Frankfort, Kentucky - History (part 1 of 3)

Note

The impelling motive of this work has been a desire to preserve in a permanent form, to our Church and to all others who may be interested in these matters, the history of our local congregations, some portions of which would doubtless be lost if not recorded at this time. Much more of interesting detail might have been included in the volume, but in order to keep it within reasonable bounds, it has to some extent been a matter of selection, using only such material as would likely be of general interest, and at the same time directly connected with the object in view.

Chapter Iv

Settlement of the Town. Sketch of the Church During the Century. Centennial Services, March 31, 1901. Buildings. Ministers. Ruling Elders. Church Music. Spirituality and Revivals. Benevolence. Ladies' Societies. Bible Societies.

Chapter Vi

The Love House. The Brown Mansion. Exhibit of Church Expenditures 1829. Presbyterial Livery Bill. Synodical Livery Bill. Subscription to Sabbathschool tSiq, with Sample Page of Expenditures. Roster of Classes 1826. '"Ancient Advice." "A Steward's Account.'" Mementos.

For some of the data used in Chapters I. and II. I am indebted to " Davidson's History of the Presbyterian Church in Kentucky," and to "An Outline of the History of the Church in Kentucky," by Professor Robert H. Bishop.

For matter used in Chapter 11.-, in addition to the above works, recourse was had to the Minutes of Session of that Church, and to information obtained " by word of mouth " by the writer from members of the family of Thomas Paxton, who were cognizant of many of the facts, and in some of the events active participants. For items embraced in Chapter IV., we are indebted in part to "An Account of the First Settlement," by Robert McAfee, and to an address delivered upon the occasion of Frankfort's Centennial, in 1886, by the late John Mason Brown.

The facts detailed in Chapter V. are mostly taken from the Diary and Account Books of Mrs. Margaretta Brown, and the later Sabbath-school Records.

Thanks are also due to Mr. Leo Oberwarth, architect, of this city, for preparing drawings of early buildings; to Mr. T. L. Edelen for photographs, and to Mrs. Jennie C. Morton, of the Kentucky Historical Society, for the print of the " Love House," taken from her poem read at Frankfort's Centennial.

Presbyterian Church In Kentucky

In taking up the subject of the proposed sketch, it may be well, for the benefit of the average church member of to-day, and a reminder to those who are already informed on the subject, to glance briefly at the history of our Church in Kentucky during the formative period, covering the latter part of the eighteenth century.

The district of Kentiicky, originally a part of Fincastle County, Virginia, was set ofif as a special county in 1776; and in 1780 erected into a " district " with three counties, Fayette, Jefiferson and Lincoln. In 1792, about eighteen years after the first permanent settlement, it was admitted into the Union as a sovereign State.

In considering the beginnings of the Presbyterian Church in this district we should bear in mind the state of society in the settlements, with its many unfavorable conditions. The War of the Revolution had just terminated, and in addition to the vices and lawlessness, by no means as yet abated, which had been engendered by that long and bloody contest, there had come a fearful period of spiritual declension and skepticism over the whole land, owing in a large degree to the spread and influence of French infidelity.

This section of the country was as yet in an unsettled and very precarious condition, and from all accounts the environments of our forefathers here were by no means conducive to spirituality, or favorable even to the observance of the outward forms of religion. Their necessities were great and urgent, and for defense against the ever-present and impending danger of the attacks of the Indians, they were compelled at all times to go fully armed, even while at work in the field or in their social gatherings. Their time was mostly taken up in providing for the pressing needs of their families, and in the intervals of labor the people, old and young, indulged freely and with keen enjoyment in many sports and amusements, dancing and other recreations, as a compensation for the enforced confinement within their cabins and " stations."

The exploits and escapes of their fellow settlers and the dangers and exigencies of their daily surroundings engrossed their attention and formed the chief topics of serious thought and conversation, and it is hardly to be wondered at that religion occupied but a small share of their attention. Many who in their homes beyond the mountains had led exemplary lives, being here removed from the oversight and restraint of the Church, were no better than those who made no pretensions to Godliness.*

Upon the advent of the Rev. David Rice, in October, 1783, who came to the territory in response to an invitation of some of the settlers, and who was the first minister of our Church to enter Kentucky, the state of religion as depicted by him was in a very low condition. He found very few men who by their lives maintained a good religious character, and the great majority of settlers were given over to intemperance, Sabbath- breaking, gambling, and other kindred vices.* Under the circumstances Mr. Rice did not think it wise to attempt at once the formation of churches, but deemed it best to preach to the people for a time, mingle with them socially, and prepare them for organization at a later period.* '

After a year's labor he thought that the time had come, and that the way was open for the formation of churches. This was accordingly done in 1784, in the vicinity of Harrods and McAfee Stations, in what is now Mercer County, with three places of wqrship. Cane Run, Forks of Dicks River, and Concord (Danville), with Harrods Station as a central point, t During the succeeding year several other congregations were organized in the district, Pisgah, New Providence, Paint Lick, Salem, Walnut Hills, Mt. Zion (Lexington), Hopewell and Whitlev Station. These congregations being greatly scat^^^ered and far removed from Hanover Presbytery, Virginia, which had jurisdiction in this territory, immediately felt the need of some sort of organization for the better regulation and greater eflficiency of the churches. Accordingly a " general meeting " for conference was called to assemble at Cane Run in March, 1785. j The ministers present were David Rice, Adam Rankin, James Mitchell, with Terah Templin, a probationer. Five churches were represented by two delegates each : Caleb Wallace and William McCune from Cane Run, Thomas Maxwell and Samuel Woods from Paint Lick, James McCoun and George Buchanan from New Providence, James Beard and James Allen from

The first business transacted by the Conference was the appointment of a committee to obtain the concurrence of Hanover Presbytery in a petition to the Synod of New York and Philadelphia, then the highest court of our Church, for separation into a new Presbytery. The state of religion in the territory was discussed, and resolutions were adopted recommending the election of three ruling elders in each congregation, and providing for the religious instruction of the children. The Conference was in session three days, and adjourned to meet again in the same place in July following, the meeting to be opened with a sermon by Mr. Rice. *

The ministers present at the July meeting were David Rice, Adam Rankin, with Terah Templin and James Crawford, probationers. Twelve congregations were represented by two ruling elders each. After the opening sermon by Mr. Rice, he was chosen to preside as Chairman, and Caleb Wallace was elected Clerk. Among the recommendations adopted by the " Conference " were the following: *

" That in the absence of ministers, the elders should assemble the congregations and conduct religious services, with prayer, singing, reading the Holy Scriptures and judicious selections from approved doctrinal and practical discourses.

" That the several parts of divine service be performed with the greatest decency and solemnity. That good clerks be employed in every congregation to lead

Early History Of Church In Kentucky. 1 7

" In view of the dangers to which the country was still exposed from the Indians, of the general declension of virtue and the alarming prevalence of vice, a day of Fasting, Humiliation and Prayer was appointed.

" And in view of the scarcity of books in the territory and the difficulty of ministers procuring these helps, thus retarding their progress in knowledge and usefulness, it is recomm.ended that in each congregation collections be at once made, to raise a fund with which to purchase books, which were to be loaned to ministers and probationers, at such places and under such regulations as the Conference or the future Presbytery may direct."

In consequence of these recommendations, churches were at once formed at various points, elders ordained and installed, and religious services inaugurated. In the autumn of the same year (1785) Rev. Edward Crawford and Charles Gumming were appointed by the Presbytery of Hanover to visit Kentucky, and with Rev. David Rice to constitute a commission for the special purpose of examining and ordaining candidates for the gospel ministry, and by it Terali Templin and James Crawford were ordained at Danville.

The Presbytery of Transylvania was organized on October 17, 1786, in the Court House at Danville. Five ministers and five ruling elders were present : Revs. David Rice, Adam Rankin, Andrew McClure, James Crawford and Terah Templin,"^ with Ruling Elders

Richard Steele, David Orey, John Bovel, Joseph Reed and Jeremiah Frain, and constituted that august and honorable body, the first Presbytery of Kentucky. Rev. David Rice, of course by common voice, presided as Moderator. Rev. Andrew McClure was chosen Stated Clerk. The proceedings were conducted with great dignity and decorum, in strict accordance with the old forms of procedure.*

The bounds of the Presbytery included, besides the district of Kentucky, the settlements in Tennessee on the Cumberland River, and those north of the Ohio River in the territories of Ohio and Indiana. Shortly after its organization the Presbytery received a valuable addition in the Rev. Samuel Shannon, of Virginia, who at once took charge of the churches at Bethel and Sinking Spring, where he remained four years, and then removed to Woodford Church, where he continued until he took charge some years later as pastor of the two Benson Churches, in Franklin County, where he terminated his ministry.

In the year 1787 the Synod of Virginia appointed a Com.mittee on Missions, for the purpose of assigning fields of labor to ministers and licentiates who were desirous of entering upon that work. Some of these, constituting a noble band of talented and consecrated young men, chose Kentucky - Robert Marshall, Cary H. Allen, William Calhoun, John P. Campbell, Samuel Rannells, Robert Stuart, Robert Wilson and John Lyle ; and their coming and their subsecjuent labors were a benediction to the scattered congregations, but few of whioli were able to maintain the regular stated means of grace. A number of ministers from North Carolina and other States came to Kentucky about this time, and the Presbytery, owing to the increased number of churches and the great extent of territory, which had no definite limits on the south and west, and covered the settlements north of the Ohio River, with the consent of the Synod of Virginia was divided into three Presbyteries, Transylvania, West Lexington and Washington. The latter included the churches in Kentucky east of the Licking River and those north of the Ohio. West Lexington included those west of the Licking, south of the Ohio and east of the Kentucky River, while Transylvania covered the territory west of the Kentucky, including Indiana and Tennessee. This was in 1799, about sixteen years after the advent of David Rice, the first missionary of our Church to enter Kentucky, and the number of Presbyterian ministers had increased to twenty-six.

