LIBRARY OF THE THEOLOGICAL SEMINARY 
 
 PRINCETON, N. J. 
 
 Divisio ;/..SX!p2-'^8 
 Section...L\..X.\D\sj HT 
 
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 En^Tavod for this work from a photograph by Hendaiiri, taken in Isii; 
 
HISTOR 
 
 NOV 17 1941 ^ 
 
 <\ 
 
 ■PGICM Sy 
 
 vV 
 
 OF 
 
 A FT I ST 
 
 HURCHES 
 
 o<IVIARYLAIMD>o 
 
 CONNECTED WITH THE 
 
 MARYLAND BAPTIST UNION ASSOCIATION. 
 
 J$altimote: 
 
 PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY J. F. W t ISH AMPEL, JR. 
 :i fiO W. Bat.timore Strekt. 
 
 i88v 
 
REV. GEORGE F. ADAMS, D. D. 
 
 Engrraved frr this work from a photograph taken in 1850.. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 Introduction 7 
 
 Early History !> 
 
 Baltimore Baptist Association 11 
 
 Maryland Baptist Union Association 15 
 
 1742. Sater's Baptist Church Compiled by Rev. Du. G. F.Adams. 23 
 
 1785. First Baptist Church, Baltimore G. F. Adam^. 31 
 
 1791. Taneytown Baptist Church G. F. Adams. 51 
 
 1793. Nanjemoy Baptist Church G. F. Adams. 52 
 
 1797. Second Baptist Ciiurcii, Baltimore G. F. Adams. 55 
 
 1806. Gunpowder Baptist Church G.F.Adams. 67 
 
 1821. Rockville Baptist Church, from record supplied by Rev. S. R. White. 69 
 
 1832. Good Hope Baptist Church 7-4 
 
 1835. High Street Baptist Church, Baltimore G. F. Adams. 75 
 
 1835. Pikesville Baptist Church G. F. .Adams. 84 
 
 1886. First Colored Baptist Church (jf Baltimore 87 
 
 1842. Hereford Baptist Church 90 
 
 1843. Forest Baptist Church 9S 
 
 1845. Seventh Baptist Church, Baltimore Lewis W. Wilhelm. 97 
 
 1846. Huntingdon Baptist Church, Waverly 113 
 
 1847. Cumberland Baptist Church 117 
 
 1847. Pitts Creek Baptist Church 121 
 
 1850. Eckhart Baptist Church Jesse J. Arnold. 123 
 
 1850. Vienna Baptist Church 125 
 
 1852. Union Baptist Church, Baltimore 129 
 
 ] 854. Pocomoke City Baptist Church 134 
 
 1854. Franklin Square Baptist Church, Baltimore 136 
 
 1855. Lee Street Baptist Church, Baltimore Rev. John Pollard, D. D. 143 
 
 1856. Rehoboth Baptist Church Rev. S. C. Boston. 150 
 
 1859. Salisbury Baptist Church 153 
 
 1860. Germautown Baptist Church G. F. Adams. 154 
 
 1F60. Poolesville Baptist Church G. F. Adams. 155 
 
 1865. First German Baptist Church, Baltimore 1,'56 
 
 lb68. Mount Hope Baptist Church 159 
 
 1869. Bladensburg Baptist Church 159 
 
 1871. Forest Hall Baptist Church 160 
 
 1871. Eutaw Place Baptist Church, Baltimore G. F. Adams. 163 
 
 1871. Frostburg Baptist Church. . j 171 
 
 1872. Mount Ellen Baptist Church, Salisbury 172 
 
 1872. Longwood Baptist Church 173 
 
 1873 Leadenhall Street Baptist Church, Baltimore 175 
 
 1874. Hampden Baptist Church, Woodberr)'^ 177 
 
 1874. Grace Baptist Church, Baltimore Daniel F. Emich. 179 
 
 1874. Macedonia Baptist Church, Baltimore 184 
 
 1875. First Colored Baptist Church of Frederick 185 
 
 1875. East New Market (formerly Cabin Creek) Baptist Cluirch 186 
 
4 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1875. Ebenezer Baptist Church, Cumberland 187 
 
 1878. Calvary Baptist Church, Baltimore 188 
 
 1878. First Colored Baptist Church, Rockvilie 189 
 
 1879. First Colored Baptist Churcli, Annapolis 189 
 
 1880. Fuller Memorial Baptist Church, Baltimore 190 
 
 1880. Zion Baptist Church 193 
 
 1880. Mount Zion Baptist Church 193 
 
 1881. Oak Grove Baptist Church 193 
 
 1881. Perkins' Square Baptist Church, Baltimore 194 
 
 1881. Cambridge Baptist Church 195 
 
 1883. Immanuel Baptist Church, Baltimore Chas. T. Crane. 196 
 
 1888. Fulton Avenue Baptist Church, Baltimore F. S. Biggs. 198 
 
 1882. Hagerstown Baptist Church 201 
 
 1884. Riverside Baptist Church, Baltimore 202 
 
 1885. Patterson Ave. Baptist Church, Baltimore. . Rkv. W. M. Alexander. 203 
 
 Memoranda 204 
 
 Annual Record of Maryland Baptist Union Association, 1886—1884. . 208 
 
 APPENDIX. 
 
 An Epoch in Maryland Baptist History 211 
 
 William Crane 216 
 
 George F. Adams 217 
 
 In Memoriam 218 
 
WILLIAM CRANE. 
 
INTRODUCTION. 
 
 FOR twenty -five 3'-ears past, a Committee has been appointed anunallj' bj' tlie 
 Maryland Baptist Union Association, to prepare and publisli a history of 
 tlie Cliurclies connected with this body. For various reasons the worli 
 failed of accomplishment. It was only by repeated appeals from the Committee 
 and the personal attention of the late Rev. Dr. George F. Adams, (to whom 
 the task was entrusted during his employ as Missionary of the Association,) that 
 any progress was made toward the compilation of the necessary materials. At 
 his decease, in April, 1877, he left a number of sketches of the Churches, which 
 have been preserved to this date. A few others had been obtained from various 
 sources. But the completion and publication of the histories seemed to be still 
 distant, when the following report was made to the Association in October, 1888 : 
 
 "REPORT ON THE HISTORY OF THE CHURCHES. 
 "Your Committee believe that a short, comprehensive, readable History ot our 
 Churches would result in good. That we may have such a History, we recommend 
 that all requisite manuscripts in the possession of this Association be turned over to our 
 Bro. J. F. Weishampel. Jr., with the request that he canvass the Churches, and if 
 sufficient subscribers can be obtained to justify him in the work, then he may complete 
 the manuscripts and publish said History at the earliest possible day. If after a canvass 
 of the Churches he finds the work cannot be done without incurring loss to himself, then 
 he shall report to the Board, returning the manuscripts, and the Board shall take such 
 action as they may deem necessary. 
 
