Seneca Township (part 9 of 60)

The first pastor of the church was Rev. Edward Hodge, who came to the church from the Farmer Village Church and gave to it the faithful labor of eight years. During his pastorate the church built a house of worship, 1830, and in 1832 Abraham Bloomer, Jr., and Joseph Dunlap were elected deacons, to serve during life or good behavior. These deacons were ordained by a council consisting of Revs. Brown of Romulus, Miller of Lodi, Woolsey of Farmer Village, Abbot of Trumansburg, and others. Mr. Hodge was succeeded by Rev. William G. Wisner in 1836, whose pastorate of four years was a most fruitful one, fifty-two believers being baptized into the fellowship of the church. In 1840, Rev. L.ewis Ransted assumed the pastorate of the church, baptising thirty-nine into its fellowship. The pioneer evangelist, Thomas Sheardown, aided him in a protracted meeting. The next pastor was Rev. Hiram B. Fuller who was followed in the pastorate by Rev. Benjamin Warren in 1845, who remained three, years. The work of the next pastor. Rev. Jonathan Ketchum, was shortened by ill-health to one-half year. Then David Taylor was pastor four years. During his pastorate, in 1849, *^^ present parsonage was purchased, five hundred dollars of the necessary amount being bequeathed for this purpose by Mrs. Kezia Scott, one of the constituent members of the fchurch. Mr. Taylor was succeeded by Qbed Montague who was known as a Baptist Boanerges. Rev. Charles A. Votey came in 1855 and found the church in good working order and a strong body of Christians.

In 1856 and 1862 the church was blessed with revivals. During a pastorate of nine years, 'seventy-seven members were added by baptism. In 1857 the house of worship was repaired and enlarged. Rev. F. D. Fenner, followed in, 1864, coming direct from Rochester Theological Seminary, and was ordained by the church, September 14th. After three and one-half years of labor he was followed by Rev. M. M. Evarts for two years, and he by Rev. N. B. H. Gardner, during whose two year's pastorate forty-two were baptized. Rev. A. W. Mettler then held the pastorate for two years. In 1874 ^^- Fenner was recalled to the pastorate and served four years longer. He is the only pastor recalled in the history of the church. Rev. Enos Perry then served the church less than two years, when Rev. A. J. Brown was called to the pastorate. He was ordained May 7, 1879, R^v. J. J. Phelps of Trumansburg preaching the ordination sermon. Mr. Brown was followed by Rev. Beardslee, who gave place to Rev. Edward Royce in 1884. After a quiet, but much appreciated pastorate of four years, Mr. Royce resigned, and was followed by Rev. O. J. Rose, who also served four years, and during whose pastorate a goodly number were added to the church.

During the later years of the history of the church the losses by removals, deaths and other causes more than kept pace with the gains in membership, so that the body was continually losing in numerical and financial strength. A series of pulpit supplies followed the pastorate of Mr. Rose, who resigned in 1892. Some of these were helpful, but the hurtful and injurious were not absent, and the church on the whole lost ground until the coming of Rev. P. F. Ogden, May ist, 1895. The present pastorate is not far enough advanced to determine its character or results, although the letter of the church to the Seneca Baptist Association, held in September 1895, speaks hopefully di the outlook. On the whole this church has done much for the community in which it is situated, but like most rural churches, it has been greatly weakened' by natural causes.

The present officers of the church are as follows : Pastor, P. F. Ogdfe'n ; deacons, John Purcell, J. S. Bloomer, Joseph Dunlap Jr., Isaac Wyckoff; clerk and treasurer, Joseph Dunlap Jr. ; Sunday school superintendent. Rev. P. F. Ogden ; trustees, Joseph Dunlap, Jr. ; Marshal Allen, Van Nest Brokaw, Theodore Dowars.

Rev. P. F. Oqden

Philo Frisbie Ogden was born at "Sennett, N. Y., May 29, 1850. At the age of fourteen he was converted under the preaching of Rev. N. R. Evarts, who, a year later baptized him. Ahnost at once the thought of preaching the gospel came into his mind, and soon became a conviction of duty. His parents kept him in attendance at the public school until the age of fourteen. After one term at Auburn Academy, he entered the Monroe Collegiate Institute at Elbi-idge, N. Y. In September 1869, he entered the senior class of the grammar school of Madison University, graduating successively from it and the college and theological departments of Madison University, (now Colgate.) In 1873, he married Stella E., daughter of Hon. Herman Benton, of Ira, N. Y. His first pastorate was at Williamson , N. Y., where he labored two years and where he was ordained August, 1876. In 1879 ^^ ^^~ moved to Michigan, in which State he accepted successively the pastorates of churches at Paw Paw, Monroe and Clinton.

A change of climate becoming a necessity for Mr. Ogden and his family, he accepted the pastorate of the church at Addison, Vt., in the Spring of ,1887, where he labored more than three: years. Declining overtures to remain in

Vermont, he entered the pastorate of the Ba-pist Church of Romulus, N. Y., November i, 1890. Here a small church debt was paid and thirty-seven names added to the roll of members, and the church grew rapidly. April i, 1894, Mr. Ogden retired to Lyons, N. Y., and took a year of needed rest. In the winter of 1895 , the Romulus Church again called him to the pastorate, but he was obliged, to decline. He was then called by the Ovid Center Church, entering upon his labors May i, 1895.

His aim as pastor is to present clearly and impressively the fundamental principles of the Christian faith by word and life, and use all gifts and opportunities in a coiiscientious effort to build up the Kingdom of Christ

Ovid Baptist Church

AS EARLY as 1808, Elder Caton, the Baptist pioneer preacher, had monthly appointments at the old Court house at Ovid. Elder Wisner, pastor at Scotts Corners, 1836-39, also held occasional services here. After an interval of nearly twenty years, C. A. Votey, of Scotts Corners, in 1858, appointed meetings at the Court House once in two weeks. A conference was held at thti house of H. H. Bennett, April 28, 1859. P- ^- Scott was chosen moderator, Gordon Dunlap, clerk, and the brethren resolved to apply for recognition as a church. H. H. Bennett was elected deacon. On May 5, 1859, ^^^ church was recognized by the council. In December 1861 the church had a powerful revival, conducted by H. G. Dewitt. At the next association the church reported thirty-five baptisms. The meeting house was built in 1862 and services were held in the new lecture room in December of the same year.

Rev. C. A. Votey was succeeded by Rev. L. Ranstead, as pastor, in January, 1863. Ranstead was succeeded by Rev. Daniel Corey in 1865 and he by Rev. Granville Gates, from Caroline. In 1866 the society met with great loss in the death of Mrs. Hester Kinne, whose liberality had enabled them to erect their house of worship and a home for their pastor. Peter Gor began his work as pastor April i, 1869 and resigned in 1871. For some time after this the church was without a pastor. In 1873, T. Talmadge Van Doren, a student, served for a time. April 5th, 1874, Rev. John E. McLallan, of Trumansburg, was called- and served until August 29, 1875, when he resigned. Rev. Lynn B. Albert was in charge during part of 1878 and resumed charge in June, 1879, ^^^ served two years. Since that time the church has been without a regular pastor, but has been supplied at different times from Scotts Corners and other places.

The church and parsonage are free from debt and the society has a snug sum deposited in the bank; and, though few in number, the membership is not discouraged, and expects to have a regular pastor in the near future.

Holy Cross Catholic Church Of Ovid

IN the year 1849, Rev. Father Gilbride organized a congregation and paid regular visits, saying mass in the house of James Murphy (Dienton's Corners.) After a short time Mr. Murphy was ordered not to allow the priest there any more, or, if he did, he could not any longer rent the house, and would not get any work from Mr. Denton, or others in the neighborhood. Then Father Gilbride said mass at John Andjerson's house on Seneca street. Mass also was said in other private houses, in a cooper shop and in the court house. In 1850, Father Gilbride began to build a church 40x50 and in May, 1857, the church was dedicated by the late Bishop John Timon, and mass celebra'ed in it with great joy and consolation to both pastor arid people. The congregation, although poor at that (ime, were active, energetic and plucky. In 1852, Rev. Father Kinney attended for a short time; He left the diocese and went to Canada. Rev. Father Gilbride returned to his charge in 1853, but his health failed, and in a short time he died at Waterloo, N. Y. On August 24th, 1854, Rev. Father Gleason, late pastor at St. Bridget's Buffalo, and vicar general of the diocese, assumed charge, living in Ovid for two years. Then he transferred his residence to Waterloo, still retaining this parish, and performed the duties incumbent until 1859. ^^ ^^59) Father McGuire took charge of the parish about six months. In i860, Father Cavanagh attended for nearly a year, when the bishop took him back to Buffalo and made him chancellor of the diocese. December 9, i860, F W. Stephens succeeded Father Cavanagh and remained four months, then Father Carmon (at present of Lockport, N. Y.) for a few months and then again Father

Stephens until June 4, 1861. On October 6, 1861, Father Dennis English, now pastor of St. Mary's, Canandaigua, administered to the wants of the people for two years, and in 1862 and a part of 1863, Rev. James T. McManus, member of Holy Cross parish from Geneva, N. Y. , for six months. In April, 1863, Father Keenan was placed in charge and during his pastorate the church was enlarged to double the size ; it had been painted and beautifully frescoed. He also purchased a cemetery and had it laid out into lots.

In 1869, Rev. James O'Connor, the present pastor of St. Patrick's church, Seneca Falls, was transferred to Ovid by Rt. Rev. Bishop McQuaid. He purchased a house and land property, connected therewith, at a cost of six thousand dollars. The land was graded and then trees set out, and the place much improved. Father O'Connor purchased the organ and formed the choir b)^ the aid of Miss Ryan of Geneva. On April 20th, 1876, Rt. Rev. Bishop McQuaid transferred Father O'Connor to Rochester, and placed the parish under the spiritual care of Rev. Thomas J. O'Connell, who continued the improvement of both church and house. He graded the church lawn, had a stone pavement laid to the road, and around the north side of the church, built a large and commodious vestibule, an improvement very much needed. The pews were painted, grained and numbered. He obtained a magnificent baptismal font and secured three acres as an addition to the cemetery lot.

The Church of the Sacred Heart, Romulus, N. Y., was commenced by Rev. James O'Connor, and finished by Father O'Connell in 1876, and dedicated in the fall of 1887 by Rt. Rev. B. J. McQuaid, Bishop of Rochester diocese, who gave confirmation at Holy Cross church, Ovid. N. Y., to one hundred and twenty-six children and on the same occasion confirmed fifty children of the Sacred Heart church, Romulus, N. Y.

