made little provision for that peculiar kind of doctrinal instruction to which the
people had been accustomed, and which they highly valued. They, therefore, still
A
The United Presbyterian CJmrcJi.
continued to have recourse to their wonted means of instruction, namely, mutual
exhortation and social worship in private.
The societies, however, of which we now speak, are to be distinguished from
those of the Cameronians, or " Society Men," as they were then called. These
were to some extent regularly organised congregations, avowedly in a state of
separation from the Established Church, having the Word preached, the sacra-
ments dispensed, and discipline administered among them upon every available
opportunity, whereas the societies now in question consisted of a few individuals
who met in private houses on some week-day evening, except when the incum-
bent of the parish happened to be a conformed Episcopalian or unevangelical
Presbyterian, in which cases they met on Sabbath day, during the hours of
public worshij), but still in small numbers and with great privacy. In all other
instances they attended ordinances in the churches of the parishes in which they
resided — the ministers of which very frequently attended their meetings, and took
part in the services engaged in by them. It was in this way the Evangelical
clergy of that day became acquainted with the sentiments and feelings prevalent
among the people, and were led to give utterance to them in their discourses from
the pulpit, and speeches before the Church Courts,
The proper regulation of the praying societies was deemed a matter of such
importance that the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, and other ministers of his time,
thought it worthy of them to print rules for their direction ; and the only non-
controversial pamphlet published by Mr Hog, the leader of " The Marrow Men,"
was a letter addressed to one of these societies. The number of members
composing them varied according to circumstances, sometimes being as low as
three, but more frequently amounting to ten or twelve ; and in no case ex-
ceeding twenty, which was the maximum according to their own rules. One
or more such societies was to be found in most parishes in Scotland. In Port-
moak alone, then a very thinly-peopled district, there were five during the latter part
of Mr Erskine's ministry there, and in some other parishes there were many more.
Each society met once a week ; a number of tliem met together once a month, and
were then designated " The Association." Delegates from the Associations met
once a year, and when assembled in this capacity were styled " The Correspond-
ence." To the general name of Correspondence was added, for distinction's sake,
that of the locality from which the representatives composing them were drawn,
which embraced a much wider extent of country than did the Associations. Thus
were formed " The Correspondences of Annandale," " Nithsdale," " East Lothian,"
" West Lothian," " East of Fife," and others, to which references will be made in
the succeeding narratives as the remote origin of many Secession congregations ;
and the reader's attention is called to the fact, that the first male adherents of the
Secession were generally members of these societies.
In several places " The Correspondence," in its collective capacity, tendered
a written adherence to the Presbytery formed by " The Four Brethren," * and
at once became a congregation in connection with the Presbytery. " The Cor-
respondences " named above are instances of this kind ; each of which, how-
ever, was soon divided and sub-divided into several congregations, as the number
of members allowed, or the convenience of the adherents demanded. These
• The Revs. Eben. Erskine of Stirling;, Alex. Moncrieff of Abcrnetliy, Wm. Wilson of Perth,
and James Fisher of Kinclaven, who, at (lairney Ihiili;e, Kinross-shire, on the 5th December 1733,
formed themselves into a Presbytery sej^arated from the National Establishment, and thus became
the Founders of the Secession Church. — Eus.
Praying Societies.
were generally found to be in proportion to the number of " The Associa-
tions" of which "The Correspondences" were composed, and which accord-
ingly gave their names to the congregations which drew their origin from them.
*' The Correspondence of Annandale " came to be divided into the congrega-
tions of Lockerbie and Ecclefechan, that of " Nithsdale " into Sanquhar and Ayr,
that of "West Lothian" into Craigmaillen and Linlithgow — of which "Associa-
tions" they had been originally composed. Besides these, and from the same
remote causes, there sprang the first Secession congregations of Alloa, Dalkeith,
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Haddington, Hamilton, Kirkcaldy, and Loudon — the congre-
gations of Auchinleck, Balgedie, Cambusnethan, Lathones, Mearns, Minnihive,
Pollokshaws, St Andrews, Stow, Strathaven, and Tarbolton. Some of these, indeed,
have only come recendy into existence as separate congregations, and their origin
as such can be traced to other and more immediate causes. Nevertheless, it will be
found, upon examination, that all of them are in reality the offspring of praying
societies which met in the several localities indicated by their names at the rise of
the Secession, and which would even then have been formed into congregations had
it been in the power of the Presbytery to supply them with preachers, and had the
members had the conviction that they were able to support them. The societies in
Dumfriesshire and western parts of Ayr were, to some extent, organised congrega-
tions before acceding to the Associate Presbytery, inasmuch as they had been
previously under the inspection of the Rev. Mr Hepburn of Urr, in Galloway, who
preached and performed other pastoral duties to them as often as distance and the
demands of his more immediate charge would allow. Thus a machinery was in
some measure prepared for " The Four Brethren " before their Secession from the
judicatories of the Established Church was declared, but which they were prevented
by the paucity of their numbers from working as efficiently as they might otherwise
have done. The long training and steady conduct of the praying societies made up,
however, in part for the want of proper agency, and congregations were thus then
formed in circumstances which would not now be considered as warranting the attempt.
From the moment of their actual separation from the Established Church,
the founders of the Secession became solicitous to secure the co-operation of the
praying societies now described, and that co-operation was readily and extensively
afforded them. Again, when the General Assembly of 1740 passed sentence of
deposition upon them, they immediately issued the following recommendation,
thereby indicating the quarter whence they chiefly looked for support, and the pecu-
liar character in which they wished those affording it to be recognised : ^'- Dimfa-m-
iine, \2th August 1740. — The Presbytery recommend to those who have acceded to
them, to cast themselves into societies for prayer and Christian conference — this
being a duty commanded in the Word of God, and that hath been much owned and
countenanced of the Lord (Malachi iii. 16); and in these societies, instead of ques-
tioHs that may not be so much for edification, that together with the diligent readino-
of the Holy Scriptures, they carefully peruse our Confession of Faith, Lesser and
Larger Catechisms, and compare the same with the Scripture proofs subjoined to
them, that they may see that their faith as to these articles of religion do not termi-
nate upon human, but upon the Divine testimony in the Word ; and that they make
use of such approven helps, opening their principles, as they have at hand. As also
the Presbytery recommend to the said societies and acceders, that they study to
know and be acquainted with the public cause of Christ, and our Reformation prin-
ciples and testimony of the day, in opposition to that flood of defection which has
The United rresbyterian Church.
been so long running through the present judicatories of this Church ; and that
heads of famihes carefully instruct their children and servants in the above prin-
ciples ; and the Presbyteries appoint their clerk to give abstracts hereof to such of
the commissioners as shall desire it."
This recommendation was generally respected, and scriptural knowledge and
devotional feeling were thereby greatly promoted. These societies rapidly declined
after " The Breach "* — an unhappy result of that unfortunate division, and greatly
deplored by both parties. The Associate (Burgher) Synod attempted to coun-
teract this declension by passing the following resolution at a meeting held in
Stirling, October i, 1754: "The Synod, considering the great decay of practical
godliness and serious religion in the several corners of the Secession, and par-
ticularly the sinful and shameful absenting and withdrawing from social meet-
ings for prayer and conference, which were formerly attended, to the edification
of souls and honour of religion among the people of the Secession, the Synod
therefore earnestly recommend to the people under their inspection, to set up
and keep up society meetings for prayer, and to stir up one another to the prac-
tice of this duty, and appoint that this recommendation be intimated in the several
congregations within their bounds, between and the next ordinary meeting of
Synod, with suitable exhortations. Further, the Synod recommend to these societies
to inquire, in the spirit of meekness, and in such a way as is competent to them, at
any of the members of these meetings who are absent, and the grounds and
reasons why they are so."
That some concomitant evils attended these societies cannot be denied, and need
not be concealed. But these arose, not from the nature of the institutions them-
selves, but from the peculiar manner in which they were frequently conducted. It
were to be wished that such societies were at present more numerous in our con-
gregations than they now generally are. Under proper management they might
become powerful incentives to religious inquiry and vital godliness, which, far more
than numbers and wealth, constitute the strength of a congregation. " The holy seed
shall be the substance thereof"
2. The Marrow Controversy.
It is allowed by all who have studied the subject, that " The Marrow Contro-
versy " was one of the remote causes of the Secession, but authorities are not at one
respecting the extent to which this cause operated. The late Rev. Dr M'Crie,t in
his reported evidence before the Select Committee of the House of Commons on
Church Patronage, said—" I do not think the controversy had much influence on
the Secession. The book is an English work of the seventeenth century, and in
consequence of a minister of the Church of Scodand having put a recommendatory
preface to a new edition of it. Professor Haddow of St Andrews laid a number of
extracts from it before the General Assembly of 1720, which they pronounced erro-
neous. + At the following Assembly (i 72 1) twelve ministers gave in a Rei^resentation
against that Act condenming ' The Marrow of Modern Divinity,' stating that they
* The division of the Secession in 1747 into two bmnches— the Burghers and tlie Antihur-diers—
occasioned ,y a difTcrence of opini<,a rospuctin- the lawfulness of taking the Burgess Oathr which
included a clause hearing on religion, which many Seceders could not conscientiously adopt.— Eds
I .< n-, aV'''*'" ""-* "'^ '''l'"l'"'t;'i. ''^"lliu'- of the Life of Knox, etc.— Ens.
^ |lie Marrow of ^Iodern Divinity," by Edward Fisher, A.M., of Brasenose College, O.xford,
was published in 1646. 1 he edition, which gave rise to the -Marrow Controversy," appeared in
1 71 7, .-^nd the Preface was writlen by James llug, minister of Carnock.-EDS
Agitation produced by the Re-enactment of Patronage. 5
did not intend to appear in defence of that book, or to defend every expression that
was to be found in it, but they considered that the Assembly, in their Act condemn-
ing that book, had inadvertently thrown a reflection upon a number of Scripture
doctrines, which they specified. Among the twelve ministers that signed that Repre-
sentation, there were two who became Seceders thirteen years after that period; the
other ministers who joined in forming the Secession had taken no part in the con-
troversy."
In this statement the learned doctor overlooks the fact that the Secession
was more a popular than a clerical movement, and that, though certain ministers
took the lead in it, they were as much influenced by the people as the people by
them. The Rev. Messrs Bathgate of Orwell, Boston of Ettrick, and Kid of Queens-
ferry, three of the ministers who subscribed the Representation to the Assembly in
reference to the decision against " The Marrow " (as the book was briefly called), had
died before the Secession took place, and could not, therefore, be participators in it.
A reference to the narratives in the sequel of this work, in which are detailed the
rise of the first Secession congregations of Milnathort and Selkirk, will show that
they were made up at their formation to a great extent of persons who had been
reared under the ministry of Mr Bathgate and Mr Boston ; and it is known that
they were influenced in no small degree, in their accession to the associate Presby-
tery, by the sentiments they had imbibed during the controversy in which their
ministers had actively engaged. There is no positive evidence that any of the
parishioners of Queensferry joined the Secession at the commencement, but there is
strong presumptive proof that several of them were included in " The Correspond-
ence of West Lothian," out of which afterwards sprang the Secession congregations
of Craigmaillen, Bathgate, Torphichen, Linlithgow, Bo'ness, and Mid-Calder, and
that Mr Kid, though dead, had contributed to the formation of the Secession by the
sentiments which he had advocated, and which were afterwards retained by several
of his flock. The Rev. Ralph Erskine, as well as his brother Ebenezer, and the
Rev. James Wardlaw, colleague of the former, were subscribers to the Representation
mentioned by Dr M'Crie ; and it is well known, not only that the first two were
founders of the Secession, but also that great majorities of their former parishioners left
the national Establishment with them. Of the remaining six subscribers to whom Dr
M'Crie refers in the evidence quoted, clear indications are aff'orded in the succeeding
part of this work, that though they did not secede themselves, their people did so in
considerable numbers, and that several Secession congregations, if not wholly formed,
were at least greatly enlarged by accessions from among them. Thus the congrega-
tion of Cairneyhill owes its origin in part to parishioners of Carnock, who had been
trained under the ministry of Mr Hog, the leader of " The Marrow" controversy.
The Associate congregation of Musselburgh was in part composed at first of persons
belonging to the parish of Inveresk, who deserted Mr Williamson, then minister
there, and one of " The Marrow " men, because he did not secede with the Erskines.
The congregation of Stow was increased by members from the parish of Galashiels,
of which Mr Davidson was minister, as was also the congregation of Midholm, from
the parish of Lilliesleaf, over which Mr Hunter presided, for part of their members ;
while the now extinct congregation of Torphichen was, at its formation, largely made
up of persons who had enjoyed the ministry of Mr Bonar, adhering out of respect to him
to the Establishment while he lived, but passing over to the Secession after his death.
The Rev. G. Wilson of Maxton, the only one of the twelve Representers of whose
instrumentality in helping to bring about the Secession in the way described any
The United Presbyterian Church.
doubt is entertained, was himself virtually a seceder from the moment the Assembly
condemned " The Marrow," inasmuch as he immediately afterwards formed a con-
gregation upon Independent principles, built a place of worship for them in his
parish, and ministered to them himself, at the same time retaining his incumbency
in the Established Church.
There were other ministers besides the twelve named who advocated the same
views, though withholding their names from the Representation to the Assembly ;
and it is a circumstance to be noted that the parishes over which they pre-
sided, in common with those already named, were the parishes from which the
Associate Presbytery drew most largely, after those in which the founders of the
Secession themselves resided. Thus the parish of South Leith, of which Mr Shaw w\as
then minister, furnished many members to the Secession congregation of Bristo Street,
Edinburgh ; the parish of Bothkennar, over which Mr Lindsay presided, contributed
largely to the formation of the first Secession congregation of Falkirk ; and the first
Secession congregation north of the Tay consisted at its formation of many persons
who had been under the ministry of the Rev. Mr Willison, the highly popular minister
of Dundee, who, with all his attractiveness, could not prevent his people from practi-
cally testifying against him in a matter in their estimation of vital importance, in which
he seemed to succumb. It would carry us beyond our limits to trace the influence of
" The Marrow " controversy to all the extent in which it operated directly and indi-
rectly in originating the Secession. The caSes adduced are sufificient to show that its
influence was neither so limited nor so weak as some have supposed. That controversy
was indeed setded, so far as the General Assembly could settle it, thirteen years before
the Secession took place, but its influence was not thereby destroyed or arrested, but
only confined within a narrower sphere, and, like all other compressed power, was
augmented by its concentration. " The prevalence of error," as Mr Ferrier has well
remarked in his Life of Wilson,* " brought the friends of evangelical truth among the
clergy and laity into closer contact. Evangelical ministers confined their corres-
pondence on sacramental occasions almost exclusively to each other; and the Chris-
tian people, by whom evangelical truth was most valued and relished, and by whom,
from their intimate acquaintance with Scripture, it could very easily be distinguished
from error, crowded to hear them. As they came from distant parts of the country,
this encouraged the practice, less necessary now, of a multiplicity of week-day
preachings, it being considered a hardship to the people to come so far without
having their desire to hear the Gospel as fully as possible gratified, especially as
many of them might not enjoy the same privileges at home. By such frequent
intercourse, the distinction of party, which had long existed in the Church of Scot-
land, was more confirmed and became more visible. So much was this the case,
that the Evangelical party, both of ministers and people, though in outward fellow-
ship with the National Church, seemed to be but nominally united to her, and
almost presented the anomalous appearance of a prospering Evangelical Church
amidst surrounding error and declension."
3. Agitation Froditccd by t/ie re-enactment of Patronage, and consequent Intrusion of
Ministers upon Reclaimijig Congregations.
Church patronage, whicli had been abolished in Scotland in 1690, was restored
by Act of Parliament in 1712. The settlement of ministers by presentations was at
* " Memoirs of the Rev. William Wilson, A.M., of Perth, "by the Rev. Andrew Ferrier, Airdrie ;
afterwards Dr Ferrier, rrebideut of Madison College, Pennsylvania, U.S. — Eds.
Agitation prodttccd by the Rc-cnactmcnt of Patronage. 7
first very sparingly resorted to, and when so effected, the presentees were generally
acceptable to the people. Even then, however, there were instances of the abuse
of patronage, which caused disorder. So early as 17 15 twenty-eight ministers, in-
cluding Mr Ebenezer Erskine, subscribed " Reasons of Dissent " from the deed
sanctioning such settlement, in which they pronounced patronage " subversive of
the right of election belonging to Christian congregations by the Word of God."
This paper was withdrawn, in consequence of the General Assembly addressing a
memorial to Parliament on the subject the same year. But whilst asking the civil
powers to abolish, or at least to modify patronage, the Assembly itself sanctioned
the violent intrusion of ministers upon reclaiming congregations, and many of the
vacancies occurring in the Church were filled up in this manner. During the three
years immediately preceding that in which the Secession took place, the parishes of
Balfron, Kinross, West Linton, and St Cuthbert's, Edinburgh, were settled in this
way, and out of these settlements arose the Secession congregations of Holm of
Balfron, Kinross, West Linton, and Bristo Street, Edinburgh. For, though they did
not come into existence for some time after these took place, yet it was these settle-
ments, and others of a kindred nature occurring in the same locality about the same
time, that prompted the disaffection which at length led to their formation.
Previous to the year 1732 it had been the practice of many Presbyteries, when
the patronages of parishes fell into their hands by the jus davliifian, to allow the
people the choice of their pastors. The General Assembly of that year adopted an
overture, having for its object the establishment of a uniform procedure by the whole
Presbyteries of the Church in all such cases. The rule for this uniformity, however,
was not the practice of those Presbyteries which had formerly waived their rights in
favour of the people, but that of those which had restricted the right of election
to elders and Protestant heritors in landward parishes, and to magistrates, town
councillors, and heritors, in royal burghs— a rule which completely destroyed the
little liberty the people had in the election of their pastors. A remonstrance against
the injustice of this Act was subscribed by forty-two ministers, of whom eight after-
wards became Seceders. But though the clerical seceding remonstrants were few,
their lay adherents were many, and great numbers of them were furnished by the
parishes of which the non-seceding remonstrants were ministers. Thus, portions of
Mr MTntosh's congregation in Errol, and Mr Coventry's in Kilspindie, helped to
form the Secession congregation of Perth, from which the Secession congregation of
Errol subsequently came. In like manner, adherents of Mr Laing of Newburgh,
Thomson of Auchtermuchty, and Gillespie of Strathmiglo, increased the Secession
congregation of Abernethy; and their representatives, along with others, subse-
quently formed the Secession congregations of Newburgh, Auchtermuchty, and
Edenshead. So, also, adherents of Mr Currie of Kinglassie helped to form the
Secession congregation of Leslie, as did those of Mr Stevenson of Glendevon, the
Secession congregation of Muckart. Again, adherents of Messrs Drummond of
Crieff, and Halley of Muthil, helped to form the Secession congregation of Kinkell,
out of which sprang the Secession congregations of Crieff and Greenloaning. So of
all the other parishes in which the non-seceding remonstrant ministers then resided.
It has been shown that the origin of many Secession congregations is traceable
to causes operating anterior to the Secession itself, which causes would almost cer-
tainly, sooner or later, have produced a Secession of some kind, though the one
which is the subject of our remarks had not taken place. The evidence of the
^ The U]iitcd Presbyterian Church.
late Dr Cook of St Andrews,* before the Committee of the House of Commons on
Church Patronage, confirms this remark. Having been asked " Whether the Seces-
sion, which actually took place in 1733, would have taken place at that time, if the
question of patronage had not been one of the grounds of it ? " he replied, " I think
it exceedingly likely that it would not, at that particular time. But there might have
been some other cause for it, and my opinion is, that, in the progress of the
human mind, and in the progress of civilisation, there would have been a Secession,
though not the particular Secession which was connected in its origin with that par-
ticular subject." In the progress of the human mind, and in the progress of civili-
sation, another Secession has taken place, and that from causes precisely similar to
those which produced the first, modified only by a few particular circumstances.
Reasoning after the manner of the venerable professor, we are led to the conclusion,
that the further progress of the human mind, and the further progress of civilisation,
will lead to other Secessions ; and these causes, by their accumulated force, will
bring about greater results than have ever yet been produced. It was a hundred
years, speaking in round numbers, from the Reformation in Scotland till the adop-
tion of the Solemn League and Covenant ; it was a hundred years from the adoption
of the Solemn League and Covenant till the rise of the Secession ; it was a hundred
years from the rise of the Secession till the Disruption of the Established and the for-
mation of the Free Church, called by its friends " The Third Reformation." What
the progress of the human mind, and the progress of civilisation, will achieve at the
end of another century, must be left, we presume, to time to declare ; for, notwith-
standing the disposition of the age to prophesy, none of the seers have ventured to
tell us wliat we may then expect in reference either to the Church of Scotland or
any other of the religious sects supported by the State ; but the present and more
recent past seem to say, that in the course of that time we may expect changes in
Church and State, unparallelled in their importance.
SECTION II.
CONGREGATIONS ORIGINATING AT ONCE IN THE SECESSION OF MINISTERS
AND TEOI'LE FROM THE ESTABLISHED CHURCH.
The Rev. Ebenezer Erskine of Stirling preached a sermon before the Synod of
Perth and Stirling, October 1732, in which he animadverted upon certain recent
proceedings of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, and the course of
defection he considered that Church to be then pursuing. For the sentiments thus
expressed, censure was passed upon him. Against this censure, Mr Erskine protested,
and was joined in his protest by the Rev. Messrs Wilson of Perth, Moncrieff of
Abernethy, and Fisher of Kinclaven. The General Assembly 1733, to which the
case was referred, ordered the four protesters to appear before their Commission in
August following, " and then show their sorrow for their conduct and misbehaviour,
in offering to protest, and, in case they should not retract, the Commission was em-
powered to suspend them from the exercise of their ministry." The protesters did
not retract, and were suspended accordingly. At the meeting of the Commission
in November of the same year, they were loosed from their respective charges.
They met by agreement on the 5th December thereafter, at Gairney Bridge, near
* Dr Gcovgc Cook, rrorcssor of Moral riiilt)sn]iliy in St Andrews, and the well-known leader of
the Moderates during the Non-intrusion Controversy. — Eds.
Origin and Formation of Congregations.
Kinross, and constituted themselves a Presbytery, apart from the judicatories of the
Estabhshed Church. The Rev. Ralph Erskine of Dunfermline, the Rev. Thomas
Mair of Orwell, and the Rev. Thomas Nairn of Abbotshall, connected themselves
with this Presbytery in 1737. The Rev. James Thomson of Burntisland joined it
in 1738, the Rev. Andrew Arrot of Dunnichen in 1742, and the Rev. Thomas
Sommerville of Newcastle in 1744, with most of the people under their respective
charges ; and in this way arose the first Secession congregations of Stirling, Perth,
Aberneth}^, Kirkcaldy, Milnathort, and Newcastle, and the Secession congregations
of Kinclaven and Dumbarrow, the last of which, though extinct under that name,
may be considered as represented by the congregation of Letham.
SECTION III.
CONGREGATIONS FORMED OR INCREASED BY CAUSES OPERATING SUBSE-
QUENT TO THE SECESSION OF THE FOUNDERS. FROM WITHOUT.
I. Cougrcgcitioiis Formed or Increased by the coiit'uiued Arbitrary Exercise of Patronage
in the Established Church.
The Secession of "The Four Brethren" had no effect at first in restraining
patrons from imposing unacceptable ministers upon reclaiming congregations, nor
the Supreme Courts of the Church from co-operating with them in the settlement
of their presentees. At a subsequent period, when the Associate Presbytery had
acquired strength and influence by accessions of ministers and congregations, cer-
tain patrons, with a view to prevent the increase of the Secession, either gave the
people the choice of their pastors, or were careful to present such presentees only
as they had reason to believe would be acceptable to them. For a considerable
time after the formation of the Associate Presbytery, few settlements of ministers
were effected in the Established Church, without being productive, in whole or in
part, of a Secession congregation. The first seceding ministers formed themselves
into a Presbytery in December 1733, but it was not till August 1735 that they re-
solved on exercising jurisdiction as a Church Court, and they allowed six months
more to elapse before they complied with any petitions from the people to supply
them with sermon, or took any other steps to organise the petitioners as congrega-
tions. The statement of this fact will explain to the reader, not conversant with
the history of the Secession Church, how such a length of time elapsed in many
cases between the occurrence of the incident which gave offence to the members of
the Established Church, and their being recognised as congregations, or part of
congregations, in connection with the Secession.
In 1 734,. ministers, to whose settlements the majorities of their parishioners were
opposed, were intruded into the parishes of Troqueer, Carriden, Muckart, and St
Ninians. The two first of these cases were rendered the more odious, by the circum-
stance that they wxre sanctioned by the same Assembly at which measures were taken,
to conciliate the Seceders, and reclaim them, if possible, from their Secession. To
these cases the Associate Presbytery make special reference in the Declinature and
subsequent Testimonies, as proofs of the Assembly's insincerity, and as justifying them,
among other reasons, in their adherence to their protest and continued separation from
the judicatories of the Established Church. The reclaiming party in the parish of Tro-
queer, who seceded on that occasion, afterwards helped to form the first Associate
lo The Untied Presbyterian Church.
congregation of Dumfries ; and the persons who seceded in the parish of Carriden,
helped to form the Associate congregation of Craigmaillen, and may now be con-
sidered as represented by the congregation of Borrowstounness. The parishioners
who seceded in Muckart were the chief promoters of the Secession congregation in
that place ; and those who seceded in St Ninians at that time strengthened the
first Associate congregation in Stirling, and may now be considered as represented
by the congregation of Bannockburn. In 1735, ministers were intruded into the
parishes of Elgin, Kirkintilloch, and Portmoak ; and the persons opposed to their
settlements, who seceded in these places, helped to form or increase the Associate
congregations of Elgin, Glasgow, and Milnathort, and may now be considered as repre-
sented by the first congregation, Elgin, the congregation of Greyfriars, Glasgow, and
the congregation of Balgedie. In 1736, ministers were intruded into the parishes
of Stitchel and St Mungo ; and the persons opposed to their settlements, who
seceded in these places, helped to form the Associate congregations of Stitchel and
Lockerby, and may now be considered as represented by the congregations of
Stitchel and Ecclefechan. In 1737, ministers were intruded into the parishes of
Cambusnethan, Kilmaurs, Kilmalcolm, Duffus, and Greyfriars, Edinburgh ; and the
persons opposed to their settlements, who seceded in these places, helped to form
the Associate congregations of Cambusnethan, Kilmaurs, Burntshields, Elgin, and
Bristo Street, Edinburgh, and may be considered as represented by the congrega-
tions so named, save Burntshields, which is represented by the congregation in
connection with the Free Church, Bridge of Weir. In 1738, ministers were in-
truded into the parishes of Denny, Dron, Dunse, one of the city churches of Edin-
■burgh, the parishes of Paisley, Shotts, and Temple ; and the persons opposed to
their settlements, who seceded in these places, helped to form or increase the
Associate congregations of Falkirk, Abernethy, Dunse, Bristo Street (Edinburgh),
Mearns, Cambusnethan, and Dalkeith, and may now be considered as represented
by the congregations of Dennyloanhead, Abernethy, Dunse (East Congregation),
Bristo Street (Edinburgh), Abbey Close (Paisley), the original Secession congrega-
tion of Shotts, and the congregation of Gorebridge. In 1739, ministers were
intruded into the parishes of Kilbarchan, Kingsbarns, INIadderty, Tranent, and
Urquhart; and the persons opposed to their settlements, who seceded in these
places, helped to form or increase the Secession congregations of Burntshields,
Ceres, Kinkell, Dalkeith, and Elgin, and are represented by the congregations so
named, except Burntshields, which has merged into that of Bridge of Weir. In
1740, an unacceptable settlement in the parish of Ceres became the direct cause of
that place becoming the seat of a Secession congregation, and its full organisation
as such. In 1742, ministers were intruded into the parishes of Bowden, Carnbee,
and Manor; and the persons opposed to their settlements, who seceded in these
I)laces, helped to form the Associate congregations of Midholm, Ceres, and Peebles.
In 1747, the Secession congregation of Boghole, now the congregation of Moyness,
originated in the settlement of an unacceptable minister in the parish of Auldearn.
In 1748, a second violent intrusion of a minister into the parish of Dunse gave rise
to the Relief, now the South Congregation there. In 1750, ministers were intruded
into the parishes of Kelso, Kennoway, Lochwinnoch, and Methven ; and the per-
sons opposed to their setdements, who seceded in these places, helped to form
or increase the Associate congregations of Stitchel, Kirkcaldy, Burntshields, and
Methven, and are now represented by the congregations in the places where the
setdements were effected. In 1751, the violent intrusion of a minister into the
Origin and Fo7'mation of Congregations. 1 1
parish of Alloa led to a great increase of the Secession congregation previously
existing there. In 1752, the violent intrusion of a minister into the parish of Inver-
keithing not only led directly to the formation of a dissenting congregation in that
place, but to another in Dunfermline, and indirectly to the erection of the Synod
of Relief, of which Mr Gillespie, minister of the latter congregation, became the
founder. In 1753, the intrusion ot an unacceptable minister into the parish of
Walton gave rise to the Associate congregation of " Elsrickle," which has since be-
come extinct. In 1754, what is now the congregation of Colinsburgh, arose out ot
the settlement of an unpopular minister in the parish of Kilconquhar. In 1756, the
flagrant case of Nigg occurred, which gave rise to the Secession congregation in
that place. In 1757, the congregation now known as that of High Street, Jedburgh,
originated in the refusal of a nobleman, having influence with the Crown, to recom-
mend a person approved by the people for their minister. In 1758, a minister was
intruded into the parish of Beith, and another into the parish of Kilmany, in 1761,
which occurrences gave rise to the Secession congregations of Beith and Rathillet.
From the date last specified, the Presbytery of Relief, then formed, began to profit,
as well as the Secession, by the continued abuse of patronage in the Established
Church. In that year (1761), the Relief congregation of Bellshill originated in the
settlement of an unacceptable minister in the parish of Bothwell. In 1762, the
Relief congregations of Auchtermuchty and Blairlogie began in a similar way. In
1763, the intrusion of a minister into the parish of Torphichen, gave rise to a
Secession congregation there, which has since become extinct. In 1764, the Relief
congregations of College Street, Edinburgh, and Dovehill, Glasgow, originated in
the unpopular settlement of ministers in Lady Yester's Church, Edinburgh, and the
Wynd Church, Glasgow. The first Secession congregation, Dunbar, began in 1765,
in consequence of the church courts overruling the objections of certain parishioners
to the person proposed to be settled over them as minister. In 1767, the Secession
congregation of Eaglesham, and the Relief congregation of Campbelton, sprang
out of the intrusion of ministers into these parishes. In 1768, a second violent
settlement in the parish of Shotts, led to the selection of that place as the seat of a
Secession congregation, by persons who had been previously attending at Cambus-
nethan, in conjunction with others who seceded upon the occasion. The Relief
congregation of Kilsyth was formed the same year, and owes its origin to the
countenance given by the then minister of that parish, the year before, to the
intrusion of a minister into the parish of Eaglesham, out of which, as already stated,
a Secession congregation had already arisen. In 1769, ministers were intruded into
the parishes of Liddesdale (or Castleton) and Dunning, and thence originated the
Secession congregations there. From similar causes, the Relief congregation of
Kilmaronock began in 1772 : and in 1773, the Relief congregation of St Ninians,
and the Secession congregation of Queensferry.*
The period succeeding that to which our summary has brought us, is described
by Dr M'Crie, in his evidence before the Select Committee- of the House of
Commons on Church Patronage in Scotland, as " the period of apathy, during which
the people connected with the Establishment lost all sense of their ecclesiastical
privileges, and submitted tamely to the yoke of patronage." But this apathy was
* Should there be any discrepancies between the dates assigned in these paragraphs for the
origination of congregations, and those given in the tabular list in pages 32-35, they are probably to
be accounted for by the fact that some interval would usually elapse between the time when a violent
settlement occurred, giving rise to a Secession movement, and the time of its resulting in an organised
congregation. — Eds.
12
The Uniled Presbyterian CJiiireh.
more apparent than real. Secessions from the EstabHshed Church were still taking
place, but with less noise and observation than before, experience having taught the
people that no redress was to be expected from the Church Courts. Thus, the
Relief congregation of Pittenweem began in 1774, that of Muir Street, Hamilton,
in 1776, that of Kettle in 1778, and that of Biggar in 1779. In the same way
there began the Secession congregation of Fenwick, and the Relief congregation of
Campsie, in 1784, the Secession congregation, Newburgh, 1785, and the Secession
congregation, Yetholm, and Relief congregation, Kilbarchan, in 1786. In 1788 the
Secession congregation of Pitrodie sprang out of the intrusion of a minister into
the parish of Kilspindie, as did the Relief congregation of New Kilpatrick, out of a
similar settlement in that parish. The first Secession congregation of Saltcoats took
its rise from the intrusion of a minister into the parish of Ardrossan, 1789, and the
Relief congregation of Clackmannan from a similar cause in that place, 1790. In
this way, also, began the Relief congregations of Mainsriddle, Newlands, East Kil-
bride, and Haddington, 1793 ; the Secession congregation of West Calder, 1794 ; the
Relief congregation of Errol, 1796; and, in 1803, the Secession congregation of
Avonbridge, in the parish of Muiravonside.
The subdivision of the two branches of the Secession into what was commonly
denominated " The New and Old Light " Synods, which happened about the time
to which our narrative has now brought us, somewhat marred the popularity of both ;
and to some extent discouraged further defections from the Established Church.
Those which did take place for some time after, were more in favour of " the Taber-
nacle Men," as the Brothers Haldane '■' and others were called, who, by their zeal
and apparent disinterestedness, were then producing great excitement in Scotland,
and attracting more persons than either the Secession or Relief Churches. Town
Councils in burghs, deriving revenue from pew-rents, with a view to the increase of
their revenue, began now to give the people the choice of their pastors, in cases
where they had the right of patronage ; and even patrons in landward parishes
sought to avoid collision with the people, and prevent, if possible, the growth of
dissent, by presenting acceptable persons to the vacant charges as they occurred.
These concessions, however, came too late to benefit the Established Church \
" for already," as Dr Chalmers pertinently remarked, when urging its mere modifica-
tion, " the arbitrary exercise of patronage had severed the Church from the com-
mon people, and reduced to naked architecture one-half of that costly apparatus
reared by a former age, for upholding the Christian worth and virtue of the com-
monwealth."
2. The Port cons Act, its Bearing on the Secession.
In 1736, three years after " The Four Brethren "had declared their Secession
from the Established Church, one Wilson, a native of Kirkcaldy, had been detected
carrying oil an extensive contraband trade, and his goods were seized by the revenue
officers. Resolved, if possible, to recover his property, he, along with an associate
of the name of Robertson, entered the house of the collector while he slept, and
robbed him of a sum of money equal to the value of the property seized. For this
crime, both the perpetrators were tried, and condemned to be executed. On
the Sabbath before the day of execution, the prisoners were conducted to the
* Robert Ilaldane, of Airtlirie, and his l)rother James, who in the early part of the present
century devoted themselves with much zeal and energy to evangelistic work in Scotland, and with
very remarkable success.
The Portco7(s Act. 13
Tolbooth Kirk by four soldiers. Wilson threw his arms around two of them,
shouted to his comrade to escape, and snatched another with his teeth ; while
Robertson, having tripped up the fourth, ran out of the church and dis-
appeared. Having effected his object, Wilson became passive in the hands of
his guards. This act of daring and disinterested intrepidity rendered him highly
popular, and led the magistrates to apprehend an attempt to rescue him on the
day of execution. To prevent this, as far as in them lay, they commanded, contrary
to their wont, a party of soldiers from the neighbouring garrison to be present on
the occasion. This offended the captain of the City Guard (Mr John Porteous, a
worthless man, though an active soldier), who had hitherto conducted such scenes
without any such aid, and aggravated the ferocity of his temper, naturally surly and
brutal. The execution was allowed to take place ; but while the dead body was
yet suspended from the gibbet, a tumult arose among the multitude. Porteous com-
manded his men to fire upon the people, and himself discharged a piece at a man
who had cut the rope by which the criminal was suspended, shooting him dead on
the spot. Several persons were killed, and others wounded, by this reckless exercise
of authority. For his sanguinary conduct in this affair. Captain Porteous was
arraigned before the High Court of Justiciary, and sentence of death was passed
upon hnn. His execution was appointed to take place on the 8th of September
1736.
When the day for carrying the sentence into effect arrived, and a crowd, to a
much greater extent than usual, had assembled to see it put into execution, infor-
mation was received that the Queen, acting as regent in the absence of her husband,
George II., then in Hanover, had, in consequence of a representation made to her
by persons of influence, granted the prisoner a reprieve of six weeks. The populace
became enraged by this act of royal clemency, and resolved to take the law into
their own hands. Waiting till night should aid their scheme, they then took
possession of the city gates, disarmed the City Guard, and so became the uncon-
trolled masters of the city. Proceeding to the jail, they forced an entrance by
burning the door, dragged Porteous down the chimney in which he had taken
refuge, carried him to the usual place of execution in the Grassmarket, and hanged
him on a dyer's pole, which projected from a house in the vicinity.
This daring outrage led to an Act by the legislature, demanding the perpetrators
to deliver themselves up to the civil authorities, threatening death to all persons
who should conceal them, and offering a reward of two hundred pounds to any
person who should bring them to justice. The incumbent of every parish in Scot-
land was required, upon pain of ejection from his cure, to read this Act from the
pulpit, on the first Sabbath of every month for a whole year. Some of the clergy
rendered compliance with this demand in away which prevented them giving offence,
as instanced by Dr M'Kerrow, in a foot-note, when adverting to the offensive
transaction in his " History of the Secession." " It is reported of a minister," says
he, "in the south of Scotland, who had more of the wag than the martyr in him,
that being desirous to maintain himself in the good graces both of the government
and of the people, he endeavoured to compromise the matter betwixt them in the
following manner : — He gave the people a hint to leave the church before he com-
menced reading the Act, by telling them, though the law made it imperative on him
to read the Act, yet there was no clause in it making it imperative on them to sit
and hear it read." Others, however, boldly refused compliance with the demand
made upon them, and yet escaped the infliction of any penalty— a circumstance
14 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
which rendered those ministers the more odious who yielded obedience. That
obedience was considered by the people generally as a desecration of the Church
and Sabbath, and many of them abstained from attending on these occasions, that
they might not be partakers of the crime. The Duke of Argyle, in a speech which
he made at the time, tried to fix the odium of the Porteous Mob and murder upon
the Seceders, saying, " This riotous and rebellious spirit does not proceed from any
oppression of the governors or civil magistrates, as has been strongly insinuated,
but from a fcio fanatical preachers lately started up, who, by their sennons and other
ways, instil into the minds of the vulgar and the ig?torant such enthusiastical notio?is,
as are inconsistent with all government, by making sedition and rebellion a priticiple of
their religion." His Grace, however, signally failed in his object in making these
unfounded charges ; for, instead of regarding the Seceders in the light in which he
represented them, many persons in Scotland regarded them as the truest friends of
order and piety, and proceeded immediately to cast in their lot among them ; thus
manifesting, in the strongest manner possible, their contempt for men who, for
the sake of a paltry State pay, prostituted the holy office of the ministry, by
converting it into a State police. In this way the Secession congregation of
Abernethy came to be considerably increased, by accessions from the parishes
of Auchtermuchty and Collessie, the ministers in these places having committed
this offence. The same thing having been done by the ministers of Cumbernauld,
Larbert, Dunipace, and Kilsyth, portions of their congregations were thereby driven
off from them, and joining the Associate Presbytery, helped to increase the Secession
congregation of Falkirk. On this account, also, the Secession congregation in the
Holm of Balfron was increased, by accessions from the parishes of Kippen and
Killearn — the Seceders on these occasions being now represented by the congrega-
tion of Buchlyvie, whose remote origin is traceable to the circumstance under
review. Such also is to be regarded as the origin of the first congregations in
Jedburgh and Errol ; for though the people forming them attended public worship
at Morebattle and Perth for some time after their secession, yet their secession itself
was caused by the ministers in their respective parishes persisting in reading this
offensive Act. The Secession congregation in Kilmaurs was also benefited by the
accession of persons who left their ministers on this account, in the parishes of
Galston and Loudon, and whose representatives now form the congregations of
Galston and Newmilns. The first Secession congregation in Glasgow was also
made up to some extent, at first, of parties in the city and surrounding parishes, who
had withdrawn from their ministers for the reason assigned. Other congregations,
besides those specified above, were benefited, less or more, from the operation of
this cause ; but we are able to condescend only upon those named by the evidence
afforded us. The cases adduced, taken in conjunction with those of a different
kind, go to show that the people of Scotland are peculiarly jealous of everything
tending to secularise their churches, and make political tools of their clergy. States-
men may see by this that they cannot more certainly affect the stability of the
Established Church than by using it avowedly for political purposes.
3. Congregations Originating in the Negative Theology of Ministers of the
Established Church.
The evil most complained of, in connection with a State Church, is the arbitrary
exercise of patronage ; and that not merely because it is a usurped right, but also
because it is frequently made the means of intruding ministers into charges who
Origin and Formation of Congregations. 1 5
preach another Gospel than Christ preached. Most of the congregations, the origin
of which has been ascribed in the preceding narrative to patronage, might with
nearly the same propriety have been traced to the prevalence of doctrinal error,
or to what, in serious minds, amounts to much the same thing — the absence of
evangelical truth in the discourses of those appointed to minister to them. The
opposition shown to presentees arose, in many cases, not from dislike to the men
personally, but from the fact that they belonged to the " Moderate Side " of the
Church, from which little was ever known to emanate calculated to afford satisfac-
tion to a soul in earnest about its salvation. The Secessions now to be enumerated
sprang not from the kind of ministrations anticipated, but from those which had for
some time been given, and because the religious sentiments of the ministers were
found to be little in harmony with those of the people. In this way there arose the
congregations of Aberchirder, Alloa (West), Anstruther, Arbroath (Erskine Church),
Archieston, Auchtefarder (South), Auchtergaven (South), Ayr (Cathcart Street), Banff
(First), Girvan, Glenluce, Kirriemuir (Bank Street), Kilmarnock (Wellington Street),
Kincardine, Kirkcudbright, Lanark (Broomgate), Langholm (North), Maybole,
Musselburgh (Millhill), Newbigging, Newton-Stewart, North Berwick, Old Kil-
patrick, Peebles (West), Port-William, Rothesay, Saltcoats (East), Sanday, Southend,
Stockbridge (Berwickshire), Stonehaven, Stranraer (Bellevilla), Stronsay, Wamphray,
and Waterbeck. Besides these, most of the congregations now in connection
with the United Presbyterian Church have benefited, to a greater or less extent,
by this cause, and will continue to benefit so long as the ministers of the
Established Church fail to give prominence in their discourses to the doctrines of
grace. " For," as one of themselves has remarked, " if evangelical Christianity
be popular Christianity, if its lessons are ever sure to have the most attractive influ-
ence on the multitude, if whatever the explanation of the fact may be, the fact itself
is undeniable that the doctrine of our first Reformers, consisting mainly of justifica-
tion by faith, and sanctification by the Spirit of God, is the doctrine which draws
the most crowded audiences around our pulpits ; and this doctrine is, at the same
time, the most powerful and moralising agent that can be brought to bear upon
them ; then does it follow, that the voice of the people indicates most clearly in this
matter what is best for the virtue of the people ; that the popular taste is the organ
by which conscious humanity discovers that which is best fitted both to exalt and
console her ; and that by the neglect and defiance which are so wantonly rendered
to its intimations, are our statesmen withholding the best aliment of a people's
worth, and therefore the best specific for a nation's welfare."
4. Congregations which have acceded to the Secession a?id Relief Churches
from other Denominations.
Besides increase by attraction of individuals, the Secession and Relief Churches
were further augmented by the accession at different times, of whole congre-
gations from other denominations. Thus the congregations of Carlisle, Halford,
Penrith, Penruddock, Great Salkeld and Plumpton, South Shields, Swalwell,
Tunley, Warkworth, and both congregations in Wooler, belonged previously to the
old Presbyterian Noncomformists in England; and some of them participate in
funds left to them as such. The congregations of Hexham, Holywell, North ]\Iid-
dleton, Maryport, North Sunderland, and Whitby, were originally in connection
with the Church of Scotland. The congregations of Darlington, Dukinfield,
Ramsbottom, Stockton, Sutton, Warrington, Lauriston (Glasgow), and St James's
1 6 The United Presbylcrian Church.
(Paisley), were previously Independent ; ami the congregation of St Paul's, Arbroath,
was Wesleyan. Five of these have ceased to adhere to the denomination they
had joined — the remainder are under the inspection of the United Presbyterian
Synod.
5. Congregations Originating in Causes Operating zvithont the Secession and Relief
CJiurches, not embraced in the preceditig paragraphs.
Both before the origin of the Secession, and for a long time afterwards, it was
the practice of precentors to read every line of the psalm before singing it, with the
view of enabling all the people to join in the service. This practice was rendered
necessary by the inability of many i)ersons to read. That necessity subsided with
the progress of education. "The run-line," as it was poi)ularly called (thai is, sing-
ing continuously, instead of singing and reading alternately), was then introduced,
but only wiUi partial success. Where opposition failetl, the more determined oppo-
nents left the Established and joined the Secession Church, in which the innovation
for a long time received little countenance, save in the large towns and very popu-
lous districts, where, however, it only obtained a footing with difficulty. Many
congregations were in this way considerably increased ; and the persons seceding on
this account in the parishes of Tough and Johnshaven, were so numerous as to form
congregations at once.
Innovation in the mode of singing in churches, was accompanied by innovation
in the matter of praise. Paraphrases or metrical versions of Scripture passages, other
than those of the psalms, were introduced, and led to similar results. Many Seces-
sion congregations were thence increased, and that of Slateford almost wholly origi-
nated in this cause.
At a period long prior to the Secession, many people in Scotland, from their
hatred to Prelacy, and because of their adherence to the Solemn League and Cove-
nant, had ceased to worship in the parish churches, and thence assembled for this
purpose in the open air. \Vhat was necessity at first became afterwards matter of
choice, more especially upon sacramental occasions. The ordinance of the Lord's
Supper, as thus administered, had become associated in their minds with deetls
valorously achieved, and sufferings heroically endured, by their fatliers, for con-
science' sake ; and thus became investeil with additional solemnity and interest —
Cod at the same time seeming to give countenance to this mode of dispensing it, by
the favourable impressions it made, and the happy lasting effects which often fol-
lowed. The early Seceders continued the practice, partly because no house which
they could command would have accommodated the multitudes associating with
them t)n such occasions, and partly because they knew that this mode of observing
tlie ordinance accorded with the wishes of the people. The importance attached by
many persons to its administration in this form was such, that when the Established
clergy began to discountenance it, the people viewed the matter as an aftront to
religion itself. Those who thought and felt thus, sought to escape from such a
course of defection by joining the Secession and Relief Churches, and from this cause
the congregations of these bodies in general, and that of Langholm (East) in particular,
largely increased. But open-air meetings, on sacramental occasions, by the Seceders,
exerted an influence on many who expressed no dissatisfaction witli the ministers of
the Established Church for discountenancing them, and who were in attendance on
that Church long after the administration of the ordinance in this way had ceased.
Attracted by the popularity of the ministers assisting on these occasions, by the pre-
Origin and Fo7n}iation of Congregations. 1 7
eminently evangelical character of the doctrines preached by them, by the hospi-
tality generally afforded them, and by the edification derived from the rehearsal of
what they heard by intelligent and pious persons on their journey homewards, many
of them were present on such occasions at several places annually ; and this attend-
ance very generally ended in their becoming members of the community with which
they had thus associated.
The causes instanced in the immediately preceding paragraphs, as operating
in the formation and increase of Secession and Relief congregations, have now
almost wholly ceased — these congregations going beyond those of the Estab-
lishment in practising several of the innovations formerly complained of, but which
are no longer considered to be innovations.* But open-air services, or "tent
preachings " as they were called, in connection with sacramental occasions, are
everywhere abandoned, save in very remote districts, by Established as well as
by Dissenting congregations. Indeed, in most places it has almost become an
impracticability ; not merely because of the odium brought upon it by its frequent
abuse, and which would prevent many from giving it countenance, but also from the
natural and social hindrances which have arisen to prevent its continuance. Land
is now generally cultivated and enclosed. There are few places, accordingly, where a
multitude of people could be allowed to assemble without serious injury either to pro-
prietors or lease-holders. Besides, the habits of the time are entirely changed. Who
now would be ready, as Avere many in attendance then, to pass several nights in the
woods, or sleep in the pews of the church? Who now would sit on the mountain
side, listening to a succession of speakers, from an early hour on the Sabbath till mid-
night, and that after a great portion of three preceding days had been so spent, and
when the day following was also to be thus occupied ? Some such persons might, no
doubt, still be found, if necessity demanded such procedure. But that necessity
does not now exist. Churches of the same denomination are now spread exten-
sively over the country. Evangelical preaching very generally prevails, and the
ordinance of the Supper may be enjoyed, not merely once a year as then, but in all
the congregations of the United Presbyterian Church twice at least, in most
of them four, in a few of them six or eight, and in one or more twelve times during
that period.
The foregoing summaries, comprising the external causes operating in favour of
the Secession and Relief Churches, show that however much of their success these
Churches may ascribe to their founders, and to leading men who followed them,
they must ascribe much more to concurring circumstances. The chief of these
circumstances were the arbitrary exercise of patronage, and the unedifying instruc-
tion which it very frequently permitted. These causes were rendered inoperative
for a time by the Evangelical clergy persuading the people that, by stating their
grievances to the Legislature, they would obtain a modification of the law, and
would thus be enabled to fill the pulpits of the Established Church with ministers
of Evangelical sentiments. The expectation in this way excited not being realised,
the disappointment quickened the languid causes of defection into more than
former energy, and a Secession greater than the first, even after a hundred years'
growth, has been the result. This Secession has taken the ground originally occupied
by the first, and being subjected to influences similar to those which drew the
* Both the Established and the United Presbyterian Churches now employ hymns, in addition
to the paraphrases ; and in many churches of the Estubhshment instrumental music has been intro-
duced.— Eds,
B
The United Presbyteriatt ChiwcJi.
first away from that ground, it may be expected to follow the same course.
These influences are much more efficacious now than they were then, and
will accordingly take much less time to bring the later Secession to the position at
present occupied by the earlier. " The time has come in which no man can
possibly fail to perceive that the principle of an Established Church is not more
rooted among us than is the principle of Dissent. The latter principle may be said
to be much stronger than the former was, much as it harmonises with the probabili-
ties of the future, while the former rests, for the most part, on the usages of the past.
Hence, while it may be well to caution the abettors of ecclesiastical reformation
against indulging expectations which will probably end in disappointment, there is
no want of encouragement to abound in effort with a view to improvement. We see
the changes in favour of our principles which are passing rapidly over the face of
the world and the Church. God is manifestly doing His own work after His own
manner. Our vocation is at once to labour and wait. In the present aspect of
affairs there is much to check presumption, but there is also much to give buoyancy
to hope. Reason and religion should alike dispose us to submit our own will as to
the times and the seasons to the indications of the will of the Omniscient."*
SECTION IV.
CAUSES OPERATING IN THE FORMATION OF CONGREGATIONS SUBSEQUENT
TO THE SECESSION, FROM WITHIN.
I. Congregations Origmating in the Burgess Oath Controversy.
In 1745, an oath was imposed by Parliament upon all persons becoming Bur-
gesses in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Perth, which ran in these terms : — " / protest,
before God and your Lordships, that I profess and alloiv with my heart the true
religion presently professed within this realm, and authorised by the laws thereof I shall
abide thereat,, and defend the same to my life's end, renouncing the Roman religion called
Papistry ." This oath was brought under the notice of the Associate Synod by over-
tures from two Presbyteries. Two different views were taken of its import — the one
that it was tantamount to an approval of the corruptions of the Established Church,
against which the Seceders had borne testimony, the other that it was only an ap-
proval of the religion itself, not of the manner in which it might be established or
professed. The party holding the first of these views contended that all persons
taking the oath should be excluded from the communion of the Secession Church,
while the party holding the second argued in favour of forbearance. The dispute,
prolonged through several sessions of Synod, ran so high, that it brought the parties
at length to open rupture, and divided them, in 1747, into two Synods, known after-
wards as " The Associate " or Burgher and " The General Associate," or Anti-
burgher Synods, the former being the names adopted by themselves, the latter being
those imposed upon them by others. This Breach, as a matter of course, also divided
the congregations, and gave rise to new ones in connection with both Synods. On
the side of that which had now become the Associate (Burgher) Synod, there sprang
from this cause what are now the congregations of Auchtcrmuchty (East), Dunse
(West), Ecclefechan, Kinross (West), Leslie (East), Linlithgow (West), Selkirk (first),
and St Andrews. On the side of the General Associate (Antiburghcr) Synod, there
originated in this way what are now, or were recently, the congregations of Belmont
* Vaughan's "Congregationalism," p. 173.
Origin and Formation of Congregations. 1 9
Street (Aberdeen), Cairneyhill, Coupar-Angus, Cumbernauld, Back Street (Dalkeith),
Dunblane (second), Bell Street (Dundee), Nicolson Street (Edinburgh), Falkirk
(South), Duke Street (Glasgow), George Square (Greenock), Howgate, Castle Street
(Jedburgh), Blackett Street (Newcastle), and the congregations of Knox's (Hadding-
ton), and Pathhead (Kirkcaldy), now in connection with the Free Church. Several
of these congregations did not come into existence till some time after " the Breach,"
because the parties forming them did not immediately know their strength. It was
by travelling to distant places to attend ordinances, and finding there minorities of
other congregations who had taken the same side with them in the controversy, that
they agreed with them in the selection of a locality easily accessible to all. This,
on application to the Presbytery of the district, became the seat of a congregation,
traceable to " the Breach " as its remote though not proximate cause.
Judging by the enumeration of congregations here given, the reader will be apt
to suppose that the event now referred to contributed largely to the increase of
the Secession Church, but acquaintance with the state of matters previously
will prevent this impression. Up till that time Presbyteries had very generally
refused to sanction the formation of congregations at places within a convenient
distance of others already existing, from a mistaken notion that a very large body of
persons is indispensable to the maintenance of public religious ordinances. This
policy was continued, notwithstanding the people's remonstrances against it, the
hardships to which it subjected them, and their willingness to prove practically their
ability to meet all the expenses which would thereby be incurred. Many of them,
therefore, hailed " the Breach " as an auspicious event, readily perceiving that the
rival Synods would eagerly afford supplies which they had refused when still united,
and accordingly took advantage of the circumstance to secure their much-wished-for
object. Hence the rapid increase of congregations at this particular period. Viewed
in this light, " the Breach," though otherwise injurious, must be considered to have
been beneficial. After all, it only hastened what would have otherwise taken place
in a few years as a matter of course. But for this event a still greater number of con-
gregations would have of necessity originated. In the towns and more populous dis-
tricts of the country, those already in existence were so overgrown that convenience
alone would soon have compelled them to divide, and form others which would
most speedily have become large and prosperous because of influences which would
then have been in operation to facilitate their growth. Whereas " the Breach " re-
pelled many persons who would have been attracted to the Secession from the Esta-
blished Church, and drove off others already in its connection who were anxious to
escape the animosities to which the division had given rise. In this aspect it was
an event to be deplored, but the bad effects of which, it is hoped, have been more
than counterbalanced by the good results which have followed the Union by which
it was repaired.
2. Congregations Originatijig in Doctrinal Controversy.
In 1754, the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod passed an Act containing
" an assertion of some Gospel truths in opposition to Arminian errors on the head of
universal redemption." The Rev. Mr Mair of Milnathort dissented from this deed,
because of its containing certain statements in which he could not concur. The
Synod construed this dissent into an approval of the sentiments repudiated in the
Act, and as Mr Mair refused to withdraw it when demanded, he was deposed from
the office of the ministry. He continued notwithstanding to exercise the ministry
20 TJlc United Prcsbytei'ian C/uirck.
among a majority of his congregation who adhered to him. A large minority, who
approved of the Synod's decision, withdrew from Mr Mair and his adherents, and
formed what is now the congregation of Milnathort.
In 1810, the same Synod deposed the Rev. Mr Imrie of Kinkell, for reasons
similar to those for which they had deposed Mr Mair. His adherents built a place
of worship for him in Auchterarder, and the congregation thus formed is now the
North Church there.
Other congregations besides these have had their origin in connection with doc-
trinal controversies agitated in the Secession Church, but in consequence of their
not joining the Secession, they are excluded from this enumeration. Such cases,
however, have been very few, and the fact is the more remarkable, seeing that such
controversies have always been maintained with great keenness and much bitterness.
This fact shows the inaccuracy of the prevailing opinion that a strong tendency to
division inheres in dissent. The contrary will still further develop itself in the
sequel, even in reference to causes which are generally considered to be still more
productive of this result.
It is worthy of note that the doctrines brought into controversy in the Secession
Church, have uniformly been such as were controverted among Christians holding
evangelical sentiments. Almost all of them are involved in the question, What
is the extent of the atonement? This question will ever be recurring despite of
all attempts to settle it, seeing that both sides can be supported by passages of
Scripture, and since there will ever be men who will hold the more circumscribed
or more extended view sanctioned by these, according to their own liberal or
illiberal and educational tendencies. No instances of Arianism, Socinianism, or
Pelagianism, have ever been found in any of the denominations now blended in
the United Presbyterian Church. No pretensions have ever been made in any
of them to the gift of tongues, or the power of working miracles, as has been the
case in State-favoured churches. And the fact that a question so mild in its
practical bearing as, Whether there be a sense or not in which Christ died for all
men ? has been so frequently and fiercely agitated in the bodies of which the United
Presbyterian Church is composed, evinces the wholesome jealousy entertained
by them of every statement that seemed to wear even the semblance of heresy.
3. Congregations Originating in Questions respecting Ritual Observances.
In 1782, the Rev. Mr Smyton of Kilmaurs overtured the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Synod to enjoin uniformity upon all its ministers in the mode of
administering the Lord's Supper, as some ministers abstained from touching the
bread and cup before prayer, he considering the act of touching essential to the
right observance of the ordinance. The Synod refused to adopt the overture,
holding that the subject of it should be matter of forbearance. The meeting ot
Synod at which this decision was come to, was thinly attended, and on that
account Mr Smyton did not consider the decision expressive of the mind of the
Church generally. He therefore introduced the matter again to the Synod the follow-
ing year, for which he was pronounced contumacious, and deposed from office. He
continued his ministrations notwithstanding ; most of his people adhering to him,
while others in different parts of the country, who coincided in his view, withdrew
from connection Avith the Synod, and formed themselves into congregations under
the inspection of the Presbytery formed by Mr Smyton and Messrs Proudfoot of Leith
and Hunter of Falkirk, ministers who were then in a position similar to his own.
Origin and Formation of Congregations. 2 i
In this way there arose the congregations of Portsburgh (Edinburgh), Denny, and
Bellevilla (Stranraer), which, after the dissolution of the Presbytery to which they
first belonged, connected themselves with the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and are
now part of the United Presbyterian Church. "The Smyton Controversy," as
this dispute is generally designated, or that of " the Lifters and Nondifters," or the
" Bread controversy," is the only one bearing on Ritual Observance which has
ever arisen in any of the sections of which that Church is now made up. " The
Directory for Public Worship," appended to the Westminster Confession of Faith,
was never considered obligatory by the Church, each minister and session being
left to administer public ordinances in the manner which seemed to each most in
accordance with Apostolic practice, and best fitted to promote peace and edifica-
tion.* Mr Smyton sought to restrain this liberty, and certainly acted indiscreetly
in pressing his overture after the Synod had so recently refused it. It seems, how-
ever, hard to have inflicted such high censure, especially as no law existed forbidding
the reintroduction of his overture at the ensuing Synod. Nor is there any rule now
upon the subject, unless it be held involved in the principle that decisions of Synod
cannot be appealed from, which has not been generally so understood or acted
upon. Nor would the plea of small attendance at the decision of a question,
though well founded, be admitted now as a good reason for the reintroduction
of an overture, and a review of the matter to which it had reference.
4. Congregations Originating in Controversies respecting the Magistrattfs poiver in
matters of Religion, and the obligation of the National Covenants iipon Posterity.
In 1797, the Associate (Burgher) Synod prefixed the following explanatory
statement or " Preamble " to their formula of ordination : " That whereas some
parts of the standard books of this Synod have been interpreted as favouring
compulsory measures in religion — the Synod hereby declare that they do not require
an approbation of any such principle from any candidate for license or ordination ;
and whereas a controversy has arisen among us respecting the nature and kind
of obligation of our Solemn League and Covenant on posterity — whether they be
entirely of the same kind upon us as upon our ancestors who swore them ; the
Synod hereby declare that while they hold the obligation of our Covenants upon
posterity, they do not interfere with that controversy which has arisen respecting
the nature and kind of it, and recommend to all their members to suppress that
controversy as tending to gender strife rather than godly edifying."
The adoption of this preamble produced great excitement among the sessions
and congregations of the denomination, many of them construing it into a total
denial of the right of the civil magistrate to interfere in matters of religion, and of
the descending obligation of the National Covenants upon posterity ; whereas the
sole intention of the Synod was to have it clearly understood that the matter in
dispute was not to be with them a term of communion. A motion to prevent the
adoption of "the preamble " was brought into the Synod which met in 1799. This
motion was negatived. Against this decision the Rev. Messrs Willis of Greenock
and Hyslop of Shotts protested, and declared themselves no longer in connection
with the Synod. This protest and deed of separation were accepted and adhered
to by members of the Church in various places. These were formed into con-
* Nevertheless, no religious body in Scotland has been characterised by greater uniformity in the
mode of conducting public worship than the Seceding Churches ; and that uniformity has been based
on a free adherence to the "Directory." — Eds.
2 2 The United Presbyterian Chitrch.
gregations in connection with the Original Associate (Burgher) Synod in Airdrie,
Alloa, Burntshields, Cumbernauld, Dalkeith, Doune, Dunblane, Dundee, Edin-
burgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Kennoway, Kilmarnock, Kilpatrick, Kincardine, Kirkcaldy,
Kirkintilloch, Longridge, Milnathort, Paisley, Perth, Pollokshaws, Renton, Shotts,
Stirling, and Yetholm. Minorities of the congregations of Kilpatrick and Milna-
thort withdrew from the Seceders, and, adhering to the Synod which the
majorities had left, formed what are now the congregations of Duntocher and
Balgedie.
In 1839, the congregations in Scotland belonging to the Original Associate
(Burgher) Synod, had increased to forty, thirty of which joined the Established
Church. All of these again withdrew from the Establishment in 1843, and became
part of the Free Church. The remaining ten formed a junction with the Synod
of Original Seceders in 1842, and the great proportion of these also acceded to the
Free Church in 1850. The congregations of Bannockburn, Bathgate, and Kil-
patrick (Craigs), left the Original Associate Synod and joined the United Associate
Synod shortly after its formation, and now form part of the United Presbyterian
Church.
In May 1804, the general Associate (Antiburgher) Synod enacted a Narrative
and Testimony to supersede the Original Secession testimony. Several members
protested against this enactment, because it seemed to them to relinquish the
received doctrine respecting the connection of Church and State, and the national
character and descending obligation of the Covenants. Following out this protest,
they separated themselves from the Synod, and formed "the Constitutional
Presbytery." The ministers who took this step were the Rev. Messrs Bruce of
Whitburn, M'Crie of Edinburgh, Aitken of Kirriemuir, Hog of Kelso, and Chalmers
of Haddington, the majorities of their congregations concurring with them. A
large portion of Mr Chalmers' congregation, however, withdrew from his ministry,
and formed what is now the West Congregation of Haddington.
It is thus made evident that questions connected with the Magistrate's power
and the National Covenants have been more productive of divisions in the
Secession Church than those of a purely theological character, the progress of
religious liberty being involved in the strifes engendered ; while the issue of them
has shown that public sympathy has been in favour of those who were most liberally
disposed in the maintenance of them.
5. Cofigregations Originating in the Convenience of the Persons forming them.
Most of the early Secession congregations were large and widely spread. For
example, during the incumbency of their first ministers, Abernethy was made up
of persons from 12 parishes ; Stirling, 13 ; Craigmaillen, 19 ; Cambusnethan, 22 ; and
Ceres, 32 parishes. The inconveniences thence arising to many of their adherents
were strongly felt, and speedily led to applications for supply of sermon in places
more accessible to the applicants. In many cases, petitions to this effect were re-
fused by the Presbyteries, through fear of serious injury to the congregations from
which the petitioners proposed to separate. In others, they were complied with ;
and hence at different times have arisen the following congregations, now in con-
nection with the United Presbyterian Church— Airth, Alyth, Annan ; Princes Street,
Arbroath; Auchtergaven, Auchtermuchty (North) ; Wallacetown, Ayr; Ayton (both),
Balbiggie, Balerno ; Livery Street, Bathgate ; Mitchell Street, Beith ; Church Street^
Berwick; Biggar (North), Bo'ncss, Braehead, Buchlyvie, Carnoustie, Carnwath^
Oingin and Formation of Congregations. 23
Coldstream (West), Craigend, Crail, Crieff (Second), Crossford, Crossgates, Cupar
(Burnside), Dalreoch, Dairy (Ayrshire), Drymen, Dunbar (Second) ; Chalmers' Street,
Dunfermline ; East Calder, Ellon, Eyemouth, Fala, Ford, Forfar, Forres, Galston,
Gatehouse ; Anderston, Greenhead, ToUcross, and Wellington Street, Glasgow ;
Gorebridge, Govan, Greenlaw, Greenloaning, Holm, Horndean, Irvine (East), Kil-
ham, Kinross (East), Langholm (South), Largs, Longridge, Lauder ; Junction Road
and Kirkgate, Leith ; Limekilns, Linhthgow (both), Lochgelly, Melrose, Midcalder,
Minniehive, Moffat, Monkwearmouth, Muirtown, Musselburgh (Union), Nairn,
Newarthill, Newtown, Norham, Old-Meldrum ; Abbey Close, Paisley; Peebles
(East), Penicuick, Peterhead, Port-Glasgow, Rosehearty, Saltcoats (West), Sanquhar
(North); East Street, South Shields; Stewarton, Tranent, Thornhill, Tillicoultry,
and Whitehill. In the same way there arose congregations, once belonging
to sections of the United Presbyterian Church, but which are now in connec-
tion with other denominations — in BalmuUo, Bathgate, Clola, Kilmarnock, Kil-
winning, Pollokshaws, Renton, Strathkinnes, and Whitburn ; and also congrega-
tions, which are now extinct, in Bo'ness, Kilconquhar, Lanark ; Miles Lane,London ;
Liff, and Selkirk.
In this long catalogue of names, the reader will probably be surprised to find
few belonging to large towns and cities, the more especially as these are the places
wJiich have chiefly increased their population, and extended their boundaries, since
the origin of the Secession and Relief Churches. But his surprise will cease, when
he reflects that in large towns distance of residence from church is not much at-
tended to; miles of streets will be cheerfully traversed by persons going to and
from their respective places of worship ; whereas, if the same persons resided in
the countr)', they would consider the journey to a distant church as something
extraordinary. It is well known that congregations in towns are not made up,
to 'any extent, of the persons resident in the immediate vicinity of their places of
worship, but are chiefly formed by those who reside in other parts of the town-
ship, and even in places far beyond it.* This is the case with parochial as well as
with dissenting communities, though not to an equal extent. Nor will it ever be
otherwise, however much religious and benevolent speculators may grieve over it,
or whatever schemes they may devise to alter or modify it.
Of all the chimeras that ever entered the human mind, one of the strangest was
that broached by a late celebrated divine, of parcelling out a town into a number of
parallelograms, and compelling the people within these to attend the place of wor-
ship assigned to each of those divisions. Sheep may be folded in this manner, but
not human beings, who have the power of choice, and are creatures of feeling as
well as of reason, and often, indeed, much more the creatures of impulse than of
reason, capable of being affected as much by the associations surrounding them as
by the instructions tendered them, whose affections become engaged to the persons
benefiting them, and whose habits are speedily confirmed beyond correction or
control. Yet something of this kind was attempted by Seceders in early times, as
well as by Churchmen in more recent times. In imitation of the parochial system,
they marked out boundaries for their congregations, and insisted that in all matters
of worship and church fellowship the people should confine themselves within these
limits. Proofs and illustrations of this statement will be found in the following
part of this work, under the heads. Congregations of Morebattle, Earlston (East),
* The reader will remember that these sentences were written many years ago, and by the
minister of a mral consTrecration. — Eds.
24 The United Presbyterian Church.
and Duke Street, Glasgow, while the present state of the United Presbyterian
Church in these places shows how absolutely futile was the attempt.
The persons who formed the congregations now under consideration were con-
sulting their own convenience in the movements made by them. But it was a
convenience considered in connection with their ecclesiastical associations and
sympathies, and not merely the saving of distance and trouble to themselves. They
did not care for the convenience desired, unless it was accompanied with other cir-
cumstances to which they attached importance, and which they believed they could
obtain in connection with the religious denomination to which they belonged.
Nevertheless, many persons, who had an interest in thinking other^vise, persuaded
themselves that the Secession and Relief congregations, which they saw rising
around them, were not the offspring of principle and the natural growth of a healthy
body, but the accretions of an active, but neglected population. Several witnesses
examined before the Select Committee of the House of Commons on Church Patron-
age in Scotland, accordingly ventured the statement, that Dissent had increased in
that part of the kingdom, because the parochial system in Scotland had not been
carried out as it ought. Here we must turn for a moment to the cry that was raised,
that Dissenters were invading the territories of the Established Church, and absorb-
ing her population, in consequence of the State failing to provide sufficient accom-
modation for the people within her pale. This cry led to the appointment of a
Government Commission in 1835, to inquire into the state of religious instruction
in Scodand. The parishes personally visited and specially reported on by the
commissioners were 552 in number, and the reports respecting them, since pub-
lished, extend to nine folio volumes. From these we learn, that in 76 parishes in
which there were Secession and Relief congregations, originating in the manner we
have been describing in this section, 50 parochial churches had been rebuilt or
enlarged to the extent required by law, and thus proof was furnished, that in so
far as these parishes were concerned, the plea set up for increased accommodation
was invalid. Besides the renovation and enlargement of these parochial churches,
chapels of ease had been erected during the same period in several places where
the population had greatly increased, and which should have hindered the increase
of Secession and Relief congregations, if they could be so hindered.
If Dissenters had reasoned after the manner of Churchmen, they would have raised
a cry that the Establishment was attempting to absorb their population, and referred to
these cases for the proot. If they had been foolish enough to raise such a cry, they
would have been told, as a matter of course, that the Established Church had the
only right to the population, and they must not complain. Nor did they raise any
groundless clamour, being fully aware that the tendency of all modern change is in
their favour, and that no extension of the parochial system will avert the so-called
evil. Of all the congregations now in connection with the United Presbyterian
Church, on\y /oar have arisen from want of sufficient accommodation in the churches
of the Establishment. These are Head Street, Beith ; High Street, Brechin ;
Sir Michael Street, Greenock; and Allar's Church, Hawick, — all of them belong-
ing to tlie Relief Church. Even these few might have been prevented, had the
ministers in the places named manifested any concern on the subject. But they
were indifferent to the extension of their churches, unless it was attended with the
increase of their emoluments, or the diminution of their labours. Instead of extend-
ing their churches, even in comparatively recent times, they were diminishing them,
by suppressing parishes, or uniting them, so as to make one place of worship serve
Oi'igin and Fo7'vtation of Conorcgations.
for two parishes. It was out of such an amalgamation, conjoined with the refusal
to afford occasional supply of sermon in the church of the parish which had been
suppressed, that Roberton congregation originated. On the other hand, the
Courts of the Establishment would not allow the erection of chapels of ease in
certain destitute localities, though laymen of the highest respectability were willing
to become bound to meet all the expense of their erection and the continued main-
tenance of ordinances in them. From opposition to church extension in this form,
there arose the Relief congregation now represented by that of Bread Street, Edin-
burgh, and the congregations of Castle-Douglas, and Moss Street, Elgin.
The large internal growth of several Secession and Relief congregations, rendered
it necessary for them to colonise, without respect to the local convenience of their
members, though this was, at the same time, in many instances, subserved by it.
Thus, the overflowing of the church in College Street led to the erection of the
church in St James' Place, Edinburgh, and instances of the same kind occurred in
Glasgow. So, also, the overflow of the church in Cartsdyke, led to the erection of
the church in Nicolson Street, Greenock, as did that of the church in Thread Street
to the erection of the church in Canal Street, Paisley.
Under the head of convenience, we may classify other congregations as to
their origin, although, in their case, the necessity arose from the increase of
Seceders and members of the Relief Church, in localities which had acquired
importance by the rise and extension of public works, and kindred causes. In this
way, there arose the congregations of South Bridge Street, Airdrie ; Alva, Balfron,
Barrhead, Birkenhead, Bonhill, Bridge of Allan, Broughtyferry, Busby, Catrine,
Coatbridge, Dunoon, Galashiels (West), Gourock ; Chapel Street, Hamilton ;
Helensburgh, Johnston, Lochwinnoch, Muirkirk, Partick, Pitcairn, Portobello,
Stonehaven, Sanquhar (North), Thornliebank, and Wishawtown.*
Akin to the cause, with its peculiar modification, just now described, is that of
the emigration of members of congregations into England, who carried with them
their ecclesiastical predilections, and sought to give them practical effect in the land of
their adoption. In this way there arose the congregations of Clayport Street, Aln-
wick; Blyth, Greenwich, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool; Llyod Street, Manchester; Ramsey,
Isle of Man ; North and South Shields, Whitehaven, and Workington. When we
consider the immense number of Scotsmen who have taken up their residence in
England, and the great proportion of that number who previously belonged to the
Secession and Relief Churches, we must allow that the congregations formed by
them in that country are exceedingly few. But the defection implied in the fact, is
not peculiar to these Churches, but is common to all other Churches in Scotland to
which the emigrants previously belonged. The congregations in England con-
nected with the Established and Free Churches, are not more numerous in propor-
tion to the strength of the parent denominations, than are those in connection
with the United Presbyterian Church. The explanation of this fact is to be found
in the character of the emigrants generally, rather than in the non-adaptation of
their ecclesiastical views to those prevailing in England, and other causes of a
similar kind, to which they are commonly ascribed. Many who have removed
thither are more bent upon their temporal than upon their spiritual advancement,
and therefore do not covet the religious privileges they had at home. Many,
however, are inclined to associate themselves in Church communion after the
* Were the statistics brought down to the present date — 1S72 — this list of congregations would
be largely increased. — Eds.
26 The United Presbyterian CJntrch.
manner of their fathers, if faciUties were afforded them for doing so. In the
large cities of England, in which numerous Scotsmen are setthng, it is impracti-
cable to attend the few and sparse churches belonging to their own denominations
to be found in them. The argimient sometimes used, " Fill the existing churches
before building new ones," may be of some force in thinly-peopled districts, but not
so in vast centres of population. In such teeming localities, churches, like plants
in a nursery, with a good soil, protect and cherish one another. The United
Presbyterians in the North of England, seem to have come now to this conviction,
for in October 1854, the Lancashire Presbytery constituted a Society for Home
Missions and Church Extension, with means to provide funds for carrying out their
designs ; and, as a commencement, have opened a station at Bootle, in Liverpool,
to which they look as an experiment encouraging them to proceed with others. *
It is not attempted to be denied or concealed that many persons once connected
with the denominations now in question, have changed their ecclesiastical principles
with their change of residence, and many have abandoned their religious principles
altogether. But these are the exceptions to the rule. The great proportion adhere
tenaciously to the religious opinions in which they have been educated, and not a
few of them have subjected themselves to great self-denial and sacrifice in maintaining
their opinions. Yet it has been frequently averred, with a view to induce Govern-
ment to extend the parochial system, that most persons are Dissenters from
necessity, and not from choice ; that Secession and Relief Churches especially have
arisen in localities where the population has widely and rapidly extended, merely
because the accommodation in the parish churches of these localities has not
extended proportionately with it. Now, it can be proved beyond dispute, that in
most of the places referred to in this section, there was a large amount of unoccupied
spaces in the churches of the Establishment, both at the time the congregations
named came into existence, and for a long time afterwards, so that if the persons
composing them had been mindful of the Church from which they or their fathers
came out, "they might have had an opportunity to have returned," but they
sought after a more excellent way, and persuaded themselves that they, had
obtained it.
6. Congregations Originating in the Opposition of Minorities to calls given hy
Majorities to Pastors to Preside over them.
The Select Committee of the House of Commons on Church Patronage in Scotland,
urged the question upon most of the witnesses examined, Whether popular election,
as practised in the Secession and Relief Churches, did not produce divisions, leadijtg
to the brealdng up of congregations when called to exercise it ? Of the nineteen
persons interrogated, though with few exceptions favourable to the most arbitrary
exercise of patronage, not one admitted that he ever knew a case of a con-
gregation being broken up from such a cause. The Rev. Dr Macfarlane of
Greenock ventured, indeed, to repeat what he had before advanced in a pamphlet
he had published on the subject under consideration, "That there can be
no doubt whatever, that in popular elections there have been many heats and
divisions, and that they have issued, in a great many ifistances, in the people breaking
oft and building a Jieici church." Not to speak of the evidence here adduced being
* Since the ahove was written, the movement for the I^xtension of the United Tresbyterian
Church in luiyland has been conducted on a laryc scale, both in the great cities, and in provincial
towns. — Eds.
Origin and Fomnation of Congregatiojts. 2 7
given by a minister of another denomination than that to which his evidence appHed,
we challenge the accuracy of the evidence itself. So far from the instances
to which he referred being immeroiis, they are surprisingly few and unimportant.
Of the ordinations and inductions in the United Presbyterian Church, only twenty
have led to disruption of congregations and erection of new churches. The con-
gregations which have arisen from this cause are, St Nicholas Lane, Aberdeen ;
Bankhill ; Berwick j Buckhaven ; Ceres (East) ; Provost Wynd, Cupar ; Tay Square,
Dundee ; Cowgate, Potterow, and Rose Street, Edinburgh ; Hutchesontown, and
John Street, Glasgow ; Union Street, Greenock ; Brandon Street, Hamilton ; Kelso
(East); Hope Street, Lanark; Lauder (South); Perth (North West); Selkirk
(Second) ; and Strathaven (West).
Now, let it be carefully noted, that with the exception of Buckhaven, Ceres,
Lasswade, and Lauder, all the cases mentioned occurred in congregations which
were either in themselves large, or were capable of expansion, from their churches
being situated in populous districts. The church in Bristo Street, Edinburgh,
though one of the largest in the city, was quite filled when the persons originat-
ing the congregation of Rose Street withdrew from it. So it was equally well
filled, when the Secession congregation of Cowgate was formed from it. The
church in Nicolson Street, not much smaller than its neighbour, was in the same
state, when the party separated from it by wliich the congregation of Potterrow was
begun. The church in Dovehill, Glasgow, containing 1400 sittings, was in a
condition similar to those referred to in Edinburgh, when the congregations of
Hutchesontown and John Street, in that city, were formed by persons who had
attended it ; and that notwithstanding the Relief congregation in Campbell Street
had been pressed out of it by overcrowding. When these occurrences took place,
both Edinburgh and Glasgow were rapidly increasing their population and extending
their boundaries, while there were comparatively few Secession or Relief places of
worship in either of them. Those who were friendly to the extension of these
denominations, perceived that congregations connected with them might be multi-
plied without materially affecting those already existing, and made their opposition
to a preferred candidate for the pastorate a reason for separation, when their object
was more particularly the increase of churches. It is to be remembered that such
movements were not then so favourably regarded, and that presbyteries sanctioned
them rather from necessity than choice.
We are persuaded that the cases now exhibited would never have existed had
the congregations in which they occurred been of ordinary size. Their unwieldy
dimensions furnished an argument for division, which received additional force from
the alienated feeling which had arisen.
We have satisfactorily accounted, we think, for cases of this kind which have
occurred in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Let us turn now to those which have happened
elsewhere. Eleven have taken place in towns of considerable size, and most of them
then on the increase. These are Aberdeen, Berwick, Cupar, Dundee, Greenock,
Hamilton, Kelso, Lanark, Perth, Selkirk, and Strathaven. The congregations which
divided in these places were large, and there were no others of the same denomina-
tion existing there at the time, except in Aberdeen and Dundee. Such circumstances
may help to explain these movements, if not altogether to account for them.
The remaining instances are those of Buckhaven, Ceres, Lasswade, and Lauder,
already mentioned as furnishing exceptions to the cases occurring in large towns
each of which has a speciality of its own.
28 The United Presbyterian CJuirch.
Buckhaven is the largest of seven villages belonging to the parish in which it is
situated. It had become evident, from the number of Seceders travelling every
Sabbath from these villages to Kennoway, three miles distant, where was the only
place of worship belonging to their denomination in the district, that they would
form at once a considerable congregation of themselves, without materially injuring
that of Kennoway. The election of a minister in that congregation, not unanimously
approved of, presented itself as a fitting occasion to make the attempt. The attempt
succeeded, and the consequence is that the denomination has now two substantial
congregations instead of one.
The case of Ceres was not that of a disputed setdement in the right import of
that phrase. A fama clamosa had arisen against the minister-elect, which delayed
his trials for ordination till the charge was investigated. At this constitutional
course he took offence, and refused to concur in the delay. The majority of the
congregation, justly displeased with him on that account, and with the sanction of
the Presbytery, withdrew their call to him. The minority, however, adhered to the
call, and formed themselves into a congregation, of which the minister in question
became the pastor, without any ecclesiastical connection. At his death, which hap-
pened shortly afterwards, the congregation obtained a successor to him from a
denomination different from that they had left. That denomination has now
become one with that from which they seceded, and hence the circumstance of the
United Presbyterian Church having two congregations in so small a place as Ceres.
The case of Lasswade is analogous to that of Buckhaven. An attempt to form
a congregation there had been previously made and failed. The recent union of
the two great branches of the Secession now favoured that attempt ; while certain
procedure on the part of the promoters of the call to the successful candidate for
the vacant charge in Dalkeith, furnished an ostensible reason for action at that
particular time. As anticipated, the movement has proved a successful one ; and
now the denomination has a good congregation in Lasswade, while that of Dalkeith,
out of which it sprang, is as large and prosperous as ever.
The case of Lauder is still more peculiar than any of the foregoing. It was the
failure of an unnecessary attempt to obtain a footing for another denomination in
the place that gave rise to the case. The congregation it threatened to injure is
more vigorous than ever.
The cases now explained embrace all of the kind which have ever occurred in the
Secession, Relief, or United Presbyterian Churches.* They are few in number com-
pared with analogous cases resulting from patronage, as then exercised in the Church
of Scotland. For twaity churches which have originated in the one cause, srcenty-
four have sprung from the other. The former, too, were gains to the denominations
in which the cases occurred ; the latter were losses to the Established Church. These,
too, represent only a small portion of the losses thus sustained, numerous parties,
withdrawing on similar grounds, preferring to swell Dissenting congregations previ-
ously existing, to building places of worship for themselves. But what, indeed, are the
United Presbyterian and Free Churches but great effects of the patronage system ?
And, embracing as they now do the majority of the population, is not their continued
existence a nation's protest against the law of patronage, even in its modified form ?
When was it known that a nation protested against what was really for its advant-
age, or at least adhered to its protest after the advantage had been proved ? The
explanations given will show that the mischiefs ascribed to the popular election of
* The statement applies to the period prior to 1854. — Eds.
Origin and Formation of Congregations. 29
ministers are more imaginary than real. The argument drawn from the abuse of
privileges and rights is not conclusive against the legitimate exercise of such rights
and privileges. The past history of the United Presbyterian Church vindicates the
conduct of those who made popular election the chief corner-stone ot the edifice.
And the trust bequeathed by former generations, is to be transmitted entire to
coming generations.
7. Congregations Originating in Itineracies, Uofne Missions, and
Church Extensiofi Movements.
When the fathers of the Secession proceeded to form a Presbytery, it was not
with the view of founding a Church ; but only, if possible, to constrain the Civil and
Ecclesiastical Courts to modify the law of patronage, and remove offensive abuses.
In this vain expectation they continued for about three years in a state of Secession
before they complied with any of the applications made to them to organise congre-
gations in their connection. The idea of becoming " a great home mission " — the
boast of some in latter times — never seems to have occurred to them. The course
they pursued was one to which they considered themselves impelled by necessity
rather than by choice. So reluctant were they to enter upon it, that they willingly
suffered many favourable opportunities for extending their cause to pass unimproved.
They did, indeed, visit certain localities when invited ; but even then they refused
to comply with the wishes of their professed friends, unless when fully convinced of
the purity of their motives, rightly judging that the strength of a church depends
more upon its right principles than the number of its adherents. The Rev. Mr
Brown of Craigdam was the first Secession minister who spontaneously exerted him-
self to extend the interests of his denomination, by going forth and proclaiming its
principles wherever opportunity was afforded him. From his itineracies in the
counties of Aberdeen and Banff there arose the congregations of Cabrach, Grange,
Huntly, Keith, and Shiels. Mr Buchanan of Nigg pursued a similar course, and by
his exertions the congregations of Inverness (First), Thurso, and Wick were formed.
Through the efforts of others in this way the following congregations had also arisen
prior to the year 1800 : Maisondieu Lane, Brechin ; Kirkwall; Mill Street, Montrose ;
and Stronsay.
During the first twenty years of the present century, little was done by the
Secession and Relief Churches, in the way of aggression, for extending their
boundaries. To the exertions of a few persons may be ascribed the existence of
several congregations in this way; but, as the doctrinal teaching of the parochial
churches in their vicinity had considerable influence in leading to the formation of
such congregations, we have ranked their origin under that head. It was not till the
union of the two great branches of the Secession, which took place in 1820, that
any effort to stimulate denominational growth, worthy of the name, was put forth.
That auspicious event imparted a consciousness of power to the parties uniting,
which immediately developed itself in a series of movements towards expansion.
The United Associate Synod, at its very first meeting, appointed commissioners to
visit the south and north of Scotland, and report such localities as appeared to them
to stand in need of evangelical instruction. In 1825 a standing committee of
Synod was appointed to correspond with ministers respecting places suitable for
preaching stations in their districts ; and an association, chiefly composed of laymen,
and of which David Anderson, Esq., was the chief promoter, was formed in Glasgow,
for advancing the interests of the Secession Church. Most of the Presbyteries in
30 The United Presbyterian Church.
the denomination also formed themselves into missionary societies for home opera-
tions, and secured the co-operation of the congregations within their bounds. This
zeal on the part of the Secession Church awakened also that of the Relief; and
their operations, separate and combined, led to the formation of the congregations
of Aberchirder ; Aberlady ; Lisburn Street, Alnwick; Annan (Second); Anstruther;
Archieston ; Bedlington ; Belfast ; Blackburn ; Burghead ; Campbelton, Argyleshire
(Secession); Campbelton, Inverness-shire; Carluke; Cambuslang; Dairy, Dumfries-
shire; High Street, Dumbarton; Eday; Firth; Gardenston; Hardepool; Houghton-
le-Spring ; Inveraray ; Queen Street, Inverness ; Kirkcowan ; Larkhall ; Leith-
Lumsden ; Lerwick ; Lesmahagow ; Letham ; Leven ; Lismore ; Lochmaben ; Long-
town ; Mainsriddle ; Markinch ; New Leeds ; Newtyle ; Oban ; Otterburn ; Patna ;
Portree; Rousay ; South Ronaldshay ; Sandwick ; Savoch of Deer; Shapinshay ;
Tain ; Troon ; Walker ; and Wigton, Cumberland.
Congregations were also formed by the voluntary withdrawment of members and
adherents of different congregations, with the sanction of Presbyteries, and having
the place of worship in a central locality, not before provided with a Gospel
ministry. In this way there arose the congregations of Wishart Church, Dundee ;
Lothian Road, Newington, and Stockbridge, Edinburgh ; Calton, Cambridge Street,
Eglinton Street, Gillespie Church, Gordon Street, London Road, Renfield Street,
and Shamrock Street, Glasgow ; North Leith ; and Coupland Street, Manchester.
Most of these had come into existence prior to the Disruption in 1843, which
forthwith led to such a multiplication of places of worship throughout the country as
to supersede, for a time, the necessity of any effort in this direction. A few years
afterwards, the Rev. Dr James Taylor overtured the Presbytery of Glasgow to take
steps for locating preachers in the densely-populated districts of the city, with the
view of drawing out persons not in the habit of attending any place of worship, and
forming them into congregations called Missionary Churches. This overture was
adopted. The success which has attended the prosecution of this measure is writ-
ten in the history of not a few of the new congregations in Glasgow. In February
1853, a number of persons connected with the United Presbyterian Church in Glas-
gow met in the Religious Institution Rooms there, and formed themselves into an
association for church extension in that city. A fund for aiding this object received
a contribution of ;i^iooo from Miss Davie, of Garnethill, in January 1854.*
In reviewing the causes specified, as operating in the formation of the congrega-
tions named, it becomes at once apparent that though seemingly numerous and
diversified, they nearly all resolve themselves into two — resistance on the part of the
people to the domination of parties in the State Church on the one hand, and the
maintenance of the position which they have assumed, on the other. Aggression,
in the proper sense of the term, has contributed very little to the extension of the
denomination of which we now write. Its progress has been accelerated by the in-
fluence of the laity rather than that of the clergy. It is emphatically the Church of
the people in its progression as well as its maintenance. It differs in these respects
from the Wesleyan Church, with which it has sometimes been compared, both bodies
having originated about the same time. The one is the produce of seed broadcast over
the land by a widely-extended and ever-active agency, the other a spontaneous growth,
* Since 1854, at lenst 20 Churches have been added to the strenj^th of the Denomination in
Glasgow and its immediate suburbs, and energetic measures are now (1S72) being adopted with a
view to increased and systematic Church Extension. — Eds.
Progressive Extension of the CJmrch. 31
diffusing itself by degrees, aided, occasionally, by a supply from other sources ; the
one is somewhat of an exotic in danger of degenerating, the other, more of an indi-
genous plant, which only needs to be let alone to spread itself without hmitation.
It is obvious, from the review of the causes specified, conjoined with the
recollection of recent events, that the external causes operating in the forma-
tion of congregations have, to a great extent, ceased, or now exert little or no
influence. The arbitrary exercise of Patronage, which was the chief of these,
was restrained for a time by the enactment of the Veto Act. A few congregations
which had separated from the main body of the Seceders united with the Estab-
lished Church after that Act had been passed. But they were hardly inside
when they repented of the step they had taken, and left with more precipi-
tation than they had entered, finding that the privilege which the Veto pro-
fessed to secure for them was illusory. The members of the United Secession
and Relief Churches, on the other hand, not only maintained their position,
but went on strengthening it. Congregation after congregation was added to
these respective denominations. Afterwards, they coalesced into one body, and,
notwithstanding the Disruption which has taken place and covered the land with
churches, they have kept steadily on the increase. The precise extent to which
they have been thus proceeding will become apparent in the course of the next
chapter, where all the congregations which are now (1854) in connection with the
United Presbyterian Church, or have ever been in connection with the sections of
which it is composed, will be specified and enumerated according to the dates of
their origin. In the meantime, it may be said to be apparent that whatever may
have been the case aforetime, it is to the principle of a Church Establishment itself
that the people referred to now object, and not merely to the abuse of it. Some
there are in the National Church who persuade themselves to the contrary, and,
under that persuasion, have recently attempted to get its Courts to move for the
further modification of the law of Patronage, and, if necessary, even its entire
abolition, in the hope that Dissenters would thereby be induced to return to it.
" Dissenters," as has often been declared, and now fully proved, ^'' do not desigfi,
do not desire, to obtain admission into the Church. There was a time when it would
have been possible by slight concessions to satisfy the scruples of the Noncon-
formists, and schemes of comprehension have been brought forward with the sanction
of some of the wisest and best men of the Established Church, which, had they been
carried into effect, would, without compromising any of the essential doctrines of
Christianity, have gone far towards neutrahsing Dissent. But the time for the suc-
cess of such schemes has long since passed." *
PROGRESSIVE EXTENSION OF THE CHURCHES BY INCREASE OF CONGREGATIONS.
This progression might have been exhibited briefly and comprehensively by tables,
in which figures alone would have marked the number of congregations formed each
year since the first Secession took place, or during any other successive portions of
time that might have been fixed upon for the purpose. But such tables are unintel-
ligible or uninteresting to the great proportion of readers, and on that account passed
over by them without perusal. We shall therefore conjoin the names of congrega-
tions, with the dates of their origin, and then sum them up at different periods into
which the whole amount of time embraced by the history naturally or conveniently
divides itself. It will thus be seen at a glance what congregations were contem-
* " The Designs of the Dissenters. Letter to the King by a Protestant Dissenter." 1834.
The United Presbyterian Church.
poraneous in origin, as well as the number which came into existence at dififerent
periods of time.
1739-
1740.
Dalkeith (East); Dunse (East); Kilmaurs ;
Leslie (West); M earns ; Sanquhar
(South).
Bridge of Teith ; Comrie ; School Wynd,
Dundee; Midholm; Mill Street, Mon-
trose ; Stitchel.
1 741. Elackfriars', Jedburgh.
1 742. Dumbarrow.
1743. Cumbernauld (ist); Kinkell.
1744. Blackett Street, Newcastle.
1745. Elgin (ist); Wigtown.
1746. Alloa (West); Dennyloanhead.
1733. Abernethy ; Kinclaven ; Perth ; Stirling.
1734-
1735-
173^^-
1 737. Cambusnethan ; Craigmaillen ; Queen Anne
Street, Dunfermline ; Falkirk (East) ;
Haddington (East); Holm of Balfron ;
Bethelfield, Kirkcaldy; Milnathort (ist);
Morebattle ; Muckart ; West Linton.
1738. Burntisland; Burntshields ; Ceres (ist);
Bristo Street, Edinburgh ; Greyfriars',
Glasgow ; Cartsdyke, Greenock ; Lock-
erbie; Stow ; Urr.
"The Breach" occasioned by the Burgess Oath controversy took place in 1747,
and from that date till 1820, when the portions of the Church which then separated
were reunited, the congregations which originated are marked A. and B., according
to the Synods to which they respectively belonged. The former referring to the
General Associate (Antiburgher), the latter to the Associate (Burgher) Synod.
1 747. A. Cairneyhill ; Coupar Angus ; Back
Street, Dalkeith; Earlston (East);
Nicolson Street, Edinburgh ; Duke
Street, Glasgow ; George Square,
Greenock ; Haddington (2d); Kin-
ross (West); Pathhead, Kirkcaldy;
Oakshaw Street, Paisley ; Perth
(North); Stirling (2d).
B. Auchtermuchty (North); Thornhill ;
Dunblane (ist); Ecclefechan ; Scone;
Selkirk (ist); St Andrews.
174S. A. Howgate; Logiealmond.
B.
1749. A. Pathstruiehill.
B.
1 750. A. Oxendon, London ; Methven.
B. Aberdeen (ist); Kelso (ist); Kenno-
way; Carliol Street, Newcastle. 1759-
1 75 1. A. Buchlyvie ; Bell Street, Dundee ; Lau-
der (ist). 1760.
B. Torphichen.
1752. A. Craigdam ; Castle Street, Jedburgh; B.
Greenloaning ; Norham.
" The Relief Presbytery," afterwards the Relief Synod, was formed in 1761, and
from this date the congregations in connection with it are marked R.
B. Inverkeithing.
1753. A. Elseridgehill ; Errol (ist); Moyness.
B. Clayport Street, Alnwick ; Newcastle-
ton.
A. Colmonel ; Peebles (ist); Ivy Place,
Stranraer.
B.
A. Minniehive ; Whitehaven.
B.
A. Auchinleck ; Falkirk (South).
B. Biggar (North).
1757. A. Loreburn Street, Dumfries; Ratt-
ray.
B.
1758. A. Kilwinning (ist).
B. Cumbernauld (2d); Wells Street, Lon-
don ; Dunblane (2d).
Mitchell Street, Beith.
1754-
1755-
1756.
Eastbarns, afterwards Dunbar (2d);
Shiels.
1761. A. Blackswell, Hamilton; Mid-Calder ;
Milnathort (2d).
B. Leslie (East); Rathillet.
R. Colinsburgh ; Gillespie Church, Dun-
fermline ; High Street, Jedburgh.
1762. A. Crieff (ist).
B.
R. Bellshill ; Blairlogie.
1763. A. Bo'ness(ist);Johnshaven(ist); Kendal.
B. Abernethy (2d) ; Dunse (West) ; Pol-
lokshaws (ist) ; Tough ; Wooler
(1st).
R. Auchtermuchty (West).
1764. A. Nigg; Strathaven (ist).
B. John Street, Montrose ; Spring Gar-
den Lane, Sunderland.
R.
1765. A. City Road, Brechin ; Cabrach; Grange;
Hawick (West); Keith (1st); Kelso
(2d); Muirtown.
B. Alloa (West); Livery Street, Bathgate;
Kirkintilloch (ist); Lochgelly; Union
Church, Musselburgh.
R. Banff.
1766. A. Clola; Whitehill; Whitburn.
B. Dunbar (ist).
R. Campbelton ; College Street, Edin-
burgh ; Dovehill, Glasgow.
1767. A.
Vy. Coldstream (West); Eaglesham.
R. Dunse (South).
1768. A. P'orres; Wick.
B. Shotts; Wellington Street, Kilmarnock.
R. Dalkeith (West); Kilsyth.
1769. A. Nairn.
15.
R.
1770. A. Ayr (ist); Howford ; Kirkgate, Leith.
B. Wallace Green, Jkrwick ; Dunning
(1st); Linlithgow (West).
R. Falkirk (West); Anderston, Glasgow.
1771. A.
Progressive Extension of the CImrch.
IT]2.
1773-
1774-
1775-
1776.
1777.
177S.
1779.
1780.
17S1.
1782.
1783-
1784.
1785-
1786.
17S7.
17S8.
1789.
1790.
Newtown ; North Berwick.
Aberdeen (ist); Largo.
Huntly; Kirriemuir (West); Newmills.
Dysart ; Kilmaronock.
Cumnock ; East Bank, Hawick.
Irvine ; St Ninians.
Ayton (East); Clerk's Lane, Kilmar-
nock.
Pittenweem.
Thurso.
East Calder ; Kincardine ; Longridge.
Boston Church, Cupar.
Kilpatrick (Craigs) ; Queensferry ;
Stockbridge, Berwickshire; Tarbol-
ton.
Auchterarder (South); Muir Street,
Hamilton; Kettle; Kinghorn.
Ayton (West); Tranent.
Strathaven (East); Wamphray.
Belmont Street, Aberdeen ; Forfar ;
North Shields ; Workington.
Chapel Street, Berwick.
Rothesay ; North Shields.
Dairy, Ayrshire.
Biggar (South).
Craigend.
Largs ; Langholm (North); Moffat.
Aberdeen; Canal Street, Paisley; Salt-
coats (West).
Alyth ; Greenlaw.
Princes Street, Arbroath.
Fenwick ; Penicuik.
Crieff (2d).
Auchtermuchty (North).
Fala ; Renton ; Slateford.
Millhill, Musselburgh.
Lethendy.
Horndean ; Limekilns ; South Shields
(1st).
Head Street, Beith ; Campsie.
St Andrew's, I>eith.
Liff ; Lanark (ist); Newburgh (ist).
Perth (East).
Auchtergaven (ist); Balbiggie.
Rose Street, Edinburgh ; Galston ;
Kirkgate, Leith ; Yetholm (ist).
Kilbarchan.
Bahnullo ; Tillicoultry.
Coupar- Angus (2d); Dundee.
Belford ; Chalmers' Street, Dunferm-
line ; Inverness (ist).
Campbell Street, Glasgow ; Newbig-
ging ; Pitrodie.
Clackmannan ; Queensberry Street,
Dumfries ; Waterbeck.
Carnoustie.
1791.
1792.
Ellon ; Peterhead
Ford.
Burnside, Cupa
^(ist).
Kinghorn ; Miles Lane, London ;
Peebles (East); Port-Glasgow; Coun-
tess Street, Saltcoats.
1793-
1794.
1795-
1796.
1797.
1798.
1799.
1800.
1801.
1S02.
1803.
1S04.
1S05.
1S06.
1807.
Dalreoch.
Trinity Church, Greenock ; Johnston
(ist); Lochwinnoch.
Haddington ; East Kilbride ; Kelso
(East) ; Mainsriddel ; Newlands ;
Newton-Stewart.
Potterrow, Edinburgh ; Wellington
Street, Glasgow ; Whithorn.
Well Wynd, Airdrie ; Buckhaven ;
East Linton; Portsburgh, Edinburgh;
Whitby.
Bridge-end, Dumbarton ; Campbell
Street (2d), Glasgow ; Kirriemuir
(1st).
Inverleven ; Saltcoats (West).
Bo'ness (2d); Lauder (2d); Mauchline.
Balfron ; Coldingham ; Old Kilpatrick.
St Nicholas Lane, Aberdeen ; Crail ;
Freuchie ; West Calder.
Kirkwall.
Irvine (East); Kilconquhar.
Errol (2d); Broomgate, Lanark.
Kinross (East).
Barrhead; Denny; Pitcairn ; Stone-
house.
St James' Place, Edinburgh.
Pitcairngreen ; Stewarton.
Wallacetown, Ayr ; Braehead ; Mais-
ondieu Lane, Brechin ; Maybole ;
Morpeth; Penrith; Bellevilla, Stran-
raer.
Southend.
Balfron (2d) ; Church Street, Hamilton.
Burnhead ; Ceres (2d); Earlston (West) ;
John Street, Glasgow.
Stronsay.
Brunswick Street, Manchester ; Midmar;
Peterhead (2d); Pollokshaws (2d).
Hutchesontown, Glasgow ; Milngavie;
Roberton ; Strathkinnes.
San day.
Balgedie.
Castle-Douglas (ist); Kilmarnock;
Langholm (South).
Clavering Place, Newcastle.
Galashiels (East).
Castlegarth, Newcastle.
Newarthill.
Crossgates.
Carrubber's Close, Edinburgh.
Stromness.
Annan (ist); Avonb ridge ; Johnshaven
(2d); Keith (2d); Leeds; New Deer;
Stonehaven.
Dunning (2d).
Moss Street, Elgin.
Bolton.
Bathgate (2d): Bellingham ; Linlith-
gow (East); Thornhill.
St Paul's, Aberdeen ; Greenhead,
Glasgow.
Feri7port-on-Craig;PIaddington(Wt.).
Airth ; Coldingham ; Duntocher ;
Forgue.
Tollcross, Glasgow; Sir Michael Street,
Greenock ; Lilliesleaf (ist).
Buccleuch Street, Dumfries.
The United Presbyterian Church.
iSoS.
A.
];.
R.
1S09.
A.
B.
R.
1810.
A,
B.
R.
iSii.
A.
B.
R.
ISI2.
A.
B.
R.
1813.
A.
B.
R.
Thread Street, Paisley ; Perth (North-
West)j Cheviot Street, Woolcr.
North Sunderland.
Wilsontown.
Selkirk (2d) ; South Shields (2d).
Carlisle ; Coupar-Angus (3d) ; Mount
Pleasant, Liverpool.
Chapel Knowe ; Darlington ; Gore-
bridge.
Allars, Hawick ; Roxburgh Place,
Edinburgh.
Church Street, Berwick.
Gii"van ; Lochmaben.
Bathgate (West); Dundee (2d).
1814. A.
B. Erskine, Arbroath ; N. Middleton ;
Yetholm (2d).
R. Cathcart Street, Ayr ; Dunscore.
1S15. A.
B. Ford ; Lilliesleaf ; Sanquhar (North).
R.
1816. A. Holm, Orkney.
B. Auchterarder (North); Douglas ; North
Leith ; Albion, London.
R.
181 7. A. Inverness (2d).
B. Ramsbottom.
R.
1818. A.
B. Anstruther; Crail; Glenluce ; Kirkcud-
bright.
R. Cowgate, Edinburgh ; Bridge Street,
Stranraer.
1819. A. Regent Place, Glasgow,
B. Creetown.
K.
The two great divisions of the Secession coalesced in 1820, under the name of
the United Associate Synod, and from this date till the time of the next union, in
1847, the congregations which arose in connection with it are marked U.
shire ; Markinch ; Hexham ; Liver-
pool (2); New Leeds; Otterburn ;
Shapinshay ; Smyrna C, Sunder-
land ; Tun ley.
Bonhill ; Bread Street, Edinburgh ;
Brandon Street, Hamilton.
Carnwath ; Crossford ; Tay Square,
Dundee ; Halfold ; Swalwell.
Auchtergaven (South); Port William.
]\Iaygate, Dunfermline ; Union Street,
Greenock ; Longtown.
Annan (2d); Carluke; Castle Douglas;
Leitholm.
Gardenston ; Cambridge Street, Glas-
gow ; Greenwich ; Newtyle ; Oban ;
George Street, Paisley ; Old Laigh
Church, Paisley ; Rousay.
Portobello ; Rutherglen.
Airdrie (2d) ; Cambuslang ; Catrine ;
Gatehouse ; Blackfriars, East Re-
gent Street, Glasgow ; Pitlessie.
Bankhill, Berwick ; Lauder (3d) ; Wall
Knoll, Newcastle ; Heugh Street, S.
Shields ; Strathaven (West).
Chirnside; Inverary;Patna; Portobello;
Thornliebank.
Second P>ell Street, Dundee ; Gala-
shiels (2d); Greenend ; Hope Street,
Lanark ; Larkhall ; Lesmahagow.
Broughty Ferry; Wishart C, l3undee;
Kirk cowan.
Lisburn Street, Alnwick ; Bethel C,
Newcastle.
London Road, Glasgow ; Hull ; Pell
Street, London ; Troon.
1820. U. George Street, Aberdeen ; Blyth ;
Dairy, Dumfriesshire ; Drymen ;
High Street, Dumbarton ; Lauriston,
Glasgow ; Kilwinning (2d) ; Union,
Kirkcaldy; Letham; Stewartfield.
Calton, Glasgow.
Burghead ; Dukinfield ; Broughton
Place, Edinburgh ; Mary[)ort ; Mel-
rose ; Savoch of Deer ; Union C,
Sunderland ; Westray.
Banff; Muirkirk ; Rosehearty.
Junction Road, Leith ; Wishawtown.
St Vincent Street, Glasgow ; Lathones ;
Mainsriddel ; Partick (East) ; Wall-
send.
Partick (West) ; Stockbridge, Edin-
burgh.
Houghton-le-Spring ; Lochee ; St
James', Paisley.
Coldstream (East).
Aberchirder ; Archieston ; Edenshead ;
Eglinton Street, Glasgow ; Old Mel-
drum ; Portobello.
Arthur Street, Edinburgh ; Johnstone
(East).
Balerno ; St Margaret's, Dunfermline ;
West Kilbride ; South Ronaldshay ;
Warkworth.
Dunoon; Monkwearmouth; Great Sal-
keld ; Warrington.
Peebles (West).
Eday ; Cowgate, Edinburgh.
Bank Street, Kirriemuir.
Blackburn ; Stockbridge, Edinburgh ;
Queen Street, Inverness ; Pennid-
dock ; Saiidwick. [Cupar.
High Street, Brechin ; Provost Wynd,
Busby ; Leith-Lumsdcn ; Lasswade ;
Ramsay; RiggofCJretna; Warrington.
Park Street, Arbroath ; Roxburgh
Place, Edinburgh ; Leven.
Bannockburn ; Campbelton, Argyle-
IS2I.
R.
U.
1822.
1823.
R.
U.
R.
U.
R,
1824.
U.
1825.
R.
U.
R.
1826.
U.
IS27.
R.
U.
IS28.
R.
U,
1829.
R.
U.
1830.
R,
U.
R.
I83I.
U.
R.
1832.
U.
R.
1S33.
U.
R.
1834.
U.
R.
iS^^.
U.
1836.
u.
R.
1837.
u.
R.
1S3S.
U.
1839.
R.
U.
1S40.
R.
U.
Alva; Bedlington; Firth; Hartlepool;
Lerwick.
Campljclton, Inverness-shire ; Lloly-
well ; Lismore ; Lossiemouth ; Por-
tree ; Wigton, Cumberland ; Mon-
trose Street, Glasgow.
Progressive Extension of the Chiirch
1841. U. Charlotte Street, Aberdeen ; Eye- 1S44.
mouth; Princes Street, Kihnarnock.
R. S. Bridge Street, Airdrie \ Largs (2d),
Newburgh (2d). 1845.
1842. U. Aberlady; Walker.
R. 1846,
1843. U. Belfast; Stamfordham; Stockton.
R. 1847.
U. Birkenhead ; Helensburgh ; Mailings
Rigg. Sunderland.
R. Gillespie Church, Glasgow.
U. Alexandria.
R.
U. Kirkintilloch (2d).
R.
U. Govan; Spittal.
The United Secession and Relief Churches united in May 1847, and from this
date the congregations belong to the United Presbyterian Church.
1847,
1848
1849.
1850.
Blantyre ; Bradford ; Newington, Edin-
burgh.
Bridge of Allan ; Renfield Street, Glas-
gow ; Gourock ; Innerleithen.
Embleton ; Kilham ; Coupland Street,
Manchester. [Selkirk (3d); Sutton.
Chatton ; Richmond Street, Edinburgh ;
185 1. Zion Chapel, Newcastle.
1S52. New City Road, Glasgow ; Canon
Street, Glasgow ; Gorbals, Glas-
gow.
1853. High Bridge, Newcastle.
1854. Caledonian Road, Glasgow ; Grange-
mouth.
[The list which follows is added by the Editors, to show the progress of the
Church from 1854, when Dr Mackelvie ceased to write, to the close of 187 1.]
1855.
1856.
1857-
1858.
1859-
i860.
1S61.
1862.
Bristol ; Derby Road, Liverpool ; Clare- 1863.
mont Street, Mitchell Church, Mary-
hill, Pollock Street, and St Rollox,
Glasgow ; Jarrow ; Burray (Ork-
ney) ; Lismore.
Berkeley Street, Blackfriars, and Spring-
bum, Glasgow.
Ardrossan ; Blackhill, Langside Road,
Glasgow.
Knox's Church, Montrose ; West Hartle-
pool ; Kilmalcolm ; Dalbeattie ;
Stomoway ; St Paul's, Birkenhead. 1S64.
(This year the Irish Presbytery was
added to the Synod, including the
congregations of Belfast, Loanends, 1865.
Knockloughorm, Boveedy, Craig-
more, Ballyfreenis, Killaig, and
CuUybackey.)
Egremont, Liverpool ; Highbury, Lon- 1866.
don ; Ollaberry, Shetland ; Buckie.
Kilcreggan ; Kim ; Mary's Chapel, and
Portsburgh, Edinburgh. 1S67.
Dean Street, and Henderson Church,
Edinburgh ; Burton-on-Trent ; Clap- 1S68.
ham, and Westbourne Grove, Lon-
don; Woolwich; Everton, Liverpool; 1869.
York Place, Perth ; Portknockie and
Findochty; Portree.
Aldershot; Renfrew; Silverhill, Hastings; 1S70.
Butterburn, Dundee ; Middles-
borough; Sixtowns, Ireland; Wolver- 1871.
hampton; Cumberland St., Glasgow;
Holm, Kilmarnock.
Bishop Auckland ; Mount Pleasant,
Durham ; Towlaw ; Crook ; Strat-
ford, London ; Claughton, Birken-
head; Cabrach; Fraserburgh; Dublin;
Nelson Street, Aberdeen; Morning-
side, Edinburgh ; Baillieston ; Lans-
downe, Kent Road, Parliamentary
Road (received), Partick East,
Springbank, Barrack Street, and
Frederick Street (formerly Taylor
Street), Glasgow.
Prince's Road, Liverpool; Smethwick,
Birmingham ; Portsoy ; Millport ;
Uddingstone.
Birmingham ; Burra Isles, Shetland ; St
Andrews Square, Greenock; Leeds;
Leicester ; Alotherwell ; Willington
Quay ; Derby.
Ibrox, Glasgow ; Barrow-in-Furness ;
Langbank ; Rochdale ; Allan Park,
Stirling.
Queen's Park, Glasgow ; Portadown, Ire-
land.
Hammersmith, London ; Mount Street,
Blackburn; Kirkmuirhill.
Dennistoun, Glasgow ; Pendleton, Man-
chester ; Bow, London ; Glengar-
nock ; Gateside ; Innellan.
Forrest Hill, and New Bamet, London :
Dollar ; Holy Island.
Wemyss Bay ; Brighton ; Canongate,
Edinburgh.
In reviewing the preceding list of names and dates, it will be observed that
4 congregations are specified as having seceded from the Established Church in
1733, and that blanks are left opposite the three succeeding years, to intimate that
during that period there were no fresh accessions. This representation of the then
existing state of things needs explanation. The 4 congregations specified, were
then virtually, but not actually, in a state of Secession. Their ministers had formed
themselves in that year into a Presbytery. But it was not till 1737 that these
36 The United Presbyterian Church.
brethren proceeded to organise congregations, or receive existing ones into com-
munion with them. From that date, accordingly, we begin to trace the progress of
the Secession Church, by increase of congregations, notwithstanding that 4 have
been enumerated as existing previously.
During the ten years that elapsed from the period specified till the Breach,
that is, from 1737 to 1746 inclusive, 45 congregations were in connection with the
Presbytery, including the 4 belonging to the original founders, making upon an
average 4J annually. Of these 45 congregations, 8 were at that time vacant, and 6
had only 3 ministers among them, each pair constituting one charge, with separate
places of worship, in which they assembled on alternate Sabbaths, or otherwise as
agreed upon.
At the Breach, in 1747, the 45 congregations, or more correctly, the majorities
of their members, who retained the properties previously belonging to the whole,
divided thus : Abernethy, Alloa, Burntisland, Ceres, Comrie, Craigmaillen, Denny-
loanhead, Dumbarrow, Dunse, Elgin, Holm of Balfron, Kilmaurs, Kinclaven,
Kinkell, Leslie, Lockerbie, Mearns, Midholm, ]Milnathort, Montrose, Morebattle
Muckart, Newcastle, Sanquhar, Urr, and Wigto^Ti, adhered to the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Synod ; Bridge of Teith, Burnshields, Cambusnethan, Cumbernauld,
Dalkeith, Dundee, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Falkirk, Glasgow, Greenock, Had-
dington, Jedburgh, Kirkcaldy, Perth, Stirling, Stitchel, Stow, and West Linton,
adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod. This specification shows that at its
formation, the former of these Synods consisted of 26 congregations, and the
latter of 19 congregations. The 26 Antiburgher congregations had 22 ministers,
and the 19 Burgher congregations had 12.
During the ten years which succeeded the Breach, that is, from 1747 to 1756
inclusive, 36 congregations originated in connection with the General Associate
(Antiburgher), and 15 with the Associate (Burgher), Synod, making together 51,
and giving an average of 5 annually.
The fact that 51 congregations came into existence in connection with the
Secession Church during the ten years which succeeded the Breach, while there
were only 45 during the ten years which preceded it, seems to indicate a higher rate of
increase over the Church as a whole, during that period. But this is partly in appear-
ance only, for only 20 of the 51 were actual additions to the Church; the remaining
3 1 were halves, or other portions of previous wholes — an increase by division, not by
addition. Of the 20 added, 13 were in connection with the General Associate (Anti-
burgher), and 7 in connection with the Associate (Burgher), Synod. The aggregate
20 in ten years, gives an average of 2 annually, which is less than half the average
annual rate at which the Church was progressing before the Breach. But these
numbers are not certain criteria by which to form a judgment in the case, for most
of the 31 congregations resulting immediately from the division would have certainly
been formed before long, independently of the Breach. They were hurried into
existence by that event, but they were not the mere effect of it. Still, the growth of
the Church was retarded for a time by the Breach, for at the same rate at which it
had been previously proceeding, there should have been 45 entire congregations, in
addition to 31 portions, or 76 in all ; whereas there were only 51, or a coming short
by 25 of the ten years' previous increase.
During the ////>lied ; and in compliance with these, I*Iessrs James
At the Synod of 1S71 the Picbbytcry of Iielaud consiiilcd of 10 congregations, two of which
were vacant. — Eds.
Progressive Extension of the CImrch. 47
Proudfoot, Matthew Henderson, John Mason, and John Smart, were sent by the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod prior to 1765. In that year the Rev.
James Clark, of Ballibay, in Ireland, proceeded thither, under the sanction of the
Associate (Burgher) Synod, with a part of his congregation, and joined the Presby-
tery of Pennsylvania. He was followed by Messrs Telfar and Kinloch from the
same body in 1769. They also united with the Presbytery of Pennsylvania
without being required to renounce their relation to the Associate (Burgher) Synod.
In a few years, however, Messrs Telfar and Kinloch returned to Scotland.
Mr Gellatly was removed by death. Messrs John Smith and John Rodgers were
sent out in 1770. The Presbytery of Pennsylvania in 1776 consisted of 13 minis-
terial members, and, for greater convenience, was then divided into two Presbyteries,
that of Pennsylvania and that of New York. These two Presbyteries had entirely
separate jurisdiction, and were held to be in connection only by the subordina-
tion of both to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod of Scotland.
In 1774, three ministers of the Reformed (Cameronian) Presbytery who had
gone out to America, at the request of persons formerly of that communion in
Scotland, but then settled in Pennsylvania, formed themselves into a Presbytery,
under the designation of The Reformed Presbytery. A union of these three
Presbyteries was projected in 1779, and carried into effect in 1788, and the
united body took the name of The Associate Reformed Church. Against this
union, two ministers of the Associate Presbytery of Pennsylvania — namely, William
Marshall and James Clarkson — protested, and continued a separate organisation,
under the original title of the Associate Presbytery of Pennsylvania. In this act
they were sustained and approved of by the two Synods in Scotland, which imme-
diately sent out other ministers to aid them to supply the vacant congregations
which adhered to them. Thus originated "The Associate" and "Associate Re-
formed " Churches of America, which, ever since that time, have pursued a separate
course, having no ministerial communion with each other, though holding nearly
the same doctrines, and agreeing very closely in worship and discipline.*
By the fostering care of the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod in Scot-
land, the Associate Presbytery of Pennsylvania increased in numbers, and spread
over a vast extent of country. This soon rendered it necessary to constitute three
Presbyteries — namely, the Presbyteries of Philadelphia, Cambridge, and Chartiers.
These, together with a presbytery previously constituted in Kentucky, were formed
into one Synod, styled the Associate Synod of North America, which met for the
first time in Philadelphia, May 20, 1801. This Synod kept up a friendly inter-
course with the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod in Scotland till 1820, when
communications ceased, on account of the union of the two great branches of the
Secession in that year. Respecting the merits of that union great diversity of views
existed among the ministers of the Associate Church in America; and the question,
whether the American Church should join in that union, was negatived by the cast-
ing-vote of the moderator.
The Associate Synod of North America continued to increase till 1838, when nine
ministers, who, for a series of years, had contended against a course of maladminis-
tration in the Synod, were thrust out by a majority, as the original Seceders had
* These two Churches were happily united in 1858, and now form the United Presbyterian
Church of America. At the Union, the United Church had 4 Synods, 49 Presbyteries, 419
ministers, 66 Ucentiates, 14 foreign missionaries, 660 congregations, 54>789 communicants, 4
theological seminaries, 6 colleges, and 6 weekly or monthly periodicals. — Eds.
48 The United Presbyterian Ckiirch.
been driven from the Established Church of Scotland. The ministers thus expelled
protested against the proceedings, and formed themselves into three Presbyteries —
namely, Cambridge, Albany, and Vermont, under one Synod. A minister in the
Presbytery of Maine was soon after cut off for the same reason ; and, as he was
followed by another minister, and a considerable portion of their people, they
formed themselves into a Free Presbytery. About the same time, two others were
expelled in Virginia and Carolina, for not acceding to the Synod's new terms of
communion on the subject of slavery. These amounted in 1844 to 15. Previous
to the separations in 1838, the Associate Presbytery of North America consisted
of 15 Presbyteries, having 100 ministers, and more than 200 congregations. In
1844, it had 14 Presbyteries, with 103 ministers and 208 congregations.
A Theological Seminary was established by this Church, under the Rev. Dr
Anderson as professor, in 1794, being the first institution of the kind in the United
States; that of the Associate Reformed Church, under Dr John Mason, in 1805,
being the next. This seminary had, in 1844, two able professors and 30 students.
The Associate Reformed Church, formed as above stated, consisting of three
Presbyteries, met in Synod immediately after the union in 1784. The three Pres-
byteries were soon after subdivided into seven. In 1802 the Synod was divided
into four Provincial or "Particular" Synods — namely, New York, Pennsylvania,
Seiota, and the Carolinas. After this division, the first General Synod met by dele-
gation in May 1804. In 1805 the Theological Seminary was instituted, under Dr
Mason. This institution, which had been long effective, fell under pecuniary em-
barrassment in 1820, and was discontinued. In the same year the Synod of Seioto
withdrew from the General Synod, and in the year following (182 1) the Synod of the
Carolinas also withdrew ; so that the General Synod now consisted of the Synods of
New York and Pennsylvania. In 1822 a resolution was passed by this body to
unite with the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church. This was effected
by a majority of the delegates that year (16 in all), being in favour of the union,
though a majority of the Presbyteries voted against it. By this division the valu-
able theological library, belonging to the seminary, was transferred to the General
Assembly, but was afterwards recovered. The result of this union also was, that
about 12 congregations withdrew from the Synod, and united with the General
Assembly. Thus was the General Synod of the Associate Church in a few years
dissolved, and three separate and independent Synods were formed, which continue
to this day — namely, the Synod of New York, the Synod of the West, and the
Synod of the Carolinas, each of which has its theological institution. Though inde-
pendent of each other, they still hold friendly intercourse as sister Churches. The
Synod of the Carolinas in 1844 formed a union with the exscinded brethren of the
Associate Church in that region ; and the Synod of the West formed a union with
the Associate Synod, and with one of the two branches into Avhich the Reformed
Presbyterian Church was a short time before divided. In 1838 the Synod of New
York had 4 Presbyteries, 40 ministers, and 44 congregations ; the Synod of the
West had 7 Presbyteries, 68 ministers, and 145 congregations; and the Synod of
the Carolinas had 2 Presbyteries, 19 ministers, and 28 congregations. In all, 13
Presbyteries, 127 ministers, and 217 congregations.
The Presbyterian Church of Nova Scotia. 49
THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF NOVA SCOTIA.
Nova Scotia, in its most extensive meaning, is a province of British America,
bounded by Canada, the Gulf of St Lawrence, the Atlantic Ocean, and the United
States of America. It was divided in 1784 into two provinces, that of New
Brunswick, and that of Nova Scotia proper. Nova Scotia, in this limited sense,
is a peninsula joined to the Continent of America by a narrow isthmus, and is
about 240 miles in length, by 30 to 60 in breadth, and lies to the west of New Bruns-
wick. Prince Edward Island, 117 miles in length, with a medium breadth of 20
miles, lies near the Northern Coast of Nova Scotia, to which government it is
annexed. Cape Breton is an island not much less than that of Prince Edward,
from which it is separated only by a narrow channel called Northumberland Straits.
All these regions are to be understood as embraced, or in course of being embraced,
by the Church whose designation furnishes the title to this chapter, but which was
originally known as a branch of the Secession Church in Scotland.
From what has been said under our narrative of the " Secession Church in
Ireland," it will be seen that the Church so named gained a footing in that country
very early in its history, and spread rapidly, especially in the counties of Antrim,
Donegal, and Londonderry. Seceders, along with other Presbyterians from these
districts, emigrated to Hampshire in America, now the United States ; thence they
removed to Truro, in Nova Scotia, about the year 1761. In May 1764, a petition
signed by 60 of these persons was presented to the Associate (Burgher) Synod,
setting forth their " destitute condition through the prevalence of Popery and the great
want of the Gospel ; and craving them to send a competent number of able ministers
to that province, for erecting Christ's throne of discipline in it, and, in the mean-
time, to appoint one of their number to come over to dispense word and Sacrament
among them." In compliance with this request, Mr Kinloch, probationer, pro-
ceeded, by appointment of Synod, to that country in the spring of 1766. He was
called to Truro, but declined the call. He returned to Scotland in 1769, and was
soon ordained over the congregation of Abbey Close, Paisley.
About the same time with the other branch of the Secession, the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod began to take interest in Nova Scotia as a mission-
field. They sent out, as their agent, Mr James Murdoch, who, after preaching a short
time at Windsor, removed to Musquodoboit, where he was unfortunately drowned.
The Rev. Daniel Cock of Greenock and the Rev. David Smith of St Andrews,
succeeded Mr Kinloch as agents from the Associate (Burgher) Synod, the latter of
whom settled in Londonderry, and was the first minister belonging to this branch of
the Secession who actually entered upon a permanent charge in Nova Scotia,
though the other was called before him, and afterwards settled in Truro. These
were the only Presbyterian ministers in the district till 1785, when Mr Hugh
Graham, a licentiate of the Associate (Burgher) Synod was settled in Cornwallis,
and thus increased their number.
In 1786, these three ministers formed themselves into a Presbytery, called the
Presbytery of Truro, which was subsequently enlarged by accessions of congrega-
tions in the colony, and by ministers from the mother country.
Mr James M'Gregor,'^ missioned by the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod,
* Afterwards Rev. Dr M'Gregor. See "History of the Secession Church in Nova Scotia," by
Rev. Dr James Robertson, Glasgow, pp. 75-1S5. — Eds.
D
50 The United Pi^esbytcrian Church.
— 1 ' — ■
arrived in the country shortly before the Presbytery of Truro was formed. On the
occasion of its formation he was present, but did not account himself a member of
it. Very soon after he discontinued attending its meetings. In 1795, along with
Messrs Brown and Ross, who belonged to the same branch of the Secession with
himself, and, like him, had come to the country under its sanction, he formed the
Presbytery of Pictou. These Presbyteries acted separately till July 181 7, when they
united, and assumed the appellation of the United Presbyterian Church of Nova
Scotia. The union, as then formed, comprehended the whole of the Presbyterian
ministers of the province, excepting Dr Gray of Halifax, whose congregation was
averse to it, although he himself continued on friendly terms with the Synod which
had thus arisen. This Synod was now divided into three Presbyteries, namely —
Truro, Pictou, and Halifax. That of Truro consisted at the time of 9 congrega-
tions, 7 of which had ministers ordained over them, and 2 were vacant. That of
Pictou had 13 congregations, 8 of which had ministers, and 5 were vacant; and that
of Halifax had 4 congregations with ministers, and one vacant ; making in all, 27
congregations and 19 ministers.
The Presbyterian Church of Nova Scotia does not now include all the Presby-
terian ministers in the country, as when the Synod was originally formed, and
assumed the appellation it now wears. After the Disruption of the Church of
Scotland in 1843, there were 4 ministers who continued in that connection, 3 of
whom were in Nova Scotia, and i in Prince Edward Island, and 12 who attached
themselves to the Free Church, 5 of whom were in Cape Breton. According to the
census of 1851, out of a population of 276,000 souls in Nova Scotia, about 73,000
were Presbyterians of the Scotch school. Of these, 19,000 are designated as belong-
ing to the Established Kirk of Scotland, 25,000 to the Free Church, and 29,000 to
the Presbyterian Church of Nova Scotia. The Presbyterian Church, as now defined,
consists at present (1854) of 4 Presbyteries, namely — Pictou, Truro, Halifax, and
Prince Edward Island. In the Pictou Presbytery there are 12 congregations with
ordained ministers, 2 vacancies, i station, and 19 churches. In the Presbytery of
Truro, there are 7 settled congregations, i vacancy, 7 stations (which, when wanted,
are expected to form 2 or 3 congregations), and 16 churches. In Halifax Presbytery"
there are 6 settled congregations, i vacancy, 4 stations, and 12 churches. In the
Presbytery of Prince Edward Island, there are 6 settled congregations, i vacancy,
3 preaching stations, and 15 churches. The number of churches is stated as well
as congregations, because several of the ministers have 2 and others 3 churches in
which they officiate in turns.
This Church has 4 professors employed in training young men for the ministry,
two in the theological, and 2 in the classical and philosophical department. There
are 1 1 students in the former, and 1 2 in the latter. The place of meeting is at present
at West River. This seminary has already supplied a number of ministers to the
Church — natives of the colony — and bids fair to provide a supply equal to the
demand, while i)laces may also be found for preachers and ministers from the
mother country. There is also a Board of Missions in connection with this Church,
which has already sent one agent of its own into the mission field, and will go on
increasing the number as the funds permit. Nova Scotia is pre-eminently a Scottish
colony, and the Presbyterian Church — the off'-shoot of the Secession — is the leading
denomination in it. May it continue so in moral power, as well as in civil influence
and numerical strength !
.PRESBYTERIES.
^HE Commission of the General Assembly which met in November 1733 having
) declared the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine of Stirling, the Rev. William Wilson of
!)|||(^' Perth, the Rev. Alexander Moncrieff of Abernethy, and the Rev. James Fisher
of Kinclaven, no longer ministers of the Church of Scotland, these " Four
Brethren " met at Gairney Bridge, near Kinross, on the 5 th December following, and
with much prayer and solemn deliberation, constituted themselves a Presbytery, apart
from the judicatories of the Established Church, under the general designation of "The
Associate Presbytery." They continued to act in this capacity till the nth October
1744, when, along with the ministers and representative elders of the congregations
which had become connected with them in the interim, they formed themselves into a
Synod, embracing three Presbyteries constituted at the same time, under the designa-
tions of the Presbyteries of Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dunfermline. The Presbytery
of Edinburgh included all the congregations in the south and south-east of Scotland,
with two which had arisen in England, the Frith of Forth being its northern boundary.
It was made up at first of 14 congregations, 10 of which were supplied with ministers,
and 4 were in a state of vacancy. The territory then assigned to it now embraces
8 Presbyteries. The Presbytery of Glasgow embraced the west and south-west of
Scotland, from Falkirk to Urr in Galloway. It was made up at first of 12 congre-
gations, 8 of which were supplied with ministers, and 4 were in a state of vacancy.
The territory assigned to it now contains 10 presbyteries. The Presbytery of
Dunfermline embraced all the congregations north of the Forth, being then 17 in
number, 8 of which were supplied with ministers, and 9 were in a state of vacancy.
The territory assigned to it now contains 13 presbyteries. In speaking of existing
Presbyteries, those of the Relief as well as of the Secession are included ; but only
according to the arrangement made since the union of both in the United Presby-
terian Church, when they were all recast, and divided or extended as circumstances
demanded. How this was done will be shown in the sequel, as each Presbytery
comes in alphabetical order before us.
PRESBYTERY OF ABERDEEN.
At the Breach occasioned by the Burgess Oath Controversy in 1747, the
only Secession congregations north of the Tay were Dundee (Kirk Wynd), Buchan
(now Craigdam), Elgin (First), and Ross (now Nigg), all of which were in a state
of vacancy, and not even fully organised. Previous to that time, they were all
52 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
under the inspection of the Presbytery of Dunfermline, in which Dundee afterwards
continued, as adhering to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, while the other three,
having taken the opposite side in the controversy, were included in the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, which was then formed. With this Pres-
byter}', these three remained connected, with a short interruption, till the year 1770,
when, with the congregations which had arisen in the interim, they were disjoined
from Perth, and formed into the Presbytery of Elgin, which included all the
congregations north of the Dee. This Presbytery was divided in 1780, into the
Presbyteries of Aberdeen and Elgin. In 1788, the Associate (Burgher) Synod
formed a Presbytery of Perth, which included all the congregations in and north of
that city, which they divided in 1806, by forming those north of Montrose into the
Presbytery of Aberdeen. The respective Presbyteries of Aberdeen continued to act
apart till 1820, when they were amalgamated by the Union which was then effected
between the two great branches of the Secession. The quondam Relief congregation
in Aberdeen, which had previously belonged to the Relief Presbytery of Dundee,
was added to the Presbytery of Aberdeen at the Union of the Secession and Relief
Churches in 1847.
CONGREGATIONS IN THE PRESBYTERY OF ABERDEEN.
1.— CONGREGATIONS IN THE CITY.
NETHER KIRKGATE (Now Extinct).
Mr John Bisset, one of the ministers of St Nicholas Parish, Aberdeen,
co-operated with the Seceding brethren in their protest against patronage and other
defections of the Established Church, but did not deem it expedient to secede with
them. He continued, however, to be so dissatisfied with his ecclesiastical connection,
that he wrote a letter to the Associate Presbytery in the summer of 1740, proposing
a conference at Montrose with any of the members who might be appointed to meet
him. With this view, the Rev. Messrs Wilson, Moncrieff, and Fisher, were sent
thither on the 23d of July of that year. On their arrival there, they found a letter
from Mr Bisset, apologising for his non-appearance and^ the trouble he had given
them ; intimating, at the same time, that he did not now see his way clear to follow
out the course he had proposed to himself when writing to them. He continued,
notwithstanding, to afford them countenance in several ways, particularly in their
opposition to the ministrations of Mr Whitefield in Scotland, when they came to under-
stand his feelings towards them. Mr Bisset's colleague had invited Mr Whitefield to
preach in St Nicholas Church. Mr Bisset officiated in turn on one part of the day,
and in the course of the prayer, referred by name to Mr Whitefield, whom he knew^ to
be present, entreating the Lord to forgive the dishonour that had been put on them,
when that man had been invited to preach in that pulpit. He referred to him again
in the course of his sermon, by reminding the people that the person thus called to
address them was a curate of the Church of England, and by (juoting some passages
from his printed sermons, which he said were grossly Arminian. These acts, con-
joined with others of a similar character, led to the belief that sooner or later he
would withdraw from the Established Church. Under this impression, and con-
ceiving that no other recourse was left him than to join the Secession already exist-
ing, the Associate Presbytery abstained from supplying sermon to certain members
Presbytery of Aberdeen — Nether Kirk gate.
of his congregation who applied for it, holding them as joining their testimony,
while they continued under Mr Bisset's ministry. Shortly after the Breach, in
1747, Mr Bisset opened a correspondence with the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, in which
he expressed his sympathy with him and his brother Ralph in the trying circum-
stances through which they had passed in the recent controversy, and intimated
that " if they would return to their old terms of church-fellowship " (which Dr
Fraser, in his " Life of Ebenezer Erskine," understands to mean, if they would cease
to require the swearing of the bond) " he and several clergymen in the north would
join them." Whatever was implied in this proposal, the Secession brethren to
whom it was made deemed it not only inexpedient to comply with it, but held it as
cutting off all expectation of Mr Bisset's ever connecting himself with them, and
therefore granted sermon to the persons under his ministry favourable to their
views, on the renewal of their application. The party thus forming the First
Secession congregation, Aberdeen, worshipped in a hall in Virginia Street till 1772,
when they removed to a church they had built for themselves in the Nether Kirk-
gate, containing 700 sittings.
\st Minister. — Alexander Dick, from the first congregation, Kinross ; called
to Torphichen and Aberdeen. Ordained 7th December 1758. Died 17th February
1793, in the 64th year of his age, and 35th of his ministry. A volume was published
anonymously in 1852, entitled, "Sermons and Notes of Sermons, by the late Rev.
Alexander Dick, First Secession Minister in Aberdeen ; with a Sketch of his Life,
and of the Origin of the Secession in Aberdeen."
2d Minister. — William Brunton, from West Linton. Ordained 2 2d April
1795. The Old Light Controversy arising shortly after Mr Brunton's ordina-
tion, led to a division in his congregation, previously weakened by the supporters
of another candidate having withdrawn at his settlement. The majority adhered
to the Original Burgher Synod, and raised an action before the Sheriff of Aberdeen
to have Mr Brunton and the minority adhering to him ejected from the place of
worship, of which they had retained possession. The Sheriff decided in favour of
the pursuers, on the sole ground that they were the majority ; holding the question
as to which of the parties adhered to their original principles as not before the
Court, and as not a proper subject of cognisance by it. The case was appealed to
the Court of Session. The Judges were much divided in opinion, but the majority
adhered to the Sheriffs opinion ; and the case, " Dunn and others versus Brunton,
loth May 1801," is often referred to as a precedent in questions affecting Dissent-
ing Church property. Mr Brunton being thus required to remove, and his people
deeming themselves incompetent to erect another place of worship for him, he
resigned his charge, and did not obtain another. He taught a school for a short
time in Dundee, but relinquished it and emigrated to America, where he died in
1839, in the 67 th year of his age. After Mr Brunton's resignation, the party who
had adhered to him broke up and dispersed themselves among different denomina-
tions in the city. The party obtaining possession of the property continued in
connection with the Original Burgher Synod till 1839, when, with the majority of
that denomination, they connected themselves with the Established Church ; from
which they again separated at the Disruption in 1843, and now form Melville
Free Church.
54 The United Presbyterian CJuirch.
BELMONT STREET.
Seven persons belonging to IMr Bisset's congregation, reference to which has
been made in the preceding article, acceded to the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Synod, when the other seceders in Aberdeen obtained supply of sermon from the
Associate (Burgher) branch of the Secession, and formed themselves into an associa-
tion for prayer and mutual exhortation. They attended public worship at Craigdam,
eighteen miles distant from Aberdeen, in favourable weather ; but met on other occa-
sions in an upper room in the city, which they had hired for the purpose. Their
number having increased, though still small, they removed to a larger room in 1772;
and applied to the Synod for supply of sermon once a month, which was granted.
In 1775 they removed to a room in Spittal, which was always crowded, but few
members were added to the church. On 12th November 1777, they were dis-
joined at their own request from Craigdam, and formed into a separate congrega-
tion, the communicants amounting at the time to 40. Church built, 1779 ; sittings,
800. Anew church was opened loth January 1869, with sittings for 694; cost,
^3100, 5s. 6d.
\st Mmister. — Michael Arthur, previously of Peebles. Translated to Aber-
deen 26th June 1772. Mr Arthur was moderator of the Synod in 1779, on which
occasion he preached a sermon, which was subsequently published, containing the
following passage : " The unhappy rupture or breach which so early happened in
the Seceding body, has been much improved against the testimony and cause in
which we are embarked. The mournful breach in the Associate Synod deserves
indeed to be lamented and bewailed to the latest ages. We have reason to con-
sider that dismal event as a providential intimation of what was to befall the
generation. Matters were so ordered by a God of judgment, that a stumbling-
block was laid in the way of the generation, and they judicially left to harden and
confirm themselves against that great cause in which we have embarked. Thus that
mournful dispensation bespeaks not so much, perhaps, dissatisfaction with the
parties between whom the rupture happened, as displeasure with the generation
among whom they live, and who so violently oppose their testimony. Whatever
[ sinful hand the one party or the other, or both, had in the breach, God had an
all-wise, unerring, and over-ruling hand in it." For this passage, the Rev. Adam
Gib libelled Mr Arthur before the Synod, giving as his reason, " that he considered
the Breach as the most distinguished article of the Magnalia Dei (the great things
of God) in the course of the Secession, and which ought to be held in a most thank-
ful remembrance among all posterity in the Secession body, as being the immediate
fountain whence the perpetuating of the Secession cause among the hands of this
Synod has flowed all along from that day to this ; and therefore he protested against
all dissembling or defaming it, such as is meant in the above quoted passage,
reckoning that incumbent upon him — as he now remained alone in the Synod of all
who were engaged in the contendings of that day — -the only other survivor of them,
in Earlston Presbytery, having been incapable for some years of attendance in the
synodical meetings." Mr Arthur charged Mr Gib "with bringing this libel against
him because he attended a meeting of ministers and others belonging to both
branches of the Secession in the neighbourhood of Peebles, to ascertain the
practicability of bringing about a union betwixt them ; and Mr Gib himself with
having described the Breach as that viclanciioly ei'ctit in his ' Present Truth,'
Presbytery of Aberdeen — First Relief . 55
volume first, page 49." The Synod enjoined borii Mr Gib and Mr Ardiur to
abstain from the further prosecution of this affair; but at the next meeting Mr
Arthur again introduced the subject, stating that he considered the decision of the
last meeting respecting him dishonourable to the Synod and injurious to him, and
that he had therefore resigned his charge into the hands of the Presbytery, which had
admitted him, on the 8th of February (1786). Mr Arthur was summoned to attend
the next meeting of Synod, which he did ; and after delivering sentiments similar to
those already stated, withdrew. The Synod then declared him no longer a minister or
member of the Secession Church. Mr Arthur was received, on application, into con-
nection with the Relief Church ; and shortly afterwards emigrated to America, along
with his son, who had recently received license as a probationer, where they both died.
The congregation then called Mr Frederick M'Farlane, who was appointed to
Montrose.
2d Minister. — AVilliam M'Caul, from Sanquhar, South, called to Kilmaurs and
Stewarton, then united congregations, also to Burntisland, and Aberdeen. Ordained
8th April 1789. Resigned, on account of ill health, 20th November 1798. Became
a farmer in the neighbourhood of Sanquhar, and died there.
The congregation then called the Rev. John Bunyan, who remained in his charge
at WhitehiU.
id Minister. — James Templeton, from Kilmaurs. Ordained 2d September
1801. Joined the Protesters 1820, re-admitted loth July 1827. See further, under
the congregation of Charlotte Street.
A,th Minister. — Robert Sedgewick, from Regent Place, Glasgow; called to
Cumbernauld and Aberdeen. Ordained as colleague to Mr Templeton 21st Sep-
tember 1836. Resigned 12th February 1849. Emigrated to Nova Scotia, and
became minister of a congregation there. Author of a sermon entided " Times of
Refreshing," suggested by the recent efforts which the United Secession Church
had made on behalf of her weak congregations, and a small work on " Fellowship
with Christ."
5/// Minister. — John Crombie Brown, LL.D., from Haddington East, of which
his grandfather was minister. Received into connection with the United Presby-
terian Church as a probationer 5th June 1849. Ordained at St Petersburg 6th
December 1835 ; Avas afterwards at Cape Town. Inducted to the pastorate of Bel-
mont Street, Aberdeen, 24th April 1850. Had the degree of LL.D. conferred upon
him by King's College, Aberdeen, 1858, in which college he was Lecturer on Botany.
Demitted his charge on accepting appointment as Professor of Botany, Cape of
Good Hope, loth February 1863. Returned to this country, and was afterwards
minister in Berwick.
The congregation called Mr Adam Welsh, who preferred Kincardine ; Mr Robert
Stewart Bruce, who preferred Wishaw ; Mr Robert Lyon, who preferred North
Leith.
6th Minister. — David Beatt, from Dundee, School Wynd ; called to Hartlepool
and Aberdeen. Ordained i8th April 1865.
FIRST RELIEF (Now Extinct).
A difference having taken place among the members of the Chapel of Ease,
Gilcomston, respecting the appointment of the Rev. Mr Johnston to be their minister,
the dissatisfied party applied to the Rehef Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon.
56 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
which was granted 1771. The congregation thus formed met in a hall in the city-
till 1778, when they removed to a place of worship they had built for themselves in
Belmont Street, where they called Mr Bryce, who was ordained over them in 17S0.
Mr Brodie was a rival candidate with Mr Bryce, and his supporters induced him to
settle in Aberdeen, and continued to adhere to him. In 1791 Mr Brodie and his
congregation were received, upon petition, into connection with the Synod of Relief,
from which they had separated themselves by their ecclesiastical irregularity, in
failing to concur with the majority. This gave so much offence to Mr Bryce,
that he immediately renounced connection with the denomination, and took steps
to have the place of worship and the people of his charge recognised by the
General Assembly as a Chapel of Ease and Congregation in connection with the
Church of Scotland ; in which he succeeded. The South Parish Church, Belmont
Street, now occupies the site on which the quondam Relief Church and subsequent
Chapel of Ease formerly stood. Mr Bryce continued minister of the chapel in his
adopted ecclesiastical connection till his death. His son, Dr James Bryce, formerly
chaplain in India, is author of a " History of the Church of Scotland."
SECOND RELIEF (Now Extinct).
As stoated in the preceding article, Mr Brodie was the unsuccessful candidate at
the election of Mr Bryce as minister of the First Relief Congregation, Aberdeen.
By an agreement entered into previous to the hearing of candidates, subscribers to
the building of the chapel were alone allowed to vote in the election, and were
unanimous in favour of Mr Bryce. The other adherents to the cause, Avho consti-
tuted a majority, finding themselves precluded from a voice in the election, imme-
diately separated from the minority, and were received upon petition into connection
with the Old Relief Presbytery. Mr Brodie was also received, and was soon after
called by the people to be their pastor. They erected a place of worship in the
Ship-row, which was at last removed to make way for the new market.
\st Minister. — John Brodie, ordained 6th August 1780. Translated to Dove
Hill, Glasgow, September 1798 ; called by his former congregation in Aberdeen, but
preferred remaining in Glasgow.
2d Minister. — Alexander Bower, a licentiate of the Presbyterian Church of
Ireland. Received into connection with the Relief Synod as a probationer;
ordained 6th November 1799; resigned 23d September 1806. Joined the Church
of Scotland, but never obtained a settlement in that connection. Author of a
" History of the University of Edinburgh," " Life of Dr Beattie," etc. After ]\Ir
Bower's resignation, the congregation dispersed, and the place of worship was sub-
sequently sold.
ST NICHOLAS LANE.
A large minority of the first Secession congregation, Aberdeen, were opposed to
the call of Mr Brunton, before noticed, and refused to submit to his ministry. In
1794 they were recognised upon petition to the (Burgher) Synod, with which they
were connected, as a separate congregation. They met in a hall in the city till
1 80 1. First church built in Belmont Street, but removed when Union Bridge was
erected. Second church built in St Nicholas Lane in 1S02, with 604 sittings :
rebuilt, 1845 ; 710 sittings.
Presbytery of Aberdeen — George Street, Charlotte Street. 57
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called, ist, Mr John Dick,
20th January 1796, and again, 3d July 1796, who was appointed by the Synod to
Slateford; 2d, George Henderson, 26th December 1797; 3d, Thomas Burn, 20th
August 1798; 4th, Ebenezer Bonar, 6th November 1798.
\st Minister. — Laurence Glass, from Milnathort. Called to Crail and Aber-
deen. Ordained 5th March 1800; died 7th May 1813, in the 35th year of his
age, and 13th of his ministry. Author of a Sermon on " Missions."
The congregation then called the Rev. John Jamieson, who preferred remaining
in his charge at Scone.
2(1 Minister. — Henry Angus, A.M., from Inverkeithing. Called to Loch-
winnoch and Aberdeen. Ordained 23d July 1816; died 28th June i860, in
the 66th year of his age and 44th of his ministry. Author of a pamphlet on
"The Voluntary Controversy;" a Sermon on "The Spirituality of the Christian
Church, preached at the opening of the Synod of the United Presbyterian Church,"
of which he was moderator, May 185 1 ; "Separation from Brethren for Conscience'
Sake;" "Reply to Rev. A. Gray;" and "Works of Fiction; their Use and
Abuse : " a Lecture.
id Minister. — J. M. M'Kerrow, B.A., from the congregation of Brunswick
Street, Manchester, of which his father is minister. Ordained 19th October 1859.
Author of a Sermon preached on the death of Mr Angus. Mr M'Kerrow was
called twice to Birmingham ; loosed from his charge in Aberdeen on accepting the
second call, 13th August 1867.
The congregation called the Rev. R. S. Bruce, Wishaw, who declined the call.
^th Minister. — John Rutherford, B.D., from Edinburgh, North Richmond
Street, of which his father is minister. Ordained nth November 1868.
GEORGE STREET.
Mr Templeton, third minister of the congregation of Belmont Street, Aberdeen,
declined, with the majority of his congregation, to accede to the Union of the
two branches of the Secession in 1820, though both did so sometime afterwards.
In the interim, a large minority of his congregation, favourable to the Union,
withdrew from his ministry, and formed the congregation now worshipping in
George Street. Church built, 182 1 ; sittings, 747.
1st Minister. — James Stirling, from Strathaven (First). Ordained 25th Septem-
ber 1824. Died 22d June 187 1, in the 72d year of his age, and 47th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr G. S. Scotland, who declined the call; Mr M'Donald,
who preferred Cumnock ; and Mr John Boyd, M.A., who preferred Skelmorlie.
2d Minister. — Archibald Young, M.A., from Glasgow, London Road ; called
to Middlesboro' and Aberdeen. Ordained 6th September 1S71.
CHARLOTTE STREET.
Mr Templeton, third minister of the congregation of Belmont Street, Aber-
deen, differed with his colleague on a doctrinal point then agitating the Church,
and separated from him. He began a preaching station in Gallowgate. For this
act the Presbytery laid him under suspension, but afterwards removed the sentence.
He was then dying, and received no benefit from the act. He died nth August
1840, in the 70th year of his age and 39th of his ministry. After his death his
58 The United Presbyterian Church.
adherents were restored, upon petition, to their connection with the Synod, and
recognised as a separate congregation, 1 8th January 1841. In 1841 they erected
the present place of worship in Charlotte Street, containing 1000 sittings.
\st Minister. — James Templeton, ordained 1801. Died 1S40, in the 70th year
of his age, and 39th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Patrick Robertson, previously of Craigdam. Translated to
Aberdeen 30th June 1841. Joined the Free Church on 14th January 1845, and
became minister of Culsalmond in 1S46. Died 26th July 1867, in the 91st year of
his age.
■T^d Minister. — John Brocket Ritchie, from Potterrow, Edinburgh, of which his
father was minister. Ordained 3d December 1845. Author of three discourses on
"The Armour of the Christian Church." Demitted his charge 6th February 1866.
Retired to Portobello as ordained preacher.
The congregation called Mr W. T. Henderson, who preferred Millport ; Rev.
W. Turner, Craigdam ; and Rev. W. Galletly, Peterhead.
4/// Minister. — James Cordiner, from Campbelton, called to Shapinshay and
Aberdeen. Ordained 5th February 1868. Died 13th September 1868, in the 30th
year of his age, and ist of his ministry.
^th Minister. — Matthew Galbraith, M.A., from Liverpool, Mount Pleasant;
called to Moffat and Aberdeen. Ordained 13th April 1869.
ST PAUL'S STREET.
About a year previous to Mr Bower's resignation,* several persons had with-
drawn from his ministry. They applied for supply of sermon from the Relief
Presbytery of Perth, which was granted. The original place of meeting was a hall
in St Andrew's Street. First church built in 1S05 ; second (in St Paul's Street), in
1842 ; sittings, 900.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. William
Strang, previously of Newton-Stewart, then acting as a probationer, who declined
the call.
1st Minister. — Samuel M'Millan, from Campbell Street, Glasgow. Ordained
9th February 1807. Died nth January 1864, in the 90th year of his age and 57th
of his ministry. His library was presented to the Synod.
Impc
Doctrines :" Editor of Ralph Erskine's Works, 7 volumes; and of Works of Thomas Boston, 12
volumes.
In 1836 the congregation called Mr Thomas Sommerville to be colleague to
Mr M'Millan, who preferred Auchtergaven. '
2d Minister. — William Beckett, from Thread Street, Paisley. Ordained as
colleague to Mr M'Millan 29th November 1837. Translated to Rutherglen, 13th
August 1840.
yi Minister.— ]ovl^ Thorburn, from Allars, Hawick. Ordained as colleague
to Mr M'Millan, 27th May 1841. Resigned, 1845. Admitted to the Relief
congregation. Dunning, 1846.
A,th Minister. — Andrew Dickie, previously of Colinsburgh. Admitted colleague
to Mr M'Millan, iSlh August 1847.
* See Second Relief, p. 56.
Presbytery of Abei^deen — Nelson Street, Craigdam. 59
NELSON STREET.
On the loth January 1S63, Mr Thomas Brown, Hcentiate of the Free Church,
and late of the Gallowgate Territorial Mission, made application to the Presbytery
of Aberdeen to be admitted as a Probationer of the United Presbyterian Church.
The application led to inquiry as to his connection with the mission, and his reasons
for leaving the Free Church, and was deferred till the production of certain extracts
of Free Church Presbytery decisions were given. These were furnished at a
meeting of Presbytery on 5th May, when it was deemed expedient to transmit the
application to the Synod. The Synod received the application, and remitted the
case for final adjustment to Aberdeen Presbytery, In July a memorial, signed by
302 persons, under the ministrations of Mr Brown, was laid before the Presbytery,
asking to be congregated by the Presbytery. After making all inquiry, and consult-
ing neighbouring sessions, it was found by the Presbytery that the mission had been
in existence since 185 1, and that Mr Brown had been the agent since 1854; and
that the reason for seeking admission to the United Presbyterian Church was dis-
satisfaction with the Free Church in various respects, especially in their declining
to erect the mission into a charge. At a meeting of Presbytery on 25 th August, it
was agreed to grant the petition; and on the 15th September 1863, the Gallowgate
congregation was formed, with 133 members on the roll.
The Church in Nelson Street was built in 1866, and opened 31st March 1867,
at a cost of ^1042. Membership in 1870, 244; stipend by people, ;^ioo, with
supplement.
\st Minister. — Thomas Brown, from Free Tolbooth, Edinburgh (Dr Tweedie's).
Ordained 3d May 1864.
2.— CONGREGATIONS BEYOND THE CITY.
CRAIGDAM.
Craigdam is in the parish of Tarves and district of Buchan, Aberdeenshire.
The church and manse stand apart from any village, the nearest being that of
Tarves, which is i| miles distant. Tarves is 6 miles west of Ellon, 5 north-east of
Old Meldrum, and 18 north-east of Aberdeen.
The Rev. Mr Forbes, of Old Deer, a parish in the district of Buchan, was one
of forty ministers who protested against the act of Assembly 1732, restricting the
election of ministers in vacant parishes to heritors, elders, magistrates, and town coun-
cillors, in burghs ; and to heritors and elders in landward parishes ; and otherwise
took part in opposing the measures which led to the Secession, but did not himself
secede. He continued, however, to inveigh from the pulpit against the corruptions
of the Established Church, thereby producing dissatisfaction in the minds of many
of his parishioners towards it. Among those in whom this feeling was produced,
were James Fergusson, Esq., of Kinmundy, and his wife, Mrs Elizabeth Dean. This
Avorthy couple went to Burntisland in the spring of 1741 for change of air. While
there, they connected themselves with the Secession Church, by joining the congre-
gation in that place, then under the ministry of the Rev. James Thomson, one of
the Seceding brethren. This brought them into acquaintanceship with the Rev.
Alexander Moncriefif, of Abernethy, who was then assisting Mr Thomson at the
6o The United Presbyterian CJinrch.
dispensation of the Lord's Supper. Mr Moncrieff was induced by them to visit
Peterhead in the autumn of that year, for the sake of the mineral waters and
excellent sea-bathing to be obtained there. Having received benefit from these, he
repeated his visits, during several successive seasons, to the place. In the course
of these visits he preached every Sabbath at Kinmundy, 8 miles inland from Peter-
head. An addition was then being made to the mansion house upon that estate,
and the carpenters' benches and building materials served as seats for the auditors.
Through the influence of Mr and Mrs Fergusson, and the operation of other causes
referred to in the notices of the different congregations in the district of Buchan,
Seceders speedily multiplied in the parishes of Old and New Deer, Tarves, and
Methlic. It therefore became necessary to make the seat of the congregation as
central as possible to all these places. With this view, the mill of Auchnagat, on
the road from Tarves to Stewartfield and Peterhead, was fixed upon, and the
Seceders in the district accordingly met there for a time. It was found, however,
impracticable to obtain a site for a church in that locality, and they were obliged to
remove to Craigdam, 1 6 miles from Kinmundy, where the Earl of Aberdeen granted
them ground for the purpose. Craigdam continued to be the meeting-place of all
the Seceders in Buchan till 1766, when those in the parishes of Old and New Deer
were separated from it and formed into the congregations of Clola and Whitehill.*
The congregations of Belmont Street, Aberdeen, and Old Meldrum, also emanated
from this one at subsequent dates. The present is the third place of worship erected
by the congregation. It was built in 1806, at a cost of between ^^400 and ;^5oo.
Sittings, 600.
ist Aliniste)-. — William Brown, from the North congregation, Perth. Ordained,
with stipend of ;^i5, 23d July 1752. Died 1801, in the 73d year of his age and
49th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr M'Gregor, who was under appointment of
Synod to proceed to America, having obtained license at an early period of his
studies for that purpose, and was therefore not allowed to accept the call.
2d Minister'. — Patrick Robertson, from Perth, North. Ordained 8th March
1804. Translated to Charlotte Street, Aberdeen, 30th June 1841.
The congregation then called Mr John Steedman, who accepted tlie call, but
withdrew his acceptance on receiving a call to Stirling.
3^/ Minister. — John Callander, from Falkirk (East). Called to Keith and
Craigdam. Ordained 3d November 1842. Left Craigdam suddenly in 1849,
and was next heard of in America, In January 185 1, he was declared by the
Presbytery of Aberdeen to be no longer a minister or member of the United Pres-
byterian Church. Died at Toronto, nth March 1853.
A^th Minister. — ^William Turner, from Dunbar, First. Ordained 14th October
185 1. Author of a history of his own congregation, under the title of a " Church
of a Hundred Years ; " and articles in the British and Foreign Evangelical Review.
LYNTURK.
Tough is a parish in the district of Alford, Aberdeenshire. The village of the
same name, in which the church formerly stood, is about 32 miles north-west of
Aberdeen.
The congregation of Tough originated with members of the Established Churcli
* See under Tresbytery of Buchan.
Presbytery of Aberdeen — Shi els, Belhelvie. 6i
about the year 1760, who took offence at the minister of the parish ordering his
precentor to discontinue the reading of each line of the psalm before singing it,
which had been the previous practice not only in that place but throughout
Scotland from the Reformation from Popery onward, and was only then beginning
to be abandoned in the larger towns, where ability to read was prevailing among
the population. They applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Perth and Dunfermline, 1763. First place of worship built,
1764; second built, 1791 ; sittings, 250.
A new Church, costing ^760 was opened on the ist Sabbath of May 1866,
with sittings for 320. The congregation has also a manse which cost ;^6oo. All
the three churches have occupied different sites. The first was close to the mansion-
house of Lynturk ; the second about a mile southwards, and the third about 2 miles
westwards from the original site. The change of locality necessitated a change of
name. All three churches have been built on the estate of Lynturk, and hence the
present designation.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr James Moir, who
was appointed by the Synod to Cumbernauld.
\st Minister. — Charles Hunter ; called to Kinross and Tough. Ordained as
minister of the United Congregations of Lynturk and Banchory — the name being
afterwards changed into that of Tough, 24th August 1769. Died 20th May 1775,
in the 6th year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Andrew Murray, from West Linton. Ordained 8th June 1780.
Died 9th July 1816, in the 76th year of his age and 37th of his ministry,
3^ Minister. — John Robb, from Bridge of Teith. Ordained 17th March 1819.
Died 29th November 1853, in the 68th year of his age, and 35th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Harrower, now of Eyemouth.
a,th Minister. — George M'Arthur, A.M., from New Deer. Ordained 13th
February 1856. Resigned his charge 3d March 1863. on accepting an academical
appointment in Old Aberdeen.
^th Minister. — William Aitken, M. A., from Lathones. Ordained 2d
March 1864,
SHIELS— BELHELVIE.
The Church of Shiels stands upon a farm from which it derives its name, about
a mile from the village of Belhelvie, Aberdeenshire, by which name it has been
generally called. Shiels is to miles north of Aberdeen.
The congregation in this place originated in a system of itineracies pursued
by the Rev. Mr Brown of Craigdam. His first visit to Belhelvie or Shiels was in
1755. Encouraged by the attendance afforded him, he repeated his visits at
regular intervals, and when no longer able to continue them, the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Presbytery of Elgin took the place under their superintendence as a
preaching station. The cause prospered, and the present is the second place of
worship which the congregation has erected. Sittings, 330. The congregation
was disjoined from Craigdam 26th June 1782.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Robert Laing, who
was appointed by the Synod to Dunse.
\st Minister. — James Andrew, from Perth, North, 5th July 1786. He left the
congregation, without tendering his resignation, 1800 ; connected himself as a
6 2 The United Presbyterian Church.
private member with the church of the Original Seceders ; afterwards became a
farmer in the neighbourhood of Perth, and died there 1822.
2d Minister. — David Waddel, previously of Cabrach, Presbytery of Elgin.
Admitted to Shiels 24th December 1800. Died i6th November 1826, in the 71st
year of his age, and 41st of his ministry.
■^d Minister. — James M'Intosh, from the congregation of Coupar-Angus.
Ordained 30th July 1828. Resigned 4th April 1850. Emigrated to America 1855.
The congregation next called, i. Mr Alexander M'Lean, but the Presbytery
refused to sustain the call, inasmuch as he had only preached one Sabbath to the
congregation before it was brought out for him, while the rules of the Church
required that he should have preached on two; 2. James A. Johnston, once and a
second time, who declined both calls, and is now minister of Springburn, Glasgow.
Afth Minister. — William Gillespie, from Denny, sometime missionary in China
under the auspices of the London Missionary Society. Received into connection
with the United Presbyterian Church as a probationer, having been licensed and
ordained by the United Presbytery of Glasgow, with a view to missionary labour.
Admitted to Shiels 28th April 1852. Resigned 14th August 1S55 ; afterwards
minister of Henderson Church, Edinburgh.
A call was given to the Rev. William Inglis, late of Banff, which he declined,
and to Mr Peter Davidson, who preferred Brechin.
5//^ Minister. — Edward Rankine, from Rose Street, Edinburgh. Ordained
loth July 1857.
ELLON.
Ellon is a considerable village in a parish of the same name, Aberdeenshire, 16
miles north of Aberdeen, and 16 south by west of Peterhead.
The Secession Congregation of Ellon was disjoined from that of Clola, 27th
June 1 791, for the convenience of the parties composing it. Their first place of
worship was at Auchmacoy, in the parish of Logic, Buchan, 8 miles from Clola,
their original place of meeting. The site of this church was held in lease only
during the life of their first minister, the proprietor having refused to grant them any
other charter, and there was no other ground in the district available for the pur-
pose at the time. On the minister's resignation they applied to the proprietor to
renew the lease, but this he refused to do, and they sold it to him at a valuation.
Unable to obtain another site in the vicinity, they were obliged to remove to Ellon,
or cease to be a congregation. Ellon is 2 miles west of Auchmacoy ; and being
remote from the centre of the congregation, their removal thither caused them the
loss of a number of members. Church built, 1827.
\st Minister. — James Ronaldson, from Abemethy. Ordained 30th June 1795.
Resigned 1825. He purchased a small property in the Newton of Falkland, Fifeshire,
to which he removed, and subsequently died there, in 1845, ii"* the 76th year of
his age.
2d Minister. — William Stobbs, from Morebattle. Called to Stromness, Blyth,
and Ellon. Appointed by the Synod to Ellon, and ordained 6th November 1827.
Called a second time to Stromness, and translated thither nth June 1829.
id Minister. — James Young, from Pitcairn-Green. Ordained 15th July 1830.
Deposed loth January 1842. Restored to the membership of the Church, and
became city missionary in connection with the congregation of Rose Street, Edin-
Presbytery of Aberdeen — Midmar, Stonehaven, 6
J
burgh, 1844. Died i6th November 1847, in the 49th year of his age, from fever
caught in the discharge of his duty. A short account of his life, written by the Rev.
Dr Young, of Perth, together with a few of his Lectures and Sermons, was
published after his death.
Ofth Minister. — James Ireland, from Milnathort. Ordained 14th October 1843.
MIDMAR.
Midmar is a parish in Aberdeenshire, between the Dee and the Don. The
Presbyterian place of worship, so named, stands apart from any village, on the turn-
pike road between Skene and Alford, 8 miles from Tough, and 15 west from
Aberdeen.
The congregation of Midmar originated in an itineracy in the north by ministers
of the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and was begun by the Rev. Ebenezer Brown of
Inverkeithing, who preached the first sermon there in 1798. Several members of the
congregation of Tough removed to the neighbourhood about the same time, and
they, along with persons belonging to the Established Church favourable to the
cause, petitioned the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth — the most northern
in the connection at the time — for sermon, which was granted 1799. They erected
a place of worship for themselves in 1802, the site of which was sub-leased from the
tenant of a farm to which it belonged. When the lease expired, the proprietor
would neither renew it to the congregation, nor allow them the use of the place of
worship they had built, though offering to pay a rent for it. They were therefore
compelled to erect another at great inconvenience to themselves, and injury to their
interests as a congregation. This they did in 1842, at two miles' distance from the
former site. Sittings, 250.
\st Minister. — James Paterson, from Tough. Ordained 15th March 1805.
Died 8th March 1838, in the 62d year of his age, and 33d of his ministry. Author
of a volume of sermons, and a work on witchcraft.
The congregation called Mr James Barrie, who was then under engagement
to the Synod's Committee on Missions to proceed to Canada as a missionary, and
was not therefore allowed to accept the call. Mr Barrie is now minister in
Erramosa, Canada West.
2d Minister. — Robert Paterson, previously of Smyrna Chapel, Sunderland.
Admitted to Midmar, 14th December 1842. Loosed from his charge 3d March
1847. Afterwards admitted to Aberchirder.
The congregation then called Mr Archibald Cross, who declined the call, and
afterwards became minister of West Linton.
id Minister. — John Peden Bell, from the congregation of Greyfriars, Glas-
gow. Ordained 4th March 1849.
Author of " Christian Sociology ; " " Mercy as Conditioned by Righteousness ; " " The Sabbath
as Enjoined by the Decalogue, and the Day as Changed ; " and various papers in the United
Presbyterian Magazine.
STONEHAVEN.
Stonehaven is the county town of Kincardineshire, 15 miles south-west of
Aberdeen, and 23 north-east of Montrose.
This congregation originated with some members of the congregation of St
64 The United Presbyterian Chu7'eh.
Nicholas Lane, Aberdeen, who had gone to reside there. They appUed for and
obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth, 1803.
Church built the same year, cost ;^5oo ; sittings, 400. A new church was opened
i6th March 1862, cost ;^iooo, and has sittings for 350.
\st Minister. — John Ballantyne, from Lochgelly. Called to North Berwick
and Stonehaven. Ordained 19th March 1805. Died 7th November 1830, in the
53d year of his age and 25th of his ministry. Author of a " Comparison of
Established and Dissenting Churches," and " An Examination of the Human
Mind."
2d Mitiiste?'. — David Todd, from School Wynd, Dundee. Ordained 31st
August 1831. Resigned loth April 1855. Emigrated to Canada. Returned on
account of ill health. Died at Liverpool, 7th December 1859, aged 53 years.
The congregation called Messrs J. Harrovver, Peter Davidson, and Robert Scott,
who declined the calls.
^d Minister. — Thomas Scott, from Edinburgh, Portsburgh. Ordained 2d
September 1857.
OLD MELDRUM.
Old Meldrum is a market town in Aberdeenshire, 18 miles north-west of
Aberdeen, and 5 miles north-east of Inverury, on the road from Banff to Aberdeen.
The congregation of Old Meldrum originated with members of the congregation
of Craigdam, resident in and about the town, who, partly for convenience — the
distance between the places being 3^ miles — and partly for the sake of securing
evangelical preaching to the place, in which there were then many inhabitants,
with only two places of worship, the one belonging to the Church of Scotland, and
the other to the Scottish Episcopal Communion. In anticipation of immediately
obtaining a disjunction from Craigdam, in which, however, they were not successful
till 1825, they built a church in 1822, at a cost of ;^2 5o, containing 312 sittings.
1st Minister. — James M'Crie, D.D., from Colmonell, Ordained ist February
1827. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Princetown, New Jersey,
in June 1861. In 1863, Dr M'Crie. though retaining his connection with Old
Meldrum, removed to Colmonell.
Author of "The Primal Dispensation : The Original Character of its Delegated Head, His First
Sin, witli its Immediate and Remote Consequences;" "Autopedia, or Instructions on Personal
Education ;" "Jeliovah's New Covenant Love : Its Signs, Sacrifices, and Salvation ;" "Memory,
its Character, its Improvement, and its Power. "
2d Minister. — Robert Hall, from Glasgow, St Vincent Street ; called to
Bonhill and Old Meldrum. Ordained as colleague to Dr JM'Crie, 24th April 1862.
LUMSDEN.
Leith Lumsden, is a village in the parish of Auchindoir, and district of Strath-
bogie, Aberdeenshire, 34 miles north-west of Aberdeen.
In 1830, the United Associate Presbytery of Aberdeen extended their home
missionary operations up Strathbogie. In carrying out these, the Rev. Messrs Temple-
ton and Stirling, and Robb of Tough, occasionally visited the parishes of Kildrummy
and Auchindoir, preaching to the people on Sabbath evenings in barns, dwelling-
houses, stables, or any other place they could command. There were then no Dissenters
Presbytery of Annandale—Ecclcfechan. 65
in these parishes, nor in several others around them. Several persons, however,
soon formed the resolution of becoming such, and, on application to the Presbytery,
had regular supply of sermon granted them. A society hall had been built shortly
before in Kildrummy, of which they obtained the use as a place of meeting, and, at
the same time, there happened to be an unfinished house in Leith Lumsden,
Auchindoir, of which they were also allowed the use for a like purpose, having
sermon in the one in the forenoon, and in the other in the evening. They con-
tinued to worship in these places till 1833, when they removed to a place of worship
which they had built for themselves in Leith Lumsden, at the cost of ;^i2o, con-
taining 200 sittings. The congregation then consisted of 36 persons, who had all
previously belonged to the Established Church.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Robert Morris and
Mr Robert Lees, both of whom declined the calls, the former from the state of his
health ; but neither of them obtained any other settlement.
\st Minister. — Robert Crease, previously of Peebles. Admitted to Leith
Lumsden 17th January 1838. Resigned i6th March 1841. Afterwards acted in
several places as town missionary. Died 1852, in the 56th year of his age.
The congregation then called Mr Robert Ferrier, who preferred Tain; Mr A. M.
Wylie, who declined the call, and afterwards went abroad ; Mr William Main, who
preferred Campbelton, Inverness-shire 3 and Mr Alexander Walker, previously of
Blackett Street, Newcastle,
2d Minister.— ^wxAK^i Thomson. Ordained 28th March 1854. Translated to
Burton-on-Trent, 12th May 1^63.
3^/ J//>//>/dr.— William Simmers, A.M., from Savoch of Deer. Ordained 25th
November 1863. Translated to Portsoy i6th March 1868.
The congregation called Mr W. Watson, who preferred Kirkcudbright.
4M Minister.— iPM.sjs, Wilson, from Glasgow, Cathedral Street. Ordained 241)1
February 1869.
PRESBYTERY OF ANNANDALE.
The Associate (Burgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Annan and Carlisle, by a
division of the Presbytery of Selkirk, in 181 5. This Presbytery underwent some
modification at the union of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820. It
was divided and formed into separate Presbyteries at the union of the Secession
and Relief Churches in 1847, the northern one taking the title of the Presbytery of
Annandale, being made up of the Secession and Relief congregations in the district.
ECCLEFECHAN.
Ecclefechan is a village in the parish of Hoddam, Annandale, Dumfriesshire, 16
miles east of Dumfries, and 5 north of Annan.
The parish of Hoddam is bounded on the north by the parish of St Mungo. In
1735 the parishioners of St Mungo gave a call to Mr John Reddoch, probationer, to
be their pastor, while the crown, as patron, presented Mr William Forrester, proba-
tioner, to the vacant charge. The case was litigated through the Church Courts,
and finally setded in 1736 by the General Assembly deciding in favour of the
66 The United Presbytei'ian CInLrch.
patron's presentee. Several of the parishioners refused to submit to the incumbent's
ministry, and finding a number of sympathisers in the adjoining parishes, they
united with them in a petition to the Associate Presbytery for supply of sermon,
which was granted. Some praying societies in the district, formerly under the in-
spection of the Rev. Mr Hepburn of Urr, had been previously received into connec-
tion with the Presbytery. These, with the parties referred to above, now associated
together, under the designation of " The Correspondence of Annandale," in contra-
distinction to a larger association, of which Mr Hepburn's adherents had formed a
part, entitled "The Societies of the South and West." The more frequent place of
meeting for "The Correspondence of Annandale" was at Ecclefechan, but occa-
sional meetings were held at other places, to which particular reference is made in
the history of Lockerbie congregation, with which that of Ecclefechan is identified
till 1746. In that year a paper of grievances was laid upon the Presbytery's table,
setting forth that " some societies of persons in and about Ecclefechan, Woodhall,
Blacketridge, and Sarkshields, have so little sympathy with or concern about their
minister, that never as yet would they assist in casting or leading (driving home)
elding (fuel), nor be assistant in anything of that kind ; that they refuse to bear
public burden with the rest to defray expenses of manse and glebe, nor will they
concur to build a house to preach in according to the Presbytery's decision at West
Linton in July 1745 ;" and "that the place of worship should be at Lockerbie."
The Presbytery appointed Mr Murray, who had been ordained over " The Corres-
pondence of Annandale" three years before, but had recently been confining his
public ministrations almost wholly to Lockerbie, to preach a few Sabbaths in the
summer time' in the Ecclefechan district. But this attempt of the Presbytery to
reconcile the people proved unavailing. Those in and about Ecclefechan deter-
mined that the' place of worship should be in their neighbourhood, either for the
" Correspondence" as a whole, or for themselves as a separate congregation. The
controversy respecting the Burgess Oath had now begun to agitate the Church, and
when the Breach resulting from it took place, the majority of the people in and
about Ecclefechan adhered to the Associate (Burgher), while the greater portion of
those in and about Lockerbie adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod,
and thus became separate congregations. Those forming the congregation of Eccle-
fechan worshipped in the open air till 1766, when they took possession of a church
they had built for themselves containing 600 sittings. A new church was opened
in 1864 at a cost of ^^1750.
1st Minister. — John Johnston, from West Linton. Ordained 26th August
1761. Called to Cumbernauld 1763, but continued in Ecclefechan. Died 28th May
1 81 2, in the Sad year of his age and 5 2d of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr John M'Kerrow, who was appointed by the
Synod to Bridge of Teith ; Mr Robert Balmer, who was appointed to Berwick ; Mr
Andrew Hay who declined the call, and never obtained another ; and Mr Brash,
who was appointed by the Synod to Campbell Street, Glasgow.
2d Minister. — Andrew Lawson, from Selkirk, of which his father was minister.
Called to North Middleton, Yetholm, and Ecclefechan. Ordained 2d October
1816. Translated to Selkirk ist June 1S24.
■^d Minister. — Gr.ORCK Johnston, D.I)., from Ayton (West). Ordained 12th
April 1826. Translated to Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, 1831, after being twice
called.
The congregation called Mr M'Gill, who preferred Rigg of Gretna.
Presbytery of Annayidale — Lockerbie. 67
4//z Minister. — James Harkness, from Rose Street, Edinburgh. Ordained 15th
August 1832. Resigned, 5th March 1839. Emigrated to America.
5M Minister. — William Tait, from Fala. Ordained 23d June 1S41. Died
19th July 1867 in the syth year of his age, and 27th of his ministry.
6th Minister. — Nathan ael Forsyth M'Dougall, previously of Portsoy. Ad-
mitted 7th January 1868. Died ist January 1872, in the 34th year of his age and
7 th of his ministry.
LOCKERBIE.
Lockerbie is a market town in Annandale, Dumfriesshire, 12 miles east of Dum-
fries, 10 north of Annan, and 16 south of Moffat.
The Rev. John Hepburn, to whom more particular reference is made in the notice
of the congregation of Urr, Presbytery of Dumfries, had a number of adherents in An-
nandale, who, after his death, met as praying societies till the rise of the Secession,
when most of them acceded to the Associate Presbytery. They were then known as
-"The Societies of the South and West." After the accession of the Seceders in Hoddam
and neighbourhood, by whom the congregation of Ecclefechan came afterwards to be
formed, these societies were divided into " The Correspondence of Annandale,"
and " The Correspondence of Nithsdale." The first meeting-places of the Seceders
in Annandale were at Borlain, where the Rev. Ralph Erskine and the Rev. James
Fisher preached to them on the 25th August 1738 ; and Cousten and Shaw, where
these ministers again preached to them in the summer of 1739. When about to call
a minister, a dispute arose among the members of the correspondence as to the
regular place of meeting, of which some account has been already given in the notice
of Ecclefechan congregation, which indirectly was formed from it. The Presbytery
decided that " the house for public worship be built with all expedition at North Croft,
and that until said house be built, the place of public worship on Sabbath da)^s be
at Caldains, in the summer time, and at Norwood, if need be, in the winter time."
The first minister was ordained at Ecclefechan two years before a place of
worship was provided for the congregation, and he continued to preach there more
frequently than elsewhere for a time. In July 1745, a petition was presented to the
Presbytery by members of " The Correspondence of Annandale," resident in its
northern bounds, craving that Lockerbie be appointed the seat of the congregation.
Those of them resident in the southern district were strongly hostile to this pro-
posal; but the Presbytery decided, notwithstanding, that the place of worship
should be in Lockerbie, and the church was erected there in 1745. Second church
built, 1810; cost ^800; sittings, 570.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Cleland, who was
appointed by the Synod to the Holm of Balfron.
\st Minister. — George Murray. Ordained 2d May 1744. Adhered, with the
majority of his congregation, to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at
the Breach in 1747. Died 1758, in the 14th year of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Grahame, who was appointed by the Synod to
Whitehaven.
2d Minister. — George Murray, from Dunse (East). Ordained 6th October
1 762. Died 5th November 1800, in the 64th year of his age and 39th of his ministry.
The congregation next called Mr Bayne, who was appointed by the Synod to
Eastbarns, now the second congregation, Dunbar.
68 The United Presbyterian CJntrch.
2,d Minister. — William Patrick, from Cumbernauld (Second). Called to
Hamilton and Lockerbie. Ordained i6th September 1802. Resigned 17th July
1 815. Emigrated to America, and became minister of a congregation in Meri-
gomish, Nova Scotia.
The congregation called Mr Reid, who was appointed by the Synod to Sanquhar.
4ih Minister. — Joseph Taylor, from City Road, Brechin. Ordained 29th
August 1 8 16. Suspended 1825. Returned to Brechin, and died there, 12th Sep-
tember 1827, in the 37th year of his age.
The congregation then called Dr John Taylor, who was appointed by the Synod
to Auchtermuchty.
t^th Minister. — Hugh Douglas, from Ayr (First.) Ordained 25th March 1828 ;
died 20th December 1864, in the 64th year of his age and 37th of his ministry,
Gt/i Minister. — David Thomas, from Balfron. Called to Stronsay and Locker-
bie. Ordained I sth March 1865. _ . ^ tct^y
' ^^^^^_^^^ ^2(Ur--^«-^< t,^^t.-a*./v^^ ^ / 9 /6 ^
yi^ H^^^^-A.-^'^-v NEWCASTLETON.
Newcastleton is a village in Liddesdale (by which name the congregation is
sometimes called), Roxburghshire, 10 miles east of Langholm, 20 miles south of
Hawick, and 26 south-west of Jedburgh,
The United Presbyterian Congregation in this place originated in the violent
intrusion of a minister into the parish of Castleton. The persons opposed to his
settlement among them, apphed for and obtained supply of sermon from the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 1753. Their first place of worship
was situated in the corner of a moss, on the banks of the Liddle. The congregation
was reduced very low after the resignation of the first minister ; but so rallied again
under the ministrations of Mr Smart, afterwards of Paisley, who supplied them for a
time as a probationer, that they were induced, in 1803, to build a new church in the
village of Newcastleton ; sittings, 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called : ist, Mr Wylie, who was
appointed by the Synod to Scone; 2d, Mr William Ronaldson ; 3d, Mr James
Mitchell, Neither of the latter calls was prosecuted after being given, nor were
those that received them ever settled as ministers.
ist Minister. — James Fletcher. Ordained 12th May 1762. Mr Fletcher wrote
a Preface to a new edition of Dr Watts' work on " The Sonship of Christ," for
which he was cited before the Presbytery on the charge of having countenanced
heretical opinions ; but instead of answering the citation, he sent in the resignation '
of his charge, ist September 1801. Removed to Dalkeith, where he lived privately
till his death.
2d Minister. — Walter Dunlop, from Eastbank, Hawick. Ordained 15th
August 1804. Translated to Dumfries 24th May 1810.
The congregation then called Mr Willans, who was appointed by the Synod to
Pitcairn.
3^ Minister. — John Law, from Linlithgow (West). Called to Annan, Kilmar-
nock, and Newcastleton. Ordained 26th August 18 12. Translated to St Margaret's,
Dunfermline, ist October 1828.
A,th Minister. — John Black, from Well Wynd, Airdrie. Ordained 7th Octo-
ber 1829.
Presbytery of A nnandale — Wamphray — Moffat. 69
WAMPHRAY.
The United Presbyterian congregation so designated is situated in the village
of Gateside, from which it originally took its name. Gateside is in the parish of
Wamphray, Upper Annandale, Dumfriesshire, 17 miles north-east of Dumfries.
Wamphray was among the earliest formed congregations of the Relief Church,
and originated in the high moderatism and general unacceptability of the ministers
of Wamphray and Johnston, contiguous parishes in the district. The persons form-
ing it are known to have worshipped many years in the open air, but the date of
their organisation as a congregation has not been ascertained. Church built, 1777 ;
'sittings, 300. The church was rebuilt, and opened in May 1850, at a cost of ^300,
with 250 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Nicolson, who pre-
ferred Pittenweem; Mr Taylor, who preferred Earlston; and Mr Gilmour, after-
wards of Banff, from whom the call was withdrawn.
\st Minister.— T^iQWhS, Marshall. Ordained 1778. Died 1 781, in the third
year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — George Halliburton Nicolson, previously of Pittenweem.
Translated to Wamphray 1782. Died 1792, in the loth year of his ministry.
Zd Minister. — Decision Laing. Ordained 20th July 1797. Translated to
Balfron 19th July 1804.
4/// Minister. — Henry Paterson. Ordained ist August 1805. Died 14th June
1847, in the 71st year of his age and 42d of his ministry. Moderator of Relief
Synod, 182 1.
Ith Mi?iister.—]0YW Brash, from East Campbell Street, Glasgow, of which
his father was minister. Called to Aberchirder and Wamphray. Ordained 13th
January 1851. Called by Cameronian Church in New York. Emigrated thither
and settled as its minister, 1854.
The congregation called Mr John Hyslop, now of Leven.
dth Minister. — David Mann, from Braehead. Ordained 26th December 1855.
D emitted his charge 28th March 1871, having accepted a call to Walton, county
Huron, Ontario.
MOFFAT.
Moffat is a village in Dumfriesshire, 16 miles north of Lockerbie, 21 north-east
of Dumfries, and about 20 south-east of Biggar.
A few persons resident in the vicinity of Moffat travelled up Annandale to
Cousten, to hear the Rev. Ralph Erskine and the Rev. James Fisher preach there
in 1739, ^nd were then induced to connect themselves with the Seceders, and
become part of the congregation of Ecclefechan at its formation. When the con-
gregation of Biggar began, a portion of the Seceders in and about Mofifat connected
themselves with it. From this circumstance the Rev. Mr Low, of Biggar, was
led to preach occasionally in Mofifat, at which times the members of the Secession
congregation of Ecclefechan and those of Biggar, resident in the district, were
brought together, and perceiving that they were sufficiently numerous to maintain
ordinances among themselves, they applied for and obtained supply of sermon from
the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 1780. They worshipped in the
The Ujtited Presbyterian Church.
open air till 1790, when they took possession of a church they had built lor them-
selves, containing 380 sittings. A new church was opened in 1862, with sittings
for 750, at a cost of ;,^4ooo.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation' called Mr Leckie, who was
appointed by the Synod to Peebles.
\st Minister. — Hector Cameron, from Bridge of Teith ; called to Ayton, Jed-
burgh, Paisley, and Moftat. Ordained 1794; called to Barrhead 1799, and again
in 1800, but continued in Moffat, and died there 1805, in the 37th year of his age
and nth of his ministry.
2d Minister. — ^John Monteith, from Dunblane. Ordained 27th September
1809. Died 23d April 1844, m the 60th year of his age and 35th of his ministry.
Zd Minister. — John Riddell, from Greenlaw. Called to the Secession Church,
Campbleton, and Moffat. Ordained 4th March 1845. Called to Albion Chapel
(London), East Bank (Hawick), and Leicester, but remained in Moffat. Died 13th
January 1868, in the 50th year of his age, and 23d of his ministry. Author of
" The Reformation from Popery ; its Causes, Characteristics, and Claims." A volume
of sermons was published after his death, with a Memoir by Dr A. Thomson.
The congregation called Mr Matthew Galbraith, M.A., who preferred Aberdeen.
A^tli Minister. — William Hutton, previously of Cumnock. Admitted 19th
October 1869. 1 r, -. ^1
'^ G^ .. /0«^^-« • - — -
4te. " ^^^ * ' '*"'^' tANGHOLM.
Langholm is a Burgh of Barony, and capital of the district of Eskdale, Dumfries-
shire ; 18 miles north-east of Annan, 12 north of Longtown, and 23 south of Hawick.
NORTH CHURCH.
A meeting for Christian fellowship had existed in Langholm for some time previous
to 1780. At one of its meetings held that year, the conversation among the members
happened to turn on the defections of the Church of Scotland generally, and the
character of the ministrations then afforded in the parish church of Langholm par-
ticularly, with both of which all of them declared themselves much dissatisfied. The
result of this conversation was the adoption of a resolution to withdraw from the Esta-
blishment and connect themselves with the Secession. This was accordingly done by
a successful application for supply of sermon to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of
Edinburgh, 20th March 1781. In 1782, the people commenced building a place of
worship for themselves, but the work proceeded very slowly. The walls were not
raised to their intended height till 1784, and were not roofed in till 1785, when
further procedure was prevented by want of funds. On the 6th of October 17S6, a
gentleman unknown in the place passed the edifice, and seeing it in the state
described, was led to inquire into the cause, and, on being informed by one con-
versant with the circumstances, handed his informant a sum sufficient for the com-
pletion of the undertaking, and departed. At their urgent request, he gave them
his name, and received an obligation from them that they would expend the money
for the purpose for which he had given it, charging them, at the same time, not to
make it public. The money was faithfully expended, and the secret of it faithfully
kept. No man knoweth it unto this day. By next year, the little sanctuary was
Presbytery of A nnandale — Langholm — South. 7 1
finished, and occupied by an organised congregation. A staff of elders were or-
dained in 1787. Second Church built, 1822 ; sittings, 550. The foundation-stone
of a new church was laid on ist May 1866. The church was opened by Dr Cairns
on 29th May 1867. It cost ^^21 10, and is seated for 600.
\st Minister. — John Jardine, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh, called to Belford and
Langholm. Ordained 14th April 1789. Died 6th April 1820, in the 71st year of
his age, and 31st of his ministry. A volume of his Sermons, with a Memoir pre-
fixed, was published after his decease.
2d Minister. — John Dobie, from Loreburn Street, Dumfries. Ordained 30th
August 1821. Called, in 1822, to Maryport, but continued in Langholm. Died
6th February 1845, in the 45th year of his age, and 24th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Alexander Wallace, who preferred Alexandria.
3^ Minister. — William Ballantyne, from Lauder. Ordained 31st December
1846.
SOUTH CHURCH.
About the year 1798, the minister of the parish of Canonbie, which adjoins that
of Langholm, became incapacitated for his duty, and an unacceptable preacher was
appointed as his assistant. Several of the parishioners withdrew from the Esta-
bUshed Church in consequence, and connected themselves with the Relief congre-
gation in Waterbeck, the site of which place of worship is between 9 and 10 miles
from Canonbie. Finding this place much too distant to allow of regular attendance,
they applied for and obtained supply of sermon at Canonbie in 1800, from the
Relief Presbytery of Dumfries. Encouraged by the attendance, and disliking the
open-air worship which they had for some time practised, they applied to the Duke
of Buccleuch, sole proprietor of the land in the parish, for a site on which to build
a church. He sought time to consider the application, but his consideration did
not seem approaching any issue. Wearied out by applications and delay, they turned
their attention to the town of Langholm, 6 miles distant from the village of Canonbie,
as a place where they might possibly obtain their object, and where, they were aware,
they had several sympathisers. A site was obtained from Mr Walter Young, who
owned a small property in the town, and who still further aided the cause by con-
necting himself with the Relief Church, of which he continued a consistent member
till his death. Church built, 1807 ; sittings, 650.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called INIr John Barr, who
accepted the call ; but, receiving one soon afterwards from the congregation of
Dovehill, Glasgow, over which he was subsequently settled, he refused to implement
his engagement in Langholm, for which he was publicly rebuked at the bar of the
Synod.
\st Minister. — Thomas Grierson. Ordained i6th December 1812. Deposed
loth May 1815. Continued to preach for some time at different places without any
ecclesiastical connection, but ultimately removed to Glasgow, and died 8th Feb-
ruary 1829.
The congregation then called Mr John Nichol, who preferred the congregation
of Cathcart Street, Ayr.
2d Mifiister. — Patrick H. Peacock, from the congregation of Canal Street,
Paisley. Ordained 30th March 1820. Resigned 8th May 182 1. Rentoved to
Paisley, pursued a secular caUing, and died there.