 W. JUDSON BROWN, 
 GEO. W. NORRIS, 
 FRANKLIN WILSON, 
 J. C. ALLEN, 
 F. W. KING, 
 E B. MORHIS." 
 
 This Report was adopted and referred to a new Committee, consisting of Rev. 
 H. M. Wharton, Rev. Dr. Franklin Wilson and the writer. 
 
 The Churches were then canvassed and, after several months of etfort, a suf- 
 ficient number of subscribers was obtained to encourage the publication, as pro- 
 posed. The manuscripts were then turned over to the undersigned, in accordance 
 with the recommendation of the Association. 
 
 These manuscripts were in some cases too lengthy to be embodied in a "short, 
 comprehensive, readable history," and all of them were so incomplete as to require 
 considerable additional writing. Many of the Churches were not reported at all, 
 and several which had been described had become extinct. The sketches of Dr. 
 Adams give evidence of painstaking, and are creditable to his industry, but he 
 had prepared them in view of a much more voluminous work. It became neces- 
 sary therefore to condense them, as well as to add notes of the last eight years' 
 history. 
 
 In view of these difficulties, the Publisher desires to state that he has made the 
 best use of the materials that his experience and judgment have suggested — 
 extracting from them all the information necessary to a "comprehensive" history, 
 and adding all the important facts that were obtainable after a diligent search, 
 with the able assistance of Rev. Dr. Wilson and others. He has also prepared 
 new sketches of the Churches which had not yet been described, and of other 
 
8 Maryland Baptist Histoiy. 
 
 matters worthy of record, including preliminary notices of the Baltimore and 
 the Maryland Union Associations. While brevity has been observed as the rule 
 of the compilation, nothing of value has been omitted; but only those Churches 
 now connected with the Maryland Union Association are noticed particularly. 
 
 To insure accuracy, all the proof-sheets have been submitted to well-informed 
 members of the Churches for their approval. This accounts for much of the 
 delay in passing the forms through the press. 
 
 Due credit is given in the Index or the text, to Dn. Adams and others, whose 
 manuscripts have been used. 
 
 Though lacking in literary excellence, from the necessity of enforced brevity, 
 the variety and scantiness of materials, and many interruptions and emendments 
 during its preparation, this compilation may be relied upon as generally accurate, 
 and it will doubtless be valued as a permanent treasury of reference. 
 
 The volume is now committed to the brotherhood in the hope that, while ob- 
 serving its deficiencies, they may hereafter take greater pains to preserve a record 
 of their Church work for the historian of the future. But, beyond this hope, it is 
 devoutly prayed that these histories may encourage them to bolder advances, to 
 greater consecration, to increased sacrifices, and to a more united effort in the 
 faithful and persistent spread of a pure gospel. 
 
 J. F. WEISHAMPEL, JR. 
 Baltimore, July 1, 1885. 
 
 * * 
 * 
 
 We are indebted to Messrs. L. H. Everts & Bro., Philadelphia, publishers of 
 Dr. Cathcart's valuable Baptist Encyclopedia, for electrotypes of the following 
 illustrations : The Eutaw Place Church, and the portraits of Rev. Dr. J W. M. 
 Williams, Rev. Dr. Franklin Wilson, Rev. Dr. Wm. T. Brantly and Mr. William 
 Crane. 
 
REV. FRANKLIN WILSON, D. D, 
 
HISTORY OF BAPTIST CHURCHES 
 IN MARYLAND. 
 
 EARLY HISTORY. 
 
 T7IEST things are interesting. The "first step" is proverbial. The 
 first stone laid in a fonndation may aid in supporting a beautiful 
 palace or a lofty monument. In this day of centenary celebrations, 
 every one is looking backward to the first beginnings of the great en- 
 terprises which now occupy public attention. Among the movements 
 most interesting to the lovers of religious progress is that Of the Baptist 
 Denomination in the State of Maryland. It will surprise some to 
 learn that we also have a centenary to observe, and that 1884 closed a 
 century since the organization of the First Baptist Church in Baltimore, 
 with which began here the regular growth of our Denomination. One 
 hundred years! — and what has been the rate of our progress? These 
 pages will show. The only consolation we may derive from the answer 
 herein given is. Truth is ever of slower growth than Error, and also 
 that the future promises more abundant success than the past. 
 
 We must, however, look about fifty years further back, to notice the 
 partial dawning of Baptist sentiment in this State. It is true that in 
 that age the Churches were not characterized by missionary aggressive- 
 ness, but ii must be remembered that the evangelical spirit now ani- 
 mating our Denomination has been awakened to activity within the pres- 
 ent century and has been the growth, strictly speaking, of only the last 
 seventy years. But in other respects, that of civil and religious liberty, 
 of Church ordinances and a pure gospel, the Churches were ever zeal- 
 ous and ardent, not only in the North, in Virginia and the South, but 
 in Maryland. 
 
 In 1872, the Maryland Baptist Union Association requested Rev. 
 Joseph H. Jones (since deceased) to prepare a history of the old "Bal- 
 timore Baptist Association," which was published in a small pamphlet, 
 and is now out of print. It is from this work that we have extracted 
 the facts recorded in this chapter, and also prepared the accompanying 
 Table of Statistics. 
 
lo Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The first Baptist Church of which we have any account in this State 
 was organized by members of "General Baptist" Churches, from Eng- 
 land. A Mr, Sater, who had settled at Chestnut Ridge, in 1709, with 
 other persons of similar views, built a meeting-house there, and in 
 1742, constituted a Baptist Church, which numbered at the time fifty- 
 seven members. 
 