The Rt. Rev. B. J. McQuaid made his visitation to Holy Cross" church in the month of October, 1879, and found everything in good order. On October 2ist, 1882, the Bishop also gave confirmation to one hundred and forty-eight persons. There was a mission given at this church by the Passionist Fathers George Harrigan of Louisville Kentucky, and Stephens "of Dunkirk, N. Y. At that time nine hundred approached Holy Communion. Rt. Rev. B. J. McQuaid made his regular visitation on September 20th, 1884, and found the church and everything in good condition and gave confirmation on the same occasion to grown people, and nineteen were confirmed.

The Rev. Felix O'Hanlon was ordained in Rochester, N. Y. on the 30th of November, 1885, and said his first mass at Holy Cross Church on December I, 1885. He was the first who was ordained from this parish. Rev. Patrick H. O'Connell came to this country' in 1879, on a vaca;tion to see his brother, Father O'Connell, pastor of Ovid, N. Y. He returned in the Fall and pursued his studies again in St. Jonathan's College, Tuam, county Gal- >vay, Ireland. After a year there his mother or friends could not induce him

1o stay in his native country and he came again to this place and entered &t. Joseph's Seminary at Troy. He was ordained in Rochester, and placed m the diocese of Peoria, 111. He said his first mass in Auburn and then at Ovid. He remained at Ovid helping his brother until he was called to Peoria, and was immediately appointed secretary at St. Mary's Cathedral, and afterwards assistant at St. Patrick's, Peoria, 111.

The corner stone of the new church was laid at three o'clock p. m., October 28, 1895, by Rt. Rev. B.J. McQuaid, D. D., bishop of Rochester, N. Y., There were present about twenty priests. Those attending the bishop were Rev. Thomas A. Hendricks of St. Bridget's church, Rochester, N. Y., and Rev. Dennis. English, subdeacon, of Canandaigua. Others present were the Reverend Fathers Kiernan, St. Patrick's cathedral ; Hickey and Oberholzer, Redeemer church, Rochester ; Donnelly, Victor ; Lugiro, Penn Yan ; O'Hanlon, Clifton Springs ; McDonald, Geneva ; Ganey ; O'Neill, Phelps ; Harrington, Waterloo ; Codyre, Fairport ; O'Connor, Seneca Falls ; Madden, Trumansburg ; Rafferty, Scipio ; McMahon, Groton ; Netzel, Auburn ; Murphy, Holy Apostle, Rochester. The pastor. Rev. Thomas O'Connell, entertained the Bishop and priests until five o'clock, at which time the Bishop left for Rochester. Rev. Dennis English, Canandaigua, and Reverend Fathers Codyre, Fairport, and Murphy, Rochester, also Rafferty and Angelo, stayed until the following day.

Partial List Of Members Rev. Thomas J. O'Connell

Thomas J. O'Connell, pastor of Holy Cross church, Ovid, was born in Cloondargan House, Dunmore, county Galway, Ireland. His parents were James O'Connell and Sarah Cunningham. He attended school at Clanmorris, under Michael Kenney, to study Greek and Latin, in i860. In the following year, 1861, he went to St. Jarleth's college, Tuam, Ireland, under the Most P.t. Rev. John MacHale, spending five years in Tuam studying, Greek, Latin, English, and Sciences; "was sent to the Irish seminary or college, Paris, France ; studied there for five years and six months. He had to leave there on account of the Franco-Prussian war, so came to this country, was adopted by Rt. Rev. Bishop McQuaid, D. D., and went to St. Bonaventure's seminary, Allegany, Cattaraugus county, N. Y., and was ordained after three months by Rt. Rev. B. J. Mc- Quaid on June 22nd, 1871. He was sent to Auburn as assistant to Rev. M. Kavanaugh, pastor of Holy Family church and remained there four years. Then he attended at the Cathedral, Rochester, and from there was appointed pastor of Holy Cross church, Ovid, April 20, 1876, and has served his parishioners faithfully and well from that time until the present. Many good things that he has done for the people of Ovid might be mentioned, but we will speak of only one, the erection of the church now under way, which will be dedicated in the spring of 1896. This edifice, when completed, will be as fine a structure as any in Seneca county, and will be a lasting monument to the memory of Father O'Connell for many years after he has passed to his reward.

Rev. Thomas J. O Connell

THE name of Ovid first appears as an appointment in the year 1820 with Rev. Jonathan Hustis, as preacher in charge. Previous to this time it was part of the Senec^i circuit. The first preacher of who many record is known was James Smith in the year 1793. After the appointment of Hustis in 1820, the name was changed back to Seneca Circuit and so continued until 1827 when the name Ovid again appears with William Fowler as preacher. William Fowler organized the first Methodist class in the village, consisting of the following persons.* Elijah Horton, Ann Horton, Noah Barnum, Lucy Barnum, Alice De- Mott, Delos Hutchings, Sarah Mc- Quigg and Lydia Demond. In 1829-30 the name appears as the Ovid and Ulysses Circuit with J. Chamberlain and G. Osbond as preachers. Great revivals prevailed at this time, and opened the way for building the church. In this enterprise Esq. Osborn of Sheldrake took an active part. In 1831-32 William Snow was preacher in charge; 1833, James Hale and D. Hutchings; 1834, J. Hustis and Noble Palmenter; 1835, J. Hustis, W. H. Goodwin and B. Shipman, the latter preaching at Ovid and Sheldrake. This was the first attempt to sustain a station at Ovid alone.

In 1836-37, Ovid and Trumansburg were united as a circuit, J. W. Nevins and J. Denis preachers. In 1840-41, S. Mattison preached at Ovid and Sheldrake; 1842, G. D. Perry; 1843-44, B. Harrington was preacher in charge ; at this time the church was rebuilt ; in 1846 Sheldrake was separated from Ovid. During the pastorate of Moses Crow, 1847, a lot was bought and a parsonage built. From this time until 1868, the following persons served the charge as pastors : E. G. Townsend, B. T. Tracy, Robert Hogoboom, H. T, Giles, J: T. Arnold, D. Hutchings, N. N. Beers, C. Coats, J. C. Hitchcock, J. Alabaster and M. S. Leet.

M. E. Church, Ovid

The present church building was erected during the pastorate of G. W. Chandler, who was appointed in 1868. From 1871, which marked the close of G. W. Chandler's pastorate, the following persons have been appointed and have served the Ovid Church as pastors: Martin Wheeler, W. H. Goodman, Robert Townsend, J. W. Steel, C. L. Connell, F. M. Warner, R. n! Leak, S. S. Barter, H. C. Moyer, William Jones, J. R. Drake, F. D. Hodgson and Harsey King. The following list comprises the officers and members of the church at the present time : Bishop, Edward G. Andrews ; Presiding Elder, E. J. Hermans; Pastor, Harsey King; Trustees, J. F. Talladay, J. D. Banker, Edgar Cassidy, Edgar Hunt; Stewards, F. S. Baley, W. C. Cooper, R: Cassidy, M. C. Griffin, A. B. McMann, Levi Kunes, J. M. Payne, W. W. Payne, Wilson Smith, Horace Slaght, J. F. Talladay, E. J. Yarnell; Sunday School Superintendent, J. M. Payne; President Epworth League, Morris Smith; President Junior League, Mrs. H. Ring.

Rev. Harsey Kinq

Harsey King, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal church at^Dvid, N. Y., was born in Ulysses, Tompkins county, N. Y., August i6, 1849. His father Rev. Asaph King, was for many years a highly esteemed local preacher in the M. E. church. The early life of the subject of this sketch was passed on the farm of his father, his education was received in the schools of the county, at the age of thirteen in a revival then being held at Jacksonville, he was converted and united with the church of that place and felt called to preach the gospel. At the age of twenty-one he was married and soon after purchast-d a farm near the home of his childhood and settled down to the life and work of his choice.

The next ten years brought great changes, t^e happy home was broken up by death and the cherished plans interrupted and destroyed, the old was renewed with a force and power not to be evaded. After careful study and preparation, he was admitted on trial at the Central New York Conference of 1883, and at the end of two more years of study and work under the direction of the conference, he received his first ordination as; a deacon at the hands of Bishop S. M. Merrill, and two years later that of elder by Bishop John F. Hurst.

The first charge to which he was assigned was Caton, Steuben county, N.Y., where he remained the full term allowed by the law of jthe church. His next charge was Mainesburg, Pa., where two happy, prosperous years were spent. The necessity of being often with his father, whose years and infirmities were increasing, led to his removal to Van Etten, from which easy access could be had to the old home. The next removal, was to Havana, now known as Montour Falls, where he remained for four years. In the fall Of 1894 he was appointed pastor at Ovid. Mr. King has one child, a son, now a student at Cazenovia, N. Y.

Rev. Harsey King

THE Methodist Episcopal Church at Sheldrake was organized on June 13, x8ii, under the name of the Ovid Society of the M. E. Church, being the first M. E. Church in the tovvnship, if not in the county. There had been services held at the home of Uncle Peter Sherman for some time before the organization, and they were continued there until they were able lo build the church, which was erected a mile west of the lake. In 1869-70, during the pastorate of Rev. N. M. Wheeler, the church was moved to its present site, and enlarged and improved. For a number of years the society was united with Ovid in a circuit, the pastor living at Ovid a«d coming to Sheldrake in the afternoon. In 1868, a parsonage was purchased, largely with funds willed by Aunt Patty Sherman, and since that time this church has stood alone, except a few years, when there was an afternoon appointment at Farmer. Some of the prominent preachers of the present day have served one or more years at Sheldrake, among whom are E. D. Huntly, since Chaplain of the United States Senate and pastor of the Ceintenhary Church in Washington, D. C, and C. C. Wilbur, now presiding elder of Elmifa District and principal elect of Cazenovia Seminary. The officers are as follows : Trustees, Hiram Crissy, J. V. Dunlap, A. Hollingshead, Enoch Covert and Dr. R. W. Padghdm; Stewards, Hiram Crissy, Harry Goundry, Robert Rolfe, William Burt Helfman, Frank Quigley, Arthur Quigley, Charles Myer, Bert Myer, Kate Burlew, Edith Blew, Susie Cleveland and Lottie Helfman ; Class Leaders, Hiram Crissy and A. Hollingshead ; Sunday School Si^erintendent, Harry Goundry i; President ofEpworth League, Harry Goundry.