On October 14th, 1802, by authority of the General Assembly, the Synod of Kentucky was formed. The organization took place in Lexington, and the opening sermon was preached by Rev. David Rice,* who was chosen Moderator. The total number of ministers within its bounds was thirty-seven. Seventeen only were present, to-wit : From Transylvania, David Rice, Samuel Finley, Matthew Houston and Samuel Robinson. From West Lexington, James Crawford, Samuel Shannon, Isaac Tull, Robert Marshall, James Blythe, James Welch, Joseph P. Howe, John Lyle and Samuel Rannells. From Washington, James Kemper, John

P. Campbell, Richard McNemar and John Thompson. These seventeen ministers, with thirteen ruling elders present, constituted the first Synod of Kentucky.

It was not until the year 1814 that the Synod of Ohio was organized, holding its first meeting in Chillicothe on the last Thursday of October, and from thenceforth the Ohio River constituted the northern boundary of the Synod of Kentucky. In 1816 the Synod asked authority from the General Assembly to make another division, and in 1817 the Synod of Tennessee was formed, thus confining the territory of the Synod of Kentucky to State lines.

Of all the ministers who aided in the formatioti and earl}- building of the Presbyterian Church in Kentiicky, for wisdom, orthodoxy and advocacy of good order, for amount of labor done and good results accomplished, T\ev. David Rice easily stands pre-eminent. He was born in Hanover County, Mrginia. in December. 1733; was licensed in 1762; labored in Mrginia twenty-one years, and in Kentucky thirty-two years. He died at his home in Green County in 1816. at the age of eightythree years. It is estimated that in the fifty years of his active labors fully one hundred thousand persons heard from his lips the Gospel in its simplicity, presented with power, and in unmistakable terms.'''

His name and his good work should be held in gratefid remem])rance by all Presbyterians, and especially by those of Kentucky, ft is gratifying to note that the two Synods of Kentucky, in just though tardy recognition of his eminent worth and services, inaugurated in

F.Aklv History Of Church In Kentucky

Of some of the other ministers of that early period, co-laborers of " Father Rice," mention will be made in another chapter, in connection with the history of the Benson Churches of Franklin County, where they ministered, one as pastor, others as regular or occasional supplies.

Chapter Ii Upper Benson Church

The beginning of organized Presbyterianism in what is now Franklin County was in the year 1795, the date of the formation of Hogsett Church, or, as it was afterward known, " The Upper Benson Church," by which latter name it was entered upon the roll of Louisville' Presbytery.

Among the earliest settlers of this section was IVIr. Thomas Paxton, who came out from Virginia in 1788. He first went to McAfee Station, in the vicinity of which he remained for a few months, and then located his future home on a tract of land on the waters of Little Benson Creek, which now forms a part of the southern boundary of Franklin County. His title to the tract was covered by a military claim or warrant, granted for services in the Revolutionary War, and was signed by Benjamin Harrison, Governor of Virginia, dated A.D. 1784, " and in the year of the Commonwealth the eighth," and embraced one thousand acres. The survey included land on both sides of the creek for about one mile. It was at that time a beautiful perennial stream, fed by numerous fine springs and nourished by the primeval forests through which it flowed. In this matter Mr. Paxton showed wisdom and foresip"ht, for thereby he secured the control of the water privilege, which subsequently became a great factor in his development of the section. After selecting a site for his home and erecting a house, (a two-story, hewed-log building of four rooms,) making a clearing and putting in a crop, he returned to his native place in Rockbridge County, Virginia, and married Miss Rebecca Hogsett, with whoni he returned to his new Kentucky home in April, 1790.

Mr. Paxton was a man of great energy and force of character, and, although still under thirty years of age, was skilled in mechanics, which accomplishment was of great service in the new country, where conveniences were few and skilled v»^orkmen rare.

After establishing his home, being a devout Presbyterian, Mr. Paxton felt the absence of the stated means of grace, and immediately took steps to secure the benefits of the preached Gospel, and to eventually establish a church of his own faith and order. Looking in the direction, of the churches of New Providence, Harrods Station and vicinity, then the principal source of religious influence in this section, he secured the visits of a number of ministerial brethren, who held religious services in this neighborhood. Upon these occasions the settlers within reach would assemble, upon notification, at the Paxton place, where the services were usually held.

Am.ong the ministers who thus visited and preached here in 1792-3 was Rev. Cary H. Allen,* one of the young missionaries sent out by the Synod of Virginia. He labored two years among the scattered congregations, and then settled as pastor of the churches of Paint Lick and Silver Creek, where, after a brief pastorate, he died in 1795. He was a graduate of Hampden Sidney, a very p()])ular and acceptable preacher, greatly beloved by all classes of the people, and very successful in his ministry. His death was universally deplored, as men of his talents and popular gifts were greatly needed at the time.*

Rev. William Calhoun, who came to Kentucky with Rev. Gary Allen, as a missionary sent out by the Synod of Virginia in 1787, and who labored for some years in this Presbytery, " preached for this people from time to time." t Although a young man, he was a very solemn and impressive preacher, and bore a very high character for godliness and consistency. He finally settled as pastor of the churches at Ash Ridge and Cherry Springs, which he served for several years, and then returned to A'irginia, where he lived and labored to an advanced age. *

Rev. Samuel Shannon, pastor at that time of the Woodford Church, visited and preached regularlv for the people of Little Benson. The section was rapidly filling up with settlers, and in the spring of 1795, the way seeming clear, a Presbyterian Church was organized in Mr. Paxton's house. Rev. Samuel Shannon was the officiating minister, and Thomas Paxton and Robert Amistrong were chosen ruling elders, f Steps were immediately taken for the erection of a house of worship. Mr. Paxton set apart, on the extreme western end of his tract, a suitable site for church purposes. This was on elevated ground, overlooking for some distance the valley of Benson, and about a mile from his residence.

was finished and occupied by the httle flock. The house was a neat structure of hewed logs, compactly built and closely joined with mortar, twenty-eight by forty feet in size. The work was done by the neighbors and friends, and out of materials near at hand, from the foundation of stone to the wooden pins which held in place tiie shingles of the roof. The location was admirably chosen, beautiful for sitviation, and accessible to the more thickly settled country west of it, anrl towards the village of Lawrenceburg, five miles away. This building served the needs of the congregation during its entire existence. After a few years, hov/ever, improvements were added. The entire outside was sheathed with weatherboarding, and the interior lathed and plastered. The pulpit was moved from the side to the end of the building, opposite the entrance. A schoolhouse was built near by and facing the front door, and an inclosure made for a burial ground.

This building stands to this day, and is a monument to honest materials and good work. The tim])ers remain soiind, the framing of the doors, windows and roof, held together by wooden pins, are intact, and the mortar (one of the lost arts) is harder than stone itself. Emigrants in large numbers coming to the ^'tate, this section was rapidly filling up with settlers, and the land was all occupied speedily, although it was not as yet to any great extent inclosed. There were no public roads, and bridle paths through the woods and along the water courses were the highways of communication to those able to ride, while many, less fortunate, had to walk. Notwithstanding this, some who habitually attended the churcli walked five to six miles to enjoy its j)rivileges, and one worthy mother carried her infant that distance. In developing the material interests of the neighborhood, Mr. Paxton, in addition to a tannery and sawmill on the stream, bnilt and equipped a grist mill, which was from the beginning a success, as these conveniences were much needed throughout the country, and at once superseded the family hand mills and rude appliances for grinding corn. This " Paxton's Mill '' became a noted mill seat, a place of resort for many miles around, and especially when it was greatly enlarged and improved for grinding wheat, when it was for a time the only flouring mill within a large radius, supplying even Frankfort in part for a period with its products.

All these public improvements added materially to tlie growth and development of the community, and consequently to that of the church. Though not able to employ a minister for all his time, there was preaching with some regularity bv passing brethren, and by others who were induced from time to time to come for special four days' services. Among these were Rev. William Mahon, * Samuel Shannon,* Samuel Rannells,* Dr. John P. Campbell* and Samuel B. Robertson.*

A number of additions to the church at this time included some families from the '' lower neighborhood," as it was called, among whom were William Boyd and Robert Hamilton, who were elected elders and added to the session of this church.

About 1800 and 1801. during the religious excitement which prevailed throughout the State and country, " this little church shared, in common with the others, some of the calamities as well as the blessings for which that period was noted." '^' Owing, however, to the counsels and influence of Rev. Samuel Rannells, together with the wisdom, prudence and firmness of the session^ the church was spared the schism which rent many others. In the history of our country there have been several noted and widespread revivals of religion. The first, in 1 741, was known as the " Great Awakening," whenWhitefield came to America and preached throughout the colonies from Massachusetts to Georgia. Jonathan Edwards in New England, the Tennants in the middle sections, and other eminent preachers i'-" Virginia and the Caroli'ias, were engaged in the work, which continued for several years. Under the influence of this revival many of our noted colleges were founded^ in which was trained that noble generation of Presbyterians which acted such a prominent part in the stirring events of the " Revolution," and in the equally momentous and critical formative period immediately following, in which our National Constitution was constructed and adopted. The next great revival was at the time of which we write, the beginning of the nineteenth century.