 In 1754, some fourteen members who differed with their brethren 
 on some points of the doctrine of Election, withdrew from the Chestnut 
 Ridge "General Baptist" Church, and organized a "Particular Baptist" 
 Church at Winter's Run, Harford County. Benjamin Griffith and 
 Peter P. Vanhorn are specified as assisting in the constitution of the 
 new Church and its admission into the "Philadelphia Association." — 
 In 1756, the body became known as "Harford Baptist Church," and 
 called Rev. John Davis to its pastorate. This excellent man was 
 then thirty-five years old and remained pastor for fifty-three years, 
 leaving behind him a long record of good work. Through his zeal, Har- 
 ford church became the progenitor of the Maryland Baptist Associa- 
 tions. In 1781, the "General Baptist Church" at Chestnut Ridge 
 had become extinct, and in its place in the same building, another 
 Church had been organized by Bro. Davis and his brethren. 
 
 They also organized missions at Patapsco and Westminster, with 
 a total membership of 188. Subsequently, these faithful workers es- 
 tablished Churches at Taneytown and Gunpowder, and in 1785, eleven 
 members of Harford Church took letters and organized the '■'■Cliurcli 
 of Baltimore," with Elder Lewis Richards as their pastor. They built 
 a meeting house on the corner of Front and Fayette streets, on the 
 present site of the shot tower. This Church also joined the Philadel- 
 phia Association. Churches had also been constituted at Frederick 
 City, Hammond's Branch, Seneca, Montgomery Co., and at Hunting- 
 ton, Pa. This brings us to 1793. In that year six of these Churches 
 met by delegates in Frederick and organized a new Association, which 
 they styled at first, the Baptist Association of the Western Shore of 
 Maryland, to distinguish it from the Salisbury (Eastern Shore) Associa- 
 tion, but in 1794, upon the adoption of a Constitution, it assumed the 
 title of "Baltimore Baptist Association." 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 1 
 
 BALTIMORE BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 
 
 The names of the Churches and delegates originating this body were 
 as follows: — Harford, Alex. Lemon, John Prichard, Abs. Butler, J. 
 Davis; representing 106 members. Frederick Town", Thos. Beatty, 
 Joseph Coleman, Elijah Beatty, Absalom Baiubridge; 36 members. 
 Hammond's Branch, Brice Gassoway, James Warfield, Ohas, Eogers ;. 
 29 members. Tanettown, Thos. Jones, Benj. Cornel, David Walter; 
 27 members. Seneca, Lawrence Alnutt, Howard Griffith, Nich. Dor- 
 sey; 52 members. Huntington, Pa. Samuel Lane; 16 members. — 
 Total, 226 members. 
 
 As already stated, we have compiled a Table from Bro. Jones' pam- 
 phlet, in which is given a record of the meetings of this Association 
 for forty-two years, and we shall therefore mention in this sketch only 
 such occasional items of general interest as maybe necessary to indicate 
 the character of its work. 
 
 Li 1795, the First Church of Baltimore joined the Association, with 
 65 members, "being orthodox in principles and practices." The ven- 
 erable John Davis wrote the "Circular Letter" oa "Strong and Weak 
 Faith." The ministry were urged to missionary efforts throughout the 
 State and were appointed to preach in destitute places. 
 
 In 1795, a Church at Fell's Point was organized by Rev. John 
 Healy, but being considered lax in doctrine, like some of the English 
 Churches, their application for admission into the Association was de- 
 nied. This caused a contention. Pamphlets were written by John 
 Stow, Wm. 0. LDck aud otliers of the Fell's Point Church. In 1807, 
 this Church, now called "Second Baptist Church," applied again for 
 admission, and "being found in the same practices and belief as held 
 by this body, were unanimously received." The Association now con- 
 sisted of sixteen Churches, as follows: Harford, First Baltimore, Fred- 
 erick, Taneytown, Tuscarora, Old Seneca, Huntington, Hammond's 
 Branch, Sideling Hill, Pleasant Valley, Washington City, Gunpowder, 
 Sater's, Upper Seneca, Conalaway and Second Baltimore. The minis- 
 ters were: John Davis, Lewis Richards, Absalom Butler, William Par- 
 kinson, William Gilmore, William Clingham, John Welch, Thomas 
 Runyan, John Cook, Samuel Lane, Benjamin Green, 0. B. Brown, 
 George Grice, Edward Choate, John Healy — fifteen, and the member- 
 ship 748. 
 
 In 1808, an address was prepared by order of the Association, and 
 presented to President Thomas Jefferson, to which he replied. In 
 1809. the Association met with the First Church of Baltimore. This 
 
I 2 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 year Elder Jolm Davis died, aged 87 years. In 1815, Spencer H. 
 Cone's name first appears on the minntes as clerk. This year the Brit- 
 ish burned the National Capitol and were defeated at Baltimore. Our 
 ministers preached in Anne Arundel, Prince George, St. Mary's, 
 Baltimore and Montgomery counties, also at Hagerstown, thus show- 
 ing the early missionary character of their practices. In 1818, resolu- 
 tions were passed favoring the Baptist Board of Foreign Missions. In 
 1819, the Circular Letter concluded with the following forcible lan- 
 guage on Foreign Missions: 
 
 "Is there no honor, dear brethren, in being zealously engaged in this 
 great and glorious cause? Shall our sympathies for the perishing 
 heathen, both at home and abroad, be suffered to evaporate in our of- 
 fering up petitions on their behalf? What evidence do we exhibit, 
 either to ourselves or to others, of the sincerity of our prayers, while 
 our active exertions, while our contributions do not correspond with 
 our words ? Say not because the work is great and our individual 
 means circumscribed, that the little which we can do will be of no 
 avail : God hears the heggar'' s iirayer andrtccepts the wido/c'' smite. Who 
 can contemplate the signs of the times, the interesting and amazing ex- 
 tent and variety of means that are now in successful operation in various 
 parts of the world, for the accomplishment of God's gracious promises 
 concerning his Cliurch, without wonder, love, and praise ? To what, 
 short of the Divine agency, can we attribute the general missionary 
 spirit which pervades Christians in both hemispheres. To what other 
 cause can we ascribe the formation of such extensive and opulent soci- 
 eties, as now exist throughout the civilized world, for the trans- 
 lation, printing and gratuitous distribution of the word of life among 
 people of every language and in every clime ? Truly we may say, this 
 is the seed time. We see the showers of divine influence descending 
 in various directions, and confidently hope that the glorious, the abun- 
 dant harvest will speedily follow. In addition to these might be men- 
 tioned the numerous and important Associations which are spreading 
 over countries professing Christianity with such astonishing rapidity, 
 for the communication of moral and religious instruction, through the 
 medium of Sabbath schools. The benefits already derived to thousands 
 from these institutions, both in Europe and America, who would other- 
 wise have been abandoned to ignorance and vice, is beyond the power 
 of the human mind to calculate." 
 