Rev. P. T. Huqhston

The Rev. P. T. Hughston, the pastor of the Methodist-Episcopal church at Sheldrake, was born at Otego, N. Y., April 28th, 1834, and remained on his father's farm until his twentieth year. He then attended school for two years at Delaware Institute, Franklin, N. Y. He also spent two years in the Cazenovia seminary. In 1858, he entered the ministry and joined the Oneida annual conference. He has served the following charges : Hartwick, East Worcester, Decatur, Exeter, Oneonta, East Hamilton, Pratts Hollow, Banckville, Jamesville, Sterling, Savannah, Canoga, Fleming, Mecklenburg, Newfield, Sodus, Seneca Castle, Phelps. In 1893 he moved to his own home in the village of Trumansburg, where he now resides. Since 1893, he has served the church one year at Townsendville, and one year also at Odessa and Catharines, and is now at Sheldrake.

Ovid Presbyterian Church

IT WAS in the year 1800, that the First Presbyterian church of Ovid was organized by Rev. John Lindsley. This church, situated in the southeast part of the town, was transferrtid in June, 1808, to the Reformed Dutch Classis, and is now^extinct. The Presbyterian church now existing in Ovid was organized under the name of the Seneca church, July 10, 1803, by Rev. Jedediah Chapman. It then consisted of twenty members. When Rev; William Clark, the first pastor of whom any record remains, was installed,

April 17, 181 r, the membership had increased to seventy-three." 'Mr. Clark was succeeded ' September 10, 1816, by Rev. Stephen Porter. During his pastorate the church was reorganized and incorporated in 1817, as the First Presbyterian church in Ovid. "A wooden meeting house" was built, on the western outskirts of the village, a Sunday school, among the earliest in America, was formed ; and the membership increased to one hundred and forty-one. The third pastor. Rev. Thomas Lounsbury, was insfelled September 4, 1823. Under his faithful ministry, the membership was doubled, and a new building, of brick, was erected upon the present site. He was released from the pastorate in 1849, ^^^ continued to serve the church as stated supply, from time to time, ftis entire ministry extended over more than thirty years, and left a lasting impression on the community^. After Dr. Lounsbury's release, Rev. Matson Meier Smith, installed October 23, 1849, was pastor for a year. Rev. A. B. Dunlap supplied the pulpit from 1850 to 1853. Rev. Laurentine Ha:milton was pastor from January 3, 1854, until May, 1855, and Rev. O. P. Conklin from 1856 to 1861. Durmg this last pastorate the membership, which, notwithstanding a revival in 1853, had declined to 165, again increased to 274 ; and, the old church haying b^en destroyed by fire, the present building was' erected, at a cost of about $12,000. After an interval, during which the pulpit was supplied principally by Dr.

Lounsbury, Rev. Willis J. Beecher succeeded to the pastorate in 1864. He was followed in December, 1865, by Rev. C. E. Stebbins, who continued until 1870. In February, 1871, began the long and faithful ministry of Rev. Hugh W. Torrence. It closed, after repeated revival seasons, in February, 188.7. A call was then extended, June 19, 1887, to Rev. James Cruickshanks, to become pastor of the cjiurch. He was removed by death, June 3, 1889. During his ministry a Christian Endeavor society was organized, October 28, 1887, which now numbers one hundred and thirty members. The present pastor. Rev. Henry Axtell Porter, began his labors in October, 1889, and was installed December 3rd. Extensive improvements have since been made in the church property. A parsonage was purchased in 1890, at a cost of $2,500. The present membership is two -hundred and twenty-two.

The Ovid Presbyterian church has, from its beginning, been distinguished for the intelligence and high Christian culture of its members. From it have gone forth such educators as Sandford Doolittle of Rutgers, Charles Joy of Columbia, William H. Brever and Henry A. Lounsbury of Yale ; and svch foreign missionaries as Mary Wilson of India, Mrs. Gertrude Best of Africa, Dr. and Mrs. John L. Nevins of China. May its future record be as illustrious a^ its past.

Rev. Henry A. Porter

Rev. Henry Axtell Porter was born August 17, 1858, in St. Louis, Mo., but -claims hereditary rights iti Ovid, where his grandfather, Rev. Stephen : Porter, was among the early pastors of the Presbyt'^rian Church, and where his father,. Rev. J. Jermain Porter, D. D., was born. His boyhood was passed in Watertown, N. Y., to which his father's family removed in 1864.

.valedictorian of his class, and entered Hamilton College y, where he was a member of the Delta: Up- ,^|Silon fraternity, and from which he was graduated with honor and literary oration in 1878. . He then took charge of the classical de- ' partment in Gleason Academy, Chicago, for a year, after vvhich he was for four 3'eai:s instructor in Greek in the Collegiate School , of New York City. At the same time he pursued his studies in Union Theolpgical Seminary, from which he- was graduated in May, 1883 . During these: four years he also engaged in practical Christian work, first, as a city missionary in the slums of East New York ; then, for a short time, as a home missionary in Evans Mills, N. Y.* and aftemard, for about a year, as stated supply of the Presbyterian Church of Avondale, N. J.

In 1883, having previously been licensed by the Geneva Presbytery to preach the gospel,- he was ordained by the Presbytery of Nassau, and installed as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church of Smithtown, L. I., one of the oldest churches in the United States. It was then at a low ebb, but during this pastorate was greatly increased in strength. Mr. Porter was married on the i8th of October, 1883, to Miss Emily Rockwell Holt, only daughter of th.e, late W. K. Holt, of Hartford, Conn. They have three little daughters.,

Protestant Episcopal Chapel, Qlenwood

GLENWOOD chapel is a small but beautiiul church edifice situated on" the west shore of Cayuga lake between Kidders and Sheldrake.' It' was erected in the summer of 1879. mainly through the liberality of Mr. and Mrs. Cornelius Rapelye of Astoria, Long Island, whose summer home adjoins the chapel, aided by residents and summer visitors of the neighborhood. Six years before, in the summer of 1873, a small Sunday school, beginning with four scholars, was organized in the parlors of Glenwood Lodge by Mrs. Rapelye - who during all the years of its history, thus far, has continued as its superintendent. The Sunday school and the work that has grown out of it has been remarkable, as furnishing an example of how, by earnest, continued effort, the religious forces of a scattered country neighborhood can be gathered and organized and made effective in benevolent and religious work. This is a farming neighborhood, the nearest village three miles distant. A half dozen cottages along the lake side are occupied several months of the year by families from New York and other cities, and two hotels a mile apart are well patronized by summer visitors. For the sixteen years that the chapel has been built - and used by the Sunday school - regular preaching services have been maintained every Sunday afternoon during the summer months. In 1888, a circle of King's Daughters was organized.

In 1890, to meet those needs of the neighborhood that could not be met by the accommodations furnished by the chapel, a commodious hall was er-ected by Mrs. J. D. Bradford, of New York City. This hall is a kind of "People's Palace" on a small scale, adapted to the social and intellectual deeds of the community, providing, a gathering, place for young and old - wijtiter and summer. It is well furnished, with books arid papers, a small gymnasium, a kitchen, and dishes for social entertainment. Here the Kings's Daugiitersj, and a Christian Endeavor society since organized, maintain a week%j meeting, The Sunday school and chapel, and hall work is carried on as: a_ union undenominational' one, with the idea of strengthening the churches imthe nearest villag(ps,. and; so has had the sympathy and co-operation of their pastors^ As a result.of these- twenty-two years of. effort, the whole tone of lifeinthe neighborhood has. been uplifted, a number have been added to the churches, andrthe summer visitors and farmer's families have been brought- into. dose ajnd^sjfimgathetic. touch-along lines of phila'nthropic, and Christian activity,..

IN October of 1871, Miss Mary L. Drake, a guest at Cole's Hotel, rBSidcteBS Ferry, N. Y., began the first movement toward the erection ofafcTlurch edifice at this place of summer resort. Mr. Myron R. Gole offered a itSt for the site and Mr. Peter nRish aided the undertaking ^hy contributing X)nfe hundred -dollars to the building fund. The first money actually ;paid in to the treasury was given by Mr. P. H. Drake oi'New York. The amount was one dollar and a half. The collection of offerings was continued through seveifafl years and, in 1878, the Rev. J. Everist Cathell, at that tirfte rector of Calvary church, Northville, strengthened and widened the interest in the work. On the iith day of August in that year, he held the first service in connedtiion 'iVitfa the movement, in the grove in front of Cole's Hotel, upon the shore of the lake. For two or three summers during the period of his subsequent rectorship at Trumansburg, Mr. Cathell held occasional services at Kidders Ferry and at the Cayuga Lake House.

On the 17th day of August, 1880, the corner stone of the chapel was laid by the Rev. William T. Gibson^ D. D., rector of St. George's church, Utica. On this occasion there were present of the clergy the Rev. Drs. Ayrault, Gibson, and VanRensselaer, and the Rev. Messrs. Cathell, Bishop, McNish, Rice, Hubbard, Casey, Nicholson and Wallace. The congregation numbered nearly three hundred. The address was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Ayrault, who was followed in words of congratulatio'H and encouragement to the friends of "All Saints Chapel," by the Rev. Mr. Cathell and by Mr. William Bogart of Aurora. The offering in behalf of the building fund amounted to $35. The corner stone contained a copy of the Holy

Bible, a book of Common Prayer, a church hymnal, a journal of the diocesan convention, a list of the contributing friends of the chapel, some church papers and a few other memorials.

The plans and specifications for the building were made and presented by Mr. E. B. Green of Auburn. A contract for its erection at an expense of $1,500 was made with Mr. John King of Farmer Village.

, The church furniture and windows, the baptismal font and sundry olheir articles necessary to give conjpleteness to the building were special gifts. The altar was given in memory of Mrs. Elmira A. Sage Dunham. The chancel windows, representing Christ in glory with saints in adoration, were presented by Mr. Hamilton of Fond du Lac, in memory of his wife. The font was paid for by the offerings of little children. The organ was the gift of Mrs. A. C. Taylor and other friends of the chapel. St., John's church, Ithaca, gave the prayer desks and the Bishop's chair. The Sunday school of Christ church, Oswego, gave .the lectern and altar rail. The Bible was given by Mr. Spence Spencer of Ithaca. The altar cross was a memorial of Catharine A. R. S. Beach and the book rest, of Maria Grant Drake. The silver chalice and paten were presented by friends and relatives as a memorial of Sister Amelia. The total estimated cost of the building and furniture was $2,600. During the summer of 18S1, while the chapel was yet in an unfinished state, divine service was held in it on five occasions, first by Myron R. Coleman of Kidder's Ferry, and subsequently by Mr. Tenny of New York, Professors Crane'and Williams of Cofnell University and Mr. Wm. Stacy of Geneva. On the 25th'oj"June, 1882, the Rev. J. E. Cathell officiated. From that time until Oct. I St of the same year, Mr. Montgomery Goodwin said evening prayer regularly every Sunday. On the 29th day of September, 1882, being the feast of St. Michael and All Angels, AH Saints Chapel was solemnly consecrated to the worship of Almighty God by the Rt. Rev. F. D. Hiintintnon. D. D., Bishop' of Central New York.