Beginning in this State, it spread over the whole countrv. East and West, but was more remarkable in some of its features in Kentucky than elsewhere. It seemed to be a reaction against the widespread skepticism and decline in spirituality throughout the land, brought about in a large degree by association with the French Army and the spread of infidel writings, as well as the demoralization consequent upon the long and soul-trying war. This was the era of " Camp-Meet- ings." which, originating in Kentucky, spread throughout all the western country, and which, notwithstanding their many objectionable features, wrought such widespread results for good that the movement has become known in religious history as the *' Great Revival."

During the early years of the century Upper Benson Church was highly favored in having the ministrations of some wise and discreet men. One of these was Rev. vSamuel Rannells, who was one of the Synodical missionaries sent out from Virginia in 1787. He was pastor of the churches of Paris and iStoner Creek until his death in 1817. He frequently made missionary tours, confirming the weak and struggling churches, and was often a welcome visitor here. " He was a zealous and successful minister, remarkably gifted in prayer, solemn and impressive in the pulpit, always acceptable in his ministrations to the pious and intelligent Christians, but unattractive to those without the Church. He was of great service to the Presbyterian Church in this section during the perilous times alluded to, in maintaining its purity and orthodoxy, and confirming and strengthening it in the faith. *

Another minister who occasionally, during several years, preached here was Dr. John P. Campbell. He came from Virginia while yet a lad, and was one of the first pupils in Transylvania Grammar School, under the teaching of Rev. David Rice. He completed his education at Hampden Sidney, and in 1787 was another of the party of young missionaries sent out by the Svnod of Virginia to Kentucky. His first charge was Flemingsburg, and he labored afterward for eighteen years in Danville, \ersailles, Nicholasville, Lexington, Mercer and Franklin Counties. * In 1811 he officiated as chaplain to the Kentucky Legislature. In 18 13 he removed to Chillicothe, Ohio, where he died the following year. All accounts agree that Dr. Campbell was the most brilliant and best equipped mentally of all the preachers of Kentucky in his time. He was the author of a number of v.'orks of high merit, successfully combating the errors of the day. In an extended sketch by one who was associated with him it was said that " he was distinguished as a naturalist, was an accomplished linguist, an able logician, an eloquent speaker and writer, a skilled physician, a sound and judicious divine, and a zealous and evangelical preacher of the Gospel." f

Rev. Archibald Cameron, ministering to the churches at Shelbyville and Mulberry, frequently preached at Upper Benson, and held protracted meetings, and for a time supplied the pulpit regularly once a month. The " protracted meetings " were at that time seasons of great interest, and continued usually four days, with two or more ministers present. The congregations were large, for the people attended, whatever the distance. Mr. Cameron studied divinity with Rev. David Rice. He came, while yet a child, with his parents from Scotland, and grew up in Nelson County. He was ordained in 1796, and after six years took charge of the Shelby Churches, which he served continuously until his death in 1836. With these churches as a center, his labors extended over the neighboring counties. He was a preacher of great eloquence and power, and as a sound and doctrinal divine had no superior in the Synod, In the troublous discussions and schisms of the early church he was always found on the side of orthodoxy and good order, and was of great service to all those to whom he ministered in maintaining- them in the purity of their faith. *

In 1806 Rev. Samuel Shannon severed his connection with the Woodford Church and removed to Franklin County, where he became pastor of Upper Benson and Lower Benson Churches. The latter had been recently organized, a number of persons, including Robert Armstrong, an elder, having been dismissed by Upper Benson to aid in its formation. Mr. Shannon served these churches until the outbreak of the War of 181 2, when he entered the army as chaplain of one of the Kentucky regiments. He was a graduate of Princeton under the pre.'^idency of Dr. Jonn Witherspoon, and was one of the first three ministers of our Church who settled north of the Kentucky River in this territory. After the war he engaged in missionary work, mostly north of the Ohio River, though still retaining his home here. In 1822, while on one of his tours in Indiana, he contracted a fever, and was met on his returning journey by his family just in time to receive his dying blessing. He was a zealous and indefatigable minister, but owing to an awkward and unattractive manner and hesitancy of speech, he was not a popular preacher. He was a man of immense frame and great physical power, and many stories were rold of his wonderful feats of strength and prowess during the war, in which, although a chaplain, he took an active part in the fighting. He was very highly esteemed for his uniform kindness of heart and good nature, and was always a welcome guest. His remains were buried at Upper Benson church, where his monument still stands under the shadow of this historic old building.

After JMr. Shannon's departure the church was in a low state of life and activity for several years. A number of the prominent members had left the neighborhood, and Mr. Thomas Paxton, one of the elders, had temporarily removed his membership to Frankfort, to assist in organizing a church there. The congregation had to again depend upon irregular supplies, and those sent occasionally by Presbytery to hold four days' meetings and administer the sacraments. Following the " Great Revival," which began with the century and continued several years, there had come (as is usually the case) a great spiritual dearth in all the churches, many of them receiving very few or no accessions at all for ten or fifteen years. Among the ministers who came to the help of the church at this period was Rev. EH Smith, of Frankfort, who was in 1824 induced to supply the pulpit statedly once a month. * Shortly after this the church took on a new lease of life and activity. It was about the time of the beginning of another " Revival Rpoch " in the Church at large. Under the influence of this awakening Upper Benson Church was reorganized. Mr. James Miller and James Hutton were made ruling elders. Mr. Thomas Paxton brought back his membership from Frankfort and was again added to the session, and a considerable number of persons were added to the membership. Rev. Eli Smith was largely instrumental in this good work, and his kind of^ces and ministrations were never forgotten by the church. He continued to preach for it even after he had given up the Frankfort charge, and prior to his removal to Paris, in 1829. In the year 1828 this session was called upon to aid in the formation of a church in the town of Lawrenceburg, about four or five miles distant. *

" This little town previous to 1828 was wholly given to ungodliness. Wickedness of almost every kind reigned unmolested, and it was impossible to induce the inhabitants to attend upon the preaching of a passing minister, and those who had formerly visited the place had become discouraged and long since ceased their visits.* In 1828 a praying man took up his residence here. He engaged in family worship, and thereby attracted the notice of, and afiforded amusement to, the town, and when he appointed a public prayer meeting, none but the blacks could be induced to attend. But being a man of perseverance as well as of faith, he continued to ])ray, and after a time his prayers were answered, and scolTs and sneers were changed to tears and supplications. He arranged for a four days' meeting, beginning on ]\Iay 30th, 1828. The ministers present were Dr. Thomas Cleland, Reverends Smith, Forsyth, and Moreland, together with the session of Upper Benson Church, in the neighborhood. With Mr. Moreland as moderator, the session received upon examination and profession of faith a number of persons. A deep impression was made upon the large audiences in attendance, which continued and deepened until twentyfive persons were received upon profession."* more persons were added. A church was at once formed, with Fielding L. Connor and W. K. Van Arsdale, elders, and a number of persons were at the same time received by letter from the Upper Benson Church. * At a four days' sacramental meeting, conducted at Upper Benson Church in the month of June, 1829, conducted by Revs. John Jones, Andrew Shannon and James Hawthorn, a very large congregation was present, and a new enrollment of the members was made, and the following persons were received upon profession of faith: Mrs. Margerite Russell, Mrs. Julia Ann Jett, Miss Ann Black and Mrs. Margerite McGill. At a congregational meeting held shortly afterward, moderated by Rev. John Jones, Rev. James Hawthorn was elected pastor by unanimous vote, and duly installed by Louisville Presbytery in November following, at which time James McBrayer and Matthew Davidson were added to the session, and H. McBrayer and John H. Paxton elected deacons. Mr. Hawthorn was at the same time installed pastor of the Lawrenceburg Church, giving to each church one-half his time.

On March 21st, 1830, twenty-one persons were dismissed to the " Lower Benson Church," to aid in its reorganization, and several members were added here upon certificate, among whom were Fielding L. Connor and wife, from Lawrenceburg, and Mr. Connor, being a ruling elder, was added to the session of this church.

Mr. Hawthorn resigned the pastorate in 1835, and the church was again for a time without the means of grace, except such as were supplied by Presbytery once every three months during the pleasant seasons of the year, and preaching about once a month by the Rev. Dr. Baker, of Frankfort. Pvcv. John D. Paxton, of Shelby County, frequently visited his relatives and many friends here, upon which occasions he always preached at the church. He had recently returned from a two years' residence in Palestine and extensive travels in the Old World, a very imusual achievement at that day, and was much sought after and welcomed by the churches. Our Assembly Board of Foreign Missions had not as yet been organized, but the attention of this church had been to some extent enlisted in this cause by the A. B. C. F. Missions. Rev. Mr. Paxton was the soliciting agent for this Board for several years, and made regular visits and collections here for that cause. The following ministers also preached here during the interim:* M. A. Remley, H. H. Hopkins, Joseph Huber and David Todd, holding sacramental meetings by appointm.ent of the Presbytery.