 In 1821, Old Seneca and Hammond's Branch Churches, under charge 
 of Rev. Plumraer Waters, having become opposed to the plan of con- 
 ducting Missionary Societies, withdrew from the body. Rev. Luther 
 Rice, the well known advocate for missions and education, was present, 
 and was invited to a seat. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 3 
 
 In 1822, the Second Church withdrew. On motion of Bartholomew 
 T. Welch, the First Church was exduded from fellowship, on account 
 of "deviation from the faith." In 1826, the Second and First Churches 
 seem to have corrected their differences and are reported in attendance. 
 Elder Grice, pastor of Sater's, died. In 1827, the "Central Baptist 
 Church" of Washington was received, Elder George F. Adams being 
 one of its delegates. In 1828, the Black Rock Church was received. 
 Ministers present in 1829: F. Moore, Thos. Leaman, John Healy, Ed- 
 ward Choate, R. H. Neale, C. Polkinhorn, Edmond J. Reis, R. B. Sem- 
 ple, George F. Adams, Eli Scott, T. Barton, 0. B. Brown, W. Wolford, 
 Frey, Lynd and Marders. The Memoirs of Mrs. Judson were recom- 
 mended. 1832, Death of Elder Lewis Richards. 1835. The Religious 
 Herald and Christian Index having published a statement that many 
 of the ministers of this Association did not preach to the unconverted, 
 a lengthy denial was entered upon the minutes, and published. 
 
 In 1836, the Association met at Black Rock, but from some cause it 
 was thinly attended, only twenty-eight persons being present, and seven 
 of them were not properly authorized delegates. The person elected 
 moderator was not a member of the body. The anti-missionary 
 members immediately forced the adoption of the followiug Resolution : 
 
 "Whereas, a number of Churches of this Association have departed 
 from the practice of the same, by following cunningly devised fables, 
 uniting with and encouraging others to unite in worldly societies, to 
 the great grief of other Churches of this body, there cannot be any 
 fellowship between principles so essentially different. Therefore, Re- 
 solved, That this Association cannot hold fellowship with such 
 Churches, and all that have done so be dropped from our minutes." 
 
 Upon this, the representatives of the following seven Churches with- 
 drew : Rockville, Pleasant Valley, Linganore, Second Baltimore, Mt. 
 Zion and Frederick. Gunpowder was subsequently added. These 
 delegations met in the Second Church, Baltimore, next day, to organ- 
 ize another Association. They adopted the same name, and held to- 
 gether for several years, but were too weak to last long. The Second 
 Bait., Gunpowder and Rockville Churches joined the Maryland Union, 
 which was organized about the same time. The original Baltimore 
 Association has maintained an organization up to the present time, but 
 most of its Churches have become extinct or hold a small and inactive 
 membership. 
 
 It is shown conclusively in the minutes of this Association that the 
 body as a whole from 1793 to 1835 was favorable to missionary work ; 
 but the low state of religion at the latter date affected the Churches so 
 much as to decrease their interest in the cause. Erroneous views were 
 inculcated by prejudiced preachers, disputes were held upon the means 
 
H 
 
 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 used to propagate the gospel, and in the manner above indicated a 
 schism was made among the Churches. In this emergency, the more 
 influential portion of the Baptists of Maryland preserved their loyalty 
 to Missions; they reflected deeply upon their duty to God and the 
 world, and resolved to continue their work more actively. Their wise 
 plan was ably set forth in their ])ublished documents, and has been 
 nobly vindicated in the labors of the Maryland Baptist Union Asso- 
 ciation. 
 
 EEOOED OF THE BALTIMOEE BAPTIST ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Place. 
 
 1^93 
 
 1794 
 1795 
 1796 
 1797 
 1798 
 1799 
 1802 
 1803 
 4804 
 1806 
 1807 
 1608, 
 1809 
 1810 
 1811' 
 1812, 
 1813, 
 1814| 
 1815 
 1816 
 1817 
 1818 
 1819 
 1820 
 1821' 
 I822i 
 18231 
 1824' 
 1825 
 1820' 
 1827: 
 1828' 
 1829: 
 1880' 
 1831' 
 1832! 
 1833' 
 1834; 
 18351 
 1836 
 
 Frederick A. Bainbridge 
 
 Ha mmond's Branch . . . John Davis. 
 
 Baltimore Wm. Ciingham. 
 
 Taney town Lewis Richards . 
 
 Seneca, Montg. Co 
 
 Tuscarora Valley J. Moore. 
 
 Reisterstown John Davis. 
 
 Seneca Lewis Richards. 
 
 Winter's Run Lewis Richards. 
 
 Sideling Hill, Pa 
 
 Conoloway,Bed.Co.,Pa 
 Pleasant Valley, Md.. 
 
 Washington, D. C 
 
 Baltimore, First Ch. . . 
 
 Winter's Run 
 
 Gunpowder, Md George Grice. 
 
 Sater's, Baltimore Co.. John Healy. 
 Baltimore, Second Ch. Lewis Richards. 
 Seneca, (Upper.) [John Healy 
 
 MODEUATOR. 
 
 Clerk. 
 
 Thos. Beatty 
 
 A. Bainbridge. . , 
 Chas. P. Polk... 
 A. Bainbridge. . . 
 
 Wm Parkinson. 
 Wm. Parlcinson. 
 Wm. Parkinson. 
 Wm. Parkinson. 
 
 Thos. Runyan Wm. Gilmore. 
 