Town Of Romulus First Baptist Church, Of Romulus

THREE years before this church was constituted, the record of the old Church of Chemung, organized in 1789, speaks of brethren giving at Romulus or Apple Orchard, and the reception of two members by baptism, James Finch and Mary Steven:-. The church was constituteid in Junej 1795, with a list of seven mepibers. The seven original names are not positively known, but the first enrollment presents the following: Absalom Bainbridge, Peter Bainbrjdge,, John Green, John Finton, Mrs. Sally Say re, Mrs.

First Baptist Church

Denton, Samuel Blain and wife, Barna Swarthout, , Mahlpp Bainbridge, and , wife, William W. Folwell and wife, and Elijah Abbott. Of this list Absalom Bainbridge's name appears as the first pastor; and John, Green and John Finton were the first deacons. Mahlon Bainbridge is said to have been the first one received into membership by baptism after the church was constituted. , This was the first church organized in Seneca County.

For some years they rpet without, a stated house of worship ; uqtil on New Year's Day, 1808, William Watts Folwell gave them a lot on which to build a meeting house, to be known as the First Baptist Church in, Romulus, being of the same faith and order as the Philadelphia Baptist Association. Steps were at once taken to erect a house of worship, which was partially completed the same year. Subscriptions were paid in work and barter. When first built the meeting house stood a little north of its present site, and faced the south. Not being completed, it was vacated for the winter, and.againithe school house was iised. Later, in 1824, the building was completed. The high old-fashioned pulpit stood at the entrance to the house, arid the audience faced the door as well as the preacher. 'Originally the first floor was the auditorium with a gallery on three sides.

This church was one of the constituent members of the Chemung Association in 1796; but withdrew in 1804, to unite with the Cayuga Association, <of Whidh it was a menfber until 18.13, when it again united with the'Chemung Association. In 1820 it was dismissed, and became a constituent member of the Seneca Association soon afterward formed. Twenty-five pastors have served since the organization of the church. Prior to 1802, the names of four pastors appear without definite record as to the duration of their terms of oflSce-^ Absaflom 'Bainbridge, Ephraim Sanford, Roswell Goff and Petei- Bainbridge.

In 1802, Jehiel Wisner became pastor, serving thechurch two years at least. Twenty additions to the church in that year made a membership of sixty-eigkt. Rev. John Caton commenced 'his ipastorate in 1808, with a membership erf sixty-two ; his work continued until l8r8, the memibership incrt-asing to one hundred and five. Mr. Caton was a Revolutionary soldier and when Marquis De La Fayette viisited America the last time, in 1825, while at Waterloo he recognized in the throng surrounding liim ihis old companion in arms, John Caton. Rev. John Cooper, entered the .pastorate in 1823, with a membership of fifly^four,,the decreiise in (members being the result of the new church organization in the east part of "the town. Rev. John C. Holt accepted the pastorate in 1826, having graduated from Madison University, at Hamilton, in June of that year, and was ordained, ©ctober 20, 1826. His pastorate continued for over two years. 'He .probably organized the first Sabbath school held in the "meeting :house,"-Otf which he was the superintendent. Rev. William W. Browrt's pastorate presents five years' service, from June I, 1828, to near the close of 1833. The years '31 and '32 were especially rich in blessing, adding to the church ninety by experience and letter. During this pastorate one hundred and seven Vvere added, making -fhe church membership one hundred and thirty-six. Rev. Nathaniel Otis' pastorate opened in the spring df 1834, ^^^ coritinuftd until the spring of r83'8. Sevent}'-eight were added during this pastorate, making ian aggregate of one hundred and seventy' three memhers. 'The pastorate of Rev. C. G. Carpenter, began the fall of 1838, and terminated, April i, 1843, neafly five years of association in the Lord's work, whidh indicates in the re'cord a Very warm relation between pastor and people. The labors of Rev. D. Wrig'ht, with the church, 'began in May, 1843, and contifnued for four years. The

In May, 1849, ^^^- Isaac Fargo entered upon' his labors as pastbr, and" for over six years led the people in apparerLt victory, not only, as regards the. reconstruction of the house of worship, and securing a parsonage lot, and' constructing the present i(ome for the pastor, buf in a soul-reviving work which was marlced by large^additions to the church of nearly one hundred i Rev. J. S. Webber, came to this people and entered upon his work, September 9, 1855, continuing with them until March i, 1858. Rev. P. Il-ving entered this pastorate, June 5, 1858, and closed the same, February 18, i860,, fifty-one having united with the church. Rev. M. W. Homes' labor beg^n,. August 4, 18.60, and closed, Octobej; 6, 1866. l>uriiig these more than si* 'years-, there were repeated ingatherings, resulting in the largest membership chronicled; two Hundred' and twelve. Rev. D; D. Owen entered upon his duties as pastor, April i, 1867, and after ive yearsof faithful service closed the same, April I, 1872. Rev. T. McNajir settled With this: people, April li 1873, and- served them for two -years. Lewis J. Gross, who had supplied for a time two years before, having ' finished His studies, received a call to the pastorate which he accepted in April; 1875, and commenced his work in Jtine, and was, ordained, March 7, 1876. A continuous growth was manifested, and much^interest prevailed. This pastorate terminated January 1.5, 1882," nearly sevenjyears in duration. Rev. R. B. Stanton served for four^years as pastor, from May, 1882, tolApril, 1886 - four yeard of pleasant union, in the early part of which,|[quitej an addition was made to the church membership. Rev. George L. Oliver, spent the next four years as pastor, from July, 1886, to April I, 1890. Rev. P. F. Ogden's pastorate of over three years, began in November, 1890, and terminated, April i, 1894. This was marked by unity and advancement in regard to the' more spiritual needs of the people. ^Rev. F. M. LaBar commenced his services in June, 1894, but decidirig to re-enter Rocjiester University to complete his course, resigned, January i, 1895. Rev. Wisner Kinne, the'present pastor, began bis work, February, 10, 1895.

As to workers going out from this church, there is a very good representation : James C. Barrett, 1820; S. M. Bainbridge, 1836; E. Gardner, 1838; Revs. B. S. McLafFerty, D. D., and John Griffith, D. D., 1852 ; Rev. S. V. Marsh, 1856. Thomas Marsh, the senior dteacon, was licensed to preach, January 7, i860.. Last upon the list of worl^rs is Miss Lisle Bainbridge. who went to China with Dr. and Mrs* Nevius. The deacons who served are as follows : John Finton, John Green, John Bainbridge, Wiiliami Salyer, Abner Carey, Samuel Blaine, Elijah Abbott, Cyrus Bainbridge, Simeon Salyer, Clement Leach, Ebenezer Gardner, Hiram S. Banker, Alexander Baldridge, Thomas Marsh, Dr. N. W. Folwell, Montgomery Updike ^and William Bumpus.

Rev. Wisner Kinne

Rev. Wisner Kinne, pastor of the First Baptist, church of Romulus was born October 28th, 1859, ^^ *-^^ town of Romulus. His parents were David Wisner Kinne and Mary L. Stone. They had eleven children, of whom he is the youngest and only living son. His mother died March 4th, 1872, leaving the memory of a dear, devoted life. In July, 1890, his father was stricken with apoplexy, and passed away. May 2d, 1891, closing a life ot activity and earnestness for all needed reforms. Mr. Kinne's early life was spent on the farm. He attendied the district school, the East Genesee confer, ence seminary at Ovid, and Cazenovia seminary.

At the age of twenty-one he entered into a partnership with his father on the home farm, where he continued six years, then, yielding to his convictions of duty, he left business life to enter the Lord's service in a definite ministry. In January, 1888, he entered the New York Missionary Training college for a two years' course, spending much time in city mission work. The summer of 1888 was spent at Chappaqua, Westchester county, as superintendent of a union mission chapel.

His first pastorate was at Westbury, Long Island, where he spent two years. June 3rd, 1890, he was united in marriage to Miss Margaret W. Payne, daughter of John Wesley and Maria Sutherland Payne, of Ovid. They have two children, Dean Wesley and Paul Payne. June 12th, 1893, he was ordained to the ministry, in the Gospel Tabernacle church. New York city, spent one year in supplying the pulpit of the Ovid Center Baptist church ; -later accepted a call to become the pastor of the Baptist church at Troupsburg, Steuben county. February loth, 1895, he accepted the pastorate of the church he now serves. His highest aim and deepest purpose is to glorify God by faithful service for immortal souls.

Calvary Protestant Episcopal Church, Hayts Corners

REV. CHARLES W. MacNISH held the first service of the Episcopal church in the public school house at Hayts Corners, January 14th, 1883. The interest from the first was surprisingly good, and, as the people became acquainted with the service, they came to \iV e the form of worship of the Episcopal church, as is always the case where people are instructed. The first baptism into the Episcopal church at Hayts Corners took place May 27th, .1883, and the apostolic rite of confirmation was administered in the place for the first tihie, on the 3rd day of June, 1883, by the Rt. Rev. F. D. Huntington, S. T. D.