72 The United Presbyterian Church.
The opposition which the congregation had to encounter at its commencement,
and the untoward circumstances which occurred in it afterwards, nearly annihilated
it ; and, for a number of years, it had ceased to meet in a congregated capacity. In
1830, Mr James Watson was ordained over the Relief congregation of Waterbeck,
and soon after took up the cause of Langholm in a kindly spirit. Through his instru-
mentality, the congregation rallied again, and in a few years obtained another pastor.
Zd Mim'ster.—]AU'ES Cross, from Dalkeith (West). Ordained 2d June 1835.
Translated to Newcastle, 7th February 1843.
4th Minister.— \N\iA.\K^i Watson, from Broomgate, Lanark. Ordained 20th
March 1844. Author of "Christian Stewardship," or the Life of Henry Craigie, W.S.
WATERBECK.
Waterbeck is a village in the parish of Middlebie, Dumfriesshire, 20 miles east
of Dumfries, and 4| north-east of Ecclefechan.
The congregation of Waterbeck originated in the general dissatisfaction felt in
the district, both with the doctrine taught and the deportment maintained by the
minister of the parish of Middlebie. Application was made by the dissatisfied par-
ties to the Relief Presbytery of Dumfries for supply of sermon, i8th March 1790,
which was granted. Sermon was continued at Craigs till the following year, after
which it was afforded statedly at Waterbeck. The place of meeting there, till a
church was built, was on the bank of a stream in a holm now used as a garden.
The congregation was organised in 1790, and a session formed by Mr Thomas
Stothart and Mr John Smith, previously elders of the Established Church. Church
built, 1792, at a cost of ^400 ; a gallery was added in 1804 ; sittings, 490.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. John Selkrig,
a minister in connection with the Church of Scotland in Workington, Cumberland,
but the Presbytery refused to sustain the call, till he made appHcation to be received
as a minister of the Relief Church. This he refused to do, and the matter dropped.
They afterwards called Mr Smart, who preferred Mainsriddell ; Mr Gellatly, who
preferred Haddington ; Mr Grimmond, who preferred Coupar- Angus ; and Mr Boag,
who preferred Castle-Douglas.
\st Minister.— ]hM.Y.^ Geddes. Ordained 19th March 1794. Died 1802, in the
eighth year of his ministry.
2d Minister.— ]om>i M'Farlane, from Head Street, Beith. Ordained 6th June
1803. Translated to Bridgeton, Glasgow, 2d September 18 10.
T,d Mi?iister. — Daniel Struthers, from Anderston, Glasgow. Ordained 23d May
1811, Died 28th October 1829 in the 43d year of his age, and 19th of his ministry.
4/// Minister.~]oK^ Watson, from Dovehill, Glasgow. Ordained i6th Septem-
ber 1830. Loosed from his charge 9th April 1839. Emigrated to Nova Scotia,
and became minister of a congregation there. Author of " Room at the Gospel
Feast;" and " Christian Loyalty," a discourse preached ist July 1838, the Sabbath
after the Coronation of Queen Victoria.
Sth Afimster.—RoBJLRT Hamilton, from Saltcoats (East). Ordained 13th
January 1840. Resigned 6th May 1851. Emigrated to Australia, and became
minister of a congregation at Collingwood.
6tA Minister.— David S. Goodburn, from Peebles (West). Called to Berwick,
Kilham, and Waterbeck. Ordained 29th January 1852.
Presbytay of Annandalc — Secession — Relief. 73
ANNAN.
Annan is a royal burgh, and capital of Annandale in Dumfriesshire, 15 miles east
by south of Dumfries, 1 2 south of Lockerbie, and 5 south of Ecclefechan.
SECESSION CONGREGATION.
A number of persons, chiefly belonging to the Established Church, resident in
Annan, thinking there was room in the town, which then contained nearly 4000 in-
habitants, for another place of worship, there being at the time no other than the
parish church, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Selkirk, 1799. The supply of sermon was discontinued the
following year, but renewed again in 1803, with greater success. In the mean-
time, a place of worship had been erected by the Independents, and a minister
ordained over a congregation. In 1807 a number of members belonging to the
Secession congregation of Ecclefechan, resident in the town, petitioned the Pres-
bytery to be disjoined from Ecclefechan and joined to Annan, which was allowed.
The Independent interest having failed, the Seceders purchased the place of wor-
ship belonging to it, which they occupied till 1836, when they erected the one now
occupied by the amalgamated Secession and Relief Congregations, at a cost of
;^iioo for the building, and ;^i5o for the ground ; sittings, 746.
ist Minister. — William Glen, D.D., from Lochwinnoch. Ordained 15th April
1807. Resigned 181 7. Became missionary to Astrachan in Russia, under the aus-
pices of the Scottish Missionary Society. Continued there after the breaking up ot
the mission, and prosecuted a Persian translation of the Old Testament Scriptures, in
which he had been previously engaged. Returned to Scotland in 1836, and proceeded
to Persia the followmg year, under the auspices of the United Associate Synod, with
a view to complete his work. Returned to this country again in 1842, in order to get
his translation printed, which was done partly at the expense of the London Bible
Society, and partly at that of the United Associated Synod. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred upon him by the University of St Andrews in 1845. Returned to Persia
in company with his son in 1847 to circulate his translation of the Scriptures in that
country, and died there while so engaged, 12th January 1849, i^^ the 72d year of his
age, and 42d of his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. George Lawson, previously of Bolton, Lan-
cashire, who was appointed by the Synod to Kilmarnock ; and Mr John Law% who
was appointed to Newcastleton.
2d Minister. — James Dobbie, A.M., from East Campbell Street, Glasgow.
Ordained 16th August 1820. Accidentally poisoned 22d May 1846, in the 51st
year of his age, and 26th of his ministry.
The subsequent history of the Secession Congregation of Annan is identical with
that of the Relief Congregation in the same place, after 1847, which is given below.
RELIEF CONGREGATION.
In May 1833, Mr Maxwell, Rector of Annan Academy, and James Simpson,
Esq., of the Commercial Bank, Annan, were on a visit to the Rev. Edward Dobbie
of Bumhead, when the conversation turned on the religious state of Annan, and the
74 The United Presbyterian Church.
remark was made by the latter of the visitors named, that it was surprising to him
that no other denomination should attempt to supply the deficiency of church accom-
modation to a population of 5000, with only an Established and Secession place of
worship. The substance of this conversation was repeated by Mr Dobbie to the
first meeting of the Dumfries Relief Presbytery, held thereafter, when it was agreed
to place Annan under the Home Mission Committee as a preaching station.
Sermon was accordingly supplied there in the course of the following month, in an
open field adjoining the town, and continued till the summer of the succeeding year,
when the supporters of the cause took possession of a place of worship which they
had erected for themselves, containing 709 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr William Ritchie, who
preferred Auchtergaven.
\st Minister. — Archibald Tudhope, from Thread Street, Paisley. Ordained
14th October 1834. Resigned 1838. Emigrated to America, and became minister
of a congregation in Philadelphia.
2d Minister. — William Wyper, previously of Newcasde. Translated to Annan
30th October 1839. Admonished by the Synod for fostering division in the
church at Dunse. Accepted the admonition, and some months afterwards endea-
voured to carry his congregation over to the Establishment, and was cut off from the
denomination. Joined the Established Church 1840, and became minister of the
Quoad Sacra Church, Norriston, Monteith, Perthshire. Found dead by the way-
side in June 1870.
id Minister. — John Donald, from Hutchesontown, Glasgow. Ordained 1S42,
Died 1844, in the 26th year of his age, and second of his ministry.
The congregation next called Mr Allan M'Lean, who declined the call, and
afterwards joined the Established Church; and Mr John Mitchell, who also declined
the call, and was afterwards of Leven.
Congregation as United.
The Secession and Relief congregations in Annan being both vacant at the union
of their respective Synods in 1847, the Presbytery to which they now belonged ap-
pointed a committee to promote their amalgamation, in which they succeeded, and
on the 2ist of March 1848, they were declared one, with the general consent of both
parties composing them. The place of worship previously belonging to the Seces-
sion branch of the congregation was preferred as the common place of meeting, and
that formerly belonging to the Relief was sold.
\st Minister of the United Congregation. — Robert Gardner, from Johnston,
(East). Called to Comrie, Blackett Street (Newcastle), and Annan. Ordained 2d
October 1849. Translated to Wolverhampton 7th August 187 1.
2d Minister. — James Ronald, previously of Douglas. Admitted 23d January 1872.
CHAPELKNOWE.
The congregation thus designated derives its name from the circumstance of its
place of worship being erected on a knoll apart from any town or village, and
having nothing near it to afford a more distinctive appellation. The church is in
the parish of Half Morton, Eskdalc, Dumfriesshire, 13 miles north of Carlisle, and
9 cast of Annan.
Presbytery of A nnandale — Rigg of Gretna. 7 5 •
The parish of Half Morton was formerly an appendage to that of Langholm.
When so annexed, the General Assembly enacted that the minister should hold both
benefices on condition of his preaching every fourth Sabbath in Half Morton. The
condition in course of time was forgotten, though the benefices continued conjoined.
For twelve years previous to 1833 there was no public worship maintained in this
place by the Established Church. The Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Selkirk,
on petition by some of the inhabitants, afforded supply of sermon in 1810. Church
built, 1822 ; sittings, 244.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Alexander
Robertson, who declined the call, and Mr Samuel Spence, who preferred Liverpool.
xst Minister. — George Clark, from Castle Street, Jedburgh. Ordained i8th
December 1832. Died 23d February 1852, in the 55th year of his age, and 20th of
his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Andrew Graham, afterwards of Crossgates, and
Mr Milne, afterwards of Greenlaw, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Minister. — James C. Meiklejohn, from Glasgow (London Road). Or-
dained 25th April 1854.
RIGG OF GRETNA.
Rigg is a village in the parish of Gretna, on the southern verge of Dumfries-
shire, 11^ miles north-west of Carlisle, and 6 east of Annan.
Sermon was occasionally afforded to this place by the late Mr Henderson, of
Hawick, and other ministers of the Secession Church, about the beginning of the
present century, but was afterwards discontinued. Some farmers and other persons,
moving in a respectable sphere of life, had been some time resident in England,
where they had become convinced of the scriptural nature of self-supported churches,
and would not therefore submit to the ministrations of an incumbent imposed upon
them by the patron of the parish. They thence took steps to procure a minister of
their own choice, by applying, in 1830, to the United Associate Presbytery of
Annan and Carlisle for supply of sermon, which was granted. Church built, 1832 ;
sittings, 357.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr W. Miller, who
preferred Whitburn.
\st Minister. — Matthew M'Gill, from Mauchline. Called to Ecclefechan and
Rigg. Ordained 25th May 1832. Deposed from office 24th May 1864.
The congregation called Mr Thomas Weatherstone, in 1869, who died before
receiving ordination ; and Mr David Drysdale, Dunfermline, who withdrew his
acceptance of the call.
2d Minister. — William Williamson, from Glasgow. Called to Loan Ends,
Ireland, but withdrew his acceptance of the call \ and to Gateshead, which he
declined. Ordained nth April 187 1.
7 6 The United Presbyterian Church.
PRESBYTERY OF ARBROATH.
The General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Forfar in 1788,
by separating the congregations in the district from the Presbytery of Perth, to
which they had previously belonged. At the union of the two great branches of the
Secession in 1820, the congregations in the district previously belonging to the Asso-
ciate (Burgher) Presbytery of Aberdeen were separated from it and added to Forfar.
The congregations of the United Associate Presbytery of Forfar had so increased
in 1840, that it was deemed expedient that year to divide it into two — the one to
be called " The Presbytery of Dundee," the other, " The Presbytery of "Arbroath."
DUMBARROW (Now Extinct).
Dumbarrow is a hamlet in the parish of Dunnichen, Forfarshire, 4 miles east of
Forfar, and 12 north-east of Dundee.
The congregation of Dumbarrow originated in the Secession of the Rev. Andrew
Arrot, with a number of his people, from the Established Church, 13th October
1742. They continued to worship in the parish church till 1744, Avhen they were
compelled to remove from it by an official order from the Sheriff of the County.
They then took possession of a place of worship which the minister built for them
on his own grounds in Dumbarrow, and were joined by several persons in the
parish of Monikie, who had taken offence at Mr Goodsir, the minister, for not
seceding from the Established Church with " The Four Brethren," after the support
he had given to their measures,
\st Minister. —Andrew Arrot. Ordained as minister of the parish of Dun-
nichen. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery 1742. Adhered, with the majority
of his congregation, to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach,
1747. Died 1760.
The congregation then called Mr Bennet, who was appointed by the Synod to
Ceres.
2d Minister. — Michael Arthur. Called to Kendal and Dumbarrow. Ordained
October 1764. Resigned 1768. Admitted to Peebles 17 71.
-^d Minister. — John Young. Ordained 27th April 1774. Deposed 30th April
1800. Previous to Mr Young's deposition, the congregation had been greatly
reduced by members at a distance having drawn off to form congregations in their
more immediate neighbourhoods. The congregations of Forfar, Carnoustie, and
Princes Street, Arbroath, originated in this way, the persons by whom they were
formed belonging almost wholly to the congregation of Dumbarrow. Mr Young
had estranged a goodly number of his people from himself and the cause during
the latter part of his ministry among them ; and after his deposition, the congrega-
tion became extinct, the only one of the original, or, indeed, of any of the early
Secession congregations that has done so. It is, however, to be considered as still
represented by the United Presbyterian congregation of Letham, which has since
arisen in the parish, and with which, at its formation, the remaining members
of Dumbarrow congregation became connected. After his deposition, Mr Young
continued to reside in the manse, and preached to the people till his death
in iSio.
P7'esbytei'y of Ai^broath — Mill Street. 77
MONTROSE.
Montrose is a royal burgh and seaport town in Forfarshire, 8 miles east of
Brechin, 18 north-east of Forfar, and 12 north of Arbroath.
MILL STREET.
The parish of Montrose is joined by that of Dun on the west. Mr Ker, minister of
this parish at the rise of the Secession, took an active part with " The Four Brethren "
in testifying against the defections of the Church of Scotland, but did not choose to
secede with them. On this account several of his parishioners withdrew from his
ministry, and along with several persons in Montrose who sympathised with them,
acceded to the Associate Presbytery in 1735, The Rev. John Bisset, one of the
ministers of St Nicholas Church, Aberdeen {see Aberdeen), having opened a corres-
pondence with the Associate Presbytery, proposing a conference at Montrose with
any one or more of their number, with a view of joining them, the Rev. Messrs
Wilson, Moncrieff, and Fisher, were appointed to meet him, and also the Seceders
in the district, on the last Wednesday of August 1740. On arriving at Montrose,
the commissioners found a letter from Mr Bisset awaiting them, apologising for the
trouble he had given them, but declining the interview. They proceeded, therefore,
to fulfil the other part of their mission, and met accordingly with the adherents to
the Presbytery, preached to them, and organised them as a congregation, of which
the Seceders in Dundee, Coupar-Angus, and Fettercairn, also formed a part.
Sermon was afforded generally at Dundee and Montrose alternately, but occasionally
at the other places named. In 1745, the congregation thus formed, and constituted
as described, called Mr Johnston, afterwards of Dundee, and Mr Swanston, after-
wards of Kinross, to be conjoined ministers of the Association, but the Presbytery
refused to sustain the calls, divided the Association into the congregations of
Dundee and Montrose, and required each to choose a minister for itself While
preparing to do so, the controversy respecting the Burgess Oath arose, dividing
them in sentiment, in common with other congregations in the denomination ; and
from the effects of this division they were long in recovering. The representatives
of the persons forming the congregation of Mill Street, adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, while the representatives of the persons forming the
congregation of John Street, Montrose, adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod.
First church built, 1750 — the open space around it being used as a burying-ground ;
a gallery was added, 1788 \ total sittings, 550 ; cost, ;^i4oo. Second church built,
185 1 ; sittings, 650.
\st Minister. — Colin Mackay, from Elgin (First). Ordained 28th October
1751. Resigned 14th May 1786, on an annuity of £2^^. Removed to Dundee,
where he lived privately till his death.
2d Minister. — Frederick M'Farlane, from Logiealmond. Licensed while a
student of the fourth year, with the view of proceeding to America as a missionary ;
but having obtained calls from Aberdeen, Craigend, and Montrose, he was allowed
to remain in this country. Ordained 25th September 1788. In 1791, he was called
three times by the congregation of Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, but continued by
the Synod in Montrose, notwithstanding his openly expressed wish to remove,
because of the divided state of the congregation. His friends in Nicolson Street
yS> The United Presbyterian CImrch.
were allowed to withdraw and form the congregation of I'otterrow, Edinburgh.
By them, in this new capacity, he was again called, but the Synod still refused to
translate him. He then resigned his charge. Emigrated to America, and died there.
The congregation called Mr Williamson, who was appointed by the Synod to
Whitehaven.
3^ Alinistcr. — Archibald Willison, from Dennyloanhead. Ordained 14th
March 1798. Resigned 25th June 1804, Joined the Constitutional Presbytery,
the name by which Dr M'Crid and others separating with him from the General
Associate Synod at first designated themselves, and became minister in Birsay,
Orkney, in that connection.
4/// Mi/lister. — Andrew Wilson, from Cairneyhill. Ordained i6th April 1806.
Resigned 2d March 1847 ; intimating, at the same time, his having withdrawn from
the membership of the Secession Church. Lived privately in Montrose till his
death.
In 1S44, the congregation called Mr R. D. Duncan to be colleague to Mr Wilson,
but he preferred Wishart Church, Dundee.
^th Minister. — Alexander Anderson, A.M., from Perth (North). Ordained
1 2th August 1845.
Author of "Total Abstinence in Harmony with the Gospel," and "The Voluntary Principle
Vindicated : A Criticism on the Articles of Agreement on Union."
JOHN STREET.
The history of John Street is identified with that of Mill Street, noticed above,
till the Breach in 1747, when the parties who afterwards formed it adhered to the
Associate (Burgher), while the other Seceders in the district adhered to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. They were then, and for a long time
afterwards, few in number; and therefore contented themselves with meeting
as a society for prayer and mutual exhortation. This society joined with another
in Brechin, under the designation of " The Correspondence of Brechin and
Montrose." They met on stated occasions at these places alternately, and had
sermon afforded them by ministers of their denomination as opportunity offered.
They continued to act thus till 1764, when the members were induced to apply to
the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth and Dunfermline for regular supply of
sermon, which was granted. It was, however, withdrawn after a few years' trial, for
want of encouragement ; but was again renewed, upon petition, and with greater
success, in 1780. First church built 1784; second built, at a cost of ;^iioo,
1824; sittings, 750.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev'. John Kyle,
who preferred remaining at Kinross.
\st Minister. — John King, from Mitchell Street, Beith. Withdrew from the
General Associate (Antiburgher), and joined the Associate (Burgher) Synod while a
Student of Divinity. Ordained 26th May 1790. Died 17th May 1827, in the 66th
year of his age and 37th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Lillie, M.D., D.D., from Kelso (West). Ordained nth
March 1829. Resigned 27th February 1833, Emigrated to America, and became
minister of a congregation in New Jersey, United States. Afterwards Professor of
Theology in Maclay College, Toronto.
2^d Minister. — Henry Hyslop, from Annan. Ordained 22d January 1834.
Presbytery of Arbroath — Knoxs Church — Johnshaven, First. 79
KNOX'S CHURCH.
For about twenty-five years, missionary operations had been carried on in
Castle Street and neighbourhood. Preachers for longer or shorter periods occupied
the situation. In August 1856, Mr Alexander Campbell was invited to take charge
of the district, and, in the course of two years, gathered around him a number of
persons who attended with regularity on divine worship. The station was erected
into a congregation by the United Presbytery of Arbroath, on 7th December 1858.
Next year, the members of the station duly called Mr Campbell to take the pastoral
oversight of the church. For several years worship was conducted in an old
building purchased as the site of the church, and temporarily fitted up for meetings.
The new church was begim in June 1863, and opened for worship on the second
Sabbath of May 1864. It is seated for about 540 persons, and cost about ^^900.
The church is a missionary one, and therefore made up of the working classes, and
of very poor people, their energies being hampered by church debt. In addition
to ordinary pastoral work, the minister conducts services for foreign sailors, Nor-
wegians, Swedes, Danes, Germans, French, Italians, etc. The number of such
services in 1869 amounted to 100 ; and a large distribution of tracts in foreign
languages is made to those present.
\st Alinister. — Alexander Campbell, from the Free Church. Ordained as
minister of Knox's Church, ist November 1859.
Author of "Teachers' Writing Manual : A Government Text Book for Schools ;" " Letter to
the Provost of Montrose on Licenses ;" and "Letter to Volunteers on the Immoralities connected
with the Annual GatherinsTs in August."
JOHNSHA VEN.
Johnshaven is a seaport village in the parish of Benholm, Kincardineshire, 9
miles north-east of Montrose, and 29 south-west of Aberdeen.
FIRST CONGREGATION.
All the parishioners of Benholm, with the exception of a few Episcopalians,
belonged to the Estabhshed Church till 1763; at which time the minister of the
parish sought to alter the mode of conducting the psalmody, by discontinuing the
practice of reading the line. A number of his people remonstrated with him against
this change, and because their remonstrances were unheeded, they withdrew from
the Established Church, and applied to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Pres-
bytery of Perth for supply of sermon, which was granted. The farmer of the Mains
of Brotherton, being in favour of the movement, allowed them the use of his barn
as a place of meeting, till better accommodation was procured. In 1764 they pur-
chased two dwelling-houses, and had them fitted up as a place of worship, the
proprietor of the lands on which the village stands having refused them a site on
which to build one. They built a church in 1790, which was afterwards converted
into a dwelling-house, in consequence of its use, as a place of worship, being super-
seded by the first congregation uniting with the second, and the united congrega-
tions occupying the place of worship which had previously belonged to the second.
\st Minister. — David Harper, from Pathstruiehill. Ordained 2 2d February
So TJic Ufiiied Presbyterian Church.
1769. Loosed from his charge 13th April 1789. Removed to another village in the
parish, and lived privately there till his death.
2d Minister. — John Murray, from Duke Street, Glasgow. Ordained 12th April
1 79 1. Resigned 27th December 1803. Admitted to Carnoustie 1806.
Zd Minister. — William Cairns, A.M., LL.D., from Duke Street, Glasgow.
Ordained 2d March 1808. Resigned 24th October 18 15, on being chosen Professor
of Logic and Belles Lettres by the Directors of Belfast Institution. This office he
continued to hold till his death, 21st April 1848. Author of " Outlines of Lectures
on Logic and Belles Lettres ; " a " Treatise on Moral Freedom ; " and " Memoir of
Dr John Young." ,
The history of this church, after 1820, merges into that of the second congre-
gation, Johnshaven.
SECOND CONGREGATION.
This congregation originated in a dispute in the First congregation, respecting
alleged irregular intromissions in the treasurer's books. The party bringing the
charge not being satisfied- with the manner in which the case was treated by the
congregation, withdrew from it, and got others who sympathised with him to join in
a petition to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon,
which was granted, 1803. They met in a dwelling-house, at a short distance from
the village, till 1805, when they took possession of a place of worship they had
built for themselves in Johnshaven, containing 330 sittings. A new church was
built, and opened on 4th November i860, at a cost of ;^6o3, containing sittings
for 300.
\st Minister. — Thomas Trotter, from Ecclefechan. Ordained 13th April
1808. Resigned 2d March 1818. Emigrated to Nova Scotia, and became minister
of a congregation in Antigonish, Presbyter}^ of Pictou. Died there, 20th April 1S55,
in the 73d year of his age.
The first and second congregations in Johnshaven being both vacant at the
Union of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820, were united by mutual
consent.
United Congregation.
\st Minister. — Walter Scott, from Selkirk. Ordained i8th November 1S23.
Resigned 29th June 1824. Became probationer, and died in that capacity.
2d Minister. — John Liddle, from the congregation of Dennyloanhead. Emi-
grated to America 181 5, having been previously ordained at large with that view.
Obtained a charge at Amherst, United States, which he afterwards resigned, and
returned to this country. Admitted to Johnshaven i6th November 1825. Re-
signed 24th April 1838. Removed to Denny, and died there.
The congregation then called Mr William Barrie, who, being under engagement
at the time to the ISIission Committee to proceed to Canada, was not allowed to
accept the call.
^d Minister. — George Walker, previously of Muirkirk. Admitted to Johns-
haven 27th October 1842. Resigned 22d March 1S4S. Emigrated as a missionary
to Nova Scotia.
4M Minister. — John Cooper, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh. Ordained
30th October 1849. Loosed from his charge 14th February 1S54.
The congregation called Mr Ebenezer E. Whyte, Mr R. Brown, and Mr John
Petticrrew.
Presbytery of Arbroath — City Road. 8i
5/// Minister. — John M'Nab, from Alyth. Ordained 23d February 1859.
Author of "The Trade Spirit versus the Rehgion of the Age ;" and "The Fear of
the Lord the beginnino; of Wisdom."
BRECHIN.
Brechin is a royal burgh and city in Forfarshire, 2 6| miles north-east of Dundee,
i2| north-east of Forfar, and 8 west of Montrose.
CITY ROAD.
The Rev. Messrs Johnston and Gray of Brechin, were both protestors against
the Act of Assembly 1732, restricting the election of ministers to elders, magistrates,
and counsellors in burghs, and to heritors and elders in landward parishes, and other-
wise acted with "The Four Brethren " who seceded, but themselves remained in
the Established Church. Their doing so, in the circumstances, gave offence to
several of their parishioners, who in consequence withdrew from their ministry, and
connected themselves with the Seceders. They travelled to Dundee and Montrose
as sermon happened to be afforded in either place, and when prevented from going
thither by the state of the weather or other causes, they met at appointed places in
their different localities for prayer and mutual edification. While continuing to act
thus, " The Burgess Oath Controversy " began to agitate the Church, and ultimately
divided them into two parties, in common with the other adherents of the Secession
cause. Those of them who afterwards formed the City Road congregation, adhered
to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, but it was not till 1765 that they
could be induced to apply for supply of sermon, which was granted them that year
by the Presbytery of Perth. Church built, 1765 ; sittings, 573. On the 5th Sep-
tember 1854, the Free Church congregation of South -Port, Brechin, united with
that of City Road. A new church with 550 sittings was opened nth September
1859, cost ^^1213. Alterations on the interior were made in 1871, costing ;^309.
\st Minister. — John Gray, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, called to Elgin
and Brechin. Ordained 27th December 1768. Died 8th September 1802, in the
34th year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Gray. Ordained as colleague and successor to his father,
i6th April 1794. Took part with the protestors against the Union of the two great
branches of the Secession in 1820, and refused to join in it. With a minority of his
congregation, he afterwards joined the Synod of Original Seceders. The majority
having retained the property belonging to the congregation, paid to the minority a
sum of money equivalent to half its value, with which they erected another place of
worship in the town, where Mr Gray continued to minister to them till his death,
which took place 5th July 1848, in the 77th year of his age, and 55th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James GilfiUan, who was appointed by the Synod
to Stirling.
2)d Minister. — John Craig, previously of Kinkell. Admitted to Brechin
28th August 1823. Resigned 4th June 1833. Took appointments as a probationer
for a time, but afterwards removed to Glasgow, and lived privately till his death,
which took place in 1847.
The congregation called Mr Borvvick, who preferred Bell Street, Dundee.
F
8 2 The United Presbyterian Chnrch.
^th Minister. — James Boyd, A.M., from Wellington Street, Glasgow. Ordained
26th August 1835. Resigned 12th August 1845. Joined the Free Church, and
became minister of Polmont, Stirlingshire.
^th Minister. — William S. Heddle, from Kirkwall. Ordained 27th January
1847, Resigned, on account of ill health, 1850. Proceeded to Jamaica, and was
located as a missionary there. Now living near Kirkwall.
The congregation called Mr David Young, who preferred Milnathort.
bth Minister. — Samuel Houston, from Ireland, previously in connection with
the Presbyterian Church in England. Received into connection with the United
Presbyterian Church 1850. Ordained 2 2d July 1851. Resigned 12th April 1853.
Now proprietor of Elswick Academy, Newcastle.
"jth Minister. — Hugh Aird, M.A., from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Ordained 31st
January 1855.
MAISONDIEU LANE.
The history of this congregation is identified with that of the City Road, Brechin,
until the Breach, 1747, when the representatives of the parties forming it ad-
hered to the Associate (Burgher), while the other Seceders in the district adhered to
the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. They formed themselves into a society
for prayer and mutual edification, which met in the house of Mr John Low. This
society had sermon afforded it by Mr Dick of Aberdeen on his way to and from
Edinburgh to attend the meetings of Synod, and on other occasions calling him
southwards, as also by other ministers on their way to Aberdeen to assist Mr Dick
at the dispensation of the Lord's Supper. Matters continued in this state till 1770,
when, in consequence of an increase to their number by members of their denomi-
nation settling in the town, they were induced to apply to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Perth for regular supply of sermon, which was granted. It was,
however, soon afterwards discontinued for want of encouragement. After Mr King's
settlement in Montrose, most of the persons adhering to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod in Brechin, travelled thither to attend his ministry, and continued doing so
till 1797, when the Rev. Ebenezer Brown of Inverkeithing, being on a mission tour
to the north, preached at Brechin, and gave such an impulse to the cause as to
induce its friends to apply again for regular supply of sermon, which was granted, and
attended with greater success. First church built, 1802 ; sittings, 400. Second
church built, 1849; sittings, 500.
1st Minister. — David Blackadder, from Renton. Ordained 4th April 1804.
Died 4th August 1843, in the 73d year of his age, and 40th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Thomson Rankine, from Galashiels (East). Ordained
2d September 1844. Died 24th June i860 in the 42d year of his age, and i6th of
his ministry.
T,d Minister. — Alexander Hutton Drysdale, M.A., from Bridge of Allan.
Ordained 23d October 1861. Translated to Rochdale 29th August 1867.
4/// Minister. — Thomas Kirk, from Stirling (Erskine Church). Called to Rin-
kell. Holm, Sandwick, Brechin, and Banff. Ordained 2 2d April 1868.
Presbytery of Arbroath — High Street — Rhiirton. 83
HIGH STREET.
This congregation originated partly in the want of accommodation in the Estab-
lished Church, and partly in the growing attachment of many of its members to the
principles of dissent. The parties moving in its formation applied for and obtained
supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Perth, December 1829, and were
organised as a congregation in that connection in June following. The place of
worship now occupied by them was built about 1730 for an Episcopal congregation,
and was almost wholly rebuilt in 1746, having been partially burned and otherwise
much injured by the rebels under Prince Charles Edward the previous year. It
continued an Episcopal place of worship till purchased by the congregation now
occupying it, by whom it was enlarged in 1835 ; sittings, 620.
\st Minister. — James Goodwin, from Anderston, Glasgow. Ordained 21st
December 183T. Died 4th July 1847 in the 48th year of his age and i6th of his
ministry. Mr Goodwin published a sermon on Psalm xxxiv. 1 1, entitled, " Children
taught to fear the Lord."
2d Minister. — James Gibson, previously of Maygate, Dunfermline. Admitted
to High Street, Brechin, 14th March 1848, and was the first minister or preacher of
the late United Associate Synod, called by a congregation connected with the late
Relief Synod. Demitted his charge 9th April 1856, and proceeded to Canada,
where he became minister of a church. Died in New York i860.
3^ Minister. — Peter Davidson, from Greyfriars, Glasgow. Called to Shiels,
Stonehaven, and Brechin. Ordained 24th December 1856. In i860, Mr Davidson
received an invitation to the pastorate of Broughton Place Mission Church, Edin-
burgh, but declined the offer. Demitted his charge and proceeded to Adelaide,
South iVfrica, 7th January 1862.
The congregation called Mr Richard Leitch, who preferred Newcastle.
4^/^ Minister. — Robert Workman Orr, from Fenwick, of which his father is
minister. Ordained 2 2d December 1863.
MUIRTON.
Muirton is a village in the parish of Marykirk, Kincardineshire, about 4 miles
west of Laurencekirk, and 9 miles north-east of Montrose.
The representatives of the persons forming the congregation of Muirton, were
chiefly parishioners of Fettercairn, which bounds Marykirk on the west, who acceded
to the Associate Presbytery in 1738. They met at different places in Forfarshire,
with the other Seceders in the district, till the congregation of Mill Street, Montrose,
was formed, when they became part of it. About the year 1758, a large common
in the parish of Marykirk was divided among the proprietors of land in the neigh-
bourhood, some of whom feued their allotments, from which circumstance the
village of Muirton arose. The new village was considered by the Seceders in the
district a suitable site for a place of worship in their connection ; and, accord-
ingly, they applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, 1765. First church built 1769; second built,
1824, cost ^400; sittings, 430.
84 The United Presbyterian Church.
\st Minister. — James Iisirie, from Duke Street, Glasgow. Ordained 12th May
1773. Resigned 1780. Removed to Glasgow, and died there.
2d Minister — David Meek, from Kirriemuir (West). Ordained 19th No-
vember 1794. Deposed 25th March 1818, but afterwards restored. Removed
to Edinburgh, and died there, 1845.
Tfd Minister. — James Renwick, from Minnihive. Ordained 6th March 1822.
Died 22d October 1845, i^ the 56th year of his age, and 24th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Cowan, who preferred Buckhaven.
4/// Mifiister. — John Buick, from Auchterarder (North). Called to Banff and
Muirton. Ordained 24th March 1847. Resigned i6th January 1849. Died at
Muirton 1850, in the 28th year of his age.
e^th Minister. — Joseph Leckie, from Falkirk (East). Ordained 31st October
1849. Demitted his charge on account of ill health, 8th June 1858. Afterwards of
Millport, and Ibrox Church, Glasgow.
The congregation called Mr A. G. Fleming, who preferred Alva.
6th Minister. — Thomas Swan, from LesUe (East). Ordained 30th October i860.
FORFAR.
Forfar is the county town of Forfarshire, 14 miles north of Dundee, 31 north-
east of Perth, and 1 2 north-west of Arbroath.
The Seceders in and about Forfar met for public worship at Dumbarrow till
1778, when, on account of distance, they were formed at their own request into a
separate congregation. Church built, 1780; sittings, 470.
ist Minister. — John Jamieson, A.M., D.D., from Duke Street, Glasgow, of which
his father was minister. Called to Perth, Dundee, and Forfar. Ordained August
1780. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the College of New Jersey,
United States, being the first honour of the kind conferred upon a Secession
minister. Called to Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, 1793, but continued in Forfar
till 30th May 1797, when he was called a second time, and translated thither.
2d Minister. — Andrew Aedie, from Pathstruiehill. Called to Ceres, Kinross,
and Forfar. Ordained 7th October 1798. Died 8th July 1838, in the 64th year
of his age and 40th of his ministry. Mr Aedie published a sermon, entitled, " A
Supreme Regard to the Glory of God the Substance of True Morality."
■7)d Mi?iister. — Andrew Murray, from Carnoustie, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 8th October 1839. Demitted his charge 23d June 1857 ;
took to farming, and afterwards became a preacher.
The congregation, in 1858, called Mr Alexander Aikman, who preferred Muckart ;
and Mr James M'Owan, afterwards of Bannockburn, and Perth.
4th Minister. — Hugh Lang Niven, from Greyfriars, Glasgow. Ordained 24th
February 1859. Deposed 6th January 1863.
e^th Minister. — Peter Wright, from King Street, Kilmarnock. Ordained 20th
October 1863.
ARBROATIf.
Arbroath is a seaport town in Forfarshire, 18 miles north by east of Dundee,
12 west by south of Montrose, 14 south of Brechin, 15 south-east of Forfar.
Presbytery of Arbroath — Princes Street — Erskine Church. 85
PRINCES STREET.
This congregation was formed by members of the congregation of Dumbarrow,
resident in and about Arbroath, who, on account of the distance from their place of
worship (7 miles), petitioned the General Associate Presbytery to be disjoined
and formed into a separate congregation, which was done in 1782. They met in
a hall in Arbroath till 1791, when they removed to a place of worship they had
erected for themselves in North Grimsby Street, which, by an enlargement made
in 1824, contained 714 sittings. Session premises were added in 1861, at a cost of
^160. Thereafter, the whole buildings were sold, and a new church built in
Princes Street, which was opened 27th January 1867, at a cost of ;^2 6oo, with
sittings for 850.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Browning, who was
appointed by the Synod to Auchtermuchty.
\st Minister. — James Miller, from Comrie. Ordained 14th July 1789. Loosed
from his charge 181 9. Emigrated to America, and died there.
The congregation then called Mr Hannah, who was appointed by the Synod to
Fore Abbey Street ; Mr David Young, who was appointed to Perth ; and Mr Alison,
who was appointed to Stewartfield.
2d Minister. — Joseph Hay, A.M., from Alyth, of which his father was minister.
Called to Anstruther and Arbroath. Ordained 15th October 1823. Died nth
July 1859, in the 63d year of his age, and 36th of his ministry. Author of a " Class
Book for Bible Classes, on the Geography and Chronology of the Old and New
Testaments."
The congregation called Dr John Wilson, who preferred Glasgow (Mitchell
Church).
3^ Mi?iister. — Robert Johnston, LL.B., from Biggar. Ordained 4th December
i860. Called to Glasgow, Shamrock Street, in September 1861, but declined the
call. Translated to Glasgow, Parliamentary Road, 5th December 187 1. Author
of " Lectures, Exegetical and Practical, on the Epistle of James."
ERSKINE CHURCH.
This congregation originated in the dissatisfaction felt by a number of persons
in Arbroath with the doctrines taught in the Established Church, and the preference
they had been led to give upon examination to the principles of the Secession.
They invited the Rev. Messrs King of Montrose, and Blackadder of Brechin, to
preach to them in 181 2, which these gentlemen did, and continued to do at inter-
vals till their services were superseded by the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of
Perth granting a petition for regular supply of sermon to the place, 7th July 1814.
A church was built in Fore Abbey Street, with 630 sittings, but remained in an
unfinished state till August 182 1, when it was opened. A new church, called
Erskine Church, was opened 6th July 185 1, containing 784 sittings; cost ;^i284,
16s. id, A session hall was added some years after, which cost £,106, 19s. 5d. ;
repairs on the church in 1870 cost ;^ii5.
\st Minister. — William Hannay, from Wigtown. Ordained 15th August
1822. Died 29th March 1829, in the 38th year of his age, and 7th of his
ministry.
86 The United Presbyterian Church.
The congregation then called Mr W. Nesbit, who was appointed by the Synod
to Cowgate, Edinburgh.
2d Minister. — Peter Davidson, D.D., from Bell Street, Dundee. Ordained
Qth March 1831. Translated to Stockbridge, Edinburgh, 7th March 1836.
3^/ Minister. — Alexander Sorley, from Falkirk (East). Called to Cumber-
nauld, Kilbride, and Arbroath. Ordained 1837. Author of "Prayer: a Sermon
to Children;" and "Sermons on Temperance,"
PARK STREET, or ST PAUL'S.
This congregation originated with a number of Wesleyan Methodists, who
separated from a society in that connection in Arbroath, because the Conference
would not receive the Rev. John Grahame {afterwards of the Relief congregation.
Regent Place, and the Secession church, Duke Street, Glasgow), then a local
preacher among them, as a regular minister. The place of worship now occupied
by the congregation was built for him in 1826, and was in connection with a small
body of professing Christians, styling themselves " The Original Relief Association."
Mr Grahame left Arbroath for Newcastle shortly after the erection of the church, in
order to raise funds for its completion, and put Mr Pullar in his place till his
return. While at Newcastle, he received and accepted a call to a church there.
Mr Pullar remained till he had reduced the membership to 52, and also left for
Newcastle in 1830. The congregation thus reduced, applied, in April of that
year, to be received into connection with the Relief Synod, which was granted. A
gallery was introduced into the church in 1841, which increased the sittings from
600 to 1000.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor in connection with the Relief Synod, the congre-
gation called Mr Boag, afterwards of Brandon Street, Hamilton, who declined
the call.
^st Minister. — William Allan, from Tollcross, Glasgow. Ordained 20th
December 183 1. Died 2 2d October 187 1, in the 71st year of his age, and 40th of
his ministry. Author of a Sermon preached on occasion of the death of the Rev.
James Goodwin, Brechin.
CARNOUSTIE.
Carnoustie is a village in the parish of Barry, Forfarshire, 10 miles east of
Dundee, and 7 west by south of Arbroath.
The congregation in this place was originally formed by members belonging to
the General Associate congregations in Dundee, Dumbarrow, and Arbroath, who,
finding it inconvenient to continue their attendance at these places, applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of
Forfar, 1789. Their first place of worship was at Barrymuir, a lonely spot, around
which the population was very sparse, but which was considered central for the
congregation. In 18 10, they removed to a place of worship they had erected for
themselves in Carnoustie, a growing village in which a great proportion of the mem-
bers had become located. Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called
Mr S. GilfiUan, who was appointed by the Synod to Comrie.
\st Minister. — Simon Somerville, from Lauder (First). Ordained 7th Novem-
ber 1 791. Resigned 9th October 1804. Admitted to Moss Street, Elgin, 1805.
Presbytery of Arbroath — Letham. 87
The congregation then called Mr Buchanan, who was appointed by the Synod
to Dalkeith.
2d Minister. — John Murray, previously of Johnshaven. Admitted to Car-
noustie 31st December 1806. Died ist July 181 7 in the 53d year of his age, and
27th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr David Young, who was appointed by the
Synod to Perth, and Mr William Parlane, who was appointed to Tranent.
id Minister. — James Chapman, from Craigend. Ordained 14th August 1822.
Resigned, on account of ill health, 5th June 1832. Removed to Perth, and died
there 1833.
d^th Minister. — Laurence Pitcaithley, from Craigend. Ordained i8th Feb-
ruary 1834, Resigned 1845. Died at Simla, East Indies, 19th December 1849,
whither he had gone as a teacher of mathematics.
The congregation then called Mr James Cursetter, who declined the call.
5M Minister. — George Jerment Mackenzie, from Potterrow, Edinburgh.
Ordained 24th November 1846. Died i8th November 1847, in the 27th year of
his age and ist of his ministry. A posthumous volume of his sermons has been
published, accompanied with a Memoir by Mr William Barlas, and Sermon by Dr
Ritchie. The volume is entitled, " Remains of a Year's Ministry."
6th Minister. — John P. Miller, M.A., from Huntly, of which his father was
minister. Ordained gtli January 1849. Author of Memorial of his father.
LETHAM.
Letham is a village in the parish of Dunnichen, Forfarshire, 5 miles east of Forfar.
The Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth fixed upon Letham as a preaching
station, 1792, and continued supply of sermon till 1802, when it was discontinued
for want of encouragement. A place of worship which had been built in the
interim, containing 200 sittings, passed shortly afterwards into the hands of the
Lidependents. Letham was again fixed upon as a preaching station by the United
Associate Presbytery of Arbroath, 1820, and this time with greater success. Church
built, 1838; sittings, 300. The United Presbyterian congregation of Letham is to
be considered the representative of the former congregation of Dumbarrow.
1st Mifiister. — James Galloway, from Lauriston, Glasgow. Ordained i6th
July 1839, Resigned i8th February 1840.
The congregation then called Mr Christie, who preferred Crossford.
2d Mi?iister. — Robert Forbes, from East Kinross. Ordained 25th October
1842. Died 19th December 1847, in the 33d year of his age and 6th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr David Young, who declined the call, and afterwards
became minister of Chatton, in Northumberland.
T,d Minister. — Andrew R. Johnston, previously of Duntocher. Admitted to
Letham 20th June 1850. Demitted his charge nth March 1856. Retired to
Glasgow, and is a preacher on the list of Occasional Supply.
4//^ Minister. — Alexander Clark, from Kirkcaldy. Ordained 27th April 1858.
88 The United Presbyterian Church.
PRESBYTERY OF BANFFSHIRE.
The Presbytery of Banffshire was formed in 1852 by separating the congregations
of Cabrach and Keith from the Presbytery of Elgin, and the other congregations
constituting it from the Presbytery of Buchan.
KEITH.
Keith is a town in Banffshire, 1 7 miles south-south-east of Elgin, 1 1 north of
Huntly, and 20 south-west of Banff.
KEITH (FIRST).
This congregation originated in the itineracies of the Rev. Mr Brown of Craig-
dam, about the year 1765. Its history is identified with that of Cabrach and Huntly
till 1775, and with that of Grange till 1785. Church built, 1780 ; sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — George Cowie. Ordained as minister of the united congrega-
tions of Cabrach, Keith, Grange, and Huntly, 1771. After 1775 Mr Cowie confined
his ministerial labours to Huntly alone, leaving the other portions of the former con-
gregation to provide themselves with a minister, or ministers, as they saw meet.
2d Alinister. — Andrew Young. Ordained as minister of the united congregations
of Keith and Grange, 1777. After 1785 Mr Young confined his ministerial labours
to Grange alone, leaving the Keith portion to provide itself with another minister.
■^d Minister. — James Bunyan, from Howgate. Ordained 26th September 1787.
Loosed from his charge, 13th February 1828. Died, May 1828.
4//^ Minister. — John Morrison, from Campbell Street (First), Glasgow. Ordained
12th May 1829. Resigned 9th April 1839. Emigrated to America, and became
minister of a congregation in Madrid, St Lawrence county, state of New York.
The congregation then called Mr Simpson, who preferred Forres ; and Mr Cal-
lander, who preferred Craigdam.
^th Minister. — Robert Grahame, LL.D., from Kinross (West). Ordained i6tli
May 1843. Resigned 6th April 1847. Joined the Established Church, and became
minister of the parish of Abernyte 1848, and Errol 1858. Had the degree of LL.D,
conferred on him by the University of St Andrews.
The congregation then called Mr Walker, who preferred Newcastle ; and Mi
White, who prefen-ed Wooler.
dth Minister. — Alexander Miller, A.M., previously of South Ronaldshay.
Admitted to Keith 27th January 1849. Demitted his charge 15th April 1856, on
his acceptance of superintendentship of Edinburgh City Mission.
7M Minister. — James Forrester, from Rathillet. Ordained 3d December
1857. Died 24th August 1866, in the 32d year of his age, and 9th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Urquhart Blackwood, from Glasgow (Renfield
Street), who was also called to Portadown, in November 1867. Mr Blackwood
accepted the call from Keith, and delivered his trial sermons at Portsoy, 20th Feb-
ruary 1868; immediately after which he was seized with severe illness, and died 31st
May 1 868, before receiving ordination, in his 34th year.
Presbytery of Banffshire — Keith — Grange — Cabrach. 89
The congregation then called Mr James S. Scotland, afterwards of Errol 3 and
Mr J. Faulds Henderson, who accepted Innellan.
Zth Mhiister. — William Nairn, A.M., from Glasgow, Greyfriars. Ordained
31st August 1869.
KEITH (SECOND).
The second congregation of Keith originated with a party in the first congrega-
tion, who withdrew from it and connected themselves with " The Tabernacle Men,"
more particularly referred to in the notice of Huntly congregation, when Mr Cowie,
their former minister, identified himself with them. The Rev. Ebenezer Brown of
Inverkeithing, itinerating in the north by appointment of Synod in 1803, preached in
the place of worship they had erected ; and they being at the time without a minister,
were led by this circumstance to apply to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of
Perth for supply of sermon, which was granted. Church built, 1801 ; sittings, 480.
\st Minister. — Robert Moffat, from Kelso (First). Ordained 9th April 1806.
Resigned 12th January 181 7. Became superintendent of an academy in Whitby.
Author of a volume of poems, and " The Duty and Privilege of Believers," a fare-
well sermon to the congregation of Keith. Died 28th November 1853.
2d Afijiistcr. — Andrew Kennedy, from Biggar (North). Ordained loth December
181 7. Resigned 4th May 1841. Afterwards located as the Synod's Missionary at
La Chute, Canada East. Author of " Hymns for the Young."
The congregation afterwards became extinct. The church was sold to the
Free Church.
GRANGE.
A district and parish on the left bank of Isla Water.
This congregation originated about the year 1770, as an off-shoot from Craigdam.
The people first met for public worship at Shiel, and afterwards at Whitehill, on a
spot then called Heathery Bog. The first church was covered with heather. A
more substantial structure was erected on the same site. The congregation was
originally associated with Huntly and Cabrach. On 25th July 1775, Huntly, Grange,
and Cabrach were disjoined, and erected into separate congregations.
ist AH /I is fer.— George Cowie, from Craigdam. Ordained 13th February 1771.
Removed to Huntly in 1775.
2d Minister. — Andrew Young, from Hamilton. Ordained at Keith 12th
November 1777, as minister of Keith and Grange. Remained in Grange on its
disjunction from Keith in 1785. Died 24th May 1788, in the 37th year of his age,
and 1 2 th of his ministry.
id Minister. — John Primrose, from Alloa. Called to Ireland and Nova Scotia.
For some time assistant to Adam Gib. Ordained 28th July 1789. Preached also
at Portsoy and Ord. Died 28th February" 183 2, in the 8ist year of his age, and 43d
of his ministry.
^th Minister. — John Meikleham, A.M., from Glasgow. Ordained 31st
August 183 1.
CABRACH.
This church is situated in the district of the same name, part;ly in Aberdeenshire
and partly in Banffshire, which is drained by the Deveron and its tributaries — the
Black Water and Rooster— and flanked by hills. A manse once stood near it, but
go The United Presbyterian CImrch.
is now removed. The sum of half-a-crown of annual-rent is paid for the church to
the Duke of Richmond, the proprietor of the soil. The first church was built with
turf and stone, and thatched with heather ; and when sold to make way for the pre-
sent building, realised the sum of ^2, 8s. The present church was built in 1796-7,
and cost about ;^6o.
The congregation originated with Mr Troup, first Secession minister of Elgin.
Mr Joiner, a member of Mr Troup's congregation, had sent some catde up to the
Cabrach hills to graze, and went one day to see how they were thriving. He called
at Bushroot on one Thomas Christie, a weaver, who accompanied him over the hills.
On their way, Mr Joiner inquired after the religious condition of the locality, and
whether there were any with the fear of God in their hearts. " Nane but Tammas
Christie," was the answer which Thomas Christie gave. Mr Joiner told him of his
minister, Mr Troup, and next Sabbath Thomas was in Elgin and had heard for
himself, and taken his resolve to become a Seceder. For some time he travelled to
Elgin, but at length left Cabrach, and "bade good-bye," as he said, " to the land of
Sodom, and turned his back upon the land of Gomorrah," and settled in Elgin.
This was in 1760. About a year afterwards, he induced his minister to visit the
Cabrach. On a field of the farm of Hillock, near the present church, a congrega-
tion gathered in from seventeen parishes. Mr Troup's text was Isaiah xxxviii. 14,
" Like a crane or a swallow, so did I chatter," and very powerful was the impression
made. From this time, 1761, till 1768-9, there was occasional preaching in the
Cabrach, Mr Brown of Craigdam, it is said, being one of the itinerants who preached.
\st Minister. — George Cowie, from Craigdam. Ordained minister of Cabrach,
Grange, Huntly, Keith, and Auchendoin, 13th February 1771. In 1774, settled in
Huntly, though still giving occasional sermons at Cabrach till they got regular
supply. The first church was built during Mr Cowie's ministry.
In 1778, the congregation called Mr Isaac Ketchen, who was settled in Nairn.
2d Minister. — James Wylie, from Muckart. Ordained 8th November 1780.
Deposed 21st November 1781.
In 1783, the congregation called Mr R. Laing, who was settled in Dunse.
2^d Minister. — David Waddell, from Leslie (East). Ordained 15th August 1786.
Resigned 1800, and inducted in December the same year at Shiels, Belhelvie.
Since that time, there has been no regular minister in the Cabrach. It was to
the preaching of the Haldanes in the district, and the party spirit evoked thereby,
that the resignation of Mr Waddell was owing, and the vacancy has since continued.
The congregation was reorganised, i6th April 1863, but is still without a minister.
HUNTLY.
Huntly is a town in Aberdeenshire, 2 1 miles south-west of Banff, 1 1 miles south
of Keith, and 33 north-west of Aberdeen.
The congregation of Huntly originated in the itineracies of the Rev. Mr Brown
of Craigdam. By his occasional ministrations there, a number of persons in the
town and neighbourhood were attracted to Craigdam, and became members of his
congregation. Mr Cowie, the first minister of Huntly, taught Mr Brown's family
while a student, and on his receiving license, Mr Brown sent him to preach to the
portion of his congregation resident there. On hearing him, they resolved to form a
congregation, and, if possible, obtain him for their minister. In this purpose they
were joined by several members of the Established Church, who attended the
Presbytery of Banffshire — Banff, Relief. 91
ministry of the Rev. Mr Campbell of Botriphnie, then famous in that district of
country for the evangeUcal strain of his preaching, and by persons residing in the
parishes of Keith and Grange, among whom Mr Brown had also itinerated, and
who, at Mr Campbell's suggestion, had shortly before formed themselves into societies
for prayer and mutual edification. These parties carried their resolution into effect,
by applying for, and obtaining, supply of sermon from the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Presbytery of Elgin in 1772. First church built, 1775 ; second built, 1809 5
sittings, 340.
xst Minister. — George Cowie, from Craigdam. Ordained 13th February 1771,
as minister of the United Societies of Grange, Keith, Cabrach, and Huntly. Sup-
phed each of these places on successive Sabbaths till 1775, when he began to
confine his ministrations to Huntly alone. Suspended by the General Associate
Synod from the exercise of his office in iSoo, for the countenance he had given to
Messrs Haldane and others, then known as "The Tabernacle Men;" but continued
to preach notwithstanding, and became one of the most active promoters of the
cause he had espoused. Died 1806, in the 57th year of his age, and 36th of his
ministry. Author of a pamphlet in reply to one alleged to contain Socinian doctrine,
by the Rev. Mr Skene of Banff" j and a " Memoir of Mr John Leshe," who had been
a member of his congregation.
On Mr Cowie's refusal to submit to the sentence of the Synod, a few members
of his congregation withdrew from his ministry, and continued the Secession congre-
gation in Huntly — that under Mr Cowie having virtually become Independent,
though continuing to take the name of Secession. These built the second place of
worship in 1809, referred to above, and were subsequently joined by several others
of Mr Cowie's members.
Before obtaining another pastor, this congregation called Mr Morrison, who was
appointed by the Synod to Bathgate ; Mr Gilmour, who was appointed to South
Shields; and Mr Charles Robertson, who declined the call, and never obtained
another.
2d Mijiister. — James Miller, from Haddington (West). Called to Stronsay and
Huntly. Ordained nth May 1815. Resigned 22d January 1847. Died at White-
hill Grange, i6th October 1863, in the 86th year of his age, and 48th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Inglis, who preferred Johnstone; and Mr
John Young, who preferred Newburgh.
id Minister. — James W. Mailer, M.A., from the North Congregation, Perth.
Ordained 29th August 1849. Died ist May 1869, in the 46th year of his age, and
20th of his ministry.
Author of " The Laws of Health ;" " Philosophy of the Bible, or Union between Philosophy
and Faith ;" and " Christ's Kingdom and the World's Church."
4//? Minister. — Alexander Miller, A.M., previously of Keith. Admitted 14th
December 1869.
BANFF.
Banff is the county town and principal seaport of Banffshire, 45 1 miles north-
west of Aberdeen, and 40 west-north-west of Peterhead.
BANFF (RELIEF).
The causes in which this congregation originated have not been ascertained,
nor full particulars respecting the first ministers settled over it.
92 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
\st Minister. — David Sangster. Translated to Perth 1787.
2d Minister. — Alexander Burgess, previously probationer of the Church of
Scotland, and parochial schoolmaster of Boharm, Banffshire. Received into connec-
tion with the Relief Synod, and ordained over the Relief congregation, Banff.
Deserted his charge 1795. Emigrated to America, and died there.
2,d Minister. — John M'Dermid. Ordained 1796. Translated to Canal Street,
Paisley, 1802.
^th Minister. — John Laidlaw, from High Street, Paisley. Ordained 25th
August 1802. Translated to Dunning 1805.
^th Minister. — William Gilmour, from Anderston, Glasgow. Ordained 1806.
Resigned 1808. Admitted afterwards to Wooler.
After Mr Gilmour's resignation, the congregation continued to receive supply of
sermon for a time, and ultimately became extinct.
BANFF (SECESSION).
A few persons resident in Banff, disliking the non-evangelical character of the
ministrations afforded in the parish church, applied for and obtained supply of
sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Aberdeen in 1804 ;
but the supply was withdrawn the following year for want of encouragement.
The union of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820 rendering success
more probable, and the reasons which prompted the former attempt still existing, the
station was revived in 182 1. The persons attending it were organised into a congre-
gation in 1822, when there were found to be 14 belonging to the Secession Church,
and 24 belonging to other denominations. Twelve members of the congregation of
Grange were shortly after added to it. Church built, 1823, at a cost of ^800 ;
sittings, 490.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Carmichael, after-
wards of Burghead, but the call was afterwards withdrawn.
1st Minister. — William Paterson, from Wallacetown, Ayr. Ordained 20th
April 1826. Resigned 1829. Emigrated to America.
2d Minister. — Robert Blackwood, from Alloa (First). Ordained 20th July
1830. Withdrew from the Synod and congregation 25th August 1845. Joined
the Free Church, and became minister in Aberdeen. Died 20th February 1858.
The congregation then called Mr Buick, who declined the call, and afterwards
became minister of Muirton.
2,d Minister. — William Inglis, from Dunfermline. Called to Huntly and Banff.
Ordained 30th December 1847. Resigned 27th March 1855. Afterwards went to
Canada, and became a minister there.
4/// Minister. — Thomas Horne Baxter, from Alloa (First). Called to Whitby,
Houghton le Spring, Zion Chapel (Newcastle), and Banff Ordained 14th August
1856. Resigned his charge, and became an Evangelist, i2th'June 1866. Afterwards
on the list of preachers. Died at Musselburgh, nth February 1872, in the 48th
year of his age.
The congregation called Mr J. Picken, preacher, in 1866, who declined the call;
also, Mr Thomas Kirk, afterwards of Brechin.
e^ih Minister. — John Naismith Russell, B.A., from Hamilton. Ordained 2 2d
April 1868.
Presbytery of Banff sJdre — Aberchirder — Gardenstown. 93
ABERCHIRDER.
Aberchirder is a village in the parish of Marnock, Banffshire, 9 miles south-south-
west from Banff.
The congregation of Aberchirder was partly formed by members of the Esta-
blished Church who were dissatisfied with the ministrations afforded in the church
of the parish, and partly by a few Seceders in the district, who found it inconvenient
to travel to their respective places of worship. The first supply of sermon was
afforded by the United Associate Presbytery of Stewartfield, 1825. Congregation
organised in 1839; church built, 1839 ; sittings, 350; cost, £,'2']o.
\st Minister. — Peter Landreth, from Greenlaw. Ordained 13th August 1844.
Resigned 4th August 1847. Became editor of the Fife Herald newspaper. Author
of "Studies and Sketches in Modern Literature ;" the " Life of Dr Adam Thomson,
of Coldstream," etc.
The congregation called Mr Swan, who preferred Comrie ; Mr Brash, who pre-
ferred Wamphray ; and Mr Morton, who preferred Greenock.
2d Minister. — Robert Paterson, previously of Midmar. Admitted to Aber-
chirder, 14th October 185 1. Demitted his charge, 25th May 1869.
The congregation called Mr G. F. Steven, Mr R. A. Watson, and Mr Charles
M'Ewing, all of whom declined the calls.
2,d Minister. — John M'Raith, from Head Street, Beith. Ordained 29th No-
vember 187 1.
GARDENSTOWN.
Gardenstown is a fishing village in the parish of Gamrie, Banffshire, 14 miles west
of Fraserburgh, and 8 east of Banff.
The congregation originated as a mission station in the year 1841. The church
was built in 1850, and has sittings for 200. The first minister was ordained as a
home missionary in 1847, and inducted ist October 1850.
\st Minister. — John Monro, from College Street, Edinburgh. Ordained 30th
December 1847. Demitted his charge on account of dissensions in the congrega-
tion, 14th January 1862; afterwards of Creetown.
2d Minister. — John Gilmour, from East Kilbride. Ordained 5th May 1864.
BUCKIE.
A fishing village in the parish of Rathven, 5 miles west from Cullen.
Certain disputes having arisen in the Free Church of Buckie, the Free Presby-
tery of Fordyce and the Synod of Aberdeen decided against the minister. The
case was carried to the Assembly, and a committee was sent down to investigate the
whole matter and issue the case. This committee reversed the findings of Presbytery
and Synod, in consequence of which 80 members seceded from the Free Church of
Buckie, and applied to the United Presbytery of Banffshire for supply of sermon on
the i6th August 1859, with the view of being formed into a congregation. It was
reported that the petitioners, 100 in number, had purchased the Mason Hall for
;^375, and that ministers and preachers had been preaching to them. The petition
was granted, and the congregation formed on 20th September 1859. The cause
flourished. A remarkable revival of religion pervaded the district at the time, and
94 The United Presbyterian Church.
multitudes crowded around the new standard that was lifted up. The church was
opened by Dr George Johnstone, 14th December 1870; cost, ^^looo; sittings,
about 500.
1st Mmister. — William Barras, from London Road Church, Glasgow. Or-
dained at Buckie, loth May i860. Removed, at invitation of John Henderson,
Esq. of Park, to Glasgow in December 1863.
2d Minister. — George G. Green, M.A., from Craigdam. Ordained nth
January 1866.
FINDOCHTY.
This congregation originated in the Revival of 1859-60. Preaching stations
having been opened at Portknockie and Findochty, fishing villages on the coast
of Banffshire, and application having been made to the Presbytery to be con-
gregated, these two places were declared to be one congregation of the Church on
5th March 1861. Churches were built at both places. Findochty church cost
^500 ; sittings, 400. The church at Portknockie was disposed of to the Free
Church, 24th March 1869.
\st Minister. — William Birrell, from Leslie (West). Ordained at Findochty,
4th March 1862. Deposed for immorality, September 4, 1866.
The congregation called Mr W. Watson, preacher, in 1868, but he preferred
Kirkcudbright.
PORTSOY.
A small seaport town, 7 J miles west from Banff.
In 1863 there was a division in the Free Church of Portsoy regarding the
settlement of a minister. On the 26th January 1864, a petition, signed by 82 persons
in Portsoy, requesting supply of sermon, was presented to the Banffshire Presbytery.
The Presbytery granted the prayer of the petition, and appointed a deputation to
visit the locality. On the 8th March, the Presbytery agreed that action be taken
with a view to organising the petitioners, and on the 19th April the station was con-
gregated.
The church was built in 1866 at the cost of ^830. A manse was added in
1869. The church contains sittings for 350. In 1865 the congregation called Mr
W. James, who preferred Leeds.
\st Minister. — Nathanael F. M'Dougall, from Edinburgh (Nicoison Street).
Called also to Stornoway and Archieston. Ordained at Portsoy, 21st September
1865. Translated to Ecclefechan in 1867.
2d Minister. — William Simmers, A.M., previously of Lumsden. Inducted
nth March 1868.
PRESBYTERY OF BERWICK.
The Associate (Burgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Coldstream out of the
Presbytery of Kelso in 1797. At the union of the two great branches of the Seces-
sion in 1820, the congregations in the district previously connected with the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod were added to it, and the name changed into that
Presbytery of Berwick — Diinse {East). 95
of " The Presbytery of Coldstream and Selkirk." At the union of the Secession
and Relief Churches, 1847, the congregations previously in connection with the
Relief Synod were added to it, and in October of that year the Presbytery of Kelso
was formed out of it, when it took the name it now bears — the Presbytery of
Berwick.
DUNSE.
Dunse is the most important town in Berwickshire, situated at the northern
limit of the district of Merse, 7 J miles south-west of Greenlaw, io| north of Cold-
stream, and 15 west of Berwick.
DUNSE (EAST).
The parish church of Dunse having become vacant in 1737, Lord Blantyre, who
had obtained a disposition to the patronage from Mr Hay of Drummelzier, pre-
sented Mr Roger Moodie to the charge. The presentee was unacceptable to the
parishioners generally, and they set themselves determinedly, but unsuccessfully, to
prevent his settlement among them by opposing it through all the Church Courts.
He was ordained minister of Dunse, by order of Assembly, 1738, and it was deemed
necessary to have a company of dragoons present to keep the peace. Most of his
opponents withdrew from the Established Church, and joined in a petition to the
Associate Presbytery for supply of sermon, along with several persons in the
adjoining parish of Bunkle, who had some time previously withdrawn from the
ministry of Mr Hart, of that parish, because, after taking part with " The Four
Brethren " in all the measures that led to their secession, he did not secede with
them. The Rev. Messrs Ralph and Ebenezer Erskine were appointed to preach
to them on the Friday after Mr Hunter's ordination at Morebattle, which took place
17th October 1739. They were afterwards supplied with sermon, upon an average,
once in six weeks, till they obtained a minister traveUing on the interim Sabbaths
to Stitchel and Morebattle, to attend upon the ministrations of Mr Hunter and Mr
Scott. First church built, 1742 ; second built, 1843 j sittings, 620,
\st Minister. — John Whyte, sen., from Abernethy. Ordained 12th January
1743. Adhered with the majority of his people to the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747. Died 4th March 1792, in the 77th year of
his age, and 50th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — John Whyte, jun. Ordained as colleague and successor to his
father, 20th August 1772. Died 1776, in the 30th year of his age, and 4th of his
ministry.
^d Minister. — Robert Laing, from Abernethy. Called to Shiels, Dundee,
Cabrach, and Dunse. Ordained as colleague and successor to Mr Whyte, sen.,
23d August 1785. Deposed 1793. Emigrated to America, where he was restored.
May 1796, upon petition to the Synod in this country, to his status as a minister,
and became pastor of a congregation in Buffalo, United States.
/^th Minister. — John Thomson, from Kilmaurs. Called to Kilwinning, Dal-
reoch, and Dunse. Ordained 12th August 1794. Died ist November 1838, in the
74th year of his age, and 45th of his ministry,
^th Minister. — William Ritchie, D.D., from Princes Street Church, Arbroath.
g6 The United Presbyterian CImrch.
Called to Kendal and Dunse. Ordained 2 2d October 1839. Called to Hamilton,
Canada West, in 1856, but declined the call. Received the degree of D.D. from St
Andrews in 1870.
Author of "A Geography of the Holy Land for Sabbath Schools ;" " Life for God, illustrated
by Nehemiah ; " " The Prodigal's Return ; " " Scripture Testimony respecting Intoxicating Wine ; "
" Life of Rev. James Smart, and of Rev. James Anderson ; " and " God's Judgments on India."
DUNSE (SOUTH).
In 1748, Mr Hay of Belton, who had obtained a disposition to the patronage,
presented Mr Adam Dickson, son of the minister of Aberlady, to the church and
parish of Dunse, then vacant. The parishioners disputed his right of presentation,
and called the Rev. Mr Lindsay, of Durabarnie, to be their minister. Mr Hay's
right of patronage was confirmed by a decision of the House of Peers, and the
General Assembly ordered his presentee to be ordained on the 21st September 1750.
So decided, however, was the opposition to his settlement, that it was deemed
expedient to call in the military, as had also been done at the settlement of his
predecessor, to preserve order. Many of the parishioners were highly offended
with this procedure, and several of them withdrew and joined the Secession congre-
gation which had arisen out of the preceding settlement of a minister in the parish.
A number of them, though dissatisfied, continued to attend the Established Church
till the Relief movement by Gillespie and Boston, junior, began, when they identi-
fied themselves with it. They met for worship on the green in which the church
now stands, till its erection in 1763. They were organised as a congregation, 1767.
Mr Monteith, ordained minister, Patrick Gillies, and Mr John Middlemas, pre-
viously elders of the Established Church, constituting a session. Second church
built, 1852; sittings, 650.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Michael Boston, then
of Alnwick, afterwards of Falkirk, but the call was not sustained.
\st Minister. — Thomas Monteith, previously minister of the congregation oi
Hyde Hill, or " Low Meeting," Berwick, in connection with the Church of Scot-
land. Called to Dunse while in that connection. Received, upon petition, into
connection with the Relief Synod, and translated to Dunse i6th July 1767.
Resigned, 1769. Afterwards admitted to Alnwick. Author of a reply to " Paine's
Age of Reason."
2d Minister. — Alexander Simpson, previously of Bellshill. Admitted to
Dunse, June 1774. Resigned 1784. Removed to London, where he ministered
to an Independent congregation till 17S7, when he was admitted to a Presbyterian
congregation in Alnwick.
3^ Minister. — Thomas Thomson, previously of Earlston. Translated to Dunse
1785. Called a first and second time to Portsburgh (afterwards the congregation
of James' Place, Edinburgh), and translated thither 30th March 1797.
^th Minister. — John Watson, from Biggar (South). Ordained 21st August 1798.
Translated to John Street, Glasgow, 29th May iSoo. The congregation called Mr
Auld, who preferred Burnhead.
e^th Minister. — John Ralston, from Falkirk (West). Ordained 5th August 1801.
Died 30th November 1838, in the 6ist year of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
6th Minister. — Daniel Kerr, A.M., previously of Ceres. Translated to Dunse
I St April 1840.
Presbytery of Berwick — Nor ham — Sp itta I. 97
NORHAM.
Norham is a village on the river Tweed, 9 miles from Berwick, and 8 from
Coldstream, on the road between these places.
The members of a praying society in Norham acceded to the Associate Pres-
bytery in August 1737, and became part of the congregation of Morebattle at its
formation. The Seceders in and about Norham continued to attend public worship
at Morebattle till 1752, when those of them resident about Lowlin Mill petitioned
to be formed into a separate congregation with its seat in Norham, which was done.
Church built, 1753; sittings, 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Jerment, who was
appointed by the Synod to Peebles.
1st Mi/lister. — James Morrison, from Milnathort. Ordained 23d June 1756.
Died 14th February 1824, in the 92d year of his age, and 68th of his ministry.
Author of " A New Year's Gift " — being a Catechism for Children ; " The Crisis : " a Discourse
on the Aspect of Providence, 1777 ; " Present Duty : in Treatises Relative to the Duty of Covenant-
Renovation ; " " The Contrast : a Plea against Popery."
2d Minister. — Thomas Young, from Morebattle. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Morrison, 7th April 18 12. Died 31st May 1849, i^ the 78th year of his age,
and 38th of his ministry.
In 1844, the congregation called Mr Kidd, probationer, to be colleague to Mr
Young, but certain circumstances connected with the call led the Presbytery to
investigate his conduct, and cite him to appear before them, to answer charges
brought against him. Failing to appear, he was suspended from his office as a
preacher, and from the communion of the Church. Encouraged by a small portion
of the congregation to settle in Norham, notwithstanding, he continued to preach
there till 1846, when he withdrew, and turned to a secular calling.
The congregation afterwards called Mr William Deas, who declined the call,
and afterwards went to America ; and Mr John Scott, who preferred going to
Jamaica as a missionary, where he very soon fell a victim to the climate.
3^ Minister. — James T. Anderson, A.M., from Union Street, Greenock.
Ordained as colleague to Mr Young, 23d June 1847. Died 6th July 1868, in the
54th year of his age, and 21st of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Archibald Bleloch, M.D. and D.Sc, who
declined the call, and is now a physician in Edinburgh.
A,tJi Minister. — George Hislop Main, from Campbelton, Inverness, of which
his father was minister. Ordained 14th July 1869.
SPITTAL.
Spittal is a village at the mouth of the Tweed, on the south bank opposite
Berwick, from which it is reached both by a ferry and a bridge.
The United Presbyterian congregation of Spittal was in connection with the
Church of Scotland at its formation, and originated in a very peculiar way. During
the year 1745 — famous for the rebellion led on by Prince Charles Stuart — the
south gate of Berwick, in order to keep out the rebels, was kept shut on Sabbath
mornings too long to allow the Presbyterians in Spittal and neighbourhood to reach
the Presbyterian chapel in Berwick, which they then attended, in time for public
worship. As a relief from this inconvenience, a place in Spittal, previously used for
G
98 The United Presbyterian Church.
other purposes, was granted them ; and having obtained supply of sermon, they
ceased to travel again to Berwick. They were organised as a congregation in 1752,
and in that year had a minister in connection with the Church of Scotland ordained
over them. He was succeeded after his death by another in the same connection,,
and that other had Mr John I^awson, also a licentiate of the Church of Scotland,
ordained as his assistant and successor in 1781. In 1784, Mr Lawson applied for
admission, along with his congregation, into connection with the Relief Synod, and
was received. Mr Lawson accepted a call from the Relief congregation, Dumfries,
and removed to that place, 1788. The congregation of Spittal called Mr Cant, a
licentiate of the Church of Scotland, to be Mr Lawson's successor. Mr Cant had
at the time a promise of a presentation to the parish of Ladykirk, in Berwickshire,
and would not accept the call to Spittal unless they would allow the Northumber-
land Presbytery to ordain him. To this they agreed. He wished to keep up his
connection with the Church of Scotland ; and as the Presbyterians in Spittal were
bent on having him, they dropped their connection with the Relief Synod. Mr
Cant died while minister of Spittal, and was succeeded by another minister in con-
nection with the Church of Scotland. In 18 13 he was translated to the High
Meeting, Berwick, and was succeeded in that year by Mr , Whitehouse, to whom
more particular reference is made below. In 1847, very shortly before the union of
the Secession and Relief Churches, the congregation of Spittal, with only one
dissentient voice, adopted a resolution to join the Secession Church; and this
resolution was carried out successfully by an application to the United Associate
Presbytery of Coldstream and Berwick. The place of worship has been several
times enlarged, and now contains accommodation for 730 sitters.
\st Afinistcr in collection with the United Presbyterian Church. — William
Whitehouse. Ordained by " Morpeth Class Ministers" as minister of the congre-
gation of Thropton, near Rothbury, Northumberland, 27th June 1801. Translated
to Spittal, 1 8 13. Received, with his congregation, into connection with the United
Associate Synod, June 1847. Died 13th October 1857.
2d Mi/lister. — James Falconer, previously of Gatehouse. Admitted to Spittal
as colleague to Mr Whitehouse, nth July 1848. Resigned on account of ill-health,
loth October 1849. Removed to Glasgow and died there, 1851.
2,d Afinistcr. — William Porteous, from Coldstream (West), of which his father
was minister. Called to Mainsriddell and Spittal. Ordained as colleague to ]\Ir
Whitehouse, i6th April 1850.
ALNWICK.
Alnwick is a market town in Northumberland, 29 miles south of Berwick,
and 34 north of Newcastle.
CLAYPORT STREET.
This congregation originated with a few Scotsmen resident in the place, a
native of Alnwick who had returned to it after a residence for some time in Glasgow,
where he had attended the ministry of the Rev. James Fisher, and some persons who
had belonged to the Church of England, but had become dissatisfied with its form of
government and the doctrines they heard taught in it. These parties having con-
Presbytery of Berzvick — Lisburn Street. 99
suited together, agreed to petition the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh
for supply of sermon in 1753, which was granted. They purchased a house in Canon-
gate, which in Roman Catholic times was one of the many " religious houses " in
Alnwick, but had been converted into a dwelling-house long before it came into
their hands, and had it reconstructed into a suitable place of meeting for worship and
religious instruction. In 1770 they took possession of a place of worship they had
built for themselves in Ogle Terrace, Clayport Street, containing 400 sittings. From
this they removed in 1803 to one they had erected in Greenbat, containing 550 sittings.
The Duke of Northumberland wishing to build an Episcopal Church on the site
occupied by the Presbyterian one (the ground on which it stood belonged to him),
and the lease being expired, requested it to be removed, contributing a small sum
for the purpose. They thus came to build, in 1846, the place of worship in Clay-
port Street, which they now occupy, containing 600 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called, ist, Mr James Mitchell,
but the call was afterwards withdrawn, and he never received another; 2d, Mr
Kinloch, who was not allowed to accept the call because of a fama which had
arisen against him, but who afterwards became minister of Abbey Close congrega-
tion. Paisley.
\st Minister. — John Marshall, from Stitchell. Ordained 1766. Died 1805,
in the 64th year of his age and 39th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Thomson, who was appointed by the Synod
to Coldstream.
2d Minister. — David Paterson, A.M., from Stow. Called also to North
Berwick and Alnwick. Ordained 21st August 1806. Died 22d November 1843, i'^
the 68th year of his age and 38th of his ministry. Author of a volume of Sermons,
three Discourses on a Future State, a Discourse on Election and Perseverance,
and two Discourses to the Young.
2,d Minister. — John Ker, A.M., D.D., from Broughton Place, Edinburgh.
Ordained nth February 1845. Called to Barrhead 1849. Called twice to Camp-
bell Street, Glasgow, 1850, and translated thither 19th March 1S51.
/^th Minister. — William Limont, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. Ordained
23d December 1852.
LISBURN STREET.
This congregation originated in the home missionary operations of the Relief
Presbytery of Kelso. The Rev. William Ritchie, of Berwick, was appointed to
preach in Alnwick in 1837. The cause having prospered, a place of worship was
erected in Lisburn Street by its promoters, in 1839, containing 500 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Wyper, who pre-
ferred Newcastle.
\st Minister.—?T£.TE.v. Glassford, from Hutchesontown, Glasgow. Ordained
loth October 1838. Translated to Leitholm, Berwickshire, 31st August 1842.
2d Minister. — David Donaldson, from Kettle. Ordained 8th February 1843.
BER WICK.
Berwick is a seaport town at the mouth of the Tweed, 54 miles south-east of
Edinburgh, and 64 north of Newcastle.
loo The United Presbyterian Chnreh.
CHAPEL STREET. /
This congregation was originally in connection with the Church of Scotland.
The Rev. Thomas Monteith had been minister of the congregation in Hyde Hill,
or " The Low Meeting," as it was commonly called, for some years in connection
with the Church of Scotland, when he received a call from the Relief congregation
of Dunse, which he accepted, and was received at the same time into connection
with the Relief Synod. He was succeeded in Berwick by Rev. William Crook-
shank, M.A., a minister in connection with the Church of Scotland, who, failing to
give satisfaction, resigned and removed to London, and became minister of the Scots
Church, Swallow Street, Westminster. Mr Crookshank is the author of " The History
of the State and Sufferings of the Church of Scotland from the Restoration to the
Revolution," 2 vols. After his resignation, the congregation applied to be taken
into connection with the Relief Church, and were received. Church built, 1756;
sittings, 780.
\st Minister in connection with the Relief Synod. — Andrew Thomson. Or-
dained 1778. Died 1-813, ""^ the 63d year of his age and 35th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Robert Hall, previously of Dundee. Translated to Berwick
23d June 1 8 14. Died ist March 1834, in the 48th year of his age and 20th of his
ministry.
^d Minister. — William Ritchie, previously of Auchtergaven. Translated to
Berwick 26th May 1835. Author of " Azuba," and Lectures on Baptism. Resigned
his charge in consequence of ill-health, 9th May 1859.
^th Minister. — David Paterson, formerly of Newcastle, Zion Chapel. Inducted
as colleague to Mr Ritchie, December ist 1857. Demitted his charge 8th June
1858. Now living privately in Kirkcaldy.
^th Mijiistcr. — James M'Leish, from Dunning. Called to Muckart, Eyemouth,
and Berwick. Ordained 31st May 1859.
WALLACE GREEN.
This congregation originated with members of the Church of Scotland resident
in the town, who being desirous of a purer dispensation of the Gospel and a stricter
exercise of discipline than were afforded in the connection to which they had pre-
viously belonged, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 1770. Church built in Golden Square, 1771 ;
enlarged, 1796; sittings, 1000.
A new church was opened in Wallace Green on the 3d Sabbath of June 1859;
collection, ;^i92, los. The site cost ^^^o^. Total cost of the church, with site,
^5712, 2S. 2^d. A gallery was added in 1865, costing ^194, is. iid. Sittings
at first, 970. Of these 56 were removed at the erection ot the gallery; 112 addi-
tional were given in the gallery, making in all, 1026. Anniversary collection in
1869, ;^I92, lOS.
ist Minister. — Alexander Dickson, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Ordained 2 2d
April 1772. Died 12th September 1780, in the 63d year of his age and 9th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — John Blackball, from Selkirk. Called to Dundee and Berwick.
Ordained 3d January 1782. Died 3d INLarch 1813, in the 58th year of his age and
32d of his ministry.
Presbytery of Berwick — Church Street. loi
3(/ Minister.- — Robert Balmer, D.D., from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Called to
l.ochvvinnoch, Ecclefechan, Leslie, and Berwick. Ordained 23d March 18 14.
Appointed Professor of Theology by the United Associate Synod, 1834. Had the
degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of St Andrews, 1840. Died
I St July 1844, in the 57 th year of his age and 31st of his ministry.
Author of "A Charge delivered to the Rev. Robert Redpath, at his Induction as Minister of
Wells Street congregation, London ; " " Essay on the Character of the Rev. Dr Belfrage of Falkirk,"
appended to a "Memoir of his Life," by Drs M'Kerrow and M'Farlane ; "Sermon preached in
Broughton Place Church, after the death of Mrs Brown, wife of the Rev. Dr Brov^'n," affixed to a
Memoir of her by her husband; "Statements on certain Doctrinal Points;" "Redemption from
Death and the Grave : Two Sermons, preached after the Death of the Rev. David Paterson, of
Alnwick;" " The Scriptural Principles of Unity," forming the second Essay in a volume, entitled
" Essays on Christian Union," by several ministers. Two volumes of his Academical Lectures and
Pulpit Discourses were published after his death, with a Memoir of his Life, by the Rev. Dr
Henderson, of Galashiels.
^th Minister. — John Cairns, A.M., D.D., from Stockbridge, Berwickshire. Or-
dained 1845. Called to Rose Street, Edinburgh, 1846, but continued in Berwick.
Called to Greyfriars, Glasgow, 23d April 1855, but continued in Berwick. Called
to Morningside, Edinburgh, in 1864, but declined the call. Called to Edinburgh,
Nicolson Street, April 1867, but declined the call. Appointed Professor of Apolo-
getics to the United Presbyterian Church, i6th May 1867. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred on him by the University of Edinburgh in 1858.
Translator from the German of "Elijah the Tishbite," by Dr Krummacher ; author of "Frag-
ments of College and Pastoral Life," a Memoir of the late Rev. John Clark, of Glasgow ; a pamphlet
entitled " An Examination of Professor Ferrier's ' Theory of Knowing and Being;'" and another
entitled " The Scottish Philosophy, a Vindication and Reply;" "Rationalism;" " Sketch of the
Character of Rev. A. Kirkwood ;" " Success of Christianity an argument for its Divine Origin ; "
Essay prefixed to " Lord Bacon's Bible Thoughts ; " " False Christs and the True, a Discourse ; "
" The Membership of the Christian Church and the Purity of her Communion ;" " Memoir of Dr
Brown ; " " Memoir of Dr Henderson of Galashiels ; " " Every Man's Duty to avail himself of his
Sabbath Rights ; " Essay prefixed to Culverwell. ,
CHURCH STREET.
This congregation originated with eight members of the congregation of Norham
and members of the West congregation, Ayton, resident in Berwick, who, on account
of the inconvenient distance of their respective places of worship, applied for and
obtained supply of worship from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of
Kelso, 181 2. Church built same year; sittings, 600. Soon after the settlement
of the first minister, the membership was 370.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr A. Isaac, probationer,
afterwards of Londonderry, Ohio, America.
\st Minister. — William Young, A.M., from Oakshaw Street, Paisley. Or-
dained 3d April 1 816. Died 21st June 1840, in the 48th year of his age and 25th
of his ministry. Author of " Analysis of Shorter Catechism for the Young."
The congregation then called Mr Laurie, who preferred Partick, Mr Edmond,
who preferred Dennyloanhead, and Mr Duncan, who preferred Mid-Calder.
2d Minister. — John Peden, previously of East Regent Place, Glasgow. Ad-
mitted to Berwick 22d February 1842. Died nth July 1858, in the 48th year of
his age and 20th of his ministry. Author of a Sermon entitled, " Intemperance a
great barrier to the progress of the Gospel."
id Minister. — James Grierson Scott, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh. Or-
dained 15th November 1859. Translated to St Andrews 5th August 1868.
4/// Minister. — John Crombie Brown, LL.D., formerly of Belmont Street,
I02 The United Presbyterian Church.
Aberdeen. Inducted 2d March 1869. Demittcd his charge 5th July 1870.
Lived privately in Berwick.
5//^ Minister. — James Stephens, M.A., from Glasgow, Sydney Place. Ordained
24th January 187 1.
BANKHILL (Now Extinct.)
This congregation originated with a minority of the congregation of Chapel
Street, Berwick, who preferred another candidate to the successful^ one, at the elec-
tion of a minister, after the death of Mr Hall ; and on that account withdrew from
the majority, and were allowed by the presbytery to form a separate congregation.
Church built, 1835 ; sittings, 530.
^st Mifiister. — Alexander M'Coll, from Bridgeton, Glasgow. Called to Bon-
hill and Berwick. Ordained 14th July 1835. Resigned 23d January 1847. Emi-
grated to America, and became minister of a congregation at Seneca Falls, in that
country.
2d Minister. — Hugh Dunlop, from Irvine, Relief Ordained 2d August 1848.
Resigned nth March 185 1.
The congregation called Mr Goodburn, afterwards of Waterbeck, Mr George
Sandie, afterwards of Gourock, and Mr John Thomson, afterwards of West Calder,
all of whom declined the calls. Dispirited by these disappointments, and seeing the
congregation had never prospered, and that there was no great need for its continu-
ance in a small town already possessing three congregations of the same denomina-
tion, the members came to the resolution of dissolving it, and dispersing themselves
among the churches in the place, according as their preferences might lead them.
This was accordingly done, and the place of worship disposed of to the English
Presbyterians, 15th February 1853.
WOOLER.
Wooler is a town in Northumberland, 45 miles north-west of Newcastle, 17
south-west of Berwick, and 1 7 west of Alnwick.
TOWER HILL.
A praying society in Wooler acceded to the Associate Presbytery in 1737, and
afterwards formed part of the congregation of Morebattle. In April 1749, the
members of this society petitioned the General Associate (Antiburghcr) Synod for
supply of sermon in Wooler, which was granted. The Synod, however, was pre-
vented by the paucity of preachers from maintaining the station efficiently. It was,
therefore, relinquished in the course of the following year. In 1763, a number of
persons belonging to a congregation in the town, connected with the Northumber-
land class of Presbyterians, sought refuge from the strife and division which then
prevailed in it, by connecting themselves, as a congregation, with the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso. Church built, 1779; sittings, 400; new church
built, 1868, at a cost of ^£"1300; sittings, 435.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Kyle, who was
appointed by the Synod to Kinross.
Presbytery of Berwick — Cheviot Street — Coldstream, West. 103
\st Minister. — George Bell, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Ordained 25th March
1778. Died 2d November 1800, in the 63d year of his age and 23d of his ministry.
2d Minister. — -James Robertson, from Kinross (West). Called to Tarbolton
and Wooler. Ordained nth August 1802, Died 25th March 1855, in the 78th
year of his age and 53d of his ministry.
3^ Minister.- — -Peter Whyte, from Dalreoch. Called to Keith and Wooler.
Ordained as colleague to Mr Robertson, 15th November 1848.
CHEVIOT STREET.
A congregation of Protestant dissenters was formed in Wooler in 1700, and
supplied with sermon by the neighbouring ministers of Etal, Barmoor, and Branton,
till 1 706, after which they had a regular succession ordained over them for a hundred
years. Happening to be vacant in 1806, they were supplied with preachers of the
Church of Scotland. These failing to give satisfaction, the congregation applied,
on 7th July 1807, to be taken into connection with the Relief Synod, and were
received. First church built, 1770; second built, 1778; sittings, 1000.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Johnston twice, who
preferred a call to Edinburgh.
\st Minister. — William Gilmour, previously of Banff. Admitted to Wooler
4th August 1808. Died 2d April 1835, in the 73d year of his age and 30th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — James Logan Muirhead, from St Ninians. Ordained as col-
league to Mr Gilmour 2 2d May 1833.
COLDSTREAM.
Coldstream is a market town in Berwickshire, ()\ miles east of Kelso, io\
south-west of Dunse, and 14! west of Berwick.
WEST CHURCH.
This congregation originated with a few members of the congregation of Stitchel,
resident in Coldstream, who, partly for their own convenience, and partly for the
benefit of the place, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 17th December 1767. First church built, 1768 ;
second built, 1806 j sittings, 950.
\st Minister. — John Riddoch, from Stirling (First). Ordained 24th November
1768. Resigned 29th May 1804. Removed to St Ninian's, and died there,
1806.
2d Minister. — Adam Thomson, A.M., D.D., from the congregation of which he
became minister. Called to Leslie, Horndean, Alnwick, and Coldstream. Ordained
1 2th March 1806. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the College of
Miami, Oxford, Ohio, United States, 1838. Died 23d February 1861, in the 82d
year of his age and 55th of his ministry.
Author of " Two Discourses on the Distress ofWidows and Fatherless Children," Memoir of
his Brother, the Rev. Peter Thomson, of the Scotch Church, Leeds, and of Sermons occasioned by
I04 The United Presbyterian Church.
his Death ; " The Death of a Good Man the Source of great Lamentation : A Sermon preached at
Selkirk after the Death of DrLawson;" "An Account of the Life and Writings of the Rev.
Augustus Toplady," prefixed to a complete Edition of his Works; "A Comparative View of
English and Scottish Dissenters ;" " Cure for Pauperism : Proposed in a Letter to the Rev. Thomas
Ciiaimers, D.D. ;" "The Might and Mastery of the Established Church Laid Low: Being a
Review and Refutation of the Principal Arguments of the Rev. Drs Inglis and Chalmers in Vindi-
cation of Ecclesiastical Establishments ;" " Appeal from Scotland ; or, The Cry of a whole Nation
of Dissenters, urging their Claims to the Redress of their Grievances ;" "The Church and the
Voluntaries: Two Letters addressed to George Buchan, Esq., of Kelloe ;" "Calumny Exposed,
and the Conduct of the Dissenters Vindicated ;" " Union of the Old Light Seceders with the Estab-
lished Church : A Review of the Proceedings of the Synod of Merse and Teviotdale ;" " Claims of
Dissenters on the Government of the Country: A Letter addressed to Lord Melbourne, 1836;"
" The Claims of Churchmen on the Government of the Country : A Letter addressed to Lord Mel-
bourne, 1838;" "Outlines for the Pulpit;" "Consolation for Christian Mourners;" "Bible
Monopoly inconsistent with Bible Circulation : A Letter addressed to Lord Bexley ;" with various
other publications on the subject of Bible monopoly.
In 1785, the government of the day renewed a patent {given successively before
to several persons) to Mr John Hunter Blair, and James Bruce, Esq., granting them,
as His Majesty's printers for Scotland, a monopoly of the printing and sale of all
Bibles in that part of the British dominions for forty-one years, dating the patent from
1798, when the preceding one was to terminate. This patent, if not renewed, must
have ceased in 1839. I^ anticipation of the renewal being granted, Mr (afterwards
Ur) Thomson, overtured the United Associate Synod in 1837 in these terms:
" That a petition be presented to the House of Commons against the monopoly now
held by the King's printers and the two Episcopalian Universities, by which they
can, and do, prevent all others from printing and publishing the authorised version
of the Word of God ; and that while a committee of the House of Commons is
sitting on the subject, a committee of S)^nod be appointed to watch the progress of
the measure, with full power to take such steps as the future aspects or exigencies
of the case may seem to render expedient." The Synod adopted this overture,
named a committee, and appointed Mr Thomson convener. Certain circumstances
awakened suspicion that Government only intended to transfer the patent from the
King's printers to the Scottish Universities. This proposal, which had been actually
made, was successfully resisted by Mr Thomson, who undertook a journey to London
for the special purpose. Lord John Russell subsequently announced to the House
of Commons the purpose of the Government to form a Board, to consist of five
persons, to whom would be granted the exclusive right of printing and publishing
the Bible ; one of these to be the Moderator of the General Assembly of the
Church .of Scotland, two others, divines of the same Church, and two others to be
laymen, but also connected with the Established Church. This proposal being
made while the Synod was in session, a memorial to Parliament was immediately
agreed upon, and the Rev. Mr Thomson and the Rev. James Harper were appointed
a deputation to wait upon the members of the Cabinet, and represent to them
how obnoxious the proposed scheme was to the Dissenters in Scotland. The depu-
tation were successful in obtaining a modification of the constitution of the Board —
though not in preventing its appointment — which was the object of their delegation;
and to their exertions, and more especially to those subsequently put forth by Dr
Thomson in the cause, the public are indebted for the present low price of the
Bible, These exertions were of a very extensive and peculiar kind, involving
nothing less than the printing of the Bible under his own auspices, and at his own
risk, to prevent a monopoly by any of the extensive booksellers, which, it was pre-
sumed, would have been certain if means had not been taken to prevent it. This
undertaking proved disastrous to Dr Thomson and his family, involving them in
Presbytery of Berwick — Coldstream, East — Stockbridge. 105
a loss of from ^12,000 to ^15,000. When this came to be known, some friends
of the Bible in Bristol, among whom, the Rev. Mr Gregory of Clifton took the lead,
originated the idea of a testimonial to Dr Thomson, which, to some extent, might
indemnify the loss. This idea was taken up by the Doctor's friends in Coldstream,
and active steps taken to realise it. But after many appeals from them to friends
in Scotland, not more than from ;^300 to ^400 were obtained ; and the aftair was
about to prove a failure when it was taken up by the Rev. Dr Macfarlane, of Glas-
gow, and the late David M'Gill Crichton, Esq. of Rankeillor, who got up meetings
in all the principal towns in Scotland and England, and relaxed no effort till between
^^3000 and ;^4ooo were obtained. The money was invested in trustees for behoof
of Dr Thomson while he lived, and to pass to his family at his death.
2)d Minister. — Peter Mearns, from Montrose Street, Glasgow. Ordained as
colleague to Dr Thomson 30th September 1846. Mr Mearns has published —
"Lectures on the Second Psalm;" a small work entitled, "The Christian Eucharist;" and
another, entitled, "The Olive, the Vine, and the Palm;" " Tirosh lo yain ;" "The Devoted
Minister, a Memoir of Rev. D. Wilson, Cumnock;" " Wark Castle ;" "A Nation at Prayer, a
Memorial of the National Tlianksgiving, 1S72."
EAST CHURCH.
Several families and individuals belonging to the Relief Church having come to
reside in Coldstream, from which the nearest place of worship in their connection
was 8i miles distant, and finding only two churches in the town and parish, while
they regarded the population as admitting of a third, applied for and obtained
supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Kelso 1824, Church built 1826;
sittings, 800.
1st Minister. — James S. Taylor, from Roxburgh Place, Edinburgh. Ordained
17th January 1828. Translated to Hutchesontown, Glasgow, 19th November 1839.
2d Minister. — James Porteous, previously of High Street, Jedburgh. Trans-
lated to Coldstream, 3d March 1840. Died at Spittal, Monday 23d August 1869,
in the 8ist year of his age and 55th of his ministry. He preached forenoon and
afternoon of the previous day, and was seized with illness while preaching. On the
celebration of his jubilee, 13th July 1864, he was presented with a purse containing
T^d Minister. — George F, Ross, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. Called to
Hull and Coldstream. Ordained 20th September 1870.
STOCKBRIDGE.
Stockbridge is a hamlet in the parish of Cockburnspath, Berwickshire, 9 miles
south-east of Dunbar, 9 north-west of Coldingham, and 11 north of Dunse.
The congregation of Stockbridge originated in the dissatisfaction felt by many of
the parishioners of Cockburnspath wdth the ministrations of the incumbent of the
parish. One of these happening to hear the Rev. Mr Henderson, of the Secession
Church, Dunbar, preach at the baptism of a child belonging to one of his people,
resident in Cockburnspath, expressed a wish to him that regular supply of sermon,
by the denomination to which he belonged, might be afforded to the place. On
this wish being reported by Mr Henderson to the Presbytery of Edinburgh, it was
io6 The United Presbyterian Church.
agreed to make trial how far the people of the district concurred in it, by sending
preachers to them for a time. This was accordingly done in 1776, and attended
with success. The first place of meeting was at Old Cambus, by which name the
congregation was originally designated. After some years it was removed to Wood-
end, near the Pease Bridge — a very inconvenient place — but the only one available
at the time. After numerous rebuffs from proprietors of land, to whom application
was made, a site was obtained from Sir James Hall, of Dunglass, and the present
place of worship built upon it, 17933 sittings, 425.
li-^ Minister. — George Campbell, from Wellington Street, Kilmarnock. Called
to Stitchel and Stockbridge. Ordained 19th August 1794. Died 23d November
1 81 7, in the 56th year of his age and 24th of his ministry. Mr Campbell published
" Sermons on Interesting Subjects," in one volume.
2d Minister. — David M'Quater Inglis, from Kincardine. Called to Sanquhar
and Stockbridge. Ordained 25th August 1819. Died 8th April 1867, in the 77th
year of his age and 48th of his ministry.
2^d Minister. — George Hill Dick, from Edinburgh, Lothian Road. Ordained
6th November 1867. Translated to Glasgow, Eglinton Street, 5th December 187 1.
AY TON.
Ay ton is a village in Berwickshire, 9 miles north-west of Berwick, and 20 east
of Dunbar.
SUMMERHILL.
This congregation originated in the circumstance of the Rev. Mr Dickson of
Berwick preaching a sermon in Ayton, at the baptism of a child belonging to a
member of his congregation, resident in the place ; upon which occasion so large a
company assembled, that the thought at once suggested itself to many persons
present, of applying for regular supply of sermon from the denomination to which
Mr Dickson belonged. After consultation among themselves, this was accordingly
done, and sermon was afforded them by the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso,
1777. Church built, 1779; sittings, 295. A new church was opened, 14th July
1864, with sittings for 500, at a cost of ^1300. A new manse has also been built.
\st Minister. — John Thomson, from Bridge of Teith. Ordained 1783. De-
posed 1794. Enlisted ; was killed by falling from a rock at Gibraltar.
The congregation called Mr Cameron, who was appointed by the Synod to
Moffat.
2d Minister. — David Ure, from Haddington (East). Ordained 27th August
1795. Died 31st December 1845, i^^ the 73d year of his age and 51st of his
ministry.
3(/ Minister. — Thomas Montgomery, from Annan. Ordained 29th Septem-
ber 1846.
SPRINGBANK.
In August 1774 the people in Mordington Mains, Greenlaw, Faldon, Faldon Hag,
Flemington, and East Rcnton, belonging to the General Associate (Antiburgher)
congregation of Dunse, petitioned the Presbytery of Kelso to be disjoined from that
congregation, and formed into a separate one, witli its scat in CoUIingliam, for the
Presbyteiy of Berwick — Horndean. 107
accommodation of a portion of the congregation of East Barns (now the second
congregation, Dunbar), which was expected to join it. The petition was granted.
In August 1775 these parties, along with 15 members of the EstabHshed Church,
petitioned the Presbytery to allow Ayton, instead of Coldingham, to become the
seat of the congregation, as more convenient for the persons moving in the formation
of it. This was opposed by the congregation in Dunse, on the ground that their
boundaries extended to Clazeburn and Achincrow, 8 and 7 miles from Dunse, and
5 miles from Ayton ; and that to make Ayton the place of meeting would be en-
croaching upon the limits which they held had been allowed to them. After much
importunity, the change of meeting-place was permitted, and Ayton became the
seat of the congregation in 1779. Church built, 1781; sittings, 270. New church
opened, 9th April 1872, by Rev. Professor Cairns, with sittings for 350, at a
cost of ;^i5oo; opening collection, ;;^ioo, 12s. 6d.
-ist Minister. — John Turnbull. Ordained 3d March 1779. Deposed 23d
February 1790, but restored in 1792. Removed to Glasgow, and died there, 1823.
2d Minister. — Robert Wilson, from Morebattle. Ordained 28th May 1792.
Died 17th February 1816, in the 59th year of his age and 24th of his ministry.
-^d Minister. — James Stark, from Cumbernauld (Second). Ordained 13th April
1819. Died 2 2d July 1869, in the 78th year of his age and 51st of his ministry.
Afth Minister. — William Wilson, from Kirkcaldy. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Stark, 3d March 1869.
HORNDEAN.
Horndean is a village in the parish of Ladykirk, Berwickshire, 9 miles south-
east of Dunse, and 8 west of Berwick ; nearest station Norham, 3 miles distant.
Ministers were violendy intruded into the parishes of Ladykirk and Hutton,
which immediately adjoin each other, in the course of eighteen months preced-
ing the Secession of " The Four Brethren " from the Established Church.
Several persons in both parishes joined the Seceders in consequence, and took
part in the formation of the first Secession congregation of Dunse when it
arose. In course of time other Secession congregations arose in the surrounding
district, and some of the Seceders in Ladykirk and Hutton became connected
with them. Those of them belonging to the congregation of Golden Square,
Berwick, finding the distance inconvenient, knowing the ministers of the parishes
of Ladykirk and Hutton to be unacceptable to many of their people both on
account of their life and doctrine, and presuming that they were able to support
public ordinances among themselves, applied for, and obtained, supply of sermon
from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso, 1784. Organised into a congre-
gation 1785, when it was found that a number of the persons constituting it had
previously belonged to the Established Church. Church built, 1786; enlarged,
181 2 ; sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — Alexander Calderhead. Ordained 1787. Resigned 1802.
Accompanied the Rev. Dr Mason of New York to America, in furtherance of the
object with which that gentleman visited this country. Became minister of a con-
gregation in the state of Ohio, and died there.
The congregation called Mr Campbell, who was appointed by the Synod to
Tarbolton ; Mr Thomson, who was appointed to Coldstream ; ]\Ir Stewart, who
was appointed to Stirling ; and Mr R. Fletcher, who was appointed to Hamilton.
1 o8 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
2d Minister. — William Lee, from Selkirk (First). Ordained 25th August 1807.
Died nth April 1854, in the 47th year of his ministry.
id Minister. — John Stark, from Ayton (West), of which his father was minister.
Ordained as colleague to Mr Lee, loth October 1849.
BELFORD.
Belford is a town in Northumberland, 12 miles north of Alnwick, and 8 north-
east of Woolen
The edifice occupied by the United Presbyterian congregation of Belford —
originally a dwelling-house— was leased in 1777 for 99 years as a place of worship for
Protestant dissenters, by the minority of a congregation previously in connection
with the Church of Scotland. At the election of a minister for that congregation
they had preferred Mr Poole to Mr Waters, the other candidate, and, failing in
their object, withdrew from the majority; and, with the consent of the Presbytery,
were formed into a separate congregation, with Mr Poole for their minister. Mr
Poole was translated to Hexham, 1786. After several unsuccessful attempts to pro-
cure a successor to him from among the licentiates of the Church of Scotland, they
passed the place of worship into the hands of members of the congregation of
Wooler, resident in and about Belford, by whom sermon was obtained from the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Coldstream, 1788.
After being organised as a congregation in this connection, they called Mr
Jardine, who was appointed by the Synod to Langholm. This disappointment so
disheartened and offended them, that they forthwith made overtures to members of
the congregation of Norham to join them in a petition for supply of sermon to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Kelso, which was successfully
done, 1 791.
1st Minister. — ^John Thomson, from Muckart. Ordained 27th February 1793.
Died 25th February 1845, in the 83d year of his age and 52d of his ministry.
2d Minister. — John Hunter, from Penicuik, Called to South Ronaldshay and
Belford. Ordained 17th August 1831, as colleague to Mr Thomson. Died 2d
August 1866, in the 62d year of his age and 35th of his ministry.
^d Mi?iister. — John Laing, B. A., from Glasgow (Duke Street). Ordained 23d
April 1867.
COLDINGHAM.
Coldingham is a village in the parish of the same name, Berwickshire, 11 miles
north-west of Berwick, and 18 south-east of Dunbar.
RELIEF.
The parish church of Coldingham having become vacant in 1792, the patron
presented the Rev, James Landale, of Witherington, Northumberland, to the charge.
This appointment was remonstrated against by a number of the parishioners, who,
finding remonstrance vain, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the
Relief Presbytery of Kelso, 1793. Church built the same year; sittings, 609.
Presbytery of Berwick — Coldi7tgham — North Sunderland. 109
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Geddes, who pre-
ferred Waterbeck.
Mr William Sharp was ordained minister of the Relief congregation, Colding-
ham, 13th March 1794, and was loosed from his charge 24th March 1805.
The subsequent history of this congregation is involved in the history of the
formation of the one that follows.
SECESSION.
The Relief Congregation of Coldingham not being satisfied with the manner in
which the Presbytery investigated the case of Mr Sharp, resolved to change their
ecclesiastical connection, and with this view applied to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Coldstream to be taken under its inspection, which was granted 1806.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor in their new connection, the congregation called
Mr Brown, who was appointed by the Synod to North Berwick.
\st Minister. — Robert Maclaurin, from Bridge of Teith. Called to Johns-
haven, New Deer, and Coldingham. Ordained 27th August 1807. Died 19th
March 1848, in the 65th year of his age and 41st of his ministry.
Author of a small work, entitled, *' The Power of Religion to Sanctify and Comfort, illustrated
in a Sketch of the Death of Alexander Edington;" another, entitled, " Christian Experience, Illus-
trated in an account of the Life and Death of James Wait, a Pious Shepherd ;" and a third, entitled,
" The Imprecation Answered ; or, the History of a City Apprentice."
2d Minister. — Andrew Henderson, from Tay Square, Dundee. Ordained 2d
June 1847. Translated to Paisley, Abbey Close, i6th April 1855.
^d Minister. — Andrew Brodie Robertson, from Edinburgh, Infirmary Street.
Ordained 2 2d January 1856.
NORTH SUNDERLAND.
North Sunderland is a village in Northumberland, 24 miles south of Berwick,
and 7 east of Belford.
This congregation originated with some members of the congregation of Warren-
ford, in connection with the Church of Scotland, resident in and about North
Sunderland, who, on account of some procedure of their minister displeasing to
them, ceased to attend at Warrenford, which is 5 miles distant from North Sunder-
land, and formed themselves into a congregation, with its seat in the latter place.
They had a minister ordained over them, who shortly afterwards adoptmg the views
of the Baptists, connected himself with that body. During the vacancy thus created,
they accepted supply of preachers from different denominations ; and those of the
Associate (Burgher) Synod proving most acceptable to them, they sought connection
with that branch of the Secession, by a petition to the Presbytery of Coldstream,
and were received, 1808. Church built the same year; sittings, 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor in their new connection, they called Mr Andrew
Hay, who declined the call, and died a probationer.
\st Minister. — Moses Henry Williamson, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Or-
dained loth April 1810. Resigned 1817. Subsequently emigrated to Canada, and
died there.
2d Minister. — George Dickson, from Dalkeith (East). Ordained 20th April
iio The Unikd Presbyterian Church.
1819. Died 8th December 1832, from cholera, after a few hours' iUness, in the
42(1 year of his age and 14th of his ministry.
3^/ Minister. — Andrew Broom, from Abernethy. Called to Newcastle, South
Sunderland, and North Sunderland. Ordained 9th April 1834. Suspended 19th
June 1838, from the office of the ministry, for reasons assigned, and subsequently
deposed for acting in opposition to this sentence. Continued to keep possession
of the property belonging to the congregation, and to preach notwithstanding. On
being served with a, legal notice to remove, he filed a bill in Chancery — a form in
England similar to an interdict in Scotland — and obtained a writ of injunction to
stay the ejectment. The trustees answered, and the injunction was dissolved by
the Chancellor. Two actions— one for recovery of the church, and the other
for recovery of the manse — were now commenced by the only surviving trustee, who
died while they were pending, but were continued by his son and heir. Both
actions came before Mr Justice Rolfe, in the Nisi Priiis Court, and were decided in
March 1841, by finding that the indenture granted to the trustees was invalid, and
the jury returned a verdict, nonsuiting the plaintiff This decision was founded on
Act 9 Geo. II., cap. 36, requiring that deeds of trust for charitable uses, not
signed, sealed, and delivered in the presence of two or more credible witnesses, be
enrolled in the Court of Chancery within six calendar months after execution. The
provisions of this act had not been complied with. The site for the Church was
held as being conveyed in gift ; a shilling a year, the rent at which it was held in
lease for 99 years, not being considered an equivalent ; and though the ground-rent
of the manse, of ten shillings a-year, was allowed to be a full and valuable considera-
tion, yet the deed was invalid, from the circumstance of being signed only by one
witness. The deed being void, the property reverted to the heir of the original
grantor, who was favourable to the party in the congregation adhering to the Synod,
and who by him were now put in possession of it. Mr Broom ceased to offer
further opposition, withdrew from the place, and afterwards ministered to congrega-
tions in different places, without any known ecclesiastical connection.
d,th Minister. — Hugh Glover, from Wellington Street, Kilmarnock. Ordained
i6th March 1842. Died 30th August 1869, in the 66th year of his age and 28th of
his ministry.
5M Minister.— George Henderson, from Leith, St Andrews Place. Ordained
9th February 1870.
EMBLETON.
Embleton is a village in Northumberland, 6 miles south of North Sunderland,
and 7 east-by-north of Alnwick.
There had long been a number of Presbyterians in and about Embleton, who
attended public worship at Alnwick and other places in the surrounding country,
but who, finding it inconvenient to travel so far every week, came to the resolution
of providing themselves with Gospel ordinances nearer home, after the manner
to which they had been accustomed. \\'ith this view, they applied for and
obtained supply of sermon at Embleton from the Northumberland Presbytery
in connection with the Church of Scotland, 1833. ^^cr having had two ministers
in that connection, who removed to other spheres of labour, they happened to be
without one at the Disruption of the Church of Scotland in 1843. Sympathising
with the Disruptionists, they applied to the English Presbyterians, who identified
Presbytery of Berwick — Chirnside. 1 1 1
themselves with them, for supply of sermon, which was promised them ; but, pro-
bably from the confusion then created, the promise was not made good. After
being six or eight weeks wholly without sermon, they were on the eve of making
application to be received into connection with the United Secession Church, when
the Rev. Mr Richards, of the Congregational Church, Alnwick, hearing of their
circumstances, offered his services occasionally, which were accepted. This led to
the settlement of a Congregational minister among them, who, after six years
residence, removed to Howden, near Newcastle. Being thus again vacant, the
English Presbyterians were anxious to supply them with a minister, but they now
preferred connecting themselves with the United Presbyterian Church, and with
this view applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the United Presbyterian
Presbytery of Berwick, 14th August 1849. Church built, 1833 ; sittings, 300.
xst United Presbyterian Minister. — William Ross, from Bellevilla, Stranraer.
Ordained 23d July 1850.
CHIRNSIDE.
Chirnside is a village in the parish of the same name, Berwickshire, 9 miles north-
west of Berwick, 6 south-west of Ayton, and 6 north-east of Dunse, and was the scene
of the later labours of Rev. Henry Erskine.
Several persons in the parish of Chirnside acceded to the Associate Presbytery
in 1738, and became members of the Secession congregations of Stitchel and Dunse.
The Breach divided them in sentiment, in common with all the other Seceders in
Scotland. The party adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod
attended public ordinances at Dunse ; that adhering to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod, at Stitchel. This portion of Seceders appeared sufficiently numerous in
1763 to form a congregation, with its seat in Chirnside, and a petition, with this
view, joined by persons of similar views in adjoining parishes, was presented to the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, and attended with success. The
meeting-place of the congregation was removed to Dunse in the spring of the fol-
lowing year, as more convenient to the majority of the persons composing it. In
1836, the Seceders in and about Chirnside, belonging to the congregations of Ayton,
Berwick, and Dunse, were disjoined from these congregations at their own request,
and formed into a separate society, with its meeting-place at Chirnside — the
numbers being sufficient to form a large congregation at once. The union of
the two great branches of the. Secession, which took place 16 years before, had
removed the hindrances to the formation of a congregation in this place ; while
the extent of the surrounding congregations was such, as to allow considerable
drafts to be made upon them without injury to any of them. Church built, 1838 ;
sittings, 620.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Watson, who pre-
ferred Methven 3 and Mr Hogg, previously of Rattray, then on the list of preachers,
from whom the call was afterwards withdrawn.
\st Minister. — James Smart, from Stirling (First). Ordained 21st August 1839.
Died 30th December 1853, in the 41st year of his age and 15th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Ker, A.M., from Urr. Ordained 8th August 1854.
Called to Wolverhampton and Leicester, March 1868. Translated to Leicester
5th May 1868.
3^/ Minister. — William Rutherford, from Grangemouth. Called to Holm, in
Orkney, and Chirnside. Ordained 3d February 1869.
1 1 2 The United Presbyterian Church.
EYEMOUTH.
Eyemouth is a fishing village in the parish of the same name in Berwickshire,
6 miles north of Berwick, 3 north-east of Ayton, and 3 south-east of Coldingham.
The United Presbyterian congregation of Eyemouth originated partly with mem-
bers of the Established Church and partly with members of the Secession congre-
gations of Ayton and Coldingham, who were desirous of having evangelical preaching
afforded to the village, and with this view, applied for and obtained supply of
sermon from the United Associate Presbytery of Berwick, 2d February 1841. On
being organised into a congregation in September of that year, it was found that
the persons composing it were from the Established and Secession Churches in
about equal numbers. Church built, 1842 ; sittings, 450.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr James Duncan, who
preferred Alva.
\st Minister. — Thomas Pearson, from Clayport Street, Alnwick. Called to Gal-
ston, Crossford, and Eyemouth. Ordained 30th May 1843. Died 14th January
1855, in the 40th year of his age, and 13th of his ministry. Author of " Infidelity :
Its Aspects, Causes, and Agencies." This Essay obtained the prize of ;^ioo offered
by the Council of the British Organisation of the Evangelical Alliance.
In May 1856, the congregation called Mr James M'Leish, and on 2 2d Septem-
ber, Mr James Robertson, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Minister. — James Harrower, from Alloa (Townhead). Called to Tough,
Isle of Man, New Deer, and Eyemouth. Ordained 21st July 1857.
CHATTON.
Chatton is a village in Northumberland, on the left bank of the river Till, 5
miles west of Belford, 5 east of Wooler, and 15 south-east of Alnwick.
A considerable number of persons formerly connected with the Presbyterian
congregations of Belford and Wooler, resided in Chatton and its neighbourhood.
Many of these had long felt the inconvenience of travelling so far to their respective
places of worship, and the need of a larger supply of Gospel ordinances in their
district than had been provided, there being then no church save the Episcopal one
of the parish, in a compass of 5 miles from the village. On the ist November 1849,
from thirty to forty of these persons met for consultation on this subject, when a
committee was appointed to ascertain by inquiry in the district, what encourage-
ment they had to move in this matter. The result far surpassed their expectation ;
and therefore at their next meeting it was unanimously resolved to apply to the
United Presbyterian Presbytery of Berwick for supply of sermon, which was accord-
ingly done with success in January 1850. They met in a large room in the village
till the place of worship they had erected for themselves was roofed in, but otherwise
unfinished, when they took possession of it. They were organised, as a congrega-
tion on the ist of July 1850, when 93 communicants were enrolled. Of these 45
belonged to Mr Muirhead's, and n to Mr White's congregation, Wooler; 11 to
Mr Plunter's, Belford, and 17 to congregations in connection with the English
Presbyterians. Nine were admitted members who had not been jjreviously in con-
nection with any church. Church built, 1850, at a cost of £.\^o, of which the con-
gregation and friends in the neighbourhood subscribed ^300, including ^10 from
the Bishop of Durham. Sittings, 550.
Presbytery of Berwick — Bemimont Union — Holy Island. 113
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Kechie, who pre-
ferred Earlston.
\st Mitiiste?'. — David Young, from the congregation of James' Place, Edin
burgh. Called to Letham, Lethendy, and Chatton. Ordained 13th October 185 1.
BEAUMONT UNION.
Kilham, formerly the name of this church, is a small village on the left bank of
the Beaumont water, parish of Kirknevvton, and county of Durham. The United
Presbyterian place of worship is not in the village, but a mile distant from it, on the
opposite side of the stream. It is 8 miles south-east of Coldstream, 8 miles south-
west of Wooler, 6 miles east of Yetholm, and 4 miles west of Crookham, the seat of
an English Presbyterian congregation, and about 2 miles east of the famous battle-
field of Flodden.
There had been for a long time numerous Presbyterians in the Beaumont Union,
who had no places of worship in their own connection nearer than those situated in
the places named above, and who were otherwise not well supplied with the means
of grace. These circumstances led them to apply for supply of sermon to the United
Presbyterian Presbytery of Berwick, which was granted in November 1849. They
were organised as a congregation in November 1850, with 120 members, chiefly of
persons previously connected with the United Presbyterian Church, with a few who
had been connected with the English Presbyterians. They met for a short time in
the village of Kilham, where it was expected a site would be obtained for a church.
No spot, however, in or near the village could be procured for this purpose, and
they were obliged to accept the corner of a field on the roadside, from Mr Ord, of
Nesbit, at the inconvenient distance already specified, and with no house of any
kind near it. Church built, 185 1 ; sittings, 400.
1st Alinister. — David Taylor, from the congregation of Pathstruiehill. Ordained
May 25, 1852. Resigned his charge, 23d April 1872, on going abioad.
HOLY ISLAND.
In August i860, the Revs. John Hunter and William Porteous were appointed
by Berwick Presbytery to conduct evangelistic services at Holy Island. Mr Hunter
was afterwards appointed superintendent of the mission — an ofiice he held till the
end of 1862, when he was succeeded by the Rev. James M'Leish. In November
1863, Mr M'Leish reported that occasional services had been held during the year,
and suggested the provision of stated supply on account of the spiritual destitution
of the place. It was agreed that a catechist be located — the mission board having
offered ^^o towards the salary of the agent. On 20th August 1867, a building was
rented for the meetings of the station, which was opened by the Rev. John Laing
on ist Sabbath of September. Mr Bannatyne, preacher, began his labours at the
same time, and continued them till the following April, when he was succeeded by
Mr Isaac Marwick, student, who continued till July 1870. Mr John Young,
student, began his work in October 1870, and remained till July 187 1. The
present missionary is Mr W. G. Forbes, student. The station was congregated on
19th April 1870, with 10 members; the present membership (1872) is 29.
114 The United Presbyterian Chnrch.
PRESBYTERY OF BUCHAN.
In 1824 the United Associate Synod divided the Presbytery of Aberdeen into
those of Aberdeen and Stewartfield. The Presbytery of Stewartfield changed its name
into that of Buchan, as more descriptive of its locality, in 1847, at which time it
included most of the congregations which have since formed the Presbytery of
Banff, and two which have been transferred to the Presbytery of Aberdeen.
CLOLA.
Clola is a hamlet in the parish of Old Deer, Aberdeenshire, 16 miles east of
Craigdam, and 2 south-east of Stewartfield.
The Rev. Mr Forbes of Old Deer was one of the 42 ministers who protested
against the Act of Assembly, 1732, and otherwise took part in the measures which
led to the Secession of the " Four Brethren," but did not secede with them. He
continued notwithstanding to inveigh from the pulpit against the corruptions of the
Church of Scotland, and thereby produced in the minds of several of his parishioners
dissatisfaction both towards himself and the Church so impugned by him. They
withdrew from his ministry in consequence, and along with other Seceders in the
surrounding district helped to form the congregation of Craigdam. They continued
in connection with this congregation till 1766, when, along wnth the Seceders in the
parish of New Deer, they were separated from it, and formed into the united con-
gregations of Whitehill and Clola, both of which the minister supplied till they also
were disjoined. Church built, 1784; sittings, 392.
\st Mi/lister. — William Mitchell. Ordained as minister of the united con-
gregations of Whitehill and Clola, 14th November 1770. After 1777, Mr Mitchell
confined his ministerial labours wholly to Clola, and left Whitehill to be supplied with
another minister. At the union of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820,
he took part with the " Protestors " against the union, and thus became separated
from the United Associate Synod. Mr Mitchell died in April 1832, in the 84th
year of his age, and 62d of his ministry. The congregation joined the Free Church
in 1852.
WHITEHILL.
Whitehill is in the parish of New Deer, Aberdeenshire, 13 miles south-west of
Fraserburgh, 16 west of Peterhead, and 2,2, north of Aberdeen.
The Rev. Mr Mair, of New Deer, was one of the ministers who protested
against the act of Assembly, 1732, and otherwise took part with "The Four
Brethren" in the procedure which led to their Secession, but did not himself secede.
This gave offence to many of his parishioners, who, in consequence, took part with
parishioners of Old Deer, Tarves, and Methlic, in forming the Secession Congrega-
tion of Craigdam. With this congregation they remained connected till 1766, when,
with the seceders in Old Deer, they were separated from it, and formed into the
United Congregations of Clola and Whitehill, with a place of worship at each, the
minister preaching every third Sabbath at the latter place. First church built, 1770 ;
second built, 1823 ; sittings, 450.
1st Mi/lister. — William Mitchell. Ordained over the congregations of Clola
i
Presbytery of Buchan — Peterhead, First and Second. 1 15
and Whitehill, 1770. After 1777, Mr Mitchell confined his ministerial labours
wholly to Clola, and the people of Whitehill were thus left to make choice of a
pastor for themselves.
The congregation called Mr Aitken, who was appointed by the Synod to
Kirriemuir.
2d Minister. — William Barlas, from Perth (North.) Ordained 26th August
1779. Called in 1781 to Aberdeen, but continued in Whitehill. Deposed 5th
September 1797. Emigrated to America, and died in New York, 7th January 1817.
A volume of his sermons, and another of his letters, consisting of his correspondence
with the Rev. John Newton, of pious memory, were published after his death.
■^d Minister. — John Bunyan, from Howgate, of which his father was minister.
Ordained at large 1780, along with several probationers, to allow of their dispensing
the sacraments in remote districts. Admitted to Whitehill i8th December 1798,
after nearly 20 years itinerancy. Died 20th December 1821, in the 70th year of his
age, and 23d year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Gilfillan, who was appointed to Stirling.
/^th Minister. — Adam Lind, from Craigdam. Ordained 7th August 1823. Died
3d May 1862, in the 79th year of his age, and 39th of his ministry. A Memoir of
his Life was published by his nephew. Rev. A. Lind, Elgin.
The congregation called Mr J. A. Murray, who preferred Burntisland, and Mr
M'Donald.
t^th Minister. — John Paterson, from Galston. Called to Kinkell and Wliite-
hill. Ordained 7th June 1864.
PETERHEAD.
Peterhead is a seaport town in the district of Buchan, Aberdeenshire, 32 miles
north-north-east of Aberdeen, and 40 east-south-east of Banff.
PETERHEAD (FIRST), Now Extinct.
This congregation originated with members of the congregation of Clola, resident
in and about Peterhead, who, finding it inconvenient to travel between these places
weekly, applied to the Presbytery to be formed into a separate congregation, with
its seat in the town, which was allowed, 1790. Church built, 1794; sittings, 507.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Clark, afterwards of
Dalreoch, who declined the call.
Minister. — Thomas Milne, from Chalmers' Street, Dunfermline. Ordained 14th
July 1796, Resigned 12th December 1815. Became probationer, but retired after
a time from the hst of preachers, and lived privately in Dunfermline till his death.
The congregation then continued vacant till the union of the two great branches
of the Secession, when the remaining members united with those of the second con-
gregation. The place of worship belonging to them was afterwards sold to the
Independents.
PETERHEAD (SECOND).
This congregation originated in a dispute which had arisen among the members
of the first congregation. Finding that harmony could not be restored, 43 of them
applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery
1 1 6 The United Presbyterian Church.
of Perth, 30th December 1799. Church built 1800; sittings, 500. Anew church
was opened on i6th May 1858, with sittings for 750, at a cost of ;2^i387, 7s. 2|d.
1st Alinister. — Robert Campbell, from Tarbolton. Ordained 27th May 1802.
Died 28th May 1852, in the 78th year of his age, and 51st of his ministry. Mr
Campbell published a discourse which he had preached on behalf of Missions, and
another occasioned by the death of Mr Glass of Aberdeen.
The congregation called Mr Drummond, who preferred Carlisle, and Atr W.
Morrison, who preferred Ayr.
2d Minister. — James Frame, from Lanark. Called to Newcastle and Peter-
head. Ordained 4th January 1854. Translated to Perth (York Place), 24th
February 1861.
3^ Minister. — ^VILLL'\M Galletly, from Edinburgh, Bristo Street. Ordained ist
January 1862. Demitted his charge on accepting the superintendentship of the
Edinburgh City Mission, 2 2d December 1869. Now minister of Tillicoultry.
A^th Minister. — John Dickson, from Edinburgh, Portsburgh. Called to Colins-
burgh and Peterhead. Ordained 9th November 1870.
NEW DEER.
New Deer is a parish in Aberdeenshire. The place of worship belonging to
the United Presbyterian congregation of New Deer is in the wood of Artamford,
by which name the congregation is more generally designated in the locality, and
stands about half-a-mile from the village of New Deer, 5 miles south-west of White-
hill, and 6 from Stewartfield.
The congregation of Artamford or New Deer originated in some difference
which had taken place among the members of the congregation of Whitehill, which
led a portion of them to apply for supply of sermon to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Aberdeen, 1803, which was granted. Church built, 1804; sittings, 380.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Maclaurin, who was
appointed by the Synod to Coldingham.
Yst Minister. — Fullerton Paterson, from Biggar, North. Called to Queens-
ferry and New Deer. Ordained 30th August 1809. Died i8th June 1853, in the
78th year of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
A call was given to Mr Erskine, who preferred Burghead ; to Mr M 'Queen,
who preferred Milngavie ; and to Mr Harrower, who declined the call, and was
afterwards of Eyemouth.
2d Minister. — John Alexander, A.M., from Kilmarnock (Princes Street).
Ordained 4th November 1856. Demitted his charge on account of ill health, loth
January 1865. Lived some time in Dollar. Died in Glasgow, nth August 1871.
3urnhead, 20th December 1809. Moderator of Synod in 1816. Died 22d February
1857, in the 85th year of his age and 60th of his ministry.
id Minister. — John Smith, from Falkirk (West). Ordained as colleague to Mr
Dobbie, 2 2d March 1836. Died 3d March 1853, in the 43d year of his age, and
17 th of his ministry.
^ih Minister. — William Macdonald, from Grcyfriars, Glasgow. Ordained as
colleague to Mr Dobbie, 23d February 1854. Author of "Security and Danger."
Presbytery of Dumfries — L oclimabeii — Castle- Douglas. 1 5 3
LOCHMABEN.
Lochmaben is a royal burgh in Annandale, Dumfriesshire, 4 miles west of Locker-
bie, and 8 north-east of Dumfries.
The Rev. Mr Johnston, of Ecclefechan, intimated his intention to preach in
Lochmaben, on a Sabbath in the year 1790, and a tent was erected for the purpose.
But on coming to the place on the morning of the day specified, he found the tent
demolished and the fragments of it floating in the lake which gives its name to the
town. He was deterred by this circumstance from preaching there at that time,
but afterwards carried his intention into execution, and was so encouraged by the
attendance given him that he continued to visit the place occasionally, and each
time with increasing success. A number of persons in and about Lochmaben were
drawn by these visits to attend regularly upon his ministry at Ecclefechan, notwith-
standing the distance between the places. When Mr Dunlop removed to Dumfries,
he also paid occasional visits to Lochmaben, and preached to an immense concourse
of people assembled in the open fields. Several of them were drawn to attend regu-
larly upon his ministry, as others had been upon that of Mr Johnston. In 181 2,
the members of Dumfries and Ecclefechan congregations resident in and about
Lochmaben, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Selkirk. Church built, 1813; sittings, 800. In 1869 the church was
thoroughly renovated at a cost of ^500. It is now seated for 500, and was re-
opened by Professor Harper on 8th March 1870.
\st Minister. — Andrew Young, from Balfron. Called to Coupar-Angus, Kil-
marnock, and Lochmaben. Ordained 26th October 1813. Called a second time
to Kilmarnock 18 14, but was continued by the Synod in Lochmaben, notwithstand-
ing his strongly-expressed wish to remove from it, which circumstance led a number
of persons in Kilmarnock to withdraw from the connection and form the Original
Associate (Burgher) Congregation there. Mr Young resigned his charge in Loch-
maben, 2ist May 1828, and afterwards was admitted to Lanark in 1830.
2d Minister. — Andrew Martin, from Lauder. Ordained i8th August 183 1.
Died 22d November 1865, in the 62d year of his age, and 35th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr R. Lindsay, who accepted Creetown.
3^ Minister. — Alexander M'Donald, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh.
Called to Cullybackey, Sandwick, and Lochmaben. Ordained i6th July 1867.
CASTLE-BO UGLAS.
Castle-Douglas is a town in the parish of Kelton, and stewartry of Kirkcud-
bright, on the road from Kirkcudbright to Dumfries, iS miles south-by-west of
Dumfries, and 10 north-east of Kirkcudbright.
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
Though Casde-Douglas be a town of considerable size and population, the
church of the parish in which it is situated is nearly two miles distant from it ; and
up to the commencement of the present century it had no place of worship nearer
it. Many of its inhabitants found it inconvenient to travel so far every week, and
were therefore led in the year 1800 to apply to the General Assembly of the Estab-
154 T^^^ United Presbyterian CJinrch.
lished Church for permission to erect a chapel of ease in the town, which, notwith-
standing the application was supported by Sir William Douglas of Galston Castle,
an extensive proprietor in the place, was refused. I'he applicants, thwarted in this
quarter, turned to another, and succeeded in obtaining supply of sermon from the
Relief Presbytery of Dumfries in September 1800. A large congregation was speedily
formed. A church containing 700 sittings was erected upon an advantageous site
in the town, granted them by Sir William Douglas upon very reasonable terms, in 1801.
\st Minister. — William Boag, from Dovehill, Glasgow. Called to Waterbeck
and Castle-Douglas. Ordained 8th March 1803. Resigned i8th December 18 10.
Admitted to Strathkinnes 181 1.
2d Minister. — Robert Cameron, from the congregation of Dovehill, Glasgow.
Ordained iSth July 181 1. Translated to East Kilbride, 17th June 181 7.
Unfavourable circumstances had been affecting the congregation before Mr
Boag's resignation, and these were greatly increased in number and force after Mr
Cameron's removal. Sir William Douglas, who, though not a member, was a regular
hearer in the church, and most friendly-disposed towards it, died ; the pecuniary
affairs became embarrassed, the supporters of the cause lost heart, the property was
sold in 1820, and the congregation dispersed. The place of worship belongs now
to a congregation in connection with the Reformed Presbytery.
SECOND CHURCH.
After the first congregation of Castle-Douglas, whose history is given above,
became disorganised, several of its members applied to the Secession Presbytery of
Dumfries for supply of sermon, which was granted. They met for worship some-
times in the Mason Lodge and sometimes in the open fields. Encouraged by the
attendance, they resolved to build a church, and with this view obtained a site on
the estate of Suffolk, which lies on the boundary of Crossmichael parish, next to
Castle-Douglas, but beyond the town, and proceeded with its erection ; but before
it was furnished with seats, circumstances hostile to the cause arose, and not only
hindered its further progress, but prevented the formation of the congregation. The
house was sold and used for secular purposes, till another and more successful
attempt to raise a congregation was made, when it was bought and occupied as a
church.
Nothing daunted by previous foilures, a few persons in Castle-Douglas pressed
certain members of the Dumfries Relief Presbytery to get that })lace included in the
Presbytery's Home Missionary operations, which was done in August 1833. A
petition for regular supply of sermon followed in a short time, and in the end of
1835 a congregation was organised in the usual way. Two persons taking interest
in the cause purchased the house referred to above, as built by the promoters of the
vSecession movement, in the name of the congregation, but the deeds were drawn for
themselves and their heirs, which created considerable difiicultics afterwards. This
house was fitted up with 320 sittings, and otherwise rendered comfortable. A new
church was opened in 1870 with sittings for 375, at a cost of ;!^i3oo.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Nelson, afterwards
of Carluke, who declined the call.
\st Minister. — James Jenkins, from St Ninians. Ordained, 1S37. Died 14th
March 1867, in the 67th year of his age, and 30th of his ministry. Author of " The
Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Christ : " a Sermon.
Presbytery of Duiufries — Thornhill — Dunscorc — Dairy. 1 5 5
2d Minister. — James Rothnie, INI. A., from Old Meldrum. Ordained 19th
November 1867.
THORNHILL.
Thornhill is a village in the parish of Morton, Upper Nithsdale, Dumfriesshire,
8 miles east-north-east of Moniaive, 12 south-east by south of Sanquhar, and 14
north-north-west of Dumfries.
The history of this congregation has been given along with that of Moniaive,
with which it was connected till 1805, when it was disjoined from it, and organised
as a separate congregation. First church built, 1784; second built, 18163 sittings,
480.
\st Minister. — James Pattison. Ordained as minister of the united congrega-
tions of Moniaive and Thornhill, 1788. At the disjunction of the congregations in
1805, Mr Pattison was allowed to make his choice of either. He preferred Thorn-
hill. Died 1 8 16, in the 63d year of his age, and 39th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Rogerson, from Lockerbie. Ordained 28th August
181 7. Died 4th September 1857, in the 63d year of his age, and 41st of his
ministry. Mr Rogerson published a Lecture, entitled, " A Few Phases of Society,"
deUvered to the Thornhill Institute on the 6th March 1857.
The congregation called Mr Thomas M'Ewan, who preferred Potterrow, Edin-
burgh; Mr P. C. Duncanson, who preferred West Calder; Mr David Cameron,
who accepted Mearns.
id Minister. — Robert Wishart, from Millport. Ordained nth October i860.
DUNSCORE.
Dunscore is a village in the parish of the same name, Nithsdale, Dumfriesshire,
9 miles north-west of Dumfries, 9 south of Thornhill, and 7^ south-east of Moniaive.
The United Presbyterian Congregation in this place originated in dissatisfaction
by a number of persons in the district with the ministrations of the parish incum-
bent. They applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery
of Dumfries, September 1814, were organised as a congregation the following year,
and built their place of worship in 1816. A new church was built in 1864, Avith
sittings for 320, at a cost of ^850.
\st Minister. — Matthew Beattie from King Street, Kilmarnock. Ordained
ist April 181 7. Died 23d June 1858, in the 72d year of his age, and 42d of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — George Barclay, from St Andrews. Called to Mearns, Holm of
Balfron, and Dunscore. Ordained 31st May 1859.
DALRY.
Dairy is a village in the parish of the same name, Kirkcudbrightshire, 20 miles
west of Castle-Douglas, and 24 north-west of Kirkcudbright.
Mr Ramsay, a probationer of the United Secession Church, being on his way to
fulfil synodical appointments in Wigtownshire, and having no engagement for the
Sabbath then approaching, called, at the suggestion of the Rev, Mr M'Geoch of
156 The United Presbyterian Church.
Moniaive, upon one of his members resident in Dairy, and offered to preach in the
village, or elsewhere in the neighbourhood, if an audience could be procured. The
offer was readily accepted, and the village of New Galloway, 3 miles south-east of
Dairy, was fixed upon as the most eligible place in the district for the purpose. Mr
Ramsay preached there accordingly on one of the Sabbaths in September 1820, and
the attendance was such as to induce the Presbytery to follow up this spontaneous
act by sending regularly-appointed preachers occasionally to the place, who were
equally well received. The meetings for worship were held in the open air in
summer and in barns in the winter, till 1826, when the parties taking interest in the
movement provided themselves with a comfortable church, containing 200 sittings,
in Dairy, at a cost of ^201,
\st Alinistcr. — John Reid, from Mauchline. Called to Cowgate, Edinburgh,
and Lauriston, Glasgow, both of which calls he declined ; and sometime after ac-
cepted one to Dairy, where he was ordained 8th October 1829. Suspended from the
exercise of his ministry by the United Associate Synod in 1833; ^.nd on refusing
to submit to this sentence, was declared no longer a minister or member of the
United Secession Church. He afterwards joined the Original Associate (Burgher)
Synod, and became minister of a congregation in that connection in Bathgate.
Joined the Established Church, along with the majority of the Original Associate
Synod, in 1839, and recently held a charge in Liverpool in that connection.
The congregation called Mr Henderson, who preferred Dairy in Ayrshire.
2d Alinistcr. — Alexander Ritchie, from Perth (North). Ordained ist August
1834. Resigned, 1841. Proceeded to Canada as one of the Synod's missionaries
to that covmtry, and became minister of a congregation in Ayr, Presbytery of Flam-
boro, Canada West.
3^ Minister. — Alexander Paterson, A.M. Called to Sunderland and Dairy.
Ordained 30th May 1843.
DALBEATTIE.
Dalbeattie lies in a beautiful vale half-a-mile in breadth, which is watered by the
Urr on its way to the Solway Firth, 5 miles below the town. It contains a popula-
tion of nearly 2500, most of whom are engaged in the granite quarrying and polish-
ing, which is extensively carried on there. Small vessels can steer up to the town,
between which and Liverpool there is a considerable carrying trade in guano and
granite. The town is one of rapid growth, and not older than 80 or 90 years. It
is in the parish of Urr, 14 miles south-west of Dumfries, and 5 south-east of Castle-
Douglas. It is a station on the railway from Dumfries to Port-Patrick. Several
])ublic works, such as flour-mills, saw-mills, pirn-mills, paper-mills, and bone-mills,
and the granite-polishing works, flourish in the place. There are churches connected
with the Established, Free, United Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, and Evangelical
Union Churches.
On the 27th March 1858, a meeting was held in the house of Mr John Ker to
consider the propriety of making application to the United Presbytery of Dumfries
for the opening of a preaching station. Accordingly, a petition was drawn up and
signed by Messrs R. Thomson, Edingham ; James M 'Robert, Reedweel ; James
Wright, Munches; and Thomas Maxwell, W. Reid, W. Heughan, Thomas Rawline,
John Ker, and James Grieve, of Dalbeattie. The petition was presented to the Pres-
bytery of Dumfries on 3d May, and the prayer thereof was granted. On the 23d May
Presbytery of Dundee — School Wynd. 157
tlie Rev. M. N. Goold preached in the hall of the Commercial Hotel, and formally
opened the station. A meeting was held on 28th May in the house of Mr W.
Heughan, and a committee, consisting of Messrs Ker, Heughan, Renton, Thomson,
Grieve, Maxwell, Rawline, Paterson, and M'Robert, was appointed to manage the
affairs of the station. Another meeting was held on 3d August, at which it was
agreed to petition the Presbytery to be erected into a regular congregation. A
deputation from the Presbytery visited Dalbeattie on the 21st September, when a
number of members lately connected with the congregation of Urr, together with
several lately connected with the Free Church, and other churches, were formed
into a congregation. Office-bearers were elected on i8th November, a constitution
drawn up, and a missionary committee appointed. »
After hearing a succession of preachers, the new congregation gave a unanimous
call, on 19th April 1859, to their present minister, promising a stipend of ^120 from
their own resources, with four Sabbaths a-year for holidays.
The number of members at the date of Mr Kinnear's ordination was 55. It has
steadily increased ever since, and is now 155.
The new church was opened for public worship by Rev. Dr Macfarlane, of
London, and Dr Eadie, of Glasgow, in October 1861, and is seated for 350, with
provision for a gallery when required, so as to accommodate 600 persons. It has
cost ^1000, of which ;^2 5o were given by the Ferguson Trustees, ;^i2o by the
Debt Liquidating Board, and the rest subscribed by the people. Steps are now
(1872) being taken for the erection of a manse, which is to cost ;^7oo.
\st Minister. — David Kinnear, B. A., from Buckhaven. Ordained 30th August
1859.
PRESBYTERY OF DUNDEE.
The Presbytery of Dundee was formed in 1840 by the division of the Presbytery
of Forfar into the Presbyteries of Dundee and Arbroath. Four congregations
previously belonging to the Presbytery of Cupar were transferred at the same time
to the Presbytery of Dundee. The Presbytery of Forfar thus divided was formed
by the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod in 1788, by a separation of the
congregations composing it, from the Presbytery of Perth. At the union of the two
great branches of the Secession in 1820, the Associate (Burgher) congregations in
the district were added to it. It was further increased by new congregations, and
these circumstances admitted of its division at the time and in the manner specified.
DUNDEE.
Dundee is a large manufacturing town and seaport on the Tay, Forfarshire,
22 miles east of Perth, 42 north-east of Edinburgh, and dd south-by-west of
Aberdeen.
SCHOOL WYND.
The Rev. John Willison of Dundee, well known as the author of " The Afflicted
Man's Companion," and other popular theological works, co-operated with " The
15^ The United Presbyterian Cluirch.
Four Brethren" in testifying against the abuses of the EstabHshed Church, of which
they complained, and thereby led his congregation to expect that he would secede
with them. But instead of this he took part against them after their Secession, by
writing a book vindicating the conduct of the General Assembly towards them.
When pubhshing a second edition of his "Sacramental Addresses," he thus wrote:
"At that time (17 II) presentation hunters among Presbyterians would have ap-
peared as monsters, and their society frightful ; but now, alas ! they are become
tame and familiar creatures to us. It is this woeful practice, together with the itch
of pleasing great men, that hath of late been the great snare to draw in judicatories
to go cross to our declared principles, by making intrusions and violent settlements
in Christian congregations, to the ruin, alas! of the glorious Gospel, a >id of precious
souls therein, and upon that account alone, though we had no acts nor declared
principles against intrusions, it is astonishing to think how any man that Jiat/i the
glory of his Master and the sailing of souls at hca?-t, ^howld ever concur in a violent
setdement that is manifestly destructive of both." Yet only four years after writing
thus, he published his " Fair and Impartial Testimony," wherein he condemns the
Seceding brethren in the following terms for having made similar remarks : " We
must regret their casting slanders on their worthy ancestors, and on their mother
Church, in their act and testimony, and other papers emitted or adopted by them."
After quoting some of these, he adds : " These are but a swatch of the many false
aspersions contained in their writings, besides those which they daily cast upon
their brethren in their sermons. Alas ! that brethren who are concerned for the
same Gospel interest should take such methods to slander their own mother's sons,
to discredit their persons, and blast their ministry, especially when God is pleased
to countenance several of them remarkably in their w^ork. There are indeed
many evils in the National Church ; but it is sinful to calumniate her and make
her defections greater than they are." This glaring inconsistency on the part of
Mr Willison highly offended several of his people, who on that account withdrew
from his ministry and acceded to the Associate Presbytery, They formed them-
selves into praying societies, which met in the houses of Mr John Moore and Mr
Thomas Robertson. They were afterwards joined with Seceders in Forfarshire
and the Mearns, under the designation of " The Association of the North," and
received supply of sermon at different places as the Presbytery were able to afford
it. At the request of this Association, the Rev. Mr Moncriefif of Abernethy preached
and held a fast by appointment of Presbytery at Dumbarrow in July 1740 — the
minister of that parish being favourable to the movement — the Seceders in Dundee,
Coupar-Angus, Fettercairn, Montrose, and other places adjacent, attending upon
the occasion. Dundee and Montrose came afterwards to be the chief preaching
stations, and the persons regularly assembling at them were considered as fomiing
one congregation. In 1745, they presented calls to Mr James Johnston, afterwards
of Dundee, and Mr John Swanston, afterwards of Kinross, to become collegiate
ministers, but the Presbytery set aside both calls, and divided the Association into
separate congregations. The congregation of Dundee proceeded immediately to
the erection of a place of worship, which was rebuilt in 1825, and contains loio
sittings.
ist Minister. — James Johnston. Withdrew from the Established Church,
while a probationer in that connection, and acceded to the Associate Presbytery.
Called twice to Dundee, and ordained there i6th April 1746. Adhered with the
majority of his congregation to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at " The Breach,"
Presbytery of Dundee — School Wynd. 159
1747. Called in 1749 to Kirkcaldy, but remained in Dundee. Died 15th Nov-
ember 1750, in the 38th year of his age and 5th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Erskine, who was appointed by the Synod
to Stirling.
2d Minista'. — William M'Ewan, from Perth (South), Ordained 1754. Died
suddenly at Leith, while returning home with his bride, 13th January 1 762, being then
in the 28thyearof his age and 8th of his ministry. Author of a work on "TheTypes;"
a Sermon, entitled " The Great Matter and End of Gospel Preaching," preached at
the ordination of the Rev. Alexander Dick, Aberdeen ; and a volume of Essays.
3^/ Minister. — Thomas Lister, from Kirkcaldy (First). Ordained 17 th Sep-
tember 1762. Died 1 8th June 1766, in the 27th year of his age and 4th of his
ministry. The Rev. Mr Shirra of Kirkcaldy published his dying sayings under the
title of " A Deathbed Dialogue."
The congregation called Mr Kinloch, afterwards of Paisley, but his settlement
in Dundee was prevented.
4//^ Minister. — James Clunie, from Leslie (East), called to Alloa and Dundee.
Ordained 4th November 1767. Died suddenly June 1768, in the 7th month of
his ministry, while assisting at the dispensation of the Lord's Supper in Leslie.
Commissioners from the congregation of Shuttle Street, now Greyfriars, Glasgow,
had come to Kirkcaldy to lay a call to him from that congregation before the
Presbytery, but instead thereof, had the melancholy duty of attending his funeral
before returning home. The excitement produced by that call, and the perplexity
he felt in determining the path of duty as the result of it, are understood to have
deranged his mind and led to his death.
^th Minister. — William Ballantyne, from West Linton, called to Cani-
busnethan, Dunse, and Dundee. Ordained 24th October 1770. Loosed from
his charge 9th May 1776, in consequence of the declared dissatisfaction of his
people with his ministrations. He itinerated for a long time as a probationer,
but never obtained another charge.
The congregation called Mr Blackball, afterwards of Golden Square, Berwick,
who met with the Presbytery, but disappeared while the members of it were
proceeding to the church to ordain him. He adopted this course, according to
his own confession, to avoid being settled in Dundee, having been terror-
stricken by reflecting on the short incumbencies of the Secession ministers up
to this period in Dundee. He was publicly rebuked by the Synod for such
conduct, but allowed to accept a call from Berwick,
dth Minister. — James Black, from Biggar (North). Ordained 25th September
1782. Died 14th July 1814, in the 56th year of his age and 32nd of his ministry.
"ith Minister. — George Donaldson, from Shuttle Street, now Greyfriars, Glas-
gow. Called to Lochwinnoch, Newbigging, Auchtermuchty, and Dundee. Ordained
30th August 1815. Died 24th October 1831, in the 39th year of his age and 17th
of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Wardrope, but the call was not sustained, in conse-
quence of a petition against it, more numerously signed than the call itself,
which led to the formation of Tay Square congregation, under the notice of which
further reference is made to him.
Wi Minister. — Alexander Davidson, from Regent Place, Glasgow, called to
Hawick, Hamilton, and Dundee. Ordained 8th January 1833. Translated to
Lothian Road, Edinburgh, 21st May 1835.
i6o TJie United Presbyterian ClnircJi.
i)th Minister. — George Gilfili.an, from Comrie, of which his father was minister.
Called to Comrie and Dundee. Ordained 23d March 1836.
Autlior of "Five Discourses;" "Hades, or the Unseen ;" " Lord Byron, a I>ecture;" "Galleries
of Literary Portraits," 3 vols. ; " Essay on British Poetry," prefixed to " British Poesy," by
Tei^g, London ; "Lives of Poets, Critical Dissertations," etc., prefixed to Nichol's edition of
" British Poets," 48 vols. ; "The Grand Discovery, or the Fatherhood of God ;" "The Apoca-
lypse of Jesus Christ," a Sermon preached in Aberdeen ; "The Groans of Creation, and ihe
Glorious Liberty of the Children of God," 1853 ; " Approaching and Inevitable Doom of Popery ;"
"Christian Bearings of Astronomy;" "Righteousness of Defensive War;" "Memoir and Re-
mains of the Rev. J. C. Houston, Newcastle ;" "Introduction to The Genesis, a Poem," by Dr
E. Howard ; " Tire Bards of the Bible ;" "Martyrs, Heroes, and Bards of the Scottish Covenant;"
"Introduction to Longfellow's Poems," Liverpool Edition; "Bryant's Poems, with Preface;"
" Preface to Nevay's Poems ;" " Preface to Jamieson's Letters ;" " Preface to A Satire ;" " Pre-
face to Life of J. I. Hillock;" "Several Papers in Rogers' Scottish Minstrel;" "Lecture to
Otld Fellows' Society ;" Paper in " Glasgow Album " (University) ; Paper in " Dumfries Album ;"
"Burke as an Historian;" Poem in Glasgow Album, "The Last Comet;" "Preface to Poems by
James Easton ;" " History of a Man ;" " Christianity and our Era ;" " Debasing and Demoralising
Inlluence of Slavery;" ''Alpha and Omega," 2 vols. ; "Remoter Stars in the Church Sky;"
"Modern Christian Heroes;" "Night, a Poem;" "Life of Sir Walter Scott;" Articles in
X\\2, British Quarterly, Eclectic, and Scottish I\ez'ieivs ; ^nd in Taifs Mai^azine, Mcliora, Evangelical
Magazine, United Presbyterian Magazine, The Critic, Forzvard, Christian Spectator, Dial, Weekly
Revie-v, Christian Times ; and in Dundee Advertiser and Courier, Glasgotu Citizen, Scotsman,
People's Journal, and People's Friend; Papers in "Logan's Words of Comfort."
BELL STREET.
This congregation originated in the Breach, the persons composing it being
the minority of the School Wynd Congregation who adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher), while the majority adhered to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod. They were organised in 1 751, and worshipped in a hall in the town till
1764, when they removed to a Church which they had erected for themselves. Li
1840 they built their present place of worship in Bell Street, containing 1300
sittings, with a hall below, capable of holding 700 sitters, at a cost of ^5000.
isi Jlfi//isler.—A:>iDRE\v Scott, from Abernethy. Ordained loth November
1 761. Suspended by the Presbytery from the exercise of his ministry 1763, on the
charge of preaching sentiments different from those held by the Church of which
he was a minister. Mr Scott continued to preach in defiance of this sentence, and
was deposed from office for contumacy, 1767. He joined the Independents,
removed to London, and died there.
A portion of the members wished to retain the property belonging to the con-
gregation, among whom was Mr Jobson, the trustee, in whose name the rights to it
had been made out. The majority, not concurring in this wish, raised an action at
law to compel him to deliver up the rights and property to them. The ground of
the action, as stated by the pursuers, was that "in 1763-4 the Associate Congrega-
tion of Dundee, then called Antiburgher, had authorised Mr Jobson, one of their
members, to purchase ground, and enter into contracts for building a place of worship
for them on the same." Jobson admitted that the right to the property was taken in
his name for behoof of the congregation, professing at the time Antiburgher prin-
ciples, but contended that after the house was built the minister, to whom he and
others adhered, had altered the opinions held at the time the house was built, and
that they now differed from these Antiburgher oi)inions in sundry particulars,
especially with respect to the National Covenant and the Solemn League and
Covenant, and the use that is to be made of tliem. These oi)inions being con-
sidered innovations, that part of the congregation that differed from them had applied
to the Associate Presbytery, who, causa cognata, had suspended the minister.
Presbytery of Dundee — Bell Street. 1 6 1
Jobson defended the action on the ground that the pursuers had no title, that
the congregation had no nomen juris. The Lord Ordinary pronounced the following
interlocutor in the case :-" In respect Mr Jobson, the defendant, has admitted that
he understood the right of the meeting-house and area in question to be a trust in
his person for behoof of the Antiburgher congregation, and that it appears that the
pursuers, with those that concur with their congregation, were a majority of that
congregation at the time of the trust, sustains the pursuers' titles to carry on the
action, and finds that the defender is bound to denude himself of said trust in their
favour " The question having been reported to the Court, an exception was taken
to the designation of the proprietors, as in the name of the Associate Congregatioii
of Dundee, subject to the Associate Synod (it ought to have been the General
Associate congregation) which designation having been struck out, the Court
adopted the Lord Ordinary's Interlocutor, and sustained the action. The case is
known as that of "Wilson versus Jobson, 13th December 1771."
2d Minister. -^MA.XKM Barlas, from Perth (North). Ordained 13th October
1772. Died 5th August i779> in the 7th year of his ministry.
The congregation called— ist, Mr Jamieson, who was appointed by the Synod
to Forfar ; 2d, Mr Graham, who was appointed to Rothesay ; 3d, Mr Lamg, who
was appointed to Dunse. „ -, . t, ^u
xd J//;«>/.r.-jAMES M'EWAN, previously of Workington, called to Perth,
Kinclaven, and Dundee. Admitted 29th June 1785. Died 25th September 1813,
in the 63d year of his age, and 34th year of his ministry.
Ath J/.;»V/.r.-MATTHEW Fraser, from Rothesay, called to Peebles and Dundee.
Ordained as colleague to Mr M'Ewan, 9th October 1809. Resigned 23d September
1 845 Removed to Rothesay, and lived there privately till his death 8th September
1857 in the 45th year of his ministry-the Synod allowing him an annuity of ^20
Mr Fraser published " A Doctrinal Catechism of the Secession Church ; ' and ' A
Catechism on the Principles of the Secession Church." ^ n t .
.th Minister.-\Nii.i.ixu Broadfoot Borwick, from Kirkwall. Called to
Brechin, Rousay, and Dundee. Ordained as colleague to Mr Fraser 12th May
183^ Called in 1845 to Rattray, but remained in Dundee. Demitted his charge
on account of ill-health, 28th March 1866, on which occasion the congregation
presented him with a sum of money (about ^900). Died iSth June 1870, m the
63d year of his age, and 36th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Mather, who accepted Langbank.
m Minister.-]on^ Brand, from Coatbridge. Ordained September 1867.
DUDHOPE CRESCENT ROAD.
This congregation originated in 1787. A number of persons belonging to the
Relief Church having settled in Dundee, petitioned the Presbytery of Perth to be
formed into a congregation. The petition was granted, and the petitioners proceeded
to the erection of a Church in Chapelshade in 1788.
.St Minister.-] KU^^ Smith, previously of Dunfermline. _ Admitted 1790. Mr
Smith having advanced ^^400 to the congregation in security of the Church took
advantage of this circumstance, in September 1 791, in joining the Established Church
A majority of the congregation accompanied him, and the property was retained
by them as a Chapel of Ease of the Establishment. In 1834 it became a guoad
sacra parish.
1 62 The United Presbyterian Church.
The minority of Mr Smith's congregation adhered to the Relief Synod, and in
1792 built a church for themselves in Temple Lane, containing 900 sittings. In
June of that year they applied to the Presbytery of Perth to be constituted anew,
which being obtained, they issued a call to Rev. Niel Douglas to be minister.
2d Minister.— ^\Y.\. Douglas, previously of Cupar Fife. Admitted to Dundee
i6th January 1793. Demitted his charge i6th November 1798, and removed to
Edinburgh, where he established a printing office, and preached to a small con-
gregation. He then removed to Greenock, and latterly to Glasgow, as a Universalist
preacher. Died 9th January 1823, in the 73d year of his age.
Author of an "Address to the Judges and Jury in a Case of Alleged Sedition, 26th May 1S17 ; "
" Strictures on the Author's Trial," etc. ; " Petition to the House of Commons ;" " Defences of the
Restoration of all Things;" "Mission to the Highlands in 1797;" " Messiah's Titles, Husband,
Redeemer, Proof of His Proper Deity," three Sermons; "Antidote to Deism."
The majority of the congregation became Independents, and applied to one of
the English Congregational Academies for preachers. In this way they were sup-
plied more or less regularly till their junction with the congregation of Dr David
Russell, formerly worshipping in the Sailor's Hall, when the united body took
possession of Temple Lane Church. The Independent congregation occupied
Temple Lane Church till 1833, when they removed to Ward Chapel.
The minority of Mr Douglas's congregation continued to adhere to the Relief
Church, and again applied to the Presbytery of Perth to be formed into a congre-
gation, which took place in 1799. A large hall in New Inn Entry was purchased,
and fitted up as a place of worship, with accommodation for 900 sitters.
yi Minister. — Alexander Paterson, from Saint Paul Street, Aberdeen. Or-
dained 15th January iSoo. Died 6th August 1809, in the 36th year of his age and
loth of his ministry.
A^th Minister. — John Lawson, previously of Dumfries. Admitted 6th June 181 1.
Part of the congregation was opposed to the settlement of Mr Lawson, and
withdrew at length from his ministry, and by ordinance of Presbytery were formed
into a separate congregation, 6th May 18 12, called the Second Relief Congregation.
The party under Mr Lawson soon became extinct. In 181 7 they withdrew from
connection with the Relief Synod, and retained the property. Mr Lawson preached
for some time in various halls in Dundee, and after leaving the town became a
preacher. He died near Edinburgh at an advanced age, in 1845.
The second Relief congregation, formed in 18 12, worshipped in a chapel in
Seagate, formerly occupied by the Episcopalians, which they got for ^1000, with
sittings for 870. The minister they obtained we shall, for continuity of narrative,
regard as
5/// Minister. — Robert Hall, from Jedburgh, High Street. Ordained 7th
April 1813. Translated to Berwick loth May 18 14.
(ith Minister. — Robert Strang, previously of Ford. Admitted 25th January
1815. Resigned 7th June 1820. Admitted to Carrubbers' Close, Edinburgh, 1825.
After his resignation of Dundee, he prosecuted the congregation, which had never
prospered under him, for arrears of stipend.
Mr James Jardine took upon him the pastorate of the fragments of Mr Strang's
congregation, and was, on application to the Presbytery, received along with the
congregation in 1S20. He remained but a short time, after which they issued a call
to Mr A. Harvey, who preferred Kilmarnock, and one to Mr David Rcston, who
preferred Coupar- Angus.
Presbytery of Dundee — fames' Church — Tay Sgtiare. 163
ph Mitiister. — John Cross. Ordained 20th February 1823. Died 29th January
1843, in the 47th year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
The Independents having left Temple Lane for their new church in Constitution
Road, Mr Cross' congregation bought back Temple Lane Church in 1833. Some
disagreement thereafter took place, when a party withdrew and formed a separate
congregation, now James' Church, Bell Street.
Wi Mim's^er.—]onN Symington, from Glasgow (Dovehill). Ordained ist June
1843. Translated to Edinburgh (Bread Street), in 1845.
gf/i Minister. — Robert Gemmel, previously of Cupar-Fife. Admitted to Dundee
5th April 1846. Called to Errol (Second Congregation), 25th June 1849, but
declined the call. Translated to Edinburgh (Arthur Street), in July 1855.
\oth Minister. — James Wilson, from Stonehouse. Ordained 30th April 1856.
Since Mr Wilson's settlement the congregation have cleared off ^600 of debt
incident on the purchase and repair of Temple Lane Church. They have also
erected a new place of worship in Dudhope Crescent Road, as more eligible than
Temple Lane. The new church cost ;,^2ooo, accommodates 650 sitters, and was
opened by Professor Eadie on 22d December 1870, and on the following Sabbath,
25th December, by Rev. George Jeffrey, D.D., Glasgow, and by Rev. John Wilson,
D.D., Moderator of the Free Church Assembly.
JAMES' CHURCH.
This congregation originated with a party which withdrew from Temple Lane
Church about the year 1837. They met for a time in the Sailors' Hall, Castle
Street, till they obtained a minister, when they removed to the Union Hall. A
church was built in Bell Street, called James' Church, and opened by Rev. Dr
Anderson of Glasgow, in April 1845.
\st Minister. — James Reston, previously of Newton-Stewart. Inducted in
Ward Chapel 24th January 1838. Died 23d April 1865, in the 65th year of his
age, and 40th of his ministry. Mr Reston preached twice on the day of his death.
2d Mitiister. — Robert Laurie, previously of West Linton. Admitted 6th
September 1867.
TAY SQUARE.
The Secession congregation in School Wynd, Dundee, having become vacant
by the death of th^ incumbent in 1832, the members composing it proceeded to
make choice of another pastor, and a call was brought out for Mr Robert Wardrop,
probationer. This call was opposed by a large portion of the congregation — the
petition against it containing more signatures than the call itself — which circumstance
prevented the Presbytery from sustaining the call. A second moderation was
granted, and Mr Wardrop was again put in nomination, but the other candidate had
a majority of 22. His supporters declined to concur in the call to his successful
competitor, and, expecting to obtain Mr Wardrop for their minister, petitioned
the Presbytery to be disjoined from School Wynd and formed into a separate
congregation, which was granted. They met for a short time in the Caledonian
Hall, Castle Street, and after that in Thistle Hall, Union Street, from which they
removed, in 1834, to a commodious place of worship they had built for themselves
in Tay Square, at a cost of ;!^2300, containing 1014 sittings.
1 64 The United Presbyterian Church.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Wardrop, on whose
account they separated from the parent congregation in Dundee, but the call was
withdrawn at his own request, the state of his health not permitting him to accept
of it. He was afterwards called to Liverpool and Dumfries. His illness necessi-
tated his withdrawal from preaching. He died 17th March 1840, in the 33d year
of his age. A volume of posthumous sermons, with Memoir by W. R. Thorburn,
was afterwards published.
\st Minister. — James R. M'Gavin, D.D., from Irvine (East). Called to Cupar,
Campbelton, Dunoon, and Dundee. Ordained at Dundee 26th November 1833.
Had the degree of D.D. conferred on him by Princeton College, New Jersey, in
March 1858.
Author of a "Lecture on the Early Choice of Right Principles ;" " Perils by Sea and Land,
being a Narrative of the Loss of the Brig 'Australia' by Fire, on her voyage from Leith to Syd-
ney;" "Sailors' Prayer Book, a Manual of Devotion for Sailors at Sea and their Families at Home,
suitable also for Passengers and Emigrants during their Voyage ;" "Pastoral Sketches;" " Pocket
Commentary on the Bible."
WISHART CHURCH.
This congregation originated in a desire to have a Secession place of worship
in the eastern part of the town. The persons thus acting met for the first time
as a congregation in the Old Roman Catholic Chapel, Meadowside, on the
1 8th of February 1837, but removed soon after to the Caledonian Hall,
Castle Street. In 1841 they built a place of worship near the Old Port-
gate, where the venerable George Wishart, afterwards martyred at St Andrews,
preached during the plague, and because of its vicinity to this place, named it
"Wishart Church." The congregation have, for some time, been making arrange-
ments for rebuilding the church on a more eligible site.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Andrew Robertson,
who preferred Stow.
\st Minister. — Samuel Spence, LL.D., previously of the Second Congrega-
tion, Liverpool. Admitted to Wishart Church, 24th October 1838. Resigned
2d July 1844. Joined the Free Church, and is now minister of Kilbirnie Free
Church.
2d Minister. — Robert D. Duncan, from Mid-Calder, of which his father was
minister. Called to Girvan, Montrose, and Dundee. Ordained, 19th February
1845. Translated to Bread Street, Edinburgh, 2 2d August 1848.
2)d Minister. — John C. Baxter, from Greyfriars, Glasgow. Called to Catrine,
Gourock, Musselburgh, Bread Street (Edinburgh), and Dundee. Ordained 7th
February 1849.
BUTTERBURN.
In the beginning of 1861, the Presbytery of Dundee opened a preaching station
in Butterburn, at the north-eastern extremity of the town. The station prospered
so well, that in October of that year a petition from the people to the Presbytery
prayed for a continuance of sermon, and that the Presbytery take steps to have the
station congregated. In answer thereto, the Presbytery took the usual steps, and
the station was congregated on nth March 1862. In March 1863 a call was given
to the present minister, the number of members then being 75.
Presbytery of Dundee — Liff—Alyth. i6;
The congregation for some time worshipped in a school in the district, the
accommodation of which was very inadequate. A resolution was accordingly taken
to build a church, which was opened on the first Sabbath of June 1865, by the
Rev. David Croom of Edinburgh. The church cost ^^130°, and is seated for 420.
\st Minister.— \)KN\T> Hay, from Edinburgh (Portsburgh). Ordained 7th July
1863.
LIEF (Now Extinct.)
Liff is a village in the parish of the same name, Forfarshire, 3 miles north-west
of Dundee, and i\ south-west of Coupar-Angus.
Ten persons residing in the parish of Liff petitioned the Associate Presbytery to
be taken under their inspection, which was granted, 1739. They afterwards helped
to form the congregation of School Wynd, Dundee, with which the survivors and
their families remained connected till 1785, when, along with other persons of the
same communion who had settled in the place, they were disjoined from it, and
formed into a separate congregation, with its seat in Liff.
\st Minister. — John Auchincloss, called to St Andrews and Liff. Ordained
ist February 1787. Deposed 29th June 1790. Notwithstanding that gross
immorality had been proved against him, Mr Auchincloss thought fit to bring an
action before the Court of Session against those members of Presbytery who had
voted for his deposition from office and its consequent emoluments ; alleging that
his character had been defamed by them, and libelling them for damages. After a
variety of procedure, the Lord Ordinary, Lord Braxfield, pronounced the following
interlocutor, 24th June 1792:— "The Lord Ordinary does not consider it competent
for this Court to review the proceedings of the Associate Congregations, commonly
called Burghers, when senteiices are pronounced by them in their ecclesiastical character ;
therefore sustains the defences, assoilzies the defenders," etc. To this interlocutor
the Court afterwards adhered. Mr Auchincloss removed to Stockport in England,
and taught a school there. He died 29th May 1800. Author of a small work
entitled " The Divine Origin of the Scriptures."
2^^ J//«w/fr.— George Wigton, from Penicuik. Called to Jedburgh and Liff".
Ordained loth April 1798. Resigned 20th January 1801. After itinerating a short
time as a probationer, Mr Wigton setded in Edinburgh as an apothecary, and died
there, 1849.
The congregation of Liff never recovered the injury inflicted upon it by the first
incumbent, and became extinct soon after Mr Wigton's resignation.
ALYTH.
Alyth is a village partly in Forfar and partly in Perthshire, 1 5 miles north of
Dundee, and 1 2 west of Forfar.
The United Presbyterian congregation of this place was formed by members of
the congregation of Rattray resident in and about Alyth, who, on account of dis-
tance from the place of worship (4 miles), petitioned the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Presbytery of Perth, in 1781, to be disjoined and formed into a separate
congregation, which was granted. Church built, 1781 ; sittings, 300. A new
church was opened on 14th February 1S69, costing ;^io3o. It is seated for 395.
1 66 The United Presbyterian Church.
ist Minister.— ] AWES Hay, from Abemethy. Called to Perth and Alyth. Or-
dained loth November 1783. Moderator of Synod, April 1825. Died 4th October
1833, in the 80th year of his age and 50th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Robert Hogg, previously of Whitehaven. Admitted to Alyth,
2 2d May 1833. Died 5th April 1866, in the 69th year of his age and 45th of his
ministry.
Author of a work entitled " The Economy of Grace viewed in connection with the Propagation
of the Gospel ; " " An Appeal to the Christian Public on the Evils of Theatrical Amusements,"
1823; "An Address on Revival," 1849; "Remarks on Presbyterianism and Independency;"
" The Principle on which a Church Constitution is Founded, directly opposed to the Civil Establish-
ment of Christianity. "
3^ Minister. — John Dunlop, from Campbelton, Ordained as colleague to Mr
Hogg, March 1866.
KIRRIEMUIR.
Kirriemuir is a town in Forfarshire, 5 miles north-west of Forfar, and 16 north-
west of Dundee.
FIRST CHURCH.
The Rev. Mr Henderson of Rattray was in the habit of visiting Robert Watson,
Esq. of Shieldhill, afterwards father-in-law to the late Dr Jamieson of Forfar and
Edinburgh, on his way to and from Brechin, where he frequently assisted at the dis-
pensation of the Lord's Supper. On one of the occasions Mr Watson asked Mr
Henderson to preach to the people on his estate, to which request he readily
agreed. The place chosen for the purpose was the neighbourhood of the shepherd's
house, himself a member of Mr Henderson's congregation, in Forest Muir, about
three miles east of Kirriemuir. Public intimation of the sermon being made, a large
audience attended. The result was that a number of persons immediately left the
Established Church, with the ministrations of which they had been previously
dissatisfied, and connected themselves with the General Associate congregation of
Dumbarrow, there being no Secession place of worship at the time in Forfar. The
distance between Kirriemuir and Dumbarrow being eleven miles, was soon found
inconveniently great for those who required to travel every Sabbath, and a conviction
prevailing among them, not only that there was room, but need, for a Secession
place of worship in Kirriemuir, they applied for and obtained supply of sermon
from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, 1772. First church
built, 1773 ; sittings, 500. Second church built, 1853 ; sittings, 580.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Punton, who was
appointed by the Synod to Hamilton.
\st Minister. — James Aitken, from Pathstruie-hill. Ordained 29th December
1779. Mr Aitken separated, with Mr M'Crie and others, from the General Asso-
ciate (Antiburgher) Synod 1806, and helped to form "The Constitutional Presbytery,"
afterwards the Synod of Original Seceders. Mr Aitken had the larger part of the
congregation on his side, and, when the commissioner from the Synod came to
preach, he had to get a sheriff's warrant to break open the church doors. The
Original Seceders retain the old manse. Mr Aitken died 24th September 1834, in
the 78th year of his age and 56th of his ministry. A volume of his sermons was
published after his death.
Presbytery of Dundee — Kirrie7mdr (First) — Bank Street. 167
The congregation called Mr Inglis, who was appointed by the Synod to IMidholm.
2d Minister. — John France, from Bucklyvie, of which his father was minister.
Ordained nth April 1810. Resigned 5th November 1816. Emigrated to America
and became minister of a congregation in Glade Run, Butler County, U.S.
The congregation called iSIr Paterson, who was appointed to Auchtergaven.
yi Minister. — William Ramage, previously of Sanday in Orkney. Admitted
to Kirriemuir, 13th April 1819. Resigned 5th February 1850. Removed to Blair-
gowrie, and lived there in private till his death, 2d September 1857, in the 80th year
of his age and 44th of his ministr}-.
The congregation called Mr George Morris, aftenvards of Dairy, A)Tshire, and
Mr James Muir, afterwards of Bridge of Allan, both of whom declined the calls.
4//; Minister. — Alexander M'Lean, from Lothian Road, Edinburgh. Called
to Dalreoch, Whitehaven, and Kirriemuir. Ordained 4th ]\Iarch 1851.
FIRST RELIEF (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with a number of persons resident in the parish,
who were dissatisfied with the ministrations of the parochial incumbent, who openly
denied the imputation of Adam's sin to his posterity, and taught other erroneous
doctrines. They applied to the Relief Presbytery of Perth to be taken under their
inspection as a forming congregation, which was allowed, 1 792. They were organised
in 1793, and built a place of worship the same year, containing 500 sittings.
\st Minister. — Thomas Meek, previously a probationer in connection with the
Church of Scotland. Received into connection T^ith the Relief Synod, 1792. Or-
dained at Kirriemuir 2d October 1793. Reports to his disadvantage having reached
the Presbytery, he was called upon to answer to the charges implied in them. He
resigned his office while these charges were under investigation, and Avithout wait-
ing for the Presbytery's decision. He was cut oft' from the communion, and the
church declared vacant, 1794.
2d Minister. — John Eadie, from Dovehill, Glasgow. Ordained 14th January
1795. The congregation had suff'ered greatly from the matter affecting the previous
minister, and never rallied under Mr Eadie. At his own request his connection
with it was dissolved, 20th September 1798. He removed to Glasgow, and soon
after joined the Established Church. The place of worship, part of which had been
previously converted into a dwelling-house, there being capacity in it much beyond
what was occupied by the sittings, was sold to the Independents, and the congrega-
tion dispersed.
An attempt was made to rally it again in 1802, and another in 1812, but with-
out success, the failure being mainly attributable to the want of a suitable place of
meeting. A third attempt was made in 1828, which led to the formation of the
congregation noticed in the next article.
BANK STREET.
At the suggestion of the late Rev. Mr Cross of Dundee, one of the probationers
of the Relief Church, being disengaged, went and preached at Kirriemuir without
any application from the people or pre\"ious communication with them. There were
few of the persons who had been connected with the First Relief congregation in the
town, and these deemed the revival of the interest there utterly hopeless. They
1 68 The United Presbyterian Church.
were glad, however, that a preacher had come to them, and found a place for him to
address them on Sabbath. The attendance was so large as to encourage them to apply
at once for regular supply of sermon, which was granted by the Relief Presbytery of
Perth, 1828. They were organised as a congregation, 1829. In 1830 they hired
the place of worship built by the First Relief congregation, which was then unoc-
cupied, the Independent congregation which had purchased it having broken up
and dispersed. This place was soon found too small and otherwise incommodious
for the rapidly-growing congregation, and they therefore purchased a building in
Bank Street, a much more eligible situation than the former, for which they paid
^^515, and had it fitted up with 604 sittings.
\st Minister. — James Stirling, from East Campbell Street, Glasgow. Ordained
20th July 1 83 1. Died 21st March 1870, in the 65th year of his age, and 40th of
his ministry.
The congregation called Mr John Boyd, preacher, who preferred Skelmorlie.
2d Ministc?:—] on^ A. Murray, formerly of Burntisland. Called to Warkworth,
but the call was not sustained. Admitted loth May 187 1.
NEWBIGGING.
The church of Newbigging is in the parish of Monikie, Forfarshire. It stands
apart from any town or village, and is 7 miles north-east of Dundee, and 3 from
Monifieth.
The congregation of Newbigging originated with four persons in the neighbour-
hood, who invited the Rev. Mr Black of Dundee to come and preach to them and
the persons whom they would assemble to hear him. Having complied with this
request, and being persuaded of the practicability of raising a congregation there,
he suggested that application should be made for supply of sermon to the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Perth, which was accordingly done in 1788, and attended
with success. The originators of the movement ceased to take interest in the cause
when a church and manse came to be required. The Seceders in the district, who
had previously taken no part in it, then came forward and took the responsibilities
involved in these erections upon themselves. They obtained a perpetual lease of an
acre of muirland, and erected a place of worship upon it, 1789, from which circum-
stance it was called " The West Muir Kirk," to distinguish it from " the East Muir,"
or Carnoustie ; sittings, 300.
ist Minister. — James Hervey, from Cambusnethan. Ordained i6th March
1 791. Resigned 29th April 1796. Became teacher of Oriental languages in
Glasgow, and died there.
The congregation then called ist, Mr Richardson, who was appointed by the
Synod to Freuchie ; 2d, Mr J. Stewart, appointed to Pitcairn, afterwards Dr Stewart
of Liverpool ; 3d, Mr Campbell, appointed to Tarbolton ; 4th, Mr Paterson, ap-
pointed to Airth ; 5th, Mr James Smith, appointed to Dunning ; 6th, Mr George
Donaldson, who was appointed to Dundee.
2d Minister. — William Grahame, previously of Darlington. Admitted to New-
bigging, 1815. Resigned 6th November 1821. Became probationer, and died
while in that capacity, at Kirkintilloch, in 1828.
T^d Minister. — John Eckford, from Morebattle. Ordained 5th August 1828.
Deposed 15th January 1851. Emigrated to Canada, and is now living privately there.
Presbyte7y of Ditndee — Blairgowrie — Ferry p or t-on-Craig. 169
The congregation then called Mr Nelson, who preferred Pitcairn.
4//? Minister. — Alexander Miller, from Glasgow (St Vincent Street). Or-
dained 26th October 1852.
BLAIRGOWRIE.
Rattray, the name by which this congregation was long known, is a village in the
parish of Blairgowrie, Perthshire, f of a mile east of Blairgowrie, 5 south-west
of Alyth, 4 J north-west of Coupar- Angus, 8 east of Kinclaven, 16 north-east of
Perth, and 20 north-west of Dundee.
The congregation of Rattray originated in the unpopular settlement of Mr Smith
as minister of the parish in 1757. The party opposed to his settlement, by petition
signed by 2 elders and 104 men, with 106 women, on 20th September 1757 ob-
tained supply of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of
Perth. First church built 1758, at Old Rattray; second built, 1792; the third,
1835, near the town of Blairgowrie, for the convenience of the majority of the
congregation which is resident there. The name of Blairgowrie was given to the
congregation in 187 1 ; sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — James Henderson. Ordained 22d March 1762. Died 1789,
in the 28th year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Syme, who was appointed by the Synod to New-
castle.
2d Minister. — Thomas Wood, from Midcalder. Ordained i6th April 1793.
Resigned i8th September 18 10. Itinerated as a probationer. Called to Boghole,
now Moyness, but declined the call. Died at Bathgate 1833, in the 62d year of
his age.
T^d Minister. — James Aird, from Newmilns. Ordained 31st March 181 2. Died
i6th August 1834, in the 62d year of his age, and 23d of his ministry.
4//^ Minister. — David Hogg, from Haddington (West), of which his father was
minister. Ordained 12th August 1835. Resigned 31st January 1837.
5//z Minister. — John Paterson, from Cambusnethan. Ordained 2 2d May 1839.
Resigned 20th July 1844. Now living privately in Dollar.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Borwick of Bell Street, Dundee, and
Mr Thomas Montgomery, afterwards of the East Congregation, Ayton, both of whom
declined the calls.
6th Minister. — Robert Russell, from Carnwath. Called to Kennoway and
Rattray. Ordained 2 2d June 1847.
FERRYPORT-ON-CRAIG, or Tayport.
Ferr)'port-on-Craig is a village in the parish of the same name, on the south side
of the Tay, Fifeshire, 1 1 miles north-east of Cupar, 1 1 north-west of St Andrews,
and 5i south-east of Dundee.
This congregation originated in the controversy respecting the magistrates' power
in matters of religion, popularly known as " The Old Light Controversy," and
partly in the unacceptability of the incumbent of the parish. When this controversy
arose, part of the congregation assembling at BalmuUo, a village 5 miles south from
Ferryport-on-Craig, adhered to " The Constitutional Presbytery," better known by
its subsequent name of The Synod of Original Seceders, and part to the General
170 The Uniled Presbyterian Church.
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. The latter were chiefly resident in and about
Ferryport-on-Craig, where a number of people were dissatisfied with the doctrines
taught by the parochial incumbent, and the moral deadness which pervaded the
parish. These joined together in a petition to the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Presbytery of Kirkcaldy for supply of sermon, which was granted in 1806. First
church built, 1807 ; second church built, 1844; sittings, 473.
\st Minister. — Adam Blair, from Haddington (West). Ordained 15th August
1809. Died 28th November 1840, in the 62d year of his age, and 32d of his
ministry. Author of a sermon on " Reunion ; " another " On the Covenant of
Grace as made with Believers ; " and " The History of the VValdenses," 2 vols.
2d Minister. — Walter Muckersie, from Bethelfield, Kirkcaldy. Called to
Gatehouse, Galston, and twice to Ferryport-on-Craig. Ordained 8th June 1842.
Translated to Glasgow, Frederick Street, 31st May 1864.
3^^ United Presbyterian Church.
cognisant of all the circumstances, and who published a letter the week following,
says, ' He would not so much as preach in the church at Carnock, nor allow the
bell to be rung ; but repaired to the open fields, and having chosen for his text the
words of the Apostle Paul, i Cor. ix. i6 — ' Necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is
unto me if I preach not the Gospel,' he told his hearers that though the Assembly
had deposed him from being a minister in the Established Church, for not doing
what he believed it was sinful for him to do, yet he hoped through grace, no public
disputes should be his theme, but Jesus and Him crucified, and desired at all
seasons to have it in his eye that the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness
of God, and then went on to lay before them the great and important truths of the
everlasting Gospel without one reflecting word on all that had passed.' "
" Subsequently," says a writer in the Christian Jour?ial, "he was excluded from
the churchyard, and one of his flock, a farmer, having ofl'ered a piece of lea ground
as a temporary preaching station, the landlord interfered, stating that the ground
was rented for agricultural purposes, and could not without his permission be
applied to any other use, and he was determined to have no conventicles upon his
grounds. The next resource, a curious one, was at the crossing of two roads,
where was a vacant piece of ground, and where landlords and trustees either could
not, or did not, molest them. Here Mr Gillespie continued to preach till a com-
modious church (in Dunfermline, where a number of persons had espoused his
cause) was expeditiously raised, for it was soon seen that though the open-air
might serve in the summer season, yet they must be protected from the inclemency
of the winter. After Mr Gillespie took possession of his meeting-house in Dun-
fermline, the Established Presbytery ordered supply of sermon for Carnock. Out
of respect to its former pastor, who was preaching beside it, no step was taken to
set up an altar against him. This was in good taste. Only one elder continued by
the parish church. All the others, together with the greater number of the
parishioners, went in every Sabbath to Dunfermline along with their beloved minister,
who did not even remove from the manse till the summer of the succeeding year.
He took possession of the church in the month of September 1752. The terms on
which the contributors gave their money show that, if they did not contemplate the
erection of a new sect, neither did they anticipate his reception within the bosom of
the Establishment. It was a church for him during his life" " After the death of
Mr Gillespie," says Dr Struthers, "his congregation lost their church by means
which till this day have been involved in mystery. It was not indeed worth much,
being an old barn, fitted up in the emergency as a place of worship ; yet still it is
to be regretted it was lost. A number of personal friends, after the deposition of
Gillespie, united their subscriptions, bought it, repaired it as a place of worship, and
reserved to themselves at his death the right of selling it and dividing the pro-
ceeds. The majority could either sell it or keep it up as a place of worship, paying
out those who wished to have back their money. This was all very reasonable, for
Gillespie had then no ministerial adherents. On the day of his funeral, his brother
Robert invited in the churchyard a number of the original donors or their heirs to
meet that afternoon and consider what was to be done with the church. The
meeting was irregularly summoned and altogether illegal. Robert Gillespie was at
one time a warm adherent to the Relief cause. He had been the mainspring in
erecting College Street Church, Edinburgh ; but a change had come suddenly over
the temper of his mind. The Rev. Mr Smith, the successor of Gillespie, in his
Relief Sketches says, in a kind of suspicious way, * for reasons best known to him-
Presbytery of Dunfermline — Gillespie Church. 175
self, he was now become an avowed enemy of that religious society which his
deceased brother had the honour of founding.' It is certain he was by this time
the land-factor of Dr Erskine, Edinburgh, for his estate in the parish of Carnock,
who was the great friend of Gillespie, and who strove repeatedly to get his sentence
relaxed or reversed, and to win him back to the Establishment. He defended him
warmly from the pulpit, and in the Assembly, and strenuously laboured afterwards
to get Gillespie's church taken in by the Assembly as a Chapel of Ease. How far
the factor was co-operating with the wishes of the laird in endeavouring to put an
extinguisher upon the Relief cause in that corner (for the Carnock people still came
on Sabbath to Dunfermline) no one is ever likely to discover. . . . It is a very
suspicious circumstance that he should have called the clandestine meeting, that he
should have been present at it, that he should have been the chief speaker,
and that he wrought upon the feelings of the people, and represented his
brother as ill-used by Pirie. He openly disparaged the Relief and extolled the
Chapel of Ease plan as a far better scheme. Still the contributors would not change
the religious connection of the house. The meeting was therefore adjourned. , . .
The donors themselves, after the first meeting, resiled from the step which they had
taken. At a meeting held 12th July 1774, ' they unanimously recalled and annulled
their former application to the Established Presbytery (for the building to be re-
cognised as a Chapel of Ease), and ordered and appointed an application to be
made to the Relief Presbytery, and ordain the meeting-house to be kept up for
worship and dispensing Gospel ordinances in connection with the Relief Synod as
it has been ever since there was any such Presbytery or Synod.' Against this
unanimous resolution, at a meeting of donors regularly called from the pulpit,
' Robert Gillespie, at Clearburn, fo himself, and as pretending to have powers
from some few of the contributors, protested, got out an interdict from the Court of
Session, and a process at law was commenced, whether the judgment of the meeting
on the 3d of February or that of the 12th July was to be adhered to.' The process
was never finished. The property was not of great value. It did not belong to
the worshipping congregation. They therefore proceeded to build a new Church
for themselves, 1776, with 520 sittings; and some years afterwards the Establish-
ment took the old meeting-house into connection with the church as a Chapel of
Ease. Robert Gillespie was at the bottom of the whole affair, and his conduct
neither admits of explanation nor defence. The people at all events were turned
out of the church in which they had been accustomed to worship, and met with
treatment at the hands of Robert Gillespie and Provost Turnbull, acting for the
Magistrates of Dunfermline, very much akin to what Thomas Gillespie had received
at the hands of the Church of Scodand." In March 1848, the Secession congrega-
tion assembling in Maygate, and the Relief congregation assembling in North
Chapel Street, brought into one connection the year before by the junction of
their respective Synods, were united into one congregation, with the name of The
United Presbyterian Congregation, North Chapel Street, under the pastoral
care of the Rev. Niel M'Michael.
This united congregation built a new church on the site of the second in 1849,
containing 630 sittings, and changed the name of the congregation from that of
North Chapel Street into that of Gillespie Church.
\st Minister. — Thomas Gillespie. Ordained by Dr Doddridge and others at
Northampton 22d January 1741. Inducted at Carnock in August 1741. Deposed
by the General Assembly 1752. Formed a congregation in Dunfermline the same
I 76 The United Presbyterian Church.
year. Formed a Presbytery along with Mr Boston of Jedburgh and Mr Colier of
Colinsburgh, 1761, which was afterwards constituted a Synod, and thus Mr Gillespie
became the principal founder of the Relief Church. Died 19th January 1774, in
the 66th year of his age and 33d of his ministry.
Author of "A Treatise on Temptation," with Preface by Dr Erskine; "Letter to the General
Assembly of 1752 ;" and an "Essay on the Continuance of Immediate Revelations of Facts and
Future Events in the Christian Church."
2d Minister. — James Smith. Ordained 1777. Translated to Dundee 1790.
Author of " Historical Sketches of Relief Church ; " an " Essay on Confessing the Truth ; " "A
Discourse on the Necessity, Nature, and Design of Christ's Sufferings ;" "The Golden Calves of
Dan and Bethel ; or, the Alliance of Church and State an Ancient Political Engine."
■^d Minister. — Henry Fergus, A.M., from Cumbernauld, previously a proba-
tioner of the Established Church. Admitted into connection with the Reliet
Synod. Ordained 7th October 1790. Died 2d July 1837 in the 73d year of his
age, and 47th year of his ministry.
Author of " The Bible Christian's Magazine ;" " A History of the American War," which forms
two of the volumes of Lardner's Cyclopaedia ; "Testimony of Nature and Revelation to the Being,
Perfections, and Government of God," written as a Competing Essay for the Bridgewater Prize of
1000 Guineas, in which Dr Chalmers was successful ; "A Short Account of the Laws and Institu-
tions of Moses ;" Several Anonymous Pamphlets, one of them a Review of Dr Chalmers' Astrono-
mical Discourses.
4//; Minister. — Charles Waldie, from Kelso (East). Ordained as colleague
to Mr Fergus, 3d June 1830. Translated to Dalkeith 17th December 1834.
t^th Minister. — Niel M'Michael, A.M., D.D., from King Street, Kilmarnock.
Called to St Ninians and Dunfermline. Ordained nth August 1835. Appointed
Professor of Systematic Theology and Church History by the Relief Synod, 1841.
Appointed Professor of Ecclesiastical History by the United Presbyterian Church at
the Union of the Secession and Relief Churches, 1847. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred upon him by the University of St Andrews, 2d January 1850. On 9th
June 1869, Dr M'Michael was presented with a silver epergne and ;;^i6oo.
Author of " Hildebrand and His Age," a Lecture delivered at the Opening of the United Pres-
byterian Divinity Hall, 1853 ; "The Pilgrim Psalms;" "Family Worship;" "Messiah's Great-
ness," the Synod Sermon of 1856, of which he was Moderator.
CHALMERS STREET.
The history of this church is identified with that of Cairneyhill. In 1788 it was
disjoined from Cairneyhill, and formed into a separate congregation. Church built,
1789; sittings, 420. A new church was built in 1862, with sittings for 500, at a
cost of ;^i5oo.
\st Minister. — David Black, D.D., from Leslie (West). Called to Comrie
and Dunfermline. Ordained 27th October 1789. Had the degree of D.D. con-
ferred upon him by an American college, 181 7. Died 15th November 1824, in the
63d year of his age, and 36th of his ministry. Author of a volume of " Sermons on
Death ;" " Edwin and Emma," a pastoral tale in verse ; a sermon entitled " The
Covenanters' Directory ;" and another on " Early Piety."
2d Minister. — George Barlas, from Perth (North). Called to South Shields and
Dunfermline. Ordained as colleague to Dr Black, 17th October 1820. Removed
with a portion of his people to Maygate Chapel, Dunfermline, 12th September 1832,
and formed a separate congregation with the sanction of the Presbytery.
3^ Minister. — Robert Cuthbertson, from Abbey Close, Paisley. Ordained
Presbytery of DiLnferniline — St Margaret's — -May gate. I'jj
13th November 1833. Resigned 5th September 1S43. ^^ September 1845, Mr
Cuthberlson intimated to the Presbytery by letter his having withdrawn from the
communion of the Secession Church. Became minister of an Independent congre-
gation in Cleckheaton, near Leeds, Yorkshire, 1852.
4//; Mi/lister. — Robert T. Walker, previously of Comrie. Admitted to
Chalmers Street, Dunfermline, 6th November 1844. Author of a sermon entitled
" The Fearers of the Lord, and their Special Privileges," etc. Resigned his charge
loth August 1858, and proceeded to Australia.
The congregation called Mr P. C. Duncanson, who preferred West Calder.
e^th Minister. — Alexander Milne Jarvie, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh.
Ordained 7th September 1859.
ST MARGARET'S.