 Lewis Richards John Welch.. . 
 
 O. B. Brown |John Welch.. . 
 
 Lewis Richards John Welch. 
 
 o % 
 
 16 226 
 6| 251 
 
 71 
 
 7i 
 
 16, 
 
 J. Welch 
 
 B. 'W Welch.. 
 Wm. Wilson. 
 S. H. Cone. . . 
 3. H. Cone. . . 
 
 Old Seneca. John Healy. 
 
 Pleasant Valley, Md.. John Healy. 
 
 Sideling Hill, Pa 
 
 Patapsco, Md 
 
 Alexandria, D. C 
 
 Baltimore, First Ch . . . 
 Warren M.H. Bait. Co. 
 Pleasant Valley, Md. . 
 
 Taneytown 
 
 Baltimore,Ebenezer Ch 
 
 Bethel Ch., Montg. Co. j John Healy. 
 
 Harlbrd, Md 
 
 Pleasant Valley, Md 
 
 Black Rock 
 
 Washington, D. C . 
 Upper Seneca, Md. . 
 
 Frederick, Md John Healy Jos. H. Jones. 
 
 Warren, Bait. Co., Md'John Healy IJos. H. Jones. . 
 
 Pleasant Valley, Md..{ I 
 
 Black Rock, Md I John Healy jJos. H. Jones. . 
 
 Baltimore,EbenezerChlWm. Wilson 'Jos. H.Jones. . 
 
 Black Rock, Md |[Division.] j[See page 13]. 
 
 12! 
 12, 
 12 
 16 
 
 141 
 
 181 
 
 O. B. Brown. 
 John Healy. . 
 Edw. Choate. 
 Edw. Choate 
 
 Francis Moore T. Barton 
 
 Thos. Barton E. J. Heis 
 
 John Healy 'E. J. Reis 
 
 . E. J. Reis 
 
 J. P. Peckworth Joseph H. Jones. 
 
 Edw. Choate Joseph H. Jones. 
 
 John Healy C. Polkinhorn.. . 
 
 John Healy JC. Polkinhorn.. . 
 
 Jos. H. Jones S. C. Ustick 
 
 18 
 
 17 
 
 18! 
 
 18; 
 
 345 
 367 
 
 568 
 566 
 
 748 
 
 1016 
 '1238 
 
 1362 
 1026 
 
 620 
 
 831 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 5 
 
 MARYLAND 
 BAPTIST UNION ASSOCIATION. 
 
 The origin of this body is briefly announced in the minutes of its 
 first meeting, as follows : 
 
 "Agreeable to invitations previously given, a meeting of brethren of 
 the Baptist Denomination was held in the First Baptist Church in Bal- 
 timore, Thursday, October 27, 1836, for the purpose of organizing an 
 Association, to combine what energies might be found in the Churches, 
 disposed to be employed in the labor of spreading the Gospel in the 
 •State of Maryland, including that part of the District of Columbia 
 north of the Potomac, and otherwise to encourage and increase by mu- 
 tual action, the spirit of primitive piety." 
 
 Its statement of foundation principle is given thus: 
 
 "The Christian Church is represented in Scripture as occupying a 
 ■conspicuous place in human society. The 'light of the world,' 'the 
 salt of the earth,' are the significant figures which her great Founder 
 himself has employed to describe her means of usefulness and her cor- 
 responding responsibility. His object in raising his followers to this 
 dignity and elevation is obvious. They are designed to be the medium 
 through which he see4vs to convey the most substantial benefits to man- 
 kind, by accomplishing the merciful purposes of his grace, in the con- 
 version of the world. Such a relation involves, of course, duties of the 
 most important nature, and demands of us a zeal commensurate with 
 the magnitude of the object to be secured. Impressed with these con- 
 siderations, We, the representatives of Baptist Churches in Maryland, 
 having met for the purpose of combining our influence and exertions 
 to spread the Gospel in the destitute regions of our State, do now agree 
 to organize ourselves into a missionary body, to be governed by the fol- 
 lowing Constitution." Here follows substantially the Constitution now 
 governing the Association. 
 
 There were sixteen persons present as delegates, namely : From the 
 First Baptist Church, Baltimore : lie v. Stephen P. Hill, Peter Levering, 
 James Wilson, James Carnighan, John C. Kichards, Eben. Hubball, 
 Thomas Maybury. From Calvert St. Church, Baltimore : Rev. Geo. 
 F. Adams. From Pikesville Church : Eev. Joseph Mettam, John Ports, 
 John Cox. From Gunpowder Church : Rev. Thos. Leaman, Zach. 
 Alban. From Navy Yard Church, Washington : R. P. Anderson. 
 
1 6 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 From Taiieytown Church: Jacob Correlh William Crane, of Calvert 
 St. Church, A. Kothwell, of Navy Yard Church, and three other breth- 
 ren of country Churches were named as delegates, but were not present. 
 Rev. John Healy of the Second Church, Baltimore, Kev. W. T. 
 Bran tly, (the elder,) and Rev, Mr, Hewson, of Philadelphia, and Rev. 
 Archibald Maclay of New York Avere })resent, by recpiest. Ik'o. James 
 Wilson was elected Moderator and Stephen P. Hill Secretary, Geo. F, 
 Adams, Corresponding Secretary, and William Crane, Treasurer. The 
 Circular Letter was written by Stephen P. Hill. It is an admirable 
 paper, covering the aims and purposes of the new Association, explicit 
 in principle, illustrating missionary duty by precept and example, and 
 sounding a clarion note for progress. 
 
 One of the resolutions passed reads : "Resolved, that this Association 
 express its decided approbation of the efforts made by the Christian 
 community to elevate the moral condition of our species, by means of 
 Bible, Missionary, Education, Sabbath School, Tract, Temperance and 
 other benevolent institutions." A resolution was passed approving the 
 new translations of the Bible, The first Executive Board was ap- 
 pointed to consist of the officers above-named and the following breth- 
 ren : Thomas Leaman, Joseph Mettam, Peter Levering, James Carnig- 
 han, Thos. Maybury, R. P. Anderson, Jacob Correll. 
 