In 1838 Rev. D. M. Winston, who had visited and preached here while pastor of Bethel Church, removed to this church and became stated supply. During his ministry here, being in feeble health, he was often visited and assisted by his intimate friend and associate, Rev. Joseph C. Stiles, with whom he had recently emigrated from the South, and who ministered to a group of churches in Woodford County. Mr. Winston died in 1840, liavmg supplied the church about two years very acceptably. He was very highly esteenied and respected by the congregation, and his death was greatly lamented. He left a son and two daughters, all of whom are vet living. His remains were buried beside those of his predecessor. Rev. Samuel Shannon, the first pastor, in the Uttle God's acre on the hill. In the spring 01 1841 Rev. Ephraim K. Lynn, who had been statedly supplying Lower Benson Church, consented to give one-half his time to Upper Benson. This arrangement was approved by Presbytery at its regular meeting here, at which time iSIr. Lynn was duly installed, and at a congregational meeting Mr. J. A. Kellogg was added to the session.

In 1842, August 1st, a protracted meeting was opened in this neighborhood, and continued ten days. It strongly resembled in some of its features the campmeetings of the previous generation. Preparations were made on a large scale, ministers invited, and accommodations provided for distant visitors. The locality selected was Franklin Springs, formerly known as Scantlan's Springs, and afterward as the Kentucky Military Institute.'' These springs, situated on the " Harrodsburg Public Road," six miles from Frankfort, had for years been noted for the medicinal qualities of the waters. FJuildings had been erected for the temporary sojourn of invalids and visitors from a distance, which included a main building and two rows of cottages, ten in each, on either side. .\ large and handsome pavilion, to be used for dancing, covered the main spring, which was surrounded by a natural amphitheater. Dr. Joseph Roberts, of Frankfort, was the physician in charge,, and the springs for a time became a popular resort. The gay and fashionable people of the neighborh(^od, of Frankfc^rt and Lawrenceburg, frequently resorted hither in pleasant weather for dancing parties.

Upper Benson Church

which at that time was the absorbing amusement. This was all effectually broken up by the camp-meeting, in which many of the dancers were converted, and the noted dancing master and teacher from Frankfort, a Mr. Gaitber, who came to scoff, remained to pray, made a public profession, and renounced his former calling. The services were conducted in the grove around the main spring and pavilion. The sessions of the two Benson Churches attended daily, and with Mr. Lvnn as moderator, received a large number of persons, some joining these churches and many 'going to churches -elsewhere.

Mr. Lvnn resigned and removed to another State in 1843, and closed the last regular pastorate of this church. The church then had to return to the unsatisfactory arrangement of occasional supplies, without a resident shepherd. Rev. John Montgomery. John D. Paxton. Sylvester Scovill, A. A. Shannon, James Hawthorn atid J. J. Bullock were among those who preached here in 1843 and 1844, some of them by appointment of Presbytery, the others upon invitation of the church. In June. 1844, the church sustained a great loss in the death of Mr. Thomas Paxton, one of its founders and its chief and m_osr influential elder and promoter. The funeral service was conducted by Rev. James Hawthorn, a former pastor, who also paid an eloquent tribute to M-. Paxton, which appeared in the Protestant Herald at the time, and which is given in another place in this chapter

Rev. D. C. Proctor, residing in Frankfort, supplied the pulpit of Upper Benson Church during the summer of 1845, and Mr. Hawthorn, having returned to reside m Lawrenceburg. occasionally held meetings in this his old charge, and achninistered the ordinances. .The last minister who regularly supplied Upper Benson Church was Rev. Ben Mills, of Frankfort, who divided his time between it and Macedonia Church, Woodford County. This was in 1847.

In consecjuence of deaths and removals, the membership of the church had become so reduced in number that in 1848 the remaining few, the elders all having died or gone elsewhere, concluded to disband. The greater part joined the Lower Benson or Franklin Church ; others, on the Anderson County side, went to Lawrenceburg, and a few united with Frankfort Church.

The Upper Benson Church had been in existence about fifty years, and filled an important and influential place in its time. It was the first church organized in this countv, and the first of our faith and order in this immediate section south of the Kentucky River. During its life it had at different times the ministrations of some of the best and most noted preachers in the State, and with few exceptions the ministers who served it were of more than average ability. Two of these died on the field, and were buried under the shadow of its walls.

The eldership of Upper Benson Church, while at no time composed of educated and highly cultured men, was noted for its sturdy and unwavering adherence to orthodoxy and the distinctive principles of our Church, and owing largely to this the unity and purity of the body were maintained to the end. A large part of the records is taken up with judicial proceedings and trials of ofifending members. The principal causes of offense were habitual absence from service and " intemperate use of ardent spirits."' One case, however, between two prominent members, one an elder, arising from a breach of the ninth commandment, assumed such proportions that it required the presence and action of a commission of Presbytery to settle it. Another case, in 1830, of very unusual character, was for a breach of the sixth commandment of the Decalogue. The record reads:

" Whereas, Mr. Wm. Johnson, a member of this church, has been arraigned before the tribunal of his country for a breach of the sixth commandment on the eighth day of February last, and by said tribunal has been found guilty, and duly condemned ; and,

" Whereas, On account of some defect in the legal proceedings he has obtained a new hearing, and for this is waiting in confinement, thus being unable to appear before this session ; therefore,

And the minutes show that, although W. J. did finally escape punishment, on account of some technicality, in the civil court, he was duly tried by the session, found guilty, and excluded from the church.

Although the benevolent operations of our General Assembly were as yet in a formative state, and only two or three of the Boards had been organized, this little country church was in full sympathy with all such work, and contributed cheerfully to every good cause that the session allowed to be presented. Prior to the formation of our Board of Foreign Missions this church contributed regularly to this cause through the American Z' Board. The session in 1830 took high ground on thy^^ ^r subject of education for the ministry. Thev may ha^^ "Sf' \^* in their own experience seen the need of better preparation for the office. The following minute is good reading for their descendants and the Church to-day:

" In view of the destitution of the stated means of grace in the dispensation of the word and ordinances of (jod in our own land, and reflecting upon the condition of the nations of the earth still shrouded in nature's dark'ues.^ and believing that the command of the Redeemer, to make disciples of all nations, was delivered to his church and is still obligatory upon it, and feeling and acknowledging that we, and all we have, are the IvOrd's, and as his stewards will ere long be required to give him a strict account of every talent, we. the session of ITpper Benson Church, do most earnestly call upon all the members of this church to take this matter into their serious and prayerful consideration. And we do further resolve, that, being a branch of Christ's Church, we are under obligations to use our exertions, as God may favor us, in training young men for the gospel ministry, and as officers of the church, according to Scriptural order, we feel it to be our duty and privilege to take the superintendence of this matter and press it upon the congregation. And we do now earnestly urge upon every member of this church to contribute annually, as God may have prospered them, to the cause of education as operated by our General Assembly."

In the history of this church one man stands out pro;iiinently as its mainstay and support. The following obittiary notice of him appeared in the Protestant Herald of June T5*:h, 1844:

" In Franklin County, at his residence, on the morning of the 8th inst., Mr. Thomas Paxton, in the eightyfourth year of his age. He had been a ruhng elder in Upper Benson Church since its organization in 1795, and may truly be said to have been the main support thereof. He was one of the few remaining soldiers of the Revolution, and lived an honest man, a sincere and -devoted Christian, and was respected and beloved by all who knew him. His funeral was attended by a very large concourse of citizens, neighbors and friends, who assembled to testify their respect to the deceased. The occasion was improved by a sermon by Rev. James Hawthorn from the words, ' Help, Lord ; the godly man ceaseth, and the righteous fail from the earth.' "

" Although indisposed to eulogize the dead or flatter the livir.g. the writer deems the death of Mr. Thomas Paxton an occasion not only justifying, but demanding a more extended notice than is common or called for in other cases. A very few vestiges remain of a generation of men who were manifestly raised up and qualified bv the Disposer of all events for a momentous work. As from time to time they drop into the grave, it is wise for u= to consider carefully how they acted their part in life, that we may profit by their experience.

" Mr. Paxton was born in Rockbridge County, Virg;inia. November 15th, 1761. Of his youthful days we have but little mform.ition. We are assured, however, that young as he was, he took an active part in the bloody yet glorious struggle by which our independ- ence was achieved. Thoui^h not yet twenty years of age, he was present at the siege of Yorktown and the surrender of CornwalHs, and was one of the guard appointed over the person of that distinguished captive.

" In the fall of 1788 he came to this country, having been married the 3'ear previously to Rebecca Hogsett. He first came to McAfee's Station, but soon after settled in the place where he closed his mortal career. This was then a wilderness, almost untrodden except by savage foot. Shortly before this time, having fought his country's battles, he had enlisted under the standard of the great Captain of salvation, and in his new residence one of his first cares was to secure the enjoyment of a preached gospel.

" In 1795 the Upper Benson Church was organized, and ^Ir. Paxton was made one of its ruling elders. This ofHce he continued to sustain in it until released by death. And so faithfully, zealously and acceptably did he discharge the duties of his station that he justly earned for himself the reputation of being 'the pillar of the church,' Christ being the only foundation. In the remarkable excitement which prevailed in our State about the commencement of the present century, its attendant calamities as well as blessings were felt deeply in this congregation. But in the midst of the defection of some and the confusion and consternation of nearly all, Thomas Paxton, like the faithful sentinel, was found standing fearlessly at his post, and as the judicious pilot no doubt exerted a most happy influence in guiding this little barque safely through the tempest. And having, as Caleb and Joshua, by divine grace ' followed the Lord fully,' he realized even on earth in a high degree the blessing promised to such. He was permitted to see all his surviving children the hopeful followers of the Lamb, to v/itness several glorious instances of the outpouring of the Spirit of God in this region, to enjoy universally the good-will and respect of his acquaintances, the habitual sweets of communion with God. and the bright assurance, as he approached his death, of a place in the mansions of rest and immortal glory.