The congregation of Queen Anne Street, as already noticed, called Mr Whyte,
probationer, to be colleague to Mr M'Farlane, in 1820. A large minority of the
congregation was opposed to Mr Whyte's settlement among them, and on this
account the Synod appointed him to Perth, notwithstanding his expressed prefer-
ence for Dunfermline. The majority called him a second time, which only
strengthened the opposition of the minority to him. The case came again and
again before the Synod, and a committee was appointed to reconcile the parties, if
practicable, which it attempted without effect. At length it was found expedient
to divide the congregation, which at that time was immensely large. The minority
withdrew, and, at their own wish, and with the sanction of the Presbytery, were
formed into a separate congregation, September 1825. They rented the Wesleyan
Chapel in Maygate, then unoccupied, till a place of worship which they had erected
for themselves was finished in 1828, containing 979 sittings.
ist Minister. — Robert Brown, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Ordained 17th
May 1826. Died 19th April 1828, in the 30th year of his age, and 2d of his
ministry. A volume of his discourses was published after his death, with a memoir
by the Rev. Dr Johnstone, Limekilns.
2d Minister. — John Law, previously of Newcastleton. Admitted rst October
1828. Translated to Innerleithen i8th December 1850. Author of '-Brief State-
ment and Explanation of the Principles of the United Presbyterian Church," and
" Sermons on Baptism."
In 1850, the congregation called Mr G. M. Middleton to be colleague to Mr
Law, who preferred Kinross.
2,d Minister. — David Russell, from Gordon Street, Glasgow. Called to Kil-
maronock and Dunfermline. Ordained 3d September 185 1.
MAYGATE (Now Extinct).
The Rev. George Barlas, minister of Chalmers Street, Dunfermline, was sus-
pended from the exercise of his office by his Presbytery in 1832, but was restored,
on proof of penitence, the same year. A majority of his congregation, however,
would not again submit to his ministry, and, with the sanction of the Presbytery, he
and his adherents were allowed to withdraw and form a separate congregation.
They purchased the Wesleyan Chapel, Maygate, containing 410 sittings, for ^440,
which they occupied till their junction with the congregation of North Chapel
Street.
M
I 78 The United Presbyterian Chtirck.
ist Minister. — George Barlas, previously of Chalmers Street. Removed to
Maygate 12th September 1832. Died 29th July 1837, in the 47th year of his age,
and 1 7th of his ministry.
2d Mi/lister. — Thomas Smith, from Bristo Street, Edinburgh. Ordained 24th
April 1838. Deposed 26th November 1839.
2,d Minister. — James Gibson, previously of Whithorn. Admitted to Dunferm-
line 20th January 1841. Resigned 29th June 1847. Inducted at Brechin 14th
March 1848.
The Union of the Secession and Relief Churches having taken place in 1847, ^'^''
Gibson thought there was no need for five congregations of the same communion in
Dunfermline, the more especially that a great increase of churches had taken place
in that town by the " Disruption," and the formation of the Free Church, within
a i^w years. And his congregation being the smallest of the five, he cheerfully
resigned his charge, and recommended his people to unite with the guondatn Relief
congregation under the pastoral charge of the Rev. Professor M'Michael. This
was formally done on the 14th of March 1848, and the parties thus united form
the congregation worshipping in Gillespie Church, North Chapel Street. The place
of worship in Maygate was sold to a congregation of Baptists, by which it is now
occupied; and Mr Gibson was afterwards admitted minister of High Street, Brechin.
ALLOA (FIRST).
Alloa is a town on the Forth, in Clackmannanshire, 5 miles west of Kincardine,
and 7 east of Stirling.
Mr Thomas Boston, the celebrated author of " The Fourfold State," was tutor
to Mr Andrew Fletcher of Aberlady, whose mother had married for her second
husband Lieutenant Bruce of Kennet, and taken her son with her to her new resi-
dence, his tutor also accompanying him. While at Kennet Mr Boston instituted a
prayer meeting in the house of Mr Thomas Brown, Ferrytown, a hamlet in the
neighbourhood. This prayer meeting continued to exist long after Mr Boston had
left, and was joined by a number of seriously-disposed persons in the district. At
the origin of the Secession, the mansion-house of Gartland or " Gartlet," was occu-
pied by a branch of the Kennet family, with the members of which both the
Erskines were on intimate terms, and with whom they were in the habit of spend-
ing a night on their way to visit one another at Stirling and Dunfermline. This
continued to be their practice even after their suspension from office by the courts
of the Established Church ; and on these occasions they generally met with the
members of the prayer meeting at Ferrytown, and preached to them and others dis-
posed to hear them. In October 1738, this society transmitted a paper to the
Associate Presbytery, signed by all its members, also by Mr John Young, resident
in Clackmannan, an elder of the parish, and the members of all the praying socie-
ties in the town of Alloa, " bearing their Secession from all in the Established
Church that are carrying on a course of defection, or are sinfully silent, with their
approbation of the testimony emitted by the Presbytery, and craving to be taken
under their inspection," which was granted. In March 1739, these societies were
further increased by the accession of some persons in Alloa and Tillicoultry,
and in October of the same year, a praying society in Clackmannan was joined
to them. The whole together petitioned the Presbytery at its meeting in
(3rvvell, on the 9th October 1739, for the ai)i)ointment of a Fast among them.
Presbytery of Dunfermline — A lloa. 179
In compliance with this request, the Revs. Ralph and Ebenezer Erskine were
appointed to observe a fast at " Gartlet," betwixt that and the subsequent meeting
of Presbytery, the Seceders in and about Torryburn to meet there also, the Pres-
bytery being unable at that time to comply otherwise with a similar petition from
them, " Gartlet" being fixed upon as central to both. Before the time came for
fulfilling this appointment, the reverend gentlemen received several warnings that
evil disposed persons had resolved to be present on the occasion, who would cer-
tainly annoy, and probably injure them. Nothing daunted by these intimations,
they appeared at the time and place proposed, when Mr Ebenezer Erskine preached
in the forenoon, taking for his text Isaiah xxvii. 4-6, " Fury is not in me," etc. Mr
Ralph Erskine preached in the afternoon, and the services were allowed both times
to proceed without interruption or molestation. The Presbytery afterwards, find-
ing themselves unable to afford supply of sermon to either of the parties assem-
bled on this occasion, joined the Seceders in and about Alloa to the congregation
of Stirling, and those in and about Torryburn to the congregation of Dunfermline.
In 1746 the Seceders in and about Alloa were disjoined from Stirling, and formed
into a separate congregation. Shortly after this, the Burgess Oath controversy
arose, and at the Breach in 1747, the majority of the congregation of Alloa adhered
to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod.
In 1749 the parish church of Alloa became vacant by the death of the Rev.
James Gordon, the incumbent. The parishioners petitioned the Presbytery to give
them a list of probationers out of which they might choose a person to fill the
vacancy. The Presbytery refused to interfere in the matter, and the congregation
proceeded to act on its own responsibility. On the day of election, a call was brought
out for Mr Skirving, probationer, which was subscribed by the majority of the
parishioners, and another for Mr Syme, maternal grandfather to Lord Brougham, but
at that time tutor in the family of George Abercromby, Esq. of Tullibody, one of
the leading heritors of the parish. The Presbytery referred the case to the General
Assembly, from which it passed to the commission, which met in August 1750. The
call to Mr Syme was sustained by the Commission, notwithstanding the subscribers
to it were only a minority of the congregation.
When the Rev. Mr Warden of Gargunnock came to Alloa on the i6th of Sep-
tember, by appointment of Presbytery, " to serve the edict " preparatory to Mr
Syme's ordination as minister of the parish, the colliers of Alloa and two or three
adjacent parishes assembled in a body to prevent its publication. " They rang the
church bell from morning till night " (so says the Caledotiian Mercury newspaper of
the period), "and in the afternoon displayed a flag from the steeple in token of
victory, none offering to oppose them." To prevent the recurrence of such procedure,
four companies of soldiers were stationed in the town some time before the day of
ordination, and Mr Syme was inducted to his parish on the 21st November 1750,
without disturbance of any kind.
Six men and one woman were afterwards tried before the High Court of Justi-
ciary on the charge of assaulting A. and E. Abercromby, Esqs. of Tullibody, and
forcibly obstructing Mr Warden, minister of Gargunnock, in the discharge of his duty,
when serving Mr Syme's edict. Five of the men were banished beyond seas, and the
other was fined in 200 merks and confined in jail for four months. The woman was
made to pass through the streets of Edinburgh with her hands tied behind her back,
and then subjected to hard labour in the House of Correction for four months. The
unconstitutional procedure of the Commission of Assembly in sustaining the call of
1 80 The United Presbyterian Church.
a minority in the face of a protest by a majority, and the undue severity shown by
the Civil Courts in the punishment of uneducated persons provoked to riot by an
invasion of what they considered their rights, disgusted many respectable parishioners
of Alloa, and led them to withdraw from the Established Church, and swell the ranks
of the Seceders. In this way the recently-formed General Associate Congregation
in the town came to be greatly increased, and has ever since continued to be highly
prosperous. Their first place of worship was situated in the old town " over the
burn," and was built in 1747. The Earl of Mar thought the church too close
to the family residence, and wished it to be removed, which was done in 1792. But
in consideration of this the Earl not only gave the ground on which the new edifice
was erected, but built the walls at his own expense. A third was built in 1850 ;
sittings, 988.
\st Minister. — William Moncrieff, from Abernethy, of which his father was
minister. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery as a student of Divinity, pre-
viously in connection with the Established Church. Adhered as a probationer
to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747. Ordained
14th March 1749. Appointed Professor of Theology by the General Associate
Synod, 1762. Died 4th August 1786, in the 57th year of his age, and 37th of his
ministry.
Author of " Observations on a pamphlet entitled ' An Essay on National Covenanting ;'" and
Two Sermons entitled " A Banner displayed because of the Truth ;" and " Mercy and Judgment
displayed in the effects of a Gospel Ministry;" preached at the openings of Synod in 1755 and 1766.
In 1 781 the congregation called Mr William Moncrieff to be colleague to his
father, but the Synod appointed him to Muckhart.
2d Minister. — James Muckersie, from Kinkell, of which his father was minister.
Ordained 21st February 1787. Died 8th March 1827, in the 67th year of his age,
and 41st of his ministry.
Tyd Minister. — Peter M'Dowall, A.M., from Ivy Place, Stranraer. Called to
Buckhaven and Alloa. Ordained as colleague to Mr Muckersie, 21st February
1826. Called in 1831 by the congregation of Oxendon Chapel, London, but con-
tinued in Alloa. Was Moderator of the United Presbyterian Synod in 1870.
Author of " National Fasting Examined ;" and " Forty Years of a Ministry."
ifth Minister. — Adam Scott Matheson, from Jedburgh. Ordained 26th No-
vember 1862, as colleague to Mr M'Dowall. Called to Glasgow, Sydney Place, as
colleague to Dr Ker, in 187 1, but declined the call.*
INVERKEITHING.
Inverkeithing is a town in Fifeshire, 13 miles north-west of Edinburgh, 4 south
of Dunfermline, 14 south-east of Kinross, and 7 west of Burntisland.
On the 8th of March 1749, the parish of Inverkeithing became vacant by the
death of the Rev. Allan Buchanan, who was ordained in 1744, and who died at the
early age of 27. Forty years after his death, a volume of his sermons was pub-
lished, showing him to have been a highly evangelical minister.
Captain Philip Anstruther presented the Rev. Andrew Richardson, minister of
Broughton, in the Presbytery of Biggar, to the church and parish of Inverkeithing,
then vacant. The parishioners, with few exceptions, were strenuously opposed to
* The other congregation in Alloa will be found under the Presbytery of Stirling, to which it
belongs. The first congregation became connected with the Presbytery of Dunfermline in 1847.
Presbytery of Dunferfnline — Inverkeithing. 1 8 1
his settlement among them, and availed themselves of all constitutional means to
prevent it. The case was litigated through all the Church Courts, and the Commis-
sion of the General Assembly, which met in May 1750, ordered the Presbytery to
proceed with Mr Richardson's settlement. Nothing, however, was done towards
obtemperating this injunction of the Assembly's Commission till June 1751, when
Mr Walker, town-clerk of Inverkeithing, petitioned the Presbytery in the name of
the Earl of Morton and other heritors of the parish, to appoint a day for the in-
ducting of Mr Richardson. The Presbytery delayed the consideration of the
petition, and appointed a committee of ministers to meet with the elders and town-
council of the burgh, and converse with them, with the view of promoting peace and
harmony. This committee met at Inverkeithing on the 31st of Jtily. The elders
first waited upon them. The session consisted of nine members, two of whom were
upon voyages at sea. Messrs Henry Arnot, Henry Brown, George Dundas, James
Gibson, John Barron, and David Currie, told the committee that they were not pre-
pared to receive Mr Richardson for their minister, and Mr Andrew Turnbull was the
only elder who said he would do so. The town-council next waited upon the com-
mittee, when ten councillors declared their continued opposition to Mr Richardson,
and only one, the deacon of the weavers, said he was willing to submit to his
ministry. The other two were at sea. After hearing the committee's report, the
Presbytery agreed, " that their admitting Mr Richardson in the present circum-
stances of the parish would be of hurtful consequences to the interests of religion
within their bounds ; and that the matter is attended with such difficulties as they
cannot get over; and, therefore, they resolve humbly to request the very reverend
the Commission of the General Assembly to take such methods for their relief as to
them, in their great wisdom, shall seem meet." Against this finding the town-clerk
protested, and appealed to the Synod of Fife.
The Synod ordered Mr Richardson's settlement. Instead, however, of respect-
ing the Synod's mandate, the Presbytery agreed to represent to the Commission of
the General Assembly, which was to hold its meeting soon after, " that it gave them
extreme concern that they should be straitened to obtemperate the appointment of
the venerable Commission and Synod, which they would judge their indispensable
duty not to shift, when they had freedom of mind to execute it ; but that such are
the difficulties which lie in their way, and such the consequences that in their view
would follow thereupon, affecting not only the interests of religion in that corner,
but also more extensively, that they rather choose to represent this their strait to
the venerable Commission, and submit to their displeasure, than to proceed in such
an embarrassing situation." The Commission disregarded this representation, and
peremptorily ordered the Presbytery to admit Mr Richardson as minister of Inver-
keithing, on the third Wednesday of January 1752. Only three ministers met on
the day appointed ; and five having been constituted a quorum by the Commission,
they were obliged to separate without proceeding to the work assigned them. For
this disobedience five members of Presbytery were censured, and another, the Rev.
Mr Gillespie of Carnock, deposed, without any reason assigned for his being visited
with a heavier infliction than the others. This led immediately to the formation of
a dissenting congregation, and ultimately to the origin of the Relief Church, sec
" Gillespie Church, Dunfermline." Mr Richardson was inducted by the remanent
members of Presbytery on the i8th of June 1752, the parish having been vacant
three years. The great body of the parishioners withdrew immediately after from
the Established Church, and applied to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Dun-
1 82 The United Presbyterian CJnirch.
fermliiie for supply of sermon, which was granted. Church built, 1753; sittings,
600 : afterwards enlarged so as to accommodate 800.
\st Minister. — David P'orrest, from Torphichen. Called to Torphichen, Sel-
kirk, Inverkeithing, and Stow. Appointed to Stow, but refused to go there, for
which he was publicly rebuked by the Synod. Called a second time to Selkirk, and
to Inverkeithing. Ordained 24th January 1755. Suspended 3d September 1772, for
contumacy. Died 25th January 1776, in the 53d year of his age, and 2 2d of his
ministry.
In 177S there appeared a volume, entitled "Memoirs of the Life and Contendings of the late
Reverend Mr David Forrest, etc., etc. Published at the desire of his congregation, who adhered to
him to the last, in opposition to the sentences passed against him."
2d Minister. — Adam Selkirk, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Ordained 25th
December 1776. Suspended for refusing to collect for Synod fund, and remained
out of connection till his death. Died 1779, in the 3d year of his ministry.
2,d Mi?iister, — Ebenezer Brown, from Haddington (East), of which his father
was minister. Ordained 24th May 1780. Called to Stirling, 1788; to Aberdeen,
1798; and Glasgow, 1800, but declined removing to any of these places. Died
28th March 1836, in the 78th year of his age, and 56th of his ministry. A volume
of his Sermons was published after his death, with a, Memoir by his son.
/^th Minister. — John D. Fleming, from West Calder, of which his father was
minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Brown 15th December 1835. Editor of
Sermons of Rev. William Fleming, West Calder.
CAIRNEYHILL.
Cairneyhill is a village in the parish of Carnock, Fifeshire, 3 miles west of Dun-
fermline, and I east of Torryburn.
A Praying Society in Torryburn acceded to " The Associate Presbytery" in
November 1737. This society was made up of persons resident partly in Torry-
burn, and partly in Carnock. Of this latter parish Mr Hog was minister, the
leader of " The Marrow Men," as the party was called who adhered to the doctrines
taught in a book entitled the " Marrow of Modern Divinity," of which the General
Assembly of 1 720 expressed its disapprobation. Mr Hog having taken a most active
part with the Erskines in this controversy, was expected by several of his people
to secede with them. In this they were disappointed; but notwithstanding they
continued to attend the parish church as long as he lived. After his death they cast
in their lot with the Seceders.
The parish of Culross which adjoins that of Torryburn on the west, having become
vacant, the parishioners called the Rev. Henry Lindsay of Bothkennar, to be their
pastor in 1738. The General Assembly, to which the case was referred, set aside Mr
Lindsay's call, and ordered the settlement of the Rev. Mr Turner of Tulliallan, the
patron's nominee, on which account one elder and several families belonging to
Culross withdrew from the Established Church, and joined the Seceders. As already
stated in the article, " Alloa," the Seceders in this district petitioned the Associate
Presbytery to appoint some of their number to hold a fast with them in October
1739. Because of the Presbytery's inability to comply with this petition, and with
another of a similar kind from the Seceders in and about Alloa at the same time,
they convened a meeting of both parties at Gartland, or " Gartlet," in the parish of
Clackmannan, as central to both. They were however unable to continue supply of
Presbytery of Dmifermline — Lochgclly. 183
sermon to either, from want of probationers, and the Seceders in and about Torryburn
were therefore joined to the Associate Congregation of Dunfermhne, having sermon
occasionally in their own neighbourhood as circumstances permitted. In 1740 the
General Assembly deposed " The Four Brethren" from the office of the ministry,
and caused them and their adherents to be ejected from the parish churches which till
then they had continued to occupy, notwithstanding their Secession from the Judica-
tories of the Established Church. This gave new ground of offence to many persons
sympathising with them, but who had hitherto abstained from uniting with them.
These now considered it their duty to take open part with them. Among them
were Mr James Wardlaw, elder, and several of the parishioners of Culross, and also
several families resident in the parish of Torryburn. The Seceders in this district
continued connected with the Associate Congregation of Dunfermline till 1747,
when the Breach divided them, in common with all other Seceders throughout
the country. The portion adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod
formed a separate congregation, and fixed upon Cairneyhill for its seat, as being
midway between Alloa and Burntisland, the only places within reach where there
were other congregations in the same connection. But though Cairneyhill was the
place of meeting, the congregation was made up to a considerable extent of persons
resident in Dunfermline, from which circumstance the congregation was called by
the name of that town, till the members residing there withdrew and formed a
congregation by themselves, which became what is now the Congregation of
Chalmers Street, Dunfermline. Church built, 1752; sittings, 400.
\st Minister. — James Burt, from Leslie (West). Ordained 5th April 1755.
Loosed from his charge 1788. Died in Dunfermline, where he had been living in
retirement, 1792, in the 75th year of his age, and 36th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Ross, who was appointed by the Synod to Burntisland.
2d Minister. — Thomas Blair, from Clerk's Lane, Kilmarnock. Called to
Strathaven and Cairneyhill. Ordained 13th September 1791. Loosed from his
charge 14th May 18 13. Became a teacher in the neighbourhood of Kilwinning,
Ayrshire, and died there 8th September 1820, in the 57th year of his age.
2id Minister. — John More, from Bucklyvie. Ordained 13th September 18 14.
On the celebration of his jubilee, 3d August 1864, he was presented with a silver
salver and 580 sovereigns. Died 2d January 1868, in the 80th year of his age, and
54th of his ministry.
^thMinister. — David Boreland, A.M., from Glasgow (London Road). Ordained
as colleague to Mr More, 24th July 1867.
LOCHGELLY.
Lochgelly is a village in the parish of Auchterderran, Fifeshire, 7 miles north-
west of Kirkcaldy, 8 north of Burntisland, 7 south-west of Leslie, and 6 north-east
of Dunfermline.
The parish of Auchterderran is bounded on the south and east by that of Auch-
tertool. The Rev. Mr EUiot, minister of Auchtertool at the rise of the Secession,
was one of the forty-two ministers who protested against the Act of Assembly 1732,
regarding the election of ministers. Because of this and other popular leanings
shown by him, several of his people expected him to join the Secession when it
took place ; and because of his failing to do so, they withdrew from his ministry
and connected themselves with the Seceders meeting for public worship in Kirkcaldy.
1 84 The United Presbyterian C/itirc/i.
The church and parish of Auchterderran having become vacant in 1740, Mr
Boswell of Balmuto yielded his right of patronage to the majority of legal electors.
These divided in their choice between the Rev. Robert Douglas, minister of Port-
moak, and Mr Matthew Mitchell, probationer. It appeared beyond dispute that
Mr Robert Mitchell had a majority of the conjunct body of heritors and elders, then
the only legally recognised electors, and the patron therefore consented to his settle-
ment as minister of the parish. On the other hand, the callers of Mr Douglas,
while nearly equal to the others as to heritors and elders, had at the same time a
vast majority of heads of families, who, they insisted, had also a right to vote. They
therefore held Mr Douglas to be the minister elect. The case was litigated through
the Church Courts, and decided by the General Assembly of 1741, finding that the
Act 1690 was the only rule of judgment, and that therefore Mr Mitchell was to be
held entitled to the incumbency of Auchterderran church and parish.*
The people considered themselves disrespectfully treated both by the patron and
the Church Courts, for they considered the one to have allowed them the choice of
a pastor, and they expected the other to support them in the exercise of what they
held to be their just rights ; and because they were disappointed in reference to
both, a number of them withdrew from the Established Church. Those of them
resident in the north-east parts of the parish made overtures to " The Correspond-
ence" in Leslie, then forming into a congregation, to become part of it. Delegates
from both parties met in Pitlochie, a farm-house in the parish of Kinglassie, agreed
upon the terms of union, and under sanction of their constituents formed a junc-
tion. The portion resident towards the west formally acceded to the Associate
Presbytery on the 9th of February 1742, and were joined to the congregation of
Dunfermline. The remaining portion resident towards the south connected them-
selves with the congregation of Kirkcaldy. " The Breach" in 1747 divided the
Seceders in Auchterderran and Auchtertool, and prevented their formation into a
congregation. Those of them who adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and
meanwhile had been attending public ordinances at Dunfermline and Kirkcaldy,
applied for and obtained supply of sermon as a separate congregation, with its seat
in Lochgelly, 1765. Church built, 1766; sittings, 500. A new church was opened
in 1864, with sittings for 450, at the cost of ;^iooo.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Moir, who was
appointed by the Synod to Cumbernauld.
1st Mi/lister. — George Wilson, from West Linton. Ordained 9th July 1767.
Died October 1772, in the 6th year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — David Greig, from Kinross (First). Ordained 29th April 1773.
Died 14th August 1823, in the 75th year of his age and 5Tst of his ministry. Mr
Greig presided as Moderator at the first meeting of the United Associate Synod,
April 182 1, having been called to the chair as the oldest minister in either branch
* Dr M'Kelvic has the followin<^ anecdote, taken from (he A'iiiross Ad7'crtiscr o{ 2T,d February
1861, entitled, "A Bewitching Dominic" — In the parish of BalHngry, Fife, the duties of the pre-
centor's desk, about the middle of last century, were discharged liy the parochial schoolmaster, who was
a person of superior intelligence and education. The minister was of a weak intellect, and withal
not a little superstitious, and attributed his inferior pulpit appearances to the influence of the pre-
centor, who he alleged had somehow bewitched him. On one occasion he made a pause in his
discourse, and proceeded to declare that so long as the schoolmaster remained in the desk he must
remain silent. The schoolmaster was proceeding to withdraw, \\hen Sir John Malcolm, Bart, of
Lochore, the princijial heritor, descended fiom his seat in the gallery, and insisted that the desk
should not be vacated. An unbecoming disturbance ensue//i-/^;-.— George Oliver Campbell, previously of Strathaven (West).
Called twice to Arthur Street, and translated thither 12th April 1843. Deposed 2d
November 1849. Removed to England. Died in Glasgow 2 ist July 1867, aged 54.
The congregation then called the Rev. Joseph Brown, Dalkeith, who declined
the call.
2yd Minister.— }auy.^ Ballantyne, previously of Earlston (West). Translated
to Arthur Street, Edinburgh, 3d September 1850. Demitted his charge 21st
November 1854, and proceeded to Australia, and became colleague to Rev. J. M.
Ramsay, Melbourne. Author of "Temperance Tales for Young Readers;"
" Book of the Mother ;" Editor of " Juvenile Missionary Offering."
4/// 7l/////>Av-.— Robert Gemmell, previously of Dundee. Translated to
Edinburgh 8th August 1855.
Presbytery of Edijibitrgh — Infijnnary Street — Lothian Road. 203
INFIRMARY STREET.
This congregation originated with a portion of Bristo Street congregation, who
professed themselves dissatisfied with the conduct of the majority in calHng Mr
Wihiam Peddie to be colleague to his father, 1828. They were disjoined from
Bristo Street at their own request in November 1828, and allowed by the Presbytery
to form a separate congregation, which met in the Free Masons' Hall. The chapel
in the Cowgate having been abandoned by the Relief congregation, and being for
sale at the time, was purchased by this congregation in connection with the United
Associate Synod, for ;^62 5o. It contained nearly 2000 sittings. It was sold in
May 1856 to the Roman Catholics for ;^43oo. A church was bought in Infirmary
Street for' ;^i5oo, with sittings for 980, which the congregation now occupy.
Improvements were made on the church costing ^^479, 7s. ; in all, ;^i979, 7s.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Reid, afterwards of
Dairy, Dumfriesshire, who declined the call.
1st Minister. — William Nisbet, from Longridge. Called to Arbroath and
Edinburgh. Ordained 23d March 1830. Translated to Abbey Close, Paisley, 26th
April 1838.
2d Minister. — William Bruce, D.D., from Dumbarton. Ordained 20th
September 1838. Had the degree of D.D., conferred upon him by the University
of Glasgow in 1868. Author of " Sermon on the Death of Dr Ritchie." Moderator
of the United Presbyterian Synod, 1869.
LOTHIAN ROAD.
This congregation originated, in 1828, with a number of persons belonging to
different Secession congregations in Edinburgh, who were desirous of increasing the
number of churches in connection with their denomination in the city and suburbs.
With this view they rented a place of Avorship in Gardner's Crescent. Shortly after
the rise of the Voluntary Controversy this Church was purchased by the session of
the West Church for ^2500 ; and though the congregation offered a higher rent for
the use of it, they were requested to remove. They then erected their present
place of worship in Lothian Road; sittings, 1284.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr M'Gilchrist,
who preferred remaining at that time in Dunse.
\st Minister. — David Mark, A.M., from the congregation of Mauchline.
Ordained 7th August 1828. Died 17th May 1834, in the 37th year of his age, and
6th of his ministry. Author of " Sermon on the Sabbath."
2d Minister. — Alexander Davidson, previously of School W)aid, Dundee.
Admitted 21st May 1835. Resigned the same year on account of ill health, and
died i8th December 1836, in the 28t]i year of his age, and 2d of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Thomson, B.A., D.D., from Sanquhar (South).
Ordained 5th July 1837. Translated to Broughton Place, 28th June 1842.
The congregation called Rev. James Robertson, who preferred remaining in his
charge at Musselburgh.
^th Minister. — William Reid, from Greyfriars, Glasgow. Ordained 7th June 1843.
Author of " Conversion Practically Considered, in Twelve Addresses ;" " Woman's Work for
Woman's Weal ;" "Evils of Moderate Drinking;" " I>ife of Robert Kettle, Esq.," prefixed to a
work entitled "Temperance Memorials;" "Temperance Cyclopredia ;" "Our National Vice;"
204 The United Presbyterian Church.
" Our Treatment of India;" " Undying Friendship, a Discourse;" "Things to Come ;" " Children
Viewed in the Light of Scripture. "
The congregation called Rev. M. Crawford, Sanquhar, who declined the call.
5//! Minister. — William Fleming, formerly of Kirkcaldy, Union Church.
Translated to Lothian Road, as colleague to Mr Reid, 20th March 1866.
QUEEN STREET.
This congregation, at first called St Bernard's, and afterwards Stockbridge or
Dean Street, originated with certain Seceders and others, who were desirous of
having a place of worship in connection with the United Associate Synod in the
district of Stockbridge. The circumstance of a church, built in Dean Street by
persons belonging to the Relief Church, but not completely finished, being for
sale, favoured the design. This church they purchased in 1829; sittings, 1200.
The congregation removed, with their minister, to Queen Street Hall, 17th No-
vember 1 86 1.
1st Minister. — Robert Renwick, previously of West Linton. Admitted
October 1829. Suspended from office 1836. Lived privately in Berwick till his
death, 30th March 1859, in the 75th year of his age.
2d Minister. — Peter Davidson, D.D., previously of the Second Congregation
(now Erskine Church), Arbroath. Admitted 1836. Had the degree of D.D. con-
ferred upon him by the University of St Andrews in January 1861.
Author of a tract entitled " The Two Gospels, or brief notes in support of the United Associate
Synod's view of the doctrine of Atonement, as opposed to that of Dr Andrew Marshall and others ;"
"The Catechumen: a Manual for the Examination and Self-Examination of Candidates for the
Membership of the Church, with an Intro ctory Address to a Candidate ;" " Opinions concerning
Jesus Christ ;" " Conscience, and the F ice Rate ; " " Civil Magistracy and Christianity ; " "The
Pentateuch Vindicated from the objections and misrepresentations of Bishop Colenso."
In 1872 a call was given to Rev. J. G. Scott of St Andrews, which he declined.
BREAD STREET.
The persons forming this congregation were previously part of the Relief Con-
gregation which assembled in Cowgate chapel. They remained in that chapel
when the party which formed the congregation of Arthur Street removed. The
proprietors of the Cowgate chapel found their circumstances materially altered when
this portion left, and ultimately they arranged with the minister to resign, and sold
the property belonging to them. It was purchased by a Secession Congregation
then forming ; now Infirmary Street Church. The congregation leaving it at this
time, built a place of worship for themselves in Bread Street, at a cost of ;;^2 6oo,
and they and their minister removed to it 25th June 1831 ; sittings, 1050.
\st Minister. — James Scott, previously of Cowgate. Moderator of Synod 1825.
Resigned 6th April 1841. Resided some time in Edinburgh, and took occasional
appointments as a preacher. Afterwards removed to Glasgow, and resided there
till his death, which took place in 1846, in the 64th year of his age.
2d Minister. — Thomas Stevenson, from Bridgeton, Glasgow. Called to Leitholm
and Bread Street. Ordained i6th September 1841. Resigned 3d December 1844;
and with 328 members withdrew to North Richmond Street Church.
2id Minister. — John Symington, previously of Temple Lane, Dundee. Ad-
mitted to Bread Street, Edinburgh, 1843. Translated to Kilmarnock 1847.
Presbytery of Edi7iburgh— Richmond Street — Newington. 205
The congregation called Rev. J. Kidd, St Andrews, who declined the call.
4//z Miiiister. — Robert D. Duncan, previously of Wishart Church, Dundee.
Admitted 22d August 1848. Loosed from his charge 20th March 1865. Officiated
as a preacher for a time at Barrow ; then joined the Church of England, and became
a curate in Liverpool. Author of "The Eldership: an Address;" "Sanctuary
Services;" " Popery, its Crimes, and our duty in reference to it."
The congregation called Rev. J. Christie, Otterburn, who declined the call.
t^th Minister. — ^James Robertson, formerly of Balfron. Admitted to Bread
Street 27th March 1866.
NORTH RICHMOND STREET.
In December 1844 the Rev. Thomas Stevenson withdrew from Bread Street
Church along with 328 members, and formed the congregation of North Richmond
Street, but without Ecclesiastical connection. The congregation with their minister
were received by Edinburgh Presbytery on 8th October 1S50; and were united
with Henderson Church 2d April 1867.
ist Minister. — Thomas Stevenson, formerly of Bread Street. Died 3d April
1859, in the 48th year of his age, and i8th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Alexander Cumming Rutherford, formerly of Buckhaven.
Inducted 17th April i860.
"Author of "A Universal Atonement proved from the nature of the Gospel offer," in four
ktters to Rev. W. Fraser, Alloa, 1841 ; " The New Views not New, but Old and Sound," 1842 ;
"The Question of Deposition;" "Strictures on the Entire Correspondence between the Four
Congregational Churches in Glasgow, etc., on Election," 1845; "Scottish Orthodoxy;" "Elec-
tion;" " Morisonianism Examined and Set Aside," 1850 ; "Truth Maintained, a Statement for
the Satisfaction of Calvinistic Ministers and Churches," 185S; "Special Unconditional Grace in
order to Union ; " " The Argument from Experience in support of the Doctrines of Grace defended, "
1872 ; " Lay Elders and the Confession ; the Argument from Experience."
3^ Minister. — John Thomson, previously of Henderson Church. Removed to
North Richmond Street Church, 14th April 1867. Called to Campbelton, 1872.
NEWINGTC'T.
This church had its origin in a desire for peaceful Church Extension. The first
impulse was given to the movement by three young men who were persuaded that,
without injuriously affecting existing congregations, a new church might be formed
in Newington, which might become an agency for the ingathering of the careless
around. A favourable opportunity presented itself for acquiring a suitable place of
worship which, with class-rooms, had been built in 1840 by the Baptists, at a cost
of between ^2000 and ;^3ooo, and which they wished disposed of. The friends
organising the new cause bought the premises for ;^i2oo. The church had sittings
for 700, and was opened in the beginning of 1848 as a station in connection with
the United Presbyterian Church. In March 1848 the station, with 36 members,
was organised as a congregation by Edinburgh Presbytery. After obtaining a
minister, the congregation set themselves to cultivate the mission district in the
neighbourhood, and soon found it necessary to er.,ct a new day school and mission
premises at a cost of about jQloo. Two missi >naries and four teachers have since
been maintained at an outlay of ^300 per annum. A new church was found to be
indispensable for the accommodation of the congregation. It was built in Grano-e
Road, and was opened 15th November 1S63, with sittings for 1000, at a cost ot
2o6 The United Presbyterian ChnrcJi.
^7000. Shortly after the opening the debt was cleared off, and the congregation
undertook the support of a missionary in India at a salary of ^^300 a year.
\st Miiiisicr. — James Robertson, formerly of Musselburgh. Admitted nth
October 1848.
2d Minister. — John Young, M.A., from Berwick (Church Street). Ordained as
colleague to Mr Robertson, 2d October 1872.
PORTSBURGH.
The congregation formerly meeting in this place of worship, having removed
with Rev. D. Groom, their minister, to Lauriston, it was resolved to retain Portsburgh
as a mission church. A committee was formed for the purpose of canying this
resolution into effect. The Rev. D. Ogilvie, M.A., of Broughty Ferry, was invited
to take the superintendence of the mission, with which invitation he complied. The
church was re-opened on Sabbath, 27th November 1859, by Rev. Dr Johnston, and
Messrs Reid and Ogilvie. Application being made to the Presbytery of Edinburgh
by the members of the station to be formed into a congregation, 46 members were
erected into a congregation, 6th November i860.
\st Minister. — Duncan Ogilvie, M.A., D.D., formerly of Broughty Ferry.
Inducted to Portsburgh i8th March 1861. Had the degree of D.D. conferred
upon him by the University of Aberdeen i6th January 1869. Translated to Falkirk
(South), 4th June 1872. Author of " Christ contemplated from Birth to Baptism,"
and several Temperance Tracts.
BLAGKFRIARS CHURCH.
This congregation, originally known as Mary's Chapel, in High Street, began
with 147 persons, who petitioned Edinburgh Presbytery on 7th March i860, to be
formed into a congregation with the Rev. William Gillespie, under whose ministra-
tions they had been gathered, as their minister. The petition stated that " 207
persons had given in their names as hearers and adherents, and that the society had
a staff of 12 tract distributors who visited 700 families." Many of the petitioners
had formerly been non-church-going, and yet they promised to raise ^60 per
annum. The petitioners were congregated with 107 members on 2d October
i860.
For several years they worshipped in Mary Chapel, which they rented. A
building fund was at lengtfi started, and on the 17th October 1870 the foundation-
stone of their church was laid by the Right Hon. William Law, Lord Provost of
Edinburgh, in Blackfriars Street. The church cost ^1700, of which ^900 was
secured when the foundation was laid. Accommodation for 500 sitters.
\st Minister, — William Gillespie. Ordained in London as an agent of the
London Missionary Society to China, to which country he repaired ; laboured for
seven years at Hong-Kong and Canton till 1850, when he returned to Scotland.
Inducted at Shiels, Belhelvie, 28th April 1852. Resigned 14th August 1855, in
order to take charge of Broughton Place Mission in the Canongate. Inducted as
minister of Mary's Chapel, 19th March 1861. Author of " The Land of Sinim ; or,
China and Chinese Missions," and some fugitive pieces.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Henderson CJmrch — Morningside. 207
HENDERSON CHURCH.
The congregations of Rose Street and Broughton Place having long engaged in
mission work in the High Street and Canongate, jointly invited Rev. A. L. Simp-
son, formerly of Forres, to take the pastoral charge of the mission. Mr Simpson
was introduced to his work by Drs Thomson and Finlayson, on 12th November
i860. At the meeting of Presbytery in December, a petition was presented from
100 persons connected with Henderson Church, desiring to be congregated; and on
5th February 1861, the church was congregated with 147 members. On 25th June
a call was given to Rev. A. L. Simpson, signed by 116 members and 33 adherents ;
and his induction took place on 30th July.
ist Minister. — Adam Lind Simpson, formerly of Forres. Inducted 30th July
1 86 1. Translated to Derby 2d November 1865.
2d Afi/i is fer.— John Thomson, formerly of Stronsay. Inducted i6th April 1866.
The church was seated for 320, and was unsuited for the growing demands of
the congregation. A proposal was made for union with Richmond Street Church,
on the principle that the property in Richmond Street be transferred to Rose Street
Missionary Society, in order to be enlarged and used by the uniting congregations.
The cost of enlargement and transfer of property to the United congregation was
^^1900, besides ^200 of debt on the old building. Rose Street congregation paid
;^4oo, the Synod's Debt Liquidating Board ^150, and the congregation defrayed
the remainder. The union took place on 2d April 1867, the Rev. A. C. Rutherford
retiring from active duties, and Rev. John Thomson assuming the whole responsi-
bilities of the pastorate. Henderson Church is now used for missionary purposes.
DEAN STREET.
The Rev. Dr Davidson having removed with the majority of his congregation to
Queen Street Hall in November 1861, the remanent portion, consisting of three
elders and ninety-nine members, formed the nucleus of a new congregation in the
place of worship in Dean Street, Stockbridge. On petition to the Presbytery of
Edmburgh, supply of sermon was granted, and the new congregation erected on 2d
December 1861.
isf Minister. — Andrew Gardiner, M.A., formerly of Kincardine. Inducted
2Sth March 1863.
MORNINGSIDE.
At a meeting of residents in Morningside, connected with the United Presby-
terian Church, held in June 1862, a proposal was considered to form a new con-
gregation, and a committee appointed to make all due inquiry. The committee
reported so favourably in December, that it was resolved to proceed with the
erection of a church, and accordingly in that same month the foundation stone was
laid. The Presbytery of Edinburgh, on 25th January 1863, granted a petition for
supply of sermon, and a preaching station was opened in the Free Church school,
kindly granted by Rev. T. Addis. On 7th July 1863, the church was congregated
with 37 members. Rev. Dr George Johnston, Moderator of Session. The church
was opened on 5th November, by Rev. Dr Cairns of Berwick, and on the ensuing
Sabbath Drs Eadie and Johnston preached. The cost of the building was ^^3000,
and the sitting accommodation 400, with provision for a gallery to hold 200.
2o8 The United Presbyterian CJinrch.
A ^all was given to Rev. Dr Cairns of Berwick, on 15th February 1864, which
he decHned.
On the 24th of January 1868, a violent gale injured the church to such an
extent that it cost ^^1300 to repair the damage which had been done.
\st Minister. — James Brown, M.A., previously of Creetown. Inducted into
Morningside 23d November 1864. Demitted his charge 3d March 1868; after-
wards inducted into Lochgelly.
zd Minister. — David King, LL.D., previously of Westbourne Grove, London.
Inducted ist April 1869.
Author of " Review of Proceedings of the General Assembly of 1838 in the Auchterarder Case ;"
"Two Lectures in Reply to Dr Chalmers on Church Extension;" "Christian I-iberality," a Ser-
mon preached before the London Missionary Society, 8th May 1839;" " Memoir of Mr James S.
Carmichael ; " " Essay on Union among Christians viewed in relation to the present state of religious
parties in Scotland ; " " The Ruling Eldership of the Christian Church ;" " The Lord's Supper ;"
" An Exposition and Defence of the Presbyterian form of Church Government ; " " The State and
Prospects of Jamaica ; " " The Principles of Geology Explained, and Viewed in their Relations to
Revealed Religion ; " "The Adaptation of the Sabbath to the Temporal Well-being of Men;"
" Fear God, Honour the King," a Sermon ; " Plea for Presbytery, and Union among Presbyterians
in England ; " " The Power of Zeal ; " " Opening Address at Evangelical Alliance in Liverpool,"
1858.
CANONGATE.
Mission work has been conducted by Broughton Place congregation in the
Canongate since 1830. A church having been built and opened 2 2d November
1869, the members applied to the Presbytery in February 187 1 to be received as a
congregation, and they were regularly congregated on 20th March 1871, with 113
members.
\st Minister. — John Wilson, A.M., formerly of Stronsay. Admitted 19th
December 187 1.
HAYMARKET.
This congregation originated with the Church Extension Committee of Edin-
burgh Presbytery, of which the Rev. W. Thomson, Slateford, was convener. The
committee at its formation in August 1869 was of opinion that the district around
Haymarket was a suitable locality for planting a new church. An eflbrt was made
to obtain a fund sufficient to purchase two iron churches, but this was not realised.
In August 187 1 the committee bought the second-hand iron church which had
been used by the congregation of Woolwich, which was conveyed to Leith by sea,
and erected in Dairy Road in September and October 187 1. The cost of the
building and its transfer, with reconstruction, painting, heating, etc., was ;^4oo.
It was opened on the first Sabbath of November, and contains 300 sittings. The
Presbytery retains the property, but grants the use of it to the congregation for not
more than three years. The church was opened without the certain prospect of a
single family joining the new cause. A petition, subscribed by 52 members of the
church, together with 24 adherents, was presented to the Presbytery in June 1872,
praying to be organised as a congregation, which was granted in August.
LONDON ROAD.
This congregation was also commenced by the Presbytery's Extension Com-
mittee. A station was opened in the High School, one of the class-rooms of which
was kindly granted for the purpose, on 12th November 1871, by Rev. Dr Peddie and
Presbytery of Edinbttrgh — Kirkgate. 209
Rev. J, Robertson of Bread Street. The services were continued here till the
erection of a wooden church in London Road, to which the station was removed.
The foundation stone of a church was laid on the site of the wooden church on ist
July 1872 by Provost Watt of Leith, and will cost, when completed, ;;^3ooo. The
persons worshipping made application to the Presbytery of Edinburgh to be con-
gregated, and the congregation was organised in August 1872.
LEITH.
Leith is the seaport of Edinburgh, 2 miles distant from the city.
KIRKGATE.
A vacancy having occurred in 1739 in one of the charges of South Leith Parish,
which is collegiate, Lord Balmerino, the patron, with the view of preventing a
secession from the Church, gave the people an unfettered choice of a minister, for
which he was publicly thanked by the General Assembly. At the election, a
majority of the heritors and heads of families — the only parties voting — made choice
of the Rev. William Aitken, minister of Larbert, a person unacceptable to the
people generally, to fill the charge. The people showed their disapprobation of
this choice by petitioning the Presbytery not to sustain the call. The case was
referred to the Synod, and ultimately to the General Assembly, 1740, who ordered Mr
Aitken's translation, which took place accordingly. A number of the parishioners,
headed by Dr John Reid, classical master of the High School, withdrew from the
Established Church, and acceded to the Associate Presbytery. It appears from the
communion roll, kept by the Rev. Adam Gib, that there were 92 members of Bristo
Street congregation, Edinburgh, resident in Leith. The great majority of these
adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747. These,
with others of the denomination who had settled in the town, continued under Mr
Gib's ministry in Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, till 1765, when, in compliance with
their own request, they were allowed by the Presbytery, upon certain conditions, to
form a separate congregation. They were organised as a congregation, 1770, but
it was considered for edification that they should be disjoined from the Presbytery
of Edinburgh and joined to that of Kirkcaldy. The Synod upon appeal granted
them a moderation, 1772, upon condition "that the minister of Leith shall supply
at Edinburgh, on such warning as may serve for advertising his congregation when-
ever Edinburgh congregation shall be unexpectedly reduced to the necessity of a
vacancy otherwise, or when no other supply can be rationally obtained or looked
for," to which condition the people assented, but which was ever a source of annoy-
ance to them. Church built, 17753 rebuilt, 179 ; reseated, 1829; sittings, 1025.
\st Minister. — John Proudfoot. Ordained 27th October 1772. In 1775 Mr
Proudfoot protested and appealed to the Synod against a deed of the Presbytery of
Edinburgh, depriving him of his seat as a member of Presbytery, because he would
not rebuke from the pulpit persons residing in the Calton, Edinburgh, for attending
his ministry. The Synod removed the sentence, but admonished him to avoid
giving offence in future. In December 1784, a complaint against the life and doc-
trine of Mr Proudfoot, signed by five elders of his congregation, was laid on the
Presbytery's table. After some deliberation, the Presbytery suspended him from
2IO The United Presbyterian C/mrck.
the office of tlie ministry. Mr Proudfoot protested and appealed to the Synod on
the plea of no exculpatory evidence being heard, and the case otherwise not being
prosecuted according to the forms of process. The Synod, 31st August 1785, con-
tinued the suspension ; and on Mr Proudfoot refusing to submit to the sentence,
declared him deposed from the office of the ministry, and no longer a member of
the church. The majority of the congregation adhered to Mr Proudfoot notwith-
standing this sentence, and retained possession of the property belonging to them.
Immediately after his deposition, Mr Proudfoot united with the Rev. Mr Smyton of
Kilmaurs, and the Rev. Mr Hunter of Falkirk — both of whom were then also out of
the communion of the General Associate (Antiburgher) Church, in which they had
previously been — in forming a Presbytery, from which he was cut off by death, after
attending its first meeting, 1785, in the 14th year of his ministry.
After Mr Proudfoot's death the congregation applied to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Edinburgh, to be taken under their inspection, and were received 5th
September 1787.
2d Minister. — Thomas Aitchison, from Dunbar (First). Called to Scone,
Kennoway, St Andrews, and Leith, Ordained 9th December 1788. Died 3d April
1826, in the 63d year of his age, and 38th of his ministry. Mr Aitchison wrote
a Memoir of his father-in-law, Mr Shirra of Kirkcaldy, which was never published.
The congregation then called Mr Alexander Fisher, who was appointed by the
Synod to Dunfermline,
■^d Minister. — Ebenezer Halley, D.D., previously of St Andrews. Admitted
5th June 1828. Resigned ist May 1838. Emigrated to America, and became
minister of a congregation at Salem, then at Troy, and then at Albany, in the State
of New York.
/^th Minister. — William Marshall, from Kirkintilloch, of which his father was
minister. Called to Duntocher, Musselburgh, and Leith. Ordained 1 7th January
1839. In ^^y 1846, the Presbytery of Edinburgh agreed to rebuke Mr Marshall
for conduct considered highly improper by them, and to suspend him from the
exercise of his official functions as a minister of the Gospel and from the fellowship
of the Church. Against this decision Mr Marshall protested, and appealed to the
Synod, who dismissed the protest and appeal as ill founded, and confirmed the
sentence of the Presbytery, at the same time appointing a committee to meet with
Mr Marshall and deal with him, for the purpose of bringing him to contrition and
right exercise. Mr Marshall read a paper of protest refusing to submit to the
sentence of the court, and declaring his separation from the United Secession
Church. A portion of his congregation adhered to him, and built a place of wor-
ship for him in Junction Road. He and they afterwards joined tlie Synod of
Original Seceders, and the congregation is now in connection with the Free Church.
Translated to Kirkintilloch in 1856. Died 13th January i860, in the 47th year of
his age, and 21st of his ministry. While minister of the congregation in the Kirk-
gate, Mr Marshall published a tract " On the Claims of Missions, enforced by a
Survey of their Results ; " and another, entitled " The present State of Doctrine in
the United Secession Church."
z^th Minister. — Alexander D. Kininmont, previously of Crossford. Admitted
to Kirkgate, Leith, 24th July 1849. Resigned ist November 1854. Sent by Mis-
sion Board to Australia, same year. Became minister of a congregation in Mel-
bourne. Returned to Scotland, 1859. Again returned to Melbourne, and was in-
ducted into Cuzzon Street Church, ist July 1861.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — St Andrews Place — North Leith. 2 1 1
6th Minister. — James Strange Mill, from Dysart. Called to Hexham and
Leith. Ordained 20th November 1855. Author of "The Reformation :" a Lecture;
and papers in Magazines and Reviews.
ST ANDREWS PLACE.
This congregation originated with members of the congregation of Kirkgate,
Leith, who approved of the Synod's procedure in deposing Mr Proudfoot from the
exercise of his ministry, and who accordingly separated in 1785 from the rnajority
adhering to him and retaining the property. They built a place of worship in St
Andrews Street, 1787, which they continued to occupy till 1826, when they erected
an elegant and more commodious one on a piece of vacant ground at the head of
Leith Links, to which they gave the name of St Andrews Place, as akin to that
which the congregation had previously borne ; sittings, 1254.
1st Mitiister. — Robert Culbertson, from Morebattle. Ordained ist September
1791. Died 13th December 1823, in the 58th year of his age and 33d of his ministry.
Auth:r of " Hints on the Ordinance of the Gospel Ministry ; " "A Vindication of the Principles
of Seceders on the Head of Communion;" "The Covenanter's Manual, or a Short Illustration
of the Scripture Doctrine of Public Vows ;" two sermons entitled " Consolation to the Church ;"
"Lectures on the Book of Revelation," 2 vols. ; "The Pillar of Rachel's Grave;" "A Sermon
preached on the death of the Princess Charlotte;" "The Death and Character of Asa, King of
Judah," being a sermon on the death of George IH. ; a sermon "On the Present Condition and
Future Prospects of Jews and Gentiles ; " and " Essence of Old Light Principles Extracted."
In 182 1 the congregation called Mr Whyte, afterwards of Salem, United States,
to be colleague and successor to Mr Culbertson.
2d Minister. — John Smart, A.M., D.D., from StirUng (First), of which his
father was minister. Called to Potterrow, Edinburgh ; Glasgow (Melville, now St
Vincent Street) ; and Leith. Appointed by the Synod to Leith. Ordained 2d March
1825. Called in 1828 to Wells Street, London, but preferred remaining in Leith.
Had the degree of D.D, conferred upon him by the University of Edinburgh, 1849.
Moderator of Secession Synod in 1842. Clerk of Edinburgh Presbytery for 40
years. Received a testimonial from the Presbytery, in 1866, a similar testimonial
being given by his people. Died 21st June 187 1, in the 70th year of his age and
47 th of his ministry.
Author of "A Sermon preached on a Fast occasioned by the prevalence of Cholera ;" "A
Memoir of the Rev. Alexander Nisbet of Portsburgh," prefixed to a posthumous volume of his Dis-
courses ; "Trust in Trouble;" Memoir of his father, Dr Smart of Stirling.' A volume of dis-
courses, with memoir by Professor Harper, was published in 1872.
The congregation called Mr John Sellar, preacher, in August 1869, who pre-
ferred Sanquhar. In 1870 they called Mr Robert French, M.A., who preferred
Dunfermline (Queen Anne Street).
2,d Minister. — Andrew Henderson Anderson, from Kinclaven. Ordained as
colleague to Dr Smart, 17th January 1871.
NORTH LEITH.
Certain persons in Leith, wishing to promote the cause of the Secession by
erecting a place of worship in the northern part of the town, where there was none
previously, while the population was increasing in that direction, presented a petition
to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh for supply of sermon in that
locality. Parties who considered themselves interested in the matter, objected to
the prayer of this petition being granted, on which account the case came before the
2 1 2 The United Presbyterian ClmrcJi.
Synod that met in September 1816, when it was decided in favour of the petitioners.
They leased the old Parish Church of North Leith, which had been abandoned by
the parishioners for a new one erected at a great distance from it. They were
organised there as a congregation in 18 16, and continued to occupy that place till
1820, when they removed to a place of worship they had erected for themselves,
containing iioo sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. John Brown,
who preferred remaining in Biggar.
\st Mi7iister. — James Harper, D.D., from the Secession congregation, Lanark,
of which his father was minister. Called to Stonehouse and Leith. Ordained 2d
February 1819. Appointed Professor of Church History and Pastoral Theology by
the United Secession Synod, May 1843. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon
him by Jefferson College, Pennsylvania, U.S., the same year. Transferred to the
chair of Systematic Theology, May 1846. Appointed Professor of Systematic and
Pastoral Theology by the United Presbyterian Synod, May 1847. Moderator of the
United Presbyterian Synod, i860. On 19th May 1869, the occasion of Dr Harper's
jubilee, he was presented with a silver salver and ^1200,
Author of "A Sermon on Missions;" another on "The Duty of Fasting in relation to the
Present Crisis (1832) ;" a third on "The Signs of the Times ; " a lecture on " The Civil Establish-
ments of Religion;" a pastoral address on "The Duty of Family Prayer ; " a sermon entitled
" Christ's Resurrection the Pledge and Pattern of the Resurrection of His People," preached on the
occasion of the death of the Rev. James Peddie, D.D. ; "Life of the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, one of
the founders of the Secession Church," forming part of one of the volumes of the "United Presby-
terian Fathers;" "The Credulity of Unbelief," lecture at opening of United Presbyterian Hall,
1869 ; "The Union Question."
The congregation called Mr James Graham, preacher, as colleague to Dr
Harper, in 1864.
2d Minister. — Robert Lyon, from Greenock (Union Street). Called to Aber-
deen (Belmont Street), and North Leith. Ordained as colleague to Dr Harper, i8th
October 1864.
JUNCTION ROAD.
In April 1822 a petition, subscribed by 40 individuals resident in Leith, some
of whom had been members of the Relief Church, but were then connected with
congregations of other denominations in the town, was presented to the Relief
Presbytery of Edinburgh. The petitioners stated " that for some time they had
been anxious to establish a congregation in Leith according to the principles of the
Relief Church ; that there appears not only ample room, but a strong and general
desire for such an establishment; and with a view of accomplishing this object,
some of the petitioners have rented the Old Parish Church of North Leith for a
year." The prayer of this petition was granted, and the Rev. Mr Scott of Cowgate,
Edinburgh, appointed to preach to the petitioners on the last Sabbath of May 1822,
as a forming congregation in connection with the Relief Synod. The congregation
thus formed continued to occupy the Old Parish Church of North Leith till 1825,
when they removed to one they had erected for themselves in Junction Road ;
sittings, 1230.
\st Minister. — Francis Muir, from Strathaven (East). Ordained nth June
1823. Moderator of Relief Synod in 1841. Died 13th September 187 1, in the
75th year of his age, and 49th of his ministry.
id Minister. — James Deans, B.A., from Portobello, of which his father was
minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Muir, 21st March 1865.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Dalkeith (East). 2 1
DALKEITH.
Dalkeith is a town in Mid-Lothian, 6 miles south-east of Edinburgh and 4 south
of Musselburgh.
EAST CHURCH.
A praying society which had existed from the times of the Covenanters in the
village of Easthouses, in the parish of Newbattle, which adjoins that of Dalkeith
on the south and west, acceded to the Associate Presbytery in October 1737. In
1738 the Marquis of Lothian presented Mr Patrick Duncan, probationer, to the
Church of Temple — a neighbouring parish then vacant. The parishioners dis-
approved of the patron's nominee, and made choice of Mr Archibald Walker,
probationer, to be their pastor. The Presbytery of Dalkeith sustained the call to
Mr Walker, but the General Assembly, to which the case was referred, set aside
Mr Walker's call, and ordered the settlement of Mr Duncan, as minister of the
parish. Several families in the parish withdrew in consequence from the Established
Church, and joined the Seceders. A number of persons belonging to the parish of
Inveresk, which also adjoins that of Dalkeith — (see congregation of Union Chapel,
Musselburgh) — had also acceded to the Associate Presbytery. For the accommo-
dation of the parties thus described, who, from the time of their accession, were
considered part of the Edinburgh Association of Seceders, sermon was occasionally
afforded on the Braid Hills, an oifshoot of the Pentlands, 2 miles south of Edin-
burgh, where those of the connection to the west of the city also assembled. At
other times they met at Gardeners' Hall, Edinburgh, whence the congregation of
Bristo Street arose. Matters continued in this state till the second Sabbath of
January 1739, when the Rev. Mr Mair of Orwell preached to them by appointment
of Presbytery, and recognised them as a forming congregation. The place of meet-
ing for the congregation thus formed was the barn of Mr Rutherford, proprietor and
occupant of the farm adjoining the village of Easthouses, already referred to, himself
one of the most active promoters of the Secession in the district. A stone, not long
since removed from the door of the farmhouse, used to be pointed out as Erskine's
pulpit, he having been necessitated to mount it on the occasion of his preaching
there, in order to address the audience, which was found far too large to be accom-
modated in the barn. The congregation thus formed was supplied with sermon as
the Presbytery was able to afford it, which was upon an average once in six weeks.
In February 1741, this congregation was further increased by the accession of
Messrs Alexander Wright and James Donaldson, elders, with upwards of thirty
private Christians in the parish of Dalkeith. The question now arose, whether the
seat of the congregation should be in Dalkeith or Musselburgh ; when the majority
decided in favour of the former, to which decision the minority were brought to give
a very reluctant consent, which they withdrew as soon as they found themselves
able to provide a place of meeting in Musselburgh. First church built, 1742.
Second built, 1812, cost ;Q2dfi^, 2s. lod.; sittings, 880.
Before obtaining a fixed minister, the congregation called, ist, Mr Mair, who
was appointed by the Synod to Muckart; 2d, Mr Potts, who kept them long in
doubt whether or not he would accept, and which caused some difficulty of action ;
but the call was afterwards allowed to drop, in circumstances fully detailed in the
notice of Stitchel congregation, by which Mr Potts was at the same time called,
and over which he was subsequently ordained. Wliile thus in a state of vacancy,
2 1 4 The United Presbyterian Church.
and waiting Mr Potts' decision in reference to their invitation to be their minister,
they were called to take a side in the Burgess Oath controversy, which in the mean-
time had been agitated, and the majority of them adhered to the Associate
(Burgher) Synod at the Breach in 1747.
ist Minister. — William Hutton, A.M., previously of Stow. Admitted 1750-
Died 14th February 1791, in the 80th year of his age, and 51st of his ministry.
Author of "A Plea for the Protestant Faith," in a letter to Rev. A. Moncrieff;
" The New Constitution of the Pretended Synod Unmasked," in a speech read
before them, 7th April 1748; and "Letter to Mr Potts."
2d Minister — John Jeffrey, from Stirling (First). Called to North Berwick
and Dalkeith, Ordained as colleague to Mr Hutton 7th January 1784. Relieved
from his charge on account of ill-health, 1796. Removed to Blairlogie, and lived
there in retirement till his death, which took place in 181 2.
■Tid Minister. — Thomas Brown, D.D., from Haddington (East), of which his
father was minister. Called to Bannockburn, Paisley, Aberdeen, Newbigging, and
Dalkeith. Ordained 2 2d January 1799. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon
him by Marischal College, Aberdeen, Died 2d June 1828, in the 53d year of his
age, and 30th of his ministry. Author of two volumes of Sermons ; a tract on
Infant Baptism ; and another on Family Worship.
4/// Minister. — David King, LL.D., from John Street, Montrose, of which his
father was minister. Ordained 13th January 1830. Translated to Greyfriars,
Glasgow, 15th October 1833.
5/// Minister. — Joseph Brown, D.D., from Abbey Close, Paisley. Called to
Pollokshaws and Dalkeith. Ordained 27th August 1834. Called in 1838 to East
Regent Street, Blackfriars, Glasgow; in 1850, to Arthur Street, Edinburgh, and to
Albion Chapel, London, but declined all these calls. Had the degree of D.D. con-
ferred upon. him by Amherst College, New. England, U.S., 1850. Author of a
volume entitled " The Dwellings of Jacob ; or Household Ministrations for every
Sabbath-day in the year ;" another entitled " The Lambs of the Flock, or Sermons
to the Young;" and Sabbath-School Hymn Book, 1854. Translated to Kent Road,
Glasgow, 2 2d December 1863.
bth Minister. — Fergus Ferguson, from Glasgow (Sydney Place). Ordained
20th September 1864. Author of "The Law of the Lord of the Sabbath;"
"Christian Brotherhood;" "Should Christians Commemorate the Birthday of
Robert Burns ?" and a volume of Sermons.
BACK STREET.
This congregation originated with a minority of the East Congregation ot
Dalkeith, who adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the
Breach in 1747, while the majority adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod.
Church built, 1749 ; sittings, 436.
\st Minister. — John Robertson. Called to Leslie and Dalkeith. Ordained
2d April 1755, Died April 1774, in the 20th year of his ministry.
2d Minister, — George Whytock, from Perth (North). Ordained 17th April
1776. Withdrew with part of his congregation, along with Mr M'Crie and others,
from the General Associate Synod 1805, leaving the majority in possession of the
church property. Died 1805, in the 56th year of his age, and 30th of his ministry.
Author of an " Essay on Church Government;" and "Defence of Covenanting."
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Kings Park. 2 1 5
2,d Minister. — Robert Buchanan, from Stirling (Second). Called to Peebles,
Carnoustie, and Dalkeith. Ordained 6th August 1806. Resigned 12th November
1845. Removed to Edinburgh, and lived privately there till his death, which took
place ist September 1850, in the 68th year of his age, and 45th of his ministry. A
volume of his discourses was published in 1853, with a preface and Memoir, by
one of his friends.
The congregation then called Mr Scott, afterwards of Creetown, and Mr Wield,
afterwards of Thornliebank, both of whom declined the calls.
ifth Minister. — Duncan M'Intosh, from St James' Place, Edinburgh. Ordained
1 8th October 1848.
Author of "The Altars and Hearths of Britannia," a poem in two books; "The Power of
Divine Grace, ilkistrated in the Death of A. W. M.," 1839; "Maturity for Death, a Funeral
Sermon for an Aged Elder."
KING'S PARK.
This congregation originated in unpopular settlements of ministers, which took
place about the same time in the parishes of Dalkeith and Cockpen. The parties
who withdrew from the Established Church on these occasions joined in a petition
to the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh to be taken under their inspection as a form-
ing congregation, which was granted, 1768. The congregation was organised in 1770.
Twenty-eight persons met on the green slopes of the Esk before the church was
built. One day, while the church was building, a person on horseback rode past,
and inquired what building the church was, and to what body it belonged. On
being told that it was a church, and intended to be Relief, he recommended to
their notice a preacher of that denomination called Robert Hutchison. They took
the hint, and the stranger turned out to be Robert Hutchison himself, who was
chosen as their first minister. Church built the same year ; sittings, 685. A new
church in King's Park was opened by the Rev. Dr M'Ewen, Glasgow, on the 8th
November 1870 (collection ^loi, 6s.), seated for 700, and costing ;^33oo.
\st Minister. — Robert Hutchison, previously a probationer of the Established
Church. Received into connection with the Relief Synod, and ordained at Dalkeith
1768. Died 1799, i^ the 31st year of his ministry.
In 1798 an effort was made to get one Thomas M'Kean to be colleague to Mr
Hutchison, which the Presbytery refused. Mr M'Kean began a cause on his own
account in Dalkeith.
2d Minister. — Alexander King, from Kettle, of which his father was minister.
Called to be colleague to Mr Hutchison, who died before Mr King's ordination.
Ordained May 1779. Loosed from his charge 6th July 1803. Removed to the
Lunatic Asylum, Musselburgh, and maintained there, at the congregation's expense,
till his death, which took place on 12th March 1841, The congregation expended
;^iioo in his maintenance.
In 1 804, the congregation called Mr Auld, afterwards of Greenock, then of Burn-
head, who declined the call.
2,d Minister. — James Scott, from High Street, Jedburgh, of which his father
was minister. Called to Dunning and Dalkeith. Ordained 24th May 1805.
Translated to Cowgate, Edinburgh, 29th October 181 8.
4/// Minister. — Thomas Eraser, from Kilbarchan. Ordained May 1819.
Loosed from his charge 9th May 1826, Emigrated to Canada, and became minis-
ter there of a congregation in connection with the Church of Scotland.
2i6 The United Pi'esbyierian CImrch.
^/h Mmister. — William Craig, from Kilsyth. Ordained 1 8th July 1827. Died
18th April 1834, in the 31st year of his age and 7th of his ministry, A volume of
his sermons was published after his death.
6th Minister. — Charles Waldie, previously of Dunfermline. Translated to
Dalkeith 17th September 1834. Paralysed and disabled for duty, November 1847.
Died i8th February 1864, in the 63d year of his age and 34th of his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. Andrew J. Gunion, who preferred remaining
in Hawick.
7M Minister. — James Rennie, from Junction Road, Leith. Ordained i6th
January 1850. Called to Egremont, but declined the call. Translated to St Vin-
cent Street, Glasgow, as colleague to Mr Middleton, ist August 1865. Author of
"Smooth Things in the Pulpit."
8//^ Minister. — James Jeffrey, M.A., from Greenock (Sir Michael Street), of
which his father was minister. Called to Hastings (Silverhill), to Edinburgh {Lothian
Road), and to Manchester (Brunswick Street). Ordained 8th November 1865.
Author of " Memoir of John Dick Harper, Student."
HADDINGTON.
Haddington is the county town of East Lothian, i6| miles north-east of Edin-
burgh and 1 1 south-west of Dunbar.
EAST CHURCH.
A number of praying societies in East Lothian acceded to the Associate Presby -
tery in March 1737. They were united in a General Association, and designated
" The Correspondence of East Lothian." They were publicly recognised as a con-
gregation in connection with the Presbytery in October of that year, the Revs.
Messrs Wilson and Mair holding a fast with them, by appointment of Presbytery,
upon the occasion. Sermon was continued to them, as the Presbytery were able to
afford it, which, for want of preachers, was only, upon an average, once in six weeks.
In February 1741, this association was further increased by the accession of three
elders and forty private members who had withdrawn from the Established Church.
The congregation thus formed worshipped in the open-air during summer, and in
barns during winter, till 1742-3, when they took possession of a place of worship
which they had erected for themselves, Haddington being chosen for the seat of
the congregation as most central for the majority of the persons composing it.
A second church was built on the same site in 1765, and altered in 1806; sittings,
500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Brown, who was
appointed by the Synod to Perth, and Mr Loch, who died while under call.
\st Minister. — Robert Archibald. Ordained 19th September 1744. Ad-
hered, with the minority of his congregation, to the General Associate (Antiburgher),
while the majority adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, in 1747. The minis-
ter and the minority withdrew and formed the second Secession congregation.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Hutton, of Stow, who preferred Dalkeith.
2d Minister. — John Brown, from Abernethy. Admitted to the Theological
Hall without having previously attended college, his attainments in the learned
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Haddington (Second Secession). 217
languages and Philosophy being found such, upon examination, though he was only
self-taught, as to warrant the Synod to make an exception from the general rule in
his case. Called to Stow and Haddington. Ordained 4th July 175 1. Was the
first Secession minister who introduced the practice of dispensing the Lord's Supper
twice in the year. Appointed Professor of Theology by the Associate (Burgher)
Synod, 5th May 1768. Invited to be Professor of Theology to the Dutch Church,
New York, but dechned. Died 19th June 1787, in the 65th year of his age, and
36 th of his ministry.
Author of " An Explication of the Assembly's Shorter Catechism ;" "A Brief Dissertation on
Christ's Righteousness, showing to what extent it is imputed to us in Justification ;" " Two Short
Catechisms, mutually connected, the questions of the former being generally supposed and omitted
in the latter ;" " The Christian Journal, or Common Incidents Spiritual Instructors ;" "A Histori-
cal Account of the Secession from the Church of Scotland ;" " Letters on the Constitution, Dis-
cipline, and Government of the Christian Church;" "Sacred Tropology, or a Brief View of the
Metaphors contained in Scripture ;" " Religious Stedfastness Recommended," a sermon ; " A Dic-
tionary of the Holy Bible," 2 vols.; "A General History of the Christian Church ;" " The Psalms
of David in Metre, with Notes ;" " The Self-Interpreting Bible ;" " The Oracles of Christ and the
Abominations of Antichrist Contrasted ;" " The Absurdity and Perfidy of all authoritative toleration
of gross Heresy, Blasphemy, Idolatry, and Popery in Great Britain;" Two Sermons "On the Fear-
ful Shame and Contempt of mere Professed Christians who neglect to raise up Spiritual Children to
Jesus Christ;" "An Evangelical and Practical View of the Types and Figures of the Old Testa-
ment Dispensation ;" "The Christian Student and Pastor Exemplified in the Lives of Nine Emi-
nent Ministers ; " " The Young Christian Exemplified;" "A Compendious View of Natural and
Revealed Religion;" "The Necessity and Advantage for Earnest Prayer for the Lord's Special
Direction in the Choice of Pastors, with an Appendix of Free Thoughts Concerning the Transporta-
tion of Ministers ;" "A Brief Concordance to the Holy Scriptures ;" "Practical Piety Exemplified
in the Lives of Thirteen Eminent Christians ;" " Harmony of Scripture Prophecy and History of
their Fulfilment ;" " A Compendious History of the British Churches," 2 vols. ; " Thoughts on the
Travelling of the Mail on the Lord's Day ;" " The Re-Exhibition of the Testimony Defended ;"
"Devout Breathings of a Pious Soul;" "The Necessity, Seriousness, and Sweetness of Practical
Religion in an Awakening Call, by S. Corbyn, with four Solemn Addresses to Sinners, Young and
Old ;" " Select Remains ;" " An Apology for a more frequent Administration of the Lord's Sup-
per." The last two named are posthumous works.
2,d Minister. — Benoni Black, from Blackfriars', Jedburgh, Ordained 19th
August 1789. Died suddenly i6th June 1828, in the 66th year of his age and 39th
of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr John Young, who was appointed by the Synod
to Albion Chapel, London.
Afth Mijiister. — Joseph Young, from Irvine (East). Ordained 21st October
1829. Demitted his charge 7th April 1857, and proceeded to America. Died at
Brantford, Canada West, 9th August 1864. Author of " Demonology."
A call was given to Mr W. Calvert, but declined.
^th Minister. — John Hinshelwood, A.M., from Broomgate, Lanark. Called
also to Wigtown. Ordained 19th November 1858. Author of " The Revival of
Religion the want of our Times."
SECOND SECESSION (Now Extinct).
This congregation was formed by a minority of the First Secession, now the
East congregation, Haddington, consisting of 12 elders, 6 deacons, and a part of the
congregation, who adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the
Breach, 1747. They worshipped for some time in the open air, but afterwards
bought a malt-barn, and had it fitted up in 1752 as a church with 385 sittings.
\st Minister. — Robert Archibald, previously minister of the First congregation.
Died 1762, in the 58th year of his age and 19th of his ministry.
The congregation then called Mr Jerment, who was continued by the Synod
in his charge at Peebles.
2i8 The United Presbyterian Church.
2d Minister. — Laurence Wotherspoon, from Abernethy. Called to Hawick
and Haddington. Ordained loth July 1776. Died 1779, in the 37th year of his
age and 13th of his ministry.
Tyd Minister. — Robert Chalmers, from Dennyloanhead. Ordained 17th Au-
gust 1780. Separated, with Mr M'Crie and others, from the General Associate
Synod, 1805, and helped to form "The Constitutional Presbytery," which afterwards
merged into " The Associate Synod of Original Seceders." Mr Chalmers and his
adherents retained the property belonging to the whole congregation, the minority
withdrawing and forming the third Secession, now the West United Presbyterian
Congregation, Haddington. The representatives of the second Secession congrega-
tion are now in connection with the Free Church. Mr Chalmers died 29th Decem-
ber 1837, in the Sad year of his age and 58th of his ministry. Author of a volume
of sermons, a tract " On Missionary Societies," and several pamphlets on the con-
troversy which led to his separation from the General Associate Synod.
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
The parochial charge of Haddington is collegiate, and in 1790 the first minister
was the Rev. Dr Barclay, and the second the Rev. Mr Scott. There is some differ-
ence in the income of the two appointments. It had been the use and wont, on the
demise of the first, for the second minister to be elevated to the vacant charge. On
the demise of Dr Barclay, the Rev. Mr, afterwards Dr, Lorimer was presented at
once to the first charge. This gave offence to Mr Scott's friends, some of whom
immediately set on foot the building of a place of worship in which they might be
free from the exercise of patronage. The measure was popular, and assistance was
afforded by persons not of the party, in the form of labour, carriages, and money.
When the building was finished, the movers in the scheme applied for and obtained
supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh, March 1791, and a con-
gregation was organised soon after ; sittings, 549.
\st Minister. — David Gellatly. Called to Waterbeck, Earlston, and Hadding-
ton. Ordained 1792. Deposed 1794. Mr Gellatly continued to preach for some
time in Haddington after his deposition, and did much to injure the congregation
of which he had been minister. He was received into connection with the two
Cowans, who had set up a party under the designation of " The First Constituted
Presbytery of Relief." He afterwards removed to Newcastle, and had charge of a
flourishing congregation there, which failed. He then removed to Aberdeen, where
he died.
Author of a pamphlet, entitled, " The History and Principles of the First Constituted Presbytery
of Relief, founded in consequence of the Law of Patronage by the late Messrs Gillespie and Boston,
by the surviving Members of said Presbytery ; " a Sermon, entitled, " Wars and Rumours of
Wars," dedicated to the Officers of the Ayrshire Militia, to which corps, while quartered in New-
castle, he acted as chaplain ; and "The Cross of Christ, the Tree of Liberty. "
2d Mi?iister. — William Reid. Ordained 1796. Resigned 1800. Admitted
to Colinsburgh, 1803.
The congregation never recovered from the injury inflicted upon it by Mr Gel-
latly, and after Mr Reid's resignation it gradually declined, and at length became
extinct. The rights of the property were held by those whose names were in the
bond for the stipend. They sold it to Messrs Haldane, of the Tabernacle, and
Gibson, Leith. The Independents held the property for a few years. When Mr
Haldane adopted Baptist views, the change gave rise to questions respecting the
Presbytery of Edinburgh — West Church — West Linton. 2 1 9
property. It had to be sold again, and it passed into the hands of the congregation
next noticed.
WEST CHURCH.
This congregation was formed by members of the Second Secession congrega-
tion, Haddington, previously noticed, who adhered to the General Associate Synod,
when Mr Chalmers, the minister, and the majority of his people, separated from it
in 1805. The separating party retained the property belonging to the congregation,
but their claim of right was disputed by the other party, and, after a tedious process
at law, decided in their favour, on the principle that, though they were the minority,
yet, as adhering to the Synod, the property belonged of right to them. In the
meantime (1807) they had purchased the place of worship described in the imme-
diately preceding article, and therefore accepted ^350 in lieu of the property to
which the court of law had established their claim, and left that property in posses-
sion of the majority who had retained it.
\st Minister. — William Hogg, from the First Secession Congregation, Ayr.
Ordained 31st August 1809. Died i6th June 1849, in the 68th year of his age,
and 40th of his ministry.
The congregation then called the Rev. J. B. Johnston, who preferred Kirkcaldy,
and Mr James Stevenson, who preferred Dennyloanhead.
2d Minister. — John M. Stevenson, from Princes Street, Kihuarnock. Called
to LiUiesleaf and Haddington. Ordained 1851. Resigned, on account of ill-
health, 1854.
3th Minister. — J. M. Kinloch, formerly of Ballyfrenis. Admitted 1 7th April
1867.
HOWGATE.
Howgate is a hamlet in the parish of Penicuik, Mid-Lothian, on the turnpike
road between Edinburgh and Dumfries, 1 1 miles south-east of Edinburgh, i mile
from Penicuik station.
This congregation originated with members of the congregations of Dalkeith
and West Linton, who adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher), while the
majorities of these congregations adhered to the Associate (Burgher), Synod at the
Breach in 1747. Their first place of meeting was at Halls. Mr Clarkson of Craig-
mailen preached there in October 1 748, and intimated the excommunication of Mr
Mair of West Linton. Howgate was afterwards fixed upon as the seat of the con-
gregation, because most central to the majority of the persons composing it. Church
built, 1751 ; sittings, 390. A new church was opened 9th November 1856, with
sittings for 408, and costing ^750. Debt all cleared off, 8th February 1865.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation in February 1750 called Mr
Nimmo, afterwards of Newcastle, but the call was not sustained ; and Mr Wilson,
son of Mr W. Wilson, Perth, who was appointed by the Synod to Methven.
\st Minister. — Andrew Bunyan. Ordained 26th November 1754. Died 22d
February 1795, in the 71st year of bis age and 41st of his ministry.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Peebles (First Secession). 221
2d Minister. — William M'Ewen, from Logiealmond. Ordained 31st May
1796. Died 22d February 1827, in the 58th year of his age and 31st of his
ministry. Mr M'Ewen pubHshed a sermon preached at the opening of the General
Associate Synod in October 18 18, entitled, "Ministerial Caution, or the Concern of
the Faithful Servants of Christ for the Credit and Success of their Ministry."
■^d Minister. — David Duncan from Mid-Calder, of which his father was mini
ster. Called to Comrie and Howgate. Ordained 3d January 1828. Died 26th
June 1866, in the 62d year of his age and 39th of his ministry. A volume of
sermons, with memoir, was published after his death.
Author of "The Pattern of Prayer," being an Exposition of the Lord's Prayer ; translator from
the Latin of Dr Werenfels' " Dissertations on the Evidences of Cliristianity," forming part of the first
volume of the Biblical Family Library ; "The Law of Moses : its Excellence as a Rule of Con-
duct, its Utility as a National Covenant, and its Importance as a Development of the Plan of
Salvation."
t\th Mifiister. — David Thomas, M.A., from Mauchline, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 19th February 1867.
PEEBLES.
Peebles is the county town of Peeblesshire, 22 miles south of Edinburgh, 12
miles south of Penicuik, and 12 south-east of West Linton.
FIRST SECESSION (Now Extinct).
The parish of Manor, which adjoins that of Peebles on the south-west, having
become vacant in 1742, the Earl of March as patron presented Mr Andrew Plummer,
probationer, to the charge. Only three persons in the parish could be got to sign
Mr Plummer's call, and both the Presbytery of Peebles and the Synod of Lothian
refused to sustain it. The General Assembly of that year to which the case was
appealed, decided " that in the present circumstances of the parish they could not
proceed to the settlement of Mr Plummer in Manor," and the moderator was ordered
to write letters to the Earl of March and his curators to give them notice of this
sentence, and entreating that they would not insist on their presentation in the
present case. The presentation notwithstanding was persisted in, and Mr Plummer
ultimately settled as minister of Manor. A number of the parishioners withdrew
from the Established Church in consequence, and connected themselves with the
Secession Congregations of Stow and West Linton. At the Breach in 1747, a
considerable portion of the Seceders in Manor, Peebles, and Eddleston parishes
adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, and with those in the
parishes of Penicuik, West Linton, and Currie helped to form the congregation of
Howgate. The distance from the place of worship, however, Avas soon found to be
inconveniently great to those of the southern parishes, who on that account united
in a petition to the Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh for supply of
sermon at Peebles, December 1750. The Presbytery, at its meeting in February
1 75 1, "after deliberating on the case of that part of Linton (the name by which
the congregation continued to be called some time after the Breach), which lies in
and about Peebles, for which distinct applications for supply of sermon had come
up to this and the two foregoing meetings of Presbytery, they unanimously agree
that in time coming during the vacancy of the congregation of Linton (Howgate),
2 22 The United Presbyterian Church.
and while the circumstances thereof remain as at present, they will appoint the sup-
plies for Linton community to be sometimes at Peebles, as they shall see cause."
This arrangement was accordingly followed till 1754, when a minister was settled
in Howgate, and the members belonging to it resident in and about Peebles were
formed into a separate congregation. The Presbytery at the same time agreed that
" the march between Howgate and Peebles should run along by the villages called
North Shaw, Strutland, and Cleuch, in the parish of Eddleston ; but in regard it does
not yet appear distinctly from the report laid before them, with which of the congrega-
tions the people in these villages incline to be classed, the Presbytery agree that
they be left at freedom to join with either of the two, and that the said villages shall
be within the bounds of that congregation to which the majority of the Seceders in
them shall adjoin themselves." The congregation thus formed worshipped in the
open air and in barns, chiefly at Schottenhill, till 1755, when they took possession of
a place of worship they had erected for themselves in Peebles.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Wilson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Methven, and the Rev. Matthew Moncrieff of Aber-
nethy, who declined the call.
\st Minister. — Richard Jerment. Ordained 1755. Called in 176 1 to Locker-
bie, in 1763 to Haddington, and in 1765 to Bo'ness and Midcalder, but remained in
Peebles till 21st June 1769, when he was translated to Burntisland.
2d Minister. — Michael Arthur, previously of Dumbarrow, Forfarshire. Ad-
mitted 2ist March 1771. Translated to Aberdeen 26th June 1782. Author of
"The Obligation and Extent of the Redeemer's Dying Command;" "The Two
Witnesses," the Synod Sermon of 17993 and "The Sonship of Christ Vindi-
cated."
The congregation called Mr M'Vitae, who was appointed by the Synod to
Greenlaw.
Tfd Minister. — William Breingan, from Muckart. Ordained 3d January 1787.
Resigned 1800. Admitted to Tillicoultry 1801.
The congregation then called Mr Buchanan, who was appointed by the Synod
to Dalkeith, and Mr Eraser, who was appointed to Dundee.
4//z Minister. — Peter Gordon, from Brechin. Ordained 1806. Resigned 1807 ;
went to Prince Edward Island.
^th Minister. — Duncan Stalker, from Comrie. Ordained 19th November
1807. Resigned 8th June 1830. Emigrated to America, and became minister of
a congregation in North Argyle, State of New York.
(ith Minister. — William Taylor, D.D., from Longridge. Ordained 24th March
183 1. Resigned 1833. Emigrated to Canada, and is now a minister in Montreal.
^th Minister. — Robert Crease, from Portsburgh, Edinburgh. Ordained 26th
March 1834. Resigned 4th April 1837. Admitted to Leith-Lumsden 1838.
After Mr Crease's resignation, the congregation continued to receive supply of
sermon for some time, but for want of encouragement it was ultimately withdrawn.
The property was sold, and the congregation became extinct.
EAST CHURCH.
Previous to the year 1790 Mr M'Gilchrist of West Linton used to preach twice
a year at Peebles to some members of his church there. In consequence of some
unpopular settlements in the parish, application was made to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Edinburgh — West Church — Dunbar (Second). 223
Presbytery of Edinburgh in 1790 for supply of sermon, which was granted. The
church was opened 27th November 1791.
1st Alinister. — Thomas Leckie, from Falkirk (East). Called to East I>inton,
Moffat, and twice to Peebles. Ordained loth July 1794. Died 27th September
182 1, in the 63d year of his age and 28th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Thomas Adam, from Abbey Close, Paisley. Ordained 19th
March 1823. Resigned 4th August 1846 ; now living in Kirriemuir. While minister
of Peebles, Mr Adam published three sermons, " On the Duty and Privilege of
Good Men in Times of Calamity ;" and " Domestic Bereavement."
The congregation called Mr John Scott, who preferred going to Jamaica as a
missionary.
2^d Minister. — John Semple, from Bellevilla, Stranraer. Ordained 20th April
1848. Resigned 5th April 1853. Emigrated to Australia.
The congregation then called Mr John M'Laren, who preferred the mission
station, Cowcaddens, Glasgow.
4/// Minister. — Robert Angus, A.M., from St Nicholas Lane, Aberdeen, of
which his father was minister. Ordained 6th September 1854. Demitted his charge
on account of ill health, 3d September 1867. Died 26th November 1868. Mr
Angus published a memoir of his father, together with a volume of his sermons.
^th Minister. — Robert Burgess, from Eglinton Street, Glasgow, of which his
father was minister. Ordained 25th August 1868.
WEST CHURCH.
This congregation originated with a number of persons resident in Peebles,
who, being dissatisfied with the ministrations of the parish incumbent, applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh, 7th Sep-
tember 1827. Church built, 1828 ; sittings, 600,
\st Minister. — Alexander Thomson, A.M., from Canal Street, Paisley. Or-
dained 30th September 1829.
DUNBAR.
Dunbar is a town in East Lothian, 11 miles east of Haddington, 28 miles
east of Edinburgh, and 30 miles west of Berwick-upon-Tweed.
SECOND.
This congregation originated with members of the second congregation, Had-
dington, resident in Innerwick and adjoining parishes, who, on account of distance
from their place of worship (12 to 14 miles), applied to the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Presbytery to be formed into a separate congregation, which was done
in 1760. They erected a place of worship at Eastbarns — a village 3 miles east of
Dunbar — where they continued till 1820, when, finding most of their members resi-
dent in the town of Dunbar, they erected a place of worship there and removed
thither. Sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — Robert Cunningham, from Comrie. Ordained 28th April 1762.
Died 24th June 1801, in the 63d year of his age, and 40th of his ministry, Mr
2 24 The United Presbyterian Church.
Cunningham was proprietor of Balgonie and two other estates, which yielded about
;^i7oo per annum.
2d Minister. — Andrew Bayne, from Kinross (East). Called to Lockerbie and
Eastbarns. Ordained 27th May 1801. Removed with his congregation to Dunbar,
1820. Died 28th May 1832, in the 65th year of his age, and 32d of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — John Scott, from Castle Street, Jedburgh. Ordained as col-
league to Mr Bayne, nth February 1828.
The congregation in 1866 called Mr Charles Jerdan, LL.B., as colleague to
Mr Scott, who preferred Dennyloanhead \ and Mr Robert Scott, A.M., who pre-
ferred Logiealmond.
4/// Minister. — William Whitfield, A.M., from Biggar (South), Ordained as
colleague to Mr Scott, 20th March 1867.
FIRST.
In 1765 the Duke of Roxburgh presented the Rev. George Bruce, minister of
Minto, to the church and parish of Dunbar, then vacant. A number of the people
objected to his settlement among them, on the ground that his voice was so weak
that he could not be heard, but otherwise expressing their esteem for him as a man
of piety and learning. Neither the Presbytery of Dunbar, nor the Synod of Lothian
and Tweedale, under whose jurisdiction the congregation was placed, would sustain
the call. The case was therefore appealed to the General Assembly, which ordered
the Presbytery to proceed with Mr Bruce's induction to the parish of Dunbar with-
out delay. A number of persons — elders and members of the parish church — thus
regarding themselves as cut off from the means of edification, along with six members
of tjie congregation of Rev. John Brown of Haddington, who resided in Dunbar,
applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery
of Edinburgh 1766. They met for a time in a barn near the town. First church
built, 1767; second built, 1813; sittings 700.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Moir, who was
appointed by the Synod to Cumbernauld.
\st Minister. — John Henderson, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Called to Mus-
selburgh and Dunbar. Ordained March 1767. Died 5th March 1816, in the 76th
year of his age, and 49th of his ministry. Author of " Three Sermons on the Legal
Temper."
The congregation then called Mr Baird, who was appointed by the Synod to
Auchtermuchty.
2d Minister. — Alexander Jack, D.D., from Lloyd Street, Manchester, of which
his father was minister. Ordained 17th February 18 18. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred upon him in 1862 by Monmouth College, Illinois. Died 5th August
1868, in the 74th year of his age, and 51st of his ministry. A volume of Sermons,
with Memoir by Rev. J. Ker, Leicester, was published after his death,
T^d Minister. — James Anderson, from Edinburgh (Portsburgh). Ordained as
colleague to Dr Jack, 13th July 1861, Resigned loth May 1864. Afterwards of
Whitehaven.
4M Minister. — James Mercer Dunlop, from Edinburgh (Rose Street). Called
also to Wolverhampton. Ordained as colleague to Dr Jack, 27th June 1865.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Bathgate (Livery Street). 225
BATHGATE.
Bathgate is a town in Linlithgowshire, 18 miles west of Edinburgh, 24 east of
Glasgow, and 7 south of Linlithgow.
LIVERY STREET (Now Extinct).
Several parishioners of Bathgate acceded to the Associate Presbytery in 1740,
and became part of the Secession congregation of Craigmailen. Most of these
drew off from this congregation, the majority of which adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach in 1747, and joined the congregation
of West Linton, the majority of which had adhered to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod. In 1749 a minister was violently intruded into the parish of Kirkliston, in
consequence of which a number of the parishioners withdrew from the Established
Church, and had sermon afforded them, upon petition, by the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Edinburgh, at the village of Kirkliston. About the same time the
Associate Seceders in and about Bathgate, who had hitherto travelled to West
Linton to attend public ordinances, obtained supply of sermon at Cathlaw, in the
parish of Bathgate. In October of that year, the Associate (Burgher) Seceders in
and about Linlithgow obtained supply of sermon in that town. These three stations
continued to receive supply of sermon, each upon an average once a fortnight, till
1751, when a large secession took place in the parish of Torphichen. Sermon was
then withdrawn from Kirkliston, Bathgate, and Linlithgow, and supplied only to
Torphichen, where the Associate Seceders in these places were now required to
attend. With this arrangement the adherents in Bathgate were not satisfied : never-
theless they continued to attend at Torphichen till 1763, when they built a place of
worship in Bathgate, containing 400 sittings. Finding that a portion of the con-
gregation would not willingly abandon Torphichen, they applied to the Synod to
coerce them into it. The Synod decided that both parties should continue one
congregation, with two places of worship and one minister, who should supply each
on alternate Sabbaths. Both parties acquiesced in this decision, and the minister
of Torphichen also supplied Bathgate accordingly.
\st Mhiister. — Archibald Hall, from Penicuik. Ordained as minister of the
Associate congregation, Torphichen, 13th February 1760. Became minister of the
united congregations of Torphichen and Bathgate 1764. Translated to Wells Street,
London, 1765.
After Mr Hall's translation, Torphichen and Bathgate became separate congre-
gations, with a minister to each.
2d Mhiister. — William Hall, Ordained 26th August 1766. Died 17th
October 1771, in the sixth year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Richardson, who was appointed by the Synod to
Greenock.
T,d Minister. — John Jamieson. Called to Longridge and Bathgate. Ordained
Februar}^ 1776. Resigned 14th August 1783. Emigrated to America, and became
minister of a congregation, and died there in 18 19, in the 70th year of his age, and
44th of his ministry.
/^th Minister. — James Forrester, from Stirling (First). Called to St Andrews
and Bathgate. Ordained 12th April 1785. Died 1786, in the first year of his
ministry.
2 26 The United Presbyterian C/mre/i.
Ith Minister. — Patrick Connel. Ordained 23d August 1787. Mr Connel
withdrew from the Associate Synod at the division caused by the Old Light Contro-
versy, 1799, and became a member of the Original Associate (Burgher) Synod, then
formed. The majority of his congregation withdrew with him, and retained posses-
sion of the property. The minority took no steps to recover possession, trusting to
the decision of the Court in the case of Perth, which had been already raised, and
which would setde the question in all parallel cases. The case of Perth was decided
by the House of Lords in 181 9, in favour of the party which adhered to the Asso-
ciate Synod. On the ground of this decision, the minority of Bathgate congregation
claimed to be put in possession of the place of worship retained by the majority,
which was yielded up to them on their issuing a summons of removal. Mr Connel
died 23d January 1820, in the 56th year of his age, and 33d of his ministry.
The persons who had adhered to Mr Connel built another place of worship, and
called another minister after his death. The persons who had recovered the pro-
perty continued to receive supply of sermon till 1828, when it was discontinued for
want of encouragement, and the congregation became extinct. The place of worship
has since been converted into a banking-office and dwelling-house.
This congregation, however, is still to be regarded as continued in the other por-
tion of it, into which the remnant left at its extinction afterwards merged. In 1839,
Mr Reid, previously minister of the United Associate congregation of Dairy, Dum-
friesshire, but then minister of the Original Associate congregation of Bathgate,
joined the Established Church, and got his people with great reluctance to ac-
company him. In 1840 he was translated to a ^?/^«^ j-arr« church in Johnstone,
Renfrewshire ; and the congregation, left by this circumstance to an unfettered
choice of their ecclesiastical connection, determined to return to the denomination
to which they belonged at their original formation. In accordance with this deter-
mination, they were taken upon petition under the inspection of the United Asso-
ciate Presbytery of Stirling and Falkirk, 1840.
After their return to their first connection, they called Mr Andrew Johnstone, who
declined the call, afterwards joined the Established Church, and is now minister of
the parish of Kinglassie ; and Mr Fleming, who preferred Whithorn.
dth Minister. — Andrew M'Farlane, D.D., from Queen Anne Street, Dunferm-
line, of which his father was minister. Called to Pell Street, London, and Bathgate.
Ordained ist May 1843. Translated to Falkirk, 13th March 1844.
The congregation then called Mr Darling, who preferred Stitchel ; and Mr Sim,
who preferred Girvan.
7M Minister. — Alexander Cuthbert, A.M., previously minister of an Inde-
pendent congregation in Airdrie, where he was ordained in 1833. Received as a
probationer by the United Associate Synod, 1840. Admitted to Bathgate 2 2d May
1845. Demitted his charge 24th July 1855. Lived privately in Glasgow, taking
appointments as occasional preacher.
Author of "Statement of the Recent Proceedinpjs of the Independent Churches in Glasgow, and
the Committee of the Congregational Union of Scotland, in the case of the Church at Airdrie : being
a Ueveloiiment and Specimen of the Tendency and Internal Workings of the Independent Form of
Church Government;" "Refutation Refuted: a Reply to the Statements of Rev. W. Lindsay Alex-
ander, M. A., contained in his pamphlet recently pul)lished in defence of the Independent Cliurches
in Glasgow, and the Committee of the Congregational Union of Scotland;" "Construction of
Primitive Churches ;" and " Infants Asleep in Jesus ; or, Light on Little Graves."
After Mr Cuthbert's resignation, the congregation became extinct. The build-
ing is now a Roman Catholic chapel.
Presbyte7y of Edinburgh — Bathgate (Second) — West. 227
SECOND (Now EVANGELICAL UNION).
The General Associate (Antiburgher) Seceders resident in and about Bathgate
formed part of the congregation of Craigmailen, now the East Congregation, Linhth-
gow, till 1805, when, the place of worship there being out of repair, and the congrega-
tion having been greatly reduced by the formation of other congregations out of it, the
question arose as to rebuilding it in the same place, or erecting another in Linlith-
gow, where the majority of the adherents resided. The latter course was preferred.
By the removal of the place of worship thither, the distance was nearly doubled to
the members resident in Bathgate. On this account they opposed the change.
Their opposition being overruled, they soon after were disjoined, and applied for
and obtained supply of sermon at Bathgate. Church built, 1808; sittings, 400.
\st Minister. — Robert Morison, from Dalreoch. Called to Huntly and Bath-
gate. Ordained 2d June 1812. In 1841, Mr Morison pubHshed several pamphlets
in vindication of the opinions then put forth by his son, the Rev. James Morison, of
Kilmarnock, now Dr Morison, of Glasgow, by whose name such opinions are now
generally known and distinguished. The Synod, having suspended him from office,
appointed a committee of Presbytery to examine these pamphlets, along with Mr
Morison's reasons of dissent from the decision suspending his son from the office of
the ministry for propagating the opinions referred to, and to " take such measures
in relation to them as they might see fit, according to the rules of the Church." At
the subsequent meeting of Synod, another committee was appointed to proceed
further in the case than had been done by the first. Mr Morison failed to appear
before this committee, and the Synod, after deliberating on its report, found " that
Mr Morison has neither abstained from the exercise of his office, nor attended the
committee, nor appeared at the bar of the Synod, where he would have been fully
heard, and his case regularly proceeded with. On these grounds, the Synod declare
him to be no longer a member of this Church." Mr Morison and his congregation
became connected with the Evangelical Union. Mr Morison died 5th August 1855,
in the 74th year of his age and 44th of his ministry. Author of " Review of ' State-
ment of Principles,'" etc.; " Defence of Christ's Truth ;" "Gospel Peace Necessary
to Christian Righteousness;" "Infant Baptism Vindicated;" " The Case of Rev.
R. Morison."
WEST.
In January 181 2, there was presented to the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh " The
petition of a committee appointed and chosen by a numerous body of the people,
formerly members of the Established Church of Bathgate, who, by resolutions dated
24th December last, have agreed to estabHsh a Relief congregation in the town of
Bathgate for themselves and in behalf of their constituents." The reason for taking
this step was the recent settlement of an unpopular minister in the parish. The
prayer of the petition was granted. Church built, 1812 ; sittings, 786.
\st Minister. — William Fyfe, previously of Pittenweem. Translated to Bath-
gate 22d July 1813. Died 26th November 1823, in the 41st year of his age and
13th of his ministry.
2d Mijiister. — George Todd, from Falkirk (West). Ordained 30th May 1826.
Died 3d September 1846, in the 50th year of his age and 21st of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — Alexander Bankier Sclanders, A.M., from Bridgeton, Glas-
2 28 The United Presbyterian Church.
gow. Ordained 6th May 1847. Translated to Millhill, Musselburgh, 2d November
1853.
The congregation then called Mr David Anderson and Mr W. Scott, preachers.
4th Minister. — James Scott, from Morebattle. Ordained 4th March 1856.
Translated to Union Church, Kirkcaldy, 5th March 1867.
e^th Minister. — Alexander Shennan, formerly of Houghton-le-Spring. Ad-
mitted 25th November 1867.
MID-CALDER.
Mid-Calder is a village in the parish of the same name, Mid-Lothian, 12 miles
west-south-west of Edinburgh, 5 east of West Calder, and about 8 south-east of Lin-
lithgow.
The United Presbyterian place of worship is better known in the locality by the
name of Bridge-end, which has been given to it because of a position it occupies
about a quarter of a mile north-east from the village of Mid-Calder.
This congregation originated with members of the congregations of Craigmailen,
now the East congregation, Linlithgow, and Nicolson Street, Edinburgh, who were
desirous of having a place of worship in their own connection more conveniently
situated for them than those they were then attending, and who accordingly applied
for and obtained supply of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Pres-
bytery of Edinburgh, 1761. First church built, 1765. Second built, 1854 j holds
about 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Jerment,
who continued at that time in his charge at Peebles.
\st Minister. — William M'George, from Urr. Ordained nth June 1766.
Died 2d July 1799, in the 56th year of his age, and 34th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Alexander Duncan, D.D., from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh.
Ordained 9th April 1800. Was one of the prime movers in the steps which led to
the union in 1820, of the two branches of the Secession. Appointed Professor of
Pastoral Theology by the United Associate Synod, 1834. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred upon him by the University of St Andrews, 1842. Died loth November
1844, in the 68th year of his age and 45th of his ministry.
Author of " Two Discourses on the Death of the Rev. Will'iam MacEwen, with Memoir;"
" A Disquisition on the Lord's Supper ; " a Sermon " On the Design and Advantages of the Chris-
tian Dispensation ;" "A Disquisition on the Being of a God," forming part of the first vohune of
the "Biblical Family Library," which was written for the Burnet Prize ; " Memoir of the Rev.
Robert Culbertson, Leith," prefixed to the second edition of his " Lectures on the Book of Revela-
tion ; " " A Summary View of the Great Plan of Heaven relative to Providence;" and several
articles in the " Encyclopaedia Edinensis. " A volume of his Discourses was published after his death,
with a Memoir of his Life by his sons.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Duncan. Called to Church Street, Berwick, Port-
Glasgow, and Mid-Calder. Ordained, as colleague to his fiither, 20th September
1843. Author of "Persis and Eunice; or, Christian Women's Work of Service."
NORTH BERWICK.
North Berwick is a burgh town in East Lothian, 22 miles north-east-by-east of
Edinburgh, 11 north-west of Dunbar, and 9 north-north-east of Haddington.
Several persons in North Berwick and adjoining parishes, dissatisfied with the
Presbytery of Edmbtirgh — Queensferry. 229
ministrations of the Established clergy in their district, travelled to Haddington and
Dunbar to hear the Secession ministers in these places. Acquiring a relish for the
Evangelical doctrine taught by them, they became anxious to have a place of wor-
ship in the same connection which they might conveniently attend, and with this
view applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Pres-
bytery of Edinburgh, 1771. The Rev. John Brown, of Haddington, exerted him-
self much to promote their interests throughout the thirteen years which elapsed
from their being organised till they obtained a minister. During the session of the
Divinity Hall at Haddington, his own pulpit being suppHed by appointment of
Synod, he either supplied North Berwick personally, or got the ministers of Mussel-
burgh, Tranent, or Dunbar, to supply for him, he occupying their pulpits while thus
engaged. When their church was building, Mr Brown subscribed ^^ to the erec-
tion, though his stipend was only ^50. First church built, 1779: second built,
1832; cost;^63o; sittings, 390. A new church was opened by Dr Cairns 24th
August 1868. It is seated for 622, and cost, inclusive of ^300 for site, ^3100.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Jeffrey, who was
appointed by the Synod to Dalkeith.
\st Alinister. — James Scrimgeour, from Bristo Street, Edinburgh. Ordained
2ist April 1784, Resigned, on account of ill-health, 1796. Became bookseller in
Edinburgh, but afterwards emigrated to America, where he became minister of a
congregation, first in New York, and afterwards in Newburgh, Little Britain, where
he died in 1825.
2d Minister. — John M'Queen, from Largs. Ordained 1801. Died 5th Septem-
ber 1803, in the 3d year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Paterson, who was appointed by the Synod to
Alnwick, and Mr Ballantyne, who was appointed to Stonehaven.
id Minister. — George Brown, from Longridge, of which his father was minis-
ter. Called to Coldingham, Leslie, and North Berwick, and appointed by the
Synod to North Berwick. Ordained 14th April 1807. Called in 18 13 to Gore-
bridge, but remained in North Berwick. Died 24th April 1843, iri the 57th year of
his age, and 37th of his ministry. A volume of his Sermons was published in 1844,
with preface by Dr Brown, Edinburgh.
4//; Minister. — John M'Gilchrist Dyer, from West Linton. Ordained 29th
February 1844. Suspended 2d June 1857. Went to Australia.
^th Minister. — William Calvert, B.A., from Gorebridge. Called to North
Shields, Potterrow, Haddington (East), and North Berwick. Ordained i8th May
1858.
QUEENSFERRY.
Queensferry (South) is a burgh town in Linlithgowshire, on the Forth, 9 miles
west north-west of Edinburgh, and 9 east-by-north of Linlithgow.
The Rev. Mr Kid, minister of Queensferry for 40 years, was one of " the
Marrow Men." When " the Four Brethren" were deposed, by the casting vote of
the moderator, Mr Kid had Ebenezer Erskine assisting him at the sacrament on
the Sabbath immediately following. When the Porteous paper came to the manse,
Mrs Kid carried it to the study, and said, " Here is Captain Porteous for you."
Mr Kid asked her to give the officer who brought it some refreshment, and sent for
one of his elders. On the elder coming in Mr Kid asked him to read the paper,
and then said, " Now that we have read it you may put it in there," pointing to the
230 The United Presbyterian Church.
fire. In 1755 there was a violent intrusion of one Wm. Robertson into the adjoining
parish of Dalmeny. In November of that year 80 parishioners, along with some
members of Bristo Street church who resided in the neighbourhood, applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh.
Their design was to build a place of worship between the villages of Kirkliston and
Queensferry, which are 2| miles apart ; but the land there being all entailed, they
could not procure a site, and were therefore necessitated to make Queensferry the
seat of the congregation. Church built 1776 ; sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Selkirk, who was
appointed by the Synod to Inverkeithing, and Mr Kyle, who was appointed to
Kinross.
\st Minister. — Andrew Dick, previously of Torphichen. Admitted 23d Sep-
tember 1779. Died 1785, in the loth year of his ministry,
2d Minister. — David Carruthers, from Moffat. Ordained August 1786.
Died 3d June 1834, in the 74th year of his age and 48th of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — William Carruthers, called to Sunderland and Queensferry.
Ordained as colleague to his father 23d October 1832. Died 23d June 1854, in the
5 ist year of his age and 2 2d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Alexander Hamilton, A.M., who preferred Kilmar-
nock.
4M Minister. — David Williamson, from Edinburgh, Lothian Road. Called
to Johnshaven, Swalwell, and Queensferry. Ordained 25th September 1855.
EAST C ALDER.
East Calder is a village in the parish of Kirknewton, Mid-Lothian, i mile east
of Mid-Calder, 5 miles south-west of West Calder, 1 1 west of Edinburgh, and 1 4
north-east of West Linton.
It appears from the communion-roll kept by the Rev. Adam Gib, which is still
extant, that in 1744, there were 33 members of the congregation of Bristo Street,
Edinburgh, resident in the parish of Kirknewton, and the adjoining parish of
Ratho. There were also members of the congregation in Currie, which adjoins
Kirknewton on the south-east. Several of the survivors of these persons, some of
the representatives of the deceased, and persons connected with the Secession
Church, who had settled in these districts, finding it too far to travel to Edinburgh
and West Linton to attend public worship, as they had been required to do in con-
sistency with their religious principles, applied for and obtained supply of sermon
at East Calder from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 13th Novem-
ber 1775. The parishes of Kirknewton and East Calder had been united five
years before, and the church at Kirknewton chosen as the seat of the congrega-
tion. In consequence of this arrangement, the Church of East Calder had been
abandoned, and the heritors brought it to sale. It was purchased by one of the
forming Seceding congregations, who gave it to them as a place of meeting. This
so offended certain heritors of the parish, that they ordered the purchaser to remove
the materials of the building, for though his purchase gave him right to the wood
and stone composing the edifice, it gave him none to the ground on which they
stood, and which therefore they would not allow him to occupy, at least for the
purposes to which he had turned it. The old parish church of East Calder was
therefore left a ruin, and the Seceders i)rovided a more suitable place of worship by
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Tranent. 231
erecting one for themselves the following year. They built a second church at a
short distance from the site of the first in 1805, containing 500 sittings.
1st Minister. — John Primrose, from Queen Anne Street, Dunfermline. Called
to Newtown and East Calder. Ordained 4th June 1778. Resigned on
account of declining health 1825. Died 14th April 1829, in the 84th year of his
age and 50th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Alexander Lowrie, from North Leith. Ordained 20th July
1826. Demitted his charge on account of ill health, 4th February 1862 ; lived
privately in Edinburgh.
The congregation called Mr R. D. Brownlee, who preferred Kirkcaldy.
2,d Mitiister. — David Marshall, M.A., from Lochee, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 2 2d July 1863.
TRANENT.
Tranent is a town in East-Lothian, 9I miles east of Edinburgh, 4 east of Mussel-
burgh, 6| north-east of Dalkeith, and 7^ west of Haddington.
The church and parish of Tranent having become vacant by the death of Mr
Muir in 1740, the parishioners generally made choice of Mr John Roger, his
assistant, to be their minister, while the Crown as patron presented Mr Charles
Cunninghame, probationer, to the charge. The Caledoniaii Mercury newspaper of
the time, referring to the case, says, " that contests have not been known to run
higher for and against a presentation than on this occasion. There were scarce
any concurrence of elders, heritors, or heads of families, and t/ie Seceding Presbytery
had erected a tent in the parish for the summer campaign, and taken a house for
winter quarters. The dividing the people by a violent settlement should be con-
strued by the thinking part of mankind as building with the one hand and pulling
down with the other." The case was settled by the General Assembly ordering
the Presbytery to settle the Crown presentee as minister of the parish. As
intimated in the newspaper paragraph, the reclaiming party had gone over to the
Seceders without waiting for the Assembly's decision ; but the Associate Presby-
tery were not able to supply them with preachers, and they therefore joined
themselves to the congregation of Haddington, then in course of formation. In
1 741 they petitioned the Presbytery to be disjoined from Haddington, and formed
into a separate congregation. The Burgess Oath controversy, which arose soon
after, divided them in sentiment, as it did all other members of the denomina-
tion throughout the country, and prevented their making a similar attempt for the
next thirty years. At the end of that period the members of the first Secession
congregation, Haddington, resident in and about Tranent, applied for, and, after
much opposition from the members of the neighbouring congregations, obtained
supply of sermon in their own locality, 1771. The erection of their place of wor-
ship, which they commenced immediately on succeeding with the Presbytery, was
arrested for a time by a sheriff"'s interdict, taken at the instance of the church party,
but was afterwards allowed to proceed. Second church built, 1826, at a cost of
^1463, i6s. 8d. ; sittings, 637.
\st Mifiister. — Robert Sheriff, from Dunbar (First). Ordained 5th January
1779. Died 27th January 1820, in the 66th year of his age and 42d of his
ministry. Mr Sheriff's diary was published after his death.
The congregation then called Mr M 'Gilchrist, who was appointed to Dunse.
232 The United Presbyterian Church.
2d Minister. — William Parlane, A.M., from Bucklyvie. Called to Sanday,
Carnoustie, and Tranent. Ordained 2 2d March 1822.
Author of "Hints to Parents on the Religious Education of their Children ;" "The Good
Soldier of Jesus Christ : " a Discourse preached on the Centenary of the death of Colonel Gardner ;
" The Banner of the Truth ;" and " Divers and Strange Doctrines Exposed."
The congregation called Mr J. L. Murray, who preferred Kilmarnock.
2,d Minister. — Thomas Mathie, from Kinross. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Parlane, nth June 1872.
WHITBURN.
Longridge is a village in the parish of Whitburn, Linlithgowshire, 6 miles south
of Bathgate, 1 1 south-west of Linlithgow, 7 north-east of Shotts, and 9 north-east of
Bonkle, Cambusnethan.
An unacceptable minister having been settled in the parish of Whitburn in 1772,
the Associate Seceders in the district, who were numerous, but belonged to the diffe-
rent congregations of Bathgate, Linlithgow, Shotts, and Cambusnethan, deemed the
circumstance favourable to the formation of an Associate congregation in their own
locality. Under this feeling, they united in a petition to the Presbytery of Edin-
burgh to be disjoined from the different congregations named, and formed into a
separate congregation, with its seat somewhere in Whitburn parish. The Presbytery
refused to comply with the prayer of the petition, in consequence of the opposition
shown by the congregation of Bathgate, and the injury it was presumed that con-
gregation would sustain by it. The petitioners carried the case by appeal to the
Synod, and, by importunity and perseverance, gained their object in 1775. They
worshipped in the open air and in barns till 1777, when they took possession of a
place of worship they had built in Longridge ; which was superseded by another in
1 841, containing 800 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Jamieson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Bathgate.
\st Minister. — ^John Brown, from Haddington (East), of which place his father
was minister. Ordained 22d May 1777. Died loth February 1832, in the 78th
year of his age, and 55th of his ministry.
Author (conjointly with his brother, the Rev. Ebenezer Brown of Inverkeithing) of "Select
Remains of the Rev. John Brown, late Minister of the Gospel at Haddington ;" " Memoirs of the
Life and Character of the late Rev. James Hervey ;" " Means of Doing Good, Proposed and
Exemplified, in Several Letters to a Friend ;" " Notes, Devotional and Explanatory, on the Transla-
tions and Paraphrases in verse of Several Passages of Scripture," published with an edition of the
Psalms in Metre, with his father's notes ; "Memoirs of the Rev. Thomas Bradbury, author of the
' Mystery of Godliness.' " Mr Brown was also compiler and editor of the following works — " The
Evangelical Preacher, a Select Collection of Doctrinal and Practical Sermons, chiefly by English
Divines of the Eighteenth Century," 3 vols. i2mo ; "A Collection of Religious Letters from Books
and Manuscripts, suited to almost every situation in the Christian Life ;" " Collection of Letters,
etc., suited to Children and Youth ;" "Gospel Truth Accurately Stated and Illustrated by the Rev.
James Hog, etc. ; " " Memoirs of Private Christians ;" " Christian P2xperience, etc. ;" " Descriptive
List of Religious Books in the English Langu.age ;" "Evangelical Beauties of Hugh Binning;"
" Evangelical Beauties of Leighton ;" " Memoirs of Nonconlbrmist Ministers of the Seventeenth
Century."
In 1 83 1 the congregation called Mr Girdwood, who preferred Penicuik.
2d Minister. — -William Miller, from Stonehouse. Called to Gretna, West
Linton, and Longridge. Ordained as colleague to Mr Brown 15th October 1831.
Resigned 1852. Was afterwards minister of Mitchell Church, Glasgow.
The congregation called Mr J. More, who preferred Alloa ; Mr J. M'Laren,
who became minister of New City Road, Glasgow.
Presbytery of Edinburgh — Penicuik — Fala.
- jj
3^ Minister. — James Ronaldson, from Pathstruie. Ordained 15th August
1854. Author of a " Sermon on Death," and another on " The Blessed Dead."
PENICUIK.
Penicuik is a village in the parish of the same name, Mid-Lothian, 10 miles
south of Edinburgh, and 9 east of Linton. The first place of worship was built at
"Bridgend," at the bottom of a valley, three-quarters of a mile from the village.
The congregation originated with members of the congregation of West Linton,
resident in and about Penicuik, who were desirous of having a place of worship in
their own connection more favourably situated for them than the one they were
accustomed to attend. They applied for and obtained supply of sermon from
the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, 19th March 1782. Church built
same year; sittings, 481. A new church was opened by Dr Cairns in July 1867.
It cost ;^i6oo, and has sittings for 700. A manse was built beside the church in
1868, at a cost of ;^i 1 00. The new premises are situated in the outskirts of the
village, on the high road to Edinburgh.
\st Minister. — Patrick Comrie, A.M., from Alloa (West). Ordained ist June
1784. Died 22d September 1840, in the 89th year of his age, and 57th of his
ministry. Mr Comrie published a pamphlet on "The Old Light Controversy,"
entitled " The Smooth Stone Polished into a Mirror."
2d Minister. — ^Thomas Girdwood, from Biggar (North). Called to Longridge,
Lasswade, and Penicuik. Ordained as colleague to Mr Comrie 28th June 1831.
Died 19th June 1861, in the 57th year of his age, and 30th of his ministry.
3/^r.— Peter M'Guffie, formerly of South Ronaldshay. Admitted to
Lerwick 1841. Died i8th July 1849, in the 43d year of his age, and 19th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — Andrew M'Farlane, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown). Ordained
30th June 1851.
MOSSBANK.
The parish of Delting occupies the north-east portion of the mainland of Shet-
land, and the church of Mossbank stands in the north-east of Delting. Mossbank
is one of the largest fishing stations in the Shetland Isles, and the surrounding
district contains a considerable population, consisting chiefly of fishermen and their
families. Previous to the formation of the congregation these poor people were very
destitute, both as to education and the means of grace. For a time the educational
wants of the locality were partly supplied by students, who were successively engaged
as tutors in the family of Mr Hoseason, the principal merchant of the place. Com-
passionating the spiritual destitution which prevailed, these young men held prayer
meetings and taught Sabbath classes, both of which were numerously attended. A
desire was thus created for something higher, as well as a more uniform supply of
ordmances, till at length an application was made to the United Secession Presbytery
of Orkney for permanent supply of sermon. The application was favourably enter-
tamed, and the congregation of Mossbank was formed towards the end of 1842.
The congregation met for some time in a large warehouse. But in 1846 an excel-
lent and commodious church was erected, containing 236 sittings. The church was
not furnished with seats till 1857. A manse was built in 1861, and a few acres of
land attached to it as a glebe.
\st Minister.— V>\}^Q.k.^ Miller, from Perth (North). Ordained 24th August 1859.
BURRA ISLES.
In 1863 a revival of religion took place in diff"erent parts of Shetland. The
Burra Isles shared in the wave of spiritual excitement. The Rev. A. Macfarlane,
248 The United Presbyterian CJinrch.
Lerwick, in May of that year, was invited to evangelise amongst the people. His
labours were much blessed. Regular supply of sermon was forthwith asked, and
obtained, from the Presbytery of Edinburgh. In the summer of 1865, a deputation
from that Presbytery, along with Rev. H. M. M'Gill, Home Secretary, visited the
Isles ; and the result of their visit was the formation of a congregation on the 30th
September 1S65. Up till this date the meetings for worship had been held in the
Old Free Church Station ; but in November 1865 the roof was blown oft" by a gale,
which rendered it imperative to secure a better place for public worship. The work
of Sabbath teaching, and other means of usefulness, v^^ere then going on favourably,
and the people entered into a subscription for building a manse. The proprietor of
the Isle generously presented the congregation with half-an-acre of ground for the
proposed building. The foundation-stone of the church was laid on 25th September
1866 ; and the church was opened on 14th April 1867, by Rev. A. Macfarlane, and
on the following Sabbath the communion was dispensed for the first time to fifty
members. On 22d October a call was given to Mr W. B. Melville, preacher, but
he preferred a call from Barrow-in-Furness. On 21st July 1868, Mr Thomas
Cockburn was called, but he declined the call, and accepted one from Hawick. In
May 1869 a call was given to the present minister, and his ordination took place
soon after.
The Burra Isles have a population of 700, and this is the only church where
there is constant service. Members and adherents of the church are in Lunda,
Oxna, Hildersay, and Linga to the north; and in Haverna to the south. The
church holds 250.
\st Minister. — James Craig, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street). Ordained 26th
August 1869.
OLLABERRY.
In the autumn of 1853, the Rev. Andrew Macfarlane of Lerwick visited Olla-
berry, preached in the warehouse there, and invited, after sermon, the friends present
to express their feelings in regard to the location of a missionary in connection with
the United Presbyterian Church. Steps Avere thereafter taken for securing the Avare-
house as a place of worship, and the services of a missionary to carry on the public
ordinances of religion in the district. The gratuitous use of the warehouse was
given by Gideon Anderson, Esq., proprietor of Ollaberry ; and supply of sermon
was cordially granted by the Presbytery of Orkney, and the Home Mission Board
of the United Presbyterian Church.
A station was opened in July 1854 by Mr Macfarlane, who introduced Mr
William Stewart, now of St James' Park, Burntisland, as the first missionary. The
cause under Mr Stewart and his successors prospered, and the people were congre-
gated by the Edinburgh Presbytery in March 1859, with 37 members.
The church, seated for 288 (with room in the puli)it for eight), together with the
manse, cost ^1148, 9s. 3d., of which yC^S^ 2s. 6d. was raised in the locality.
Built in 1864.
In connection with Ollaberry there is a mission chapel in the western part of
the parish, the walls of which were reared during the incumbency of Mr Baillie, and
which has since been finished. Service is conducted there at least one Sabbath a
nionili.
In 1869 a commodious school and dwelling-house, costing ^450, were erected
at Ollaberry. The site was granted by Mr Gideon Anderson on very liberal terms.
Pj'csbytciy of Elgin and Inverness — Aberlady — Elgin. 249
The Home Board granted ^200 towards the expense of building, and ^230 were
raised among friends. The teacher's salary is ^50 per annum.
\st Minister. — Andrew Baillie, from Stow. Ordained i8th September 186 1.
Resigned in 1867, having accepted the charge of Ebenezer, Jamaica.
The congregation called the Rev. James Wardrop, Craigend, but he declined
the call.
2d Minister. — James Y. Thirde, from Dundee (Tay Square). Ordained, loth
July 1868.
ABERLADY.
Aberlady is a village in the parish of the same name, East Lothian, 5 miles
north-west of Haddington, and 5 south-east of North Berwick.
The United Presbyterian congregation in this place originated in a sermon
preached in a schoolhouse in 1840. A desire was then felt, and afterwards expressed,
by a number of persons resident in the district, to have regular sermon in the village
on Sabbath or week-day evenings. This wish being communicated to the United
Associate Presbytery of Edinburgh, it adopted Aberlady as one of its preaching
stations. The attendance was encouraging, and the persons taking interest in the
cause were thereby led to seek to be organised as a congregation, which was done
in January 1842. They purchased a building which had been occupied as a granary
and malt-barn, and had it fitted up as a place of worship, 1843. The Rev. David
Hogg, previously of Rattray, supplied the station for three years as a located mis-
sionary, and retired from it in 1844.
\st Minister. — Robert Watt, previously of Inverary. Admitted 30th September
1846. Died 8th October 1858, in the 49th year of his age, and 24th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — David Nicol, from Methven. Ordained 23d January i860.
PRESBYTERY OF ELGIN AND INVERNESS.
A Presbytery of Elgin was formed by the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Synod in 1755, under the designation of the General Associate Presbytery of Elgin
and Montrose. It was dissolved in 1758, and re-annexed to the Presbytery of Perth.
It was revived again in 1770, and then included all the Secession congregations
north of the Dee. A Presbytery of Aberdeen was formed out of it in 1780, and a
Presbytery of Inverness, 185 1. There are now five Presbyteries of the United
Presbyterian Church within its original boundaries. The two Presbyteries of Elgin
and Inverness were, on petition, united in one Presbytery by the Synod in 1859.
ELGIN.
Elgin is the county town of Morayshire, 17 miles west-north-west of Keith, 63^
miles north-west of Aberdeen, and 38^^ east-north-east of Inverness.
SOUTH STREET.
The charge of the parish of Elgin is collegiate, and in 1734 a vacancy occurred
by the translation of Mr Winchester, one of the incumbents, to Jedburgh. The
250 The United Presbyterian Church.
people divided in making choice of his successor, one portion of them bringing out
a call for the Rev. Mr Irvine of Auldearn, and the other supporting a call for the
Rev. Mr Howie of Methlick. The Presbytery appointed a committee to reconcile
the parties, but failed in the attempt. The Synod of Moray, before whom the case
came by appeal, set aside both calls. An appeal from this decison was made
by both parties to the General Assembly, 1735, which preferred the call to Mr
Irvine, and ordered his induction accordingly. Several of his parishioners, how-
ever, would not submit to his ministry, and either travelled to other parishes, or
remained at home when it was his turn to preach.
The parish of Duffus, which lies between Elgin and the Moray Frith, having
become vacant in 1737, Mr Dunbar of Newton presented Mr John Bower, proba-
tioner, to the charge. The parishioners at the same time made choice of Mr
WiUiam Collie to be their pastor. The case was litigated through the church
courts, and decided by the General Assembly, as usual, in favour of the patron's
nominee. Several of the people, however, could not be reconciled to his ministry,
and accordingly withdrew from it when opportunity was afforded some time after.
The parish of Urquhart, which lies to the north-east of Elgin, having become
vacant in 1739, the Duke of Gordon, as patron, presented Mr James Spence, pro-
bationer, to the charge, while a portion of the parishioners called Mr Collie, who
had been the unsuccessful candidate at Duftus two years before. The Presbytery
referred the case simplicitcr to the Synod of Moray. The Synod appointed a com-
mittee to converse with the parlies concerned, who reported that they had not been
able to remove the peoples' prejudices against Mr Spence, but were in hopes they
might yet succeed. The Synod, therefore, remitted the case back to the Presbytery
of Elgin, with instructions to use means for a comfortable settlement. The Pres-
bytery appointed a committee to meet with the parties, who reported " that they
had not been able to effect an agreement, that the opposition was conducted by the reli-
gious and intelligent people^ and thai they were afraid they would invite some of the mem-
bers of the Associate Presbytery. ^^ The case was referred a second time to the Synod
of Moray, which ordered Mr Spence to be taken on trial by the Presbytery, and if
found qualified, to be ordained. The majority of the Presbytery of Elgin demurred
to this injunction. The Synod, therefore, appointed a committee of correspondents,
ministers not members of the Presbytery, to proceed with the work, and Mr Spence
■was ordained by them as minister of Urquhart, 2d December 1739.
In January 1741, a number of persons resident in the parishes of Elgin, Duffus,
Urquhart, and Spynie, united in a memorial to the Associate Presbytery, represent-
ing their circumstances, and craving to be taken under the Presbytery's inspection.
The Presbytery was unable, from want of preachers, to do anything further for them
at that time than recognise them as persons in their connection. In May 1741, Mr
Gib insisted, in the name of the people of Ross (now the congregation of Nigg) and
Moray (now the congregation of Elgin), " that one of the young men (probationers)
be sent to preach among them," but the Presbytery delayed compliance with this
request. Nothing further was done in the matter till 1742, when Messrs Hutton
(afterwards of Stow) and Campbell (afterwards of Ceres), were appointed to preach
to the Seceders in Morayshire, on the 3d Sabbath of that month on their way to
Ross-shire. In 1745 Mr Troup, who could speak the Gaelic language, was located
as a missionary in the county of Moray, and preached generally in the parishes of
Urquhart and Elgin, at other times crossing the Moray Frith to visit the Seceders in
Ross-shire. The Burgess Oath controversy, which arose soon after, dividing the
Presbytery of Elgin and Invei'ness — Moss Street.
2m
Seceders in their sentiments, hindered the success of this infant cause for a time.
Mr Troup himself, with the majority of those to whom he ministered, adhered to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, on the occasion.
A violent intrusion of a minister into the parish of Auldearn, Nairnshire, in the
course of the same year, strengthened the position of the Seceders, and enabled
them to form two congregations, one with its seat in the parish of Urquhart, and the
other with its seat in Auldearn, with one minister to both. The seat of the congre-
gation in Urquhart was subsequently removed to the town of Elgin as a place aftord-
ing more hope of success, and more convenient for the majority of the persons
taking interest in the cause. Elgin and Auldearn (now Moyness) are twenty miles
apart. The first minister ordained over these congregations preached two Sabbaths
in the month at the one place, and the remainder at the other. The First Seces-
sion church in Elgin was built in 1754; the second in 1807, with 430 sittings;
and the third in 1864, with 500 sittings, cost ;^i3oo.
\st Minister. — Alexander Troup. Ordained 1748. Translated to Perth,
1763-
The congregation called Mr Gray, who was appointed by the Synod to Brechin,
and Mr Young, who was deprived of his licence for improper conduct while under
call.
id Minister. — Thomas Duncan, from Kinclaven. Ordained i8th July 1770.
Died 5th July 1818, in the 70th year of his age, and 48th of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — Robert Crawford, previously of Auchinleck. Admitted as
colleague to Mr Duncan, 1817. Died 25th March 1828, in the 53d year of his age,
and 17th year of his ministry.
i^h Minister. — John Pringle, from Tranent. Ordained i6th July 1829.
Translator of Calvin's works, on ist and 2d Corinthians, Philippians, Colossians, and
Thessalonians, 3 vols.
MOSS STREET.
One of the incumbents of the collegiate charge of Elgin, about the middle of
the last century, was very unacceptable to the parishioners generally. A portion of
these applied to the magistrates of the town for the use of " The Little Kirk " in
connection with the Established Church, which stood upon the site on which the
parish church now stands, and was at that time unoccupied. This application was
granted, and the parties who moved it invited a number of evangelical and pious
ministers to come and preach to them, and from among these made choice of one
to be their pastor. All this was permitted by the Presbytery, though irregular
according to the rules of the Established Church ; and they obtained one minister
after another from among its Hcentiates. The last of these was a Mr Bain, who was
ordained in 1788, and continued minister of the congregation till 1800, when "the
Little Kirk," which they continued to occupy, was found to be in such a ruinous
state, that it was ordered by the civil authorities to be taken down. The site as well
as the building belonged to the Established Church, and as the congregation were not
allowed to rebuild a place of worship upon it, though alike willing and desirous to
do so, they therefore purchased a site in Moss Street, on which they built a substan-
tial church, containing 878 sittings.
After the completion of their new place of worship in 1801, the Presbytery would
not allow them to have it opened as a Chapel of Ease, in which light its supporters
252 The United Presbyterian Church.
wished it to be considered. They then appUed to the Synod, and uUimately to the
General Assembly, to grant them a constitution as such, which was refused. They
had now only one of two alternatives, either to abandon the place of worship alto-
gether, or apply to another religious connection. To this latter alternative their
minister would not consent, and accordingly withdrew from them.
While in the condition thus described, it happened that Mr Haldane and his
coadjutors, then known as "The Tabernacle Men," were itinerating in the north.
The church was granted to one of them to preach in, who proved so acceptable to
the congregation to whom it belonged, that they offered him the pastorate of it, on
condition that he would agree to unite along with them in forming a Presbyterian
Church. To this he was understood to consent, and was accordingly settled among
them. It soon, however, appeared that he was hostile to Presbyterianism, and the
majority of his congregation taking offence at these indications, it became necessary
that he should separate from it, which he did, taking with him a portion of the con-
gregation, and forming an independent congregation in Elgin.
The persons who had thus contended for evangelical doctrine and religious
liberty on the one hand, and showed themselves opposed to Independency on the
other, now applied to the Rev. Mr Stark, Secession minister of Forres, for advice as
to further procedure, who naturally suggested application to the denomination to
which he belonged for supply of sermon. This advice was adopted, and the church
and congregation became connected with the General Associate (Antiburgher) Pres-
bytery of Elgin, in the winter of 1804. A new church on the old site was built in
1858, with 750 sittings, at a cost of ^2400.
\st Minister. — Simon Somerville, previously of Carnoustie. Admitted to Moss
Street, Elgin, 17th April 1805. Died nth October 1839, in the 72d year of his
age, and 48th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Adam Lind, from Craigdam. Called to Comrie, Burntisland,
and Elgin. Ordained as colleague to Mr Somerville, 27th July 1836. Author of
sermons on " Robbery of God," and " True Prosperity ;" editor of Sermons by
Andrew Ross; Author of " Memoir of the Rev. A. Lind, Whitehill;" and of several
papers in the United Presbyterian Magazine.
MOYNESS.
Moyness is a name only recently adopted by this congregation, "Boghole"
being that by which it was previously known. It takes the name of Moyness from
an old castle in the vicinity of the church, which stands apart from any town or
village. The place of worship is in the parish of Auldearn and county of Nairn,
6 miles west of Forres.
The church and parish of Auldearn having become vacant in 1745 by the
translation of the Rev. Donald Monro to Tain, the patron presented the Rev.
Thomas Gordon of Cabrach to the charge. Mr Gordon was very unacceptable to
the parishioners generally, and they set themselves by every constitutional means
in their power to prevent his settlement among them. He was, however, intruded
upon them by order of the General Assembly, 1747. A portion of the reclaiming
party withdrew immediately from the Established Church and acceded to the
Associate Presbytery. From want of preachers the Presbytery was unable to
supply them with sermon by themselves. They were therefore joined with the
Presbytery of Elgin and Inverness — N'igg or Chapclhill. 253
Seceders in Morayshire, under the designation of "The United Congregations of
Elgin and Boghole." They met in summer in the courtyard, and in winter in the
vault of the ruined castle of Moyness till 1753, when they took possession of a
place of worship they had built for themselves in the vicinity. Second church
built, 1777. Third built, 1848; sittings 420.
\st Mimsier.—A.i.Y.y.A^D'EK Troup. Located as a missionary to the Seceders
in the shires of Moray and Ross, 1746. Adhered, with all the persons to whom
he ministered, to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747.
Ordained as minister of the united congregations of Elgin and Boghole, 1748.
Translated to Perth, 1763.
After Mr Troup's translation, the congregations of Elgin and Boghole were
disjoined, and each of them obtained a minister for itself
2d Minister. — Henry Clerk, from Abernethy. Ordained nth August 1763.
Died 15th June 1809, in the 76th year of his age, and 46th of his ministry.
During the vacancy of six years, occasioned by the death of Mr Clerk, the con-
gregation called Mr Gilmour, who was appointed by the Synod to South Shields ;
and the Rev. Mr Wood, previously of Rattray, then a probationer. The Rev. T.
Stark of Forres preached to the congregation, during the long vacancy, from 80 to
90 times.
T^d Minister.— V)xv\v> Anderson, from Perth (North). Ordained 15th April
1815. Resigned 25th January 1839. Emigrated to America. Became minister of
a congregation in Carlisle, Philadelphia. Died of apoplexy in one of the streets of
Philadelphia, 1841, in the 56th year of his age, and 26th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Morison, who preferred Kilmarnock ; and
Mr Andrew Gardiner, afterwards of Kincardine, who declined the call.
4//; Minister. — John Whyte, from Kinross (West). Called to Broughty-Ferry
and Boghole. Ordained 24th March 1842. Author of "The Sabbath Established
and Vindicated."
NIGG or CHAPELHILL.
" Chapelhill," by which name this congregation is better known in the locality,
is a place in the parish of Nigg and county of Ross, 4 miles north of Cromarty,
and about 6 south of Tain.
In April 1738, Mr Keith forwarded a letter to the Associate Presbytery, enclos-
ing another containing an adherence to the Presbytery by a number of persons
therein named, who had withdrawn from the Established Church and formed them-
selves into a society for prayer and mutual exhortation, called "The Society of
Ross, in connection with the Secession Church."* The Rev. Mr Moncrieff was
appointed by the Presbytery to write an encouraging letter to the society through
Mr John Munro, one of its members. Among the more zealous adherents to this
society, the memory of whose piety still survives in the district, were Isabella Hogg,
in Cromarty, and Mrs Gowrie, a native of the south of Scotland, wife of the land-
steward of Sir John Gordon of Invergordon, and Mr John Munro, a lineal de-
scendant of the family of Fowlis, celebrated in Ross-shire for their piety, loyalty,
and heroism. In October 1738 this society addressed a second letter to the Asso-
ciate Presbytery, craving a visit from some of its members, to which the Presbytery
answered that " it was not then in their power to comply with their request." In
* For fuller details respecting the early history of Chapelhill, see United Presbyterian Magazine
for 1865, p. 307, etc. — [Eds.]
2 54 The United Pi'csbyterian Church.
July 1739, the Rev. Messrs Nairn and Mair visited the Seceders in Ross-shire by
appointment of Presbytery, and preached and baptized several children at Bogbarn,
in the Black Isle ; the Rev. Messrs Moncrieff and Gib visited them, and preached
to them on the third and fourth Sabbaths of July 1741; and the Rev. Messrs
Campbell and Hutton on the fourth Sabbath of July 1742. No further supply was
afforded them till 1745, when the Rev. Alex. Troup, who was located as the Pres-
bytery's missionary in Morayshire, paid occasional visits to them in his itineracies
in Ross-shire. Amidst all these discouragements they remained faithful to the cause
they had espoused, but without increasing in numbers or attracting any particular
notice to themselves.
Circumstances, however, ere long occurred, which contributed to both. In
1752 the church and parish of Nigg became vacant by the death of the Rev. John
Balfour, an eminently evangelical and laborious and popular minister. The Crown,
as patron, presented the Rev. Patrick Grant of Duthil to the vacant charge. A
man more obnoxious to the parishioners of Nigg, than Mr Grant, could not have
been selected from among the whole ministers of the Church of Scotland. They
therefore set themselves to prevent his intrusion into the parish, by all the con-
stitutional means in their power. The Inferior Courts declined to proceed with the
admission, and the case was carried by appeal to the Assembly of 1753. The
Assembly of 1753, before whom the case came by appeal, ordered the Presbytery
to proceed to Mr Grant's induction without delay. The Presbytery endeavoured
to bring about a better understanding between the people and Mr Grant, but without
effect. When the Presbytery met for the induction, their procedure was arrested by
a libel against Mr Grant put into their hands, charging him with being intoxicated
while preaching in the Tolbooth Church, Edinburgh, on Wednesday evening during
the sitting of Assembly. The Presbytery, and afterwards the Synod of Moray,
found the libel not relevant. The General Assembly, 1755, took up the case, dis-
missed the libel as vexatious and groundless, and ordered the Presbytery of Tain
to proceed with the settlement betwixt and September next, and appointed com-
missioners to meet with the people of Nigg, and endeavour to get them to submit
to Mr Grant's ministry. With a view to reconcile the opposition, the Presbytery
appointed Mr P. Grant of Logie-Easter to j^reach at Nigg, and read the Act of
Assembly with reference to the induction. This was done, but only the people
of Logie-Easter came to hear the Act read. The commissioners reported to the
Presbytery in July their total failure in the object of their commission, and the
Presbytery agreed " not to proceed in present circumstances to the settlement of
Mr Grant as minister of Nigg, as all the inhabitants tJicreof to a man are extremely
averse to his settlement atnongst them, and therefore the Presbytery cannot have the
remotest prospect that his settlement, should it take place, can reach any of the
valuable and important ends of a Gospel ministry." The Commission of Assembly,
which met in November, peremptorily ordered the Presbytery to proceed to the
settlement of Mr Grant before the ist of February, upon pain of censure. In
compliance with this order, the Presbytery appointed a meeting at Nigg on the
28th January 1756, for the admission of Mr Grant. Only four members attended^
but not one of the parishioners. After a great deal of angry discussion as to how
they should act, two of the ministers retired, and the remaining two, not being a
quorum, were obliged to follow their example, without accomplishing the object of
their meeting. The case was again brought before the General Assembly, which
fixed the admission of Mr Grant to take place before the ist of August, rebuked
Presbytery of Elgin and Inverness — Nigg or Chapelhill. 255
the refractory members of Presbytery, and commanded the attendance of every
member of Presbytery upon pain of deposition from office. Mr Grant's admission
at last took place on the 27th of July 1756, not one of the parishioners attending
to witness the ceremony. The entire session and the whole congregation, with the
exception of three or four heritors, withdrew from the Established Church and
formed themselves into a worshipping assembly, without any ecclesiastical connec-
tion. They were ministered to for about six years by the Rev. Roderick Mackenzie,
who had been settled in Lochbroom on the call of the people, but had been minister
of a Presbyterian church in England some time before obtaining a call from Loch-
broom, and was therefore considered a Dissenter. While under call to Nigg he
inducted the Rev. Thomas Boston, one of the founders of the Relief, into the
church built for him in Jedburgh, 7th December 1757, and introduced him to the
people of his charge by preaching for him the Sabbath following. He began his
ministry in Nigg in the early part of 1758. He preached to the people of Nigg in
a large dwelling-house at Ankerville, about the centre of the parish, which had been
built by a person who had made a fortune in Poland, and from this circumstance
was called " The Polander's House." Mr Mackenzie resigned his appointment after
three years' ministry, and returned to England, where he again obtained a charge.
The Seceders in Nigg attended the ministry of the Rev. Mr Porteous of Kilmuir,
who refused to baptize their children and perform other pastoral duties to them.
Among the Seceders who travelled to Kilmuir, was Donald Roy, then in the 91st
year of his age, and 66th of his eldership. He died in January 1774, having reached
the age of 105 or 109, and having been an elder for 80 years. His son, Andrew Roy,
had visited Glasgow, and there acquired a knowledge of the Secession, which on his
return he communicated to his father and the other leading men. The Rev. Mr
Eraser of Alness, author of the well-known treatise on " Sanctification," who had
property in the parish at Pitcalzean, and who was in the habit of preaching to the
Seceders and baptising their children, it is said advised them to apply to the Seces-
sion Church for supply of sermon. In compliance with this advice, a petition,
signed by 14 elders and 50 members, was presented to the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, craving that the petitioners be taken under their
inspection, which was granted, 1764. Eirst church built at Ankerville, and thatched
with heather, 1765, of which they were deprived by the tyranny of the proprietor of
the land on which it stood. He made use of the stones to build farm steadings.
They then worshipped for a short time in the open air at a place called Drumdile,
a hollow between two hills in the neighbourhood. Second church built at Chapel-
hill, 1803 ; sittings, 627. The foundation-stone of a new church was laid by Rev.
Dr Scott, Glasgow, 2d August 187 1. The church was opened on 20th March
1872 by Rev. Dr Finlayson, Edinburgh; opening collection, £&\, 15s. 6d. The
accommodation is for 600, and the cost above ;^i2oo.
\st Minister. — Patrick Buchanan, from the village of Callander, Perthshire.
Seceded from the Established Church while a literary student at Edinburgh Univer-
sity. Ordained at large, as a missionary to the North Highlands, at Alloa, 1764.
Called to Greenloaning, Pathstruiehill, and Nigg. Admitted 2d June 1765. Died
7th August 1802, in the 8ist year of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — John Munro, from the congregation of which he became minister.
Ordained as colleague to Mr Buchanan, 1799. Died 1845, i" the 73d year of his
age, and 47th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr M'Donald, who preferred Lossiemouth.
256 The United Presbyterian Church.
Tfd Minister. — John B. Munro, previously of Cambuslang. Admitted to Nigg,
1 2 th April 1848. Laid aside on account of ill health. Died at Inverness, 25th
May 187 1, in the 62d year of his age. Author of "The Great Question, What
must I do to be Saved ? "
4/// Mi/lister. — Archibald M'Martin, A.M., from Lawers Free Church. Or-
dained as colleague to Mr Munro, loth September 1867.
FORRES,
Forres is a burgh town in Morayshire, 12 miles west-by-south of Elgin, 11 east-
by-north of Nairn, and 27 north-east of Inverness.
The Rev. John Squire, minister of Forres, in 1740, when "The Four Brethren "
were deposed by the General Assembly, protested against their deposition, and
otherwise led many of his people to feel such interest in them, as to withdraw from
his own ministry, and take part in the formation of the Secession congregations of
Urquhart and Auldearn, now Elgin and Moyness. They remained connected
with these congregations till 1772, when the persons belonging to them resident
in and about Forres, applied to the Presbytery to be disjoined from them, and
formed into a separate congregation, which was granted. First church built,
1772. Second built, 1813 ; sittings, 712. The foundation stone of a new church
was laid on 8th September 1870, by Colonel the Honourable James Grant, M.P.
The accommodation is for 600, and the cost nearly ;!^3ooo. The church was opened
26th November 187 1, by Rev. Dr. M'Ewen of Glasgow, and Mr Watson ; opening
collection, jQzZ^i ^1^- ^d-
1st Minister. — William Bennet, from Milnathort (Second). Ordained i6th
August 1774. Died 29th November 179S, in the 49th year of his age, and 25th
"Df his ministry.
2d Minister. — Thomas Stark, from Falkirk (South). Ordained 25th November
1802. Called to Potterrow, Edinburgh, 1807, and to Kirkwall, 18 19, but continued
in Forres. Died 9th February 1849, i''^ the 70th year of his age, and 47th of his
ministry.
In 1 841 the congregation called Mr Thomas Stevenson, afterwards of Auchter-
muchty, but the call was not prosecuted.
2,d Minister. — Adam L. Simpson, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. Called to
Tain, Keith, and Forres. Ordained as colleague to Mr Stark 1842. Resigned his
charge 3d February 1857, and was appointed librarian of the Theological Hall
Library, Edinburgh ; afterwards minister of Derby. Author of " The Pleasures of
Literature," a lecture, and Funeral Sermon on the Death of his Colleague.
4/// Minister. — William Watson, M.A., from Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane).
Called to Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane) and Forres. Ordained 5th November 1857,
HOWFORD (Now Extinct).
Llowford is a place in Nairnshire, about 2 miles south of the town of Nairn.
The General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, encouraged by the successful itine-
racies of the Rev. Mr Buchanan of Nigg, about the year 1770, resolved to attempt a
wider diffusion of Evangelical preaching and Secession principles in the northern
Highlands of Scotland. Having no preachers or students who could speak the Gaelic
language, they were prevented from carrying their resolution into immediate eflect.
Presbytery of Elgin and Inveritess — Hozvford. 257
They determined, however, to make it imperative on some of the students to
acquire that tongue. With this view, and by way of experiment, they fixed upon
Mr Howison, a young man from Logiealmond, then in the second year of his
theological studies, and set him to the prosecution of this task. In order to
facilitate his acquisition of the language, he was sent to Comrie, and supported
there partly by the Synod and partly by persons in the county of Nairn who had
become interested in the scheme. On examination, Mr Howison was not found
to have made the progress expected, and the reason assigned was the circum-
stance that a mixture of English pervaded the dialect spoken in Comrie, which
hindered him from becoming acquainted with all the vocables necessary for in-
telligibly addressing a purely Celtic audience. He was therefore ordered to pro-
ceed to Nigg, in Ross-shire, the only other place at that time where there were
Seceders speaking the Gaelic language, with intimation to expect no encourage-
ment from the Synod, as a Divinity student, if he did not comply. After being
a year at Comrie, and a year-and-a-half at Nigg, inclusive of his attendance at
the Divinity Hall, he was licensed to preach the Gospel, and sent to Nairn, with
instructions that he should preach the Gaelic language only. The town of Nairn
had been long previously noted for " standing so exactly on the boundary
line between the Highlands and Lowlands, and being so completely bisected by
the mutual repulsion of the Moray men on the east, and the kilted Gael on the
west, that the Lowland Scottish dialect was spoken at the one end of the street
and the Gaelic language at the other." But Mr Howison was not sent to Nairn
because Gaelic was spoken in part of it as the common language, but because
there were persons there who had claims upon his services as having contributed
a part of the expense incurred in qualifying him for the discharge of them.
After Mr Howison had officiated in Nairn for a short time, and itinerated
through other portions of the Highlands, three elders and sixty-one members of
the United congregations of Boghole (now Moyness) and Nairn, applied to the
General Associate Presbytery of Perth to be disjoined, and formed into a separate
congregation on the express understanding that public worship was to be conducted
among them in Erse only. The congregation of Boghole, from which they sought
to be disjoined, objected to the erection of a place of worship in Nairn, as certain
to draw away all the Seceders in and about that town, seeing the seat of the congre-
gation was six miles distant from Nairn. The Synod finding the congregation of
Boghole decided in its opposition to the erection of a place of worship in Nairn,
ordered the persons wishing the Gospel preached to them in Erse to make the
seat of their congregation at some distance from the town. In compliance with
this order, a place called Balblair, about a mile distant, was fixed upon, and the
congregation assembled there for a year, worshipping for the most of the time
in the open air. At the end of that time, they were required to move still further
away in consequence of another complaint from the people of Boghole. How-
ford, on the banks of the Nairn at a greater distance, was then fixed upon, and
in 1777, a place of worship was erected there containing 500 sittings.
\st Minister. — Alexander Howison. Called to Thurso and Howford. Ordained
at Howford 12th April 1780. From his inability to speak Gaelic in a manner quite
intelligible to native Highlanders, he had recourse to English, and ultimately
preached wholly in that language. This was held to be a violation of the com-
pact made both with the Presbytery and the people, and complaints were again
made against him on that ground by the congregation of Boghole. The com-
258 The United Presbyterian CJnireh.
plaint was carried to the Synod, and occupied its deliberations many years, no
decision come to proving satisfactory to both parties. Mr Howison persevered
in his attempts to acquire a more perfect command of the Gaelic language, but
without success. On 2 2d May 1792, he resigned his charge, as a step necessary
both for his own comfort and the edification of his people. He was admitted to the
list of probationers, and in a short time became minister of the congregation of
Auchtergaven, Perthshire. Having no other person capable of supplying the vacant
congregation at Howford, the Synod proposed placing it under the inspection of
the Rev. Mr M'Bean, a Highlander, who had been ordained five years before at
Inverness, intending that he should supply both places, notwithstanding they are
16 miles apart. To this Mr M'Bean demurred, and the matter was not pressed.
Supply of sermon was continued to Howford till 1795, when, for want of preachers
skilled in Erse, it was withdrawn, and the congregation became extinct. A small
white cottage with thatched roof, near the Avooden bridge of Howford, is the last
relic of the church premises erected there a century ago.
NAIRN.
Nairn is the county town of Nairnshire, 1 1 miles west-by-south of Forres, and
18 north-east of Inverness.
This congregation originated with persons in the parish who sympathised with
the parishioners of the adjoining parish of Auldearn in their opposition to the intru-
sion among them of the Rev. Mr Gordon in 1747. The Seceders in both parishes
were formed into one congregation under the designation of the United Congrega-
tions of Boghole and Nairn, with its seat at Boghole. In 1763, the portion of the
congregation resident in and about Nairn built a place of worship for themselves,
but still continued united with the congregation of Boghole, the minister supply-
ing both places on alternate Sabbaths. Nairn was disjoined from Boghole, and
recognised as a separate congregation, 1769. The first place of worship stood
on the banks of the river at the foot of a narrow lane leading off from High
Street. A small cottage, covered with thatch, is the surviving memorial of the
early settlement of the Secession in Nairn. Second church built, 1S15, at a cost
oi jQZ20] sittings, 512. Third church built 1852, at a cost of ;^i6oo, with sittings
for 825.
\st Minister. — Henry Clerk, from Abernethy. Ordained as minister of the
United congregations of Boghole and Nairn,- 1763. Ceased to be connected with
Nairn in 1769. See Moyness.
2d Minister. — Isaac Ketchen, from Alloa (First). Called to Cabrach and
Nairn. Ordained at Nairn 13th April 1780. Mr Ketchen became son-in-law to
Brodie of Brodie, by whom an offer was made to him of one of two livings in the
Church of Scotland, in the gift of the Brodie family, but which he refused. Called
in 1 816 to Stronsay, but remained in Nairn. Died 12th May 1820, in the 70th
year of his age, and 41st of his ministry.
2^(1 Minister. — James Mein, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Ordained 30th Janu-
ary 1822. Died 9th June 1841, in the 50th year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr George M'Kenzie, afterwards of Carnoustie, and
Mr T. Stevenson, afterwards of Auchtcrmuchty.
4/// Minister. — John Bisset, from Erskine Church, Arbroath. Ordained 27th
September 1843. Called to Lcthendy, but declined the call.
Presbytery of Elgin and Ijiverncss — Inverness — Queen Sireci. 259
INVERNESS.
Inverness is the county town of Inverness-shire, 38^ miles south-west of Elgin,
and 119 west-north-west of Aberdeen.
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated in the itineracies of the Rev. Mr Buchanan of
Nigg, about the year 1788.
1st Mifu'stcr. — tEneas M'Bean. Ordained 31st November 1790. Suspended
from ofilice 27th April 1810, and died in 1824. The congregation became extinct
in 1 810.
UNION STREET.
Twenty persons formerly connected with the First congregation, Inverness,
formed a second, by applying for and obtaining supply of sermon from the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Elgin in 1817. Church built, 1821 ; sittings,
650. A new church was built in Union Street in 1864, containing sittings for 700,
at a cost of ^3000.
1st Minister. — James Scott, D.D., from Pitcairngreen. Ordained 21st March
1821. On nth April 1871, Mr Scott was presented with a silver salver, and ;^i5o,
at the celebration of his jubilee. He received the degree of DT). from Monmouth
College, Illinois, in September 187 1. Author of Funeral Sermon on the death of
Rev. T. Stark.
2d Minister. — George Robson, M.A., from Glasgow (Wellington Street), of
which his father was minister. Called to Dennyloanhead and Inverness. Ordained
at Inverness, as colleague to Mr Scott, 14th November 1S66.
QUEEN STREET.
Mr Munro, afterwards minister of this congregation, was sent by the United
Associate Synod to the North Highlands, as a Gaelic missionary, in 1829. While
itinerating there, he preached sometimes for the Rev. Mr Scott of Inverness. Cer-
tain persons resident in the town and neighbourhood, hearing him upon some of
these occasions, became desirous of having regular supply of sermon from the deno-
mination to which Mr Munro belonged, with Mr Munro for their preacher. The
Presbytery agreed, on application, to gratify this desire, on condition that the peti-
tioners agreed to pay a guinea for each Sabbath's supply, which was to be afforded,
on an average, once a month, the other three to be occupied by INIr Munro itinerat-
ing elsewhere, and all other expenses to be paid by the Synod. These terms were
accepted. The congregation thus formed kept their pledge till the Voluntary con-
troversy arose and made some progress in 1834, when it became necessary, in con-
sequence of diminished attendance and reduced collections, to petition the Synod
to reduce the stipulated sum by a third, which was allowed. In 1836, the rent
of the place of worship which they occupied was increased, and it therefore be-
came necessary to erect a church for themselves or break up the congregation.
They were enabled to adopt the former alternative by one member becoming wholly
responsible for the expense incurred; and a place of worship, containing 260 sit-
2 Go The United Presbyterian Church.
tings, was accordingly erected in 1836. A new church was erected in 1865, con-
taining sittings for 600, at a cost of ;;,^i2oo.
\st Minister. — Alexander Munro. Ordained 9th July 1833, as Gaelic mis-
sionary, and inducted 8th March 1842. Died 13th December 1854.
The congregation was supplied for some years by Mr Adam Gordon, missionary.
Died in 187 1.
2d Minister. — Donald Ross, from Nigg. Ordained 22d August i860. Died
20th July 1871, in the nth year of his ministry. A call was given in April 1872 to
Rev. Alexander C. MacDonald, late of Thamesford, Canada, which the Synod set
aside.
BURGHEAD.
Burghead is a village on the Moray Frith, parish of Duffus and county of Elgin,
8^- miles north-west of Elgin and 9I north-east of Forres.
Previous to 1821, there was no place of worship in Burghead, and none nearer
than the parish church of Duffus, which is 4 miles distant, notwithstanding the popu-
lation was 700. With the view of meeting its spiritual destitution, the United Asso-
ciate Presbytery of Elgin fixed upon it as a mission station, and supplied it with
sermon in April 1821. The congregation was sanctioned in June 1822, and a place
of worship was erected at a cost of ^367, with sittings for 508. No sooner had
these steps been taken than the Established Church began also to commiserate the
spiritual destitution of the place, and got a church erected in it capable of holding
all the inhabitants. This church they got endowed out of the funds of the Society
for Propagating Christian Knowledge in the Highlands and Islands of Scotland.
This unequalled and uncalled for rivalry placed the Secession congregation at a
disadvantage, which the congregation of Rose Street, Edinburgh, enabled it, to
some extent, to overcome, by granting a donation of ^^30 for several years.
There is now a third church in this little village, brought into existence by the
Disruption. A new church was built in 1861 at a cost of ^^750, with sittings
for 300.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Hardie, who was
appointed by the Synod to Kinghorn.
\st Minister.—DksiTy Carmichael, from Perth (North). Called to Banff and
Burghead. Ordained 29th August 1825. Deposed 25th September 1827. Re-
turned to Perth, and lived privately there.
2d Minister. — Robert Scott, from Stow. Ordained 22d April 1828. Died
14th December 1828, in the 26th year of his age, and ist of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — John Robertson, A.M., from Craigdam, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 23d May 1832. Resigned 13th August 1834. Admitted to
Wallsend, Presbytery of Newcastle, 1837.
The congregation called Mr Barrie, who preferred Carnwath.
4/// Mi?iister. — Alexander Tillie, from Earlston. Ordained 14th October
1835. Resigned 20th October 1852. Removed to Elgin, and lived there privately
till his death, 2 2d August 1853, in his 58th year.
/-s they have been a
part of this Synod. This is at least prima facie evidence of their amalgamation with this body. I
cannot believe that this was only a temporary connection, without positive evidence of so strange
a thing as an intended temporary connection between two sects. But there is not a vestige of such
ez'idence. We know nothing of the conditions of the junction that took place in 1820. I have the
strongest conviction, that if the matter was inquired into, we would find that nothing but a complete
incorporation was then in the view of either party. This, indeed, is plainly the defenders' own view
in setting forth the defence in this action. It is distinctly admitted by them, both in their defences
(2d paragraph), and in their statement (article 2), that it was only as a congregation in communion
The United Presbyterian Church.
with the Associate Synod, that the property was held for their behoof. They differ as to which of
the parlies has remained steadfast to the principles and authority of the sect. And on what ground
do they say this ? Not because they never, and with a permanent intention, joined the Synod, but
solely because the Synod, by absorbing the Relief, has ceased to be the religious community with which
they united themselves.
In i\vejirst place, they object that the existing Synod has no right to compel them who were ad-
herents of the Associate Synod to join what the defenders call the new body. I concur in this. But
I do not see its application. Because neither the new nor the old body is attempting to compel any
one to join them. The Synod is not in this process at all. It is an action by certain individual mem-
bers of the congregation to vindicate property which they allege belongs to them, and they are trying to
vindicate it quite independently of the Synod, which is standing aside — though probably surveying
the contest, and not uninterested in its result. Even the pursuers are not trying to compel the
defenders to join the Relief. They are only saying that they cannot renounce their principles and
keep this property.
It is maintained in the second place, that independently of identity, or of repugnance of principles,
the defenders are liberated from their allegiance to the Synod by t/i£ mere fact of its union with the
Relief. I think this untenable. It seems odd in those to say that all union was repugnant to their
ecclesiastical tenets, who admit that they themselves, who began as Burghers about 1765, united with
their rivals the Antiburghers, and thus formed the Associate Synod in 1820. Union — that is, the
extension of what it thinks right — seems a necessary principle with every rational religious society.
I never heard of any religious society, indeed, whether rational or not, which adopts separation as so
essential a principle, as that it shuts its gates against all converts. It is said that the junction with
the Relief let a host of new congregations and presbyteries into the Synod. And why not — if there
was no sacrifice of principle ? The defenders say that they never subjected themselves to Relief
Presbyteries. And they are not asked to do so now. They are only asked to continue under the
jurisdiction of the Presbyteries of the Associate Synod, though these may be multiplied, and though
some of them may formerly have been of the Relief Undoubtedly the Synod could have sucked in
the whole Relief- -individuals, congregations, and presbyteries—^;?;? by one. Or if the Relief com-
munity had come forward and honestly abjured whatever it was tliat had till then kept it apart from
the Synod, I see no legal objection to the Synod's receiving the whole body, arranged into Presby-
teries, at once. The defenders may not like the individuals, and may fear that both the brethren and
the presbyteries of the Relief will still be actuated by the principles and habits of their former sect.
But this personal suspicion is no legal objection. If the Synod could have received every converted
member of the Relief individually, and thus taken the whole of them in at once — which I hold to be
clear — and if it could then have arranged them into Presbyteries corresponding with their Relief ones
— wliich I hold to be clear also — I cannot conceive how it could not receive them arranged into
Presbyteries at once.
It has been urged, or rather insinuated, in the third place, that the mere change of name en-
titles the defenders to secede, and yet to retain the property. We have had no authority for this,
nor can I discover any in the law of Scotland. I can conceive an alteration of name so marked, or
so meant, that it indicates, or is naturally supposed to indicate, a change of principle or of object.
But I am not aware that unestablished religious associations are Ixjund to adhere to every letter of
any title they may have ever assumed ; just as a mercantile company may be, where a partner in-
sists upon it. It may certainly be made a question whether a proposed change be too great ; but I
know no authority for the abstract and universal proposition, which is all that we have had as yet,
that every change of name is, in all circumstances, fatal. The defenders have not said that there is
anything in the nature of the alteration from the United Associate Synod to the United Presbyterian
vSynod, that entitles them to break off. It is to any change that they object ; and this not to the
extent of disliking the change, but of holding that it dissolves their connection. I think that this
will not do.
But these are mere outposts. The defenders' main battle is, that the union with the Relief im-
plies an abandonment of principle, or of system, by the Synod, and so gross that it destroys the
identity of that body, and entitles the defenders to be considered as the persons for whose use the
chapel was acquired. There can be no doubt of the relei'ancy of this plea. It is sanctioned by the
whole of the well-decided cases. Some of these depended on the fact ; and, so far, they can have
little or no valuable application to the specialties of other questions. But they all recognise, and
proceed upon the great rule, that property held for a particular religious community must, in the
event of a schism, continue to be held by those who adhere to the principles and objects of the
trust. This is the whole applicable matter that I can extract out of any of the cases now of weight
— that of Craigdallic particularly included, which establishes the exact principle for which the pur-
suers contend. But what I doubt is \\\cfact.
On the whole, upon this, which I conceive to be the main point of the case, I want more light.
If we must proceed on what we have, there is nothing to remove from my mind ihe pi'imd facie evi-
dence of the identity of their principles, which is supplied by the mere fact of their uniting. That
religious parties should differ on imaginary or immaterial grounds, is no uncommon occurrence. But
that, with real differences, they should unite, is, I suspect, a case without example ; unless where
secular considerations have extinguishctl ecclesiastical feelings. No such considerations have been
averred to ojierate here. And so far as appears the junction has been acceded to by the whole
members of both l)odies except the defenders. The defenders, nevertheless, may certainly be
right, and every one else wrong. But, pri/nd facie, the probability is the other way.
The Court pronounced the following interlocutor : —
" Sustain the fourth, fifth, and sixth pleas in law stated on record in defence
Pi^esbytery of Glasgow — Kirkintilloch — Campbelton. 333
against the present action. Assoilzie the defenders from the conclusions of the
summons, and decern : Find the defenders entitled to expenses ; appoint an
account thereof to be lodged, and in respect the auditor, having been formerly
the agent for the defenders, has declined to audit the account, remit to John Russell
one of the principal clerks of session, and clerk in this cause, to tax the said account
when so lodged, and to report."
The Rev. Dr Struthers of Glasgow, who had rendered essential service to the
Relief Church in the Campbelton Case, in three elaborate articles on the Kirkin-
tilloch Case, which appeared in the October, November, and December numbers
of the United Presbyterian Magazine 1850, says, " In itself the Kirkintilloch Church
case is very unimportant, and the decision given is of such a kind as to prevent it
from being a ruling casern most of the dissenting church processes ; but in delivering
judgment upon it, the majority of their Lordships in the Second Division of the
Court of Session seem to me in their speeches to have laid down general principles
which if applied will strip dissenting churches of some of those valued rights and
privileges which they thought were secured to them by unanimous decisions in the
well-known cases of Perth and Campbelton." He shows at length his reasons for
this opinion in the articles referred to. But one of the law agents of the United
Presbyterian Church stated in open Synod, in his own name and that of his coad-
jutors, that no such effect as that described by Dr Struthers was to be apprehended
from the decision.
Dr Marshall and his congregation remained apart from any ecclesiastical con-
nection after this decision was given, though some time after it he himself made a
formal proposal to join the Synod of Original Seceders, but was not received by
them.
On the death of Dr Marshall, his congregation joined the Free Church under
the name of " Marshall Church." Dr Marshall was succeeded by his son, Rev. W.
Marshall, formerly of Leith, who died in 1S60.
About 30 members and adherents withdrew with Dr Newlands to a hall on nth
October 1846, and reconstituted the cause. A church was built in 1855 ^'^ ^ cost
of ;^iioo; vestry, hall, and gallery, since added, cost ^400; in all, ^1500.
Sittings in church, 500.
The congregation called Mr W. Fleming, who preferred a call to Kirkcaldy,
Union Church.
4//^ Minister. — John Mitchell, previously of Leven. Inducted 27th April
1854.
CAMPBELTON.
Campbelton is a burgh town in Argyleshire, 73 1 miles south-west of Inverary
and 133I- south-west of Glasgow.
A full account of this congregation has been given by Dr Struthers in his
" History of the Relief Church." The leading facts are here given. Gaelic is the
native language of the district. The inhabitants of the town, however, and of the
greater part of the adjacent country stretching away towards Southend, were ori-
ginally from the Lowlands, speak the English language, and observe the manners
and customs of the west country people. Some of their progenitors were invited
thither by the noble Marquis of Argyle so early as 1640, and long enjoyed no small
334 ^^^^ United Presbyterian Chnrch.
sliare of his favour and fatherly protection. Notwithstanding their advantageous
circumstances, their happiness was embittered by the want of a Gospel ministry,
and their uneasiness increased as their children grew up around them. Although the
Gospel was preached in the country, it was in a language not understood by them.
This evil, they thought, might be remedied by an application for a minister to
preach and dispense to them religious ordinances. Accordingly, an application
was made to the proper quarter, and a minister was appointed to preach to them in
an old thatched house in Campbelton, which house was kept in repair solely at the
congregation's expense, and the stipend was also paid by them. In 1654 they
built a church in Kirk Street. The first minister was Edward Keith, ordained
1656, died 1681. The second minister was Mr Boes, who died in 1749, in the
56th year of his ministry. In an evil day their second minister — with the design
of relieving them of part of their burdens — advised them to apply to the Commis-
sioners for the Planting of Kirks for a stipend out of the bishop's teinds of Argyle,
not then occupied by any incumbent. Their application was successful. They
touched the money of the State as a Church, and from that moment they lost their
liberty. In seeking temporal relief they forged a chain which was wound round
them, and became intolerable. But by a noble effort they at last broke it off, and
regained their freedom.
After the death of Mr Boes, the second minister, the Duke of Argyle claimed
the patronage of the Church, and gave them to understand that it was his intention
to present a minister to the vacant charge. This information took them greatly by
surprise, for it had never been supposed by them that by accepting assistance from
the State they were denuding themselves of the Christian privilege of choosing their
own pastor. In spite, however, of all the remonstrances against the act threatened
them, a minister — Rev. John M'Alpine, of Arrochar — was introduced among them,
and several of those who had been strenuous in their opposition to him were turned
out of their fantts.
Mr M'Alpine acted for a time very imperiously towards them. Through his
influence the charge was made collegiate, and another Gael was conjoined with him
in it. This colleague conducted himself still more offensively towards the congrega-
tion than the principal. They had purchased, and hitherto kept in repair, the
manse for their minister. Being unwilling, in the conflicting state of matters
between them, to repair it according to his wish, he applied to the Presbytery, who
grasped at the appeal, got the heritors to rebuild the manse, and thus stripped the
people of their property, though they came forward when they saw the matter going
to an extremity, and promised to be at all the expense. . They were not permitted,
and the manse which they had reared passed into the hands of the heritors.
After the death of the minister first intruded upon them, the incumbent of the
second charge was promoted to the first, and through family influence, got his own
son-in-law, Mr Robertson, presented to the second. He was still more obnoxious
to the people than either of his predecessors. The whole congregation were
strongly inimical to him as their minister except three, and one of these was the
Duke's Chamberlain, His settlement among them took place notwithstanding, and
very soon after it he took measures to have the seats of the church which the people
had built allocated among the heritors. These, however, entirely failed, for the
Sheriff refused to sanction this kind of wholesale ecclesiastical robbery. The plan
of the minister was probably to bring the Church under ecclesiastical parochial law,
that he might get it rebuilt or repaired by a vote of the Presbytery. In their
Prcsbyte7j of Glasgow — Campbelton (Relief). 33;
righteous indignation the people took advantage of the hint to quit, and in one
body left their seats indeed, and walked out of the Establishment.
A separation being agreed on, they, in the beginning of 1766, opened a sub-
scription for a meeting-house, and, in a short time, a large sum (^1451, i8s.) was
subscribed for it. Having appointed a committee of management, they gave
orders for cutting some stones in the common quarry, but there they were stopped
by the Duke's Chamberlain. They then opened a quarry within the sea mark,
about three miles from Campbelton, and purchased a site, but here they were also
stopped by the Chamberlain, who alleged that they were spoiling the grass by
carrying their stones over it. They then applied to Mr Campbell of Kildalloig for
liberty to cut what stones they wanted in the island of Davaar, which lies in the
mouth of Campbelton Loch, who granted their request for four pounds sterling.
No sooner was this known than Kildalloig was applied to by Mr Robertson's
friends to stop them., which he was hindered doing by his bargain, but was pre-
vailed on to prevent them taking in horses to the island to drag the stones down to
the shore, expressly stipulated in the bargain. This inflicted a great hardship upon
the people, by necessitating them to carry the stones on their backs and barrows from
the quarry to the shore.
They were further hindered by the Duke's Chamberlain from taking sand for
their building purposes. But though distressed they were not disheartened. They
engaged a vessel, and sent her up to Ardnacross shore, and brought a cargo of
sand, which relieved them for a time. To obtain timber a vessel was chartered,
and sent to Norway. Freestone was got from Cumbrae. The minister's friends
immediately wrote to Mr M'Neill, from the shore of whose property the sand was
taken, to prevent them, but instead of doing so he wrote to the Committee of
Management, granting liberty to take whatever they needed, only desiring them to
satisfy his tenants for any hurt which might be done them. A pew in front of the
gallery was set apart for Mr M'Neill and his family. The Rev. Hector M'Neill, of
the Free Church, Campbelton, is the lineal descendant of this benefactor, and
present laird of Ardnacross.
The clergy of the district seeing the work drawing to completion, were now
desirous of having the edifice constituted a Chapel of Ease to the parish Church,
and made overtures to the Committee of Management with this view, which, how-
ever, were indignantly rejected. After mature deliberation its promoters came to
the resolution of connecting it with the Presbytery of ReUef, then recently formed.
Notwithstanding the numerous and seemingly formidable obstacles raised to
prevent it, one of the most substantial churches in Scotland was reared, capable of
containing 1500 worshippers, to which a tower was added in 1834, costing ;,^6oo.
In 181 5 the sum of ^1050 was expended in purchase of a manse. The founda-
tion stone of a new church was laid 24th August 1870. The buildin"- cost
J[,\\,oQo, and has sittings for 956. It was opened 14th July 1872 by Rev. Drs
Logan Aikman, Boyd, and Beith (Free Church, Stirling), and Mr Sprott (Glasgow).
Opening collection, ;,^2oi5, 3s. 7d.
\st Minister.— ] AUY.S Pinkerton, a licentiate of the Established Church.
Received into connection with the Presbytery of Relief, and ordained at Camp-
belton i6th July 1767. Died 22d May 1804, in the 62d year of his age and 37th
of his ministry. Author of " The Office and Work of Gospel Ministry ;" an
ordination sermon, preached at Anderston ; and other Sermons.
2d Minister.— Dawid Fergus, previously of Auchterarder. Admitted to Camp^
336 77/1!? United Presbyterian Church.
belton 17th May 1805. Resigned 25th June 1822. Emigrated to America, and
died in Cincinnati, United States,
id Minister. — William M'Dougal, from Campbell Street, Glasgow. Ordained
28th May 1823. Translated to Kilmarnock 26th August 1828.
^th Minister. — James Smith, from Calton, Glasgow. Called to Musselburgh
and Campbelton. Ordained 28th August 1829. Joined the Established Church
in December 1835, and is now parish minister of Kelso. Author of "Proceed-
ings of Relief Synod in the Campbelton Case."
One of the most important law cases which ever occurred affecting Dissenters,
arose out of the step taken by Mr Smith, extended over three years and a half,
and excited immense interest in the country while it was pending, the Voluntary
Controversy being then at its height, and the Church Extension scheme progressing
which ended in the Disruption of the Church of Scotland. The case is narrated at
great length by Dr Struthers in his " History of the Relief Church," and also in
a separate pamphlet published by him, a mere outline of which is here given. The
Relief Synod had cut off Mr Smith from their connection because of the position
he had come to occupy, and appointed Mr Harvey, a member of the Presbytery
to which he belonged, to preach at Campbelton, and declare the church vacant.
Mr Smith obtained an interdict from the Sheriff to prevent these decisions taking
effect. In a few days the people subscribed ^1500 to enable them to take
legal measures of defence. When the question came to be argued in the local
court the judge saw meet to continue the interdict. The right of i?iteri??i possession
was afterwards determined by the Supreme Court till the case was tried.
The case being reported by Lord Moncriefif to the Second Division, came under
their review on the 7th March 1837. Having heard counsel and advised the cases
for the parties, they recalled the interlocutor pronounced by the Sheriff, and
enjoined equal possession of the meeting-house and pulpit between the advocators
and respondents till the action of declarator raised by Mr Smith should be heard
and determined.
By this action of declarator Mr Smith and his friends wished to have it found —
I. That the Campbelton Relief Church was founded upon principles neither
opposed to endowments nor to Church Establishments, and that no individual
opposed to these could preach in it nor interfere regarding its use. 11. That the
pursuers, and the proprietors of the same views as to State endowments as them-
selves, had the sole and exclusive management of it, free from all interference by
the Synod of Relief, and had the sole power to choose its minister, who should
adhere to the same Old Relief principles on which they averred it was founded.
in. That the Rev. James Smith shall be declared minister of the said church and
entitled to its emoluments, notwithstanding of the sentences of the Relief Church
courts cutting him off from the denomination. IV. That the defenders shall be
decerned and ordained to pay Mr Smith £i?>o annually as his stipend. V. That
the defenders shall be interdicted from interfering with Mr Smith during his incum-
bency, and from appointing or admitting any person after his incumbency has come
to an end, as the minister of the church, who is opposed to Church Establishments.
VI. That the defenders should be ordained to pay the pursuers ;^7oo as the expense
of the process.
The case came on for hearing before Lord Moncriefif as Lord Ordinary on the
15th of June 1838. At the close of the discussion it was arranged that each party
should prepare "cases" on the whole cause, and present their arguments in the best
Prcsbytciy of Glasgow — Campbelton.
possible shape, to be laid before' his lordship for the purpose of being transmitted
to the Inner House for judgment.
The cases having been prepared, were transmitted, along with the process, to the
second division of the Court of Session, having prefixed to them a note by the Lord
Ordinary, the substance of which was, that the defenders (the congregation) had
entirely failed to convince him that in the original constitution of the Relief Church
it was held by that body, as a principle of religious belief, that a Church established
by law in connection with the State is contrary to the law of God as revealed in the
Scriptures ; that on the other hand he is most perfectly convinced that the de-
fenders in this action, and the Relief Synod to which they adhere, do now hold and
maintain that an Established Church is contrary to the Scriptures, and do now
treat this as a matter of religious belief in their body ; and that the proceedings
against Mr Smith originated in this and nothing else. Supposing that such a tenet
has now been made part of the constitution of the Church represented by the Synod,
this part of the case will be reduced to the question, Whether the making the point
to be an open question^ assuming that it was not an open question in the original con-
stitution, would be sufficient to sustain the present action ? But how it can be held
that the Synod consider and act upon it as an open question in the face of the pro-
ceedings against Mr Smith and of the refusal to accept of his declaration that he
adheres to the principles of the Relief Church as Synodically declared, the Lord
Ordinary is still in great difficulty to comprehend. Supposing the two questions of
fact, now referred to, to stand in the way above stated, there will still be two questions
of law of considerable difficulty and importance to be disposed of: — i. It is very
anxiously maintained that this is to be regarded as a mere case of discipline under
the rules of the Relief Church, and that therefore this Court has no competency
to consider the legality of the proceedings of the Synod or to inquire whether there
has not been a change in the opinions in the Relief Church or not. Certainly if
the Lord Ordinary considered the proceedings as truly proceedings in a case of
discipline, he should think it perfectly clear that this court had no right to interfere.
2. The other question of legal inquiry is still more delicate — namely, how far,
assuming that the Synod have departed in principle from the doctrines of the
Relief Church as originally established, and as they were held at the time when
the Campbelton congregation came into connection with it, on the lawfulness of a
Church Establishment, that difference is in a point so vital as to compel the court
to consider it with a view to the determination of the rights of property. The Lord
Ordinary formerly indicated the serious doubt which he entertained on this point.
His general impression is that if the facts be established, though the question may
still be difficult, it is a departure which the founders of that Church would have
esteemed of the most fundamental magnitude.
Their Lordships having maturely considered the case, delivered the following
interlocutor on the 6th June 1839 : — "The Lords, on report of Lord Moncrieff,
having advised and conjoined processes of advocation and declarator with the whole
proceedings, and heard counsel in the process of declarator, sustain the defences
and assoilzie the defenders from the conclusions of the libel, and decern ; and in
the process of advocation recall the original interdict and dismiss the petition, and
decern ; find expenses due to the defenders in both processes ; allow the account
to be given in, and remit to the auditor to tax and report in common form." The
import of this decision is that the case was decided in favour of the congre^-ation
and against Mr Smith.
338 The United Presbyte7'ia7i CJmrch.
^th Mi)iister. — James Boyd, D.D., previously of Dumbarton. Admitted 29th
September 1837. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University
of Glasgow 1855. Was moderator of United Presbyterian Synod in 1859.
dth Minister. — John Thomson, formerly of Edinburgh, North Richmond Street.
Admitted as colleague to Dr Boyd, i6th October 1872.
CAMPBELTON SECESSION (Now Extinct).
Campbelton was selected in 1831 as a preaching station by the Glasgow Asso-
ciation for the spread of the Gospel in connection with the Secession Church. In
1832 forty persons resident there petitioned the United Associate Presbytery of
Glasgow to be organised as a congregation, which was granted. Church built, 1833.
Sittings 630.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr M'Gavin, who pre-
ferred Dundee ; Mr Rankine, who preferred Cupar ; and Mr Lawson, who preferred
Pitlessie.
\st Minister.- — George Thomson, from Dunse. Ordained 2d July 1835.
Resigned 8th March 1841. Joined the Independents and became minister of a
congregation at Colchester. Received by the Synod in May 1861 as a minister.
2d Minister. — Archibald Ritchie, from Regent Place, Glasgow. Ordained 2d
August 1842. Resigned 12th September 1843.
The congregation called Mr Riddell, afterwards of Moffat ; Mr Reid, afterwards
of Firth in Orkney ; Mr Anderson, afterwards of Norham ; and Mr Bartholomew,
afterwards of Whitby, all of whom declined the calls.
The Union of the Secession and Relief Churches having taken place in 1847,
the congregation in 1849 became incorporated with that of Dr Boyd.
EAGLESHAM.
Eaglesham is a village in the parish of the same name, Renfrewshire, 8 miles
south of Glasgow, 4 south of Busby, 4 west of East Kilbride, and 9 north of Fenwick.
The church and parish of Eaglesham having become vacant in 1765 by the
translation of the Rev. Henry Grieve to Dalkeith, the Earl of Eglinton, as patron,
presented Mr Thomas Clark to the charge Only one person could be got to
sign his call, notwithstanding the patron was proprietor of thirty-nine parts of forty
of the land of the parish. The Presbytery refused to sustain the call. The case
was litigated through all the church courts, and the General Assembly, 1766,
ordered the Presbytery to take Mr Clark on trials, and, if found qualified, proceed
to his settlement. The Presbytery took Mr Clark on trials, found him qualified,
but would not fix a day for his settlement. The 30th April, 1767, was afterwards
determined for the purpose ; but when the day arrived, the Rev. Dr Leechman,
principal of the University of Glasgow, was the only member of the Presbytery who
attended, and for want of a quorum the ordination could not be proceeded with.
The case came again before the General Assembly, which passed a vote of censure
upon the Presbytery for their conduct in this affair, and ordered them to proceed
with Mr Clark's settlement, or suffer the infliction of a still greater penalty. This
injunction was complied with on the last Thursday of June 1767 ; and as soon as
it was executed, a large body of the parishioners withdrew from the Established
Presbytery of Glasgoiu — Kilpatrick Craigs. 339
Church, and resolved upon joining the Secession. They appHed for and obtained
supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow, 1767.
Church built, 1782 ; sittings, 500. A new church was built in 1867, with sittings
for 350; cost ;!^i3oo. The patron of the parish gave a subscription of ^^150,
and is now a member of the church.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr R. Hall, who was
appointed by the Synod to Kelso.
\st Minister. — James Dickson, from Stitchel. Ordained 17th April 1788.
Resigned in 1826. Died in 1833, in the 74th year of his age, and 38th of his
ministry.
2d Ministc7-. — William Carswell, from Mearns. Ordained 26th June 1827.
KILPATRICK CRAIGS (Now united with Duntocher).
Kilpatrick is a village in the parish of the same name, Dumbartonshire, situated
on the banks of the Clyde, 10 miles north-west of Glasgow, and 5 east of Dumbarton.
Several parishioners of Old Kilpatrick, dissatisfied with the life and doctrine of
the Rev. Mr Yates, minister of that parish, shortly afterwards deposed, withdrew
from his ministry, acceded to the Associate Presbytery, 1739, and formed part of
the first Secession congregation in Glasgow.
The Rev. Mr Mair of Orwell observed a fast with these persons on his way
home from the ordination of Mr Smyton at Kilmaurs, but no steps were taken at
that time to form a congregation in the locality.
In 1776, the minister of Old Kilpatrick intimated to his people a wish to have
an assistant, which they were willing he should obtain, provided they were allowed
to elect one out of a leet of candidates nominated by himself. To this arrange-
ment he would not consent, but appointed a person to the oflice without deferring
to them. The person so appointed was very unacceptable to the parishioners
generally ; and being offended also at the manner of his appointment, a number of
them forthwith joined in application to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glas-
gow for supply of sermon, which was granted. They were now joined by the
Seceders in the parish, who had previously taken no part in the movement, and a
considerable congregation was formed at once. Church built, 1781 ; sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Osborne, pro-
bationer, but the call was not prosecuted.
\st Minister. — Archibald Wood, from Kirkintilloch. Ordained 28th August
1787. Died 28th February 1788, in the 28th year of his age, and first of his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Hill, who preferred remaining in his
charge at Cumbernauld.
2d Minister. — William Watson, formerly of Largs. Translated hither, i8th
March 1789. Withdrew from the Associate Synod, 1799, and with other ministers,
who entertained the same views, formed the Original Associate (Burgher) Synod.
The majority of his congregation adhered to him and retained the property. The
minority formed a congregation by themselves, afterwards the congregation of
Duntocher, and applied to the Court of Session for an interdict to prevent the
majority from occupying the place of worship, from which they had in the mean-
time withdrawn. The interdict was granted, but withdrawn the following week,
and another refused. A successor to Mr Watson was ordained in 1802, at which
time the party adhering to the Associate Synod raised an action at law to have the
340 TJic United Presbytcj'ian CJmrch.
whole civil property belonging to the congregation surrendered to them. A sum
of money, considered equivalent to their interest in it, was offered them, but refused,
and the case went into court. The questions at issue between the parties were —
First, Which of them had the right of possessioti ? This was decided by the Lord
Ordinary in favour of the defenders, on the ground that they were the majority, and
this decision was confirmed by the majority of the judges. Secondly, Who were the
proprietors of the property ? And this question was decided by the Lord Ordinary
in favour of the same parties. The pursuers appealed to the Inner House ; and in
January 1809, after seven years litigation, in which above jQi6oo had been spent
by the pursuers alone, the judges decided " that both the pursuers and defenders
originally formed one congregation of Burgher Seceders, but having lately differed
in opinion upon certain matters of religious doctrine, they have now in effect sepa-
rated from each other and become two distinct congregations. Although both of
them are still of the Secession Church, under the name of Burgher Seceders, find
that the defenders have not thereby lost their property in the house of worship and
other subjects in question, which they had before, and so far sustain the defences
against the action ; but before further answer, remit to the Lord Ordinary to inquire
more particularly into the state of the civil properties in question, how the subjects
were acquired and afterwards supported, what was the extent of the contributions
for that purpose, and on which side the majority of interests, both in point of
numbers and value, will now stand, and to proceed otherwise in the cause as to his
lordship shall seem right." Upon inquiry, the majority both of numbers and value
was found to be with the possessors of the property, and the judges therefore
adhered to their former decision. The pursuers appealed to the House of Lords,
but the appeal was not prosecuted. Some years afterwards the pursuers proposed
to refer the case to counsel for arbitration, but the defenders rejected the proposal.
At length in 1829, thirty years after the first interdict was applied for, a committee
of managers selected out of each of the two congregations met, and after much
deliberation, agreed that the matter should be finally settled by the party possessing
the property paying the sum of ;^200 to the other party, which was accepted.
2)d Minister. — James Gardiner, from Biggar (North). Ordained November
1802. Received with' his congregation upon petition into connection with the
United Associate Synod, 14th July 1840. Died 28th October 1851, in the 50th
year of his ministry.
4M Minister. — Robert Mitchell. Called to Drymen, Craigs, and Old Kil-
patrick. Ordained as colleague to Mr Gardiner, 30th January 1849. Called to
Bridge of Allan in 1850, but declined the call. Died 6th January 1869, in the 49th
year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
On 13th April 1869, the congregation united with that of Duntocher, with Mr
Stark as their minister. The new designation of the church is " Craigs and Dun-
tocher Congregation."
CRAIGS AND DUNTOCHER.
Duntocher is a village in the parish of Old Kilpatrick, Dumbartonshire, nine
miles west by north of Glasgow.
This congregation originated in 1799 in a division of the Associate (Burgher)
congregation of Kilpatrick Craigs, caused by the controversy respecting the magi-
strates' power in matters of religion, better known as "The Old Light Contro-
Presbytery of Glasgow — Campsie. 34 £
versy ;" the portion forming the congregation of Duntocher adhering to the
Associate (Burgher) Synod, whilst the other adhered to the party which afterwards
formed " The Original Associate Synod." They were supplied with sermon as a
station for thirty years, during which time a lawsuit was pending as to the party to
which the right of property at Craigs should belong. The principles on which this
action was based, and the findings in which it issued, are stated under the head of
Kilpatrick Craigs. Church built 1824, at a cost of ^1000 ; sittings, 592.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Nicol, who was
appointed by the Synod to Jedburgh.
1st Minister. — Hugh Crichton, D.D., from Cumnock. Ordained i6th
January 1826. Translated to Liverpool i8th April 1838.
The congregation called Mr Marshall, who preferred Kirkgate, Leith.
2d Minister. — Andrew Rintoul Johnston, from Rosehearty, of which his
fiither was minister. Ordained 2d May 1839. Resigned loth April 1849.
Admitted to Letham 1850.
3^ Minister. — James Henderson, from ToUcross. Called to Drymen and
Duntocher. Ordained 26th March 1850. Demitted his charge, and proceeded to
Australia, 14th December 1858.
\th Minister. — John Stark, from Glasgow (Gordon Street). Ordained 17th
March i860.
CAMPSIE.
This congregation takes its designation from the parish in Stirlingshire in which
it has its seat. Its place of worship is in the village of Lennoxtown, 9^ miles
north of Glasgow, and 6| west of Kilsyth.
The circumstances in which the congregation originated are thus stated in the
session records : — " On the death of the Rev. William Bell the Crown presented
the Rev. James Lapslie to the church and parish of Campsie in 1784. The majority
of the inhabitants were greatly offended by this appointment, being dissatisfied with
the doctrine and behaviour of the presentee. That they might have a pastor of
their own choice, the members of the Old Session unanimously agreed, in concur-
rence with several of the heritors and a great majority of heads of families, to build
a Chapel of Ease. When the building was considerably advanced, some of the
elders were appointed to converse with the leading members of the Presbytery
of Glasgow as to their intentions and views. The person whom the session and
their friends wished to obtain as their minister was Mr James Crawford, who had
assisted Mr Bell for some time previous to his death. When the elders made
known the wish of their friends respecting this gentleman they were told by the
Rev. Dr Porteous that it was in vain to think of him, as the Presbytery were deter-
mined that he should not be settled in Campsie. Finding that they were to be
balked in their choice, the session and their friends applied to the Relief Presby-
tery of Glasgow, and were taken under their jurisdiction in 1784." Church built the
same year. Sittings, 563.
\st Minister. — James Colquhoun. Joined the Relief Synod after finishing his
Theological Studies in connection with the Established Church. Ordained 3d
May 1786. Called to Perth 1787, but preferred remaining in Campsie. Resigned
5th October 1796. Afterwards of Lilliesleaf
The congregation called the Rev. John Watt, of Blairlogie, but as there was only
a small majority in his favour the call was not prosecuted.
342 The United Presbyterian CJnirch. '
2d Minister. — James Thomson, D.D., from Strathaven, East. Ordained 22d
November 1798. Translated to Thread Street, Paisley, 23d December 1808.
The congregation called the Rev. Archibald Murdoch, of Kilmaronock, who
declined the call.
yi Minister. — James Brown, from East Campbell Street, Glasgow. Ordained
15th May 1810. Died ist March 1854, in the 80th year of his age and 44th of
his ministry.
4/// Minister. — ^William Wood, from Roberton. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Rrown, 25th March 1S45. Called to Canal Street, Paisley, but remained in Campsie.
AIRDRIE,
Airdrie is a burgh town in the parish of New Monkland and county of Lanark,
32 miles from Edinburgh and 11 from Glasgow.
WELL WYND.
The parishes of Old and New Monkland were two of four parishes which bought
the right of patronage in 1690, by paying 600 merks to the patron in lieu of the
right of presentation to their churches. By this purchase the right of choosing
ministers devolved upon the heritors, elders, and heads of families in these parishes.
Nevertheless, the Presbytery of Hamilton claimed the right, and exercised it in
1733 by presenting Mr John Currie to the Church of New Monkland, then vacant.
Several of the parishioners were dissatisfied with the Presbytery for this invasion
of their rights, and availed themselves of the first opportunity to withdraw from the
Established Church, and cast in their lot with the Seceders. At the commence-
ment of the Secession, Airdrie was only a farm hamlet. It appears from the
minutes of the Associate Presbytery that a praying society in New Monkland, and
another in Old Monkland, acceded to it in 1739, and that Mr Clarkson, afterwards
of Craigmailen, was appointed to preach to the former of these on the fourth
Sabbath of March, and^ Mr Young (who died while a probationer), on the third
Sabbath of June and first Sabbath of July 1740 — the other society also attending at
the same time and place. The Presbytery could not continue the supply for want
of probationers, and these societies therefore connected themselves with the con-
gregations of Cumbernauld and Cambusnethan. The coal and iron works to which
the town of Airdrie chiefly owes its existence attracted many Seceders as well as
others to the place, and those residing in it thinking that circumstances warranted
the attempt to form a Secession congregation there, invited the Rev. Mr Hill, of
Cumbernauld, to come thither and preach, with which request he readily complied.