 The Record appended to this volume exhibits a statistical statement 
 of the progress of the Association, including its officers, places of meet- 
 ing, membership of Churches, &c. We shall therefore simply notice 
 here, a few items of interest occurring from time to time, to give the 
 reader a more comprehensive view of the Association's aims and la- 
 bors, before entering upon the history of each of the Churches separ- 
 ately. To the imagination and probably to the memory of the reader 
 must it be left to recall the many spirited discussions, the stirring ad- 
 dresses, the fervid serm(tns, the appeals for needy fields, the liberal con- 
 tributions and the praiseworthy zeal that have characterized this Asso- 
 ciation from its beginning. 
 
 We shall name the members of the Executive Board at intervals of 
 a few years, to indicate by whom the business of the Association has 
 been enacted between the annual meetings. 
 
 At the second meeting, 1837, in the Union Meeting House with the 
 Gunpowder Church, Nanjemoy Church was added to the represen- 
 tation. Fourteen delegates were present, among them William Crane, 
 The first Report of the Executive Board was made, showing a collec- 
 tion of $449, and a general interest in mission work. 
 
 At the third meeting, 1838, the following resolution was passed : 
 "Caution 8@^Resolved, that it be most earnestly recommended to the 
 Churches, that they do not invite a stranger to preach among them 
 
MaryliDid Baptist History. 1 7 
 
 unless he beur credentials of the most satisfactory and unequivocal 
 character." 
 
 On motion of Wm. Crane, the "Widow's Fiiud" was authorized : $53 
 was the first deposit. In 1840, Bro. A. F. Crane was elected Clerk, 
 and served almost continuously for twenty-five years. Resolutions 
 were passed favorable to Columbian College. For a number of 
 years it was the custom of the Association to appoint preachers for pro- 
 tracted meetings at some. six or more places in the country. Revs. Jos. 
 Mettam and Geo. F. Adams were the first missionaries appointed by 
 the Board. 
 
 1839. This year was signalized in Baltimore by a great revival of 
 religion, originating under the preaching of Rev. Jacob Knapp, in the 
 First Church. Two months of his labor resulted in the conversion of 
 many hundreds of persons, and additions to all the evangelical denom- 
 inations. The Baptists increased from 565 to 1,183; and this may be 
 said to have given the first great impetus to our work here, because 
 many of those who united Avith the Churches became active and influ- 
 ential laborers in the cause. 
 
 Ten years after organization, there were sixteen Churches recorded 
 as represented with 1,755 members ; also sixteen Sunday Schools with 
 about 700 scholars. In 1845, Revs. Daniel Cumming and Jona. Aldrich 
 were named as a Committee to make amendments to the Constitution. 
 They proposed an article defining Baptist faith and practice. At 
 the meeting of 1846, on motion of G. F. Adams, the amendment was 
 rejected, "not that the views expressed are disavowed, but the adop- 
 tion of the article is foreign to the objects for which the Association 
 was organized." The Executive Board at this date was named as fol- 
 lows : Rev. S. P. Hill, James Wilson, Thos. Maybury, Rev. F. Wilson, 
 B. G. Fry, 0. Kellogg, L, P. Bayne, A .W. Poulson, Frederick A. Lev- 
 ering, Alex. D. Kelly, Geo. W. Norris, Wm. Crane, Rev. 0. W. Briggs, 
 Alex. Butcher, S. Harker, J. B. Moody, Dr. G. K. Tyler, J. F. Helm, 
 Rev. J. A McKean, J. D. McKean, James Morrison, Rev. Geo. W. Sam- 
 son, A. Rothwell, R. P. Anderson, Rev. George F. Adams, Wm. 
 Rowe, Rev. Joseph Mettam. Contributions this year for Home Mis- 
 sionary purposes, $668.83. There were 1,473 members, 17 Sunday 
 Schools ; 922 scholars. 
 
 In 1847, Rev. Franklin Wilson was appointed Secretary of the Exec- 
 utive Board, which position he has filled continuously for thirty-seven 
 years to the present time. Rev. Benjamin Griffith, a licentiate of the 
 First Church, was appointed missionary to Cumberland, and organized 
 the Church there. Rev. Dr. Richard Fuller was a delegate from the 
 Seventh Church, recently organized. 
 
1 8 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1849. On recommendation of William Crane, the publication of 
 a weekly Baptist paper was authorized.* 
 
 1851. Rev. J. W. >I. Williams, pastor of the First Church, entered 
 the Association, and has remained as one of its most active members to 
 the present time. 
 
 1852. The Association authorized a memorial, written by Dr. Ful- 
 ler, to be presented to the Congress of the U. S., asking our government 
 to demand religious toleration for American citizens in foreign lands. 
 This memorial was presented and awakened considerable interest at 
 the time. The organization of the Young Men's Christian Association 
 of Baltimore was authorized by a resolution passed Nov., 1852. Com- 
 mittee, Eev. F. Wilson, W. 8. Crowley, J. D. Marsters, John W. Ball, 
 Wm. Johnson, jr. The object was accomplished in 1853, and that 
 Society has become one of the most important institutions of the City. 
 
 1853. On motion of Eev. F. AVilson, the Church Extension Society 
 was organized in January, 1854. 
 
 *In 1850, a Baptist weekly paper of large size called "The True Union" was is- 
 sued in Baltimore by Thomas J. Beach, under the auspices of the Maryland Bap' 
 tist Union Association. Mr. Beach was then also editor of the Daily Sun. The 
 paper was vigorously conducted, but the slender numbers of the Baptists in this 
 State gave it an inadequate support. Mr. Beach retired in February, 1851, and 
 Rev. Franklin Wilson took charge, editing the paper gratuitously for nearly 
 seven years. In 1857, the Association authorized its continuance for another 
 year, with Rev. G. F. Adams as editor and J. F. Weishampel, jr., as publisher. 
 The following year Rev. John Berg acquired control, and managed it for about 
 three years. It was continued by private enterprise for a few months longer, 
 when, proving unremunerative, and the Civil War .breaking out, it was sus- 
 pended at the close of 1801. 
 