''To the church of which he was a member and officer from its organization, his death is a loss not soon to be repaired. To the neighborhood, in which for h.alf a century he has been acting the part of 'the good vSamaritan,' who shall be found to fill his place? But his family, and especially the bereaved companion of his bosom, now bowed down beneath the afflictions of life and the infirmities of age, feel most sensibly the void that has been created by his departure. Still none can murmur.- for he has descended to the grave as 'a shock of corn fully ripe in his season,' for ' he was a good man. full of the Holy Ghost and faith.' ' Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace.' j^ "

List Of Ministers

The pastors of the Frankfort Church, Rev. Drs. Edgar, Baker and Bullock, during their respective terms of office, supplied this church during the vacancies of its pulpit, preaching regularly Sabbath afternoons during the pleasant seasons of the year. Upon these occasions the two Benson congregations usually worshiped together.

Lower Benson Church

This church was formed during the early rears of the century, about 1805. The name of the officiating minister is not positively known, but several circumstances point to Rev. Samuel Shannon as the one who acted in that capacity. Besides being' the nearest resident Presbyterian minister, he had some years before this organized Upper Benson Church, and being a regular visitor to that congregation, he was well and favorably known in this neighborhood also. Among the first members were : Robert Armstrong and Jane, his wife: John and Martha Wilson, James and Rebecca Boyd, John and Margerite Robinson, Hamilton and Frances Crockett, Elizabeth Logan, Elizabeth Milam, Mary Wilson, Catherine Bennett, Jane Kennidy, Nanc}' Arnold, Jane Boyd, Nancy McClosky, Mary Bennett, vSarah Bennett and Elizabeth Wilson. Robert Armstrong, who had been an elder in the Upper Benson Church, was elected to the ofifice here, and with Hamilton Crockett constituted the first session. A house of worship, of the usual type of the period, was erected about a mile from the village of Bridgeport, four miles from Frankfort and half a mile from the public road between tlie towns of Frankfort and Louisville.

Rev. Samuel Shannon from the first took in some measure the special oversight of the congregation* in connection with his work of pastor of Woodford Church.

Also Rev. Archibald Cameron,* of Shelbyville, and Rev. William Mahon * visited and preached here at intervals. In 1806 Mr. Shannon resigned the pastorate at Woodford Church, and removed to reside permanently in this neighborhood at a point between the two Benson churches, of which he then took charge as pastor, dividing his time equally between them. He continued in charge until the War of 1812 with England, at which time he resigned and entered the army as chaplain. After this for some years the church had no settled pastor, and had to depend upon such help as could be had from Presbytery and an occasional supply. Rev. Archibald Cameron, of Shelby, who was a very zealous and indefatigable minister and home missionary in this section, frequently held meetings here, and later on Rev. Eli Smith, of Frankfort, supplied the congregation regularly in the pleasant seasons of the years. Upon these occasions the two Benson congregations for convenience would join together. Mr. Smith continued these ministrations during his stay in Frankfort, and for a short time even after he resigned there and before removal to Bourbon County in 1829. After the departure of Mr. Smith, and when the Upper Benson Clmrch had united with the Lawrenceburg congregation m the employment of a pastor, a congregational meeting of this church was called in November, 1829, to consider the propriety of disbanding and joining the most convenient churches. It was, however, determined unanimously at the meeting to hold together. Twentv-four persons came forward and pledged themselves to the support of the church, and a reinforce- ment ot twenty-one members was received from the Upper Benson Church. Robert Hamilton, WilUam Bovd and John Reading were added to the session, two of whom had been elders in the other congregation.

In 1830 Rev. James Hawthorn began his ministrations here in connection with his pastoral work at Upper Benson, and at this time also Mr. John Lapsley, a ruHng elder in the church from which he came, was received upon certificate, and shortly afterward added to the session. Rev. John T. Edgar in 1832 began preaching here on Sabbath afternoons in connection with the pastoral work at Frankfort. He acted as moderator of the session and administered the ordinances of this church. During suitable weather in summer these afternoon services were often held in the Sugar Tree Grove, one and a half miles Avest of Frankfort, at the forks of the Louisville and Harrodsburg public roads. Many of the Frankfort people also attended these services, and the sessions of the two churches occasionally held joint meetings there, especially on sacramental occasions. At a protracted meeting held here April 28th, 1832, a considerable number of persons were received, including the following upon certificate from Pisgah Church, Virginia: Andrew B. Read, John L. Read and Frances Read ; also John and Temperance Sharpe, from Shelbyville, Kentucky. In May, 1834, Mr. Andrew B. Read and John Sharpe were added to the session, a collection was taken for Home Missions as conducted by Louisville Presbytery, and a special collection ordered for the following Sabbath to buy a Bible and copy of Watts' Hymns, for use in the public services of this church.

Frankfort Church, with the Rev. Daniel Baker, D.D., then pastor at Frankfort, for his services every Sabbath afternoon, at two o'clock, subject to the approval of this congregation. " On December i6th following the congregation met according to appointment, and having heard Bro. Baker three Sabbaths previous, by unanimous vote it accepted of his labors."* This arrangement was continued during Dr. Baker's stay at Frankfort, to the great edification of this church. In 1837 Rev. James Logan ministered to the church as stated supply, giving it half his time, and Rev. James Hawthorn, of Lawrenceburg, also preached for it once a month. In the year 1838 Rev. Sylvester Scovill supplied this church, preaching from time to time, as his engagements elsewhere would permit. In 1839 and 1840 Rev. D. M. Winston, who was laboring at the Upper Benson Church as its stated supply, also preached regularly to Lower Benson Church. Rev. J. J. Bullock, of the Frankfort Church, continued the arrangement made with his predecessor, Dr. Baker, and supplied the congregation on Sabbath afternoons until the coming of Rev. E. K. Lynn, in the fall of 1840. In April, 1841, the two Benson Churches tmited in a call to Rev. Ephraim K. Lynn to take pastoral charge, and he was installed at a meeting of Presbytery in the same month. During Mr. Lynn's pastorate of the two churches, which was a very agreeable one to all parties and profitable to the two congregations, the two bodies often worshiped together, and the elders held joint sessional meetings, sending one delegate only to tlic Church courts. In October, 1841. Mr. Frederick Robi) and ^Ir. Peter lett were added to the session, and George Williams and Samuel P. Reading elected deacons. In 1844 Mr. Lynn removed to another State, leaving this field again vacant. Rev. John D. Paxton, of Shelby County, was very kind in visiting the congregation and ministering to their spir-. itual wants at this time, and Rev. J. J. Bullock, of Frankfort, again preached to it and held communion services regularly. '''

About this time the congregation left the old church in which it had hitherto worshiped, and entered into a modern and well-appointed church building on the Louisville turnpike, near Bridgeport, beautifully situated and more convenient of access. At the same time the name was changed from " Lower Benson to " Franklin Church," by which latter name it was' enrolled in the records of Presbvtery.

At a called meeting of Presbytery at Franklin Church in Jainiary, 1848. Rev. J. S. Braddock was examined, ordained and installed as pastor of this church. At this time the church was reinforced by the addition of a number of persons from the recently disbanded l.Tpper Benson Church, among whom was Fielding L. Connor, a ruling elder, who was added to the session of this church, and about the same date thecongregation elected Dandridge Crockett and A. B. Dooley ruling elders, and Alexander Wilson and Henry W. Sneed deacons.

Air. Braddock terminated his work here in 1849,. after which for some years the church was without the regular means of grace. The record book of session was lost, and not recovered until 1865, about which time Rev. Thomas H. Cleland supplied the church for several months. After Mr. Cleland's departure the Rev. D. T. Stewart preached for the congregation and administered the ordinances from time to time. In June, 1865, Mr. Alfred B. Read was elected ruling elder, who with Mr. A. B. Dooley and Mr. Peter Jett constituted the session. In 1865 the Rev. John R. Hendrick began to regularly supply the pulpit of Franklin Church, and continued to do so with great acceptance to the congregation for several years. He was the last minister in connection with our branch of the Church who ministered to this congregation. In April, 1873, the consfresfation, at a meeting called to consider their church relations, instructed their delegates to Presbytery to attend Louisville Presbytery in connection with the Southern General Assembly, which was to hold its approaching meeting in the Second Church, Louisville, and to have this church placed upon its roll and taken under its care. This course was carried out, and Franklin Church thus severed its connection with the Presbyterian Church in the United States of America, and was enrolled by Louisville Presbytery in connection witli tile Presbvterian Church in the United States.