The result was that a congregation was speedily formed. They erected a place of
worship containing 650 sittings in 1792, which was superseded by another in 1847,
costing ^1700, containing 750 sittings. A manse recently built cost ;£\\\o.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Henderson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Hawick.
\st Minister. — Andrew Duncanson, from Queensferry. Called to Kinross and
Airdrie. Ordained 21st August 1792. Died 23d June 1819, in the 52d year of
his age, and 27th of his ministry. Mr Duncanson was one of the first contributors
to the Evani^elical Magazi)ie. Author of Sermons on " The Saints' Duty and Britain's
Presbytery of Glasgow — Airdrie. 343
Safety," preached on a National Fast, 1794; "Divine Agency Necessary to the
Propagation of Christianity ;" and " A Scriptural Profession of Faith Exemplified
and Recommended," preached before the Associate (Burgher) Synod, of which he
was moderator.
2d Minister. — William Nicol, from Buccleuch Street, Dumfries. Called to
Johnshaven and Airdrie. Ordained 17th November 1819. Died 7th June 1823,
in the 32d year of his age, and 4th of his ministry.
T,d Minister. — George Sommerville, from the West Congregation, Kelso.
Ordained 9th December 1824. Resigned 1840, and went to America. Returned
to Airdrie, and began to preach in a small building called the " Little Sanctuary,"
which afterwards was converted into an Episcopal school.
The congregation called the Rev. H. M. M'Gill, who preferred remaining in
Glasgow.
^th Minister. — Matthew M'Gavin, A.M., previously of Stonehouse. Admitted
2d March 1841. Demitted his charge loth February 1863, and proceeded to
Queensland. Author of " The Precentor's Guide;" and " Revivals of Religion."
5//^ Minister. — Walter Roberts, A.M., from Pollokshaws. Ordained 27th
October 1863. Translated to Glasgow (Dennistoun), 9th November 1869.
6th Minister. — John Paterson, M.A., B.D., from Uddingston. Ordained 5th
September 1871.
SOUTH BRIDGE STREET.
This congregation originated in the desire of the Rev. Mr Ferrier of Nevvarthill
to remove his place of worship to Airdrie, where a considerable number of the
people connected with it resided. In 1833 he took upon himself the responsibility
of erecting, at his own expense, a church costing ;^i 200, containing 672 sittings,
together with a manse. The church premises were his own property, the congre-
gation paying him an annual rent of ;Q^2 for the church. The portion of his
people in and about Airdrie attended there, but the others remained at Newarthill.
\st Minister. — Andrew Ferrier, D.D. Admitted to Airdrie 1833. Resigned
13th July 1 84 1. Emigrated to Ameripa, and became minister of Caledonia,
Canada West. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by one of the colleges
of the United States.
Author of the "Memoir of the Rev. William Wilson, Perth, one of the Founders of the
Secession Church," of whom Mr Ferrier was a lineal descendant ; a Memoir of his Father, the
Rev. Dr Ferrier of Paisley; and "Nebuchadnezzar's Golden Image: a Sermon on Civil Esta-
blishments of Religion."
After Mr Ferrier's resignation, on 7th December 1841, the congregation with-
drew from the United Associate Synod, and connected themselves with the Synod
of Relief. They acceded to the United Presbyterian Church at the Union in 1847.
New church built 1846 ; sittings, 650.
The congregation called Mr James Martin, wlio preferred Beith.
2d Minister. — Alexander Barr, from Beith (Head Street). Ordained 31st
October 1843.
344 The United Pi^esbytcinan Church.
BALFRON.
Balfron is a village in the parish of the same name, in Stirlingshire, 4 miles
south-west of Buchlyvie, 19 west-south-west of Stirling, and 18 north of Glasgow.
RELIEF.
This congregation originated with some calico printers, previously in connec-
tion with the Relief Church, who had come, in the prosecution of their calling,
from other parts of the country to settle in the place. They applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, 1793. Church
built, 1797 ; sittings, 320.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Robert Pater-
son, who preferred remaining in his charge at Largo.
\st Minister. — James Logan, A.M., from Anderston, Glasgow. Ordained 8th
March 1798. Translated to St Ninians 29th November 1803.
2d Minister. — Decision Laing, previously of Wamphray. Translated to
Balfron 19th July 1804. Died 1830, in the 34th year of his ministry. Author of
"Zion Travailing," a sermon preached before the Dumfries Missionary Society.
The congregation called Mr Hamilton, afterwards of Largo, who declined the
call.
3^ Minister. — Hugh Brown, from Hutchesontown, Glasgow. Ordained 23d
August 1832. Suspended from office and communion, 5th December 1854.
4/// Minister. — James Robertson, from Crieff (South). Ordained 30th Decem-
ber 1856. Called to Dundee, Belfast, and Edinburgh (Bread Street). Translated
to Edinburgh 27th March 1866.
The congregation called Mr James Mather, who preferred Langbank.
i^th Minister. — Thomas Dunlop, from Kilmarnock. Ordained 23d July 1867.
Translated to Bristo Street, Edinburgh, as colleague to Dr Peddie, 2d May 1871.
dth Minister. — James Lindsay, A.M., from Dundee (Tay Square). Ordained
17th October 187 1.
SECESSION (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated in the same circumstances with that of the Relief
noticed above. The persons who had been connected with the Secession Church
would not join in the movement for a Relief congregation, but insisted upon
having a place of worship in their own connection. They therefore applied to the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Stirling for supply of sermon, which was granted,
1798. Church built, 1800; sittings, 250.
\st and only Minister. — John Cooper. Ordained 4th June 1799. Died 12th
August 182 1, in the 59th year of his age, and 22d of his ministry.
The print-field which had drawn so many workpeople to Balfron, was removed,
after a time, to Campsie. The population of the place necessarily decreased, and
shortly after Mr Cooper's death, the Secession congregation became extinct.
Presbytery of Glasgow — Barrhead — Old Kilpatrick. 345
BARRHEAD.
Barrhead is a village in the parish of Neilston, Renfrewshire, 3 miles south-east
of Paisley, and 4 south-west of PoUokshaws.
Several persons in the parish of Neilston acceded to the Associate Presbytery
in March 1739. Mr Hunter, the Presbytery's first probationer, was appointed to
preach at Neilston or Mearns, as might be found most convenient, on the third
Friday of July 1739. The supply of sermon was continued to them at distant
intervals, till the congregation of Mearns was organised, when they became part
of it. At the Breach, many of the Seceders in and about Barrhead adhered to the
Associate (Burgher), while the majority of the congregation of Mearns adhered to
the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. They then joined the congregation
of Shuttle Street, now Greyfriars, Glasgow, which had adopted the same views with
themselves, and with which they continued connected till the congregation of
PoUokshaws began, when they formed part of it. In 1793 the portion of PoUok-
shaws congregation resident in and about Barrhead petitioned the Presbytery to be
disjoined and formed into a separate congregation, which was granted. Church
built, 1796, at a cost of ;^6oo, afterwards furnished with galleries, and further
enlarged in 1822, at a cost of ^800, and is now capable of affording accommoda-
tion for 738 sitters. It is said to be the first dissenting church in Scotland that
used a bell.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Cameron, who was
appointed by the Synod to Moffat, and Mr Burns, who declined the call, because
of his intention to proceed to America.
1st Minister. — William Nicol, from PoUokshaws. Called to Galston and
Barrhead. Ordained 29th May 1800. Loosed from his charge 1820, Admitted
to Pathstruiehill, 182 1.
The congregation called Mr David Young, who was appointed by the Synod to
Perth.
2d Minister. — James Tait, from Wellington Street, Glasgow. Called to May-
bole and Barrhead. Ordained 19th March 1822. Died 17th March 1841, in the
48th year of his age, and 19th of his ministry.
id Minister. — George Low, from Lethendy. Ordained 29th March 1842.
Died ist June 1849, in the 39th year of his age, and 7th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Morton, who preferred Greenock, Mr Middle-
ton, who preferred Kinross, and the Rev. John Ker, Alnwick, who preferred remain-
ing in his charge.
A,th Minister.— y^WAAKU Clark, A.M., from Calton, Glasgow. Ordained 28th
November 1850.
OLD KILPATRICK.
The following record explains the origin of this congregation : — " Dalmuir, 17th
September 1793, — A respectable number of the inhabitants of this parish of Old
Kilpatrick met to consult together about a minister, the church being vacant by the
death of the Rev. John Davidson ; and being afraid of an intrusion in the parish^
which was hkely to take place, they agreed upon the following resolutions; (i.)
That it is the opinion of this meeting, that the Church is a society distinct from any
other, and has a right from her Head and Law-giver to choose her own office-
34^ The UnUed Presbyterian Church.
bearers, especially her pastors, and that to force a minister upon a congregation
contrary to their inclinations, is to deprive them of their liberty, in which the Scrip-
tures invite them to stand fast ; and that these ministers thus intruded do not
preach the Gospel in its purity ; (2.) That an advice should be given to the elders
to oppose the intrusion by giving in their demission at the first meeting of Presby-
tery ; (3.) That, if the elders stand out against the people and comply with the
imposition, or if their endeavours cannot prevent the intrusion, that application be
made to the Relief Presbytery for sermon. (Signed) John M'Laren."
It appears that the people, on the death of Mr Davidson, were desirous of
obtaining for their minister a son of the Rev. Mr Fairbairn of Dumbarton. A
petition in favour of Mr Fairbairn was sent to Lady Blantyre, the patroness. Her
Ladyship deeming the matter too weighty for her, gave it into the hands of the Lord
President, afterwards Sir Islay Campbell of Garscube, who, contrary to the wish
of the people, appointed his own chaplain, the Rev. William Macartney, to
the vacancy. The elders did not resist the intrusion, and on 2d November
1793, the dissentients applied to the Relief Presbytery for sermon, "as every-
thing in th parish appeared to be against them, the presentation being given,
and the presentee having accepted, without even being heard or seen in the
place." The Relief Presbytery granted supply of sermon, and steps were im-
mediately taken to erect a church at Old Kilpatrick. The congregation mean-
while assembled in an old granary on the banks of the Forth and Clyde Canal,
belonging to James Donald, for the use of which they paid an annual rent of ;^io.
The church when built was seated for 580. It was opened about the end of 1795.
A manse was built about the same period.
The congregation has during its history fluctuated with the varied prosperity
of the district. By the stoppage of the cotton mills at Duntocher, and the paper
and chemical works at Dalmuir in i860, it was considerably affected.
In October 1795, the congregation called the Rev. William Thomson of Beith,
who declined the call.
' xst Minister. — James Smith, previously of East Kilbride. Admitted 29th
April 1796, Translated to South College Street, Edinburgh, 13th October 1808.
2d Mi?iistcr—]onith Afinister.' — Alexander Brown, from Longridge, Whitburn. Ordained 1 9th
March 1872.
PRINCES STREET.
This congregation originated with the minority of Clerk's Lane congregation,
who adhered to the United Associate Synod, when Mr Morison and his adherents
were cut off in 1841. Church built, 1842 ; sittings, 750.
1st Mifiister. — David T. Jamieson, previously of Busby. Admitted 2d Novem-
ber 1842. Demitted his charge 12th October 1870. Author of "Scenes of Youth
Revisited," a Poem.
The congregation called Mr W. R. Inglis, preacher, in 1S71, but he declined the
call.
2d Minister. — James Leslie Murray, from Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane).
Called to Tranent and Kilmarnock. Ordained 3d March 1872.
HOLM (Kilmarnock).
The Holm Mission Church was brought into existence by the Rev. James
Banks, formerly of Paisley. Some years after resigning his charge in Paisley, he
settled in Kilmarnock, and laboured amongst the people in the Lower Holm.
Through these labours a number of very poor persons were brought together, who
began to relish the preaching of the Word, and wished to enjoy the benefit of
Christian ordinances. To give the poorest, whose poverty disabled them from
taking seats in any of the town churches or appearing in respectable attire, the
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Holm — Kilmatirs. 399
opportunity of observing ordinances, the people were congregated into a church in
June 1862. Their place of worship is a commodious hall, free of debt, fitted up to
accommodate 250 sitters. Seven elders constitute the session, and these, in con-
junction with two deacons, make up the deacons' court. Their late pastor. Rev.
James Banks, is moderator of session, while a student acts as catechist, all under
authority of the Presbytery.
The building in which the mission is conducted cost upwards of ;^5 00. The
minister never received any stipend from the church. The catechist has had jQ()o
for two years.
\st Minister. — James Banks, formerly of Paisley. Admitted nth June 1865.
Demitted his charge nth February 1868.
KILMAURS.
Kilmaurs is a burgh town in Ayrshire, 2 miles north-west of Kilmarnock, and 6
miles north-east of Irvine.
The church and parish of Kilmaurs having become vacant in 1735 by the death
of the Rev. Samuel Ferguson, the patron presented Mr William Coates, probationer,
to the vacant charge, while the great majority of the parishioners were in favour of
Mr F. Halkett, afterwards minister of Fenwick for 40 years. On the day of elec-
tion, the minister presiding took his seat in the precentor's desk, and required
all those who were entitled to vote to pass before him, when he asked each for
whom he intended to vote ; and thus ascertaining who were in favour of the
popular candidate, required them to pass on to the outside, when the door was
closed upon them, and the persons in favour of the patron's nominee, only two in
number, were allowed to remain inside. The election was then proceeded with,
and as no opposition was or could be shown, Mr Coates was declared to be
unanimously chosen, and his two supporters subscribed the call as that given by
the parishioners of Kilmaurs. The Presbytery took part with the people, and the
case then came by appeal before the commission of the General Assembly, which
appointed the Presbytery, or such of them as might be willing, to proceed with Mr
Coates' settlement. The Presbytery complained against this decision to the
General Assembly which met in 1739, stating the case, and arguing thus :
"To us it appears manifest, that the appointing of Mr Coates to be ordained minister of Kil-
maurs is directly in opposition to the will of that congregation ; for, if by congregation be meant
heads of families, then there are only 22 for him ; and against him and for another worthy proba-
tioner within our bounds 173, whence is to be gathered, that a great majority of communicants and
examinable persons are against him. Or if by congregation be meant heritors and elders, then
there are of heritors (whereof one is an elder) for Mr Coates 37, and of these, 12 only, of lesser note
reside in the parish, and there are against him of heritors 65, of which the most part are resident
and all the elders save the one aforesaid, and all for the said other probationer ; so that if by con-
gregation be meant heritors and elders representing the congregation, then the settling of Mr Coates
is evidently contrary to the majority of these.
" Here, then, we would desire to know to what purpose it is to moderate in a call to any pre-
sentee, to ask the votes of the several heritors and elders, with the consent of heads of families if we
are to proceed to the settlement even when the majority of heritors and elders, and almost the whole
heads of families are against him. We cannot but think this method of settling ministers a solemn
farce and a mocking of heritors and elders and heads of families, by first allowing them a voice and
consent, and then determining contrary thereto. This justly provokes them to ridicule and censure
the conduct of ministers and church judicatories, as not quite fair, open, or honest — nay, as bein"-
inconsistent with itself — for by moderating in a call, we allow heritors and elders a vote and heads
of families a consent ; and yet, by concurring with the minority of all denominations, as it is in this
case, we upon the matter say, they have no votes, or which is the same thing, reject and disrei^ard
their votes and consent. If it be alleged that the moderating in a call is to get a tolerable concur-
400 The United Presbyterian Church.
rence of the heritors and heads of families with the presentee, and that heritors' votes are to be rated
according to the lands they possess in the parish ; to this it may be answered, that we know no law,
either in Church or State, rating the votes of heritors in Church affairs ; and that it would be more
honest and open to tell the heritors, elders, and heads of families, tliat we will go on to settle the
presentee, if they have no objection against his life or doctrine, which they can judicially verify, than
to ask their votes and consent, and yet pay no regard to them. We know no act of this Church
that has determined how many heritors and elders make a tolerable concurrence, except a majority ;
and, indeed, if we were to lay the votes of heritors in the balance of the sanctuary, and so to judge
of them, not by their numbers but by their weight, we own residing heritors ought especially to be
regarded, seeing their edification is much concerned in the matter, whereas the edification of non-
residing heritors can be little or nothing concerned therein.
After praying the Assembly to appoint the moderation of a call at large, they
concluded with the following representation : —
"And, as what we reckon a very pungent motive to this, we beg to lay before the venerable
Assembly, in conclusion, a short hint of the sad consequences of this unhappy affair, the most
fatal, not only to that people, but to this country side, and the interests of the Gospel therein, of
anything that has befallen us for many years past. Our people have hitherto been so happy as to
know little or nothing of violent settlements ; but the settlement of Kilmaurs, agitated so long
betwixt the people and the Presbytery, through the patron's refusing to drop it, and the people's
invincible aversion to it, and the tossing of it so much and so long before Church judicatories, has
made a very great noise, has fired many of the people of the parishes around, many of whom have
espoused the quarrel, looking upon it as a common cause, which they know not how soon may
become their own. It has not only driven the bulk of the parish of Kilmaurs into a kind of despera-
tion to think of, and to threaten, a total separation from this Church, and to invite and join with the
Seceding preachers of late visiting the bounds, but they are joined therein by multitudes in many
parishes, several of whom have actually seceded from their own ministers, though before this emer-
gency they were peaceable, showing no inclination to such divisive courses. So, as schism now
spreads and grows with us apace, and is like to overrun not a little of this country, where it may
end we cannot tell. Therefore, in the melancholy view of these dismal and natural effects, felt,
feared, and increasing, we pray God may guide the Assembly in this weighty affair of so much im-
portance to the weal of the Church in our once peaceable but now inflametl bounds, and may direct
them to some happy expedience for quenching this flame, and the spreading plague of schism in
this National Church."
The Assembly disregarded this complaint, and ordered Mr Coates's settlement
to be proceeded with, which took place 3d May 1739. Such was the dissatisfac-
tion, that it was deemed expedient to escort Mr Coates to the pulpit by a party of
soldiers on the first Sabbath after his ordination.* It was, however, too late to act
otherwise. The people of Kilmaurs had already nearly all withdrawn from the
Established Church, and acceded formally to the Associate Presbytery. Part did
so on 1 8th July 1738, when the Rev. Messrs Thomson and Mair were appointed
to observe a fast with them at Mearns, along with other Seceders in that district,
on the 24th of August following. The Magistrates, Town Council, and Kirk Session
of Kilmaurs, with one exception, and the great body of the people, acceded to the
Associate Presbytery in March 1739 ; and the whole together were soon after formed
into a regularly organised congregation. [The area of the congregation may be
estimated by the fact that the baptismal-roll, 1745, registers baptisms of children
whose parents resided in the parishes of Kilmarnock, Fenwick, Stewarton, Dreg-
horn, Beith, Dairy, Ardrossan, Kilbarchan, Lochwinnoch, Kilwinning, Dundonald,
Ayr, Loudon, Strathaven, and Old and New Cumnock. The following congrega-
tions were disjoined from Kilmaurs, 1758-76: Colmonell, Kilwinning, Auchinleck,
Beith, Ayr, Newmilns, Kilmarnock, and Stewarton, all of which disjunctions
were vigorously opposed by the session of Kilmaurs.] First church built, 1743,
on a piece of ground which was obtained from the heirs of Rev. Hugh Thomson of
Towerhill, on a lease of five times ninety-nine years ; sittings, 1000. £^% were con-
tributed by Mr William Nimmo, an elder of the Established Church in Fenwick.
He also gave four communion cups to the parish of Fenwick, on condition that the
Secession Congregation of Kilmaurs should have the use of them, which was done
• It is said that his two successors in 1778 and 178S were also introduced by drum and bayonet
—Eds.
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Kilmaurs. 401
annually till 1746, when they purchased thb number necessary for themselves.
Second church built, 1789 ; sittings, 450. A new church was opened 26th March
1865, contammg 472 sittings, and costing ^1400.
1st Minister.~V>KNixy Smyton. Called to Holm of Balfron and Kilmaurs
These were the first competing calls that occurred in the Secession Church, and
the practice then adopted of the Synod deciding respecting them continued till
September 1833, when it was abandoned, and leave given to the individual
who had received more than one call, or a translating call, to decide for him-
self. Mr Smyton was appointed by the Synod to Kilmaurs, and was ordained
there 13th November 1740, the Presbytery requiring him to preach four Sabbaths
\^ the year at Fenwick, four miles distant, four at Wallacetown, seventeen miles
distant, six at Dairy, eight miles distant, two at Kilwinning, five miles distant, and
the remainder at Kilmaurs.* Mr Smyton adhered, with the majority of his con-
gregation to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, 1747. Mr Smyton at
first voted with the Burgher party, because he would have consented not to make
the question of the oath a term of communion rather than occasion a breach, thou-h
he conscientiously disapproved of its being taken by Seceders. After the Breach
took place, he joined the Antiburgher party, as they coincided with his views
In 1 781 the congregation called Mr Allan to be colleague to Mr Smyton, but the
Synod appomted him to Cupar -Angus, and in 1783 they called Mr Galbraith
who was appointed to Londonderry.
Mr Smyton and his session petitioned the Presbytery of Glasgow to enjoin
uniformity in the mode of administering the Lord's Supper. Some ministers bein^^
m the practice of " lifting" the bread and cup before the consecration prayer and
others not doing so, while he considered the former mode essential to the 'ri-ht
observance of the ordinance, the Presbytery referred the matter to the Synod for
advice. The Synod, at the spring meeting in 1782, refused to adopt the overture
leaving it to the option of ministers to dispense the ordinance in either way'
On the 2ist of May of the same year, Mr Smyton and his session again petitioned
the Presbytery, urging them to give an immediate decision in their cause. The
Presbytery having expressed their judgment as coinciding with the advice given
by the Synod, were about to converse with the petitioners, when Mr Smyton
protested against this procedure, and appealed to next Synod. The Synod met in
September, and were about to consider the cause, when Adam Gib entered his
protest against hearing the appellants. The Synod dismissed Mr Smyton's protest
and appeal, and renewed their advice, formerly given, to exercise forbearance in the
^-.Z!^^'"" '" ''r^'''''^ of the Associate Session of Kilmaurs, dated 21st December 174=;, at which
^me the army of Pnnce Charles was pressing the siege of Stirling Castle, and levying contr butions in
most towns of the west of Scotland. It runs thus .--"Taking into our consideration the present caU
m Providence necess.tatmg us and others to appear in arms for the defence of the Covenanted Refo
.T.^ r M°'''' P '" 'i'T ^""'^.'' ""^ "^^-^ ^" d^f^"^^ «f °"^ '^'^il liberties, both of which are evidenUy
stiuck at by a Popish Pretender and his adherents ; we therefore enacl, that we shall go in person
or others in our place, for the support and defence of our principles ; showing, at the samfthSe'
enL'fnTnvThL^ tL^'°'"''"' ^'''l ""r^'^^' -^"^ ^^^ '^^ "°' ^^^^^^ '° be'construed's counl
h?. for ?l.r^ ^ wrong m the administration, or practice, or any part thereof; and we do
this for the encouragement of others of our communion, who are willing and able to support ind
defend the same cause ; and further, we resolve to take arms by ourselves, and only w h ffse of
our own profession." ^Signed) dIvid Smyton, Mod^erator.
Samuel Harper, Session-Clerk.
[The above note is given by Dr M'Kelvie. The Rev. D. Robertson, in his notes sent to Dr
M Kerrow, mentions that "Mr Smyton and other male members of his church took up arms to oppose
the Preender in 1745. They refused to take the oath of allegiance ; but such was the Snfi
fhemt-'-ins.^'"^™'"'"' '" '''""' '^'' '^'^ ^""^ ^^"" '" their hands, and sent an o?hcer to THJ
2 C
402 The United Presbyterian Chnrch.
matter. Mr Smyton, upon this, expressed his dissatisfaction, and craved leave
" that the door be left open to him at next meeting to act therein as the Lord shall
direct." At the meeting held in May 1783, Mr Smyton renewed the question,
when a committee was appointed to confer with him in order to remove any mis-
apprehension he might have. The committee conversed with him, but found him
resolute. He then urged the reversal of their deed of September last, and ultimately
gave in a paper renouncing the authority of the Synod, and declaring he could no
longer have connection with them, on account of their refusing to reverse the
obnoxious deed. The Synod next day demanded that he should appear and with-
draw this paper, which he having failed to do, they pronounced him contumacious,
and suspended him from the exercise of his ministry. He continued his ministra-
tions as if no such sentence had been pronounced upon him, his people at the same
time adhering to him as before. * In 1785, Mr Smyton, in conjunction with the Rev.
Mr Hunter of Falkirk, and the Rev. Mr Proudfoot of Leith, who, like himself,
were under suspension by the Church Courts, formed a Presbytery, which, after
holding together only for a short time, broke up, and all the congregations con-
nected with it again united with those of the Secession Synod. Mr Smyton
died in 1789, being then in the 49th year of his ministry. Mr W. Robertson, whom
his people had procured as his colleague after his separation from the Synod, left
ten months after Mr Smyton's death, and the party that adhered to Mr Smyton
died away. A part of Stewarton congregation had left and joined INIr Smyton,
while a portion of Kilmaurs left Mr Smyton, and got sermon from the Synod. This
latter party built a place of worship for themselves containing 450 sittings, and
united in the support of a minister with the remains of the congregation of Stewar-
ton, as before.!
* In the original title deeds, the property was vested in the managers as trustees for behoof of
the United Seceding Congregations of Kilmaurs and Stewarton, under inspection of the Associate
Presbytery. The adherents of the Synod brought an action in 1785- They founded the action on
the fact, that the connection between Mr Smyton and the Presbytery had ceased — that they
were the majority of the congregation, and that the pastoral relation between Mr Smyton and them
had been dissolved ; and they contended that he and his adherents should withdraw from the pro-
perty, and allow them to take possession.
The Synod itself gave no countenance to the prosecution. The case was pled before the Lord
Ordinary. The party failed to prove that Mr Smyton's connection had ceased ; for a member under
suspension is a member still — suspension implying that there is something still sub judice. The
Synod had not deposed Mr Smyton. They had not even formally agreed to drop his name
from their roll. Each party was required to give in a list of their names to show which was the
majority. Both parties excluded females, as not supposing right of property to belong to them, and
each in its own way attempted to strike out a middle way in fixing the meaning of the word member.
The Synod's party included all their males above seventeen, and made out So ; Mr Smyton's party
includeil all above nine, and made a list of 140, and added to these 36 in Stewarton.
No deed of the Church Courts dissolving the relation between them and Mr Smyton could be
produced — no party had ever petitioned the Courts to release them from their obligation, or dissolve
the relation.
The Lord Ordinary (Monboddo) found : — " That the pursuers have not shown sufficient title to
insist in this action, and assoilzied the defenders." The pursuers repeatedly reclaimed to the Court.
But the Court adhered to the interlocutor of the Lord Ordinary, and found expenses due. Cost to
the ]Hirsuers, £60.
[The above jottings, in Dr M'Kelvie's later hand, are given in the unfinished state in which he
left them. Since the printing of this work began, the editors have, through the kindness of the
Rev. John M'Kerrow, H.A., of Penicuik, had access to the original returns which were made by
many ministers of the denomination to the Rev. Dr M'Kerrow when preparing his " History of the
Secession Church." Among these papers there is one by the late Rev. D. Robertson of Kilmaurs,
in which he states " that the Synt)d raised a law suit in 1S09, to recover the Church property which
Mr Smyton's jxirty had retaineil, which was decided in favour of the Synod in 1S22. The action
cost the litigants on both sides ;^I300, and the properly when sold yieldeii ^300." — Eos.]
t Dean Stanley, in a note (p. 36), to one of his " Lectures on the History of the Church of Scot-
land," has a remarkable reference to the " Lifting" Controversy. According to the Dean, the point
raised by Mr Smylon was "exactly analogous to that which was recently raised by the English
Presbytery of Kilmainiock — A iichinleck. 403
After their return to the General Associate Sy^od, the united congregations
called Mr M'Aul, who was appointed by the Synod to Aberdeen.
2d Minister. — George Paxton, D.D., from Morebattle. Called to Craigend,
Greenlaw, and the United Congregations of Kilmaurs and Stewarton. Ordained
i2th August 1789. His health declining, he resigned the charge of Stewarton in 1795,
and confined his labours to Kilmaurs. In 1805-6, he was unable to preach, and in
1807 he was elected Professor of Theology by the General Associate Synod. His
people wished to retain him as their minister in Kilmaurs, but the Synod having
come to the resolution of relieving their professor from all other duties than those
immediately connected with his class, Mr Paxton resigned his pastoral charge, and
removed to Edinburgh, where the Synod now fixed the seat of the Divinity Hall.
He was one of the protesters against the Union of the two great branches of the
Secession in 1820, and helped to form the Synod of Original Seceders, to which he
became Professor of Theology, and also pastor of a congregation in connection
with the body. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of
St Andrews, 1834. Died 9th April 1837, in the 75th year of his age, and 48th of
his ministry.
Author of a Sermon on "The Office and Duty of Deacons;" "Conformity to Christ as the
First-born:" a sermon ; " Letters to Rev. W. Taylor on Healing the Divisions in the Church ;"
a pamphlet entitled "An Enquiry into the Obligation of Religious Covenants upon Posterity ;"
" The Villager and other Poems;" and " Illustrations of Scripture from the Geography, Natural
History, and Manners and Customs of the East," 3 vols.
2,d Minister. — David Robertson, from Kinross (East). Ordained 21st June
18 10. Died 1 6th June 1846, in the 6ist year of his age and 36th. of his ministry.
Author of a "Treatise on Infant Baptism;" a Sermon on "Ecclesiastical Covenanting;" a
second on the " Scriptural Method of Supporting the Gospel ; " and a third on "The Sin of Teach-
ing the Fear of God by the Laws of Men ;" and " Discourses on the Apocalypse," 3 vols.
/^th Minister. — Francis Christie, from Edenshead. Ordained 26th October
1847. Died 30th August 185 1, in the 32d year of his age, and 4th of his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. R. T. Jeffrey, M.D., Denny, who declined the call,
5/// Minister. — William M. Taylor, A.M., D.D., from Princes Street, Kilmar-
nock. Called to Sanquhar and Kilmaurs. Ordained 28th June 1853. Translated
to Bootle, Liverpool, 23d October 1855.
6th Minister. — Andrew Gray, from Glasgow {Renfield Street). Ordained 29th
April 1857.
AUCHINLECK (Now Extinct).
Auchinleck is a village in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, i mile from
Old Cumnock, and 13 east of Ayr,
ritualists and their opponents, respecting the elevation of the consecrated elements." The ingenious
lecturer was never more thoroughly mistaken ; and if any of his Scotch friends have given him this
view of the significance of " lifting" they are grievously to blame. Mr Smyton had no ritualistic
idea in his mind : the point on which he stood out was merely rubrical. The question simply was
whether, in administering the Lord's Supper, the minister is not bound to adhere literally to the
words of institution (l Cor. xi. 23), which say that "the Lord Jesus the same night in which He
was betrayed took bread : and when He had given thanks, He brake it." The taking, or touching,
or "lifting" of the bread, and afterwards of the cup, was held to be a part of the prescribed Scrip-
ture order of administration ; but the notion that the act was meant to imply anything akin to what
the ritualists intend by the "elevation of the consecrated elements" is rebutted, were it not other-
wise known never to have entered the heads of the "Lifters" — by the fact that the "lifting" was
to take place befo)-e the "consecration " prayer. It is to be hoped that Dean Stanley has not read
other portions of our history as blindly as he has done this ; and that, in general, he is more accurate
in point of fact than when he says, in the same note, that the "schism between the Lifters and the
Anti-Lifters at last emerged in the Old and New Light ! " — Eds.
404 The United Presbyterian Chtirch.
This congregation originated with a praying society which met in Wallacetown,
a sequestered spot on the Water of Glenmuir and north side of Airsmoss, where
the Rev. Richard Cameron fell, with eight of his adherents, in a skirmish with the
King's troops on the 20th of July 1680. This society had existed from the times of
the Solemn League and Covenant, and had in common with many others in Ayr-
shire, Nithsdale, Annandale, and Galloway, been under the inspection of the Rev.
Mr Hepburn of Urr. These societies, in four different papers in which they desig-
nated themselves " The Societies of the South and West," publicly declared their
adherence to the Testimony emitted by the Associate Presbytery in April 1738.
The Rev. Messrs Nairn and Mair preached at Wallacetown, the meeting-place for
the Societies in Ayr, Cumnock, and surrounding district, on the last Sabbath of
June 1738. This station was afterwards supplied alternately with the station at
Kirkconnel, the general meeting-place of the Seceders in Nithsdale, on an average
once in three months. Mr Smyton was ordained at Kilmaurs in 1740, and was
required to preach four Sabbaths in the year at Wallacetown ; but the Presbytery
at the same time agreed "that the said Correspondence of Wallacetown (compre-
hending Ayr and intermediate places) shall be considered only so far under Mr
Smyton's inspection for some time, that they shall have access to be represented by
their elders in the session of Kilmaurs for the removing of scandals that may fall
out among them, or when there are additional elders chosen among them, that he
may keep session with said elders as his convenience can allow ; but that he be not
obliged to visit the sick, or visit families in that corner, and that it shall be optional
to him to examine some days when he goes there to preach ; and that the said
Correspondence of Wallacetown shall endeavour to lay themselves out to have a
minister to themselves, if it shall please the Lord to increase their number, and they
shall have a supply of young men from the Presbytery if demanded."
This demand, however, was not made till 1756, when the Society of Wallace-
town obtained a disjunction from the congregation of Kilmaurs, and was formed
inlo a separate congregation. The station at Wallacetown was then abandoned,
and a place of worship was built at Rigg, a retired spot about half a-mile south-
east of the village of Auchinleck, from which village the congregation took its
name.
ist Minister. — Robert Smith, from Midcalder. Ordained 1763. Resigned
31st January 1809. Removed to Kilwinning, where he died, 12th June 1817, in
the 84th year of his age.
Aiitlior of a pamphlet, entitled "Self-Inconsistency F.xemplified, wherein Burghers' Opposition
to their own Profession is Exemplified ;" and a treatise " On Original Sin."
The congregation called Mr Isaac, who died while under call; 2d, Mr Smith,
son of the former minister, who died while on trials for ordination.
2(1 Minister.- — Robert Crawford, from Craigmailen. Ordained 29th October
181 1. Resigned 1813. Admitted to Elgin (First), 2d January 181 7.
The congregation called Mr A. Scott, who was appointed by the Synod to Crieff".
yl Minister. — Peter M'Dermant, from Ayr (First). Ordained 3d April 1S16.
Mr M'Dermant was one of the protestors against the Union of the two great branches
of the Secession in 1820, and, with his congregation, remained apart. He died in
1833, in the soth year of his age, and 17th of his ministry. Author of " Progres-
sive Holiness : " a sermon.
The congregation of Auchinleck is now in connection with the Synod of
Original Seceders.
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Kihvinning. 405
COLMONELL (Now Extinct).
Colmonell is a village in the parish of the same name, district of Carrick, Ayr-
shire, 5 miles north-east of Ballantrae, and about 12 south of Girvan.
This congregation was formed by members of the congregation of Kilmaurs,
resident in and around Colmonell, who, on account of great distance from their
accustomed place of worship, and presumed ability to support a minister among
themselves, were formed under sanction of the Presbytery into a separate congrega-
tion, 1750. First church built, 1755. Second built, 1800; sittings, 170.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Henderson, who had
been licensed while only a fourth year's theological student, with a view of emigrating
to America. The Synod would not therefore allow him to accept the call.
ist Minister. — Thomas Russell. Ordained 21st August 1760. Translated
to Dunblane, 24th July 1769.
The congregation called Mr Patison, who was appointed bythe Synod to Moniaive.
2d Minister. — John Blair, from Ceres. Ordained 19th April 1780. Mr
Blair was one of the protestors against the union of the two great branches of the
Secession in 1820, and with his congregation remained apart.
The congregation is now in connection with the Free Church.
KIL WINNING.
Kilwinning is a village in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, 2\ miles
north-west of Irvine, 3^- north-east of Saltcoats, and 3I south of Dairy.
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
A number of the parishioners of Kilwinning, sympathising with those of
Kilmaurs in their opposition to the exercise of patronage and the settlement on
that ground of Mr Coates among them, acceded to the Associate Presbytery, 13th
December 1738; and became part of the congregation of Kilmaurs, then in the
course of formation. The minister of Kilmaurs was required to preach two
Sabbaths in the year at Kilwinning, but at all other times the Seceders there
travelled thither, till 1758; when, under sanction of the Presbytery, they were
formed into a separate congregation, with its seat in Kilwinning. Second Church
built, 1825 ; sittings, 550.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Herbertson, who
was appointed by the Synod to Dumfries.
xst Minister.- — William Jameson, from Alloa (First). Appointed by the Synod
to America, but afterwards allowed to remain at home. Ordained 6th April 1763.
Died 1793, in the 30th year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Thomson, who was appointed by the Synod to Dunse.
2d Minister. — Robert Smith, from Auchinleck, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 1796. Mr Smith was one of the protestors against the
Union of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820, and refused to acquiesce
in that Union. He and the majority of his congregation retained the property, and
the church is now connected with the Original Seceders. He died 2 2d June 1835,
in the 66th year of his age and 39th of his ministry.
4o6 The United Presbyterian Church,
SECOND CHURCH.
This congregation originated with the minority of the first congregation,
Kilwinning, who joined the United Associate Synod in 1820, together with a
portion of the Associate (Burgher) congregation of Saltcoats, resident in and
about Kilwinning, who, in consequence of the Union which then took place
between the two great branches of the Secession, found themselves in a condition
to join with them. Church built, 1824, at a cost of ^300 ; the upper part of which
was used for public worship, and the lower part for a dwelling-house. Sittings, 250.
Another church was built in 1838.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Allan, who was
appointed by the Synod to Tillicoultry.
\st Minister. — James Gowans, from Perth (North). Ordained 7th June 1827.
Resigned 9th October 1832. Now living in Brechin. '
The congregation called Mr Christie, who was appointed by the Synod to
Otterburn.
2d Minister. — Alexander M'Gregor, from Comrie. Ordained 2 2d March 1836.
AYR.
Ayr is the county town of Ayrshire, 12 miles south-west of Kilmarnock, and 34
south-west of Glasgow,
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
The first Secession congregation in Ayr had a common origin with that of
Auchinleck. The first supply of sermon was afforded to the Seceders in Ayr in 1755,
at which time it was difficult for them to obtain a piece of ground on which to erect
a tent, and it was not till 15 years afterwards that they were disjoined from Kilmaurs,
14 miles off", and formed into a separate congregation. First church built, 1770.
Second built, 1799 ) cost ;!^74o ; sittings, 605.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Darg,whowas appointed
by the Synod to Wick, and Mr A. Allan, who was appointed to Coupar-Angus.
\st Minister. — John Clarkson, from Craigmailen, of which his father was
minister. Ordained April 1772. Died 21st August 1780, in the 33d year of his
age, and the 9th of his ministry. Author of " Gallio," a sermon.
2d Minister. — James Taylor, from Stirling (Second). Ordained 14th Novem-
ber 1 781. Died suddenly at Kendal on his way to Liverpool, September 1792, in
the nth year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Watt, but the call was not prosecuted. {See Stu-
dents of the General Associate Hall, for the year 1788.)
id Minister. — George Stevenson, D.D., from Morebattle. Ordained 1797.
Mr Stevenson was one of the protesters against the Union of the two great branches
of the Secession in 1820, and with the majority of his congregation remained apart.
Died 5th May 1841, in the 70th year of his age, and 44th of his ministry. Author of
" A Dissertation on the Nature and Necessity of the Atonement ;" " A Plea for the
Covenanted Reformation in Great Britain and Ireland;" "A Treatise on the Offices
of Christ ;" and " The Grace of Christ Illustrated : " a Sermon.
The congregation is now in connection with the Synod of Original Seceders.
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Ayr — Darlingfon Place, etc. 407
DARLINGTON PLACE.
This congregation, formerly known as Wallacetown, originated with members of
the Secession Congregation of Tarbolton, resident in and about Ayr, who on account
of distance from their accustomed place of worship, petitioned the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Kilmarnock to be disjoined and formed into a separate
congregation, which was granted in 1797. Church built, 1799, at a cost of ;^ioio ;
sittings, 610. A new church was opened 26th August i860, with sittings for 767 ;
cost £z\'6o.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Cameron,
who continued in his charge at Mofifat.
\st Minister. — William Schaw, D.D., previously of Lochwinnoch. Admitted
1801. Was moderator of Synod in 1812, and again in 1837. Had the degree of
D.D. conferred upon him by Jefferson College, Pennsylvania, United States, 1839.
Died 19th September 1847, in the 77th year of his age, and 52d of his ministry.
Author of " The Christian Monitor," or Discourses chiefly intended to illustrate and recommend
Scripture Principle and Practice ; five sermons entitled, "The Enemies, the Duties, and the Rewards
of the Faithful Servants of Jesus Christ:" "The Fortitude of Paul:" "Diligence and Exertion
in the Christian Ministry:" "The Spiritual Nature of Christ's Kingdom :" and "The Burial of
Stephen," preached after the funeral of the Rev. George Russell, Dairy ; two discourses "On the
Times of the Restitution of all Things ;" and an address on " Revivals."
2d Miuista: — James Knox, M.A., D.D., from Port-Glasgow. Ordained as
colleague to Dr Schaw, 17th July 1844. Called to Greyfriars, Glasgow, but declined
the call. Translated to PoUok Street, Glasgow, 20th September 1856.
id Minister. — Robert M. MTnnes, from Glasgow, Montrose Street. Ordained
26th August 1857.
CATHCART STREET.
The parish of Newton adjoins that of Ayr, the dividing line being the river,
which is spanned by the "Twa Brigs," of Burns. The parochial charge of Ayr is
collegiate ; and about the beginning of this century the two incumbents belonged
to what are called " The Moderates." On the other hand, Dr Peebles of Newton,
was evangelical and decidedly popular. Many who lived in Ayr and St Quivox
parishes used to attend the ministry of Dr Peebles, but when they wanted baptism
for their children they had to seek permission from the minister of Ayr to allow Dr
Peebles to dispense this ordinance for them. Besides, Dr Peebles could not dis-
charge any ministerial duties outside his own parish without exposing himself to
Church censure. The parish of Ochiltree, 12 miles east of Ayr, had the ministra-
tions of Rev. Mr Thomson. Many earnest people used to go thither on sacra-
mental occasions. Feeling the hardships that pressed them, it is said that they
consulted Mr Thomson as to the course they should follow, and his advice was
to apply to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow for a dispensation of ordinances. This
counsel, so agreeable to their own inclinations, was speedily followed. A meeting of
all friendly to the movement was held on 26th October 1814, and a petition drawn up
accordingly. The first minister who officiated among them was Rev. Mr Steuart of
Anderston. So great was the crowd assembled, that the granary of the Fort Brewery
could not contain the congregation, which accordingly met in the open air. After-
wards the services were held sometimes in the theatre, or in a hall in Dalblair Road,
in the Burgher church, the Tabernacle, or the Independent chapel, granted for the
purpose. Subscriptions were opened for erecting a plnce of worship, and as an
4o8 The Unilcd Presbyterian Cktirch.
inducement it was announced " that five per cent, per annum, or seats equivalent
thereto, would be paid for all subscriptions of five pounds or upwards, but that no
interest would be paid for subscriptions below that sum." The amount thus raised
was ;C()^(>, 6s., and the sums given as donations amounted to ;^2o8, 2S. iid.
Efforts were then made to obtain a site, in which the committee had to encounter
the o})position of the Town Council. At last a site was secured at the price of
;^34o, and the foundation-stone of the church was laid in February 1815. After
the building was nearly completed the walls bulged out, and a heavy storm threatened
to bring the fabric to the ground. It was agreed to pull down the walls and rebuild
them, and to enable the building committee to meet the increased expense, Mr
Henry Cowan, preses of the congregation, advanced them in loan the sum of ;^2ooo.
The church was finished towards the end of 1816, with sittings for iioo, and cost
about ;^34oo. Vestries were added, which cost above;^6oo.
1st Minister. — John Nichol, from Glasgow (Dovehill). Ordained 5th Decem-
ber 1 816. Died 9th April 1825, in the 34th year of his age, and 9th of his ministry,
A volume of his discourses was published after his death.
2d Minister. — Robert Renwick. Ordained 28th November 1826. Demitted
his charge nth February 1851, and was suspended from ofiice. Died 1863.
T,d Minister. — David M'Ewan, from Strathaven (First), of which his father was
minister. Called to Alloa (west), London (Albion Chapel), Strathaven, and Ayr.
Ordained 24th September 185 1. Called twice to College Street, Edinburgh, and
translated thither, 2d November 1852.
4th Minister. — Walter Morison, B.A., from Glasgow (Wellington Street).
Called to Peterhead and Ayr. Ordained loth August 1853. Translated to Glasgow,
Eglinton Street, 9th February 1864.
5//; Minister. — George Copland, M.A., from Glasgow (St Vincent Street).
Ordained 4th January 1865.
NEWMILNS.
Newmilns is a large village and burgh of barony, in the parish of Loudon, and
district of Cunningham, Ayrshire, 2^ miles east of Galston, 7 south-east of Kil-
marnock, 18 north-east of Ayr, and 24 south of Glasgow.
In 1737, the then Incumbent of the parish of Loudon gave great offence to
many of his parishioners, by persisting in reading the " Porteous Act" from the
pulpit, in opposition to their strongly expressed wishes to him, to abstain from doing
so. The consequence was, that a number of them withdrew from his ministry, and
acceded to the Associate Presbytery. They helped to form the Secession congrega-
tion of Kilmaurs, between 8 and 9 miles distant, which arose soon after, and re-
mained connected with it till 1770, when supply of sermon was afforded them upon
petition, alternately with the inhabitants of Darvel, another village in the parish.
They met in the open air at Daroch, till 1772, when they were organised as a congre-
gation with its seat in Newmilns. First church built, 1773. Second built, 1S33;
sittings, 780.
\st Minister. — James Greio, from Ceres. Ordained 30th November 1773.
Died i8th June 1813, in the 73d year of his age, and 40th of his ministr}^
The congregation called Mr Reid, who was appointed by the Synod to Sanquhar.
2d Minister. — John Bruce, A.M., D.D., from Duke Street, Glasgow. Ordained
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Cumnock. 409
I St May 18 1 6. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Washington
College, Pennsylvania, 1847. Dr Bruce's jubilee was celebrated on 17th July 1865,
when he received a present of 500 sovereigns. Died 15th April 1872, in the 8ist
year of his age, and 56th of his ministry.
Author of two Discourses entitled "Christ on the Throne of His father David, or the impropriety
and inconsistency of tlie Magistrate's giving to the Church a Church Establishment ;" a small work
entitled "The Doctrine, Duties, and Ordinances of the Christian Religion, proved and illustrated by
Passages of Scripture for the instruction of the Young ;" Funeral Sermon, on occasion of the death
of Rev. Dr Ritchie ; and " Remarks on Philanthropos' answer to the question, What must I do to
be saved ? " by Philalethes.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Alston, from Strathaven. Ordained as colleague to
Dr Bruce, 28th April 1863.
CUMNOCK.
Cumnock is a village in the parish -of Old Cumnock, Ayrshire, 6| miles south-
east of Mauchline, io| south-west of Muirkirk, and 16 east of Ayr.
This congregation originated in the efforts of Mr Rankine, fonnerly a member
of the congregation of Shuttle Street (now Greyfriars), Glasgow, who, having settled
in Cumnock, induced a number of persons connected with the Established Church to
apply to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow, for supply of sermon, which
was granted in 1773. First church built, 1775. Second built, 1831; sittings, 851.
\st Minister. — James Hall, D.D., from Shuttle Street (now Greyfriars) Glasgow,
Ordained i6th April 1777. Called in 1780, to Wells Street, London, but continued
at that time in Cumnock. Translated to Rose Street, Edinburgh, 15th June 1786.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Watson, who continued in his charge at
Largs.
2d Minister. — David Wilson, from Cambusnethan. Called to Lanark and Cum-
nock. Ordained 30th October 178S. Died 17th December 1822, in the 69th year
of his age, and 35th of his ministry. A memoir of Mr Wilson, by the Rev. Peter
Meams, Coldstream, was published in 1858.
T,d Minister. — Robert Brown, from Wellington Street, Kilmarnock. Called to
Kirkcaldy, Kinghorn, and Cumnock. Ordained i8th November 1823. Died i8th
July 1847, in the 53d year of his age, and 24th of his ministry.
4//? Minister. — Matthew Dickie, from East Campbell Street, Glasgow. Called
to Walker and Cumnock. Ordained 5 th July 1848. Called in 1850 to Canal Street,
Paisley, but continued in Cumnock. Translated to Bristol, 28th April 1857.
5//? Minister. — William Hutton, from Glasgow (Sydney Place). Ordained 3d
November 1857. Translated to Moffat, 19th October 1869.
6th Minister. — Alexander M 'Donald, from Kilsyth. Called to Aberdeen
(George Street), and Cumnock. Ordained loth January 187 1.
IRVINE.
Irvine is a royal burgh and seaport in Ayrshire, 3 miles south of Kilwinning,
7 south-east of Saltcoats, 6 J west of Kilmarnock, and 11 north of Ayr.
RELIEF CHURCH.
In 1 75 1, the Earl of Eglinton as patron, presented the Rev. Charles Bannatyne
of Kilmory, in Arran, to the church and parish of Irvine, then vacant. The presentee
4IO The United Presbyterian Church.
was inducted to his charge in direct opposition to the strongly expressed feeUngs of
a large portion of his parishioners against him. He still further increased his un-
popularity, by voting in the General Assembly, of which he had become a member
the following year, for the deposition of the Rev. Thomas Gillespie, afterwards the
founder of the Relief Church. Though sound in doctrine, and gifted in prayer,
Mr Bannatyne was extremely uninteresting and otherwise defective in his manner
of preaching, which circumstances rendered his people still farther dissatisfied with
him. The consecjuence was, that many of them withdrew from his ministry. Of
those who had done so, some travelled to Kilmarnock to attend the ministry of
the Rev. Mr Oliphant, alluded to in Burns' " Ordination " —
" Curst common-sense, that imp o' hell,
Cam' in \vi' Maggie Lauder ;
But Oliphant aft made her yell,
An' Russell sair misca'd her" —
then minister of the Chapel of Ease there, and others to Kilwinning, to that of Mr
M'Knight, a native of Irvine, afterwards celebrated for his " Harmonies of the
Gospel," and " New Translation of the Epistles," at that time assistant to the minister
of that parish. Others contented themselves with forming a society for prayer and
mutual exhortation. This society was composed of the very elite of the town, not
only for piety, but also for worldly respectability, and constituted the nucleus around
which a regularly organised congregation was subsequently gathered. The meetings
of this society were held in the house of a gentleman whose wife had been connected
with Albion Relief Congregation, Glasgow, under the pastoral care of the Rev. ]\Ir
Cruden. She in common with others felt and deplored the want of an efficient
ministry in Irvine, and being herself imbued with Relief principles, in the course of
the conversations which often turned upon the subject, suggested application to the
Relief Presbytery for supply of sermon. After much prayerful deliberation, this
suggestion was adopted, and in accordance with it a petition was presented to the
Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, on the i8th of August 1773, when the Rev. Mr
Pinkerton, then of Campbelton, was appointed to preach at Irvine the Sabbath
following. This he did, in a large field belonging to the town, called " the Golf-
Fields," where an immense multitude assembled to hear him. A place of worship,
containing 700 sittings, subsequently extended to 938, was already in course of
erection, and was taken possession of the same year.
\st Minister. — James Jack, from Dunblane (First). Ordained 29th April 1777.
Died 20th January 1782, in the 33d year of his age, and 5th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Hugh White, who was brought up in the communion of the
Reformed Presbytery. Entered the Associate (Burgher) Hall as a Theological
Student in 1770. Withdrew from the connection, and obtained License as a
probationer in the Established Church. Received into connection with the ReHef
Synod as a probationer 1781. Ordained 3d July 1782. Deposed 8th October 1783.
Became leader of the Buchanites, of which sect an account will be found in Dr
Struthers' " History of the Relief Church," page 335.
2^(1 Minister. — Peter Robertson. Ordained 2d November 1784. Died 30th
January 181 9, in the 67th year of his age, and 25th of his ministry.
4//; Minister. — Archibald M'Laren, from Dovehill (now Cathedral Street),
Glasgow. Ordained 23d March 1820. Died nth September 1841, in the 57th year
of his age, and 22d of his ministry.
The congregation called (i.) Mr Kerr, afterwards of Largo, but the call was set
Pi^esbyteiy of Kilmarnock — Irvine, Trinity Church — Stezvarton. 41 1
aside by the Synod on account of want of harmony among the people \ (2). Mr A.
M'Leod, afterwards of Strathaven, who decUned the call.
^th Minister. — James Drummond, previously of Cupar-Fife. Admitted 21st
March 1844. Died 9th July 1867, in the 62d year of his age, and 25th of his
ministry.
dth Minister. — Henry Reid, M.A., from Glasgow (London Road). Ordained
7th July 1868.
TRINITY CHURCH.
This congregation originated with members of the Associate (Burgher) congrega-
tions in the district, resident in and about Irvine. Supply of sermon was afforded
them, on petition, by the Presbytery in 1780, but was discontinued after a time for
want of encouragement. It was renewed upon petition again in 1795, and a
congregation was organised shortly afterwards. They met in a barn till 1809, when
they took possession of a place of worship they had erected for themselves, con-
taining 658 sittings.
A new church was opened ist January 1864, with sittings for 750, at a cost
of ^7000.
\st Minister. — Alexander Campbell, from Cartsdyke, Greenock. Called to
Pitrodie, St Andrews, and Irvine. Ordained 2 2d February 1809. Died 2d March
1843, in the 68th year of his age, and 35th of his ministry.
2d Minister.— Wi-LhiAU B. Robertson, D.D., from Stirling (First). Ordained
26th December 1843. Called to Shamrock Street, Glasgow, in 1851, and again in
1 86 1, but declined both calls. Had the degree of D.D. conferred on him by the
University of Glasgow in 1869.
STEWARTON.
Stewarton is a town in the district of Cunningham, Ayrshire, 3 miles north of
Kilmaurs, 3 west-north-west of Fen wick, 5 north by west of Kilmarnock, and 9
north-east of Irvine.
The violent settlement of a minister in Kilmaurs in 1738, excited the sympathy
of many persons in the surrounding parishes, in behalf of the reclaimers against it,
and amongst others of a goodly number in Stewarton, who in consequence withdrew
from the Established Church and acceded to the Associate Presbytery. They were
formed into a congregation soon after, and were united to that of Kilmaurs, with
one minister for a time common to both. The history of Stewarton congregation
is therefore identified with that of Kilmaurs, till 1797, when it was disjoined from it,
and obtained a minister wholly to itself. Church built, 1775 ; sittings, 592. New
church built, 1854, with sittings for 650, at a cost of ;^ 1300.
1st Minister. — Thomas M'Culloch, D.D., from Oakshaw Street, Paisley.
Ordained 13th June 1799. Resigned 1803. Emigrated to Nova Scotia; became
minister of a congregation at Pictou, and president of a college there. In 1838 he
was appointed Principal of Dalhousie College, HaUfax. Died in 1843, in the 67th
year of his age.
2d Minister. — James Methven, previously of Balmullo, Fifeshire. Admitted
1803. Resigned 22d May 1826. Died in Glasgow 1840.
2fd Minister. — Peter Cairns, from Howgate. Called to West Kilbride and
Stewarton, Ordained 23d October 1827.
412 The United Presbyterian CJuirch.
TARBOLTON.
Tarbolton is a considerable village and burgh of barony in the county of Ayr,
4 miles west of Mauchline, 7 north-east of Ayr, 8 south of Kilmarnock, and 12
south-east of Irvine.
A praying society in Tarbolton acceded to the Associate Presbytery in June
1740, with which the Rev. Messrs Erskine of Stirling and Fisher of Kinclaven
observed a fast, by appointment of Presbytery, on the ist Thursday of September
following. This society subsequently removed to the house of Mr Harvey of Bar-
hill, a place about 10 miles from Tarbolton, and continued to meet there till April
1776, when at the request of several members belonging to it the Rev. Mr GilfiUan
of Dunblane preached from a tent at Milburn, after which regular supply of sermon
was afforded to them and others taking interest in the movement at Tarbolton. In
a short time a regularly organised congregation was formed. Church built, 1777;
sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — James Moir, previously of Cumbernauld. Admitted to Tarbol-
ton 1778. Resigned on account of declining health, 1800. Removed to Glasgow,
1804.
Author of "The Scripture Doctrine of Redemption:" in reply to "A Practical Essay on tlie
death of Jesus Christ," by Dr M'Gill of Ayr ; and "A Distinct and Impartial Account of the process
for Socinian Heresy against W. M'Gill, D.D. , one of the ministers of Ayr : with Obsei"vations on
his Explanation and Apology, and on the proceedings and final decision of the Rev. Synod of Glasgow
and Ayr, in that cause."
The congregation called Mr Belfrage, M.D., who was appointed by the Synod
to Slateford.
2d Minister.- — John Campbell, from Nicolson Street, Greenock. Called to
Stitchel, Horndean, Newbigging, and Tarbolton. Ordained 7th July 1803. Died
2d August 1848, in the 78th year of his age, and 46th of his ministry.
In 1844 the congregation called Mr Hunter, who preferred a call to Tillicoultry.
3^ Minister. — Alexander Dalrymple, from Ayr (First). Ordained as colleague
to Mr Campbell, i6th October 1844. Called to Wigtown, 1848, but remained in
Tarbolton.
DALRY.
Dairy is a village in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, 5 miles south-west
of Beith, 6 north-east of Saltcoats, and 14 north-west of Kilmarnock.
The Rev. William Wilson, afterwards of Perth, and one of the founders of
the Secession Church, was called to Dairy while a probationer, and the people
of that parish ever after retained a strong attachment to him. In 1736, he ac-
companied the Rev. Mr Fisher on a mission-tour through the West of Scotland,
in the course of which they visited Dairy. The people there earnestly pressed Mr
Wilson to preach, and he having consented, a tent was erected, and multitudes
crowded to hear him. The Rev. A. Ferrier, in his Memoir of Mr Wilson, states
that, " towards the close of the sermon, the patron of the parish riding home in
that direction from his usual place of worship, came to the spot, and on seeing the
crowd inquired what it meant. Being informed that the people were listening to
the ministers of the Secession, who had come there to preach, he joined the
assembly and heard the remaining part of the sermon. When the worship was con-
cluded, he introduced himself to the two ministers, and engaged them to breakfast
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Dairy. 413
with him next morning. This gentleman had a preacher of the EstabHshed
Church for his tutor or chaplain. On returning home, he told him that he had
been hearing the Seceding ministers, and had been vastly pleased with them, and
that they were coming next morning to breakfast, when he wished to have all the
points of difference between them and his Church fully discussed. The chaplain,
however, left the house in the morning before Messrs Wilson and Fisher arrived,
and did not return till they were gone. The patron afterwards upbraided him for
his cowardice, saying that the Assembly had cast out these able and excellent men,
and that he, convinced of their innocence, durst not venture to face them." A
number of the parishioners of Dairy afterwards acceded to the Associate Presbytery,
and were occasionally visited by Secession ministers and preachers. The Rev.
Ralph Erskine in his diary thus refers to one of these visits : — " Tuesday, May i,
1739- — Mr Thomson and I went to Dairy, through Irvine and Kilwinning, and
came to the place, where next day we were to keep a fast. I preached to the
people that came. Wednesday, May 2, was a very rainy day. We preached to a
very numerous auditory." In 1740 Mr Smyton was ordained at Kilmaurs, 4 miles
south-east of Dairy, and the Seceders in that place were included in his con-
gregation— the Presbytery at his ordination requiring him to preach there six
Sabbaths in the year. The Breach in 1747 divided the Seceders in Dairy, as in
all other parts of the country. The portion of them adhering to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod continued to travel to Kilmaurs as before, but the
portion of them adhering to the Associate (Burgher) Synod now travelled in an
opposite direction to Burntshields. The latter continued doing so till 1779, when
Mr Andrew Greig, a member of the congregation of Burntshields, resident in Dairy,
requested his minister to come there and baptize his child. This he consented to
do, and a sermon was preached upon the occasion, of which public notice had
been duly given. A considerable audience attended, and the result was that a
petition was forwarded by some of those who had been in attendance to the Asso-
ciate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow, craving supply of sermon, which was granted.
In 1784, the members, then numbering thirty, resolved on building a place of wor-
ship, and Mr David Boyle, previously an elder of the parish church, who had
now joined them, presented them with a piece of ground for the purpose. On it a
church was built in 1785, containing 508 sittings. A new church was opened on 9th
August 1857, containing 670 sittings, and costing £,22']'], i8s. lod. At the Union
of the two great branches of the Secession in 1820, the Seceders in Dairy, who
till then had travelled to Kilmaurs to attend public ordinances, generally ceased
doing so, and connected themselves with the congregation of Dairy. Before
obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Jaftray, who was appointed by
the Synod to Dalkeith.
\st Minister. — George Russell, from Cambusnethan. Called to Largs and
Dairy. Appointed by the Synod to Largs, but refused to comply. Called a second
time to Dairy, and ordained there 29th March 1791. Died 5th May 1832, in the
7 2d year of his age and 42d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Robertson, who preferred Portsburgh,
Edinburgh.
2d Mitiister. — David Henderson, from Chalmer's Street, Dunfermline. Called
to Dairy in Dumfriesshire, and Dairy in Ayrsliire. Ordained at the latter place, 9th
April 1834. Resigned 31st May 1842. Afterwards became chaplain of Gillespie's
Hospital, Edinburgh. Died at Innellan, of which his son was minister, in 187 1.
414 The United Presbyterian Church.
2)d Alinistcr. — John Duff, previously of Newartliill. Admitted 26th July 1S43.
Resigned 27th March 1849. Emigrated to America, and became minister of the
united congregations of Albion and Vaughan, Canada West.
Ofth Minister. — George Morris, from Cairneyhill. Called to Dalreoch, Largo,
Muckart, Kirriemuir, Coupar- Angus, and Dairy. Ordained 9th July 1850.
SALTCGATS.
Saltcoats is a seaport town, partly in the parish of Ardrossan, and partly in that
of Stevenston, Cunningham, Ayrshire, 4 miles south-west of Kilwinning, 7 north-
west of Irvine, and 14 west of Kilmarnock.
EAST CHURCH.
The incumbent of the parish of West Kilbride, which is bounded on the south-
east by that of Ardrossan, at the time when this congregation began, was considered
" a legal preacher," and as such was much disliked by a number of his parishioners,
who, to avoid his ministrations, attended religious ordinances at Irvine. After
doing so for some time they obtained the co-operation of several of the parishioners
of Ardrossan, in an application to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of
sermon, which was granted, 1780. Saltcoats was fixed upon for the seat of the
congregation, as most conveniently situated for a great proportion of the persons
composing it, and a place of worship w^as built there in 1784, containing 650 sittings.
\st Minister. — David Ewing, from Dovehill (now Cathedral Street), Glasgow.
Ordained 28th April 1784. Died 15th June 1833, in the 80th year of his age, and
50th of his ministry. Author of " Vindication of Gospel Truth."
In 1830, the congregation called Mr M'CoU, afterwards of Bankhill, Berwick,
who declined the call.
2d Minister. — James Stewart Giffen, from Southend. Ordained as colleague
to Mr Ewing, 26th July 1831. Demitted his charge loth November 1863.
3^ Minister. — George Philp, from Kirkcaldy, Bethelfield. Called to Dubbie-
side and Saltcoats. Ordained 6th September 1864. Called to Glengarnock, 1S69,
but declined the call.
COUNTESS STREET (Now Extinct.)
The Earl of Eglinton as patron presented Mr John Duncan, in 17S9, to the
parish of Ardrossan, then vacant. This presentee was very obnoxious to the
parishioners generally, and particularly to those resident in Saltcoats, where the
church is situated, who accordingly availed themselves of every constitutional
means in their power to prevent his settlement, but without success. In com-
pliance with an injunction of the General Assembly, to which the case had been
appealed, the Presbytery ordained Mr Duncan at Irvine on the ist of September
1789, it being deemed impracticable to proceed with the services at Saltcoats in
consecjuence of the determined hostility of the people there to the presentee, and
especially to the mode of his introduction among them. After his settlement took
place, the reclaiming party met, and resolved to apply to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of KUinarnock — Saltcoats — West Church. 415
Presbytery for supply of sermon, which was obtained, 1790, and a regularly organ-
ised congregation formed soon after. Church built, 1792 ; sittings, 556.
\st Minister. — James Boreland, from Wellington Street, Kilmarnock. Or-
dained ist November 1792. Died April 1793, six months after ordination.
The congregation called Mr Belfrage, who was appointed by the Synod to .
Falkirk ; and Mr Keith, who was appointed to Fala.
2d Minister. — Henry Fraser, M.D., from Auchtermuchty (East), of which his
father was minister. Ordained 18th February 1796. Resigned 15th November
1796, nine months after ordination, and deposed thereafter. Mr Fraser had recently
come into possession of the estate of Lassodie, Fifeshire, as great-grandson of the
Rev. Ralph Erskine, who married the heiress of that estate ; and by the deed of
entail he had to adopt the name of Dewar. After his resignation, Mr Fraser, alias
Dewar, studied medicine, and having obtained his diploma, became a surgeon in
the army, and afterwards a lecturer on medicine in Edinburgh. Died 19th January
1823, in the 5 2d year of his age. Author of the article " Grammar," in the Edin-
burgh Encyclopedia ; several medical pamphlets ; and translator of Make Brun's
Geography.
2,d Minister. — Robert Forrest, from Dunbar (First). Called to Kirkcaldy and
Saltcoats. Ordained 27th February 1798. Resigned 23d April 1802. Accompanied
tlie Rev. Dr Mason of New York, on his return to America, and became minister
of congregations, first in New York, and afterwards in Stamford, county of Dela-
ware, where he died 17th March 1846, in the 78th year of his age and 49th of his
ministry.
4//^ Mi/lister. — James Ellis, from East Campbell Street, Glasgow. Ordained
2ist March 1804. Was moderator of Synod in 1828. Died 24th July 1852, in the
73d year of his age and 49th of his ministry.
After the death of Mr Ellis this congregation united with the AVest Church,
under the ministry of the Rev. David Ronald.
WEST CHURCH.
Mr James Mair, afterwards minister of the Secession Congregation of West
Linton, was five years assistant to the parish minister of Ardrossan, while a pro-
bationer in connection with the Established Church, in which capacity he acceded
to the Associate Presbytery on the 17th of July 1739. A number of the
parishioners of Ardrossan, being much attached lo him, and holding the same
principles as himself, followed his example, by acceding to the Associate Presbytery
in October following. Mr Gavin Beugo, probationer, preached to them by appoint-
ment of Presbytery on the second, and Mr Smyton on the 4th Sabbath, December
1739. Mr Smyton having been ordained minister of Kilmaurs a few months after,
the Presbytery, unable from want of preachers to answer all the demands made
upon them, withdrew supply from Ardrossan, and joined the Seceders there to the
congregation of Kilmaurs. In 1758, they were disjoined from Kilmaurs, as part of
the congregation of Kilwinning, which began at that time. In 1768 they petitioned
to be disjoined from Kilwinning, and formed into a separate congregation, but the
Presbytery refused to comply with their request. A Relief Congregation was formed
in the parish soon after, and several of them connected themselves with it. In
1778 the remaining Seceders in Ardrossan petitioned the Presbytery again to be
formed into a congregation separate from Kilwinning, but owing to the opposi-
4i6 TJie United Presbyterian Chnrch.
tion of Rev. Mr Jameson, the minister, they were again refused. A violent settle-
ment took place in the parish of Ardrossan in 1789, which led to the formation of
an Associate (Burgher) congregation in Saltcoats, when several of the persons
referred to connected themselves with it. Those that were unconnected with either
of the Dissenting congregations now in Saltcoats, joined the General Associate
congregation of Kilwinning till the death of Mr Jameson in 1793, when, upon
petition to the Presbytery, they were disjoined from it, and formed into a separate
congregation. They worshipped in a hall in the town till 1801, when they took
possession of a place of worship which they had built for themselves.
In 1799 they called Mr Brownlee.
\st Minister. — John Gifford, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. Ordained
19th March 1800. Resigned 19th August 181 1. Returned to Edinburgh, and
lived there privately. Author of a sermon on " The Presence of God in His Temple."
The congregation called Mr A. Scott, who was appointed by the Synod to
Crieff.
zd Minister. — David Ronald, from City Road, Brechin. Ordained 25th
January 18 15. Appointed clerk, conjointly with the Rev. Dr Kidston, to the
United Associate Synod, and continued in the same office by the United Presby-
terian Synod 1847, which office he held till 14th May 1861, when he resigned. The
Rev. Mr Ellis of the United Presbyterian congregation. Countess Street, Saltcoats,
having died in 1852, and three congregations of the same denomination being con-
sidered unnecessary in a small town, with others at no great distance from it, a
union between the one now vacant and that of which Mr Ronald was minister, was
proposed and effected, the latter removing to the place of worship occupied by the
former, and Mr Ronald there acting as minister of both. The designation " West
Congregation" then dropped, as did also that of " The Middle" by which the other
was known, and both merged into the congregation of " Countess Street." A new
church, opened by Dr Robson, Glasgow, 8th July 1866, which cost ;^20oo, and
is seated for 670, again bears the name of the West Church. On the celebration
of his jubilee, in 1864, Mr Ronald received a purse containing 500 sovereigns,
with other gifts. Author of " Presbyterian Form of Church Government, founded
on the Word of God ;" and " Christian Baptism Explained."
3^ Minister. — George Fairgrieve, from Tillicoultry. Ordained as colleague
to Mr Ronald, iSth February 1862.
FENWICK.
Penwick is a village in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, 5 miles north-east
of Kilmarnock, and 4 north-east of Kilmaurs.
A praying society in Fenwick acceded to the Associate Presbytery in December
1737. The Rev. Messrs Erskine and Fisher were appointed to observe a fast with
the members of this society on the fourth Thursday of March 1738. The sermon
preached by Mr Fisher on the occasion was afterwards published under the title
"The inestimable value of Truth," Prov. xxiii. 28. In 1740 Mr Smyton was
ordained at Kilmaurs, and the Seceders in Fenwick were included in his congrega-
tion, he being required by the Presbytery at his ordination to preach four Sabbaths
in the year at this place. Notwithstanding the Breach had divided the Seceders in
Dairy, and elsewhere, this arrangement continued till 1752, when it was discon-
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Fenwick — Galstoit. 417
tinued, and the Seceders adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod
were required to travel constantly to Kilmaurs to have religious ordinances dis-
pensed to them.
In 1780 the parishioners of Fenwick successfully resisted the intrusion of Mr
Archibald Reid as minister of the parish. After this the tutors of the Earl of Glas-
gow presented Mr William Boyd, probationer, to the church and parish of Fenwick,
then vacant. Only three persons concurred in the presentation. One of these was
the Rev. Dr Macknight of Edinburgh, and all of them non-resident heritors. The
Presbytery referred the case to the Synod of Glasgow and Ayr, which refused to
sustain the call. This decision was reversed by the General Assembly, 1781. A
committee of Presbytery met by appointment of Assembly with the people of Fen-
wick to induce them, if possible, to concur in the presentation, which they tried, but
without success. Upon the committee reporting this result, the Presbytery referred
the case si'mpliciter to the next General Assembly, with a memorial. The Assembly
ordered Mr Boyd's settlement to be proceeded with, and he was ordained at Irvine
by force of law (it being deemed unsafe to ordain him at Fenwick), on the 28th of
June 1782.* On the Sabbath after Mr Boyd's ordination, he and a few friends
from Stewarton entered Fenwick Church by a window, the doors having been barri-
caded. No parishioners attended the parish church for a time, subsequently a few
of them attended. On 6th June 1782 a meeting was held to determine what reli-
gious denomination among the dissenters the reclaiming party should join. The
vote stood thus : for the Antiburgher, 7 ; for the Reformed Presbytery, 36 ; for the
Relief, 17 ; and for the Burghers an overwhelming majority. A petition, signed by
nearly the whole male population of the parish was presented to the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of sermon, which was granted. Mr
Moir of Tarbolton preached on 23d June and organised the congregation. For a
time they met in the open air or in a barn at Little Fenwick, till a church was built.
Persons from Stewarton, Kilmaurs, and Kilmarnock joined the church and increased
its prosperity. First church built, 1784; cost ;^267 ; sittings, 500. Second built,
1831 ; sittings, 789 ; church and manse together cost ^^1200.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr R. Hall, who was
appointed by the Synod to Kelso, and Mr R. Shirra, who was appointed to Yetholm.
1st Minister. — James Dewar, from Queen Ann Street, Dunfermline. Ordained
i8th April 1787. Called in 1798 to Stranraer, but continued in Fenwick. Re-
signed, on account of declining health, 4th August 1829, on an annuity of ^50 per
annum with the use of the manse. Died 1833, i^ ^^^ ^^st year of his age.
In 1827 the congregation called Mr Marshall to be colleague to Mr Dewar, who
was appointed by the Synod to Lochee.
2d Minister. — William Orr, from Saltcoats. Ordained 2d February 1830.
GALSTON.
Galston is a town on the left bank of the river Irvine, Ayrshire, 5 miles south-
east of Kilmarnock, 2 J- west of Newmilns, and 16 north-east of Ayr.
* It is in allusion to this that Burns has the following in the "Ordination," a poem descriptive
of a Kilmarnock ordination :
"Lang, Patronage, wi' rod o' aim.
Has shored the Kirk's undoin' ;
As lately Fenwick, sair forfairn,
Has proven to its ruin. " — Eds,
2 D
4i8 TJie United Presbyterian Church.
In 1737 the tlien incumbent of the parish of Galston gave great offence to a
number of his parishioners by persisting in reading " The Porteous Act " from the
pulpit in opposition to their repeatedly expressed wishes to him to abstain from
doing so. Finding their remonstrances unavailing they withdrew, not only from his
ministry, but also from the Established Church, and acceded to the Associate Pres-
bytery. It was not in the power of the Presbytery to supply them with sermon at
the time, and soon after it was deemed less necessary to do so, seeing that a Seces-
sion minister was settled in Kilmaurs, under whose inspection they were expected
to place themselves. This they did, notwithstanding that these places are seven
miles apart. The Breach, 1747, divided the Seceders in Galston as elsewhere,
when the portion adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod continued
to travel to Kilmaurs as before, till the congregation of Clerk's Lane, Kilmarnock,
originated, when they joined themselves to it. The portion adhering to the Asso-
ciate (Burgher) Synod travelled to Burntshields, in the parish of Kilbarchan, where
there was a congregation in their own connection, and continued doing so till the
congregation of Wellington Street, Kilmarnock, was formed, when they became a
portion of it, and remained connected with it till the year 1786, when upon peti-
tion to the Presbytery, they were disjoined and formed into a separate congregation,
with its seat in Galston. They met in a hired house till 1797, when they took pos-
session of a place of worship which they had erected for themselves, containing 574
sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Nicol, who was
appointed by the Synod to Barrhead.
\st Minister. — James Blackwood, from Old Kilpatrick, Craigs. Called to
Braehead and Galston. Ordained 26th August 1800. Died 26th January 1850, in
the 85th year of his age, and 50th of his ministry.
In 1 841 the congregation called Mr Muckersie, who preferred Ferry-Port-on-
Craig, and in 1842 Mr Pearson, afterwards of Eyemouth, who declined the call.
2d Minister. — Thomas Matthewson, from Tranent. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Blackwood, 14th March 1843.
MAUCHLINE.
Mauchline is a village in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, 5 miles east
of Tarbolton, 7 south of Galston, 5 J north-west of Old Cumnock, and 9 south-east
of Kilmarnock.
The Rev. Mr Auld of Mauchline, an evangelical minister, whose ministrations
were waited on by many from neighbouring ])arishes, died about 1792, and was
succeeded by Mr Reid. Members of the Established Church, who were opposed
to the settlement of Mr Reid, in 1793 seceded from the parish church. They were
joined in this movement by members of the Secession congregations of Tarbolton
and Old Cumnock, and supply of sermon was afforded them, upon petition, by the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow, the same year. They found great diffi-
culty in procuring a site for a place of worship ; the proprietors in the district were
highly incensed at the idea of a dissenting chapel being built in the village, and
Claude Alexander, Esq. of Ballochmyle, who owned the only quarry near the place,
refused them stones to build with. This refusal only increased their zeal. Having
with much difficulty secured a small piece of ground on which to build a place of
worship, they fortunately came upon a rock when digging the foundation, which
furnished them with a considerable quantity of the material required in the erection,
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — Maybolc — Girvan. 419
except what was required for hewn work. In spite of these difficulties they raised a
substantial church containing 600 sittings, of which they took possession in 1796.
Before obtaining a stated minister, the congregation called Mr Irvine, who
was appointed by the Synod to Stranraer, and Mr Laurie, who declined the call
and afterwards emigrated to America. See list of Students (Burgher Hall) for 1794.
\st Minister.— ]oYi^ Walker, from Linlithgow (west). Ordained 17th April
1799. Died 8th August 1836, in the 75th year of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
2d Mi?iister. — David Thomas, from Wellington Street, Glasgow. Ordained
29th July 1835. Appointed clerk of the Committee of Bills and Overtures, by the
United Associate Synod, 1846, and continued in the same office by the United
Presbyterian Church, 1847. Author of " Congregational Finance in Non-Estab-
lished Churches."
MAYBOLE.
Maybole is a burgh town in the district of Carrick, Ayrshire, 12 miles north-east
of Girvan, 9 south of Ayr, and 22 south-west from Kilmarnock.
This congregation originated with members of the Established Church who were
dissatisfied with the ministrations of the then incumbent of the parish, and had
acquired a relish for evangelical doctrine, which they occasionally heard from minis-
ters of the Secession, and particularly from the Rev. Mr Leitch of Largs, who gene-
rally preached at Maybole on his way to and from Ireland, of which he was a
native. They applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Kilmarnock, 1797. They built a place of worship for
themselves, the same year, at a cost of ;!^400, which was fitted up with galleries,
1813, and now contains 555 sittings.
Tst Mifiister. — James Mather, from Blackfriars, Jedburgh. Called to Denny
and Maybole. Ordained 17th July 1798. Died 24th November 181 1, in the 14th
year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Thomas Struthers, from Abbey Close, Paisley. Ordained 14th
April 1813. Translated to Hamilton i6th November 1819.
The congregation then called Mr James Tait, who was appointed to Barrhead.
3^ Minister. — James Thomson, from Mauchline. Called to Glenluce and
Maybole. Ordained 30th April 1823. Called in 1829 to Lauriston, Glasgow, but
continued in Maybole. Deposed i8th November 1834. Lived afterwards in
retirement in Maybole, and died there.
The congregation called Mr John Lawson, who preferred Pitlessie.
A,th Minister. — John M. Thomson, from Strathaven (First). Ordained 8th
April 1835. Resigned ist November 1852. Removed to Glasgow, where he died
3d April 1862.
The congregation called Mr Fleming, who preferred Union Chapel, Kirkcaldy.
t^th Minister. — John Carrick, A.M., from Partick (East). Ordained 12th July
1854.
GIRVAN.
Girvan is a town in Ayrshire, 12 miles south-west of Maybole, and 21 south of Ayr.
This congregation originated partly with members of the Secession Church
resident in the district, who were desirous of having a place of Avorship more con-
veniently situated, partly with " Protestors " at Colmonell, together with members
of the Established Church who were dissatisfied with its government and discipline.
420 The U^iited Presbyterian CJmrch.
They united in a petition to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Kilmarnock for
supply of sermon in 1812, which was granted. Church built, 1814; sittings, 549.
A new church was opened on 25th September 1S70, by Dr M'Ewen of Glasgow,
costing ;^i8oo, and seated for 450.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called (i), the Rev. Andrew Scott,
who continued in his charge at Cambusnethan ; (2) Mr Fraser, who was appointed by
the Synod to Stonehouse ; (3) Mr Alexander Waugh, who was appointed to Miles
Lane, London ; and (4) Mr James Anderson, who was appointed to Dunblane.
xst Minister. — Thomas Thomson, from Longridge. Ordained 8th November
1820. Died 28th April 1826, in the 38th year of his age, and 6th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Alexander Duncan, from Midcalder, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 14th August 1S27. Translated to East Regent Place, Glasgow,
2d June 1842.
The congregation called (i) Mr Darling, afterwards of Stitchel, who declined the
call; (2) Dr R. T Jeffrey, who preferred Denny; (3) Mr George Hunter, who pre-
ferred Tillicoultry ; and (4) Mr R. D. Duncan, who preferred Dundee.
id Minister. — David Sim, from Regent Place, Glasgow. Called to Bathgate and
Girvan. Ordained 17th April 1845. Translated to Bradford, 9th April 1852.
4//; Alinisier. — John Stillie, from Maybole. Called to Ramsey (Isle of Man),
and Girvan. Ordained ist November 1852. Author of "The Indian Crisis con-
sidered ; " a Discourse.
MUIRKIRK.
Muirkirk is a village in the parish of the same name in Kyle, Ayrshire, 13 miles
south of Strathaven, 14 east of Mauchhne, and 25^ north-east-by-east of Ayr.
Muirkirk is a village of recent origin, and owes its existence to the discovery and
smelting of iron ores in the neighbourhood. A number of Seceders drawn thitlier
by the employment thus afforded them, were naturally anxious to have a dispensa-
tion of religious ordinances in their own connection, and with this view applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the United Associate Presbytery of Kilmar-
nock, 1820. They proceeded immediately to the erection of a place of worship for
themselves, which cost ^900, and contains 380 sittings, of which they took pos-
session in 1823.
\st Minister. — James Garret, from'Bellevilla, Stranraer. Ordained 13th Octo-
ber 1824. Left his congregation suddenly and without warning, 1828. Emigrated
to Van Diemen's Land, and became minister of a congregation in connection with
the Church of Scotland at Tamar.
. The congregation called Mr P. Buchan, afterwards of Orkney.
2d Minister. — John Aird, from Cumnock. Ordained 29th May 1832. Resigned
1836. Joined the Reformed Presbyterian Synod as a probationer, but ^obtained
no pastorate in that connection.
3^ il/Zz/w/^r. —George Walker. Ordained 31st March 1840. Translated to
Johnshaven 27th October 1842.
4M Minister. — David Young, from Auchinleck. Ordained 21st April 1846.
WEST KILBRIDE.
West Kilbride is a village in the parish of the same name and district of Cun-
ningham, Ayrshire, 5 miles north-west of Saltcoats, and 7] south of Largs.
Presbytery of Kilmarnock — C a trine — Patna. 4 2 1
This congregation originated with members of the Secession and Relief Churches
in Saltcoats, resident in and about Kilbride, who, perceiving after the Union of the
two great branches of the Secession in 1820, that they might have a dissenting place
of worship in their own locality, obtained supply of sermon, upon petition, from the
United Associate Presbytery of Kilmarnock, 6th November 1821. They met in
the workshop of Mr Robert Wilson, wright in Kilbride, till 1828, when they took
possession of a place of worship they had built for themselves, with 560 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr P. Cairns, who was
appointed by the Synod to Stewarton.
\st J///«>/tr.— Peter Mather, from Dunbar. Ordained i6th July 1828. Re-
signed 2d July 1836, having adopted Independent views of church government.
Joined the Evangelical Union ; became editor of the Christian Netvs,
The congregation called Mr Sorley, wlvo preferred Arbroath.
2d Minister.— k^^Yi^Y.^ Sprott, A.M., from Bellevilla, Stranraer. Ordained
15th November 1837. Resigned 26th April 1842. Admitted to Archieston, Pres-
bytery of Elgin, 1845.
yi Minister.— ]on^ Boyd, D.D., previously of Belfast. Admitted 20th June
1849. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Monmouth College, Illinois,
United States, 1866. Demitted his charge 13th March 1866. Now living at Sea-
view, West Kilbride.
4/// Minister. — James Clark Balderston, formerly of Boveedy. Admitted 4th
May 1868.
CATRINE.
' ' ' 2
Catrine is a village in the western extremity ot the parish of Sorn, Ayrshire,
miles south-east of Mauchline, 15 north-east of Ayr, and z\ east from Auchinleck'.
This congregation was formed partly by members of the congregation of Mauch-
line, from which they were disjoined by the Presbytery on petition in 1833, and
partly by members of Auchinleck congregation, the majority of which at the Union
joined the protestors, and part of which joined Cumnock, it being presumed that
they were sufficiently numerous to support a minister among themselves. Church
built, 1835 ; sittings, 580.
\st Minister.— ]//j-/'^'r.— Thomas Bowman, previously of North Shields. Called to Stock-
ton and Catrine. Admitted 7th June 1849. Demitted his charge 12th June 1866.
Author of " A Farewell Address," to the congregation of North Shields.
4/// Minister.— ]k^i^'& M. Copland, from Glasgow (Mitchell Church). Ordained
26tli February 1867. Called to Leeds 15th November 1S70, but declined the call.
PATNA.
Patna is a village on the banks of the Doon, in the parish of Straiton, and
district of Carrick, Ayrshire, 7 miles north-east of Maybole, and 10 south-east of
Ayr.
42 2 The United Presbyterian Church.
The village of Patna owes its existence to the late Mr Fullerton of Skeldon, who
planned and encouraged its erection, naming it after a place in which he had resided
when in India. It is seven miles from the church of the parish, for which reason
he set apart a piece of ground on which to build a place of worship for the accom-
modation of persons who might come to settle there. But his death taking place
while his designs were only in course of development, the church was not built till
some time afterwards. Meanwhile, the United Associate Presbytery of Kilmarnock
had undertaken the supply of Patna and Dalmellington, another village in the
same district, alternately. In 1836 they withdrew from Dalmellington, and con-
centrated their energies on Patna. The persons taking interest in the cause were
formed into a regularly organised congregation in 1837. They built a place of
worship, on the site originally set apart by the proprietor of the village, containing
200 sittings, of which they took possession in 1838.
\st Minister. — John Barclay, from Greyfriars, Glasgow. Ordained 19th
August 1840. Resigned 22d October 1850. Died 8th March 1867.
2d Minister. — James M'Fadyen, from London Road, Glasgow. Emigrated
to America as a probationer, and was ordained nth October 1843, ^s minister
of Rochester, Canada West. Resigned his charge, returned to this country, and
after itinerating some time as a probationer, was admitted to Patna, 3d September
185 1. Demitted his charge 9th December 1862. Now living in Pollokshaws.
yi Minister. — James Patrick, from Kilmarnock (King Street). Ordained 8th
February 1865.
TROON.
Troon is a seaport town in the parish of Dundonald, and district of Ayrshire, 6
miles north of Ayr, 6 south of Irvine, and 9 south-west of Kilmarnock.
The Rev. Mr Campbell of Irvine, assisted occasionally by other ministers in the
neighbourhood, was in the habit of preaching in the Sabbath evenings at Troon.
A place of worship was erected there in 1822, containing 289 sittings, at a cost of
;^32o ; but it was not well finished when the ministers of the Established Church
also began to perceive the spiritual destitution of the place, and undertook to supply
it with sermon. By some means, not well accounted for, they got possession of the
place of worship then recently erected, and the congregation which had been
gathered in it, not deeming it expedient to contend about the property, agreed to
dissolve. In 1838, a church extension chapel was erected in Troon, to which the
congregation formed in connection with the Established Church removed, and the
place of worship erected in 1822 was thereby left unoccupied. The Seceders, who
had now greatly increased in the place, in consequence of its growing importance
as a seaport, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the United Associate
Presbytery of Kilmarnock that year. The original place of worship, which had
been sold to a person in Troon to pay the debt upon it, being again offered for sale,
was purchased by the Seceders. A new church was built in 1S43, ^^"i^l^ sittings
for 600. The old church is now occui)icd by the Free Church.
1st Minister. — David Forrest, from Hast Calder. Ordained 8th December
1840. Resigned 15th April 1852. Removed to Glasgow, and became minister of
St Rollox Mission Church.
The congregation called Mr More, who preferred Alloa.
2d Minister. — JoiiN KiRKWooD, from Wellington Street, Glasgow. Ordained
2d August 1853.
Presbytery of Kihiiarnock — Ardrossan — Glengarnock. 42
ARDROSSAN.
Ardrossan is a burgh and seaport in the parish of the same name, Ayrshire, 3
miles from Saltcoats.
This congregation was organised principally by members of the denomination
accustomed to worship in the churches at Saltcoats. The station was opened on
the first Sabbath of March 1857, and shortly afterwards was erected into a congre-
gation. A church, built on a site at the head of Glasgow Street, contiguous to the
old Ardrossan kirkyard, was opened, at a cost of ^1300. The pastorate of the
first minister was brief and unfortunate. Under the second minister the church
prospered. Within three years of his ordination the debt of the church was
extinguished ; and a commodious manse, costing ^900, has since been built and
freed from debt.
\st Minister. — Simon Somerville Stobbs, from Stromness, of which his father
was minister. Ordained 22d December 1857. Demitted his charge, on the plea
of ill health, i3di March i860. Afterwards joined the Established Church, and
became minister of a congregation in Swallow Street, London, connected with the
Synod of the Church of Scotland in England ; afterwards of Lugar Church, parish of
Auchinleck, Ayrshire.
2d Mijiister. — William Rigby Murray, from Edinburgh (Broughton Place).
Ordained 26th March 1861. Called to Gorbals, Glasgow, as colleague to Rev.
D. Macrae, but declined the call. Translated to Manchester (Brunswick Street),'
nth June 1S72. /
GLENGARNOCK.
In April 1869, a few gentlemen belonging to different churches held a meeting
in Glengarnock school, to consider whether anything could be done to benefit
non-church-going families. After free and full conversation, it was resolved to
open a preaching station in connection with the Free Church, the Reformed Pres-
byterian, or United Presbyterian Church. At a subsequent meeting, it was
decided, on public grounds, to have sermon on the Sabbath evenings in connection
with the United Presbyterian Church. A student of the third year at the Theo-
logical Hall was then engaged' for a period of six months, at a salary of ;^8o per
annum. His work was to visit the careless and indifferent during the week, and
preach on Sabbath evenings. The station prospered beyond expectation. In
consequence of that success, a petition to be congregated, signed by 55 persons,
was presented to Kilmarnock Presbytery in July 1869, which was granted on 14th
September. The Rev. George Philp, Saltcoats, announced the deed of Pres-
bytery to the people, and made up a roll of members numbering sixty-five.
Four elders were ordained on the third Sabbath of January 1S70, and from that
date a regular supply of ministers and preachers was granted to the congregation.
The services were conducted in the schoolroom of the Iron Company of INIessrs
Merry & Cunninghame.
The congregation, on 21st February 1870, called the Rev. George Philp of Salt-
coats, to be their minister, who preferred abiding in his charge at Saltcoats. And
on 25th October 1870,; they called Mr Thomas R. Anderson, who preferred a
call to Blackswell, Hamilton.
\st Minister. — William Gilruth Miller, from Blairgowrie. Ordained 29th
August 1S71.
424 The United Presbytei'ian Church.
PRESBYTERY OF KINROSS.
The Pre.sl)ytcry of Kinross was formed under sanction of the United Presby-
terian Synod in 1852, from the Presbytery of DunfermUne, and partly from the
Presbytery of Perth.
KINROSS.
Kinross is the county town of Kinross-shire, 16 miles south of Perth, 10 miles
north-east of Dunfermline by the hill-road, 13 miles north of Inverkeithing, 18 east-
by-north of Alloa, and 19 west of Cupar Fife.
WEST CHURCH.
The church and parish of Kinross having become vacant by the death of tlie
Rev. Robert M'Gill, in 1725, the parishioners gave an unanimous call in 1727 to
the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, then of Portmoak, afterwards of Stirling, to be their
pastor, but he respectfully declined the call. The call was carried by appeal in
1728 to the Synod of Fife, and the General Assembly, but both courts confirmed
the Presbytery's decision not to translate Mr Erskine from Portmoak. They then
made choice of Mr Francis Craig, probationer, to supply the vacant charge ; but
Sir Thomas Hope Bruce of Kinross, who preferred no claim to the patrohage of
the parish when Mr Erskine was called, now interposed and claimed a right to
control the election, if not to furnish a presentee. This right was allowed by the
General Assembly, to which the case was appealed, and Mr Craig's election there-
by set aside. Sir Thomas Bruce, who at the time the case was pending had been
residing in Bath for his health, soon after died ; and his brother. Sir John Bruce,
who succeeded to the estates, consented to allow the parishioners a /tJi Afinistcr. — William Guthrie, M.A., from Dunblane. Called to Middles-
borough and Dysart. Ordained 21st February 1871.
PITTENWEEM.
Pittenweem is a royal burgh in the east of Fife, 6 miles east of Colinsburgh, 6
south-west of Crail, and 16 south-east of Cupar.
In 1774 Sir J. Anstruther, Bart, presented Mr Nairn to the church and parish
of Pittenweem, then vacant. The presentee was very unacceptable to a number of
the parishioners ; but, notwithstanding their remonstrances against him, he was
settled minister of the parish. Several of them feeling aggrieved by this act of
spiritual despotism, withdrew from the Established Church, and applied to the
Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh to be taken under their inspection as a forming
congregation, which was granted. Church built, 1775 ; sittings 500. A new church
was opened 3d January 1857, with sittings for 600.
\st Minister. — George Halvburton Nicolson. Ordained 1777. Translated
to Wamphray, Dumfriesshire, 1783.
2d Minister. — Alexander Hunter. Ordained 1783. Loosed from his charge
1788.
2)d Minister. — Alexander Simson, M.D., previously of Dunse. Admitted to
Pittenweem, 1789. He was moderator of the Relief Synod, 1775. Died 6th
January 1793, in the 60th year of his age, and 30th of his ministry. Author of
" Dangerous Errors of Mr Smith, in Reference to the Atonement, Stated and
Refuted;" and "Our Lord's Commission to His Ministers."
/^th Mitiister. — David Wilson, from Muckhart. Received into connection with
the Relief Synod as a probationer, 1793. Ordained 1794. Resigned 1811. Lived
privately in Pittenweem, where he died in 181 3.
5/// Minister. — William Fyfe, from King Street, Kilmarnock. Ordained 31st
October 181 1. Translated to Bathgate, 22d July 1813.
6t/i Minister.— ] AUES Purdie, previously of Wilsontown (Presbytery of
Hamilton). Admitted 19th July 1814. Resigned 20th December 1825. Lived
privately near Crowford, Lanarkshire.
yt/i Minister. — James Finlay, from Tollcross. Ordained 17th November 1827.
Loosed from his charge, 1837. Emigrated to America, and became minister of a
congregation in the State of New York.
8t/i Minister. — James R. Kerr, from Calton, Glasgow. Ordained nth Sep-
tember 1838. Died i6th May 1865, in the 50th year of his age and 27th of his
ministry.
gt/i Minister. — James Pittendrigh, M.A., from Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane).
Ordained 3d July 1866.
KINGHORN.
Kinghorn is a burgh town and seaport on the Firth of Forth, Fifeshire, 2|
miles east of Burntisland, and 3^ west of Kirkcaldy.
The Rev. Dr Webster, minister of Kinghorn, in 1778, greatly increased his un-
popularity with his people by his open advocacy of the principles of a Bill then before
456 The United Presbyter imi Church.
Parliament for the emancipation of the Roman Catholics from their civil disabilities.
Finding his situation in Kinghorn uncomfortable, he removed to London, and after a
short residence there, resigned his charge. The parishioners wished to obtain for
his successor a Mr Burns, whom Dr Webster had left to supply his place ; but the
patron disregarded their wishes, and appointed a Mr Usher to the vacant charge.
Several of the people soon after withdrew from the Established Church and applied
to the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh to be taken under their inspection as a
forming congregation, which was granted in 1778. Church built, 1779 ; sittings 554.
A new church was built in 1865-6, which cost ;^ii38, and is seated for 320.
\st Minister. — Joseph Johnston. Ordained in 1779. Died 1790, in the 12th
year of his ministry.
After Mr Johnston's death, the congregation applied, in 1791, to the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Dunfermline to be taken under their inspection, which was
granted. Several Seceders resident in and about the town, who had previously
been connected with the Associate Congregation of Kirkcaldy, now acceded to the
congregation.
2d Aliiiister. — George Black, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Ordained nth
April 1792. Called in 1801 to London (Miles Lane); but continued in Kinghorn.
Died 3d October 1822, in the 52d year of his age and 31st of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Brown, who was appointed to Cumnock.
3^ Minister. — James Hardie, from Dalkeith (East). Called to Burghead and
Kinghorn. Ordained 15th July 1824.
^th Minister. — Daniel M'Kenzie, from Glasgow (Cathedral Street). Ordained
as colleague to Mr Hardie 8th April 1862. Demitted his charge 3d December 1867,
and proceeded to New Zealand.
The congregation called Mr T. Cockburn, who preferred Hawick.
5//; Minister. — James Jenkins, from St Ninian's, Ordained as colleague to
Mr Hardie, 4th May 1868.
BUCKHAVEN.
Buckhaven is a fishing village in the parish of Wemyss, Fifeshire, 2 miles south-
west of Leven, 7 north-east of Kirkcaldy, and 3i south of Kennoway.
In October 1739, Mr John Thomson, elder, and several private persons in the
parish of Wemyss, acceded to the Associate Presbytery, and along with other
seceders who had settled in the district, attended the Secession Church at Abbots-
hall, Kirkcaldy, till the Secession congregation of Kennoway began, when they
joined it. During the vacancy in that congregation, occasioned by the translation
of Mr Kidston to Glasgow, the majority brought out a call for Mr Alexander
Morrison, who became Mr Kidston's successor : while the minority, a very large
one, were in favour of Mr Archibald Harper, afterwards of Bo'ness. The persons
constituting the minority were chiefly resident in the parish of Wemyss, who found
it inconvenient to travel weekly to Kennoway, and therefore eagerly seized the
opportunity afforded them by the difference which had arisen between them and the
majority, to plead that as a reason, together with distance of residence, why they
should be disjoined from Kennoway, and formed into a separate congregation.
These reasons were sustained by the Presbytery, and a congregation was thus
formed in 1792, with its seat in Buckhaven. They built a place of worship the
same year, containing 600 sittings.
Presdyicry of Kirkcaldy — Dtibbieside. 457
A new church was opened in April 1869. It is seated for 860, and cost
upwards of ^2600.
\st Minister.— Y)\\\v, Telford, from StirUng (First). Called to Edinburgh
(Portsburgh), and Buckhaven. Ordained 12th July 1796. Died 3d May 1824, in
the 56th year of his age, and 28th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr P. M'Dowall, who Avas appointed by the Synod to
Alloa,
2d Minister. — Robert Pollok, LL.D., from Mauchline. Ordained 7th
December 1826. Resigned nth November 1845. Afterwards joined the Estab-
lished Church, and is now minister of Kingston Quoad Sacra Church, Glasgow.
Author of " Apocalyptic Regeneration."
id Minister. — William Cowan, from Selkirk (First). Called to Muirton,
Mainsriddell, West Linton, and Buckhaven. Ordained 6th July 1846. Translated
to Glasgow^ (Blackfriars) 2 2d May 1855.
A,th Minister. — ^Alexander C. Rutherford, formerly of Falkirk ; afterwards of
the Evangelical Union Church. Re-admitted to the United Presbyterian Church,
8th May 1855. Called to St Andrews and Buckhaven. Admitted 13th November
1855. Translated to Edinburgh (North Richmond Street), 17th April t86o.
5/// Minister. — Robert Alexander, from Fenwick, Ordained 25th ]\Iarch
1862.
DUBBIESIDE.
Inverleven or " Dubbieside" is a village in the parish of Markinch adjoining the
village of Leven in Scoonie parish, with which it is united by a bridge. The mem-
bers of several praying societies in and about Leven acceded to the Associate Presby-
tery in May 1738, and a few more in May 1739 and in 1742. They attended public
worship after their secession at Abbotshall, Kirkcaldy, till 1744, when at their own
request they were joined to the congregation of Ceres, which had then obtained a
minister. The Breach in 1747 divided them; the majority of them adhering to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, and continuing connected with the congre-
gation at Ceres. They sought to be disjoined from it in 1769, but in consequence
of the opposition of the minister and session this was refused by the Synod,
to which the case was appealed, but the minister of Ceres was required to preach
four Sabbaths in the winter season at Dubbieside or some other place in that dis-
trict. Matters continued in this state till 1793, when the members of the con-
gregation of Ceres resident in Leven, Largo, and places adjacent, were formed
under sanction of the Presbytery into a separate congregation. Church built, 1794 ;
sittings, 400.
\st Minister. — John M'Donald, previously minister of a congregation in Moira,
Ireland, connected with the General Associate Synod. Admitted 8th November
1795. Resigned 1817. Admitted to Thurso, 1819.
zd Minister. — William Harper, from Kilmaurs. Ordained 28th April 18 19.
Died i6th October 1853, in the 64th year of his age, and 35th of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Nicol, from Kinross (West), after itinerating as a pro-
bationer for 40 years. Ordained 13th February 1855. Demitted his charge on
account of age and infirmities, 24th September 1861. Died at Kinross, 14th July
1871, in the 84th year of his age, and 17 th of his ministry.
Author of " National Churches Allied to Despotism, Incompatible Midi the Rights of Man, Reli-
The United Presbytanan Church.
gious and Political, and a Usurpatioii of the Authority of the Lord Jesus Christ as Head of the
Church and Governor among the Nations ; " " Missionary Gleanings in the Grassmarket ; '' " Exjio-
sition and Defence of the Presbyterian form of Church Government, in reply to Episcopal and Inde-
pendent Writers."
The congregation called Mr R. Hall, afterwards of Old Meldnim, Mr George
Philp, afterwards of Saltcoats, and Rev. John James, afterwards of Wolverhampton.
^th Minister. — Robert Fisher, from Perth (North). Ordained 19th January
1864.
CRAIL.
Crail is a burgh town in the east of Fife, 4 miles north of Anstruther, 10 south-
east of St Andrews, and 19 east from Cupar.
The parish of Kingsbarns, which joins that of Crail on the north, having become
vacant in 1737, the people under sanction of the Presbytery called Mr Pitcairn, pro-
bationer, while the patron presented Mr Grant, probationer, to the charge. The
General Assembly, 1739, set aside the call to Mr Pitcairn, and ordered the settle-
ment of the patron's nominee. To effect this, however, it was found necessary to
call in the military, a circumstance which tended to render the settlement still more
offensive to the people. A number of people withdrew from the Established Church
and acceded to the Associate Presbytery. After their secession they attended
public ordinances at Ceres till the Breach, 1747, when most of them adhered to the
Associate (Burgher) Synod, and helped to form the congregation of St Andrews.
The Seceders in Kingsbarns and surrounding district continued to attend there till
1794, when they and the members of the Relief Church resident in the locality
united and applied with success to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth to
be taken under their inspection as a forming congregation with its seat in Crail.
The congregation was organised i6th March 1796. Church built, 1795; sittings,
300. A new church was built in 1858, seated for 232, at a cost of ^^jj, 2s.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Stewart, who was ap-
pointed by the Synod to Pitcairngreen, and Mr Glass, who was appointed to Aberdeen.
isi Minister. — William Fraser, from Auchtermuchty (East), of which his
father was minister. Ordained 17th August 1803. Called in 1810 to West Linton
and Alloa. Translated to Alloa 7th June 1810.
The congregation called Mr George Brown, who was appointed by the Synod to
Ramsbottom.
2d Minister. — Ralph Drummond, from Stirling (First). Ordained 8th July
1821. Resigned 22d June 1839. Emigrated to New South Wales, and became
minister of a congregation in Adelaide. He was the first Presbyterian minister in
that colony. Died at Mitcham, Adelaide, in 1872, in the 80th year of his age, and
51st of his ministry.
2,d Minister. — James Lumsden, from Freuchie. Ordained i8th August 1840.
Died 8th February 1841, in the 32d year of his age, and 6th month of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr R. Paterson, afterwards of Midmar, and Mr J.
Riddell, afterwards of Mofiat, both of whom declined the calls.
4//1 Minister. — John Ogilvie, from Keith. Ordained 25th April 1843. Resigned
29th March 1853, and shortly after joined the Established Chinxh. Was assistant
to the parish minister of Gamrie. In 1855 he got a colonial appointment in
Canada or Nova Scotia, and in proceeding thither with his family he caught fever
on board ship, of which he died on 23d September, in the 50th year of his age, and
13th of his ministry. He was buried in the deep, oft" Prince Edward Island.
Presbytery of Kirkca Idy — A nstruther — L even. 459
5/// Minister. — Alexander Walker, previously of Newcastle. Called to
Burghead, Leith-Lumsden, Oban, and Crail. Inducted 25th April 1854.
ANSTRUTHER.
Anstruther is a burgh town on the east coast of Fife, 4 miles south-west of
Crail, and 5 north-east of EUe.
A number of Secession students successively taught a school in Anstruther,
several of whom held public classes for religious instruction on the Sabbath evenings.
Some of the persons who attended these classes adopted the principles of the
Secession Church, and in 181 8 made application to the Associate (Burgher) Pres-
bytery of Perth to be taken under its inspection as a forming congregation, which
was allowed. Many of the parishioners who continued under the ministry of the
Establishment largely assisted those who had withdrawn from it in the erection of
their church, by pecuniary contributions and otherwise.
Several persons belonging to the General Associate (Antiburgher) branch of the
Secession, resident in Anstruther and its neighbourhood, built a place of worship at
St Monance, which lies between Anstruther and Elie, and had it supplied with
sermon in 1770. They continued to meet at this place till the Union of the two
great branches of the Secession in 1820, but without calling any one to be their
minister, when they considered the expediency of their doing so any longer super-
seded by the formation of a Secession congregation in Anstruther. They therefore
abandoned the place of worship at St Monance. First Secession church at An-
struther built, 1820. Second built, 18513 sittings, 400. Vestry and class-room
added in 1870 ; cost in all, ;^86o.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr J. Hay, who was
appointed by the Synod to Arbroath, and Mr Allison, who was appointed to
Stuartfield.
\st Minister. — John Thom, from Tarbolton. Ordained 2olh December 1825.
Resigned 2 2d June 1847, and became an occasional preacher. Died at Edinburgh
13th February 1864, in the 77th year of his age and 38th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Meikle, from Ayr. Ordained 27th September 1848.
Resigned 29th November 1853, and removed to Mobile, Alabama, U.S., to take
charge of a congregation there.
2,d Minister. — Gabriel Smith, from Craigs, Duntocher. Ordained 20th
December 1854.
LEVEN.
A village in the parish of Scoonie, Fife, 9 miles east from Kirkcaldy, 2| south of
Kennoway, and 3 west of I-argo.
The Rev. Messrs Gorrie of Kettle and Pettigrew of Dysart being aware that a
number of persons in Leven were desirous of obtaining supply of sermon from the
Relief Presbytery, visited Leven and made inquiries, and as a beginning rented the
Gardeners' Hall as a temporary place of worship. It was in September 1830 that
services were begun, and on 8th March 1831 a petition from more than 200 persons
was presented to the Presbytery of Dysart asking supply. Regular supply of sermon
was thereafter given. Church built in 1831 ; sittings 650. A new church with
sittings for 600, costing ^2150, was opened by Rev. R. S. Drummond, D.D., 20th
September 18713 opening collection, ^166.
460 The United Presbytcriaji Church.
\st Minister. — ^James Vallance, from Paisley, (Canal Street). Ordained 19th
February 1834. Resigned 23d April 1845. Joined the Established Church, and
became minister of Tinwald, Dumfriesshire.
2(1 Minister. — John Mitchell, from St Ninian's. Called to Annan and Leven.
Ordained 8th September 1846. Translated to Kirkintilloch 27th April 1854.
id Minister.— ]on^ S. Hyslop, from Urr. Called to Wamphray and Leven.
Ordained 26th June 1855.
MARKINCH.
Markinch is a village in the parish of the same name, Fifeshire, 2\ miles east of
Leslie, 3 west of Kennoway, and 7 north-east of Kirkcaldy.
In the year 1831, and for several years following, there was great excitement in
Scotland, produced by what was then known as " The Voluntary Controversy,"
while the question of political reform to which most of the parochial clergy were
opposed, was agitating the country generally. At that time, and under the influence
of these circumstances, the United Associate Presbytery of Kirkcaldy opened a
missionary station at West Wemyss, but were soon after induced to remove it to
Coalton, a village in the parish of Markinch. I'he accommodation afforded there
not being very commodious, the teacher at Lady's Square, a small hamlet adjoining,
liberally made offer of his school for the use of the infant mission. Here the cause
met with great encouragement, not only from the seceders in the neighbourhood,
but also from many persons belonging to the Established Church. The introduc-
tion of a community of dissenters into a parish where there had not been one
before, and that at a time when both ecclesiastical and civil politics were running
high, naturally attracted the attention of the proprietor of the little hamlet and its
schoolroom, who gave orders to the teacher that unless he ceased affording the use
of his school to seceding preachers he himself would be dismissed. This announce-
ment, instead of discouraging the adherents of the cause, only increased their zeal.
Several members of the Established Church sympathised with them, and openly
manifested their indignation at this species of paltry persecution. A large hall in
the village of Markinch being obtained, the preaching station was transferred thither
and the cause maintained there with increased energy. The parish minister having
become unwell about the same time, and his place being supplied with a very unaccept-
able assistant, the attendance at the hall was considerably increased, and assumed
the appearance of a regular congregation. The station was congregated nth Sep-
tember 1834. The adherents of the cause now thought of building a place of
worship for themselves. Now, however, obstacles began to present themselves.
Althouo-h ground was advertised for building purposes, those who applied for a
site on which to build a church were met with a refusal. After applying in vain
to the surrounding proprietors for a site, one of the adherents sold half of his garden
to the congregation, on part of which they built a church, containing 460 sittings.
They afterwards purchased the other half of the garden, and built a manse.
\st Minister. — William M. Halley, from Kinross (West). Ordained 4tli
November 1835. Translated to Dumbarton 25th March 1847.
id Minister.— Rov.iLRr Brown, from Falkirk (East). Ordained 2Sth October
1847. Author of " Outlines of Religious Instruction ;" and contributor of numerous
articles to the United Presbyterian Magazine.
Presbytery of Lanark — Bonkle. 461
PRESBYTERY OF LANARK.
The Associate (Burgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Lanark in 1S03, by
disjoining congregations from the Presbyteries of Edinburgh and Glasgow, and
forming them into a separate Presbytery. Five congregations were added to it,
and one taken from it, at the Union of the Secession and ReUef Churches in 1847.
BONKLE.
Cambusnethan is a parish in the middle ward of Lanarkshire. Bonkle, the
village in which the place of worship stands, is in the parish of Cambusnethan, 10
miles north of Lanark, 10 east of Hamilton, and 10 south-east of Airdrie.
Mr Lockhart of Castlehill presented Mr William Craig, probationer, to the
church and parish of Cambusnethan in 1733, then vacant by the death of the
Rev. Mr Muirhead. Sir James Stewart of Goodtrees, supported by the elders and
parishioners, disputed Mr Lockhart's right of patronage, and petitioned the Presby-
tery to allow them a hearing of Mr Linning, probationer, and the free choice of a
pastor. The Presbytery refused the prayer of the petition, and the case went by
appeal before the higher Church Courts. The General Assembly, 1734, remitted
it back to the Presbytery, " with instructions to proceed to the settlement of the
parish of Cambusnethan as they shall judge best for the edification of that congre-
gation." The Presbytery resolved to proceed with the settlement of Mr Craig ;
but before doing so, appointed a committee of their number to meet with the
people and persuade them, if possible, to withdraw their opposition to him. The
committee reported that they had not succeeded in the object of their appointment.
The Presbytery notwithstanding appointed Mr Craig's ordination, when Mr David
Downie, in his own name and in that of all the elders of the parish, under whose
sanction he thus acted, asked "for liberty to have the Gospel preached and to haye
sealing ordinances and other church privileges dispensed to us by ministers with
whom in conscience we can join ; and also protest that our deserting Mr Craig, as
a violent intruder, shall not be considered as a demitting of our office, but that we
shall be at liberty to serve the congregation at all times, when need shall require,
give the members thereof testimonials, and exercise every part of our ofiice as
elders." Mr Craig was ordained minister of Cambusnethan on the 20th April
1737, but found it impracticable to reconcile the people to his settlement among
them, and after a year's residence there, removed to Glasgow, having obtained a
presentation to the Middle Church in that city.
In June 1737, a praying society in Calderwater, which had existed since the
days of Renwick, the last martyr for the Solemn League and Covenant, presented
a petition to the Associate Presbytery, to be taken under their inspection. This
petition was accompanied by a paper of adherence, signed by most of the male
population of Cambusnethan parish, of which Calderwater is a part. The Rev.
Messrs Ralph and Ebenezer Erskine observed a fast by appointment of Presbytery
at Cambusnethan, and dispensed religious ordinances to the Seceders assembled
there. " We had a very great auditory," says Ralph Erskine, referring to the occa-
sion in his diary. " I had the forenoon, and after reading the causes of the fast,
prefacing, and praying, I preached on Jer. xiii. 16. Afterwards baptized about 26
children. We were very kindly entertained by the people in that place, and they
46 2 The United Presbyterian CImrch.
seem to be refreshed with the fast day's work, the Lord helping in some measure
therein. We kept a session the next day with the elders." Of the 26 children
baptized on this occasion, 16 were from the parish of Carluke. A number of
persons resident there had withdrawn from the ministry of the Rev. Andrew Orr,
who had been violently intruded into the parish in 1732, and had made himself still
more obnoxious to many of his people by persisting in reading " The Porteous Act"
from the pulpit.
The congregation thus formed worshipped in the open air for more than three
years, during which time they were occasionally visited by some of the Secession
ministers, as well as supplied with preachers as the Presbytery were able to furnish
them, which upon an average was once a month. The Rev. Ralph Erskine thus
refers to one of these visits in his diary: "Friday, 14th September 1739, we went
to the parish of Cambusnethan, and next day to a place therein called Davies
Dykes, where we staid all Saturday night and Sabbath night. Sabbath, September
1 6th, we preached in Cambusnethan parish. My text was ' Unto you is the word
of this salvation sent.' The auditory was considerably numerous from a great
many places. I was helped and strengthened." In less than 30 years after its
commencement, the congregation was made up of persons collected from 22
parishes. They obtained a piece of waste ground from Mr Keddar, one of the
seceding elders, on the farm of Davies Dykes, sometimes called " Danes " Dykes,
the place referred to by Mr Erskine, and by which name the congregation was long
known in the locality. On this site they built a place of worship, of which they
took possession in 1740; rebuilt 1780. In 1S18 they built a new place of
worship in the village of Bonkle, costing ;^8oo, sittings 560, as more central for a
great proportion of the members, and more favourable for the growth of the con-
gregation.
\st Minister. — David Horne, from Milnathort (First). Called to Kilkenny, in
Ireland, and Cambusnethan, in Scotland. Ordained 29th September 1 742. Adhered
with the majority of his congregation to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at the
Breach, 1747. Resigned on account of declining health, 12th July 1768. Mr Horne
sought to retain his seat in the Church Courts, notwithstanding his resignation, but
the Synod refused to recognise his claim on the ground that it would destroy Pres-
byterian parity of ministers and elders. He removed to the estate of Thomanean,
in Kinross-shire, of which he had become proprietor by marriage, and lived in
retirement there, occasionally preaching for his brethren in the neighbourhood.
Author of a sermon entided " The Great Wickedness and Sin of Uncleanness ; "
and the answers explanatory of the fourth commandment in " Fisher's " or the
Synod's catechism.
The congregation called — (i) The Rev. Mr Moir, who was continued by the
Synod at Cumbernauld; (2) Mr Ballantyne, who was appointed to Dundee; (3) Mr
Henderson, who was appointed to Glasgow ; (4) Mr Richardson, who was ap-
pointed to Greenock.
2d Minister. — William Scott, from Selkirk (First). Ordained 21st June 1775.
Resigned 4th March 181 1. Removed to a property belonging to him in the parish
of Carluke, and died 28th July 182 1, in the 77th year of his age. A volume of his
sermons was published after his death.
The congregation called Mr Tindal, who was appointed to Rathillet ; and Mr
M'Lean, who was appointed to Coupar-Angus.
yi Minister. — Andrew Scott, from Lanark (First). Called to Lilliesleaf,
Presbytery of Lanark — Ehridgehill — Biggar. 463
Auchtermuchty, and Cambusnethan. Ordained 9th June 1816. Called in 1817 to
Girvan, but continued in Cambusnethan. Died 12th July 1870, in the 79th year of
his age, and 55th of his ministry. Author of " The Melchizedek of the Scriptures,"
with a supplement, afterwards published.
Afth Minister. — James Henderson Scott, son of the foregoing. Called to
Auchtermuchty and Bonkle. Ordained as colleague to his father, 9th November
1859.
ELSRIDGEHILL (Now Extinct.)
Elsridgehill or Elsrig-hill, vulgarly pronounced " Elsricle," is a village in the
parish of Walston, upper ward of Lanarkshire, 4 miles north of Biggar and 7 south-
west of Linton.
In 1753, the patron presented Mr John Thomson to the church and parish of
Walston, then vacant. The settlement of this nominee was perhaps the most
unpopular that ever took place in the Established Church. During his incum-
bency, the congregation was dispersed, the church literally deserted, and the Lord's
Supper not dispensed for many years. The people had all become Seceders under
the inspection of the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. They differed in
opinion at the outset on the question, whether the seat of the congregation should
be in Biggar or Elsridgehill, and the Rev. Adam Gib of Edinburgh, to whom the
question was referred, advised them to select Elsridgehill, as the scene where the
intrusion had taken place. There accordingly a humble church was reared, thatched
with heather, which still stands to tell Dissenters that some exercise of judgment is
necessary in the location of their places of worship. For even now there are only
493 souls in the whole parish, inhabiting 10 1 houses, and only 196 of the inhabi-
tants are resident in the village.
\st and only Minister. — John Anderson. Ordained 28th May 1760, Con-
tinued to minister till his death in August 1790, in the 31st year of his ministry.
Author of a volume entitled "Essays on various subjects relative to the Present
State of Religion," 1782. Supply of sermon was continued to Elsridgehill till 1815,
when it was discontinued from want of encouragement, and the congregation be-
came extinct.
BIGGAR.
Biggar is a town in the upper ward of Lanarkshire, r i miles south-west of West
Linton, and 28 south-west of Edinburgh.
MOAT PARK.
The parish of Biggar is bounded on the north and east by the parishes of
Covington and Skirhng, The ministers of these parishes in 1737 gave great offence
to many of their people by persisting in reading " The Porteous Act" from the
pulpit. Several of their parishioners withdrew from their ministry in consequence,
and acceded to the Associate Presbytery.
The parish of Symington adjoins that of Biggar on the south-west. The Rev.
Mr Wilson of Symington was one of a riding committee of Assembly, who ordained
Mr Findlater at West Linton, in consequence of which intrusion, the Secession con-
gregation there originated. His conduct on that occasion gave great offence to a
464 The United Pj^esbyterian CJmrch.
number of his parishioners, several of whom never again attended his ministry. He
died suddenly some time after at West Linton, on his way home from the General
Assembly, which occasioned the bitter remark, that " he had laid down his life
where he had laid down his honour."
In March 1739, a petition signed by three elders and twenty-three private
Christians in the parish of Symington was presented to the Associate Presbytery,
craving to be taken under their inspection, which was granted. The Rev. Messrs
Erskine of Dunfermline, and Thomson of Burntisland, observed a fast by appoint-
ment of the Presbytery with these persons and the Seceders in Covington and
Skirling, at Symington, on 13th of September 1739, and sermon was afforded them
occasionally, till 1740, when Mr Mair's ordination at Linton was considered as
superseding the necessity of further supply. It was therefore discontinued, and the
Seceders in these places included in the congregation of West Linton. The Breach
in 1747 divided them. Those who adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod
continued to attend public ordinances at West Linton till 1756, when they ap-
plied to the Presbytery of Edinburgh to be disjoined and formed into a separate
congregation at Biggar, which was granted. They worshipped in the open air
till 1760, when they took possession of a place of worship they had erected, con-
taining 450 sittings. A new church, called Moat Park Church, was built in 1866,
and cost, including vestries, bell, etc, ^3000 ; sittings, 460.
\st Minister. — John Low, from Kinross (First). Called to St Andrews and
Biggar. Ordained 30th September 1761. Called to Stirling, 1762, but continued
in Biggar. Died ist November 1804, in the 69th year of his age and 44th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — John Brown, D.D., from Longridge, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 6th February 1806. Called in 1817 to North Leith, but con-
tinued in Biggar till 4th June 1822, when he was translated to Rose Street, Edinburgh.
T^d Minister. — David Smith, D.D., from Coupar-Angus (Second). Ordained
19th August 1823. Called in 1829 to Wells Street, London, but continued in Biggar.
Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the College of Dartmouth, New
York, July 1850. Died 24th December 1867, in the 75th year of his age and 45th
of his ministry. A volume of sermons and letters, with a memoir by Rev. David
Cairns of Stitchel, was published after his death.
Author of "A Memoir of the Life of the Rev. John Brown of Whitburn," prefixed to his col-
lecteil Letters on Sanctification ; "The Devotional Psalter, or Sacred Meditations for every Day of
the Year upon the Psahns of David ;" " The Sacramental Manual ;" "The Chamber of Affliction,
or Scriptural and Practical Considerations, Directions, and Consolations for the Sick and Afflicted ;"
"A Token of Remembrance for the Young: Sermons to Children ;" "Address to a Parent on
Applying for Baptism to his Child ;" "Address to an Applicant for Admission to the Table of the
Lord for the P'irst Time;" "Memoir of Rev. W. Fleming of West Calder ;" " Memoir of Rev.
Charles C. Leitch ;" " Golden Sayings of Jesus ;" " Prosperity and Peace in the Latter Days : A
Sermon ;" and numerous papers in llie United Presbyterian Mat^azine, The Christian Journal, and
The Christian Cabittet ; and Editor of Dr Brown's Exposition of the Epistle to the Hebrews, 2 vols.
The congregation called Mr J. H. Scott, who preferred Sanquhar.
Afth Minister. — Alexander Miles, from Leith (Junction Road Church). Or-
dained 7th October 1868.
SOUTH CHURCH.
In 1779 the patron presented Mr Pearson to the Church and parish of Biggar,
then vacant. The presentee was very obnoxious to a great proportion of the
parishioners, who, rather than submit to his ministry, preferred to leave the Estab-
Presbytery of La7iark — Whitburn. 465
lished Church, and connect themselves with^ the Dissenters. They applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh the same
year. Notwithstanding the most strenuous and untiring opposition made against
them, they succeeded in obtaining a site, and rearing on it a place of worship con-
taining 700 sittings, of which they took possession in 1781.
\st Minister. — James Cross, from Dovehill, now Cathedral Street, GlasgOAv.
Ordained 1781. Translated to Alnwick 1782.
2d Minister. — John Reston, from Dovehill, Glasgow. Ordained 1783. Trans-
lated to Edinburgh (Carrubber's Close) 1793. Afterwards of Glasgow (Greenhead).
3// Minister. — Robert Paterson, previously of Largo. Admitted 1794. Died
loth August 1802, in the 6ist year of his age and 32d of his ministry.
4//^ Minister. — Hugh M'Farlane, from Denny. Ordained 23d March 1803.
Suspended 2d July 1806.
5/// Minister. — Andrew Fyfe, from King Street, Kilmarnock. Ordained 23d
July 1807. Translated to Dumfries 9th May 1808.
dth Minister. — Daniel M'Naught, from Southend, previously of Riccarton,
now King Street, Kilmarnock. Admitted 29th November 1808. Moderator of
Relief Synod, 1815. Died ist May 1819, in the 26th year of his ministry.
7M Minister. — Hugh Gibson, from Irvine, Relief. Ordained i6th May 1820.
Resigned 3d January 1836. Emigrated to America and became minister of a con-
gregation in Oates, State of New York.
^th Minister. — ^James Caldwell, from Beith (Head Street). Ordained 17th
January 1837. Translated to Greenock 9th June 1846.
()th Minister. — James Dunlop, A.M., from Irvine (Relief). Ordained 14th
April 1847. Translated to Motherwell loth July 1866.
10th Minister. — David M. Connor, M.A., LL.B., from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Called to Innerleithen and Biggar. Ordained 26th June 1867.
WHITBURN (Now Extinct).
Whitburn is a village in the parish of the same name, Linlithgowshire, 4
miles south-west of Bathgate, 21 west-south-west of Edinburgh, and 23 east of
Glasgow.
About the year 1766 a number of persons in Whitburn who had contributed to
the rebuilding of the parish church, were refused a vote in the election of a minister.
Shortly after, Mr Wardrop of Cult made offer of a site for a place of worship to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Seceders residing in and about Whitburn, who till
then travelled to Craigmailen, a distance of 12 miles, to attend public ordinances.
This offer was readily accepted, and the persons making it available, were, under
sanction of the Presbytery, soon after formed into a separate congregation.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Wilson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Lauder.
1st Minister. — Archibald Bruce, from Dennyloanhead. Ordained 24th August
1768. Appointed professor of theology by the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Synod, 1787. Withdrew with the majority of his congregation from the Synod
vdth which he had been connected, 2d September 1806, and along with Mr M'Crie
and others, formed the " Constitutional Presbytery," afterwards the Synod of
Original Seceders. Died i8th February 1816, in the 70th year of his age, and 48th
of his ministry.
2 G
466 The United Presbyterian ClntrcJi.
Author of "The Kirkiad, or Golden Age of the Church of ScotLmd," Canto I., 1774; " Free
Thoughts on the Toleration of Popery, Deduced from a Review of its Principles and History, with
respect to Liberty and the interests of Princes and Nations, etc., by Calvinus Minor, Scoto-Bri-
tannus," 1780 ; ' ' True Patriotism, or a Public Spirit for God and Religion Recommended, and the
want of it Reprehended," a sermon preached before the General Associate Synod on a day appointed
for Humiliation, 1785 ; "Annus Secularis, or the British Jubilee ; or a Review of the Act of the
General Assembly appointing the 5th of November 1 788 as an Anniversary Thanksgiving in Com-
memoration of the Revolution in 16S8, etc., by Calvianus Presbyter," 1788; "Overture to the
Synod concerning the Sacramental Fast," 1790 ; "The Catechism Modernised and Adapted to the
Meridian of Patronage and late improvements in the Church of Scotland, with suitable Creeds and
Prayers," 1791 ; "Strictures on the mode of Swearing by Kissing the Gospels ;" "A Serious View
of the Remarkable Providences of the Times, with a Warning to British Protestants," 1795 ; "Re-
flections on the Freedom of Writing, and the Impropriety of Attempting to Suppress it by Penal
Laws," 1797; "A Penitential Epistle and Plumble Supplication to his Holiness the Pope, in the
name of the people of Great Britain, for a perfect Reconciliation and Perpetual Alliance with Rome,"
1797 ; "Queries on the Solemn Commemoration of the Revolution in 1788," 1797 ; " A Peaceable
Declaration of some Presbyterians anent the French War," 1797 ; Translator from the French of
" Discourses on True and False Religion, with a Vindication of the Protestant Religion and Refor-
mation," by Benedic Pictet of Geneva, with notice of the Author, 1797; "Principal Differences
between the Religious Principles of those called the Anti-Government Party, and of other Presby-
terians, especially those of the Secession in Scotland, on the head of Magistracy," 1797 ; "Intro-
ductory and Occasional Lectures for Forming the Minds of Young Men intending the Holy Ministry
to Theological and Useful Learning, Religion, and Good Manners, delivered in the Theological
Academy at Whitburn," Part I., 1797; " Historico-politico-Ecclesiastical Dissertation on the
Supremacy of Civil Powers in Matters of Religion, etc," 1798; editor of " Memoirs of the Public
Life of Mr James Hog of Carnock, and for some years posterior to the Revolution," 1798 ; "A
Brief Statement and Declaration of the Genuine Principles of Seceders respecting Civil Government,
Duty of Subjects, and National Reformation, with a Vindication of their Conduct in reference to the
Societies for Political Reform and the French Revolution "; "A Review of the Proceedings of the
General Associate Synod, and of some Presbyteries, in reference to the Ministers who Protested
against the Imposition of a New Testimony, etc," 1808 ; " Poems, Serious and Amusing, by a Rural
Divine," 1812 ; two sermons on "The Inefficacy of Danger or Dehverances to Reclaim" (Amos iv.
2) : and "Corruptions in the Church to be Eradicated" (Matt. xv. 13), the latter preached at the open-
ing of the General Associate Synod, 1778, of which he was moderator, 1812 ; "Life of Alexander
Morus, Professor of Theology in Geneva and Holland," with a selection of his sermons, translated
from the French, 1813 ; "Nine Discourses on Various Practical Subjects," 1815 ; a volume
entitled "An Historical Account of the most Remarkable Earthquakes and Volcanic Eruptions,
from the beginning of the World to the Present Time," printed in his lifetime, and pulJished in 1820 ;
and " Introductory and Occasional Lectures," etc.. Part II., edited by Dr M'Crie, 1818.
Several of the above works were printed at Whitburn, Mr Bruce having brought
a printer thither, and exclusively employed him in printing his own literary produc-
tions for many years.
The congregation of Whitburn is now in connection with the Free Church.
LANARK.
Lanark is the county town of Lanarkshire, 31 miles south-west of Edinburgh,
25 south-east of Glasgow, and 35 south-east of Stirling.
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
The church and parish of Lanark being vacant in 1748, the patronage was
claimed by Lockhart of Lee, by Lockhart of Carnwath, by the Corporation of the
burgh, and by the Crown. Lockhart of Lee presented Mr Robert Dick, probationer,
the Crown and Corporation united in presenting the Rev. James Gray, minister of
Rothes, in Morayshire, to the vacant charge, while Lockhart of Carnwath abstained
from acting, foreseeing that his doing so would involve him in litigation. The
right of patronage was decided by an action at law; but the General Assembly,
1750, on its own responsibility, ordered the Presbytery to proceed with Mr Dick's
settlement as minister of Lanark. This was deciding against the Corporation, sup-
Presbytery of Lanark — Lanark (First). 467
ported by the Crown, and in favour of Lockhart of Lee, who was then unpopular in
the town. In endeavouring to give effect to the Assembly's injunction, the Presby-
tery met with great opposition, both from the townspeople and magistrates. So
strong was the ferment raised, that the Presbytery, after several unsuccessful
attempts to settle Mr Dick, found themselves compelled to desist, and referred the
whole matter to the Synod of Glasgow and Ayr to determine what was to be done
in the case. The Synod agreed that the Presbytery should not go again to Lanark,
but ordain Mr Dick as minister of that parish at Glasgow, which was accordingly
done in the Tron Church of that city, on the 3d October 1750. On the 17th of
June following, Messrs Robert Bell and Christopher Bannatyne, bailies of Lanark,
three women, and seven men, inhabitants of that town and parish, were
indicted before the High Court of Justiciary, at the instance of John Lockhart of
Lee, and John Allan Lockhart, younger of Cleghorn, elder, with concurrence of
His Majesty's advocate, of being guilty, art or part, of a variety of mobs and
tumults, in order to hinder the settlement of Mr Robert Dick as minister of that
parish. The jury returned their verdict, finding the libel against the two bailies
and three of the seven men not proven, but proven against the three women,
and other three of the men. The Lords then assoilzied and dismissed the
two bailies, and John Hastie, James Lyon, and William Corr. The women were
sentenced to be imprisoned in the House of Correction from the 15th July
to the nth November, and the three men to be banished out of Scotland for three
years.
Soon after Mr Dick's settlement, the magistrates of Lanark, joined by a number
of the people of that parish, presented a petition to the Associate (Burgher) Presby-
tery of Glasgow, to be taken under their inspection. To this, Mr Home of Cam-
busnethan, persuaded the Presbytery to refuse their consent, on the ground that
they were not a witnessing people protesting against the intrusion of ministers into
vacant parishes, for their objection lay not against patronage itself, but only against
Lockhart of Lee's right of exercising it, while the magistrates were prepared, had
they been allowed, to exercise it themselves. Whether their petition ought to have
been refused on that account, seeing they were supported by the people in what
they did, and were probably deferring to them in the doing of it, is a question
about which there will probably be a difference of opinion, even now, among the,
adherents of the Church. Right or wrong, the decision of the Presbytery hindered
the formation of a Secession congregation in Lanark at that time. Nevertheless, a
number of the petitioners joined the Seceders, and became part of the congregation
of Cambusnethan, notwithstanding that their doing so required them to travel
eight to twelve miles to attend public ordinances. With that congregation they
or their representatives remained connected till 1785, when, along with other
persons resident in and about Lanark, they applied for and obtained supply of
sermon as a separate congregation. Church built, 1791 ; sittings, 690.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called (i) Mr Wilson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Cumnock ; (2) Mr Smart, who was appointed to Stirling ;
(3) Mr Kidston, who was appointed to Kennoway.
\st Minister. — Alexander Harper, from West Linton. Ordained 2 2d Sep-
tember 1790, Resigned loth September 1829. Removed to Edinburgh, and
lived in retirement till his death, which took place ist September 1832, in the 67th'
year of his age, and 42d of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Andrew Young, previously of Lochmaben. Admitted 20th
46 S TJic United Presbyterian Church.
April 1S30. Resigned nth June 1S41. Removed afterwards to Linlithgow, and
died 19th August 1842.
After Mr Young's resignation, the congregation continued to receive supply of
sermon as a mission station till September 1844, when the Presbytery agreed, " after
a full consideration of all the circumstances of the case, it would not be expedient
at present to ask further supply at the termination of the preachers' appointments."
The long pending Union between the Secession and Relief Churches was then
approaching its consummation, and when effected there would be two congregations
of the denomination in the town, and no need for a third.
The congregation became extinct in 1846.
BROOMGATE.
This congregation is understood to have originated in the " Moderatism " which
at that time pervaded the pulpits of Lanark and its vicinity. Certain persons
wishing to escape from under this system, sought the counsel of the Rev. Mr
Carrick of Hamilton, who, after advising them, laid their case before the Relief
Presbytery of Glasgow, on the 14th of April 1795. As the result of his representa-
tions, he was himself appointed to preach at Lanark on the fourth Sabbath of that
month. So successful was the cause thus begun, that they were regularly organised
as a congregation on the 29th of June 1795. But difficulties only then began to
appear, for after making choice successively of different sites on which to build a
place of worship, the influence of the Church party prevented their obtaining a site.
Indeed, but for the generous conduct of William Prentice, Esq., of Castle Park,
in feuing a portion of his own land for their accommodation, their project must
have been defeated. There were no persons of much wordly substance among
them, and the want of funds, as well as the difficulty of procuring a site, operated
seriously against them, till Mr James Martin, farmer, Overmains, Cartlane, father
of the Rev. Mr Martin of Beith, became security, along with a few others, for
the expense incurred in building. These difficulties being overcome, they pro-
ceeded to the erection of a place of worship in Broomgate, at a cost of ^1200,
of which they took possession in 1796 3 sittings, 960. A sum of ^1000 was sub-
scribed in 1872, for the erection of a new church.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Dobbie, who pre-
ferred Mainsriddell, and Mr Laing, who preferred Wamphray.
\st Minister. — John M'Farlane, from Canal Street, Paisley. Ordained 30th
April 1800. Died 4th June 1835, in the 66th year of his age, and 36th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. —John W. Borland, from Hutchesontown, Glasgow. Ordained
17th June 1836. Translated to Glasgow 3d September 1844.
3^/ Minister. — Peter M'Farlane, B.A., from Paisley (Thread Street). Or-
dained 17th July 1845. Demitted his charge 4th November 1856, in consequence
of indisposition. Inducted at Rothesay, as colleague to the Rev. S. M'Nab,
2d November 1858.
In September 1857, a call was given to Mr M. Crawford, but declined.
£^th Minister. — John M'Luckie, from Campsie. Ordained 4th August 1S5S.
Translated to Uddingstone 4th January 1865.
z^th Minister. — Daniel M'Lean, M.A., formerly of Jamaica Mission. Inducted
25th July 1865.
Presbytery of Lanark — Hope Street — West Caldcr. 469
HOPE STREET. .
A large minority of the congregation of Broomgate, Lanark, preferring another
candidate to the one chosen by the majority as successor to Mr John Macfarlane,
apphed to the ReHef Presbytery of Hamilton to be disjoined and formed into a
separate congregation, which was granted, 1836. They built a place of worship
the same year at a cost of about ^1000 ; sittings, 800.
xst Minister. — George Johnston, from Dovehill (now Cathedral Street), Glas-
gow. Ordained 3d October 1836.
WEST CALDER.
West Calder is a village in the parish of the same name, Mid-Lothian, 4 miles
south-west of Mid-Calder, 10 north-east of Carnwath, and 16 south-west of Edin-
burgh.
This congregation originated in the setdement of an unacceptable minister in
the parish, 1794, and by disjunctions from the Secession congregations of Long-
ridge and East Calder, Church built, 1795 \ sittings, 470; cost, ^500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Lothian
of Port-Glasgow, who preferred Portsburgh, Edinburgh.
\st Minister — William Fleming, A.M., from Edinburgh (Rose Street). Or-
dained 29th March 1798. Died i8th December 1845, in the 69Lh year of his age,
and 48th of his ministry. A volume of his sermons was published after his death,
to which was prefixed a memoir by his sons.
2d Minister. — Robert M'Laurin, from Coldingham, of which his father was
minister. Called to Methven and West Calder. Ordained 6th August 1846.
Resigned 19th November 1850. Joined the Established Church, and became
minister of a congregation at Sandsting, Shetland. Now engaged in secular em-
ployment near Selkirk.
The congregation called Mr Johnston, afterwards of West Linton, but the call
was not sustained in consequence of the divided state of the congregation.
3^ Minister. — John Thompson, A.M., from Duntocher. Called to Bankhill
(Berwick), and West Calder. Ordained 27th April 1852. Translated to St Paul's,
Birkenhead, 28th August 1858.
Afth Minister. — Peter C. Duncanson, from Inverkeithing. Called to Paisley
(St James' Street), Alva, Thornhill, Dunfermline (Chalmers Street), and West Calder.
Ordained 22d June 1859. Translated to Hamilton (Auchingramont), nth October
1864.
In March 1865 the congregation called the Rev. John Thompson, M.A.,
Birkenhead, their former minister, who declined the call.
5//^ Minister. — David Sidey, formerly of Auchtermuchty. Admitted 27th
December 1865. Resigned on account of his health, 3d October 1871, having
accepted a call to Napier, Ncav Zealand. Author of " Public Opinion in relation
to Religion."
dth Minister. — James Eraser, from Pollokshaws. Called to London (Oxendon)
and West Calder. Ordained 19th February 1872.
470 The United Presbyterian Church.
BRAEHEAD.
Braehead is a village in the parish of Carnwath and upper ward of Lanarkshire,
9 miles south of Longridge, 6| north-east of Lanark, and ii north-west of Biggar.
The members of the congregation of Biggar resident in and about Carnwath
were formed, under sanction of the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh,
into a separate congregation in 1796, with its seat in Carnwath. The members
residing in the north were desirous of having the seat of the congregation nearer
them, and with this view applied to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery to afford
them supply of sermon at Braehead, 4 miles distant from Carnwath, which was
granted, 1797. The station at Carnwath was then abandoned, and the persons
previously assemblmg there attended at Braehead, till they also became a separate
congregation. A place of worship containing 500 sittings was raised at Braehead,
chiefly through the exertions of the late W. Sommerville, Esq. of Cobenhill, in
1798 ; rebuilt 1846,
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Blackwood, who
was appointed by the Synod to Galston ; and Mr W. Smart, who was appointed to
Paisley.
\st Miin'ster. — William Horne, from Falkirk (East). Ordained 21st September
1S02. The members of Braehead resident in and about Carnwath became a sepa-
rate congregation in 1832, with Mr Horne as their minister.
2d Minister. — John M'Lellan, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh. Ordained
27th August 1833. Resigned 8th November 1845. Emigrated to America, and
became minister of a congregation in Detroit, Canada West.
The congregation called Mr Robert Anderson, afterwards of Kilsyth, the first
Relief preacher called by a Secession congregation.
■^^d Minister. — Alexander Banks, A.M., from Saltcoats. Ordained 1 8th January
1848.
ROBERTON.
Roberton is a village in the upper ward of Lanarkshire, 9 miles south-west of
Biggar, 12 south of Lanark, and 4 from the well-known hill of Tinto.
The origin of this congregation must be traced to a point more remote than its
actual formation. Prior to the year 1772, the village in which the place of worship
is built gave name to a distinct parish, and was the seat of the parish church. Upon
the death of the Rev. Mr Nimmo, in 1772, the parish of Roberton was united with
that of Wiston, which adjoins it on the north and east. The church in Wiston then
became common to both parishes, and the one in Roberton was left unoccupied.
This union was strongly opposed by the parishioners of Roberton — partly on account
of the distance it would cause them to travel, partly because of their dislike to the
minister of Wiston, and partly, and perhaps chiefly, because of their cherished attach-
ment to the place where they had been accustomed to worship. These reasons were
strengthened by the refusal of Mr Porteous, who had become minister of the united
parishes, to open the church at Roberton on Sacramental Fast Days, which he had
been strongly urged to do by the people there, who wished to enjoy such occasions
as they had been accustomed to in the old church of their parish. Mr Porteous
was succeeded in the incumbency of the united parishes by a clergyman orthodox
in doctrine and exemplary in conduct, but uninstructive in preaching and hauglity in
demeanour. To him application was also made for supply of sermon at Robcrlon
Presbytery of Lanark — Do7tglas. 4 7 1
on Fast Days, and again the application was answered by a refusal. This refusal,
conjoined with his peculiar mode of preaching, suggested to the people the thought
of building a dissenting place of worship in the village. This idea was first mooted
at the funeral of Mr Harvey, farmer, Kilpotby, father of the late Mr Harvey of
Calton, Glasgow. The proposal was speedily carried into effect. Their first
application was to the Rev. Dr Hall, then of Rose Street, Edinburgh, who com-
plied with the request, and preached at Roberton, when a collection was made
for the purchase of a tent. Other Secession ministers would have followed, but at
the suggestion of some respectable and influential members of the Relief congrega-
tion of Biggar, resident in the district, the persons taking part in the movement were
induced to make application to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of
semion, which was granted in September 1799, and continued afterwards to be
regularly supplied. Church built, 1801 ; sittings, 394. A new church was built in
1872; cost;^70o; sittings, 225.
\st Minister. — George Campbell, from Sir Michael Street, Greenock. Called
to Riccarton (now King Street, Kilmarnock), and Roberton. Ordained 12th May
1802. Mr Campbell had a call from Newlands, and another from a congregation
in America, both of which he declined. Died i6th November 1847, in the 78th
year of his age and 46th of his ministry,
2d Minister. — Robert D. Scott, from Sir Michael Street, Greenock. Ordained
as colleague to Mr Campbell, 15th April 1845.
DOUGLAS.
Douglas is a village in the parish of the same name, upper ward of Lanarkshire,
II miles south of Lanark, 17 south-west of Biggar, and 17 north of Sanquhar.
Douglas is in the mountainous parts of the county of Lanark. The whole dis-
trict, except towards the north, is uncultivated and sparsely peopled. It is chiefly
portioned out in store farms, many of them four miles in length. A praying society
in the parish of Douglas acceded to the Associate Presbytery in July 1 741, and
became part of "The Correspondence of Lesmahago," then formed. The members
composing it were subsequently included in the congregation of Cambusnethan, the
seat of which is 18 miles from the village of Douglas. Thirty-six years after the
accession of that society there were only seven Seceders in the whole parish of
Douglas, all of them belonging to the General Associate (Antiburgher) congregation
of Hamilton, the seat of which is twenty miles distant. Mr Punton, the minister of
that congregation, preached twice or three times a year to this litde band, as cir-
cumstances permitted ; but in process of time the cause became extinct. Sixty or
seventy years ago there was only one solitary Seceder in the parish of Douglas, who
had previously belonged to Shutde Street, now Greyfriars, Glasgow. But distance
from Secession Churches made him remiss in his attendance upon them, and the
parish minister changed his remissness into desertion by making him an elder of the
Established Church. So Douglas became what was even then a very rare, if not
wholly a special case, — a Lowland parish without a Seceder. The doctrines
preached at that time were not evangeHcal, and in consequence the Rev. John
Brown, then of Biggar, afterwards of Edinburgh, was induced to visit the parish,
and seek an opportunity of preaching in it. The Mason Hall was granted him ;
and there, on the 9th of July 1815, he proclaimed the doctrines propounded in the
standards of the Secession Church. In the forenoon the audience was small ; in
472 The United Presbyterian Church.
the afternoon larger ; and in the evening the house was crowded. The Rev. Mr
Fleming of West Calder preached by appointment of the Presbytery on the second
Sabbath of October following, and was listened to by an attentive audience con-
vened in the burying-ground. In January 1816, a few persons resident in Douglas
applied to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Lanark for supply of sermon once
in three weeks, which was granted. In March 18 17 the supply was increased to
once a fortnight ; and in November of that year the persons taking interest in the
movement were formed into a regularly organized congregation. Church built,
181 7 ; sittings, 360.
\st Afinister. — John Jamieson, from Mauchline. Ordained 22d August 1820.
Mr Jamieson was the last probationer ordained by the Associate (Burgher) Synod,
the Union between the two great branches of the Secession, which was then pend-
ing, being consummated on the 8th September 1820. Demitted his charge 3d
November 1863. Now living in Berwick.
2d Minister — James Ronald, from Glasgow (Cambridge Street), Ordained 3d
January 1865. Translated to Annan, 5th December 187 1.
The congregation called Mr John Elder and Mr James Drummond, both of
whom declined the calls.
2yd Minister. — Alexander Crighton Alexander, from Lochee. Ordained,
December 1872,
CROSSFORD.
The place of worship of Crossford is situated in the hamlet of that name,
in the parish of Lesmahago, upper ward of Lanarkshire, 5 miles south-west of
Lanark, and 9 south-east of Hamilton.
The members of the Secession congregation of Lanark, resident in the remoter
parts of Lesmahago parish, were formed into a separate congregation, under
sanction of the Presbytery, in 1830, chiefly on account of distance from the place
of worship they had been accustomed to attend. Church built, 1830 ; sittings, 350 ;
cost £zs°-
1st Minister. — George Arnot, from Inverkeithing. Ordained 6th August
1833. Loosed from his charge 17th June 1840.
2d Minister. — Sloane S. Christie, from Belfast. Called to Letham and
Crossford. Ordained 5th May 1841. Died 7th May 1842, in the 2d year of his
ministry.
T,d Minister. — Alexander D. Kininmont, from Broughton Place, Edinburgh.
Called to Broughty Ferry and Crossford. Ordained ist November 1843. Trans-
lated to Kirkgate, Leith, 24th July 1849.
4//^ Minister. — John Weir, from Cumnock. Ordained 24th April 1850.
CARNWATH.
Carnwath is a village in the parish of the same name in the upper ward of
Lanarkshire, 6 miles north-east of I^anark and 7 north-west of Biggar.
The history of this congregation has been already given under that of Braehead,
of which it formed a part till 1832, when, under sanction of the Presbytery, 50
members were disjoined and formed into a separate congregation along with their
minister. Church built same year ; sittings, 300.
\st Minister. — William Horne, previously of Braehead. Removed to Cam-
Presbytery of Lanark — Carhcke — Lesjnahago. 473
wath 1 6th October 1832. Resigned 2d April 1833. Went to America and
became minister to a body of emigrants from Scotland. Settled in Caledonia,
Moorfield, Switzerland County, State of Indiana, and died there 17th December
1848, in the 47th year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Inglis, who was appointed by the Synod to
Hamilton.
2d Minister. — James Barrie, from Perth (South). Ordained 2d September
1835. Died ist February 1864, in the 63d year of his age and 29th of his
ministry.
3^ Minister. — John Blair, from Biggar (North). Ordained 6th September
1864.
CARLUKE.
Carluke is a burgh town in the upper ward of Lanarkshire, 5 miles north-west
of Lanark, 4 J south-east of Wishaw, and 18 south-east of Glasgow.
The year 1830, and several subsequent years, was a period of great excitement
in Scotland, produced by the demand for Parliamentary reform, and the separation
of Church and State. The first of these demands was complied with in 1832 ; the
other remained unanswered. The parish minister of Carluke at that time was a
man of high church principles, and as such was unfavourable to both demands.
He was besides considered by the persons moving in this cause as fiivouring the
views put forth by the Rev. Mr Campbell of Row, for which that clergyman
was afterwards suspended from office by the church courts. This combination
of circumstances led, in September 1832, to an application to the Relief Presbytery
of Hamilton, on the part of certain members of the parish church, to be taken
under their inspection as a forming congregation, which was granted. The con-
gregation was organised 9th April 1833. Church built, 1833 ; sittings, 870.
\st Minister.- — ^James 'Jarvie, from Glasgow (Anderston). Ordained 28th
October 1834. Translated to Kelso i8th April 1837.
2d Minister. — Alexander Neilson, from Glasgow (John Street). Called to
Castle-Douglas and Carluke. Ordained nth October 1837. Died 25th August
1869, in the 60th year of his age and 32d of his ministry.
id Minister. — J. R. Houston, formerly of Dysart. Admitted 28th June 1870.
LESMAHAGO.
Lesmahago, more properly Abbeygreen, is a village in the parish of Lesma-
hago, upper ward of Lanarkshire, 6 miles south-west of Lanark, 5 south-east of
Stonehouse, and 23 south-east of Glasgow.
In July 1836, the Rev. VV. M'Lay of Strathaven stated to the Relief Presbytery
of Hamilton, that a promising field for a mission station then presented itself in
Lesmahago, where several members of his congregation resided, by whom en-
couragement would be afforded if a preacher were sent there. A preacher was
accordingly appointed to that place, and regular supply continued afterwards. In
October 1837, the persons taking interest in the movement were organised as a
congregation, and of the 70 members then composing it, 12 had been previously
connected with the Relief Church, the remainder belonging to other denomina-
tions, chiefly to the Established Church. In 1838 they took possession of a place
of worship which they had built, containing 724 sittings.
474 ^^^^ United Presbyterian Chnrch.
\st Minister. — Alexander Lindsay, from Tollcross. Ordained 2 2d May 1838.
Resigned, 1845. Joined the Free Church. Author of " The Drinking Customs :
a Lecture 3" and " Espoused to Christ," edited by Dr A. M'Leod.
id Minister. — Robert Cordiner, from Southend. Ordained i6th March 1847.
PRESBYTERY OF LANCASHIRE.
The Presbytery of Lancashire was formed in 1S31 by the Associate Synod dis-
joining, at their own rec^uest, congregations from the Presbyteries of London and
CarHsle, to which they previously belonged, and constituting them a separate
Presbytery.
LIVERPOOL.
Liverpool is the great seaport of the west coast of England, 37 miles west of
Manchester, and 38 south of Preston.
MOUNT PLEASANT.
This congregation originated in 1807 with fifteen Scotsmen who had been in
connection with the Secession Church before taking up their residence in Liverpool.
These persons constituted the whole congregation at the first minister's setdement.
They met in a temporary place in Marble Street. Their first place of worship was
built in Gloucester Street, 1808, from which they removed in 1827 to one which they
had erected for themselves in Mount Pleasant, containing 1200 sittings, at a cost of
^6500.
\st Minister. — John Stewart, D.D., previously of Pitcairn, Perthshire. Ad-
mitted 25th April 1809. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Marischal
College, Aberdeen, 181 2. Died 7th October 1840, in the 7 2d year of his age, and
42d of his ministry. Author of sermons on " Presbyterian Eldership," 1828; on
" The Death of a Young Lady ; " and " The death of the Princess Charlotte."
2d Minister. — Hugh Crichton, D.D., previously of Duntocher. Admitted as
colleague to Dr Stewart i8th April 1838. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon
him] by the University of Glasgow, 1842. Died 14th January 187 1, in the 75th
year of his age, and 46th of his ministry.
2,d Minister. — William Graham, from Paisley (Abbey Close). Ordained as
colleague to Dr Crichton, 4th March 1846. Called to Glasgow (Sydney Place), as
colleague to Dr Ker, 1871, but declined the call. Author of lectures on "John
Knox:" "Scottish Covenanters :" "Loyola and Pascal :" and "John Milton ;" and
of Sermon on the " Ter-Centenary of Shakspeare." Moderator of English Synod
in 1872.
RUSSELL STREET CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with certain members of Mount Pleasant congrega-
tion, who disapproved of the use of any compositions in the i)salmody of the
church, except the Psalms of David, and on that account separated from Mount
Presbytery of Lancashire — Derby Road — Evertori. 475
Pleasant. They rented a chapel in Russell Street, and there obtained supply of
sermon from the United Associate Presbytery of Lancashire, 1831.
ist and only Minister. — Samuel Spence, LL.D., from Dumfries (Loreburn Street).
Called to Chapelknowe and Liverpool. Ordained 3d January 1833. Translated to
Wishart Church, Dundee, 24th October 1838. Author of a sermon entitled, "The
Privilege and Duty of British Dissenters."
After Mr Spence's translation, the congregation called Mr D. Young, who pre-
ferred Kinclaven, Perthshire.
Discouraged by this disappointment and other circumstances, the congregation
in 1840 dispersed.
DERBY ROAD (BOOTLE).
This congregation originated in the rapid extension of Liverpool northwards, and
especially in the increase of the Scotch population in and around Bootle. A
preaching station was opened in the hall behind the Mersey Hotel, on 3d December
1854, and on the 4th March 1855, twenty-three members, most of whom had been
amicably disjoined from the congregation of Mount Pleasant, were formally con-
stituted into a congregation under the inspection of the Presbytery of Lancashire.
A small church, now used as two day school-rooms, but then capable of holding
360 persons, was built, together with library, class-room, vestry, and door-keeper's
house, at a cost of ^£"2300. This church was opened on the 24th July 1856. But
in course of time the congregation having outgrown this building, a large church was
built, capable of holding 950 people, and costing above ^5000. It was opened on
31st March 1862. More recently still, in the year 1869, extensive repairs were
made upon this building. The roof was lowered, a ceiling inserted, and side
galleries erected, at a cost of ;^i9oo ; sittings, 1200. Entire cost of the premises
first and last, about ;^io,ooo.
\st Alinistcr. — William Mackergo Taylor, M.A., D.D., previously of Kil-
maurs. Translated to Liverpool 23d October 1855. Called to Regent Place,
Glasgow, in 1863, and to London, Westbourne Grove, in 1869, both of which calls
he declined. Loosed from his charge 8th January 1872, on accepting a call from
the Broadway Tabernacle, New York. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon
him by Yale College and Amherst College, United States, 1872.
Author of "Life Truths," a volume of sermons, 1862; "The Miracles, Helps to Faith not
Hindrances," 1865 ; also the following separate sermons, " The Lord's Supper, its Nature, Design,
and Right Observance," 1857 : " The Song of Salvation," 1859 : "The Voice of the Sea," a sermon
occasioned by the loss of the " Hungarian," i860 : " The Faithful Saying," preached in Hengler's
Circus, 1858: "Plague, Providence, and Prayer," a sermon on the Cattle Plague, 1866: "The
Heart for God," a New Year's sermon, 1868 : "The Misery of the Masses, ard how to Meet it,"
1870 : "The Christian Serving his Generation," being the annual sermon of the Scottish Temper-
ance League, 1861 ; three sermons called, " Derby Road Tracts," 1864 ; seiTnon " On the Atone-
ment," published in the volume of sermons preached at the opening of the United Presbyterian
Church, Bristol ; and numerous articles in magazines and reviews.
2d Minister. — Robert French, M.A., previously of Dunfermline (Queen Anne
Street). Admitted 15th August 1872. Died 25th October 1S72, in the 30th year
of his age and 3d of his ministry.
QUEEN'S ROAD (EVERTON).
This congregation originated with a few members of Mount Pleasant Church,
on account of the distance of their residences from their place of worship. They
met together and formed a committee, in conjunction with Samuel Stitt, Esq., to
47^ The United Presbyterian Church.
make inquiries as to the propriety of forming a new congregation in the Everton
suburb of Liverpool. The committee went to work with much zeal and diligence,
and in a short time were encouraged to purchase a most eligible piece of land, in a
corner of which they built a lecture-hall or school-room. This hall was opened for
public worship on Sabbath the 12th of May 1861, by the Rev. Dr Crichton. By
and by, the small band of worshippers increased in numbers, and on application,
62 members were formed into a congregation by the Lancashire Presbytery, on the
17th of October 1861. The Rev. W. M. Taylor, M.A., of Derby Road, acted
as moderator of session. The congregation met in the Lecture Hall till the church
was opened on 28th May 1865.
The church, including the Lecture Hall and land, cost about ;;^8ooo. There is
accommodation for 850 sitters. Before obtaining a stated pastor, the congregation,
on 27th February 1862, called the Rev. John Dobie, of Linlithgow, and on 13th
November, the Rev. Thomas M'Ewan, of Potterrow, Edinburgh, both of whom
declined the calls. On nth June 1863 a call was given to Mr Thomas Dobbie,
preacher, which he accepted. He delivered his trial discourses, and the Presbytery
had fixed his ordination for the 6th October ; but, in consequence of indisposition,
he was unable to be ordained, and in December he withdrew his acceptance of the
call. A call was then issued to the present minister on loth March 1S64, which he
accepted.
\st Minister. — Hugh T. Howat, previously of Broughty Ferry. Admitted 2d
June 1864. Called to London (Oxendon Street), 1870; but declined the call.
Author of a volume of discourses, entitled " Sabbath Hours ; " " The Spring Time of Life ; "
" Elijah, the Desert Prophet ; " and some minor publications.
PRINCES ROAD.
This congregation originated with fourteen members of Mount Pleasant Church
who petitioned the Lancashire Presbytery, on 15th November 1864, to be formed
into a new congregation at the south end of Liverpool. It was agreed to sanction a
preaching station in Park Road, and Dr Crichton and Mr Graham were appointed
to preach there on 27th November. A committee of Presbytery was also appointed
to advise with the memorialists in the selection of a site. Mr Howat was appointed
to ordain elders and constitute the session, which was done on 8th January 1865,
and a call to a minister was given on 30th January.
\st Minister. — Alexander Balloch Grosart, F.S.A, Scot., formerly of Kinross.
Inducted 2d May 1865. Translated to Blackburn, 4th March 1868.
2d Minister. — John Davis Bowden, from Edinburgh (Rose Street). Ordained
1 2th October 186S.
BIRKENHEAD.
Birkenhead is a large town of recent origin on the Cheshire side of the river
Mersey, opposite Liverpool.
GRANGE ROAD.
There being no place of worship connected either with the Secession Church or
the Church of Scotland in Birkenhead prior to 1837, notwithstanding there were a
Presbyte7y of Lancashire — St PatiTs. 477
number of families connected with both resident in the place, the Rev, Dr
Stewart, of Mount Pleasant, Liverpool, began in that year to visit Birkenhead
weekly and preach to the Presbyterians there. The attendance on these occasions
was such as to induce the persons assembling to apply to the United Associate
Presbytery of Glasgow to be taken under their inspection and supplied with
preachers. In accordance with this request, Mr Robert Lees, then a probationer
of the Secession Church, but subsequently a medical man, was located in Birken-
head in July 1838. A preaching station in connection with the Church of Scotland
was opened there about the same time, out of which a regularly organised con-
gregation shortly afterwards was gathered, and took possession of a place of
worship they had built for themselves. This almost induced the committee
acting for the Secession interest to close their station 3 but upon further considera-
tion they came to the resolution to persevere.
Mr Lees left Birkenhead in October 1839, and the station was supplied by
different preachers till June 1842, when, on account of the Presbytery withholding
its support, it was abandoned. A meeting of the persons who had previously taken
an interest in the station was convened on the 20th December 1844, when it was
agreed to revive the cause, and, if practicable, get a congregation organised and a
place of worship built. A committee was appointed to take steps towards carrying
these resolutions into effect. A large room, intended for public meetings, was then
in course of erection in Birkenhead, the use of which the committee were desirous
of obtaining before proceeding to erect a place ot worship for themselves ; but
some time necessarily elapsed before the room was ready for occupancy, which
prevented the re-opening of the station till May 1846. On the 10th of that month
the Rev. Dr Crichton, of Liverpool, preached in the forenoon ; his colleague, Rev.
W. Graham, in the afternoon ; and Mr^V. M. White, of Islington Chapel, Liverpool,
in the evening; and in this way the cause started anew. Its adherents were
organised as a congregation on the 21st July 1846, and on 21st April 1848 they
took possession of a church they had erected for themselves, with 600 sittings. A
gallery was added in 1854 ; total sittings, 738.
1st Minister. — James Towers, previously of Wigtown. Admitted 4th October
1847. Moderator of the English Synod in 1869.
Author of " Sermon on the Death of Prince Albert ; " " Sermon to the Working Classes ; " " On
the Marriage Feast ;" " Memoir of John M'Lellan, or The Christian Farmer ; " "The Duty and
Privilege of Delight in God," preached before the Synod, in Birmingham, 1870 ; "The Minister's
Hope," on the death of Rev. Dr Crichton, of Liverpool.
ST PAUL'S.
At a meeting of Lancashire Presbytery, on loth November 1857, there was
presented a memorial from parties in Birkenhead interested in the formation of a
second congregation in that town, and proposing to open the Craven Rooms on the
second Sabbath of December. The petition was granted, and the Craven Rooms
sanctioned as a temporary place of worship. On i6th February 1858 the Presby-
tery declared the parties meeting in Craven Rooms to be the Second United
Presbyterian Church of Birkenhead. There had hitherto been only one congre"-a-
tion in the town, and the accommodation in the church was fully occupied :
hence the origin of this second congregation.
The church was founded 6th September 1859, by Samuel Stitt, Esq. The
ground was purchased from Mr Thomas Brassey, who gave a donation of /Tioo
47^ The Uyiited Presbyterian Church.
towards the building fund- The church was opened in May i860; cost nearly
^4000 ; sittings, 670.
\st Minister. —John Thompson, M.A-, previously of West Calder. Inducted
28th August 1858. Called to West Calder, the congregation of which he was pre-
viously minister, 7th March 1S65 ; but remained in Birkenhead- Translated to
Newcastle (Westmoreland Road), 5th August 1S72.
TRINITY CHURCH (CLAUGHTOX.)
This congregation originated in the rise of a new suburb of Birkenhead, and
the distance of the residents therein from pre\-iously existing churches. At the
Lancashire Presbj'ter}^ which met at Edinburgh on 12th May 1863. Samuel Stitt,
Esq., as commissioner from the new station at Claughton, presented a petition from
twenty members who had been disjoined from Grange Road Church, Birkenhead,
praying that they might be constituted a congregation, and that the four elders who
had been disjoined with them might be constituted the session of the new congrega-
tion. A paper of adherence, signed by nineteen persons, was also produced. The
Presb\-ter)* accordingly recognised the petitioners as the congregation of Trinity
Church, Claughton, and the four elders as the session of said church. On the 17th
November, commissioners appeared before the Presbytery, stating that the stipend
at present oflfered was ;/r4oo, with expenses, and supply of pulpit during one of the
summer months, and craving the Presb}-tery to grant a moderation. The pketition
was granted, and on the 30th November a unanimous call was given to the present
minister.
The church was built in 1866, at a cost of ^9000 : sittings, 800.
\st Minister. — Alexander MacLeod, D.D., formerly of John Street Glasgow,
Admitted 17th March 1863. Received the degree of D.D. from the University of
Glasgow, 9th February 1865. Called to Glasgow (Parliamentary Road) in 187 1,
but declined the call.
Author of " Mountain "Worsliip," a Sermon ; " European Life ; " " Abstinence, a Special Service
for a Special Need ;" a Treatise on " Our Own Lives the Judgment Books ; " " Chrisms Consola-
tor, or the Social Mission of the Pulpit ;" " Talking to the Children j" and Editor of papers by
Rev. A. Lindsay, of Lesmahago.
EGREMOXT.
This church, which is situated at a short distance from Birkenhead, and on
the same side of the Mersey, originated in the desire of many Presbyterians in
the district to have services in connection with one of the E\-angelical Pres-
bj-terian Churches in England. A station was opened, on the first Sabbath of
May 1859, by the Rev. James Towers, Birkenhead, and the Rev. John MTarlane,
LL.D., Glasgow. It was formally erected into a congregation by the Presbj-terv* of
Lancashire on the 19th August 1S59. At first the congregation met in a hall. But
after they obtained a minister, a church was built at a cost of ^4000, and was
opened for public worship on the 9th of July 1S63, by Rev. Dr Robson, Glasgow.
The Rev. Professor Eadie, Glasgow, preached on the Sabbath following. In 1S62
a home mission was established, which is now conducted by the congregation at an
annual cost of upwards of ^400, most of which is raised by the congregation.
Mission premises, costing ^2400, were built in 1869. About 40 members of
Egremont Chiurch are the Suit of this mission.
Before obtaining a settled pastor, the congregation called the Rev, Robert
Presbytery of Lancashire — Manchester — Brunszinck Street. 479
Cameron, Perth, in October 1859, which call he declined. A second call was issued
to him on the 3d May i860, which he accepted.
\st Minister. — Robert Camerox, previously of Perth (North). Admitted to
Egremont, loth July 1S60. Translated to Glasgow (Cambridge Street), 6th August
1864.
2d Minister. — James Muir, previously of Falkirk (Soutii). Inducted on tlie
2ist of November 1865.
MAXCHESTER.
Manchester, the greatest manufacturing town in the kingdom, is a cit)^ in Lanca-
shire, 37 miles east of Liverpool, and 24 south of Blackburn.
BRUNSWICK STREET.
This congregation, formerly called Lloyd Street, originated with a number of
Scotch families resident in the cit}', most of whom had been previously in connec-
tion with the Secession Church. They obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presb}tery of Edinburgh, and a church was built in Lloyd Street in
1798. The present church was opened in Brunswick Street, 5th September 1858,
and cost ^7000 ; sittings, 900.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Rev. James Hall, who
was continued by the Synod in his charge in Rose Street, Edinburgh.
\st Minister. — Robert Jack, D.D., previously of Greenock. Admitted ist
October 1801. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of
Glasgow, 1815. Died nth November 1S37, in the 7Sth year of his age, and 55th
of his ministr}-. Author of "Lectures on Christian Doctrine;" " Socinianism ; "
" E\al Speaking," etc.
2d Minister. — William M'Kerrow, D.D., from Kilmarnock (Wellington Street).
Called to Cumbernauld and Manchester. Ordained 7th September 1827. Had
the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the L'niversity of Heidelberg, 1851. On
the 14th September 1S69, the sum of ;^40o was given to Dr M'Kerrow on his
completing the-42d year of his ministr}-, which sum he devoted to the establishment
of a scholarship in Owen's College, Manchester, for the education of a United
Presbyterian student
Author of " The Crucified," Sermon at the opening of Blackburn Church ; *'' The Advantages of
Solid Reading: a Lecture to Young Men;" "The Law of Death," Sermon on the death of
Rev. H. Angus, Aberdeen; "Evils and Remedies of Intemperance. "
The congregation called Mr Thomas Dobbie, who preferred Stranraer.
3^ Minister. — George F. James, fi-om Glasgow (Erskine Church). Called to
South Shields, Mile-End, and Manchester. Ordained as colleague to Dr M'Kerrow
1 2th September 1867. Translated to Kilmarnock, Portland Road, nth December
1871.
4/// Minister. — William Rigbv Murray, previously of Ardrossan. Admitted
27th June 1872.
COUPLAND STREET.
At a meeting held on 9th July 1849, in the schoolroom of Lloyd Street Chapel,
Manchester, it was resolved, in accordance with advice of the Presbytery of Lanca-
480 The United Presbyterian Church.
shire, to proceed to the formation of a new congregation. Hitherto there had been
only one congregation in the city of Manchester in connection with the Secession
in Scotland, and it was felt that the circumstances were peculiarly favourable to
the adoption of the course recommended by the Presbytery.
On the 5 th of August 1849, the Manor Court Room, Lower King Street, was
opened as a temporary place of meeting for public worship by the Rev. Jam.es
Towers of Birkenhead. The church was formally congregated on loth September
by the Rev. Dr Crichton, Having secured a site in Coupland Street, Greenheys,
the congregation proceeded to the erection of a schoolroom, which was opened for
public worship on 20th April 1851. The corner-stone of the church was laid 24th
April 1852, and on 24th April 1853, the church was opened for public worship.
Total cost of the church premises, above ;!^5ooo ; sittings, 700.
\st Minister. — Robert Selkirk Scott, M.A., D.D., from Clavering Place, New-
casde. Called to Milnathort, Edinburgh (Potterrow), Linlithgow, and Manchester,
Ordained 24th April 1850. He was clerk of Lancashire Presbytery, and of the
English Synod. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of
Edinburgh, 22d April 1868. In May of that year, Dr Scott was chosen by the
Synod to succeed the Rev. H. M. M'Gill in the office of Home Mission Secretary.
Dr Scott having accepted this office, was loosed from his charge in Manchester, and
on 14th July, at a social meeting, his congregation bade him farewell. Author of
*' The Sabbath Made for Man ; " Editor of The Juvenile Missionary Magazine.
2(1 Minister. — Joseph Corbett, previously of Kilcreggan. Inducted 27th May
1869.
PENDLETON.
This congregation was formed chiefly by a few persons who had been members
and adherents of Salford English Presbyterian Church. On 9th February 1869, a
petition, signed by 65 persons, was presented to Lancashire United Presbyterian
Presbytery, asking supply of sermon. At that time they had been meeting for a
few weeks in a hall which they had purchased in EUor Street, Pendleton. At the
meeting of Presbytery in March, the prayer of the petition was granted, and the Rev.
Dr M'Kerrow was appointed to open the station in Ellor Street, on the first Sabbath
of April, receive certificates of membership, and constitute the members into a
congregation. Thirty-six members were formed into a congregation. In June, four
elders were elected and formed into a session, with Dr M'Kerrow as moderator.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. John M'Ncill,
of Middlesborough ; but he preferred a call which he had received at the same time
from Rutherglen. The memorial stone of a church was laid by Samuel Stitt, Esq.,
Liverpool, 21st October 187 1. The building cost ^3000, accommodates about
600 sitters, and was opened on the 25th August 1S72.
\st Minister. — William Morison, M.A., formerly of Leeds. Admitted 6th
September 1870.
KENDAL.
Kendal is a town in Westmoreland, 27 miles south of Penrith, and 22?, north ot
Lancaster.
A congregation of Evangelical Dissenters was formed in Kendal during the
Presbytery of Lancashire — Kendal. 481
Commonwealth, and continued under the inspection of the Provincial Synod of
Westmoreland and Cumberland, till the middle of the last century, when it became
Unitarian in principle. On account of this change of creed, 30 persons residing in
and about Kendal withdrew from the congregation; and in 1763 presented a
petition to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh, in which
they styled themselves " Seceders and others, well-wishers to the cause of truth and
reformation," craving supply of sermon. This petition having been granted, they
built a place of worship near the monument which commemorates the Revolution
of 1688, and appropriated the ground adjoining for the burial of those whose friends
refused to have the service of the Church of England read over them at interment.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Arthur, who was
appointed by the Synod to Dumbarrow.
\st Minister. — James M'Quhae. Ordained 1765. One Sabbath morning in
the year 1771, Mr M'Quhae, without any previous intimation either to the Presby-
tery or his congregation, announced from the pulpit that he had changed his views
of church government, and had adopted the principles of the Congregationalists.
Mr Smith, an aged member of the congregation, rose and argued the matter with
him ; but, after some discussion, the minister waived the subject by proposing to
pray. To this Mr Smith demurred, on the ground that in consequence of the inti-
mation made, none of them were in a proper spirit for prayer. A psalm was then
sung, and the congregation dismissed. Mr M'Quhae and the persons adhering to
him retained the property, notwithstanding it coidd only be held, according to the
trust-deeds, by Presbyterians. The matter was ultimately compromised by the
Presbyterian party paying £,\oo to the Independent one, in lieu of their interest in
the property. The money was borrowed from a Rev. Mr Wishaw, a clergyman of
the Church of England, who retained the rights as his security. With this money,
and funds otherwise raised, Mr M'Quhae built a chapel in Lowther Street, which
still continues in connection with the Independents. He afterwards accepted the
charge of a Presbyterian congregation in Tocholes, and subsequently that of an
Independent one in Blackburn, where he died, 29th April 1804, in the 63rd year of
his age.
2d Minister. — Thomas Simpson, from Loreburn Street, Dumfries. Ordained
14th December 1774. Resigned 1780. Studied medicine, and afterwards practised
as a surgeon in Preston, where he died, 1784-5.
By the kindness of a Miss Hetherington, a Hnen draper in Kirkland, who left
;^5o to pay preachers from Scotland to officiate a few weeks during summer in
Kendal, and who was herself so much attached to the Secession Church that she
travelled annually to Scotland to attend the ordinance of the Lord's supper in some
one of its churches, the congregation continued to exist for nearly twenty years
without a pastor. But as the congregation made no increase, and as they still
owed the money borrowed from the Church of England clergyman to give to the
Independent party, they resolved to sell the property. It was bought for ^100,
and resold. At this juncture, a gentleman of the name of Abraham Williamson,
residing in Keswick, passing through Kendal, accidentally heard of the sale of the
Scotch chapel. Ascertaining from one of the trustees, whom he had sent for, that
the persons assembling there were anxious to retain it, he gave them ^100 to
repurchase it, and the people adding a premium of ^20, raised by themselves, to
the previous buyer, the property returned to its former possessors.
The trustees disposed of the chapel in 181 2, but retained the burying-ground
2 H
4^2 The United Presbyterian Church.
connected with it, which still belongs to the congregation. Besides the Rev. Alex-
ander Marshall, one of their own pastors, there lies interred in it the Rev, James
Taylor, second minister of the first Secession congregation, Ayr, who died in
Kendal in 1793, while on his way to Liverpool. With the money obtained as
above described, which had nearly doubled itself by the accumulation of twelve
years' interest in the bank, and a subscription of nearly ;^43 by themselves and
others, this long enduring and much tried congregation purchased the theatre in
Woolpack Yard, and at an expense of ^^1002, 4s., converted it into a place of
worship, mortgaging the property for the deficiency of the funds.
id Mmister. — Alexander Marshall, from Stow. Ordained 13th July 1825.
Died 22d January 1828, in the 28th year of his age, and 3d of his ministry.
A,th Minister.— 'R.OB^KT Wilson, A.M., D.D., from Broughton Place, Edinburgh.
Called to St Andrews and Kendal. Ordained 25th December 1828. Soon after
his ordination, Mr Wilson proposed to the people of his charge to visit Scotland,
and raise money to assist in paying off their debt, provided they themselves would
furnish a per-centage on the sum raised, according to their ability. This offer was
accepted, and the whole sum thus realised amounted to ;^2 76. This successful
effort suggested the scheme which has since been so extensively wrought in remov-
ing heavy loads of debt from the congregations now forming the United Presby-
terian Church. Called to Greenock in 1832. Expressed his desire to leave Ken-
dal, but the Synod continued him in Kendal. Translated to Greenock (Nicolson
Street), 20th June 1833.
e^th Minister. — Henry Calderwood, LL.D., from Peebles (East). Ordained
28th May 1834. Resigned 24th April 1838, having accepted an appointment from
the London Missionary Society to Cafifraria. Now acting as civil commissioner for
the district of Victoria, South Africa. Received the degree of LL.D. from Edin-
burgh University. Author of "Caffres and Caffre Missions: with a Preliminary
Chapter on Cape Colony, as a field for emigration and basis of Missionary
Operations."
6th Minister. — John Guthrie, A.M., from Milnathort (Second). Ordained
25th February 1840. At the meeting of Synod, 1843, Mr Guthrie read and laid on
the table " Reasons of Dissent against the deed of Synod, affirming the suspension
of the Rev. Alexander Rutherford, of Falkirk." A committee was appointed to
consider Mr Guthrie's reasons of dissent, and to take into consideration two
pamphlets published by him, entitled " The New Views — True Views ; " and " The
New Views, how met ? " The Synod having heard the committee's report and Mr
Guthrie's statements in reference to it, found him in error on several vital doctrines
of the Bible, and suspended him from the office of the ministry. Mr Guthrie pro-
tested against this decision, declaring his intention at the same time to preach as if
no such sentence had been pronounced upon him. The Synod then declared him
no longer a minister or member of the Secession Church, and prohibited ministerial
intercourse with him.
The congregation, amounting to about 1 10 members, adhered to Mr Guthrie, with
the exception of 30, many of whom were old and infirm. This great majority offered
to take the property, which was secured by deed to the Secession Church, with its
liabilities, amounting to ^^450. The mortgagee greatly strengthened the interest
of the majority by demanding immediate payment of the debt. The minority being
wholly unable to meet this demand, the property was again about to be sold, when
Mr George Smith, an elder of Mount Pleasant congregation, Liverpool, advanced the
Presbytery of Lancashire — Bolton (Secession) — Leeds. 483
money on loan, and so preserved the property to the party adhering to the Seces-
sion Church. The whole debt on the property was paid off in 1849. The majority
then withdrew, and built a place of worship fof themselves in Highgate, which they
continue to occupy. Mr Guthrie continued for a time in Kendal, as minister of
an Evangelical Union Church ; afterwards in Greenock and London ; now in
Glasgow. In addition to the two works named above, Mr Guthrie is author of
" The New Views as old as the Word of God ;" " What meanest thou, O Sleeper?"
"The Bane and Antidote;" "Conversations on Church Establishments," a prize
work ; " German Hymns, translated into English Verse ; " etc.
7//^ Minister. — John Inglis, from Perth (North). Ordained 13th August 1845;
after acting for a year and a-half as located missionary in Kendal. Demitted his
charge on account of ill health, 19th January 1858. Became manager of a Savings'
Bank.
%th Minister. — Hugh Wallace,' from Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane). Ordained
29th March 1859.
BOLTON.
Bolton is a town in Lancashire, 1 1 miles north-west of Manchester.
SECESSION (Now Extinct).
The congregation originated at the beginning of the century, in connection with
the Associate Synod. Church built, 1804.
\st Minister. — James Smith, from Aberdeen (St Nicholas Lane), Ordained nth
July 1805. Died in March 1806, in the ist year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — George Lawson, previously of Galashiels, Admitted i8th
October 1809. Translated to Kilmarnock 14th October 1818.
After Mr Lawson's removal the congregation broke up, and the church was sold
to the Unitarians.
ST STEPHEN'S.
On the I ith of March 1872, the Presbytery of Lancashire took up a petition for
the formation of a church in Bolton, when it was agreed to grant supply of sermon.
The Rev. Alexander B. Grosart, by appointment of Presbytery, preached on the
4th Sabbath of March to the applicants in the new Presbyterian hall, and opened
the station. On the nth June a petition was presented, signed by 83 persons,
praying to be formed into a congregation, which was granted.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr William Duncan, who
declined the call.
I
LEEDS.
Leeds is a large manufacturing town in the west riding of Yorkshire, 24 miles
south-west of York, and 1 7 north-east of Halifax.
SECESSION (Now Extinct).
Several Scotsmen resident in Leeds being desirous of having religious ordi-
nances dispensed to them according to the ecclesiastical order in which they had
484 The United Presbyterian Church.
been trained, procured Albion Chapel with this view, and in 1803 obtained supply
of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh.
\st Minister. — Peter Thomson, previously of Whitby. Admitted to Leeds 5th
April 1804. Died 17th February 1806, in the 28th year of his age and 7th of his
ministry. A Memoir of his Life was published by his brother, Dr Adam Thomson
of Coldstream.
The congregation twice called the Rev. Mr Wilson, who was continued by the
Synod both times in his charge at Greenock.
2d Minister. — George Sandie, from Dunbar. Ordained 5th July 1809. Re-
signed, 181 2. Admitted to Gorebridge 1813. After Mr Sandie's resignation the
congregation became extinct, the church being occupied by Dr R. W. Hamilton.
LEEDS (New Congregation),
On the 7th June 1864, a petition from a few persons in Leeds was laid on the
table of Newcastle Presbytery, praying that court to send one or more of their
number to preach at Leeds, and advise with them as to future services. The Rev.
Dr Bruce and Rev. John Young were accordingly appointed to preach in that town,
and hold such meetings as might be found necessary. Thereafter supply was
furnished to Leeds by the Presbytery. At the meeting of Presbytery in October, a
remonstrance from the English Presbyterian Lancashire Presbytery was brought
before the Newcastle Presbytery, and at the same time a petition from the station in
Leeds, to continue supply of sermon. The result of the remonstrance was that the
Presbytery of Newcastle, while wishing all success to the sister Church, felt called
on from a sense of duty, to prosecute their own mission work in Leeds. In
December, 95 persons petitioned the Presbytery to be congregated; and on 3d
January 1865, 49 members were declared to be a regular congregation. An iron
church was erected in 1868, at a cost of ^500; sittings, 250. The congregation
was, upon petition to the Synod, 1872, disjoined from the Presbytery of Newcastle
and annexed to that of Lancashire.
ist Minister. — William James, from Glasgow (Wellington Street). Called to
Portsoy, Smethwick, and Leeds. Ordained 31st May 1865. Died suddenly on
the 2d April 1867, in the 34th year of his age and 2d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Hay Scott, preacher, who preferred Sanquhar.
2d Minister. — William Morison, A.M., from Moffat. Ordained 29th April
1868. Translated to Pendleton 6th September 1870.
A call was given to Rev. J. M. Copland, Catrine, which he declined.
id Minister. — Thomas M. Brunton, M.A., from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Or-
dained 26th April 187 1.
RAMSBOTTOM (Now Extinct).
Ramsbottom is the name by which this congregation was known while in con-
nection with the Secession Church, though better known in the locality as that of
Holcombe — Holcombe being an ancient chapelry in the parish of Bury, Lancashire,
about a mile from the village of Ramsbottom, 7 miles east-by-north of Bolton, and
1 3 north of Manchester.
This congregation was an offshoot from the Old Presbyterian Congregation of
Presbytery of Lancashire — Diikinjield. 485
Bury. After passing through a great many vicissitudes, it obtained a minister from
the Congregationahsts, in 1800, who after labouring there some time, tendered his
resignation and left the place. It was then supplied by licentiates of the Church of
Scotland, but in 181 7, while still vacant, the persons belonging to it made applica-
tion, through the Rev. Dr Jack of Manchester, to the Associate (Burgher) Synod to
be taken under their inspection, which was allowed.
\st and sole Minister. — George Brown, LL.D., from St Nicholas Lane, Aber-
deen. Called to Crail and Ramsbottom. Ordained 27 th August 18 18. Resigned,
May 1829. Taught an academy in Liverpool till 1844, when he connected him-
self with the English Presbyterian Synod, and became pastor of Brampton, i6th
June 1844. Received the degree of LL.D from Marischal College, Aberdeen,
1844. Resigned 7th February 185 1, and retired to live with his family at St
Michael's Hamlet, Liverpool, where he died 15th March 1869, in the 80th year of
his age.
Dr Brown compiled a statistical history of the United Presbyterian Church, the
MS. of which was presented to the United Presbyterian Synod by his family in
1869.
The MS. is in the form of a large folio volume, beautifully written by Dr Brown's own hand,
with this title : "Annals of the Divinity Hall of the Secession Church of Scotland, containing both
Chronological and Alphabetical Lists of all who have been enrolled as Students, numbering 2098
names, with particulars of their subsequent history. Also an account of all the congregations of tlie
United Presbyterian Church, from the rise of the Secession and Relief Churches, of which it is com-
posed. Compiled by Rev. George Brown, LL.D., Liverpool."
After Dr Brown's resignation, the chapel was placed under the Presbytery of
Lancashire, in connection with the Church of Scotland. Messrs Grant of Ramsbottom,
whose work-people chiefly constituted the congregation, subsequently built an
elegant Gothic church for their accommodation about a mile nearer the village, and
the old chapel was used as a Sabbath-school.
DUKINFIELD (Now Extinct).
Dukinfield is a large and thriving village on the north-west border of Cheshire,
about a mile from Ashton-under-Lyne, county of Lancaster, and 8 miles east of
Manchester,
An English Presbyterian congregation has existed in this place since the passing
of the Act of Uniformity, 1662, of which the Rev. Samuel Eaton, who was ejected
from his living in the Established Church, was the first minister. Like the majority
of English Presbyterian Churches, this congregation degenerated during the last
century, first into Arianism, and afterwards into pure Socinianism. On its reaching
this depth, a few friends of evangelical truth withdrew from it, erected a place
of worship in 1806, under the designation of "Providence Chapel," and obtained
a stated minister from the Congregationalists. In 1820, being without a minister,
they applied to Mr Ramsay, a probationer of the United Secession Church, then
supplying the pulpit of the Rev. Dr Jack of Manchester, to preach in their place of
worship for a particular purpose. Mr Ramsay complied, and his services were so
acceptable, that the people were desirous of having him settled among them at the
close of his engagement in Manchester. A correspondence was immediately opened
through the medium of Dr Jack with the United Associate Presbytery of London,
and after a formal accession had been made to the Secession Church by certain
trustees, managers, members, and others, a call was presented to Mr Ramsay.
\st and only Minister. — John Ramsay. Ordained minister of Providence
486 The United Presbyterian Chtirch.
Chapel, 24th April 182 1. He was shortly afterwards deposed, and preached in
several places without any ecclesiastical connection. Died in Glasgow 6th Novem-
ber 1857.
After Mr Ramsay's deposition, the congregation reverted to the Independents.
BLACKBURN.
Blackburn is a large manufacturing town in Lancashire, 24 miles north-west of
Manchester.
ST GEORGE'S.
Some Scotsmen resident in Blackburn built a place of worship there, and had
it supplied with sermon by the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh in
1809. In 18 1 2 they called the Rev. Dr Belfrage of Slateford, and in 18 13 the
Rev. Mr Renwick, West Linton, both of whom were continued by the Synod in
their respective charges. Discouraged by these disappointments, they withdrew
from the Secession Church and connected themselves with the Congregationalists.
For a number of years they enjoyed the labours of a minister of that denomination,
and after his death were supplied for a time by the Rev. George Payne, LL.D.,
previously of Albany Chapel, Edinburgh, but then theological tutor of Blackburn
Academy. The attendance having declined, and the remaining adherents becoming
discouraged, the place of worship was shut up and remained closed for a consider-
able time. Through the exertions and influence of the Rev. Dr Stewart of Liver-
pool, and the Rev. George Brown, LL.D., of Ramsbottom, it was opened in con-
nection with the United Secession Church in 1829. A new church, with schools
and class-rooms, called St George's, was opened by Rev. Dr Eadie, iSth June 1868,
costing ;^88oo, with sittings for 1050. In June 187 1 a special collection was made,
on the third anniversary of the opening of the church, which amounted to ^1^1037.
\st Minister. — Francis Skinner, D.D., from Dunbar (First). Ordained 4th
March 1830. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Victoria College,
Coburg, Upper Canada, 1864. Died 28th December 1866, in the 69th year of his
age, and 37th of his ministry. Author of a pamphlet entitled "Scriptural Pres-
bytery : the Principle and Practice of the United Presbyterian Church, in accord-
ance with the Principles and Practices of the Apostolic Churches." A memorial of
Dr Skinner, with sermons, by Rev. Drs Scott and M'Kerrow, and Mr Towers, was
published after his death.
2d Mifiister. — Alexander B. Grosart, previously of Liverpool (Prince's
Road). Admitted 4th March 1868.
Author of " Small Sins ;" "Jesus Mighty to Save ;" •' The Prince of Light and the Prince of
Darkness in Conflict ;" " The Lambs all Safe ;" " Drowned," a sermon ; "Nisi Dominus Frustra,"
a sermon; "The Blind Beggar," (also translated into Effik) ; "Joining the Church;" "The
Helper of Joy ;" " Hymns ;" " The Key-bearer ;" " Memoirs and editions of the Works of Richard
Siljbes, Thomas Brooks, Herbert Palmer, Henry Airay, Thomas Cartwright, John King, John
Rainolds, Richard Stock, Samuel Torshcll, Richard Bernard, Thomas Pierson, Samuel Smith, and
Richard Gilpin," with introductions and notes, 24 vols. ; "Lord Bacon not the author of The
Paradoxes ;" " Who Wrote Brittain's Ida?" " Memoir and Works of Michael Bruce ;" "Memoir of
John Trapp ;" Editor of Sibbcs' Works, 7 vols. ; "Brooks' Works," 6 vols. ; " Memoir and Works
of Robert Fergusson ;" " Selections from unpublished writings of Jonathan Edwards ;" "The Grand
Question resolved, by Richard liaxter ;" " Annotated List of Baxter's writings ;" Poems and Trans-
lations of Dr T. Fuller, Giles Fletcher, Thomas Washbourne, Sir John Davies, Phineas Fletcher,
Fulke Greville, Henry Vaughan, Sir John Beaumont, Richard Crashaw," etc., constituting " The
Fuller Worthies' " Library, a series of Books (t^-^ vols.) from Early English Literature.
Presbytery of Lancashire — Mount Street — Ramsey — Half old. 487
MOUNT STREET.