Calvary Protestant Episcopal Church

which is planted in the earth. It grew here,' until those who had become attached to this church and her service began to long for a suitable place for worship, and this longing resulted in many a self-denial to the desired end. In the early spring of 1889, the first steps were taken toward the purchase of a lot on which to erect a church. These together with the efforts to raise money toward the erection of a church edifice, were blessed to that extent that the people felt warranted in going on with the cherished project, and so the corner stone was laid by the bishop of the diocese on the 12th day of June, 1889. The church was so far completed as to enable the people to enter into it and use it for divine service first, on Sunday December 8th, 1889 ; and on June 3rd, 1891, it was fittingly adorned and so completely furnished as to be presented to the bishop, for consecration to the service and worship of Almighty God, according to the rites and usages of that branch of -the church, kncjwn in law as the Protestant Episcopal Church, in the United States of America. From the beginning, this church atHayts Corners has endeavored to do what every true church of Christ must do. She has endeavored, first fo bring men, women and children into the Kingdom of Heaven, that they masy have a share in all the means of grace which are so graciously appointed for all who will be saved. And, lastly, and above all, she has endeavored to build up all who have become identified with her, in the true faith of Christ. The number that Calvary Church has been the means of baptizing into the Kingdom of Christ,. and of God, is eighty-two, and the number that have received here the apostolic rite of confirmation is thirty-six. But the number that are striving to work out their own salvation and who will prove faithful unto death is known only to Him, who "counteth the stars and calleth.them all by name, and who holdeth the waters as in the hollow of His hand." When the day of reckoning shall come, may Calvary Church, Hayts Corners, have many jewels in her crown,- and each jewel represent a redeemed soul that she has been the means of bringing to the saving knowledge of Christ.

Christ Protestant Episcopal Church, Willard

IN 1877, Rev. Charles W. MacNish, who was then chaplain of Willard Asylum, was moved to propose to the people residing in that vicinity, that divine services be held among them, regularly, on each Lord's Day, and offered to minister to them during his leisure time, which offer was most cheerfully accepted. As there was no other convenient place for holding the services, it was arranged to hold them from house to house, the first service having been appointed for January 13th, 1878, at the residence of Thomas

Christ Protestant Episcopal Church Willard

Latimer. A service was held at the time and place appointed, but, strangely enough, the service proved to be the burial service of Mr. and Mrs. Latimer's second son. From this time on, the "cottage services," as they were called, were held quite regularly, until, on the 17th of November following, a class of thirteen was presented to the bisKop for confirmation. The services were continued in this way, until, a new public schoolhouse having been built, the first service was held therein November 7th, 1880. On the 8th day of June, 1884, the Rev. Mr. MacNish, to whom, under God, this missipn owes its existence, was compelled to sever his relationship with the mission and confine himself wholly to the duties of chaplain of the asylum. The mission at Willard was then given in charge of the Rev. William E. Allen, the missionary at Romulus, Dey's Landing, and posts adjacent. July ist, 1885, the Rev. Mr. MacNish, having resigned the chaplaincy of the Asylum, was again given the charge of the Willard mission, and he remains in charge at this date. With this renewed relationship of pastor and people, the mission at Willard renewed its old-time energy and devotion, and before many months it was visibly manifested that the people would be no longer satisfied without a suitable house of worship. In consequence of this laudable spirit, steps were taken in the spring of 1886 toward the erection of a church edifice. Funds were soon secured to warrant the undertaking, and on the i8th day of June, 1886, the corner stone was laid, and so wonderfully was the work prospered by the Divine Master, that on the 12th day of November, following, the church was suitably consecrated by Bishop Huntington. Many visiting clergy were present and the sermon was preached by the Rev. A. S. Crapsey, rector of St. Andrews' church, Rochester, from Ephesians, v 25. Among the notable events of this church none is more worthy of mention than the fact that among the candidates in the first class for confirmation, was a young man in his teens, who was afterwards called to the sacred ministry of the church ; and so, on the 2ist day of September, 1892, William Morris Gilbert was ordained by Bishop Huntington to the priesthood, in Christ church, Willard, in the presence of a large and interested congregation, and he is now serving most acceptably as assistant minister of Grace church, Baltimore. The number of persons that have been baptized through the instrumentality of this church is one hundred and siiven. The number that have been confirmed is eighty ; and this is only the beginning of what, it is hoped, may prove a. glorious harvest of souls in that day when Christ shall send forth his angels to gather the faithful into the Heayenly Father's garner.

Rev. Charles W. Macnish

Rev. Charles W. MacNish, missionary in charge of Christ Church, Willard, and Calvary Church, Hayts Corners, was born in Orange county, this State, November 30th, 1844, and was the youngest son of George and Julia MacNish. In the Spring of 1850 his parents moved to Chemung county and located on a farm about two miles northwest of the village of Horseheads, N. Y. He took a partial course in Alfred Academy and University, and graduated from Eastman's Business College. After following a secular vocation for several years he consecrated himself to the ministry of Christ in the Protestant Episcopal Church. He took the prescribed course in St. Andrew's Divinity school at Syracuse, and was ordained deacon on the nth of March, 1877, by the Rt. Rev. F D. Huntington, S. T. D. On the 31st of May, 1881, he was advanced to the order of priesthood in Calvary Church, Syracuse, by Bishop Huntington. Immediately upon his ordination to the deaconate he began the work of the holy calling, as assistant minister of St. Paul's Church, Waterloo. The rector of that parish being also the Chaplain of Willard Asylum, the duties of his assistant were largely to the unfortunate inmates of that institution.

At the beginning of the Advent season of that same year, the Rev. Mr. Doty having accepted the call to the rectorship of Christ Church, Rochester, Rev. Mr. MacNish accepted the appointment of Chaplain at Will ard, with the expectation of remaining there no longer than until an opening in some mission field should be presented to him ; for it was to this special, work that he felt his call to be. But it was not long before he found himself in the midst of a very inviting missionary field. As only one hour of his time was rfequired for the services in the Asylum on Sunday, he felt that he was doing what the Master woiild have him to do, in ministering to others during his leisure hours. The result was that he started a mission in the vicinity of the Asylum in January, 1878, another one atDey's Landing in September of the same year, and, after other provision had been made for the mission at Dey's Landing, he found another inviting field at Hay ts Corners, where he started amission in the winter of 1883.

In the summer of 1885, he resigned his position as Chaplain and has since devoted himself more exclusively to the work which has been ever nearest his mind and heart. At each of these three points the missionary has, by the help of the great Missionary, been able to build a neat and commodious church edifice, and at Slaterville Springs, in Tompkins county, this State, the Master has used, him in building still another. Puring his eighteen years ministry, Mr. MacNish has been privileged to baptize three hundred and five souls into the Church of Christ, , has presented one hundred and eighty-one candidates to the bishop for confirmation, has solemnized the marriage of forty-one couples, and has read the burial service over the remains of ninetyeight persons .Mr. MacNish has sought out neglected portions of the Master's vineyard. He has preached the gospel to them that had it not, and thus he is able to say as did the Apostle : "Yea, So have I striven to preach the Gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation."

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Romulus

DURING his ministry at Holy Cross church, Ovid, extending from 1869 to 1870, Rev. James O'Connor, finding the needs of his people to require it, held occasional services in the village of Romulus, finally organizing a congregation and commencing the erection of a house of worship. Rev. Thomas J. O'Connell, who succeeded him in the Ovid parish, prosecuted the work with his accustomed zeal, and, in the autumn of 1887, the church was dedicated under the name of the Sacred Heart Catholic church of Romulus,

The dedication was by Rt. Rev. B. J. McQuaid, bishop of Rochester diocese. The following priests were also present, Very Rev. James T. McManus, V. G.. Geneva; Rev. M.J. Loughlin, D. D., at St. Mary's, Auburn ; Rev. Chas. Horan, Weedsport ; Rev. P. F. Lynch, Ithaca ; Rev. John J. Hickey, then a student at St. Joseph's seminary, Troy, but now a priest at Lyons, N. Y. ; Revs. Thomas A. Hendricks and Eugene Pagani, Rev. Bernard McCool, Seneca Falls.

Sacred Heart church is under the pastoral care of Rev. Thomas J, O'Connell of Ovid parish, who ministers regularly on alternate Sundays. It is continually increasing in strength, and looks forward to the time when it may itself constitute a parish.

St. Stephen'S Protestant Episcopal Parish, Romulus

IN 1882, there were three communicants of the Episcopal faith living in the village of Romulus. They sent an earnest invitation to Rev. W. E. Allen, (at that time missionary at Dey's Landing and Willowdale), to open service there, and the first meeting was held on advent Sunday of the same year in Lisk & Russel hall. The service was well attended and the numbers incrt-ased Sunday after Sunday, until the people began to feel the need of a more suitable place for the worship of God. A subscription was started to raise funds for building a church, and the following named gentlemen were chosen by the subscribers to act as building committee: Rev. W. E. Allen, rector in charge, R. M. Steele, C. H. Sayre, Eugene S. Teed, Jesse Yerkes, and George Owens.

Work was begun in the fall of 1883, and the corner stone was laid November 7, of the same year by the bishop. The work went steadily on until the frame was erected, when the building committee found themselves out of funds, and at a loss how to proceed. After carefully considering the matter, they concluded to proceed with the work, and trust the Giver of all good for means to pay the debt. The first service was held in the church July 8, 1884, and although the church \yas not finished for some time, yet it has been used ever since.

November i, 1885, Rev. W. E. Allen resigned, and the bishop appointed William W. Stacey of Geneva, as lay reader, and^to assist the people in paying off the debt on the church, but in the midst of his labors, April 3, 1886, the Master called him to other and more blessed realms. In June, 1886, the bishop appointed Rev. J. Foster, of Trumansburg, to take charge of the parish. At that time there was a debt of about $1,200 on the church, but in five'months after, the church was presented to the bishop free of debt, and consecrated November 13, 1886. At the consecration many beautiful articles of chancel furniture were presented by the Stacey family of Geneva in memory of W.W. Stacey. In the summer of 1887, the church was presented with a fine eight hundred pound bell by Mrs. W. O. Gurnel of New York, in memory of her sister, Delia Coe. The church is now completely and neatly furnished and free from debt. A number of different pastors served from the time Mr. Foster resigned, until 1893, when Herbert H. Fox, a student of Hobart College, was appointed as lay reader, which position he still holds.

Young People'S Society Of Christian Ende.Avor, Hayts Corners

The Young People's Union Society of Christian Endeavor of Hayts Corners, was organized through the efforts and under the direction of Rev. J. W. Jacks, July i, 1890. Mr. J. C. Howard was elected first president, and about twenty -five menjbers signed the constitution. As there was no church with which the society could be connected, its work was carried on under difficulties that ordinary ypung people's societies do not encounter. But its members were inspired with Christian zeal and indefatiguable energy. Principally through their efForts, a sabbath school and preaching service has been maintained, though without a settled pastorate of any denomination.