First Church, Frankfort

The city of Frankfort may justly claim to be situated upon the first parcel of ground surveyed and located in - what is now the State of Kentucky, at that time a portion of Fincastle County, Virginia. The region had been traversed by Findley, Boone, and other adventurous hunters, who brought back glowing accounts of the country, the great fertility of the soil, the delightful climate, endless growth of magnificent timber, the beautiful undulating surface, well watered by gushing springs, limpid brooks and deeply channeled rivers, and withal of the great abundance and variety of game, large and small. Attracted by these accounts, which spread through North Carolina and Virginia, adventurous settlers in large numbers soon sought the new country which had been so highly favored by nature. On the loth day of May, 1773, a company of men, James, George and Robert McAfee, their brotherin-law James jNIcCoun, Jr., and Samuel Adams, a neighbor, left their home in Botetourt County, Mrginia, for the purpose of exploring the country, with the view of settlement. They were fully aware of the dangers and difficulties before them, but they were bold and intrepid men, inured to the hardships of border life.*

The prospect of bettering their fortunes, the honor of being the first settlers, and a firm reliance upon the care of Providence, sustained and animated them during their long and perjlous voyage.* "The McAfee Company " struck across the country to New River, which they descended in a canoe to its mouth. On the 28th of May tb.ey feU in with a company of surveyors, under charge of Thomas BulHtt and Hancock Taylor. The two companies united, and chose Thomas Bullitt as leader, and remained at the mouth of the Kanawha River until the first day of June. Bullitt then left the party and went to the Indian town of Chillicothe, of the Shawnee Nation, which laid claim to all the region of country into which the party proposed to penetrate. He joined the party on the 14th of June, at the mouth of the vScioto, having made a friendly agreement with the Indian chiefs. The party then descended the Ohio in a small boat and four canoes."^' At the mouth of the Levisa (Kentucky) River the party divided. A portion, under the leadership of Thomas Bullitt, continued down the stream, eventually locating at the falls of the river. The McAfee party, with Hancock Taylor, who was Deputy Surveyor of Fincastle County, proposing to penetrate into the interior, ascended the smaller stream which flowed from the south. The party soon came to a " salt lick," upon the great buffalo trace (now Drennon), where an astonishing number of buffalo, elk and deer were seen. The grounds and roads about the " licks " were as much beaten as those around a populous city.* The company here left their boats and followed one of the wide, well-beaten roads made by the countless herds of buffalo through the almost impassable canebrakes and thickets, until the river was again reached, at a point where the " trace " crossed it, about a mile below the site of this city. Crossing the stream at the ford, the party followed the trace up the valley eastwardly, and encompassing the hill, came to the big spring, at the head of the two valleys. After here " burying a tomahawk,"' they entered the valley which widens into the plain on which Frankfort now stands. Impressed by the surpassing loveliness of their surroundings, of which we of to-day may have some slight conception - the valleys teeming with luxurious vegetation, surmounted on every side by heavily timbered and lofty hills, with the clear and beautiful river winding its way in the midst - the party at once proceeded on the morning of the i6th of July, 1773, to make a survey."^ Taking as a starting point two white oak trees upon the river bank, now the southern end of Ann Street, a survey was made, embracing the greater part of the ground now covered by the city on the north side of the river. Pursuing their way upon the following day, the pioneers again crossed the river, some miles above, and finally, on July 27th, located a survey at a point which became afterward the famous " McAfee Station," and included the ground upon which New Providence Church was subsequently built.

In the following summer Hancock Taylor returned to this locality and completed the survey of the valley eastwardly, and somewhat later on Mr. Hancock Lee, of A^irginia, with others, located and established a station at the ford, one mile below, which developed afterward, under the name of Leestown, into a thriving village.

acquired by purchase in 1786 by General James Wilkinson. The price paid was one hundred and thirty pounds, sterling, cash. He proceeded at once to lay out and establish a town, a charter having been obtained from the Legislature at Richmond, bearing date October 6th, 1786, incorporating it under its present name. The names given by General Wilkinson to some of the streets were in honor of his companions in arms with whom he had served in two wars, one of which had just closed: Washington, Montgomery, Clinton, St.. Clair and Madison. His own name he gave to another, and one he called Ann, in compliment to his wife.

General Wilkinson reserved for his own private benefit the river front between St. Clair Street and the bend of the river below, and at the latter point he established his iiome. The purchasers of the lots in the new town were required, under forfeiture of title, to build within two years tenements of at least sixteen feet square, with stone or brick chimneys. The mansion erected by General \\'ilkinson for his own use w^as a very elegant and imposing one, far in advance of any building in this section at that time. To encourage purchasers of lots and settlers, he opened a system of drainage, by which the low lands covered by the swamps on the north and east of the town were reclaimed, thereby removing a standing menace to the health of the place. And in order to divert from Leestown, his rival town on the river one mile below, the through travel between the settlements east and west, which used the ford for crossing the stream, he built a public road up the hill eastwardly towards Lexington, and establisjied and maintained a ferry at the south end of Wilkinson Street, near his residence. His house thus occupied a strategic point, being on the *' big road," communicating between Lexington and the east, with Louisville and other western points. It afterward became, as the Love Tavern, the pubHc inn of the town, as well as the resting place of the travehng public, and was destined to play a prominent part in the history of the town. The free use for several years of its spacious rooms, proffered to and accepted by the State in 1792, was an important factor in deciding the location of the Capital at Frankfort.

The location of the State Capital at Frankfort in 1792 gave at once an impetus to the growth of the place, and it assumed somewhat of the political importance previously enjoyed by Danville. The seat of State government permanently located here, with the State offices, the Federal and State courts, with the sessions of the Legislature, drew hither men of influence and ambition from all parts of the State. Not a few of these, " men of affairs," and promoters of public or private enterprises, were induced for convenience to take up their permanent residence at the Capital.

From this tim.e on the population of the town* increased rapidly, and partook in a marked degree of the prevaihng characteristics of the population of the State at that period. The time and energies of the inhabitants were devoted entirely to secular pursuits and pleasure, with a general disregard for the claims of religion. The Sabbath day was the chosen time for various festivities and sports of all kinds, target-shooting, horse-racing, hunting and fishing parties. Yet in the midst of the abounding worldliness and immoraHty of the place there were an elect few, whose active piety shone out in bright contrast. There was no church or meeting-house of any religious society in the town, yet religious services were maintained from time to time by a little band of pious and consecrated women. These meetings were held for the most part in the " big room " of the Love Tavern, at other times in the mansion of Hon. John Brown, whose accomplished wife, Mrs. Margaretta Mason Brown, was the acknowledged center of religious influence in the community, and principal promoter of these religious services. Her house became " The Preachers' Hotel," and " no minister of any orthodox denomination was allowed to pass through the place without having an opportunity of holding a religious service.'' Upon these occasions her two sons. Mason and Orlando Brown, with James Love, son of Mrs. Elizabeth IvOve, would be sent out for a house-to-house notification, and to spread the news through the public streets, thus securing a congregation.

After a time the citizens of the town, realizing to some degree the desirability of public religious services, with their uplifting influence upon society, yet unwilling to contribute directly of their means for the building of a church, inaugurated a movement for this purpose in a " lottery scheme." A bill was drafted and presented to the Legislature by Governor Greenup, authorizing a lottery by which to raise four thousand dollars for church purposes. The act became a law in 1808, and provided for the construction of a " Publick Meeting House, upon the State Capitol grounds, which should be open to any religious sect which should perform divine service in an orderly manner." The funds were thus realized, and after maii}^ delays the building was erected on the west side of the State House square, facing Madison Street, and for some years was the only public meeting-house in the town. It was hardly to be expected that God would honor and bless a house built by such questionable methods, and such was not the case, for its joint occupancy and care gave rise to strife and contentions among the " sects " using it, and it eventually took fire and was burned to the ground.

It is a matter of regret that we have no record giving the exact date and details of the or,ganization of our Church in Frankfort, including the name of the ofBciating minister, with a complete list of the original members. We live now in a day of statistics ; at that time scant attention was given to such matters. Indeed, the reports and tabular statements of our General Assembly itself, of that period, and years afterward, were meager and incomplete ; and it is not to be wondered at that the inferior bodies, Presbyteries and sessions, should be derelict in their records.

From reliable information, however, we may fix upon 1816 as the year in which the organization was effected. We learn from the records of the Upper Benson Church, then in existence over twenty years, that at this time Thomas Paxton, a ruling elder, removed his membership to Frankfort to aid in the formation of a church there, and act as one of its session, and his name and those of his family appear on our first recorded roll. There appears to have been a lack of suitable material for ruling elders in this congregation, hence the transfer of the country elder. Dr. J. J. Miles and John M. Foster were also elected elders, and served for some years, but the latter was subsequently removed for cause, and the former changed his residence temporarily to Danville. The congregation then looked to the country again for help, and two other Benson elders, William Boyd and Robert Hamilton, were induced to move their membership to town and take part in the spiritual oversight of the congregation. Mr. David C. Humphreys, from Woodford Church, also located here just at this time, and was added to the session, and acted as its clerk-

The first minister in charge was Rev. Eli Smith, who began his labors here about 1817, and served the church faithfully and successfully about ten years. The first roll of membership on our records bears date May 5th, 1825, and includes fifty-nine names, forty-five of whom were females. It thus appears to have been at first a woman's church, and their preponderance

. was not only in numl)ers, but in intelligence, zeal and vital piety as well. Rev. Eli Smith was moderator of session, with Ruling Elders Thomas Paxton, William Boyd, Robert Hamilton, J. J. Miles and David C. Humphreys.