In 1866 Dr Skinner induced his congregation to build a new church for their
better accommodation, and also with the view of leaving the old church as a mission
station and centre of evangelistic operations. Dr Skinner died before the new
church was completed. The Rev. A. B. Grosart, his successor, occupied the pulpit
of Mount Street till i8th June 1868, when he and the congregation took possession
of St George's. Mount Street church was now left free to begin anew. On the
25th August 1868, commissioners appeared at Lancashire Presbytery with a petition
signed by 24 members and 38 adherents, craving to be formed into a second con-
gregation. The petition was granted on the 12th October 1868, on condition that
the new congregation in Mount Street should pay ;!^5oo, inclusive of £,Z'^^ of
grant from the Home Board, to St George's congregation. The new congrega-
tion was recognised on the first Sabbath of November, when Rev. A. B. Grosart and
Rev. Dr M'Kerrow preached (Dr M'Kerrow having forty years before opened the
church). It contains 800 sittings.
1st Minister. — Arthur M'Arthur, from Glasgow (Lansdowne). Ordained 7th
January 1870.
RAMSEY, ISLE OF MAN.
Ramsey is a town in the Isle of Man.
This congregation originated with a few Scotch families, resident in the island,
who, being desirous of having religious ordinances dispensed to them according to
Presbyterian order, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the United
Associate Presbytery of Wigtown in June 1830. Church built, 1834; sittings, 230.
Ramsey was long treated as a mission station, and had preachers as such located
in it at different times.
\st Minister. — John Robb, previously of Broughty Ferry, Forfarshire. Admitted
26th November 1845. Resigned 29th November 1849. Now living in Liverpool.
The congregation called Mr S. Wallace, afterwards of Clavering-place, Newcastle;
and Mr Stillie, afterwards of Girvan, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Minister. — William Walker. Ordained 26th October 1853. Demitted
his charge on account of ill health, 25th September 1855. Emigrated to Canada.
In April 1856 a call was given to Mr James Harrower, but declined.
7,d Minister. — Duncan M'Owan, from Ballbiggie. Ordained 3d December 1856,
HALFOLD (Now Extinct).
Halfold is a village in Lancashire, 3 miles north of Rochdale.
The Rev. Robert Bath, vicar of Rochdale, and nephew of Archbishop Laud,
was ejected from his cure, 1662. He, and the portion of the congregation adhering
to him, obtained possession of an Episcopal chapel at Whitworth, which adjoins
the village of Halfold. The congregation over which he now presided became
divided in sentiment in reference to the Sabbath sports enacted by law. The
Puritan party separated from the other, and formed the congregation of Halfold, or
New Whitworth, as it was then called. It was always Presbyterian de jure, and
was so for a time de facto., but it had become Congregational in its order for want of
488 The United Presbyterian Church.
English Presbyterian ministers to supply the vacancies occurring in the denomina-
tion. It continued in connection with the Congregationalists till about 1830, when
a dispute arose among its members, which led to inquiry respecting its constitution.
On its being found to be Presbyterian, a resolution was adopted to place the con-
gregation under the superintendence of some branch of that denomination. This
resolution was carried into effect in 1832, the congregation being then without a
minister, by application to the United Associate Presbytery of Lancashire, which
forthwith supplied them with preachers,
\st and only Minister. — William R. Thorburn, A.M. Ordained 22d October
1834. Resigned his charge, 14th April 1847, for an Independent congregation in
Bury. The congregation then reverted to Independency.
TUNLEY.
This hamlet, otherwise called Mossylea, is 3 miles from Wigan. A church and
manse were erected in 1691 by a Nonconformist lady called Dame Wilson, who, in
addition to providing a garden and glebe, also endowed the church with ^6 per
annum from a small farm in the vicinity, and house property which yields about
;^2i a year. The congregation was received into connection with the United
Secession Church in 1836, the station having received occasional supply of sermon
from 1832. A minister was ordained in 1837, and laboured for a quarter of a
century, when he resigned his charge. The congregation was then changed into a
mission station, 19th January 1864, and has since been supplied by a missionary
elder who is employed by the Presbytery. The church holds from 150 to 200.
1st Minister. — Alexander Leslie, from Coldingham. Ordained i8th October
1837. Demitted his charge ist December 1863.
Alexander Bruce, missionary elder, employed by the Presbytery of Lancashire.
BRADFORD,
Bradford is a large and rapidly-increasing town in the West Riding of Yorkshire,
7 miles west of Leeds, and 38 north-west of Manchester.
This congregation originated with Mr George Dunlop (son of the late Rev.
Walter Dunlop of Dumfries), at that time resident in Bradford, who, in May 1847,
mooted the subject to a clerical friend in Scotland, by whom he was encouraged
to proceed. Having obtained the promise of co-operation from several of his
countrymen resident in the place, he hired a room, and got one of the ministers of
Newcastle to open it as a preaching station on the 23d of June following. Regular
supply of sermon was continued from that time onwards, and in a short time a
regularly organised congregation was formed. On the 21st March 1848, they took
possession of a church which they had erected for themselves at a cost of ^2500;
sittings, 750; with a gallery for Sabbath scholars capable of holding 300. There
is a schoolroom below the church fitted up for 800 children.
\st Minister. — Alexander Wallace, D.D., previously of Alexandria, Dum-
bartonshire. Admitted to Bradford 2 2d March 1S48. Translated to Edinburgh
(Potterfow), May 1851.
2d Minister. — David Sim, previously of Girvan, Admitted 9th April 1852.
Died i6th August 1864, in the 42d year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
Author of " The Indian Crisis," a sermon.
Presbytery of Lancashire — Sutton — Wolverhampton 489
The congregation called Rev. M. Crawford, who declined the call.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Gibb Russell, M.D., from Dumfries (Buccleuch Street).
Ordained 28th November 1865.
SUTTON.
Little Sutton is a village 7 miles north-west of Chester, and 9 miles south-east
of Birkenhead, with a population of about 400. The congregation formerly belonged
to the Independents. It was received into connection with the United Presby-
terian Church on 5th March 1850. The church cost ^420, and was opened on
the 6th June 1850.
\st Minister. — James Galloway, from Glasgow (Cambridge Street), for several
years one of the city missionaries of Glasgow. Called to Dunning, South Ronald-
shay, and Sutton. Ordained 17th June 1S51. Died loth September 1854, in the
43d year of his age and 4th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Alexander Shennan, who preferred Houghton-le-
Spring.
2d Minister. — David Pirret, from Edinburgh (Broughton Place.) Ordained
24th October 1855. Translated to Glasgow (New City Road), 27th March i860.
A call was given to Mr H. T. Howat, who preferred Broughty-Ferry.
2id Mifiister. — William G. Fraser, from Rattray. Called to Dunbar and
Sutton. Ordained 15th January 1861. Resigned 14th May 1872, and proceeded
to Australia.
BURTON-ON-TRENT.
A few friends in the town of Burton, with the sanction and assistance ot
Lancashire Presbytery, entered on an experiment almost unprecedented in the
progress of our Church — namely, the erection of a substantial church without a
minister or session or congregation. The church was opened on the first Sabbath
of August 1 86 1, and supply of sermon by ministers of the Presbytery and
others given to the friends assembling therein. Several of the ministers who
visited the station recommended that the people should be congregated. A
petition for this object, signed by 50 persons, was presented to Lanarkshire
Presbytery on 15th November, and on the 27th November the Rev. R. S. Scott
preached at Burton, and declared 33 members a congregation of the United
Presbyterian Church. The church cost about ^^looo, and accommodates 450
persons. First Communion dispensed by Rev. J. Clark, of Abernethy, in Decem-
ber 1 86 1. Before obtaining a settled minister, the congregation called Mr Joseph
Corbett in March 1862, but he preferred Kilcreggan; and in August, Mr Alexander
Mair, M.A., who preferred Stow.
xst Minister. — William Thomson, formerly of Leith-Lumsden, Aberdeenshire.
Admitted 25th May 1863. Translated to Kirkmuirhill, 12th January 1869.
2d Minister. — John Robertson, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown.) Called to
Rigg and Burton. Ordained 25th January 1870.
WOLVERHAMPTON.
On the 1 6th of January 1862 a few Scotsmen met in Wolverhampton to con-
sider the question of forming a Presbyterian congregation in that town. The
population of Wolverhampton at that date consisted of 80,000 souls ; and it was
490 The United Presbyterian Church.
estimated that there could not be fewer than looo persons from Scotland in
the town for whom it was thought desirable to provide religious ordinances in
connection with the Presbyterian Church. Advice was sought from the Lanca-
shire Presbytery of the United Presbyterian Church in the matter, and that
Presbytery appointed the Rev. R. S. Scott, M.A., of Manchester; and Samuel
Stitt, Esq., Liverpool, a deputation to visit Wolverhampton and report. These
deputies reported favourably as to the prospects of a station ; the Mission Board
voted ;£^o towards the expenses for the first year ; and the Presbytery thereupon
sanctioned a station at Wolverhampton. The Rev. Dr Macfarlane of London
was requested to conduct the opening services, which began on 23d March. Dr
Macfarlane preached on that day and on the following Sabbath, and instituted a
w'eekly prayer-meeting, besides giving a public lecture on the principles and progress
of the United Presbyterian Church. hi July, a petition signed by 45 persons
was presented to the Presbytery, praying that they might be formed into a con-
gregation. The petition was granted, and on 29th September the station was
erected into a congregation, and 22 members were enrolled.
The congregation was supplied with ministers and probationers till December
7th, when, at the request of the congregation, the Rev. John James, from Gait,
Canada West, was located at Wolverhampton for twelve months. Meanwhile, a
site for building, valued at ^^750, was secured on lease; and a lecture-hall
capable of accommodating 300 worshippers was erected on a portion of this site,
at a cost of ^400, and opened for worship by the Rev. R. S. Scott on i8th
October 1863.
The services of Mr James were so well appreciated that the congregation, on
29th November 1863, applied for a moderation with a view to the settlement of Mr
James at Wolverhampton. To the regret of the congregation, Mr James intimated
his resolution to return to Canada on the invitation of the congregation of Brant-
ford. A majority of the congregation, on 3d October 1864, elected Mr James
Allison, probationer, to be their minister ; but Mr Allison declined their call. A
call was given, on 13th March 1865, to Mr John M. Dunlop, probationer, which
he declined in favour of a call from Dunbar. On July nth 1865, the congregation
gave a call to Mr William B. Thomson, A.M., assistant to the Professor of
Humanity in Edinburgh University.
The erection of a church was begun 2d November 1869, and the church was
opened on 14th October 1870, at a cost of ;!^29oo, with sittings for 700.
\st Minister. — William B. Thomson, M.A., from Edinburgh (Newington).
Ordained 3d October 1865. Died 8th July 1867, in the 2d year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Hay Scott, 2d September 1867, who
preferred Sanquhar; Rev. James Ker, M.A., Chimside, loth May 186S, who
preferred a call from Leicester ; and Rev. Mungo Giffen, Morebattle, who declined
the call.
2d Minister. — John James, formerly of Paris, Ontario, Canada West. He was
ordained at Gait, Canada West, 29th September 1857. Returned to Scotland.
Called to Dubbieside, Fifeshirc, in 1862. Returned to Canada. Called to Brant-
ford, Paris, and Hamilton (Knox Church), Canada West, in 1864-65 ; settled at
Paris, Canada West. Called to Guel])h, Canada West ; and to Wolverhampton
(England) in 1869. Returned to England, and admitted to Wolverhampton, 25th
May 1869. Demitted his charge nth April 187 1, proceeded to America, and
became minister of State Street Church, Albany, New York.
Presbytay of Lancashire — S77tethwick — Derby. 491
2)d Almistcr. — Robert Gardner, formerly of Annan. Admitted 5th September
1871.
SMETHWICK.
This congregation was originally an offshoot from the English Presbyterian con-
gregation of Broad Street, Birmingham. The late John Henderson, Esq. (of the
firm of Fox, Henderson, & Co., the builders of the Crystal Palace, and the pro-
prietors of large works in Smethwick), was the chief originator. His purpose was
to provide conveniently accessible services for the hundreds of his workmen, most
of whom were Scottish Presbyterians. A large school, built by the firm, was fitted
up and opened as a mission station in 1853. A stipend of ;!^2oo was agreed upon,
and sanctioned by the Birmingham Presbytery af the English Presbyterian Church.
A call was given in 1855 to the Rev. William TuUo of the Free Church of Scotland
(now of Slamannan), which he accepted. He laboured in Smethwick till 1858,
when he resigned the charge in consequence of the removal by death of his principal
constituent Mr John Henderson, whose name is still honoured and beloved in the
district as that of a talented and successful engineer, an upright man of business,
and a zealous Christian philanthropist. Mr Henderson's death was almost fatal to
the infant cause, as it led to the dispersion of the great majority of the congrega-
tion. A few, however, kept together, and the present small church was erected
with the kind assistance of Francis Watkins, Esq., of the London works. Diffi-
culties, however, soon arose with the Birmingham Presbytery, which ended in the
congregation being left in the position of an independent church, to attach itself to
any body of Christians it might choose. The United Presbyterian Church was
naturally looked to, and an application was made to the Lancashire Presbytery for
supply of sermon. Suitable preachers were at once sent, and a liberal annual grant
towards a stipend of ^^150 promised. A minister was called and ordained, but did
not continue more than a year. The church was again in difficulties, and, to add
to its troubles, was exposed to two actions at law, involving costs to the amount of
;^8o. A new school-room and vestry were erected in 1869, free of debt, and the
congregation is hopeful that it has now weathered the last of its initiatory diffi-
culties.
In 1865 the congregation called Mr W. James, who preferred Leeds; Mr C.
Naismith, who accepted Pitrodie ; and Mr T. Bourhill, since suspended.
1st Mi/lister. — Daniel Paterson, A.M., from Dumbarton (High Street). Or-
dained 3d April 1866. Translated to Silverhill i6th April 1867.
2d Minister. — Alexander Milne Dalrymple, A.M., from Leith (Kirkgate).
Called to Shapinshay and Smethwick. Ordained 9th June 1868.
DERBY.
Attempts had several times been made in Derby to provide for Scottish residents
there a supply of ordinances in accordance with Presbyterian principle and practice.
Hitherto these efforts had not been successful, till, in December 1863, the Rev.
William Thomson, at the instance of Lancashire Presbytery, agreed to preach
in Derby on a week evening for three months, to test the eligibility of establishing
a permanent cause in that town. Mr Thomson's meetings were held in the house
of Mr Boyd, Peter's Street, and were attended with increasing success.
On the 9th March 1864, a deputation from the Presbytery, consisting of the
492 The United Presbyterian C/ntrch.
Revs. R. S. Scott of Manchester, and J. Towers of Birkenhead, visited the station
along with Mr Thomson. There were about 40 persons present, and all of them
pledged themselves to use their efforts to sustain the movement should the Presby-
tery see fit to encourage them. A provisional committee, for initiating the cause,
was appointed, consisting of Messrs J. R. Hutton, Walter Scott, George Boyd,
Andrew M'Nair, Robert Pender, Alexander Croall, and William Clark. A me-
morial was drawn up and forwarded to the Lancashire Presbytery, praying that
court to open a station. The hall of the Athenaeum was rented for the services,
and after some delay, occasioned by the difficulty of providing a supply of ministers,
the station was opened on the first Sabbath of May 1864, and regular services con-
tinued thereafter in that hall till the new church was opened on 20th May 1869.
The attendance meanwhile steadily increased. And on 21st March 1865 the
friends and adherents submitted a memorial to the Presbytery, requesting to be
formed into a regular congregation, which was granted. On the 15th May the
communion was observed for the first time; and on 13th July a unanimous call
was given to Rev. A. L. Simpson, Edinburgh.
The congregation, feeling keenly the inconvenience of meeting for worship in a
public hall, which they had now done for four years, resolved to have a place of
worship for themselves. Strenuous efforts were accordingly put forth by the mem-
bers of the church, and generous aid afforded by their friends in Scotland and
elsewhere, to place the congregation in a position worthy of the denomination. The
memorial stone of the new church was laid by Samuel Stitt, Esq., Liverpool, and
the church was opened on Thursday, 20th May 1869, and cost ^3000; sittings,
500.
1st Minister. — Adam Lind Simpson, F.S.A. Scot., formerly of Edinburgh
(Henderson Church). Admitted 2d November 1865. Author of " The Upward
Path, or our Life as seen in Bible Light ;" " Pioneers of the World's Progress," etc,
BARROW-IN-FURNESS.
This congregation began as a preaching station on the 27th August 1865. The
Home Mission committee of the English Presbyterian Church had directed the
attention of the United Presbyterian Presbytery of Lancashire to the locality as one
in which a station might be started with greater prospects of success than the English
Presbyterian committee could expect. Supply of sermon was granted by the United
Presbytery of Lancashire, and on the loth April 1866, a petition from 188 persons
was presented, desiring to be congregated. The congregation was organised on
the 5th June 1866, and in September elders were ordained. A lecture-hall was
built in 1868, with sittings for 320. Including the wall and railing enclosing the
ground, which were given by James Ramsden, Esq., Mayor of the Borough, the
property cost ;j£"i400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation was for a time supplied by a
located minister.
1st Minister. — William B. Melville, from Edinburgh (Nicolson Street). Called
to Burra (Shetland), and Barrow. Ordained 25th August 1868. Suspended for
twelve months from the office of the ministry in June 1869, and at the same time
demitted his charge.
2d Minister. — William Ferguson, from Edinburgh (Newington). Ordained
26th April 1870.
Presbytery of Lancashire— Birmingham— Rochdale.
493
BIRMINGHAM (CAMP HILL).
A few friends who thought there was room in this large towi for the energies of
another congregation, and who were desirous of worshipping in that communion to
which they had formerly belonged, originated a movement which led to the estab-
hshment of a station of the United Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Dr Andrew
Thomson, Edinburgh, conducted the opening services in the Assembly Room of the
Exchange, on the 12th November 1865. The services were continued from week
to week. A memorial was presented to Lancashire Presbytery by Rev. Dr Scott of
Manchester, signed by 63 persons belonging to the station, requesting the Presby-
tery to erect them into a congregation, and the congregation was accordingly formed
on the 25th September 1866. Shortly after this, a call was given to the present
mmister, which, being declined, was followed by a second call to him. A period of
considerable anxiety and difficulty elapsed between the call and the induction on
13th August 1867. At that time, the congregation removed to the Temperance
Hall, but the disadvantages attendant on meeting in a hired building led to the
determination of the congregation to build a church. After long and anxious search
for a smtable position, a site was purchased in Camp Hill at a cost, of freehold land
of ^674. The church was formally opened on 3d June 1869 by Rev Drs w'
M'Kerrow of Manchester, and W. Landels, D.D., of London. The attendance on
Sabbath services forthwith increased from an average of 60 to about 300 ; and as
the premises were most commodious, flourishing Sabbath schools were added to the
congregational machinery.
The church, with lecture-hall and large schoolrooms, cost about ^akoo-
sittings, 600. ^^^ '
^st Minister.— ]AU^5 M. M'Kerrow, B.A., of London University, previously ot
St Nicholas Lane, Aberdeen. Twice called to Birmingham. Admitted 13th August
1867. Mr M'Kerrow has published, " Sermons on the death of Rev. Henry Angus
Aberdeen ; " " The Lord's Day ; " and " New Year Address for Birmingham Sunday
Schools, 1870."
ROCHDALE (TRINITY CHURCH).
This congregation originated in dissatisfaction on the part of both English
families and Scotch residents in the town with the Independent form of church
government, and with the results of its administration. This feeling was most
strongly developed on the occasion of a series of disturbances and final rupture in
the older of the two Congregational Churches of Rochdale. What had previously
been in the minds of some began then to be seriously discussed, and finally took
shape in an application to the Lancashire Presbytery, September 1866, to form in
Rochdale a Presbyterian Church. This application was based on the double
ground, that while many preferred Presbyterian Nonconformist principles, there was
ample room for church extension in so vast and growing a population,' for which
there was no adequate provision of religious ordinances in the existing churches and
chapels. The Presbytery cordially entertained this application, and a station was
formally opened and recognised on Sabbath i6th September 1866. The station
was erected into a congregation, 29th October, with eighty-two members. On ist
March 1867, four elders were ordained by Rev. Dr M'Kerrow, of Manchester
Moderator of the Session. Two more elders were added ; and of the six, two were
previously members of the United,Presbyterian Church, two of the Free Church the
494 '^^^^ United Presbyterian Church.
remaining two being Englishmen, one of whom was formerly an Independent and
the other a member of the Lady Huntingdon connection.
The foundation-stone of the church was laid by Samuel Stitt, Esq., Liverpool,
in June 1868, and the building was opened for public worship, 20th June 1869, by
the minister and Drs Edmond and R. S. Scott. The church is seated for 800, and
the entire cost of the church premises, with lecture-hall, etc., is above ^^5000.
\st Minister. — Alexander H. Drysdale, M.A., previously of Brechin, Maison-
dieu Lane. Translated to Rochdale 29th August 1867.
PRESBYTERY OF LONDON.
The Presbytery of London was formed immediately after the Union of the two
great branches of the Secession in 1820 by disjoining the Associate (Burgher) Con-
gregations from the Presbytery of Coldstream, and the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) congregation from the Presbytery of Edinburgh, to which they had
previously belonged, and constituting them a Presbytery.
OXENDON STREET.
In August 1737, a praying society in London sent a letter to the Associate Pres-
bytery in Scotland, stating their circumstances, and craving advicgif This letter
was laid on the Presbytery's table, but nothing was done towards answering it till
October 1744, when, upon renewed application, the society was taken under their
inspection. The Rev. Adam Gib of Edinburgh was appointed to write an encour-
aging letter to the members of this society, and promise them sermon as soon as
possible. On 9th October 1744, they were received by the Associate Presbytery.
In April 1746, the Rev. Messrs Gib of Edinburgh, and Mair of West Linton, were
sent to London to remain three months, and dispense Gospel ordinances to the
persons in accession to the Presbytery there. The Breach divided the Seceders in
London. Those adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod soon rallied
again, and were enabled to purchase a chapel in Great St Thomas Apostle's, Bow
Lane, Cheapside, which had been built for Richard Baxter in 1676. They wor-
shipped there till 1808, when they purchased Oxendon Chapel, and took posses-
sion of it. Sittings, 515.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Muckersie,
who was continued by the Synod in Kinkell.
\st Minister. — David Wilson, previously of Pathhead, Kirkcaldy. Admitted
at Dunse, in presence of representatives of the London congregation, to Bow Lane,
London, 1752, by the Rev. Adam Gib. Died 27th June 1784, in the 63d year of
his age, and 36th of his ministry.
Author of "An Ordination Sermon ;" " Christ tlie Righteousness of His People ;" "A .Short
Apology for Seceders ;" "A Letter to the Lord ALiyor on the Observance of the S.abbath Day ;"
A Sermon on "Justification;" three Discourses on "National Calamities procured by National
Sins;" " Palemon's Creed Keviewcd," being a vindication of Hervey's Theron and Aspjisio, in
reply to Mr Sandeman's strictures on that work, 2 vols. ; " Letters to the Lord Chancellor on Swear-
ing by Kissing the Gospels." A volume of his sermons was published after his death, 1818.
2d Minister. — George Jerment, D.D., from Burntisland, of which his father
Presbytery of London— Oxendon— Albany Church. 495
was minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Wilson, 26th September 1782. Had
the degree of D.D. conferred upon him, in 1817, by a College in the United States.
Died 23d May 1819, in the 60th year of his age, and 37th of his ministry.
fi rM*°'' frS^^^^, ^""'f °^ Discourses, entitled, •' Parental Duty : " " Early Piety : " " Reli-ion
' pS.°7. ,1 m ?^ ' " T'^i ^^™°"/ .delivered on particular occasions ; an Address, entitled,
fivS f^ Heathen ; "Memoir of Archbishop Leighton, and a review of his writings, pre-
hxed to a new edition of his works," 3 vols.; a volume of Biography in continuation of Gibbons'
Memoirs of P.ous Women;" and " A Memoir of his Colleague: Rev! D. Wilson," prefixed to a
posthumous volume of his sermons. .»»iibou, preuxeu to a
Zd Minister.— WiiAAK^i Broadfoot, previously of Kirkwall. Admitted 9th
June 181 7. Resigned 7th October 1830, in consequence of having lost his
voice, which he afterwards so far recovered as to be able to accept the office of
Theological tutor to Cheshunt College, Lady Huntingdon's, Herefordshire; but
contmumg still in connection with the Secession Church, and acting as clerk to its
Presbytery in London. Died 6th June 1837, in the 62d year of his age.
Ath Minister.— T^o^KS Archer, D.D., from Perth (South). Ordained 3d May
1832. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the College of Princeton,
New Jersey, United States, 1844. Died 30th November 1864, in the 59th year of
his age, and 33d of his ministry.
A^i^"*°'TL"pTvf ^T'* f.^''^}'' ^''^ ^°r54!P" °f the World," a Sermon; " The Middle
t^v/ • J c P^^'l°soP^^y of he Atonement ; " Thy Testimonies, O God," etc. A Memoir of
his life. With Sermons, was published by Rev. Dr John Macfarlane, London.
5//^ Minister.— ■]xuY.'& Allison, from East Kilbride. Called to Newburgh
(Second), Wolverhampton, and London. Ordained 20th February 1866. Demitted
his charge 13th December 1869. Afterwards admitted to Cupar-Fife.
The Presbytery of London, on nth May 187 1, declared the congregations of
Oxendon and of Albany united, to meet thereafter in Oxendon Church for worship.
The congregation called Rev. H. T. Howat of Everton, Liverpool ; Mr James
Fraser, afterwards of West Calder ; and Mr James Drummond, all of whom declined
the calls. A call was then given to the Rev. A. W. Carmichael, Linlithgow.
ALBANY CHURCH, (Now United with Oxendon).
This congregation was long known as Wells Street, London. The Breach
divided the Seceders in London. The majority of them adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, and formed the congregation of Oxendon Street.
The minority adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and some time after
formed the nucleus of the congregation of Wells Street. At the time this division
took place, Mr Potts, afterwards minister of Stitchel and Kelso, then a probationer,
was supplying the congregation. He adhered to the Associate Synod in that
capacity, and consequently took part with the minority of the London congregation.
He was also at the time under call to the congregations of Dalkeith and Stkchel,*
but in the confusion that ensued upon the Breach, these calls were not prosecuted
for a time, and even held to be vitiated to some extent. He therefore con-
tinued supplying this portion of the Seceders in London, partly upon renewed
appointment by the Synod, but for a much longer time in opposition to its authority,
and upon his own responsibility, till the beginning of 1751, when he was peremptorily
ordered home to enter upon the charge to which he had been called. These cir-
cumstances had an unfavourable effect upon the congregation, and hindered its
prosperity. Several of the most popular ministers and probationers of the denomi-
496 The United Presbyterian Church.
nation were sent by the Synod to London after Mr Potts' withdrawment, and among
the rest Rev. Mr M'Ewen of Dundee (author of the well-known work on " The
Types"), with instructions to remain there till the third Sabbath of November (17 51),
" providing he can upon probable grounds write the Presbytery of Dunfermline (to
which he belonged) that there is a prospect of gathering a congregation upon a
Presbyterian footing in the city." Mr M'Ewen remained in London till the first
week of February 1752, but could not on his return afford the Presbytery encourage-
ment to send up a preacher to supply his place. The congregation nevertheless
determined to keep together, and for this purpose resolved itself into a society for
prayer and mutual edification, readily accepting supply of sermon from ministers
when they could obtain them, and at other times making up for the want of this by
exhorting one another.
In August 1758, this society, which met in Aldersgate, petitioned the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh to renew supply of sermon to them, and the
Rev. John Patison of Bristo Street, Edinburgh, was sent up to them in compliance
with this request. After being a short time there, Mr Patison organised them as a
church, and ordained elders over them, and reported to his Presbytery by letter
that " there is a very promising appearance of a congregation cleaving to the Lord's
cause, in subjection to the Synod in London," and proposing that it should be
fostered by having a supply of preachers afforded it. In accordance with this
recommendation, probationers were sent in regular succession till a settled minister
was obtained. The congregation thus formed purchased a chapel in St Giles's,
which they occupied till 1764, when they removed to Wells Street, Oxford Street,
of which they purchased a lease, on 8th December 1764, for 98 years, at a cost of
;^863, and which was more commodious and better situated. The chapel in St
Giles's fell to the ground three weeks after they left it. The chapel in Wells Street
was rebuilt in 1809, at a cost of ;^2992, los.
The lease of Wells Street having expired, the congregation in 1862 purchased
Albany chapel. Regent's Park, for the sum of ^^2 700, originally in the possession
of the Congregationalists. It was opened on 2 2d April 1863 by Rev. Dr Cairns.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Nicol, who
was continued by the Synod in his charge at Kelso, and Mr R. Campbell, A.M., who
preferred Stirling.
\st ilfifiister. — Archibald Hall, previously of Torphichen, Linlithgowshire.
Admitted to Wells Street 13th February 1765. Died 6th May 1778, in the 42d
year of his age and 19th of his ministry.
Author of a work on " Gospel Worship," 2 vols. ; "An humble attempt to Exhibit a Scriptural
view of the Constitution, Order, Discipline, and Fellowship of the Gospel Church," with recom-
mendatory Preface b)' Kev. J. Patison; Treatise on "Church Fellowsliip, " with recommendatoiy
Preface by Rev. James Fisher; two Sermons, entitled "Grace and Holiness;"' "An Impartial
Survey of the Religious Clause in some Burgess Oaths ;" " A Treatise on the Faith and Intluence
of the Gospel," edited by Dr James Peddie, 1803, and with Introductory Essay by Dr Chalmers,
1831 ; "An Appeal to the Public," in 4 parts; and " The Life of Faith Exhibited," in eleven
private letters.
The congregation called Rev. James Hall, who was continued by the Synod in
his charge at Cumnock.
2d Mmistcr. — Alexander Waugh, A.M., D.D., previously of Newtown, Selkirk-
shire. Admitted, after a third call, 9th May 1782. Had the degree of D.D. con-
ferred upon him by Marischal College, Aberdeen, 181 5. Died 14th December
1827, in the 74th year of his age and 48th of his ministry.
Dr Waugh was one of the founders, and, during the most of his ministerial life,
Presbytery of London — Miles Lane. 497
one of the most active promoters of the London Missionary Society. A Memoir of
his Life, with Selections from his Correspondence and Pulpit Recollections, was
published after his death by the Rev. Drs Hay of Kinross, and Belfrage of Falkirk.
The congregation called Mr Hill, afterwards of Warrington ; the Rev. Mr Smith
of Biggar ; and the Rev. Mr Smart of Leith, all of whom declined the calls.
3^ Minister. — Robert Redpath, A.M., previously of Edenshead, Fifeshire.
Admitted 2d November 1831. Withdrew from active duty in 1871.
Author of separate Sermons on " The Slavery of the Jews in Egypt ;" " The Vakie of Intetjrity ;"
" God's Working and our Working ;" " The Primary Cause of the Misery of Man ;" "The Neces-
sity and Advantage of Rehgious Assemblies ;" " The Diversity of Religious Opinions no Objection
to the use of the Sacred Scriptures;" " Daniel, an Example to Young Men in London;" "The
Young Man in London ;" " The Day of Salvation;" "The Strait Gate ;" " The Greatest Christian
Grace;" "The Three Christian Graces;" "Christ's Infant School, or the Education of God's
Heirs ;" " The Greater Works of Believers ;" " Sermon on the Death of Dr Archer."
The congregation on the nth May 187 1 united with that of Oxendon Street,
and the united congregation met on 21st May in Oxendon Church.
The place of worship was sold.
MILES LANE (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated in 1790 with a few members of Wells Street,
resident in the eastern parts of the city, who, being desirous of extending the interests
of the Secession Church in the metropolis, and providing a place of worship for
themselves nearer their own residences than the one they were accustomed to attend,
rented a chapel in Red Cross Street. This step was taken with the sanction of the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Coldstream (under which the congregation of
Wells Street then was), and, with the hearty concurrence of Wells Street congrega-
tion, they were disjoined and formed into a new congregation. After worshipping
two years in the rented chapel, they purchased a chapel in Miles Lane, and removed
to it 25th December 1795.
\st Minister. — Alexander Easton, from Kirkintilloch (First). Called to
Kirkintilloch, Lochwinnoch, Port-Glasgow, North Berwick, and London. Ordained
27th September 1792. Resigned 1802. Admitted to Hamilton 17th July 1804, and
afterwards went to America.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Black, who was continued by the Synod
in his charge at Kinghorn, and the Rev. Peter Young, who was continued in Jed-
burgh.
2d Minister. — John Rae, previously of St Andrews. Admitted 21st October
1805. Resigned 28th May 1806. Emigrated to New Providence, in the Bahamas;
and after residing there for some time, returned to Scotland, where he died in 1820.
yi Minister. — Alexander Fletcher, D.D., previously of Bridge of Teith.
Admitted 7th November 181 1. Removed with the majority of his congregation to
Albion Chapel, which had been built for them, 1816.
4M Minister. — Alexander Waugh, A.M., from London (Wells Street), of which
his father was minister. Called to Newburgh, Hamilton, Lochwinnoch, Girvan, and
London. Ordained 23d September 1819. Died 2d August 1824, in the 30th year
of his age and 5th of his ministry. A volume, entitled " Sermons, Expositions, and
Addresses at the Holy Communion," was published after his death, with a Memoir
by his father prefixed.
Li 1825 a junction was formed between the congregations of Miles Lane and
Albion Chapel, and Miles Lane church was then sold to make way for a new street.
2 I
49^ The United Presbyterian Church.
ALBION CHURCH.
This church originated with the congregation formerly worshipping in Miles
Lane Chapel. In consequence of the large numbers that attended the ministry of
the Rev. Alexander Fletcher, a more commodious and convenient place of worship
was found to be necessary. Albion Chapel, in Moorfields, London Wall, with
accommodation for looo sitters, costing about p/^io,ooo, was accordingly provided.
The foundation-stone was laid by Dr Waugh, in November 1815, and the church was
opened next year. The great majority of the congregation, with the minister, re-
moved to it in November 1816, leaving a small portion as a nucleus to form
another congregation in Miles Lane.
\st Minister. — Alexander Fletcher, D.D., previously of Miles Lane. Re-
moved to Albion Chapel 1816. Declared to be no longer in connection with the
church in May 1825. The great majority of his congregation adhered to him not-
withstanding, and built an elegant chapel for him (1826) in Finsbury Square, which
cost ;^i3,ooo, and is capable of holding above 3000 persons. He had the degree
of D.D. conferred upon him by Delaware College, U.S., 1845. He was without any
ecclesiastical connection from the time of his deposition by the United Associate
Synod till May 1849, when on the recommendation of a committee appointed to
converse with him, he was received into " Christian and ministerial fellowship" with
the United Presbyterian Synod. The congregation of Finsbury Chapel refused to
accede along with Dr Fletcher, and is now connected with the Independents.
During the last nine years of his Hfe, Dr Fletcher occupied his summer holidays in
Scotland in preaching sermons on behalf of a scheme to provide fishing boats for
the Western Isles. In this way he realised above ;!^3oo, and furnished 57 good
boats for poor fishermen. Died 30th September i860, in the 74th year of his age
and 53d of his ministry.
Author of "The Enlargement of Zion ;" a sermon preached before the London Missionary
Society, 1813 ; "The Excellence oftheEilile, an Essay ; " " The Sovereignty of God: a sermon
occasioned by the much-lamented death of her royal highness the Princess Charlotte Augusta ;"
" A semion on the death of her late majesty Queen Caroline, consort of King George the Fourth ;"
"Spiritual Guardian for Youth;" "Lectures to Youth," 3 vols.; "The Cottager's Friend,"
2 vols. ; "Scripture History," 2 vols. ; "Scripture Natural History," 2 vols. ; "The Sabbath
Remembrancer ;" "The Sinfulness of Scandal ;" "Triumphs of Faith ;" "The Juvenile Preacher ;"
"The Devotional Family Bible," 2 vols, quarto ; "Closet Devotional Exercises for the Young;"
" The Bible, a Great Exhibition ;" "Guide to Family Devotion," a quarto volume of which 50,000
copies have been sold; "Annual Sermons to Children on Christmas Day," of which many
copies were sold.
Sketches of his life were published in "Altar Light," the Funeral Sermon preached
by Rev. Dr Macfarlane of London, in " The Prince of Preachers to the Young," by
the Rev. William Blair, M.A., of Dunblane, where Dr Fletcher was brought up, and
in a brief memoir by the Rev. Dr Eadie, Glasgow, prefixed to the edition of 1865
of the " Guide to Family Devotion."
2d Minister. — James Gray, from Peebles (East). Called to Sunderland, Lath-
ones, and London. Ordained 24th January 1826. Died 4th ALiy 1828, in the
28th year of his age and third of his ministry. A volume of his sermons was pub
lished after his death, with a memoir by the Rev. Dr M'Kelvie.
3^? Minister. — John Young, A.M., LL.D., from Edinburgh (Bristo Street)
Called to Balerno, Haddington, Monkwearmouth, and London. Ordained 3d
March 1829. Resigned, and renounced connection with the United Presbyterian
Church, 22d November 1849. Now living privately in London. Had the degree of
LL.D. conferred upon him by the University of Edinburgh. Author of " Lectures
Presbytery of London — Pell Street — Highbury. 499
on Popery ;" " The Province of Reason ;" " The Christ of History ;" " Evil and
God ;" " The Light and Life of Men ;" " Universal Restoration," etc.
The congregation called (i.) the Rev. Joseph Brown of Dalkeith, who declined
the call; (2.) Mr John Dobie, who preferred Linhthgow; (3.) Mr D. M'Ewan,
who preferred Cathcart Street, Ayr.
4//^ Minister. — John M'Farlane, B.A., from Glasgow (Regent Place). Called
to Alloa (West) and London. Ordained 26th January 1853. Resigned his charge,
8th March 1858, and became minister of a congregational church in Maidenhead.
The congregation called Rev. Alexander Wallace, Glasgow, Rev. J. Riddell,
Moffat, and ]\Ir James Brown, afterwards of Paisley, all of whom decHned the
calls.
i^th Minister. — Thomas Russell, previously of Hawick. Inducted 5th April
1864. Demitted his charge 8th November 1869. Afterwards of Forest Hill.
The congregation in 1870 called Rev. R. M. Gibson, Partick, who declined the call.
6th Minister. — Robert Campbell, formerly of Aldershot. Admitted 19th
September 1872.
PELL STREET (Now Extinct).
Several members of the Secession congregations in London thinking it desir-
able to have a place of worship in their connection farther east than any then
existing, the Rev. Mr Craig, previously of Brechin, (being in the metropolis
without any charge, and concurring with them in the wish to form a congregation,)
began to preach in a hired chapel in Pell Street. This chapel was originally
a mason-hall, but had been occupied for a long time by a congregation
of Enghsh Presbyterians. These steps were taken, both by Mr Craig and those
with whom he co-operated, without recognising the Presbytery's authority; but
upon his removal soon afterwards, the people were, on petition, taken under
its inspection.
ist and only Minister. — William Aitken, from Buckhaven. Ordained ist
October, 1839. Resigned 17th December 1841. Emigrated, 1843, to America,
and became minister of a congregation at Smith's Falls, Canada East.
After Mr Aitken's resignation, the congregation called Mr Fleming, who pre-
ferred Whithorn ; and Mr, now Dr Andrew M'Farlane of Greenock, who preferred
Bathgate. Supply of sermon was continued to Pell Street for a considerable time
after these disappointments ; but the people being discouraged by them, and the
cause not prospering, it was abandoned and the place of worship closed.
HIGHBURY (PARK CHURCH).
At the Synod of 1859, an overture by the Presbytery of Lancashire, with the
lull concurrence of the Rev. R. Redpath and other parties connected with the
United Presbyterian Church in London, was presented and discussed, requesting
the Synod to take into consideration the interests of the denomination in
London, and to adopt measures whereby increased provision might be made
for the religious instruction of United Presbyterians in the metropolis. The
Synod approved of the object contemplated in this overture, and appointed
a committee to visit London and confer with the London Presbytery on the
subject. The congregation of Highbury was the first fruit of the action taken by
the Committee for Church Extension in London. The Committee of Synod
500 The United Presbyterian Church.
visited London on i8th July, and held a meeting in Oxendon Chapel, at which
a committee was appointed for promoting the object the Synod contemplated.
That committee thought it desirable that a commencement should be made in
Islington, and accordingly engaged Myddelton Hall as a temporary place of
worship. The Rev. Dr John Macfarlane of Glasgow, convener of Synod's Com-
mittee, opened the station on Sabbath, 28th of August 1859. The Revs. John
Edmond of Glasgow, W. B. Robertson of Irvine, and other ministers, succeeded
Dr Macfarlane as preachers to the new station. The success which attended
the services of these ministers was such that, by deed of the London Presbytery,
the friends worshipping in Myddelton Hall were, on petition, formed into
a congregation, on 31st October; and, at the request of the Presbytery, the Rev.
R. S. Scott of Manchester preached in Myddelton Hall on the evening of Tuesday,
ist November, and intimated to the people that they were now recognised as a
regular congregation. At the same time, it was agreed to have a weekly service on
Tuesday evenings.
On the 30th April i860 a call was unanimously given to the Rev. John
Edmond of Regent Place, Glasgow, to become the minister of Islington congre-
gation, which then numbered 39 members. At the meeting of Glasgow Presbytery
on the 1 2th June i860, Mr Edmond intimated his acceptance of the call; and
on the 31st August his induction took place at Myddelton Hall. The stipend
offered to Mr Edmond on coming to London was ;;^3oo, with ^200 in addition
guaranteed by the Synod for three years. Before the expiry of the three years
the congregation were enabled to dispense with the supplement from the Synod.
Owing to unexpected difficulties in obtaining a site, the building of a church
was delayed till the spring of 1862. On the 18th August 1862 the memorial stone
was laid by John Henderson, Esq. of Park, to whose munificent and judicious
liberality Highbury congregation, as well as the Church in general, is deeply
indebted. On the 4th December following, the church was opened for Divine
service, on which occasion the devotional exercises were conducted by the Rev. R.
Redpath, M.A., and the Rev. Alexander Raleigh of Hare Court Congregational
Chapel ; and the opening sermon was preached by the Rev. John Cairns, D.D.,
of Berwick. The church, which is situated in Grosvenor Road, Highbury New
Park, cost about ^^9000, and is fitted to accommodate 1050 sitters.
\st Minister. — John Edmond, D.D., formerly of Glasgow (Regent Place).
Translated to Highbury, London, 31st August i860. Had the degree of D.D. con-
ferred on him by the University of Glasgow on i8th January 1861. Was deputy,
along with Dr A. M'Leod, to the first General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church
of America, 1870. Called to Hamilton, Canada West, in February 187 1 (with
promised stipend of 3500 dollars and a manse), but declined the call. Moderator
of the United Presbyterian Synod, and of the English Synod of the United Presby-
terian Church, 187 1.
Author of " Voluntarj'isra in the House of its Friends;" "Sorrow on the Sea," a discourse
occasioned by the loss of the Royal Charter (1859); "Directions for Profitable Visits to the House of
God;" " The Children's Charter, " 1S59 ; "The Children's Church at Home," first series 1861,
second series 1863; "Scripture Stories, in Verse;" "Exposition of the Gospel by John ;" "Notes
of a Tour in America," in the United Presbyterian Magazine.
ST PAUL'S, WESTBOURNE GROVE.
In i860 the Synod's committee on Extension in London, reported that a
Presbytery of London — Trinity Church. 501
congregation had been organised in Islington. I'he Synod agreed to raise a
loan fund of ^6000 and a guarantee fund of ;^2 0oo to aid the scheme. The
second new station, for the district of Notting Hill and Bayswater, was opened in
Westbourne Hall, Westbourne Grove, on the third Sabbath of September i860, by
the Rev. Dr Cairns. After having been supplied by a series of ministers from
difterent parts of the country, it was fortunate in securing for the winter and spring
months the services of the Rev. Dr King. On the 15th April 1861 the station was
erected into a congregation, with 32 members. A site for a church having been
secured at Westbourne Grove Terrace, for ;^23io, the foundation-stone was laid by
John Henderson, Esq. of Park, on the 9th May 1861. The church was opened on
the 26th January 1862 by Rev. Drs Cairns and King (collection, ^180). It con-
tains sittings for 1000, and cost ^7700. The price of the ground and a spacious
lecture-hall were the gift of Mr Henderson of Park. The interior of the church was
entirely remodelled in 1871, at a cost of ^470, 13s. 8d.
\st Minister.— TiAvm King, LL.D., formerly of Glasgow (Grcyfriars). Inducted
27th November 1862. Moderator of the United Presbyterian Synod in 1864.
Translated to Edinburgh (Morningside) ist April 1869.
The congregation called the Rev. W. M. Taylor, M.A., Liverpool ; and
Rev. James Davidson, M.A., of Selkirk, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Mitiistcr. — Walter Morison, B.A., formerly of Glasgow (Eglinton Street).
Inducted 23d March 187 1. Author of " Passio Christi," a volume ; and of various
articles in magazines and reviews.
TRINITY CHURCH, CLAPHAM ROAD.
In the prosecution of the Synod's scheme for the extension of the Church in
London, it was felt indispensable to secure the opening of a station on the south
side of the Thames. The Rev. R. S. Scott, M.A., of Manchester, being in
London in the autumn of i860, reported to the Presbytery in October that
a site might be secured in Clapham Road, and a school-room in the vicinity
obtained as a temporary place of meeting. The Presbytery therefore cordially
sanctioned the commencement of a station in the district of Clajjliam Road, parish
of Lambeth, as a fitting locality for a third new congregation. Accordingly,
the station was opened in Binfield Hall, on 27th January 1861, by the Rev. Dr
John Macfarlane of Glasgow, to whose abundant labours, as the first convener of
committee, the first of the new congregations in London was largely indebted for
its successful beginning. For months i)revious to the opening of this station, the
committee were employing means to secure funds for the prosecution of the
movement. On the 8th April 1861 the Presbytery of London congre^^ated the
church of Clapham Road ; and on 23d June the Lord's Sui)per was dispensed for
the first lime, the Rev. Dr Macfarlane presiding.
At the time the church was congregated, the membership consisted of seventeen
persons, with upwards of forty adherents. Yet, such was the spirit of this youn"-
cause, that on 15th August they applied to the Presbytery for a moderation in a call
which, after full inquiry, was granted. On 28th August, the church gave a unani-
mous call to the Rev. Dr John Macfarlane of " Erskine Church," Glasgow. The
call was subscribed by thirty- six members, and eighty- nine adherents. This call
Dr Macfarlane accepted, and was inducted as minister of Trinity Church, Clapham
Road, on 15th April 1862. A public meeting was held in the evening, presided
502 The United Presbyterian CJmrch.
over by W. S. Lindsay, Esq., M.P. The assembly met in the Lecture Hall, as the
church was not then completed. The foundation-stone of the church was laid by
John Henderson, Esq. of Park, on 13th February 1862, and the building was
finished and opened for public worship on 30th October 1862, the Rev. Dr Eadie
of Glasgow, and the Rev. Dr Chalmers of London, preaching the opening sermons,
the collections at which amounted to about ;^42o. The cost of the whole church
premises, inclusive of the freehold, was about ;^i 2,500. The church, which is of a
stately Corinthian architecture, and of large and roomy dimensions, is seated to contain
from 1300 to 1400. Besides the church, there are (i.) A large lecture hall, seated for
about 500; {2.) A large class-room, holding about 100; (3.) A session-room; (4.) The
minister's vestry ; and a good dwelling-house for the church-officer. The whole
premises are now free of debt.
\si Minister. — John Macfarlane, LL.D., inducted 15th April 1862. Dr Mac-
farlane was nearly ten years minister in Kincardine-on-Forth ; and afterwards fully
twenty-one years minister of Erskine Church, Glasgow. He received the degree of
LL.D. from the University of Glasgow in 1841. Moderator of the United Presby-
terian Synod in 1866, and of the English Provincial Synod in 1S70.
Dr Macfarlane is joint author, with Dr M'Kerrow, of " The Life and CoiTespondence of Rev.
H. Belfrage, D.D., Falkirk;" author of a pamphlet entitled, " Dissenting Neutrality : or, the
Perthshire Election Viewed in its bearings upon the Non-intrusion Question, and the Present and
Approaching Duties of Dissenters;" "Memoir of Rev. John Campbell ;" "Good Will to Israel,
a Lecture on behalf of the Jews ; " "The Mountains of the Bible, their Scenes and their Lessons ; "
" The Night Lamp : a Narrative of the Means by which Spiritual Darkness was dispelled from the
Death-bed of Agnes Maxwell Macfarlane;" "The Hiding-Place : or, the Sinner Found iri Christ;"
Gold;" "Altar Light;" "Altar Zeal;" "Sketch of Dr Fletcher; " " Pulpit Echoes;" "Lecture on
Scottish Endowments;" "Apostolic Preaching;" "Spiritual Life Developed ; Funeral Sermon for
Dr Baird of Paisley ; " " Consentings to the Death of Truth ; " Editor of Condensed Commentary taken
from Henry and Scott ; and author of numerous contributions to the Reviews and Serials of the
day.
STRATFORD.
Mr Andrew Black, a probationer of the United Presbyterian Church, came to
Stratford in 1863 to preach the Gospel. He inaugurated his mission by leasing a hall
on his own responsibility. On the i6th March 1863 he apprised the London Presby-
tery of his intentions, when the Presbytery expressed its interest therein. He began
preaching on April 19th, and shortly thereafter a station was formed. On the 14th
September a petition, signed by 47 persons, designated as members of various Christian
churches, with a paper of adherence signed by 19 others, was presented to the Pres-
bytery, praying the Presbytery to erect them into a congregation. The request was
granted, and Stratford congregation, comprising 1 7 members, was formed on October
5th, 1863. On the 28th December a call was given to Mr Black to become their
minister, and his ordination took place 25th February 1864.
A lecture-hall with vestries was opened on 22d December 1864, costing ^1130.
The church was opened on the 7th July 1870, by the Rev. Dr John Macfarlane;
contains 800 sittings, and cost about ;^45oo.
\st Afi?u'ster. — Andrew Black, from Stirling (St Ninians). Ordained 25th
February 1864.
Presbytery of LondoJi — Bow — Forest Hill — Gi'eenwich. 503
HAMMERSMITH (ST ANDREW'S).
A preaching station was opened here on third Sabbath of October 1868 by
Rev. Dr Macfarlane, and the station was congregated on 26th November 1868.
The foundation-stone of the church was laid by the Most Noble the Marquis of
Lome, in presence of Dr Guthrie and a brilliant assembly, 30th March 1870. The
church was opened i6th July 1870; and with transepts, tower, lecture-hall, bell, and
organ, cost ;^6864 ; sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — Henry Miller, A.M., previously of Carlisle. Inducted 14th
July 1869.
BOW.
The Rev. William Allan Curr was brought up in connection with the congrega-
tion of the Rev. Joseph Hay of Grimsby United Presbyterian Church, Arbroath.
Having removed to London, and imbibed Baptist principles, he entered Regent's
Park College and studied for the ministry. For several years he continued a Baptist
minister. He then left the Baptist body, and having got an iron church at Bow, he
began to preach within it. The church was opened by Rev. Dr Macfarlane in
January 1869. He made application to the United Presbytery of London to be
received as a minister, and the case was referred to the Synod in May 1869. The
Synod authorised the Presbytery of London to receive Mr Curr after due probation,
which was done on 14th July 1869. The congregation he had gathered was recog-
nised as a regular congregation of the United Presbyterian Church, 13th September
1869.
ist Minister. — William Allan Curr. Inducted 28th October 1869. Resigned
his charge 9th January 1871. Emigrated to America.
2d Minister. — James Muckersie Erskine, previously of Burghead. Admitted
2d July 1872.
FOREST HILL (ST JOHN'S).
The Rev. Thomas Russell of Albion Church, London Wall, during his holiday
in 1869, began preaching in a hall at Sydenham. His first service was conducted
on 5th September, and on the 8th November he resigned his charge of Albion in
order to preach to the people he had gathered at Sydenham. The congregation
was erected on 6th March 1870 as the congregation of Forest Hill, Sydenham, and
Dulwich. ]\Ir Russell was called on 23d May, and inducted on 31st October, 1870.
The church cost about ^1500, and has 576 sittings; lecture hall cost ;^530 ;
manse cost ;^95o.
1st Minister. — Thomas Russell, formerly of Albion Church. Inducted 31st
October 1870. Demitted his charge 2d January 1872.
2d Minister. — W^illiam Boyd, previously of Milnathort. Admitted nth July 1872.
GREENWICH (Now Extinct).
Greenwich is a town in Kent, 4 miles east of London. The Rev. John Parker,
of Smyrna Chapel, Sunderland, when a probationer of the Secession Church in
1834, visited his brother in Greenwich, and on the conversation between them
turning on the spiritual condition of that place, regret was expressed that there was
no Secession place of worship there, the more especially that there were several
504 The United Pi'esbyterian Church.
Scottish families in the town and surrounding district, while at the same time the
means of grace were not adequate to the wants of the place. Mr Butler, a member
of the Secession Church, who was present, stated that there was then a chapel to
let in the town, and that it might be worth while securing it. The use of this chapel
having been obtained, Mr Parker was induced to deliver an address in it. With per-
mission of the persons to whom the chapel belonged, he intimated at the close of his
address that sermon would be afforded there the following Sabbath. The Rev.
Messrs Young and Redpath of London afterwards preached, and the congregation
was organised 24th July 1835.
\st and only Minister. — James M'Whirter, from Ayr. Ordained 19th May
1836. Resigned 21st June 1840. Supply of sermon was continued by the
United Secession Church some time longer, but it was withdrawn 14th Sep-
tember 1840. The chapel then passed into the hands of ministers connected
with the Church of Scotland, and afterwards of the EngHsh Presbyterian Church.
BRISTOL.
In the beginning of 1855, a few Scotsmen in Bristol, who had been members
of Presbyterian Churches in their own land, were led to express to each other their
feelings as to the possibility of organising a Presbyterian Church in this city. On
2 2d March, a private meeting of seven persons adopted the following resolution : —
" That considering the desirableness of having a Presbyterian place of worship, and
being convinced that there are sufficient elements for its support, this meeting
resolves upon proceeding in the formation of a United Presbyterian Church in
Bristol." A canvass having been made of Scotsmen in Bristol, a general meeting
of those favourable to the project was railed on Good Friday, 6th April. Thirty-
eight persons then met, and approved of the proceedings of the provisional com-
mittee, and resolved on the formation in Bristol of a Presbyterian Church in connec-
tion wdth the London United Presbyterian Presbytery. A deputation from the
committee of management proceeded to London, and had an interview with several
ministers there. Preliminary arrangements were made, and pulpit supply for three
months obtained. The opening services began on 20th May 1855, in Broadmead
Rooms, which had been engaged as a temporary place of worship, when the Rev.
John Macfarlane, LL.D., Glasgow, preached morning and evening to audiences
numbering above 1000 persons. As it was deemed more conducive to the interests
of the church to be associated with Lancashire rather than London Presbytery, the
application was made to Lancashire Presbytery for the erection of the congregation.
This request was granted, and the Rev. John Edmond, Glasgow, as delegate of the
Presbytery, on the loth August 1855, pronounced 22 persons "a congregation of
the United Presbyterian Church," accompanied with the wish that they might be
" a living, loving, liberal, and laborious Church." The Lord's Supper was dispensed
for the first time, on the 19th August, to 35 communicants. On the nth October,
a unanimous call was given to Rev. John Ker, A.M. (now Dr Ker), Glasgow, which,
however, he felt it to be his duty to decline. A building committee was appointed,
on 28th May 1857, to look out for a suitable site for a church, which was at length
obtained at St James's Parade. Plans were afterwards selected, and the foundation-
stone was laid on 8th July 1858 by H. E. Crum-Ewing, Esq., ALP. for Paisley.
The church was opened on 7th September 1859, by a prayer meeting, at 7 a.m.
Sermons were preached forenoon and evening by the Rev. Drs Macfarlane and
Presbytery of London — Woolwich — A Icier shot. 505
Edmond, of Glasgow ; on the 9th September the Rev. W. M. Taylor, Liverpool,
preached, and on Sabbath nth, the Rev. Mr Dickie; the collections in all being
^460. The church cost the sum of ;^5923, i6s. 6d. 3 the schools built in 1861,
cost ;^90I.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation gave a call to Rev. John Ker,
A.M., of Glasgow, nth October 1855, which he declined. On ist September 1856,
an effort was made to secure the ministrations of Mr George Wade, but he preferred
a call from Falkirk.
\st Minister. — Matthew Dickie, formerly of Cumnock. Inducted 28th April
1857. Died 30th May 187 1, in the 57th year of his age, and 23d of his ministry.
Author of " Shadowings of Immortality : or. Glimpses of the Unseen : " " Work : or,
the Curse Changed into a Blessing," etc.
2d Minister. — Peter Rutherford, formerly of Falkirk (South). Admitted
14th December 1871.
WOOLWICH (ST ANDREW'S CHURCH).
This congregation originated in the spontaneous desire on the part of some
Scottish Presbyterians in the locality, to have a second Presbyterian Church in the
town, that might not only be beneficial to their fellow-countrymen, many of whom
had lapsed from church attendance, but also to the English community at large,
many of whom, they expected, would join in and aid_the movement. In this hope
they have not been disappointed.
The station was erected into a congregation in 1861. The congregation wor-
shipped in a chapel which they rented, and which had formerly been in connection
with the Congregationalists, till 1867. After 1867 they met for worship in an iron
church, seated for 3oo,'and costing ^520.
The memorial-stone of a new church was laid by J. E. Mathieson, Esq., in
December 187 1. Church built in the early English style of architecture. Cost
above ;^3ooo ; sittings, 400. It was opened in May 1872 by Rev. Donald Fraser,
D.D., of London.
\st Minister. — Robert Balgarnie, from Tranent. Ordained 20th November
1862. Called to Port Elizabeth, South Africa, 1868, but remained in Woolwich.
Author of " Light at the Fountain of Life," a sermon ; and a small work, entitled
" Soul-Winning."
ALDERSHOT.
In the summer of 1861, missionary work in connection with the United Presby-
terian Church was begun in the town of Aldershot. After the formation of the great
military camp, the village, with a few straggling houses interspersed, had grown into
a town with a population of 7000, while in the camp itself there were from 15,000
to 25,000 men, besides women and children. The Home Mission Board of the
United Presbyterian Church was made aware of the great spiritual destitution of the
town. And the peculiar opportunity now aftbrded, not only of aiding to provide the
Gospel for the people of the town of Aldershot, but of connecting missionary
agency with the camp, and thus with the British army, led the committee, in con-
junction with the London Presbytery, to rent a hall, and open a station in the town.
The station was formed into a congregation on the loth April 1862.
I'he building of the church was begun in 1863, and it was opened for Divine
5o6 The United Presbyterian Church.
service on 14th February 1864. The church has sittings for 458, with provision for
a gallery to accommodate 250 more. The price of the building was ^[^22,00.
\st Minister. — Robert Campbell, previously of Glasgow (Canon Street). Inducted
6th June 1865. Translated to London (Albion Church), 2d September 1872.
SILVERHILL, HASTINGS.
On the evening of the first Lord's Day of November 1855, a meeting for Divine
service was held in the large room of an unoccupied house at Silverhill (which was
lent for the purpose) by Mr William Boyd, now of St John's, Forest Hill, at that time
a student of theology, and Mr Richard Harris of Leicester. Mr Boyd was then
residing in Silverhill, and Mr Harris in Hastings. After prayerful consideration,
they concluded that the spiritual wants of the village, which was then increasing
rapidly, and in or near which there was no convenient place of worship, called for
the steps which they took. About 80 attended the first meeting, and the services
were continued every Sabbath evening by Mr Boyd. A small church was built in
1857, at the close of which year Mr Boyd was succeeded by Mr John D. Dickie,
student, afterwards of Selkirk, now of New South Wales, who added a morning ser-
vice. He was followed, in 1859, by Mr Thomas Shiels, who died at Silverhill in
May i860; by Mr Walter Roberts, M.A., of Airdrie, now of Glasgow, in i860;
and by Mr James Jeffrey, M.A., now of Dalkeith, in 1863 — all United Presbyterian
students. Probationers supplied from 1865 till April 1S67.
The mission station was congregated by the Presbytery of London in 1862. The
church was opened in July 1857, and was seated for about 100. It was enlarged in
April 1861, and again enlarged in 1865, when it was re-opened by the Rev. Dr
Macfarlane. It is now seated for about 400. The cost of original buildings, and sub-
sequent enlargements, has been ;i^i349.
\st Minister. — Daniel Patterson, M.A., formerly of Smethwick, Birmingham.
Inducted i6th April 1867. Resigned 26th April 1869.
2d Minister. — George B. Carr, from Berwick (Wallace Green). Ordained i8th
November 1869.
LEICESTER.
A preaching station was opened in Leicester on 21st May 1865, in the
Temperance Hall, by Rev. Dr King. The station was erected into a congregation
on the 12th October 1865, with 21 members, by Rev. Dr Edmond. The memorial
stone of the church was laid on 28th April 1869, by T. C. Stevenson, Esq., M.P.,
and the church was opened by the Rev. Dr John Macfarlane on 9th December
1869. The site of the church cost ;^iii5. The church, session-room, and vestry
cost about ^3500 ; sittings, 700.
A call was given to Rev. John Riddell of Moffat, on 23d July 1866, which he
declined.
ist Minister. — James Ker, A.M., previously of Chirnside. Called to Leicester
17th March, and to Wolverhampton 30th March 1868. Inducted at Leicester 23d
June 1868. Author of " Memoir of Rev. Dr Jack of Dunbar," his father-in-law.
NEW BARNET.
A preaching station was opened at New Barnet, a few miles from London, on 26th
December 1869, and the persons worshippingthere were formed into a congregation on
Presbytery of Melrose — Stow. 507
the 31st March 1870. The congregation worship in an iron chapel, for which they pay
a yearly rent, and in which religious services were conducted before the station was
undertaken by the United Presbyterian Church. It cost ^450, and is seated for
180. A call was given to Mr John Boyd, M.A., but he preferred a call to Skelmorlie.
ist Minister. — George Drysdale, from Bridge of Allan. Ordained 28th
February 1871.
BRIGHTON (TRINITY CHURCH).
A preaching station was opened in Brighton on i6th January 1870, by Rev. Dr
Macfarlane of London. It continued to receive supply by ministers of the Church
till a call was given to one to be minister. A church was bought for ;^3ooo, with
sittings for 450.
On 9th January 187 1, a petition, signed by 67 persons, was presented to London
Presbytery, praying the Presbytery to organise them as a congregation. On 13th
February the station was congregated under the ministry of Rev. Alexander
Hamilton, with 52 members.
\st Minister. — Alexander Hamilton, M.A., D.D., previously of Kilmarnock.
Inducted 21st February 187 1. Had the degree of D.D. conferred on him by the
University of Glasgow in 1872.
PRESBYTERY OF MELROSE.
The General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Earlston
in 1758 by disjoining congregations from the Presbytery of Edinburgh, and consti-
tuting them a separate Presbytery. The seat of this Presbytery was removed from
Earlston to Kelso in 1786, and the Presbytery thereafter assumed the name of
Kelso Presbytery.
The Associate (Burgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Selkirk in 1797, by
dividing the Presbytery of Kelso into the Presbyteries of Coldstream and Selkirk.
At the union of the two great branches of the Secession (1820), four congregations
were taken from what had been the General Associate Presbytery of Kelso, and
added to the United Associate Presbytery of Selkirk. At the union of the Secession
and Relief Churches in 1847, three congregations were taken from the Relief
Presbytery of Kelso, and one from that of Edinburgh, and added to that of Selkirk.
In May 1850, the name of Selkirk Presbytery was changed into that of Melrose
Presbytery.
STOW.
Stow is a village in Mid-Lothian, 24I miles south of Edinburgh, and i\ north of
Galashiels.
In 1732, the crown, as patron, presented Mr David Duncan, probationer, to the
church and parish of Stow, then vacant. So hostile were the parishioners to the
settlement of this presentee among them, that it was thought necessary to call in
the military to protect the Presbytery while engaged in ordaining him. Several of
the parishioners, and 11 out of 15 elders, from that time forth discontinued their
attendance at the Established Church, and contented themselves with a.ttending the
5o8 The United Presbyterian CJnirch.
meetings of a praying society which had existed in the place from the times of the
Solemn League and Covenant.
In 1734, an unacceptable minister was settled in Heriot, the parish which
adjoins that of Stow on the north-west, which led to further defections from the
Established Church, and increased attendance at the prayer-meetings in Stow.
In 1737, the ministers of both these parishes, already so unpopular by the
obnoxious mode in which they had been settled, rendered themselves still more so
by persisting in reading " The Porteous Act " from the pulpit.
Such was the ferment produced in the parish of Stow by this last act of Mr
Duncan's, that it was thought necessary to ask the advice and interference of the
Commission of the General Assembly which met in May 1738. The application
and the finding resulting from it are thus referred to in the minutes of that body :
"The Committee of Bills transmitted a petition of heritors, elders, heads of families, and others
in the parish of Stow, who have not freedom to submit to the ministry of Mr Duncan, referring to
another representation and petition drawn up by them to be presented to the late Assembly, which
tliey had not access to do, setting forth certain hardships the petitioners were under in consequence
of Mr Duncan's settlement as minister of Stow, and craving the Assembly would grant them proper
relief. The General Assembly having heard the foresaid petition and deliverance of their Committee
of Bills thereupon, they did nominate a committee to confer with the commissioners from the
petitioners, and endeavour to settle matters in an amicable manner, and to meet at the rising of the
sederunt ; that the moderator of the Assembly, with the committee, be empowered to write to Mr
Duncan, and give him their advice, what may be proper for him to do in order for him to maintain
peace and quiet in the parish, until matters be brought to a more harmonious state than they are at
present, and likewise to the neighbouring Presbyteries of Dalkeith, Selkirk, and Earlston, to use
the Dissenting people in the parish of Stow with all leniency, particularly with respect to baptizing
their children, and humbly to offer their opinion to these Presbyteries, what may be proper to be
done on their part for maintaining the quiet of the parish in its present unhappy circumstances."
This attempt was unsuccessful with the great proportion of the complainers,
who saw no course now open to them but to withdraw alike from Mr Duncan's
ministry and the Established Church. Two of the elders had acceded to the
Associate Presbytery some time before, but had, notwithstanding, continued their
attendance at the parish church till now. These, with a number of the parishioners
who had previously withdrawn and connected themselves with the praying society
in the parish, and several others who had more recently withdrawn from the
Established Church, subscribed a paper, which they presented to the Asssociate
Presbytery in June 1738, "signifying their sense of their sin in so long drawing
back from their former accession, and petitioning the Presbytery to appoint a day
of fasting among them, and one of their number to officiate on the occasion. The
Presbytery, finding some things not satisfactory to them in this paper, returned it
to the subscribers, with instructions to have these amended before their next
meeting, and in the meantime intimated their desire to encourage them.''
At the next meeting of Presbytery, i8th July 1738, a paper was laid on the
table, subscribed by nearly all the members of the Praying Society in Stow, and
some others not in connection with it, renewing the application contained in the
former petition, and assigning specific reasons for withdrawing from the Established
Church and adopting the Testimony emitted by the Presbytery — omissions which
had rendered their previous paper unsatisfiictory, and which were supplied in the
one now presented.
The Rev. Messrs Wilson of Perth and Mair of Orwell observed the fast requested
by the society of Stow, at Greenwells, on the lands of Burnbrae, about 4 miles from
the village, in the beginning of October 1738, and baptized 28 children upon the
occasion.
Supply of sermon was continued to Stow as the Presbytery could aftbrd it, the
Presbytery of Melrose — Midholm. 509
adherents to the cause meeting for a time in the open air at the " Paddie Pools,"
and, after 1740, in the house in which the Praying Society met, till 1740, when
they took possession of a place of worship they had erected on a site granted them
by Sir Robert Pringle of Stitchel, to whom the lands in the neighbourhood chiefly
belonged, and who himself had now become an elder of the Secession Church.*
Second church built 1821 \ cost ;^5oo; sittings 430.
The foundation-stone of a new church was laid on the 21st August 187 1. The
church was opened by Rev. Dr Eadie, 30th July 1872, collection being about
;^2oo. The church, with spire no feet high, cost in all ^,^2050; sittings 500.
\st Minister. — William Hutton, A.M., from Muckart. Ordained 19th Novem-
ber 1740. Called to Falkirk, 1742, but continued at that time in Stow. Adhered
with the majority of his congregation to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at the Breach,
1747. Called to Haddington, Perth, and Dalkeith, and translated to Dalkeith, 1750.
The congregation called Mr John Brown, who was appointed by the Synod to
Haddington ; and Mr David Forrest, who was appointed to Inverkeithing.
2d Mijiister. — William Kidston, from Stirling (First). Called to Selkirk and
Stow. Ordained 15th September 1756. Died 22d April 1808, in the 79th year
of his age, and 52d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr A. Fletcher, who was appointed by the Synod to
Bridge of Teith ; and the Rev. George Lawson, who was continued in his charge at
Galashiels.
3^ Minister. — Robert Hay, from Kelso (First). Called to North Sunderland
and Stow. Ordained 14th March 1810. Died, suddenly, 2 2d April 1837, in the
52d year of his age and 28th of his ministry.
\th Minister. — Andrew Robertson, from Paisley, St James Street. Called to
Dundee and Stow. Ordained 31st January 1838. Demitted his charge loth June
1862, and proceeded to Australia. Inducted, first, at Castlemaine, and afterwards
at West Melbourne.
Author of a tract, entitled "A Letter to the Rev. Andrew Marshall, D. D., I.L.D., on tlie
Atonement;" "History of the Atonement Controversy in connection with the Secession
Church from its origin to the present time,"iS46; "On the Scheme for Supplementing Stipends,"
1847; "Letter to Rev. Dr Candlish on the Education Question;" "The Cardross Case, or the
Nature and Limits of Civil Lrterference with Ecclesiastical Procedure."
^th Minister. — Alexander Mair, A.M., from Mauchline. Called to Burton
on-Trent and Stow. Ordained 9th June 1863.
MIDHOLM (Now Extinct).
Midholm, popularly " Midlem," is a village in the parish of Bowden, Roxburgh-
shire, 4 miles south-east of Selkirk, 4 south-west of Melrose, and 9 north-east of
Hawick.
In January 1739, the Duke of Roxburghe, as patron, presented Mr James Hume,
probationer, to the church and parish of Bowden, then vacant. Only four persons
in the parish could be persuaded to sign Mr Hume's call, and the Presbytery on
that account refused to sustain it. The case came by appeal before the higher
Church courts, and after being once before the Commission of the Assembly, and
twice before the Assembly itself, it was decided, in 1742, in favour of the presentee
* The original building was a malt-barn, which was fitted up as a church, on a lease of nine
years, at the annual rent of 57 pounds Scots. The congregation still use the old communion cups,
bearing the date of 1743. (See " United Presbyterian Magazine," 1872, p.p. 445-53).— Eds.
5 ' o J he United Presbyterian CJutrch.
by a majority of one, 57 having voted for him, and 56 against him. Principal
Wishart, with 20 ministers and 5 elders, entered their dissent from the Assembly's
decision, and afterwards published their reasons, which were strongly condemnatory
of the presentee's settlement in the circumstances. Nevertheless, Mr Hume w^as
ordained minister of Bowden, under cover of a company of dragoons from Edinburgh.
A great portion of the people withdrew from the Established Church, and acceded
to the Associate Presbytery, June 1740, two years before his settlement, Mr
Clarkson, afterwards of Craigmailen, preached at Midholm, by appointment of
Presbytery, on the last Sabbath of June 1740; and supply of sermon was continued
to the Seceders there, alternately with those in Ettrick, till a minister -was settled in
Midholm, when the Seceders in Ettrick, Yarrow, and Ashkirk were included in the
congregation having its seat there. Church built, i 746.
\st Minister. — Patrick Matthew. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery while
a student of Theology in connection Avith the Established Church, 1740. Ordained
14th May 1742. Adhered, with the majority of his congregation, to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747. In 175 1, he changed his
views and joined the Burghers. Translated to Auchtermuchty, Fife, 1752.
2d Minister. — Andrew Arnot, from Milnathort (First). Ordained 8th July
1752. Died 24th May 1803, in the 8ist year of his age and 51st of his ministry.
id Mijiister. — Laurence Glass, from Craigend. Ordained nth January 1803,
Deposed, 1806. Became a farmer near Melrose.
4/^ Minister. — James Inglis, from Dumfries (Loreburn Street). Called to
Kirriemuir and Midholm. Ordained 28th February 1809. Resigned, 24th July
1828. Removed to Edinburgh, where he died.
Mr Inglis joined the Synod of Original Seceders soon after his resignation, and a
short time afterwards his former congregation also went over to that denomination.
EARLSTON.
Earlston is a village in Lauderdale, Berwickshire, a,% miles north-east of Melrose,
7 south of Lauder, and 1 1 north-west of Kelso.
EAST CHURCH.
A number of persons resident in the parish of Earlston, dissatisfied with th
doctrines taught by the minister, withdrew from the Established Church and acceded
to the Associate Presbytery, in 1738. The ordination of Mr Hunter as minister of
the united congregations of Morebattle and Stitchel took place the following year,
and the Seceders in Earlston were then included in the Stitchel portion of his congre-
gation. In the autumn of 1746, they petitioned the Presbytery to be disjoined from
Stitchel, then vacant, and formed into a separate congregation. The Presbytery
refused compliance with this petition, and appointed a committee to endeavour to
dissuade them from prosecuting their object. The committee reported, in Novem-
ber following, " that after using all endeavours to get the people of Earlston to con-
tinue regular attendance at Stitchel, they could avail nothing ; but they conceived
that if a settlement were to take place among them, and the minister to preach some
days in the year at Earlston, it would be the means of promoting unity among them."
The people there were insisting upon complete sejxiration from Stitchel, or having
Presbytery of Melrose — Ear Is ton (East). 5 1 1
the services of the minister that should be settled there once or twice every month at
Earlston. While matters were in this state, the controversy respecting the Burgess
Oath arose and divided the Seceders there as elsewhere. The greater portion of
them adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod. Other portions of
Stitchel congregation also adhered to this branch of the Secession, and each of them
was anxious to have the seat of the congregation, now certain to arise, in its own
locality. Hence sermon came to be supplied to Hume, Kelso, and Earlston, when
it should have been confined to one of them, or at most to two. The result was, that
none of them prospered greatly. In February 1749, the station at Kelso was sup-
pressed, and sermon supplied to Hume and Earlston alternately, the people formerly
attending at Kelso consenting to attend at Earlston, till they were able to form a
congregation by themselves, which, with the assistance of the Seceders in and about
Hume, they succeeded in doing in 1777. In November 1750, a moderation was
granted to those in the west end of " Stitchel community," the name by which the
Seceders in and about Earlston at first designated themselves, and " the people in the
east end " — so runs the Presbytery minute — " who were wont to receive appointments
-of supply at Hume shall be at freedom to concur in the moderation," and it was
afterwards agreed that they should have sermon, by the minister of Earlston, every
third Sabbath of the month at Hume. On the day of ordination, a petition was
presented from some people in Gattonside, a village about midway between Stow
and Earlston (which are eleven miles apart), craving to be disjoined from the General
Associate Congregation of Stow, afterwards the First Secession Congregation of
Lauder, and included in the congregation of Earlston, which was allowed. In
November 1751, several persons resident in Galashiels were disjoined from the
General Associate congregation of Stow and added to the congregation of Earlston.
The Presbytery at the same time agreed that " the congregation of Earlston be
bounded by the Water of Eden, including East Gordon and Wadderly on the east,
and east and north from East Gordon by that water to Nenthorn, and south to the
Tweed, inclusive of Galashiels ; and that all the other places adjacent belong to
Hume, now disjoined from Earlston, and afterwards become the second congregation
of Kelso ; and that the bounds between Earlston and Midholm extend no farther
from Earlston to the south of the Tweed than the village of Newstead." The congre-
gation thus formed and increased had been regularly organised by the Presbytery
in the summer of 1750, but their difficulties only then began, for the proprietors of
land in the town and neighbourhood refused a site for a place of worship, and
materials to build it with. At length, after much importunity, Mr Baillie of Mel-
lerstain relented, and allowed some of the materials required to be taken from his
land. Mr John Barnet, a person taking part in the movement, then proceeded to
the erection of a place of worship on a piece of ground belonging to himself, retain-
ing the right of property in it. He was by trade " a cowan," that is, an occupation
combining the callings of a mason and a house-carpenter in one.* The house was
built of stone and clay at his own expense, and almost wholly by his own hands,
and was thatched with straw, contained galleries, and accommodated about 400
sitters. This house, and a rood of ground belonging to it, Mr Barnet sold to the
congregation shortly before his death for ;^4o. The congregation built a second
church on the same site in 1792, containing 500 sittings.
\st Mmister. — John Dalziel, from Nicolson Street, Edinburgh. Ordained 17th
* "Cowan, Cowaner, s. i. One who does the work of a mason, but has not been regularly bred, S.
2, One who builds dry walls, S." — Janiieson's Scottish Dictionary. — Eds.
5 1 2 The United Presbyterian Church.
July 1 751. Died 4th June 1804, in the 79th year of his age, and 53d of hia ministry.
Author of a pamphlet "On the Imputation of Christ's Righteousness to Believers,"
1760, in reply to a work by the Rev. John Brown of Haddington.
2d Minister. — William Lauder, from Mid-Calder. Ordained 4th April 1804.
Died 6th June 1852, in the 8ist year of his age, and 49th of his ministry.
2,d Mijiister. — David Hamilton, from Crossford. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Lauder 4th July 1843. Died 19th February 1854, in the 44th year of his age, and
nth of his ministry.
4/// Minister. — Alexander Henderson, previously of Hexham. Called to
Lilliesleaf and Earlston. Inducted 13th December 1854. Translated to Perth
(East Church) 28th August 1866.
5M Minister. — Robert Finlayson, B.A., from Muirton. Ordained i8th June
1867.
WEST CHURCH.
The patronage of Earlston belongs to the Crown, but has generally been exer-
cised by the Baillies of Jerviswoode In 1777-8, Mr Baillie presented Mr Laurence
Johnston, probationer, to the church and parish of Earlston, then vacant. Mr
Johnston was well known to the parishioners, and very lightly esteemed by many of
them. They set themselves to oppose his settlement by every constitutional means
in their power, but without success. As the next alternative, they applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Edinburgh, 1778. They
built a place of worship, containing 500 sittings, the same year, which they still occupy.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Gellatly, who pre-
ferred Haddington.
1st Minister. — Thomas Thomson, from the Secession Congregation, Nicolson
Street, Edinburgh. Ordained 1781. Translated to Dunse, 1783.
2d Minister.— yix Stevenson. Ordained 1784. Resigned 1791. For some
time before and after his resignation, Mr Stevenson farmed a small property of his
own in the vicinity of Earlston, but subsequently removed to Glasgow, and died there.
T^d Minister. — James Taylor. Called to Wamphray and Earlston. Ordained
12th March 1793. Resigned nth November 1806. Studied medicine. After-
wards practised as a surgeon in Yetholm, and died there.
Afth Minister. — John Wills. Joined the Relief Church after finishing his theo-
logical course as a student of Divinity in connection with the Established Church.
Ordained 1807. Died 1815, in the 40th year of his age, and 8th of his ministry.
5M Minister. — David Crawford, D.D., from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Ordained 4th October 181 5. Moderator of Relief Synod 1833. Resigned 28th
July 1834. Admitted the same year to Portobello.
(ith Minister. — William Durie, from Glasgow (Anderston). Ordained 3d
December 1834. Loosed from his charge nth May 1843. Joined the ?2stablished
Church, and in that connection emigrated to Canada. Became minister of a con-
gregation at Upper Town, Ottawa, and died there in 1847.
']th Minister. — John S. Giffen, B.A., from Strathaven (West). Ordained r9th
March 1844. Died 19th July 1847, in the 29th year of his age, and 4th of his ministry.
2,th Minister. — James Ballantyne, from Edinburgh (College Street). Ordained
24th May 1848. Translated to Edinburgh (Arthur Street), 3d September 1850.
i)th Minister. — John Kechie, from Irvine (Relief). Called to Drymen, Chatton,
Monkweannouth, ^^"hitcllaven, and Earlston. Ordained 7th May 1851.
Presbytery of Melrose— Selkirk (First). 5 1 3
SELKIRK.
Selkirk is the county town of Selkirkshire, 6 miles south of Galashiels, 7 south-
west of Melrose, and 12 north-west of Hawick.
FIRST CHURCH.
The parish of Selkirk is joined by that of Yarrow on the south and west and
Yarrow is joined on the south by that of Ettrick. Many of the inhabitants of Yarrow
and Ettrick dissented from the Revolution settlement of 1689, and withdrew in
consequence from attending the Established Churches. So numerous were they in
the time of the celebrated Thomas Boston, that he made the circumstance a chief
argument for his remaining in Ettrick on the occasion of his call to Closeburn
When addressing the Commission of the General Assembly, 15th Au-ust' 1717 on
the subject, he thus spoke : ^ . 1 i^
,.,. " \ ^rf ^'V"^ ''' ""? answers that the breaches in the parish of Ettrick are still as wide as th^v
Z' ITft'Tr' "«=iV"'"*='-,l!"' »"». »>■». bring educed IhL »"; Irf" Zfu I yS?
wi h ne.ghbour.ngpar,shes notably broken, as well as they are themselves ; in one^of VS Esk
IthfriJfSlrn /:?""' factions have their distinct parties, and their meetings one Ser
tldo r V ^ congregation are almost as near to a church which the Presbvterv has
ninK ' TtT' '''''^'' to-namely Wamphray [where Mr Taylor, the friend and coadjutor of Mr
S thrown nr' T'T''"^ fP-'^I' ^'"T 'h^i^^dicatories of the Church of Sco]Lnd°]-a the/ a e
33P ^ sr tmi ^:fz^ r ti-r-f s^t cX. '^^^^d-
Mr Boston himself had done much to make his people favourably disposed
towards the Secession, by the active part he took in the Marrow Controversy. So
fully had he identified himself with the Four Brethren who founded the Secession
in all their previous movements, that he would have been bound by honour and
consistency to secede with them. The opportunity for testing whether he would
have seceded never came, as he died 20th September 1732, three weeks before
Ebenezer Erskme preached his "Synod Sermon."
A portion of the people described in Mr Boston's speech before the Commission
of Assembly joined a portion of those who had been under Mr Boston's ministry
in a formal accession to the Associate Presbytery in April 1738. The Rev Mr
Moncneff of Abernethy preached to them by appointment of Presbytery on the
thu-d Sabbath of that month. The place chosen for the meeting was at Inner
* The Rev. John Hepburn of Urr, along with the Revs. Tames Gilchrisf nnd T,-,l,n t t
t The above extract is from Boston's " Memoirs written bv hi'm«plf " ,,.Ti»v^ fi i. • •
at full length. In his diary of the same date (r^th AuA st^7,7^ .?! f' < ^l ^ f^"^'^ " ^^'^^^"^
aversion tS Closeburn was'lhal I had a most^ u^n om??"able^ fe n Et't 'ick an'd't ^""l'' °' "^
tlrcm ha.1 all along been exceeding heavy, through the'LtositioS S t^ ^tVle-sSJrconcSf
and /«.,/.;.. /.««;-./. ^A, scArsm w/nck has mos( a.rp rooting in Ms place ; LnL proceeded contemn^
of ordmances, mmisters, etc., to the "reat breakino- nf nw cr^;,-;f ^^ i F^^i^eaea contempt
parish of the same character I reckonecfUu d t'e been' St to bCin'mv^v^rv hS'°"'"™'-''^
one word, to have cast me out of the fryinhed after his death: " Exposition of
the Book of Proverbs," 2 vols. ; "Discourses on the History of David, and on the Introduction of
Christianity into Britain," to which is prefixed a Memoir of Dr Lawson by Rev. Dr II. Belfr.age.
A biography of Dr Lawson by the Rev. John Macfarlane, LL.D., London, was published in 1S62,
Presbytery of JMelrose — Selkirk (Second and West). 515
with the title of "Life and Times of George Lawson, D.D., Selkirk, Professor of Theology to the
Associate Synod, with Glimpses of Scottish Character, from 1720 to 1820."
The congregation called the Rev. George Lawson of Kilmarnock three times in
succession, in 182 1 and 1823, who declined each of these calls, but accepted a call
in 1837, after his brother's death.
2)d Miiiista: — Andrew Lawson, previously of Ecclefechan. Admitted as suc-
cessor to his father, after being twice called, ist June 1824. Died 28th October
1836, in the 45th year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
4/// Miiiista-. — George Lawson, previously of Kilmarnock. Admitted as suc-
cessor to his brother, 31st May 1837. Died 15th December 1849, in the 64th year
of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
5//; Minister.— ]o\\.^ Lawson, great-grandson of the first minister of the con-
gregation, grandson of the second, son of the third, and nephew of the fourth.
The pulpit of this congregation has thus been occupied by the members of one
family for a hundred years. Mr John Lawson was also called to Lilliesleaf. Or-
dained 25th September 1850.
vSECOND CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with members of the congregation of Midholm,
resident in the parishes .of Selkirk and Yarrow, who, being desirous of having a
place of worship in their own connection more conveniently situated for them than
the one they were accustomed to attend, applied to the Presbytery to be formed
into a separate congregation, with its seat in Selkirk, which was allowed, 1813.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Cranstoun, who was
appointed by the Synod to Morebattle.
\st and sole Minister. — William Rattray, from Coupar-Angus (First). Called
to Moniaive and Selkirk. Ordained 29th August 1815. Resigned 30th March
1825. Admitted to Swalwell, Northumberland, 1832.
After Mr Rattray's resignation, the great portion of the congregation connected
themselves Avith the other United Associate congregation in Selkirk. The re-
mainder, about 20 in number, connected themselves with the Original Seceders.
One of these purchased the place of worship, and had it supplied for a time with
ministers of the denomination with which he had connected himself, but the cause
not meeting with success, it was abandoned.
WEST CHURCH.
This congregation was formed by a disjunction from the First congregation.
When the call to Mr John Lawson, afterwards fifth minister of the First congregation,
Selkirk, was laid on the Presbytery table, i6th July 1850, there were presented at
the same time a petition and remonstrance, signed by 233 members and 64 ordinary
hearers, against sustaining the call, and praying the Presbytery, in the event of the
call being sustained, to take steps immediately for forming them into a separate
congregation. The Presbytery complied with the request of both parties, by sus-
taining the call presented by the one party, and relieving the other from concurring
with it, by forming them into a separate congregation. Church built, 1850;
sittings, 500. Alterations made in 1871, cost ^^400; 140 sittings additional added
to the church; total sittings, 622.
5 1 6 The Uniicd Presbyterian Church.
\st Minister. — William Russell, from Glasgow (Cathedral Street). Ordained
19th December 1850. Died 3d August 1859, in the 33d year of his age, and 9th
of his ministry.
2d Minister. — John Dalziel Dickie, from Glasgow (Wellington Street).
Ordained 2d July 1861. Demitted his charge 15th August 1865; proceeded
to Australia, and became a minister in connection with the Presbyterian Church of
Victoria.
id Minister. — James Davidson, M.A., from Edinburgh (Dean Street), of which
his fother was minister. Called to Bishop Auckland and Selkirk. Ordained
5th July 1866. Called to London (Westbourne Grove), July 1870, but declined
the call.
LA UDER.
Lauder is a royal burgh, in Lauderdale, Berwickshire, 7 miles north-west of
Earlston, 12 west of Greenlaw, and 17 north-west of Kelso.
FIRST CHURCH.
This congregation originated with members of the congregation of Stow who
adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747. They
met for a short time after their separation in Stow, but the Synod being unable to
answer all tlie demands made upon it for supply of sermon, and Earlston being at
the time the more promising station, they were led to attend there, but on the
understanding that they were a distinct community, giving attendance there only
till they could obtain a pastor of their own, and claiming still to be recognised as
the General Associate congregation of Stow. In 1751, when the first minister was
about to be settled in Earlston, they petitioned the Presbytery for supply of sermon
as a separate congregation, with its seat in Oxton, a village in the parish of Channel-
kirk, 4 miles west of Lauder, which was granted. Here they worshipped in the
open air, and in barns, as opportunity oifered and circumstances required, till 17 58,
when it was observed that the great proportion of the adherents came from Lauder
and its vicinity. For their accommodation, therefore, and in the presumption that
a congregation would be more speedily formed in the town than in the remote
village, they resolved to remove thither. With this view they built a place of wor-
ship there, containing 300 sittings, of which they took possession the same year,
and changed the name of the congregation from that of Stow into that of Lauder.
\st Minister. — Laurence Reid. Ordained 4th April 1759. Loosed from his
charge, 1764. Admitted the same year , to Pathstruie.
2d Minister. — David Wilson, from Howgate. Called to Dunblane (Second),
Whitburn, and Lauder. Ordained 16th March 176S. Died 1770, in the 28th year
of his age, and 2d of his ministry.
id Minister. — Robert Colville, from Dunse (East). Ordained 3d August
1780. Died 6th February 1824, in the 73d year of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
Supply of sermon was continued to the congregation after Mr Colville's death
for about a year, when it was deemed expedient to unite the two Secession congre-
gations in Lauder, both being vacant at the time. This was accordingly done, ist
March 1825, and the history of this congregation merged into that of the one noticed
in next page. The church belonging to the Second congregation now became the
Presbytery of Melrose — Lander (Seco7id and Relief). 517
place of worship for the united congregation. The first church was let as a school-
room till 1837, when it was removed, and the materials used in building a manse.
SECOND CHURCH.
In February 1793, a petition, signed by 14 male inhabitants of Lauder and its
vicinity, was presented to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Selkirk, craving
supply of sermon, and assigning as a reason for the request that the petitioners were
" without a dispensation of Gospel ordinances by the connection with which they
adhere." The Presbytery declined granting the prayer of the petition at that time.
It was pressed upon them with still greater importunity in April following, and at
the same time a memorial was presented by the session of Stow, specifying reasons
why they should not comply with the request. The Presbytery nevertheless
appointed the Rev. Mr Henderson of Hawick to preach at Lauder, by way of trial,
on the third Sabbath of that month. Upon Mr Henderson making his report, the
Presbytery referred the whole matter to tlie Synod for advice. When the case came
before the Supreme Court, a petition was presented, signed by 95 persons, chiefly
members of the congregation of Stow, resident in and about Lauder, in support of
the one referred by the Presbytery to the Court. The Synod agreed without
debate to grant the prayer of the petition, and supply of sermon was forthwith
granted to the Associate Seceders in and about Lauder. The Rev. Dr Lawson of
Selkirk preached at Lauder by appointment of Synod, and took for his text Hosea
viii. 14, "Israel hath forgotten his Maker, and buildeth temples." First church
built, 1795. This was superseded by a new church built in 1841 \ sittings, 600.
\st Alinistcr. — George Henderson, from Ecclefechan. Called to Whitby and
Lauder. Ordained 9th November 1796. Called to Aberdeen, 1798, but continued
in Lauder. Resigned 13th July 1824. Removed to Bridekirk, in the neighbour-
hood of Ecclefechan, and died there i8th October 1826, in the 56th year of his age.
The congregation during the vacancy united with the First congregation.
2d Minister. — William Lowrie, from North Leith. Ordained 17th January
1826. Died 6th July 1833, in the 31st year of his age and 8th of his ministry.
Mr Lowrie was the originator of the Voluntary Church Associations, which
spread extensively over the country, and contributed greatly to the agitation of the
Voluntary principle. Author of a pamphlet, entitled "The Whole Question of
Ecclesiastical Establishments Considered," and "A Scripture Catechism." A
Memoir of his Life, by the Rev. Thomas Williamson, Melrose, with Sermons and
Addresses, was published after his death.
3^ Minister. — George Robson, from Jedburgh, Blackfriars. Ordained 14th
October 1834. Author of " The Closet, its Supplications, Succours, and Successes ;"
and " Christ is All and in All," a volume of sermons.
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with a small minority of the Second Secession con-
gregation opposed to the call to ]\Ir Robson. They obtained a supply of sermon
from the Relief Presbytery of Kelso in June 1835, and built a place of worship
containing 330 sittings, the same year. Before obtaining a fixed pastor they called
Mr M'Creath, who preferred South Shields.
\st and only Minister. — John Hamilton, previously a minister among the
5 1 8 The United Pj^esbylcrian ClntrcJi.
Congregationalists. Received into connection with the ReUcf Synod as a proba-
tioner. Admitted to Lauder 2d January 1839. Cut ofif from connection with the
Rehef Synod, 1845. Mr Hamilton is author of a pamphlet entitled "The Duty and
Responsibility of Christians in the Election of Civil Rulers."
This congregation was conjoined with the Second church on 20th June
1847.
A memorial was presented to the United Presbyterian Synod, May 1851, by
certain persons who had been previously in connection with the Relief congrega-
tion, Lauder, setting forth that the Relief Church in Lauder had been built at a cost
of ^249, which, in consequence of feu-duties, etc., had increased to jQ2-]o. Mr
Hamilton, the minister, had imbibed views at variance with those held by the congre-
gation— left the church, and was followed by a number of the people. The church
was sold for ^80, which left a sum of ;^ 190 unprovided for, and as the church had
been erected on the responsibility of three individuals who were not in circumstances
to bear the loss, they craved the Synod's advice and aid. The Synod, 1852, decided
that a sum of ^100 be paid towards this debt as soon as the parties interested
should raise the remainder.
HA WICK..
Hawick is a burgh town in Roxburghshire, 10 miles south-west of Jedburgh, 11
south-east of Selkirk, and 20 south-west of Kelso.
WEST CHURCH.
Several persons resident in and about Hawick acceded to the Associate Pres-
bytery in 1 741, and were included in the congregation of Midholm. Hawick and
Midholm are nine miles apart, and it was consequently very inconvenient for the
people in the one place to attend public worship regularly at the other. For the
accommodation therefore of the Seceders in Hawick, the minister of the congrega-
tion of Midholm preached every third Sabbath of the month at Hitleburn, a farm on-
stead at a short distance from Hawick. This arrangement continued till 1763, when
at their own request the members of Midholm were disjoined, and formed into a
separate congregation. First church built 1766] second built 1823, at a cost of
upwards of ;^9oo ; sittings, 639. A new church was begun in 1872, in Orrock
Place, which it is expected will be opened early in 1874. Probable cost, including
site (;^7oo), ;^25oo; sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Wotherspoon, who
was appointed by the Synod to Haddington.
\st Minister. — JoH>r Young, D.I)., from Milnathort (Second). Ordained 7th
October 1767. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by King's College,
Aberdeen, 1794. Died 25th March 1806, in the 63d year of his age, and 39th of
his ministry. Autlior of a volume of " Essays on Government, Revolution, etc."
This work was written in opposition to the principles of the French Revolution,
which were much in vogue at the time, and the Tory Government of the period offered
the author a pension as an acknowledgment of his services, which he declined,
requesting it to be given to a neighbouring parish minister. His widow, it is said,
got the pension after his death. A formal complaint was preferred against him to the
Synod on the ground of his hviving published sentiments in these essays inconsistent
Prcsbyicry of Melrose—Hawick (East Bank).
519
with their Testimony. The Synod appointed a committee to examine the book and
ascertain whether the complaint respecting k was well or ill founded. No report
was made to the Synod, and the matter was allowed to drop. Dr Young also pub-
lished Sermons on Important and Interesting Subjects/' 3 vols., and "A His ory
ot the French War," 2 vols.
incident connected wtT S Wahe 's SeS^ i^ ?"^ ""?f'''"- hi. design. A melancholy
recorded in his Life by h s son i nl^^v M>^?' \\ f " A '"i P"l'\'cat.on of this memoir is tluis
o'clock in the afternoon! t retu ed fio^' ^he P.rllm n?H^ '^'' "' ""f ™"7 '^3°' '-^^^"^ ^^^^
found an old acquaintance MisTVo n^ oTHawS ^ V ? f "PP^'''^"t'y '" '"-^ "^"al state, and
of her father a UisseS- m nilterT^.^^^^ wa'fng to show him some manuscript memoirs
correct for the pT^ s ThVo IkX sn^ "'",^'^ \' '"' -^--t^'-" to revise and
her papers. At lenc^th he ro e as ?f to diL « \. K [ ?'","" ''''"^'^ ^'^ "'^^"'^"^ ^° ^« occupied with
featu^rel After a feVmimSs h gotn^^^IsS^^^^^^^^ ' ''^^'^ '^^"T"'^'"^ ^^itating his
my sister Violet Lockhart were sitfinl T]?« ^^'^^Sejed to the drawmg-room, wliere Ann Scott and
floor before they could reach hh^ He rem.7.I? '1^''^ ^''']' ^"' ^^ ^^^ ^' "^^^ his length on the
surgeon had aiS airbTed him." '"''^^ '^''''^^''' ^°^' "^°"' '"^ ™'"^^'^^' ^^y -^-1^ time a
2./ J/,>^^/.r.-ANDREW RoDGiE, from Abernethy. Called to Jedburgh and
Hawick. Ordained i8th August 1807. In October 1856 he was presented with a
purse containing ninety sovereigns on the occasion of his jubilee. Died i6th January
1S60, in the 83d year of his age, and 53d of his ministry
3^^/.>././.r.-jAMEs Parlane, M.A., from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Called to
Perdi_ (North), and Hawick. Ordained 4th August 1S57, as colleague to Mr
-Kodgie. Translated to Burntisland i6th February 1869.
The congregation called Mr Forrest F. Yoimg, who preferred Kilcreggan
4^/. J/^///./.r.-THOMAS COCKBURN, M.A., from Berwick (Wallace Green)
Called to Burra Isles, Kinghorn, and Hawick. Ordained 2 2d December 1S69.
EAST BANK CHUPvCH.
This congregation originated with members of the First congregation of Selkirk
who, on account of the inconvenience of travelling regularly thither, applied to the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso to be disjoined and formed into a separate
congregation, which was formally done in 1773. Church built, 17S0 : sittings 70
I./ J/////./.r.-GEORGE Williamson, from Alloa (West). Ordained ' 27th
September 1774. Resigned 1783. Admitted to St Andrews 26th November 1780
The congregation called Mr Smart, who was appointed by the Synod to Stirlin^^"
and Mr W, Kidston, who was appointed to Kennoway. ""
2d M/;i/s^er.~] AMES Henderson, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Called to
Airdrie, Kirkintilloch, and Hawick. Ordained 26th October 1791 Died mh
November 1840, in the 80th year of his age, and soth of his ministry ^
In 1833 the congregation called Mr Davidson, who preferred School Wynd
Dundee. ■' '
_ 3d A//msf,r.-ADAU Thomson, from Coldstream (West), of which his father was
minister. Called to Dunoon and Hawick. Ordained as colleague to Mr Hender
son i2th June 1833. Resigned 9th October i860, and proceeded to Sydney New
South Wales. Author of '•' Pastoral Memorial," discourses published on occasion
of his departure for Australia.
4f/i Afmisfer.— James M'Ewen, A.M., previously of Ford. Inducted loth
June 1862. Translated to Glasgow (Sydney Place) 9th July 1872.
520 TJic Unilcd rrcsbytcrian CJnirch.
ALLARS CHURCH.
This congregation originated in a deficiency of accommodation in the parish
church, that church, till the time of the Disruption, being both small and uncom-
fortable. The persons who withdrew from it on this account were taken, upon
application, under the inspection of the Relief Presbytery of Kelso, iSic. Church
built, 1811, at a cost of between ^800 and ^900; sittings, 750.
1st Minister. — David Russell, previously of Colinsburgh, Fifeshire. Admitted
24th December 1812. Resigned 1819. Admitted to Errol 21st June 1820.
2d Mi?iisier. — George Corsan, from Burnhead. Ordained iSth October 1820.
Loosed from his charge 23d July 1824. Joined the Established Church, and became
rector of Irvine Academy.
yi Minister. — Peter Brown, from Hutchesontown, Glasgow. Ordained 20th
January 1825. Translated to Wishawtown 22d December 1831.
4/// Minister. — Andrew M. Ramsay, from Glasgow (ToUcross). Ordained 29th
May 1833. Resigned 17th February 1846. Became one of the Synod's mission-
aries to South Australia, minister of a congregation in Melbourne, and in 1850
formed with three others a denomination styled The United Presbyterian Church
of Victoria. Died 3 i&t December 1869.
5/// Minister. — Andrew J. Gunion, LL.D., from Glasgow (Calton). Ordained
9th December 1846. Called to Dalkeith 1850, but remained in Hawick. Trans-
lated to Strathaven (West) 28th April 1857.
6th Minister. — Thomas Russell, from Bucklyvie, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 13th October 1S57. Translated to London (Albion Chapel),
26th November 1863.
7/// Minister. — Robert Muir, A.M., formerly of Holm of Balfron. Translated
to Hawick 13th July 1864. Author of "The Perpetuity of Christian Friendship,"
in Logan's "Words of Comfort," and of articles in Forward d,xi(l other serials.
NEWTOWN.
Newtowi> is a village in the parish of Melrose, Roxburghshire, 3 miles south
of Melrose.
This congregation originated with, three members of the First congregation,
Selkirk, resident in Hawkslee, Dryburgh, and Newtown, who were desirous of having
a place of worship in their own connection more conveniently situated for them
than the one they were accustomed to attend. They applied for and obtained
supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso, 1771. Church
built, 1772 ; sittings, 452. A new church was opened on the i7di June 1868 by
Rev. Dr Cairns of Berwick, collection amounting to ^115. The church cost
;^i20o; sittings, 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Primrose, who was
appointed by the Synod to Hist Calder.
ist Minister. — Alexander Waugh, A.M., D.D., from Stichel. Ordained 30th
August 1780. Called to London (Wells Street) three several times in 17S1-2.
'J'ranslated thither 30th May 1782.
2^/ J//;//j-Ar.— William Elder, from Bathgate (First). Ordained 1782. Died
4th December 1S19, in the 62d year of his age, and 37lh of his ministry.
Presbytery of Melrose — Galashiels (East). 521
Zd Mhiistcr. — William Rutherford, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Ordained
22d August 1821. Died 20th July 1843, in the 47th year of his age, and 22d of
his ministry.
4/^ Minister. — David Lumgair, from Arbroath (First). Ordained 28th Feb-
ruary 1 844.]
GALASHIELS.
Galashiels is a large manufacturing town, partly in the county of Roxburgh and
partly in that of Selkirk, 5 miles north-west of Melrose, 6 north-cast of Selkirk, and
7 south of Stow.
EAST CHURCH.
The Rev. Henry Davidson of Galashiels was one of the most active of " The
Marrow Men," and was never favourably affected towards the Church of Scotland
after the General Assembly's condemnation of " The Marrow of Modern Divinity,"
notwithstanding he remained within her pale. The Rev. Gabriel Wilson of Maxton,
a parish south-east of Galashiels, was a man like-minded with Mr Davidson, and one of
the few with whom he maintained ministerial intercourse during the remainder of his
life. Mr Wilson, though maintaining his incumbency in the Established Church, built
a chapel in his parish upon Independent principles, and in it alone dispensed the
Lord's Supper, on which occasions he was assisted by Mr Davidson of Galashiels.
In July 1739 several of Mr Wilson's people met to consider the Testimony emitted
by the Associate Presbytery, and after mature deliberation, came to the resolution of
pubHcly adhering to it. This they did by sending intimation of their resolution to
the Presbytery, and the declaration at the same time that, as a consequence of it,
they had connected themselves with the Secession Congregation of Stow. With
this congregation the Associate Seceders in and about Galashiels remained con-
nected till the commencement of the present century, when the manufacturing
interest, introduced into the place about twenty years before, greatly increased its
population, and led them to believe that a Secession Congregation might be formed
there with every prospect of success. They made application accordingly to the
Presbytery to be disjoined from Stow and Selkirk, in November 1804, and formed
into a separate congregation. 150 members from Selkirk and 50 from Stow were
congregated 12th August 1805. First church built, 1805. Second built, 1844, at a
cost of ^900 ; sittings, 700. In 1868 this building was enlarged and improved
at a cost of;^i5oo; sittings, 1000.
1st Mi/lister. — George Lawson, from Selkirk, of which his father was minister.
Ordained 4th November 1806. Called to Stow in 1808 ; but remained at that
time in Galashiels. Translated to Bolton, Lancashire, i8th October 1809.
2d Minister. — James Henderson, D.D., from Stirling (First). Ordained 29th
August 1810. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of
St Andrews, 1844. Died 5th November 1858, in the 72d year of his age, and 49th
of his ministry.
Autlior of a volume of sermons on "Doctrinal and Practical Subjects ; " articles and sermons in
the United Secession Al(igi!::iiic ; " Voluntary Church Associations and their Manifesto against Estab-
lishments, Strictures on a pamphlet so-called ;" and a memoir of Dr Balmer prefixed to his post-
humous works. A volume of liis Sermons, with a life by Dr Cairns, was published in 1S59.
2,d Minister. — Alexander Oliver, B.A., from (Glasgow) Regent Place.
52 2 The United Presbyterian CJnirch.
Ordained as colleague to Dr Henderson iSih October 1S54. Translated to
Glasgow (Regent Place), 26th January 1865.
/^tJi Minister. — John Pollock, from Edinburgh (Newington). Ordained 12th
September 1865.
WEST CHURCH.
This congregation originated in the end of 1836. On 31st October 1837 a
petition was presented to the Relief Presbytery of Kelso craving that as the people
in Galashiels had secured ground on which to build a church, and as they had had
supply of preaching for a year, they should be organised as a congregation. The
petition was granted, and the church congregated on the third Sabbadi of November
1837. The church was forthwith built, with sittings for 600.
\st J\Iiiilskr. — RoiiERT Blair, from Balfron. Ordained i7d"i October 1838.
IJLLIESLEAF.
Eilliesleaf is a village in the parish of the same name, Roxburghshire, 6 miles
south-east of Selkirk, 9 north-east of Hawick, and 10 west of Jedburgh.
The incumbency of Lilliesleaf parish was held at the beginning of this century
by Rev. Mr Campbell, an excellent and deservedly popular man. Upon his death,
in 1806, the parishioners memorialised the Duke of Roxburghe to apppoint Mr
John Campbell, afterwards of Selkirk, son of the former minister, to the vacant
charge. The Duke had already promised the first vacant living in his gift to a Mr
Stalker, and in accordance with that promise, presented him, without deferring to
the people's wishes, to the parish of Lilliesleaf A number of the memorialists,
feeling disappointed of their object on the one hand, and the Duke's presentee not
proving acceptable on the other, withdrew from the Established Church, and were
taken, on application, under the inspection of the Relief Presbytery of Kelso, 1806,
Church built, 1S09 ; sittings, 400.
\st Minister. — James Colquhoun, previously minister of the Relief congrega-
tion of Campsie, latterly of a congregation in North Shields not in connection with
the Relief Synod. Became minister of the congregation of Lilliesleaf without the
sanction of the Synod, 1S08, and the congregation was accordingly cut off from
connection with the Relief Church. He remained in Lilliesleaf till 181 5. Returned
to England, and subsequently pursued a secular calling.
The congregation having thus become vacant, applied to the Associate (Burgher)
Presbytery of Selkirk to be taken under their inspection, which was granted 2d
March 18 15.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor in this connection, the congregation called Mr
A. Scott, who was appointed by the Synod to Cambusnethan, and Mr M'Farlane,
who became depressed in mind, and abandoned the ministry.
2d Minister. — Patrick Bradley, "a native of Ireland, and a convert from Popery.
Called to Yetholm and Lilliesleaf. Ordained 9th April 18 17. Died 26th Decem-
ber 1841, in the 58th year of his age, and 25th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Stewart, who preferred Kennoway.
yi Minister. — William Kiddy, from Coldstream. Ordained ist November
1843. Died suddenly of cholera 23d October 1849, i'^ ^'^^' 3^^^ ^^^"^ ^^ ^^^^ ^S^j
and 6th of his ministry.
Presbytery of Melrose — Melrose — Inner lei then. 523
The congregation called Mr Lawson, who preferred Selkirk, and Mr Stevenson,
who preferred Haddington.
4th Minister. — John Ballantyne, from Edinburgh (College Street). Called to
Coupar-Angus (Relief) and LilHesleaf. Ordained 6th May 185 1. Resigned 23d April
1854, and proceeded to Australia. Became minister of Emerald Hill. Joined
the Presbyterian Synod there. Returned to this country on account of ill-health,
and died 6th October i860.
In December 1855, a call was given to Rev. J. S. Cowper, probationer, who
declined the call.
^th Minister. — William Young, M.A., from Kirriemuir. Ordained 13th
January 1857.
MELROSE.
Melrose is a town in the parish of the same name, Roxburghshire, 7 miles
north-east of Selkirk, and 4^, south-east of Galashiels.
This congregation originated with 103 persons, some of whom were members
of Newtown, Earlston, and Galashiels, who petitioned the United Associate Pres-
bytery of Selkirk for supply of sermon 15th May 182 1, which was granted, and
the church congregated 26th November 1822. Church built, 1823; sittings, 443.
A new church was opened by Dr Eadie, Glasgow, in October 1867 ; cost ^2000;
sittings, 400. Enlarged and improved in 1872; cost ^^i 200; collections at re-
opening, 13th October, ;^2 74. It is now free of debt.
1st Mi/lister. — Thomas Williamson, from Stirling (First). Ordained 30th
March 1825. Died 3d October 1855, in the 60th year of his age, and 31st of his
ministry. Author of " Memorials of the Rev. William Lowrie, Lauder."
2d Minister. — James Y. Gibson, from Edinburgh (Rose Street). Called to Dun-
ning and Melrose. Ordained 30th July 1856. Resigned his charge on account
of ill health, 28th June 1859.
T,d Minister. — Hugh Stevenson, from Kilmarnock. Ordained 9th October
i860.
INNERLEITHEN.
Innerleithen is a village in the parish of the same name, Peeblesshire, 6 miles
south-east of Peebles, and 10 west of Galashiels.
In September 1847, fo'^^'^ months after the Union of the Secession and Relief
Churches, a petition was laid upon the table of tlie Edinburgh Presbytery, signed
by about 100 members of the United Presbyterian Church, resident in Innerleithen
and its vicinity, praying that a preaching station should be established in that
village. In support of this petition, it was stated that the two congregations in
Peebles to which the petitioners belonged were quite agreeable to the proposal.
The Presbytery contemplated the petition with great interest, but as, on considera-
tion, it was found that the station itself would, according to its locality, come more
conveniently within the bounds of the Presbytery of Selkirk, the matter was referred
to that Presbytery. The Selkirk Presbytery accordingly appointed the Rev. . Dr
Henderson to open the station by preaching at Innerleithen on Sabbath the 2d
of April 1848. Regular supply of sermon was continued to it afterwards, and a
congregation formally organised in November 1848.
1st Minister. — John Law, previously of St Margaret's, Dunfermline. Admitted
to Innerleithen iSth December 1850.
524 The United Presbyterian Church.
A call was given to Mr D. M. Connor, who preferred Biggar.
2d Minister. — William L. A. Niven, from Edinburgh (Newington). Ordained
as colleague to Mr Law i6th April 1867. Loosed from his charge by the Synod
17th May 1872.
3c/ Minister. — Andrew Morton, from Edinlnirgh (St James' Place), of which
his flither is minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Law 17th December 1872.
PRESBYTERY OF NEWCASTLE.
The Presbytery of Newcastle was formed at the Union of the two great branches
of the Secession, 1820, by disjoining congregations from what had been the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Kelso, and the Associate (Burgher) Presby-
tery of Coldstream, to which they had formerly belonged, and constituting them a
separate Presbytery.
NE WCASTLE.
Newcastle is the chief town in Northumberland, 64 miles south of Berwick, and
1 6 north of Durham.
BLACKETT STREET.
This congregation originated about the year 1743. They purchased an old
Presbyterian meeting-house at the close, and were organised there as a congre-
gation 5th March 1744. This place of worship fell to the ground one Sabbath in
1764, shortly after the congregation had dispersed, which circumstance led to the
erection of another in the same place, containing 800 sittings. From this the con-
gregation removed in 1843 to one which had been built in connection with the
Church of Scotland but was then for sale ; sittings, 650. A new church was
opened in September 1857, with sittings for 800.
\st Minister. — Alexander Nimmo. Called to Glasgow, Howgate, and New-
castle. Ordained 1752. Died 1770, in the i8th year of his ministry. Author of
"Reply to a Letter to the Minister and Session of the Associate Congregation of
Newcastle," 1766.
2d Minister. — William Graham, previously of Whitehaven. . Admitted 6th
June 1 77 1. Died 19th January 1801, in tlie 67th year of his age, and 41st of his
ministry.
Mr Graham was an excellent mathematician, and bestowed great labour and
spent much money in endeavouring to discover an exact method of finding the
longitude at sea.
Author of sermons "On Missions;" " F.ilsc Propliets Unmnslvcd ;" " Wortli of the Soul ;"
"The Gospel of Christ tlie Glory of Chrislinns ;" " Tlie Redeemer's Glory ;" and on Rom. i. 16 ;
" A Candid Vindication of tlie Secession Church ;" "An Essay Tending to Remove certain Scruples
respecting the Constitution and Direction of Missionary Societies ;" "Notes and Reflections on Scrip-
ture," to an edition of the Bible printcil at Newcastle ; "A Review of Ecclesiastical Establishments
in Europe," 1792 ; " An Attempt to Prove that every Species of Patronage is Foreign to the Nature of
the Church, and that any modifications which have ever been, or ever can be, proposed, are insufficient
Presbytery of Nezu castle — B arras Bridge. 525
to regain and secure her in the possession of the liberty wherewith Christ has made her free. In Six
Dissertations : With an introduction, wherein the unhappy condition to which the Church of Scot-
land is reduced by the present ecclesiastical management is represented as the reason of the present
undertaking : And a conclusion, wherein the only method left for Refonnation is proposed and
recommended to the friends of Christian liberty. By a Friend to the Natural and Religious
Rights of Mankind." The authorship of this work was subsequently acknowledged by Mr
Graham in his "Candid Vindication."
id Minister. — William Sime, from Nicolson Street, Edinbtirgh. Called to
Rattray and Newcastle. Ordained 14th September 1791. Died 5th November
1837, in the 47th year of his ministry.
In 1 83 1 the congregation called the Rev. Mr Reid, of Westray, in Orkney, who
declined the call.
^th Minister. — David C. Browning, from Auchtermuchty (North), of which his
father was minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Sime, 7th June 1831. Resigned
8th July 1 85 1, at the same time renouncing his connection with the United Presby-
terian Church. On 25th September 1853, he was re-ordained at Llandafif Cathedral
by the Lord Bishop of the diocese, and afterwards licensed to the curacy of Canton
with Ely, in the parish of Llandaff. Lecturer, in the afternoon, to All-Saints' parish,
Newcastle. Became chaplain to the borough jail of Newcastle, and died in that
capacity on the 26th August i860.
In 1847 the congregation called Mr Scott as colleague to Mr Browning, who
preferred going to Jamaica as missionary, and in 1848, Mr Gardner, who preferred
Annan.
^th Minister. — Alexander Walker, from Alloa (First). Called to Keith and
Newcastle. Ordained as colleague to Mr Browning, 28th June 1848. Withdrew
with a portion of the congregation from Blackett Street, and formed the congrega-
tion of Zion Chapel.
After Mr Walker's removal, Mr Browning continued for a short time in the
charge ; and after his resignation, the remaining portion of the congregation united
with a portion of Clavering Place congregation, and called the Rev. J. B. Johnston,
then of Bethelfield, Kirkcaldy, but previously of Clavering Place, Newcastle, who
declined the call.
Gth Minister. — Matthew M'Naughton, from Milngavie, of which his father
was minister. Ordained 29th June 1853. Died 20th February 1862, in the 39tli
year of his age, and 9th of his ministry.
"jth Minister. — Richard Leitch, from Tillicoultry. Called also to Brechin
(High Street). Ordained 28th January 1863.
BARRAS BRIDGE.
This congregation was formerly known as Carliol Street.
In 1744 the Rev. Thomas Somerville and his congregation, both previously in
connection with the Church of Scotland, acceded to the Associate Presbytery.
Their place of worship was then in Sallyportgate, from which the congregation
removed in 1823 to one they had built for themselves in Carliol Street, containing
800 sittings. The memorial-stone of a new church, called Barras Bridge, was laid
by J. C. Stevenson, Esq., M.P. for South Shields, 12th April 1872. The church,
when completed, will cost above ;j^Sooo ; sittings, above 700.
jst Minister. — Thomas Somerville. Ordained as minister of a congregation
in Newcastle in connection with the Chtirch of Scotland, 1743. Acceded with his
526 The United Presbyter iaiL ChiLrch.
congregation to the Associate Presbytery, 1744. Adhered with the majority of liis
congregation to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747,
but passed over with his adlierents to the Associate (Burglier) Synod, 1750.
Cited before the Synod, 1753, to answer to an accusation lodged by his session, but
refused to answer the citation, and his name was dropped from the Synod's roll.
2d Minister. — James Robertson, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Ordained 1759.
Died 1768, in the 39th year of his age, and 9th of his ministry.
2,d Minister. — John Baillie. Called to Burntshields and Newcastle. Ordained
1769. Suspended by his Presbytery from office, 1784. Mr Baillie employed him-
self in writing for the press and teaching a school for sixteen years after his suspen-
sion from office, when his friends and admirers fitted up a chapel for him at the
Old Postern Gate ; and on application, he and his adherents were received into con-
nection with the Relief Church. Died 1806, in the 66th year of his age, and 37th
of his ministry.
Author of a sermon, entitled, " The Nature and Influence of Popery on Civil Society ;" a work
entitled, "Vindication of the Divinity of Jesus Christ ;" " Funeral Discourse on the Death of the
Papacy ;" "A Thanksgiving Discourse on account of the Abundant Harvest ;" a sermon on " The
Time, Manner, and Means of the Restoration of the Jews, the Glorious Millennium," etc. ; " Lectures
on The Revelation ;" " History of the French War, from 1792 to 1802," quarto ; " An Impartial His-
toiy of Newcastle ;" "Funeral Sermon," occasioned by the death of his daughter Frances. He
also assisted in writing a History of Egypt.
^f/i Minister. — John Simith, from Stirling (First). Ordained 1785. Died 1838,
in the 53d year of his ministry.
^t/i Minister. — Adam Dawson Gillon, from Linlithgow (West). Ordained as
colleague to Mr Smith 4th September 1822. Resigned 1828. Became probationer,
and subsequently joined the English Baptists. Died in Liverpool about 1845.
dth Minister. — Alexander Schaw, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Called to Sunderland and Newcastle. Ordained 1830. Died 1833, in the 3d
year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Brown, who preferred North Sunderland.
Itli Minister. — George Bell, from Wooler (First). Ordained 20th August 1834.
Moderator of the English Synod in 1873.
WESTMORELAND ROAD.
This congregation, long known as Clavering Place, originated with a portion of
the congregation of the Close (now Blackett Street), who were disjoined at their
own request, and formed into a separate congregation, 1801, They met for a year
and a half in the Carpenter's Tower, near Sallyport, from which they removed to
the old meeting-house in the Postern. In 1813 they purchased the house of
AVilliam Cuthbcrt, Esq., in Clavering Place, at an expense of ;!^iioo, and had it
fitted up as a place of worship. Rebuilt, and opened 25th December 1822.^ The
foundation-stone of a new church was laid in Westmoreland Road, 27th Ajjril 1871.
The church was opened loth May 1872. Cost, ;;^S5oo ; sittings, 850.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Beath, who was
appointed by the Synod to Pitcairngreen.
\st Minister. — James Pringle, from Morebattle. Ordained loth October 1804.
Called to Kirkwall 181 7, but remained in Newcastle. Died 8th March 1866, in
the S5th year of his age, and 62d of his ministry. A biographical sketch by Rev.
H. Renton was published after Mr Pringle's death.
2(/ Minister. — John B. Johnston, D.D., from Biggar (North). Ordained as
Presbytery of Neivcastle — Castlagarth — Wall Knoll. 527
colleague to Mr Pringle ist October 1845. Resigned 4th August 1846. Admitted
to Bethelfield, Kirkcaldy, 20th October 1850.
■^d Minister. — John Clarke Houston, from the Reformed Presbyterian con-
gregation, Ballymena, Ireland, of which his father was minister. Ordained as col-
league to Mr Pringle, 30th June 1847. Resigned 14th July 1852. Died October
1 85 2, in the 28th year of his age, and 6th of his ministry.
iVuthor of a pamplilet in 1850, entitled, " Criticism Criticised : a Letter to the Author of two
articles in 'Cnz Eclectic Review on the Punishment of Death." A volume was published after his
death, entitled, "The Remains of the late Rev. John Clarke Houston, including; a selection from
his sermons and correspondence, with a memoir of his life," by Rev. George GiHillan.
ifth Minister. — Stephen Wallace, A.M., from Fenwick. Called to Ramsey
(Isle of Man) and Newcastle. Ordained as colleague to Mr Pringle, 2 2d June 1853.
Died 28th March 1872, in the 49th year of his age, and 19th of his ministry.
5/// Minister. — John Thompson, M.A., previously of Birkenhead (St Paul's).
Admitted 4th September 1872. Author of " Religious Aspects of Italy," 1866, and
" Life-Work of Peter the Apostle."
CASTLEGARTH (Now Extinct).
The congregation of Castlegarth was originally in connection with the Church of
Scotland. In 1801 Mr Davidson, the incumbent, was presented to the parish of
Mordington, in Berwickshire, and the incumbency became vacant in consequence
of his removal thither. He was succeeded by Mr Gellatly, who had been previously
minister of the Relief Congregation in Haddington, but had been cut off from con-
nection with the Relief Synod. After a short residence in Newcastle, Mr Gellatly
removed to Aberdeen. A dispute then arose about the right of property. Mr
Gellatly forcibly recovered possession, but was finally obliged to abandon his claims.
The congregation then removed to the Postern, where they were taken into con-
nection with the Relief Church. They afterwards removed to a chapel in Westgate,
previously possessed by the Wesleyans, which they rented and continued to occupy
till 1814, when they purchased Castlegarth Chapel, the original seat of the congrega-
tion, for ;!{^6oo. Sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — William Familton, previously of Newlands, Peeblesshire. Ad-
mitted 1802. Translated to Kettle, Fife, 1805.
The congregation was for some time under the ministry of a Mr Chambers, not
in connection with the Relief Church.
2d Minister. — Robert Arthur, previously of Perth. Admitted to Newcastle
1 814. Laid aside by paralysis in 1836. Died 1838, in the 65th year of his age.
After Mr Arthur's illness the place was closed, and the congregation dispersed.
WALL KNOLL (Now Extinct).
The Rev. John Grahame, who had been brought up in the Secession Church,
and had become minister of a congregation in Newcastle without any ecclesiastical
connection, applied to be received with his adherents into connection with the
Relief Church, which was granted, August 1835. ^^^ Grahame was called twice to
East Regent Place, Glasgow, and translated thither 1837.
After Mr Grahame's translation the congregation called Mr Kerr, afterwards of
Pittenweem, who declined the call, and the congregation soon after withdrew from
connection with the Relief Church.
528 The United Presbyterian Chnrch.
BETHEL CHAPEL (Now Extinct).
This congregation was formed by a number of persons who liad been in con-
nection with the Relief congregations previously existing in Newcastle, who
sought to maintain the cause to which they had adhered, and with this view rented
Bethel Chapel, where they were again organised as a congregation in connection
with the Relief Church.
\st Minister. — William Wyper, from Glasgow (Calton). Called to Alnwick and
Newcastle. Ordained 8th August 1838. Translated to Annan 1839.
2d Minister. — Henry Oliver Trewalla, educated in Lady Huntingdon's
College. Received into connection with the Relief Church, and ordained at New-
castle, 30th June 1S40. Resigned 1842. Became chaplain to the Mariners' Church
Newcastle, and died while holding that office.
T^d Minister. — James Cross, previously of Langholm. Admitted 1843. Joined
the English Presbyterian Church 1845, and became minister of a congregation in
that connection.
The congregation soon afterwards became extinct.
ST GEORGE'S.
Prior to 1851 the congregation in Blackett Street was a collegiate charge under
the ministry of the Rev. D. Browning and the Rev. Alexander Walker, now of
Crail. A spirit of dissatisfaction and disturbance arose. The congregation speedily
became divided into two parties, each of which adhered to and advocated the
interests of the respective ministers. The Presbytery was appealed to, but its influ-
ence and counsel were unavailing in all attempts to heal the breach. Tlie whole
case was consequently referred to the Synod, who sent a deputation to consult
with parties. Their efforts to effect reconciliation also proved abortive. It was
finally agreed to, as a matter of expediency, that a separation should take place
between the ministers and their respective adherents, which accordingly was effected.
The senior minister (Mr Browning) with his adherents retained the church i)roperty,
allowing the other party a certain compensation. It is the history of this hitter
l^arty we have now to notice. They were erected into a congregation called the
Fourth Congregation, on the nth June 1851. The anticipations they had
formed were not, however, realised. Many of the wealthier members dropped off,
till Mr Walker, deeply discouraged, was constrained to demit his charge in Sep-
tember following. He was succeeded by the Rev. George Dodds, who was
ordained 21st April 1852. The ministry of Mr Dodds lasted sixteen months. He
resigned his charge in August 1853.
Up to this time the congregation had worshipped in Zion Chapel, but they now
removed to Highbridge Chapel, both of which they occupied only as tenants.
Highbridge Chapel was altogether unsuitable. Its position was unparalleled in the
history of churches. But notwithstanding its obscure situation and intensely dis-
agreeable concomitants, the congregation, under a new ministry, gradually increased.
A building-funtl was instituted, an advantageous site for a new church was pur-
chased, and the foundation-stone thereof was laid on 30th October 1S62 by Mr
Mark Easton, session-clerk. The new church, which is styled Saint George's, was
opened on 4lh June 1863, and cost ^2520, including hall and vestries. The
church is sealed for 700.
Presbytery of Newcastle — Erskine CJmrch — Gateshead. 529
\st Minister. — Alexander Walker, previously of Blackett Street. Withdrew
with a portion of his congregation, and became minister of Zion Chapel, in June
1 85 1. Resigned his charge in September following, and returned to the list of
preachers. Afterwards called to Leith-Lumsden, Burghead, Oban, and Crail.
Inducted into Crail.
2d Minister. — George Dodds, from Jedburgh, Blackfriars. Called to Swalwell
and Newcastle. Ordained 21st April 1852. Resigned 2 2d August 1853. Became
preacher on occasional supply.
3^/ Minister. — James Graham Potter, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street,
Relief). Ordained 21st June 1854. Author of "The Scottish Reformation, a
Historical Sketch;" "Address at Laying the Foundation-Stone of St George's
Church;" "God's Estimate of Human Worth;" "The River of Life;" "Prema-
ture Sunset," etc.
ERSKINE CHURCH.
This congregation originated with certain persons formerly connected with
Clavering Place Church, who presented a petition to Newcastle Presbytery on 4th
January 1853, desiring to be congregated. An effort was made by the Presbytery
to reconcile the petitioners to the congregation from which they were seceding, or
to have them incorporated with some of the sister churches in Newcastle, but
without success. On ist February 1853, the petitioners had supply of preachers
granted them. A committee was afterwards appointed to make up a roll of
membership, and on the 5th April the station was congregated as the Fifth Congre-
gation. A call was given on 19th September to Mr James Frame, preacher, which
he declined, having preferred a call from Peterhead. The Fourth Congregation
having removed from Zion Chapel to Highbridge (a church which was connected
with the English Presbyterians till 1849), the Fifth Congregation, in the beginning
of 1854, took possession of Zion Chapel, and continued thereafter to be designated
Zion Chapel, till a new church was built 1859-60, which received the name of
Erskine Church ; cost;^i7oo; sittings, 500.
\st Minister. — David Paterson, from Kirkcaldy, Bethelfield. Ordained i6th
August 1854. Uemitted 7th November 1854. Afterwards admitted to Chapel
Street, Berwick.
A call was given to Rev. J. S. Cooper, a preacher, 19th December 1855, which
he declined ; and to Rev. John Stevenson, formerly of Haddington, 20th February
1856, which he accepted. His induction was fixed for 25th March, but he did not
appear on the day appointed. On ist April he presented himself at the Presby-
tery, and on account of the state of his health, asked and obtained permission to
withdraw his acceptance of the call.
id Minister. — Robert Brown, from Paisley, Abbey Close. Ordained 19th
August 1857. Author of" The Religion for a Deathbed : a True Narrative."
GATESHEAD.
The town of Gateshead is on the opposite side of the river from Newcastle. It
has a population of about 45,000.
This congregation originated in mission work, conducted for four years by the
530 The United Presbyterimt Church.
congregation of Blackett Street, Newcastle. Mr Thomas Cockburn, now of Hawick,
was located for twelve months in Gateshead, mainly with a view to the reclaiming of
lapsed Presbyterians resident there. The station was erected into a congregation
on the 17th December 1869. The congregation worships in the Mechanics' Insti-
tute. Before obtaining a fixed minister, the congregation called Mr A. B. Muir,
preacher, who preferred Otterburn; Mr W. Williamson, who preferred Rigg of
Gretna; Mr T. Boston Johnstone, who preferred Colinsburgh; and Mr James
Lindsay, who preferred Balfron.
\st Minister. — James George, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street). Ordained 30th
November 187 1.
SUNDERLAND.
Sunderland is a seaport town on the Wear, county of Durham, 13 miles north-
east of Durham, and 15 south-east of Newcastle.
SMYRNA CHAPEL.
This congregation was formerly designated Spring Garden Lane.
The Rev. John Brown of Haddington, at the recommendation of the Associate
(Burgher) Synod, of which he was clerk, undertook a mission tour through the
northern counties of England. In the course of this tour he visited Sunderland,
and preached several times in the theatre, the use of which had been obtained for
the purpose. Several persons resident in the town were led by this circumstance
to inquire into the principles of the Secession Church, and subsequently to connect
themselves with it. Supply of sermon was afforded them upon petition by the
Presbytery, 1765, and in 1766 they took possession of a place of worship they had
built for themselves. From this they removed, in 1824, to another which they had
purchased, and which they continued to occupy till 1843, when they bought and
took possession of Smyrna Chapel, previously belonging to a Secession congre-
gation in Sunderland, which shortly before this had become extinct. An account
of this congregation will be found at the close of this article.
\st Minister. — James Waugh, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Ordained 1766.
Died 9th July 1786, in the 52d year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
2d Mifiister. — Thomas Mason, from Dunbar (First). Ordained 1787. Died
19th August 1824, in the 62d year of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Schaw, who preferred Carliol Street, Newcastle ; and
Mr James Gray, who preferred Albion Chapel, London.
2,d Minister. — Thomas Scott, from Peebles (Second). Mr Scott supplied the
congregation of Sunderland without the sanction of Presbytery or Synod, although
he was at the time a probationer in connection with the United Secession Church.
In this way he was considered as having renounced connection with the denomina-
tion, and was cut off along with the congregation. While in this position he
accepted a call from the congregation to which he ministered, and was ordained
over it in 1827 by Dr A. Fletcher of London. Mr Scott and his congregation were
restored to the connection upon petition in 1831. Mr Scott died, 1831, in the
39th year of his age, and 5th of his ministry.
Pj-esbytcry of Nczvcastle — Sunderland — Trinity CJnirch. 531
Author of "The Student's Walk;" "Robin Ruiherford, or the Pious Pedlar;" "The Gain-
sayer Silenced, or the Victory of Truth delineated in the History of Henry Adam of Longvale ;"
"The Life of William Steven of Sunderland, aged 9 years and 6 months;" "The Scripture
Catechism ;" and "Two Tales."
The congregation called Mr Carruthers, who preferred Queensferry ; Mr Nicol,
who preferred Pitrodie ; Mr Broom, who preferred North Stmderland ; and Mr
Hamilton, who preferred Longtown.
ifth Minister. — John Parker, from Greenlaw, of which his father was minister.
Ordained 25th February 1835. Removed with his congregation to Smyrna Chapel
in 1843.
The congregation which met in Smyrna Chapel till 1843, when Mr Parker's
congregation got possession of it, was formed in 1831 by disjunction from Union
Chapel. The Presbytery, finding that a misunderstanding which had arisen could
not be removed, consented to division, and thus a portion came to form a separate
congregation. They built a place of worship the same year, and designated it
Smyrna Chapel.
\st Minister. — Patrick B. Robertson, from Craigdam, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 5th July 1831. Died 6th July 1837, in the 31st year of his
age, and 7th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Robert Paterson, previously of Greenloaning. Admitted to
Sunderland 27th June 1838. Resigned 12th January 1841. Called to Crail, Tain,
and Midmar. Admitted to Midmar 14th December 1842. The congregation
received supply of sermon for some time after Mr Paterson's resignation, but
ultimately broke up.
TRINITY CHURCH.
This congregation was formerly designated Union Chapel.
In 1S20, Mr Mason, the minister of Spring Garden Lane (now Smyrna) congre-
gation, being advanced in life, and less competent for the discharge of his ministerial
duties than aforetime, some of his people pressed upon him the acceptance of a
colleague. To this arrangement he manifested strong opposition, and the Presby-
tery, whose interference had been requested, finding him firm in his determination,
agreed, 182 1, to disjoin the party moving in the cause from the rest, and form them
into a separate congregation. They built a place of worship for themselves in
1822, and, in commemoration of the union recently effected between the two great
branches of the Secession Church, designated it " Union Chapel."
A new church, called Trinity Church, was opened in 1870, seated for 800, at a
cost of ^^3500.
\st Minister. — David Duncan, from Pathstruiehill. Called to Falkirk and
Sunderland. Ordained 31st July 1822. Died 27th August 1829, in the 41st year
of his age, and 8th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Muir, from Paisley (Abbey Close). Ordained 15th Feb-
ruary 1831. Died 20th March 1858, in the 59th year of his age, and 28th of his
ministry.
id Minister. — Henry Angus, M.A., from Aberdeen (St Nicholas' Lane), of
which his father was minister. Ordained 2d March 1859.
532 The United Presbyterian C/uirch.
BETHANY CHAPEL.
The original name of this congregation was Malins Rigg. It was in connec-
tion with the Church of Scotland till February 1844, when, being without a
minister, the people applied to be taken under the inspection of the United
Associate Presbytery of Newcastle, and were received. A new church, called
Bethany, was opened in 1856.
\st Minister. — John Morris, previously of Houghton-le-Spring. Admitted
14th July 1845.
NORTH SHIELDS.
North Shields is a seaport town in Northumberland, 2 1 miles north-north-east
of Durham, and 8 east of Newcastle.
This congregation originated with several Scotch families resident in the town,
some of whom were connected with Secession congregations in Newcastle, who,
being desirous of having religious ordinances dispensed to them according to Pres-
byterian order, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Kelso, 1779. They were congregated the
following year. After worshipping some time in the old theatre,* they took posses-
sion of a chapel they had built for themselves in Church Road. They lost this
property at the expiry of the ground lease, in consequence of some misunderstand-
ing respecting the feu-duty. They then built a place of worship in Queen Street,
which proving too small for the congregation, they removed in 18 12 to a chapel
which had belonged to the Church of Scotland, or rather the Northumberland Class,
without ecclesiastical connection, but was then unoccupied. Here tliey remained
till 182 1, when they purchased a chapel in Norfolk Street, containing 400 sittings.
A new church was opened in January 1858, which, with a hall, cost ^^3250. It is
seated for 700 persons.
\st Minister. — George More. Ordained 21st November 1781. Resigned
1785. Removed to Edinburgh, and lived privately there till his death, which took
place 7th September 1827, in the 83d year of his age. Author of " Sermons," two
volumes.
2ti Minister. — Alexander Armstrong. Ordained loth December 1788. Died
r8io, in the 75th year of his age, and 22d of his ministry.
T^d Minister. — Thomas Gilmour, from Strathaven (First). Called to Boghole
(now Moyness) and Shields. Ordained 2 2d September 1813. Died 1841, in the
70th year of his age, and 28th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Schaw, who died while under call.
4/// Minister. — Thomas Bowman, from Langholm (North). Ordained Sth
* One night while Dr Jerment of London was preaching in this place, some one wrote on the
door with chalk —
Stop, reader, if you've time to spare ;
Turn o'er St Matthew's leaves,
And there you'll find the house of prayer
Was made a " den of thieves."
But here the case is altered quite,
Oh, reformation rare !
This modern den of thieves to-night
Is made a house of prayer.
Presbytery of Newcastle — South Shields — East Street. 533
November 1842. Resigned, on account of ill-health, 8th April 1845. Admitted
to Catrine, Ayrshire, 7th June 1849.
$tli Minister. — Henry Erskine Fraser, A.M., from Alloa (West), of which
his father was minister. Ordained 20th November 1845. Translated to Glasgow
(Langside), September 2, 1856.
A call was given to Mr W. Calvert, on 2d September 1857, but declined.
6/// Minister. — William Salmond, B.A., from Edinburgh (South College
Street). Called to Alva, Sunderland, and North Shields. Ordained loth Novem-
ber 1858. Author of "The Christian Theory of Morals versus Utilitarianism."
SO UTH SHIELDS.
South Shields is a seaport town on the Tyne, Northumberland, 9 miles east of
Newcastle, and 21 north-east of Durham.
FIRST CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with several persons from Scotland, who had
settled in South Shields, and who had previously been members of the Secession
Church. They were taken, upon petition, under the inspection of the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Kelso in 1778, and obtained for their
Minister. — James Thorburn, M.D. Ordained 7th June 1779. Resigned 2d
June 1822, Died 15th March 1830, in the 76th year of his age, and 51st of his
ministry.
After Dr Thorburn's death,' this congregation formed a junction with the other
Secession congregation in the place, and removed to their place of worship.
EAST STREET.
This congregation was formed by members of the Secession congregation of
North Shields, who, on account of the inconvenience of crossing the river by the
ferry when attending public ordinances, and under a persuasion that there was room
and need for another place of worship in South Shields, applied to the Presbytery
to be disjoined, and formed into a separate congregation, which was allowed, 1809.
They met for a short time after their separation in a schoolroom in the town, but
subsequently removed to a chapel they had bought from the Wesleyans.
\st Minister. — William Bruce, from Dennyloanhead. Called to Dumfries,
Muckart, Bathgate, and Shields. Ordained 1810. Resigned 1818. Removed to
Dumbartonshire, and conducted an academy, first at Ardoch, and afterwards in
Helensburgh, where he died, 21st September 1843, in the 63d year of his
age.
2d Minister. — Andrew Stark, LL.D., from Cumbernauld (Second). Ordained
1 6th September 18 18. Resigned 1822. Emigrated to America, and became mini-
ster of the Associate Presbyterian Church, New York. Returned to this country
for the benefit of his health, and died at the house of his cousin, Dr Stark, Denny-
loanhead, 1 8th September 1849.
The contrregation called Mr Turnbull, who declined the call on account of ill-
534 The United Presbyterian Chnrch.
liealth, and died soon after; and Mr Barlas, who was appointed by the Synod to
DunferniHne (Chahiiers Street).
2^d Minister. — Henry Lawson, from Kinkell. Ordained 2d August 1822.
Died 31st January 1868, in the 76th year of his age, and 46th of his ministry.
4//i Minister. — John M'Neill, from Glasgow (London Road). Ordained as
colleague to Mr Lawson, 30th November 1859. Translated to Middlesborough,
5th August 1863.
The congregation called Mr James Graham, afterwards of Broughty-Ferry.
5/// Minister. — Matthew Kinnaird, A.M., from Edinburgh (Nicolson Street).
Ordained as colleague to Mr Lawson, 7th September 1864.
MILE-END ROAD.
This congregation had its place of worship formerly in Heugh Street, which was
built in 1779, and contained 350 sittings. The congregation then occupying this
church was known as " a Protestant Dissenting " congregation, and considered Pres-
byterian ; but, like many other Presbyterian congregations in the North of England,
whose ministers assist others at ordinations and the communion, it stood alone.
It was originally part of the old Presbyterian congregation assembling in Wellington
Street, from which the party forming it separated at the date already specified,
because another candidate than the one they had fixed upon was preferred at the
election of a minister. The ground on which the chapel was erected, like most of
the ground in South Shields, belongs to the Dean and Chapter of Durham, and was
held subject to the renewal of the lease every seven years, and if not renewed for
21 years, the property passed into the hands of the Dean and Chapter. The
minister of this congregation, having become old and infirm, was recommended
by a minister and congregation in Newcastle to connect himself with the Relief
denomination, and thence to obtain a colleague. This recommendation he
adopted, and the congregation thus came to be under the inspection of the Relief
Synod. Received 3d February 1835.
\st {Relief) Minister. — Joseph Matthews, a native of Coldingham, Berwickshire.
Ordained as minister of a Protestant Dissenting congregation in Morpeth, 1783.
Translated to South Shields, 1795. Admitted with his congregation into connec-
tion with the Relief Church, 1835. Died 27th August 1839, in the 7Sth year of his
age, and 56th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Thomas M'Creath, from Ayr (Cathcart Street). Called to
Lauder and South Shields. Ordained as colleague to Mr Matthews, 1835. Died
25th October 1866, in the 62d year of his age, and 32d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr James Buchanan, who preferred Linlithgow.
id Minister. — Thomas Whitelaw, M.A., from Perth (North). Called to
Tough and South Shields. Ordained as colleague to Mr M'Creath, 23d INIarch
1864, Translated to Glasgow (Cathedral Street), 25th April 1867.
The congregation called Mr G. F. James, who preferred ISLanchcstcr.
4/// Minister. — William Steele, M.A., from Tranent. Ordained iStli Decem-
ber 1 86 7.
Presbyteiy of Nczvcastlc — Morpct/i — Whitby. 535
MORPETH (Now Extinct).
Morpeth is a market town in Northumberland, 16 miles north of Newcastle, and
20 south of Alnwick.
Several Scotch families resident in Morpeth, previously connected with the
Secession Church, formed a Secession congregation there in 1797.
xst and only Minister. — Robert Easton, from Ecclefechan. Ordained 2d
August 1798. Resigned, 1802. Emigrated to America, and became minister of a
congregation in Montreal. After the resignation of his charge in Morpeth, the
congregation became extinct.
WHITBY.
Whitby is a seaport town in Yorkshire, 48 miles north-west of York, and 56 south-
east of Durham.
A chapel was built in Cliff Lane, Whitby, 1790, chiefly through the exertions of
Mr James Amos, who, previous to his settlement in that town, had been a member
of the East Secession Congregation, Dalkeith. The Rev. Thomas Craig, at one
time a student of theology in connection with the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Synod, but who had obtained license as a preacher from the Northumberland Class
of Presbyterians, and had been settled as minister of a congregation in that con-
nection in Blyth, was translated to Whitby, and, after holding the incumbency of
Cliff Lane Chapel for about eighteen months, was again translated to Walker -
fold, in Lancashire. While thus vacant, the congregation invited the Rev. Mr
Mason, minister of the Secession Congregation, Spring Garden Lane, Sunderland,
to preach to them. Mr Mason did so, and soon after (about 1798) they applied
for and obtained regular supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery
of Coldstream.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Cameron, who was
appointed by the Synod to Moffat ; Mr Watson, who was appointed to Linlithgow ;
and Mr Henderson, who was appointed to Lauder.
\st Afinister. — Peter Thomson, from Coldstream (West). Called to Paisley
and Whitby. Ordained minister of Whitby (at Coldstream), nth December 1799.
Translated to Leeds, 5th April 1804.
2d Minister. — George Young, D.D., from East Calder. Ordained 7th
January 1806. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of
Miami, Oxford, Ohio, United States, 1838, Died 8th May 1848, in the 71st
year of his age, and 43d of his ministry.
Author of "Evangelical Principles Vindicated in a Series of Letters ;" "A History of Whitby
and its Vicinity ; " " Lectures on the Book of Jonah, designed chiefly for the use of Seamen ; " "A
Geological Survey of the Vorlvshire Coast ; " "A Picture of Whitby and its Environs ; " " The Life
and Voyages of Captain Cook ; " " An Essay on Scriptural Geology ; " " Christ's Prayer for the
Unity of the Church, a Sermon Preached at the Opening of the Associate Synod, September 1819 ;"
and some other single sermons.
T,d Minister. — George Bartholomew, from Edinburgh (Broughton Place).
Ordained 26th September 1849. Resigned ist August 1854. Joined the Church
of England. Died at Edinburgh, 17th May 1870, in the 54th year of his age.
The congregation in 1855 called Mr Ihomas H. Baxter, afterwards of Banff;
and Mr William Blair, M.A., afterwards of Dunblane, both of whom dechned the
calls.
53^ The United Presbyterian Church.
d^th Minister. — Hugh Stillie Campbell, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Ordained 26th June 1856. Resigned 6th August 1S67. Now a preacher on the
list of occasional supply at Oxford.
A call was given to Rev. A. Shennan, Houghton-le-Spring, which he declined.
<^th Minister. — George Robertson, M.A., from Slateford. Ordained 25th
February 1868.
BELLINGHAM.
Bellingham is a town in Northumberland, 34 miles north-west of Newcastle, and
16 north-by-west of Hexham,
There is a village called Folkstone, 9 miles from Bellingham, which is the seat
of a congregation connected with the Church of Scotland. At the beginning of the
present century this congregation numbered among its members a good many
persons who had been in connection with the Secession, but, for want of a place of
worship belonging to their own denomination near them, attended the only
Presbyterian Church within their reach. This congregation having become vacant
in 1805, the members agreed to make application for supply of sermon to the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Selkirk. In accordance with their request, the
Rev. Mr Young of Jedburgh, by appointment, preached two Sabbaths at Folkstone,
when it turned out that the majority of the congregation were in favour of main-
taining their connection with the Church of Scotland. The minority then withdrew,
and formed a congregation by themselves in connection with the Associate Synod,
with its seat in Bellingham. Church built 1806; sittings, 350.
\st Minister. — Alexander Brown, from Perth (South). Ordained 24th August
1808. Died 1827, in the 49th year of his age, and 19th of his ministry. Author
of "The Blessedness of Peacemakers," a sermon.
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Young, previously of Lochmaben, who
declined the call.
2d Minister. — John Young, from Auchterarder (North). Ordained 8th April
1829. Died loth September 1S70, in the 65th year of his age, and 42d of his
ministry.
yi Minister. — William W. Ney, from Kilsyth. Ordained 23d March 1S71.
DARLINGTON (Now Extinct).
Darlington is a town in the county of Durham, 18 miles south of Durham.
The Rev. William Graham, minister of the Independent Congregation of
Stockton and Darlington, had been a member of the Secession Congregation,
Duke Street, Glasgow, before becoming an Independent. He was received with
his congregation into connection with the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Cold-
stream, 1 810. In 1 814 Mr Graham resigned his charge of Stockton and Dar-
lington, and was received upon the list of the Associate Synod's prol^ationers.
In 18 1 5 he was admitted minister of the Associate Congregation, Newbigging,
Forfarshire. The congregation over which he had pre\iously presided returned
to its former connection after his resignation.
Presbytery of Neiv castle — North Middleto7i. 537
NORTH MIDDLETON.
A congregation of Presbyterian Dissenters in connection with the Church of
Scotland, subordinate to the Protestant Class of Dissenting Ministers in Northum-
berland, has existed at Great Bavington from the beginning of the i8th century.
For many years it was presided over by Rev. Mr Cruser, afterwards by Rev.
Mr Whetherstone, who was translated to Bathgate, and then by Rev. James
Rutherford, whose ministry extended over more than forty years. At Mr Ruther-
ford's death the congregation applied to the Protestant Class for preachers. A
moderation took place in May 1802, when two preachers, Messrs Paton andM'Nee,
were put forward as candidates; 150 voted for M'Nee, and 87 for Paton. The
adherents of Mr Paton declared that dishonesty had been practised, alleging that
there were not 150 members in the church, and appealed to the "Class" in May.
Meanwhile Mr M'Nee arrived in Bavington and asked to be allowed to preach.
The opposition shut the church doors in his face. Next Sabbath he brought
false keys with him, and forcing an entrance, took possession of the pulpit. Joined
to such arbitrary procedure, there were rumours of immorality attaching to this
gentleman, so tliat his opponents became more inveterate in their opposition.
Nor was this all : the " Class " having refused ordination to him, and other Pres-
byterian ministers having also refused, three persons named Galliklie, Matthews,
and Colquhoun undertook to ordain him at Bavington on 4th November 1802.
The opposition resisted, but they were informed next day that Mr M'Nee had
been ordained at midnight in his own chamber. A protest against this pretended
ordination was read at the church door next Sabbath in name of the opposition,
and application was again made to the " Class," who reprobated the high-handed
conduct of Mr M'Nee and his party. Towards the end of 1803, the society had an
opportunity of hearing ministers of the Associate Burgher Synod, with whose
ministrations they were much satisfied. On 19th January 1804, they applied to the
Presbytery of Selkirk for supply of sermon. At their request, the society at Bavington
was formed into a congregation on 27th August 1804, in connection with the Associate
Presbytery, the Rev. Walter Dunlop of Newcastleton preaching on that occasion.
Elders were afterwards ordained. The congregation worshipped for a time in the
manse at Bavington, and latterly in the barn of W. Coull, Esq., North Middleton.
Mr Coull afterwards granted them a site for a chapel, which was built in 18 17, with
sittings for 200.
In June 181 7 the congregation applied for a moderation to Selkirk Presbytery,
and promised ;^7o stipend, with house, garden, sacramental expenses, and increase
of stipend as they were able.
\st Minister. — Walter Bell, called to North Sunderland and North Middleton.
Appointed by the Synod to North Middleton in 1817. Died 17th June 1S43, in
the 26th year of his ministry.
2d Minister. — John Miller, from Alloa (Townhead). Ordained 26th September
1844. Translated to Methven in May 1846.
3^ Minister. — James Robertson, from East Calder. Ordained 27th January
1848. Died 3d October 1871, in the 62d year of his age, and 24th of his ministr)-.
The congregation called Mr R. Simpson, M.A., who preferred Stockbridge,
(Berwickshire).
4///! Minister. — Allan Wilson, from Glasgow (Duke Street). Ordained 21st
November 1872.
538 The United Presbyterian Church.
BLYTH.
Blyth is a seaport town in Northumberland, 15 miles north-east of Newcastle,
9 east-south-east of Morpeth, and 9 north of North Shields.
This congregation originated with several Scotch families resident in Blyth, who
being desirous of having gospel ordinances dispensed to them according to the prin-
ciples and form of government to which they had been accustomed in their native
country, applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the United Associate Pres-
bytery of Newcastle, 1820. Church built 1827 ; sittings, 450. A new church, which
cost ;^2 2 6o, was opened loth March 1863, by Dr Cairns.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Stobbs, who was
appointed by the Synod to Ellon, Aberdeenshire.
1st Minister. — Daniel Carmichael, from Stirling (Second). Ordained 26th
March 1829. Died 6th March i860, in the 6ist year of his age, and 31st of his
ministry.
2d Mi/iistcr. — James Craig, from Mearns. Ordained 12th March 1861.
WALLSEND.
Wallsend is a village on the north bank of the River Tyne, county of North-
umberland, 4 miles east of Newcastle, and 4 west of North Shields.
This congregation was in connection with the Independents prior to 6th August
1823, when it acceded along with the minister to the United Associate Synod. It
was recognised as a separate congregation from Walker, 7th April 1846.
jst Minister. — Robert Neil. Received with his congregation from the Inde-
pendents into connection with the United Associate Presbytery of Newcastle, 1823.
Resigned and left the connection, 1833. Died 1834.
2d Minister. — John Robertson, previously of Burghead. Admitted 3d October
1837. Resigned 4th November 1845, and became a Baptist.
The congregation then called Mr Campbell.
2)d Minister. — David Wilson, from Hawick (East Bank). Ordained 30th
December 1836.
HOUGHTON-LE-SPRING.
Houghton-le-Spring is a township in the county of Durham, 6 miles south-west
of Sunderland, and 6| north-east of Durham.
This congregation originated in village preaching by the Rev. ISlx Duncan of
Sunderland, 1824. Church built 1825; sittings, 250.
\st Ministcr.-^^ona Morris, from Perth (North). Ordained 8th November
1826. Resigned 1844. Admitted to Sunderland, 14th July 1845.
2d Minister. — Anderson Drysdale, from Edinburgh (Rose Street). Ordained
as located missionary 17th November 1847. Resigned and emigrated to America,
5th April 1853. Returned to this country. Had a boarding-school at Sunderland ;
afterwards on list of occasional supply. Suspended nth December 1866.
The congregation called Mr Thomas Baxter, afterwards of Banff; and Mr Peter
Whyte, afterwards of Denny.
3^ Minister. — Alexander Shennan, from Etlinliurgh (St James' Place).
Called to Sutton and Ploiighton-le-Spring. Ordained 7th March 1S55. Called to
Presbytery of Newcastle — Warkworth — Monkwear^noiith. 5 39
Whitby September 1867, but declined the call. Translated to Bathgate 25th
November 1867.
The congregation called Mr J. Faulds Henderson, who preferred Innellan ; and
Mr James Rogers, who preferred Kelso.
^th Minister. — James Milligan, formerly of Canada Presbyterian Church.
Ordained 26th October 1869.
WARKWORTH.
Warkworth is a town in Northumberland, 7 miles south-east of Alnwick, and
15 north-west of Morpeth.
A small congregation of Presbyterian Dissenters in Warkworth were desirous
of obtaining a successor to their aged minister, and with this view applied in 1826
to be taken under the inspection of the United Associate Presbyter}^ of Newcastle,
which was allowed. Present place of worship built 1828 ; sittings, 250.
\st Minister. — James Blair, from Colmonell, of which his father was minister.
Called to Comrie and Warkworth. Ordained 1S29. Resigned loth February
1835, on account of ill-health Received an allowance from the Synod till his
death.
2d Minister. — James Duncan, from Alnwick (Clayport Street). Ordained 29th
June 1836. Resigned 7th March 1854. Emigrated to Canada.
3^ Minister.- — W^iLLiAisi Stewart, from Newcastle (Blackett Street). Called to
Bolton and Warkworth. Ordained iSth October 1854. Demitted his charge 5th
July 1870. Became probationer, and afterwards went to New Zealand.
The congregation called Rev. John A. Murray, formerly of Burntisland, but the
call was not concurred in by the Presbytery.
AftJi Minister. — William Rogerson, from Burnhead. Ordained 21st June 1871.
MONKWEARMOUTH, ST STEPHEN'S.
Monkwearmouth is a suburb of Sunderland, with which it is connected by a
bridge over the River Wear, 13 miles north-east of Durham.
Thirty-four members of Union Chapel, Sunderland, resident in Monkwear-
mouth, petitioned the United Associate Presbytery of Newcastle in 1827 to be
disjoined from the congregation with which they were then connected, and to be
formed into a separate congregation, with its seat in Monkwearmouth. They gave
as reasons for this procedure the inconvenience of crossing the river in a boat,
which most of them were accustomed to do, and the strong probability of being
able to form a Secession congregation on that side of the water. These reasons
being considered good, and no opposition offered by the congregations in Sunder-
land, the prayer of the petition was complied with. Church built 1827 j sittings, 550.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr John Young, who
was appointed by the Synod to Albion Chapel, London ; and Mr William Peddie,
who was appointed to Bristo Street, Edinburgh.
\st Minister. — Charles Johnston, from Rathillet. Ordained 22d July 1829.
Died 19th May 1850, in the 54th year of his age, and 21st of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Kechie, who preferred Earlston.
2d Minister. — John Mathison, from Dumfriesshire (Thornhill). Called to
Largo, South Ronaldshay, and Monkwearmouth. Ordained iSth June 1851.
540 The United Presbyterian Church.
SWALWELL.
Swalwell is a village in Durham, 2>\ miles west of Newcastle.
This was an old Presbyterian congregation, which, after passing through a great
many vicissitudes, acceded to the United Associate Presbytery of Newcastle, 1832.
\st Minister. — William Rattray, previously minister of the second Secession
Congregation, Selkirk (now extinct). Admitted 1832. Died 6th January 185 1, in
the 63d year of his age, and 36th of his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. George Dodds, previously of Newcastle, and
!Mr Forbes Ross, who preferred Sanquhar.
2d Minister. — William R. Barrie, from Forfar. Ordained 20th January 1858.
Demitted his charge 2d July 1861. Joined the English Presbyterian Church, and
became minister at Longframlington, Morpeth, 6th November 1862.
3^ Mijiister. — George Samuel from Glasgow (East Campbell Street). Ordained
2Sth May 1862.
HEXHAM.
Hexham is a town in Northumberland, 25 miles south-west of Newcastle, and 39
north-east of Carlisle.
The congregation in Hexham connected with the Church of Scotland called Mr
Nixon, probationer, to be their pastor, 1S30. The constitution of that congregation
was that each member had as many votes in the election of office-bearers as the
sittings he held in the place of worship. The sittings being generally low-priced,
some of the holders had come in this way to possess ten, and others as many as
twenty votes. At the election referred to, the majority of votes were in favour of
I\Ir Nixon, while the majority of the members were against him. His opponents
submitted for some time to his ministry, but not being satisfied either with it or their
own position, they resolved on freeing themselves from the one and altering the
other. With this view they requested the Rev. Mr Young of Bellingham to preach
to them. Mr Young complied, and after sermon the persons taking interest in the
movement held a meeting, at which they came to the unanimous resolution of
applying to the United Associate Presbytery of Newcastle for regular supply of ser-
mon. This was granted in 1831, and a congregation in connection with the
Secession Church regularly organised in 1832. After renting for a time, first the
Moot, and then the hall of the old Roman Catholic Chapel, they purchased a place
of worship belonging to the Wesleyans, containing 400 sittings, iox jQ^\o.
A new church was opened in 1864, costing ;^i94o, and seated for 400, which
in a short time was clear of debt.
\st Minister. — John Boyd, D.D.,from Glasgow (Wellington Street). Ordained
15th October 1833. Translated to Paisley 19th November 1835. Translated back
to Hexham i4lh May 1839. Translated to Belfast, September 1844.
The congregation called Mr Watt, afterwards of Aberlady, who declined the
call, and Mr Russell, who preferred Buchlyvie.
2d Minister. — Peter Bannatyne, from Kirkwall. Ordained 19th November
1845. Translated to BlantjTe 2Sth November 1848.
The congregation called Mr William Drummond, and Mr William Main, after-
wards of Campbelton, both of whom declined the calls.
3y IC. Calaniy, D.D., and p. 657 of Continua-
tion. — Eds.
Pj'csbytery of Newcastle — Stockiou-on-Tces. 545
ordination under the Erskines was at Gateshaw Brae (now Morebattle), in the district
of Hownam, and therefore the first licentiate of the Secession was ordained over
a people who had imbibed from their sires the nonconforming principles of Owens.
Though Owens was ejected from Stamfordham, nonconforming principles were
not cast out of the people. They continued to cleave to these principles, and
taught them to their children ; and as soon as circumstances permitted, they with-
drew from the Established Church, and formed the congregation which, under
various changes, continues unto this present. About the middle of last century, the
Rev. James Dryden was minister of Stamfordham congregation, and had a theo-
logical Academy for training young men for the ministry. It was in this small
Academy that Robert Hall, afterwards of Arnsby, received his theological tuition.
At that time Robert Hall, senior, imbibed Baptist principles, Avhich had begun to
be agitated in the locality ; and it was owing to a soldier in the Duke of Cumberland's
army, returning from CuUoden, that Robert Hall was recommended to the small
congregation of Arnsby, in Leicestershire. Jane Catcheside, his wife, belonged to
a family which, till lately, was active in support of Stamfordham Presbyterian
Church. She was a person of superior mental power : and both her husband and
her son, R. Hall of Bristol, owed much to her, stanch Presbyterian as she was.
Several cousins of Robert Hall of Bristol were members of Stamfordham congrega-
tion. The next minister after Mr Dryden was Mr John Orr, who had been
educated for the Church under John Brown of Haddington. He was settled in
1 7 88. Then came the Rev. James Bryce, licentiate of the Church of Scotland,
afterwards Free Church minister, Aberdeen. In 1830, the Rev. Robert Gillan was
ordained at Stamfordham, subsequently of South Shields, and now Dr Gillan of
Inchinnan. The Rev. R. O. Bromfield was ordained in 1833, now of Sprouston,
near Kelso. The Rev. D. Macintyre, late of Eastwood, near Paisley, was ordained
1838.
In 1843, the congregation changed its relation to the Church of Scotland, and
became connected with the United Secession Church, since which a new church
has been built.
\st Minister. — William Fisken. Ordained 1847. Author of a " Prize Essay
on Steam Cultivation" (prize awarded, ^25), and of a pamphlet on "The Cheapest
System of Steam Cultivation."
STOCKTON-ON-TEES.
Stockton-on-Tees is a town in Durham, 19 miles south-east of Durliam, and 10
south-west of Hartlepool.
This congregation originated in November 1845, in consequence of a disruption
in an Independent congregation, the minority receiving the support of the Congre-
gational Union, while the majority had been deprived of supply. On 3d June 1S45,
45 members and deacons petitioned the Presbytery of Newcastle for admission, and
were received in November following. The congregation met for worship in a
rented building till i8th August 1861, when they took possession of a new church
they had built, and which was opened by the Rev. Dr Macfarlane. Cost about
;^iooo; with vestry and schools, about ^1400 in all. A manse was purchased
for ^700 in 1869.
Before obtaining a stated minister, the congregation called i\Ir J. C. Houston,
who preferred Newcastle.
\st Minister. — James Caldwell, previously of Biggar and Greenock. Ad-
2 M
54^ The United Presbyterian Church.
mitted i8th December 1849. Resigned 5th August 1851. Afterwards suspended,
and left the connection.
2d Minister. — Adam Stewart, from Galashiels. Ordained 12th October 1852.
Died from the effects of a fall on the ice, 23d November 1870, in the 47th year of
his age, and 19th of his ministry.
Tyd Minister. — John Bogue, M.A,, from Glasgow (John Street). Ordained 27th
April 187 1.
JARROW-ON-TYNE.
The village of Jarrow, in the parish of the same name, is on the south bank of
the river Tyne, Northumberland, about 3 miles above South Shields, and consists
mainly of pit-houses. In 1840 a few of the inhabitants of Jarrow applied to the
Secession Presbytery of Newcastle for supply of sermon, which was granted ; and
in 1 84 1 a small building called Salem Chapel was opened. Sermon continued to
be supplied, and the chapel to be occupied, till 1847, when, on account of dissen-
sion regarding a preacher, the station was abandoned. In 1852 a number of Pres-
byterians from Glasgow and the West of Scotland, who had come to the ship-
building yards on the Tyne, agreed to open Salem Chapel afresh as a station in
connection with the East Street United Presbyterian Church, South Shields. The
station, under the fostering care of the Rev. T. Lawson, was continued till August
1855, when, after application to the Newcastle Presbytery, it was erected .into a
congregation. The chapel, which held about 80 persons, having become too small,
another place of worship, capable of accommodating about 600, was begun in
1856 ; the Rev. J. C. Bruce, LL.D., of Newcastle, laid the foundation-stone, and the
building was opened by Rev. Dr Robson, Glasgow, in May 1857. For some years
the congregation worshipped in the gallery of the church, with an intermediate floor
from the pulpit to the front of the gallery ; but, in consequence of the increase of
the congregation, the whole accommodation was taken in, and a week-day school
erected for the education of 200 children. The church premises, including the
school, cost about ;,{^2ooo. The foundation-stone of a new church was laid on
19th September 1870. The church was opened by the Rev. Dr Drummond of
Glasgow (now of London), on the 7th February 1872 ; cost, ;^35oo ; sittings, 920;
the prime mover in the cause having agreed to give ^2500.
At the time the congregation obtained a settled ministry, the membership was
under 50 ; but, owing to the increase of the population, the membership in twelve
years increased tenfold.
\st Minister. — John C. Weir, from Strathaven (East). Ordained i8th Novem-
ber 1857. Author of a "Funeral Sermon;" "The Spiritual Sleeper ; " and "The
Lord hath Founded Zion," a sermon.
BLACKHILL.
The Rev. W. Fisken, of Stamfordham, having preached near Shotley Bridge to
some members of his congregation, and some Scotch and Irish Presbyterians
resident in that neighbourhood, a preaching station was immediately formed. On
4th August 1857, a petition from 112 persons in Blackhill was presented to the
Presbytery of Newcastle, asking a supply of preachers. The petition was granted,
" with the distinct understanding that the people there, according to their own
statement, are prepared to meet the expense of sujiporting the Gospel among them."
The congregation, after its formation on 8th November 1857 by the Newcastle
Presbytery of Newcastle — Mount Pleasant — Middlesbro . 547
Presbytery, was for some time supplied by Mr Lauder, who ultimately became
the first minister. The church was opened on 26th February i860, and cost
;^376, los. rod.; sittings, 200.
\st Minister. — William Lauder, from Lochmaben. Ordained ist June 1859.
Resigned, on account of failing eyesight, 2d March 1869.
2d Minister. — Alexander Baillie, from Chapelhill, Nigg. Ordained 22d
December 1869.
MOUNT PLEASANT, FERRYHILL.
By appointment of Newcastle Presbytery, the Revs. S. Wallace, Newcastle, and
W. Wood, Campsie, visited the district in which Mount Pleasant is situated on ist
August 1 86 1. In the evening Mr Wood preached in the open air at Low Spenny-
moor. Regular supply of preachers was afterwards given, and the station was
opened by the Rev. R. Brown, Newcastle, 29th September 1861. In March 1863, 49
persons were received as members, and erected into the congregation of Mount
Pleasant. The church was opened by the Rev. Dr Cairns of Berwick, 4th October
1864, free of debt, at the cost of ;^9oo ; sittings, 320. In 1866 a school was built ;
cost, ;^33o. A manse has recently been built, which cost jQl'^o.
\st Minister. — Charles Frisken, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown). Ordained
2 2d September 1863.
MIDDLESBOROUGH.
In the autumn of 1861, a series of evangelistic efforts by various ministers of
Newcastle Presbytery was conducted at Middlesborough and elsewhere. The
Presbytery accordingly resolved to send preachers to such places, with the view of
occupying them as mission stations. In January 1862, 56 persons in Middles-
borough presented a petition asking to be organised as a congregation, and the
Presbytery appointed the Rev. A. Stewart to ascertain more fully their wishes as to the
proposed organisation. The Presbytery, at their meeting on 4th March, recognised
35 persons as members of the church in Middlesborough, and organised them into
a congregation.
The foundation-stone of a church was laid on loth August 1864, by David
Anderson, Esq., Glasgow; and the church was opened on 6th June 1865, by the
Rev. Drs Robson and Cairns ; cost, ^2400 ; sittings, 650.
\st Minister. — John M'Neill, previously of South Shields. Inducted 5th
August 1863. Called to Pendleton and Rutherglen. Translated to Rutherglen
ist February 1870.
The congregation called INIr Archibald Young, M.A., aftenvards of Aberdeen,
and Mr W. Guthrie, M.A., afterwards of Dysart, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Minister. — Robert A. Watson, from Aberdeen (George Street). Called to
Aberchirder and Middlesborough. Ordained 28th February 1S71.
CROOK.
The origin of this church is traceable to the tide of church extension in England
which flowed so rapidly in Durham for a time. At the close of 186 1, Mr Thomas
Dodds, preacher, was sent to the south of Durham to supply the pulpit of one of
the stations recendy formed there. While discharging his duty, his attention was
directed to Crook as a place which, from its central position, might afford the
548 TJie United Presbyterian Chni'ch.
hope of a congregation being in due time gathered. No sooner had he unfurled
the Presbyterian banner there, than he found friends and sympathisers who had
been contemplating a movement in that direction. Mr Dodds became convinced
that the chief recommendation of the field around him was its missionary character.
The population of the township is nearly 10,000; and when we take in the neigh-
bouring villages of Howden, Beechburn, Quarryburn, WiUington, and Waterhouses,
there cannot be less than 20,000. The chief occupations of these populations are
mining and coke-burning. The firm that has most interest in Crook is that of
Joseph Pease and partners, Darlington, the well-known and liberal Quakers. The
cause continued to prosper till 5th May 1863, when it had reached such a stage of
progress that it was erected into a congregation by the Presbytery. By the aid of
the Mission and Manse Boards a church and manse were erected. The church
is capable of holding from 200 to 300. The foundation-stone was laid on i8th
October 1864 by the Rev. Dr Bruce, Newcastle; and the church was opened 5th
June 1865 by the Rev. Dr Cairns of Berwick.
\st Mi)iister. — Thomas Dodds, from Edinburgh (South College Street). Or-
dained 25th November 1863.
BISHOP AUCKLAND.
In 1862, William Armstrong, now one of the elders of this church, came to
reside in the neighbourhood, and finding no United Presbyterian Church nearer
than Mount Pleasant, about 5 miles off, was anxious, for his own sake and his
family's comfort, to have a place of worship more accessible. On making inquiries,
he found a few friends like-minded who were willing to co-operate with him. They
met, and agreed to petition the Newcastle Presbytery for supply of sermon as a
mission station. In March 1863, a petition was presented by Messrs Tait and
Armstrong, which was favourably entertained. Four ministers were appointed to
preach in Bishop Auckland for one month. The Rev. Dr Bruce of Newcastle
opened the station in the Town Hall, where the new cause continued to meet till
they built a church of their own. In October 1863 the station was erected into a
congregation, with W. Armstrong, J. Tait, J. Veitch, and Thomas Thornton, elders.
The new church gave a call, on 13th September 1864, to Mr David Beatt, who
preferred Aberdeen ; on i6th April 1865, to Mr James Lamb, who preferred Old
Kilpatrick ; on 14th October 1865, to Mr James Davidson, M.A., who preferred
Selkirk. Notwithstanding these discouragements, the congregation set about the
erection of a church, which, with a grant from the Home Committee of ^^250, they
accomplished. A Gothic church, with spire, costing about ^1200, was opened by
Dr Cairns of Berwick in 1865 ; sittings, 300.
\st Minister. — William Hunter, from Glasgow (Wellington Street). Ordained
24th April 1866. His health failed him immediately after his settlement. Demittcd
his charge 4th June 1867 ; died soon after.
2d Minister. — Thomas Boyd, B.A., formerly for eight and a half years
missionary at Rosehill in Jamaica. Inducted 23d October 1867.
TOWLAW, COUNTY OF DURHAM.
A few members of the United Presbyterian and other churches in the locality,
feeling that the existing denominations of the place did not meet their spiritual
Presbytery of Neivcastle — Willington Quay — Durham. 549
wants and tastes, applied to the Newcastle Presbytery for a supply of preachers.
The Presbytery, on making all due inquiries, found that — although, the population of
the district, being only about 4000, and the resident Presbyterians not many, it could
not be expected that a congregation formed there would soon be self-sustaining —
there was yet a sufficient prospect of ministerial usefulness to warrant their grant-
ing the prayer of the petitioners. Preachers accordingly were supplied to the
station for fully a year, and about 40 persons were admitted into communion
with the church, after which it was erected into a congregation in July 1863.
A church and manse, costing ;;{^i3oo, were built in 1865. The church holds
202.
\st Minisfcr. — Ernest F. Scott, from Arbroath (Erskine Church). Ordained
21st June 1864.
WILLINGTON QUAY.
Willington Quay is on the left bank of the Tyne, opposite Jarrow.
This congregation originated with the large and increasing Scotch population
in the locality, and the felt want of a Presbyterian place of worship. On the 7th
February 1865, a petition, signed by 29 members and 43 adherents of the church
residing in Howden, was presented to the Newcastle Presbytery, craving supply of
sermon. The matter was remitted to the neighbouring sessions, some of which
objected to the grant of supply. A deputation visited Howden on the nth April,
after which supply of sermon was granted for six months. The congregation was
erected, with 39 members, on the 5th December 1865. A church was afterwards
built, which was opened for divine service on the 19th November 1867. Cost,
;^i2oo; sittings, 360.
ist Minister.— TnouAS S. Trench, from Linlithgow (East). Ordained 19th
November 1867.
DURHAM.
The city of Durham is the capital of the county of Durham, and the seat of a
cathedral and university.
On the ist of August 1871, a petition, signed by 52 persons resident in and
around Durham, craving supply of Gospel ordinances, and pledging themselves
to do what in them lay for their suitable support, was presented to Newcastle
Presbytery. The Presbytery agreed to send ministers to supply for four Sabbaths,
beginning with 13th August, and to make all due inquiries respecting the
eligibiUty of the place. This being done, a further supply for four Sabbaths was
granted in September, and again in October. An application was made in January
1872 for the location of a preacher, and a grant to enable them to carry on the
work. The ISIission Board declined the grant requested. An application was
made on 2d April by 70 persons connected with the station, praying to be formed
into a congregation. On advising with the Mission Board regarding this step, the
Rev. W. Sprott, and R. T. Middleton, Esq., Glasgow, were sent as a deputation
from the Board to visit Durham. The station was congregated on the 6th August
1872, with 55 members. Before obtaining a settled minister, the congregation
called Mr John W. Dunbar, I\I.A., on 17th November 1872, but he declined the
call.
;o Tfu United Presbyterian Church.
REDCAR.
Redcar is a coast town in Yorkshire, situated near the entrance of the estuary
of the Tees, about 9 miles east from Middlesborough.
The resident population of this town is between three and four thousand, but in
summer there is a great influx of visitors from inland towns. A number of gentle-
men connected with the iron-trade of Middlesborough form part of the permanent
population. In the autumn of 1S72 a deputation from the Mission Committee of
the Newcastle Presbjrtery visited Redcar, and reported favourably regarding it as a
locality for evangelistic work. Arrangements were made for Sabbath services to be
conducted by ministers of the denomination. The assistance and co-operation of
gentlemen in Redcar, who were known to be Presbvterians, were secured, with the
view of ultimately establishing a regular charge. The Rev. J. C. Jackson, Glasgow,
was among the first of the ministers who preached. Application was at length
made for probationers to supply the station; and in December, a petition was
presented to the Presb\-tery craving to be erected into a regular congregation, which
was granted on 6th January 1873, the number of members being 30.
PRESBYTERY OF ORKNEY.
The Secession congregations in Orkney were under the inspection of the Pres-
bytery of Edinburgh till 1831, when they were formed into a separate Presb}-ter>'.
WICK.
Wick is the county town of Caithness, 2 1 miles south-east of Thurso.
This congregation originated in the itineracies of the Rev. ^Ir Buchanan of
Nigg, about the ^year 1768. First church buUt at Newton, about i\ miles from
Wick, 1 77 1. Second built at Pultenenown, a suburb of Wick, 1815 ; sittings, 658.
isf Minister. — Thomas Darg. Called to Ajr and Wick. Appointed by the
Synod to Wick because of his ability to speak the Gaelic language, a knowledge
of which he had acquired while acting as tutor to a gentleman's family in Caith-
ness. Ordained 17th September 1771. Became depressed in mind, and was
loosed from his charge in consequence, 1773. Removed to Edinburgh, where he
lived privately till his death.
2d Afinister. — Andrew Arrot, from Dumbarrow, of which his father was
minister. Ordained 14th December 17S0. Loosed from his charge, 7th October
1788, and removed to Ireland, 1789.
3// Minister. — ^James Bryce, from Hamilton (Blackswell). Ordained 2d Sep-
tember 1795. Loosed from his charge, and removed to Ireland, iSoo. Became
minister of Killaig, near Coleraine, 1805.
The congregation called Mr Kirk, afterwards of Balbeggie, but the call was not
prosecuted.
^h Minister. — William Stewart, from A)t (First). Ordained iSth October
iSdS. Died loth December 1S47, in the 7Sth year of his age, and 40th of his ministry.
5M Minister. — Andrew Key, A.M., from Letham. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Stewart, 19th June 1S44.
Presbytery of Orkney — TJmrso — Kirkiuall. 551
THURSO (Now Extinct).
Thurso is a town in Caithness, 21 miles north-west of Wick, and 160 north-by-
east of Inverness.
The Secession congregation in this place originated in the itineracies of the
Rev. Mr Buchanan of Nigg, about the year 1772. Petition for sermon was pre-
sented 1773. Church built, 1777 ; sittings, 590.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Howison, who was
appointed by the Synod to Howford.
\st Minister. — Robert Dowie, from Abernethy. Ordained nth September
1777. Died nth June 1797, in the 50th year of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Simson, from Leith (St Andrew's Place). Ordained 2 2d
April 1801. Resigned 1807. Admitted to Edinburgh (Potterrow) 7th June 1808.
The congregation called ]Mr Wylie, who was appointed by the Synod to Strom-
ness.
2,d Minister. — JoHX M'Doxald, previously of Dubbieside. Admitted to
Thurso, October 181 7. Was one of the protesters against the Union of the two
great branches of the Secession, 1820, and with his congregation abstained from
joining in it. The congregation afterwards joined the Synod of Original Seceders.
Mr M'Donald died in 1830.
KIRKWALL.
Kirkwall is a burgh town, seaport, and seat of an ancient cathedral, in the
eastern division of Pomona, or mainland of Orkney, 14 miles east-by-north of
Stromness.
A prayer meeting, consisting of six or seven members, existed in Kirkwall prior
to 1 7 9-1- About that time ^Ir John Russell, a native of the place, who had served
his apprenticeship with one of the members, returned from Newcastle, where for
some time he had been prosecuting his business, and joined this society. At one
or more of its meetings he related how he had been led to attend the ministry of
the Rev. Mr Graham, then one of the Secession ministers of Newcastle, and
how different were the doctrines preached by Mr Graham from those they were
accustomed to hear in Kirkwall. Another member, who had been resident some
time in Edinburgh, and while there attended the ministry of the Rev. Robert
Walker, one of the ministers of the High Church (whose evangelical sermons
formed a striking contrast to the " Moderate" ones of his colleague, Dr Blair), made
similar remarks respecting the kind of spiritual instruction imparted at home and
abroad. The result of these remarks, and of conversations which arose out of them,
was an application to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presb}i;ery of Edinburgh
for supply of sermon, which was granted, 1795. The application was made to this
Presb}-tery because of its being of the same denomination with that to which Mr
Graham of Newcastle belonged, whose preaching had given the more recent mem-
ber of the praying society a relish for a different kind of spiritual instruction from
what he could then receive in Kirkwall.
Such was the real origin of this congregation. Nevertheless, the Rev. Dr Bany,
of Shapinshay, formerly of Kirkwall, in his " History of Orkney," assigns the rise of
the Secession there to a dispute in the parish of Kirkwall about the use of the mort-
cloth, which ended in a lawsuit between the kirk-session and the incorporated trades
of the burgh. However far this dispute contributed to promote dissent in Kirkwall,
DO'
The Unitea Pi^esbytcrian Church.
it was certainly not its primary cause. The statement as to the real origin of the
congregation is confirmed by a reference to the facts of the case in the Life of
the late Rev. Dr M'Crie of Edinburgh, who was one of the first deputation sent
by the Presbytery of Edinburgh on the interesting mission to Orkney : — " These
islands, owing to various causes, had been left deplorably destitute of religious
instruction, few of the inhabitants being able to read, and the great mass of them
living in ignorance of the doctrines of salvation. A revival, however, originating
in a prayer meeting held by a few individuals in a remote corner of one of the islands,
had led to an application for supply of sermon from the General Associate Synod,
which was granted, and out of which grew the large and flourishing congregation of
Kirkwall, the parent of all the Secession congregations in Orkney. The permanent
effects of the Secession mission to Orkney, in the numerous congregadons which
have sprung up, and the collateral influence on the Established ministers, all candid
persons acquainted with the facts must acknowledge to have been beneficial. In
respect of enjoying the Gospel and its privileges, and compared to what they were
at the close of last century, the eight-and-twenty islands may be said to have been
enlightened." Church built, 1796. Enlarged, 1800. A new church, containing
1400 sittings was opened 20th September 1S49.
\st Minister. — William Broadfoot, from Whithorn. Called to Bo'ness and
Kirkwall. Ordained 3d August 1798. Translated to London (Oxendon Chapel),
9th June 18 1 7.
The congregadon called the Rev. Mr Pringle, who continued in Newcastle, and
the Rev. Mr Stark, who continued in Forres.
2d Minister. — Robert Paterson, D.U., from Hamilton (Blackswell). Ordained
24th October 1820. Received the degree of D.D. from St Andrews University in
1855. Died 20th February 1870, in the 75th year of his age, and 50th of his ministr)-.
Author of "A Sermon Preached at the Opening of the United Associate Synod," and
of sermons on " Ecclesiastical Establishments ; " " The Sabbath 3 " and " The
Gospel Ministry."
3^ Minister. — David Webster, from Edinburgh (St James' Place). Called to
Stromness and Kirkwall. Ordained as colleague to Dr Paterson loth January 1865.
Author of " Biographical Sketch of Dr Paterson," prefixed to a sermon of Dr Pater-
son's entided " Christ's Finished Work."
STRONSAY.
Stronsay is an island in Orkney, 7] miles long, by 6| broad, and containing a
population of about 1500 souls. It lies 2^- miles south of Spurness, in Sanday; 2^
east of Veness, in Eday ; 4f north-east of Foot, in Shapinshay; and 6 J, north-north-
east of Moulhead, in Pomona.
This congregation originated with islanders of Stronsay, who having heard the
Gospel preached by Secession ministers on the mainland, were led to apply to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh for sui)ply of sermon in
dicir own locality, which was granted, 1799. Stronsay thus became the second
place in Orkney in which the Secession obtained a footing ; Kirkwall being the
first. Churcli built 1800, and since rebuilt; sittings, 391.
\st Minister.— ]amks Sinclair, from Leslie (West). Mr Sinclair was licensed
whilst a fourth-year divinity student, and was about to proceed with Mr Hume,
another student of the same standing, to Kentucky, United States, but was allowed
Presbytery of Orkney — Sanday. 553
to remain at home in consequence of a petition from above 500 inhabitants of
Stronsay, craving his settlement among them. Ordained 25th June 1800. Died
29th November 181 1, in the 42d year of his age, and 12th of his ministry. Author
of a sermon on "Justification by Faith, and not by Works."
The congregation called Mr Miller, who was appointed by the Synod to Lin-
lithgow, and the Rev. Isaac Ketchen, who remained in his charge at Nairn.
2d Minister. — William Taylor, from Logiealmond. Ordained 3d June 18 17.
Resigned 1824. Itinerated some time as a probationer, and afterwards became a
city missionary in Edmburgh, and chaplain of the West Church Poorhouse. Died
in May 1865^ in his 84th year.
The congregation called Mr Allan, preacher.
■^d Minister. — James Mudie, from Dundee (Bell Street). Ordained 2d December
1825. Died at Carnoustie, 22d September 1863.
Afth Minister. — John Thomson, from Montrose. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Mudie, 17th April 1861. Translated to North Richmond Street Edinburgh, i6th
April 1866.
The congregation called Mr D. Thomas, who preferred Lockerbie.
5//^ Minister. — John Wilson, M.A., from Whitehill. Ordained i6th October
1867. Translated to Edinburgh (Canongate), 19th December 187 1.
The congregation called Mr J. M. Rae, who preferred Maryhill.
dth Minister. — David Buchanan, from Kirkintilloch. Called to Bolton and
Stronsay. Ordained 1873.
SANDAY.
Sanday is an island in Orkney of about 19 square miles, with a population of
about 2000 souls. Its respective points of distance from other islands are 2], miles
north of Stronsay, i^- east of Eday, 6^ east of Westray, and 2^- south of North
Ronaldshay.
A few of the islanders of Sanday having occasionally heard the Gospel preached
in the Secession churches of Kirkwall and Stronsay were led by this circumstance
to ask for supply of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of
Edinburgh, which was granted, 1800. Church built, 1807; sittings, 420. New
church built 1850, cost ^^700, with 600 sittings. The first church was built about
2 miles farther south, and was inconveniently situated for those in the north end of
the island. With praiseworthy enterprise and liberality the congregation have built
the present church in the centre of the island, with the manse near at hand.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Wylie, who was
appointed by the Synod to Stromness, and Mr Miller, who was appointed to
Linlithgow.
\st Minister. — William Ramage, from Howgate. Ordained 12 th July 18 14.
Resigned 18 18. Admitted to Kirriemuir 18 19.
Mr W. Parlane, afterwards of Tranent, was called in 182 1, but declined.
2d Minister. — John Crawford, from Lochwinnoch. Ordained 1824. Be-
came depressed in mind, and was loosed from his charge in consequence, and
supported by the Synod till his death.
A call was given to the Rev. Adam Gillon, previously of Newcastle, which he
declined, and to INIr Blackwood, who preferred Banff.
yi Minister. — John Paul, from Muirtown. Ordained 14th December 1830.
554 ^/^^ United Presbyterian Church.
In November 1870 the congregation celebrated the 40th anniversary of Mr Paul's
ordination, and presented him with a phaeton and harness; while the Presbytery
presented him with a gold watch.
STROMNESS.
Stromness is a seaport, and the second town in importance in Pomona or the
mainland of Orkney, 14 miles south-by-west of Kirkwall.
Thirty-four members of the congregation of Kirkwall, resident in Stromness,
applied to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Edinburgh in 1S03,
for supply of sermon, which was granted. Upon a second petition, they were disjoined
from Kirkwall, and formed into a separate congregation, 1806. Church built the
same year, at a cost of ^600, but not fully seated till 181 1 ; sittings, 643. New
church built in 1863, and opened on 28th June. The sittings are 780, and the
building cost ^1800.
\st Minister. — Andrew Wylie, from Auchtergaven. Called to Sanday, Thurso,
and Stromness. Ordained nth October 1809. Died 1826, in the 42d year of his
age, and 1 7th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Stobbs, previously of Ellon. Translated to Stromness
nth June 1829. In 1856 Mr Stobbs was presented with a purse containing
jQcft, 14s., by the hands of Peter Vellian, the only surviving male member of the few
who were congregated in 1806, and for forty-nine years an elder. Died 21st March
1863, in the 64th year of his age, and 37th of his ministry. Author of " Catechism
of Messianic Prophecy."
The congregation called Mr D. Webster, who preferred Kirkwall.
2,d Minister. — James Stewart Nisbet, from Mauchline. Ordained 4th July
1865.
WESTRAY.
Westray is an island at the north-western extremity of the Orkney group, 9 miles
long by 4 broad, and containing a population of about 2000 souls.
The congregation of Westray originated in the Home Missionary operations of
the Secession Church. Supply of sermon was first afforded to the island in 182 1.
Ciiurch built, 1823 ; sittings, 440.
1st Minister. — George Reid, from Lauder (Second). Ordained 15th June 1825.
Called to Newcastle in 1830, but continued in Westray. Died 7th July 1862, in
the 65th year of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Alexander Wither, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Ordained 1 6th July 1862. Resigned his charge 7th August 1865. Went to New
Zealand. Now on the list of preachers.
2,d Minister.- — James M. Cruikshank, from Springburn. Ordained i8th
October 1866.
SOUTH RONALDSHAY.
South Ronaldshay is, with the exception of the Pentland Skerries, nearest the
mainland of Scotland of the Orkney Islands. It has a superficial area of 18 miles,
and contains nearly 3000 souls.
Supply of sermon was aftbrdcd to this place by the Ignited Associate Presby-
tery of Edinburgh, 1826. A congregation was organised, and a place of worship
Presbytery of Orkney — Sandwick — Holm. 555
containing 342 sittings built, the same year, at a cost of ^451. A new church was
built in 1856, seated for 315 ; cost, ;^4oo. Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the
congregation called Mr Hunter, who preferred Belford.
\st Minister. — Peter M'Guffie, from Wigtown. Ordained 2d December
1830. Called twice to Lerwick, and translated thither 1841. Author of "The
Secession from the Church of Scotland accordant with the Counsel of God."
2d Minister. — Alexander Miller, A.M., from Huntly, of which his father
was minister. Ordained 7th June 1843. Translated to Keith 25th January 1849.
The congregation called Mr Mathison, who preferred Monkwearmouth, and
Mr R. S. Drummond, who preferred Carlisle.
3^ Minister. — Andrew Whyte, A.M., from Glasgow (Duke Street). Ordained
2ist December 1853. Translated to Clackmannan 17th December 1867.
4th Minister. — Robert Edgar, from Glasgow (Gorbals). Ordained 20th
October 1868.
SANDWICK.
Sandwick is a parish, containing about 1000 souls, on the west of Pomona.
Previous to the year 1829, the services of the Established Church in the parish
of Sandwick were very inadequate. There was no regular minister, no pastoral
visitation, and the Lord's Supper had not been dispensed from time immemorial.
A sermon once a fortnight was the whole benefit derived from the Establishment.
The neighbouring parishes of Birsay and Harray, were under the charge of one
minister, and were about equally ill supplied. A number of the persons thus
situated were led by their circumstances to apply to the United Associate Presby-
tery of Edinburgh for supply of sermon, which was granted at the date specified.
Matters soon after changed in the Established Church. A resident minister was
obtained for Sandwick, and sermon regularly afforded every Sabbath. Another
minister succeeded in a few years to Birsay, who, in addition to his own services,
provided those of an assistant to supply the parish of Harray with regular sermon ;
and Sabbath-schools and other means of instruction were also set on foot. Church
built, 1829 ; sittings, 400.