Endeavor Temple. In 1893, the work had increased to such an extent that it seemed advisable to own a house of worship. Accordingly, the society was legallyincorporated under the laws of the State, as the Young People's Union Society of Christian Endeavor of Hayts Corners. A site was -purchased and a building erected which is known as the Endeavor Temple. Aside from the Christian Endeavor meetings it is open for Union Service, and its pulpit is supplied regularly by adjacent ministers of the Baptist, Methodist Episcopal and Presbjterian churches, to one or the other of which denominations many of the society members belong. The Temple is but just finished and with its occupancy the society enters upon what is hoped may prove to be a new era of prosperity and usefulness.

Town Of Varick First Methodist Episcopal Church Of Varick

IN THE year 1812, Mr. McDuffie, Sr., and family, emigrated from New Jersey to Seneca county, N. Y. The old gentleman was a good Christian. Under his judicious care, one of the sons, Robert McDuffie, was convinced of the Christian faith and experienced religion. Robert was thoroughly in earnest, and, with the help of Mrs. Barney Christopher, succeeded in .organizing a Sunday prayer meeting, held at his house. It was a log building, but served their purpose. Soon the people gathered in such numbers that they were obliged to adjourn to the schoolhouse. Rev. Owens was the first minister to preach in this vicinity. He, a strong believer, with the assistance of Robert McDuffie, succeeded in starting a revival that lasted, with short intermissions, for three. years. John Rhodes and Daniel Barnes soon came on this circuit ;Adgate, Dodsonand others followed. At this time, the society was part of Seneca circuit, a charge extending from the north bounds of Seneca county to the present county of Chemung, and embracing all the territory be-^ tween Seneca and Cayuga lakes. By the Quarterly Conference held ' at Hector, about the year 1820, Robert McDuffie and John Odell were licensed to exhort. Robert was a powerful speaker and labored with one purpose in view, the salvation of souls. Quarterly meetings were held in his barn. The congregations were getting so large that it became necessary to secure a larger and more commodious building. Accordingly, through the efforts of Samuel Baley, John Barrick, James McDuffie, John Blaine, and others, with Robert McDuffie as leader, there was raised by subscription, $200 in cash and lumber enough to build a church. Rev. Parmer Roberts, a man of energy, was minister at this time. He encouraged his peoplfe, and the work of constructing a church upon the corner of Mr. I. Phillips' farm began in 1830, under carpenters, C. Dean and W. King. The land was deeded by Mr. Phillips to the M. E. society, to be used for church purposes. The next year, in June, the building was completed and dedicated by Rev. John Copeland.

Rev. John Mandival conducted a great revival in 1837. About sixty conversions were claimed. The second great revival occurred under Rev. J. Shaw in 1847. Evangelist S. C. Adams worked in these meetings with great success. The people assembled in such numbers that it became necessary to remodel the old church. Rev. John Day, the minister, proposed the scheme of rebuilding. John Thompson, the class leader, Thomas Burroughs, James McDuffie, L. G. King and others, became interested in the'plan. In 1857, a contract was executed with carpenter Elmore to rebuild the church for the sum of $1,000. During the course of construction the people decided to have an extension of ten feet to the north. Accordingly, $200 more was raised for this purpose. The third great revival was held by Rev. A. N. DePew. The church had now reached its greatest prosperity. Mr. DePew was an energetic speaker, and labored with his people with great success for three years. Rev. Hughston conducted a series of meetings in 1875 - Rev. Hoxie followed Hughston, and like his predecessor, held a great revival in 1877. He was a strong man and when horses were not available, would walk the entire circuit.

In 1878, the Rev. John Day. returned to this charge. He found the remodeled church in a dilapidated condition, and made a strong effort to build a new one, but in vain, although he awakened a desire which bore fruit under the pastorate of Jlev. E. B. Stull. The entire community, including outsiders, gave liberally for the cause. John V. Crane, D. C. Burroughs, John Warne, Isaac Manee and R. P. Roberts, were some of the strong wot-kers. Through their efforts and with the help of others, a large subscription was raised, the contract was let and the work begun, 1883, and the church dedicated in February, 1884. The cost of this building was about $3,000. The M. E. society of Seneca Falls having received a larger bell, resolved to give their old one to some sister church." Harmon McDufBe, being a member of that church, and remembering the church of his Christian father, Robert McDuffie, interceded in behalf of the McDuffietown church. His request was seconded by Dr. A. Emens, formerly of Varick, and the bell was so donated. S. H. McDuffie, a grandson of Robert McDuffie, brought the bell from Seneca Falls to this place, and its clear, silvery tones call our people to worship in their beautiful house. The church latley suffered great loss in the removal of John Funnell in 1892, and the death of Levi Ritter in 1893. Both were earnest Christians and faithful workers.

ABOUT the year 1820, while the township of Romulus still included the present towns of Varick and Fayette, the Baptist church of Romulus, which still flourishes in the western part of that present town, and which, at that time, was closing the first quarter of a century of its existence, formed an auxiliary society in the eastern part of the town, where is now the postofEce of Fayette and the village of Bearytown. This society flourished for a quarter of a century, and, in 1845, was incorporated as "The First Baptist church and Society of Fayette." It built a house of worship, but, as the years went by, Baptist interests centered more and more in the western part of the town, and deaths, removals and marriages, depleted the membership at Bearytown. In the meantime, the growing M. E. church at McDufiietown had many members in this vicinity, and a class was formed and service held with more or less regularity.

Finally, February 19, 1859, ^^^ First Baptist church and society of Fayette, deeded its church property to the First Methodist Episcopal church of Varick, this. being the McDuffietown M. E. Church, On May 2, 1859, the

"Second Methodist Episcopal Church of Varick was organized, the following being its first board of trustees : James H. McDuffie, Enoch Emens, John J. Bachman, N. Robinson, Henry Wakeman, Abram Flickinger and Dr. Alfred Emens. The church edifice was repaired in 1882 at a cost of $4,500. A debt of $1,600 remained on it until 1891, when it was extinguished during the pastorate of the Rev. Levi Bird.

Rev. L. P. Kartsholtzen

Rev. L. P. Kartsholtzen, the last pastor who supplied the pulpit of the Second Methodist Episcopal church of Varick, before its union with Canoga and East Varick, is a native of Pennsylvania. When assigned to the Canoga and East Varick circuit in the Fall of 1894, he had been four years in the ministry. The Second Varick church, at Bearytown, being left by the Conference "to be supplied," the presiding elder assigned Mr. Kartsholtzen to the pulpit. His work was very acceptable, and he made many warm friends, while infusing the spirit of Christian enthusiasm and energy into the members. His sermons were interesting and instructive and his pastorial work effective. In 1895, he was assigned by Conference to Odessa, Schuyler County, which church he is now serving.

The Presbyterian Church Of Romulus

JOHN FLEMING removed to this town from Pennsylvania in 1790. Then there were only ten or twelve white families between the Lakes. He was a man of exemplary piety, and with him the religious history of the town commenced. His home was the home of the missionary, the place of public worship. Soon the Dunlaps, Wilsons, and Wartons, settled a little southwest of Ovid village, and the McKnights, McMaths, Lowdens, and

Presbyterian Church

Barrs, came in from Pennsylvania, and settled on the shores of Seneca Lake. These were all strong Presbyterians. The first Presbyterian minister who came here was Rev. Daniel Thatcher, of Virginia, sent out by the General Assembly of 1795. He collected the people in 1796 and formed a Presbyterian church. John Fleming, Alia McMath, Henry Warton and a gentleman from Ovid were the first elders. They enjoyed at least one communion. The wine was obtained from Geneva, but it having no color, the merchant told the purchaser to color it with the juice of wild grapes, so plenty in the woods. Missionary John Lindsley came in 1800, sent out by the General Assembly, also Licentiates, Slemmons and Patterson in 1798, and Rev. Robert Logan in 1799; also, Revs. TenEyck and Brokaw of the Reformed Church.

The present Presbyterian Church of Romulus was organized April 4th, 1802, by Rev. Jedediah Chapman, who also organized the First Presbyterian Church of Geneva, also the Ovid church in 1803. This is the oldest Presbyterian organization in the county of Seneca. At its origin it was connected with the Synod of Albany. The church was organized in the old red house on the Depew farm, a mile south of the village. The house long stood as a land mark, and was only recently demolished. There were fourteen members, viz : Alia McMath, Jesse Brewster, Henry Beers, Peter Huff, Frederick

Boganoar, James McKnight, Alche Huff, Elizabeth VanCourt, Catharine Stottle, Sarah Karr, Mabel McMath, Hannah McKnight, James McKnight, and Rachel Brewster. Alia McMath, Henry Beers, and Jesse Brewster were ordained elders. This church was one of the constituent members of the Presbytery of Geneva at its first meeting, September 17, 1805. The society was incorporated April 6,. 1807. John Fleming, Jr., Henry Gardner, Samuel McMath, Silas Allen, John Terhune and Jacob Lowden were the first trustees. From 1802 to 1807, there were occasional services held in private houses, barns and school houses. In the absence of a pastor, sermons were read. Many dated their conversion to the occasional visits of the missionary.

August i8th, 1807, Presbytery convened to ordain and install Rev. Charles Mosher. The services were held in the grove near the old red house. Having no temple made with hands, the solemn stillness of the forest was broken by the voice of prayer uttering the words of consecration. The church then had only twenty-seven members, and these very poor. Still, Mr. Mosher was settled on a salary of $300, and the original owner of the section appropriated one hundred acres of land to the first settled minister of this church, and it fell to Mr. Mosher. When he came, efforts were made to build a church, but it was not until October 22, 1809, that it was dedicated. It was situated near the old cemetery, on a bleak hill side. Foot stoves were used in cold weather, the women wore thick woolen hoods and the men large red handkerchiefs during service. When bitterly cold, services were held at Henry Depue's, whose daughter, Mrs. Mary Monroe, lived to see the centennial of the organization of this town. June 18, 1809, it is recorded, "$1.48 was collected for the education of poor but pious youth for the ministry." In 1810, the sexton was to have seven dollars a year to take care of the meeting house which "he was to wash twice a year, and to sweep it once a month." During the seven years of Mr. Mosher's ministry, one hundred and ten were added to the church, mostly converted under his preaching. Mr. Mosher was well educated, better than most of the ministers of that day. The cause which led to his dismission was found in the war of 181 2 ; horsemen were riding through the country, rousing the people to guard themselves against the British and the Indians. An ardent Federalist, he preached against the government for continuing the war. The people were excited and carried the matter too far ; for, as they left the church, the expression "Tory doctrine !" "Tory doctrine !" was heard on all sides. Both sides were hasty, some of his warm friends turned against him and he resigned. After leaving here, he faithfully served the churches of Genoa, Clyde, Junius, and Oak's Corners. While at Junius he was invited to preach in Elmira and undertook the Journey on horseback. On the way he was overtaken by a terrible rain storm and could find no shelter until he reached Irelandville, near Watkins, where he dried his clothes and spent the night. He contracted a severe cold that developed into pneumonia, which ended his life in five days ; he died November 5, 1828.