Mr. Smith terminated his labors here in the latter part of 1827. At the same time the three country elders, Paxton, Boyd and Hamilton, addressed a letter to the congregation resigning in a body, giving their reasons therefor, and returned to their country church. Mr. Humphreys, the other elder, had also left, returning to Woodford, and the chu.rch was thus without pastor or elders. In this emergency, there being no session, tlie congregation assembled. In the absence of suitable church members to preside and conduct the proceedings, the congregation called to its aid a number of men who son' was chosen to preside, and the following gentlemen, also non-protessors, were chosen a committee to draft and submit a set of resolutions to the meeting, together with a memorial to Presbytery: Mr. John H. Hanna,. John J. Crittenden, Mason Brown and Jarvis Russell. The committee, through its chairman, Mr. Hanna, reported a series of resolutions, which were unanimously adopted, sixty-nine persons voting, of whom thirty-four were members of the church. The ^memorial to Presbytery was also adopted, in which was set forth. " That, owing to the resignation of Rev. Eli Smith and of the elders of the church, the congregation was left without officers, and could not appear before Presbytery in a regular and orderly manner, and came directly by committee and memorial." A request was made for the ministerial services of Rev. John T. Edgar, who by invitation had been preaching to the people since the departure of Mr. Smith. The committee to present the " memorial " to Presbytery consisted of Mr. John H. Hanna. Mason Brown and John J. Vest, and their mission appears to have been successful, for Mr. Edgar entered' at once, by authority of Presbytery, upon the duties of stated supply.

Shortly after Mr. Edgar's coming the church experienced perhaps the greatest revival and work of divine grace in its history. Over sixty persons were added to the membership, many of whom were heads of families and prominent and influential citizens of the place.

Previous to this time there had been no deacons in this church, and the temporal afifairs of the congregation had been conducted in a loose and irregular way. Having now acquired abundant material for office-bearers, Mr. Edgar at once undertook a reorganization of the church. About this time Dr. James J. Miles, a former ruling elder, returned to reside here, and was again elected to the office in this church. Hon. Benjamin Mills, who had recently removed hither from Paris, to a seat on the bench of the Court of Appeals, an elder in the church from which he came, was also added to the session, together with Hon. John Brown, Jarvis Russell and Dr. Luke Munsell, who were ordained and installed. A Board of Deacons was elected and installed, consisting of Austin P. Cox, John Swingle, John P. Reading, William M. Todd, Albert G. Hodges, Joseph Clarke and George A. Robertson.

In March, 1829, Mr. Edgar received a unanimous call to the pastor's office, and was immediately installed. His pastorate, which was a very pleasant and successful one, terminated in July, 1833.

During his ministry here Dr. Edgar, under direction of Presbytery, spent a considerable part of the summer and fall months in missionary tours, confirming and strengthening the weak and destitute churches in different parts of tlie Presbytery. He also preached statedly to the country churches in this vicinity. At that period the Presbyteries seemed to have exercised a very close watcli and paternal care over their weaker and struggling congregations, making regular details from the pulpits of the stronger churches for their spiritual nourishment. These ministers were sent according to Scripture injunction, " two and two,'' holding usually four days' meetings, administering the ordinances, concluding with the sacrament of the Lord's Supper on the Sabbath. The stated meetings of Presbytery, and especially of Svnod, were occasions of great import and interest to the churches and to the whole community. The entertainment of these bodies no doubt fully taxed the ability of the places where the meetings were held, but the Scriptural rule of " hospitality without grudging " seemed to have prevailed, for the occasions were earnestly sought after, contended for and enjoyed by the churches. That being before the day of good roads and adequate pubHc conveyances, the visiting ministers and elders came mostly on horseback, occasionally in their own vehicles. The congregation was called on to entertain " man and beast," as is shown by sundry livery bills in our church papers, paid by our treasurer, one of which, for keeping the horses of Synod,* amounted to $78.22. In contrast somewhat with these ecclesiastical bodies of to-day, they were then in no hurry to depart, remaining over the Sabbath, and thus these convocations were a benediction to the church and community.

Rev. Daniel Baker, D.D., was pastor from October, 1834, to November, 1836. He was one of the most noted and successful home missionaries and evangelists of the Church in his day, and was not content to remain very long in the restricted work of a pastor. During his ministry here his services were much in demand, by appointment of Presbytery, and elsewhere ; so much so that it was made the subject of a formal remonstrance to Presbytery by the session, and the church was only in part mollified by the supply of another minister to fill the pulpit during Dr. Baker's absence. During this pastorate William M. Todd and Joseph Clarke were added to the session, and James F. Dryden and William J. Phillips to the Board of Deacons.

In December, 1836, the session invited Rev. Joseph J. Bullock, a licentiate of West Lexington Presbytery, to supply the pulpit for twelve months, and he entered at once upon the work. Before the expiration of the time, however, he was called to the pastorate of the church, and in October, 1837, he was ordained and installed in this, his first charge, at the age of twentyfour. Many years afterward, in an obituary notice, published after Dr. Bullock's death, which was prepared by one who knew and loved him well, and who was at the same time intimately acquainted with his Frankfort charge, in speaking of this early pastorate, among other influences which contributed to mold the character and determine the destiny of Dr. Bullock, said : " While still a youth he was called to the pastorate of the Presbyterian Church at the Capital of the State. Here, by reason of his office, he became intimately associated with perhaps as brilliant and accomplished a body of men and women as were ever congregated in a single community - a body composed of the Crittendens, Monroes, Moreheads, Browns, Letchers, Harlans, and others of like character - embracing not only distinguished men, but women fitted by extraordinary endowment and culture to adorn any society on earth. A'lost of these were more or less identified with his church, and thus encompassed the youthful pastor with a stimulating and refining atmosphere, that was of incalculable value in the process of his development. His mind and person exhibited the visible fruit of this favored environment. His personality was distinguished and attractive, and his massive and towering physical frame formed a fit abode for his noble and lofty spirit, and gentleness and

Dr. Bullock continued in office until the summer of 1846, when he was forced by impaired health to resign. During his pastorate Judge Benjamin Monroe, Zepheniah Williams and William J. Phillips were ordained as elders, and Richard Knott and George W. Lewis, deacons. The church was very loth to give up Dr. Bullock, a very strong attachment existing between oastor and people. The congregation, by unanimous vote, offered him all the tim.e he might desire in which to recruit his health, his salary to continue as if present, but he was constrained to decline their ofTer.

During the interim between this and the next pastorate the session invited in succession to the pastorate Rev. Leroy J. Halsey, of Jackson, Mississippi ; Rev. Dr. John Teyburn, of Virginia; Rev. Dr. Nathan L. Rice and Dr. Robert J. Breckinridge, all of whom declined. The next pastor was Rev. Stuart Robinson, D.D., who was installed in June, 1847. During his pastorate the old church building on Wapping Street was sold, and the present edifice erected and occupied. This was rendered necessary, as the old church was insufficient to accommodate the increased congregations drawn to the church by his ministry. Dr. Robinson resigned in May, 1853. The church was strongly opposed to the severance of the relation, and by unanimous vote declined to unite with him in the matter before Presbytery. Among other resolutions adopted by the congregational meeting was one requesting Presbytery to overture the General Assembly to take such action as wo:ild secure greater permanency to the pastoral relation, and that the practice of one church caUing the pastor of another be discountenanced by solemn act of the Genera! Assembly. During Dr. Robinson's ministry here Mr. Asa Farrar, Richard Knott and John B. Temple were added to the session, and Thomas S. Page, Daniel Harris and William T. Herndon to the Board of Deacons.

From May, 1853, to December following, the pulpit was suppHed by Rev. John R. Hendrick, and at a congregational meeting in November he was elected to the pastorate, but declined to accept the call.

In July, 1854, a call was made to Rev. Joshua F. Green, who had visited and preached for the congregation, for his pastoral services. Pending his acceptance, of which the church was assured, he was suddenly removed by death from a ministry of great usefulness and promise.

The next pastor was Rev. J. P. Safiford, who was installed in February, 1855, and resigned in August, 1857. In May, 1856, Thomas S. Page was elected ruHng elder, and Mr. William M. Todd, who had returned to reside in the city, was also added to the session. At the same time Dr. J. M. Mills was elected deacon.

From November, 1857, to April, 1858, Rev. J. J. Bullock, D.D., served the church as stated supply. At a protracted meeting which closed this, his second term of service, the church was greatly refreshed and strengthened, a large number of members being added. On the eve of his departure Dr. Bullock presided as moderator of the congregational meeting, which called to the pastorate Rev. B. T. Lacy, D.D., of Virginia*. Dr. Lacy entercfl upon his work here in July. 1858, and served the church with great acceptance and success until the opening of the Civil War. when in July, 1861, he returned to his native State, and eventually entered the Southern army as chaplain. In the month of March, 1862, Presbytery dissolved the relation existing between Dr. Lacy and the church. During this pastorate Messrs. E. L. Samuel and S. C. Bull were elected and installed in the deacon's office.

In April, 1862, at a congregational meeting moderated by Rev. Dr. W. C. Matthews, Rev. John S. Hays was elected pastor, and entered at once upon the duties of the office. He served the church for five years, which covered the critical and trying period of the Civil War. Mr. Hays was uncompromising in his adherence to the government, as were also the other members of the session. To this unanimity of sentiment is largely due the fact that this church did not divide on the issues of the war, as did many others in the State, and was spared the calamity of rending asunder its membership, which we see, even to this late day, weakening and retarding the Presbyterian Church in Kentucky.

Dr. Hays resigned in April, 1867, and removed to Louisville. During his pastorate Messrs. S. C. Bull, Hugh Allen and W H. Averill were added to the session.

In July, 1867, Rev. J. McClusky Blayney was invited by the session to act as stated supply for three months, whfcb arrangement was continued two years. At the expiration of that time Mr. Blayney removed to Albany, New York, to the pastorate of the First Presbyterian Church of that city.