1st Minister. — Peter Buchan, A.M., from Johnshaven. Called to Muirkirk
and Sandwick. Ordained 31st December 1830. Translated to Holm 1833.
2d Minister. — William S. M'Gowan, from Wigtown. Ordained 14th July
1835. Demitted his charge 24th April 1865, on accepting a call to New Zealand.
The congregation called Mr T. Kirk, who preferred Brechin, Mr A. M 'Donald,
who preferred Lochmaben, and Mr R. Lindsay, who preferred Creetown.
2,d Minister. — James Torry, from Edinburgh (Newington). Ordained i6th
August 1867. Demitted his charge in December 1872. Author of " Baptism : its
Subjects and Mode, viewed in connection with the Heresy of the Plymouth Brethren."
HOLM.
Holm is a parish on the south-east coast of Pomona, or mainland of Orkney, ex-
tending 9 miles in length and 2 in breadth along the Sound to which it gives its name.
This congregation was formed at first by persons resident in the parish, who had
occasionally attended public ordinances in the Secession Church in Kirkwall, and
acquired a relish for the doctrine they heard preached there.
\st iMiiiister. — Thomas Christie, from Alloa (First). Ordained 18 17. Resigned
556 The United Presbytci'iaii CJiiwch.
1832. Became minister of West Flamborough, Canada West. Died 8th Sep-
tember 1870, in the 86th year of his age, and 54th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Peter Buchan, A.M., previously of Sandwick. Admitted 1833.
Died 19th September 1859, in the 59th year of his age, and 29th of his ministry.
T^d Minister. — John Pettigrew, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown). Ordained
22d January 1861. Loosed from his charge 15th August 1865.
In November 1865, above 200 of the congregation joined the Free Church.
The congregation called IMr T. Kirk, who preferred Brechin, and Mr ^V. Ruther-
ford, wlio preferred Chirnside,
^th Minister. — Charles Runciman, from Glasgow (Anderston). Ordained Sth
February 1870.
EDAY.
Eday is an island in Orkney, between Westray and Stronsay, about 6J miles
long by 2% broad. In 1831 it contained a population of 961 souls. It is ecclesias-
tically connected with the neighbouring island of Stronsay, from which it is sepa-
rated by a sound 3 miles broad at the ferry. From time immemorial this island
had been in a state of great religious destitution. The only supply of religious in-
struction the inhabitants received was a sermon every third or fourth Sabbath from
the minister of the island of Stronsay. No minister resided among them. From
all the benefits of pastoral superintendence, visitation, and private instruction, they
were entirely shut out. The Home Mission Committee of the United Associate
Synod taking the destitute condition of this place into consideration, sent mis-
sionaries to it in 1828, by whom the Gospel was preached, and Sabbath-schools were
formed. In 1831 the people, with the aid of Christian friends, built a place of
worship containing 300 sittings. A congregation consisting of 120 members was
at length formed, and everything looked promising for the spiritual interests and
harmony of the people.
While matters were in this state, a missionary minister was sent down by the
Church of Scotland, and located in the island, with the grant of £,^0 a year from
the Royal Bounty. By exertions made in Edinburgh and elsewhere, a dwelling-
house was built for him, and every effort made to keep him in the island. In this
way, the once long-neglected island came to be supplied with a superabundance of
the means of grace. Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr
W. M'Queen, who preferred Pathstruie, Mr J. Inglis, who preferred Hamilton, and
Mr G. Deans, who preferred Portobello.
\st Minister. — James Ingram, A.M., from Aberdeen (George Street). Ordained
26th March 1839.
SHAPINSHAY.
Shapinshay is an island in Orkney, 7 miles long by 5 broad, containing a popu-
lation of about 1000 souls. It lies 3.} miles south of the island of Eday, and 4^
west of the most southerly part of Stronsay.
The United Associate Presbytery of Orkney fixed upon this place as a preaching
station in 183 1. A congregation was organised, and a place of worship, containing
400 sittings, built the following year.
\st Minister.— ]pA\v.'a Brown, from Melhven. Ordained nth July 1832.
Died 8lh August 1865, in the 63d year of his age, and 34th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr \V. Culhbertson, who preferred Portadown, Ireland ;
Presbytery of Orkney — Rousay — Firth — Burr ay. 557
Mr J. Cordiner, who preferred Aberdeen ; Mr A. M. Dalrymple, who preferred
Smethwick.
2d Alinistcr, — Henry Fleming from Ireland, (Loanends). Ordained i8th
February 1868.
ROUSAY.
Rousay is an island about 4 miles broad and 3 long, with a population of about
1000 souls, lying to the north-west of Shapinshay and north-east of Pomona, from
which it is separated by a sound i^ miles broad.
This place was fixed upon as a preaching station by the United Associate Pres-
bytery of Edinburgh in 1829. A congregation was organised in 1834, and a place
of worship built the same year.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Borthwick, who
preferred Dundee.
1st Mi/lister. — John M'Lellan, from Wigtown. Ordained ist November 1837.
FIRTH.
Firth and Stennis form a united parish in the island of Pomona, or the main-
land of Orkney, about 17 miles long, and 8 in its greatest breadth. The popula-
tion in 1 83 1 was 1200, of whom about 450 resided in Firth. The United Asso-
ciate Presbytery of Orkney fixed upon this place as a mission station in 1835, ^^i^d
located Mr William Jameson, who subsequently died in Old Calabar, as a mission-
ary there. Other located missionaries succeeded him till the congregation obtained
a settled pastor. Despite of many difficulties and obstacles, the station prospered.
The people built a place of worship for themselves in 1839, containing 370 sittings.
\st Minister. — Robert Reid, from Limekilns. Ordained 19th November 1845.
BURRAY.
This congregation was formed on the 25th April 1855. It existed- previously as
a portion of the congregation of South Ronaldshay. The people of Burray, however,
had often found it very inconvenient, and sometimes quite impossible, to cross the
sound that separates the two islands, and therefore came to the resolution of asking
the Presbytery to form them into a separate congregation, which was granted. At
the formation of the congregation the number of members was 64. A church
capable of accommodating 180 persons was built, at a cost of ^^300, and opened
on the 13th July 1856.
In August 1858, the congregation called Mr John Squair, preacher, who declined
the call ; afterwards of Wigtown.
\st Minister. — R. S. Paterson, from Glasgow (Renfield Street). Ordained 20th
April 1859. Demitted his charge nth August 1863, on accepting an appointment
to Austraha.
The congregation called Mr Charles Naismith, who declined the call ; afterwards
of Pitrodie.
2d Minister. — Adam B. Rogerson, from Glasgow (Gillespie Church). Ordained
17th October 1865.
558 J^fi/r/'.— Robert Jack, D.D., previously of Linlithgow. Admitted 14th
October 1794, Called the same year by his former congregation, and twice by the
congregation of Leith (Kirkgate), but remained in Greenock, till ist October 1801,
when he was translated to Manchester.
2d Minister.— ^iisLiKW Wilson, from Paisley (Abbey Close). Ordained i6th
November 1802. Called to Bolton, and twice to Leeds in 1807, but continued in
Greenock. Died 9th March 183 1, in the 55th year of his age, and 29th of his
ministry.
The congregation called Mr J. Robson, who preferred Lasswade.
Zd Minister.— ^ov.Y.WY Wilson, A.M., D.D., previously of Kendal. Admitted
24th June 1833. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University
of St Andrews in March 1854. Died 23d April 1858, in the 63d year of his age,
and 30th of his ministry.
Author of " A Volume of Miscellaneous Poems ;" ' ' A Blow at the Root, a letter to Dr Balmer •"
"The Pleasures of Piety," a poem in ten books; "The Battle of Drumclog," a poem ; "Ode
Addressed to Queen Victoria on the occasion of Her Majesty's Visit to Scotland in '1S42 • "
" Strictures on Geology and Astronomy, in Reference to a supposed want of Harmony between
some Parts of these Sciences and some Parts of Divine Revelation, an Astronomical Lecture •"
"The Consummation, an Ode on the Auspicious Union of the Secession and Relief Churches'"
"Elegy on the Death of Dr Chalmers."
4//^ Minister. — Andrew Macfarlane, D.D., formerly of Falkirk (East).
Inducted i6th March 1859.
SIR MICHAEL STREET.
This congregation originated in the want of church accommodation in Greenock.
Supply of sermon was afforded to the persons taking interest in the movement by
the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow in September 1806. First church built 1807, at
an expense of ;^2 4oo ; sittings, 1200. A new church, built on the site of the
former, was opened in 1854, at a cost of ;^6ooo, with 1200 sittings. Extensive
mission and school premises have since been acquired, at a cost of ^1000,
\st Minister. — William Auld, previously of Burnhead. Admitted 17th No-
vember 1808. Moderator of Relief Synod, 1822. Died 9th October 1849, i^i the
75th year of his age, and 49th of his ministry. Author of a pamphlet on "The
Power of the Civil Magistrate," and "Address to Parents and Children."
2d Minister. — James Jeffrey, previously of Musselburgh. Admitted as col-
league to Mr Auld, 26th October 1836. Died 15th December 1845, i^^ the 40th
year of his age, and i6th of his ministry. A volume of Mr Jeffrey's sermons, with
memoir, was published after his death.
2,d Minister. — James Caldwell, previously of Biggar. Admitted 9th June 1846
Resigned 19th September 1848. Admitted to Stockton i8th December 1849.
4/// Minister. — Andrew Morton, from Glasgow (Bridgeton). Called to Aber-
chirder, Alexandria, Barrhead, Glasgow (Regent Place), and Greenock (Sir Michael
Street). Ordained 9th October 1849, the same day as Mr Auld's death. Translated
to Edinburgh (St James' Place), 28th October 1862.
5/"// Alinister. — William Reid Thomson, previously of Glasgow (Regent Place).
Admitted 3d June 1863. Author of "The Friend of Christ Asleep, a Discourse on
occasion of the Death of the Rev. James Law, of Kirkcaldy."
2 N
562 The United Presbyterian Church.
UNION STREET.
This congregation was formed in 1833, by a minority of Nicolson Street con-
gregation, Greenock, opposed to the settlement of the minister who was preferred
by the majority, and inducted to that church. Church built 1834, at a cost of
;^24oo; sittings, 923.
\st Minister. — Thomas Finlayson, D.D., from Bridge of Teith. Ordained 4th
November 1835. Translated to Edinburgh (Rose Street) 30th September 1847.
2d Minister. — John B. Smith, from Hamilton (Chapel Street). Ordained loth
October 1848. Author of "Discourse on the Death of Prince Albert, 23d Decem-
ber 186 1," and on "Christian Giving."
ST ANDREW SQUARE.
This congregation was originated by Paisley and Greenock Presbytery. A
memorial numerously signed in behalf of a preaching station in Greenock, with a
view to the formation of a new congregation, was presented to the Presbytery on i8th
July 1865. Iw furtherance thereof, the Rev. J. B. Smith and the Rev. S. Sinclair
were appointed to preach in a room in Blackball Street, on the 23d July. The
station prospered; and on 17th October 1865, it was erected into a congregation,
with 57 members and 28 adherents. A site having been purchased for the erection
of a church, the congregation received the name of St Andrew Square Church,
from the locality in which the church is situated. In March 1866 four elders were
ordained. An application for a moderation in a call was made on 5th June.
The church was opened in November 1867 ; cost, ;^6ooo ; sittings, iioo.
\st Minister. — Andrew Jeffrey Gunion, LL.D., previously of Strathaven.
Inducted i8th September 1866. Had the degree of LL.D. conferred upon him
by the College of Tusculum, Tennessee, in 1868. Died suddenly, 12 th February
1873, in the 51st year of his age, and 27th of his ministry. Author of a lecture on
" The Culture of Imagination."
BURNTSHIELDS (Now Extinct).
Burntshields, sometimes written Bruntchells, and commonly pronounced in the
locality "Branchell," is the name of a farm in the parish of Kilbarchan, Renfrewshire,
on which the place of worship belonging to the Secession congregation stood, 3
miles north of Lochwinnoch, and about i west of Kilbarchan.
The parish of Kilbarchan is bounded on the north-west by the parish of Kil-
malcolm. The Rev. Robert Maxwell, incumbent of this parish, having died in 1735,
the patron presented Mr John Fleming, probationer, to the vacajit charge. This
gentleman's known " Moderatism " rendered him very obno.xious to a number of
the parishioners, and they endeavoured to prevent his settlement among them by
every constitutional means in their power, but without success. He was ordained,
by order of the General Assembly, minister of Kilmalcolm in 1737.
On the i8th of July 1738, a petition was presented to the Associate Presbytery,
met at Abernethy, signed by a number of persons resident in the parish of Kilmal-
colm, and others resident in the parish of Greenock, which was granted. The Rev.
Messrs Thomson of Burntisland, and Moncrieff of Abernethy, were appointed to
observe a fast at Mearns on the 24th of August 173S, where the Scceders in Kilmaurs,
Presbytciy of Paisley and Greenock — Bnrntshields. 563
Kilmalcolm, and Greenock were to attend, and to preach at Kilmalcolm the Sab-
bath after. The place of meeting in the parish of Kilmalcolm was on the farm of
Killochries, the tenant of which was a Seceder. Here supply of sermon was
afforded upon an average three times a year, till 1 740, when the increase of preachers
enabled the Presbytery to afford it much more frequently; the infant society
receiving in the interim much indirect countenance from the Dowager Countess of
Glencairn, resident in the neighbourhood.
The Rev. Robert Johnston, incumbent of the parish of Kilbarchan, having died
in 1738, the patron presented Mr John Warner to the vacant charge. The " Modera-
tism" of Mr Warner was as offensive to many of the parishioners of Kilbarchan,
as that of Mr Fleming had been to those of Kilmalcolm ; and they set themselves,
in like manner, to oppose his settlement among them, but with as little success ; for,
in despite of their remonstrances, he was ordained minister of Kilbarchan, by order
of the General Assembly, 1739. The Rev. Messrs Fleming and Warner afterwards
became the leading opponents of the celebrated Witherspoon, in the Presbytery of
Paisley, on general questions of church politics, and have obtained some little
notice through his repute.
On the 17th of July 1739, there was presented to the Associate Presbytery, met
at Stirling, a paper signed " by a numerous body of people in the parish of
Kilbarchan, bearing their approbation of the Testimony, their accession to the
Presbytery on the ground thereof, and craving to be taken under their inspection,
and the appointment of a day of fasting among them." The Presbytery were unable,
from the numerous demands of the same kind made upon them, to comply with the
last part of the petition ; and as they had no prospect of affording supply of preach-
ing to the Seceders in Kilbarchan alone for a long time to come, they joined them
into an Association with those in Kilmalcolm, Lochwinnoch, Port-Glasgow, and
Greenock, under the designation of " The Correspondence of Kilmalcolm."
The association thus formed was soon found too large to hold together, and
the meeting-place at Killochries too distant for members resident in the extreme
localities to attend. The portion of them resident in Port-Glasgow and Greenock
drew off, and insisted upon having supply of sermon somewhere in their more
immediate vicinity.
The state of things thus produced, and the feelings to which it gave rise, is set
forth in a letter now before us, addressed to the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, as mode-
rator of the Presbytery, by one of the members of the Association of Kilmalcolm,
of which the following is a copy : —
" Killochries, dth May 1740.
'•Rev. Sir,
"We being convened in our quarterly meeting, time and place foresaid, thought it
proper to let you know a short account of the conduct of the Societies of Greenock, in making seces-
sion from us. Holy Providence having so ordered it, we got two waterings of the Gospel in Kilmal-
colm hard upon each other. So the members in Greenock were very pressing to have one of the
ministers down to preach with them, at the farthest corner of the Correspondence. We of Kilmalcolm,
Kilbarchan, and Lochwinnoch, thought it not convenient for the meeting to be at Greenock, and it
had besides been appointed by the Reverend Presbytery to be at Kilmalcolm as the centre. However,
because of their importunity, we granted them a day of Mr ISeugo, if he were %\illing to go.
With this they professed themselves content, but almost immediately after, insisted upon having the
Rev. Mr Fisher ; but we could not grant them him, because there was to be a baptism of children,
some of whose mothers were not able to walk a quarter of a mile, because of infirmity, also some
children from a distance of 12 or 14 miles to the south hand ; so when they could not obtain Mr
Fisher, they declared they would stand by themselves ; so they went off from us, and we suppose
from the Reverend Presbytery. Also on account of their observing the 9th of January (17^0)
for fasting and ]irayer, for several of their number, with some of us, had a warm debate about
the observing of that day. But as yet there are three parishes which resolve to cleave close to you as our
faithful ministers in the Lord, through Divine assistance, to \\\i, Kilmalcolm, Kilbarchan, and Loch-
^64 The United Presbyterian Church.
winnoch ; and therefore we humbly beseech the Reverend Presbytery to consider our desolate
condition for want of the glorious Gospel dispensed among us, and send us of your young men, whom
we have not heard, in order to a settlement amongst us, for we have laid a plan to carry on the work
notwithstanding. ^^^„^,„ ^^t^^h
" (Signed) GEORGE REID."
The Seceders in Port-Glasgow and Greenock had not drawn off from the Presby-
tery, nor ever had the intention of doing so ; they had only resolved on having a place
of meeting in their own locality. The disptite to which the writer of the letter refers
respected the observance of a fast, appointed by the Presbytery to be observed on
the same day with one appointed by the King. The royal appointment was con-
sidered by many of the Seceders as an invasion of the headship of Christ, and the
appointment of the Presbytery a homologating of the act. The Presbytery
afterwards " expressed their sorrow at their conduct in appearing to countenance
such usurpation in appointing a fast to be observed on the day which had been
previously set apart for this purpose by the authority of the State."
The parties forming " The Correspondence of Kilmalcolm " continued to co-
operate notwithstanding, and acted as one congregation, with two places of worship,
under the superintendence of one session, till 1744, when they were formally
disjoined and formed into separate congregations. The portion of "The Corre-
spondence " in the south and east, or, in other words, the Seceders resident in the
parishes of Kilbarchan, Kilmalcolm, and Lochwinnoch, now changed their place
of meeting from Killochries, in the parish of Kilmalcolm, to Burntshields, in the
parish of Kilbarchan, as more convenient for the great proportion of the persons
composing the congregation, and built a place of worship there the same year ; while
the portion of " The Correspondence " in the north and west, or, in other words, the
Seceders in Port-Glasgow and Greenock, had already changed their place of meeting
from Killochries to Cartsdyke, in the vicinity of Greenock, and built a place of
worship there.
\st Minister. — John M'Ara. Ordained 12th September 1744, as minister of
the united congregations of Burntshields and Greenock, officiating at each place
on alternate Sabbaths.*
At "The Breach," 1747, Mr M'Ara adhered, with the majority of his congre-
gation, to the Associate (Burgher) Synod.
In 1750, the congregation of Burntshields was considerably increased by the
accession of a number of the parishioners of Lochwinnoch, who were opposed to
the settlement of Mr John Cooper as the minister of that parish.
In 1756, Mr M'Ara was called to Kennoway, but preferred remaining in
Ikirntshields,
About 1759, Mr John Kirkwood, proprietor of the lands of Sunny Acres, and
one of the elders of Burntshields congregation, died, bequeathing Mr M'Ara 2000
merks. With this money he purchased the farm of Huthead, lying contiguous to
the church and manse, and proceeded to its cultivation. His people soon after
charged him before the Presbytery with neglecting his clerical duties, preaching
imedifying discourses, and having become wholly secular in thought and feeling.
The charge failed for want of proof.
* The first sacrament observed by the united congregations was dispensed at Runitshiclils,
on the fourth Sabbath of May 1746. There were then present as communicants, 47 persons from
Paisley, being only a portion of the Seceders in that town, the others attending at Mearns ; 20 from
Houston, sa^'from Kilmalcolm, 50 from Lochwinnoch, 7 from Kilbirnie, 80 from Kilbarchan, 69
from the shore {Port-(ilasgow, (ireenc ck, and Innerkip), 2 from Erskinc, and 3 from Bcith ; other
Seceders in this last place attended at Kihnaurs ; in all, 310.
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Paisley — Oakshaw Street. 565
In 1767, Mr JNI'Ara tendered the resignation of his charge, but wished at the
same time to retain his seat in the church courts. A committee was appointed to
inquire whether this wish could be constitutionally complied with, who reported
" that it was necessary to maintain the parity of ministers and elders, and therefore
not expedient to admit a minister without a charge to vote in Presbytery or Synod."
Mr M'Ara soon after cited his congregation before the Synod for arrears of stipend,
demanding that the Synod should order payment to be made, or at least require the
congregation to find legal security for the same. The Synod refused to interfere
further than to require the commissioners from Burntshields to acknowledge these
arrears as a just debt. This admission they readily made, and also the willingness
of their constituents to pay it.
Mr M'Ara removed, some time after his resignation, to Stirling, and died there.
The congregation called Mr Baillie, who was appointed by the Synod to New-
castle, and Mr Fletcher, who was appointed to Bridge of Teith.
2d Minister. — John Lindsay, from Cambusnethan. Ordained 14th April 1773.
In 1 79 1, the portion of the congregation of Burntshields resident in and about
Johnston was formed, under sanction of the Presbytery, into a separate congregation,
and the option given to Mr Lindsay to remain with the old congregation, or remove
to the new one. He preferred the latter, and removed to Johnston, with part of
his congregation, February 1792. The same year, the portion of the congregation
resident in and about Lochwinnoch was also formed into a separate congregation,
under sanction of the Presbytery. By these divisions, the congregation of Burnt-
shields became much weakened.
3^/ Minister. — David Stewart Wylie, from Kilmarnock (Wellington Street).
Ordained 19th March 1793. Resigned 15th March 1796, having adopted Inde-
pendent views of church government. Became pastor of a Baptist church, first
in Paisley, and afterwards in Liverpool. Died 6th August 1856, in the 86th year
of his age, and 64th of his ministry. "The Old Light Controversy" was agitating
the denomination at tlie time of Mr Wylie's resignation, and the congregation, while
yet vacant, joined with the party which formed the Original Burgher Synod. In
1826, the congregation built and removed to a church at Bridge of Weir, a village in
the neighbourhood. In 1839, the congregation, along with several others of the
denomination, joined the Established Church, but again withdrew from it, and is
now in connection with the Free Church.
PAISLEY.
Paisley is the principal town in Renfrewshire, 7^ miles west of Glasgow, and 16
south-east of Greenock.
OAKSHAW STREET.
In September 1738, Messrs Allan PoUok, William Cook, and James Miller,
elders in the Abbey parish of Paisley, were laid under suspension by the Presbytery
for refusing to submit to the ministry of the Rev. Mr M'Vey, recently settled as
minister of that parish, whom they considered intruded upon them by those exercis-
ing the patronage in the case. These persons, without seeking to have the sentence
of suspension laid upon them by the Established Presbytery withdrawn, sought con-
nection with the Associate Presbytery. The Associate Presbytery refused to receive
them till full inquiry was made into all the circumstances of the case, when they
566 The United Presbyterian CJinrck.
decided that Mr M'Vey's settlement as minister of the Abbey Church, Paisley,
was a violent intrusion ; that the opposition of these elders was warrantable ; that
the sentence of the Presbytery upon them was unjust ; and that their election being
valid, they be recognised as elders of the Associate congregation of Mearns, to which
they sought to be joined.*
In October 1739, a number of persons, dissatisfied with the ministrations of the
Rev. Mr M'Vey, withdrew from them, and acceded to the Associate Presbytery.
They were joined to the congregation of Mearns, in which most of the Seceders
resident in and about Paisley were at this time included.
In 1744 a portion of the Seceders resident in Paisley petitioned the Presbytery
to be disjoined from the congregation of Mearns, and joined to that of Burntshields,
which was allowed.
"The Breach" divided the congregation of Burntshields, the great majority
adhering to the Associate (Burgher) Synod. Those of the minority resident in
Paisley joined with those in Greenock, who had also adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, in the support of public ordinances, each portion
being too small to do so by itself In 1753 they petitioned the Presbytery for a
moderation, which was refused, because, in the opinion of the Presbytery, " there
was not sufficient evidence as to a competent number of people to form a congre-
gation." Three years afterwards, they had so increased as to warrant the Presbytery
to grant their request, upon renewed application. They worshipped in the open
air till 1762, when they took possession of a place of worship they had built at the
head of the Alley, thence called Meeting-house Lane, and at the east end of what
is now called Oakshaw Street. In 1781 the church was enlarged; and in 1S25-6,
it was rebuilt at a cost of ^4071, 17s. lod. ; sittings, 954.
\st Minister.— 1 KU.YJ& Alice, from Alloa (First). Ordained as minister of the
united congregations of Paisley and Greenock, 21st September 1756, preaching one
Sabbath in the month at Greenock, and the remainder in Paisley. This arrange-
ment continued till 1759, when the congregations of Paisley and Greenock were
disjoined, Mr Alice continuing minister of Paisley, leaving Greenock vacant. Died
loth June 1798, in the 66th year of his age, and 42d of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Terrier, D.D., from Perth (North). Ordained as
colleague to Mr Alice, 28th August 1787. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon
him by Princeton College, New Jersey, U.S., 1822. Died 20th December 1835, in
the 73d year of his age, and 49th of his ministry. Dr Ferrier introduced monthly
observance of the Lord's Supper into his congregation. Author of " Reply to a
Pamphlet entitled State of the Process commenced by the Very Reverend the
Associate Presbytery of Glasgow against the Rev. James Ramsay, late Minister
of the Associate Congregation, Havannah Street, Glasgow ;" a sermon occasioned
by the death of his colleague, Mr Alice; and another preached in behalf of the
Sabbath-schools of Paisley. A memoir of his life was published by his son. Rev.
A. Ferrier, Airdrie, with some of his sermons.
In 1832 the congregation called Mr J. Robson to be colleague to Dr Ferrier,
Init he preferred Lasswade.
yi Minister. — William France, from Moniaive, of which his father was minister.
Called to Cupar, Dunfermline, and Paisley. Ordained as colleague to Dr Ferrier,
2d July 1833.
* Dr G. r,iown says the connjrcqation origiiialcd fiom llic icadint; fioin the Abbey pulpit of an
Ael euiideinniiiLr the " Marrow." — Eds.
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Abbey Close — Canal Street, 567
ABBEY CLOSE.
Previous to the year 1765, the Associate (Burgher) Seceders resident in Paisley
attended public religious ordinances at Burntshields, a place 6 miles distant from
the town. In that year, by the rapid growth of the population, who had been drawn
thither by the flourishing state of the silk gauze manufacture, introduced into
Paisley only six years before, and which had now become the staple article of
trade of the town, they found their number so increased, that they were induced to
apply to the Presbytery for a disjunction from Burntshields, in order to their forma-
tion into a separate congregation, which was immediately granted. First church
built 1769; second built 1827, at a cost of ^^2588, besides nearly ^300 for a
vestry and library room; sittings, 1178.
\st Alinista . — Samuel Kinloch, from Whitburn. Suspended from the exercise
of his office as a probationer, while under call to Paisley, because of difmna clamosa
proved against him. Emigrated to America. Called a second time by the same
congregation soon after his arrival in that country. Returned to Scotland ; had the
sentence of suspension removed; and Avas ordained 14th June 1769, the only case
of the kind which has ever occurred in any of the sections of which the United
Presbyterian Church is composed. Resigned 6th August 1800. Died in November
1 808, in the 74th year of his age, and 40th of his ministry.
Previous to Mr Kinloch's resignation, the congregation, with a view of obtaining
a colleague for him, called Mr J. Smart, who was appointed by the Synod to
Stirling; Mr Cameron, who was appointed to Moffat; Mr T. Brown, who was
appointed to Dalkeith ; and Mr P. Thomson, who was appointed to Whitby.
2d Minister. — William Smart, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Called to Kirkin-
tilloch, Braehead, Carnwath, and Paisley. Ordained 9th February 1802. Died
suddenly, while returning from a meeting of Presbytery, nth July 1837, in the 62d
year of his age, and 36th of his ministry. A volume of his sermons was published
after his death, with a memoir by his son, the Rev. William Smart, of Linlithgow.
yi Minister. — William Nisbet, previously of Edinburgh (Cowgate). Admitted
26th April 1838. Died 14th March 1854, in the 50th year of his age, and 24th of
his ministry. A volume of sermons, with memoir by Dr Eadie, was published after
his death.
Author of a lecture entitled "An Examination of the Arguments from Scripture alleged in
favour of Civil Establishments of Religion ;" and a sermon entitled " The Voluntary Support of the
Christian Ministry the only Method acceptable to God and beneficial to the Churches."
4M Minister. — Andrew Henderson, previously of Coldingham. Admitted
17th April 1855. Author of " Church Melodies arranged for Four Voices ;" " The
New Scottish Psalter;" and sermon on "The Sabbath."
CANAL STREET.
In 1780 a petition, signed by 280 persons residing in Paisley, was presented to
the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, craving to be erected into a congregation. The
request was granted. The church was built in 1781, and seated for 1600 persons.
The cost of the building cannot be ascertained, as the managers bought the material,
and paid tradesmen for their work, while the carriage of lime and material was
freely given by friends. In 1868 it was entirely remodelled, at a cost of 1000
guineas, the sittings being reduced to 900.
568 The United Presbyterian Clinrch.
ist Minister. — Patrick Hutchison, A.M., formerly of St Ninians. Inducted
22d May 1783. Died loth January 1802, in the 28th year of his ministry.
Author of "A Compendious View of the Religious System maintained by the Relief Synod j"
"A Dissertation on the Nature and Genius of the Kingdom of Christ," in two parts ; three discourses
on "The Divine and Mediatorial Character of Christ ;" "Animadversions on the Re-exhibition
of the Burgher Testimony, as far as it relates to the Principles of the Relief Church ; " "Animad-
versions on two Pamphlets by the Revs. D. Walker and J. Ramsay ;" and a volume of sermons.
2d Minister. — John M'Dermid, formerly of Banff. Inducted 19th May 1802.
Moderator of Relief Synod in 1817. Died 22d March 1834, in the 71st year of
his age, and 39th of his ministry. Author of " The Propagation of the Gospel
Important and Necessary."
2)d Minister. — James Banks, from Saltcoats (East). Ordained 21st May 1834.
Demitted his charge 17th April 1849, Withdrew from the United Presbyterian
Church, 9th August 1862, Restored nth July 1865, as minister of Holm mission
church, Kilmar^nock.
d^tJi Minister. — George Clark Hutton, from Perth (North). Ordained 9th
September 185 1. Author of "Rationale of Prayer;" "Nature of Divine Truth, and
the Fact of its Self-Evidence;" "Law and Gospel, Discourses on Primary Themes/
"The Irish Church, the Evil and the Remedy."
THREAD STREET.
In 1807, tlie Relief Church in Canal Street, Paisley, was over-crowded. It
therefore became necessary to provide another place of worship for the accommo-
dation of the persons belonging to the denomination coming into the town, then
rapidly increasing by the shawl manufacture, introduced into it shortly before.
Thence arose the Relief congregation in Thread Street. Church built 1S08, at a
cost of more than ;2^30oo ; sittings, 1640. The church underwent a complete
reconstruction in 1872, at a cost of ^1800; sittings, 860. It was re-opened on
2ist April by the Revs. W. Ramage and Dr Hugh M'Millan, Glasgow, collection
t>eing j[,\^o. Upwards of ;^iioo had been previously subscribed.
\st Minister. — James Thomson, D.D., previously of Campsie. Admitted 23d
December i8o8. Moderator of Relief Synod 181 8. Appointed Professor of Theo-
logy by the Relief Synod 1824, the tirst they had, their students being previously
educated in the Theological Halls of the Established Church. Had the degree of
D.D. conferred upon him by the University of Glasgow 1827, the first Dissenting
minister who received that honour from Glasgow. Bequeathed the sum of ;^3oo to
the Widows' Fund at his death. Died 1841, in the 66th year of his age, and 43d of
his ministry.
2d Minister.— \N\\AAk.^i M'Dougal, previously of Kilmarnock (King Street).
Moderator of Relief Synod 1839. Admitted 4th April 1842. Died 20th February
1867, in the 68th year of his age, and 44th of his ministry. Author of letters on
" Ministerial Communion." A memorial of his life was published, with sermons,
and notices by Dr M 'Michael and Messrs Brooks, Becket, and Ramage.
In 1867 (Oct.) a call was given to Rev. T. Dobbie, Stranraer. In 1868, the
congregation called Rev. Robert Wylie Thomson, of Kirn. In 1869, a call was
given to Mr P. B. Gloag, M.A., who preferred Edinburgh (Nicolson Street).
3^/ Minister. — Andrew Gip.r Fleming, previously of Alva. Admitted 22d
February 1870.
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock—St James Street. 569
ST JAMES STREET.
A division having taken place in the Independent Congregation, Paisley in 18-4
the mniister and great majority of the people withdrew, and formed a new conr^reL^a'
tion m another place. The minority, consisting of about 50 persons, to whom the
property belonged, and who were originally Presbyterians, applied for and obtained
supply of sermon from the United Associate Presbytery of Glasgow. Church built
1818; sittings, 1212.
i^/ J/////.A7-.-ARCHIBALD Baird, D.D., previously of the East Congregation
Auchtermuchty. Admitted July 1825. Had the degree of D.D. confe^ed upon
hun by Washmgton College, Pennsylvania, U.S., 1844. Died at Bridge of Allan
31st October 1857, in the 71st year of his age, and 41st of his ministry"
Author of " 'f^'- - ''• ■ - . ^ . - ^
The congregation called Mr P. Duncanson, who preferred Lanark.
2d Mmis^er.—] AMES Brown, from Cumnock, of which his father was minister
Called to London (Albion Church) and Paisley. Ordained 30th August iSkq
Author of a series of papers on "The Twelve AdosiIcs " in the- TT„;f,f t> T , ■ ?,
OLD LAIGH KIRK (Now Extinct).
The Old Laigh parish church of Paisley, having been vacated by the Rev Dr
Burns and his congregation, in order to take possession of another which had been
built for them elsewhere, was advertised to be let by the Town Council and
trustees of the burgh property. It was leased for ten years by some of the leadin.^
Dissenters in the town, at a rent of ^40 per annum, and opened in 1834 in con^
nection with the United Associate Synod. In eighteen months the congrec^ation
numbered 72 members, who proceeded to provide themselves with a fixed iJ'astor
They obtained for their
J/-////^/.r.— Robert Cairns, previously of Cumbernauld. Admitted 2d February
1836. In 1839 this congregation formed a junction with that of George Street.
GEORGE STREET.
A congregation in connection with the Original Associate (Burgher) Synod built
in 1822 the place of worship now occupied by this congregation, at a cost of
^1700, containing 1058 sittings. In 1834, the congregation divided on the ques-
tion of Church and State connection, involved in " The Voluntary Controversy," then
agitating. The party taking the anti-voluntary side of the question, bein- in -x
minority, withdrew from the place of worship, leaving the others in possession who
undertook to discharge all the obligations involved in the retention, and who' then
applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the United Associate Presbytery
of Paisley and Greenock, in April 1835.
xst Minister.— ]on^ Boyd, D.D., previously of Hexham. Admitted loth No
vember 1835. Translated back to Hexham, 14th May 1S39.
The congregation of George Street now formed a junction with one assembling
in the old parish cluirch, and the minister and people of the latter removed to
5 JO The Unilcd Presbyterian CJmrch.
George Street Church, resigning the remainder of the lease of the Old Laigh church
to the non-intrusion party of the Church of Scotland, who then took possession of
the building ; and thus the first minister of the united congregations became second
minister of the church after its connection with the United Associate Synod.
2d Minister. — Robert Cairns. Admitted 1839. Died 26th April 1857.
Author of " Everlasting Life the Reward of the Christian."
■^d Minister. — John Wilson, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street). Ordained
9th February 1858. Deposed 17th October 1865. Author of "The Bush Burning
but not Consumed."
4//^ Minister. — Andrew Elder, formerly of Kinkell. Admitted 5th February
1867.
B EI TH.
Beith is a town in the district of Cunningham, Ayrshire, 1 1 miles south-west of
Paisley, 5 north-east of Dairy, and 9 north-east of Kilwinning.
MITCHELL STREET.
The Secession was introduced into Ayrshire by the Revs. Messrs Fisher and Wilson
at Dairy in 1736. Several persons in the parish of Beith acceded to the Associate
Presbytery in January 1739, on the ground of the Testimony emitted by them, and
in January 1740 several persons in the adjoining parish of Dunlop acceded on
the same ground. These persons were united in an Association, as a step towards
their formation into a congregation, should circumstances, in Providence, admit
of their becoming one ; and in this view, Mr Gavin Beugo preached to them in
Dunlop, on the last Sabbath of July 1740. Mr Robert Scott, elder in the parish of
Beith, acceded to the Associate Presbytery in February 1741, and was recognised
as the elder of the Associate Society of Beith and Dunlop. Sermon had been
supplied for two years to this Association, as the Presbytery could afford it, but was
now withdrawn as less necessary. Since Mr Smyton had been ordained minister at
Kilmaurs, the Seceders in Beith and Dunlop became members of his congregation.
In 1758, a majority of the heritors and parishioners of Beith succeeded in getting
Mr David M'Lellan, probationer, settled as minister of that parish as successor to
Witherspoon, in defiance of the strenuous opposition of a large majority against him.
The Seceders in Beith and Dunlop took advantage of the feeling thus created to
obtain a disjunction from Kilmaurs, and their formation into a separate congregation,
which was done in 1759, when a number of persons jireviously belonging to the
Established Church became connected with them. Church built 1759; sittings,
498. Church rebuilt on the site of the old one, 1816.
\st Minister, — John Laidlay. Ordained Ajjril 1760. Left his congregation,
and connection of the Secession Church, March 1763, for which conduct the Synod
declared him deposed from office.
2d Minister. — Andrew Mitchell, from Alloa (First). Ordained 15th May
1765. Died 8th February i8i2,in the 73d year of his age, and 47th of his ministry.
id Minister. — James Meikle, D.D., from Strathaven (First). Ordained 15th
September 181 2. Moderator of U. P. Synod in 1849. Had the degree of D.D.
conferred on him by the College of Princeton, New Jersey, U.S., June 1856. On 1 2th
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Beith — Head Street. 5 7 r
November 1861, Dr Meikle was presented with 406 sovereigns, on the occasion of his
jubilee. Died i6th Sej^tember 1870, in the 83d year of his age, and 59th of his
ministry.
Author of "The Edenic Dispensation, with Strictures on certain Opinions of the late Rev. George
Payne, LL.D., as stated in his Lectures on Original Sin ; " " The Nature of the Mediatorial Dis-
pensation ; " " Armageddon ; " " The Millennial State of the Church, and the Agency by which it is
to be Realised," the Synod sermon of which he was Moderator ; "The Administration of the Media-
torial Dispensation."
A,th Mijiistcr. — Henry Glen, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street). Ordained
as colleague to Dr Meikle, 15th December«i868.
HEAD STREET.
The heritors and feuars in the parish of Irvine, who, as such, held the greater
portion of the sittings in the parish church, were unwilling to share them with those
who were not proprietors ; and there not being sufficient room otherwise, a number
of the parishioners thus deprived of accommodation considered themselves called
upon to provide another place of worship in the town. To this step they were
prompted also by a desire to obtain a voice in the election of the person who was
to minister to them, and of which they were deprived by the constitution of the
church which they had been attending, ^^'ith this view, a number of them met, ami
after passing certain resolutions, calling themselves " The Free Presbyterian Society"
and setting forth their grievances, among which they gave " the unscriptural yoke
of patronage" the chief place, they drew up a paper entitled "Rules and articles
humbly submitted to all who are willing to join in the scheme." These articles
secured to all subscribers a deduction of five per cent, off their seat-rents ; sub-
scribers to be proprietors, with a power of transference of sale, but to forfeit pro-
prietorship in case of failing to pay the rents for two years. In a short time 155
names were appended to this document, and the building of a place of worship
proceeded with. On the 21st of January 1784, at which time the building was
nearly roofed in, a meeting of subscribers was convened to decide on the further
steps to be taken, when it was unanimously agreed " to form themselves into a reli-
gious society on the principles of the Chapels of Ease in connection with the Established
Church of Scotland." In order to carry this scheme into effect, it was resolved to
petition the Reverend (Established) Presbytery of Irvine, in whose boundaries they
were, and to request the countenance and co-operation of the minister of the parish.
But instead of obtaining their minister's co-operation, they had to encounter his
opposition, which proved ultimately successful against them. At a meeting held
on the loth of April 1784, the delegates appointed to the Presbytery reported that
" they had waited upon the Presbytery three several times, but could receive no
satisfactory answer." After a short consultation, a motion was made to petition for
supply of sermon to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, which was carried by a great
majority. In accordance with this decision, application was made to the Presbytery,
and the prayer of the petition was granted. The congregation was organised on
the 28th of June 1784. Church built 1783 ; sittings, at first, 1000, but afterwards
reduced to 885.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Murdoch
of Kilmaronock, but the call was not sustained by the Presbytery.
\st Minister. — ^^'ILLIAM Thomson, a native of Doune, who connected himself
with the Synod of Relief while a student of theology in connection with the
572 The United Presbyterian Church.
Established Church. Called to Perth and Beith. Ordained 23d January 1788.
Called to Clackmannan 1789, and to Old Kilpatrick 1794, but remained both
times in Beith. Translated to Glasgow (Hutchesontown), 14th August 1800.
The congregation called Mr Auld, who preferred Burnhead.
2d Minister. — James Anderson, from Campsie. Ordained 20th April 1802.
Moderator of Relief Synod 1826. Died 31st December 1841, in the 67th year of
his age, and 40th of his ministry.
T,d Mi/lister. — William C. Wardrop, previously of Rutherglen. Admitted 24th
March 1840. Died 17th December 1842, in the 30th year of his age, and 7th of
his ministry.
4th Minister. — James Martin, from Broomgate, Lanark. Ordained 25th July
1843.
KILMARONOCK.
Kilmaronock is a parish at the south end of Loch Lomond, Dumbartonshire.
The church is 4 miles south of Drymen, 4 north of Bonhill, about half a mile from
Loch I^omond on the south side, and 8 north-east of Dumbarton.
The church and parish of Kilmaronock having become vacant in 1770, the patron
presented Mr Adie, probationer, to the charge. The Presbytery found great diffi-
culty in getting any one to sign his call, the great proportion of the parishioners
being united and strenuous in their opposition to his settlement amongst them.
The Presbytery refused to proceed with his ordination in these circumstances, but
the General Assembly, to which the case was appealed, enjoined them, upon pain of
censure, to settle Mr Adie according to the rules of the Church. The Presbytery
now shifted their ground, and when the presentee delivered his trial discourses for
ordination, the Presbytery refused to sustain them. The people next proceeded to
libel the presentee, on the charges of explaining away the doctrine of the Atonement,
and teaching doctrines contrary to the Confession of Faith ; but the libel was not
allowed to come to proof; and after a long, harassing, and expensive resistance, Mr
Adie was ordained minister of Kilmaronock by an imperative injunction of the
General Assembly. The people of the parish almost wholly withdrew from the
Established Church, disgusted with this domination and tolerance of error, and ap-
plied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, 1772.
First church built same year ; sittings, 450; second church built 1853 ; sittings, 400;
cost £ts°-
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Robert
Paterson, who preferred remaining in Largo.
\st Minister. — John King. Ordained 26th March 1777. Resigned 27111 ALiy
1779. Admitted to Kettle, Fife, 1780.
The congregation called the Rev. James Somerville, Presbyterian minister in
Ravenstonedale, Westmoreland, whose call was sustained by the Presbytery, but was
afterwards set aside ; and Mr Watt, who declined the call.
2d Minister. — Archibald Murdoch, from Lecropt, and the congregation of St
Ninians. Ordained 17th March 1784. Moderator of Relief Synod in 1795. Died
17th March 1839, '" ^^'^^ Soth year of his age, and 56lh of his ministry. Author of
" The Principles of Christianity Inculcated."
id Minister. — James Monteith, from Blairlogie. Ordained i8lh November
1840. Died ist December 1843, in the 4th year of his ministry.
Pi^esbytcry of Paisley and Greenock — Rothesay. 573
The congregation called Mr W. Miller, who declined the call, and afterwards
joined the Estabhshed Church.
/\,th Mitiister. — William Morton, from Old Kilpatrick. Ordained 27th May
1845. Died 15th May 1850, in the 36th year of his age, and 5th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr David Russell, who preferred Dunfermline.
^th Minister. — James Dunlop, from Kilmarnock (Portland Road). Ordained
6th January 1852.
ROTHESAY.
Rothesay is the county town of Bute, 19 miles south-west of Greenock, and
40 west of Glasgow. Ten persons resident in the island of Bute petitioned the
General Associate Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of sermon in December
1764. The Presbytery did not then comply with the request, as they had no
preachers who could speak the GaeHc language, a qualification deemed essential to
one who was to be regarded as a missionary to the West Highlands.
In 1779, twelve persons resident in the parishes of Rothesay, Kingarth, Inverchao-
lin, and Dunoon, petitioned the Presbytery for a similar object; and Mr Laing, after-
wards of Dunse, who had acquired some knowledge of Erse, was sent to supply the
station. Mr (afterwards Dr) Jamieson of Edinburgh, was one of the probationers
who succeeded Mr Laing ; and he has left upon record the following account of the
state of matters in the parish of Kingarth on the occasion of his visiting it : —
"I found my situation on this beautiful island very comfortable. The place of preaching was in
Rothesay. I lodged at a farmhouse in the parish of Kingarth, and I never met with more kindness
from any man than from Mr , the minister of the parish. A nephew of his had written from Glas-
gow, apprising him of the young Seceder's invasion of his parish, and recommending me to his kind-
ness. I had no sooner taken up my residence than he came to call for me, and urged me in the
most strenuous manner to come to his manse. When I expressed my sense of his great kindness, declin-
ing to receive the benefit of it as delicately as I could, he told me, if I persisted in my refusal, he would
attribute it solely to bigotry, as he supposed I could have no other reason for preferring the
accommodation of a cottage to that of his house, save my unwillingness to reside under the roof of a
Kirk minister. To convince him of the reverse, I finally agreed to spend one night at the manse.
The minister went out daily with his dog and gun, and often stepping into the cottage, would sur-
prise me poring over the next Sabbath-day's discourse. He often found me writing, and when I
told him I was studying a sermon or a lecture, he laughed at my diligence, asking me if I had no
old discourses, and assuring me they would do perfectly well in Bute. ' I have been many years in
this parish,' said he, — I forget how many he specified, — 'and I never had more tlian four sermons. I
go through them every month. All that I do is to change the texts ; and I do not believe that any of
my hearers, except blind David, observes that they are still the same. ' One day he (the minister)
said to me, 'If you were called, you would visit your congregation, I suppose.' 'I would certainly
reckon it my duty,' I replied. 'Well,' he rejoined, 'I visit all my parish every year, but not just in the
way you would take. You will be for giving them a long exhortation and prayer. That is not my
way. I divide my whole parish into three districts, and visit them on three different days. I intimate
from the pulpit that on such a day I expect such a quarter to attend, at a certain hour, at the pulilic-
house of the Clac/iaii ; and I give them a good potful of kail and a reaming bowl of punch, and
then send them home very happy. I will be bound for it, if you would take my way, your folks
would like it far better than your dry kind of visit. '
" I found it imjiossible to reason with this man, for although he never lost his temper at anvthinfr
I said, it made no impression on him, for he tried to turn all into joke. Being a good deal shocked
at his undisguised denial of some fundamental articles of the Christian faith, I took the liberty to ask
him, ' If you hold such sentiments, how could you, as an honest man, subscribe to the Confession of
Faith?' 'I never did,' said he. To this I replied, ' I always understood that no man could receive
ordination in the Church of .Scotland without subscribing it.' 'That is the usual way,' he said ; 'but as
I had a Dissenting congregation in the North of England' {i.e., a congregation connected with the
Northumberland Class of Presbyterians) 'before receiving the presentation to this parish, I was
ordained by the Class or Presljytery of the district, who did not require that formality.' I had a deep
feeling for this man, for his natural dispositions were singularly amiable. He told me, without the
slightest portion of ill-humour, that almost all his congregation had left him, and walked, some of
them, six miles to hear me preach. I never can recall the memory of this benevolent man without
very deep regret, because that, notwithstanding his amiable qualities, he left on the hearts of those
who were most attached to him the painful apprehension that one thing was lacking, and this the
one thing supereminently needful."
574 The United Presbyterian Church.
The station at Rothesay prospered, and the persons taking interest in it were in
due time regularly organised as a congregation. First church built 1783 ; sittings,
434. Second church built 1836, at a cost of about ;^iooo ; sittings, 434.
\st Minister. — James Grahame. Called to Dundee and Rothesay. Ordained
loth August 1784. Died 1793, in the 9th year of his ministry.
2d Minister.— DKy\v> Hogg, from Glasgow (Duke Street). Ordained 13th Sep-
tember 1797. Died 6th December 1799, in the 3d year of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — John Robertson, from Buchlyvie. Ordained 25th September
1800. Resigned 1809. Admitted to Stranraer loth July 181 1.
The congregation called Mr Miller, who was appointed by the Synod to Lin-
lithgow, and Mr Blyth, who was appointed to Urr.
/\th Minister. — Samuel M'Nar, from Comrie. Ordained 6th September 1815.
On the occasion of his jubilee, 27th September 1864, he was presented with a
silver salver and 500 sovereigns. Died 23d May 1866, in the 76th year of his age,
and 51st of his ministry.
5/// Mi?iister. — Peter Macfarlane, B.A., formerly of Lanark. Inducted as
colleague to Mr M'Nab, 2d November 1858.
LARGS.
Largs is a town in the parish of the same name, in the extreme north-west of
Cunningham, Ayrshire, 15 miles south-west of Greenock, and 13I north-west of
Saltcoats.
This congregation Avas originally formed by members of the congregation of
Cartsdyke, Greenock, resident in and about Largs, who, being desirous of having a
l^Iace of worship in their own connection more favourably situated for them than the
one they had been accustomed to attend, applied for and obtained supply of sermon
from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow 1780. First church built 1781,
Second church built 1826, at a cost of ^362, i8s. ; sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — William Watson, from Bridge of Teith. Ordained 15th January
1 783. Called to Cumnock in 1787, but continued at that time in Largs. Translated
to Old Kilpatrick Craigs, i8th March 1789.
The congregation called Mr Russell, who was appointed by the Synod to Dairy,
Ayrshire.
2d Minister. — John Leech, a native of Ireland. Called to Hamilton and Largs.
Ordained 7th December 1791. Called to Monaghan in Ireland 1793, but declined
the call. Resigned May 182 1. Became lecturer on Biblical Criticism to the
students attending the Theological Hall of the United Associate Synod. Died 1822,
in the 58th year of his age.
The congregation called Mr James Gilfillan, who was appointed by the Synod to
Stirling, and Mr John Newlands, who was appointed to Perth.
2,d Minister. — Daniel M'Lean, previously of Coupar-Angus. Admitted to Largs
22d October 1823. Deposed 29th November 1829. Lived privately in Largs till
his death, in 1849, in tlie 62(1 year of his age.
^th Minister. — William Steven, from Tarbolton. Ordained 31st August 1830.
Joint editor, with Dr Edmond, of" Discourses" by Dr Stark, Dennyloanhead.
$th Minister. — J. B. K. Macintyre, from Loanends, Ireland, of which his father
was minister. Ordained 21st December 1S64, as colleague to Mr Steven.
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock—Largs (Relief). 575
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
About 60 persons resident in Largs and its vicinity, thinking there was room for
another place of worship in Largs, and desirous of having one in connection with
the ReHef Church, to which several of them belonged, joined in a petition to the
Relief Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of sermon, which was granted in February
1841. They had built a place of worship, containing 460 sittings, in 1837, but did
not seek an ecclesiastical connection till four years after.
\st and sole Minister. — David Drummond, from Cupar. Ordained 2 2d April 1845.
Resigned 1846. Joined the Established Church, and is now minister of Houndwood,
Berwickshire. Supply of sermon was continued to the congregation for some time
after Mr Drummond's resignation, and the congregation applied for a moderation
in 1847, but the Presbytery refused to grant it, as the field of labour was very unpro-
mising, and another congregation in Largs not called for, now that the union
between the Secession and Relief Churches had taken place. The congregation
then became extinct.
RENTON (Now Extinct).
Renton is a village in the parish of Cardross, Dumbartonshire, 2\ miles north
of Dumbarton, and 17 north-west-by-west of Glasgow.
The village of Renton was founded in 1782 by Mrs Smollett of Bonhill, and
called after the maiden surname of that lady. Extensive calico-printing and bleach-
ing establishments were soon after erected in the neighbourhood. A number of per-
sons connected with the Secession Church were drawn to Renton by the prospect
of employment afforded in these establishments. These persons applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Glasgow,
1783. Church built 1786 ; sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr R. Hall, who was
appointed by the Synod to Kelso.
\st Minister. — William Taylor, from Falkirk (East). Ordained 3d January
1786. Mr Taylor and the majority of his congregation withdrew from the Associate
Synod, 1799, and, along with others in like circumstances, formed the Original
Associate (Burgher) Synod. Translated to Perth 1805. Died 20th December
1836, in the 77th year of his age, and 51st of his ministry. Author of a pamphlet
entitled "The Effectual Remedy;" "On Disputes in the Associate Synod respecting
the Formula;" " Liberty without Licentiousness," bearing on the controversy which
led to his separation from the Associate Synod ; a volume of sermons, and a separate
sermon on the Sabbath.
The congregation of Renton is now in connection with the Free Church.
KILBARCHAN.
Kilbarchan is a town in Renfrewshire, 2 miles south-west of Johnston, 5 soutli-
west of Paisley, and 1 3 west of Glasgow.
Previous to the year 1786, when this congregation originated, considerable dis-
satisfaction with the Established Church prevailed in the parish of Kilbarchan and
surrounding districts, in consequence of the many violent settlements of ministers,
5 7^ The United Presbyterian Church.
and the unevangelical character of the ministrations from the pulpit. For some
portion of that time the Rev. Mr Warner (to whom reference has been already made
under the head " Burntshields," and whose settlement was partly the cause which led
to the formation of that congregation) was minister of Kilbarchan. He was dis-
abled by paralysis when about sixty years of age, and continued so till his death,
which took place about fifteen years after. During his illness his place was supplied
by Mr Boyd, to whom reference is made under the head of " Fenwick," and whose
settlement as minister of that parish gave rise to the Secession congregation there.
Other assistants equally unacceptable followed, but the people bore with them.
At length the church and parish became vacant by the death of Mr Warner, when
Mr Napier of Milliken, as patron, presented Mr Maxwell to the vacant charge. Mr
Maxwell had been tutor to Mr Napier's family, and had long had the promise of a
parish on this account. He had supplied the pulpit in Kilbarchan some time during
Mr Warner's illness, was therefore well known to the people, and was nearly sixty
years of age when the patronage for which he had patiently waited was afforded him.
He was a man of very inferior abilities, as well as " Moderate " in his church politics,
which circumstances, together with the manner in which he was introduced to the
living, rendered him obnoxious to many of the parishioners. They accordingly set
themselves to prevent, if possible, his settlement amongst them. They indeed
prevented his ordination for more than a year, but the power of the patron with the
church courts prevailed, and he was ultimately settled as minister of the parish.
For some time previous to these incidents occurring, about 30 of the parishioners
of Kilbarchan had drawn off from the Established Church, and connected them-
selves with the Relief congregation in Paisley, under the ministry of the well-known
and much esteemed Rev. Patrick Hutchison, who, in conjunction with his session,
recommended them to attempt the formation of a Relief congregation in Kilbarchan.
Acting upon this suggestion, they convened a public meeting of the inhabitants of
the town, at which the matter was fully discussed. Two committees were appointed,
one to inquire into the steps necessary to be taken for the erection of a Chapel of
Ease, the other to inquire into the means to be adopted for the formation of a
congregation in connection with the Relief Church. At a subsequent meeting, the
committee appointed for the purpose first stated gave in a written report stating
that in order to assure ^100 a year to the minister, a certain number of feuars would
require to give a bond to that amount ; that every person who subscribed ;^i should
have a vote in the election of a minister and other office-bearers \ and they further
added that the Milliken family were very sorry respecting the division which had
taken place in the parish, but since they had not been able to prevent it, they would
likely subscribe liberally for a Chapel of Ease. The committee appointed for the
other purpose stated verbally that the plan for the formation of a Rehef congrega-
tion was very simple ; they had only to build a decent church, and do what they
could to make the minister they obtained for it comfortable. On inquiry as to
which of these reports should be adopted, it was found that no one was willing to
sign a bond for the minister's stipend, or furnish the other recpiisites retiuired in the
first case ; on which discovery, the Chapel of Ease committee withdrew, and ceased
to manifest any further interest in the matter. The other committee were then
instructed to follow up their own suggestion, and, in accordance with these mstruc-
tions, applied through Mr Hutchison to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow for supply
of sermon, when the Rev. Thomas Bell of Dovehill, who had shown less favour to
the movement than the other members of Presbytery, was appointed to preach at
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Port- Glasgow. 577
Kilbarchan, on the 2d Sabbath of May 1786. A tent was erected on " The Steeple
Knowe," and an audience of above 1000, gathered from the surrounding country
as well as the town, attended on the occasion. The people taking interest in the
movement met in the open air in summer, and in a barn at Townfoot in winter,
till May 1788, when they took possession of a place of worship they had built, at
a cost of about ;^iooo, containing 906 sittings. Extensively repaired and altered at
a cost of upwards of ^1000. Re-opened 9th March 1873 ; collection, ;^i64.
\st Minister — John M'Laren. Called to Hamilton and Kilbarchan. Or-
dained i8th May 1788. Died 26th March 1808, in the 45th year of his age, and
20th of his ministry.
2d Mi)iister. — John Kesson. Ordained 20th July 1809. Died December 1S15,
in the 36th year of his age, and 7th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Nichol, who preferred Ayr.
3/^r.— Andrew Somerville, D.D., from Milnathort (Second). Ordained
9th November 1830. Loosed from his charge 1845, i^^ consequence of his having
been chosen by the United Secession Synod as Agent for their missionary business.
Removed to the Synod's premises in Edinburgh. Received the degree of D.D.
from Princeton, New Jersey, 1855. Appointed Foreign Secretary by the Synod in
May 1858, which office he resigned in May 1868.
Author of "An Address on the Causes of the Secession Church, and on the Accordance of its
Original Principles with those now generally held regarding the Church and the State ;" " A Sermon
on Revivals;" A lecture " On Free Trade in Corn and other Commodities, the Duty and Interest of
Nations ; " A sermon entitled " The Great Shepherd's care of the Lambs of his Flock ; " a Memoir
of the late Rev. Dr Jamieson, Edinburgh, prefixed to his (postluimous) work on the Holy Spirit ;
"The Reformation," a Lecture; "The Office of Mission Secretary a T'orm of the Christian
Ministry, conjoining Teaching and Ruling."
2d Minista: — William M. Halley, previously of Markinch. Admitted 25th
March 1847. Author of "A Mother in Israel," a sermon.
DUNOON.
Dunoon is a village in the parish of Dunoon and Kilmun, Argyleshire, district
of Cowal, on the west side of the Firth of Clyde.
Dunoon has of late years been much frequented by the inhabitants of Glasgow
as a watering-place, and the population has in consequence greatly increased. The
place was fixed upon as a preaching station by the Glasgow Association for Church
Extension, in connection with the Secession Church, 1827. The cause prospered, and
a congregation was regularly organised soon after. Church built, 1828 ; sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Thomson, who pre-
ferred Hawick; Mr M'Gavin, who preferred Dundee ; and Mr Inglis, w^ho preferred
Hamilton.
\st Minister. — William Turner, from Pitcairn. Ordained 2d September 1834.
Demitted his charge on account of ill health, 5th September 187 1.
2d Minister. — John C. Johnston, from Alyth. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Turner, 30th May 1865.
BON HILL.
Bonhill is a village in the parish of the same name, Dumbartonshire, 3 miles
north of Dumbarton.
This congregation originated in 1S31, partly in the want of accommodation in
582 The United Presbyterian Church.
the parish church, but principally in the desire of members of the Relief congrega-
tions of Dumbarton and Kilmaronock (5 miles distant), resident in Bonhill and
neighbourhood, to have a place of worship in their own connection more conve-
niently situated for them than those they were accustomed to attend. Church
opened 27th February 1S31 ; sittings, 670.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr M'Coll, afterwards
of Berwick (Bank Street), who declined the call.
\st Minister. — John R. Swan, from Paisley (Thread Street). Ordained 2 5tli
April 1833. Demitted his charge on account of failing health, 23d September
1S62. Died 30th June 1865, in the 63d year of his age.
The congregation called Mr R. Hall, afterwards of Old Meldrum, in 1861.
2d Minister. — William Smith, from Cupar (Burnside). Ordained 24th March
1863.
INVERARY.
Inverary is the county town of Argyleshire, near the head of Loch Fyne.
The full details connected with the history of this congregation, in its earlier
stages, will be found in Dr M'Gill's "Life of Dr Heugh " (chap, xv.) For several
years Dr Heugh used to take his holidays at Inverary. " Before this," says Dr
M'Gill, " the Secession Church had, by sending occasional preachers to Inverary,
discovered the necessities of the place." In June 1835, a hall was fitted up,
before the church was built, 'and opened as a station by Dr Heugh. The people
were congregated in 1837. The minute-book of the session begins with the first
ordination of elders on Sabbath, ist October 1837, when the Rev. Henry Renton
of Kelso officiated. The church, seated for 200, was opened in the end of 1836.
As the entire expense of building was defrayed by Dr Heugh's congregation, only
an approximation can be made to the cost of the church, probably ^^550. The
salary of the first missionary was ;^9o a year, which was met by Regent Place
church till 1845, "when the Synod and the congregation thought it desirable it
should be placed under the direct superintendence of the Mission Board ; and
accordingly it was transferred free of debt." After this transfer the stipend was
paid partly by the congregation and partly by the Home Mission Board.
The station was supplied for some time by Mr Robert Watt, probationer, whose
labours were attended with much success.
\st Minister. — James Hay, from Dennyloanhead. Called to Inverary in 1837,
but at his own recpiest not ordained till 24th June 1838. Translated to Govan,
where he had formerly been labouring as a missionary, in 1843.
2d Minister. — Gilbert Meikle, from Edinburgh (Portsburgh). Ordained loth
July 1849.
HELENSBURGH.
Helensburgh is a large town on the north side of the Firth of Clyde, opi)Osile
Greenock, and at the entrance to the Gareloch.
A number of fiuuilies connected with the Secession and Relief Churches having
come to reside in Helensburgh, while others of the same religious connections were
in the habit of visiting the place during the summer months, a desire began to be
expressed to have a place of worship of their own in Helensburgh. This was all
the more needful as the only churches in tlie locality were the Old Light and the
independent, while the parish church at Row was two miles distant. In 1843 a
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Alexandria. 583
meeting was called of those friendly to the movement, a committee appointed, and
the Town Hall engaged as a place of worship. Application was made to the
United Secession Presbytery of Glasgow for supply of sermon, which was granted.
The Rev Dr Heugh, Glasgow, Andrew Somerville, Dumbarton, and Mr Bruce took
a lively interest in the young cause. In 1844 the station was congregated, the Revs.
Dr Heugh and Mr Somerville officiating, and elders were afterwards ordained. The
number of members at that time was from 50 to 60. In the same year, the Town
Hall being found too small, it was resolved to erect a church, the congregation
meanwhile having repaired to a larger place till the church was in readiness. On
the nth March 1845, the foundation-stone was laid by William Yuile, Esq., and the
new church was opened on 2 2d June of the same year by Dr Heugh. This church
cost about ^800, and was seated for 400. At the end of 1848 it was agreed to
build a manse, which was done in 1849, ^.t a cost of from ;^6oo to ^^700. In
185 1 the church was found to be too small, and a gallery was erected, at a cost of
;^3oo, to hold 150 additional sitters.
The opening of a railway between Glasgow and Helensburgh caused a great
extension to the burgh, and a consequent increase of inhabitants. Many Glasgow
merchants taking up their residence, and travelling to town daily, tended to the
enlargement of the congregation. The church, especially in summer, when
strangers came to reside for a time, was crowded and uncomfortable. The issue
was a resolution, in i860, to build a new and more commodious church. The
foundation-stone of this second church was laid on the 14th August, by Mr Yuile,
who, fourteen years before, had laid the foundation of the first house. The
second church cost upwards of ^5000, and is seated for 900. It was opened on
the first Sabbath of July 1861, by Professor John Caird, D.D., now Principal of the
University of Glasgow, and is entirely free of debt. A new manse was purchased in
1868, costing ;^2ooo.
ist Minister. — Alexander MacEvven, D.D., from Howgate, of which his father
was minister. Ordained 2d September 1845. Translated to Glasgow (Claremont
Church), 13th August 1856.
2d Minister. — David Duff, A.M., LL.D., from Greenock (Sir Michael Street).
Called to St Andrews, Ayr (Wallace Town), and Helensburgh. Ordained i6di
December 1856. Had the degree of LL.D. conferred upon him by the University
of Glasgow in 1872. ^ff)-*;^'-«>^*^»*''«? 7^*^. a , Au fl J Z^** /^^
* ^ ALEXANDRIA, t^-^ u<. 1 i^ K©'^t^v* I «t6^
Alexandria is a village in the parish of Bonhill, Dumbartonshire, on the west "f^O
bank of the river Leven, and on the road from Dumbarton to the Balloch ferry, l\iu i-n //
miles north from Dumbarton. ' ' l
A congregation worshipping in Bridge Street, Alexandria, but at that time in no I C^ ^3 -
ecclesiasdcal connection, applied to be taken under the inspection of the United
Associate Presbytery of Glasgow in June 1845. ^ committee of Presbytery was
appointed to meet with the petitioners. At the subsequent meeting of Presbytery,
the committee, which met on 29th July, gave in a list of names, to the number of 88,
of those persons "who, having read the summary of principles and assented to it,
have been admitted to membership by the committee, and are recommended to
the Presbytery as fit persons to be formed into a congregation." Other 45 were
subsequently admitted, and the whole together formally recognised as a congrega-
tion in connection with the Presbytery. These persons had built a place of worship.
584 The United Presbyterian CInirch.
containing 400 sittings, in 1844, which soon after was found much too small. It was
therefore sold to a congregation connected with the Congregational Union of Scot-
land, and another built, containing 800 sittings, which was opened by the Rev. L)r
Eadie of Glasgow on the iSth of April 1847, when the collection amounted to
p^io3> ys- aid.
\st Minister. — Alexander Wallace, D.D., from Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
Called to Avonbridge, Busby, Langholm, and Alexandria. Ordained 25th Feb-
ruary 1846. Translated to Bradford, Yorkshire, 21st March 1849.
The congregation then called Mr Andrew Morton, who preferred Greenock
(Sir Michael Street), and Dr Robert T. Jeffrey, who preferred remaining in Denny.
2d Minister. — William Sprott, from Stranraer. Ordained 2 2d October 1850.
Called to Kilmalcolm, but declined. Translated to Pollockshaws 24th September
1861.
The congregation called Mr Joseph Corbett, who preferred Kilcreggan.
2)d Minister. — William Johnston, from Leslie (East). Admitted tyth March
1863. Resigned his charge on account of ill health 15th October 1872. Emigrated
to Canada.
^th Minister. — James Drumimond, from Alva. Called to London (Oxendon),
Douglas, Ardrossan, and Alexandria. Ordained 1873.
GOUROCK.
Gourock is a village in the parish of Innerkip, Renfrewshire, 3 miles west of
Greenock.
Gourock has been long frequented as a watering-place by the inhabitants of
Glasgow. To this circumstance it owes much of its increase. In 1837 the Rev.
Dr Heugh, Dr William Anderson, and Mr William Allan, one of the managers of
John Street, and Mr James Alexander, one of the elders of Regent Place congrega-
tion, Glasgow, held a consultation respecting the opening of a mission station at
Gourock, when it was thought to be inexpedient to make the attempt. The union
which had been effected between the Secession and Relief Churches in May 1847
gave a new impulse to the movement. A congregation was organised on the 8th
of May 1848, which consisted of 52 members who had been disjoined from the con-
gregations of Union Street and George Square, Greenock. They took possession,
in June 1848, of a place of worship which they had built, containing 700 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Logic, afterwards
minister of Warrensville, Canada West, who declined the call.
ist Minister. — Donald M'Donald. Ordained 3d July 1849. Died 15th
August 1852, in the 27th year of his age, and 4th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — George Sandie, from Gorebridge, of which his father was minister.
Called to Berwick, Hull, and Gourock. Ordained 17th May 1853. Demitted his
charge 6th December 1864; became minister of an Independent church in London.
Author of " Horeb and Jerusalem."
3c/ Minister. — George Morison, M.A., from Glasgow (London Road). Or-
dained 19th December 1865. Demitted his charge 21st February 1871.
4/'// Minister. — David Macrae, from Glasgow (Gorbals), of which his father is
minister. Ordained 9th April 1872.
AiUlior of " The Social Hydra, or the Influence of the Traffic of Pawnbrokers and Brokers on
the condition of the Working Classes and the Poor," 1S61 ; "George Harrington," 1S63 ; " Dio-
genes among the D.D. 's, " 1S64, a book of ecclesiastical satires; "Dunvarlich, or Round about
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — Kibnalcolni. 585
the Bush," 1865 ; "Little Tiz, and other Stories ; " "Life of Napoleon III.," 1870 ; "A Book of
Blunders, and a Chapter of Queer Epitaphs," 1871 ; "Home and Abroad : Sketches and Glean-
ings ;" " The Americans at Home : Sketches of American Men, Manners, and Institutions," 2 vols.
In addition to the above works, Mr Macrae has been an extensive contributor to the newspapers,
magazines, and reviews of the day,
KILMALCOLM.
Kilmalcolm is a parish in the county of Renfrew; the village of the same name
is 4 miles south-east of Port-Glasgow.
On the decease of the Rev. Thomas Brydson, minister of the parish of Kilmal-
colm, about the year 1855, the patron presented the Rev. Mr Russell to the church
and parish. A majority of the parishioners successfully resisted Mr Russell's settle-
ment. After this, the patronage passed into other hands, and the Rev,
William Law received the presentation to the parish. The parishioners again
resisted the presentee on various grounds, and the Presbytery of Greenock set aside
the presentation. The Synod of Glasgow and Ayr reversed the decision of the
Presbytery; but on appeal to the Assembly, the Presbytery's decision was sustained,
and thereby the settlement of Mr Law was prevented. The patronage of the parish,
thus unfortunate in its exercise, again changed hands. Dr William Brown, an heritor
of the parish, acquired the right to present to the living, and accordingly presented
the Rev. Alexander Leek of Glasgow, who, being unacceptable to the parishioners,
was for a time successfully resisted by them. This time, however, on the case reach-
ing the General Assembly, the objections of the parishioners were set aside, and the
Presbytery of Greenock was ordered to proceed with the induction of Mr Leek
without delay.
On the (Jay of Mr Leek's induction, the 30th July 1858, a number of the parish-
ioners met in the church formerly possessed by the Reformed Presbyterian con-
gregation of Port-Glasgow, but then belonging to Mr William Laird of Overtown.
The object of their meeting was to consider how they should proceed in their
peculiar circumstances as objectors to Mr Leek. After deliberation, considering
the manner in which they had been treated by the successive patrons and by the
General Assembly, and finding that their Christian rights had been ignored, they
resolved to apply for sermon to the United Presbyterian Church. A deputation
was appointed to wait upon the Rev, George Alison of Kilbarchan, to request his
counsel and assistance in the matter. The deputation having waited upon Mr
Alison, reported that he had agreed to preach in Kilmalcolm on the following
Sabbath. The seceding party got the use of the Old Reformed church for the occa-
sion, Mr Laird having previously granted them that church gratuitously, not only for
that service, but for subsequent services if necessary. On Sabbath, ist August 1858,
the Rev. George Alison preached forenoon and afternoon to a crowded congrega-
tion, composed chiefly of parishioners, in the Old Reformed church. At the close of
worship, he intimated that religious service might be expected next Sabbath, and
that a meeting of all those who were favourable to the formation of a United
Presbyterian congregation would be held on Tuesday, the 3d day of August, when
an explanation of the principles of the United Presbyterian Church would be given,
and an opportunity afforded to consider what should be done. The meeting was held
as advertised ; Mr Alison delivered an address to the people ; and a resolution was
unanimously passed, that steps should be taken to have a United Presbyterian
church formed. Through the assistance of Mr Alison, a gratuitous supply of sermon
was procured till the ensuing meeting of the United Presbyterian Presbytery of Paisley
and Greenock. At that meeting, on the 7th September, a paper signed by upwards of
5^6 The U 111 led Presbyterian Church.
240 persons, chiefly resident in the parish, was presented, praying the Presbytery to be
formed into a congregation in connection with the United Presbyterian Church.
The Presbytery took the ordinary steps in such cases; and on the 19th October,
114 persons, who had been conversed with and admitted into membership, were
formally congregated, and declared to be a church in connection with the United
Presbyterian Synod. By a committee of Presbytery, measures were afterwards taken
for the further organising of the church; and on 23d January 1S59, seven persons
were solemnly set apart to the eldership, and constituted into a session, under the
moderatorship, for the time, of Rev. George Alison.
The congregation having obtained a site for building purposes, the foundation-
stone of a new church was laid by the Rev. George Alison on the 26th August
1S61 ; and on the 8th June 1862, the church, costing ^1250, was opened by the
Rev. Professor Eadie, D.D., LL.D., of Glasgow; sittings, 450. A manse was after-
wards erected on the same feu, at a cost of ^800.
In May 1859 the congregation gave a unanimous call to Rev. William Sprott
of Alexandria, who declined the call.
\st Minister. — James Eckford Fyfe, from Newbigging, Dundee. Called also
to Killaig, Ireland. Ordained 27th March i860.
KIRN.
Kirn is a large watering-place on the Clyde, in close proximity to Dunoon.
This congregation originated in the fact that the church at Dunoon was too
small to accommodate the annually increasing number of visitors to the coast,
especially during the summer months. A preaching station, worshipping in a
wooden erection, was opened in May 1858. The present church was built at a
cost of about ^2000, and was opened in June 1859; sittings, 480; enlarged in 1867,
and now contains 650 sittings. The people were congregated by the Presbytery
of Paisley and Greenock on the 17th January i860.
isi Minister. — Ror.ERT Wylie Thomson, from Edinburgh (St James' Place).
Ordained 2 2d March 1864. Called to Paisley (Thread Street), but declined.
KILCREGGAN.
Kilcreggan is a cluster of elegant villas on the south-west coast of Roseneath,
at the entrance to Loch Long.
The preaching station of Cove and Kilcreggan was formally opened by the
Presbytery of Glasgow, 20th June 1858, under the care of the Rev. Dr King. The
cause had a small beginning. The wooden building, where the meetings were at
first convened, originally held about 328. In 1S60 an addition was made to the
accommodation, and the capacity of the building raised to 440 sittings. On the
4th December i860, the congregation was formally erected by the Presbytery ot
Paisley and Greenock. In the beginning of 186 1, Dr King left to take charge of
the new station at Westbourne Grove, London. The congregation then took steps
to obtain a settled minister. In August 1866, they resolved to erect a stone-and-
lime building, instead of the wooden fabric in which they had hitherto met. The
foundation-stone was laid 10th August 1S67, and the building was opened for public
worship by the Rev. Dr King and Rev. J. Corbctt, 14th June 1869, at a cost of
^2553; sittings, Soo ; opening collection, ^200.
Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock — P\.enfrciv — Langbank. 587
\st Minister. — Joseph Corbett, from Newcastle (Blackett Street). Called to
Alexandria, Burton-on-Trent, and Kilcreggan. Ordained 17th June 1S62. Trans-
lated to Manchester (Coupland Street), 27th May 1869.
2d Minister. — Forest Frew Young, from Glasgow (Wellington Street). Called
to Hawick (West) and Kilcreggan. Ordained 2 2d September 1869.
RENFREW.
Renfrew is a royal burgh, the county town of the parish and county of Renfrew,
6 miles from Glasgow, and 3 from Paisley.
In June 1861, a number of members of the United Presbyterian Church,
feeling it desirable to have a congregation of that denomination in Renfrew, and
observing the necessity for increased church accommodation there, made application
for supply of preaching to the Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock, The request
was granted, and a station accordingly was formed under the superintendence of the
Presbytery. The Athenaeum Hall was obtained as the place of meeting. In March
1S62 the station was formed into a congregation. After obtaining a minister, the
place of meeting was changed to the Town Hall, and soon after steps were taken
to erect a church. The foundation-stone was laid in August 1864, by Sir Peter
Coats, of Woodside, Paisley, and the building was completed in June 1865 • sittings,
500. The congregation were indebted for the site to Matthew Robin, Esq.,
Croft-an-righ, Renfrew, and also for the tower of the church. In August 1869 a
very commodious manse was erected. The manse and church together cost
upwards of ^^3000.
\st Minister. — John Hutchison, B.A., from Glasgow (Renfield Street). Or-
dained 1 6th February 1864.
MILLPORT.
Millport is the principal town and port on the Great Cumbrae Island, in the
Firth of Clyde.
This congregation was formed chiefly with the view to provide church accommo-
dation for the numerous visitors belonging to the denomination who resort to
Millport in summer. The Rev Dr Macfarlane of Greenock having visited the
place, preached to the people, and advised with some of the resident United Presby-
terians. A committee of Presbytery was appointed to superintend the station,
which had at length been planted; and in June 1862 this committee reported
fiivourably of the prospects of the station, both as to attendance and liberality.
A wooden church, with 400 sittings, at a cost of ^600, was opened for divine
service on the first Sabbath of July 1863. The station was erected into a congre-
gation by the Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock on ist March 1864.
1^7" Minister. — Joseph Leckie, formerly of Muirton. Inducted 20th December
1S64. Translated to Glasgow (Ibrox), 5th June 1866.
2d Minister. — William Templeton Henderson, from Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
Ordained 3d June 1867.
LANGBANK.
Langbank is a modern village on the left bank of the Clyde, Renfrewshire, not
far from Port-Glasgow,
The members and adherents of the United Presbyterian Church in the village
588 The United Presbyterian Church.
and neighbourhood of Langbank, feeling the want of a place of worship in connec-
tion with their own denomination, determined to take steps to have that want sup-
plied. Several meetings were held, and, after earnest and prayerful deliberation,
they resolved to apply to the Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock to be formed into
a preaching station. On 5th December 1865, they presented the application. A
committee of Presbytery was appointed to visit Langbank and make all requisite
inquiries, which being done, they unanimously recommended that a station be
opened at Langbank. The station accordingly was opened by Rev. Dr Andrew Mao-
farlane of Greenock, on 14th January 1866, when from 50 to 70 persons assembled
in Plantation Villa, the collection being ;Q2>Z- Services continued to be held in
that villa till the second Sabbath of February, when Old Woodside was specially
fitted up, and generously given for that purpose free of charge by James Campbell,
Esq. The station was erected into a congregation, 17th April 1866, with 24 mem-
bers ; and on ist July Dr Macfarlane ordained four elders. The Lord's Supper was
first dispensed on the 26th August, by Rev. Dr J. L. Aikman, Glasgow.
The church was begun in the autumn of 1866, and opened by Rev. Dr Eadie
on Thursday, 26th May 1867, and on Sabbath following Dr Aikman preached; the
collection on both days being ^100, los.; cost of building, ^1300 ; sittings, 300.
1st Minister. — James Mather, from Eaglesham. Called also to Balfron and
Dundee (Bell Street). Ordained 26th March 1867.
INNELLAN.
Innellan is a watering-place on the Clyde, about 3 miles to the south of Dunoon.
In the month of April 1867, the Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock appointed
a committee to make inquiries as to what places on the coast were suitable for
preaching stations. One of the places selected was Innellan. A station was opened
there on the first Sabbath of June 1867, by Rev. Dr Macfarlane of Greenock ; and
on 20th April 1869, a petition was laid before the Presbytery, that the worshippers
there be formed into a congregation. The Presbytery took the usual steps, and
erected Innellan into a congregation on the nth of May 1869.
The church was built in 1868, at a cost of ;;^iooo, with sittings for 369. A
manse was built in 1870.
1st Alinistcr.- — James Faulds Henderson, from Edinburgh (Morningside).
Ordained 21st September 1869. Resigned his charge, 4th June 1872, on accepting
appointment to the congregation of Strathallyn, South Australia.
WEMYSS BAY.
Wemyss Bay is a watering-place i^ miles south of Innerkip, and i^, from Skel-
morlie.
This church was begun as a preaching station on 6th June 1869, under the
superintendence of a joint-committee of the Free and United Presbyterian
Churches. A wooden church was built at that time capable of holding 250 persons,
and costing above ;^3oo. It was soon felt that a regularly ordained minister must
be settled over the congregation. With this view candidates were heard from both
Churches. The choice ultimately lay between Mr Benjamin Bell of the Free Church,
and Mr John Boyd, United Presbyterian, when it was found that the majority were
for Mr Boyd. On the 17th January 187 1, a petition was presented to the United
Presbytery of Perth — Wilson Church. 5 89
Presbyterian Presbytery of Paisley and Greenock from members of the United
Presbyterian Church in Skelmorlie, with 44 signatures of those who were members
of other churches, desiring to be congregated. This petition was granted, and
the congregation erected accordingly. Application for a moderation in a call was
made on 21st February, which being obtained, resulted in favour of Mr Boyd.
\st Minister. — John Boyd, M.A., from Largs. Called to Aberdeen, Kirrie-
muir, Moniaive, New Barnet, Hamilton, Dollar, and Wemyss Bay. Ordained
30th May 187 1.
PRESBYTERY OF PERTH.
The General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Perth
immediately after ''The Breach" in 1747. Previous to that period all the Seces-
sion congregations north of the Forth were included in the Presbytery of Dunferm-
line. The Associate (Burgher) Synod formed a Presbytery of Perth in 1788, by
disjoining congregations from the Presbytery of Dunfermline, and constituting them
a separate Presbytery. These two Presbyteries were conjoined at the union of
the two great branches of the Secession in 1820. The Relief Synod formed a
Presbytery of Perth in 1791, by disjoining congregations from the Presbytery of
Dysart, to which they had previously belonged, and constituting them a separate
Presbytery. The Relief Presbytery of Dundee was formed in 1837, and joined to
that of Perth in 1845, and the two together took the designation of the Relief
Presbytery of Perth and Dundee. The congregations composing this Presbytery
were apportioned, according to their localities, to the Presbyteries of Perth and
Dundee, at the Union of the Secession and Relief Churches in 1847.
PERTH.
The city of Perth is the county town of Perthshire, 22 miles west of Dundee,
and 45 north-west of Edinburgh by railway.
WILSON CHURCH.
This congregation originated in the secession of the Rev. William Wilson, A.M.
minister of Perth, with the other founders of the Secession, from the Established
Church, 1 733. The great majority of his congregation adhered to him, and large num-
bers were speedily added to it from the surrounding parishes, influenced by sympathy
with " The Four Brethren," or by local causes referred to in other places, leading to
the adoption of the principles advocated by them. Mr Wilson continued to preach
in the parish church till 1740.* How he came to cease doing so then, will be best
told in the words of the session minute, written at the time. "May i8th, 1740,
the moderator (Mr Wilson) reported that yesterday, being the Lord's Day, imme-
diately after divine worship, it being his time to preach in the old church in the
afternoon, Walter Miller, town-clerk depute, came to him, accompanied with
* The early minutes of session are in the possession of the North Church. The first entry is
dated "23d December 1739;" the session is designated "The Associate Session of Kinnoul,
Kinfauns, Rhynd, Aberdalgie, and Tippermore." — Eds.
590 TJic United Presbyterian C/ntreJi.
two of the town sergeants, and intimated to him, in the magistrates' name, that they
discharged him, the said Mr Wilson, to enter the church of Perth, to preach therq
that afternoon, or any time afterwards, and he further intimated to him, that this
was done by the magistrates in consequence of a sentence passed by the General
Assembly. Mr Wilson also reported that he gave the following answer to the above
message — that he had a due regard to the magistrates and their authority, and would
give all due obedience to them in things lawful, but he considered the above pro-
hibition to be unjust and unlawful, and therefore, in point of conscience, he could
not yield obedience to it, and therefore was resolved to go to the church of Perth,
until by force and violence he was kept from it. Mr Wilson further reported that
after the above return was made to the message from the magistrates, he was informed
the church doors were shut, and that about a quarter of an hour before the beginning
of public worship, the magistrates, with the Rev. Mr Black, together with Mr John
Halley, a probationer, entered the church, and caused the bell to ring a few minutes
before the ordinary hour. Mr Wilson further reported that upon the ringing of the
bell, he went towards the church, but he found the church-door shut, and John
Faichney, junior, merchant, and William Stewart, present bailies of the town, stand-
ing without the door, they having caused the wicket of the said door to be shut
when they saw Mr Wilson coming, whereupon Mr Wilson demanded that the doors
might be opened, that he might have access to the church, to exercise his ministry
as usual, when the said bailies refused, and Mr Wilson having again demanded
access with a solemn charge and warning given them, the said bailies continued
peremptorily to refuse him access, upon which he retired from the church-door, and
went to the Glover's Yard [the use of which had been spontaneously offered by the
deacon in the name and by the authority of the Incorporation], and preached,
and a considerable number of the people followed him, without the least disturbance
or indecency."
In November 1740, a place of worship which they had proceeded to erect was
so far ready as to admit of their using it, and on the 20th of that month they
resolved " that public worship should be kept in it Thursday next week, and
weekly Thursday thereafter, at nine morning, being the ordinary time, and that the
congregation should likewise meet on the Lord's Day." It was soon found that the
house could not contain all the persons desirous to attend ordinances, and a
collection was made in May 1741 for the erection of galleries, which had not been
previously provided for, and the sum contributed upon the occasion was ^376, 5s.
The interior of this church has been since renovated, and now accommodates 930
sitters.
ist Minister. — William Wilson, A.M., born 9th November 1690, at Glasgow.
Licensed by the Presbytery of Dunfermline, 23d September 1713. Ordained as third
minister in the city of Perth, ist November 17 16. Called to the parish of Rhynd,
but continued by the Presbytery in Perth. Seceded from the Established Church,
1 6th November 1733. Deposed by the General Assembly, T5th May 1740.
Appointed Professor of Theology by the Associate Presbytery in November 1736.
Died 14th November 1 741, in the 5 2d year of his age, and 26th of his ministry.
Mr Wilson, with some assistance from Mr Fisher, drew up the first and most im-
portant document published by the Associate Presbytery, being "A Testimony
for the Doctrine, Government, and Discipline of the Church of Scotland." He
had also taken a leading part in the preparation of all the other publications
iosued by the Presbytery. His own principal work was " A Defence of the
Presbytery of Pcn'tJi — Wilson CInirch. 591
Reformation Principles of the Church of Scotland, with a continuation of the
same," 1739; "A Letter from a Member of the Associate Presbytery to a
minister in the Presbytery of Dunfermline, wherein the question concerning Secession
from the present Judicatories is stated and examined, with a Postscript containing
some Remarks on the Rev. Mr Currie's Essay on Separation." Some single sermons
which have appeared with his name were published by himself, others were printed
from his MSS. after his death, and one professes to have been taken from his mouth
at the time of its delivery. These sermons were collected into a volume in 1748,
with the title of " Sermons by the Reverend and Learned Mr William Wilson, late
Minister of the Gospel at Perth, viz. : L " The Church's Extremity Christ's
Opportunity." II. " The Lamb's Retinue attending Him withersoever He goeth."
III. " The Father's Promise to His Son a Clear Bow in the Church's Darkest Cloud,
or the Spiritual Seed of Christ preserved in all Ages and amidst all Dangers."
IV. " The Watchman's Duty and Desire, or the Prayer of faithful Ministers for the
Lord's Beauty on His Church, and success in their work." V. " Stedfastness in the
Faith recommended," also "The Sinner's Believing in Christ almost Remarkable
Day." VI. " The Blessedness Lost in the First Adam to be Found in Christ the
Second Adam, with a preface prefixed to the gentlemen of the Deistical Principles
in or about the Burgh of Perth." Memoirs of Mr Wilson were published by his
great-grandson, the Rev. Andrew Ferrier, of Airdrie, in 1830. In 1849 the Rev.
Dr Eadie published "The Life and Times of the Rev. William Wilson, A.M.," as
part of the volumes called " The United Presbyterian Fathers."
2d Af blister. — George Brown. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery while a
student of theology in connection with the Established Church, 17 41, and at the
same time became a member of the Secession congregation of Haddington. Called
to Haddington and Perth. Ordained 26th August 1742. Adhered with a portion
of his congregation to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at " The Breach,"
1747, and withdrew with them from the other portion, who adhered to the
Associate (Burgher) Synod, and retained the property which had been common
to both.
The congregation called the Rev. William Hutton, A.M., of Stow, who was under
call at the same time to Dalkeith, and to which place the Synod appointed him.
id Minister. — John Jervie, from Stirling (First). Called also to Balbea,
in Ireland. Ordained 24th March 1751. Mr Jervie separated from the Associate
Synod along with part of his congregation, and also with other ministers of the
denomination, who had been active promoters of what is now known as "the
Old Light controversy," and with them formed the Original Associate (Burgher)
Synod. This step on the part of Mr Jervie and his adherents led to a lengthened
litigation respecting the right of the property retained by the majority, an outline of
which is given below, with reference to his colleague and successor. Mr Jervie
died 19th November 1801, in the 76th year of his age, and 51st of his ministry.
In 1780 the congregation called Mr Andrew Swanston, son of Professor Swanston
of Kinross, who declined the call, and withdrew from the connection shortly after-
wards. {See List of Students (Burgher Hall), 1768). In 1781 they called Mr Hill,
who was appointed by the Synod to Cumbernauld.
4//i Minister. — Jedidiah Aikman, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street). Ordained
as colleague to Mr Jervie, 3d June 1783.
As already stated, Mr Jervie and a portion of the congregation separated from
the Associate Synod, Mr Jervie adhering to the Old Light party, Mr Aikman
592 The United Presbyterian Church.
joining the New Lights. In October 1800 Mr Jervie declined the authority of the
Associate Synod, and the Presbytery declared his church vacant. On the following
Sabbath, Mr Aikraan took possession of the pulpit at an earlier hour than usual, so
as to deprive Mr Jervie of the liberty of possessing it. Hence arose the case in
law of " Craigdaillie versus Aikman." By the first decision each of the contending
parties was allowed the use of the church for one of the services on Sabbath.
Both parties claimed the place of worship as theirs, and mutual actions were
brought before the Court of Session, to have it declared to whom it really belonged.
On the 1 6th November 1803 the Court found that the property of the subjects in
question are held in trust for a society of persons, who contributed their money for
purchasing the ground, and building, and repairing, and upholding the house or
houses thereon, under the name of the Associate Congregation of Perth ; found that
the management must be in the majority in point of interest of the persons above
described, and remitted to the Lord Ordinary to ascertain what persons were entitled
to be on the list of contributors, and on which side the majority stood. This
was virtually awarding the property to the party adhering to the Original
(Burgher) Synod, the majority of members, and the great majority of the
original subscribers, or their heirs, being connected with that party. The
decision was therefore brought under the review of the Court by the Associate
or New Light party, and on ist February 1804 the Court found that the pro-
perty was held in trust for a society of persons, who contributed their money
either by specific subscriptions, or by contributions at the church doors, for purchas-
ing the ground, and building, and repairing, and upholding the house or houses
thereon, or of paying off the debt contracted for these purposes. Such persons, by
themselves, or along with others joining with them, form a congregation of Chris-
tians, continuing in comviimion with, and subject to, the ecclesiastical discipline of a body
of Dissenting Frotestajits calling themselves the Associate Presbytery of Burgher Seceders,
and remitted to the Lord Ordinary to proceed accordingly. This interlocutor was
applied by the Lord Ordinary, who found that Mr Aikman and the party continuing
in connection with the Associate Burgher Synod, or " New Light party," had the
preferable right, which was a result the very opposite of that to which the application
of the interlocutor in the first hearing of the case must have led. This judgment being
adhered to (27th June 1805), an appeal was taken to the House of Lords, who in
1813 remitted the case back to the Court of Session with these instructions : "That
the Court should examine what were the religious opinions of the Seceders when
the Society was formed, not for the purpose of stating which of them contained
more, and which of them contained less of sound doctrine, but as mere matter of
fact, in order to get at the intent and purpose with which the property was pur-
chased and the building erected." " I do apprehend," said Lord Eldon, when
delivering these instructions, " there is no case that we have had (in the English
law), that would authorise me to say that if persons had subscribed to the building
of a meeting-house for religious worship, and if these persons disagreed in opinion,
you would compel the execution of the trust for the purpose of carrying on the
religious worship of those who had changed their opinion, instead of executing that
trust for the benefit of those who had adhered to their religious opinions, I know
of no case which has gone to that length." This was bringing out a new principle
as applicable to Church cases, connecting property with opinions, and neither witli
majorities nor Church courts. A committee of Synod was now appointed to manage
the case. And when the decision was in favour of Mr Aikman, and the appeal
Presbytery of Perth — Wilson Cluirch. 593
taken to the House of Lords, the Synod encouraged Mr Aikman with the assurance
that the Synod would defray all expenses. A new discussion commenced in conse-
quence, the " Old Light party " maintaining that they held the views of the Original
Seceders, while the " New Light party " had abandoned them. An exposition of their
views was given to the Court of Session by both parties, when the Court found (20th
February 18 15) "that the pursuers, James Craigdalhe and others (representatives
of ' the Old Light party ') had failed to condescend upon any acts done or opinions
professed by the Associate Synod, or by the defenders, Jedidiah Aikman and others,
from which this Court, so far as they are capable of understanding the subject, can
infer, much less find, that the said defenders had deviated from the principles and
standards of the Associate Presbytery or Synod : Further find that the pursuers
have failed in rendering intelligible to the Court on what grounds it is that they
aver that there does at this moment exist any real difterence between their principles
and those of the defenders ; for the Lords further find, that the Act of Forbearance,
as it is termed, on which the pursuers found, as proving the apostasy of the defenders
from the original principles of the Secession, and the new formula, never were
adopted by the defenders, but were rejected or dismissed as inexpedient ; and that
the preamble to the formula, which was adopted by the Associate Synod in the year
1797, is substantially and almost verbatim the same as the expHcation which the
pursuers proposed in their petition of 13th of April 1797 to be prefixed to the
formula, and to which, if it would satisfy their brethren, they declare they were
willing to agree : Therefore, on the whole, find it to be unnecessary now to enter
into any of the inquiries ordered by the House of Lords under the supposition that
the defenders had departed from the original standards and principles of the Associ-
ation, and that the pursuers must be considered merely as so many individuals who
have thought proper voluntarily to depart from the congregation to which they belong,
without any assignable cause, and without any fault on the part of the defenders,
and therefore have no right to disturb the defenders in the possession of the place
of worship originally built for the profession of principles from which the pursuers
have not shown that the defenders have deviated : Therefore sustain the defences,
and assoilzie ; and in the counter-action of declarator, decern and declare in terms
of the libel." A new appeal was entered, but the House of Lords confirmed the
judgment of the Court below in the year 18 19, being nearly twenty years after the
action was raised, in which there had been expended ^^2352, 13s. Towards
defraying this, the congregation had collected ;^i252, 13s., leaving ;!^iioo to pay.
The congregation afterwards paid up this sum themselves. Till now both parties
had continued to worship in the same church, the one party in the earlier, and the
other party in the latter part of the Sabbath ; but on the decision of the Court being
given, the party which had separated from the Associate Synod withdrew, and left
the party adhering to it in sole possession of the property.*
* In Dr M 'Kerrow's " Histoiy of the Secession," ed. 1841, p. 174, tliere is a statement about
the anomaly of two sessions in Mr Wilson's church. It appears that in 1742 the Associate Presby-
tery made a distinction between " the Acceders in the Correspondence of Perth " and " the Associate
con"-regation of Perth." The congregation was formed by the Seceders in the town and parisli,
wheieat "the Acceders" were persons in a state of secession in many parishes around Perth, such
as Kinnoull, Rhind, Tibbermuir, etc. In these parishes elders had left the parochial sessions, along
with many of the people, and acceded to the Secession testimony. These persons worshipped
along with Mr Wilson's congregation, and enjoyed what were called sealing ordinances, though not
reckoned members in the same sense as those resident in Perth. The old territorial distinction was
carefully oliserved by the Perth Seceders ; and to have recognised the elders and members of other
iiarishes as constituent members of Perth church would have been to acknowledge the principle of
"fathered congregations." When Mr George Brown was chosen as minister, " the Acceders in
2 P
594 ^'^^ United Presbyterian Church.
In 1820 a call was given to Mr Whyte, afterwards of Salem, United States.
Mr Aikman resigned his charge on account of declining health in 1827, and
died 15th October 1833, in the 83d year of his age, and 50th of his ministry.
3^ Mifiister. — John Newlands, D.D., from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Called to Falkirk, Largs, and Perth. Appointed by the Synod to Perth. Ordained
as colleague to Mr Aikman, 12th August 1823. Had the degree of D.D. conferred
upon him by the College of Lafayette, Pennsylvania, U.S., 1848. Died loth
January 1861, in the 59th year of his age, and 38th of his ministry, A volume of
sermons, with Life of Dr Newlands, was published after his death.
Author of " A Sermon on the National Fast, 1832 ;" " Sermon and Addresses at Ordination of
Rev. T. Archer, London;" "Lecture on Popery and InfideHty ;" "Sermon on behalf of Indigent
Old Men's Society;" five sermons "On Parental Duty," 1837; a lecture "On the Influence of
Religion on Youth ;" and "A Sermon preached at the Opening of the United Associate Synod,
May 1847, on Ps. cxviii. 25," now forming part of a volume entitled " Union Memorials."
The meeting at which Dr Newlands preached was the last of the United Asso-
ciate Synod before the Union of the Secession and Relief Churches, and he was thus
the last Moderator of that branch of the Church.
^th Minister. — Thomas Miller, from Glasgow (Regent Place). Called to
Kilmaurs, Sanquhar (South), and Perth. Ordained, 15th June 1857, as colleague
to Dr Newlands.
NORTH CHURCH.
This congregation originated with the separation of the minister and minority
of the First Secession, now Wilson Church, who adhered to the General Associate
the Correspondence of Perth " were not consulted, the whole proceedings being conducted by the
Perth session and congregation. "The Acceders " desired to adiiere to the call, and were allowed
by the Presbytery, tvvo days before the ordination, to sign their adherence, which was done in
presence of the Perth session. After Mr Brown's ordination, numbers of the inhabitants of neigh-
bouring parishes appeared before the Perth session, and "their characters being attested by the
elders and members of society in their respective bounds of residence, and having judicially declared
their approbation of the Act and Testimony emitted by the Associate Presbytery, and their subjec-
tion to them in the Lord, the session agreed that they should be received.". These country elders
seem to have had some position of authority over the Seceders in their bounds. It was not, how-
ever, till 1746 that they were received in the Perth records as " the country session." They were
regarded as the valid elders in the parishes to which they belonged ; the residuary parish elders being
styled "the pretended sessions." Under Mr Wilson and Mr Brown they met for prayer and con-
ference, the title of their minutes reading, "The Associate Session of Kinnoull, Rhind," etc. In
Mr Brown's time, the record runs thus : "The Associate Session of Perth, consisting of Dissenting
elders and deacons from Kinnoull, Rhind," etc. The Minute-book dates 1744, though there are
entries as early as 23d December 1739, probably copied from another book.
In the arrangements for " two sacramental occasions," we find the Perth elders alone responsible.
The first of these was under Mr Wilson, the second under Mr Brown. Tlie latter occasion was
on the 20th October 1745, when the Perth session distributed tokens to Perth people on Tuesday,
and to the county people on Wednesday. Twenty elders were told off by name to bear the cups
and flagons and the bread, and to receive the tokens, none of them being country elders. After
this the country elders petitioned to be received as constituent members of Perth session. The
session were in no hurry to grant their request, as successive minutes of October, November,
December, January, February, March, 1746-7, almost invarial)ly l)ear " Delay consideration." On
the loth April I747> Mr Brown became a member of the Antiburghcr Synod, and on 23d April
met with his session. The question was put, " Under which Synod does the session constitute?"
The majority declared for the Burgher Synod, Mr Brown for the Antiburghers. He accordingly
rose and left, while a minority accompanied him. On a subsequent occasion Mr Brown, along
with six elders of Perth session constituted themselves as "the only lawfully constituted session
of the Associate congregation in Perth." Application was made by them to their Presbytery
to have the elders of the county parishes united with theni in the oversight of the section of
tiie congregation adhering to Mr Brown, which was granted. Ilitlierto they had never exercised
the office of eldership over the Perth congregation ; now they were united with a fourth part of the
elders who had separated from the main body. — The above extracts from tlie original documents
have been kindly furnished by Mr C A. Hunt, merchant, Perth.— Eus.
Presbyteiy of Pe7'th — North Cktirch. 595
(Antiburgher) Synod at the Breach, 1747, while the majority'" adhered to the Associate
(Burgher) Synod, and retained the property, which had been common to both.
First church built 1749. Second built 1792, at a cost of ^^ii 11, 14s. 3^d. ; sittings,
1404. Session premises were built in 1806 ; cost, ^466 ; since improved.
1st Minister. — George Brown. Ordained 26th August 1742. Adhered with
a portion of his congregation to the General Associate Synod, 1747, and took
possession, with them, of the North Secession church, 1749. Died August 1761,
in the 19th year of his ministry.
2d Alinister. — Alexander Troup, previously of Boghole, now Moyness.
Admitted 8th March 1753. Died 2d February 1773, in the 58th year of his age,
and 25th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Thomson, who was appointed by the Synod to
Mearns.
Tyd Minister. — Alexander Pringle, D.D., son-in-law of Rev. A. Moncrieff,
Abernethy, from Morebattle. Called to Moniaive and Perth. Ordained 14th August
1777. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Marischal College, Aber-
deen, 1819. Moderator of Synod 1821. Died 12th May 1839, in the 87th year of
his age, and 62d of his ministry.
Author of " A Missionary Spirit ; " " Sermon on the Duty and Necessity of Praising Christ ; "
"On Prayer for the Revival of Religion in all the Protestant Churches, and for the Spread of
theGospel among Heathen Nations;"' "A Practical View of Christ's Divine and Mediatory Character ;"
" The Duty of Prayer Recommended ; " " Examination of the Rev. R. Imrie's Opinions on Christ's
Mediatory Character ; " and a volume entitled " Scriptural Gleanings." This last work was planned
and composed by Dr Pringle after he was in his 84th year. A volume of his sermons and letters,
with a memoir by Dr Young, was published in 1840.
In 1780, the congregation called Mr J. Jamieson, who was appointed by the
Synod to Forfar; in 1783, Mr Hay, who was appointed to Alyth ; and in 1785, the
Rev. Mr M'Ewen, who was appointed to Dundee.
A,th Mifiister. — Richard Black, from Urr. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Pringle, 3d April 1787. Protested against the Union of the two great branches of
the Secession, 1820, and on the 21st November of that year withdrew with a portion
of the members in consequence, and with them formed another congregation in
Perrii.
The congregation called Mr White, afterwards of Salem, United States.
5//; Minister. — -David Young, D.D., from Methven. Called to Arbroath,
Barrhead, Carnoustie, Lochwinnoch, and Perth. Ordained as colleague to Dr
Pringle, 17th July 1821. Moderator of Synod in 1831. Had the degree of D.D.
* Dr George Brown's MS. history states that "the North congregation was formed by the
minister and majority of the South congregation in 1747." In a note to " Wilson Church " we
have remarked that there was a distinction between "the Associate congregation" and "the
Acceders in the Correspondence." I. When the session divided, there were 15 elders present,
II of whom remained, and 4 left with Mr Brown. In all, there were 24 elders previous to 1747,
only 6 of whom ultimately joined Mr Brown. 2. The number of poor receiving money from
the session for four years after the Breach was about half the number receiving money for the four
years prior to the Breach. But the number of poor receiving relief in the P'irst congregation was
still double that receiving relief from Mr Brown's. 3. Tjie Sabbath collections from 1747 to 1 751,
when the First congregation had no minister, were equal to those taken during the same period in
Mr Brown's. 4. Male communicants who signed Mr Brown's call on the nomination in 1742 were
240; the same signing Mr Jarvie's in 1750 were 168. 5. The baptisms in Mr Brown's church for
four years greatly exceeded those of the First congregation, as the congregation included children
from every parish — from Dunkeld to Errol, besides children belonging to Perth. Mr Brown also
occupied the pulpit of the First congregation till October 1 748. Mr Brown's session dismissed their
church officer, John Crookshank, because "he had deserted his profession, and taken part openly
with our opposers, -vho have thrust lis oict violently from the place of li'oisbip." The minute of this
sentence dates "nth November 174S." — The above extracts are furnished by Mr C. A. Hunt of
Perth.— Eds.
596 The United Presbyterian Church.
conferred upon him by Washington College, Pennsylvania, U.S., 1839. Died 9th
December 1857, in the 73d year of his age, and 37th of his ministry.
Author of "Introductory Essays to Collins' Series of Select Christian Authors," namely —
" Halyburton's Memoirs," "Edwards on the Religious Affections," "Mead's Almost Christian,"
"Law's Serious Call," "Christian's Companion in Solitude," "Hall on the Knowledge of Christ
Crucified," "Baxter on Self-Ignorance and Self- Acquaintance," "Dickinson's Religious Letters,"
" Boston's Fourfold Estate," and " Flavel's Saint Indeed ;" "The True Glory of a Christian Com-
munity," a sermon preached at the opening of the Synod of the United Secession Church, of
which he was moderator, April 1832; "Reply to the Rev. James Esdaile's Examination of the
Rev. D. Young's Pamphlet on Ecclesiastical Estaljlishmcnts," 1833; "Reasons why Church-
men should seek the Separation of their Church from the State," a discourse delivered to the
Glasgow Association for Promoting Religious I-iberty, 1839; "Memoir of the Rev. Alexander
Pringle, D.D., Perth," prefixed to Pringle's Sermons and Letters, 1840; "The Duty of Civil
Magistrates in relation to the Support of Religion," a lecture delivered in Liverpool and Bradford,
1841 ; Lectures on "Self-Culture" and "The Bible Education of the People," 1843, introduc-
tion to a course of lectures connected with religion for the young, delivered in Perth ; "The
Standing Commission of the Christian Church," a discourse on occasion of the jubilee of the
Scottish Missionary Society, 1845; "The Law of Christ for Maintaining and Extending His
Church;" "Christian Beneficence," a sermon on behalf of Perth Indigent Old Men's Society,
1845 ; "A Word for the Nursery," a sermon to mothers, 1847 ; "Memoir of Rev. A. Moncrieff,"
1849; "The Tendency of a Pure, Free Christianity to Rectify the Politics of Nations," a lecture, 1850;
"The Claims of the Times on Dissenters in relation to Popery," 1852 ; "Memoir of Rev. James
Young of Ellon." A volume of Dr Young's sermons, with memoir by Rev. Dr Marshall of Coupar-
Angus, was published in 1858.
In 1850, the congregation called Mr David Young to be colleague to his uncle,
who preferred Milnathort. They also called the Rev. Dr R. T. Jeffrey twice in 1853.
In 1854 they called Mr W. R. Thomson, who preferred Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
In November 1855 they called Mr James Parlane, M.A., afterwards of Hawick,
who declined the call,
6//; Minister. — Robert Cameron, from Paisley (Abbey Close). Ordained 29th
October 1856. Called twice to Egremont, and translated thither after the second
call, loth July i860.
7//^ Minister. — James M'Owan, M.A., formerly of Bannockburn. Inducted 7th
May i86u Called to Glasgow (Eglinton Street), in 1863, and to Glasgow (John
Street), in February 1865, but declined both calls.
EAST CHURCH.
The Rev. Messrs Paterson of Largo and King of Kettle were sent by the Relief
Synod on a mission tour to the North in 1785. In the course of this tour they
found a number of persons connected with the Established Church favourably dis-
posed towards the denomination they represented, and to whom, upon request,
they preached in the Glovers' Yard, Perth. These persons soon after applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Dysart. Church
built 1786 ; cost, ;^7oo; sittings, 915. A new church, capable of accommodating
650, was opened by Dr Lindsay on the first Sabbath of 1863 ; cost, ^1350.
\st Minister. — David Sangster, previously of Banff. Admitted 1787. Died
23d September 1806, in the 58th year of his age, and 32d of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Forrest Frew, previously of Ceres. Admitted 2 2d July 1S07.
Died 6th February 1842, in the 73d year of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
Author of "Sermon on the Beauty of the Lord ;" " Sermons on the Lord's Supper ;"
and a " Correspondence with two Prisoners confined in Perth Jail, previous to their
Execution."
3^ Minister. — William Lindsay, from Clackmannan, of which his father was
minister. Ordained as colleague to Mr Frew, 13th September 1836. Died 25th
September 1865, in the 62d year of his age, and 30th of his ministry.
Presbytery of Perth— Canal Street— York Place. 597
a,th J/////j7^r.— Alexander Henderson, previously of Earlston (East). Ad-
mitted 28th August 1866.
CANAL STREET (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with a minority of the First Relief, now the East
congregation, Perth, who preferred another candidate to the one elected by the
majority in 1807. In order to obtain this person, they formed a separate congre-
gation, under sanction of the Presbytery, the same year. They rented St Paul's
Chapel at the time of their formation, from which they removed in 18 16 to a chapel
in Canal Street. In 18 18, they bought and took possession of the Independent
chapel, Canal Street, which had been under the ministry of the Rev. Mr Orme,
author of the " Life of Owen," and other works. Cost, ^450 ; sittings, 580.
\st Minister. — Robert Arthur. Ordained 9th February 1808. Translated
to Newcastle 31st May 1814.
2d Minister. ~]a\>.-e.s Bow, from Kilsyth. Ordained 8th March 1S15. In May
1 85 1, Mr Bow presented a paper to the Synod, stating that the congregation were
unable to pay the debt upon the place of worship, and to continue as a separate
charge ; that ^^250 had been offered to the Presbytery of Perth for the building;
and therefore praying the Synod to give authority to the Presbytery to dispose
of it. This permission was granted, and the place of worship was sold to an
Independent congregation. The persons who had been under the ministry of Mr
Bow, and adhered to the United Presbyterian Church, dispersed themselves among
the other congregations in the town, and the congregation became extinct. Mr
Bow died 15th September 1851, in the 64th year of his age, and 37th of his
ministry.
YORK PLACE.
This congregation originated in 1858, in a secession which was made from a
Free Church congregation m the city, connected with the settlement of a minister.
The congregation continued for a few years unconnected with any denomination.
On 5th February 1S61 they presented a petition to the United Presbytery of Perth,
praying the Presbytery to receive them into the United Presbyterian Church ; and
on the 26th February the congregation was received and recognised as a United
Presbyterian congregation.
The church was opened in August 1859. It is seated for 800, and cost up-
wards of ;^2000.
Previous to the admission of the congregation into the United Presbyterian
Church, the Rev. John Z. Huie was minister of the church.
ist U.P. Minister. — James Frame, formerly of Peterhead. Admitted 24th
July 1 86 1. Translated to Glasgow (Sydney Place), as colleague to Rev. John Ker,
4th September 1863,
2d Minister. — William Girdwood, previously of Penicuik. Admitted 31st
January 1865. Demitted his charge, 15th January 1S67, on accepting appointment
to the Synod's Cafifrarian Mission. Author of lectures on Geology and Psalmody.
2,d Minister. — Archibald Sutherland, M.A., from Lossiemouth. Ordained
9th July 1867.
598 The United Presbyterian CJiurch.
AB ERNETHY.
Abernethy is a village in the parish of the same name, Perthshire, 8 miles
south-east of Perth, and 3 west of Newburgh.
FIRST CHURCH.
This congregation originated in the secession of the Rev. Alexander Moncrieff,
M.A., minister of the parish of Abernethy,. along with the Erskines, Fisher, and
Wilson, from the Established Church in 1733. The great majority of his congrega-
tion adhered to him in his secession, but a still greater number of adherents were
drawn to him immediately after his secession.
The parish of Dron, adjoining that of Abernethy on the west, became vacant
by the translation of Rev. Thomas TuUidelph to Markinch (afterwards Principal of
the United College, St Andrews), in October 1731. In consequence of protracted
litigations, the parish was vacant for years. On 13th September 1733, when a call
was moderated, the heritors voted for the Rev. James Mercer of Aberdalgie. This
presentee was exceedingly obnoxious to the parishioners, chiefly on account of a
violent speech he had made in the Synod of Perth and Stirling in support of a
motion which had been made to censure the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine for sentiments
expressed by him in a sermon preached at the opening of that court shortly before.
All the elders voted for Mr David Black, probationer, son of Rev. Thomas Black,
minister at Perth. The case was litigated through the church courts, and decided
in 1735, ^y the General Assembly refusing to transport Mr James Mercer to the
parish of Dron.*
The people, determined to insist upon their right of choice, now called ]\Ir Alex-
ander Mair, probationer, while the heritors voted for Mr Archibald Myles,to the vacant
charge. This case, like the former, came before the General Assembly of 1739,
which remitted the case to the Synod. Mr Myles was accordingly set aside, and
the Presbytery appointed Mr Robert Bryce, who was ordained 12th May 1741.!
Several of the persons dissatisfied with this procedure immediately withdrew from
the Established Church, and connected themselves with the Associate Congrega-
tion of Abernethy. Seceders in the parishes of Forgandenny, Rhynd, Newburgh,
* The Rev. James Mercer was in 1739 presented by the Magistrates of Edinburgh to the parish
of Cunie ; but the right of patronage being disputed, the case came before the Assembly in 1740,
when that court refused to translate Mr Mercer. He died at Aberdalgie in 1744. — Eds.
+ Seven heritors, I elder, and 2 heads of families voted for Mr Myles, and I elder, and 69
heads of families for Mr Mair. The heritors protested against Mr Mair being put on the lect,
on the ground that he associated "with certain persons who had seceded from the Church." It
was not to be wondered at, when it is known that he was the brother of the Rev. Thomas Mair of
Orwell. Mr Mercer entered his dissent against the Presbytery's refusing to sustain either call,
alleging "that as the Presbytery refused to settle Mr Mair on the votes of the heads of families
without the heritors, and to settle Mr Myles on the votes of tlie heritors without the people, there
7oas an easy probability that the parish of Dron might be 7'aeanf forever." See "The l^'eshytery of
I'erth, or Memoirs of the Members, Ministers within the Bounds, from the Reformation to the Pre-
sent Time," liy the Rev. John \N'ilson, minister of Dunning, i860. — Ens.
"Mr Alexander Mair was the son of a proprietor in Strathmiglo, and a younger brother of.
the Rev. Thomas Mair of Orwell. He was ordained at Forteviot, 4th May 1 736, and died 15th May
1 75 1, of a nervous fever contracted by anxiety in connection with tlie admission of Mr Oswald to
Methven. lie catechised the young of his church every Sabtmth afternoon, and for this purpose drew
up " An Explanation of the Shorter Catechism," a work which has gone through several editions, and
is still used in the district. A sermon on The Errors of Popery, which he preached as Moderator
of the Synod of Perth and Stirling, was ])ublished after his death, in 176S. His brother John Mair
was Rector of the Grammar School of Ayr in 1732, and of Perth Academy, 1761-69. He was
the author of the well-known Introtkiction to Latin Syntax, and other school-books. Another
brother, William, was a manufacturer in Perth." — Wilion's Presbytery of Perth, pp. 1 10, iii. —
Eds.
Presbytery of Perth — Abernethy. 599
Abdie, Collessie, Auchtermuchty, and Strathmiglo, became members of this con-
gregation.
Tlie Rev. Alexander Moncrieff continued to preach in the parish church of
Abernethy, notwithstanding his secession from the EstabHshment, till 1740, when
he was forcibly ejected from it by the execution upon him of a Sheriff's warrant.
He then betook himself to the churchyard, where he continued to preach till 1 743,
when his adherents provided a place of worship for him, containing 1300 sittings.
Here he preached during winter, returning to the burying-ground in summer, the
house being inadequate to contain the multitudes assembled to hear him. He
continued to act in this manner till 1 746, when he was prohibited by the civil
authorities from using the burying-ground, as well as the parish church. He then
confined his more public ministrations to the place of worship built for him,
which was generally so thronged that it was necessary to hand the children brought
for baptism in at the window, while the audience without was often as large as the
audience within doors. Six congregations have been formed, in whole or in part,
out of the first Associate congregation of Abernethy. A new church, on the site of
the old one, was opened by Dr Eadie, on 21st July 1867. It is seated for 610, and
cost ^2700.
\st Minister. — Alexander Moncrieff, M. A., a native of the parish, and pro-
prietor of the estate of Culfargie in it, from which circumstance he was familiarly
designated " The Laird of Culfargie." Ordained as minister of the parish of Aber-
nethy, 14th September 1720. Seceded from the Established Church, and became
one of the founders of the Secession, i6th November 1733. Appointed Professor of
Theology by the Associate Presbytery, 1742. Adhered with the majority of his
congregation to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at "The Breach," 1747.
Died 7th October 1761, in the 67th year of his age, and 42d of his ministry.
Author of "Animadversions on a Pamphlet, ' Fancy still no Faith ;' " " Remarks on a Pamphlet
entitled ' The New Constitution Unmasked ;' " " The Artifices of the Burghers Considered ;" "The
Countenancing of Mr Whitfield's Administrations, and the Secession of the Burghers Considered, in
two Letters." Two volumes were published after his death, entitled "The Practical Works of
the Rev. Alexander Moncrieff of Culfargie, M.A., minister of the Gospel at Abernethy," to which
are subjoined two sermons by William Moncrieff, minister of the Gospel at Alloa.
2d Minister.- — Matthew Moncrieff. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery in
September 1743, being then a student in connection with the Established Church.
Adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, at "The Breach," 1747, being
then on trial for license as a probationer. Ordained as colleague to his father, 31st
January 1749. Called to Peebles 1754, but continued in Abernethy. Died June
1767, in the 42d year of his age, and 19th of his ministry.
id Minister. — Colin Brown, from Perth (North). Called to Brechin and
Abernethy. Ordained in November 1767. Died 8th July 1805, in the 58th year
of his age, and 38th of his ministry.
4//; Minister. — David Lawrie, from Abernethy. Ordained as colleague to Mr
Brown, 20th June 1803, Died 21st December 1849, in the 68th year of his age,
and 47th of his ministry.
^th Minister. — John Clark, from IMorebattle. Called to Kendal and Aber-
nethy. Ordained as colleague to Mr Lawrie, 27th March 1839.
6oo The United Presbyterian CImrch.
SECOND CHURCH (Now Extinct).
Mr Alexander Pirie, a native of the parish of Abernethy, studied theology
under the Rev. Mr Moncriefif, Professor to the General Associate Synod ; and after
two years' attendance upon his lectures, obtained license with the view of proceed-
ing to America as a probationer. He requested the Synod to excuse him from
proceeding to America, on the ground of indisposition. The Synod sustained his
excuse, but enjoined him to fulfil his appointment as soon as he recovered. It
became known shortly afterwards that he had recommended certain books con-
taining heretical sentiments to the students while conducting a philosophical class
connected with the Divinity Hall, to which he had been appointed as successor
to Mr John Mason. On being cited before the Presbytery of Perth on this charge,
in 1763, he not only confessed its truth, but boldly vindicated the sentiments
objected to. The Presbytery withdrew his license, suspended him from the
membership of the Church, and were about to rebuke him, when he sisted procedure
by protesting and appealing to the Synod. That court came to the following finding :
" Considering that Mr Pirie has recommended to some of his students an essay on
'Liberty and Necessity' as a model on which they should form their sentiments
in these matters, which essay evidently contains a doctrine of such necessity as
necessarily excludes the consideration of man's fall and of original sin, with all
blamableness and punishableness of human actions, and contradicts the sovereignty
of God's will in His eternal decrees and universal providence — deprive Mr Pirie of
his license to preach the Gospel as a probationer, and excommunicate him with the
lesser excommunication, debarring him from all communion with the Church of
Christ in sealing ordinances, and appoint him to be rebuked at their bar." Mr
Pirie protested against this procedure, and appealed to the court of Heaven, before
which, he said, they and he would shortly appear.
Notwithstanding the sentence thus passed upon him by the supreme court of
the Church to which they belonged, certain members of the First Secession con-
gregation of Abernethy thought fit to build a place of worship in the village, and
invited Mr Pirie to take the oversight of their souls ; and, on application to the
Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Dunfermline, he and they were received into
connection with that branch of the Secession Church.
In 1769, Mr Pirie was accused before the Presbytery of Dunfermline of teaching
doctrines at variance with the standards of the Church. The case was appealed to
the Synod, which was disposed to deal leniently with him, and therefore remitted
tlie case to the Presbytery, on the ground of some informality in the pro-
cedure. Mr Pirie, however, would not acquiesce in this finding, and at once
declined all further exercise of authority by the church courts. The Synod
thereupon declared him no longer in connection with the Associate Synod.
Shortly after this second ejection from the Secession Church, the Relief
congregation of Blairlogie, then vacant, in accordance with a principle of their
Church at that time, allowing them to call a minister of any evangelical denomina-
tion, fixed upon Mr Pirie as a suitable person to supply the vacancy. With this
view they applied to their Presbytery for a moderation, which was gi-anted ; but it
was exclusive of Mr Pirie, whose name was inserted in the minute as a marked
person. When the people found, on the day of moderation, that they were not
allowed to vote for Mr Pirie, they rose in a body, and left the church. A new
moderation was granted, and the call came out for Mr Pirie ; but the Presbytery
Presbytery of Perth — Kinclaven. • 60 1
rejected it simplicitcr. Mr Pirie, at the request of the people of Blairlogie, began his
ministry among them notwithstanding, but without any formal induction, 1770.
After petitioning the Relief Synod at three successive meetings to be received into
connection with it, and having been as frequently refused, he withdrew from Blair-
logie, 1778; removed to Newburgh, in the neighbourhood of Abernethy, and formed
a congregation there upon Independent principles. Most of his former adherents
had returned to the Secession Church during his absence, and the place of worship
erected by them in Abernethy was abandoned. The few who held out joined his
congregation at Newburgh, till it also became extinct. Mr Pirie died at Newburgh,
and his works were collected and published in six volumes after his death. The
following are the titles of some of his works : —
"Examination of Mr Adam Gib's Pamphlet on Mr Pirie's Case," 1764 ; "Essay on National
Covenanting," 1766 ; "Answers to James Wylie and Mr Moncrieff, against the Essay on Covenant-
ing," 1767 ; "Testimony against the Defection of the Seceders from their Original Plan," 1767 ;
"Review of the Principles and Conduct of the Seceders," 1769 ; "Critical and Practical Observa-
tions on Scripture Texts," 1785 ; "On Hebrew Roots ; " "A Dissertation on Baptism, intended to
Illustrate the Origin, I^istory, Design, Mode, and Subjects of that Sacred Institution, wherein the
Mistakes of the Quakers and Baptists on that Subject are pointed out, and their Objections refuted,
to which is added an Enquiry into the Lawfulness of Eating Blood," 1786 ; "Appendix to Disser-
tation on Baptism, in a Series of Letters to Mr M'Lean of Edinburgh," 1787 ; "The Millennium ;"
" The Creation Week ;" " Duties and Qualifications of a Gospel Missionary."
KINCLAVEN.
Kinclaven is a parish in the district of Stormont, Perthshire. The United
Presbyterian church and manse of Kinclaven stand apart from any village or
hamlet, in " The Muir," by which name the church premises are usually designated
in the locality, 10 miles north-east of Perth.
This congregation originated in 1733, in the secession from the Established
Church of the Rev. James Fisher, one of the founders of the Secession Church. Mr
Fisher was joined in his secession, not only by the whole parish, but by a number of
persons residing in the neighbouring parishes of Auchtergaven, Caputh, Cluny,
Cargill, Moneydie, Dundee, Lethendy, and Redgorton, and more particularly in
that of Cargill, where Mr Gow was minister, and who had co-operated with " The
Four Brethren " in all the steps which led to their secession, but lacked coura^^e
to secede with them. Mr Gow met with "The Four Brethren," howe\-er, even
after their secession, as the following entry in the diary of the Rev. Ralph Erskine
shows: — ''Monday, September 17, 1733. — My brother and I went towards Kin-
claven to meet with the other suspended brethren. Wednesday, September ig.
The four brethren, and I with them, spent the day in praying and seeking counsel
of the Lord as to what they were next to do. This afternoon Mr Gow eajne and
he also joined in worship with us." After this, he ceased to give them any direct
countenance, but continued to animadvert from the pulpit on the evils in the
Established Church against which the seceding brethren had lifted up a practical
testimony. The portion of his congregation sympathising with the Seceders bore
with this verbal testifying for a time, but at length gave full effect to the principles
they held by withdrawing from the Established Church, and placing themselves
under Mr Fisher's ministry.
Mr Fisher continued to preach in the parish church of Kinclaven till August
13, 1 741, when he was forcibly ejected from it by virtue of a Sheriff's warrant
upon him. He then preached from a tent at Kinclaven braeside, durin"- the few
weeks longer he remained in that part of the country. After his removal, the con-
6o2 The United Presbyterian Church.
gregation, as above described, worshipped in the open air in summer — as they could
not get ground on which to build a church — on a spot near to the site of the present
church, and about 2 miles from the church from which Mr Fisher and the majority
of his congregation had withdrawn, and in winter in a barn adjoining the village
ofArtinney, This arrangement continued till 1744, when they took possession of
a place of worship which they had erected for themselves, in "The Muir" of Kin-
claven. This church was renovated internally at a subsequent period, and can
accommodate 500 sitters.
\st Mi/lister. — James Fisher. Ordained as minister of the parish of Kinclaven,
23d December 1725. Seceded from the EstabHshed Church, i6th November 1733.
Translated to Glasgow (Shuttle Street, now Greyfriars), 8th October 1741. After
his translation there was a long vacancy.
2d Minister. — Alexander Blyth. Acceded to the Associate Presbytery while
a student of theology in connection with the Established Church, and became a
member of the Secession Congregation of Abernethy, 1 743. Adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod as a probationer at "The Breach," 1747. Ordained
25th November 1747. Died May 1784, in the 64th year of his age, and 37th of
his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Wilson, who was appointed by the Synod to Meth-
ven, and the Rev. Mr M'Evven, previously of Whitehaven, who was appointed to
Dundee.
2,d Minister. — James Pringle, from Kirkcaldy (Pathhead). Called to Kinkell
and Kinclaven. Ordained i6th June 1789.* Died 4th February 1840, in the 75th
year of his age, and 51st of his ministry.
4/// Mifiister. — David Young, from Perth (South). Called to Liverpool and
Kinclaven. Ordained 12th August 1840. Demitted his charge 4th October 1864,
on becoming a Baptist. Preached in Glasgow to a Baptist church, and afterwards
in Blairgowrie.
<)th Minister.— JoH'N Brown, from Douglas. Called to Buckie and Kinclaven.
Ordained 3d October 1865.
KINKELL.
The church and manse of Kinkell stand apart from any village, and are situated
in the parish of Trinity-Gask, and district of Strathearn, Perthshire, 3 miles north
of Auchterarder, and 4 south of Crieft.
The parish of Trinity-Gask is bounded on the north by the parish of Madderty.
Lord Kinnoul, as patron, presented Mr George Blackie, in 1737, to the church and
parish of Madderty, then vacant. The Presbytery refused to sustain the presenta-
tion, on the ground that the patron delayed too long in issuing it ; and holding the
right to be theirs by the Jus devolntuvi, allowed the people to make choice of a
pastor for themselves. The agent for the patron protested against their doing so,
appealing at the same time to the General Assembly, which step was considered as
having sisted procedure, and the people abstained from acting for a time. The
* In 1810 the Rev. James Pringle was summoned as a witness in a case of discipline before the
session of Little Dunkeld. Mr Priufjle paid no heed to the citation. The case went before the
(leneral Assembly for reference, when Sir Islay Campbell declared that there was no civil law to
compel a witness to appear before an ecclesiastical court. The Assembly recommended the Presby-
tery of Dunkeld to exert their influence for jirocuring the attendance of the witness mentioned in the
reference, The Presbytery accordingly issued a summons to Mr Pringle, which was disregarded. —
Eds.
Presbytery of Perth — Kinketl. 60
o
Assembly decided in favour of the patron. The Presbytery, tinding the presentee
very unpopular, and the people indignant at being deprived of what they considered
their just rights, refused to act. The case went a second, third, and fourth time to
the General Assembly, and was decided each time as it had been at first, the
Presbytery still refusing each time to give effect to the decision. At length, in 1740,
further procedure was arrested by Mr Blackie sending a letter to the Assembly,
intimating that he had received a call to be a minister in America, and was soon
to be ordained by the Presbytery of Perth with a view to his going thither. But
this communication came too late to prevent the division it sought to avert. The
people of Madderty now saw that the higher courts of the EstabUshed Church were
hostile to popular rights, and many of them had already resolved to withdraw. In
accordance with this resolution, they formally acceded to the Associate Presbytery
in July 1740, and were joined into an Association with the Seceders in the parishes
of Aberdalgie, Auchterarder, Comrie, Crieff, Dunning, Dupplin, Forgandenny,
Forteviot, Monzie, and Muthil, under the designation of " The Societies of
Strathearn." The Seceders in Madderty being more numerous than in any other of
the parishes named, supply of sermon was withdrawal from the other places where
it had been afforded, of which Comrie was the chief, and confined wholly to Mad-
derty or its immediate neighbourhood. Great difficulty was found in obtaining a
site for a place of worship ; but one having at length been procured at Kinkell, in
the neighbouring parish of Trinity-Gask, near the ruins of the old parish churchy
that place became the seat of the congregation, and a church was built there in 1743,
containing 600 sitters; rebuilt 1790, with sittings for 800; considerably altered in
1872.
ist Minister. — John Muckersie. Ordained 3d June 1747. The great mcijority
of his congregation had adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at
" The Breach," which took place two months before Mr Muckersie's ordination.
Called to London in 1751, but continued in Kinkell. Died 2 2d November 1789,
in the 73d year of his age, and 43d of his ministry.
Author of "The Great Duty of the Lord's Ministers in a Time of the Lord's Judgments," 1758 ;
"Truth and Peace Vindicated among Seceders, a Sober Reply to a Railing Pamphlet" 1766;
"The Children's Catechism;" "Vindication of the Associate Synod."
In 1788 the congregation called Mr Pringle to be colleague to Mr Muckersie,
but the Synod appointed him to Kinclaven.
2d Minister. — Robert Imrie, from Perth (North). Ordained nth April 1792.
In 1801, a member of his congregation charged him before the Presbytery of Perth
with preaching doctrines in a manner different from that in which they were stated in
the standards of the Church. Mr Imrie was rebuked for making use of improper ex-
pressions, but having given certain explanations, considered so far satisfactory by the
Presbytery, was permitted to continue in the exercise of his office. In 1806 fresh
charges were preferred against him. The Presbytery, after long deliberation, libelled
Mr Imrie in ten counts bearing on the doctrines he had taught, and referred the whole
matter to the Synod of 1807. That Synod, after full deliberation, suspended Mr
Imrie. The business occupied a portion of the Synod's time at each of its succes-
sive meetings till 1810, when explanations given by Mr Imrie were considered so
far satisfactory that a motion was made and carried to restore him to the exercise
of his ministry. In April 181 1, the Synod agreed to review this sentence, and it
was reversed by a large majority. Additional charges, to the number of fourteen,
were now brought against him by a committee of Presbytery, appointed to investi-
6o4 The United Presbyterian Church.
gate his conduct. Several of these having been proved, the whole business
terminated by sentence of deposition being pronounced uj)on him. The exami-
nation of these new charges occupied two successive Synods.* A large portion
of his people adhered to him notwithstanding, and built a place of worship
for him in Auchterarder, where he ministered to them till his death. {See " Auchter-
arder. North.")
The congregation called Mr Blyth, who was appointed by the Synod to Urr.
3^ Minister. — John Craig, from Glasgow (Duke Street). Called to Tillicoul-
try and Kinkell. Ordained 19th November 181 7. Resigned i6th June 1S20.
Admitted to City Road, Brechin, 28th August 1823.
The congregation called Mr Muirhead, who was appointed by the Synod to
Coupar-Angus.
4M Minister. — James Forrester, from Alyth. Ordained 5th September 1826.
Died 28th May 1852, in the 68th year of his age, and 26th of his ministry.
After a lengthened vacancy, the congregation called Mr John Paterson, after-
wards of Whitehill, and Mr James Patrick, afterwards of Patna, both of whom
declined the calls.
5//^ Minister. — Andrew Elder, from Glasgow (Calton). Ordained ist July
1S63. Translated to Paisley (George Street), 5th February 1867.
The congregation in 1867 called Mr T. Kirk, who preferred Brechin.
6t/i Minister.-^GEORGE Duthie, from Glasgow (Wellington Street). Ordained
19th January 1869.
COMRIE.
Comrie is a village in Perthshire, 6^- miles west of Crieff and 18 north-west of
Kinkell.
On the 13th of March 1739, Mr James M'Gregor, father of Rev. Dr M'Gregor
of Pictou, Nova Scotia, then resident at Lochearnfoot, and Mr William M'Laren,
resident in Dintra, both places in the parish of Comrie, acceded to the Associate
Presbytery, and were formed into an Association with the Seceders in the parishes
of Muthil and Monzie. These persons had been residing in Alloa some time pre-
vious to their secession, acquiring a knowledge of their business, and while there,
attended the ministry of the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, Stirling. On their return
home, they perceived that the doctrine taught by the parish minister was very
different from what they had been hearing from the Founder of the Secession, and
this circumstance led them to cast in their lot with him. Mr Smyton, afterwards
minister of Kilmaurs, then a probationer, preached by appointment of Presbytery
to the members of this Association, at Comrie, on the fourth Sabbath of April
1740. Several of the persons composing the audience upon this occasion acceded
to the Associate Presbytery at their next meeting in July following. The Rev. Mr
Mair of Orwell preached at the same place soon after ; and on making his report
to the Presbytery at Dunfermline, on the 12th of August, stated "that some people
in and about Comrie had declared their accession to the Presbytery before him
and a meeting of the societies there. At tlie desire of the Presbytery, Mr Mair
read the minutes of that meeting, containing the names of the acceders, with tlieir
accession, which the Presbytery having heard, approved."
* For a clear detail of Mr Imric's case, scy " llibtory of the Secession Church," by John M 'Kerrow,
D.D., eil. 1841, pp. 4S4-492. — Kds.
Presbytery of Perth — Comrie. 605
A large secession having taken place in the parishes of Madderty and Trinity-
Gask about the same time these meetings were held in Comrie (the reasons for
which will be found stated under " Kinkell "), the whole seceders in the district,
comprehending those in the parishes of Comrie, Crieft; Muthil, Monzie, Madderty,
Auchterarder, and Trinity-Gask, were now formed into one Association, under the
designation of " The United Societies of Strathearn." Sermon was now afforded
only four times a year at Comrie, and at other times as the Presbytery coukl
afford it, which was much more frequently, at Kinkell, in the parish of Trinity-
Gask. The persons assembling at Comrie met generally in the open air till 1752,
when they took possession of a place of worship they had erected for themselves in
the village, on a piece of ground which they had obtained on lease for 2000 years,
which was superseded by another in 1794, containing 500 sittings. A new church
was built on a different site in 1866, at a cost of ^1250, with sittings for 350.
\st Minister.— ]o\i^ Muckersie. Ordained 1746, as minister of the United
Societies of Strathearn— his preaching stations being Kinkell, Comrie, and Muthil.
{See " Kinkell.")
In 1759, the members of the Societies of Strathearn resident in Comrie, Muthil,
and northern parts of the parish of Dunblane, were disjoined from the others, and
formed into a separate congregation, having two places of worship, the one at Comrie,
and the other at Greenloaning, in the parish of Dunblane, both supplied by one
minister on alternate Sabbaths.
2d Minister.— ]oYi^ Ferguson. Ordained in December 1758. Died in June
1760, at Muckart, from fever, which he caught while assisting at the communion
there, in the i8th month of his ministry.
Mr Chisholm, a licentiate of the Church of Scotland, applied to Mr Muckersie
of Kinkell to be employed in the Secession as a probationer. After consulting with
his brethren of the Presbytery, and obtaining their approbation, he located him in
Comrie, but without ordination. Mr Chisholm was highly popular, drawing great
crowds from the surrounding country to hear him ; and the portion of Kinkell con-
gregation resident in Crieff were all allowed, upon request, to place themselves under
his ministry, which led to the designation, afterwards assumed, of the United Con-
gregations of Comrie and Crieff. Circumstances transpired, in the course of time,
showing that the Presbytery had done wrong in employing Mr Chisholm, and he
departed suddenly after the disclosure. The portion of the congregation assembling
at Greenloaning was disjoined from Comrie and added to Dunblane immediately
before the ordination of the next minister. {See "Greenloaning" and "Dunblane,
Second.")
id Minister.— ]au^s Barlas, from Perth (North). Ordained 1767 as minister
of the United Congregations of Comrie and Crieff, preaching at each place on alter-
nate Sabbaths, but having his residence in Crieff. Tliis arrangement was not
satisfactory to either party, and frequent complaints were made against it. In 1775
the portion of the congregation resident in Comrie petitioned the Presbytery for
supply of sermon in the Gaelic language, and Mr Laing, afterwards of Dunse, who
had acquired some knowledge of Gaelic, was sent to them for a time, but on the
distinct understanding "that such supplies could be given only as a part of Crieff
congregation, and as a means of strengthening and restoring harmony among them."
This object, however, was not thereby secured; and in 1775 the congregations of
Comrie and Crieff were disjoined. Mr Barlas continued minister of the latter, and
thereby the former was left vacant. {See " Crieff, First.")
6o6 The United Presbyterian Church.
The congregation called Mr Black, who was appointed by the Synod to Dun-
fermline.
A,th Mhiister. — Samuel Gilfillan, from Buchlyvie. Called to Carnoustie,
Auchtergaven, and Comrie. Ordained 12th April 1791. Died 15th October 1826,
in the 64th year of his age, and 36th of his ministry.
Author of an essay on the " Sanctification of the Sabbath ; " "On Hypocrisy ; " "On Medita-
tion ; " " Short Discourses for the Use of Families ; " " Domestic Piety ; " " Practical View of the
Dignity, Grace, and Operations of the Holy Spirit ;" "A Manual of Baptism ;" "Short Sketch
of a Mission to the Highlands of Perthshire ; " " Sermon on the Doxology " (Rev. i. 3. 6) ; "Neces-
sity and Importance of Early Religion." A volume of his sermons and another of his letters vi'ere
published after his death, with memoir, by his son, the Rev. James Gilfillan, Stirling.
The congregation called Mr David Duncan, who was appointed by the Synod
to Howgate, and Mr James Blair, who was appointed to Warkworth.
5/// Minister. — James Mitchell, from Brechin (City Road). Ordained 8th
September 1830. Died 2d January 1835, in the 34th year of his age, and 5th of
his ministry.
The congregation called Mr George Gilfillan, who preferred Dundee, and Mr
Adam Lind, who preferred Elgin.
6th Afi/iister.^RoBKRT Thomson Walker, from Alloa (First). Ordained i8th
January 1837. Translated to Dunfermline 6th November 1844.
The congregation called Mr J. B. Johnston, who preferred Newcastle ; Mr
Cursiter, who declined the call ; Mr Pettigrew, who preferred Balbeggie ; and Mr
Gardner, afterwards of Annan.
-jt/i Minister. — William F. Swan, from Ayton. Called to Aberchirder, Dal-
reoch, and Comrie. Ordained 28th June 1848.
LOGIEALMOND.
The church of Logiealmond is at Heriotfield, district of Logiealmond, Perth-
shire, 10 miles north-west of Perth, and 5 north of Methven.
Some agriculturists in the immediate neighbourhood of Logiealmond pastured
goats on their farms, and the milk of these animals being considered beneficial to
health, many invalids were drawn from different and distant places to the district in
the hope of benefiting thereby. The Rev. Mr Alexander Moncrieff of Abernethy,
and other ministers, were among the number of those who were attracted thither.
While there, they were induced to preach to the people, on account of their distance
from any place of worship. The spiritual instruction thus afforded led to the
desire to secure its continuance. With this view they applied for and obtained supply
of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth about
1745. Moderation granted 15th January 1745. First church built 1751 ; second
built, 181 1 ; sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — Hector Chtsholm. Ordained 24th May 1753. Fourteen
months after ordination, Mr Chisholm left his congregation, without intimating
his intention either to the Presbytery or his people, and emigrated to America,
and the Synod expunged his name from the roll of members.
The congregation called Mr Ballantine, but the call was not sustained on account
of some informality, and because of this he withdrew from the communion of the
Secession Church.
2d Minister. — Alexander Preston, from Abernethy. Ordained 2 2d De-
cember 1756. Resigned on account of declining health, 1795. Remo\-ed to
Presbytery of Perth — Scone. 607
Auchtergaven, where his nephew was minister, and died there, 1809, in the Sad
year of his age.
In 1799, the congregation called Mr Beveridge, who preferred Kinross.
T^d Minister. — ^Alexander Young, from Alloa (First). Ordained i6th April
1800. In 1850, on completing his jubilee, he received a silver tea-service and salver;
on 8th June 1859, on entering the 60th year of his ministry, he received a silver cake-
basket and cruet-stand; and on 3d June 1862, he was entertained to a dinner.
Moderator of Synod in 1863. Died i8th October 1864, in the 89th year of his
age, and 65th of his ministry. Author of "Jesus Christ Higher than the Kings of
the Earth," the Synod sermon of which he was Moderator.
i^th Minister. — Robert Scott, M.A., from Milnathort. Called to Dunbar (East),
and Logiealmond. Ordained 26th April 1866. Called to Glasgow (Garscube
Road), in 1873.
SCONE.
Scone is a village in the parish of the same name, Strathtay, Perthshire, 2] miles
north-east of Perth.
The church and parish of Scone became vacant in 1746, by the death of the
Rev. Thomas Schavv. The patron having failed to present a minister to the charge
in due time, the right fell by \h.t. jus devolidiim to the Presbytery, which allowed
the people the power of choice from a list of candidates furnished by them. At the
election, the majority were found in favour of Mr Lachlan Taylor, probationer; and
the Presbytery having evidence that the business was properly conducted, sus-
tained the call. Lord Stormont and other heritors of the parish protested
against this finding of the Presbytery, and appealed to the General Assembly to
have their candidate, Mr William Currie, probationer, preferred, notwithstanding
he had been supported by 15 heritors only, while his rival's call had been signed
by 15 heritors, 7 elders, and 15 heads of families. The General Assembly set
aside both candidates, and ordered the Presbytery to proceed to a new moderation,
at which neither of the former candidates was to be named. At the second election,
Mr David Craigie, probationer, was preferred ; but the minority considered that there
had been really no election in the case, for the influence brought to bear upon it
virtually constituted Mr Craigie Lord Stormont's nominee.* They therefore re-
fused to submit to his ministry, and, in order to escape such influence in future,
applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery
of Perth, 1747. They worshipped in the open air, on a piece of ground belonging
to the Incorporation of Tailors in Perth, till the autumn of 1748, when they took
possession of a place of worship they had built for themselves. This was super-
seded by another in 1789. Both of these were in Old Scone, which no longer
exists. The Earl of Mansfield, being desirous of having his palace further apart
from the village than it was in 1810, gave the proprietors of Scone in that year a
site for a new village at some distance from the old one, and a sum of money to
enable them to build it. In this way the Secession church and manse required to
be removed, as well as the other buildings that had fallen under the ban of the
Earl. The property was accordingly taken down, and re-erected in the new village,
partly at the expense of the Earl, and partly at that of the congregation. Cost
incurred by both above ^1000.
* The Rev. David Craigie was ordained on 25th February 174S. He was translated to St
Andrews in 1754. — Eds.
6o8 The United Presbyteria^i Church.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Clark, who was
appointed by the Synod to the united congregations of Clennanees and Ballybay,
in Ireland, to which places he was also called.
xst Minister. — James Wylie, from Stow. Called to Kennoway in Scotland,
and Donachlony in Ireland. Appointed by the Synod to the latter place, but
refused to go there, for which he was publicly rebuked. Called afterwards to
Liddesdale and Scone. Ordained ist January 1755. Died April 1785, in the 31st
year of his ministry. Author of " A Short Dialogue between Cuphaphron and
Philethes on National Covenanting."
The congregation called Mr Dick, who was appointed by the Synod to Slate-
ford, and Mr Aitcheson, afterwards of Leith, who refused to go to Scone, for which
he was publicly rebuked by the Synod.
2d Minister. — John Jamieson, D.D.,from Dunbar (First). Called to Kinghorn
and Scone. Ordained 16th March 1791. Called to Aberdeen in 181 5, but continued
in Scone. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Jefferson College, U.S.,
1841. Died 6th March 1853, in the 86th year of his age, and 62d of his ministry.
Author of a sermon on Esther iv. 14; a pamphlet entitled "Testimony of Scripture against
Civil Establishments of Religion;" and a lecture to young men on " The Influence of Profitable
Thinking on the Improvement of the Mind."
id Mi?tister. — James Hill, from Edinburgh (Lothian Road). Called to Urr,
Sanquhar, and Scone. Ordained 4th January 1854. Demitted his charge, and
proceeded to New Zealand, 5th May 1863.
4t/i Minister. — John M'Neil, from Partick. Ordained 9th August 1864.
COUFAR-ANGUS.
Coupar-Angus is a town partly in the shires of Forfar and Perth, 15 miles north-
west of Dundee, and 12 J- east-by-north of Perth.
FIRST SECESSION.
Several persons resident in the parishes of Bendochy, Coupar-Angus, and Ket-
tins acceded to the Associate Presbytery on the 14th of May 1740. In July
following, Mr Thomas Clark, schoolmaster in Tealing, afterwards minister of the
Secession congregations of Ballybay and Derrynews, Ireland, together with several
private persons, acted in like manner ; and in August of the same year one elder and
several parishioners of Coupar-Angus were also, upon petition, received into con-
nection with the Presbytery. These persons were joined in an Association, and
had occasional supply of sermon afforded them for some time at Denhead, a place
about a mile and a half from the town of Coupar, and afterwards at Bogside. The
Presbytery, in consequence of the numerous demands made upon them, found it
difficult to continue even this occasional supply of sermon to Coupar-Angus ; and
therefore, in 1743, joined the Seceders resident in the parishes named above to the
congregation of Dundee, then in course of formation. "The Breach" (1747)
divided the congregation of Dundee. The great proportion of the Seceders resi-
dent in and about Coupar-Angus adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher),
while those resident in and about Dundee adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod,
Presbytery of Perth — Coiipar- Angus (First Secession). 609
and thus became separate congregations. First church built 1750; second built
1790; sittings, 522. A new church 'was opened in May 1865 ; cost, ;^ii89, 4s. 7d.;
and has nearly 500 sittings.
\st Minister. — Robert Carmichael. Ordained 1751. The Presbytery of
Perth suspended Mr Carmichael from the office of the ministry, 1761, on the
charge of having publicly avowed his adoption of Independent principles of church
government, and in 1763 deposed him from office for his continuing to avow his
adherence to these principles. Mr Carmichael removed to Dundee, and there
joined the Glassites, but afterwards withdrew from this connection, along with Mr
Archibald M'Lean, the well-known author of the " Commentary on the Epistle to the
Hebrews," and other useful works. He was then chosen pastor of an Independent
congregation in Edinburgh ; but soon after avowed Baptist opinions, as did also
Mr M'Lean, and they together became founders of the society of Scotch Baptists.
He went to London in 1765, and was baptized by Dr Gill, author of a well-known
" Body of Divinity," and, on his return, baptized Mr M'Lean and others, who con-
stituted the nucleus of their Church.' Of this Church Mr M'Lean became co-pastor
with him in 1769, and became sole minister of it after his death.
The congregation called Mr Robert Young, probationer, who was deprived of
his license by the Presbytery while under call.
2d Minister. — Thomas Small, from Abernethy. Ordained 1768. Died 1772,
in the 29th year of his age, and 5th of his ministry,
3^ Minister. — James Bishop, from Kinkell. Ordained 15th November 1774.
Loosed from his charge 1780. Became probationer, and itinerated in this capacity
till his death.
Afth Minister. — Alexander Allan, from Dennyloanhead. Called to Ayr, Kil-
maurs, and Coupar-Angus. Ordained 1781. Died 30th January 1824, in the 72d
year of his age, and 43d of his ministry.
Author of " The Power of the Civil Magistrate in Matters of Religion ; " "A View of Religious
Covenanting : a Course of Sermons Preached in 1807 ; " and " Security for the Perpetual Remem-
brance of the Name of Christ : a Sermon."
The congregation called the Rev. Mr Wilson, previously of Balbeggie ; but the
call, on account of some informality, was not sustained.
5//? Minister.—CnA.^UES Muirhead, from Buchlyvie. Called to Kinkell and
Coupar-Angus. Ordained 30th March 1825. Died 1830, in the 31st year of his
age, and 5th of his ministry.
6th Minister. — William Marshall, D.D., from Logiealmond. Called to Whit-
horn and Coupar-Angus. Ordained 28th December 1830. The degree of D.D.
was conferred on him by the University of the City of New York in June 1865 ;
and in July the Presbyterian College of Hamilton conferred the same honour upon
him. Moderator of Synod in 1865. On the 29th October 1872 Dr Marshall was
presented with ^^1500, as a testimonial from members of the United Presbyterian
Church, assisted by many friends of other denominations, in recognition of his
services to the Church of which he had so long been a minister, to Christian union,
and to civil and religious liberty. Author of " The Old Testament Argument for
Ecclesiastical Establishments Considered ; " Memoir of Dr Young, his father-in-law,
prefixed to a volume of his sermons.
2Q
6io The United Presbyterian Church.
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Evangelical Union).
It having been resolved, by the majority of the First Secession congregation,
Coupar-AngLis, during the ministry of the Rev. Mr Allan, to make religious coven-
anting and public vowing to God a term of church communion, a minority opposed
to such a proposal withdrew from the congregation, and obtained supply of sermon
from the Synod of Relief, 1787. Church built 1789; sittings, 700.
\$t Minister. — James Grimmond, from Kinclaven. Licensed by the Presby-
tery formed by the Rev. Mr Smyton of Kilmaurs and others, and on that Presby-
tery breaking up, joined the Relief Church. Called to Waterbeck and Coupar-
Angus. Ordained 1790. Translated to Dumbarton 20th January 1803.
zd Minister. — James Smart, previously of Largo. Admitted 23d November
1803. Died August 1807, in the 45th year of his age, and i6th of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — William Dun. Joined the Synod of Relief while a student of
divinity in connection with the Established Church. Called to New Kilpatrick
and Coupar-Angus. Ordained 30th November' 1808. Moderator of Relief Synod
1826. Died 17th May 1829, in the 56th year of his age, and 21st of his ministry.
Author of "A Practical Treatise on Divine Providence;" "A Practical Essay on the Lord's
Supper ; " " The Life of St Columlm ;" " Answer to Mr Allan on Covenanting ;" " Josias, or the
Morning of Life ;" " The Farmer's Daughter, an Authentic Narrative ; " " Children's Hosanahs to
the Saviour Illustrated;" "The British Child's Inheritance, or the Advantages of a Moral and
Religious Education ;" " Henry and Eliza, or Buds of Early Piety."
\th Minister. — David Reston, from Glasgow (ToUcross). Ordained 15th ]\Lirch
1826 as colleague to Mr Dun. Resigned 28th March 1848, and joined the Estab-
lished Church. Became minister of Elderslie.
The congregation called Mr Ballantyne, who preferred Lilliesleaf, and Mr Morris,
who preferred Dairy, Ayrshire. The congregation, which had been previously
languishing, became discouraged by these disappointments, withdrew from the
connection, and joined "The Evangelical Union."
SECOND SECESSION CHURCH (Now Extinct).
A dispute having arisen in the Relief congregation, the party aggrieved by it
withdrew, and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery
of Perth, 1809. Church built 181 2; sittings, 400.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Young, who was
appointed by the Synod to Lochmaben.
Minister. — Daniel M'Lean, from Mauchline. Called to Cambusnethan and
Coupar-Angus. Ordained 28th January 1815. Translated to Largs, 22d October
1823. After Mr M'Lean's translation, the congregation, about 1830, became extinct.
METHVEN.
Mcthven is a village in the parish of Methven, Perthshire, 6 miles nordi-wcst of
Perth, and 1 1 north-east of Crieff.
David Smythe, Esq., of Methven, as patron, presented the Rev. James
Oswald, of Dunnet, in Caithness, 22d February 1749, to the church and parish
of Methven, then vacant. The manner in which tlie ])atron conducted the
business offended many of the parishioners, who, on account of it, set them-
Presbytery of Perth — Methven. 6 1 1
selves to oppose his presentee. The Presbytery sustained the presentation, but
appointed a committee to meet at Methven on 28th March, "to inquire who
will join in giving a call to their presentee." The committee met, when only 2
heritors and 12 heads of families were in favour of Mr Oswald. The 12 heads of
families were day-labourers of the patron, all except one, while there were 400 heads
of families in the parish. The Presbytery met next day, when there was presented
a petition by all the elders and 8 heritors, praying the Presbytery not to insist on
the presentation. The Presbytery acquiesced. They met in April, and resolved
to delay the cause. The patron's procurator appealed to the General Assembly,
and the Assembly decided that the moderation in a call go forward. The Presby-
tery met in September, and appointed the moderation for 24th October. They
then refused to sustain the call, on which the agent appealed to the Commission of
Assembly to meet in November. The Commission reversed the deed of Presbytery,
and ordered another moderation. The Presbytery on 29th November delayed the
cause, but at next meeting appointed a committee to proceed to Methven for a
second call. This was done in the face of an exasperated populace. The case had
now been pending for a whole year. Call No. 2 was laid before the Presbytery on
28th February 1750, signed by 9 heads of families ; but the Presbytery, instead of
sustaining it, referred the case to the Assembly. The Assembly ordered the Pres-
bytery to induct Mr Oswald on loth July, with threats of censure in the event ot
failure. Now came in the Presbytery of Caithness, which executed a deed of trans-
portation of Mr Oswald to Methven. This and the Assembly's mandate were laid
on the table on 23d May. The case was delayed till the 30th May, when 7 voted
"admit," and 8 refused admission to Mr Oswald. The procurator appealed to the
Commission in August, and the Commission renewed their peremptory orders. Still
the case was delayed by the Presbytery, and a deputation of their number was sent
to represent the case before the Commission. All was unavailing. Mr Oswald
appeared on 28th November 1750 with the order of the Commission for his admission,
which was at length conducted by a riding committee of the Commission, consisting
of 12 ministers and 2 elders, on 12th December 1750.* The induction was the
signal for an almost universal desertion of the parish church. All the elders left,
and few families remained. The reclaiming party applied for and obtained supply
of sermon from the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, 1751.
Ground was purchased for building a church in February 1751, but it was not begun
till March 1752. One difficulty having been got over in procuring a site, a greater
one presented itself by the patron, to whom most of the land in the neighbourhood
of Methven belonged, refusing building materials. To his surprise, no doubt, a
string of more than fifty carts, furnished by farmers in the neighbourhood, was seen
passing his castle windows one morning, conveying stone and sand from the Bridge
of Almond, a place about four miles distant; and in March 1753, a comfortable
church, containing 700 sittings, was opened. A new church was opened on i6th
August 1868, costing ^1525; sittings, 280.
\st Minister. — John Wilson, from Perth (South), of whicli his father was
minister. Called to Howgate, Leslie, Peebles, and Methven. Ordained 4th Novem-
ber 1753. Died 31st January 1803, in the 70th year of his age, and 50th of his
ministry.
* The Rev. James Oswald, D.D., was Moderator of Assembly in 1765, and died on 2d August
1793. He was author of " An Appeal to Common Sense," a reply to David Hume, and of several
sermons. See Wilson's '' Presbytery of Perth," pp. 150, 151.— liDS.
6 1 2 The United Presbyterian Ckttrck.
2d Minister. — John Jameson, nephew of Mr John Wilson, and grandson of
Rev. W. Wilson, of Perth, from Kilwinning (First), of which his father was minister.
Called to Ceres and Methven. Ordained as colleague to his uncle, 14th March
1798. Died 13th January 1837, in the 63d year of his age, and 39th of his ministry.
Author of a pamphlet on " Education," and a sermon on " True Fame." A volume
of his letters, with a memoir prefixed by Dr Young, was published after his death.
yi Minister. — George Bruce Watson, from Ayton (Second). Called to Chirn-
side and Methven. Ordained 26th June 1838. In 1843 the Synod suspended Mr
Watson from the exercise of his ministry on the ground of complaints made against
him by members of his session, and the statement of a committee, appointed to
investigate the case, that they had been unable to effect a reconciliation of the
parties at variance. Mr Watson's friends withdrew from the rest of the congregation,
and built a place of worship for him in Methven, in which he continued to minister
to them till he joined the Establishment, 30th May 1864. Became assistant minister
in Orkney.
The congregation called Mr H. E. Eraser, who preferred North Shields, and
Mr R. M'Laurin, who preferred West Calder.
4M Alinistcr. — John Miller, previously of North Middleton. Admitted 30th
June 1846.
ERROL.
Errol is a village in the Carse of Gowrie, Perthshire, 8 miles west of Dundee,
and 10 cast of Perth.
SECESSION CHURCH.
" In December 1731," says the Rev. Mr Wilson of Perth in his diary, "a few
ministers met together to consider' what might be proper for them to do in the
present juncture. Those who first met were Mr Gillespie at Strathmiglo, Mr Laing
at Newburgh, Mr Lachlan M'Intosh at Errol, Mr Fisher at Kinclaven, Mr Moncrieff
at Abernethy. I was with them at all their meetings. After prayer and conference,
we agreed upon a representation and petition to the next General Assembly relating
to the grievances the Church is at present under." Mr M'Intosh took part in all
the steps which led to the secession of the Four Brethren, but then withdrew from
them, and remained in the Established Church. This defection from the principles
he professed produced much dissatisfaction in the minds of many of his parishioners,
who had been strongly influenced in favour of " the Four Brethren " by the co-
operation he had afforded them ; nevertheless, by his bold denunciations of
patronage and other grievances from the pulpit, his people continued to adhere to
his ministry.
The Presbytery of Perth returned Mr MTntosh as one of their members to the
General Assembly which met in 1734. He was one of three ministers sent by that
Assembly as a commission " to address the King for obtaining relief from the
grievances of patronage." He was chosen moderator of Assembly in 1736, and
urged to become a candidate for that honour in 1743, but declined.* Thus
flattered, he cooled in his attachment to liberal princijiles of church government,
* Mr M'Intosh was minister of Dunning previous to his admission to Errol in 1725. He died
on 13th May 1744.- liDS.
Presbytay of Pc7'th — Ei'-rol (Relief). 613
and henceforth began to recede from them. In 1737 he persisted in reading "The
Porteous Act " from the pulpit, as did also his neighbour, Mr Coventry of Kil-
spindie. The consequence was that many persons withdrew from the ministry
of both, and placed themselves under the ministry of the Rev. Mr Wilson of
Perth, though their doing so required them to travel 14 miles to attend public
ordinances.
"The Breach," 1747, divided the Seceders in the parishes of Enrol and Kil-
spindie, and prevented their speedy formation into a separate congregation. Those
of them who adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod obtained
supply of sermon from the Presbytery of Perth, 1753. They continued in con-
nection with Perth till 9th January 1759, when they were disjoined and formed
into a separate congregation. Their first place of meeting was at Westown, a
hamlet about 5 miles north of Errol, but within the parish. They afterwards
removed to Inconans, then a hamlet about a mile from the village, and ultimately
into Errol itself First church built 1758 ; second built 1809 ; sittings, 242.
ist Minister. — Robert Watson, a native of Brechin. Ordained 2 2d October
1760. Died 2d February 1813, in the 77th year of his age, and 53d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Hervey, who was appointed by the Synod to
Muckart, and Mr Reid, who was appointed to Sanquhar.
2d Minister. — John Lamb, from Brechin (City Road). Ordained 12th April
1814. On the occasion of his jubilee, 12th April 1864, he was presented with a
silver salver, 400 sovereigns, etc. Demitted his charge, in so far as pastoral duties
are concerned, being then in his 83d year, 12th April 1870. Now living at Trinity,
Brechin.
Author of a sermon entitled "The True Secret of Success in Christian Enterprise," the Synod
sermon of 1846, of which he was moderator; a lecture "On the Power, Wisdom, and Goodness
of God displayed in the Sea;" "The Power of the Holy Ghost coming upon the Church;" and
" Sketch of Dr Newlands," prefixed to a volume of his sermons.
T)d Minister. — James H. Scotland, from Campsie. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Lanib, loth January 187 1.
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
In 1796, the patron presented Mr Dow to the church and parish of Errol, then
vacant. A number of the parishioners reclaimed against his settlement amongst
them, but without success. They then applied to the Relief Presbytery of Dysart
to be taken under their inspection as a forming congregation. After hearing com-
missioners, " the Presbytery were persuaded that the people had been deprived of
their just rights, and stand in need of the Gospel." On these grounds they complied
with the prayer of the petition, March 1796 ; and the people built a place of worshi])
for themselves the same year, containing 751 sittings.
\st Minister. — Charles Gumming, from Glasgow (Dovehill, now Cathedral
Street). Ordained 9th February 1797. Died 181 5, in the 49th year of his age, and
1 8th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr MTnnes, previously a minister in Halifax, Nova
Scotia ; but the call was subsequently withdrawn on account of want of unanimity.
Mr MTnnes returned to America, and died there.
2d Minister. — David Russell, previously of Hawick. Admitted 21st June
1820. The congregation, in consequence of the illness of Mr Russell and decay
in membership, in 1854 craved the Synod to be dissolved. Mr Russell died 12th
6 14 The United Presbyterian Chw'ch.
July 1868, in the 84th year of his age, and 57th of his ministry. Mr Scott Russell,
the well-known engineer, is a son of the Rev. Mr Russell.
CRIEFF.
Crieff is a town in the district of Strathearn, Perthshire, 4 miles north-west of
Kinkell, 6^- east of Conirie, and 17 west of Perth.
SECESSION CHURCH.
The Rev. Mr Drummond of Crieff was one of forty-two ministers who protested
against the Act of Assembly 1732, "anent the planting of vacant churches," and
otherwise acted with "the Four Brethren" in several of the steps which led to the
Secession, but did not himself think fit to secede. Several of his parishioners,
sympathising with the Seceders, disapproved of his conduct, withdrew from his
ministry in consequence, and acceded to the Associate Presbytery. They were
formed into an Association, along with the Seceders in the parishes of Muthil and
Comrie, and had sermon supplied to them with the others at Comrie. When the
congregation of Kinkell began in 1740, the Seceders in Crieff were included in it,
and remained connected with it till 1762, when they were united, at their own
request, with the congregation of Comrie, having two places of meeting under the
superintendence of one session. {See " Comrie" and " Kinkell.") First church built,
1765; second built, 1837; cost, ^600; sittings, 553.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor after their separation from Kinkell, the congre-
gation called Mr Russell, who was appointed to Milnathort.
ist Minister. — James Barlas, from Perth (North). Ordained 3d March 1767
as minister of the united congregations of Comrie and Crieff, preaching every third
Sabbath in the former, and the remainder in the latter, and residing in Crieff. In
1775 these congregations were disjoined, and the choice left with the minister as
to which of them he should continue with, when he preferred Crieff, and thus left
Comrie vacant. Mr Barlas died loth December 181 1, in the 67th year of his age,
and 45th of his ministry.
In 1808 the congregation called the Rev. Mr Simson to be colleague to Mr
Barlas, but the Synod appointed him to Edinburgh (Potterrow) ; and, 18 14, they
called Mr Reid, who was appointed to Sanquhar.
zd Minister. — Andrew Scott, from Dennyloanhead. Called to Auchinleck,
Saltcoats, and Crieff. Ordained 20th September 1814. Died March 1824, in the
33d year of his age, and loth of his ministry.
2,d Minister. — William Ramsay, from Kinclaven. Ordained 2d February 1825.
Demitted his charge 13th July 1869. Died 23d August 1870, in the 78th year of
his age, and 46th of his ministry.
Author of " Lectures on the Revelations ;" " An Exposition of the Book of Daniel ;" " Memoir
of Rev. R. Clarke, Dalreoch, with Sermons;" "The Prelate Corrected, a Reply to Dr Words-
worth ;" "Sermons on occasion of the Death of Rev. J. Forsyth, Craigend."
^fh Minister. — John C. Ingles, from Dundee (School Wynd). Called to Colins-
burgh and Crieff. Ordained 9th February 1870.
Presbytery of Perth — Crieff (Relief) — Dunning. 6 1 5
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
Several persons resident in Crieff being dissatisfied with the doctrines taught in
the pulpit of the parish church, withdrew from it, and travelled to Auchterarder, a
distance of 8 miles, to attend public ordinances in the Relief Church there.
They became desirous of having a Relief place of worship in their own locality, and
with this view applied to the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, July 1782, to be taken
under their inspection as a forming congregation. The prayer of the petition was
not granted till November following, by which time arrangements had been made
as to the amount of indemnification the people of Crieff" should aff'ord to those of
Auchterarder for the loss their finances would sustain by their withdrawal from the
congregation. Upon obtaining their disjunction, the people in Crieff" feued half
an acre of ground, about 300 yards eastward from the town, from Mr Murray
of Dollerie, at a shilling yearly rent, and built a place of worship on it, 1783. The
roads to this place being bad, and the situation inconvenient, they resolved on
removing the church into the town, which was accordingly done in 1795. A new
church was built in 1857, with sittings for 342 ; cost, ;Q^(i^.
\st Minister. — John Baillie, previously minister of an Independent congrega-
tion in England. Admitted to Crieff" 6th June 1786. Resigned and returned to
England 1789.
2d Minister. — William Bell. Ordained 17th October 1791. Resigned on
account of ill-health 6th January 1824. Removed to Paisley, and died there in
January 1825, in the 63d year of his age.
3^ Minister. — John Martin, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown). Ordained i6th
March 1825. Demitted his charge 13th July 1869. In March 1869 a committee
of Synod united the two congregations into one ; but the Second or South Congre-
gation refused to be united, and joined the Independents, retaining possession of
the church.
DUNNING.
Dunning is a village in the parish of the same name, Perthshire, 5 miles east
of Auchterarder, and 9 south-west of Perth.
SECESSION CHURCH.
In 1738, a petition for supply of sermon was presented to the Associate Pres-
bytery by an Association for prayer and religious conference in the parish of Dunning.
No further notice of Secession movements can be found till 1768, the Seceders in
the parish having connected themselves with Pathstruie and Kinkell. In 1768,
Mr Louis Dunbar, a very unacceptable presentee, was presented by the Earl of
Kinnoul, the patron, to the church and parish of Dunning. The moderation in the
call took place i8th August 1768, when the disaft'ected quietly withdrew, and, with
others on the borders of the parish who sympathised with them, laid a representation
and petition on the table of the Associate Presbytery of Dunfermline in October 1768.
Supply of sermon \vas granted. Mr David Smith, probationer, preached at Dunning
on the third Sabbath of November. Elders were ordained in August 1769, and
a church built the same year. Second church built 1806 ; sittings, 300.
Before obtaining a settled minister, the congregation gave a call to Mr James
Mitchell, which was sustained on 30th August 1769, and put into Mr Mitchell's
6 r 6 The United Presbyterian Church.
hands 9th January 1770. His ordination was fixed for 6th March, but, on the day-
appointed, Mr Mitchell did not appear. After many rebukes, he escaped his Dunning
pursuers, but was again called by them, 25th December 1770, when the call was
set aside. A call was given to Mr James Hamilton, 2d May 1771, who had, at the
same time, a call from Leslie. The case came before the Synod, and Mr Hamilton
was appointed to Dunning. On 1 6th June 1772, Mr Hamilton declared that he
had not prepared, and would not prepare, ordination trials for Dunning. The case
came again before the Synod in autumn, when Mr Hamilton escaped.
\st Minister. — John Mackie. Ordained 5th August 1773. Died May 1776,
in the 3d year of his ministry,
2d Mi/lister. — John Beugo, from Dunfermline (Queen Anne Street). Ordained
9th August 1780. Died 6th October 1805, in the 62d year of his age, and 26th
of his ministry.
A call was given to Mr Alexander Brown, 14th January 1808, who was appointed
by the Synod to Bellingham, and on 15th November a call was given to Mr Archi-
bald Henderson, who was appointed to CarHsle.
T^d Minister. — James Smith, a native of the place. Acceded from the Established
Church, and was comiected with Dunning congregation. Called to Newbigging
and Dunning. Ordained 25th March 1812, Resigned 17th December 1850.
Lived privately in Dunning on a retiring allowance from the Synod. Died 6th June
1856, in the 80th year of his age, and 45th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Galloway, who preferred Sutton, in Cheshire.
\th Minister. — Peter Barron, from Craigdam. Ordained 6th January 1852.
Died 5th June 1855, in the 34th year of his age, and 4th of his ministry.
In April 1856, a call was given to Mr James Y. Gibson, preacher, afterwards of
Melrose, but declined.
c^th Minister. — Henry Stirling, from Perth (North). Ordained 14th January
1857.
RELIEF CHURCH (Now Extinct).
This congregation originated with a number of persons belonging to the
Established Church residing in and about Dunning, who were desirous of having
an unfettered choice in the election of a minister ; and with this view applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Dysart 1803. Church
built 1804 ; sittings, 380.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Scott, who preferred
Dalkeith.
\st Minister. — John Laidlaw, previously of Banff. Admitted loth October
1805. Joined the Associate (Burgher) Synod 18 14, and was sent to Nova Scotia
as one of its missionaries. He died at Pittsburg, October 1824.
2d Minister. — William Bogue, previously of Strathkinnes, Fife. Admitted
6th March 1816. Resigned 27th May 1828. Taught a school in Dunning. Died
there 1856, in the 84th year of his age.
The congregation called Mr Milligan, who declined the call. Joined the Esta-
blished Church, and became minister of a chapel-of-ease in Airdrie.
T^d Minister. — John Thorburn, previously of Aberdeen (St Paul's Street).
Admitted 20th May 1846. Resigned his charge, and was afterwards admitted to
Gatehouse in 1850.
After Mr Thorburn's resignation, the Presbytery wished both congregations in
Presbytery of Perth — Auchterardcr (South and North). 6 1 7
Dunning to unite. With this view the minister of the first congregation retired
upon an allowance from the Synod. Notwithstanding the faciUties thus afforded
for union, the Second congregation would not consent to this arrangement, but
joined the Evangelical Union, and is now extinct.
A UCHTERARDER.
Auchterarder is a town in Perthshire, 5 miles west of Dunning, 2 1 miles north-
east of Stirling, and 14 south-west of Perth.
SOUTH CHURCH.
The parish of Auchterarder is bounded on the west by that of Blackford. This
parish became vacant by the translation of the Rev. Sir Henry Moncrieff, Bart., to
Edinburgh in 1776. Mr Moray of Abercairney, as patron, yielding, it is said, to the
solicitation of Mrs Cockburn of Gleneagles, presented Mr Stevenson to the vacant
charge. This person was very unacceptable to a number of the parishioners, and
the manner of his introduction to the parish was specially offensive to them. They,
therefore, drew off at once from his ministry and the Established Church, and applied
for and obtained supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow, and on
28th July 1777 were regularly organised as a congregation, Messrs Alexander
Brodie, James Gray, and William Reid, formerly elders of the Established Church,
constituting a session. The original title of the congregation was " Auchterarder
and Blackford." They met for the first time in the stackyard of Fordmouth, and
subsequently at different places in the open air, till 1778, when, with great difficulty,
they obtained a site for a place of worship, which they built, with accommodation
for 553 sitters. Second church built 1849 ; sittings, 621,
I J-/ Minister. — John Brown, from Jedburgh (High Street). Ordained 25th
April 1 78 1. Translated to Falkirk 17th May 1786.
2d Minister. — David Fergus. Ordained 12th December 1787. Translated
to Campbelton, Argyleshire, 17th May 1805. Moderator of Relief Synod in 1805.
2,d Minister. — John King, from Strathaven (East). Called to Edinburgh
(Portsburgh), and Ford, 1802, but declined both calls. Retired from the list of
probationers and studied medicine. Returned to the list of preachers 6th
February 1806, and was ordained. Died 3d June 1833, in the 69th year of his age,
and 28th of his ministry.
^t/i Minister. — George Jacque, from Glasgow (Calton). Ordained 14th
January 1835. Author of "Tales and Sketches of Scottish Character;" "The
Clouds, a Poem ; " and numerous contributions to the magazines and periodicals
of the day.
NORTH CHURCH.
In 181 1, the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod deposed the Rev. Mr
Imrie of Kinkell from the office of the ministry, on a charge of teaching doctrines
at variance with the standards of the Secession Church. {See " Kinkell.") Mr Imrie
continued to preach notwithstanding; but, in 1813, withdrew from the place of
worship in Kinkell to one which his adherents built for him in Auchterarder, con-
taining 500 sittings.
1st Minister. — Robert Imrie. Ordained as minister of Kinkell nth March
6 1 8 The United Presbyterimi C/mrck.
1792. Removed to Auchterarder 181 2. Died loth February 18 16, in the 47th
year of his age, and 24th of his ministry. Author of " Remarks on Rev. A. Pringle's
Examination of New and Dangerous Opinions," and " Review of the Grounds of
Deposition of the Rev. R. Imrie."
After Mr Imrie's death, the congregation apphed to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod to be taken under their inspection, and was received.
2d Minister. — William Pringle, D.D., from Tranent. Ordained 17 th September
181 7. Had the degree of D.D., conferred upon him by the College of Prince-
town, New Jersey, in i860. On 9th October 1867, Dr Pringle's jubilee was
celebrated, on which occasion he was presented with a gold watch, a silver salver,'
and 1000 guineas. Died i6th February 1873, in the 77th year of his age, and 56th
of his ministry.
Translator from the Latin of Witsius's " Dissertation on the Lord's Prayer ;" Calvin's " Com-
mentary on the Four Gospels, and on the Epistles to the Galatians and Ephesians." Author of
lectures on "The Harmony of the Old and New Testaments," and "The Study of the Holy
Scriptures."
CRAIGEND.
Craigend is a village in the parish of the East Kirk, Perth, 3 miles south of the
city, and 2 north of Bridge of Earn.
This congregation originated with members of the congregation of Abernethy
and the North congregation, Perth, who were desirous of having a place of worship
in their own connection more conveniently situated for them than those they were
accustomed to attend. Church built 1780; sittings, 413.
1st Minister. — James Drysdale, from Kinkell. Called to Pathstruie and
Craigend. Ordained 8th April 1783. Died 1786, in the 30th year of his age, and
3d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr M'Farlane, who was appointed by the Synod to
Montrose.
2d Minister. — Robert Forsyth, from Dumfries (Loreburn Street). Ordained
26th August 1790. Died 2d June 1846, in the 89th year of his age, and 56th of
his ministry. Author of " Affliction and its Advantages," a sermon.
yt J¥inister.--]AUES Forsyth, previously of the North congregation, Auchter-
muchty. Admitted as colleague to his father, i6th December 1841. Died 28th
February 1861, in the 60th year of his age, and 35th of his ministry.
4t/i Minister. — James Wardrop, from Edinburgh (Lothian Road). Called to
Muckart and Craigend. Ordained 26th November 1861. Called to Ollaberry in
May 1867, but declined the call.
LETHENDY.
Lethendy is a parish in the north-east division of Perthshire. The United
Presbyterian church and manse of Lethendy occupy a position 3 miles south-west
of Blairgowrie, and 7 north-west of Coupar-Angus.
The Rev. Mr Freer of Lethendy co-operated with his neighbour, the Rev. Mr
Fisher of Kinclaven, in many of the steps which led to his secession from the
Established Church, yet did not think proper to secede with him ; but several of
his people gave practical effect to the principles he had inculcated upon them by
withdrawing from his ministry, and placing themselves under that of Mr Fisher.
The Seceders in Lethendy continued to attend at " The Muirkirk of Kinclaven "
Presbytery of Perth — Neivburgh (First). 619
till 1784, when Mr Mercer, proprietor of the estate of Lethendy, made offer to them
of 15 acres of ground for 99 years, upon a nominal feu-duty oi £^, to assist in the
erection of a place of worship, which they readily accepted, and forthwith appHed
to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon,
which was granted. Church built 1785 ; sittings, 300.
\st Minister. — Alexander Balfour, from Milnathort (Second). Ordained
31st July 1787. Died 19th March 1847, in the 85th year of his age, and 60th of
his ministry.
The congregation called the Rev. John Bisset of Nairn, and Mr David Young,
afterwards of Chatton, both of whom declined the calls.
2d Minister. — ^Joseph Hay, from Perth (North). Ordained 2 2d March 1849.
NEWBURGH.
Newburgh is a town on the Tay, in the extreme north-west of Fifeshire, 3 miles
east of Abernethy, and 5 north of Auchtermuchty.
FIRST OR SECESSION CHURCH.
In 1785 the patron presented Mr Stewart, probationer, to the church and parish
of Newburgh, then vacant. The presentee was unacceptable to a number of the
parishioners, and they set themselves to do all in their power to prevent his settle-
ment amongst them. Their opposition arose not altogether from aversion to him,
but in some measure from a feeling of rivalship existing between the two principal
landed proprietors in the parish, the lairds of Mugdrum and Pitcairly. A Mr
Jeffrey was at that time tutor to the family of Pitcairly, and they were anxious to
secure the presentation for him. The Laird of Mugdrum was determined to opjjose
any one who was countenanced by the house of Pitcairly, and as these families
respectively had their partisans in Newburgh, the rival interests came into violent
conflict on the day of election. A servant of one of the families was noted for the
vigour with which he dealt his blows, and cleared the street before him. The affair
led to a judicial investigation ; and an old man died in Glasgow not many years
ago who had been oudawed for failing to appear at the circuit court of Perth to
answer for his conduct on that occasion. On the day of ordination, soldiers were
brought to the town to protect the Presbytery in the discharge of their duty, who
were then allowed to proceed unmolested. Truth and candour require us to state
that Mr, afterwards Dr Stewart, won the esteem and affection of the people, and is
still spoken of in Newburgh with the highest respect. Thus, partly on his account,
but more especially with the desire to escape from the pernicious influences operat-
ing in the settlement of ministers of the Established Church, and leading in many
cases to scenes resembling the one described, a number of the parishioners applied
for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of
Perth, 1785.
The persons seceding from the Established Church on the occasion referred to
formed even then only a portion of the Seceders in the town and parish of New-
burgh. Others had been in a state of secession long before them, and they or their
predecessors had come into this state from the following cause : —
The Rev. Mr Laing of Newburgh was one of the ministers who met with those
who became founders of the Secession Church when they framed their representa-
620 The United Prcsbytei'ian Church.
tion and petition to the General Assembly, and co-operated with them in many of
the other steps which led to their secession, but did not himself secede. But he
protested against the decision of the church courts in tlieir case, and continued to
testify publicly against the grievances of which they complained, thus giving his
people reason to think that he would ultimately connect himself with them. In
this hope those who sympathised with the Seceders patiently waited till 1740, when
his passive acquiescence in the sentence of deposition pronounced by the General
Assembly upon "the Four Brethren" in that year, convinced them that their
expectation was vain, and that the time had come to give practical effect to the
principles they held by withdrawing from the Established Church, which they did,
and along with several persons resident in the adjoining parish of Abdie, formally
acceded to the Associate Presbytery in July following, connecting themselves at
the same time with the Secession congregation of Abernethy. The representatives
of these persons continued to travel to this place till the Union of the two great
branches of the Secession in 1820, when most of them became connected with the
congregation of Newburgh, and contributed considerably to its increase. Church
built 1785 ; enlarged 1837 and 1850 ; sittings, 850.
\st Minister. — David Hepburn, from Perth (South). Ordained 7th November
1786. Died 3d January 1818, in the 59th year of his age, and 32d of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Alexander Waugh, who was appointed by the Synod
to London (Miles Lane).
2d Minister. — John Jamieson Johnston, from Rathillet, of which his father
was minister. Ordained nth April 1821. Died 29th December 1S48, in the 52(1
year of his age, and 28th of his ministry.
2)d Minister. — John Young, from Logiealmond, of which his father was minister.
Called to Huntly, Largo, West Linton, and Newburgh. Ordained 26th December
1849.
SECOND OR RELIEF CHURCH.
This congregation originated with members of the First congregation, Newburgh,
who wished the use of the place of worship on week days for secular purposes, to
which the majority were opposed. The dispute thence arising led to an application
to the Presbytery for advice, who appointed a committee to endeavour to reconcile
the parties at variance, but without success. On the 2d of March 1841, the minority
intimated to the Presbytery by letter that they had connected themselves with the
Relief Church. They were organised as a congregation in this connection on the
26th April 1842, when 102 members were enrolled. They worshipped in the Town
Hall till 1850, when they took possession of a place of worship they had erected
for themselves containing 400 sittings.
\st Minister. — Alexander Watson, previously of Greenend or Dron. Admitted
i8th May 1842. Resigned 15th April 1845. Joined the Established Church;
became minister of a quoad sacra church in Pollokshaws, and died there in 1848.
2d Minister. — Archibald Russell, from Falkirk (West). Ordained 3d Feb-
ruary 1847. Demitted his charge, and went to New Zealand, 12th April 1864.
Admitted as minister of Blenheim, Marlborough. Died 2d June 1868.
The congregation called Mr James Allison, who accepted London (Oxendon).
■^d Minister. — James H. Cameron, from Muirton. Ordained ist August 1865.
Resigned his charge, ist November 1871, having accepted an appointment to a
charge at Lawrence, Otago, New Zealand.
Presbytery of Perth — Atichtcrgaven (Secession). 621
A UCHTERGA VEN.
Auchtergaven is a parish in the county of Perth. Bankfoot, the seat of the con-
gregations undernoted, is a village in that parish, 9 miles north-west of Perth, 3
south-west of Kmclaven, and 8 north-east of Logiealmond.
SECESSION CHURCH.
This congregation, better known in the locality as the congregation of Bank-
foot, originated partly in dissatisfaction felt by some of the parishioners with the
doctrines taught and discipline administered in the parish church at the time, and
partly in the desire felt by members of the Secession congregations of Logiealmond
and Kinclaven, resident in the parish, to have a place of worship in their own
connection more accessible than either of the two. These parties united in a petition
to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon,
which, despite strenuous opposition, was granted August 1786. The chief opponent
to the formation of the new congregation was the Rev. Mr Preston, the minister of
Logiealmond, who himself afterwards became a member, and his own nephew the
minister of it. Much difficulty was experienced in procuring a site for a place of
worship, and, after many failures, the persons taking an interest in the cause had to
content themselves with a piece of moorland, remote from any dwelling, at a
distance of between two and three miles from the present church. Here they built
a place of worship in 1788. The village of Bankfoot was subsequently built, and
as it was considered a preferable place for the seat of a congregation, they resolved
on removing thither, and accordingly built a place of worship there in 1824, con-
taining 400 sittings.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Samuel Gilfillan,
who was appointed by the Synod to Comrie.
\st Minister. — Alexander Howison, previously of Howford, Nairnshire.
Admitted 23d April 1793. Died i6th August 1805, in the 53d year of his age,
and 26th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James Thomson, from Lockerbie. Ordained 22d October 1806.
Resigned 18 16. Emigrated to America. Became minister of a congregation in
Miramichi, and died there nth November 1830, in the 51st year of his age, and
25th of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — James Paterson, from Coupar-Angus (First). Called to
Kirriemuir and Auchtergaven. Ordained 26th August 1818. Resigned i6th
December 1834. Proceeded to Jamaica as one of the Synod's missionaries, 7th
January 1835. Became minister of the congregation of New Broughton, so called
after the congregation of Broughton Place, Edinburgh. Died, in consequence of
being thrown out of the gig in which he was driving, 23d January 1843, i^ the 45th
year of his age, and 25th of his ministry.
^th Minister. — William Bain, from Dunblane (Second). Ordained 2 2d No-
vember 1836. Died 12th November 1864, in the 65th year of his age, and 28th
of his ministry.
^f/i Minister. — Matthew Howieson, from Limekilns. Ordained 4th July 1865.
622 The United Presbyterian Church.
RELIEF CHURCH {Now Extinct).
Previous to the year 1784, several parishes adjoining that of Auchtergaven had
ministers settled over them, whose modes of preaching and evangelical defects
produced great dissatisfaction in the minds of many of their parishioners. In that
year, Auchtergaven itself, which had become vacant, had an incumbent settled in
it whose characteristics were much the same as those of his neighbours, and whose
ministrations were productive of similar dislike. In August 1791, a petition was
presented by 80 persons resident in the parishes of Little Dunkeld and Auchter-
gaven to the Relief Presbytery of Perth, praying to be taken under their inspection
as a forming congregation, which was granted. The Rev. Mr Sangster of Perth
preached to them by appointment of Presbytery on the first Sabbath of September
following. Their place of meeting was at Sloganhole, a romantic spot on the south
border of the parish, and not far from Murthly Castle. Here the ministers
addressed them from an erection, in the form of a tent, covered with blankets ; and,
in a few weeks, above 300 persons were in regular attendance. At first little heed
was given to the movement by those not taking part in it. But when it was seen
to gather strength, its opponents set themselves resolutely to arrest its progress.
The factor of Murthly estates had been hostile to it from the beginning, and
through his influence, a site for the church, and stones and timber for its erection,
Avere all refused. The trades-people were told very peremptorily that they must
not engage in the work though requested, and apprised that their doing so would ulti-
mately turn out to their loss rather than their gain. Still the adherents to the cause
were not disheartened. Though lacking money, they lacked not energy. One man
offered to build the gable at his own cost and with his own hands. Others volunteered
their services for other parts of the work required, and all promised a successful issue,
when a sudden and unaccountable change came over the people, produced by some
evil influence brought to bear upon them, and without being well able to say why, they
broke up at once into two parties — the one adhering to the Relief Synod, and continu-
ing to receive supply of sermon for a number of years at Leadmore, in the parish of
Auchtergaven ; the other meeting in the town of Little Dunkeld, and subsequently
forming a congregation in connection with the Independents. Neither of the branches
into which the congregation divided prospered after the separation, and supply of
sermon was ultimately withdrawn from the portion adhering to the Relief Church.
The church and parish of Auchtergaven again became vacant in 1831, and an
unacceptable minister was again intruded into the charge. The persons reclaiming
against his settlement endeavoured to get redress by having recourse to a libel against
him on the charge of doctrinal errors. Finding their eftbrts vain, they convened a
public meeting of the parishioners in June 1832, to ascertain what course ought to be
pursued, and, on a vote being taken, a majority of the persons present were found to
be in favour of an immediate application to the Relief Presbytery for supply of sermon.
A committee was appointed to give effect to this resolution, and the object of it
was gained in regular course. A number of persons who had been active in the
first movement now joined in the second, and some of those who had attended at
Leadmore and also at Little Dunkeld, became members of the congregation thus
formed. A church was bought from the Independents ; sittings, 380.
\st Minister. — William Ritchie, from Glasgow (Dovehill, now Cathedral
Street). Called to Annan and Auchtergaven. Ordained 23d July 1834. Trans-
lated to Uerwick, 26th May 1835.
Presbytery of Perth — Balbcggie — Pitrodie. 62
a
The congregation called Mr R. Frew, who preferred St Ninians.
2d Minister. — Thomas Somerville, from Glasgow (Hutchesontown). Called
to Aberdeen and Auchtergaven. Ordained 14th September 1836. Translated to
Largo 7th May 185 1.
The Union of the Secession and Relief Churches, which took place in 1S47,
had rendered the existence of two congregations of the same denomination in a
small village, and among a sparse population, highly inexpedient The Presbytery
therefore attempted to unite those in Bankfoot after INIr Somerville's translation, but
without success. Supply of sermon was continued to the vacant congregation
till April 1853, when it was withdrawn, and the congregation became extinct.
BALBEGGIE.
The church and manse of Balbeggie, which stand apart from any village or
hamlet, are in the parish of St Martins, 5 miles east-by-north of Perth, and 8 west-
by-south of Coupar-Angus.
The Rev. Mr Wilson of Methven having preached a public sermon at a place
called Craigmakerran, when called in the exercise of his ministry to baptize several
children belonging to members of his congregation resident in that quarter, several
of his people were led by 'the attendance to think that a Secession congregation
might be formed in the district. They applied for and obtained supply of sermon
frdm the General Associate (Antiburgher) Presbytery of Perth, 1786. They met
for some months at a place called Melquich, but not being able to get a site for a
church there, they removed to Balbeggie, where ground had been procured for the
purpose, and erected a church in 1788. This was superseded by another in 1832,
at a cost of ;^5oo, containing 440 sittings.
\st Minister. — John Kirk, from Muckart. Ordained i6th May 1796. Re-
signed 1803. Became farmer at Kameknowe, in the parish of Glendevon, and
died there in 1848.