The next year, 1815, Rev. Moses Young of New Jersey, was ordained and installed pastor. For nine years he was the devoted pastor, until his death in 1824. This was his first and only settlement. During his ministry two hundred and thirty-one united with the church. In 1823, occurred the greatest revival this church ever saw. During his pastorate, communion seasons were regularly appointed, the Sabbath school was instituted, and the social meeting o± the church, has ever smce been held on Friday evening in honor of his memory, his death occurring on that day of the week. Rev. Morris Barton was ordained and installed, December 21, 1825. This was his only pastorate and it continued a little over twenty years. During this period three hundred and twenty-four were added to the church, four revivals being enjoyed, viz.: In 1826, 1831, 1836 and 1842. During this pastorate the present church edifice was built, being dedicated in February, 1838. The total cost reached nearly $6,000. Mr. Barton resigned in February, 1846, and dwelt in this region until his death, February 13, 1857. Rev. Edward Lord commenced his labors here, soon after Mr. Barton resigned, and was ordained and installed pastor, October 20, 1847. He labored here about five and one-half years and received fifty-nine into the church. He was followed by Rev. Peter S. Van Nest, D. D., who labored three years, and nine then united with the church. During his pastorate, the parsonage was built, and be' was the first occupant. He was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Rosenkrans, wlio ministered to the people five years, and admitted forty-eight into the church. One precious revival was enjoyed in 1858. Rev. Charles B. Dye was installed July I, 1862, and remained two and one-half years and received eleyen into the church. Rev. James C. Smith commenced his labors in 1865, and continued until 1869. He died March 24, 1876. There were nineteen additions to the church. Rev. William A. Simkins succeeded and continued here two years and three months. During the time twenty-eight united with the church. The tenth pastor. Rev. J. Wilford Jacks, commenced his services here. May i, 1872, and was ordained and installed August 27th of the same year. During this pastorate three hundred and thirty have been received into the church. During the same period many improvements have been made to the church property, its interior has been remodelled, furnaces introduced, walks and grounds improved, and a neat and commodious chapel has been erected and furnished.

The pulpit of this church has never been long vacant, and during the entire period of its existence, over ninety-four years, it has only had ten pastors and six of them were ordained and commenced their ministry here. It has had ten pastors, forty-one elders, fifteen deacons, ninety-six trustees, and over twelve hundred members. This church has had much to do with the history of this town, and many strong men have been enrolled in its eldership-

The names of the Flemings, the Marvins, Whitehead, Doremus, Conkling, Garrigus, Baldridge, Wade, Pruden, Smith, Gurnee, Brown, Pinkerton,Ogden, Covert, Smalley, Swezy, and Hunt would be a credit to any church in the land, and many other names that appear in the annals of the congregation will not perish. This church has furnished many ministers of the gospel. Rev. Messrs. William Bridgman, Elihu Marvin, Charles C. Carr, Samuel S. Fleming, Francis Hendricks, Peter W. Emens, Isaac Jacobus, H. Bradley Sayre, and Walter S. Peterson were also here ordained. The officers of the church are : Elders,. Daniel D. Johnson, Isaiah W. Smith, Peter WyckofF, Lyman E. Jacobus, William A. Warne,John V. R. Clark, Andrew S. Long, Luther S. Vail, Frank S. Adair; -Deacons, David R. Ambrose, Clinton A. Warne, LeRoy C. Warne; Trustees, Andrew S. Long, Amos P. Miller, Luther S. Vail, John V. R. Clark, Frank S. Adair, Sherman R. Kunes ; Chorister, Pierson Jacobus ; Organist, Mrs. L. E. Jacobus ; Sexton, Henry M. Burton.

Rev. J. Wilford Jacks

Rev. J. Wilford Jacks, pastor of the First Presbyterian congregation of Romulus, was born in Batavia, N. Y., the eldest child of James C. and Josephine B. Jacks. He was prepared for college at the academy in that town, after which he entered Hamilton college and graduated from that institution. In a class of thirty-five men, the third honor, the philosophical oration, was awarded to him. Graduating from college at too early an age to enter at once on professional study, he taught two years in Lowville academy and Whitestown seminary, and then he entered Auburn Theological seminary, taking the full course. During the vacations which intervened between the years of study, he supplied the churches of Pavilion, Barre and Jamesville, N. Y., each for several months. In May, 1872, he accepted a call to the pastorate of the Presbyterian church of Romulus, where he was ordained and installed in August of the same year, and where he has "since remained.

for thirteen years permanent clerk of the Synod of New York. He is a member of the Psi charge of Theta Delta Chi, also of the Phi Beta Kappa, the scholarship society of the country. He is also a trustee of the Presbytery and the synod, and a member of the board of examiners of Elmira college.

St. Andrew'S Protestant Episcopal Church, Dey'S Landing

ON THE east shore of Senecalake, about ten miles from Geneva, stands a beautiful little structure known by the above name. Although a few services had previously been held in this neighborhood, yet the Episcopal Church had found no real growth or permanancy here until the Autumn of 1878. September 8th of that year, the Rev. Charles W. Mac Nish, who was theri Chaplain of Willard Asylum, began regular services in the school house at that place, and much interest was manifested from the first.

The first apparent fruits of the missionary's efforts was the gathering into the fold of Christ, of a young girl who had been ill for several months, and who was waiting for the consolation of Christ. September 15th, she rejoiced in the Lord in that she was baptized into Christ, and on the 6th of October follovying she "fell asleep in Jesus." So great was the interest manifested in things spiritual and so largely were the services attended, that the school house was soon found too small to accomodate those who were attracted by the beautiful ritual of the Episcopal Church.

structure, the corner stone of which was laid by the Rt. Rev. T. D. Huntington, S. T .D., bishop ot the diocese, in the presence of a large assemblage. The beautiful staucture was completed, paid for, and consecrated to the worship of Almighty God, according to the rites and ceremonies of the .frotestant Episcopal Church, by Bishop Huntington, on the 22nd of June, 1880, A. D. After three years of faithful service in this mission field, and after much fruits of his labors had been gathered in, the Rev. Mr. MacNish, having been obliged to move to Ovid in order to be within calling distance of his increasing labors at Willard Asylum, severed his relationship with St. Andrews' Church, Dey's Landing. Within a few months, the Rev. William E. Allen was appointed missionary in charge of this held in cbnnection with Grace Church, Willowdale, and the work continued prosperous. It was durirtg his ministrations in this cure that the mission at Romulus was planted, which has since grown into a church, with a beautiful house of worship, and an earnest and devout congregation. After about three years, the Rev. Mr. Allen was called to another field of labor, the Rev. John U. Graff was appointed in charge of St- Andrew's Church, in connection with St. Stephen's Church, Romulus. Mr. Graf served faithfully to these flocks of the Good Shepherd until he was called elsewhere, since which time, St. Andrew's Church has beeh severed from Geneva, principally, in connection with Grace Church, Willowdale.

First Wesleyan Methodist Church Of Varick

THE First Wesleyan Methodist church of Varick, was the outgrowth of a series of revival meetings, held in the Ludlum schoolhouse. > The Rev. L'. N. Stratton, then Editor of the Wesleyan Methodist, published at Syracuse, preached his first sermon at the schoolhouse, August 20th, 1876. A weekly prayer meeting was commenced soon after, with few persons to take part. Mr. Stratton came on Saturday every two weeks, preaching Saturday evening and Sabbath afternoon. The last week in October he held meetings each evening during the week and the Rev. J. M. Swick continued the meetings the following week, the interest steadily increasing. Revs. L. N. Stratton, and E. F. Lyon, with their wives, came and labored for two weeks more, preaching each evening and Sabbath mornings often more in attendance, than could gain admittance into the schoolhouse.

As a result of these meetings, there were over fifty hopeful conversions, aside from a deep spiritual awakening throughout the entire community. Saturday, January 6, 1877, a meeting was held at the schoolhouse, and the First Wesleyan Methodist Church of Varick was organized, according to the usage of the Discipline, by the Rev. L. N. Stratton, with eleven charter members, to whom was given the right hand of fellowship. Seven of these members are still living, and continue their membership in the church. At the same meeting, fifteen were received on probation ; the Rev. E. F. Lyon was chosen pastbr until the meieting 6f the Rochester Conference in April following. At a speeial meeting of the church, held March 26th, 1877, the Rev. L. N. Stratton was unanimously chosen pastor for the coming conference year, and held the pastorate of the church for two years.

In April, 1877, a movement was started for the building of a church edifice. May i2th, the pastor presented to the trustees and building committee plans of the present church edifice. A site was procured, and the work of building commenced. The church was enclosed and so far completed, that the religious services were held in it, beginning January 6, 1878, and continued to be held thereiin during the winter and until the resuming of work on the building, the following summer. The church was completed, and the, dedication of the same, topk place October 24, 1878, with no debt on the church property. The Rev,,, L. ,N. Stratton closed a successful pastorate in April, 1879. During this time his home was in Syracuse, and he was continued as Editor of the Wesleyan Methodist, by the General Conference of the Wesleyan M'ethodist CMiurch. The church having extended a call to the Rev. R. E. Salisbury of the Syracuse Conference to become their pastor, he commenced his labors the first Sabbath in May, 1879, ^"'^ continued his pastoral relations with the church until April, 1882. The Rev. J. H. Cook of the Rochester Conference having received a call to the pastorate, commenced his labors the first Sabbath in May, 1882, and was continued as pastor for six years. It was during the first year of his pastorate, that a convenient parsonage was built and added to the church property. The Rev. T. S. Lee of the Illinois Conference, was next called to the pastorate of the church, and held such relation for two years, closing his labors in April, 1890. This was Brother Lee's first pastorate, and he was succeeded by the Rev. G. L. Paine, one of the oldest ministers of the Rochester Conference, who labored faithfully for two years, being his last ministerial work. In May, 1892, Rev. R. McConnell, a licentiate from the Lockport Conference, assumed the pastorate of the church, holding such relation until September, 1892, when he resigned on account of poor health. The remainder of the conference yenr, the church was served by Rev. J. H. Cook as pastoral supply, closing his labors in April, 1893. The Rev. M. D. Washburton, a licentiate in the Rochester Conference, followed in pastoral succession, commencing his labors in May, 1894, and closing them in March, 1895. The Rev. J. H. Cook was again called to the pastorate, and began his labors in such relation in May, 1895, and is the present pastor of the church. The religious services of the church have been regularly maintained since its organization. Services on the Sabbath at 10 :30 A. M.,S abbath school immediately following, and service again in the evening.