 Desirous of having some kind of newspaper organ, in 1865, the Association 
 authorized the issue of a monthly half-medium sheet entitled "The Marj^land 
 Baptist" by J. F. Wcisliampel, jr., and edited by Rev. F. Wilson. This was done 
 for one year — the enterprise paid its actual expenses for labor and material, and 
 about seventy-five dollars over. It was then discontinued. 
 
 In 1868, Rev. 0. F. Flippo, then in Pocomoke City, Md., started another 
 denominational weekly, which he called "The Baptist Visitor." This was pub- 
 lished without any pecuniary profit twelve years, the last several years in Balti- 
 more, as a monthly. Ever spicy and thoroughly denominational, with contri- 
 butions from many well known writers, it acquired a pleasant reputation, but was 
 finally relinquished for want of sufficient support, and its subscription list trans- 
 ferred to another paper. 
 
 These failures are not to be attributed to an unusual want of friendliness and 
 appreciation among our Churches, but to the fact that hitherto the Baptists in 
 Maryland have not been sufficiently numerous to support the publication of a 
 paper with its necessarily heavy expenses. 
 
 In 18SH, Revs. H. M. Wharton and A. C. Barron begun the weekly publication 
 of the "Baltimore Baptist," which has reached its second volume. The paper is 
 well-edited, popular, cheap, and deserves a generous support. It is recognized as 
 the organ of our Association. 
 
ATaryhind Baptist History. 1 9 
 
 1856. The twentieth year of the Association reports 30 Churches, 
 20 ministers, 3,291 members, 13 missionaries, contributions, $3,966.56 ; 
 Widows' Fund, $l,106.-29. Executive Board: Rev. J. W. M.Williams, 
 J. McKim Marriott, Isaac Scribner, B. G. Fry, Jos. B. Thomas, sen., 
 Edward Soper, Wm. H. Hamer, Wm. Crane, Sam'l Jackson, Wm. 
 Funk, Rev. John H. Phillips, J. D. Marsters, J. AV. Ward, T. N. Pat- 
 terson, Rev. Dr. R. Fuller, F. A. Levering, A. W. Poulson, A. D. Kelly, 
 J. W. Ball, A. F. Crane, C. West, A. A. Chapman, Rev. F. Wilson, 
 Wm. H. Ryan, John W. Jevens, W. W. Lawrason, Rev. Geo. F. Adams, 
 T. M. Johnson, W. Waggner, Rev. L. W. Seeley, W. D. McKean, Dr. G. 
 K. Tyler, J. F. Helm, J. Robertson, W. S. Crowley, Rev. G. W. Samson, 
 Z. Richards, A. Rothwell, C. G. Wagner, Rev. J. Mettam, W. Rowe, 
 Rev. D. B. Wilhelm, Rev. F. L. Kregel, J. H. Tucker. 
 
 1860. "In view of the distracted state of the Country," a committee 
 was appointed to "prepare a formal address to the Baj)tists of the North 
 and South, imploring them to 'seek the things that make for peace.' 
 ■and exert tlieir influence for moderation and forbearance." On 
 motion of Rev. F. Wilson a committee was appointed to prepare a 
 "History of the Churches." 
 
 1866. The thirtieth year of the Association reported 39 Churches, 
 with 4,843 members; 33 Sunday schools, with 3,641 scholars; contri- 
 butions $5,384,46. 
 
 1869. The "Church Building Loan Fund" organized. 
 In 1870, the Churches were requested to form District Associations, 
 which was done subsequently, under the titles of Eastern, Middle and 
 Western Districts. These Associations are properly represented in the 
 annual meetings of this body. 
 
 In 1874, about $12,000 was secured by individual subscriptions to- 
 ward the endowment of Columbian University. 
 
 In 1875 a movement was originated to make a "Centennial Thank- 
 Offering" for the extinguishment of the debts upon all the Mission 
 Churches in the Association. Rev. Franklin Wilson was Chairman 
 and Joshua Levering Treasurer of the committee in charge. By public 
 meetings and private efforts, the sum of $12,744.15 was contributed. 
 The final Report of this Committee, November, 1878, records the fol- 
 lowing Receipts and Disbursements. Cash received from the following 
 Churches: First Baltimore $574.50, Seventh $2,521.00, Franklin 
 Square $1,326.63, Eutaw Place $1,956.69, High St. $1,766.57, Second 
 $269.00, Lee St. $143.25, Shiloh $25.00, Rockville $20.00, Frostburg 
 $20.00, Longwood $10.00, Nanjemoy $10.00, Hereford $20.00, German- 
 town $5.00, Cumberland $5.30, Rehoboth 10.00, Newtown $10.00,Pitts 
 Creek $10.00, First Colored $20.00, Leadenhall $50.00, Entertainment 
 and Lecture $721.40, Certificates, &c. $163.50, Sundry small Collec- 
 
20 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 ions and interest $86.31, Total $12,744,15. Cash paid to Leadenhall 
 Church $5,527.25, Md. Bapt. Union Assoc'n $2,000.00, AVoodberry 
 $1,579.61, Shiloh $1,121.98, Westminster ;i-850.00,Frostburg $1,155.00, 
 Columbia University $150.00, Expenses $303.79, Bal. on hand $56.25. 
 Total $12,744.15. A generous gift in recognition of God's blessings I 
 
 In 1876, on October 20, the entire Baptist community were saddened 
 by the death of Dr. Fuller. 
 
 1877. On motion of Dr. Franklin Wilson, a "Plan for Extinguishing 
 Church Debts" was adopted, and is published annually with the Min- 
 utes. The following Churches separated amicably from this body 
 and organized the Columbia Association: Second, E Street, Calvary, 
 Fifth and Nortli Churches of Washington, D. C, and Gay Street of 
 Georgetown, D. C. This withdrew six Churches, 12 ministers and 
 1,490 members from our Convention, and accounts for the diminution 
 in the record for that year. April 16. Decease of Rev. Geo. F. Adams. 
 The following Resolutions are entered oti the Minutes : 
 
 "Resolved, That in the death of our venerable and beloved brother, 
 Rev. Geo. F. Adams, D. D., this Board has lost a true friend, a father 
 in Israel, a founder of the Maryland Baptist Union Association, and 
 one who labored longer in its services than any other. 
 