2d Minister. — David Wilson, from Leith (St Andrew's Place). Called to
Muckart and Balbeggie. Ordained 24th October 1805. Resigned 1821. Ad-
mitted to Kilmarnock (Clerk's Lane), 1825. Author of a sermon on "Christ the
Great Theme of Preaching."
The congregation called Mr Whyte, afterwards of Salem, United States.
■T^d Minister. — James Brown, from Milnathort (Second). Ordained 5th October
1825. Died 2ist February 1846, in the 55th year of his age, and 21st of his ministry.
4/// Minister. — Alexander Pettigrew, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street).
Called to Dalreoch and Balbeggie. Ordained 3d July 1S47.
PITRODIE.
The church and manse of Pitrodie stand apart from any village, and are situated
in the parish of Kilspindie and district of Carse of Gowrie, Perthshire, 3 miles
north-west of Errol, 9 east of Perth, and 1 3 west of Dundee.
The congregation of Pitrodie originated in the dissatisHiction felt at an un-
popular settlement of a minister in the parish in 1788,* together with a difference
* Rev. Alan Stewart, minister of Kilspindie, died on yth December 17S7. Mr Anthony Dow,
afterwards D.D., son of Mr Dow of Dron, was ordained 12th February 1789. He was translated
to Irongray, 1818. — Eds.
624 The United Presbyterian Church.
which had arisen in the Antiburgher session of Errol. The party reclaiming against
the settlement applied for and obtained supply of sermon from the Associate
(Burgher) Presbytery of Perth, 7th October 1788. First church built 1789; second
built, 1816 ; sittings, 320.
1st Minister. — John Kyle, previously of Kinross. Admitted 15th June 1791.
Died in February 1799, in the 24th year of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Campbell, who was appointed by the Synod to
Irvine.
2d Mhiister. — William Proudfoot, from Biggar. Called to Leslie and Pit-
rodie. Ordained nth August 1813. Resigned 1831. Emigrated to Canada as
one of the Synod's missionaries. Became minister of a congregation in London,
Canada West, and afterwards Professor of Theology to the United Presbyterian
Church there. Died i6th January 185 1, in the 63d year of his age, and 38th of
his ministry.
Tyd Miiiister. — Thomas Nicol, from Selkirk (First). Called to Sunderland and
Pitrodie. Ordained 25 th September 1831. Resigned on account of ill-health,
1844. Died August 1845.
The congregation called Mr William Cowan, who preferred Buckhaven.
4//^ Minister. — John L. Hunter, from East Calder. Ordained 23d March
1847. Died 12th May 1865, in the 50th year of his age, and i8th of his ministry.
^th Minister. — Charles Naismith, from Milngavie. Called to Smethwick,
Burray, and Pitrodie, Ordained 27th March 1866. Demitted his charge 30th
June 1868.
dth Minister. — Alexander Burr, from Glasgow (Cambridge Street). Ordained
4th May 1869. Demitted his charge i6th April 1872, having accepted an ap-
pointment by the Mission Board to Trinidad.
DALREOCH (Now Extinct).
The church and manse of Dalreoch were built on the farm of " The Broom,"
by which name the congregation was most frequently designated in the locality.
They were in the parish of Dunning and county of Perth, 2 miles north of Dunning,
7 north-west of Pathstruie, 4 east of Auchterarder, and 9 west of Perth.
A praying society in Dunning, and another in Dalreoch, acceded to the Associate
Presbytery in 1738. These societies were joined into an Association with others
already in accession to the Presbytery in the parishes of Forteviot and Forgan
denny {See " Pathstruie"). This Association was supplied with sermon at Dunning
alternately with another Association made up of societies of which the members
were resident in the parishes of Dupplin, Aberdalgie, Tippermuir, and Rhynd,
the meeting-place of which was in one or another of the parishes named. Several
causes were in operation in these places leading to the secessions which took place
in them, but we notice only those acting in one of them. At the time referred to,
the Rev. James Mercer was minister of the united parishes of Dupplin and Aber-
dalgie. This person supported the motion of the Rev. Mr Ferguson of Logierait,
in the Synod of Perth and Stirling, 1732, for censuring the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine
for sentiments expressed by him in a sermon preached before that Synod as mode-
rator. This he did in a very intemperate speech, as might have been expected
from one whom Mr Wilson of Perth describes as " a hot, violent man, a plague on
the Presbytery of Perth, and most active always in a bad cause.'' lu the cbtimution
Presbytery of Perth — Dalreoch. 625
of many this was the worst cause he had ever engaged in, and on account of the
manner in which he engaged in it, as well as the cause itself, he became exceedingly-
unpopular throughout the country. Finding that he had "hiade himself obnoxious
to many of his parishioners by his conduct on the occasion referred to, he made
suit to the parish of Dron, and by importunity and influence obtained the support
of the heritors in the election of a minister to that parish. But such was the oppo-
sition of the people there to his settlement among them, that the church courts
would not consent to his translation thither. He afterwards obtained a presenta-
tion to the parish of Currie, of which the Town Council of Edinburgh were then
patrons ; but the people of that parish were as hostile to him as those of Dron, and
the General Assembly, to which the case was appealed, deemed it expedient to
continue him in Aberdalgie. " To those who are acquainted with the history of
the times," says Sir Henry Moncrieff'in his " Life of Dr John Erskine," " this decision
of the General Assembly will appear to have been in a considerable degree influ-
enced by the state of the country, and by the Secession from the Church, which was
then openly avowed. INIr Mercer was the person who first moved [he only supported
a motion] a censure on Ebenezer Erskine's sermon in the Synod of Perth, and the
consequences of that measure were always connected with his name. He was in
the highest degree obnoxious from that circumstance to ri'ery order of the people, and
the sentence of the Assembly ivas most gratifying to those who either countenanced or
deprecated the Secession, though it was certainly at variance with many decisions in
cases as diflicult from their own merits both before this time and afterwards."'
The people of Aberdalgie did not thank the Assembly for their decision in their
favour, but, on the contrary, many of them withdrew from the Established Church,
and immediately after connected themselves with the Associate Presbytery, some
choosing to attend the Secession congregation, Perth, under the ministry of the
Rev. Mr Wilson, and others at the Secession preaching station at Rhynd.
When the congregation of Kinkell originated, sermon was discontinued at
Dunning and Rhynd, and the persons attending at the former were included in
that congregation, while those attending at the latter were included in the
congregations of Perth and Abernethy. "The Breach," 1747, divided the Seceders
in these localities, and for a time hindered the formation of congregations.
Attempts, however, were soon made after this event to rally the people accord-
ing to the sides they had embraced, at the points where they had been accus-
tomed to meet, or as near to them as possible, but only with partial success.
The General Associate Seceders in Dupplin and Aberdalgie wished to have the
seat of a congregation in Dunning, but in this they were overruled, and joined
with those in Forteviot and Forgandenny in the formation of the congregation of
Pathstruie.
In 1779 the General Associate Seceders in and about Dunning applied to the
Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon as a separate congregation. This petition
was signed by between 200 and 300 persons, of whom several belonged to the
Estabhshed Church, 140 to the congregation of Kinkell, a few to Perth, and the
remainder to the congregation of Pathstruie. The Presbytery was disposed to
grant the petition, but the minister of Kinkell (notwithstanding, according to his
own showing, he would still have 636 members left) maintained such a strenuous
opposition to the object of the petition, that the prayer of it was refused by the
Synod, to which the case was appealed.
In 1789 the same parlies again petitioned the Presbytery to comply with their
2 R
626 The United Presbyterian Church.
request, and were now opposed both by the ministers of Kinkell and Pathstruie.
The case came again before the Synod, which proposed that the petitioners and
the people of Pathstruie should join in the erection of a place of worship in
Dunning, and that the minister of Pathstruie should supply this on alternate
Sabbaths with the one in which he then officiated. With this proposed arrange-
ment the people of Pathstruie would not concur, and the Synod, in 1791, con-
sented to disjoin their adherents in the parishes of Dunning, Dupplin, Aberdalgie,
etc., from the congregations with which they were then connected, and form them
into a separate congregation, with its seat at Dalreoch. Church built 1791 ;
sittings, 500.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Thomson, who was
appointed by the Synod to Dunse.
\st Minister. — James Clark, from Ray, in Ireland, of which his father was
minister. Called to Peterhead and Dalreoch. Ordained 17th September 1795.
Died suddenly 14th February 1821, in the 6ist year of his age, and 26th of his
ministry.
2d Minister. — Robert Clark, previously of Newton Hamilton, Ireland, nephew
of the former minister. Admitted 25th September 1822. Killed by a fall from
his horse 4th October 1848, in the 53d year of his age, and 30th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr Morris, afterwards of Dairy, Ayrshire, Mr M'Lean,
afterwards of Kirriemuir, and Mr Gardner, afterwards of Annan, all of whom declined
the calls.
yi Minister. — Matthew Orr, from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Ordained 30th
December 1851. Died 25th September 1870, in the 53d year of his age, and 19th
of his ministry.
After the death of Mr Orr, the congregation, in consequence of diminished
numbers, was dissolved.
PITCAIRN.
Pitcairn is a village in the parish of Redgorton, Perthshire, 3^ miles west-north-
west of Perth, and 3 east of Methven.
The Rev. George Meik of Redgorton ''^ took part with the four seceding brethren
in several of the measures which led to their secession, but did not himself secede
with them. Several of his parishioners withdrew from his ministry, and placed
themselves under that of the Rev. Mr Wilson, Perth, and the Rev. Mr Fisher, Kinclaven.
" The Breach " divided the Seceders in Redgorton, and not only prevented their
formation as a separate congregation then, but led them, very unwisely, to erect
two weak congregations when circumstances were highly favourable to their forming
a strong congregation. When the congregation of Scone was organised, several of
the Associate (Burgher) Seceders in Redgorton connected themselves Avith it, while
others remained in connection with the South congregation, Perth. When the con-
gregations of Methven and Logiealmond arose, several of the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Seceders in Redgorton connected themselves with them, while others
remained in connection with the congregation of Kinclaven, and the North congre-
gation, Perth. A Relief congregation was formed in Perth in 1785, and several
persons resident in Redgorton, previously members of the Established Church, con-
* Mr Mcik was ordained 25111 March 171 3, and died in 1755. — Eds.
Presbytery of Perth — Pitcairngreen. 627
nected themselves with it. Such was the state of religious parties in this parish,
and the relations in which these parties stood to different congregations for a number
of years prior to that of 1796. In that year several persons connected with these
religious parties having forcibly felt the inexpediency of this state of things, resolved
if possible to prevent its continuance,* and with this view convened a meeting of
all those affected by it, and inquired how far they were prepared to unite in a
petition to one or other of the denominations to which they belonged for supply of
sermon in their own locality. All present were unanimous respecting the propriety
of petitioning for supply of sermon, but they could not agree as to which of the
three denominations represented by them the application should be made. After
much discussion, those present belonging to the Associate (Burgher) branch of the
Secession and to the Relief Churches resolved on proceeding together, leaving those
of the General Associate (Antiburgher) branch of the Secession to act as they thought
fit. The procedure of the Antiburghers is described in the next article, as leading
to the formation of the congregation whose history is there given. In accordance
with the resolution adopted by the former of these parties, application was made
to the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon, which was
readily granted. Church built 1797 ; sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — John Stewart, D.D., from Ecclefechan. Called to Crail, New-
bigging, and Pitcairn. Ordained 28th February 1799. Translated to Liverpool
25th April 1809.
2d Minister. — William Willins, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Called to New-
castleton, Kincardine, and Pitcairn. Ordained 27th August 181 1. Resigned his
charge 28th May 1837. Suspended 14th May 1839. Died in 1859.
T,d Minister. — Andrew Ross, from Irvine (East). Ordained loth July 1S38.
Resigned 9th October 1850. Emigrated to Australia. Author of " Mina : a Tale
of the days of Nero and the Early Christians."
^th Minister. — Robert Nelson, from Perth (North). Called to Newbigging
and Pitcairn. Ordained 2.jth June 185 1.
PITCAIRNGREEN (Now Extinct).
Pitcairngreen is a hamlet in the parish of Redgorton, Perthshire, adjoining that
of Pitcairn.
The antecedents of this congregation have been detailed in the preceding article.
Those persons who belonged to the General Associate (Antiburgher) branch of
the Secession resident in the parish of Redgorton declined co-operating with the
Associate (Burgher) Seceders and members of the Relief Church when they united
in the formation of a congregation in that locality, and therefore proceeded to
organise one by themselves. In June 1797 several members were disjoined from
Perth (North) for this purpose. Church built 1797 ; sittings, 300.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Beveridge, who was
appointed by tlie Synod to Kinross.
1st Minister.— ]on^ Brow^n. Ordained 25th June iSoo. Deposed 30th April
1802. Removed to Perth, and lived privately there till his death.
* The local industries had some influence in leading to the formation of the congregation. Two
bleach-works, two print-fields, a cotton-mill, and a paper-mill had been erected, which largely in-
creased the population. Dr Jamieson, Scone, preached in a school at Cromwell Park in December
1796, and gave the first impulse to the new cause. — Ens.
628 The United Presbyterian Church.
2(1 Muiiskr. — William Beath, from Leslie (or Lochgelly). Born at Capledrae.
Called to Newcastle and Pitcairngreen. Ordained ist November 1803. Mr Beath
protested against the Union of the two great branches of the Secession which took
place in 1S20, and with his congregation refused to join in it. He died at Edin-
burgh, 2ist May 1827, in the 55th year of his age, and 24th of his ministry. Author
of a sermon on " The Source, Character, and Results of the Redeemer's Sufferings."
The congregation subsequently joined the Original General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Synod ; but protested again when that Synod formed a union with the
Original Associate (Burgher) Synod, and remained apart
GREENEND (Now Extinct).
Greenend is a hamlet in the parish of Dron, Perthshire, 2 miles west of Abcr-
nethy, and 6 south of Perth.
On 7th April 1S35 the Crown, as patron, presented Dr Patrick Macfarlane to
the church and parish of Dron, then vacant. The parishioners expected to be
allowed the choice of a minister at this time, but did not obtain it. The case came
before the Assembly, which ordered the settlement of Dr Macfarlane. On tliis
account several of, them withdrew from the Established Church, and applied to the
ReHef Presbytery of Perth for supply of sermon, which was granted August 1835.
They then proceeded to the erection of a place of worship, containing 300 sittings.
The greatest difficulties were encountered in the erection of this fabric, the neigh-
bouring proprietor refusing stones, timber, and other materials for building. When
the congregation called a minister, the church was without seats. The seats were
furnished by the congregation of College Street, Edinburgh, who otherwise also
aided the cause.
\st Minister. — Alexander Watson, from Kilmarnock (King Street.) Ordained
30th January 1839. Translated to Newburgh 1842.
2d Minister. — James Stewart. Ordained 1842. Resigned 1843, and emi-
grated to America. After Mr Stewart's resignation the congregation, which ne\cr
prospered, became extinct
PRESBYTERY OF STIRLING.
The General Associate (Antiburghcr) Synod formed a Presbytery of Stirling in
1760, by disjoining congregations from the Presbyteries of Glasgow and Dunferm-
line, and constituting them a separate Presbytery. The Associate (Burgher) Synod
formed a Presbytery of Stirling in like manner in 1793 by disjunctions from the
Presbyteries of Glasgow and Edinburgh. These two Presbyteries were conjoined
at the Union of the two great branches of the Secession Church in 1S20, under the
designation of the Presbytery of Stirling and Falkirk. At the Union of the Secession
and Relief Churches in 1847, Stirling and Falkirk were each constituted a separate
Presbytery, three Relief congregations being added to the Presbytery of Stirlino-.
Presbytery of Stirling — Erskine CJmrch. 629
STIRLING.
Stirling is the county town of Stirlingshire, 28 miles north-east of Glasgow, 35
north-west of Edinburgh, and n south-west of Perth.
ERSKINE CHURCH.
This congregation originated in 1733 in the secession from the Established
Clnirch of the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, one of the ministers of the parish, with a
great number of the members of his congregation. The parishioners of Stirling,
however, formed only a portion of his adherents. These in a short time embraced
persons resident in the surrounding country at a distance of 15, and, in some cases,
20 miles. Mr Erskine continued to officiate in the parish church for seven years
after his secession ; and during that period it was not easy to determine who were
Seceders and who were not. The proportion of Dissenters is pretty clearly indicated
by the following extracts from the minutes of the kirk-session : — " Stirling, ^th
September 1739. — The session, taking into their serious consideration that the Rev.
Ebenezer Erskine has made a nomination of elders, and read the list from the pulpit
after sermon, and appointed such as may have objections to lay the same before
him and his pretended session, which session consists of eleven elders, who have
actually seceded from the Church of Scotland, and who were actually suspended
from the exercise of their office as elders by the Synod of Perth and Stirling, which
was ratified and confirmed by an act of the General Assembly of this Church ; that
the suspended elders, together with some of those whom ]\Ir Ebenezer Erskine had
lately ordained as elders, had last Lord's Day intruded upon their office in collecting
for the poor, notwithstanding that the Established elders of the kirk-session were
waiting upon their office at the ordinary place of collecting, against which intrusion
Bailie Miller, treasurer, by advice, took an instrument in the hand of James Pater-
son, notary public, and caused to be summoned all the suspended elders and new
created ones residing within the town, to appear before the magistrates of said
burgh against Tuesday and Thursday thereafter, to make count and reckoning for
their intromissions with the collections of the poors' money, not only for these days,
but also for what they might collect during the whole days of this ensuing sacrament,
and thereafter, if they persist and continued to collect." " 25//; September 1739. —
The session met, being constitute by Mr Mackie, moderator, and taking into their
serious consideration elez'en of the suspended elders of this place, and ela^en more
who were lately ordained by Mr Erskine, do continue to collect for the poor, agree,
in pursuance of their former resolution, to lay the case, together with all the session
has done upon it, before the Reverend Presbytery of Stirling at their next meeting,
that they take what measures they in their wisdom shall think fit to rectify these
abuses, and desire that they would declare that they are no elders of the town and
parish of Stirling, and have no right or privilege to exercise that office. The session
further find that there are only Jive elders in the town and parish of Stirling, and
that none other can be admitted into the exercise of that office in the said town
and parish without their consent."
According to a statement in the above extracts, ]\Ir Erskine ordained eleven
elders in 1739, in addition to eleven then constituting his session, who had pre-
viouslv seceded with him. The correct statement should be, he inducted elders.
All of these had been elders of the Established Church before their election by the
The United Presbyterian Church.
Seceders in Stirling. Seven of them belonged to the adjoining parish of St Ninians.
{See " Bannockburn.") The other fotu- had been elders in other places. A congre-
gation deeming it necessary to pro\-ide itself with 22 elders must have been one of
very great magnitude.
The number of persons assembling at the communion when these 22 elders
first officiated together is indicated by an entry in the diar}- of the Rev. Ralph
Erskine : — ''July 14, i739- — I served twelve tables at least, partly in the one church
and partly in the other. The work was great, and few hands. There were two
places of worship on the Saturday, four on the Sabbath, and three on the Monday ;
and there were but 7 ministers and 3 probationers.'"' As akeady stated, Mr Erskine
continued to officiate in the parish church till 1740, when he was forcibly ejected,
from it by the magistrates, at the instance of the General Assembly.* One of the
magistrates (Bailie Gib), notwithstanding, afibrded him his orchard as a place of
meeting with his adherents. They continued to worship there till 1742, when they
took possession of a very spacious church which they had erected for themselves
in the Back Row, afterwards St John Streett A new church was built on the
"Tent Green," behind the old church, in 1826, at a cost oi ^^yoo; sittings, 1417.
The congregation was designated the First Congregation of Stirling till 1S60, when
it took the name of John Street. In 1862 it became Erskine Church, John Street,
its present designation.
\st Minister. — Ebexezer Erskine, M.A. Ordained at Portmoak, Kinross-shire,
22d September 1 703. Translated to Stirling, 6th September 1731. Seceded from the
Established Church, i6th November 1733, and was thus one of " the Four Brethren "
who were honoured in becoming founders of the Secession Church. Adhered with
the majority of his congregation to the Associate (Burgher) S}-nod at " The Breach,"
1 747. Appointed Professor of Theolog\' by this S}'nod the same year, which office he
resigned, 1749. Died 2d June 1754, in the 74th year of his age, and 51st of his
ministr}\ Author of sermons originally published in five volumes ; a pamphlet
entitled " The True State of the Question, on which a breach followed in the
Associate S}Tiod at Edinburgh, 9th April 1747." Mr Erskine bore a part in the
following publications by the Associate Presbytery : —
"Representation concerning the Condemnation of the Marrow;" "Answers to the Queries;"
" Reasons for not Acceding to the Established Church;" "Act of the Associate Presbyter}- concerning
the Doctrine of Grace ;" and the first part of Fisher's, or the SjTiod's, Catechism. J
In 1 745 the congregation called Mr Mair, who was appointed by the S}-nod to
West Linton.
2d Mifiistcr. — J.\mes Erskine, from Dunfermline (Queen Anne Street), of
which his father was minister. Called to Dundee, Dunfermline, and Stirling.
Ordained as colleague to his uncle, 22d June 1752. Died 9th March 1761, in the
31st year of his age, and 9th of his ^linistry.
* For more than seventy years after the memorable crisis of 1740, the West Church of Stirling,
which had been the scene of Mr Erskine's public ministrations, remained unoccupied. The third
charge, which he filled, was allowed to fall into disuse by the Presb}tery. The increased population
of the town, however, gave occasion to its revival in the year 1817.
+ On a stone above the front door of the old church there was the date " 1740." The com-
munion cups still in use in Erskine Church contain the inscription, " I eritas vincU. Belonging to
the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine and Dissenting Kirk-Session of Stirling, 1740." — Eds.
X On 6th December 1S59 a monument in the form of a Greek temple, erected beside the grave
of Mr Ebenezer Erskine, was inaugurated by a public soiree, at which were present H. E. Cnim-
Ewing, Esq., M.P., Paisley ; Walter Crum, Esq., Thomliebank ; and James Crum, Esq., Busby,
lineal descendants of Mr Erskine. The design of the monument is by Messrs Peddie & Kinnear,
Edinburgh, and the cost about £,\ooo. A statue of Mr Erskine also stands, among other worthies,
in the cemcterj- on the Castlehill of Stirling. — Eds.
Presbytery of Stirling — Viacjicld. 6 3 1
The congregation called (i.) Mr Robert Campbell, afterwards their minister, but
the call was not sustained because of the then divided state of the congregation ;
(2.) the Rev. George Coventry, who was continued by the Synod in his charge at
Stitchel ; (3.) the Rev. John Swanston, who was continued in Kinross ; (4.) the
Rev. G. Coventry a second time, again continued in Stitchel.
id Minister. — Robert Campbell, M.A., from Glasgow (Shuttle Street, now
Greyfriars), Called to London, PoUokshaws, Cumbernauld, and twice to Stirling.
The Synod appointed him to London, but he refused to go there. Ordained 2 2d
Xovember 1766, six years after his first call by the congregation. Died 30th June
1803, in the 65th year of his age, and 37th of his ministry.
Author of sermons entitled "The Triumphs of Grace" (Rom. v. 20), preached in the Back Row
meeting, 13th March 176S ;* and "The Glory of Christ displayed in the Conversion of the Nations"
(Isa. Iv. 5), preached before some members of the Society in Slirlinsj for Promoting the Spread of
the Gospel among the Heathen, on Sabbath evening, 5th January iSoo : to which is added an
appendix containing some strictures on a pamphlet entitled " The New Light Examined, or Obser-
vations on the Proceedings of the Associate Synod against their own Standards," by William
Porteous, D. D.
ifth Mitiister. — Jokn Smart, D.D., from Jedburgh (Blackfriars). Called to
Hawick, Lanark, and Stirling. Ordained as colleague to Mr Campbell, 24th June
1789. Called to Kirkcaldy and Paisley, 1797, but continued in Stirling. Had
the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of Glasgow, 1843. Died
4th November 1845, i'"' the Sad year of his age, and 57th of his ministry. Dr
Smart was one of the first contributors to the Evangelical Magazine. A volume
of his sermons, with memoir of his life, was published by his son. Rev. Dr Smart
of Leith.
5//^ Minister. — David Stewart, from Ecclefechan. Called to Leslie, Horndean,
and Stirling. Ordained as colleague to Mr Smart, 26th November 1S06. Resigned
pulpit duties in 1S51. Died 30th August 1854, in the 8ist year of his age, and
48th of his ministry.
bth Minister. — John Steedmak, from Milnathort. Called to Belfast, Craigdam,
and Stirling. Ordained as colleague to Dr Smart and Mr Stewart, 17th August 1842.
Dr Smart, Mr Stewart, and Mr Steedman Avere all ministers of one congregation for
some time after the ordination of Mr Steedman, the only instance of the kind that
has ever occurred in the denomination. In 1867 Mr Steedman was presented with
the sum of ;^3oo from his congregation and friends on his having completed the
25th year of his ministry.
1th Minister. — John Tait Gowanlock, from Edinburgh (Pristo Street). Or-
dained as colleague to Mr Steedman 24th September 1861. Withdrew with part of
the congregation, and formed Allan Park Church, 1866.
VIEWFIELD.
This congregation, long known as the Second congregation, or Back-of-Town
Church, originated with the minority of the First congregation (now Erskine Church),
Stirling, adhering to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at " The Breach,''
* Mr Campbell, at the request of "some Christians in Glasgow," published a second edition of
this sermon in 1793, to which he added "An Address to Seccders in regard to the Times." Re-
ferring to the Rebellion of 1745, he says, " Of that body of Christians to which you belong, there
was not found a single individual who ranked under the standard of a misled pretender to the British
crown. On the contraiy, many of your fathers and some of yourselves stood forth as volunteers
in defence of the King and the Constitution, and numbers of your brethren fell in the field of
battle."— Eds.
632 The United Presbyterian Church.
1747, while the majority adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and retained
the cliurch property.
The minutes of session go back to 1748. The early sessions were presided
over by such men as Revs. William Mair of Muckart and William Moncrieff of
Alloa. The first church was built in 1752, and contained sittings for 610. New
church begun in 1858; memorial-stone laid 2d June 1859, by John Hewat, one of
the elders; opened for public worship in April i860, by Rev. Dr Somerville, Rev.
George Gilfillan, and the minister of the church. The building cost ;j^2ooo;
sittings, 600. Mrs Blair, Bridge of Allan, provided a public clock for the steeple.
\st Minister. — John Heugh, son of the Rev. John Heugh of Kingoldrum.
Called to Leslie and Stirling. Ordained 24th October 1753. Acted as Professor
of Ethics to the Antiburgher Synod for some time. Died i8th September 1810,
in the 79th year of his age, and 57th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — Thomas Dick, LL.D., from Dundee (Bell Street). Ordained as
colleague to Mr Heugh, 3otli November 1803. Deposed 17th December 1805.
Taught a school for ten years in Methven, and for other ten in Perth. Withdrew
in 1827 to Broughty-Ferry. Had the degree of LL.D. conferred on him by Union
College, Schenectady, New York, Died 29th July 1857, in his 83d year. For a
few years before his death he received a pension from Government.
Author of "The Christian Philosopher, or the Connection of Science and Philosophy with
Religion," 2 vols. 1827; "The Philosophy of Religion, or an Illustration of the Moral Laws of
the Universe;" "The Philosophy of a Future State," dedicated to Dr Chalmers, 1828; "The
Improvement of Society by the Diffusion of Knowledge," 1S33 ; "The Mental Illumination and
Moral Improvement of Mankind;" "Christian Beneficence Contrasted with Covetousness, illus-
trating the Means by which the World may be Regenerated ;" " Celestial Scenery," 1837 ; " The
Sidereal Heavens, and other Subjects connected with Astronomy," 1840 ; "The Practical Astro-
nomer;" "The Solar System, adapted to Beginners;" "The Atmosphere and Atmospherical
Phenomena." In addition to these, Dr Dick published several separate lectures, and was a
frequent contributor to the literary and philosophical magazines. Several of his works have been
extensively circulated both in this country and America.
id Minister. — Hugh Heugh, D.D. Called to Greenloaning and Stirling.
Ordained as colleague to his father, 14th August 1806. Called to Edinburgh
(Nicolson Street), and Glasgow (Regent Place). Translated to Glasgow after the
third C3\\ in September 182 1.
^th Minister. — James Gilfillan, D.D., from Comrie, of which his father was
minister. Called to Largs, Lochwinnoch, Whitehill, Brechin, and Stirling. Or-
dained 24th December 1822. Received the degree of D.D. from the University of
Glasgow, April 1866. Demitted his charge 5th October 1869. Now living
privately at Portobello.
Author of " Memoir of Professor Richardson;" Memoir of his father, Rev. Samuel Gilfillan,
prefixed to his "Letters;" "The Sabbath Viewed in the Light of Reason, Revelation, and
History ;" "Some of the Moral and Religious Bearings of a Prevailing Distemper," a sermon, 1832 ;
and a volume of Discourses.
After Dr Gilfillan's resignation, a call was given to Mr John Sellar, who pre-
ferred Sancjuhar.
5//^ Minister. — Alexander Eraser Knox, from Glasgow (John Street).
Called to Hamilton (Blackswell) and Stirling. Ordained 27th September 1S70.
aij.an park.
In consequence of certain disputes which had arisen in Erskine Church con-
nected with the statistical returns made by the congregation, reference was made to
the Presbytery in February 1864. In a variety of ways the case was afterwards before
Presbytery of Stirling — Holm of Balfron. 633
the Presbytery, from the decisions of which appeals were taken to the Synod. The
Synod sent down a committee to confer with parties in Erskine Church with the
view to heal the divisions that then existed. That committee having failed to effect
a reconciliation, commissioners appeared at the Presbytery on the 7th November
1S65, and presented a petition from 257 members of Erskine Church, together
with 13 elders, 13 managers, and 103 adherents, desiring to be disjoined from said
cliurch, and formed into a separate congregation in connection with the United
Presbyterian Church. After all due inquiry, this petition was granted on the 2d of
January 1866, and the petitioners declared to be a congregation, with Rev. John
Tait Gowanlock as their pastor.
The new congregation met for public worship on the 7th January, in the Union
Hall, Stirling, and continued thereafter to meet in the same place till their new
church was opened by the Rev. Dr King of London on 21st October 1867. The
collection at the opening services amounted to the sum of ;^8ii. The cost of the
church buildings was ^^5000; sittings, 750.
\st Minister. — John Tait Gowanlock, previously of Erskine Church, as col-
league to Mr Steedman. Admitted minister of Allan Park Church, January 1866.
HOLM OF BALFRON.
The church and manse of the Holm of Balfron stand apart from any village, and
are situated in the parish of Balfron, Stirlingshire, 3 miles east of the village of Bal-
fron, and 4I south of Buchlyvie.
The church and parish of Balfron having become vacant in 1730, the parishioners
petitioned the Presbytery to allow them to make choice of a minister for themselves,
but with this request the Presbytery would not comply. The people notwithstand-
ing resolved to exercise what they considered their just rights, and, accordingly, on
the day of moderation nominated Mr William Buchanan, probationer, as the candi-
date whom they preferred, while another party, desirous it was understood of favour-
ing the patron, though he was not avowedly taking any part in the contest, put Mr
George Sinclair, probationer, in nomination as a candidate in opposition to Mr '
Buchanan. On the vote being taken, an overwhelming majority were in favour of
the latter; nevertheless the General Assembly, 1731, before whom the case came by
appeal, set aside the call to Mr Buchanan, and ordered the Presbytery to proceed to
Mr Sinclair's settlement as minister of the parish. Such, however, was the hostility of
his opponents to him, that the Presbytery found it impracticable to give effect to the
Assembly's injunction for several years after it was issued.
In July 1737 a paper was given in to the Associate Presbytery by Balfron and
adjacent societies, stating their clamant circumstances, their adherence to the
Testimony emitted by the Presbytery, and craving a day of fasting to be appointed
among them. The Revs. Ebenezer and Ralph Erskine met with them on the 28th
of September following, when the latter preached from Psalm Ixxix. 8, and intimated
the Presbytery's recognition of the Seceders assembled as an Association under their
inspection. Sermon was afforded them only three times again at Balfron till 1740,
the members of the Association travelling at other times to Stirling to attend the
ministry of the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine. From the beginning of that year sermon
was afforded them at Balfron upon an average once a month till they obtained a
settled minister, who preached at different places in the district as opportunity
634 The United Presbyterimi C/inrck.
offered, or previous arrangements required. (.S^^ " Buchlyvie " and "Drymen.")
The most frequent place of meeting in Balfron parish was a retired spot near Honey-
hohn, on the banks of the Endrick, which was abbreviated into "The Holm:" hence
the name by which the congregation is still known. The old church was built at
Edenbelly, near the centre of the parish of Balfron, as more convenient to the adhe-
rents resident in the other parishes of Kippen, Kincardine, Drymen, and Kilmaro-
nock. It was erected in 1739, and was superseded by another in 1790, containing
500 sittings. A new church and manse, under one roof, were built on the banks of
the Endrick in 186 r, at a cost of ^^ 12 00. The church has 300 sittings.*
isi Minister. — John Cleland. Ordained 8th June 1742. Adhered with the
great majority of his congregation to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at
"The Breach," 1747. In 1752 the portion of the congregation resident in Kippen
parish built a place of worship at Buchlyvie, and left it in Mr Cleland's option to
remove thither or remain at Balfron. He chose the former alternative, and in
this way left Balfron vacant.
2d Mifiister. — James Mitchell. Ordained 2 1st August 1753. Died November
1786, in the 33d year of his ministry.
3^ Minister. — William Puller, from Methven. Ordained 29th November
1787. Died, on the way home from church, loth February 181 1, in the 50th year
of his age, and 24th of his ministry.
/^th Minister. — James Thomson, D.D., previously of Borrowstouness. Admitted
loth September 181 2. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the Uni-
versity of Glasgow, 1851. On the occasion of his jubilee, ist May i860, the day
of the ordination of his colleague, he was presented with 142 sovereigns. Died 13th
November 1864, in the 87th year of his age, and 57th of his ministry.
In 1859 the congregation called Mr George Barclay to be colleague to Dr
Thomson, but he preferred Dunscore.
5//; Minister. — Robert Muir, M.A., from Ayr (Darlington Place). Ordained
as colleague to Dr Thomson ist May i860. Translated to Hawick (Allars) 13th
July 1864.
A call was given to Mr John M'Kerrow and accepted, but the acceptance was
afterwards withdrawn in favour of a call from Penicuik.
Gt/i Minister. — Charles Cooper, M.A., from Midmar. Ordained 23d January
1866. Demitted his charge 3d November 1868, on his acceptance of an academical
appointment in Madras.
']th Minister. — James Paton, from Partick. Ordained 21st December 1869.
BRIDGE OF TEITH.
The church and manse belonging to tliis congregation stand by themselves at
the south end of the Bridge of Teith, while the village of Doune stands about half-
a-mile to the north of the river. The congregation was accordingly sometimes
called by the one and sometimes by the other name. Both places are in the parish
* The congregation comprehended at first the whole surrounding country for 10 miles west and
north, and 8 miles east. During the first ten years tlicre were 70 children l)apti/ed every year.
I'jiichlyvie and Kilmaronock were both formed from it. The following is the account in Scots money
of the expenses of a communion in 1764 : " liread, ^8, 14s. ; whisky, £\, i8s. ; malt, ;,^5 ; meal,
;^I, i8s. ; foreign spirits, £6, 14s. ; pins, 2s. ; horse corn, £1, I2s. ; two sheep and three Iambs, ^13 ;
wine, £2"], 15s." — Eds.
Presbytery of Stirling — Bridge of Teith. 635
of Kilmadock, in the western district of Perthshire, 8 miles north-west of StirUng,
and 4^- west of Dunblane.
Several persons resident in the parish of Kilmadock acceded to the Associate
Presbytery in April 1738. In December following, the praying society of Baad and
Drip, in the parish of Kincardine, which adjoins Kilmadock on the south and west,
gave in a paper of adherence to the Presbytery. In July 1739 several persons resi-
dent in the Port of Monteith, which adjoins Kilmadock on the west, acceded to the
Presbytery ; and in July of the same year, Mr Patrick Buchanan, elder in the parish of
Callander, which also adjoins Kilmadock on the west, formally joined the Secession.
These persons attended the ministry of the Rev. Ebenezer Erskine in Stirling till
July 1740, when, along with the Seceders in the parish of Dunblane, they were
united into one Association, under the designation of " The Correspondence of
Monteith," and had sermon supplied to them as the Presbytery could afford it,
which was upon an average once a month at the Port of Monteith, and once in six
weeks at Thornhill, the adherents attending at other times at Stirling or Balfron. On
17th July 1740 Ebenezer Erskine was appointed to ordain elders; the meeting was
held at the burn of Sessintillie in Monteith, and on the 3d September 1740, 7 elders
were ordained. A tent, designed to serve as a pulpit, having been set up at the end
of Thornhill, on land belonging to the Earl of Moray, Mr More, his factor, applied
to the Sheriff of Dunblane to interdict its use and have it removed. He appeared
on the ground with the interdict in his pocket as the people were engaged singing
these lines of the 2d Psalm, which the preacher had given out :
" Why rage the heathen, and vain things
Why do the people mind ? "
He retired without serving the interdict, and refrained from molesting the Seceders
ever afterwards. In July 1741, 5 elders and about 50 private persons resident
in the parishes of Kilmadock, Kincardine, Monteith, and Callander acceded to the
Associate Presbytery, and were joined to "The Correspondence of Monteith." In
1744, the place of meeting was removed from Thornhill to the south end of the
Bridge of Teith, where a site for a place of worship had been obtained, and a church
erected on it. On 17 th September 1744, Mr Erskine preached at the first full
meeting of the eldership since the disjunction of the Correspondence of Monteith
from that of Stirling. A new church was built in 1838, containing 642 sittings.
\st Alinister. — David Telfar. Ordained 19th March 1747. Adhered with
themajority of his congregation to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at "The Breach,"
which took place in April following. Called to Ballybay in Ireland, i 750 ; to Auch-
termuchty, 175 1 ; to Donachlonny in Ireland, and Torphichen in Scotland, 1755 ;
to Kennoway in Scotland, and a second time to Donachlonny in Ireland, 1756 ; con-
tinued in Bridge of Teith till 1766, when he proceeded to America by appointment
of Synod. He returned to Scotland in 1770, and was sent out a second time in
1 77 1, and became minister of a congregation in Nottingham, Pennsylvania, or Phila-
delphia, and died there.
2d Minister. — William Fletcher, from Ettrick. Called to Btirntshields,
Glasgow, and Bridge of Teith. Ordained 25th March 1773. Died 18 15, in the
85th year of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
Author of " The Scripture Loyalist : containing a Vindication of 01)edicnce to the present Civil
British Government in Things Lawful," etc., 1784 ; "The Scripture Loyalist Defended from Unfair
and False Reasoning, etc.," in a letter to the Rev. William Steven, Crookedholm, 1795 ; "The
Evil and Danger of Schism," 1800 ; also an edition of " Brown's Letters on the Authoritative Tolera-
tion of Popery."
636 The United Presbyterian Church.
2,d Minister. — Alexander Fletcher, D.D., son of Rev. W. Fletcher. Called
to Leslie, Stow, and Bridge of Teith. Ordained as colleague to his father i6th Sep-
tember 1S07. Called to Kincardine 1810, but continued in Bridge of Teith till 7th
November 181 1, when he was translated to London (Miles Lane.)
4M Minister. — John M'Kerrow, D.D., from Mauchline. Called to Ecclefechan
and Bridge of Teith. Ordained as colleague to Mr William Fletcher, 25th August
1 8 13. Had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by Washington College, United
States, 1 84 1. On 25th August 1863, Dr M'Kerrow's jubilee was celebrated, when
he was presented with a silver cake-basket and a purse containing 600 sovereigns.
Died 13th May 1867, in the 77th year of his age, and 54th of his ministry.
Author of a " History of the Secession Church ; " "The Office of Ruling Elder in the Christian
Church," to which the prize oi £'^0 was awarded ; joint autlior with the Rev. Jolni M'Farlane, Kin-
cardine, of "The Life and Correspondence of the late Henry Belfrage, D.D., of Falkirk ;" " His-
tory of the Foreign Missions of the Secession and United Presbyterian Churches," published in May
1S67.
^th Minister. — William Huie, from Campbelton. Called 20th April 1867 to
be colleague to Dr M'Kerrow. Ordained 25th July as his successor.
DUNBLANE.
Dunblane is a city and parish, and the seat of a cathedral, in the western
district of Perthshire, 4 miles east of Doune, and 6 north-west of Stirling.
FIRST CHURCH.
\\\ March 1738, there was laid before the Presbytery of Dunblane a long paper
complaining of defections in the Church, and seeking redress, by Archibald Edinond,
Robert Duncanson, John Hendrie, and John Crawford, belonging to Logie parish.
They were dealt with by the Presbytery, and suspended. They applied to the
Associate Presbytery with this sentence resting on them, and the Presbytery agreed,
after a thorough investigation of the case, to receive them, provided, upon exami-
nation, they were otherwise found qualified. The fact of having received these
men in the circumstances in which they were then placed, and particularly Archi-
bald Edmond, who, for some reason or other, was peculiarly obnoxious to the
minister of Logie, was made one of the counts in the libel drawn up against the
"Four Brethren" in 1739, preparatory to their deposition. It runs thus :
" Further, you or some other of you, did, upon the 20th day of May last 173S, upon one or other
of the days of that month, or of the months of June, July, or "Augvist of that year, in a pretended
judicial manner, take under your cognisance the case of Archibald Edmond, against whom sen-
tence of the lesser excommunication had been passed by the Presbytery of Dunblane ; and you found
that the said Presbytery had acted unwarrantably, and you declared the said Archibald free from
tiic scandal for which he had been censured as above by the said Presbytery, and appointed the
said Klienezer Erskine to baptize the said Archibald's child,— at least you, the said Ebenezer, did,
ill the church of Stirling, ujion the loth day of August last, or one or other of the days of that
month, baptize the said child, and at the same, time declared your warrant for so doing to be as
above."
The defence of the " Four Brethren " to this count was as follows :
" The said Archibald having, for the help of his memory, drawn up a paper, as subject of private
communing with his minister, relating to the public defection.s, and any concern he judged his
minister had therein, with a declared design, mentioned in the said jiaper, to pave the way for
his continviing to join his ministry with the greater freedom and edification, at the same time
submitting tohis minister's instruction in case he was in the wrong. But the minister, instead of
endeavouring lo instruct or gnin his jiarishioner witli a spirit of meekness by friendly communing,
upon his reading the said paper, falls out into a passion, carries it belore the session. The session
Presbytery of Stirling — Dunblane (First). 637
referred it to the Presbytery of Dunblane, where, after long dependence, it issues in a sentence of
lesser excommunication against him, which was intimated by order of the Presbytery from the pulpit
of Logic. The said Archibald, judging himself injured, and having no hopes of redress from ihe
superior judicatories, lays an extract of the whole process before the Associate Presbytery, who,
finding by the said extract that the above paper for conversation was the only foundation of the pro-
cess against him, and that the man had a good title to represent unto his minister what was aggrieving
unto him without fear of censure, and considering that the great end of their Presbyterian Association
was the relief of the Lord's oppressed heritage, groaning under the arbitrary proceedings of the
present judicatories, did therefore relax the man from the said sentence, and appointed Mr
Erskine to baptize his child, which he did accordingly, and they can easily justify their conduct
herein before the unprejudiced world, by publishing an extract of the whole process, if it be found
needful."
A petition from societies in the bounds of Dunblane Presbytery, asking supply
of sermon, was laid before the Associate Presbytery in 1737-8.
In July '1739, 19 persons resident in the parish of Dunblane acceded to
the Associate Presbytery, and, with the persons previously referred to, became
members of the congregation of Stirling, under the ministry of the Rev. Ebenezer
Erskine. In 1740, the Seceders in the parishes of Callander, Kilmadock, Kin-
cardine, Monteith, Dunblane, and northern and western parts of Logic, were
joined in an Association under the designation of The " Correspondence of
Monteith," out of which the Congregation of the Bridge of Teith arose soon
after.
The Breach, 1747, divided the Seceders in these places as elsewhere, and pre-
vented their formation into separate congregations so speedily as would otherwise
have taken place.
In April 1750, two elders were elected by the session of Stirling for the district
of Dunblane, from which it would appear that the Seceders in Dunblane constituted
part of the congregation of Mr Erskine. In consequence of tlie death of Rev. \\ .
Simson, minister of Dunblane, 17th October 1755, and the appointment of AFr
Robertson on nth February 1756 as his successor, a violent op])osition was made
by the people against Mr Robertson's ordination. Mr Robertson was ordained on
12th May 1757; but, on nth January of that year, the Seceders in Dunblane
were organised as a congregation. The congregation thus formed applied, in
March 1758, for union with Bridge of Teith, the minister to preach alternately in
Dunblane and Bridge of Teith, each congregation having its own session for
managing its affairs. The Presbytery sanctioned this junction, and the two
congregations, under one minister, continued united for seven years. In 1765, the
congregations were disjoined, and Dunblane gave a call to Mr Telfar, of Bridge of
Teith, which was signed by 350 members and 93 adherents. Mr Telfar having
been appointed by the Synod to proceed as an evangelist to America, the call was
laid aside. In January 1767, the congregation called Mr David Walker, but the
Synod appointed^ him to PoUokshaws. First church built in 1758 ; second church
built in 1835, seated for 600, at a cost of ;^i5oo. A manse was built in 185S, at a
cost of ;^IOOO.
\st Minister. — David Telfar. Ordained 19th March 1747. Joint minister
of Bridge of Teith and Dunblane, 1758. Sole minister of Bridge of Teith, 1765.
2d Minister. — Michael Gilfillan, from Stirling (First). Ordained 28th April
1768. Called in 1780, and again in 1781, to Edinburgh (Bristo Street), but neither
of the calls was sustained, because of want of unanimity in the congregation.
Died 1 6th September 181 6, in the 69th year of his age, and 49th of his ministry.
Author of the "Synod's Warning against Socinianism."
The congregation called Mr Baird, who was appointed by the Synod to Auch-
termuchty.
638 The United Presbyterian C/mrch.
T,d Minister. — James Anderson, from Leslie (East). Called to Girvan and
Dunblane. Ordained 15th April 1818. Resigned 1854. Died in Leslie 19th
March 1858, in the 68th year of his age, and 40th of his ministry.
4^// Minister. — William Blair, M.A., from Lochgelly. Called to Whitby
(Yorkshire) and Dunblane. Ordained i6th April 1856.
Author of " The Chronicles of Aberbrothock," 1S53 ; " Rambling Recollections, or Fireside
Memories of Scenes Worth Seeing," 1857; "Memorial of the Celebration of the Centenary of
Dunblane Congregation," 1858; "The Prince of Preachers, a Memorial of Rev. Dr Fletcher,"
lc6o; " Ordination Charges given at the Admission of Rev. J. Mitchell Harvey, M.A., Alloa,"
1861 ; " Notes of a Tour in France, Switzerland, and Italy in 1S61 ;" and papers in "Logan's
Words of Comfort," The Christian Journal, The Scottis^i Christian jfoicrnal. The United Pres-
byterian Magazine, "Grant's Advocate of the Law of Kindness," " Reid's Authentic Records of
Revival," Tlie British Messenger, "Mackenzie's Imperial Dictionary of Biography," and The
British and Foreign Evangelical Review.
SECOND CHURCH (Now Extinct).
At " The Breach," 1747, the majority of the congregation of the Bridge of Teith
adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, and retained the property, while tlie
minority adhered to the General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, and returned to
their original meeting-place in Thornhill, which lies 3 miles to the south-west of the
Bridge of Teith, and 8 from Dunblane. Thornhill was soon considered incon-
veniently distant by the adherents resident in and about Dunblane, who on that
account insisted upon the seat of the congregation being removed to their localit}'.
To this the others would not consent. The interference of the Presbytery was
found necessary, who compromised the matter by deciding that sermon should be
afforded at each place on alternate Sabbaths. The meetings were held at both
places in the open air in summer, and in barns in winter, till 1761, when the
section of the congregation assembling at Thornhill took possession of a place of
worship they had built for themselves.
In 1758 the Seceders assembling at Greenloaning, who had been previously
included in the congregation of Comrie, were disjoined from it, and united with
those meeting at Thornhill and Dunblane, under the designation of " the congrega-
tion of Strathallan and Monteith," but still meeting as before at Greenloaning, 5
miles north-east of Dunblane, where a place of worship had been erected in 1752.
After this junction of three congregations under one minister, sermon was granted
to Dunblane and Greenloaning regularly on alternate Sabbaths, but to Thornhill
only occasionally. In 1769 the congregation applied to the Presbytery for a
moderation, which was granted on the following conditions : — That the minister
chosen shall preach five Sabbaths in the year at Thornhill, two of which shall be
taken from Greenloaning, and three from Dunblane ; the Presbytery to grant such
further supply to Thornhill as may be in their power, the collections made there
upon such occasions to be appropriated, if need be, for defraying the expense thence
incurred ; and that fast-days be ordinarily observed at Dunblane, as the centre of
the congregation. Church built 1763.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor the congregation called Mr Buchanan, who was
appointed by the Synod to Nigg, and Mr Wilson, who was appointed to Lauder.
\st Minister. — Thomas Russell, previously of Colmonell. Admitted as minis-
ter of the congregation of Strathallan and Monteith, 29th July 1769.
The conditions on which the Presbytery granted the moderation issuing in the
call of Mr Russell were not found to work well, more particularly tlie financial part
Presbytery of Stirling— Grcenloaning. 639
of them. They were therefore brought under the Presbytery's review in 1773,
when the following finding was adopted :— " That the people of Greenloaning shall
have the equal half of Mr Russell's labours, both as to Sabbath-days and fast-
days ; that the Presbytery make up to the people of Thornhill the two Sabbaths
they formerly had of Greenloaning." These, however, were so dissatisfied with
this arrangement that in 1778 they requested the Presbytery to allow them to
dissolve, and join the congregations of Buchlyvie and Stirling. This request was
complied with. Thus the Thornhill section of Strathallan and Monteith congrega-
tion became extinct. The place of worship was subsequently disposed of, and was
afterwards occupied as a schoolroom.
Mr Russell died 13th February 1S03, in the 80th year of his age, and 34th of his
ministry.^ After his death the congregations of Strathallan and Dunblane were
divided into the congregations of Greenloaning and Dunblane, and each left to
make choice of a minister for itself.
2d Minister.— ]on^ Wallace, from Glasgow (Duke Street). Ordained 30th
March 1804. Died i8th August 1S28, in the 55th year of his age, and 25th of his
ministry.
Zd Minister. — Alexander Henderson, from Alloa (First). Ordained 19th
July 1829. Resigned nth May 1849. Emigrated to America, and became
minister of Fitzroy Harbour, Tarbolton, and Pakenham, Canada West. He also
supplied Arnprior station. Died 28th October 1858, in his 59th year.
Author of ''The Pilgrim a Poem;" a pamphlet on "The Liquidating and Supplementing
Boards of the U.P. Church and the Last Church of Dunblane ; " and " The Effects of Lntcmperanc?
on Individuals, Families, and Nations, and the Propriety of Temperance Societies : a Sermun."
The congregation joined the Evangelical Union after Mr Henderson's resigna-
tion, and soon after expired.
GREENLOANING.
Greenloaning is a hamlet in the parish of Ardoch, 6 miles north of Dunblane,
and 13 south of Comrie.
The Rev. Mr Halley of Muthil co-operated with the Four Brethren in several
of the steps which led to the Secession, but did not himself secede. Several of his
people pursued a different course, not, however, till the Associate Presbytery emitted
their Testimony, and only then after its statements had been fully discussed in a
public meeting, convened by them for the purpose. The persons who at:ted thus
travelled for some time to Stirling to attend the ministry of the Rev. Ebenezer
Erskine, but when the congregation of Kinkell and Comrie originated, they were
included in it, and subsequently in that of the latter when disjoined from the
former. Greenloaning had been one of the meeting-places of Kinkell and Comrie
congregation from its formation, and a place of worship was erected there in 1752,
containing 200 sittings, which was supplied occasionally with the other two while
the congregation continued thus united. \Mien Kinkell and Comrie were disjoined,
Greenloaning continued part of the latter, the minister preaching at each place
alternately. On the 21st September 1762 * the Seceders assembling at Greenloan-
* It is somewhat difficult to fix the precise year, or reconcile the dates here given with those on
page 32. Dr M'Kelvie had 1760 as the date of disjunction of Greenloaning from Comrie, which we
have altered to 1762, on the authority of the minutes of Presbytery. The contributor to Dr
M'Kerrow's statistics (Rev. R. Paterson, Aberchirder) says that "the Rev. John Fcrvith one.
1st Minister. — ^JoHX Ferguson. Ordained December 175S. Died June 1760.
2d Minister. — Thomas Russell. Inducted 13th Jxily 1769. Died 13th Feb-
ruar\- 1S03.
The congregation called Mr H. Heugh, who declined the call
T,d Minister. — Robert Meiklejohx, from Alloa (WestV Ordained 5th Sep-
tember 1826. Resigned 25th December 1S27. Removed to Alloa, and lived there
privately till his death, 23d May 1S51.
^h Minister. — Robert Patersox, from Dimbar (Second). Ordained 13th
January 1S29. Resigned 24th April 1S38. Admined to Sunderland.
The congregation called !Mr Gardiner, who preferred Kincardine.
5/// Minister. — John" MTnt\-re, M.A., from Mauchline. Ordained 25th May
1S41. Author of "The Roman Remains at Ardoch;" "The Primitive Races of
Scotland : " and " Our Father in Heaven : " a sermon.
BUCHL\'^'IE.
Buchly^-ie is a ^•illage in the parish of Kippen. Stirlingshire. 4^ miles from the
Holm of Balfron, 5 west of Kippen. 14^ west from Stirling, and 23 north of Glasgow.
The parish of Kippen is bounded on the south by that of Balfron, in which
great excitement was produced in 1735 — as indeed through the whole district of
countr}- of which it forms a part — by the %-iolent settlement of a minister after several
years of determined opposition on the part of the people. (See " Holm of Balfron.")
^^'hile matters were in this state, the Rev. Michael Potter of Kippen* wrote a
pamphlet in which he alleged that the Erskines were hired by the Pope of Rome
as his agents to rend the Church of Scotland, which greatly incensed a number
of his parishioners, who deprecated the Secession, and were anxious to avoid
widening the breach which had been made. Nevertheless, they bore with him till
1737, when, in common with most of his brethren in the Established Church, he
showed his great subsen-iency to the powers that be by reading " The Porteous
Act" from the pulpit pre\-ious to the commencement of di\-ine ser\-ice on Sabbath,
on which occasion several of them rose and left the church, never to retiun to it
They joined the Secession, and travelled to Stirling to attend the ministrj- of the
Rev. Ebenezer Erskine till the congregation of the Holm of Balfron was organised
in 1742, when they became part of it At " The Breach," they adhered, with few
exceptions, to the General Associate (Antiburgher) S}-nod- Thinking themselves
sufficiently numerous to form a self-sustaining congregation, and desirous of ha\-inor
a place of worship in their own locahty, they applied to the Presb}-ten- of Glasgow
in a sermon which was published after his death that he lived among them only for the space of four
months and some days." As confirmatory- of this, the Pnesbjiery minutes of July 1760 record his
death. — Eds.
* The Rev. M. Potter was in 1740 apjxjinted Professor of Divinity in the Universitv of Glasgow
as successor to Professor Simpson (who was libelled for heresy in 1715, and again in 1726-29), which
chair he held till 1744, when he was succeeded bj' Dr William Leechman. — Ens.
Prgsbyf^ry of Sfi'rh'rig — Blair logic. 641
:^ :-e c.?;::zr/. :"ror:i • T>.e Hj'.iu. v\>.::h vv..i a/.-vcc. 1751. Church built in
\st JTIt.'Vvt-. — ^JoHX Clelaxd Oniained as miniscer of Holm of Balfiron, Stb
*-rr i~-!t2. AVhen the ccMigr^atioQ oi Bochlrvie originated, Mr Ckland had the
~ :r-Ten faim to ronain at Balfiron kx remove to Bachlyvie. He chose die
r^adve, and was translated to Buchlrvie in May 1752. Died i4ih January
I ; : ^ - ; i year of his age, and 26th of his ministry.
- — 7"^^' Fraxce, from KinkelL Ordained 2d March 1769. Died
3c A _ : -6th year crf'his age, and 4odi of his ministry.
In : ^^3 :.. ; _ : - colled Mr Moncriefl^ who was appointed by the Synod
to Hamilton.
3-/ J/I.::sf^. — AxDRzw M-Greg<«, firom Methven. Ordained as colleague to
Mr France, lodi August 1S04. Deposed 14th Febniaiy 1809. Joined the Con-
gregiidonalists. and became minister of a congregation in that connection in England.
4/»T Jlsaisia: — ^William Spiers, fircm Dennyloanhead. Called to Muckart and
Buchiyvie. Ordained 27th April 1S13. Died 2Sth August 1S25, in the 35th year
of his age, and 13^1 oi his mimstrr. Author of a sermon on " The Subserviency of
An Things to the Ultimate Advantage of the Christian."
5/A J/iais^r. — ^JoKX Yoc^'G, A.M., from Glasgow (AVellingtoa Street). Ordained
13th !March 1S27. The ordination was appointed for 6th March, but a heavy £iU
of snow prevented Mr Young getting forsrard in time. Deposed 1836. Liveil
privately in Glasgow. Afcerwanis went to Canada, and became a minister at
Gait, Canada WesL
The coDgr^ation called Mr H. iL MGiiL who preferred Glasgow (Duke Street).
6Uk JIbtisttr. — JoHx Russell, from Glasgow (Gordon Street). Called to
Freuchie. Hexham. Rousay. and Bjchlyvie. Ordaiaev: iSth July 1S37. Died 5th
September 1S5S, in the 54th year of his age, and 2 2d of his misLstry. Author of
" Centenary Sketch of Buchiyvie Congregation."
-th Jdnnista-. — ^jAitES Bexry. from Glasgow (Gillespie Church). Ordained 2d«
BLAIRLOGIE.
Blairiogie is a hamlet in the parish of Logie, Stirlingshire, 3 imles north-east of
Stilling, and 4 west of Alva.
The drarcfa and parish of Ix>de becime vacant by the death of the Rev. Patrick
Dudiall in 1758. Both the Earl oi Dunmore and John Eiskine, Esq. of Camock.
advocate, claimed the right of patronage. A presentation from each in favour of
Mr James Frame, preacher in Alloa, with Mr Frame's letters of acceptance, was
tested against both presentations. Mr Frame finding a formidable opposition
threatened him in Logie. and obtaining a presentation to another parish, sent a
c(xnmanication to the Presbytery, renouncing the presentations of both claimants
to the patronage. In Febniary 1759 a petition was presented, signed by several
heritCHS and all die elders, craving a moderation of a call to Mr William Cruden,
nnnister erf" Logiepert (afterwards ReUd" minister of .Albion Street, Glasgow), on
the ground that the right of presentation had lapsed to the Presbyterj- by xhtjus
dtwlutum, and that, as a matto" of course, they would allow the people to make
choice of a minister for themselves. The Presbytery, being given to understand
that Lord Dunmore would persist in exerdsbg what he considered his right, delayed
642 The United Presbyterian CJiiirch.
giving deliverance on the petition till next meeting. At that meeting two presenta-
tions were given in — one by Captain Robert Haldane of Plean, to whom Mr Erskine
had disponed his right, in favour of Mr Cruden, the object of the people's choice,
along with his acceptance of it ; and the other by the Earl of Dunmore, in favour
of Mr James Wright, probationer. The Presbytery referred the case to the Synod
of Perth and Stirling, who decided that the right of presentation had fallen to the
Presbytery by the jus dcvolutum, which the agent for Lord Dunmore would not
allow, and appealed to the General Assembly. That court, 1760, reversed the
decision of the Synod, and ordered Mr Wright's settlement as minister of Logie to
be effected without delay. The reclaimants allowed the settlement to be proceeded
with without any further remonstrance or indication of disapprobation, except by
abstaining from giving it any countenance. Soon after it was effected, they began
to look about for a minister under whom they might place themselves, and having
made choice of one, requested the Presbytery of Relief, then recently formed, to
preside at his induction among them, to which they readily agreed, and in this way
the congregation came to be connected with that body of professing Christians.
The first church, built in 1762, was accidentally burnt to the ground in 1845, ^'^^
another built upon the same site the following year, containing 200 sittings.
\st Minister. — John Warden, previously minister of a Presbyterian congregation
in Cuderston, England. Admitted i6th June 1762. Died 29th December 1768.
The congregation made choice of the Rev. Alexander Pirie, previously minister
of the Associate (Burgher) congregation of Abernethy ; but the Presbytery refused
to receive him into connection, or allow his induction to Blairlogie. He assumed
the ministry of the congregation, notwithstanding, and presided over it from August
1770 till June 1778, when, having failed on a third application to be received into
connection with the Relief Church, he withdrew, and removed to Newburgh, in Fife,
where he died. {See "Abernethy, Second.")
2d Minister. — William Billerwell. Ordained 27th December 17S0. Trans-
lated to Dysart, January 1794.
3^ Mi)iistcr. — John Watt, from St Ninians. Ordained 25th December 1794.
Called in 1797 to Campsie, in 1798 to Glasgow (Dovehill), and in iSoo to Glasgow
(Hutchesontown), but remained in Blairlogie till 30th March 1809, when he was
translated to Old Kilpatrick.
4/// Minister. — William Anderson, from Glasgow (Dovehill, now Cathedral
Street). Ordained 24th April 1810. Suspended 8th January 1850. Lived privately
in Auchterarder till his death, 9th May 1S55.
t^th Alinistcr. — William M'Laren, from Dennyloanhead. Ordained 12th
August 185 1.
ALLOA.
Alloa is a town and seaport on the north bank of the river Forth, Clackmannan-
shire, 5 miles west of Kincardine, and 7 cast of Stirling.
WEST, or BEDFORD PLACE.*
In consequence of some violent settlements that had taken place, and at the re-
cjucst of a number of persons resident in Alloa, the Rev. John Smith of Dunfermline
* For Alloa First (Townhcad), see " Presbytery of Dunfermline."
Presbytery of Stirling — St Ninians. 64;
preached in that town on the 9th April 1765. These persons soon after applied to
the Associate (Burgher) Presbytery of Dunfermline for regular supply of sermon,
assigning " the prevalence of Arminian doctrine in the Established Church " as the
reason for their application. The application was granted, and a church congre-
gated. First church built 1766. Renewed internally 181 1; sittings, 640. A
new church was opened by the Rev. Dr Cairns in 1864, with sittings for 630, at a
cost of ;^37oo. Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr Clunie,
who was appointed by the Synod to Dundee.
\st J/////>/er.— Thomas Waters, from Dalkeith (East). Ordained 19th April
1769. Died ist May 1809, in the 74th year of his age, and 41st of his ministry.
2d Minister. — William Eraser, previously of Crail. Admitted 7th June
iSio. Died 3d September 1853, in the 74th year of his age, and 51st of his
ministry.
Author of a pamphlet entitled, " Candid Reasons for not Joining Temperance Societies ;" "A
Manual for Christian Parents;" and "Three Sermons on the Nature and Extent of the Atone-
ment."
In 1852 the congregation called Mr John M'Farlane, who preferred a call to
Albion Chapel, London; and Mr D. M'Ewan, who preferred Cathcart Street, Ayr.
yi Minister. — John More, from Cairneyhill, of which his father was minister.
Called to Longridge, Troon, and Alloa. Ordained as colleague to Mr Eraser, 20th
April 1853. Died at Algiers, loth November i860, in the 31st year of his age,
and 8th of his ministry.
^tJi Minister. — John Mitchell Harvey, M.A., from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Ordained 24th December 1861. Called to Glasgow (St Vincent Street),
in June 1864, but declined the call. Translated to Edinburgh (College Street), 21st
May 1867.
^th Minister. — John Young, previously of Ford. Admitted 30th June 1S6S.
ST NINIANS.
St Ninians is a village in the parish of the same name, Stirlingshire, i] miles
south of Stirling.
The church and parish of St Ninians having become vacant in 1766, Sir T.
Stuart of Allanbank, as patron, presented the Rev. David Thomson of Gargunnock
to the church. Mr Thomson was old and infirm at the time, and the great body of
the parishioners, feeling indignant at what they considered an aftront oftered them
by this presentation, set themselves determinedly to prevent if possible his settle-
ment among them. The General Assembly, 1767, ordered the Presbytery to pro-
ceed with his induction according to the rules of the Church. The Presbytery, how-
ever, by whom the task imposed was felt to be a very disagreeable one, managed
by various schemes to defer compliance with the injunction year after year, till
1773, when the General Assembly ordered them to fulfil this duty without fail on a
specified day. Most of the members had become disgusted with the presentee, on
account of the selfishness he had manifested in the business ; and on proceeding to
make arrangements for his induction, not one of them was willing to preach or
preside upon the occasion. At this juncture the Moderator, the Rev. Robert
Findlay of Dollar, undertook to introduce Mr Thomson to his charge. When the
day arrived, the church was crowded to excess. Mr Findlay ascended the pulpit,
gave out a psalm, and prayed, but in his prayer took no notice whatever of the
purpose for which they were assembled. He then, instead of preaching, as was
644 The Uiiitcd Presbyterian C/nirch.
expected, and as was usual on such occasions, called upon Mr Thomson by name,
who stood up in his place, and to whom he made the following singular address : —
"Sir, — We are met here this day by a former appointment of Presbytery, in obedience to tlie
same sentence of the General Assembly, to admit you minister of St Ninians — a sentence pro-
nounced by the highest form of ecclesiastical authority, that Assembly having assumed to themselves
higher power than the Parliament, by some profanely styled Omnipotent, that wise and august body
never enacting any laws without consent of the people. There has been a formidable opposition made
against you by 600 heads of families, 60 heritors, and all the elders of the parish, I believe, except
one. This opposition has continued for seven years by your own obstinacy ; and if you should this
day be admitted, you can have no pastoral relation to the souls of this parish. You will never be
regarded as being shepherd to go before the sheep"; they know you not, and they will never follow
you ; and let me assure you, dear sir, if you still persist iu your obstinacy, you will do more harm in
this parish than you could have done good in Gargunnock, though you had been to live there for an
hundred years ; and you will draw misery and contempt upon yourself ; you will be despised, you
will be hated, you will be insulted and maltreated. One of the most eloquent and learned ministers
of this Church told me lately that he would go twenty miles to see you deposed, and I do assure you,
sir, that I and twenty thousand more friends to our Church, would do the same You main-
tained a good character and reputation till your unhappy and obstinate adherence to this presenta-
tion. And now, bending under the Weight of years and infirmities of old age, what happiness can
you propose to-yourself in this mad, this desperate attempt of yours, without the concurrence of the
people, and without the least prospect of usefulness in this parish ? Your admission into it, therefore,
can only be regarded as a sinecure, and you yourself as a stipend-lifter of St Ninians
Now, sir, I conjure you, by the mercies of God, give up this presentation. I conjure you, for the
sake of the great number of souls of St Ninians, and by that peace of mind which you
would wish in a dying hour, and that awful and impartial account which in a little you must give to
God of your own soul and of the souls of this parish, at the tribunal of our Lord Jesus Christ, give
it up."
" Sir," said the presentee, when Mr Findlay had closed, " I forgive you for what
you have now said. May God forgive you ! Proceed to obey the orders of your
superiors." ''Then," said the Moderator, without having put any of the usual
questions, which form he regarded as useless, or worse than useless, in this case, " I,
as Moderator of the Presbytery of Stirling, admit you, Mr David Thomson, to be
minister of the parish of St Ninians, in the true sense and spirit of the late sentence
of the General Assembly, and you are hereby admitted accordingly." He then
prayed, but neither noticed patron, presentee, nor Presbytery, and after singing a
few lines of a psalm, dismissed the congregation.''^
In consequence of this outrageous settlement, the great body of the parishioners
of St Ninians who had been in connection with the Established Church withdrew
from it, and of 21 elders, only one remained. They immediately after applied to
the Relief Presbytery of Glasgow to be taken under their inspection as a forming
congregation ; and in compliance with this request, the Rev. Mr Boston of Falkirk
was appointed to preach at St Ninians on the 14th July 1773. Church built the
same year; sittings, 1340.
ist Minister. — Patrick Hutchison, M.A., from Dunblane (Second Secession).
Acceded to the Relief Church while a student of theology in connection with the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod, and on the eve of taking license as a
probationer. Officiated sometime as assistant to the Rev. Mr Baine of South College
Street, Edinburgh, but without ordination. Admitted to St Ninians, 19th November
1774. Moderator of Relief Synod in 1781. Translated to Paisley, 22d May 17S3.
2d Minister. — James Cross, previously of Biggar. Admitted 2 2d April 17S4.
Moderator of Relief Synod, 1798. Died March 1803, in the 22d year of his
ministry,
3^ Minister. — James Logan, M.A., previously of Balfron. Admitted to St
Ninians, 1803. Moderator of Relief Synod in 1S13. Died 4th October 1S41, in
the 75th year of his age, and 44th of his ministry.
4i/i Minister. — Robert Frew, D.D., from Perth (East), of which his f^ithcr
* Sec " History of the Secession," by Rev. Dr M'Kerrow, e.l. 1S41, pp. 321 -324.— Eds.
Presbytery of Stirling — Tillicoultry. 645
was minister. Called to Auchtergaven and St Ninians. Ordained as colleague to
Mr Logan 25th November 1835. Had the degree of D.U. conferred on him by
the University of St Andrews, November 1856. INIoderator of United Presbyterian
Synod, 186S. Editor of Barnes' Notes on Daniel, Isaiah, the Psalms, and the
New Testament; contributor to Fairbairn's " Biblical Cyclopaedia," etc.
TILLICOULTRY.
This village is situated at the foot of the Ochils, county of Clackmannan, 2
miles east of Alva, and 3 miles west from Dollar.
In March 1739, several persons in the parish acceded to the Associate Presby-
tery, and placed themselves under the ministry of Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, Stirling,
At the formation of the first Secession congregation in Alloa, these persons were
included in it; but on the nth April 1797, the Seceders in Tillicoultry, Alva,
and Clackmannan were, on petition, disjoined from Alloa and formed into a
separate congregation, 27th March 1798, the locality of which was Tillicoultry.
The first church was built in 1797 ; second church, 1840; sittings, 600.
\st Minister. — William Breingan,* previously of Peebles. Admitted ist Oc-
tober I So I. Deposed 8th September 1807. Died 15th January 1827.
The congregation after this called Mr Craig, whom the Synod appointed to
Kinkell.
2d Minister. — Archibald Browning, from Strathaven (East). Ordained in
Alloa, as more convenient, for Tillicoultry, 22d January 1818. Resigned 29th
March 1825. Mr Browning conducted a boarding establishment in Tillicoultry
after his resignation, and while in that capacity was called to Dunfermline (Queen
Anne Street), 1830, but declined the call. In consequence of a change of religious
opinions, Mr Browning withdrew from the Secession Church in 1841, and began
preaching in the place of worship previously occupied by the Seceders. He died
6th February 1858, in the 73d year of his age.
Author of " Review of Three Texts of Scripture;" a sermon " On Temperance;" " The Ob-
structions to Popular Freedom;" and an "Apology for Withdrawing from the United Associate
Church." »
T^d Minister. — Robert Allan, from Linlithgow (East). Called to Stronsay,
Kilwinning, and Tillicoultry. Ordained 15th August 1826. Deposed 25th March
1829. Removed to Edinburgh, where he kept a school. Died 26th August 1S55,
in his 6 1 St year.
After this the congregation called Mr Sutherland Sinclair, who was sent by the
Synod to Greenock.
4/// Minister. — James Young, from Kinross (East). Ordained i8th August 1831.
Resigned his charge in May 1843. Removed to Edinburgh, and lived privately
there till his death on 20th March 1865, in the 65th year of his age. After his
removal to Edinburgh, Mr Young joined the Free Church. He edited a volume
of sermons, with memoir, by Rev. R. Buchanan, Dalkeith, and the " Countess of
Mar's Arcadia." He was author of " The Future Era in the Mediatorial Reign of
Christ;" "A Charge to Rev. John Macint>Te, Greenloaning, 1841." His chief
work, "The Life of John Welsh," was published after his death, with a memoir of
]\Ir Young prefixed.
^th Minister. — George Hunter, from Dundee (Tay Square). Called to Girvan,
* Sometimes written Braynion. — Eds.
646 The United Presbyterian Church.
Tarbolton, and Tillicoultry. Ordained 20th August 1844. Died 2d March 1 87 1,
in the 63d year of his age, and 27th of his ministry.
The congregation called Mr George L. Carstairs, but he preferred Glasgow
(Berkeley Street Church).
6/// Minister. — William Galletly, superintendent of the Edinburgh City
Mission, and previously minister in Peterhead. Admitted 9th July 1872.
CLACKMANNAN.
Clackmannan is the county town of Clackmannanshire, 2 miles east of Alloa,
and 2>\ ^^'^^^ ^^ Kincardine.
The Rev. Mr Oswald, minister of Clackmannan, being old and infirm, it was
proposed, in 1788, to afford him an assistant, Mr Oswald to pay one half and the
people the other half of the expense thus incurred. The heritors made choice of
Mr Moodie, afterwards minister of the parish, but the people were decidedly
opposed to him. The Presbytery took up the case, and decided in accordance
with the heritors' wishes. Mr Oswald, who was present, declared he would allow
neither Presbytery nor heritors to impose an assistant upon him ; and that, in
despite of both, he would make choice of any one he pleased. In the spirit of this
resolution, he took Mr Mushet, whom he knew the people preferred ; and, by way
of introducing him, preached on the forenoon of Sabbath, the young man occupying
the pulpit in the afternoon. But alas ! before the return of the next Sabbath, Mr
Oswald had been relieved by death from the need of all assistance ; and the event
which removed him from all strife, brought his people again into the midst of it.
Those of them who had taken interest in the matter petitioned the Presbytery
to allow Mr Mushet to preach during the six months he had been engaged, but the
request was at once refused. The heritors, still feeling chagrined at being defeated
on the former occasion, resolved on obtaining their object now, and with this view
united in a memorial to the patron. Lord Dundas, now Earl of Zetland, in favour of
Mr Moodie, who issued a presentation accordingly. The people, strong in their
attachment to Mr Mushet, still clung to him, requested him to withdraw from the
Established Church, and pledged themselves to secede with him. To this he
seemed inclined, and took a step which appeared to them to point in this direction,
by preaching several Sabbaths to them in the open air. By the advice of his uncle,
one of the ministers of Stirling, he, however, continued his adherence to the Esta-
blished Church, and afterwards became minister of a parish in the north of Scotland.
Those who had rallied round him were not disposed to follow his example in this
respect, but, on the contrary, as soon as they found he had deserted them, they
applied for and obtained regular supply of sermon from the Relief Presbytery of
Edinburgh. Church built 1788 ; sittings, 450 ; altered and repaired in 1854, at an
expense of above p/^200 ; sittings, 270.*
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called the Rev. Mr Thomson
of Beith, who declined the call.
\st Minister. — David Lindsay. Acceded to the Relief Synod while a student
in connection with the Established Church, when on the eve of license. Ordained
3d September 1789. Died 21st October 1834, in the 78th year of his age, and
4Cth of his ministry.
* An old stone set up beside the wall of the cliurcli bears tlic inscri]ition — " Tliis Relief House
was built at the expense of this Congregation, Anno Dom. l7Si>. Soli Deo Honor ct Gloria." — Eds.
Presbytery of Stirling — Bannockburn. 647
2d Minister. — Jaimes Miller, from Dunse (South). Ordained 25th December
1834. Loosed from his charge 1841. Joined the Estabhshed Church, and became
minister of a congregation in that connection in Eerwick-upon-Tweed.
id Minister. — William Brown, previously of Leitholm, Berwickshire. Ad-
mitted 15th January 1842. Resigned his charge, on account of faiHng health, 2d
April 1867. Died 4th May i868, in the 63d year of his age, and 33d of his
ministry.
d,th Minister. — Andrew Whyte, M.A., previously of South Ronaldshay.
Admitted 17th December 1867.
BANNOCKBURN.
Bannockburn is a village in the parish of St Ninians, Stirlingshire, near the
famous battlefield, 2 miles south-east of Stirling, and 9 north-west of Falkirk.
The patron presented the Rev. James Mackie of Forteviot, in 1733, to the
church and parish of St Ninians, then vacant. This person had rendered himself
highly obnoxious, not only to all the Seceders in Scotland, but to all members of
the Established Church who deprecated the Secession, by a violent speech which
he made in the Synod of Perth and Stirling when supporting the motion of the Rev.
Adam Ferguson of Logierait to censure the sermon which the Rev. Ebenezer
Erskine had preached as ex-Moderator in 1732. Few persons could be found to
sign his call, and the Presbytery refused to sustain it. A committee of the General
Assembly was appointed to admit him, and when they met, the Presbytery refused
to give their countenance to " the clandestine meeting," only three of their number
attending.* Nevertheless, most of his parishioners submitted to his ministry, and
continued under it till he proceeded to read " The Porteous Act " from the pulpit,
and set their remonstrances against his conduct in this matter at defiance. In Feb-
ruary 1738, the parishioners of St Ninians, who had withdrawn from the Established
Church, formally acceded to the Associate Presbytery, and the Rev, Messrs Nairn
of Kirkcaldy and Erskine of Dunfermline held a fast with them, and preached to
them on the loth of May following. Mr Erskine's text on the occasion was
Exodus iii. 2, " Behold the bush burned with fire, and the busli was not con-
sumed." The collection amounted to fifty-one pounds Scots, equal to ^4, 5s.
sterling.
The kirk-session of St Ninians, instigated by their minister, \lx Mackie, de-
manded that the money thus collected should be paid over to them as the appointed
guardians of the poor, on the pretext that all monies received at the church doors
during public worship were available for the poor of the parish where the money
was raised. This demand not being complied with, an action was raised before the
Sheriff-Depute of Stirling at the instance of Henry Hill and Henry Row, box-masters
to the session and poor of St Ninians, against Thomas Baird, in Buckieburn, and
John Corsar, in Touchgorum ; Archibald Thomson, in Haltown ; Robert Russell,
in Canglor ; John Mathieson, in Livielands ; John Kerr, in Taylortown ; and A\'alter
Gichen, in Boburn, all elders of the said parish of St Ninians, and who had with-
drawn from the Established Church and acceded to the Associate Presbytery. The
claim \vas grounded on the 1 14th Act of James VL 1592, and Act 5th William and
* The Rev. John Wilson, in his " Presbytery of Perth," p. 109, states that Mr Mackie was a de-
cidedly Evangelical minister, and promoted the revivals at Cambuslang and other parts. He was
Moderator of Assembly in 1 751. — Eus.
648 The United Presbyterian Church.
Mary 1690, and Act 7th Queen Anne. The defences of the Seceders were, "That,
as the meeting libelled was not a parochial one, nor appointed by the Established
Church, the box-masters could no more claim the collection of it than they could
the collection of a meeting-house of any body of Dissenters within the parish, or of
any society or company meeting there, and giving charity at pleasure ; that the Acts
of Parliament and ecclesiastical ones cited in the libel were much mistaken and
misapplied in the present case, for ecclesiastical goods there mentioned were such
as were allocate and appropriate for sacred uses in the parish, as cups, basins, etc.,
used at sacraments, wliich, if misapplied or embezzled, might infer sacrilege ; these
fell under the administration of the elders and session, but not the box-masters, un-
less sj^ecially committed to their keeping ; that the collection was distributed to
objects in the parish, whether they joined in communion with them or not, even to
those who reckoned themselves of the Established Church, and never joined the
Secession, quite contrary to the practice of the present session and box-masters, wJio
excluded those altogether who did fiot Join the parish minister and them from their Just
share i7i the collection." The Sheriff-Depute having, upon the nth of August 1739,
considered the libel and dispute, " Ordained any on-e of the defenders to give their
oath of calumny, if insisted for ; repelled the defences in respect of the answers,
sustained the libel as relevant, and ordained the defenders to confess or deny the
extent of the sum collected, whether more or less than the ^5 libelled betwixt
and next court day." The defenders not compearing in terms of this interlocutor,
the Sheriff-Depute held them as confessed, circumduced the term against them,
and decerned ; that is, he decreed the Seceders should pay over the amount of the
collection to the Jcirk-session of St Ninians, which was equivalent to finding that
Dissenters have no right to retain the money collected at their places of meeting
for Divine worship, but are bound to hand over the same to the respective kirk-
sessions of the parishes where such collections are made, for the benefit of the poor
of these parishes. The defenders refused to acquiesce in this decision, and there"
fore brought the case by a bill of suspension before the Court of Session, and the
Lords sustained the reasons of suspension ; t^iat is, they reversed the decision of the
Sheriff-Depute of Stirling, and found that the sessions of the Established Church
have no right to interfere with the disbursements of money raised by Dissenting
congregations. The case is now known as that of Henry Hill, etc., t. Archibald
Thomson, etc., C. Home, No. 119, p. 190. The Seceders throughout Scotland
subscribed to defend it. In the minutes of the Praying Societies of Glasgow, now
represented by the United Presbyterian congregation of Greyfriars there, the fol-
lowing entry having reference to it occurs: — ^^ December G, 1738. — As there had been
collected for behoof of the adhering Society in St Ninians twenty-two shillings and
sixpence, the same was sent up with John Greig, for which he was to get a receipt."
Supply of sermon was continued to the Seceders in St Ninians as the Presbytery
could afford it, till October 1739, when, partly from the want of preachers, and their
consequent inability to supply all the demands made upon them, and partly and
chiefly from the little need of fostering care the Seceders in St Ninians required,
compared with those in other places, because of their proximity to Stirling, it was
withdrawn, and the persons to whom it had been afforded persuaded to become
part of Mr Erskine's session and congregation. " The Breach " divided the Seceders
in Bannockburn, and prevented their formation as a congregation at an early period.
Those of them who adhered to the Associate (Burgher) Synod, often expressed a
desire to have a place of worship in their own locality, but it was not till 1797 that
Presbyteiy of Stirling — Alva. 649
they found themselves able to carry this desire into effect, which they did by erect-
ing one under sanction of the Presbytery.
Having taken possession of their church, and been regularly organised as a con-
gregation, they proceeded to select a pastor, and made choice of Mr Thomas
Brown, who was appointed by the Synod to Dalkeith. Chagrined by this dis-
appointment, and influenced by some active promoters of " The Old Light
Controversy" then raging, they withdrew as a body from the Associate Synod,
and placed themselves under the inspection of "The Original Associate (Burgher)
Synod," — those not concurring in this course having withdrawn and reconnected
themselves with the first Secession congregation, Stirling. The congregation thus
formed obtained a -minister from the denomination under whose inspection they
had placed themselves, who died in 1832. The congregation had been declining
some time previous to his death. "The Voluntary Controversy" was at its height
when that event took place, and the persons still in adherence were divided in their
sentiments in reference to the question involved in that controversy. When called
to consider the course they ought in these circumstances to pursue, it was deemed
expedient to dissolve the congregation, and dispose of the property belonging to it,
which was accordingly adopted.
In 1 83 1, about a year before the incidents last referred to took place, while as
yet there was no quoad sacra church in Bannockburn, and no place of worship in
the parish in connection with the denomination to which many of the inhabitants
belonged, a meeting was convened for the purpose of ascertaining how this desi-
deratum might be supplied. About twenty persons attended, part of whom were
Seceders, and part belonged to the Established Church — the former predominating.
The resolution for having a self-supporting church in Bannockburn being adopted,
the question was discussed as to whether it should be Presbyterian or Independent.
The majority decided in favour of the fonner, and this decision was carried into
effect by an immediate application to the United Associate Presbytery of Stirling
and Falkirk for supply of sermon, which was readily granted. The place of wor-
ship belonging to the Original Associate congregation being for sale, was purchased
by the newly-formed (or rather the restored Associate) congregation of Bannockburn,
which, but for the lack of preachers, and the proximity of the place to Stirling, would
have been in existence from the commencement of the Secession. The place of
worship, which was built in 1797, was renovated internally in 1837, at a cost of
^468 ; sittings, 450.
\st Minister. — \NuAAK-^i Smith, from Kirkwall. Ordained i6th April 1S39.
Drowned while bathing in the Bay of Aberdeen, 14th August 1858, in the 46th year
of his age, and 20th of his ministry.
2d Minister. — James M'Owan, M.A., from Babeggie. Called also to Forfar
and Duntocher. Ordained 1 6th August 1S59. Translated to Perth (North) 20th
I\[ay 1861.
yi Minister. — Andrew Liddell Dick, from Paisley (Oakshaw Street). Or-
dained 25th February 1862.
ALVA.
Alva is a village in the parish of the same name, on tlie southern slope of the
Ochil Hills, Stidingshire, 2 miles west of Tillicoultry. 5 north-west of Alloa, and 6
north-east of Stirling.
This congregation originated with members of the Secession congregations of
650 The United Presbyterian C/mrck.
Alloa and Tillicoultry, principally of the latter, who were desirous of having a place
of worship in their own connection more conveniently situated for them than those
they were accustomed to attend. They were persuaded that there was not only
room, but need, for another church in Alva, which had been rapidly growing by the
introduction and extension of the woollen manufactures, and accordingly applied for
and obtained supply of sermon from the United Associate Presbytery of Stirling
and Falkirk, 1839. A site was obtained from James Johnstone, Esq. of Alva, and
a place of worship containing 600 sittings built thereon in 1842. A manse was
built in 1843, shortly after the erection of which, Mr Johnstone addressed a com-
munication to the minister, stating that no rate would be charged upon the manse
during his incumbency. In 1852, he further intimated that the feu-duty upon the
church and manse, amounting to between ;£,6 and ;£"], would be free so long as ike
Westminster Confession of Faith is the standard of the Church to which the congrega-
tion belongs. A new manse was built in 1873, the site of which was also the free
gift of Mr Johnstone.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Mr John Edmond, who
preferred Dennyloanhead.
\st Minister. — James Duncan, from Midcalder, of which his father was minister.
Called to Eyemouth, Lanark, and twice to Alva. Ordained 15th February 1843,
Demitted his charge 6th January 1857. Now living in Penicuik.
The congregation called Mr M. Crauford in August 1857, who preferred San-
quhar; Mr W. Salmond, B.A., August 1858, who preferred South Shields; and Mr
P. C. Duncanson, in February 1859, who preferred West Calder.
2d Mi?iister. — Andrew Gibb Fleming, from Strathaven. Called to Muirton
and Alva. Ordained 21st February i860. Translated to Paisley (Thread Street),
8th February 1870.
2,d Minister. — William Douglas Moffat, from Glasgow (Claremont). Or-
dained 4th October 1870.
BRIDGE OF ALLAN.
Bridge of Allan is a village in the parish of Logic, Stirlingshire, 3 miles north of
Stirling, and 3 south-east of Dunblane.
Till very recently, the Bridge of Allan was the merest hamlet, hardly worthy
even of that designation ; but its proximity to the mineral wells of Airthry rendered
it highly eligible for feuing, and the enterprise of its spirited proprietor has now
rendered it a place of considerable importance. Its sheltered situation and pic-
turesque surroundings have led persons of different religious persuasions in the
country to frequent it, and others to make it their place of residence. Of the latter,
there were found in 1848 about 80 belonging to the United Presbyterian Church.
Of these, 40 belonged to the First congregation, Stirling, and 12 to the Second, 18
to the congregation of Dunblane, and the remainder to the congregation of Blair-
logie. These persons being desirous of having a place of worship in their own
connection in the growing village, in which most of them resided, applied for and
obtained supply of sermon from the United Presbyterian Presbytery of Stirling.
The Rev. John Steedman of Stirling opened the station by preaching in the
reading-room in the village on the fourth Sabbath of February 1848, and regular
supply of sermon was afterwards continued to it. It prospered greatly, and was
regularly organised on the 14th of November following, and thus became the first
congregation that was originated in The United Presbyterian Church. Five
Presbytery of Stirling — Dollar. 651
elders were soon after chosen by the congregation, four of whom had been previously
in office. Church built 1849 ; sittings, 350 ; galleries were added and general im-
provements made in 1868, at an expense of ^450 ; sittings now 450.
Before obtaining a fixed pastor, the congregation called Rev. Robert Mitchell,
of Old Kilpatrick Craigs, who declined the call.
\st Mi/lister.— ] AUKS MuiR, from Glasgow (East Campbell Street). Called to
Kirriemuir and Bridge of Allan. Ordained ist July 185 1.
DOLLAR.
A village in the parish of Dollar, Clackmannanshire, 3 miles east of Tillicoultry,
celebrated for its educational Institution.
About the year 185 1, John Millar, Esq. of Sheardale began mission work in
Dollar by opening a Sabbath-school during the summer months. The school pros-
pered, but was given up on his return to Edinburgh in winter. Next year he
directed his efforts on behalf of young men and women. Two old houses were
fitted up as a hall, but were insufficient to hold those that attended. Mr Millar
afterwards secured the services of a missionary, Mr Robison, whose work extended
over four years, till his death. Other two missionaries followed in the footsteps of
]\Ir Robison. A \veekly prayer-meeting was kept up for several years, with Sabbath
meetings for young men. A Band of Hope, an Abstinence Society, and Savings'
Bank were part of the machinery of the mission. For about ten years there was a
Sabbath-evening service kept up in the hall, when the missionary or ministers and
laymen gave addresses, while a Sabbath-afternoon service for those that would not
appear in church was well attended.
On the 28th July 1868 the Rev. John Paterson, residing in Dollar, presented
a petition to the Presbytery of Stirling, subscribed by himself and a few friends,
desiring the Presbytery to take the oversight of the mission at Dollar, and stating
that Mr Millar had offered the hall for the purposes of the mission free of all charge.*
The Presbytery agreed to the request. Application was accordingly made to the
Home Board for a grant to aid the mission, when the Board granted ^^50 per
annum, it being understood that the work should be prosecuted with a view to
the formation of a permanent congregation. The friends in Dollar promised to raise
a like sum, and Mr James Stephens, of the fourth year at the Hall, was appointed
the missionary for twelve months. The mission prospered greatly under Mr Stephens,
and was much beholden to the Rev. John Paterson, who shared the ministerial
labours of the pulpit with the missionary, and all along helped forward the cause.
The station was supplied by preachers after Mr Stephens became a probationer.
An application to the Presbytery to be erected into a congregation was made in
February 1870; and the station was congregated, with 51 members, on the 7th
June 1870. Elders were ordained on 25th December 1870.
Before obtaining a settled minister, a call was given to INIr John Boyd, INLA.,
preacher, who preferred Wemyss Bay.
1st Minister. — William Bruce Robertson Wilson, from Irvine (Trinity
Church). Ordained 23d January 1872.
* Besides the hall, Mr Millar gave to the congregation property in its vicinity of the value of
£2^ per annum.
PART THIRD.
LIST OF STUDENTS OF THEOLOGY.
THEOLOGICAL HALL OF THE ASSOCIATE TRESBYTERY.*
Session 1741 — 4 Sliidcuts.
Christie, Thomas, from Abernethy. Licensed
1745. Adhered, as a probationer, to the
General Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at
"The Breach," 1747. Called in 1761 to
Mackrochel, in Ireland, but declined the
call, and continued to act as a probationer
till his death.
Reid, John. Did not complete his curriculum.
Followed a secular calling. Elected Clerk
of the Associate Synod at its formation,
1745, and continued in the same capacity
by the General Associate (Antiburgher)
Synod, to which he adhered at "The
Breach," 1747, the only instance of a lay-
man holding this office.
Thomson, Andrew. Mearns.
Whyte, John. Dunse (East).
Professor WILSON'S Class.
The Rev. William Wilson, M.A., Perth, was
appointed Professor of Theology, 5th No-
vember 1736, and died in 1741.
Session 1737 — 6 Students.
Abercrombie, Robert. Went to America.
Clarkson, Andrew. Craigmailen.f
Gib, Adam. Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Hunter, John. Gateshaw, Stitchel.
liUTTON, William. A.M. Stow.
Smyton, David. Kilmaurs.
Session 173S — 6 Students.
Ballantyne, Thomas. Sanquhar.
Christie, James, from Muckart. Licensed
December 1741- Adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at "The
Breach," 1747, as a probationer, and died
1758, while acting in that capacity.
Cl. eland, John. Llolm of Balfron.
Gillespie, Thomas. Dunfennline (Gillespie
Church).
Horn, David. Cambusncthan.
Johnston, James. Dundee.
Session 1739 — 6 Students.
Brown, George. Perth (North).
Campbell, William. Ceres.
Erskine, Henry. Falkirk.
Ekskine, John. Leslie.
Macara, John. Eurntshields.
SoMERViLLE, TiiOMAS. Newcastle,
Session 1 740—6 Students.
Archibald, Robert. H.addington.
IW.ACK, Andrew. Cumbernauld.
Loch, Walter. Died while under call to
Stitchel and Haddington.
IMatthew, Patrick. Klidholm.
Murray, George. Lockerbie.
Scott, James. Morcbattle,
* The names given in these tables .ire those of stiiJcnts entering the H.iU for the first time, hut not of the students
of more than one year's standing. — Eds.
t [When the name of a place or church stands opposite a student's name, it indicates the congregation in which the
student was settled as a minister.]
Professor MONCRIEFF'S Class.
The Rev. Alexander Moncrieff, M.A.,
Abernethy, was appointed Professor of
Theology, 1742. Adhered to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod at " The
Breach," 1747, and continued as Professor
under the General Associate Synod,
Session 1742— 6 Students.
Innes, Henry. Ceased attendance in his second
year.
Jarvie, John. Perth (South).
Murray, John, went to America.
PcjTTS, John. Kelso.
SwANSTON, John. Kinross (First).
Troup, Ale.xander. Elgin (First).
Session 1743 — 7 Students.
Bi.VTii, Alexander. Kinclaven.
Mair, William. Muckart.
Miller, Robert. Acceded to the Associate
Lists of S hide Jits of Theologi
65,
Synod while a theological student in con-
nection with tlie Established Church. Ad-
hered as a probationer to the General Assn-
ciate(Antiburn;her) Synod at "The Breach,"
'747) ^^ut never obtained a charge.
MoNCRiEFF, Matthew. Abernethy.
MoNCRiEFF, William. Alloa.
Paton, Isaac. Acceded to the Associate Presby-
tery while a student of theology in connec-
tion with the Established Church. Licensed
1745. Became minister of Templepatrick,
Ireland, and was the first Secession minister
ordained in that country. Adhered with his
congregation to the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Synod at "The Breach," 1747.
Subsequently emigrated to America, and
died there.
Wilson, David. Pathhead, Kirkcaldy.
Session 1744— n Students.
Clark, Thomas, M.D. Adhered as a student
of theology to the Associate (Burgher) Synod
at " The Breach," T747, and was among the
first of their licentiates. Called to Scone in
Scotland, and Ballybay in Ireland. Or-
dained at the latter place 1751. Missioned
by the Synod to America 1754. Declined
at that time to go thither, but peremptorily
ordered to do so in 1764, and removed ac-
cordingly, with 300 of his congregation, ami
became minister of Salem, New York. One
of his sons was an American judge.
Erskine, David, from Stirling (First), of which
his father was minister. Relinquished his
studies on account of ill-health superinduced
partly by the ardour with which he prosecuted
the study of abstract sciences, and partly by
the excitement produced by the interest he
took in the revivals at Cambuslang. Became
teacher in Morpeth, Northumberland, but
afterwards removed to Edinburgh, and died
there in 1800.*
Goodlet, John. Sanquhar (South).
Main, Thomas. Adhered as a theological
student to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at
"The Breach," 1747, and was one of their
first licentiates. Ordained at Ballerony,
Ireland, 1749.
Milligan, John. Urr.
MucKERSiE, John. Kinkell.
Smith, John. Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Stewart, Alexander. Adhered as a theo-
logical student to the General Associate
(Antiburgher) Synod at "The Breach,"
1747, and was one of that Synod's first licen-
tiates. Ordained at Newton-limavady,
Ireland, 1750.
* Dr Fraser, in liis " Life of Ebenezer Erskine,'" p. 495,
states that Mr David Erskine was a distinguished student
in literature, philosophy, and theology at the University
of Edinburgh. One of his father's most noted opponents
said, in reference to David Erskine, " That fanatic has a
son who will one day prove a bright ornament to the
Church of .Scotland." For several years he was a teacher
near Morpeth. He resumed his studie.s under Professor
Fisher in 1757, but never obtained license. He died in
Edinburgh in 1800, being upwards of 80 years of age. —
Eus.
Telfar, David. Bridge of Teith.
Watson, Mr.
Wright, James, licensed 1748. Suspended
for irregularly obtruding on Alnwick con-
gregation. See Dr George Brown's MS.
History.
Session 1745 — 5 Students.
Arrot, David, from Dumbarrow, of which his
father was minister. Adhered as a student
of theology to the General A.ssociate (Anti-
burgher) Synod at "The Breach," 1747.
Moderator of the first Irish Antibur-lur
Synod in 1788. Ordained at Markethill,
Ireland, 1749. Died 1807, in the 8311 year
of his age, and 58th of his ministry.
Bennet, John. Adhered as a student of the-
ology to the General Associate ( Antiburghe )
Synod at "The Breach," 1747. Died a
probationer.
Erskine, Ebenezer, third son of Rev. Ralpli
Erskine. Died 3d January 1747.
Forrest, David. Inverkeitliing.
Robertson, James. Adhered as a student of
theology to the General Associate (Anti-
burgher) Synod at "The Breach," 1747.
Called to Scone. Suspended from the
exercise of preaching while upon trials for
ordination because of deficient knowledge
of Systematic Theology. Placed under the
Presbytery of Dunfermline for further tuition.
Restored to his status as a preacher, but
never obtained another call.
Session 1746—10 Students.
Beugo, G.WIN. Adhered as a student of the-
ology to the Associate (Burgher) Synod at
"The Breach," 1747. Died while a i)ro-
bationer.
Bennet, James. St Andrews.
Blakely, Robert.
Carmichael, Robert. Coupar-Anfnis.
Dalziel, John. Earl.ston.
Erskine, James. Stirling (First).
Marshall, Tho.mas.
Ritchie, Mr.
Shirra, Robert. Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
Tennant, John. Adhered as a theological
student to the General Associate (.Anti-
burgher) Synod at "The Breach," 1747.
Ordained at Roseyards, Ireland, 1751. Re-
signed 1798, and died 1808.
Session I'ji^i—'j Students.
Chisholm, Hector. Logiealmond.
Jamieson, John. Glasgow (Duke Street).
M.vcKiE, Colin. Montrose (Mill .Street).
NiMMO, Ale.xander. Newcastle (Blackett
Street).
Ogilvy, Andrew. Wigtown.
Robertson, Colin. Relinquished the study of
theology for that of medicine, and becanie a
physician in Perth.
Walker, John. Dennyloanhead.
654
The United Presbyterian Church.
11.
GENERAL ASSOCIATE (ANTIBURGHER) HALL.
Professor ALEXANDER MONCRIEFF'S
Class.
The Rev. Alkxandkr Moncrieff, M.A., of
Al;emethy, was continued Professor of The-
ology by the General Associate Synod after
"The Breach," 1747, till his death in 1761.*
Session 1748 — 8 Students.
Arnot, Andrew. Midholm.
Bannatyne, William. Called to Logie-
almond ; but the call was not sustained by
the Presbytery because of some irregularity
in the procedure, and Mr Bannatyne with-
drew from the connection in consequence.
Brown, William. Craigdam.
Brydie, Matthew, from Alloa (First). Licen-
sed as a probationer, but never obtained a
settlement.
Gellatly, Alexander. Sent as one of the
Synod's missionaries to the United States,
1 753. Became minister of a congregation in
Octarara, Pennsylvania, and died there,
1761.
Kay, John. Pathhead, Kirkcaldy.
Proudp'oot, James. Sent as one of the Synod's
missionaries to the United States, 1754, and
became minister of a congregation in
Recquec.
Reid, Robert. Ordained at Ray, Ireland,
1752.
Session 1 749 — 5 Students.
LIeugh, John. Stirhng.
Hume, James. Ordained at Lisburn, Ireland,
1753, and died there, 1782.
Martin, James. Ordained at Bangor, Ireland,
1753. Sent as one of the Synod's mission-
aries to the United States, 1777.
Mitchell, James. Holm of Balfron.
Wilson, John. Methven.
Session 1 750 — 6 Students.
BuNYAN, Andrew. Howgate.
Burt, James. Cairneyhill.
Foote, Adam. Ceres.
Jekment, Richard. Peebles (First).
Law, Robert, from Burntisland. Ordained at
Donoughmore, Ireland, 1755, and died, 1793.
Oliver, William. Blackswell, Hamilton.
Session 1 75 1 — ^Students.
Alice, James. Greenock (Oakshaw Street).
Morrison, James. Norham.
Preston, Alexander. Logiealmond.
Robertson, John. Dalkeith (Back Street).
Session 1752 — 3 Students.
Dempster, Simon. Leslie (West).
Ferguson, John. Greenloaning.
Thomson, Thomas. Pathhead, Kirkcaldy.
* Besides the Professorship of Divinity, there was a
philosophical cl.iss established .at Abernethy, which was
usu.illy tauKht by a senior student. The class met for a
time in Kirkcaldy, and was ultim.itely removed to Edin-
burgh.— Eus.
Session 1753 — 5 Students.
Dowie, William. Licensed as a probationer,
but never obtained a settlement.
Henderson, Matthew. Sent as one of the
Synod's missionaries to the United States,
1758. Became minister of a congregation
in the town of Charteris, Pennsylvania, and
died there, 1795.
Hunter, Josiah. Falkirk (South).
Robertson, David. Licensed as a probationer,
1756, but never obtained a settlement.
Sprunt, Thomas. After itinerating some time
as a probationer, settled in Perth in busi-
ness.
Session 1754 — 6 Students.
Douglas, James. Stranraer.
Drysdale, James.
Graham, William. Whitehaven.
Herbertson, Thomas. Dumfries (Loreburn
Street).
Laidlaw, John. Beith (Mitchell Street).
Tait, John. Licensed 1759, but never obtained
a settlement.
Session 1755 — 7 Students.
Anderson, John. Lanark (Elsridgehill).
Ben NET, Thomas. Ceres.
Clark, Henry. Moyness. ■
Jameson, William. Kilwinning.
Mason, John, D. D., from Craigmailen. Sent
as one of the Synod's missionaries to the
United States, 1760. Became minister of
a congregation in the city of New York.
Cut off from the connection by the Synod,
1780, for advocating a reunion of the two
branches of the .Secession, and characteris-
ing the cause which led to "The Breach "
as "the dry, the fruitless, the disgracing,
and the pernicious controversy about the
]>urgess Oath."* Joined the Reformed
.Synod, and became one of its distinguished
members.
Murray, George. Lockerbie.
RiNTOUL, Patrick, from Perth (North). Li-
censed 1 761.
Session 1756 — 8 Students.
Buist, John. Greenock (George Square).
Cunningham, Robert. Dunbar (Second).
Leithhead, Walter. Cumbernauld (Second).
Mustard, David.
Oliver, Alexander. Craigmailen.
Pirie, Alexander. Abernethy (Second).
Reid, Laurence. Lauder (P'irst).
Watson, Robert. Errol.
Session 1757 — 7 Students.
Annan, Robert, from Ceres. Sent .as one of
the Synod's missionaries to the United
States, 1761. Became a minister in Phila-
delphia. Author of "Animadversions on
the Doctrine of Universal Salvation;" "The
" See Dr M'Kerrow's " History of the Secession,"
cJition of 1841, pp. 297, 314, 315, and 618, 619. — Eus.
Lists of Students of Theology.
655
Connection between Religion and Civil
uovernment.
Henderson, James. Rattray
Marshall, Willlvm, from Abemethy. Sent
as one of the Synod's missionaries to the
United States, 1764, and became minister
ot a congregation in Deprun, on the Forks of
the Delaware.
Ronald, William. Called to Ireland, but
declined the call, and never obtained an-
otlier.
Russell Thomas. Colmonell, Kilmarnock.
Scott, Andrew. Dundee (Bell Street)
Smart, John, from Pathhead, Kirkcaldy. Sent
to the United States as one of the Synod's
missionaries, 1761. Not having obtained
a settlement there, returned to this country
and continued to itinerate as a probationer, till
his death. Mr Smart was employed by the
Synod in conducting the Moral Philosophy
Hal?*'" ^°""'^'''''^" '^'^'^ ^'''^''' Theological
Sessiim 175S— 7 Students.
Anderson, John. Ordained in Belfast
Buchanan, Patrick. Nigg.
Drysdale, Richard, from " Muckart. Died
while a student.
Randles William. Called to Auchadowie
in Ireland, but declined the call, and never
obtained another.
Smith, Robert. Auchinleck.
Stevvart, James. Went out as missionary to
Pennsylvania.
Wotherspoon, Laurence. Haddington
(Second). "
Session 1759— 6 Students.
Arthur, Michael. Dumbarrow, Arbroath
Marshall, Andrew. Suspended for unsound
doctrine. Became a physician.
Mitchell, Andrew. Beith (Mitchell Street)
Murdoch, James. Enjoined by the Synod to
take license and proceed to Nova Scotia as
one of Its missionaries. While under this
appointment, received a call to Lisburn
Ireland, and was ordained there, but ordered
by the Synod immediately after to proceed
to his original destination, which he did,
1767- Shortly after was drowned in the
Misquodoboit.
Russell, James. Milnathort.
Young, Robert. Called to Coupar-Angus and
i-lgm ; but both calls were set aside on ac-
count of a complaint made against him by
the Presbytery of Perth and Dunfermline
He was afterwards called to Burntisland
but by so small a majority, that the call was
not sustained. He was subsequently de-
prived of his license on account of contumacy
3d May 1769. ■"
King Samuel Ordained at Tyrone, Ireland,
1765, and died there, 1S03 '
Moore, Samuel, Ordained at Aghadoey, Ire-
land, 1765. J> ^
Robertson, John. Jedburgh (Castle Street).
Session 1 76 1— 6 Students.
Bruce, Archibald. Whitburn.
Cleland, Thomas. Bo'ness (First)
A 'George, William. Midcahler
Marshall, William. Ordained in Phila-
delphia, 1765.
SoMMERViLLE, David. Strathaven (First).
Wilson, David. Lauder '
Session I'jGo—e, Students.
Greig, John. Sent as one of the Synod's mis-
sionaries to Pennsylvania.
Inglis, William. Dumfries (Lorebum Street).
T t "^ti"^ '^''l^* ^"^^ '-''"S'l' 'o'" ''"■'^e or four years by Mr
WHM.^'r^ A'"^"';^;^'''^" °*i ^'i-"""^' '"' '752, when Mr
Wilham Graham (Newcastle) became tutor. The other
f," h'''/h ,?'■^"'^''^'^ fj Smart were Messrs Robert Archi-
bald (Haddington) David Wilson (London). Dr John
M. ALason (New York), Alexander Pirie (Newburgh)
J^mes Bishop (Coupar-Angus), Isaac Ketchen (Nairn) —
II.
Professor WILLIAM MONCRIEFF'S
Class.
The Rev. William Moncrieff of Alloa was
appointed by the Synod to succeed his
father as Professor of Theology, 1762 and
held the office till his death ini/se.
Session 1762— 8 Students.
Barlas, James. Crieff.
Brown, Colin. Abemethy
Gibson, John. Licensed as a probationer, but
soon after turned to a secular callino-
Gray, John. Brechin (City Road). ''*
Harper, David. Johnshaven.
M'Quahae, James. Kendal.
Small, Thomas. Coupar-Ano-us
Young, John, D.D. Hawick (West).
Session 1763—4 Students.
Cowan, Robert. Appointed to proceed to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries
having obtained license with that v'ew after
two years' attendance at the Hall. Allowed
notwithstanding, to remain in this country'
Pie never, however, obtained any settlement
in the connection.*
Craig Thomas. Joined the Northumberland
Class of Presbyterians while a probationer
Whitby.
France, John. Buchlyvie.
HowiEsoN, Walter. Became minister of a
congregation in Ireland.
Session 1 764— 4 Students.
Duncan, Thomas. Elgin (First).
Grier, Alexander. Ordained at Hillhall
Ireland, 1769.
Hutchison, Patrick, M.A. St Ninians.
Renwick, John. Licensed as a probationer,
but never obtained a settlement.
Session 1765— 5 Students.
M'Dowall, John, from Stranraer (Ivy Place)
Ordained at Gilnakirk, Ireland, 1770, and
died there the following year.
MuiR, James, from Stranraer (Ivy Place) Re-
linquished the study of theology for that of
medicine, and subsequently went abroad as
a surgeon.
Pierson, James. Licensed after two years'
* He joined the Relief Church, and was settled in New-
castle in 1766, afterwards .n Colinsburgh, ,771. Left the
Relief along wuh his congregation in i775Vand claimed
6^6
TJie United Presbyterian Church.
attendance at the Hall, with the view of
proceeding to America as one of tlie Synod's
missionaries, but allowetl to remain at liome.
He never obtained a settlement.
Roger, John, from Muckart. Sent as one of
the Synod's missionaries to America, 1770,
and became minister of a congre^^atiuii in
the State of Pennsylvania.
Stewart, James, probationer.
Session 1766 — 2 Sliidads.
Darg, Thomas. Wick.
M'Leli.an, William, from North America,
and understood to have returned thither.
Session 1767 — 19 Sliidcnts.
Earlas, William. Dundee (Bell Street).
Bennett William. Forres.
Burton, John.
CowiE, George. Huntly.
Drysdale, William. Stranraer.
HowiESON, Alexander. Howford, Inverness.
Laing, William. Ordained at Newry, Ire-
land, 1780.
Mackie, John.
Mitchell, William. Buchan (Clala).
Morrison, David. Morebatlle.
Muirhead, John. Kelso.
Myres, John, probationer.
I'KINGLE, Francis. Ordained at Gilnakirk,
Ireland, 1772. Proceeded as one of the
Synod's missionaries to America, 1799.
Settled in Pennsylvania.
Proudfoot, John. Leith (Kirkgate).
Ramsay, James. Glasgow (Duke Street).
Simpson, Thomas. Kendal.
Smith, John. Sent as one of the Synod's mis-
sionaries to America, 1770.
Turnbull, John. Ayton (_West).
Young, John. Dumbarrow, Presbytery of Ar-
broath.
Session 1768—3 Students.
Clarkson, John. Ayr (First).
Clarkson^ James. Sent as one of the Syncd s
missionaries to America, 1772.
Wiiyte, John. Dunse (East).
Session 1769 — 5 Students.
Colquhoun, John. Whitehaven.
DowiE, Robert. Thurso.
Greig, Jamics. Newmilns.
HUTTON, John, from Greenloaning. Ordained
at Melisse, Ireland, 1779.
Imrie, James. Ordained at Arnhall, Ireland,
1773-
Session ij-jo—^. Sti/dents.
Bishop, James. Coupar-Angus (First).
Duncan, James, from Alloa (First). Turned
from the study of theology to a secular pro-
fession.
Logan, William. Sent as one of the Synod's
missionaries to America.
Scotland, Andrew, from Muckart. Turned
from the study of theology to a secular pro-
fession.
Session 1 77 1— 9 Students.
Anderson, John. Sent as one of the Synod's
missionaries to America, 17S8. Settled
near Pittsburgh.
ARCIIII3ALD, Francis, from Abernethy. Or-
dained at Newlonards, Ireland, 1777.
CULBKRT, John, from Ceres. After itinerating
some time as a probationer, turned to a
secular calling, and died, in 1827, in
Cupar- Fife.
Fraser, James, from Alloa. Relinquished the
study of theology.
PuxTuN, James. Hamilton (Blackswell).
Robertson, James. Kilmarnock (Clerk's
Lane).
Thomson, Andrew. Sanquhar.
Whytock, George. Dalkeith (Back Street).
Young, Andrew. Grange.
Session 1772 — -13 Students.
Aitken, James. Kirriemuir.
Allan, Alexander. Coupar-Angus.
Barlas, William. Whitehill.
Blair, John. Kilmarnock (Colmoneli).
Brown, James, from Aberdeen. Died a pro-
bationer.
Carmichael, William. Ordained at Ahog-
hill, 17S0, and died there, 1797.
Colville, Robert. Lauder.
Goodwillie, David, from Leslie. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
1788. Became minister of a congregation
at Barnet, and afterwards Professor ot
Theology in Vermont, U.S. He was then
succeeded by his son, Dr Thomas Good-
willie, who died nth February 1867.
MiNTO, Walter, LL.D., from Edinburgh
(Nicolson Street). Turned to a secular
calling after itinerating some time as a pro-
bationer. Author of a " 'iheory of the
Planets," 1783; and joint-author, with the
Earl of Buchan, of a " Life of Baron Napier
of Merchiston," 178S, etc.
M'Ewan, James. Carlisle (Workington).
Pringle, Alexander, D.D. Perth (North).
Rutherford, Samuel, from Abernethy. Or-
dained at Nevvbliss, Ireland.
Taylor, James. Ayr.
Session 1773 — 2 Students.
Bell, John. Ordained at Hillhall, Ireland,
177S, and died there, 1792.
Fattison, James. Moniaive.
Session 1 7 74 — 5 Students.
Arrot, Andrew. Wick.
Drummond, James.
Gilbert, Adam. Ordained at Moira, Irclantl,
17S4.
Jamieson, John, D.D. lorfar.
Ketchen, "Isaac. Nairn.
Session 1775—8 Students.
Adam, William, from Dennyloanhead. Re-
linquished study, and entered the army.
Brown, Joseph, from Huntly. Died a pre)lia-
tioner.
Drysdale, John. Craigend.
Leslie, John. Relinquished the study of
theology, and taught a school.
Mailer, James.
M'MiLi.AN, Peter. Ordained at Ahoghill,
Ireland, 3 1 si October 178 1.
iMoRE, George. South Shields.
Wylie, James. Cabrach, Banffshire.
1
Lists of Students of Thcoloc^y
657
Session I'j'jiy — il Sliideiits.
Andrew, James. Shiels, Aberdeenshire.
Leveridge, Thomas, from Alloa. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
1783. Became minister at Cambridge, New
York, U.S., and died there of fever, 1798.
Chalmers, Robert. Haddington.
Gaij'iRAITH, Walter, from Ilolm of Balfron.
Called to Stewarton, in Scotland, and to
Larne, Isle Magee, Newtonards, and Lon-
derry, Ireland. Ordained at Londonderry,
1784, and died there in 1810.
Grahame, James. Rothesay.
Imrie, Andrew. Milnathort.
M'Ara, John. Pathstruie.
Rattray, John.
Scott, George. Left off study.
Thomson, Thomas. Kirkcaldy.
Waddel, David. Cabrach, Banffshire.
Session iTII — 15 Students.
Biggar, James. Urr.
Breignan, William. Peebles.
BuNYAN, John. Whitehill.
Bunyan, James. Keith.
PIepburn, William, from Kinkell. Did not
complete his studies.
Hay, James. Alyth.
Jerment, George, D.D. London (Oxendon
Chapel).
Laing, Robert. Dunse (East).
Loudon, William, from Urr. Relinquished
the study of theology, and betook himself
to the cultivation of his paternal estate, in
the parish of Urr, and died there in 1831.
M'Aul, William. Aberdeen (Belmont Street).
Moncrieff, Alexander. Muckart.
Morrison, John.
NicOLSON, John, from Loreburn Street, Dum-
fries. Ordained as minister of the united
congregations of Larne and Isle Magee,
Ireland, 1785. Translated to Belfast, and
died there.
Ogilvie, Alexander. Wigtown.
Taylor, Patrick. Ceres.
Session 17 78 — 4 Students.
Balmain, William, from Abernethy. Relin-
quished the study of theology for that of
medicine, and afterwards emigrated as sur-
geon with the hrst colonists for New South
Wales.
Bruce, John.
Cunninghame, William. Ordained at Ray,
Ireland.
Smith, Thomas, from Urr. Appointed one oi
the Synod's missionaries to America, but
declined. Called to Peterhead, but the
call was withdrawn on account of his health.
Session 1779 — 14 Students.
Boucher, James. Cumbernauld.
Browning, James. Auchtennuchty.
Grimmond, James. Coupar Angus (Relief).
Ingram, Alexander, M.A. Relinquished the
study of theology. Became teacher of arith-
metic and mathematics in the High School,
Leith, and an elder in St Andrew's congre-
gation there. Author of treatises on arith-
metic, mathematics, etc.
Mair, Thomas, from Muckart, of which his
father was minister. Relinquished the study
of theology for that of medicine. Became
surgeon of a merchant ship, and died at sea.
M'Vitie, John. Greenlaw.
MucKERSiE, James. Alloa.
Primrose, John. Grange.
Puller, William. Holm of Balfron.
Scott, Christopher. Went to Nova Scotia.
SoMMERViLLE, WiLLiAM, from Muckart. Re-
linquished his studies on account of ill
health.
Stewart, Thomas. Strathaven.
Wilson, William, from Craigmailen. Died
while a student.
Wilson, William, from Urr. Ordained at
Clenanees, Ireland, 1789.
Session 1780—5 Students.
Law, James, from Donachmire, Ireland, of
which his father was minister. Died while
a student.
Mayor, James.
Moore, James.
Peddie, Andrew.
Rintoul, James, from Kinkell. Became minis-
ter of Ray, in Ireland, 23d June 1 791.
Session 178 1 — 13 Students.
Arthur, William, from Peebles (First), of
which his father was minister. Emigrated
to America immediately after taking license.
Balfour, Alexander. Lethendy.
BL.A.CK, Richard. Perth (North).
Cree, John, from Perth (North). Sent as one
of the Synod's missionaries to America,
1790, and became minister of a congregation
in the State of New York.
Ferrier, William, D.D. Paisley (Oakshaw
Street).
Knox, William, from Errol.
M 'Donald, James. Dubbieside.
M'Farlane, Frederick. Montrose (Mill
Street).
Ogilvie, Andrew, from Wigtown, of which
his father was minister. Ordained at large,
after itinerating some time as a probationer,
with the view of dispensing the sacraments
in Orkney and other remote places, but
never obtained a settled charge. Died in
June 1835, in his 74th year.
Ogilvie, Alexander. Wigtown.
Whyte, Archibald. Sent as one of the
Synod's missionaries to America, 1 789.
Williamson, David. Whitehaven.
Young, William. Emigrated to America
while a student, and became a teacher in
the city of New York.
Session 1782 — 4 Students.
Armstrong, Alexander. North Shields.
Fallhouse, John, from Thornhill. Died while
a student.
Gourlay, John, from Whitburn. Completed
his course, but not licensed.
M 'Gregor, James Drummond, D. D. ,from Com-
rie. Licensed before com pletinghis theological
course with the view of proceeding to Ame-
rica. Called to Craigdam, Aberdeenshire,
but not allowed to accept the call because
of the Synod's previous appointment. Or-
dained at large, 1786. Became minister of
a congregation in Pictou, Nova Scotia. Re-
ceived the degree of D.D, from the Univer-
658
The United Presbyteria7i Chu7'cJi.
sity of Glasgow. Died 3d March 1830, in
the 71st year of his age, and 45th of his
ministry.
Session 1 7S3 — 3 Students.
Bell, William. Crieff.
Black, David, D.D. Dunfermline (Chal-
mers Street).
Miller, James. Arbroath (Grimsby Street).
Session 1784 — 8 Students.
Fairbairn, James, from Earlston (East). Died
while a probationer.
GiLFiLLAN, Samuel. Comrie.
Parker, John. Greenlaw.
Paxton, George, D.D. Stewarton.
Pringle, James. Kinclaven.
Robertson, Moses. Ceres.
Wilson, David. Pittenweem.
Young, Thomas. Ford (Relief).
Sesiion 1785 — 9 Stndents.
Blair, Thomas. Cairneyhill.
Clark, Alexander. Ordained at Lylehill,
Ireland.
Clark, James. Dalreoch.
Fergusson, John, from Thomhill. Died while
a probationer
Forsyth, Robert. Craigend.
Howie, James.
M'Bain, ^neas. Inverness.
Ross, David. Burntisland.
Thomson, John. Belford.
Session 1786 — 9 Students.
Archer, John.
Brown, John. Sent as one of the Synod's mis-
sionaries to Nova Scotia. Settled at London-
derry.
Dickie, William. Settled as a minister in
Ireland.
Grahame, William, from Glasgow (Ander-
ston).
Murray, John. Johnshaven.
Richards, William, from Ireland.
Smellie, John. Withdrew from the list of pro-
bationers ; taught a school in Alloa, and
died there.
Stewart, James. Strathaven.
Sy.me, William. Newcastle (Blackett Street).
in.
Professor ARCHIBALD BRUCE'S Class.
The Rev. Archibald Bruce of Whitburn was
appointed Professor of Theology by the
General Associate Synod, 1786, and held
the office till 1S04, when he withdrew from
the connection.
Session 1787 — 10 Students.
Bryce, James. Wick.
Culbertson, Robert. Lcith (St Andrew's
Place).
Imrie, Robert. Kinkell.
Mitchell, John, D.D. Glasgow (Welling-
ton Street).
Mitchell, James, from Beith (Mitchell Street),
of which his father was minister. Died while
a student.
Small, Andrew, from Abemethy. Called to
Whithorn ; but the call was set aside, and
he never obtained another. Died at Aber-
nethy, i6th April 1852, aged 85 years.*
Sommerville, Simon. Carnoustie.
Thomson, John. Dunse (East).
Wilson, Robert. Ayton.
Wood, Thomas. Rattray.
Session 1788 — 5 Students.
Banks, John, D.D. Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street).
Bennet, John.
Gray, James. Brechin (City Road).
Hogg, David-. Rothesay.
Watt, James. Deprived of his license while
under call to Ayr in Scotland, and Hillhall
and Dublin, Ireland, for having written a
pamphlet containing sentiments alleged to
be at variance with the principles of the
Secession Church. Studied medicine, and
became a surgeon in Ireland. Joined the
Baptists.
Session 1789 — 7 Students.
Fulton, Andrew, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Sent to America as one of the Synod's mis-
sionaries, 1797, and became minister of a
congregation in the State of Kentucky.f
Kirk, John. Balbeggie.
Meek, David. Muirton.
Robertson, Robert, from Glasgow (Duke
Street). Relinquished the study of theology,
and turned to a secular profession.
Robson, John. Cupar-Fiie.
Ronaldson, James. Ellon.
Ross, Duncan, from Alyth. Sent to America
as one of the Synod's missionaries, 1795,
and became minister of a congregation in
Nova Scotia.
Session 1790—10 Students.
Armstrong, Robert. Sent to America as one
of the Synod's missionaries, 1797. Became
minister of a congregation in the State of
Kentucky, and died there in 1801, in the
40th year of his age, and 6th of his minis-
try.
Arnot, James, from Auchtermuchty (North).
Relinquished the study of theology, and be-
came a teacher.
Brown, John, from Milnathort. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
1795, and became minister of a congrega-
tion in Londonderry, Nova Scotia.
Carmichael, James. Bo'ness.
Hunter, Henry, from Ireland. Ordained at
Hillhall, in that country, 1796.
Mackay, Robert, from Alloa. Died while a
probationer.
Methven, James. Cupar (Balmullo).
M'Crie, Thomas, D.D. Edinburgh (Hope
Park).
M'Ewen, William. Howgate.
Smith, Robert. Kilwinning.
Session 1791 — 10 Students.
Aedie, Petek, from Palhslruie. Died while a
student.
* This gentleman was commonly designated Dr Small,
from a mistaken belief that he had received the degree of
LL.D.— Eds.
t For detailed information regarding the settlements
and labours of those who emigrated as missionaries, see
" History of the Foreign Missions of the Secession and
United Presbyterian Church," by Rev. Dr M'Kerrow,
1867.— Eds.
Lists of Students of Theology.
659
Gardiner, James, from Hamilton (Blackswell).
Ordained at Newtonards, Ireland, iSoi.
Died 181 2, in the 38th year of his age, and
lith of his ministry.
Jameson, John. Methvcn.
Kerr, Andrew, from Dennyloanhead. Licensed
in his second year with the view of proceed-
ing to America as a missionary, but refused
notwithstanding. Turned to a secular call-
ing, and subsequently emigrated to America.
Mason, John M., D.D. Settled in New York.*
M'Caughty, George, from Ireland. Ordained
at Larne, in that country, 1799.
Stevenson, George, D.D. Ayr.
Wilson, William, from Ireland. Ordained
at Gilnakirk, in that country, 1797.
WiLLLSON, Archibald. Montrose (Mill
Street).
Session 1792— 8 Students.
Aedie, Andrew. Forfar.
Brownlee, James. Falkirk.
Campbell, Thomas. Ordained at Ahovey,
Ireland. Proceeded to America in 1806.
GiFFORD, John. Saltcoats.
Harper, Robert, from Ireland. Died while a
probationer.
Stark, James, D.D. Dennyloanhead.
Taylor, Peter. Ceres.
Young, James, from Methven. Withdrew
from the connection while a student, and
became a parochial teacher in Forfarsliire.
Session 1 793 — 6 Students.
Dunn, John. Greenock (George Square).
Glass, Laurence. Melrose (Midholm).
Milne, Thomas. Peterhead.
Muter, Robert, D.D. Glasgow (Duke
Street).
Sinclair, James. Stronsay.
Tod, William. Ordained at Lylehill, Ireland,
1798.
Session 1794— 13 Students.
AlTKEN, David, from Alyth. Died while a
student.
Beveridge, Thomas. Kinross (East).
Davidson, Alexander, from Dalkeith (Back
Street). Finished his course as a theologi-
cal student, but was refused license because
he was totally blind. Mr Davidson after-
wards became a public lecturer on chemistry,
and itinerated the country in that capacity.
He died in 1826.
Donnan, Alexander. Ordained at Gilnakirk.
Ireland, 1801, but subsequently proceeded
to America.
Duncan, Alexander, D.D. Midcalder.
Lauder, William. Larlston.
Monro, John. Nigg.
Shaw, Jt)SKPH, LL.D., from Alyth. Sent as
one of tlie Synod's missionaries to America.
Became minister of a congregation in Phila-
delphia, and subsequently professor of lan-
guages in Albany College. Died suddenly
at Philadelphia, 1825.
SiMSON, James. Thurso.
* Mason, John Mitchri.l, D.D., son of Dr M.nson
of New York, succeeded his father as minister of Cedar
Street, New York, April 1793 Professor of Theology to
Associate Reformed Synod : Principal of Columbia Col-
lege, and afterwards of Dickenson College. Died lolh
August 1S24. His " Remains"' were edited by Rev. Dr
Eadie. — Eds.
Simpson, Peter, from Haddington. Relin-
quished the study of theology, and became
a teacher in Edinburgh.
Taylor, Andrew, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Died while a student.
Wedderspoon, William, from Craigend.
Died while a student.
Young, Alexander. Logiealmond.
Session 1795 — 5 Students.
Broadfoot, William. Kirkwall.
Jakdine, George, from Thornhill. Licensed
as a probationer, but never ol4ained a settle-
ment.
M'Culloch, Thomas, D.D. Stewarton.
Millf:r, Robert.
Robertson, John. Rothesay.
Session 1']<^6~12 Students.
Bayne, Andrew. Dunbar.
PIume, William, from Auchtermuchty (North).
Sent to America as one of the Synod's mis-
sionaries, 1800, and became minister of a
congregation at Nashville, in the State of
Kentucky.
M'Gregor, Andrew. Buchlyvie.
M'Gregor, John. Ceased prosecuting his
theological studies, and became a teacher.
Melles, David. Leslie.
Paterson, James, probationer.
Smith, Alexander, from Auchinleck, of which
his father was minister. Called to Auchin-
leck, but died while on trials for ordination.
Stark, Thomas. Forres.
Templeton, James. Aberdeen (Belmont
Street).
Wilkinson, William, from Ireland. Or-
dained at Clenanees, in that country, 1801.
Williamson, Andrew, senior, from Abcr-
nethy. Became a teacher after finishing his
theological course.
Williamson, Andrew, junior, from Aber-
nethy. Became a teacher.
Session 1 797 — 6 Students.
Ross, Duncan, from Holm of Balfron. Turned
to a secular caUing, after finishing his theo-
logical course.
Gray, Thomas. Kirkcaldy (Pathhead).
Inglis, James. Melrose (Midholm).
Patrick, William. Lockerbie.
Shirra, Moses, from Thornhill. Turned to a
secular calling after finishing his theological
course.
Wallace, John. Dunblane.
Session 1798 — 10 Students.
Adam, William, from Dennyloanhead. Ceased
prosecuting his theological course, and
turned to a secular calling.
Be.^th, William. Perth ( Pi'tcaimgreen).
Dick, Tho.mas, LL.D. Stirling.
LouRiE, James. Abemethy.
Morrison, Walter, from Morebattle, of which
his father was minister. Joined the Estab-
lished Church while a student. Became
afterwards parochial minister of Gordon,
and subsequently of Morebattle.
Pringle, James. Newcastle (Clavering Place).
Ritchie, James, from Ayr. Drowned on his
voyage to America, while a student, in order
to hold a temporary situation as a teacher.
66o
The United Presbyterian CJiurch.
Robertson, Patrick. Ciaigdam.
Robertson, Robert, from Jedburgh (Castle
Street), of which his father was minister.
Left off prosecutins; his theological studies,
and sul)sequently became one of the editors
of the Times (London) newspaper.
Wilson, Andrew. Montrose (Mill Street).
Session 1799 — 10 Students.
Bartholomew, James, from Greenock (George
Square). Died while a student.
Clark, James. Jedburgh (Castle Street).
Fraser, Matthew. Dundee (Bell Street).
Lkishman, Robert. Kinross (East).
M'Gregor, William, from Rattray. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
and became minister in Nova Scotia.
Moffat, William, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Became minister of a congregation in Moira,
Ireland.
Moncrieff, James. Hamilton (Blackswell).
Shepherd, Peter, from Rattray. Abstained
from prosecuting his theological course, and
became a teacher.
Tod, John, from Ceres. Joined the Synod of
Original Seceders, by whom he was licensed.
Subsequently joined the Relief Church as a
probationer, but never obtained a settlement.
Young, Thomas. Norham.
Session 1800 — 12 Students.
Buchanan, Robert. Dalkeith (Back Street).
Cairns, William, LL.D. Johnshaven.
Dick, Alexander, from Pathstruie. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
1802. Became minister of a congregation
in Nova Scotia, and died there in 1812.
France, John. Kirriemuir.
France, Jamks. Moniaive.
Gemble, John, from Ireland. Became minister
of Clenanees, but afterwards emigrated to
America.
Gordon, Peter, from Brechin (City Road).
Emigrated to America as a probationer.
Became minister of a congregation in St
John's, New Brunswick, and died there
about two years after ordination.*
Hender.son, David, from Ceres. Died while
a student.
Mitchell, Hugh, from Methven. Abstained
from prosecuting his theological course, and
became a teacher in Perth.
Scott, William. Leslie.
Wilson, David. Balbcggie.
WiLLlsoN, A. Joined "The Constitutional Pres-
bytery," afterwards the Synod of Original
Seceders, while a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in that connection
in Birsay, Orkney.
Session 1801— 8 Students.
Barclay, George. Greenock (George Square).
lii.AiR, Adam. Ferryp6rt-on-Craig.
]}rownlee, William Craig, D.D. Became
minister of Reformed Dutch Church, New
'' In Dr M'Kerrow'.s "History of the Foreign Missions
of the United Piesbyterian Church," p. 72, there is a.
reference to Mr Gordon's ordination. A fuller notice of
liis life is given in l)r Robertson's "Missions to Nova
.Scotia," pp. 201, 256-58. Dr Roliertson quotes a letter
from Rev. Mr (>ray, of Hrechin, the minister under whom
lie was brought up. J'here is no allusion in it to his
having been ordained at Peebles, as stated on p. 221 of this
work. The information there given was accepted on the
authority of Dr George Lirown's MS. history.— Eus.
York. Died loth February i860. Editor
of 7Vie Protestant Vindicator.
Bruce, William. North Shields.
Clyde, James. Dumfries (Loreburn Street).
PIeugh, Hugh, D.D. Stirhng.
Leslie, Alexander. Milnatiiort.
Whyte, George, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Relinquished the study of theology
for that of medicine. Became a physician
in Edinburgh, and died there in 1832.
Session 1 802 — 12 Students.
Barclay, George, from Midcalder. Joined
the Independents while a student, and be-
came minister of a congregation in that con-
nection in lingland.
Bruce, Robert, D. D. , from Balbeggie. Emi-
grated to America while a probationer.
Became minister of a congregation, and
afterwards president of the Pittsburg Uni-
versity of Pennsylvania, U.S.
Bullions, Alexander, D.D., from Logieal-
mond. Sent to America as one of the
Synod's missionaries. Became minister of
Cambridge, New York, and Professor of
Theology in the college of that city, U.S.
Craig, Samuel, from Ireland. Became mini-
ster of Aghadoey, 1805.
Crawford, Robert. Kilmarnock (Auchin-
leck).
Inglis, David. Greenlaw.
Robertson, David. Kilmaurs.
Rodgie, Andrew. Hawick (West).
Stewart, William. Wick.
Stalker, Duncan. Peebles.
Thomson, James, D.D. Bo'ness.
Wylie, Andrew. Stromness.
Session 1803 — 6 Students.
Affleck, James. Muckart.
Aird, James. Rattray.
Anderson, David. Moyness.
Keir, John, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Proceeded to Nova Scotia soon after obtain-
ing license, on petition from the Presby-
terians in Halifax. Became minister of
Princetown, Royalty, and the adjacent settle-
ments in 1810. In 1827 became minister of
Princetown alone. Succeeded the Rev. Dr
M 'CuUoch as Professor of Theology in 1840.
Had the degree of D. D. conferred upon him
by one of the colleges of the United States.
Died 1 2th October 1858, in the 79th year of
his age, and 49th of his ministry.
M'Gauchie, James, from Moniaive. Licensed
as a probationer, but never obtained a
settlement.
M'Keachie, James, from Urr. Died while a
student.
The Synod did not appoint a successor to Mr
Bruce for three years after his withdrawal from
the connection, but during that time placed the
students under the inspection of Presbyteries.
Session 1S04 — A^o nav Students.
Session 1805 — 7 Students.
Darris, John.
Dk:ki:ns()N, Andrew. Abstained fiom ]irosc-
cuting his theological course. Conducted
an academy in London for some time, but
Lists of StiLcients of Theology
66i
subsequently resided in Edinburgh, and
edited an edition of the Classics.
Easton, William, from Greenock (George
Square). Called to Beith, but not ordained.
France, Andrew.
IIenning, David. Joined the Established
Church while a student, and became mini-
ster of a parish in Dumfriesshire.
Kerr, John.
Murdoch, John. Went to America.
Session 1806 — 8 Students.
Duncan, Stewart. Did not prosecute liis
theological course.
Gemble, Samuel, from Ireland. Ordained at
Rathcrnlaw, in that country, 1808.
Hay, William. Finished his theological
course, but did not receive license.
Hogg, William. Haddington (West).
Miller, James. Huntly.
Ritchie, John, D.D. Kilmarnock (Clerk's
Lane).
Robertson, David. Kilmaurs.
Taylor, John, from Leith (St Andrew's Place).
Did not prosecute his theological course.
IV.
Professor PAXTON'S Class.
The Rev. George Paxton, D.D., of Kilmaurs,
was appointed Professor of Theology by the
General Associate Synod, 1807, being re-
quired at the same time to resign his minis-
terial charge and remove to Edinburgh.
He held the professorship till 1820, when
he refused to join in the Union of the two
great branches of the Secession.
Session 1S07 — 9 Students.
Beattie, Samuel. Ordained at Ahvey, Ire-
land, 1809.
Carver, Robert, from Lethendy. Finished
his theological course, but not licensed.
Cranston, Robert. Morebattle.
GiLMOUR, Thomas. North Shields.
Martin, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Crossgar in that country.
Meikle, James, D.D. Beith (Mitchell Street).
Morison, Robert. Bathgate.
Reid, James. Sanquhar.
Renwick, James. iNIuirton.
Session 1808 — 14 Students.
Anderson, Laurence, from Inverleven. Did
not prosecute his theological course, and
became a teacher.
Barclay, George, from Midcalder. Died
while a probationer.
Bi.vth, James. Urr.
Crawford, James, from Ireland. Ordained at
Derry in that country.
Donaldson, John, from Cupar (Bumsidc).
Emigrated to America while a probationer.
Gordon, John, from Arbroath (CJrimsby Street)
Abstained from prosecuting his theological
course. Subsequently emigrated to Canada,
and became an agriculturist there.
Hervey, James. Muckart.
Laurie, James. Died in 1852, while acting as
chaplain to the Royal Infirmary, Edinburgh.
Miller, John. Linlithgow.
Rattray, William. Selkirk.
Robertson, Charles James, from Balbeggie.
Called to Huntly and Holm, but declined
both calls, and became an agriculturist
near Perth. Died 1862.
Robertson, James. Finished his theological
course, but not licensed.
Spiers, William. Buchlyvie.
Wright, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Ballyeaston, 1 81 3.
Session 1 809 — 8 Students.
Crowe, Thomas S., from Dalreoch. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
1815, and became minister of a congregation
in Truro, Nova Scotia.
Lamb, John. Errol.
MTnlay, John. Emigrated to America while
a probationer, and became minister of a con-
gregation in Pictou, Nova Scotia.
M'Nab, Samuel. Rothesay.
Minnis, William, from Ireland. Ordained at
Roseyards in that country.
More, John. Caimeyhill.
Ram age. William. Sanday.
Scott, Andrew. Crieff.
Session 18 10 — 17 Students.
Cairns, William, from Howgate. Withdrew
from the list of preachers and became a
teacher in Edinburgh, and died in 1841.
Chapman, James. Carnoustie.
Christie, Thomas. Holm.
Ferrier, Thomas, from Perth (North). Emi-
grated to America while a probationer.
Gellatly, Robert. Mainsriddell.
Harley, David, from Kinkell. Finished his
theological course, but not licensed.
Isaac, Andrew, from Perth (North). Called to
Auchinleck and Berwick. A])pointcd by
the Synod to Berwick, but died while upon
trials for ordination.
Ketchen, Thomas, from Howgate. Emigrated
to America, and became minister of a con-
gregation in South Carolina.
M'Geoch, James. Moniaive.
Kogerson, William. Thomhill.
Ronald, David. Saltcoats.
Stafford, James, from Newcastle (Carlisle
Street). Died while a student.
Stark, Andrew, LL.D. South Shields.
Stirling, Hugh. Mearns.
Tait, David, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Withdrew from the list of probationers.
Became a teacher in England, and died
there.
Taylor, Joseph. Lockerbie.
Taylor, William. Stronsay.
Session 1811 — 12 Students.
Bell, William. Ordained at Baillieborough,
1814.
Blackwood, Robert, from Kinross (East).
Emigrated to America while a probationer,
1816, and became minister of the united
congregations of Nine-Mile River, Gray's
River, and Shubcncadie, Nova Scotia.
Translated in 1840 to Tatamagouche and
New Aiman, where he died 12th December
1857.
Bruce, John. Newmilns.
Campbell, Duncan, from Comrie. After
itinerating some time as a probationer,
662
The United Presbyterian Cluirch.
studied medicine, and ultimately emigrated
to America, where he practised as a surgeon.
Craig, John. Kinkell.
Donaldson, David. Emigrated to America
as a probationer.
Hannah, William. Arbroath CErskine Church).
Kerr, John, from Ireland. Ordained at Newry,
in that country.
NoTMAN, Alexander. Itinerated as a pro-
bationer for forty years, but never olnained
a settlement. Died 1856, in the yist year of
his age.
Stark, James. Ayton.
Wilson, Alexander, from Ireland. Ordained
at Dungannon.
Young, William. Berwick (Church Street).
Session 1S12 — 14 Students.
Browning, Archibald. Tillicoultry.
Carr, William, from Ireland. Ordained at
Belfast.
Ferrier, Andrew, D.D. Newarthill.
Gamble, James, from Ireland, and became
minister of a congregation at Strabane.
Gordon, Alexander, from Montrose (Mill
Street). Emigrated to America while a pro-
bationer.
Harper, William. Dubbieside.
LiDDELL, John. Johnshaven.
M'Dermant, Peter. Auchinleck.
Moore, Samuel, from Ireland. Ordained at
Ballycopeland.
Oswald, William, from Dennyloanhead. Died
while a probationer.
Paterson, James. Auchtergaven.
RiNTouL, Laurence, from Perth (North).
Emigrated to America while a probationer.
Stuart, David, from Ireland. Became mini-
ster of Union Chapel, Dublin.
Wilson, Robert, from Ayton (West), of which
his father was minister. Died while a
student.
Session 1S13 — 14 Students.
Barlas, George. Dunfermline (Chalmers
Street).
Bullions, Peter, D.D., from Logiealmond.
Emigrated to the United Stales while a
probationer, and became minister of a con-
gregation in Argyle, county of Washington ;
afterwards of Troy, New York. Died 14th
February 1863, aged 73 years.
Gowans, James. Kilwinning.
KiRKLAND, Hugh, from Ireland. Became
minister of a congregation there.
Lewis, Alexander, from Ireland. Went to
Nova Scotia.
M'Ewan, James. Strathaven.
Miller, James, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Died while a probationer, 1825.
MoRiCE, James, from Ireland.
Paterson, Robert, D.D. Kirkwall.
Roy, James, from Dennyloanhead. Ordained
as a missionary to Canada in 1837. Became
minister of congregations at Dumfries and
Beverly, Canada West, and died there, 15th
May 1852, in the 53d year of his age.
Shaw, James, from Ireland.
SoMMEKVll.LE, JoiiN, from Elgin (Moss Street),
of which his father was minister. Did not
prosecute his theological course ; and be-
came a teacher.
Tait, James. Barrhead.
TuRNBULL, William, from Midholm. De-
clined a call to South Shields on account of
ill-health. Died 1833, in the 35th year of
his age.
Session 1814 — 14 Students.
Campbell, Peter, from Stirling (Second).
Emigrated to America while a jjrobationer.
Campbell, William, from Ireland. Ordained
at Ballymena.
Carmichael, David. Burghead.
Clark, Robert. Dalreoch.
Donald, James, from Newmilns. Died while
a student.
Hogg, Robert. Whitehaven.
Moncrieff, William. Kincardine.
More, John, from Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
Died while a student.
Morrison, Robert, from Ireland. Ordained
at Markethill.
Parlane, William. Tranent.
Robe, James, from Forfar. Joined the Estab-
lished Church while a student, and became
master of the Grammar School in Forfar.
Scott, James, D.D. Inverness.
Tate, Hugh. Emigrated to America.
Young, David, D.D. Perth (North).
Session 18x5 — 21 Students.
Blair, John. Drymen.
Blyth, Thomas, from Ceres. Withdrew from
the list of probationers, and became a farmer
in Kinross-shire.
Blyth, George. Glasgow (Bellgrove).
P^ERGUSSON, David, from Thornhill. Emi-
grated to America while a probationer.
Ferrier, William, from Paisley (Oakshaw),
of which his father was minister. Died
while a student.
Hardie, Thomas, from Ceres. Became a
teacher, and subsequently emigrated to
America.
Hay, James, from Alyth. Withdrew from the
list of preachers, and subsequently became
an agriculturist.
Knox, James. Ordained in Ireland.
Logan, John.
Mair, Hugh, from Newmilns. Emigrated to
America while a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in Johnston,
county of Montgomer}', U.S.
Mackenzie, John, from Auchtcrmuchty (North).
Withdrew from the list of probationers, and
became a teacher.
Mair, James, from Plamilton (Blnckswell).
Emigrated to America while a probationer.
Died 1854.
MUDIE, James. Stronsay.
Paterson, John, probationer. Died 1S44.
Rintoul, Alexander, from Ireland. Ordained
at Reay, in that country.
Simpson, Robert, from Milnathort. Withdrew
from the list of probationers, and afterwards
conducted an academy in Islington, London.
Author of "A Manual for Children," i2mo.
Thomson James. Maybole.
Thomson, Robert. Left off study.
Weatherstone, Walter.
Whyte, James, from Kinkell. Licensed while
a fourth-year student, with the view of pro-
ceeding to America ; but having been al-
lowed, in the first instance, to take appoint-
ments as a probationer at home, he obtained
Lists of Students of Theolo(^y
66
calls from Balbeggie, Coupar-Angiis, Kirk-
caldy, Leith, Limekilns, Stirlin<:, Dunferm-
line, and Perth. In all, Mr Whyte was
called eleven times. The Synod appointed
him to Perth, but he himself preferred
Dunfermline. A large minority of the
congregation there was strongly opposed to
him, and applied to the Church courts to
prevent his settlement in that congregation.
The case in the course of discussion became
almost wholly a party question, the members
of Synod previously belonging to the General
Associate (Antiburgher) Synod taking part
with the majority, and the members pre-
viously belonging to the Associate (Burgher)
Synod taking part with the minority of the
congregation. The point on which the
dispute between the parties was made to
turn was the fact that Mr Whyte had re-
ceived his license sooner than the authorised
time, in order that he might proceed forth-
with to America. It was argued by those
who were opposed to his settlement in
Dunfermline, that on the ground stated, he
was not eligible to a pastoral charge at
home ; while his supporters adduced prece-
dents from their own records to show that
similar cases had previously occurred, and
the settlements allowed (a manifest injustice
to the students who continued their full time
in the Hall), and that the one contended for
should also be permitted. So fierce was
the contention thence arising, that at one
time it threatened to rend the union which
had been effected between the two great
branches of the .Secession only shortly be-
fore. The strife was allayed, however, by
Mr Whyte withdrawing from the connection,
and joining himself to those who had pro-
tested against the Union, and declined ac-
ceding to it. He was declared to be no
longer a member of the Secession Church,
and in 1825 he emigrated to America, ac-
cording to his original intention, and on 6th
July was ordained minister of a congregation
in Salem, State of New York. He died
there, 3d December 1827, in the 33d year of
his age. A volume of his sermons, with a
memoir prefixed, was published in 1S29.
Young, James. Ellon.
Session 18 16 — 13 Sticdi'nts.
Allan, Robert. Tillicoultry.
Burnet, John, D.D., from Ireland. Ordained
at Monymore, 1826.
Brown, James. Balbeggie.
DoBiE, John. Langholm.
Duncan, David. Sunderland (Union Chapel).
GiLFiLLAN, James, D.D. Stirling.
Hay, Joseph. Arbroath (Princes Street).
Lawson, Henry. South Shields.
LiND, Adam. Whitehill.
Morris, John. Houghton-le-Spring.
Russell, James, from Dunblane (Second).
Emigrated to America while a probationer.
West, John, from Ireland. Ordained at New-
ton Hamilton in that country.
Wilson, John, from Ayton (West), of which
his father was minister. Died while a stu-
dent.
Session 1S17— II Sitideiits.
Bruce, Mr.
Cation, William, from Auchtermuchty (North).
Died while a student.
Forrester, Jamp:s. Kinkell.
Gemmel, Alexander. Did not complete his
theological course. Became a teacher.
Irvine, John, from Lockerbie. Retired into
private life, after itinerating some time as a
probationer.
Lamh, Andrew. Did not prosecute his theo-
logical course, anil became a teacher in
Northumberland.
M'CouMACK, Robert, from Ireland. Ordained
at Seaforth, in that country.
MTlvain, Hugh. Maryport.
NicoL, Adam. Died while a student.
Primrose, Thomas, from Grange, of wliich
his father was minister. Died while a stu-
dent.
Wallace, John. Did not complete his course.
Session 1 818 — 18 Students.
Carsewell, William. Eaglesham.
Dunan, John, from Kinclaven. Died while a
student.
Forsyth, James. Auchtermuchty.
Gray, M.
Hamilton, William.
Johnston, Robert. Rosehearty.
LiND, John, from Dundee (Bell Street) Died
while a student.
Meek, James, from Muirtown, of which his
father was minister. Adhered while a stu-
dent to the party protesting against the union
of the two great branches of the Secession in
1820, and became a minister in that con-
nection in Carnoustie. Afterwards in the
P'ree Church. Died 1859.
Mitchell, James.
Muirhead, Charles. Coupar-Angiis.
Niven, James, from Pathstruie. Did not pro-
secute his theological course, and became a
teacher.
Pringle, William, from Perth (North). Em'-
grated to America while a probationer, and
became minister of a congregation there.
Robertson, Alexander, from Balbeggie. Did
not prosecute his theological course, and
became a teacher.
Russell, John, from Milnathort (Second).
Emigrated to America, while a probationer,
and became minister of a congregation there.
Steele, Willi.\m. Falkirk.
Stirling, James. Aberdeen (George Street).
Stobbs, Willia.m. Ellon.
Taylor, James, from Perth (North). Relin-
quished the study of theology for tliat of
medicine.
Session 1819 — 28 Students.
Armstrong, John, from North Shields, of
which his father was minister. Died while
a probationer.
Bain, James. Kirkcaldy (Union Chapel).
Cant, James, from Linlithgow (East). Finished
his theological course, but not licensed.
Subsequently emigrated to America.
Carmichael, Duncan.
Duncan, Ale.xander. Girvan.
I'Zckford, John. Newbigging.
Hay, Stewart, from Alyth, of which his father
was minister. Died while a student.
Johnston, George, D.D. Ecclefechan.
M'Crie, James, D.D. Old Meldrum.
664
The United Presbyterian Church.
M'DovvALL, Peter, A.M. Alloa.
M'Intosii, James. Shiels, Belhclvie.
Marshall, David. Locliee.
MiUDLETON, William. Emigrated to America.
Miller, John. Penruddock.
Miller, John. Emigrated to America while
a probationer.
Millar, James B., from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Died while a probationer. A
volume of his sermons was published under
the editorship of Dr Mitchell.
Monro, Alexander. Inverness (Queen Street).
Paterson, John. Hartlepool.
Petrie, Peter, from Kirkwall. Joined the
Established Church while a student. Be-
came minister of a chapel-of-ease in Leith ;
afterwards one of the ]3arochial ministers of
Kirkwall. Withdrew from the Established
Church at the Disruption. Minister of
Govan Free Church. Died 1850.
Ramsay, William. Crieff.
Ritchie, Ebenezer, from Pitcaim - Green.
Joined the Synod of Original Seceders, and
became a minister in that connection in
Kirkwall ; afterwards at Colmonell.
Scott, John. Dunbar (Second).
Scott, Thomas. Sunderland.
Smith, James, D. D. , from Methven. Emigrated
to America while a probationer. Ordained
at Steviacke, Nova Scotia. Afterwards
became Professor of Biblical Literature.
Stewart, Andrew, from Craigend. Died
while on trials for license, 1824.
Wood, William. Lismore.
Wright, John, from Newmilns, probationer.
Young, James. Tillicoultry.
III.
ASSOCIATE (BURGHER) HALL.
Professor ERSKINE'S Class.
The Rev. Ebenezer Erskine, A.M., Stirling,
was appointed Professor of Theology by the
Associate (Burgher) Synod, 1 747 ; but after
conducting the class one session, resigned
the office.* The Hall met at Stirling in
December.
Session 1748 — 4 Students.
Brown, John, Haddington.
Cock, Daniel. Greenock (Cartsdyke).
M'EwEN, William. Dundee (School Wynd).
M'GiLL, Hugh. Ordained at Clenanees, Ire-
land, 1752.
Professor FISHER'S Class.
The Rev. James Fisher was appointed Profes-
sor of Theology by the Associate Synod, 7th
September 1749, and resigned it on account
of declining health, 1764. The session be-
gan 1st February 1750.
Session 1 750 — 5 Students.
Brackenridge, John. Emigrated to America,
and became minister of a congregation in
Pennsylvania.
Patison, John. Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Robertson, James. Newcastle (Blackett
Street).
Thomson, John. Kirkintilloch.
Wylie, jAMiiS. Scone.
* Dr M'Kcrrow, in his "History of the Secession,"
states that Mr Erskine taught the theoUinical cl.ass for
two sessions. Dr John Brown, in his " Life of Fisher,"
Confirms this statement. Dr Fraser, in his " Life of Rev.
E. Erskine," says that "he rcsiKned the Chair of Divin-
ity sometime in 1749." Dr George Brown's MS. history
gives the name of John Brackenridge as a student of the
first year, under Mr Erskine, for 1749. — Eus.
Session 1 75 1 — 5 Students.
Anderson, John. Licensed 1754.
Gib, William, probationer.
KiDSTON, William. Stow.
Knox, William. Ordained at Loughaghry,
Ireland, 1755.
Leny, Robert.
Session 1752 — 4 Students.
Coventry, George. Stitchel.
M'AuLEY, John, from Ireland. Ordained as
minister of the United Congregations of
Castleblaney and Derrynews, in that country,
1755-
Smith, David. St Andrews.
RoN.ALDSON, William. Ordained at Scarva,
Ireland, 1759.
Session 1753— A'i? 7teiu Students.
Session 1754 — 3 Students.
Archer, William, from Ireland. Died while
a student, nth May 1756.
Arnot, William. Kennoway.
Belfrage, John. Falkirk.
Session 1755 — i Student.
Mitchell, James, called to Dunning, but sent
a letter to the Presbytery, when met for his
ordination, March 1 770, declining the
call ; for which irregular proceeding they
passed a vote of censure on him. Called a
second time to Dunning, but the call was
set aside by the Presbytery. Called after-
wards by the United Congregations of Mag-
hara and Andowie, Ireland, and to Alnwick,
but declined the calls, and never obtained
another.
Session 1 756 — 3 Students.
Bennrt, John, probationer, from St Andrews,
of which his father was minister. Called to
Tough. Retired, after itinerating some time
as a probationer, to his paternal estate of
Gairney Bridge. It was in the house of Mr
Lists of Stiidcnts of TJicoIof^y.
665
Bennet's grand-aunt that the Associate I'les-
byteiy first met.
Hall, Archibald. Torphichen.
MuiR, Andrew, B.A. Selkirk.
Session 1757 — 12 Students.
Ben NET, James. Attended only one session.
Campbell, Robert. Stirling.
Craig, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Coronery.
Dick, Alexander. Aberdeen.
Erskine, David. Son of Lljenezer Erskine,
and editor of a posthumous volume of his
father's sermons.
Harper, Robert, from Ireland.
Johnston, John. Ecclefechan.
EisiER, Thomas. Dundee.
Low, John. Biggar.
NicoL, Robert. Kelso.
Oliphant, James. Took offence at the criti-
cisms made by the Presbytery on his trial
discourses for license. Joined tlie Esta-
blished Church, and became parochial minis-
ter, first of Kilmarnock, and afterwards of
Dumbarton. Author of "Catechisms."
Shanks, Alexander. Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Session 1758 — 6 Students.
Beattie, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Newbliss, in that country, 1763.
Carlisle, John. Attended only one session.
Chalmers, John. Attended only one session.
Eletcher, James. Newcastleton.
Ramage, Richard. Attended only one session.
Watson, Peter. Attended two sessions. Lost
his reason, and died 1760.
Session 1759 — 2 Students.
Edmund, Thomas, from Stirling (First). Or-
dered by the Synod, while a probationer, to
proceed to America as a missionary, but
refused to comply, and betook himself to
the cultivation of his paternal estate, near
Blairlogie.
KiNLOCH, Samuel. Paisley (Abbey Close).
Session 1760 — 2 Students.
Kerr, Joseph, from Ireland. Ordained at
Ballegony, in that country, 1762.
M'AuLEY, James, from Ireland. Ordained at
Castleblaney, in that country, 1765. Died
1 818, aged 80.
Session 176 1 — I Student,
MoiR, James. Cumbernauld.
Session 1762 — 6 Students.
Hall, William. Bathgate.
Kennedy, Samuel, from Ireland.
Marshall, John. Alnwick (Clayport Street).
Thomson, George,* formerly under Mr A.
Moncrieff. Rathillet.
* In Mr Fisher's Hall-Register there is this note : —
" March 22, 1762. — Five weelis after I was begun to teach
came up Mr John Bennet, detained (as he said) by his
aunt's indisposition from coming up sooner; and Mr
George Thomson, precentor to Mr Thomas Mair, who
had been three years attending Mr Alexander Moncrieff,
as one of his students, before the Antiburgher party pro-
ceeded against Mr Thomas Mair ; but ever since their
sentence of deposition against Mr Mair, the said Mr
Thomson had left them and cleaved to Mr Thom.-is Mair's
ministry, and teaches a school at Milnathort. This Mr
Thomson was recommended to me by Mr Swanston." —
Eus.
Waugh, James, from Jedburgh. Sunderland
(Spring Garden Lane).
W'lLsoN, George. Lochgelly.
Session 1 763 — 6 Students.
Dickson, Thomas, from Ireland. Attended
one session.
Henderson, John. Dunbar.
Little, Joseph, from Ireland.
RiDDOCH, John. Coldstream.
Rogers, John. Became first Theological Pro-
fessor to the Associate (Burgher) Synod in
Ireland.
Waters, Thomas. Alloa.
Session 1 764 — A''o nrw Students.
HI.
Professor SWANSTON'S Class.
The Rev. John Swanston, Kinross, was ap-
pointed Professor of Theology by the Asso-
ciate Synod, i8lh May 1764, and died I2ti>
June 1767.
Session 1765 — ^Students.
Bailey, John. Newcastle (Carliol Street).
Bona R, Laurence. Cupar-Fife (BostonChurch).
Brown, James.
Clunie, James. Dundee (School Wynd).
DowNiE, James. Retired from the list of proba-
tioners, and became a probationer in Airdrie.
GiLFiLLAN, Michael. Dunblane.
Henry, William, from Ireland. Ordained at
Tassagh, in that country, 1 769.
Scott, James. Musselburgh (Union Chapel).
Walker, David. PoUockshaws.
Session 1766 — 7 Students.
Ballantyne, William. Dundee (School
Wynd).
Bruce, Michael, from Kinross (First). Died 5th
July 1767, in the 2 1st year of his age. Author
of " Lochleven and other Poems. " Anew
edition of his works, with a life by the
author of this work, was published in 1837,
out of the profits of which a hantlsome monu-
ment was raised to his memory in Portmoak
Churchyard, wliere he lies interred. A new
memoir has been published by the Rev. A.
B. Grosart, Blackburn.
D.vvidson, Andrew. Dunse.
Fletcher, William. Bridge of Teiih.
Forsyth, John. Went as missionary to Nova
Scotia.
Hunter, Charles. Tough.
M 'Gilchrist, James. West Linton.
Session 1767 — 9 Students.
Fraser, John. Auchtermuchty.
Hamilton, J.vmes. Called to Leslie and
Dunning. Declined both calls, and never
obtained another.
Harper, James. Ordained at Knockclough-
gorum, Ireland, 177 1.
Henderson, George. Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Lawson, George, D.D. Selkirk.
Leechman, John. Did not prosecute his
theological course, and became a teacher
in Edinburgh. Was teacher of the school
in Middleton's Entry, Bristo, in which Sir
Walter Scott received part of his early
education.
2 U
666
The United Presbyterian CJnirch.
PORTEOUS, Thomas. Milnathort.
Richardson, William. Greenock (Cartsdyke).
Watson, Patrick. Did not iirosecute his theolo-
t^ical course, and became a teacher.
IV.
Professor BROWN'S Class.
The Rev. John Brown, Haddington, was ap-
pointed Professor of Theology by the Asso-
ciate Synod, 1708, and died in 17S7.
Session 176S — 13 S/itdciits.
Carmichael, James, from Perth (South). Or-
dained at Donaghchlony, Ireland, 1771.
Dick, Andrew. Torphichen.
Dickson, Alexander. Berwick (Golden
Squai^e).
Edgar, Samuel, from Ireland. Became minis-
ter of Loughaghry there.
Fryar, Thomas D., from Ireland. Ordained
at Ballynihinch, in that country, 1774.
Greig, David. Lochgelly.
Lindsay, John. Burntshields.
Morton, John. Leslie.
Pringle, Francis, from Ireland. Afterwards
sent as missionary to America.
QuiN, Felix, from Ireland. Ordained at
Monaghan, in that country, 1 77 1.
Rutherford, Samuel. Ordained atNewbliss,
Ireland, 1771.
Scott, John. Shotts.
Swanston, Andrew, from Kinross (First), of
which his father was minister. Called by
Perth (South), but declined the call, because
of scruples he felt respecting his duty to re-
main in connection with the Secession Church.
Resigned his license to the Presbytery of
Perth and Dunfermline, from which he had
received it, 17S1. Joined a Society of Bap-
tists, but afterwards withdrew from it, and
henceforth abstained from joining the com-
munion of any Church ; finding none pro-
fessing the purity he desired. Died 1784, in
the 33d year of his age. Two volumes of his
sermons and lectures were published after
his decease.
Session 1 769 — 4 Students.
Bridge, John. Ordained at Castlsoflle, Ire-
land.
PiRiE, Alexander. Linlithgow.
Scott, William. Cambusnethan.
Williamson, George. Hawick (East Bank).
Session 17 JO — 10 Students.
Husband, James, D.D. Dunfermline (Queen
Anne Street).
Jaffray, Rohert. Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street).
Jamieson, John. Bathgate.
Kyle, John. Kinross.
Ronald, John, from Tough. Adhered as a
jjrobationer to the Original Associate Synod
at the division occasioned by " 'I'he Old
Light Controversy," 1799, but never obtained
a settlement.
Russell, James. Torphichen.
Selkirk, Adam. Invcrkeithing.
Sturgeon, John, from Ireland ; licensed, 1773.
White, Hugh. Irvine (Relief Congregation).
Young, John. Kincardine.
Session 1771 — 11 Students.
Brown, John. Longridge.
Dickson, Thomas. Ordained at Tarmonl, Ire-
land.
Hall, James, D.D. Cumnock.
Kerr, Joseph, from Ireland. Ordained over the
united congregations of Ballygoney and
Muree in that country.
Moore, Alexander, from Ireland.
Murray, Andrew. Tough.
Primrose, John. East Calder.
Rattray, Francis. Licensed 1776; afterwards
suspended.
Shortred, John. Emigrated to America while
a probationer.
Skirving, William. Did not prosecute his
theological course, and cultivated the estate
of Strathruddie in Fife, acquired by his
wife. Author of a work on agriculture.
Was a candidate for the Professorship of Ag-
riculture in the University of Edinburgh.
Mr Skirving afterwards became secretary to
" The General Association of fhe Friends of
the People," or " Scottish Convention," and
an active leader, along with Mr Thomas
Muir and others, in the political party which
came into existence at the end of last cen-
tury in imitation of the Confederation in
P'rance, for which, along with Messrs Muir,
Revs. T. Fische, Palmer, and Gerald, he
was "transported beyond seas. " He died in
Botany Bay while undergoing this sentence.
A monument has been raised in the burying-
ground of the Calton, Edinburgh, to the
memory of the " Political Martyrs," of whom
Mr Skirving was one.
Stinson, David. Ordained in Ireland.
Session 1772 — 4 Students.
Bell, George. Wooler.
Davidson, James, from Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
Died while a student.
Irvine, Robert. Ordained in Ireland.
Mackie, John. Dunning.
Session 1773 — 4 Students.
Hyslop, Ebenezer. Shotts.
Main, Tpiomas. Ordained at liallerony, Ireland.
SiiERRiFF, Robert. Tranent.
Thorburn, James. South Shields.
Session 1774 — 9 Students.
Beugo, John. Dunning.
Blackhall, John. Berwick (Golden Square).
Brown, Ebenezer. Invcrkeithing.
Holmes, David. Ordained at Ballymorgan,
Ireland.
Johnston, James. Rathillet.
Longmoor, Joseph, from Ireland. Ordained at
Killeen, in that country.
M'Caig, Mr.
Pringle, William. Joined the Independents
while a student, and afterwanls became
minister of a congregation in that connection
in England.
Waugh, Alexander, D.D. Newtown.
Session 1775 — 2 Students,
Orr, John, from Burntshields. Joined the
Northumberland class of Presbyterians while
a probationer. Became a minister in that
connection in Stamfordham, 1788, .and died
there in 1824.
Willis, William. Greenock (Cartsdyke).
I. IS Is of Studoits of T/ieology.
667
Session 1776 — II Sliideiits.
Black, James. Dundee (School Wynd).
Elder, William. Newtown.
EwiNG, John. Died while a student.
Forrester, James. Bathgate.
Grahame, Hugh. Called to Dundee and
South Shields ; declined both calls. Pro-
ceeded to America as one of the Synod's
missionaries, and became minister of a con-
gregation in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia ;
afterwards of Stewiacke and Musquodoboit.
Died 1829.
Grant, Joseph, from Perth (South). Died
while a student.
Hall, William, from Jedburgh (Black friars).
Joined the Church of Scotland while a
student, and became minister of a congre-
gation in that connection in Tweedmouth.
Harper, Robert. Left off study.
Hill, George. Cumbernauld.
Kennedy. John. Ordained in Ireland.
Smith, Thomas. Ordained at Randalstown,
Ireland.
Session 1777 — 18 Slitdcnts.
Aikman, Jedidiah. Perth (North).
Arnot, John.
Brown, Nathaniel.
CoMRiE, Patrick. Penicuik.
Dickson, William.
Dickson, James.
Falla, James. Died while a student, 1782.
Haddin, William. Limekilns.
Hepburn, David. Newburgh.
Jack, Robert, D.D. Linlithgow.
Jaffrey, John. Dalkeith.
Oliver, James.
Paisley, Robert. Did not prosecute his theo-
logical course, and became a teacher in
Edinburgh.
Peddie, James, D.D. Edinburgh (Bristo Place).
ScRiMGEOUR, James. North Berwick.
Smith, John. Newcastle (Carliol Street).
Thomson, John. Ayton.
Watson, William. Largs.
Session 1778 — 5 Students.
Boyle, Adam. Ordained at Boveedy, Ireland.
Carruthers, David. Queensferry.
Gibson, John. Ordained at Sligo, Ireland.
M'Farlane, James. Dunfermline (Queen
Anne Street).
Mason, Thomas. Sunderland (Spring Garden
Lane).
Session ITJC) — 3 Students.
Dickson, James. Eaglesham.
Hall, Robert, A.M. Kelso.
Taylor, William. Renton.
Session 1780 — 11 Students.
Calderhead, Alexander. Honulean.
Dick, John, D.D. Slateford.
Hall, John, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Finished his theological course, but not
licensed.
Harvey, James. Newbigging.
Houlston, Andrew. Emigrated to America
while a probationer.
[ardine, John. Langholm.
OsBURNE, James. Called to Kilpatrick, but
the call" was not sustained, and not receiving
another, he withdrew from the list of pro-
bationers, and became a teacher in Glasgow.
Paterson, David, from Stow. Emigrated to
America while a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in Nova Scotia.
Reid, William.
SiiiRRA, Robert. Yetholm.
Waddel, Ja.mes. Died while a probationer.
Session 1781 — 4 Students.
AucHiNCLoss, John. Liff.
Dewar, James. Fenwick.
M'Millan, James.
MuiRHEAD, William. Ordained at Loughaghry,
in Ireland.
Session 1782 — 6 Students.
Aitcheson, Thomas. Leith (Kirkgate).
Blyth, James. Fala.
Bridge, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Clenanees, in that country, 17S7.
CoNNEL, Patrick. Bathgate.
Lilly, John, from Haddington. Died while a
probationer, 31st October 1794.
Riddel, John, from Ireland.
Session 1783 — 9 Students.
Black, Alexander. Musselburgh (Union
Chapel).
Bothwell, David.
Campbell, Charles. Ordained at Macosquin,
Ireland.
CURRAN, Henry, from Ireland. Left off study.
Edmund, Robert, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Died while on trials for license.
Stein, James, from Ireland. Ordained at
Ballygoney, in that country.
Walker, Gavin. Did not prosecute his theologi-
cal course, and l)ecame a teacher in Glasgow.
Warwick, Robert, from Ireland.
Wood, Archibald. Kilpatrick Craigs.
Session 1784 — 9 Students.
Black, Benoni. Haddington.
Brown, Lewis, from Ireland. Ordained at
Six-Mile-Cross in that country.
Douglas, Andrew, from Jedburgh (Black-
friars). Did not prosecute his theological
course, and became a teacher.
FULLERTON, ARCHIBALD.
Maxwell, Andrew. Ordained at Ardstraw,
Ireland.
Mears, George, from Ireland.
Muter, Hugh, from Dalkeith. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Studied
medicine, and became a surgeon.
Smart, John, D.D. Stirling.
Wilson, Da\iu. Cumnock.
Session 1785— 11 Students.
Beattie, William, from Ireland. Ordained
at Kingsmill, in that country.
Caldwell, Andrew, from Ireland. Ordained
in Dublin.
Cant, James, from Perth (South). Joined the
Established Church while a probationer,
and became parociiial teacher of Dron.
Cooper, John. Balfron.
Hay, George. Ordained at Donaghchloney, in
Ireland.
KinsTON, William, D.D. Kennoway.
M'Auley, George, from Ireland. Ordained
at Riehhill, in that country.
M'Auley, William, from Ireland.
M.vrshall, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Coolhill, in that country.
668
The United Presbyterian ChiLrch.
MoiR, JosiAH, from Kdinburgh (Bristo). Turned
to a secular calling while a student.
Russell, George. Dairy, Ayrshire.
Session 1786 — 13 Students.
Binning, James, from Longridge. Died while
a student.
Boyd, Robert, from Ireland.
Brownlee, John, from Shotts. Withdrew
from the list of probationers, and became a
teacher.
CoNNEL, John, from Ireland.
Fleming, John, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Joined the Established Church while a pro-
bationer, but never obtained a settlement.
Author of a work entitled "The Universal
Church."
Harper, Alexander. Lanark.
Henderson, James. Hawick (East Bank).
Jamieson, John, D.D. Scone.
Kerr, Moses, from Ireland. Ordained at Kil-
raughts, in that country.
Marshall, James. Died while a student.
Stocks, Hugh, from Ireland.
Watt, John, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Turned to a secular calling while a student.
Left the denomination.
Wilson, Josias, from Ireland. Ordained at
Donygore.
Brofessor LAWSON'S Class.
The Rev. George Lawson, D.D., Selkirk,
was appointed Professor of Theology by the
Associate Synod, 1787, and held the office
till his death in 1820.
Session 1787 — 18 Students.
Black, George. Kinghorn.
Blackstock, William, from Ireland.
Boreland, James, Saltcoats (Countess Street).
Burns, John, from Fenwick. Did not prose-
cute his studies on account of ill-health, and
died a few years afterwards.
Carlyle, Francis, from Ireland. Called to
Kinross, but not ordained there, because of
a large minority opposed to him. Ordained
at Coronery, Ireland.
Duncanson, Andrew. Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Easton, Alexander. London (Miles Lane).
Harper, Archibald. Bo'neFs (Second).
King, John. Montrose (John Street).
Kyle, James. Kirkintilloch.
Leckie, Thomas. Peebles.
Leech, John. Largs.
Lourie, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Clenanees, in that country.
M'AuLEY, James, from Ireland.
M'Auley, John, from Ireland.
Morrison, Alexander. Kennoway.
Rogers, James, from Ireland.
Wylie, David Stewart. Burntshiclds.
Session 1788 — 10 Students.
Arnold, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Donegal, in that country.
Brunton, William. Aberdeen.
Grierson, Robert, from Selkirk. Immigrated
to America while a probationer.
Hamilton, George, from Ireland. Ordained
at Armagh, in that country.
Hay, James, D.D. Kinross.
Hunter, James, from Ireland. Ordained at
Coleraine, in that country.
Lothian, Andrew. Port-Glasgow.
Mairs, James, from Ireland. Ordained there,
but afterwards emigrated to America.
Reid, John, from Ireland. Ordained at Lessat,
Ireland.
Scott, James. Edinburgh (Portsburgh).
Session 1789 — 14 Students.
Archer, Charles. Suspended as a proba-
tioner. Became a teacher.
Belfrage, Henry, D.D. Falkirk.
Cameron, Hector. Moffat.
Campbell, George. Berwick (Stockbridge).
Douglas, Samuel, from Ireland.
Durie, , from Leslie (East). Withdrew
from the list of preachers. Studied medi-
cine, and became a surgeon in London,
where he died in 1836.
Eraser, Donald, D.D. Kennoway.
Eraser, Henry, M.D. Saltcoats (Countess
Street).
Jamieson, Hugh, D.D. East Linton.
Orr, James, from Paisley (Abbey Close). Died
while a student.
Todd, William, from Ireland.
Ure, David. Ayton.
Walker, Robert. Cupar (Boston Church).
Watson, David. Linlithgow.
Session 1 7 90 — l^ Students.
Agnew, William, from Ireland. Ordained at
Newmills.
Bell, Thomas. Ordained at Moss-side, Ireland.
Dick, James. Kilconquhar.
Edgar, Samuel, LL.D. Ordained at Ballyni-
hinch, Ireland, 1796.
Greig, Robert. Stitchel.
Henderson, George. Lauder.
Jackson, Joseph.
Keith, James. Fala.
Oliphant, Henry. Relinquished his studies,
proceeded to the West Indies, and died there.
Rankine, James. Ordained at Monaghan,
Ireland, 1794, and died there in 1831.
Reid, Robert, from Ireland.
Schaw, William, D.D. Lochwinnoch.
Telford, David. Buckhaven.
Waddel, George, from Longridge. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries,
and became minister of a congregation in
Truro, Nova Scotia, and died there in 1839.
Session 1791- — II Students.
Blackadder, Robert, from Bridge of Teith.
Withdrew from the list of probationers,
studied medicine, practised as a surgeon in
Stirling, and died there in 1837.
Crawford, James. Ordained at Keady, Ire-
land.
Grahame, Peter, from Longridge. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and became
a teacher.
I, EWERS, RdHERT, from Ireland. Ordained at
Clontibret, Ireland.
Rae, Jt)iiN. St Andrews.
Richardson, John. P>euchic.
Thomson, James, from Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street). Withdrew from the list of ]ir(iba-
tioncrs. Died while acting as editor of a
" Miscellany" published in Kilmarnock.
Lists of Stiidoits of Theology.
669
Thomson, Henry, D.D. Penrith.
Walker, Thomas, from Ireland. Ordained at
Saintfield, in that country.
WiGTON, George. Liff (Dundee).
Wilson, Andrew. Ordained at Lccumpher,
Ireland.
Session 1792 — 12 Students.
Bell, William, from Perth (.South). Became
a surgeon.
BucKHAM, William. Relinquished the study
of theology for that of medicine. Became a
surgeon, R.N., and died at sea.
Burns, John, from Fenwick. Called to Barr-
head, but declined the call, and accompanied
the Rev. Dr Mason of New York to
America. Became minister of a congrega-
tion in Magara, U.S., and died there in 1822.
Fergus, Nathaniel, from Ireland.
Forrest, Robert. Saltcoats (Countess Street).
Gibson, William. Balgedie.
Gray, James, from Ireland.
Irving, William. Bellevilla, Stranraer.
Kirkton, William. Joined the Northumber-
land Class of Presbyterians while a proba-
tioner.
Mather, James. Maybole.
Russell, Robert. Joined the Established
Church while a student.
Wilson, John, from Ireland.
Session 1793 — 12 Students.
Dripps, Matthew. Sent to America as one of
the Synod's missionaries, and became mini-
ster of a congregation in Shelbume, Nova
Scotia. Died in 1828.
Easton, Robert. Morpeth.
I'leming, William. West Calder.
Garvie, Thomas, from Perth (South). Relin-
quished the study of theology for that of
medicine. Emigrated to America as a sur-
geon in 1803.
Tnglis, David. Port-Glasgow.
King, William, from Ireland.
Law, James. Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
MoscRiP, George, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Adhered to the " Original Associate Synod "
at the division in 1799, and became minister
of a congregation in that connection in
Greenock.
M'Utcheon, Samuel, from Paisley (Abbey
Close). Died while a student.
MuniE, David, from Dunfermline (Queen Anne
Street). Licensed as a probationer 1798,
and continued on the list for 50 years. To-
wards the close of his life, his numerous
friends subscribed a sum of money, which
secured for him an annuity of ^'i^d for life.
Mr Stirling of Keir also allowed him an
annuity. Mr Mudie died in Dunfermline in
1852, in the 83d year of his age.
Riddel, James. Ordained in Ireland.
Simpson, William, from Biggar (North). Fin-
ished his theological course, but was not
licensed. Became a teacher in Edinburgh.
Taylor, William. Stonehouse.
Waddell, John, A.M., from Shotts. Ordained
for Nova Scotia. Inducted at Truro, i6th
November 1798. Died 13th November
1842, in his 72d year.
Session 1794 — 17 Students.
Allan, James, from Longridgc. Died while a
student.
Arthur, Charles. Joined the Scottish Bap-
tists, and became minister of a congregation
in that connection in Kirkcaldy.
Blair, Robert, from Ireland.
Brown, Thomas, D.D. Dalkeith.
CAiMPBELL, Robert. Peterhead.
Harrower, James. Denny.
Lawrie, James, D.D., from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street). Called to Mauchline, but declined
the call, and emigrated to America. Be-
came minister of a congregation in Washing-
ton, U.S. Died 1853, in the 76th year of
his age.
Mair, John, from Dunfermline (Queen Anne
Street). Did not prosecute his theological
course, and emigrated to America as a
teacher.
Miller, John. Withdrew from the list of pro-
bationers. Settled at North Shields as a
teacher, and preached at the same time to a
small congregation of Independents in the
vicinity of that town. Died 1S20.
M 'Queen, John. North Berwick.
Porter, Robert Lyons, from Ireland. Be-
came minister of a congregation at Tully-
allen.
Risk, David, from Ireland. Became minister
of a congregation there.
RoDGERS, John, from Ireland. Ordained at
Glascar, in that country. Died 1854, in his
80th year.
Stewart, John, D.D. Pitcairn.
Walker, John. Mauchline.
Young, John, from Falkirk (East). Finished
his theological course, but was not licensed,
and turned to a secular calling.
Young, Peter. Jedburgh.
Session 1795 — 22 Students.
Allan, George. Died while a student.
Ballantyne, William, from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street). Joined the Independents while a
student, and became minister of a congrega-
tion in that connection in Elgin.
Beaton, William, from F\alkirk (East). Died
while a student.
Blackwood, James. Galston.
Bridge, John, from Ireland.
Cleghorn, John. Joined the Independents
while a student, and became minister of a
congregation in that connection at Wick,
and afterwards in Edinburgh.
CouLTHERD, JoiiN, from Stilchcl. Died while
a student.
Fergus, John, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Did not prosecute his theological course,
and became a teacher in Paisley.
Glass, Laurence. Aberdeen (St Nicholas
Lane).
Hamilton, John. Hamilton (Chapel Street).
Harvey, James. Ordained at Redrick, Ireland.
Johnston, Thomas, from Kirkcaldy (Bethel-
field). Died while a student.
Lindsay, James, from Johnston. Did not pro-
secute his theological course, and subse-
quently became an officer in the army.
Miller, Thomas, from Leith (Kirkgate). Joined
the Established Church while a student, and
became parochial minister of Torrybum.
Mitchell, James. Died while a student.
Mundell, Samuel. From Ireland.
Reid, John, M.D., from Paisley (Abbey Close),
Withdrew from the list of probationers.
670
T/ie United Presbyterian C/mrch.
Studied medicine. Became a surgeon and
teacher of Oriental languages in Glasgow.
Author of a Hebrew Lexicon, Rudiments of
Latin, and an edition of the Psalter, with a
literal translation.
Rutherford, John, from Ireland. Ordained
at Ballydown, in that country.
Sawyers, James. Left off study.
Thomson, Peter. Whitby.
Walker, James, from Pollockshaws, of which
his father was minister. Did not prosecute
his theological course, and became a teacher
in Rutherglen.
Wardlaw, Rali'H, D.D., from Glasgow (Grey-
friars), grandson of Fisher, and great-gi\and-
son of Erskine, founders of the Secession.
Joined the Independents while on trials for
license. Ordained minister of a congrega-
tion in Glasgow in 1803, and appointed
theological tutor to the Independent semi-
nary there. Author of numerous interesting
and important theological works. Died
I2th December 1853, in the 74th year of
his age, and 51st of his ministry.
Session 1796 — 9 Students.
Ballantyne, Robert, from Edinburgh (Ports-
burgh). Died while a prolxitioner.
Belfrage, John, M.D. Slateford.
Brown, John, D. D., from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Called to Hamilton, but the Presbytery
would not sustain the call because of the
strenuous opposition of a large minority
against him ; on which account he joined
the Established Church, and became, first,
minister at Gartmore, then parochial minister
of Langton, Berwickshire, but withdrew
from it in 1843, and became minister of the
Free Church there. Died 1848, in his 71st
year.
Merger, Andrew, from Stow. Did not pro-
secute his theological course, and became a
designer of patterns in Dunfermline, where
he died in 1842. Author of a volume of
poems and a history of Dunfermline.
Paterson, David. Alnwick (Clayport Street).
Robertson, James. Wooler (First).
SiME, W^illiam, from Rathillet. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Became a
farmer in the neighbourhood of Inverkeith-
ing, and died there in 1829.
Smart, William. Paisley (Abbey Close).
Young, George, D.D. Whitby.
Session \']C)'J — 19 Students.
Bell, Thomas, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Turned to a secular calling while a proba-
tioner, and settled in Kincardine.
]5lackadder, David. Brechin (Maisondieu
Lane).
Blair, John, from Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street'*. Joined the Independents while a
student, and died as a probationer in that
connection.
Brown, Ale.xander, from Shotts. Joined the
" Original Associate Synod " while a student,
and became a minister in that connection in
Burntshields.
Brunton, Henry, from Selkirk (First). Be-
came a missionary to Sierra Leone in Africa,
afterwards to Astracan in Russia, and died
there in 181 3.
Campbell, John. Tarbolton.
Easton, Thomas, D.D., from Glasgow (Grey-
friars). Joined the Established Church while
a student, and became parochial minister of
Kirriemuir. Died 1856, in his 77th year.
Eraser, William. Crail.
Grahame, William, from Kirkintilloch. Joined
the " Original Associate Synod " while a
student, and became a minister in that con-
nection in Carluke.
Hill, Robert, from Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street). Did not prosecute his theological
course. Studied law, and became a writer
in Edinburgh.
Horn, W^illiam. Braehead.
Lee, John, D.D., M.D., from Stow. Joined
the Established Church while a student.
Became minister of the Scotch Church,
London Wall, London, 1S03, from which
he was translated to Peebles. Afterwards
Professor of Church History in the Univer-
sity of St Andrews. Subsequently minister
of the Canongate, then of Lady Tester's,
then of the Old Church, Edinburgh. Be-
came Principal of the University of Edin-
burgh, 1840 ; one of the clerks of the General
Assembly, and one of the Deans of the
Chapel Royal ; Professor of Divinity, 1844.
Died 1859, in his 80th year.
Marshall, Andrew, D.D., LL.D. Kirkin-
tilloch.
Paterson, James, from Mauchiine. Died while
a probationer.
Phin, Robert. Joined the Established Church
while a student. Ordained at Wick, 1816.
Died in 1840.
Rafferty, William. Joined the Established
Church while a student.
Robson, James. Lochwinnoch.
Thomson, Hugh, from Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street). Relinquished the study of theology
for that of medicine. Became a surgeon in
Paisley, and died there.
Wilson, William. Greenock (Nicolson Street).
Session 1798- — 12 Students.
Allan, John. Crossgates.
Bishop, Robert H., D.D., from Longridge.
Emigrated to America while a probationer.
Became a minister there. Afterwards Pro-
fessor of Theology, and subsequently Prin-
cipal of the University of Oxford, Miami,
Ohio, U.S. Died 1855.
Dick, Mungo, from Newbigging. Emigi-ated
to America while a student. Became mini-
ster of a congi-egation at Mount Hope, West-
moreland, Pennsylvania, and died there in
1839.
Elles, James. Saltcoats (Countess Street).
Gardner, James. Kilpatrick Craigs.
Hay, Robert. Stow.
Hunter, Robert, from Berwick (Golden
Square). Joined the Established Church
while a student, and became parochial
teacher in Colinton.
Inglis, John. Joined the "Original Associate
Synod " while a student, and l)ecame minis-
ter in that connection of a congregation in
Greenlaw.
M'Lay, William. Stitchel.
Moffat, Robert. Keith.
Porteous, William, from Milnathort. Relin-
quished the study of theology for tliat of
medicine. Became a surgeon in the navy.
Lists of Students of TJieology
671
afterwards in Edinburgh, and subsequently
retired into private life in his native place.
Smith, James. Bolton.
Session 1799 — ii Slitdciifs.
Anderson, Andrew, from Dundee (School
Wynd). Did not prosecute his theological
course. Became a teacher, and subsequently
emigrated to America.
Ballantyne, John. Stonehaven.
Craig, John. Avonbridge.
DuNLOP, Walter. Newcastleton.
Gibson, William, from Wooler. Did not
prosecute his theological course on account
of delicate health. Afterwards became a
land-steward in England.
Grahame, Walter. Murdered by the natives
of Sierra Leone shortly after his arrival in
that country as a missionary.*
Paterson, James. Midmar.
Pringle, James. Pollockshaws.
Thomson, Adam, D.D. Coldstream (West).
TuRNBULL, George, from Jedburgh (Black-
friars). Died while a student.
Session 1800 — 6 Students.
Brown, John, D.D. Biggar (North).
Glen, William, D.D. Annan (First).
Kidston, James S., from Stow, of which his
father was minister. Did not prosecute his
theological course. Became a teacher in
Glasgow, and died there.
Marshall, William, from Stitchel. Did not
prosecute his theological course on account
of ill-health. Lived in retirement in the
neighbourhood of Stitchel, and died there in
1841.
Penman, Henry. Joined the Independents
while a student.
Stewart, David. Stirling (First).
Session 1 80 1 — 4 Students.
Brown, William, M.D., from Haddington
(East), of which his father. Rev. John Brown,
was minister. Ordained at large with the
view of becoming a missionary to China,
1 807, and with the same view studied medicine,
and took the degree of M. D., but was de-
tained at home, in order to his acting as
secretary to the Scottish Missionary Society,
and tutor to the young men educated by it,
which offices he held till the dissolution of
the society in 1S47. Died 15th May 1S63.
Author of " History of the Propagation of
Christianity among the Heathen since the
Refonnation " (2 vols.), "A Selection of
Passages of Scripture for Young Persons to
commit to Memory," "Christian Listruc-
tions for Children from 3 to 7 years of age,"
and editor of Baxter's "Saint's Rest" and
"Reformed Pastor."
Clapperton, John. Johnstone.
Lawson, George. Galashiels.
Trotter, Thomas. Johnshaven.
Session 1802— 11 Students.
Brown, Alexander. Bellingham.
Brown, George. North Berwick.
Campbell, Alexander. Irvine.
Fletcher, Alexander, D.D. Bridge of Teith.
* Dr George Brown's MS. History says Mr Grahame
became minister at Culsalmond in 1806 ; resigned 1816.—
Eds.
Fletcher, Robert. Hamilton (Chapel Street).
Gordon, David W., from Leith (Kirkgate).
Joined the Established Church while a stu-
dent. Became parochial minister — first of
Morebaltle, 1807 ; afterwards of Gordon ;
then of Earlston, 1830. Died 31st August
1868, in his 83d year. Author of a volume
of sermons.
Henderson, Archibald. Carlisle.
Johnson, John. St Andrews.
Lee, William. Homdean.
M'Laurin, Robert. Coldingham.
Miller, Thomas, from Ireland. Ordained at
Cookstown, in that country.
Session 1 803 — 9 Students.
Beattie, Alexander O., M.D., D.D. Leslie.
Clark, Robert. Joined the Northumberland
Class of Presbyterians while a probationer.
Died 18 1 7.
Paterson, James, Airth.
Peterkin, James, from Dundee (School Wynd).
Did not prosecute his theological course, and
became a teacher in Kettle, Fifeshire.
Purdie, David, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Died while a student.
Sandie, George. Leeds.
Simpson, Alexander Lockhart, D.D., from
Edinburgh (Portsburgh). Joined the Esta-
blished Church while a student. Became
parochial minister of Kirknewton, and also,
at a subsequent period, one of the clerks of
the General Assembly. Died in 1 86 1.
Sinclair, David. Died while a student.
Williamson, Henry Moses. Sunderland
(North).
Session 1S04 — 6 Students.
Henderson, James, D.D. Galashiels (East).
Logan, David, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Joined the Established Church while a stu-
dent, and became parochial minister first
of Innerwicke, and afterwards of Stenton.
Died 1849.
M'Inley, John, from Kincardine. Joined the
"Original Associate Synod," and became
minister in that connection of a congrega-
tion in Bonhill, Dumbartonshire, now
Cameronian.
Monteith, John. Moffat.
Morton, Archibald, from Cambusnethan.
Took exception to the formula proposed to
him, and on that account refused license.
Became a teacher.
Paterson, Fullerton. New Deer.
Session 1805 — 5 Students.
Balmer, Robert, D.D. Berwick.
Christie, David, from Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
Died while a student.
Dun lop, Tho.mas, from Kilmarnock (Welling-
ton Street). Died while a student.
Renwick, Robert. West Linton.
Turnbull, William, from Jedburgh (Black-
friars). Died while a student.
Session 1806 — 11 Students.
Balmain, William, from Kinghom. Finished
his theological course, but not licensed.