In October, 1868, at a large congregational meeting, moderated by Rev. Dr. E. P. Humphrey, the congregation extended a hearty call to Rev. Leroy J. Halsey, D.D., of McCormick Seminary, who had been previously called to this church in 1846, while pastor in Mississippi. Dr. Haisey held the call under consideration, and visited the church, supplying it during the ensuing summer, when he declined the call on account of impaired health.

The next minister who served this church was Rev. J. H. Nesbitt, who was called in Ma>', 1870, nnd served first as stated supply, then as pastor. He resigned in May, 1876, on account of the ill health of his son, and sought a change of climate in the mountains of Pennsylvania. During his pastorate Messrs. E. L. Samuel and D. R. Jones were added to the session, both of whom had been ordained elsewhere. At the same time R. K. McClure and Frank Chinn were made deacons.

In June, 1876, Rev. William R. Brown, then at Peewee Valley, Kentucky, was elected by unanimous vote to the pastorate of this church. On account of impaired health., however, he was led to decline the call, much to the regret of the congregation, among whom he had labored for a short season with great acceptance.

In February. 1877. Rev. J. W. Pugh accepted a call to the pastorate, and was installed in the month of May following. He remained in ofBce until December, 1882, when he resigned, and removed to labor in the Synod of Indiana. In July, 1877, four ruling elders were ordained and installed - George A. Robertson, R. K. McClure, Frank Chinn and W. T. Reading; and five deacons were added to that Board - H. H. Watson, W. H. Sneed, J. W. Pruett, John McClure and George C. Watson.

During the interim of 1883 the congregation extended in succession calls to Rev. J. G. Hunter, D.D., then at Georgetown, Kentucky, and to Rev. William

Rev. J. McClusky Blayney, D.D., came to this church the second time in January, 1884. He was on his way to the far South for the benefit of the health of one of his sons, and came by Frankfort to pay a short visit to his wife's relatives. He found, unexpectedly, the Frankfort pastorate vacant, and yielded to a cordial invitation of the session to remain for a season, and preach to his old charge. This resulted in the foll6wing month in a hearty and unanimous call to the pastorate, and in the month of June following he was duly installed in office.

In April, 1884, the following additional deacons were elected : Dr. J. O. A. Stewart, William Craik and Dr. Samuel E. James, and on April 4th, 1890, Mr. Peter Rule was added to the session. In January, 1895, five nevv^ deacons were elected and ordained - Charles E. Hoge, T. L. Edelen, W. C. Herndon, J. B. Hendrick and David Nicol; and in January, 1901, Thomas P. Averill and William A. Bull were added to the same Board.

On December 5th, 1900, in compliance with the recommendation of the General Assembly in regard to the Twentieth Century Fund, the congregation met and took up the matter of the finances of the church. In order to enable the church to enter upon the new century free of debt and thus comply with the injunction of the Assembly, the congregation proceeded to raise by subscriiDtion an amount sufficient to pay ofT the floating debt of the church, amounting to about twenty-four hundred dollars. This amount was pledged at the meeting, and a committee was appointed to collect and apply the subscriptions to this object, and at a subsequent meeting reported that the obhgations were all discharged, and the church closed the century free of debt.

The present pastor has now entered upon the nineteenth year of his successful ministry to this church, thus covering a period of twice the length of service of any of his predecessors in the office. During this time the number of members has doubled, four hundred having been added upon examination and one hundred and fifty by certificate; tUe number of infants baptized, two himdred and sixty-two ; adults, one hundred and twenty-six.

At the close of the nineteenth and the opening of the twentieth century the session addressed the following commimication to the congregation, which was read from the pulpit, and may be appropriately inserted here :

"Beloved in Christ: It has ])een deemed by us both appropriate and fitting at this time, the closing of the nineteenth and opening of the twentieth century, to present to you our Christian salutations and fraternal desires for your spiritual and temporal welfare. At the same time we would also seek the prosperity and success of our beloved church, for on you and on us, under God, its fidelity and usefulness depend.

" We are made of God one family in Christ, and if any member fails, the whole family suffers loss. Faithfulness, then, in each one is necessary to the complete- ness of our church work as a whole. The pastor and session have a duty to each member, so equally has each member a duty to pastor and session, and every member to every other member. Let every one, then, be true to all, as a service and worship to God, and in obedience to the law of Christ, thus showing forth the power and beauty of his gospel.

" First - Regular and faithful attendance upon all the public services of the church, including especially both services of the Sabbath and the weekly prayer meeting, and if providentially absent in person, by remembering the service at the throne of grace.

" Second - Daily family worship and communion with the Holy Spirit in prayer and reading of the Holy Scriptures, prayer for the pastor and office-bearers of the church, as well as for Sabbath-school teachers and other Christian workers, the labors of all of whom may be unfruitful if we fail to do our part.

" Third - Cheerful contributions, as God gives us the ability, to our church, where our allegiance is first due, and by assi'iting by our active co-operation the dififerent societies of Christian work in our congregation, and by contributing of our means to the benevolent work of our Church at large.

" Fourth - The cultivation of ' fervent charity to all mien, and especially to those of the household of faith,' by friendliness and sociability, one with another, and with strangers coming to our midst.

" The past year has been replete with blessings to all of us. With good gifts and tokens of his love, God has visited us as individuals, as families and as a church. If, in his wisdom, he has been pleased to come and take one and another of our loved ones, 'to be with him where he is,' he has also given us the grace of submission, and enabled us to say, ' Thy will be done.'

" With his spiritual blessings, he has also loaded us with the multiplied gifts of his providence, and given us a good degree of bodily health wherewith to enjoy them. In the closing days he has given us a liberal spirit, bv which we have been enabled to free his church from debt and enter upon the new century better equipped for his service.

" To us now, one and all, comes the question, How shall it be with us this year and in the years to come? If each one, in humble dependence upon the leadings of the Holy Spirit, will resolve and say, I will do what becomes me to do for the Master, then indeed will we come to the end with songs of thanksgiving and anthems of praise.

" And now let us engage heartily and with a thankful spirit in the Week of Prayer, uniting our petitions with those of the Church in all lands for the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, in the salvation of souls and for the coming of Christ's kingdom in the conversion of the world.

" Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that Great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant.

First Church, Frankfort. 8 1

make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in yoit that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen !

Centennial Services

Sabbath day, Alarch 31st, 1901, which closed the nineteenth century work of our General Assembly, was observed by the First Presbyterian Church of Frankfort in an appropriate and suitable manner by special services, morning and evening, signalizing the event. A special discourse was delivered at one of these centennial services by the pastor, in which he outlined the growth, development and work of our branch of the great Presbyterian Church during the century just closing.

At the other service a paper was read by the clerk of the session of the church, which had been prepared by him at the request of the session, in which was given a brief account of the century's work of this particular church. Allusion was made to the noble and consecrated line of godly men and women who, in the church, the Sabbath-school and the various departments of Christian activity, aided in this congregation's share of the work oi the century. The concluding paragraphs of the above sketch may be of interest to some who were not present at the centennial services, which will account for their insertion in this place :

" In conclusion, we have endeavored in this brief paper to give something of the history of this, our Frankfort Church, since its formation. Many items and incidents of perhaps equal interest have been necessarily omitted. Some of these, however, may be included in a future sketch, in a more permanent form than this specially prepared paper.

" The Presbyterian Church, of which we are a part, enters to-day the threshold of the twentieth century far better equipped for the Master's service than ever before, and from indications it looks as if it is entering upon one of the most active periods of its history. The Church at large, and especially in the great centers of influence, is in an attitude of expectancy and prayer, waiting for the ' Forward Movement ' confidently expected at this time. As a Church it has the best theology, and at the same time, in its attitude to other religious bodies, it is the broadest and most catholic of all Churches. It has the best form of government, and in its membership it has had in the past, and has to-day, a large proportion of the most able, consecrated and influential ministers and laymen of the Protestant Church. It is a mighty element in the Christian forces of the world, standing everywhere for righteousness and evangelical truth, and as long as it continues to so witness, having the living Christ within -the hearts of its adherents, giving life and power to its activities, so long will God acknowledge and honor it as one of his chosen representatives upon the earth.

To be a Presbyterian is, and always has been, a good reason for gratnlation. Let us now and henceforth, as Presbyterians and members of Christ's body, yield ourselves to the leadings of the Divine Spirit, and each one, in our own sphere of labor and influence, endeavor to do our whole duty to God and to his Church, in which he has highly honored us to be co-laborers together with him. And have we not an inspiration, as it were, in the examples of those who have preceded us in this church? It is needless to call their names. We remember them well. Not a family in this church but has a priceless heritage in the godly, consecrated anc^ beautiful lives of loved ones gone before - grandparents, father, mother, husband, wife, beloved child, brother, sister, friend. Let us follow in their footsteps, in so far as they were enabled to follow Christ, and in humble gratitude for what our beloved church has been enabled and permitted to do for the Master in the past, we would devoutly say, * Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy and thy truth's sake.' "

Well founded tradition states that the first sermon preached within the precincts of this settlement was in 1787. The preacher, whose identity is unknown, was an itinerant Baptist minister, who, passing by, gathered the scattered settlers together for a rehgious service. There being no suitable room, and the weather being propitious, the meeting was held in the open air. The canopy was formed by the wide-spreading branches of an immense gum tree, which stood near where Wapping now joins Wilkinson Street, and whose ample foliage sheltered the little congregation from the sun's rays. The good man went on his way, and the effect of his service here is unknown. The auditors have all passed av/ay generation? ago, and the noble tree itself finally succumbed to the ravages of time and went down in a storm in the year 1858.