There are two meetings during the week : the Thursday evening prayer meeting, and a class meeting on Tuesday evening, held at different homes in the community - with the exception of the first Tuesday evening of each month when it is held at the church, followed by a monthly meeting for the business transactions of the church. The following are the officers of the church: Joseph H.Cook, pastor ; Hervey Baldridge, -Jacob Post, James Dart, trustees ; Hervey Baldridge, Jacob Post, Isaac V. Adair, John Bonard, stewards.

Helen A. Mann Henry Nuhn Cliarles Nuhn John Nuhn George A. Lynd Robert Osborne Anna 0. Osborne Irene Mann Joseph H. Cook Abigail T. Cook George A. Post

Rev. Joseph H. Cook

Joseph H. Cook, pnsent pastor of the First Wesleyan Methodist Church of Varick, was the son of Edward W. and Philena F Cook. His father was a physician, and in 1834 '"emoved from the State of New York to Michigan, where the subject of this sketch was born June 29th, 1837. His father died in May 1853. and with his mother he returned to Naples, Ontario county, N. Y. Two years were spent with an uncle, in Durham, Greene county. While here he was converted. In i860 he married Miss Abbie T. Lincoln, and took up his residence in the town of South Bristol, teaching the winter term of the district school, preaching as opportunit}'' presented itself, and pursuing the course of study prescribed for candidates for the ministry. At the Rochester Conference, April, 1874, h^ ^^^ ordained to the ministry, and continued his labors on South Bristol charge. In 1876, South Bristol, Naples and Sant Hill charges were united, and he continued as pastor of the entire work until April, 1S77, when he was called to Haskipville, where he remained till April, 1881. In May, 1 88 1, by request of the conference he went to Farmington to look after the work on Farmington and Hopewell charges. ^^v- JO^^ph h. cook.

In May, 1882, in response to a call from the First Wesleyan Methodist Church of Varick, he commenced his labors as pastor, and continued in such relationship with the church for six years. At the close of this pastorate, he settled on a small farm in the town of Varick, where he has since resided, being identified with the church in the various departments of its work. Sab- 'bath, April 26th, 1895, having again accepted a call from the church, commenced his labors as its pastor. Aside from pastoral work, he has been identified with the Rochester Conference of which he is a member in various ways, being its present secretary, and having served as such for twenty consecutive years. He has twice represented his conference as one of the ministerial delegates to the general conference.

Town Of Fayette Evangelical Association Burgh Church

CENTRAL Pennsylvania Conference, Williamsport, Pa., district, Seneca station, Seneca county, N. Y., locally known as "The Burgh" church, was organized in 1816. by the Rev. Jacob Klemfelter. It was then called the Lake mission, Canaan district, Rev. John Dreisbech, presi4ing elder. The plan adopted was preaching from house to house and holding camp meetings. M^ny were converted and added to the church. T^he

Evangelical, Association Burgh Church

During this period of eighteen years, the work of the Lord had prospered and the numbers had increased so fast that it was deemed advisable to build a house suitable for the worship of God, and, under the leadership of Rev." Phillip Wagner, presiding elder, and Rev. M. F. Maze, pastor in charge^ the work was begun, the money raised, and the building completed and dedicated i'l ^835- The following trustees were appointed to take charge of the church property: Jacob Reigel, Henry Manger, Jacob Bachman, John Hosier and Samuel Pontious. The land upon which the building and sheds stand was donated by Jacob Reigel. The society was legally incorporated May "4, 1846. During the first forty years the preaching was entirely in German. In 1837, under the preaching of Rev. Wagner, a powerful revival took place, resulting in a large addition to the membership. Some time in the Sixties, the the church building was twice struck by lightning and considerably damaged, but it was again repaired. In 187 1, under the leadership of Rev. L. Hornberger a new roof was put on.

In 1874, the Rev. R.J. Smith was sent to the charge; the church and parsonage were in a very bad condition and the pastor was so disheartened at the outlook that he was tempted to decline the place, but changed his mind and went to work. He urged upon the people the need of building a suitable house in which to worship God, and, at the first quarterly conference, the following ladies were appointed to solicit subscriptions to accomplish the work : Miss Debbie Hosier, Miss Sadie Pontious, Mrs. H. Riegel, Mrs. W. Sherridan, Mrs. M. Sherridan. A building committee consisting of Henry Hosier, John Ritter and Jacob Bachman, was also appointed, with R. J. Derrick, treasurer, and George Hosier, secretary. The repairs commenced September I, 1874, ^nd the church was dedicated February 7, 1875, by Rev S. F. Buck, one thousand dollars being raised on that day, to pay the balance of indebtedness. In March, 1877, Rev. U. F. Swengel was appointed by the conference, to this pastorate. In November and December, 1878, a very interesting protracted meeting look place and forty-seven presented themselves at the altar. In March, 1880, E. Swengel, a brother of the preceding, was appointed as pastor and served four years. Rev. A. Stapleton was appointed in the spring of 1884. Rev. J. Hornberger was appointed, March, 1885, and served two years. Rev. M.J. Snyder served from March, 1887, to March, 1889. The conference of 1889 did not send any pastor, but Rev. G. Hunter preached several Sabbaths, and in June of the same year, H. B. Barshinger, at the solicitation of the presiding elder, assumed charge; but at the close of the conference year the church was in a sad condition, both spiritually and financially. Since that lime it has had no regular pastor, but has had occasional preaching services, Rev. A. N. Depew, a retired clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal church, being the last to fill the pulpit. The church and

It has been said lightning will not strike twice in the same place, but the photo-i-ngraving of the church, herewith p^roducid, shows the damage caused by the third lightning bolt upon the same steeple.

The Evangelical Association, to which the Bergh church belongs, though never very strong in New Yi>rk Stale, has a large membership in Pennsylvania and some parts'of the West. This denomination owes its origin to the "strict construction'' which Uishop A-bury of the M. E. church placid upon the plan of itinerancy. About 1790, Jacob Albrecht, or as he is belter known, Albright, a "Dutch" Methodist Itinerant, urged the bishop to organize a presiding elder district of German speaking preachers and people. Bishop A-bury, however, felt that the itinerant plan required that every preacher should be eligible to every charge, and so refused. Albright, then, with no ill feeling but from a firm conviction of duty, originated his church of German speaking Methodists, with doctrines and discipline the same as the Methodist Episcopal at that time. The denomination was long popularly known as the "Dutch Methodists." The wisdom cif Albright's suggestions to Bishop Asbury, has since been justified by the organization of German conferences in the Methodist Episcopal church.

ONE of the evidences of the tendency of population from rural neighborhoods to business centers in villages and cities, is found in the number of churches locked up or disused in the rural districts of the State. There are two such cases in the town of Fayette, and a third a little beyond the north border of the town. Many of the early settlers of the town of Fayette were Pennsylvania Germans, who removed there in the early part of this century. In the interior of the town, a little West of the center, may be found a large, well-constructed brick church edifice, known as

Jerusalem Heformed And Lutheran Church

church'', which has not for a number of years past, been used to an\' extent, for church purposes, by eithei' of the religious denominations which constructed it, and formerly held stated religious services therein.

As early as August 3, 181 1, only about two years after the organization of the first church in the town of Fayette, (Christ church at Bearytown) the German residents of the central and western parts of Fayette, of the German Reformed and Lutheran denominations, organized a religious society, under the name of the "Trustees of Zion's Church", naming in the certificate of organization (certified by Jacob Alleman as chairman of the charter meeting) as its first board of trustees: Jacob Heck, Philip Pratz, John. Emerick, and Adam Hofstetter, equally divided between the two denominations named. It is to be regretted that the early church records cannot be found, and the traditions of aged people must be chiefly relied upon for information. The first church edifice was a log structure, comfortably sided up, and arranged within, with seats of those primitive days. This building of Zion's church was destroyed by fire Feb. 7, 1835. The corner stone for a new church (it is still standing) was laid May 12, 1836, and was dedicated as "Jerusalem Church," Nov. 13, 1836. The names of the first clergymen who officiated in the old log church, (and prior to its erection, for a time, in dwelling houses or bams in the vicinity) were Rev. Anthony Houtz and Rev. Lot Merkel. For over fifty years, services were regularly held in the old church and its successor, on alternate Sabbaths or at longer intervals by the Reformed and Lutheran pastors of Bearytown congregations. During the past twenty years, services have not been regularly held therein, for any considerable times by either of these religious denominations. Doubtless the proximity of the church to Bearytown and Waterloo, and to the Presbyterian church of West Fayette and the Protestant Episcopal church at Willowdale, led greatly, with the other causes assigned, to its disuse for regular church services. A number of years ago, the church needing repairs, a committee of citizens of the neighborhood, of whom the late Hon. William Hogan, was an active worker, raised a considerable sum of money, and caused needed repairs to be made. A well attended Sabbath school, was for a number of years maintained in the church,by the late Elias Romig of Waterloo, and others, even after regular Sunday preaching services were discontinued. During the past two or three years, occasional Sunday services have been held in the church, under the auspices of Grace Protestant Episcopal church of Willowdale, on Seneca lake. The church cemetery, adjoining the church, has been maintained, and is still occasionally used for burials, by old families of the neighborhood.

Among the families ascertained to have been connected with this congregation in its early history (in addition to those who took part in the organization mentioned in 1811) were those of John Markell, George Neass, Adam Schneck, William Gamber, Abram Youngs, Daniel Saeger, Samuel Romig, Joseph H. Sigfreid, Christian Keim, Jacob Flickinger, Henry Shankwiler, Jacob Acker, John Ansberger, Philip Peters, Frederick and Benjamin Kuney, and Abram and Conrad Manges. It is a noteworthy fact,that the first organization of the Mormon church, was that of Joseph Smith, made April 6, 1830, at the house of Peter Whitmer, Sr., about i 1-2 miles northwest from Jerusalem church. The Whitmer family were Pennsylvania Germans, and prior to their defection to Mormonism, attended church services at the old Zion's church, the predecessor of the Jerusalem church.