Studied medicine, and became surgeon to
the Military Hospital, Heligoland. Subse-
quently received on the superannuated list,
and lived privately in London.
6;:
The U idled Presbyterian CJmrch.
Douglas, Robert, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Emigrated to America wiiile a probationer,
and became minister of a congregation in
Prince P^dward's Island.
Johnston, John. Leslie.
Law, John. Newcastleton.
NicoL, Andrew, from Newtown. Sent to
America as one of the Synod's missionaries.
Became minister of a congregation at Rich-
mond Bay, Prince Edward's Island, and
died there in 1820, in the 3d year of his
ministry.
Ormiston, Andrew. Tmiied to a secular call-
ing while a probationer.
Russell, James, from Penicuik. Died while a
student.
Smith, James. Dunning.
Swan, John, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
'lurned to the study of medicine after
itinerating some time as a probationer, and
subsequently emigrated to America as a
surgeon.
WiLLANS, William. Pitcairn.
Wilson, Thomas. Crossgates.
Session 1807 — 6 SttuiLitts.
Glen, Andrew, from Lochwinnoch. Emi-
grated to America as a probationer. Be-
came minister, and died there.
Hay, Andrew, from Kelso. Called to Eccle-
fechan, but declined the call, and continued
on the preachers' list till his death, which
took place in 1S46.
M'Kerrow, John, D.D. Bridge of Teith.
Proudfoot, William. Pitrodie.
Struthers, Thomas. Maybole.
Young, Andrew. Lochmaben.
St'ssion 1S08 — 6 Students.
Donaldson, George. Dundee (School Wynd).
Ge.mmel, John, from Femvick. Died while a
student.
Jamieson, James, from Ireland. Not licensed.
Joined the Established Church.
Laurie, James, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Finished his theological course, but did not
take license on account of delicate health
and weakness of voice. Became a classical
teacher in Edinburgh, and died there in
1840, in the 60th year of his age.
M'Lean, Daniel. Coupar-Angus.
Waugii James, from Slateford. Died while a
student in 1812.
Session 1809 — 12 Students.
Bell, Walter. North Middleton.
BiGGAR, John, from Ecclefechan. Withdrew
from the list of probationers, and became a
teacher.
Brown, John, from Inverkeithing, of which his
father was minister. Withdrew from the
list of probationers, and became a teacher.
Carruthers, James, from Langholm. Died
while a student.
Elder, Ale.xander, from Kilpatrick Craigs.
Relinquished the study of theology for that
medicine.
Haxton, Archibald, from Kirkcaldy (Kethel-
field). Did not prosecute his theological
course, and became teacher of the Burgh
School of Dunfemiline.
Hill, Thomas. Glenluce.
Kennedy, Andrew. Keith.
Lee, Robert, from Stow. Relinquished the
study of theology for that of medicine, and
subsequently jiractised as a physician in
London.
Telfar, George, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Did not prosecute his theological course.
Became a teacher in Edinburgh, and died
there in l8l6.
Tindal, John. Rathillet.
Wallace, John, from Falkirk. Did not pro-
secute his theological course, and became a
teacher in Colinton.
Session 18 10 — 15 Students.
Angus, Henry, A.M. Aberdeen (St Nicholas
Lane).
Baird, Archibald, D.D. Auchtermuchty.
Bell, William, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Emigrated to America while a probationer,
and became minister of a congregation in
Perth, Canada.
Bradley, Patrick. Lilliesleaf.
Brash, William. Glasgow (East Campbell
Street).
Brown, George, LL. D. Ramsbottom.
Dewar, Hugh, from Fenwick, of which his
father was minister. Joined the Established
Church while a student, and became paro-
chial minister of Stonehouse.
Elliot, Andrew. Ford.
Greig, George, from Kinross. Did not prose-
cute his theological course, and became a
clerk in the Register House, Edinburgh.
Lawson, Andrew. Ecclefech.in.
Lawson, John, from Selkirk, of which his
father was minister. Died while a student,
1813.
M'Fadyen, Joseph, from Glasgow (East Camp-
bell Street). Finished his theological course,
but not licensed. Became a teacher.
Scott, Andrew. Cambusnethan.
Scott, Walter. Johnshaven.
Somerville, James. Airth.
Session 1811 — 16 Students.
Coke, William, from Scone. Left the study
of theology for that of medicine, and became
a surgeon in East Lothian.
Crawford, John. Sanday.
Fraser, William. Stonehouse.
Galloway, John, from Kennoway. Joined the
Established Church while a student.
Hope, William J., from Blackburn. Mr Hope
held the views of the English congregation-
alists, notwithstanding he studied theology
under a Presbyterian professor. He after-
wards became classical tutor in P.lackburn
Independent Academy, and subsequently
head-master of the Dissenters' tuammar
School at Lewisham, in Kent. Emigrated
to Melbourne 1852. Died 1853, in his 65111
year.
Hume, Walter. Yetholm.
jAMiiiSON, John. Douglas.
Mkin, James. Nairn.
M'Farlane, James, from Glasgow (Shuttle
Street). Called to Lilliesleaf, but not or-
dained on account of ill-health.
Miller, James, from Falkirk (East). Joined
the Indeiiendents while a student, and emi-
grated to America.
MuiR, Robert, from Glasgow (East Campbell
Street). Left the study of theology for that
Lists of Siiidenis of Theology.
^7Z
of medicine, and became a surgeon in Gart-
more.
NicoL, William. Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Pringle, William, D.D. Auchterarder.
Ramsay, John. Dukinfield.
RoBB, John. Tough.
Smeal, Thomas. Kirkcowan.
Session 1812 — 8 Students.
Anderson, James. Dunblane.
Cairns, William. Became teacher in Edin-
burgh.
Carlyle, Irving. Joined the Church of Eng-
land while a student, on account of being
refused license, and became curate of Shaw
Chapel, near Manchester, but soon after
removed to Glossop, 183 1. Died 1847.
Jack, Alexander, D.D. Dunbar.
Johnston, Ebenezer, from Biggar. Joined
the Established Church while a student, and
afterwards became superintendent and chap-
Iain of Plean Asylum, Stirlingshire. Joined
the Free Church. Died 3d February 1864,
in his 68th year.
Mudie, John Leech, from Largs. Died while
a student.
Scott, George, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Joined the Established Church while a
student, and became parochial teacher in
Whitsome, Berwickshire.
Waugh, Alexander, A.M. London (Miles
Lane).
Session 1813 — ID Students.
Dickson, George. North Sunderland.
Drummond, Ralph. Crail.
Harper, James, D.D. North Leith.
Hunter, Richard. Carlisle.
Inglis, David M. Berwick (Stockbridge).
Keith, Andrew, from Fala, of which his father
was minister. Died soon after obtaining
license as a probationer.
Luke, John, M.D., from Barrhead. Left the
study of theology for that of medicine, and
became a surgeon in Glasgow.
Murray, James. Died while a student.
Puller, James. Glenluce.
Thomson, Thomas M. Girvan.
Session 18 14 — 16 Students.
Barclay, John. Patna.
DoBBiE, James. Annan.
Hastie, David, from London (Well Street).
Left the study of theology for that of medi-
cine. Went to India as a surgeon, and died
there.
Hay, William S., from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Joined the "Original Associate Synod"
while a student, and became minister of a
congregation in that connection in Kilbar-
chan.
Johnston, John. Newburgh.
Kelloe, George. Left the study of theology
for that of medicine, and became a surgeon
in Biggar.
M 'Vey, Thomas, from Falkirk. Died while a
probationer.
Miller, William, from Falkirk. Emigrated
to America immediately after license.
NicoL, Andrew, from Kinross (First). Was a
probationer for nearly 40 years. See Dub-
bieside.
Reid, George. Westray.
Rough, George, from Fala. Died while a
student.
Simpson, Robert, D.D. Sanquhar.
Sudden, Mungo, from Edinburgh (Portsburgh).
Withdrew from the list of probationers, and
became a teacher in Dunbar.
Veitch, James, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Did not prosecute his theological course.
Wilkie, James, from Queensferry. Withdrew
from the list of probationers, and became
superintendent of an academy in Twicken-
ham, Middlesex.
Wood, George. Kirkcudbright.
Session 1815 — 13 Students.
Adams, Thomas. Peebles.
Anderson, John, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Died while a student.
Caie, Thomas. A.M., from Aberdeen (Belmont
Street). Withdrew from the list of proba-
tioners, and became superintendent of the
Glasgow City Mission. Resigned in 1864.
Lived 'privately in Stirling. In May 1870,
Mr Caie was presented with a piece of
plate and £i\^ from old fellow-students.
Mr Caie was teacher from 1827 to 1838,
first in Kendal, and afterwards in Man-
chester.
GiLLON, Adam D. Newcastle (Carliol Street).
Leckie, James, from Lauder. Died while a
student.
Marr, John, from Mauchline. Died while a
student.
M 'Gilchrist, John. Dunse.
NicoL, William, D.D. Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Rutherford, William. Newtown.
Smith, Robert. Died while a probationer.
Smith, John.
Somekville, Joseph, from Kelso. Joined the
Established Church while a student, and
became minister of St John's Chapel of Ease,
Glasgow, 1823. Joined the Free Church,
and again left it.
Young, George, from Kincardine, of which
his father was minister. Joined the Estab-
lished Church while a student. Became. a
teacher in Manchester.
Session 18 16 — 11 Students.
Allison, David. Stuartfield.
Brown, Robert. Dunfermline (St Margaret's).
Carruthers, John J., D.D., from Dumfries
(Buccleuch Street). Some time missionary
in Astracan, Russia, under the Scottish Mis-
sionary .Society. Returned to Scotland at
the breaking-up of that mission. Joined the
Independents, and became minister of a con-
gregation in that connection in Gosport,
afterwards in Liverpool, and subsequently
Theological Professor to the Colonial Society
at Brockville, Canada.
DowNiE, George, from Alloa (West). Ab-
stained from prosecuting his theological
course.
J.A.CK, John. Some time missionary at Astracan,
Russia, under the Scottish Missionary So-
ciety. Returned to Scotland at the break-
ing-up of that mission. Joined the Inde-
pendents, and became minister of a congre-
gation in that connection in Bristol, 1834,
and afterwards in Kingsbridge, 1857.
Johnston, William, A.M., D.D. Lime-
kilns.
2 X
674
The United Presbyterian CJnirch.
M'Intyre, James. Expelled from the Hall.
Ross, Robert, M. D., from Leith (Kirkgate).
Some time missionary at Astracan, Russia,
under the Scottish Missionary Society. Re-
turned to Scotland at the breaking-up of
that mission. Joined the Independents.
Became minister of a congregation in that
connection at Kidderminster, and in 1839
superintendent of the London Missionary
Society's Mission in Sydney. Died 1862, in
his 71st year.
Roy, David, from Kinkell. Emigrated to
America while a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in New Glasgow,
Nova Scotia.
Smellie, William. Stranraer (Bellevilla).
SoMERVlLLE, George. Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Session 181 7 — 17 Students.
Bell, George, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Did not prosecute his theological course,
and became a teacher in Newcastle.
Brown, Robert. Cumnock.
Coulter, John, D. D., from Ireland. Ordained
at Gihiakirk, 1820.
Crichton, Hugh, D.D. Duntocher.
Garret, James. Muirkirk.
Gray, James, from Ireland. Licensed in that
country, and emigrated to America.
Hardie, James. Kinghorn.
Kennedy, George. Kilconquhar.
Leckie, John, from Peebles, of which his father
was minister. Finished his theological
course, but did not take license. Emigrated
to America, became one of the classical
teachers in the University High School of
New York, and died there 22d August 1 841.
MUSCHET, James, from Glasgow (East Camp-
bell Street). Died while a student.
Meiklejohn, Robert. Greenloaning.
Newlands, John, D.D. Perth.
Puller, William. Urr.
Scott, Thomas. Sunderland (Spring Garden
Lane).
Smith, David, D.D. Biggar.
Sutherland, Alexander. Whitehaven.
Williamson, Thomas. Melrose.
Session 18 18 — 11 Students.
Aitken, Thomas. St Andrews.
Brown, Andrew, from Langholm. Joined the
Established Church while a student, and
became parochial minister of Alva.
Fergusson, James, from Greenock (Nicolson
Street). Died while a student at Greenock.
M'Whirter, James. Greenwich.
Mein, Richard, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Left the study of theology for that of medi-
cine, and died soon after obtaining his dip-
loma as a physician.
Menon, John. Did not complete his theolo-
gical course, and became a teacher.
Miller, Robert.
Scott, Joseph. Lochgelly.
Shoolbraid, John. Lochwinnoch.
Thom, John. Anstruther.
Veitch, Robert, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Joined the Established Church while a stu-
dent, and died while a probationer in that
connection.
Session 18 19 — 16 Students.
Blyth, James. Gave up study.
Brown, James R., D.D., from Coldstream.
Joined the Established Church while a stu-
dent. Became minister of a congregation in
that connection, first in Berwick-upon-Tweed,
afterwards in London (Swallow Street), Dir-
leton. East Lothian, and Greenock (Middle
Church). Died there i860.
Chapman, George. Great Salkeld.
Gibson, John. Left suddenly while studying
as a missionary under the Scottish Mission-
ary Society.
Gray, James. London (Albion Chapel).
LiLLiE, James, D.D. Montrose (John Street).
Lourie, William. Lauder.
LowRiE, Alexander. East Calder.
M 'Arthur, Archibald. Emigrated as a pro-
bationer to Van Dieman's Land, and be-
came minister of a congregation there, 1822.
Marshall, Alexander. Kendal.
Mather, Peter. West Kilbride.
Paterson, William. Banff.
Scott, James, from Lochwinnoch. Withdrew
from the list of probationers.
Schaw, William, from Glasgow (East Camp-
bell Street). Withdrew from the list of pro-
bationers.
Smart, John, D.D. Leith (St Andrew's Place).
Taylor, John, M.D., D.D. Auchtermuchty.
IV.
UNITED SECESSION HALL.
1.
Professor DICK'S Class.
The Rev. John Dick, D.D., Glasgow, was ap-
pointed Professor of Theology by the United
Associate Synod in 1820, and held the office
till his death, which took place in 1833.
Session 1S20— 29 Students.
Arniel, William Currie. Portobello.
Berry, John, from Crossgates, Joined the
Established Church while a student, but
died soon after.
Black, John. Newcastleton.
CoATES, John, from Glasgow (East Campbell
Street). Turned to a secular calling while
a student.
Cooper, John. Fala.
Crawford, Alexander. Some time mis-
sionary in the East Indies under the Scottish
Missionary Society. Returneil to this coun-
try on account of ill-health. Joined the
Synod of Ulster, and became minister of a
Lists of Students of Theology^
675
congregation in that connection in Randals-
town, Ireland.
Crease, Robert. Peebles.
Dickson, Alexander. Did not prosecute his
theological course.
Dobbie, William, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Finished his theological course, but not
licensed.
Dodds, Robert G., from Lander. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Studied
medicine, and became a surgeon in Chatham.
Fisher, Alexander. Dunlermline (Queen
Anne Street).
Fyfe, Alexander. Studied medicine at the
same time he studied theology, with the
view of going abroad as a missionary ; but
abandoned this intention, and became a
surgeon in Edinburgh, whence he removed
to Crieff.
Halley, Ebenezer, D.D. St Andrews.
Henderson, James, from Falkirk. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Studied medi-
cine. Became a surgeon in London, and
died there.
Hendrine, Samuel, from Ireland. Ordained
at Middleton, in that country.
Hunter, John. Belford.
M'Rae, David, A.M. Lathones.
Martin, David.
Mein, Richard.
Mitchell, James. Sent to Poona, India, by
the Scottish Missionary Society. Designated
28th November 1822. Died 28th March
1866.
Oliver, Alexander, from Pollockshaws. Died
while a student.
Paton, Robert. Did not prosecute his theolo-
gical course, and became a teacher in Glas-
gow.
PoLLOK, Robert, LL.D. Buckhaven.
Ritchie, William. Did not prosecute his
theological course. Became a teacher.
RoBB, John, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Withdrew from the list of probationers.
Thomson, Michael, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Withdrew from the list of probationers, and
became editor of the Glasgow Chronicle
newspaper. Died 1863.
Whyte, Adam. Died as a student.
Young, John. Buchlyvie.
Young, Joseph. Haddington.
Session 182 1 — 29 Students.
Beugo, James, from Dunning, of which his
father was minister. Withdrew from the
list of probationers into private life.
Black, John, from Galston. Died while a
student.
Blackwood, Robert. Banff.
Blair, James. Warkworth.
Cairns, Peter. Stewarton.
Cairns, Robert. Cumbernauld.
Carmichael, Daniel. Blyth.
CouTTS, Charles. Withdrew from the list of
probationers, and became a teacher.
Dick, Andrew Coventry, son of Dr Dick.
Attended two sessions. Afterwards studied
at Edinburgh for the Bar, and admitted as
advocate in 1827. Was Sheriff-Substitute
of Bute, 1847-62. Retired to Helensburgh,
where he died on 14th January 1870, in the
66th year of his age. Author of ' ' Principles
of Voluntary Churches Defended," 1833 ;
editor of " Lectures on Theology," by the
Rev. Dr Dick, his father, with a memoir,
1833; "Dissertation on Church Polity,"
1835 ;„" The Nature and Office of the
State," 1848; besides contributing various
articles to the North British Rcvieiu, and
other magazines.
Dou(;las, Hugh. Lockerbie.
Duncan, David. Howgate.
Hannah, Peter Creetown.
Hume, John. Died while a student.
Main, Thomas. Left the study of theology for
that of medicine. Became a surgeon in
Falkirk, and died there in 1825.
M'CoNNEL, John. Died while a student.
M-Gregor, Matthew, from Methven. With-
drew from the list of probationers into pri-
vate life.
M'Kerrow, William, D.D. Manchester
(Lloyd Street).
Mather, W^illiam. Joined the Established
Church while a student. Became minister
of a quoad sacra church in Stanley. With-
drew from the Established Church in 1843,
and became minister of the Free Church
there.
Morrison, John. Keith.
Ogilvie, Alexander, from Wigtown, of which
his father was minister. Died soon after
obtaining license, 1825.
Paterson, George. East Linton.
Paterson, Matthew, from Alloa (West).
Withdrew from the list of probationers.
Became a bookseller in Edinburgh, and
died there in 1844.
Paterson, Robert. Greenloaning.
Redpath, Robert, A.M. Edenshead.
Si.mpson, John, from Edinburgh (Brihto Street).
Minister of the United Presbyterian congre-
gation at Port Maria, Jamaica.
Skinner, John, D.D. Partick.
Sowden, Samuel, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Finished his theological course, but not
licensed. Studied medicine, and became a
surgeon.
Williamson, William, from Paisley (Abbey
Close). Withdrew from the list of proba-
tioners.
Young, James, probationer. Left the connec
tion.
Session 1822 — 29 Students.
Bookless, William. Maryport.
Boyd, J., from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Gave up his theological course, and turned
to a secular profession.
Brownlee, Ja.mes, from Falkirk (South), of
which his father was minister. P^migrated
to America as a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in Staten Island,
New York.
Carter, Thomas, from Earlslon. Joined the
Established Church shortly after obtaining
license, and became parochial teacher in
Merton, Berwickshire.
Hamilton, Ja.mes. Longtown.
La.mbie, Andrew, from Auchinleck. Joined
the "Associate Synod of Original Seceders"
while a student, and became minister of a
congregation in that connection in Pitcaim-
green, Perthshire.
Marr, David, A.M. Edinburgh (Lothian
Road).
676
The United Presbyterian Church.
Mackelvie, William, D.D. Balgedie.
Methven, Jamks, from Stewarton. of which
his father was minister. Emis^rated to
America while a student.
Mitchell, James. Comrie.
MoNCUR, Ja.mes, from Rattray. Gave up his
theological course, and became a teacher of
mathematics in the Royal Navy.
NiSBET, William. Edinburgh(InfirmaryStreet).
Paul, John. .Sanday.
Peddie, William, D.D. Edinburgh (Bristo
Street).
Pollok, David, from Meams. Withdrew from
the list of preachers into private life. Author
of a memoir of his brother, Robert Pollok.
Pollok, Robert, M.A., from Meams. Died
1827, shortly after obtaining license, at
Shirley Common, Southampton, whither he
had gone for his health, and where a monu-
ment has since been erected by public sub-
scription to his memory. He was bom at
Muirhouse, Eaglesham, Renfrewshire, on
the 19th October 1798, and died on the
17th September 1827. Author of "The
Course of Time," a poem in ten books ;
"Helen of the Glen;" "The Persecuted
Family;" and "Ralph Gemmel," tales of
the Covenanters.
Pringle, John. Elgin.
Rankine, James. Left off study,
Scott, Robert. Burghead.
Steven, William. Largs.
Strang, Ja.mes, from Buchlyvie. Emigrated
to America while a probationer.
Taylor, William, D.D. Peebles.
TiLLiE, Alexander. Burghead.
Tod, Andrew. Balerno.
Vallance, John, from Strathaven. Finished
his theological course, but not licensed.
Became a lithographic printer in Liverpool,
and died there.
Waterson, David, from Longridge. Died
while a student.
Wood, William, A.M. Lismore.
Young, George. Joined the Established
Church. Became a teacher in Manchester.
Young, John, LL. D. London (Albion Chapel).
Session 1823 — 35 Students.
Adam, Thomas, from Johnstone. Relinquished
the study of theology for that of medicine.
Became a surgeon in Barrhead, but after-
wards emigrated to America.
Arnot, George. Crossford.
Bell, George, from the Presbyterian congrega-
tion of Perth, Canada West. Returned to
that country, and became a minister at
Simco, in Canada.
Bathgate, John. Died while a student.
BucHAN, Peter. Holm.
Chamberlain, John. A member of the Esta-
blished Church. Educated by the Scottish
Missionary Society. Licensed by the Nor-
thumberland Class of Presbyterians, with the
view of retaining his connection with the
Established Church. Sent to Jamaica 1826,
and died there 183?,.
Coutts, David, from Logiealmond. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Studied
medicine. Subsequently emigrated to Ame-
rica, and became minister of a congregation
in Canada West.
Crybbace, Tho.mas Tully, A.m., from Dal-
keith. Licensed 1828. While a student
Mr Crybbace published a work on " Moral
Responsibility ;" another on "Divine Agency
in Saving P'aith ; " and while a probationer
he published a pamphlet entitled "The
Christian Catholic Church." In September
1831, the Committee appointed to converse
with preachers reported to the Synod "that
they spent some time in conversation with
Mr Crybbace, and found that he holds, and
has taught and published, doctrinal senti-
ments which, in the judgment of the Commit-
tee, are inconsistent with the standards of
this Church, in proof of which they refer to
a tract published by him, entitled ' The
Christian Catholic Church,' addressed to
the people of Ireland (page 4) ; that he
holds himself possessed of complete power
as a minister of the Gospel ; and that when
in London, he had declared, on certain
alleged grounds, that the Presbytery of
London had ceased de facto to exist as a
Presbytery in connection with this Church,
and that their congregations had come under
his superintendence as the ministerial repre-
sentative of the United Secession Church in
London." Mr Crybbace was present, and
heard. "After long and deliberate reason-
ing, the Synod found that Mr Crybbace has
made no satisfactory defence of nor apology
for his conduct ; and the Synod agree that
he should not be allowed, in the meantime,
to exercise his functions as a preacher of the
Gospel under the inspection of this Synod."
Mr Crybbace then disowned connection with
the Secession Church, and has since itinerated
as a preacher without any ecclesiastical con-
nection.*
Duncan, James, from Kinclaven. Withdrew^
from the list of probationers, and became a
newspaper editor.
Fle.ming, David, from Kennoway. Died while
a student.
Gardner, John H., A.M. Whithorn.
Hay, James K., from Avonbridge. Joined the
Established Church while a student, and be-
came minister of Dean Church, Edinburgh.
Deposed 1842.
Henderson, Alexander. Dunblane.
Hill, George. Warrington.
Johnston, Charles. Monkwearmouth.
Kirkwood, Robert, from Paisley (Abbey
Close). Emigrated to America while a pro-
bationer, and became minister of a congre-
gation there.
M'GuFKiE, Peter. South Ronaldshay.
Meikleham, John, A.M. Grange.
Miller, James, from Newmilns. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Emigrated as
a probationer to America.
MuiR, James. Sunderland (Union Chapel).
NicoL, Thomas. Pitrodie.
* On the 2d November 1872 an advertisement appeared
in the Glasgow newspapers in the following terms : — " A
General Assembly of the Protestant citizens of Glasgow,
with their ministers and elders, who would supplicate a
fresh effusion of the Holy .Spirit of love and power for the
joyful re-union of all the faithful men in the land under
their Divine Head, and for the completion of their Protes-
tant Reformation, according to God's written Word, will be
commenced [D.V.] in the Free Gaelic Church, Hope
.Street, on Sabbath, 3d November, at half past six, and be
continued on Tuesday and Thursday evening. The Rev.
T. T. Crybbace, A.M., Gen. Can., and other ministers
and elders, will take part."— Eus.
Lists of Students of Theology
6J7
Oliver, Samuel, from Dumfries (Buccleuch
Street). Did not prosecute his theological
course, and became superintendent of an
academy in Oldham, Lancashire.
Reid, David, from Tarbolton. Withdrew from
the list of probationers. Studied medicine,
and became a surgeon in Fenwick.
Reid, John. Dumfriesshire (Dairy).
Robertson, William. Cupar (Bumside).
RoRSON, John, D.D. Lasswade.
Temple, Alexander, from Glasgow (Welling-
ton Street). Relinquished the study of
theology for that of medicine. Became a
surgeon in Partick. Died there.
Skinner, Francis, D.D. Blackburn.
Walker, George, from Glasgow (East Camp-
bell Street). Accompanied the Rev. Dr
Lang to New South Wales in 1837, and
became minister of a congregation there.
Wallace, George, from East Linton. With-
drew from the list of probationers, and
became superintendent of an academy in
Hull.
Wardrop, John, from Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street). Died while a preacher.
Watson, James, from Johnstone (Secession).
Sent to Jamaica V>y the Scottish Missionary
Society. Minister in Kingston.
Wilson, John, from Glasgow (Regent Street).
Educated by the Scottish Missionary So-
ciety, but was prevented by the state of his
health from going abroad. Became minister
of an Independent congregation in Montrose.
Wilson, Robert, D.D. Kendal.
Young, John. Bellingham.
Session 1824 — 36 Students.
BORTHWICK, Peter, from Penicuik. Prevented
by the Presbytery of Edinburgh from finish-
ing his theological course at the United
Associate Hall. Joined the Episcopal
Church, and went to study at Oxford. lie-
came a tragedian. Engaged by the West
India interest as lecturer on slavery, in
opposition to Mr George Thompson, the
immediate emancipation advocate. .Subse-
quently twice member of Parliament for the
borough of Evesham, in the county of Wor-
cester, through private interest. Afterwards
connected with the AIorniHg Post news-
paper ; at the same time studying law at the
Inns of Court. Died in December 1852, at
a comparatively early age.
Broom, Andrew. North .Sunderland.
Browning, David. Newcastle (Blackett Street).
Carruthers, William. Queensferry.
Clarke, George. Chapelknowe.
Cunningham, William, from Alloa (West).
Did not complete his theological course.
Duncan, Walter. Glasgow (Duke Street).
P'ergusson, Peter, from Bridge of Teith.
Emigrated to America immediately on tak-
ing license, and became minister of a con-
gregation in Canada West.
Gair, Alexander. Joined the Established
Church. Minister of Glenmorison.
Gair, Walter, from Inverness (First). Gaelic
student. Not licensed. Was a teacher in
Inverness.
Gow, David, from Perth (North). Relinquished
study.
Harper, James, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Emigrated to America while a probationer,
and became minister there.
Kevand, Robert, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Died while a probationer.
King, David, LL.D. Dalkeith.
Lockie, Alexander, from Greenlaw. Occa-
sional supply of preachers.
M'CoNNEL, J., from Ayr. Died while a student.
Marshall, William, D.D. Coupar-Angus.
Martin, Andrew. Lochmaben.
Miller, William. Longridge.
Milne, Charles. Edenshead.
Muir, John, from Dairy, Ayrshire. Died while
a student.
Newlands, James Birnik, from Glasgow
(Campbell .Street). Relinquished the study
of theology for that of medicine. Became a
surgeon in Liff, P'orfarshire, but subsequently
emigrated to America.
Orr, WiLLlAiM. P'enwick.
Kenton, Henry, A.M. Kelso.
Ritchie, Alexander. Dairy, Ayrshire.
Robertson, Alexander, from Selkirk. With-
drew from the list of proljationers. Went
to Australia.
Robertson, John. Burghead.
Robertson, Patrick. Sunderland (Smyrna
Chapel).
Scott, James, from Largs. Turned to a secu-
lar calling while a student.
Scott, Tho.mas, from Pollockshaws. Joined
the Established Church while a student, and
became a parochial teacher.
Shanks, David, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Emigrated to America as a probationer.
Sinclair, Sutherland. Greenock (George
Square).
Smith, James, D.D. Glasgow (Erskine Church).
Thomson, Andrew W., from Thomhill. With-
drew from the list of probationers. Became
teacher in England. Died 1855.
Tod, David. Stonehaven.
Warden, Joseph, from Greenock (Nicol^on
Street). Prevented from prosecuting his
theological course. Died 1826.
Session 1825 — 33 Students.
Adams, John, from Johnstone. Emigrated to
America while a student.
Allan, James, from Selkirk. Died while a
student.
Brow.n, Ja.MES. Shapinshay.
Bruce, John Collingwood, A.M., LL.D.,
F.S.A., from Newcastle (Clavering Place).
Withdrew from the list of probationers, and
became superintendent and proprietor of an
academy in Percy Street, Newcastle. Had
the degree of LL. D. conferred upon him by
the University of Glasgow, 1 85 3. Author
of " Introduction to Geography and Astro-
nomy," which has gone through many edi-
tions; "Handbook of English History," a
book for schools (4th edition); " The Bay-
eaux Tapestry Elucidated," 1856; "A .Ser-
mon preached on the occasion of the death
of the Rev. D. Carmichael, Blyth," i860;
"The Roman Wall, being an account of
the Barrier of the Lower Isthmus," 8vo,
185 1, second edition, 1853, third edition,
quarto and folio, 1867; " The Wallet-Book
of the Roman Wall, a Guide to Pilgrims
journeying along the Barrier of the Lower
Isthmus," i2mo, 1863; "A Handbook to
678
The Uniled Presbyterian CImrch.
Newcastle-upon-Tyne," 1863; "Incised
Markings on Stones found in the County of
Northumberland and Argyleshire," folio,
with 33 large plates, privately printed, 1869 ;
" Lajjidarium Septentrionale, or a Descrip-
tion of the Monuments of Roman Rule in
the Four Northern Counties of England,"
folio, profusely illustrated, every sculptured
stone being engraved, pp 400, published by
the Society of Antiquaries of Newcastle.
The last two works were prepared at the
request, and the first of them at the cost, of
the Duke of Northumberland.
Campbell, Ivy, from Cumnock. Did not com-
plete his theological course, and became a
farmer.
Caw, David. Savoch of Deer.
CUTHBERTSON, ROBERT. Dunfermline (Chal-
mers Street).
Davidson, Peter, D.D. Arbroath (Erskine
Church).
Deas, William, from Milnathort. Emigrated
to America while a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in Adelaide,
Canada West.
George, James, D.D., from Auchterarder.
Emigrated to America while a student ; took
license there, and became minister of a con-
gregation in connection with the Church of
Scotland in Scarborough, Canada West.
Professor and Vice-Principal of Queen's Col-
lege, Kingston.
GiRDWooD, Thomas. Penicuik.
Gordon, Peter, from Glasgow (East Campbell
Street). Emigrated to America while a
probationer.
Gray, James, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Gave up theological study, entered the
army, and died in India.
Harkness, James. Ecclefechan.
Hunter, John. Savoch of Deer.
M'Farlane, John, LL.D. Kincardine.
M 'Gavin, Matthew. Stonehouse.
Middlemas, Jasi'ER, fromVethoim. Emigrated
to America while a probationer. Became
ministerof a congregation in Bethlem, Albany
County, State of New York.
Morison, Peter, from Auchterarder. Joined
the Established Church while a student.
Ministerof Saline.
Murray, Archibald, from Kincardine. With-
drew from the list of preachers. Became a
teacher in Jamaica, and died there in 1844.
Murray, Georcie, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Became missionary at Blenheim, Canada
West.
NicoLsoN, William S., from Ceres. Did not
prosecute his theological course on account
of ill-health.
Paton, Geor(^.e, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Withdrew from the list of proba-
tioners, and became an apothecary in Edin-
burgh.
Scott, Robert, from Hawick (East Bank).
Did not prosecute his theological course on
account of ill-health. Emigrated to Canada.
Smart, William S. Linlithgow.
Smith, William, from Aberdeen (Belmont
Street). Died while u])on trials for license.
Sommerville, Andrew, D.D., from Milna-
thort. Dumbarton (High Street).
Sprott, Andrew, A.M. West Kilbride.
Thorburn, William. Halfold.
Walker, George. Muirkirk.
Wardrope, Robert, from Galston. Called to
Dundee, Dumfries, and Liverpool, but de-
clined accepting any call on account of ill-
health. Died 1840, in the 33d year of his
age. A volume of his sermons and lectures,
with a memoir by W. R. Thorburn, was
published after his death.
Young, James. Dunfermline (Queen Anne
Street).
Young, Robert, from Kinkell. Died while a
student.
Professor DICK'S and Professor
MITCHELL'S Classes.
The Rev. John Mitchell, D.D., Glasgow,
was appointed Professor of Biblical Criti-
cism by the United Associate Synod, 1825,
and held the office till 1842, when he re-
signed on account of declining health. There
were now two Professors — Dr Dick continu-
ing to hold the chair of Systematic Theology
till his death. The students entering the
Hall from this date began with Biblical
Criticism under Dr Mitchell.
Session 1826 — 28 Students.
Adam, Matthew, from Johnston. Emigrated
to Australia soon after obtaining license,
and became minister of a congregation con-
nected with the Church of Scotland, at
Windsor, in that colony.
Aird, John. Muirkirk.
Archer, Thomas, D.D. London (Oxendon
Chapel).
Archibald, William, from Edenshead. Died
while a student.
Bain, James, from Denny. Died in 1827.
Balfour, William. Rosehearty.
Barrie, William, from Edenshead. Called
to Johnshaven and Midmar, but not allowed
to accept either call, because of his previous
engagement to the Synod's Committee to
proceed to Canada as a missionary. Be-
came minister of the congregation of Eramosa,
Canada West.
BoAG, John M., from Milnathort. Probationer.
Died in 1833.
Brown, William, from Lauder. Withdrew
from the list of probationers. Became a
teacher in Linlithgow. Died there, 1857.
Burn, David, from Edinburgh (Potterrow).
Joined the Synod of Original Seceders while
a student, and became minister in Thurso.
Cowan, John, from Glenluce. Sent by the
Scottish Missionary Society to Jamaica,
Became minister at Carronhall.
Henderson, David. Dairy, Ayrshire.
Hutton, George. Linlithgow.
Jack, Alexander, from Newmilns. Joined
the Established Church, and became a
parochial teacher at Largs.
Kennedy, HucxH, from Denny. Relinquished
the study of theology for that of medicine,
and became a surgeon in CJlasgovv.
Law, James. Probationer. Joined the Esta-
blished Church. Was minister of Inver-
brothock. Died i860, in his 64th year.
M'GiLL, Matthew. Rigg.
Nesbit, Alexander. Edinburgh (Portsburgh).
Pitcaithley, Laurence. Carnoustie.
Robertson, James. Edinburgh (Portsburgh).
Lists of Sttidents of Theology
679
Robertson, John. Dunse.
RoBSON, George. Lauder.
Smith, Robert, from Whithorn. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and be-
came an attorney in Whithorn.
Spence, Samuel, LL.D. Liverpool.
Steedman, John, from Mucl^art. Accepted
a temporary appointment to teach mathe-
matics on board a ship of war while a
student. Afterwards became tutor to the
British Consul's family at Monte Video,
South America, and died there.
TURNBULL, Robert, from Cumbernauld. Joined
the Baptists while a student. Minister in
Boston, U.S.
Welsh, George, from Cumnock. Died soon
after his arrival in the East Indies, whither
he had gone as an agent of the London
Missionary Society.
White, David, from Forfar. Joined the Esta-
blished Church while a student, and became
parochial minister of Airlie, Forfarshire ;
afterwards of the Free Church.
Session 1827 — 22 Students.
Bell, James, from Buchlyvie. Did not prose-
cute his studies.
Boyd, John, D.D. Hexham.
Carruthers, Peter. Longtown.
Davidson, Alexander. Dundee (School
Wynd).
Dunn, John, from Dunblane. Admitted to
the Hall by a vote of the Synod, to which
he appealed from a decision of the Presby-
tery of Stirling refusing him admittance on
the ground of bodily infirmity. He was for
the same reason refused license in 1832.
Became teacher of a school in Kilmarnock
in connection with the Established Church.
Died about the year 1S59. Author of a
poem on " Eternity."
France, William. Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
Hyslop, Henry. Montrose (John Street).
Inglis, John. Hamilton (Blackswell).
Leslie, Alexander. Tunley.
Mack, George, from Glasgow (Regent Place).
Did not prosecute his theological course,
and became teacher in Irvine.
M 'Gavin, James R., D.D. Dundee (Tay
Square).
M'Gregor, John, from Abemethy. Emigrated
to America while a student, and became
minister of a congregation there.
M'Lellan, John. Rousay.
Morris, George, from Glasgow (Regent Place).
Called to Creetown and Leith-Lumsden, but
declined both calls. Emigrated to America,
and became minister of a congregation at
Silverspring, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Neilson, John F., from Glasgow (Regent
Place). Did not prosecute his theological
course, and became reporter to the Times
newspaper and Commission of Lunacy,
London. The following notice respecting
this gentleman appeared in the Times: —
" On Saturday (29th September 1849) an
elegant entertainment was given at the Lon-
don Tavern to Mr J. F. Neilson, on the
occasion of his retirement from the Times,
when a handsome silver inkstand was pre-
sented to him by his late colleagues, the
parliamentary reporters of this journal. Mr
Neilson is the gentleman whose extraordi-
nary accuracy as a reporter Lord Brougham
justly complimented at the late Carlisle
dinner. After a connection of nineteen
years with the Times, during which he dis-
played great intelligence, ability, and zeal,
Mr Neilson returns to his native town to
assume the editorship of the Glasgow Con-
stitutional. He has performed some of the
greatest feats in reporting that have been
achieved on the metropolitan press, and we
cordially wish him success in his new
undertaking." Afterwards returned to Lon-
don, and was re-engaged on the Times.
Skinner, James, from Dundee (Bell Street).
Sent as one of the Synod's missionaries to
America, and became minister at South-
wold, afterwards at English Settlement and
Proof Line, Canada West. Originated
about twelve new congregations. Died
17th October 1865.
Thomas, David. Mauchline.
Thomson, Adam. Hawick (East Bank).
Thomson, William. Slateford.
Towers, James. Wigtown.
Turner, William. Dunoon.
Waddell, Hope M., from Ireland. Sent by
the Scottish Missionary Society as one of
their agents to Jamaica. Became one of
the Synod's missionaries to Old Calabar,
and one of the first that went thither. Re-
tired 1858. Now living privately near
Dublin. Author of "Address to Students
of Edinburgh University, " 1853 ; and
"Twenty-nine Years in the West Indies
and Central Africa," 1863.
Session 1828 — 26 Stmfents.
Adam, Alexander. Portree.
Bain, Mich.\el, from Dennyloanhead. Died
while a student, 1831.
Boyd, Ja.mes. Brechin (City Road).
Calderwood, Henry, LL.D. Kendal.
Cassie, John, A.M., from Peterhead. Or-
dained at Stuartfield for Canada, 2d Sep-
tember 1834. Inducted as minister of Port
Hope, Canada West, 12th March 1835.
Died 19th June 1861, in the 54th year of
his age.
Christie, Anthony L. Otterburn.
Connel, David. Bo'ness.
Crosbie, James, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Died while a student.
Deans, George. Portobello.
De.mpster, James, from Aberdeen (George
Street). Joined the Established Church
while a student.
Fleming, John D. Inverkeithing.
Jameson, William, from Methven, of which
his father was minister. Became minister
of a congregation in Go.shen, Jamaica, under
the inspection of the congregation of Rose
Street, Edinburgh. Went thence as one of
the Synod's missionaries to Old Calabar,
1846, and died there, 1847.
Lees, Robert, from Lauder. Withdrew from
the list of probationers. Studied medicine,
and became an apothecary in Edinburgh.
LiND, William, from West Calder. Emigrated
to America as a probationer, and became
minister of a congregation in Jefferson
County, U.S.
Little, James, from Lockerbie. Emigrated to
America while a probationer.
68o
The United Presbyterian CJuirch.
Lyal, Alexander, from Dunse. Died while a
student, 1830, in his 28th year.
M'MuTRiE, David, from Stranraer (Bellevilla).
Died 13th December 1831.
M 'Queen, William. Pathstruie.
Moffat, William, from Moniaive. Died while
a student, as a city missionary.
NiVEN, Andrew, from Alyth. Became minis-
ter of Stirling, Jamaica. Perished at sea
in a hurricane, 1846.
Rankine, John. Cupar (Bumside).
Reid, William. Lochgelly.
Shand, Ale.xander. Called to Hartlepool.
Declined the call, and never obtained
another.
Speedie, William, from Abemethy. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and emi-
grated to America.
Walker, John. Gave up his theological course.
Said to have adopted " Rovvite " opinions.
His discourses were not sustained.
White, James. Hull.
Session 1829 — 30 Students.
Anderson, Duncan S., from Musselburgh.
Gave up his theological course after attend-
ing two sessions.
Barrie, James. Camwath.
Bell, George. Newcastle (Barras Bridge).
Borwick, William. Dundee (Bell Street).
Brown, Joseph, D.D. Dalkeith.
Croom, David M. Sanquhar.
Friar, John, from Galashiels. Did not prose-
cute his theological course. Emigrated to
America, and became an agriculturist there.
Gibson, James. Whithorn.
Hogg, David. Rattray.
Ingram, James, A.M. Eday.
Jardine, George, from Langholm, of which
his father was minister. Probationer. Died
1857.
Laurence, George, from North Leith. Sent
as one of the Synod's missionaries to America,
and became minister of Clarke, Canada
West.
Lawson, John. Pitlessie.
M'Cracken, William, from Girvan. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and became
a farmer.
M'GowAN, William S. Sandwick.
M'Gregor, Alexander. Kilwinning.
M'Laurin, James C. Pollockshaws.
Marshall, David, from Auchtergaven. Died
while a student.
Parker, John. Sunderland (Spring Garden
Lane).
Robertson, James, from East Calder. With-
drew from the list of probationers.
Scott, David Lawson. Dumfries (Loreburn
Street).
Stewart, William, from Craigend. Proba-
tioner. Retired to Burntisland.
Thomson, John. Holywell.
Thomson, John M. Maybole.
Thornton, Robert H., D. D., from Balerno.
Sent as one of the Synod's missionaries to
America. Became minister of Whitby,
Canada West.
Usher, John, from Lauder. Died while a stu-
dent.
Watson, George Bruce. Methven.
Watt, Robert. Aberlady.
White, James, from Pathstruie. Died in De-
merara, 1837, shortly after his arrival in
that country, whither he had gone as an agent
for the London Missionary Society.
Whyte, John, from Dennyloanhead. With-
drew from the list of probationers.
Session 1 830 — 27 Students.
Anderson, Peter, from Glasgow (Regent
Place). Sent as one of the Synod's mission-
aries to Jamaica, 1835, and became minister,
first at Bellevue, afterwards at Hampden.
Anderson, Thomas, from Edinburgh (Nicol-
son Street). Withdrew from the list of pro-
bationers.
Baird, Hugh. Cumbernauld.
Burgess, William, A.M. Urr.
Dalrymple, James. Thornliebank.
DoDDS, Andrew. Avonbridge.
Duff, John. Newarthill.
Duncan, James. Warkworth.
Eadie, John, D.D., LL.D. Glasgow (Cam-
bridge Street).
FiNLAVSON, Thomas, D.D. Greenock (Union
Street).
GiLFiLLAN, George. Dundee (School Wynd).
Gray, David, from Haddington. Died while
a student, 1839.
Gray, John. Freuchie.
Halley, William M. Markinch.
Hay, James. Liverary.
Howie, James, M.D., from Newmilns. Pro-
bationer for several years. Studied medi-
cine. Is now farmer. Author of " My
Home, My Country, and My Church ; "
"The Coronation;" "Benrisipol;" "Sketches
of Britain."
Jamieson, David T. Busby.
Kennedy, Alexander, from Cumnock. Sent
to Trinidad as a missionary under inspection
of the congregation of Greyfriars, Glasgow.
Went from thence to America, and became
minister in Darlington, Canada West.
Leslie, John, from Milnathort, of which his
father was minister. Withdrew from the
list of preachers into private life.
LiND, Adam. Elgin (Moss Street).
MoNNARD, John, from Geneva. Died in
France, 1838, soon after his arrival in that
country, having gone thither as missionaiy
agent of the United Associate Synod.
Russell, John. Buchlyvie.
Smith, Thomas. Dunfermline (Maygate).
Thomson, George. Campbelton.
Trench, James, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Withdrew from the list of preachers. Be-
came superintendent of Edinburgh City
Mission. Died 1854. A volume of ser-
mons, with Life by Dr A. Thomson, was
published after his death.
Waldie, John, from Coldingham. Died while
a student.
Wardlaw, John F. Longtown.
Session 1831^ — 26 Students.
Bayne, William. Auchtergaven.
Blyth, Walter. Turned to a secular profes-
sion while a student.
Crawford, David G. Burntisland.
Galloway, James. Lctham.
Glover, Hugh. Sunderland (North).
Haddin, John, from Limekilns, of which his
father was minister. Probationer.
Lists of Students of Theology
68 1
Jennings, John, D.D., from Rathillet. Or-
dained at Cupar, 1838, for Canada. Inducted
at Toronto, 9th July 1839. Editor of The
Canadian Presbyterian Magazine.
LiLLiE, John, A.M., D.D., from Kelso. Emi-
grated to America while a student. Studied
medicine, and became a surgeon there.*
M'Fadyen, James. Patna.
M'GiLL, Hamilton M., D.D. Glasgow (Mon-
trose Street).
M'Intyre, John, A.M. Greenloaning.
M'Lellan, John. Rousay.
Miller, Charles. Dunse.
MuiR, John. Newtyle.
Niven, James, from Alyth. Sent to Jamaica
as one of the Synod's missionaries, and
became minister of Friendship, in that
island.
Paterson, Alexander. Dairy, Galloway.
Reid, Andrew. Lossiemouth.
Ritchie, William, D. D., from Methven.
Joined the Established Church while a stu-
dent. Became parochial minister of St
martins, Perthshire. Now of Longfor-
gan.
Rutherford, Alexander C. Falkirk.
Sedgewick, Robert. Aberdeen (Belmont
Street).
SoRLEY, Alexander. Arbroath (Erskine
Church).
Symington, William, from Howgate. Re-
linquished the study of theology for that of
medicine, and became a physician in Peni-
cuik.
Thomson, Andrew, B.A., D.D., F.R.S.E.
Edinburgh (Lothian Road).
Tindal, Peter, from Berwick (Golden Square).
Died while a student.
Walker, Robert T. Comrie.
Wallace, James, from Fenwick. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and became
master of the Burgh School of Kilmaurs.
Session 1832 — 27 Students.
AiTKEN, William. London (Pell Street).
Anderson, James, A.M. Norham.
Bayne, James, from Dunbar, of which his
father was minister. Became colleague to
Rev. John Brown, Londonderry, Nova
Scotia.
BoRWicK, James. Rathillet.
Brown, David, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Withdrew from the list of proba-
tioners, and became a teacher. Now
master of Berwick Academy.
Brown, John. Located some time as mis-
sionary at Lismore, but subsequently with-
drew from the list of probationers.
Bruce, William, D.D. Edinburgh (Infirmary
Street).
Clark, John. Abemethy.
Cross, John, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Emigrated to America as a proliationer.
Davidson, John, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
* He was pastor of the Old School Presbyterian
Church at Kingston, New York, at the time of his death
in 1S67. As a student at Edinburgh he was distinguished
for his classical attainments, and received the gold medal
of the Writers to the Signet, as the best Latinist. In
1S55 he received the degree of D.D. from Edinburgh
University. Translator of 2d Peter, the Epistles of
John and Jude, and the Apocalypse, to the American
Bible Union. Author of Lectures on ist and 2d Peter,
Epistles to the Thessalonians, etc. — Eus.
Joined the Relief Church while a student,
in 1836, and attended the Divinity Hall.
Emigrated to Canada in 1842, and finished
his studies at Queen's College, Kingston.
Now minister of North Williamsburgh,
Canada West, in connection with the
Church of Scotland.
Davidson, Robert, from Cumbernauld. With-
drew from the list of probationers.
Falconer, James, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Withdrew from study.
Gibson, Robert, from Leith (North). At-
tended a few sessions.
Henderson, Archibald. Lathones.
Johnston, Andrew, from Stranraer (Bellevilla).
Ordained, 22d August 1837, as chaplain to
a mining company in Brazil, South America.
Returned to this country, and was received
upon the list of probationers. Called to
Bathgate, but declined the call. Became
teacher to the Canongate Charity Work-
house, Edinburgh. Joined the Established
Church, and became parochial minister of
Kinglassie, Fifcshire.
Kevand, Gavin, from Whithorn. Died while
a student.
Lindsay, James. Kilmarnock (Wellington
Street).
LuMSDEN, James. Crail.
Marshall, William. Leith (Kirkgate).
M'EwAN, James, from Dundee (Tay Square).
Died while a student, 1833.
Monro, John Bennkt. Cambuslang.
Paterson, John. Rattray.
Ross, Andrew. Pitcaim.
Robertson, Andrew. Stow.
Smart, James, A.M. Chim.side.
Watson, Alexander, from Perth (South). Did
not prosecute his theological course. Re-
came a teacher, and subsequently emigrated
to America.
Young, John. Catrine.
Session 1833 — 19 Students.
Angus, John, from Inverkeithing. Did not
prosecute his theological course, and became
a Government clerk in Somerset House,
London.
Carrick, John, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Joined the Baptists while a student, and be-
came minister of a congregation in that con-
nection in South Shields.
F.\Lco\ER, James, from Glasgow (East Camp-
bell Street).
Forbes, Robert. Letham.
Jeffrey, George, D.D. Glasgow (London
Road).
Johnston, Andrew R. Duntocher.
LowDEN, Andrew, from Alyth. Emigrated
to America as a probationer. Became minis-
ter in New Glasgow, Canada East. Died
1856.
Miller, Andrew P., from Alloa. Ordained
for Nova Scotia, 1843. Inducted to Meri-
gonish in 1844.
Miller, John, from Dunbar, of which his
father was minister. Some time a proba-
tioner.
Peden, John. Glasgow (East Regent Place).
Robertson, James. Musselburgh.
RoBB, John. Broughty-Ferry.
Scott, William, from Limekilns. Ordained
3d September 1838. Inducted at Hillside,
V
6S2
TiLc United Presbyterian ClMrch,
Jamaica, loth February 1 839. Died there,
14th August 1 84 1.
Smith, William. Bannockliurn.
Taylor, James, D.D. St Andrews.
Thomson, Joseph, from Lockerbie. Attended
one session. Died while a student.
Turnbull, Walter B., from Jedburgh (Black-
friars). Did not prosecute his theological
studies. Became a clerk in a Government
office, but subsequently emigrated to America.
Young, David. Kinclaven.
YoUxN'G, David. Muukirk.
III.
Professors MITCHELL, BROWN, DUNCAN, and BALMER.
The Rev. Professor Dick, D.D., died on the 25th January 1833. On the 22d
of April the Synod met in Glasgow, and agreed to postpone the appointment of a
successor to Dr Dick, in order to mature a scheme of theological tuition. At the
same time, the Synod enjoined each Presbytery to appoint a Committee to take
charge, for the ensuing season, of students in their bounds who had attended Dr
Mitchell's class for two years, to direct their studies, and generally promote their
improvement. The Committee entrusted with the scheme of tuition reported to the
Synod, which met in Edinburgh on the 9th September, and recommended the
appointment of /wr Professors instead of two. Accordingly, in April 1834, four
Professors were set apart by the Synod, namely —
Rev. John Mitchell, D.D., Glasgow, Professor of Biblical Literature;
Rev. John Brown, D.D., Edinburgh, Professor of Exegetical Theology;
Rev. Alexander Duncan (afterwards D.D.), Midcalder, Professor of Pastoral
Theology and Church History ;
Rev. Robert Balmer (afterwards D.D.), Berwick, Professor of Systematic
Theology.
The Synod had assigned the chair of Pastoral Theology to Dr Balmer, and that
of Systematic Theology to Dr Duncan ; but by a private arrangement, in which the
Synod acquiesced, these gendemen exchanged places. The students of the first
and second years were required to attend the classes of Biblical Literature and
Exegetical Theology; and those of the third, fourth, and fifth year were to attend
on Systematic and Pastoral Theology. The session was to extend over two months,
and the students were bound to attend the whole session.
Session 1834 — 31 Students.
Archibald, John, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Attended one session. Became
tutor to the British Consul at Monte Video,
South America.
Brown, Andrew Morton, LL.D., from New-
milns. Joined the Congregationalists while
a student, and became co-pastor of Poole,
Dorset ; now minister of a church in Chel-
tenham. Received the degree of LL.D.
from Marischal College, Aberdeen, in 1850.
Author of " The Leaders of the Lollards;"
"A Wreath around the Cross ;" " Evenings
with the Prophets ;" " Peden the Prophet ;"
" Memoirs of the Rev. John Rogers of Brid-
port, Dorset ;" joint-biographer of the life of
Dr John Campbell of London.
Christie, Sloan. Crossford.
Davidson, James, from Milnathort. Withdrew
from the list of probationers into private life.
Dick, James, from (jirvan. Became minister of
Emily, Canada West, 1842.
Drummond, Rohert, from I'enicuik. After
four sessions joineil the Baptists.
Faulds, Robert, from Beith. Died while a
student.
Fisher, William. New Leeds.
Fleming, Thomas, from West Calder. With-
drew from probationers' list.
Forrest, David. Troon.
Guthrie, John, M.A. Kendal.
Hepburn, Ebenezer D.\wson, from Bonkle.
Missionary in Caffraria.
Hogarth, Robert. Stranraer,
LUMGAiR, David. Newtown.
M'Culloch, George. Attended five sessions.
Left the denomination.
Miller, John Kemp. Catrine.
Moncreikf, William Glen, from Hamilton.
Suspended wdiile under call to Mussclliurgh.
Ordained there as minister of an Indepen-
dent Church. Left for America.
Monteath,- Robert. Greenlaw.
MoRisoN, Ja.mes, D.D. Kilmarnock.
Murray, Andrew. Forfar.
PoRTEOUS, John, from Mayhole. Became min-
ister of St Catherine's, Upper Canada,
1842.
Prin(;le, James, from Dunse. Became minis-
ter of Centre Road, in Canada, 1849.
Ritchie, William, D.D. Dunsc.
Lists of Students of Theology
683
Syme, George Douglas, from Rothesay.
Preacher. Died 1846.
Tait, William. Ecclefechan.
Thomson, William, from .Stirling (Erskine
Church). City missionary in Glasgow.
Died 1839, aged 24.
Vernon, Andrew, from Creetown. Joined
the Independents, and became minister of a
congregation in P^ngland.
Whyte, John A., from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Became preacher. Joined the Scottish Epis-
copal Church. Ordained minister of St
James', Leith, in 1845. Died in 1865.
VvT'iLsoN, William, from Jedburgh (Blackfriars).
Died while a student, 1835.
WoTHERSPOON, ANDREW, from Glasgow (Re-
gent Place). Became a teacher.
Wylie, William, from Stromness, of which his
father was minister. Died while a student.
Session 1835 — 35 Students.
The Hall met at Edinburgh this session.
Bartholomew, George. Whitby.
Bayne, David Wilson. Urr.
Brodie, George, from Selkirk. Ordained
missionary for Trinidad, 1839.
Crease, William, from Stirling (View-field).
Joined the Independents while a student.
Ordained at Wilmslow, 1844 ; Hazlegrove,
1850.
Gumming, David, from Leslie (East). Died
while a student, 1837.
Dale, Eisenezer G. Bedlington.
Dickson, William, from Edinburgh (Pot-
terrow). Died while a student, 1S40, aged
24.
Downie, John, from Lauder. Abandoned
theological study.
Drysdale, Anderson. Iloughton-le-Spring.
Edmond, John, D.D. Dennyloanliead.
P'letcher, Charles, from Rathillet. Became
minister of Chippewa, 1843 ; afterwards of
Goderich, Canada.
Gardiner, Andrew, A.M. Kincardine.
Gilmour, Alexander. Belonged to the
Synod of Ulster. Ordained at Dungiven,
Ireland, but afterwards cut off from the
body.
IIandyside, Joseph, from Comrie. Went to
Nova Scotia, 1847, but was only one year in
the ministry. Died 1848, aged 28.
Hannah, Adam, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Joined the Relief Church, and became a
probationer. Afterwards on occasional list.
HowNAM, William, from Berwick (Golden
Square). Became preacher. Joined Esta-
blished Church. Ordained at Lowick in
Northumberland, 1848.
Johnston, John, from Leslie (East), of which
his father was minister. Probationer.
Governor of George Watson's Hospital,
Edinburgh, 1847. Resigned 1856. Livcii
on his own property in Harray, Orkney.
Now living near Bannockburn.
Kidd, George, from Perth (South). Proba-
tioner. Suspended while under call to
Norham, 1845. Minister of English Pres-
byterian Church, Norham. Resigned
1847.
Laurie, Thomas M. Partick (Dowanhill).
Main, Andrew. Ordained missionary for
Ebenezer, Jamaica, 1S44. Died uf fever,
1865, aged 49.
Martin, George, from Glasgow (Gordon
.Street). Died, after attending two sessions,
in 1844, aged 29.
Matihew, James, F.S.A. Probationer. Ap-
pointed Librarian to the United Presbyterian
Church, 1848. Died 27th December 1856.
Miller, Alexander, A.M. South Ronald-
shay.
MoNTEiTH, James. Lochwinnoch.
MucKERSiE, Walter. Ferryport-on-Craig.
Petri E, James, from Edinburgh (Potterrow).
Abandoned study. Became a teacher.
Robertson, Edward, from Wooler (First), of
which his father was minister ; probationer.
R0BERT.SON, John, from East Calder. Not
licensed. Withdrew from the Secession
Church. Took to secular work.
Ross, William, from Errol. Missionary in
Caffraria. {See Gordon Cumming's ' ' Hunter's
Life in Africa.")
Sharpe, David, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Withdrew from theological study.
Became teacher in Ireland.
Simpson, Adam Lind, F.S.A. Forres.
Stevenson, Thomas. Auchtermuchty.
Stewart, Ale.xander. Kennoway.
Templeton, Robert, from Maybole. Died
while a student.
Wilson, David. Wallsend.
Session 1836—39 Students.
The Junior Plall met at Glasgow ; the Senior
Hall at Edinburgh.
Barlas, William, from Glasgo\v(Regent Place).
Probationer ; blind. On occasional supply
list. Conducted Maxwelton Place Aca-
demy, Glasgow. Died suddenly, loth De-
cember 187 1, in his 56th year.
Bowman, Thomas. North Shields.
15RODIE, William C. Lasswade.
Brown, John, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Relinquished theological study.
Became editor of a newspaper.
Callander, John. Craigdam.
Craig, Archibald, from Coldingham. Aban-
doned study.
Cuthill, William, from Dennyloanhcad.
Died while a student, 1839, aged 23.
Duncan, Andrew. Midcalder.
Duncan, James. Alva.
DuNLOP, David, from Fenwick. Joined Esta-
blished Church. Ordained at Langtou,
1844. Died 1864.
Ferrier, Robert. Tain.
Fisken, William. Stamfordham.
Fleming, James. Whithorn.
Grahame, Robert, LL. D. Keith.
Haldane, JamesF., from Leith (North). Joined
the Established Church while a probationer.
Minister for a time of .Sauchie, near Alloa.
Hamilton, David. Earlston.
IIandyside, Robert L., from Coldstream.
Joined the Episcopal Church while a student.
Went to Canada.
Honeyman, D.wid, from Dundee (School
Wynd). Probationer. Went to Nova Scotia,
1851.
Ireland, James. Ellon.
Kelly, John, from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Died
while a student, 1838.
KiNiNMONT, Alex.\nder D. Crossford.
Lauder, William Port-Glasgow.
684
The United Presbyterian Church.
Low, George. Barrhead.
MacFarlane, Andrew, D.D. Bathgate.
Matthewson, Thomas. Galston.
Mii.LER, Charles. Dunse.
Ogilvie, John. Crail.
I'ATERSON, Henry Angus, M. A. Stonehouse.
I'EDEN, Robert, from Kilmarnock (Wellinij;ton
Street). Joined the Evangelical Union.
Went to America. Became preacher, and
editor of a periodical.
RiDUELL, John, A.M. Moffat.
Ritchie, Archibald. Campbelton.
Shaw, John, from Milnathort. Called to
North Shields ; declined the call. Died
soon afterwards, 1842.
Smith, Andrew Wood. Cambuslang.
Steedman, John. Stirling.
Symington, Henry, from Moniaive. Aban-
doned study, and became a teacher in Ayr.
Thomson, Alexander, from Partick. Aban-
doned study. Teacher in Glasgow.
Waddell, Alexander W., from Bathgate.
Became minister of Pickering, in Canada,
1848.
Whyte, John. Moyness.
Young, Robert, from Kinclaven. Joined the
Established Church while a student. Died
1854.
Session 1837 — 40 Students.
The Hall met at Edinburgh.
Allan, James, from Penicuik. Ordained for
Prince Edward's Island, 1846.
Alston, John, from Biggar (North). Aban-
doned study. Became a farmer.
Anderson, Alexander, A.M. Montrose.
Baird, John. Jedburgh.
Burgess, Thomas W., from Edinburgh (Nicol-
son Street). Probationer. Studied medi-
cine. Practised as surgeon at Cluny, Fife-
shire ; afterwards at Ballron, where he died
of fever.
Clyde, James, A.M., LL.D., from Dumfries
(Lorebum Street), of which his father was
minister. Probationer. Withdrew, and
became teacher in Dollar Academy, and
afterwards in Edinburgh Academy. Author
of several educational works.
Dalgleish, William, from Edinburgh (Cow-
gate). Abandoned study. Died 1846.
Douglas, James. Hartlepool.
Duncan, William, from Alnwick (Clayport
Street). Probationer. Withdrew.
Gowans, Laurence. Broughty-Ferry.
Hogg, Andrew G., from Haddington (Third),
of which his fallicr was minister. Ordained
as missionary for New 15roughton, Jamaica,
1844.
Honey, William, from Methven. Died while
a student.
Jeffrey, Robert T., M.D. Denny.
KiDD, John. St Andrews.
Lamb, Claud, from Edinburgh (Rose Street).
Died in Edinburgh, 1847, wlien about to take
license.
Lamberton, Alexander, from Kilmaurs.
Abandoned study of theology, and became
a teacher.
Laurie, William, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Died while a student.
M'Kenzie, George Jerment. Carnoustie.
M'Laurin, Robert. West Calder.
M'Lean, John, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Abandoned study.
Miller, John. Middleton (North).
Montgomery, Archibald, from Kilmaurs.
Studied medicine. Practised for some time
in Glasgow.
Paton, Robert, from Markinch. Abandoned
study. Became a teacher in Buckhaven.
Picarson, Thomas. Eyemouth.
Reid, Robert. Firth, Orkney.
Renton, Alexander. Hull. Died at Kelso,
25th October 1863.
Richardson, Thomas Elliot, from London
(Oxendon). Emigi^ated to Australia, 1848,
and became proprietor and editor of a news-
paper.
Ritchie, John Brocket. Aberdeen.
Robertson, George. Busby.
Robertson, William, from Airth. Died while
a student.
Robertson, William Bruce, D.D, Irvine
(Trinity).
Russell, James, from Elgin (First). Joined
the Independents, and became minister of a
church in Yarmouth.
Scott, John, from Kirkintilloch. Probationer,
Ordained for Canada, 1845.
Scott, Walter, from Dennyloanhead. Be-
came minister of Richmond Hill, Toronto,
Canada, 1845.
Wilson, David, from Gorebridge. Withdrew
while a student.
Withers, Peter, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Catechist in Caffraria.
Wood, William, from Edinburgh (Potterrow).
Became teacher.
Wylie, Andrew, from Stromness, of which his
father was minister. Went out as Govern-
ment Surveyor to New Zealand,
Young, John. Newburgh.
Young, William B. Ceres.
Session 1838—29 Students.
BissET, John. Nairn.
Brash, James, from Glasgow (East Campbell
Street), of which his father was minister.
Joined the Established Church when on trials
for license. Did not obtain a settlement.
Became surgeon in Inverary.
Campbell, Duncan, from Stanley, near Perth.
Joined the Independents. Was settled in
Lincoln ; afterwards went to America.
Chapman, David, from Perth (North). Pro-
bationer. Withdrew. Went to Australia,
1846, and became minister at Broadmeadows,
Victoria.
Craig, Robert II., from Partick. Joined the
Independents. Ordained at Lerwick, 1S44.
Translated to Dunfermline, 1847 ; Deal,
1S49 ; Armagh, 1858.
Darling, Hugh. Stitchel.
Dyer, John M'Gilchrist. North Berwick.
Eraser, Henry Erskine, A.M. North Shields.
Gillespie, William, from Gla.sgow (Grey-
friars). Ordained for China, 1843. Re-
turned to this country. Shiels, Bellielvie.
Ingi.is, John. Kendal.
Ker, John, A.M., D.D. Alnwick.
Key, Andkew, A.M. Wick.
Kiddy, William. Lillieslcaf.
Landreth, Peter. Abcrcliirder.
Laughland, David. Newariliill.
Mercer, Peter. Mainsriddell.
Lists of Students of Theology.
685
Miller, James. Probationer in 1843.
Morrison, Alexander, from Glasgow (Regent
Place). Died while a student, 1 840.
Peddie, John, from Methven. Became a
teacher in Edinburgh.
Rankine, William Thomson. Brechin.
Reid, James. Suspended after two sessions.
Went to America. Returned. Jn farm-
service with an uncle in Fife. Dead.
Reid, William. Edinburgh (Lothian Road).
Richardson, Alexander, from Freuchie, of
which his father was minister. Joined the
Established Church while a student. Was
rector of Particle Academy. Author of a
broc/i tire on Union, by "Free Lance," and
other publications.
Scott, George, from Haddington (East). Pro-
bationer. Superintendent of Glasgow City
Mission for several years.
Semple, John. Peebles.
Taylor, William, from Greenlaw. Died while
a student, 1842.
Whyte, Peter. Woolen
Wield, Andrew. Thomliebank.
Young, William, from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street). Joined the Independents, and be-
came minister of a congregation at Beverley,
Yorkshire, 1843; Portsmouth, 1856; Glou-
cester, 1S62.
Session 1839—26 Students.
Brown, Robert. Left the Hall for some ses-
sions, but resumed his studies. Newcastle.
Browning, James, A.M., LL.D., from Tilli-
coultry, of which his father was minister.
Withdrew from theological study. Had an
academy in Rothesay and Peebles, and now
in St Andrews. Received the degree of
LL.D. from St Andrews.
Buchanan, David P., from Edinburgh (Brough-
ton Place). After one session, transferred
to Jamaica Presbytery.
Dalrymple, Alexander. Tarbolton.
Dick, James. Busby.
Drummond, Alexander A., from Falkirk
(South). Emigrated to America as a pro-
bationer. Ordained, 1848, at Brandford,
Canada West.
Duncan, Robert Dick. Dundee (Wishaw
Church).
Forsyth, Alexander, from Kirkcowan. Joined
the Evangelical Union.
Goold, Marshall N. Dumfries.
Gorrie, John, from Perth (North). Abandoned
study.
Henderson, Robert, from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street). When on trials for license, joined
the English Presbyterian Church. Ordained
at Seaton Delaval, 1848. Translated to
Hexham, 1857. Went to Australia, 1859.
Howie, James. Whitehaven.
Hunter, George. Tillicoultry.
Hunter, John L. Pitrodie.
Johnston, John Brown, D.D. Newcastle.
Knox, James, A.M., D.D. Ayr.
Law, James, from Linlithgow. Probationer,
1844. Suspended, 1845. Joined the Estab-
lished Church. Ordained at Auldfield,
1849.
M 'Donald, William, A.M. Lossiemouth.
M'Ewen, Alexander, D.D. Helensburgh.
Miller, John Primrose, A.INL Carnoustie.
Montgomery, Thomas. Ayton.
Ogilvie, Duncan, A.M., D.D. Broughty-
Ferry.
Shoolbraid, Andrew, from Dunfermline (St
Margaret's). Died while a student.
Sim, David. Girvan.
Stevenson, Andrew, M.D., from Kilmarnock
(Princes Street). Probationer, 1846. Joined
the Free Church, and went to Jamaica, 1847.
Died 1849.
Wight, George, from Leith (St Andrew's
Place). Joined the Independents. Ordained
at Portobello, 1846. Afterwards at Had-
dington, and now in Australia. Editor of
Hogg' s Instructor, Author of "Genesis and
Geology. "
Session 1840 — 21 Students.
Bannatyne, Peter. Hexham.
Beveridge, Andrew, from Limekilns. Emi-
grated to Australia while a student, and was
killed by a native there soon after his arrival.
Cairns, John, A.M., D.D. Berwick.
Campbell, John, from Glasgow (Erskine
Church). Ordained for Jamaica, 1846. Mis-
sionary at Lucea.
Cowan, Willia.m. Buckhaven.
Cursiter, James, from Kirkwall. Died while
under call to Comrie and Carnoustie.
Dun lop, John, from Belfast. Returned to
Ireland.
Fisher, George, from Dairy, Dumfriesshire.
Ordained for Canada, and became minister
of Esqueesing, Canada West ; afterwards
renounced his connection with the Church.
Graham, William. Liverpool.
Hay, Joseph. Lethendy.
Heddle, William Sinclair. Brechin.
Jackson, John C. Colinsburgh.
kiRK, James, from Alloa (West). Did not take
license. Became merchant in Alloa.
Lawson, Willi.\m, from Selkirk, of which his
father was minister. Became accountant in
Commercial Bank, Edinburgh.
MUNRO, Daniel, from Inverness (.Second), of
which his father was minister. Joined the
Established Church, and was ordainetl at
Inch, Kingussie, 1846.
MuNRO, Walter Ross, from Nigg, of which
his father was minister. Joined the Esta-
blished Church while a probationer, and
ordained minister of the Gaelic Church,
Cromarty, 1852.
Peddie, David, from Arbroath (Erskine
Church). Left the denomination.
Wallace, Alexander, D.D. Alexandria.
Wilson, Richard, from I>args. Abandoned
study ; became a bookseller in Largs.
Wood, John, from Berwick (Church Street).
Abandoned study.
Young, John, from Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
Joined the Free Church. Ordained at
Amgask, 1847.
Session 1 84 1 — 22 Students.
Ballantyne, William. Langholm.
Brash, John. Wamjihray.
liuicK, John. Muirton.
Callander, Thomas P., from Leith (North).
Ordained for Jamaica, 1S47. Died 22d
January 1S49, at Kingston, aged 26.
Clark, William, from Midmar. Went to
Jamaica and Canada.
Cole, George, from Ireland.
686
The United Presbyterian C/mrch.
IIaxton, James Beveridge, from Dunfermline
(Queen Anne Street). Joined the Esta-
blished Church. Ordained at Pathhead,
Kirkcaldy, 1850. Resigned 1873.
Inglis, David, from Greenlaw, of which his
father was minister. Emigrated to America,
and became a minister there.
Inglis, William. Banff.
KiKKWooD, Andrew S., from Glasgow (Well-
ington Street). Died while a student, in
1S44, aged 23.
MacIlrae, John, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Abandoned study.
Mearns, Peter. Coldstream.
Meikle, Gilbert. Inverary.
Miller, George, from Leith (North). Proba-
tioner. Studied medicine.
Pettigrew, Alexander. Balbeggie.
Pringle, Andrew, from Edinburgh (Potterrow).
Died while under trials for license.
Robertson, Alexander. Wooler.
Scott, John, from Leith (Kirkgate). Ordained
for Jamaica, 1847. Died of yellow fever,
1848, aged 27.
Sheddon, John, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Abandoned study.
Weir, John. Crossford.
WiNTON, David, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Ordained for Jamaica, 1847. Returned for
a short time to Scotland in 1852, and on
the voyage back to Jamaica, along with his
newly-married wife, perished in the "Ama-
zon " steamer by fire.
Young, William Paxton, from Glasgow
(Wellington Street). Ordained for Jamaica,
1845. Minister of Mount Zion. Died 7th
August 1848, aged 30.
Session 1842 — 29 Students.
Dr Mitchell having petitioned the Synod in May
1842 that they appoint one to teach his class
during the ensuing session, the Synod ac-
cordingly appointed the Rev. Drs Mar-
shall and Heugh, with the Rev. Messrs
Eadie and Robson, to take charge of the
class. Mr, now Dr Eadie, discharged the
duties. Dr Duncan being unable for
duty, the Synod appointed Drs Harper
and Smart, and Revs. James Robertson
(Edinburgh) and David Duncan (How-
gate) to take charge of his class. Mr
Duncan read his father's lectures. The
Synod at the same time resolved that in
future the junior and senior classes should
meet in one place. The Junior Hall this
session still met in Glasgow.
Brown, Robert. Mark inch.
Cameron, John, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
After three sessions, died, 1S47, aged 23.
Christie, Erancis. Kilmaurs.
Cooper, John. Johnshaven.
Cowieson, Thomas, from Girvan. Died while
a student.
Dewar, Robert, from Cupar. Became minis-
ter of Leith, Georgian Bay, Canada West,
1855-
Dickson, William. Balerno.
Douglas, Daniel. Kennoway.
Gilchrist, James, from Dumfries (Buccleuch
Street). Relinquished study.
Gow, JoiTN, from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Joined
the Free Church. Ordained at Carinylie,
1849.
Grant, Robert, from Nova Scotia. Returned
to his native country.
Henderson, Alexander. Hexham.
Henderson, Andrew. Coldingham.
Henderson, Thomas, from Glasgow (Regent
Place). Became rector of Greenock Aca-
demy.
Inglis, James. Johnstone.
Lnglis, William, from Stockbridge (Cock-
burnspath), of which his father was minister.
Probationer, 1851-57. Oriental scholar.
Teacher in Dundee. Died i860, aged 34.
Kay, Robert, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
Died 1^43, aged 22.
M'Cracken, James, from Stranraer. Died
while a student.
Mailler, James Whyte, A.M. Pluntly.
Richardson, John, from Liverpool (Mount
Pleasant). Attended only one session.
Joined the Episcopal Church. Ordained at
Stalmine, 1S50. Died 185 1, aged 32.
Ross, William. Embleton.
Russell, Robert. Blairgowrie.
Scott, James Russell. Creetown.
Stark, John. Horndean.
Swan, William F. Comrie.
Taylor, David. Kilham.
Thomson, Adam, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Ordained for Jamaica. Minister of Montego
Bay, 1850.
Torrance, Robert, from Glenluce. Became
minister of Guelph, Canada West, 1846.
Walker, Alexander. Crail.
Professors BROWN, BALMER, HARPER,
and EADIE.
Session 1843 — 22 Students,
The Rev. Drs Mitchell and Duncan resigned
their chairs on 2d May 1843, on account of
age and infirmities ; and on the 5th of
May the Synod appointed Rev. Dr James
Harper (Leith) to fill the chair of Pastoral
Theology, and the Rev. John Eadie (Glas-
gow) to be Professor of Biblical Literature.
Baxter, John C. Dundee (Wishart Church).
Bell, John Peden. Midmar.
Borwick, Robert. Moniaive.
Caldwell, James, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Ordained in Jamaica, 1847. Died of fever,
1848.
Craig, John Scott. Maryport.
Dickson, William, from Ford. Probationer.
Became minister of Albion and Vaughan,
Canada.
Drummond, Edward, from Dundee (School
Wynd). Joined the Established Church.
Died before receiving license.
Haig, Walter, from Leith (St Andrew's Place).
Not licensed.
Kennedy, Ebenezer, from Cumnock. City
missionary, Glasgow. Died 1845, aged 26,
Laurence, William, from Cairneyhill. Be-
cameminister of Mount Zion, Jamaica, 1851.
Died 17th November 1869.
Logie, John, from Buckhaven. Probationer.
Called to Gourock. Refused the call, .and
went to Canada, and became minister at
Stanley, Canada West, 30lh November 1850.
Meikle, William. Anstruther.
Lists of Students of Theology,
687
Mitchell, Robert. Craigs, Kilpatrick.
Morris, George. Dairy.
MuiR, James. Bridge of Allan.
Pentland, John, from Leith (Kirkgate). Left
off study.
Prentice, William, from Biggar (North).
Abandoned study on account of mental ill-
ness.
RiDDELL, Walter. Walker.
Smith, John B. Greenock.
Stevenson, John. Haddington,
Tait, Hugh. Mussellmrgh.
Watson, James. Walker.
Session 1844 — 16 Students.
Ballantyne, John, from Galashiels. Lillies-
leaf.
Greig, Patrick, from Buckhaven. Became
minister of Mount Pleasant, Canada West,
1853-
Leckie, Joseph. Muirton.
Peattie, William, from Crail. Probationer
1849-55. Went to Canada.
Redpath, John, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Not licensed. Became a teacher
in Edinburgh.
Robertson, Ninian, from Stirling (Erskine
Church). Laid aside by illness.
Robertson, Robert, from Stirling (Erskine
Church). Laid aside by illness. Dead.
Scott, Robert Selkirk, A.M., D.D. Man-
chester.
Stevenson, James. Dennyloanhead.
Stewart, Adam. Stockton.
Thomson, Robert, from Urr. Became a cate-
chist in Jamaica.
TURNBULL, Walter. Ordained for Jamaica,
1848. Died 1 6th March 1850.
Turner, William. Craigdam.
Watson, Thomas. Ordained in Canada, 1855.
Now a teacher in Glasgow.
Wilson, William, from Kirkcaldy (Union
Church). Attended one session. Became
a teacher in Kincardine ; afterwards in
Heriot's Schools, Edinburgh ; and in paro-
chial school, Cumbernauld, where he died
of fever, 8th February i860.
Young, Samuei, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Left after his first session. Joined
the Free Church. Went to Canada.
Session 1S45 — 18 Students.
Crawford, Archibald, from Falkirk. Did
not complete his studies.
Culross, James, A.M., D.D., from Coupar-
Angus. Became a Baptist while a student.
Was minister in that body in Stirling till
1870, when he was translated to London.
Theological tutor to the Baptist Academy of
Scotland. Author of "The Missionary
Martyr of Delhi ;" " Divine Compassion ; "
"Lazarus Revived;" "Immanuel;" and
"John, whom Jesus Loved."
DoDDS, George. Newcastle.
Galloway, James. Sutton.
Lawson, John. Selkirk.
Macfarlane, John, A.B. London (Albion).
Maclaren, William. Blairlogie.
Maclean, Alexander. Kirriemuir.
Mathieson, John. Monkwearmouth.
Middleton, George Marshall. Kinross.
MuiR, David M., from Edinburgh (Rose Street).
Died, 1850, after completing his course, be-
fore obtaining license.
Nelson, Robert. Pitcaim.
Richardson, Joseph B., from Liverpool (Mount
Pleasant). Gave up study on account of his
health.
Sandie, George. Gourock.
Skinner, James, from Edenshead. Proba-
tioner, 1850-57. Occasional supply.
Wardrop, James, from Edinburgh (^Broughton
Place). Craigend.
Wylie, Alexander L., from Stow. Went to
Nova Scotia, and was settled there.
Young, David, D.D. Milnathort.
Professors BROWN, HARPER, and
EADIE.
Dr Balmer died on 1st July 1844. An overture
from Kilmarnock Presbytery was presented
to the Synod in May 1846, asking the Synod
to appoint Dr Flarper Professor of Sys-
tematic Theology, which was agreed to.
Session 1846 — 29 Students.
Alexander, John Park. East Linton.
Arnold, John, from Belfast. Died during his
divinity course.
Barron, Peter. Dunning.
Christie, Peter, from Edinburgh (Potterrow).
Left the Hall.
Cochrane, William. Muckart.
DoBiE, John, D.D. Linlithgow.
Dunlop, James. Kilmaronock.
Finlayson, James, from Perth (North). Died
while a student, acting as city missionary in
Edinburgh.
GooDBURN, David S. Waterbeck.
Hutton, George Clark. Paisley (Canal
Street).
Johnston, James A. West Linton.
Johnston, William. Leslie (East).
Lanskail, William G., from Holm (Orkney).
Left off study.
Lawrie, Francis, from Abemethy. Proba-
tioner. Ordained Independent minister at
Lofthouse, i860.
Leys, Peter. Strathaven.
Limont, William. Alnwick.
M'Ewan, David, D.D. Ayr.
MTnnes, William, from Glasgow(Duke Street).
Died while a student, 1847.
Meiklejohn, James C. Chapelknowe.
Orr, Matthew. Dalreoch.
Rattray, David, from Perth (North). Proba-
tioner. Now minister in Victoria.
Russell, David. Dunfermline.
Scott, Andrew Henderson, from Bonkle, of
which his father was minister. Died 1852,
when on trials for license.
Stillie, John. Girv-an.
Thompson, John, A.M. West Calder.
Walker, William.
Wallace, Stephen, M.A. Newcastle.
Weir, John C. Jarrow.
White, Peter, M.A. Denny.
688
The United Presbyterian Church.
V.
RELIEF THEOLOGICAL HALL.
A friendly feeling having subsisted between Rev. Thomas Gillespie and the
Evangelical party in the Church of Scotland, the students of the Relief Church were
educated at the University Divinity Halls. In 1795 the subject of theological edu-
cation was brought before the Relief Synod, and the appointment of a Professor
of Theology urged, but the question was delayed. For several years prior to 1822,
the care of students had been entrusted to Presbyterial Committees. In 1822 the
Rev. William Macllquham was Moderator of Synod, and in his sermon strongly
urged the appointment of a Professor. An overture by the Rev. James Kirkwood
of Edinburgh in the same direction was addressed to the Synod, and thereafter
sent down to Presbyteries. Various occurrences had rendered the adoption of the
measure expedient. A Relief student, in 1820, had been refused enrolment in a
Northern theological hall because he was a Dissenter, and an overture was before
the General Assembly threatening all students of theology with an examination
before Established Presbyteries before entering the Hall. A petition, too, from
twenty-five students of the Relief Church had been presented to the Presbytery of
Glasgow, asking them to support the Synod's overture. In 1823 the overture was
adopted, and it was resolved that a Professor be appointed, and a Committee in-
structed to draw out the constitution of the intended institute. The Rev. James
Thomson, afterwards Dr Thomson, was elected Professor. During 1824 tlie session
was short, but in 1825 the session opened with cheering prospects, a library having
been collected, and thirty-nine students being enrolled.*
Dr Lindsay, who was then a senior student, states that " on Tuesday, Wednes-
day, Thursday, and Friday, one hour was given to lectures and one to examinations ;
on Saturday and Monday, one hour was devoted to hearing discourses. Essays
were written every week by the students and examined by the Professor. On Mon-
day afternoon, the students gave an account of the sermons they had heard on
Sabbath. Greek was read in the class on Tuesday, and Hebrew on Friday."
Glasgow University Hall had been the place where the largest number of Relief
students were previously educated. Yet, to show the appreciation that University
had of Mr Thomson's qualities, they conferred the degree of D.D. upon him in 1827,
the first honour of the kind they had conferred on a dissenting minister.
WoTHERSPOON, JoHN, from Paisley (Thre.id
Street). Sometime teacher in Paisley, and
afterwards superintendent of Glenfield Starch
Works.
Third-year Students.
Allan, William, from Glasgow. Arbroath.
Burnet, William, from Glasgow (Gallon).
Cupar-Fife.
King, Thomas, from Strathaven. Newlands.
LocHHEAD, William, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Went to Kingston, Canada, then Albany,
New York.
M'Chevne, William, from Burnhead. Kelso.
Taylor, James Smith, from Edinburgh (Rox-
burgh Place). Coldstream.
TuniiorE, Archihali), from Paisley (Canal
Street). Annan.
TuRNKULL, James, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Edinl)urgh (Roxburgh Place).
Young, Roiikkt, from Strathaven.
Watson, James, from Gallon. Waterbcck.
Fourth-year Students.
Gi.ASSFORD, Peter, from Glasgow. Alnwick.
Ren WICK, Robert, from Glasgow. Ayr.
iiie for 1S27, p. 14S.
I.
Professor THOMSON'S Class.
Session 1824.
The Hall was opened for the first time at Paisley
on the I4lh Septemlier 1824. There were
19 students in attendance — 4 of the first
year, 3 of the second, 10 of the third, and 2
of the fourth.
First-year Students.
Leadbetter, Alexander, from Glasgow.
Went to America.
Lindsay, William, D.D., from Irvine. Glas-
gow (Cathedral Street).
Smith, James, from Glasgow (Calton). Camp-
belton.
Thomson, Alexander, A.M., from Paisley
(Canal Street). Peebles.
Seeond-year Stiuients.
Goodwin, James, from Glasgow. Brechin.
Stirling, James, from Glasgow (East Campbell
Street). Kirriemuir.
* Theoloi^ica! Ufai^-a
I
Lists of Students of Theology,
6S9
Session 1825.
The Hall met on 31st August, and closed on
14th Octoljer. There were 37 students en-
rolled— namely, 16 of the first year, 6 of the
second, 4 of the third, and 1 1 of the fourth.
First-year Students — 16.
Adam, William, from Anderston. Dumfries.
Went to America.
AuLD, William, from Greenock. Tollcross.
Blair, Alexander, from Milngavie. Died 2d
August 1836.
Brown, Hugh, from Hutchesontown. Balfron.
Now in America.
Brown, William, from Strathaven. Clack-
mannan.
Edwards, John, D.D., from Campsie. Glas-
gow (Greenhead).
GiFFEN, James, from Campbelton. Saltcoats.
Hamilton, Alexander, from Strathaven.
Did not obtain a charge. Agriculturist.
Died 1844.
Hamilton, James, from Strathaven. Largo.
Jeffrey, James, from Falkirk. Musselburgh.
MacColl, Alexander, from Glasgow (Bridge-
ton). Berwick. America, 1847.
MacFarlane, James, D.D., from Glasgow
(Bridgeton). Joined the Established Church,
and became minister of Duddingston. Mo-
derator of the General Assembly in 1865.
Russell, James, from Strathaven. Old Kil-
patrick.
Ure, John, from Balfron. Teacher in Balfron.
Waldie, Charles, from Kelso. Dalkeith.
W.\lker, George, from Falkirk, Port-Wil-
liam. America.
Fourth-year Students — 2.
Bogue, George, from Dunning. Hamilton.
Pettigrew, William Adair, from Glasgow
(Bridgeton). Dysart.
Session 1826.
35 students enrolled — namely, 8 of the first year,
14 of the second, 6 of the third, and 7 of the
fourth.
8 Students.*
Boyd, James, D.D., from Paisley (Canal Street).
Dumbarton.
Chalmers, William, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Went as missionary to Caffraria, where he
died in 1847.
Craig, John, D. D., from Irvine. Newlands.
DuRiE, William, from Anderston. Earlston.
Kerr, D.\niel, from Kilbarchan. Ceres.
M'EwEN, James, from Anderston. Enlisted as
a soldier.
Swan, John, from Paisley (Thread Street).
BonhiU.
Watson, Alexander, from Kilmarnock (King
Street). Greenend.
Session 1827.
35 students enrolled — namely, 5 of the first year,
7 of the second, 14 of the third, and 9 of the
fourth.
5 Students.
EwiNG, John, from Saltcoats, of which his
* The names of the first-year students only are given.
father was minister. Preacher on the list of
occasional supply.
Lindsay, William, from Clackmannan, of
which his father was minister. Perth (Fast).
M'Creath, Thomas, from Ayr. South Shiekls.
Reid, Adam, from Wishawtown. Went to
America after receiving license in 1832.
Wilson, John, from Old Kilpatrick. Bells-
hill.
I Student of the third year, not before in the Hall.
Whyte, John, from Calton, originally from
Ireland. Went to America.
I Student of thefoiirth year.
Logan, Richard, from Anderston. Edinburgh
(Roxburgh). Joined the Established Church,
and became a minister in Dundee.
Session 1828.
29 students enrolled — namely, 6 of the first year,
5 of the second, 5 of the third, and 13 of the
fourth.
6 Students.
Borland, John, from Hutchesontown. Lanark
and Glasgow.
Brooks, George, from Musselburgh. John-
stone.
Miller, James, from Dunse. Clackmannan.
Muirhead, James, from St Ninians. Wooler.
Ramsay, Andrew, from Tollcross. Hawick.
Vallance, James, from Paisley (First). Leven.
Session 1829.
25 students enrolled — namely, 9 of the first year,
6 of the second, 4 of the third, and 6 of
the fourth.
9 Students.
Banks, J.\mes, from Saltcoats (East). Paisley
(Canal Street).
Barr, W1LLLA.M, from Kilbride (East). Jed-
burgh.
Callender, from the Original Seces-
sion. Joined the Establishment.
Campbell, George O., from Roberton, of
which his father was minister. Strathaven.
Cross, James, from Dalkeith. Langholm.
Tarvie, J.\mes, from Anderston. Carluke.
Lindsay, Alexander, from Tollcross. Lcs-
mahagow.
Luke, Alexander, from Perth (South). Went
to America.
Ritchie, William, from Ayr (Cathcart Street).
Berwick.
Session 1830.
26 students enrolled — namely, 5 of the first year,
7 of the second, 9 of the third, 5 of the
fourth.
5 Students.
Jacque, George, from Douglas (Established
Church). Auchterarder.
Livingston, Martin Wilson, from Kilsjih.
Musselburgh.
MacMichael, Neil, D.D., from Kilmamock.
Dunfermline.
M'Lay, Walter, from Milngavie. Strathaven,
Smith, John, from Falkirk. Burnhead, Pen-
pont.
2 Z
690
The United Presbyterian CJuirch.
Session I S3 1.
31 students enrolled — namely, 10 of the first
year, 6 of the second, 7 of the third, and
S of the fourth.
10 Students.
EiXKETT, William, from Paisley (Thread
Street). Rutherglen.
Blair, Robert, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Galashiels.
Frew, Robert, D.D., from Perth (South). St
Ninians.
Fyfe, William, from Dumfries, of which his
father was minister. Attended only two
sessions.
Johnstone, George, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Lanark.
Macbride, Malcolm, from Hutchesontown.
Died 14th January 1833, in the 19th year of
his age. His was the first death in the ranks
of the Relief Hall.
Niven, Robert, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Maryhill.
Steven, James, from Kilbride (East). Died 27th
January 1835.
Stirling, William, from Kilsyth. Coatbridge.
Wardrope, William, from Beith. Ruther-
glen.
Session 1832.
29 students enrolled — namely, 8 of the first year,
8 of the second, 6 of the third, and 7 of the
fourth.
8 Students.
Arnott, David Lawson, from Kilmarnock.
Attended only two sessions.
Brown, Robert, from Strathaven. Attended
three sessions. Became a teacher.
Caldwell, James, from Kilmarnock. Biggar.
DuNLOP, William, from Irvine. Port-William.
M'Dowall, Andrew, from Stranraer. Lark-
hall.
Neilson, Alexander, from Hutchesontown.
Carluke.
Somerville, Thomas, from Hutchesontown.
Auchtergaven.
Wilson, Robert, from Calton. Partick.
Session 1833.
27 students enrolled— namely, 3 of the first year,
10 of the second, 7 of the third, and 7 of
the fourth.
3 Students.
■ Thomson, Wvville Smith, from Edinburgh
(St James' Place), of which his father was
minister. Dumbarton.
Wyper, William, from Glasgow (Calton), New-
castle and Annan.
Wyse, John, from Auchtermuchty. Auchtcr-
muchty.
Student of the Second Year.
Campbell, Colin. A missionary student. Or-
dained by the London Missionary Society as
missionary to Bcllary, East Indies, in March
1835-
Session 1834.
21 students enrolled — namely, 2 of the first year,
4 of the second, 9 of the third, and 6 of the
fourth.
2 Students.
Fairlie, Thomas, from Edinburgh (College
Street). Did not take license. Was teacher
in Biggar. Died August 1841.
Stewart, James, from Bridgeton. Went to
America.
Session 1835.
20 students enrolled — namely, 7 of the first year,
2 of the second, 4 of the third, and 7 of the
fourth.
7 Students.
Battersby, Matthew, from Campsie. Hamil-
ton.
Blackw(X)D, William, from Kilbarchan.
Dumfries.
Gumming, John, from Edinburgh (St James'
Place). Went to Caffraria as a missionary
in 1840.
Hamilton, Robert, from Paisley (Canal
Street). Waterbeck.
Kelly, John, M.D., from Glasgow (Bridgeton).
Joined the Established Church.
MacFarlane, John, from Edinburgh (College
Street). Hamilton.
Shearer, John, from Campsie. Larkhall.
Session 1836.
18 students enrolled — namely, 5 were of the first
year, 6 of the second, 2 of the third, and 5 of
the fourth.
5 Students.
Anderson, David, from Kilsyth, of which his
father was minister. Ceres.
Bogle, William, from Roberton. Teacher
in Edinburgh.
Kerr, James, from Glasgow (Calton). Pitten-
weem. Mr Kerr was originally a student of
the Established Church, and had finished
his course of study, but on joining the Relief,
he attended one year before receiving license.
MoNTEiTH, James, from Blairlogie. Kilmaro-
nock.
Symington, John, from Glasgow (Dowhill).
Kilmarnock.
Session I S3 7.
25 students enrolled — namel)'', 12 of the first
year, 5 of the second, 6 of the third, and 2
of the fourth.
12 Students.
Alison, George, from Strathaven (East).
Kilbarchan.
Bonnar, James, from Dunfermline. Kilbride.
Clugston, William W., from Ayr. Licensed,
but had his license withdrawn on account of
plagiarism of sermons. Teacher in Stirling.
M'CoLL, John, from Gla.sgow (John Street).
Partick.
Mahland, Robert, from Kilsyth. Attended
two sessions. Died in March 1848.
Milligan, Archibald, from Pcnpont. Joined
the Established Church. Was minister in
Airdrie. Died in Canada.
NiSBET, Henry, LL.D., from Hutchesontown.
Went, under the London Missionary Society,
as missionary to Samoa.
Reii), William, from Biggar, latterly Dunferm-
line. Newton-.Stcwart.
Stevenson, Thomas, from Glasgow (Bridge
ton). Edinburgh.
Lists of Students of Theology
691
Thomson, Thomas D., from Edinburgh (St
James' Place), of which his father was minis-
ter. Author of "Religion," and other
poems. Joined the Independents after at-
tending two sessions. Ordained at Black-
burn, 1840. Translated to Haddington,
1 84 1. Received again into the Relief
Church. Died June 1847.
Thorburn, John. Aberdeen, Deering, Gate-
house.
Turner, George, LL.D., from Hutchesontown.
Went to Samoa, as an agent of the London
Missionary Society, along with Henry Nis-
bet. Had the degree of LL.D. conferred on
him by the University of Glasgow. Author
of "Nineteen Years in Polynesia;" I'rans-
lator of the Scriptures into the tongue of
Samoa.
Session 1838.
35 students enrolled — namely, 13 of the first year,
1 1 of the second, 5 of the third, and 6 of
the fourth.
13 Students.
Buchan, David, from St Ninians. Died 1844.
Donald, John, from Annan or Hutchesontown.
Died 1844.
Donaldson, David. Alnwick.
Drummond, James. Cupar.
EvviNG, James, from Crieff. Died 1842.
Kerr, Bryce. Largo.
Lambie, James, from Paisley. Southend.
Martin, James. Beith.
Miller, William, from Falkirk. Joined
Established Church. Went to Canada.
Muir, Archibald, from Strathaven. Largo.
Ramage, William, from Roberton. Kilmar-
nock.
Stewart, James G., from Anderston. Glas-
gow (Calton).
Young, David, from Edinburgh (St James'
Place). Chatton.
Session 1S39.
38 students enrolled — namely, 1 1 of the first year,
14 of the second, 9 of the third, and 4 of the
fourth.
II Students.
Barr, Alexander. Airdne.
Beattie, Robert, from Dunscore, of which his
father was minister. Now farmer near
Castle-Douglas.
Brown, John, A.INL, from Strathaven. Joined
the Established Church.
FiNDLAY, Thomas. Joined the Established
Church. ■
Gemmell, Robert. Cupar.
Giffen, John. Earlston.
Jenkins, William, from St Ninians. Did not
receive license.
M 'Gibbon, James, from Paisley (Canal Street).
Took to business.
M'Leod, Alexander, D. D. Strathaven.
Russell, Archibald. Newburgh.
Watson, William. Langholm.
Student of the third year.
Kirkland, Archibald. Became teacher.
Session 1840.
On the 30th September, the students presented
Professor Thomson witli a pair of gold spec-
tacles. 44 students enrolled — namely, 13 of
the first year, 9 of the second year, 14 of the
third year, and 8 of the fourth year.
13 Students.
Aikman, John Logan, D.D., Edinburgh (St
James' Place).
Drummond, David, from Leven. Joined the
Established Church. Is now minister at
Houndwood, Berwickshire.
Grey, Henry Cowan, from Ayr. Relinquished
theological study. lianker, Ayr.
Logan, Peter, from Anderston.
Macfarlane, Peter, B.A. Lanark.
Maclean, Allan, from Anderston. Joined
the Established Church.
Monro, John. Gardenston.
Morton, William. Kilmaronock.
Rutherford, Robert, M.A. Newlands.
Scott, Robert. Roberton.
Simpson, James, from Falkirk. Joined the
Established Church.
Simpson, William. Stranraer.
Wood, William. Campsie.
Student of the third year.
Davidson, John, who had previously attended
three sessions of the United Secession Hall.
Dr Thomson died on 25th June 1841. The
session of 1 841 accordingly was conducted by a
Committee. The Revs. William Beckett and
George Brooks were appointed to read the lec-
tures of Dr Thomson, and conduct the duties of
the chair. Mr Beckett read the lectures, and
conducted examinations thereon ; prescribed ex-
ercises to the students ; perused and commented
on them. Mr Brooks superintended the ex-
aminations on the Greek and Hebrew, besides
reading and criticising the weekly exercises. A
special minute, conveying the thanks of the stu-
dents to Messrs Beckett and Brooks, was inserted
in the records of the Hall at the close of the
Session 1841.
44 students enrolled — namely, 10 of the first
year, 12 of the second, 7 of the third, and
15 of the fourth.
10 Students.
Cross, Archibald. West Linton.
Dickie, Andrew. Colinsburgh.
DuNi.oP, Hugh, from Irvine. Berwick.
Gardner, Robert, from Johnstone (East).
Annan.
GuNioN, Andrew Jeffrey, LL.D., from
Glasgow (Calton). Hawick.
Hogg, John, from Hawick (Allars). Dumfries.
Laughland, James, from Paisley. Missionary
at Campbelton.
L.vwsoN, Robert, from Hamilton. Joined the
Established Church. .
Macfarlane, Andrew. Lerwick,
MncHELL, John. Leven.
Student of the fourth year.
Hannah, Adam, who had attended the Seces-
sion Hall for five years.
692
The United Presbyterian CImrch.
Professors LINDSAY and MAC-
MICHAEL'S Class.
Session 1842.
Opened at Glasgow on Tuesday 1 6th August,
under Professor William Lindsay and
Professor Neil MacMichael, A.M., who
were appointed to their chairs at a special
meeting of Synod on 2d November 184 1.
46 students enrolled — namely, 18 of the
first year, 10 of the second, li of the
third, and 7 of the fourth.
18 Students.
Anderson, Robert. Kilsyth.
Banks, Alexander, A.M. Braehead.
BROWNiNti, John, from Kilmarnock. Went to
Australia.
BuRGESS, W. Orme, from Kirkby-Stephen,
England, formerly an Independent. His
application twice refused by the Synod before
his admission. Did not receive license.
CORDINER, Robert. Lesmahagow.
Douglas, ^, from St James' Place.
Duff, David, A.M., LL. D.,from Greenock (Sir
Michael Street). Helensburgh.
Dunlop, James, A.M. Biggar.
Harvey, Alexander, from Glasgow (Calton),
of which his father was minister. Joined
the Free Church. Went to New York,
where he died.
Leggatt, William, from Bridgeton. Teacher
in Buchanan's Institute, Glasgow.
Macintosh, Duncan. Dalkeith.
M'Lure, John, from Ayr. Went to Canada.
Main, William. Campbelton, Inverness-shire.
Muir, Peter Donaldson. Went to Canada.
Muirhead, William, B. A., from Leith. Went
out as missionary to China in connection with
the London Missionary Society ; now United
Presbyterian Missionary to China.
NicoL, Francis, from Ayr. Joined the Esta-
blished Church.
Roger, Alexander. Joined the Free Church.
Sclanders, Alexander Bankier, A.M., from
Bridgeton. Bathgate.
Session 1843.
42 students enrolled — namely, 5 of the first year,
1 7 of the second, 1 1 of the third, and 9 of
the fourth.
5 Students.
Ballantyne, John. Earlston.
Brown, David, from Kilmarnock. Joined the
I^stablished Church. Was minister of St
Bernard's, Edinburgh, Scoonie, and St
Enoch's, Glasgow.
Brown, George, from Wishaw. Went as mis-
sionary to Caffraria. Withdrew from the
mission.
Dickie, John, from Irvine. Became merchant
in Irvine. Now Plymouth Brother in Kil-
marnock.
Dickie, Matthew. Cumnock.
Session 1844.
35 students enrolled — namely, 5 of the first year,
4 of the second, 15 of the third, and il of
the fourth.
5 Students.
Alison, Archibald. Leslie.
Barclay, David. Leitholm.
Brown, Thomas, from Glasgow (John Street).
Studied medicine after license. Is now
physician in Dunblane.
Drummond, William. Whitehaven.
Langwill, James, from Greenock (Sir Michael
Street). Joined the Established Church.
Minister of Currie.
Sessiojt 1845.
27 students enrolled — namely, 9 of the first year,
5 of the second, 3 of the third, and 10 of the
iourth.
9 Students.
Fullarton, Thomas, from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street). Mainsriddell.
Henderson, James. Duntocher.
Kechie, John. Earlston.
M 'Donald, Donald. Gourock.
Mitchell, Robert. Old Kilpatrick.
Morton, Andrew. Greenock.
Porteous, William. Spittal.
Rennie, James. Dalkeith.
Wyse, George, from Auchtermuchty. i^^\>m-
pleted his divinity course, but did not go
forward to license. Teacher in Allan Park
School, Stirling.
Session 1846.
21 students enrolled — namely, 6 of the first year,
8 of the second, 4 of the third, and 3 of the
fourth.
6 Students.
Barr, Matthew, from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street). Now in Canada.
Clark, William, A.M. Barrhead.
M 'Queen, James, from Stranraer. Received
license. Enlisted as a soldier. Died in
Delhi.
Russell, William. Selkirk.
Sprott, William. Alexandria.
Torrance, John. Dumfries.
Lists of Students of TJicology.
693
VI.
UNITED PRESBYTERIAN HALL.
Five Professors.
Rev. John Brown, D.D., Professor of Exegetical Theology.
Rev. James Harper, D.D., Professor of Systematic and Pastoral Theology.
Rev. Neil M'Michael, D.D., Professor- of History of Doctrines.
Rev, William Lindsay, D.U., Professor of Sacred Languages and Criticism.
Rev. John Eadie, D.D., LL.D., Professor of Hermeneutics and Evidences.
Session 1847 — 27 Students.
Barlas, George. Auchtermuchty.
BiCKERTON, George, from Edinbuii^h (Brough-
ton Place). Became teacher in Edinburgh.
Bruce, Thomas, from Newmilns, of whicii his
father was minister. Probationer. Author
of " Man's Part in the Chorus of Creation."
Brunton, Alexander. Oban.
Carrick, John. Maybole.
Clarke, Alexander. Letham.
Cooper, Maxwell, from Fala, of which his
father was minister. Died while a student.
Donaldson, James, from Ceres. Probationer.
Went to New York.
Drummond, Robert Skeil, A.M., D.D.
Carlisle.
Graham, Andrew. Crossgates.
Gibson, James Y. Melrose.
HuTTON, James, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Became a teacher.
Kennedy, Thomas. Kinross (East).
KiRKWooD, John. Troon.
Lambie, John. Grangemouth.
Leitch, Charles C, from Edinburgh (Nicol-
son Street). Ordained in Glasgow by minis-
ters of the United Presbyterian Presbytery
and Dr Wardlaw, as a missionary for India
in connection with the London Missionary
Society. Studied medicine, and practised
as a medical missionary at Neyoor, East
Indies. Drowned, while bathing, on 25th
August 1854. A "Life and Remains," by
the Rev. Dr Smith of Biggar, was published
in 1856.
Logan, John B., from Duntocher. Probationer.
Associated with Rev. Gilbert Wardlaw,
Helensburgh, in a boarding-school. Now
minister in Nova Scotia.
MacNaughton, Matthew. Newcastle.
M 'Donald, Alexander, from Glasgow (Cathe-
dral Street). Dead.
M'Nab, John. Johnshaven.
Miller, Alexander. Newbigging.
Milne, John. Greenlaw.
More, John. Alloa.
Rome, James L. Hull.
Smith, Gabriel. Anstruther.
Thomson, Christopher Irving, from Locker-
bie. Died 29th July 1851.
Whvte, Andrew, A.M. South Ronaldshay.
Session 1848 — 39 Students.
Barr, Hugh. Kettle.
Baxter, Thomas H. Banff.
Bell, Thomas, from Pittenweem. Went to
New Zealand on account of his health.
Campbell, Jopin, from Kilmarnock (King
Street). Attended only one session. Tutor
in Islay.
Carruthers, John, from America. Returned
thither.
Erskine, James M. Burghead.
Fleming, William. Kirkcaldy.
Forsyth, Hugh, from St Ninian's. Did not
complete his studies.
Frame, James. Peterhead.
Fyfe, Robert T., from Anderston, Glasgow. Pro-
bationer. Sometime missionary in Dundee.
Gray, Robert, from Craigdam. Probationer.
Died from fever caught in discharge of mis-
sion work in Greenock.
Hill, James. Scone.
Hunter, George, fromSandwick. Probationer.
Dead.
Imrie, James, A.M. Musselburgh.
King, John M., from Morebattle. Now minis-
ter of Knox Church, Toronto.
Knox, Robert, from Port-Glasgow. Proba-
tioner. Sometime librarian of Stirling's
Library, Glasgow. Now living in Port-
Glasgow.
M 'Donald, William. Bumhead.
M'Gregor, Daniel, from Glasgow (London
Road). Joined the Established Church.
M'Laren, John, from Dennyloanhead. Glas-
gow.
M'Nicol, Alexander, from Glasgow (John
Street). Went out as missionary to Australia
under Dr Lang.
M'Queen, George, A.M. Milngavie.
Matthews, George D., from Dublin. Stranraer.
MoRisoN, Walter, A. B., D.D. Ayr.
Morris, David W., from Buckhaven. Proba-
tioner. Now librarian to the United Pres-
byterian Church, Edinburgh. Author of
"Lighthouse Discourses;" various articles
on "Lighthouses," and articles on the
deaths of Aaron and Moses, and "Elijah
on Carmel, " in the United Presbyterian
Magazine.
Picken, James, from Newcastle Did not com-
plete his course, and took to literary and
editorial work. Resumed and completed
his studies. Called to Banff. On occasional
supply in Liverpool.
Potter, James G. Newcastle (St George's).
Rintoul, David, from Perth. Now a farmer
in Perthshire.
694
The United Presbyterian ChnrcJi.
RoBB, Alexander, A.M., D.D., from Aber-
deen (StNicholas Lane). Went asmissionary
to Jamaica, and afterwards to Calabar.
Had the detjree of D.D. conferred by the
University of Aberdeen. Author of "The
Gospel to the Africans, being the Life of
Rev. W. Jameson." Translator of the
Bible into Efik.
Ross, Forbes. Stranraer.
Seater, Thomas, from Leith. Died while a
student.
Shennan, Alexander. Lloughton-le-Spring.
Scott, R. B., from Johnshaven. Emigrated to
Australia. Became minister of a congrega-
tion there.
Stewart, William, from Newcastle. Wark-
worth.
Taylor, William M., A.M., D.D. Kilmaurs.
Thomson, William. Leith-Lumsden.
Walker, William. Ramsey, Isle of Man.
Wallace, Hugh, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Died 3d June 1S49.
Whyte, Thomas, from Edinburgh (Rose Street).
Became proprietor of a large boarding esta-
blishment, Tynemouth House, Tynemouth.
Young, William C., from Annan. Went to
Canada, and became minister of Newtown,
Presbytery of Durham.
Session 1849 — 30 Sliidoits.
AiRD, Hugh, M.A. Brechin.
Alexander, John. New Deer.
Alston, G. S., from ToUcross. Taught a
school at Tollcross, from which he one day
disappeared, and has never since been heard
of.
Anderson, David, from Pathstruie. Proba-
tioner. Called to Bathgate. Became farmer
near Muckart, and afterwards near Dunferm-
line.
Angus, Robert, M.A. Peebles.
Barclay, George. Dunscore.
Bartlett, George D., M.A. Now proprietor
of the Boarding School of Southgrove, High-
gate, Middlesex.
Black, James, D.D. Urr.
Bolton, Robert.
Cochrane, Thomas. Attended only a single
session.
CoLViLLE, John, from Campbelton. Now
Evangelist to the United Presbyterian
Church.
Easton, Stephen, from Norham. Changed
his views of Evangelical doctrines, and
abandoned theological study.
Gorrie, Daniel, from Kettle, of which his
father was minister. Probationer. For
several years editor of Orkney Herald. Now
in London as editor. Author of " The
vSabbath, a Prize Poem;" "Orations and
Lectures ;" and a work on Orkney.
Gillies, William, from Helensburgh. Went
as missionary to Jamaica. Now Travelling
Secretary of the National Bible Society of
Scotland.
Hamilton, Alexander, A.M., D.D. Kil-
marnock.
Harrower, James. Eyemouth.
Hyslop, John S. Leven.
Ker, James, M.A. Chirnside.
Mackie, John, from Hamilton. Went to
Canada as a preacher.
MacOwan, Duncan. Ramsey, Isle of Man.
Paterson, David. Newcastle (Zion Chapel).
Oliver, Alexander, B.A. Galashiels.
RoNALDsoN, James. Longridge.
Steedman, James, A.M., from Kilmarnock
(King Street). Preacher. Entered as clerk
in a bank, in which position he continued a
year, when he died, ist June 1858.
Thomson, William Reid. Kirkcaldy.
Thorburn, James, from Hawick (East Bank).
Completed his course ; is now farmer near
Hawick.
Torry, David.
Tully, Walter, from Galashiels. Died while
a student.
Williamson, David. Queensferry.
Young, Mungo, from Galashiels. Did not
complete his studies.
Session 1 850 — 43 Students.
Aitken, William, from St Andrews. Com-
pleted his course, but never took license.
Teacher in St Andrews.
Allison, David, from Stuartfield, of which his
father was minister. Probationer. Went
to Canada. Now head-master of Alnwick
Corporation School.
Baillie, Zerub, from Stow. Went as mis-
sionary to Calabar, 1856. Died at Liver-
pool, 4th August 1865.
Barrie, William G., from Forfar. Ordained
at Swalwell. Resigned, and joined the
English Presbyterian Church. Now minister
at Longframlington.
Begeie, William AL, from Edinburgh (Rose
Street). Licensed. Became proprietor of
Circus Place School, Edinburgh.
Binnie, John, from Forfar. Probationer.
Went to London.
Blair, James Law, from Lochgelly. Proba-
tioner. Now on the occasional supply list
at Dollar.
Blair, William, A.M. Dunblane.
Cairns, David. Stitchel.
Campbell, Hugh Stillie. Whitby.
Chisholm, Walter. Springburn.
EwiNG, Robert, from Tillicoultry. Went to
Canada.
Fisher, Robert. Dubbieside.
Gibson, William, M.D. Licensed, but be-
came a physician.
Hamilton, Robert, from Dennyloanhead.
Probationer. Went to Canada, and became
minister of Motherwell, Ontario, Canada.
Lambert, George, from Dalkeith (East). Or-
dained as missionary for Trinidad. Proba-
tioner in 1 87 1.
M 'Arthur, George, A.M. Lynturk.
Mair,, David, A.M. Killaig.
Mann, David. Wamphray.
Martin, William, from Strathaven (East).
Died in Jamaica, 1855.
Miller, Duncan. Mossbank.
Morrison, William, A.M., from Glasgow
(Grcyfriars). Joined the Established Church.
Became minister of Crawford in 1863. Died
suddenly on the streets of Edinburgh, 28lh
December 1869.
Muter, James, from Stonehouse. Did not
complete his studies.
Mill, James Strange. Leith (Kirkgate).
Parlane, James, A.M. Hawick.
Paterson, Daniel, A.M., from Greenock
Lists of Students of Theoloo-y.
695
(George Square). Now minister of a charge
on the River Conder.
PiRRET, David. vSutton.
Renwick, Robert, from Hamilton (Brandon
Street). Probationer. Went to Canada.
Robertson, Andrew B. Coldingham.
Robertson, William, from Glasgow (John
Street). Probationer. Went to Canada,
and became minister of Blandford.
Scott, James. Bathgate.
Scott, William. Balerno.
Shorthouse, Robert, from Liveipool (Mount
Pleasant). Became house-agent. Dead.
Stirling, Henry. Dunning.
Tannahill, John, A.M. Penrith.
Thomson, Alexander. Haddington.
Ure, Thomas, from Stirling (Erskine Church).
Became Baptist, and had a charge in Canada.
Professor of Ancient Languages in Oswego
College.
Wallace, Hugh. Kendal.
Whyte, Ebenezer Erskine. Yetholm.
Whyte, Henry L. , from Balgedie. Completed
his course, but went to business in Glasgow.
Wilson, Andrew, M.A. Drymen.
Wilson, James. Dundee.
Wilson, John M. He.xham.
Session 1851—38 Sliiddiits.
Boyd, Thomas, B.A. Bishop Auckland.
Calderwood, Henry, LL.D., Professor.
Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Cameron, Robert. Perth (North).
Crawford, Matthew. Sanquhar.
Davidson, Peter. Brechin.
DowNiE, Charles B., from Edinburgh (South
College Street). Probationer. Died :;oth
March 1 864.
Fullarton, Archibald, from Saltcoats. Joined
the Established Church, and is minister of
Cartsburn (Greenock).
Gillies, James, from Auchtermuchty. Now
living there.
Gray, Andrew. Kilmaurs. '
Grosart, Alexander Balloch. Kinross.
Hogg, James, from Tranent. Died while a stu-
dent, 2d July 1854, in the 26th year of his
age.
Inglis, David, from Stockbridge, Cockbums-
path, of which his father was minister. Died
before completing his studies.
JARVIE, Alexander M. Dunfermline.
KiNNEAR, David, B.A. Dalbeattie.
Lauder, William. Blackhill.
Lyall, James, from Portsburgh (Edinburgh).
Probationer. Went to Australia, and be-
came minister of Adelaide.
Maitland, David, from Kilconquhar. Joined
the Established Church. Went to South
America.
MacLean, Donald, from Glasgow (Anderston).
Went to Canada.
M'EwEN, James, M.A. Hawick.
M'Leish, James. Berwick.
Meikle, William, M.D., from Lilliesleaf.
Probationer. Became proprietor of Loch-
head Hydropathic Establishment, Aberdeen.
Dead.
Meston, Alexander, from Craigdam. Died
in May 1855.
Miller, Alexander B., from Edinburgh
(College Street). Now in business in Glas-
gow.
Miller, Thomas. Perth.
MuiR, James. Falkirk.
Nicol, David. Aberladv.
PoLSON, John. Jedlnirgh.
Rankine, Edward. Shiels, Belhelvie.
Riddell, George, from Newcastle. Went to
Canada. Ordained at Newcastle and New-
town, Presbytery of Ontario. Died 1868
Robertson, James. Balfron.
Russell, Thomas. Hawick.
Scott, Robert, from Braehead. Went to
Canada, and became minister at Dundas
Scott, Thomas. Stonehaven.
Sidey, David. Auchtermuchty
Todd, Daniel, from Coatbridge. Went to
Canada.
Wade, George. Falkirk.
Wilson, Thomas, from Perth (South). Went
to Canada, and became minister of Caledonia.
Autiior of "The Perfection of the Atone-
ment.
Young, William. Lilliesleaf.
Session 1852—50 Students.
Aikman, Alexander. Muckart
Alexander, George B., from Glasgow (Grey-
fnars) Tutor m Montego Bay Academy.
Angus, Henry, A.M. Sunderland
Balderstone, James. Boveedy
Bannatyne, John, from Glasgow (Regent
Place). Probationer. Went to New Zea-
land.
Binn!e, Robert, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Went to Australia.
Black, Andrew. Stratford.
Boyd John .S\, from Glasgow (Renfield Street).
Went to Australia.
Boyd, William. Milnathort.
Calvert, William, B.A. North Berwick
Campbell, Thomas. Hartlepool (West)
Carmichael, John, from Alloa (First).' Be-
came merchant in Alloa.
Craig, James. Blyth.
Doctor, Alexander, from Lochee. Proba-
tioner. Called to Ceres. Now missionary
in Greenock. ^
DuNLOP, Robert, from Galston. Engaged for
a time in mission work in Glasgow^ Died
of gastric fever, at his brother's house ill
Manchester, 28th Febniary 1856
Forrester, James. Keith.
Fyfe, James E. Kilmalcolm.
Gregor, Andrew, from Forres. Died nth
June 1862.
Hall, William, from Ford. Drowned at
Hawick while bathing, 1854.
Handyside, William, from Edinbur-h (Nicol-
son Street).
Hay, David. Largo.
Hay, James A. R., from Glasgow (Duke Street)
Probationer. Now on occasional supiily
Hinshelwood, John. Haddington. Now
minister of English Presbyterian Church
W orcester. '
Hutton, William. Cumnock.
Lnglis, Basil B., from Stockbridge (Cockbums-
pa.th), of which his father was minister
Died while a student.
Johnstone, Robert, from East Kilbride
Went to Caffraria.
Keating, James, from Glasgow (London Road)
Now minister in the Irish Presbyterian
Church.
696
The United Pi'esbyterian Church.
M 'Donald, Robert, from Galston. Now a
teacher in Galston.
M'Innes, Robert M. Ayr.
M'Lean, Daniel, A.M., from Glasgow (Grey-
friars). Went as missionary to Jamaica.
Now minister in Lanark.
Miller, Henry, A.M. Carlisle.
Moffat, Andrew, from Leith.
NivEN, Hugh L. Forfar.
Paterson, Robert S. Burray.
Pettigrew, John. Holm, Orkney.
Robertson, Alexander, from Mirlcalder.
Probationer. Now living in Edinburgh as
occasional preaclier.
Scott, James Henderson. Bonkle.
Smith, David, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Died while a student.
Soga, Tyo, from Caffraria. Missionary in
Caffreland. Died 12th August 1871.
Squair, John. Wigtown.
Stobbs, Simon S. Ardrossan.
Tait, James, from Auchtergaven. Preacher.
Called to Walker, but declined the call.
Became editor of Kcho Chronicle.
Taylor, John, from Kirkintilloch. Became
teacher in Edinburgh.
Taylor, William, from Dalkeith (East). Pro-
bationer. Teacher in Greenock.
Watson, William W., from Glasgow (Lon-
don Road). Teacher, Wishaw.
Watson, William, A.M. Forres.
Wilson, James, from Tarbolton. Joined the
Established Church, after attending two ses-
sions at the Hall, and died soon after.
Wilson, John. Paisley.
Wilson, William, from Edinburgh (Lothian
Road). Now on occasional supply list.
Wright, Peter. Forfar.
Session \%^i—\o Students.
Adie, William, from New Leeds. Now
teacher at Whitehill, New Deer.
Anderson, Robert. Ceres.
Baillie, Andrew. Ollaberry.
Berry, James. Buchlyvie.
Black, George. Walker.
Brown, James, A.M. CreetowTi.
Cairns, W. Hewitson, from Edinburgh
(Broughton Place). Rector of Dumfries
Academy. Died in 1872.
Copland, James, A.M., Ph.D., M.D., from
Edinburgh (Rose Street). Probationer.
New Zealand (Tuapeka, Otago). Editor
of "The l^vangeli>t. "
Craig, William, from Strathaven (East). Be-
came a medical student. Doctor in Edin-
burgh.
Davidson, Thomas, from Carluke. Died while
a student.
Dodds, Thomas. Crook.
Downie, Thomas, from Edinburgh (College
Street). Settled at Antigonish, Nova
Scotia. Now in Jamaica.
DuNCANSON, Peter C. West Calder.
Gilmour, Alexander, from Alloa (First).
Attended one session. Now one of the
masters of Edinburgh Academy.
Graham, George. Stornoway.
Hay, Alexander, A.^L Leitholm.
Hay, David. Dundee.
Henry, James. Stuartficld.
Hogg, John, D.D., from Tranent. Now mis-
sionary to the United Presbyterian Church
of America in Egypt.
Jack, Alexander B., from Dunbar, of which
his father was minister. Did not complete
his studies. Went to America, and became
a minister there.
James, John S., from Glasgow (London Road).
Wolverhampton.
Johnston, David, from St Andrews. Joined
the Established Church, and is now minister
of Harray and Birsay, Orkney.
Johnston, Gpzorge, from Lochmaben. Now
living at Waterside, Terregles, near Dum-
fries, in enfeebled health.
LiND, Adam, from Craigdam. Now manager
of the Peninsular and Oriental Navigation
Company at Hong-Kong, China.
M'EwAN, Thomas. Edinburgh (Hope Park). '
M'LucKiE, John M. Uddingstone.
M'OwAN, James, A.M. Bannockburn.
Meikleham, John P., from Grange, of which
his father is minister, and now teacher at
Pluscarden, near Elgin.
MuiR, Robert, M.A. Holm of Balfron.
Salmond, William, B.A. North Shields.
Scott, James, from Partick (West). Went to
Australia.
Shoolbred, Williamson, from Dunfermline
(Queen Anne Street). Went out as the
first United Presbyterian Missionary to Raj-
pootana, India, i860.
Spence, Alexander D., from Stromness. Did
not complete his course. Now a teacher in
Dollar Institution.
Stark, John. Duntocher.
Storrar, David Y., M.A., from Edenshead.
Lives there privately, in delicate health.
Thom, John James, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place).
Thomson, Robert, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). A teacher in Edinburgh.
Whitefield, Peter, M.A., from Biggar.
Probationer. Dead.
Whitefield, William, M.A. Dunbar.
Wilson, John, Ph.D. Glasgow (Mitchell
Church).
Session 1854 — 44 Students.
Balmer, Stephen, from Morebattle. Went to
Canada.
Brown, James. Paisley.
Barras, William. Buckie.
Birrel, William. Portknockie.
Clark, Andrew. Gatehouse.
Cameron, David. Meams.
Christie, John, from Glasgow (Regent Place).
COUTIE, George, from PIdinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Principal of the Northern Institute,
Liverpool. Author of "Men of the Time,"
etc.
Davidson, James M., from Edenshead. Went
to New Zealand, and became a minister
there.
Davidson, William, from Craigdam. Minis-
ter at Kooringa, South Australia.
DoBiE, William, from Langholm, of which his
father was minister. Studied medicine, and
became a physician.
Eadie, William, from Muckart.
FiNLAVSON, Thomas C, from Glasgow (John
Street). Now Independent minister in
Manchester.
Fleming, .Andrew Gibb. Alva.
Lists of Studaits of TJieology.
697
FoRiiKS, Thomas, from Wliitelilll, GraiiL^e.
Joined the Established Churcli.
Forsyth, Thomas. Gorchritltjc.
Fraser, William. Fala.
Hay, William W., from Doiinyloanhcad.
Joined the Established Churcli.
IIowATT, Hugh T. Bioughty-Fcny.
Kay, John Simpson, from Edinburgh (Ports-
burgh). Now at Palermo.
MacEwen, Joseph, from KirkcudlMight. lie-
came a teacher.
MacGilchrist, John, from Edinburgh (Rose
Street), of which his father was minister.
Not licensed. Now in London.
Mackay, Andrew Duncan, from Leith (North).
Died 25th June 1859.
Mackenzie, Malcolm, from Glasgow (Montrose
Street). Went to Canada in i860.
MacNeil, John. South Shields.
MacSwaine, John. Auchtenmichty.
M'Caull, James, M.D., from Edinburgh. Pro-
bationer. Settled as a medical man in
Leven. Dead.
M'Ewen, Charles, from Dundee (Wishart
Church. Probationer. Dead.
M'Kerrow, James, B. A. Aberdeen (St Nicholas
Lane).
Malloch, David. Largo.
Marshall, David, A.M. East Calder.
Millar, Andrew, from Perth (South). Com-
pleted his studies, but did not take license.
Now mathematical master, High School,
Dundee.
Murray, William RiGr>Y. Ardrossan.
Renton, David, from P^dinburgh (Rose Street).
Probationer. Went to New Zealand, and
became minister there.
Robertson, Gilbert, from Newcastle (Blackett
Street). Proprietor of Percy Street Academy,
Newcastle.
Roeson, John, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street), of which his father was minister.
Went to Rajpootana as a United Presby-
terian missionary. Author of a lecture on
Rajpootana, and of various papers in maga-
zines.
RosiE, Thomas, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Went to India as minister at Bom-
bay. Dead.
Ross, John M., from Kilmarnock (King Street).
Abandoned the study of theology. Now
one of the masters of the High School, Edin-
burgh.
Scott, James G. Berwick-on-Tweed.
Shaw, William, from Greenock (Sir Michael
Street). Probationer. Now a merchant in
Greenock.
Steele, Thomas B., from Tranent. Went to
India with Mr Shoolbred, and died, before
beginning work, at Erinjiura, 19th Feb-
ruary i860.
Swan, Thomas. Muirton.
Thorburn, John, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Left for Canatla, in order to complete
his studies under Rev. Dr Taylor, Toronto.
W^ILLIAMSON, David, from Glasgow (Erskine
Church). Joined the Established Church.
Was at Bombay. Now minister of For-
gandenny.
Session 1S55— 34 Students.
Eaillie, John, from Stow. Missionary at
Calabar. Died loth May 1864.
Brown, Archibald, from Kilmaniock (King
Street). Probationer. Now minister at
Mono, Canada Presbyterian Chiircii.
CiiRisiiE, James, B.A. Otterburn.
Craig, James. Burra Isles.
Dawson, John. Kirkcowan.
Dickm:, John D. Selkirk.
FiNLAYSON, W. G., from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Teacher in Edinburgh.
Eraser, W. G. Sutton.
Frisken, Charles. Mount Pleasant.
Gibson, William, from Edinburgh (Ports-
burgh). Joined the ICstablished Church,
and became minister of Auchterarder.
Girdwood, Wii.LiA.M. Penicuik.
Harvey, John Mitchell, M.A. Alloa.
Hutchison, John, B.A. Renfrew.
Johnstone, Robert, LL.B. Arbroath.
Laurie, John, from Glasgow (Erskine Church).
Died, 1856.
Leith, William. Airth.
Manson, GiLiiERT H. L., from Edinburgh
(Lothian Road). Died while a student.
Miller, William. I-'alkirk.
Murdoch, Ale.xander, from Glasgow (Wel-
lington Street). Teacher in Glasgow.
Paterson, John, from Dunse (West). Be-
came a teacher.
Paterson, John. Whitehill.
Ross, Donald, sen. Inverness.
Ross, Donald, jun. Lismore.
Samuel, George. Swalwell.
Scott, Ernest F. Towlaw.
Sedgewick, Thomas, from Dundee. Went to
Nova Scotia.
Shields, Andrew, M.D., from Edinburgh
(Lothian Road). iNIedical missionary in
Rajpootana, India.
Small, Robert. Southend.
Stevenson, Hugh. Melrose.
Stobbs, Alexander, from Stromness, of which
his father was minister. Abandoned study
on account of iihicss.
Taylor, Robert M., from Glasgow (Montrose
Street). Probationer. Went as missionary
to Canada in 1S61, and remained a year.
Returned to this country on account of his
health. Librarian of Brown Library, Glas-
gow.
Thomson, John, from Glasgow (John Street).
Now in Edinburgh.
Thomson, William C, from Glasgow (Gordon
Street). Went as missionary to Calabar.
Resigned his connection with the mission.
Studied medicine.
Wishart, Robert. Thornhill.
Session 1S56 — 55 Students.
Aitken, William, A.M. Lynturk.
Ale.xander, Robert. Buckhaven.
Anderson, James. Dunbar.
Bowman, Andrew, from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street).
Callander, James, from Moniaive. Went to
Bahia, Brazil, as tutor. Returned, and was
a probationer for some time. Now studying
medicine in Glasgow.
Carmichael, Andrew Wood. Linlithgow.
Chalmers, John A., from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street). Went to Caffraria as a missionary.
Connor, Charles, from Airdrie (Well Wynd).
Called to Sixtowns, Ireland. Declined the
call, and went to New Zealand.
3 A
698
TJic Unilcd rrcsbyterian Church.
CoRBKT, JosF.i'ir. Kilcicggan.
Crahu, Ai.exandkr, from Edinburgh (Newing-
ton). Probationer. Died in May 1863,
from illness contracted while supplying a
vacancy in Ireland. His last sermon —
" The Water of Life" — -was published after
his death.
Dick, Andrew Liduell. Bannockbum.
DoDDS, John, from Yetholm. Probationer.
Teacher in Edinburgh.
Douglas, James, from Dundee (Wishart
Church). Now in England.
Drysdale, Alexander Hutton, M.A.
Brechin.
Duncan, Alexander, A.M. Balgedie.
Elder, Andrew. Kinkell.
Fairgrieve, George. Saltcoats.
Fender, Peter B. , from Kinclaven. Proba-
tioner. Now in America.
Galletley, William. Peterhead.
Giffen, John, from Strathaven (East). Pro-
bationer, occasional.
Giffen, Mungo. Morebattle.
GowANLOCK, John Tait. Stirling.
Graham, George, from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Died.
Graham, James. Broughty- Ferry.
Hall, Robert. Old Mekhum.
Henderson, Samuel, from Barrhead. Died
September 1867.
Hogarth, Thomas, from Morebattle. Now
residing near Kelso.
Houston, James. Dysart.
Imrie, William Malcolm, from Balbeggie.
Joined the Established Church. Became
minister of Penicuik, 1864.
Jack, Alexander. Ferryport-on-Craig.
KiNLOCH, James M. Ballyfrenis.
Laurie, Robert. West Ilinton.
Law, Alexander, from Auchterarder (South).
Went to New Zealand.
Leitch, Richard. Newcastle (Blackett Street).
Lyon, David, from Lochee. Probationer.
Chaplain to Dundee Poorhouse.
Mair, Alexander, A.M. Stow.
Martin, William, from Strathaven (East).
Missionary in Rajpootana.
M'CuLLocii, Robert, from Glasgow (East
Campbell Street).
M'Kenzie, Daniel. Kinghom.
M'Kenzie, James, from Strathaven (West).
Preacher, occasional supply.
M'William, William, from Wigtown. Went
to Canada.
Murray, John L., from Edinburgh (Lothian
Road). Teacher, Glasgow.
Patrick, James. Patna.
Philp, George. Saltcoats.
Robertson, George Y., from Balerno. At-
tended one session. Was afterwards a
teacher, and now a farmer.
Robertson, Thomas, from Bridge of Teith.
Probationer.
Robb, William, from Aberdeen (St Nicholas
Lane). Missionary in India.
Salkinson, Lsaac. Student of the third year.
Converted Jew. Became missionary to the
Jews, for a time, at Altona.
Scott, Thomas, from Strathaven (First). Died,
after a long illness, November 1861, in his
29th year.
Shields, Thomas, from Irvine (East). Died
at Silverhill, 1861.
Sinclair, William. Springbank.
Squair, Charles. New Deer.
Tennent, Daniel, from Greenock (Sir Michael
Street). Died 4th August ii)C8, aged 32
years.
Wither, Alexandi:r. Westray, Orkney.
Young, John. Ford.
Session 1857 — 41 Students.
Alston, Andrew. Newmilns.
Anderson, Charles, from Aberdeen (St Nicho-
las I^ane). Probationer. Emigrated to Ca]ic
Town, Africa, and became teacher in a semi-
nary there.
Balgarnie, Robert. Woolwich.
Beatt, David. Aberdeen.
Bell, James L., from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Teacher in England.
Black, Robert, INI. A. Hamilton.
Blair, John. Carnwath.
Blumenreich, John, from Edinburgh (Nicol-
son Street^. Now pastor of the German
Church, Edinburgh, and tutor to Hebrew
Class in the U.P. Hall. Author of an auto-
biography.
Brownlee, Robert Dick. Kirkcaldy.
Cooper, Charles, A.M. Holm of Balfron.
Davidson, James, A.M. Selkirk.
Davidson, James, from Glasgow (Gordon Street).
Missionary in Caffreland.
Dobbie, Thomas, A.M. Stranraer.
Eden, Thomas K. , from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Went to the Caymanas in 1859.
Flett, Robert, from Edinburgh (Brougiiton
Place). Probationer. Occasional supply,
Liverpool.
Gray, James, from Tarbolton. Went as mis-
sionary to India. Died there, 1869.
Hay, James, from Dennyloanhead. Joined the
Established Church, and is now minister at
Kirn.
Lamb, James. Old Kilpatrick.
Louden, John S., from Edinburgh (Portsburgh).
Went to China, and became a successful
banker there.
M 'Donald, Alexander. Lochmaben.
M'Intyre, John. Baillieston.
Martin, James, from Strathaven (West). Mis-
sionary at Carronhall, Jamaica.
Matheson, Adam Scott. Alloa.
Murray, John R. Burntisland.
Pittendreigh, James, M.A. Pittcnweem.
Ritchie, Andrew. Yetholm.
Sharp, William. Archieston.
Shephard, James, from Craigdam. Died 6th
September 1859.
Simpson, Gi'.orge, from Glasgow (Greyfriars).
Now minister in the Canada Presbyterian
Church, Westminster.
Simmers, William, A.M. Limisden.
Smith, John, from Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
Now missionary in the Grand Caymanas.
Smith, William. Bonhill.
Stewart, John, M.D., from Fala. Now prac-
tising as a surgeon in England.
Thomas, David. Lockerbie.
Thomson, Robert W. Kim.
Thomson, W. B., M.A. Wolverhampton.
Trench, Thomas S. Willington Quay.
Weatherstone, Thomas, from Horndean.
Called to Rigg of Gretn.a. Died, 13th
June 1S69, while preparing his trials for
ordination.
Welsh, Adam. Kincardine.
Whyte, James B, Hartlepool.
Lists of Students of Theology
699
Wilson, Robert J., from Edinburgh (Brouglitoii
Place). Joined the Independents in 1859.
Conducting an educational establishment in
Ne\vcastle-on-Tyne.
Session 1S58 — 35 Students.
Dr Brown, in consequence of serious illness,
was unable to conduct his class this session.
The class was taught by Dr Lindsay,
along with the junior students of his own
class.
Allison, James. London (Oxendon).
15 LAKE, James, from Monkwearmouth.
Bruce, Robert S. Wishaw.
Buchanan, James. Linlithgow.
Campbell, Robert. Aldershot.
Campbell, W. Watson, from Edinburgh
(Nicolson Street).
Donaldson, Alexander W. Moniaive.
Douglas, George. Walker.
Dudgeon, J. F., M.D., from Glasgow (London
Road). Went as medical missionary to
China.
DuNLOP, James Mercer. Dunbar.
Gilmore, John. Gardenston.
Gordon, George, from Arbroath {Princes
Street). Now teacher in Pendleton.
IIally, James, from Perth (South). Probationer.
Hill, Hugh, from Kelso. Probationer. Oc-
casional list.
PIolmes, James. Stomoway.
HowiESON, Matthew. Auchtergaven.
Jack, George S., from St Andrews. Pro-
prietor of a large boarding-house in St
Andrews.
Kelly, Neil, M.D., from Glasgow (Cambridge
Street). Practitioner in Glasgow.
M'Neill, John. Scone.
Main, George H. Norham.
Marshall, David, from Coupar-Angus, of
which his father is minister. Left off theo-
logical study, and became advocate at the
Scottish Bar.
Martin, Benjamin, A.M. Leslie.
Martin, Gavin, from Strathaven (East) Went
as missionary to Lidia.
Moodie, Peter H., from Edinburgh (Bread
Street). Left off his studies on account of
his health.
MUNSIE, William. Glasgow (Barrack Street).
NiVEN, James, from Edinburgh (Newington).
Joined the Reformed Presbyterians.
Orr, Robert Work>l\n. Brechin.
Roberts, Walter, M.A. Airdrie.
Sclater, John, from Edinburgh (College Street).
Went to Caffraria as missionary.
Smith, Ephraim. Newton-Stewart.
ToRRY, James. Sandwick.
Towers, David, from Stromness. Probationer.
Watson, William. Died.
WiiiTELAW, Thomas, A. INI. South Shields.
Whyte, Robert, M.A. Kelso.
Private Students.
Duclos, R. D., from Geneva, Free Church.
Gay, Daniel, Eglise Vaudois, La Tour.
Pierre, Jean Salomon, do.
Vernier, Elie, from Geneva, Free Church.
Four Professors. ♦
Professors HARPER, LINDSAY,
MACMICHAEL, and EADIE.
Dr Brown died on the 13th October 1858,
having been Professor for 24 years. The
Synod in 1S59 did not appoint a successor
to Dr Brown, but transferred Dr Lindsay
to the chair of Exegetical Theology, and re-
assigned the subjects taught by Dr Lindsay
to the chair occupied by Dr Eadik, which
was now designated the " Chair of Biblical
Literature, comprising the Evidence, His-
tory, and Interpretation of the Sacred
Volume."
Session 1859 — 37 Students.
Anderson, Alexander, from Keith. Classi-
cal master in Edinburgh Collegiate School.
Brown, John Ingram. Kinclaven.
BucHAN, Walter. Boveedy.
Cameron, James H. Newburgh.
Carselaw, Robert. Glenluce.
Copland, George, A.M. Ayr.
Cuthbertson, William. Portadown.
Davidson, Thom.vs, from Jedburgh (Black-
friars). Died at Selkirk, "1869.
Deans, James, B.A. Leith (Junction Road).
Ducat, Andrew D., M.D. , from Arbroath
(Erskine Church). Completed his studies.
Now medical practitioner in London.
Duthie, George. Kinkell.
Eaglesome, Gilbert K., from Greenock
(Union Street). Died.
Ferguson, Fergus. Dalkeith.
FiNLAYsoN, Robert, B.A. Earlston.
Forbes, W. G., from Paisley (Abbey Close).
Left off study for some time, but afterwards
completed his course. Probationer.
Gray, Robert. Cullybackey.
Gibson, Robert M. Partick.
James, WiLLL'\>r. Leeds.
Johnston, John C. Dunoon.
KiNNAiRD, Matthew, A.M. South Shields
(East Street).
Kirk, Tho>l\s. Brechin.
Laurie, James, from London (Wells Street).
Probationer. Ordained for New Zealand,
14th August 1 87 1.
Lyon, Robert. Leith (North).
Macearlane, Hugh. Oban.
Macintyre, John B. K. Largs.
M 'Donald, Angus, M.D., from Keith. Now
practising in Edinburgh, and lecturer in
medicine to the Extra-Academical School.
M'DouGALL, Nathan ael F. Portsoy.
M'Kerrow, John, B.A. Penicuik.
Miller, Robert, from Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street). Probationer. Teacher in Edin-
burgh.
Mills, John M'Gregor, from Stranraer (Bridge
Street). Went as missionary to Samoa.
Dead.
MOFF.VT, James, M.D, from Edinburgh (Nicol-
son Street). Now medical practitioner in
Kirkcudbright.
Naismith, Charles. Pitrodie.
Nisbet, James. Stromness.
Pollok, John. Galashiels.
Rogerson, Adam B. Burray.
Ronald, James. Douglas.
700
The United Presbyterian Church.
Wilson, William Bryce, from Bellshill, of
which his father is minister. Probationer.
Accepted as missionary to Jamaica ; after-
wards joined the Church of England, and
became curate of Maryport.
Private Stitdcitts.
Cresi, Vastarini Antoine, from Geneva.
Dardier, jEAi\ Phil, from .St Afrique.
King, Edward, from Edinburgh (Free St
George's).
Revel, Albert, from Florence.
Session i860 — 32 Students.
Blair, George. Savoch of Deer.
Bourhill, Thomas, from Musselburgh. Pro-
bationer. Suspended.
Cameron, Alexander, from Glasgow (Renfield
Street). Attended two or three sessions.
Dun lop, John. Alyth.
DuRiE, William, from Edinburgh (Lauriston
Place). Now a teacher.
Forrester, Charles G., from Rathillet. Joined
the Established Church.
Green, George G., M.A. Buckie.
Jeffrey, James, M.A. Dalkeith.
Henderson, William T. Millport.
Heron, Roijert B., B. A., from Kelso (East).
Died 1 8th March 1864, aged 23.
Hunter, James. Strathaven (West).
Hunter, William. Bishop Auckland.
Laing, John, B.A. Belford.
Macrae, David. Gourock.
Mearns, Andrew, from Glasgow (Montrose
Street). Joined the Independents, and is
now minister of a church in Chelsea.
Miller, David K., A.M. Leitholm.
MoRisoN, George, A.M. Gourock.
MoRisoN, James Wilson, A.M., from Edin-
burgh (St James' Place). Probationer.
Paterson, Daniel. Silverhill.
Pearson, Robert West, from Manchester
(Coupland Street). Left the United Presby-
terian Hall to become assistant to Dr Raffles,
Liverpool. Was detected preaching the ser-
mons of Mr M'Laren of Manchester, and
pretending to the degree of LL. D. Started a
church at Blacklairn, and failed ; tried an-
other, and failed. Went to America, where
he suffered the extreme penalty of the law
for a capital crime.
Robertson, George. Whitby.
Robson, George, A.M. Inverness.
Russell, Andrew G., M.D. Bradford.
Russell, William, from Biggar. Died at
Biggar, 1862.
Ruthven, John, A.M. Kinross.
Scott, Robert, A.M. Logiealmond.
Steven, George Y., M.A., from Peebles.
Probationer. Called to Aberchirder, but
declined the call.
Stirling, James, from Kirricnmir (Bank Street),
of which his father was minister. Now Rector
of Greenock Academy.
Thomas, David, A.M. Howgate.
Walkicr, David, from Liverpool (Mount
Pleasant). Now living in Glasgow as an
occasional preacher.
Webster, David. Kirkwall.
Wilson, Hugh C, from Glasgow (St Vincent
Street). Left the Hall in his third year.
Joincil the English Presbyterian Church,
and is now minister at Gravescnd.
Private Students.
Falconer, Alexander, from New Glasgow,
Pictou, Nova .Scotia.
Frame, William R., from Shelburne, Halifax,
Nova Scotia.
Glardon, Auguste, from Geneva. Sent out
by the United Presbyterian Church as mis-
sionary to India. Resigned on account of
ill-health. Author of lecture on Rajpootana.
Gonia, Henri, from Geneva Oratoire.
Session 1S61 — 33 Students.
Barr, Alexander. Pitrodie.
Borland, David, A.M. Cairneyhill.
Buchanan, George, M. D., from Glasgow
(Montrose Street). For two years assistant
demonstrator of anatomy to Professor Allen
Thomson, Glasgow. Went as surgeon for
several voyages to Canada. Died of diph-
theria at Edinburgh in 1869.
Cardoza, Francis L., from Glasgow (Hutcheson-
town). Went to America.
Conn EL, Archibald B., A.M. Lochee.
Connor, David M., A.M., LL.B. Biggar.
Copland, James M. Catrine.
Dalrymple, Alexander, M.A. Smethwick.
Dkysdale, David S., from Dunfermline (St
Margaret's). Probationer. Called to Rigg,
Gretna, in 1870 ; accepted the call, and then
■withdrew his acceptance.
DuNLOP, Thomas. Balfron.
Finlayson, Thomas, LL.B., from Edinburgh
(Rose Street), of which his father was mini-
ster. Afterwards studied law, and was called
to the Scottish Bar in April 1S66. Died
15th June 1872, aged 31 years.
Fleming, Henry. Shapinshay.
Gibson, John, M.D., from Hamilton. Now
practitioner in England.
Harper, John Dick, from Leith (North), of
which his father. Professor Harper, is
minister. Died i8th February 1863, in the
24th year of his age. An account of his
life and character, with several of his papers,
was privately printed by Rev. James Jeffrey,
M.A., Dalkeith.
Henderson, David T., from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street). Probationer.
Jerdan, Charles, A.M., LL.B. Dennyloan-
head.
Kerr, William, from Lochmaben. Now a
teacher near Carnwath.
Lindsay, Robert. Creetown.
Mather, James. Langbank.
Morrison, John. Auchtemiuchty.
Niven, William L. A. Innerleithen.
Patters(,)N, John, from Dunse (West). Did
not complete his course. Went to America.
Reid, John D., from Glasgow (Cambritlge
Street). Probationer.
Russell, John N., B.A. Banff.
Russell, Robert Pkingle, from Glasgow
(Caledonian Road). Did not complete his
studies. Teacher in Milngavie.
Rutherford, Peter. Falkirk.
Scott, Alexander, M.A. Ballyfrcnis.
Sharpe, James, from Pitrodie. Died Sth June
1864, aged 30.
Stewart, Peti;k, from Campbellon. Pmba-
lioner. Called to Portadown, Ireland.
Died 2d April 1S08, in the 29th year of his
a:;e.
Lists of Students of Theology,
701
Steele, William, M.A. South Shields.
Stobbs, John, from Stromness, of which his
father was minister. Joined the Esia-
bhshed Church.
Straton, Henry D. D., from Paisley. Killed
in the American war.
Thomson, Wyville Smyth. Ford.
Session 1S62 — 32 Students .
Blackwood, James Urquhart, from Glasgow
(Renfield Street). Called to Keith. Died
31st May 1868, before obtaining ordination,
in the 34th year of his age.
Bonnar, William, from Dunfermline (Gil-
lespie Church). Probationer. Went as
missionary to India.
Brand, John. Dundee.
Buchan, James S., from Kirkwall. Left off
study.
Cordiner, James. Aberdeen.
Dick, George Hill. Stockbridge, Cock-
burnspath.
Galbraith, Matihew, A.m. Aberdeen.
Gamble, John W., from tlie Original Secession
Church, Ireland. Did not complete his
course.
Graham, Thomas, from Kirriemuir (East).
Attended one session. Kow a teacher in
Manchester.
Granger, John, from Hamilton (Blackswell).
Ordained as missionary to Calabar, Slh
February 1870.
HuiE, William. Bridge of Teith.
James, George F. Manchester.
Jameson, John, from Perth (North). Proba-
tioner. Ordained as minister, and agent of
the National Bible Society of Scotland for
Spain.
Macintyre, Hugh S., from Loanends, Ire-
land. Teacher in Partick.
INIelville, William B. Barrow-in-Fumess.
Morrison, William, A.M. Leeds.
Reid, Henry. Irvine.
Robertson, John. Burton.
Rothnie, James. Castle-Douglas.
Russell, Peter IL, from Carnwath. Pro-
bationer.
Scotland, James H. Errol.
Scott, James H. Sanquhar.
Simpson, James, from Edinburgh (Bristo Street).
A lineal descendant of Ralph Erskine. Pro-
bationer. Now living with his father in
impaired health.
Sutherland, Archibald, A.M. Perth.
Thirde, James Y. Ollabeny.
Thomson, John E. H., M.A., B.D., from
Dennyloanhead. Probationer. Author of
a treatise on " The Psychology of the New
Testament. "
Wares, Ale.xander, from Paisley (Abbey
Close). Probationer.
Wells, William, from Glasgow (John Street).
Did not complete his studies.
Whyte, George, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place). Did not complete his studies.
Became a teachei".
Wilson, John, A.M. Stronsay.
Wood, Joseph, from Greenock (Union .Street).
Left the denomination.
ceived by the Synod as a second year's
student. Westray, Orkney.
Private Students.
Cruickshank, James M., 'from Springburn,
Formerly a Free Church student. Attended
the Free Church Hall one session, and re-
Brummelkamp, Anthon, from the Dutch
Church.
Brummelkamp, Johannes, do.
Nande, David, from the Cape of Good Hope.
Session 1S63— 33 Students.
Bicket, Robert, from Fenwick. Probationer.
BowDEN, John D. Liverpool.
Burgess, Robert. Peebles.
Carr, George B. Silverhill.
Cockburn, Thomas, M.A. Hawick.
Crowden, James, from Lossiemouth. Attended
only one year. Studied medicine. Now
practising in England.
Dewar, John, from Glasgow (Greyfriars). Or-
dained missionary to CafTreland, 2ibt Octo-
ber 1872.
Douglas, Robert Primrose. Campbclton,
Inverness-shire.
Edgar, Robert. South Ronaldshay.
Ferguson, William. Barrow.
Glen, Henry. Beith.
Henderson, George. North Sunderland.
Henderson, James F. Innellan.
Henderson, James, from Lathones, of which
his father is minister. Probationer.
Henderson, Thomas Faulds, from Latliones,
of which his father is minister. Proba-
tioner.
Hutchison, John, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street). Became a teacher.
Jenkins, James. Kinghorn.
Keltie, John S., from Edinburgh (Newington).
Not licensed. Took to literature.
M'Lellan, John, from Galston. Now em-
ployed as a clerk in Glasgow.
Miles, Alexander. Biggar.
Ney, William. Hull.
NivisoN, William, from Thornhill. Proba-
tioner.
Renwick, Isaac P. A., from Muirton, of which
his father was minister. Probationer.
Rogers, James. Kelso.
RoGERsoN, William. Warkworth.
Rose, William. Airth.
Rutherford, John, B.D. Aberdeen.
Rutherford, William. Chimside.
S.MITH, William, from Bannockburn, of which
his father was minister. Proliationer.
W^atson, Willia>l Kirkcudbright.
Wilson, James. Lumsden.
Wilson, William. Ayton.
Young, Forrest I-"re\v. Kilcreggan.
Private.
M'Curdy, Edward A., from the Presbyterian
Church, Lower Provinces of British North
America.
Session 1864 — 24 Students.
Baillie, Alexander. Blackhili.
Chapman, William C, from Edinburgh (South
College Street). Ordained for Tasmania.
Cross, John, A.M., from Glasgow (Pollok
Street). Snell Exhibitioner at Oxford.
Ferguson, Da.mel, from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street).
702
The United Presbytei^ian Clmi^ch.
Gloag, Teter B., M.A. Edinburgh (Nicolson
Street).
IIendrie, John, from Forres. Ordained as
missionary to India.
Ingles, John C. Crieff.
Johnston, Thomas Boston. Colinsburgh.
Lindsay, James, M.A. Balfron.
MacAkthur, Arthur. Blackburn.
Mackay, John S., from Perth (Wilson Church).
Assistant mathematical master, Edinburgh
High School.
Street). Died i8th May 1866.
M'DowALL, Alexander, from Alloa (East), of
which his father was minister. Did not com-
plete his studies.
Monro, John L., M.A. , B.D. Linlithgow.
Morton, James D., from Glasgow (Eglinton
Nairn, William, A.M. Keith.
Baton, James. Holm of Balfron.
Pringle, John W., M.A., from Cupar (Burn-
side). Probationer.
Ross, George F. Coldstream.
Runciman, Charles. Holm, Orkney.
Sellar, John. Sanquhar.
Stuart, John, M.A., from Forres. Proba-
tioner.
Turner, George A., from Samoa. Returned
thither.
Watson, Robert A. Middlesborough.
Williamson, William. Gretna. Now Pro-
bationer.
(Blackswell), of which his father was minis-
ter. ProJjationer. Called to Colinsburgh,
but declined the call.
Knox, Alexander Fraser. Stirling (View-
field).
Leslie, Robert, from Partick (West). Went
as missionary to Caffreland.
M 'Donald, Alexander. Cumnock.
M'EwiNG, Charles. Stornoway.
Mitchell, William Arnot, from Brechin
(High Street). Probationer. Ordained as
the first minister of the United Presbyterian
Church at Durham, l6th April 1873.
Moffat, William Douglas. Alva.
Neish, David, from Lochee. Joined the Estab-
lished Church.
Ross, John, from Nigg. Ordained as mission-
ary to China, 20th March 1872.
Simpson, Robert, from Edinburgh (College
Street). Called to North Middleton and
Stockbridge, Ordained at Stockbridge,
2 1 St August 1872.
Simpson, William, from Aberdeen (Belmont
Street). Governor of Old Mill Reformatory,
Aberdeen.
Stephens, James, M.A. Berwick.
Trail, John, from Brechin (High Street). Mis-
sionary at Beawr, in India.
Young, Archibald, M.A. Aberdeen (George
Street).
Foreign Stiidait.
Meille, Augustus, from Turin, Vaudois.
Session 1S65 — 33 Students.
Anderson, Andrew H. Lcith (St Andrew's
Place). Now retired.
Anderson, Thomas R. Hamilton.
Bogue, John, A.M. Stockton.
]]ouRHiLL, William, from Musselburgh (Bridge
Street). Left off study.
Boyd, John, A.M. Wemyss Bay.
Brodie, Ballantyne, M.A. Ordained at
Beaumont Union, 19th November 1872.
Brown, George, B.D., from Edinburgh (C^ueen
Street). Probationer. joined Church of
England. Now curate of Millom, Cumber-
land.
Browning, Hugh Hamilton, son of Rev. A.
Browning, Tillicoultry. Completed his
studies, but did not take license. Mathe-
matical master, Crieff Academy.
Brunton, Thomas M., M.A. Leeds.
Dewar, William, from Aberdeen (St Nicholas
Lane). Abandoned theological studies.
Dickson, John. Peterhead.
Drvsdale, George. New Barnet.
Forest, John. Hull.
French, Robert, A.M. Dunfermline.
Granger, Thomas, from Ilamilton(Blackswell).
Probationer.
Greg, Favour James, A.M., from (llasgow
(Greyfriars). Became a SncU I'^xhibitioner
at Oxford. Died suddenly, 22d May 1870.
Guthrie, William, M.A. Dysart.
Hart, John, M.A., from Tolkross. Died, iSth
March 1867, at sea, on his way to New
Zealand.
Hutton, John C, from Glasgow (Sydney
Place). Probationer.
Inglis, William Russell, from Hamilton
III.
Three Professors.
Professors HARPER, MACMICHAEL,
and EADIE.
Dr Lindsay died suddenly on Sabbath afternoon,
3d June 1866. His chair was therefore
vacant in 1 866, and his class was taught by
Dr Eadie.
Session 1866 — 26 Students.
Auchterlonie, Douglas K., from CJlasgow
(Gorbals). Probationer. Callet.1 to Holm,
Kilmarnock, 1872, but declined.
Brown, Alexander. Kilmarnock.
Campbell, Dugald, from Glasgow (Caledonian
Road). Ordained as missionary to Calabar.
Carstairs, George Lindley. Glasgow (Ber-
keley Street).
Duncan, Alexander, from Newington. Pro-
bationer.
Elder, John, from Glasgow (London Road).
Probationer. Ordained at Busby.
Fraser, James. West Calder.
George, James. Gateshead.
Hair, Gilbert M., from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street). Probationer.
Hanna, Samuel R., from Edinburgh (Newing-
ton). Ordained for Jamaica, 17th October
1 87 1. Died 23d November 1872, aged 26
years.
IIOWAT, James, from Muirkirk. Ordained at
Arbroath (Park Street), 1S72.
KiDD, Thomas, M.A. Aloniaive.
M'r>EAN, Alexander T. liaillieston.
M'Raith, John. Aberchirder.
Marwick, Issac E. Loanends.
AL\THiE, Thomas. Tranent.
Miller, William G. Glengarnock.
Lists pf Students of Theology
70:
Murray, Jamks Lkslie. Kilmarnock.
Paterson, John, B.D. Airdiie (Well Wynd).
Rae, George, M.A. Dumfries.
RoGERSON, James, from Wamphray. iJied
1869.
Stoddart, John, from Lasswade. Probationer.
THOiMSON, John Wilson, from Glasgow (Sydney
Place). Probationer.
Wilson, Allan, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Ordained at North Middleton, 21st Novem-
ber 1872.
Wilson, William Bruce Robertson. Dollar.
Young, Andrew M'Laren, from Kinclaven,
of which his father was minister. Proba-
tioner.
Private Students.
Hogg, Joseph Barrington, from Nova Scotia.
Reoch, James, from the Baptist body.
Four Professors.
Professors HARPER, MACMICHAEL,
EADIE, AND CAIRNS.
The Synod, on the 1 6th May 1S67, resolved, in
the meantime, not to fill up the Exegetical
Chair, but to institute a new chair, to be
designated the "Chair of Apologetical
Theology, embracing the Discussion of Evi-
dences and Prevailing Errors ;" and that
the new Professor shall be associated in the
Junior Hall with Dr Eadie, whose chair
shall be designated " Biblical Literature and
Exegesis." It was then proposed, seconded,
and unanimously resolved, that Dr John
Cairns of Berwick-on-Tweed be elected
Professor of Apologetical Theology, and he
was elected accordingly.
Session 1867 — 32 Students.
Alexander, Crighton Alexander. Douglas.
Berry, Boswell, M. A., from Edinburgh
(Lauriston Place).
Buchanan, David, from Kirkintilloch. Called
to Bolton and Stronsay. Ordained at Stron-
say, 30th April 1873.
Cameron, Archibald B., M.A., B.D., from
Newmilns. Called to Birkenhead (St Paul's)
and Arbroath (Princes Street). Ordained
at Arbroath, 26th March 1S73.
Chapman, Andrew, from Dundee (Bell Street).
Gave up study. Teacher in Dundee.
Drummond, James, from Alva. Probationer.
Called to London (Oxendon), Douglas, Ar-
drossan, and Alexandria. Ordained at
Alexandria, 6th May 1873.
Dunbar, John W., M.A., from Ecclefechan.
Probationer. Called to Durham.
Duncan, William, from Howgate. Called to
Bolton and Haddington, but declined the
calls.
Edwards, James, M.A., from Lossiemouth.
Probationer.
Gray, Adam, M.A., from Tarbolton. Called
to Kirkcowan and Sutton. Ordained at
Sutton, 30th January 1873.
Henderson, Archibald, from Lathones, of
which his father is minister. Probationer.
Leckie, Robert, from Glasgow (Hutchcson-
town). Probationer.
Lindsay, Robert M., from Glasgow (John
Street). Did not com]ilete his studies
Lyon, James A., from Edinburgh (Hope Park).
Did not complete his studies.
M'Gilchrist, W'., M.A., B.D, from Edin-
burgh (Rose Street). Probationer.
Meiklejohn, John, M. A., from Glasgow (Duke
Street). Probationer.
Mitchell, David Forrest, from Carnwath.
Ordained at Kirkcowan, 17th December
1S72.
Morton, Andrew, from Edinliurgh (St James'
Place), of which his father is minister.
Ordained at Innerleithen, 1872.
Morton, Peter, from Glasgow (Montrose
Street). Called to Arbroath (Princes Street),
1872, but declined the call. Ordained al
Strathaven, 4th March 1873.
Murray, William, from Perth (South).
Taught in Greenock for a time. Now
teacher in St Andrews.
Rae, James M., from Glasgow (John Street).
Called to Stronsay and ^laryhill. Ordained
at Maryhill.
Rae, James S., from Glasgow (Berkeley Street).
Called to Belfast, Glasgow (Garscul)e Road),
Edinburgh (I.ondon Road), Ecclefechan, and
Dunfermline (Queen Anne Street). Ordained
at Ecclefechan, 4th February 1873.
RoBSON, John, from Howgate. Now teaching
in the Burgh School, Leith.
Ross, Alexander, from Inverness.
Scott, W'alter, M.A., from Selkirk (First).
Probationer.
Shepherd, James, M.D., from Aberdeen (St
Nicholas Lane). Missionary in India.
Simpson, Donald, from Forres. Probationer.
Smith, John, M. A., from Forres. Ordained at
Barghead, 5th March 1873.
Thomas, John, from Balfron. Probationer.
WiiiLLAS, Thomas F., M.A., B.D., from Edin-
burgh (Portsburgh). Called to New Leeds.
Wood, James P., from Belford. Probationer.
Young, John, M.A. Edinburgh (Newington).
Private Students.
Allan, John, from Lower Province of North
America.
Chase, John Henry, do.
Session 186S — 32 Students.
Allardice, Alex.ander, from Campsie. Pro-
bationer.
Campbell, John, from Glasgow (St Vincent
Street). Probationer. Author of "Chris-
tianity, its Power and Progressive Charac-
ter;" and "The Bil)le its Own Witness."
Carter, Andrew, M.A., from Edinburgh
(Ho]->e Park). Probationer.
Clark, John, M.A., from Abernethy, of which
his father is minister.
Conway, James, from Troon. Probationer.
Duncan, Walter, M.A., from Glasgow (Par-
liamentary Road), of which his father was
minister. Probationer.
Edington, Thomas, M.A., from Edinburgh
(Lauriston Place). Probationer.
Falside, John, from Glasgow (Blackfriars).
Frame, John, M. A., B.D., from Glasgow
(Renfield Street). Had attended one session
of Established Hall, and therefore ranked
as a second year's student. Probationer.
704
The United Prcsbytei'ian Church.
Gemmkll, Hugh, M.A., from Fenwick. Pro-
bationer.
Henderson, Robert, M.A., B. D., from Edin-
burgh (Hroughton Place). Probalioiier.
HiSLOP, Alkxandkr, M.A., from CJlasgow
(Cireyfriars). I'roljationer.
Hunter, Andrew, M.A., from Glasgow (New
City Road). Probationer.
Inglis, Robert C, from Kirkcaldy (Bethelfield).
Jameson, Alexander Prlngle C, from Man-
chester (Coupland Street). Missionary to
India.
Keay, Joseph Hay, M.A., from Lethendy.
KiRKUP, Thomas, M.A., from Edinljurgh
(Newington). Holder, in 1872, of Edin-
burgh University Endowment Classical Fel-
lowship of;i^ioo, tenable for three years.
Ekwis, D. E., from Calal^ar.
M'Allister, George, from Edinburgh (Queen
Street). Missionary at Nusserabad, India.
M'Farlane, W. H., from Alexandria. Pro-
bationer.
Miller, J. R. S., from Bellingham.
Monro, Robert, M.A., B.D., from Glasgow
(Eglinton Street).
Muirhead, William, from Edinburgh (Lothian
Road).
Orr, James, M.A., B.D., from Glasgow (Par-
liamentary Road). Probationer.
Paterson, Alexander, M.A., from Glasgow
(Montrose Street). Probationer.
Paterson, William, M.A., B.D., from Glas-
gow (John Street). Probationer.
Pringle, John, B.A., from Auchterarder
(North). Probationer.
Rodger, John W^., from Stewarton.
Soutar, George S., M.A., from Carnoustie.
Probationer.
Tees, William, from Glasgow (London Road).
Probationer.
Thompson, James E., from Burnhead. Pro-
bationer.
Train, John G., from Glasgow (John Street).
Probationer.
Session 1S69 — 28 Sliuh'nts.
AiTCiiisoN, James, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street).
Bell, James, M.A., from Edinburgh (Lauriston
Place).
Black, John, from Glasgow (Montrose Street).
Craweord, James Graham, from Dunning.
CURRIE, D. Y., from Edinburgh (Rose Street).
Dickie, Matthew Mure, M. A. , from Aber-
deen (St Paul Street), of which his father
was minister.
Drennan, James W., M.A., from Glasgow
(Pollok Street).
Duncan, James B., M.A., from Whitehill.
Gardiner, Andrew, M.A., from Crossgates.
George, William, from Edinburgh (Bristo
Street).
Goodwin, David, M.A., from Edinburgh (St
James' Place).
Gray, Alexander D., M.A., from Tarbolton.
Hunter, James C, from St Andrews.
Lang, Gilbert, from Johnstone (East).
M'Fadyen, John B., from Gorbals.
M'Lay, John, M.A., from Ilutchesontown.
M'Lean, Daniel, from Largs.
M'Mti.i.an, Hugh L., from Glasgow (Grey-
friars).
Moir, John, M.A., from Glasgow (Montrose
Street);
Proctor, William, from Edinburgh (St James*
Place).
Ri-.iD, James A., M.A., from Coupar-Angus.
Died 3d October 1869.
Sclater, Tho.mas, from Glasgow (Montrose
Street).
Smith, Robert, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street).
Steedman, William, from Stirling (Erskine
Church), of which his father is minister.
Thomson, William, from Glasgow (Cathedral
Street).
Tod, David, M.A., from Balgedie.
Waldie, Junor W., from liowgate.
Young, George James, M.A., from Edinburgh
(Nicolson Street).
Private SUidcnts.
ITusband, John, M.D., from Cupar-Fife. Now
missionary at Beawr, India.
Robinson, J. C, from York.
Thornton, Robert M.
Viliesid, Joseph, missionary to the Jews in
Spain.
Session 1S70 — 28 Stiiden/s.
Adam, James, from Lochee.
AiTKEN, James, M.A., from St Andrews.
Anderson, William IL, M.A., from Edin-
burgh (Rose Street).
Baird, Wilson, from Cumbernauld, of which
his father is minister.
Beat, James H., from Edinburgh (St James'
Place).
Black, Armstrong, from Newcastleton.
Burton, John T., from Lesmahagow.
Craweord, George, from East Kilbride.
Dalrymple, Quintin, from Tarbolton.
Davidson, Robert, from Edinburgh (Queen
Street), of which his father is minister.
Dick, Robert, from Edinburgh (Bread Street).
DoDDS, James N., M.A., from Peebles (West).
Heughan, George K., from Dalbeattie.
Hunter, John, from Tillicoultry, of which his
father was minister.
Hutchison, Henry A., from Glasgow (Pollok
(Street).
Landreth, James, from Cupar-Fife.
M 'Lagan, T. T. Attended only one month.
Left on account of ill-health.
M'Laren, S. G., from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place).
Merson, David, M.A., from Aberdeen (St
Nicholas Lane).
Orr, Richard, from Edinburgh (Broughton
Place).
Primrose, Charles, M.A., from Aberdeen
(St Nicholas Lane).
Robertson, Alexander, from Edinburgh
(South College Street).
Shearer, Thomas, from Edinburgh (South Col-
lege Street).
Sutherland, John, from Glasgow (Duke
Street).
Taylor, James D., from Edinburgh (Ne\\ ing-
ton).
Turner, William Y., from Samoa. Student
in connection with the London Missionaiy
Society.
Lists 0/ Students of Theology.
705
Walker, Thomas, M.A., from Leith (Kirk-
gate).
WatSon, John, from Glasgow (London Road).
Session 1 87 1 — 39 Students.
AuLD, James M., from Tollcross.
Baird, William, from Glasgow (Wellington
Street).
Bayne, James, from Dunning.
Brown, James, from Glasgow (Regent Place).
BUTCHART, J. S., from Dundee (Free Church,
Hilltown).
Calderwood, David, from Edinburgh (Brough-
ton Place).
Dempster, J. F., from Dundee (Wishart Church).
Dewar, George F., from Carluke.
Dickie, Matthew, M.A , from Bristol, of
which his father was minister.
Dickson, Thomas S. , M. A. , from Glasgow (Lon-
don Road).
Forrest, A. F., from Glasgow (Caledonian
Road).
GooLD, John, from Glasgow (Kent Road).
Hastings, J. Burns, from Edinburgh (Dean
Street).
Jackson, Alexander, from Edinburgh (James'
Place).
KiDD, David D., from Lochmaben.
KiRKWOOD, Thomas, from Beith.
M 'Gibbon, James, from Glasgow (Bridgeton).
M'Gregor, Andrew, from Cumbernauld.
M'Kenzie, John M., from Nigg.
M'Lean, Robert, M.A., from Glasgow (Wel-
lington Street).
M 'Master, Robert, M. A. , from Girvan.
M'Murrich, Malcolm, from Helensburgh.
Morrison, Andrew, from Glasgow (London
Road).
Moves, Charles, from Glasgow (Duke Street).
Oliver, John, from Ayr (Darlington Place).
Parker, John, from Sunderland (Smyrna
Chapel), of which his father is minister.
Paterson, James A., M.A., from Dairy, Gal-
loway.
Renton, William, from Edinburgh (Queen
Street).
Rogers, Alexander, from Edinburgh (James'
Place).
Rutherford, Thomas, from Portobello.
Scobie, Andrew, from Kilmarnock (King
Street).
SiLLARS, Duncan, from Glasgow (Hutcheson-
town).
Skerret, Josei'H, from Glasgow (Cambridge
Street).
Smith, Archibald, from Glasgow (St Vincent
Street).
Stewart, Robert, from Wallsend.
Telfer, James, from Edinburgh (North Rich
mond Street).
Turnbull, H. T. J., from Edinburgh (James'
Place. )
Wilson, W. H., from Edinburgh (Queen Street).
Wilson, Peter, from Glasgow (Cambridge
Street).
Session 1872 — 24 Students.
Anderson, James, from Edinburgh (Lauriston
Place).
Baillie, Adam, from Nigg (Chapelhill).
Burns, David, from Edinburgh (North Rich-
mond Street).
Carswell, James, from Gla.sgow (Montrose
Street).
Common, James, from Edinburgh (South Col-
lege Street).
Cowan, Robert J. Robson, from Glasgow
(Blackfriars), of which his father was mini-
ster.
Croom, David B., M.A., from Edinburgh
(Lauriston Place), of which his father is
minister.
DuNDAS, John, from Dundee (Dudhope Cres-
cent).
Finlayson, Joseph S., from Perth (East).
Fleming, Thomas M'C., from Whithorn.
GooDALL, William, from Edinburgh (Newing-
ton).
Hutchinson, Richard, from Boveedy (Derry).
Laws, Robert, M.A., from Aberdeen (St
Nicholas Lane).
LuNDiE, John, from Auchterarder (North).
MuiR, Gavin Struthers, from Leith (Junction
Road).
Nisbet, James K., from Ayr (Cathcart Street).
Orr, John, from East Kilbride.
Scott, James, from Edinburgh (Newington).
Taylor, William, from Auchterarder (North).
Watt, Alexander, from Edinburgh (South
College Street).
WiLLCOCK, John, from Liverpool (Prince^
Road).
Wilson, Robert S., from Stewarton.
Woodside, James, from Glasgow (St Vincent
Street).
Young, George, from Paisley (Oakshaw Street).
INDEX OF CONGREGATIONS.
PAGE
PAGE
PAGE
Aberchirder,
93
Bathgate—
Calder, West,
469
Derby,
Aberdeen —
Livery Street, .
• 225
Cambuslang,
353
Dollar,
Belmont Street,
54
Second, .
. 227
Campbelton, Argyle —
Douglas,
Charlotte Street,
S7
West,
. 227
Relief, .
333
Drymen,
George Street,
57
Beaumont Union,
• 113
Secession,
• 338
Dubbieside,
Nelson Street, .
59
Bedlington, .
• 544
Campbelton, Invernes
', 263
Dublin,
Nether Kirkgate,
52
Beith—
Campsie,
341
Dukinfield, .
Relief, Firsts .
55
Head Street, .
■ 571
Carlisle,
121
Dumbarrow,
,, Second,
56
Mitchell Street,
• 570
Carluke,
473
Dumbarton —
St Nicholas Lane,
56
Belfast,
• 375
Carnoustie, .
86
Bridgend,
St Paul's,
58
(extinct), .
• 355
Carnwath, .
• 472
High Street, .
Aberlady, .
• 249
Belford,
. 108
Castle Douglas —
Dumfries—
Abernethy —
Bellingham,
• 536
First,
• '53
Buccleuch Street, .
First,
598
Eellshill, . _ .
. 361
Second, .
154
Loreburn Street,
Second,
600
Berwick-on-Tweed—
Catrine,
421
Townhead,
Airdrie —
Bankhill, .
102
Ceres —
Dunbar —
S. Bridge Street,
343
Chapel Street, .
100
East,
127
First,
Well Wynd, .
342
Church Street,
lOI
West,
125
Second, .
Airth, .
281
Wallace Green,
. 100
Chapelknowe,
74
Dunblane —
Alexandria, .
583
Berwick, North, .
. 228
Chatton,
112
First,
Aldershot, .
505
Biggar—
Chirnside, .
III
Second,
Alloa- •
Moat Park,
463
Clackmannan,
646
Dundee —
First,
178
South,
464
Clola, .
114
Bell Street,
West,
642
Birkenhead —
Coatbridge, .
352
Butterburn,
Alnwick —
Grange Road, .
• 476
Coldingham —
Dudhope,
Clayport, .
98
St Paul's,
• 477
Relief, .
108
James Church,
Lisburn Street,
98
Trinity, .
• 478
Secession,
109
School Wynd, .
Alva, .
649
Birmingham,
• 493
Coldstream —
Tay Square,
Alyth, .
165
Bishop Auckland,
• 548
East.
105
Wishart Church,
Annan,
73
Blackburn —
West,
103
Dunfermline —
Anstruther, .
459
Mount Street, .
• 487
Colinsburgh,
451
Chalmers Street,
Arbroath —
St George's,
. 4S6
Colmonell, .
405
Gillespie Church,
Erskine Church,
85
BlackhiU, .
• 546
Comrie,
604
Maygate, .
Park Street,
86
Blairgowrie,
169
Coupar-Angus —
Queen Anne Street,
Princes Street,
85
Blairlogie, .
. 641
First,
608
St Margaret's, .
Archieston, .
261
Blyth, .
. 538
Relief, .
610
Dunning, —
Ardrossan, .
423
Bolton.
• 483
Secession,
610
Relief, .
Auchinleck,
403
Bonhill,
. 581
Craigdam, .
59
Secession,
Auchterarder —
Bonkle,
. 461
Craigend,
618
Dunoon,
North, .
6,7
Bo'ness —
Craigmailen,
269
Dunscore, .
South,
617
First,
• 277
Craigmore, .
373
Dunse —
Auchtergaven —
Second, .
• 279
Craigs,
3-)°
East,
Relief, .
621
Bothwell, .
■ 355
Crail, . . . ■
458
South,
Secession,
621
Boveedy,
■ 375
Creetown, .
2S9
West,
Auchtermuchty —
Bradford, .
. 488
Crieff—
Durham,
East,
128
Braehead, .
• 470
Relief, .
615
Dysart,
North, .
131
Brechin —
Secession,
614
West,
130
City Road,
. 81
Crook,
547
Eaglesham, .
Avonbridge,
281
High Street, .
■ 83
Crossford, .
472
Earlston—
Ayr —
Maisondieu,
. 82
Crossgates, .
186
East,
Cathcart, .
407
Bridge of Allan, .
• 650
Cullybackey,
373
West,
Darlington Place,
407
Bridge of Teith, .
• 634
Cumbernauld —
Ecclefechan,
First,
403
Brighton,
■ 507
First,
273
Eday, . . . .
Ayton —
Bristol,
■ 5°4
Second, .
271
Edeiishead, .
Springbank,
106
Broughty Ferry, .
• 171
Cumnock, .
409
Edinburgh —
Summerhill,
106
Buchlyvie, .
. 640
Cupar- Fife—
Arthur Street, .
Buckhaven, .
■ 456
fionnygate.
'35
Bethel, Relief.
Balbeggie, .
623
Buckie,
93
Boston,
134
Blackfriars,
Balerno,
241
Burghhcad, .
. 260
Provost Wynd,
136
Bread Street, .
Balfron—
Burnhead, .
152
Bristo Street, .
Relief, .
344
Burntisland,
■ 444
Dalbeattie, .
.56
Broughton Pl.ice,
Secession,
344
Burntshiclds,
562
Dalkeith-
Canongate,
Balgedle, . .
433
Burra Isles, .
■ 247
Back Street,
214
College Street,
Kallyfrenis, .
373
Burray,
• 557
East,
213
Cowgate, Relief,
HalmuUo, .
136
]!urton-on-Trent,
. 480
King's Park, .
21S
Dean Street, .
Banff-
Busby,
• 351
Dalreoch, .
624
Haymarket,
Relief, .
91
Dairy, Ayr,
412
Henderson Church, .
Secession,
92
Cabrach,
. 89
,, Galloway,
15s
Hope Park, .
Bannockburn,
647
Cairncyhill,
. 182
Darlington, .
536
Infirmary Street,
Barrhead, .
345
Calder, Kast,
. 230
Denny,
279
Lauriston Place,
Barrow-ill- Kurness,
492
Mid,
. 228
Dennyloanhead, .
271
London Road, .
Index of Congregations.
707
Edinburgh continued—
Lothian Road, .
Morningside, .
Newington,
Nicolson Street,
N. Richmond Street,
Portsburgh,
Queen Street, .
Rose Street,
Roxburgh Place,
St James Place,
Egremont, .
Elgin-
Moss Street, .
South Street, .
Ellon, ....
Elsridgehill,
Embleton, .
Errol —
Relief, .
Seces.sion,
Eyemouth, .
Fala, .
Falkirk—
Erskine Church,
South,
West, . . \
Fenwick,
Ferryport, .
Findochty, .
Firth, .
Ford-
Relief, .
Secession,
Forfar,
Forgue,
Forres,
Fraserburgh,
Freuchie,
Galashiels —
East,
West, . ; ;
Galston,
Gardenston,
Gatehouse, .
Gateshead, .
Girvan,
Glasgow —
Albert Street, .
Anderston,
Baillieston,
Barrack Street,
Bellgrove Street,
Berkeley Street,
Blackfriars,
Burnbank,
Caledonian Road, .
Calton,
Cambridge Street, .
Campbell Street, East,
Cathedral Street,
Claremont Street, .
Cumberland Street, .
Dennistoun,
Duke Street, .
Eglinton Street,
Erskine Church,
Frederick .Street,
Garscube Road,
Gillespie Church, .
Gorbals, .
Govan,
Greenhead,
Greyfriars,
Hutchesontown,
Ibrox,
John Street,
Kent Road, . \
Langside Road,
Lansdowne,
London Road,
Maryhill, . . \
Mitchell Church,
Montrose Street,
Parliamentary Road,
PoUok Street, .
Queen's Park, .
Regent Place, .
„ East, .
Renfield Street,
St Roiiox, . ;
203
207
205
191
205
206
204
201
199
198
478
251
249
62
463
264
267
416
169
94
557
GIa.sgow continued—
St Vincent Street,
Shamrock Street,
Springbank,
Springburn,
Sydney Place, .
Wellington Street,
Glengarnock,
Gleiiluce,
Gorebridge,
Gourock,
Grange,
Grangemouth,
Great" Salkeld, .
Greenend, .
Greenloaning,
Greenock —
Cartsdyke,
George Square,
St Andrew Square,
Sir Michael Street,
Trinity Church,
Union Street, .
Oreenwich, .
Gretna,
240
240
116
256
119
138
521
522
417
93
289
529
419
317
319
319
319
317
307
312
313
305
307
300
296
316
318
323
294
306
305
313
323
309
311
310
303
291
303
322
302
?20
318
Haddington —
East,
Relief, .
Secession,
West,
Hallfold, .
Hamilton —
Auchingramont,
Brandon Street,
Chapel Street, .
Saffronhall,
Hartlepool, .
;, West,
Hawick —
Allars, .
Eastbank,
West,
Helensburgh,
He.\ham,
Holm, Orkney, .
Holm, Balfron, .
Holy Lsland,
Holywell, .
Homdean, .
Houghton-le-Spring,
Howford,
Howgate, .
Hull, .
Huntly,
Innellan,
Innerleithen,
Inverary,
Inverkeithing,
Inverness —
First,
Queen Street, .
Union Street, .
Irvine —
Relief, .
Trinity, .
Jarrow,
Jedburgh —
Blackfriars,
Castle Street, .
High Street, .
Johnshaven —
First,
Second, .
Johnstone —
East,
West, . [
Keith-
First,
Second, .
Kelso—
East,
First,
Second, .
Kendal,
Keimoway, .
Kettle,
Kilbarchan,
Kilbride, East,
West,
306
311
321
318
299
301
423
288
239
584
89
282
124
628
639
558
559
562
561
560
562
503
75
217
219
487
359
361
360
358
542
542
520
519
518
582
540
555
633
113
125
107
538
256
220
542
90
Kilconquhar,
Kilcreggan,
Killaig,
Kilmalcolm,
Kilmarnock —
Clerk's Lane, .
Holm, .
King Street,
Portland Road,
Princes Street,
Kilmaronock,
Kilmaurs. .
Kilpatrick Craig.s,
Old, .
Kilsyth. .
Kilwinning —
First, .
Second, .
Kincardine,.
Kinclaven, .
Kinghorn, .
Kinkell,
Kinross —
East,
West, ;
Kirkcaldy —
Bcthelfield,
Pathhead,
Union,
Kirkcowan, .
Kirkcudbright, .
Kirkintilloch,
Kirkmuirhill,
Kirkwall, .
Kirn, .
Kirriemuir —
Bank Street, .
First,
First Relief, .
Knockcloughgorm,
392
389
392
480
450
137
375
367
420
Lanark —
Broomgate,
First,
Hope Street, .
Langbank, .
Langholm —
North,
South,
Largo, .
Largs, .
>, Relief,
Larkhall,
Lasswade, .
Lathones, .
Lauder —
First,
Second, .
Relief, .
Leeds, .
Leicester, .
Leith—
Junction Road,
Kirkgate,
North,
St Andrew's Place
Leitliolm,
I Lerwick,
Leslie —
E.ast,
West,
Lesmahagow,
Lethani,
Lethendy, .
Leven,
Liff, .
Lilliesleaf, .
Limekilns, .
Linlithgow —
East,
West,
Linton, East,
. „ West, .
Lismore,
Liverpool —
Derby Road, .
Mount Pleasant,
Princes Road, .
Queen's Road,
Russell Street,
Loanends, .
Lochee,
Lochgelly, .
PAGE
138
586
372
585
396
398
397
396
398
572
399
339
■345
280
405
406
579
67
606
Lochmaben,
Lochwinnoch,
Lockerbie, .
Logiealmond,
London —
Albany, .
Albion, .
Bow,
Hammersmith,
Highbury,
Miles Lane,
Oxendon,
Pell Street, . ,^^
St John's, Forest Hill, 503
.St Paul's, Westbourne, 500
495
498
503
503
499
497
494
499
Stratford,
Trinity, Clapham,
Longtown, .
Lossiemouth,
Lumsden, .
Lynturk,
Mainsriddell —
427 Relief, .
424 .Secession,
Manchester —
440 Brunswick Street,
443 Coupland Street,
444 Pendleton,
290 Markinch, .
288 Mary port, .
327 Mauchline, .
371 Maybole, .
551 Mcarn.s,
586 Melrose,
Methven,
167 I^liddlesborough,
166 Middlcton, North
167 Midholm, .
374 Midmar,
Millport, .
Milnathort —
468 First,
466 Second, .
469 Milngavie, .
587 Moffat,
Moniaive,
70 I^Ionkwearraouth,
71 Montrose —
453 John Street,
574 Knox's Church,
575 Mill Street, .
370 Morebattle, .
242 Morpeth,
139 Mossbank, .
Motherwell,
516 Mount Pleasant, Ferrv-
517 hill, . . _
517 I Moyness,
Miickart,
506 Muirkirk, .
Muirton,
212 Musselburgh —
209 Bridge Street, .
211 Millhill, .
394
247
448
445
473
87
618
459
165
522
186
276
276
2,8
219
354
475
474
476
475
474
374
170
1S3
502
501
123
262
64
6i
151
• 479
• 479
480
4C0
122
418
419
326
523
610
547
537
509
63
587
428
429
347
69
149
539
78
79
77
377
535
247
37"
547
252
430
420
83
234
235
Nairn, .
Newarthlll, . '.
New Bamet,
Newbigging,
Newburgh —
Relief, .
Secession,
Newcastle-on-Tyne-
Barras Bridge,
Bethel, .
Blackett Street,
Castlegarth,
Ersknie Church,
St George's,
Wall Knoll,
258
369
506
168
620
619
525
528
524
527
529
528
527
Westmoreland Road, 526
Newcastleton,
New Deer, .
Newlands, .
Now Leeds,
Ncwmilns, .
Newton Stewart,
Newtown, .
Newtyle,
Nigg, .
Norhani,
North Berwick,
68
116
238
118
408
286
520
170
253
97
228
7o8
The United Presbyterian Church.
PAGE
PAGE
PAGE
PAGE
North Middleton
■ 537
Portadown, .
• 376
Shetland Isles, .
247
Swalwell,
• 540
North Sunderland, 109
Port-Glasgow,
577
Shields, North, .
• 532
Portobello—
Shields, South —
Tain, .
. 261
(Jban, .
351
First,
243
East,
• 533
• 533
534
Tarbolton, .
412
Old Meldrum,
64
Relief, .
246
First,
Thornhill, .
155
Ollaberry, .
. 248
United Presbyteriz
in, 246
Mile-end Road,
Thomliebank,
352
Otterburn, .
■ 541
Portree,
■ 356
Shiels, Belhelvie,
61
Thurso,
■ 55'
Portsoy,
• 94
Shotts,
• 365
Tillicoultry,
645
Paisley-
Port-WilTiam,
289
Silverhill, .
. 506
Tollcross, .
325
Abbey Close,
567
Sixtowns,
376
Torphichen,
274
Canal Street,
567
Queensferry,
. 229
Slateford, .
237
Towlaw,
548
George Street,
569
Smethwick, .
491
Tranent,
231
Oakshaw Stree
565
Ram-;ey, Isle of Mar
,. 487
Southend, .
■ 346
97
Troon,
. 422
Old Laigh Kirk, 569
Ramsbottom,
. 484
Spittal,
Tunley,
. 488
St James Street, 569
Rathillet, .
• 133
Stamfordham,
544
Uddingstone,
Thread Street,
568
Redcar,
■ 550
Stewarton, .
• 4"
357
Partick —
Renfrew,
• 587
Stirling —
Urr, .
■ 14s
Dowanhill,
■ 324
Renton,
■ 575
Allan Park,
■ 632
Walker,
54^
538
69
539
72
. 588
■ 554
2 '^2
East,
325
Roberton,
• 470
Erskine Church,
. 629
Wallsend,
Newton Place,
Pathstruie, .
. 324
■ 431
Rochdale, .
Ronaldshay, South,
• 493
■ 554
Viewfield,
Stitchel, . , .
. 631
■ 38-
Wamphray,
\Varkworth
Patna, .
421
Rosehearty,
. 118
Stockbridge,
. IDS
Waterbeck
Peebles-
East,
222
Rothesay, .
Rousay,
■ 573
• 557
Stockton-on-Tees,
Stonehaven,
• 545
• 63
Wemyss Bay,
Westray,
Whitburn, .
First,
221
Rutherglen,
■ 350
Stonehouse,
. 365
West,
Penicuik,
Penrith,
223
233
120
St Andrews,
St Ninians, .
• 131
■ 643
Stornoway, .
Stow, .
Stranraer —
• 355
• 507
,, (extinct),
Whitby,
WhitGhsven
• 465
• 535
Penruddock,
122
Saltcoats —
Bridge Street, ,
. 286
Whitehill, '
115
Perth-
Countess Street,
, 414
Ivy Place,
284
Whithorn
287
Canal Street,
■ 597
East,
• 414
West,
. 285
Wick, . ' '
• 55°
East,
• 596
West,
• 415
Strat haven —
Wigton,
Wigtown,
Willington Quay,
^Vllsontown,
North,
■ 394
Sanday,
■ 553
East,
• 364
282
Wilson Church
■ 589
Sandwick,
■ 555
First,
362
c^dQ
York Place,
597
Sanquhar —
West,
■ 36s
Peterhead—
North, .
149
Strathkinnes,
• 139
Wishawtown,
370
First,
Second, .
"5
115
South,
Savoch,
. 148
117
Stromness, .
Stronsay,
■ 554
• 552
Wolverhampton, .
Wooler—
. 489
Pitcairn,
. 626
Scone, .
607
Stuartfield, .
■ "7
Cheviot Street,
10;
Pitcairngreen,
. 627
Selkirk-
Sunderland —
TowerluU
102
Pitlessie,
141
First,
513
Bethany, .
■ 532
Woolwich. '.
50'
Pitrodie,
. 623
Second,
• 515
Smyrna, .
■ 530
Workington,
I:^C
Pittenweem,
• 455
West,
■ 51S
Trinity, .
• 53'
PoUockshaws,
• 327
Shapinshay,
• 556
Sutton,
■ 489
Yetholm,
• 394
M^'Farlane ^^ Erskive, Printers, Edinburgh.