 Resolved, That with sorrow for our loss is mingled gratitude to 
 God, as we recall what he has done through our brother's faithful 
 ministry of more than fifty years (nearly forty years of which was spent 
 in Maryland) ; his great usefulness in building up the waste places of 
 our Zion, in the conversion of hundreds of souls, and the erection of 
 several houses of worship: his multiplied labors as pastor, missionary, 
 evangelist, and historian of our churches, in all of which his spotless 
 integrity, untiring industry, genuine humility, sound doctrine, warm 
 and generous heart, and devoted piety, commanded universal confi- 
 dence and love, and have made his memory precious." 
 
 1882, March 6. Decease of the beloved Rev. Dr. Brantly. 
 
 The Executive Board for 1883-4 was appointed as follows: 
 
 First Church: J. AV. M. Williams, E. Calvin Williams, Joseph B. 
 Thomas, jr., Silas Bennett, John A. English, Samuel D. Buck^ George 
 W. Ward, F. W. King, A. J. Nolley, Geo. W. Evans, H. C. Mettam, 
 William Miller, J. A. McFadden, F. A. Bierbower, Dr. Gibbons, 
 Charles M. Palmer. Second : G. W. McCullough, Geo. W. Wolf, J. 
 F. Rossiter, Adam Hirshfeld, T. W. Swank, R. M. J. Harker, J. R. 
 Gould, T. S. Johnson. Seventh: T. D. Anderson, jr., Dr. G. K. Tyler, 
 Charles Tyler, Frank T. Grady, Dr. M. Hammond, AV. H. Perkins, 
 Charles M. Keyser, G. B. AVhite, AA'ilson Keyser, S. M. Hamilton, 
 Thos. G. Potts, A. K. Boteler, Samuel J. Hush, John Curlett, Wm. 
 Theo. Brantly, L. M. Cross, Howard B. AVeishampel, Joseph E. Tyler, 
 
Af my land Baptist History. 2 1 
 
 F. S. BuHock, E. J. Guy. Hujli St. : W. S. Penick, Henry Taylor, 
 
 G. W. Duvall, J. F. Helm, Wni. Leonhardt, Wm. E. Mason, J. B. Vail, 
 F. E. Harbaiigh, Clias. E. Coleman, John Bloxham, J. J. Joyner. 
 FranhUii Square: A. J. Eowland, Franklin Wilson, B. Todd, W. Jud- 
 son Brown, C. West, H. C. Smyser, J. Frank Brown, George G. Tyler, 
 E. B. White, F. H. Wilson, P."e. Clark, W. H. Eutherford. Lee St. : 
 W. F. Kone, H. M. Wharton, J. C. Eiley, James Pollard, J. J. Under- 
 hill, J. J. G. Eiley, C. J. Hussell, John M. Gressitt, W. T. Adams, W. 
 W. Smoot, W. C. Kaiss, Charles Seager, George H. Ball, E. B. Mil- 
 bourne, W. G. Suydam, Dr. C. E. Bierbower. Eutaw Place : G. P. 
 Nice, Hiram Woods, Eugene Levering, A. A. Chapman, Charles A. 
 Keyser, E. T. Norris, W. H. Bayne, S. G. B. Cook, Joshua Levering, 
 W. B. Graves, James A. Gouid, George W. Norris, Ed. W. Ijevering, E. 
 C. Davidson, W. M. Mentzell, D. C. Chapman, L. H. Nice, F. C. AVoods, 
 B. B. Warren, J. G. Suman, W. L. Keller, T. J. McGuire, E. F. Kim- 
 ball, W. B. Davidson, John A. Lawrence. Fuller Memorial : James 
 E. Edmonds, H. S. Kendall, G. E. Barker. Grace : Dan'l J. Emich, 
 Frank Farley. German: Henry F. Miller. Immariuel: A. C. Dixon, 
 Wm. Bayne, A. J. Lowndes, C. Powell Grady, George 0. Manning, 
 Henry E. Crane, Fred. A. Levering, E. W. Prentiss, W. P. Harvey. 
 Eater's: W. T. Foster. Fulton Avenue: Joseph H. Tyler, W\ J. 
 Chapman, W. B. Whiteside, J. Holyland, J. F. Weishampel, jr. Roch- 
 ville : D. H. Bouic. Woodberrij : D. G. Stevens. Waverly : E. M. 
 Barker, E. B. Morris. Cumberkmd : John Schilling. Lougwood : 
 A. B. Hardcastle. Union : Harvey Johnson, E. Mattell, P. Patterson. 
 Leadenliall : A. Brown, Eichard Freeman. Macedonia : W. C. Lawson, 
 Leander Jones. First Colored: Joseph Eeed. Ccdvary : P. H. A. 
 Braxton, Thomas James. 
 
 The following brethren have served as President of the Executive 
 Board : James Wilson 1886 to 1846 ; Wm. Crane 1846 to 1855 ; Eich'd 
 Fuller 1855-7; J. W. M. Williams 1857-9; L. P. Bayne 1859 to 1861 ; 
 Wm. Crane 1861-3; Eich'd Fuller 1863-4; Wm. Crane 1854-6 ; Hiram 
 Woods 1866 to the present time. 
 
 The following brethren have successively rendered great service as 
 Treasurer: Wm. Crane, John Mason, Sanvl Scribner, Orson Kellogg, 
 A. D, Kelly, jr., W. W. Lawrason, F, A. Levering, Eugene Levering, 
 sen., and Eugene Levering, jr. 
 
 Besides Brethren Adams and Mettam, already named, the following 
 Evangelists were appointed at various times by the Board, to travel 
 through the State : Eev. Joseph Walker, Eev. N. G. Collins, and Eev. 
 Dr. Isaac Cole. Also Eev. H. G. De Witt, 1861 ; Eev. Harvey Hatcher 
 1865 ; Eev. Jas. Nelson, 1872 to 1874; Eev. J. B. English, 1880 to 1884- 
 
 The Southern Baptist Convention met in Baltimore, 1853,1868, 1884. 
 
22 
 
 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 From its beginning, the Association has taken a deep interest in the 
 religious welfare of the Colored People, and every Eeport of the Ex- 
 ecutive Board for many years is devoted largely to a statement in their 
 behalf. The history of the individual Churches will show the result. 
 
 In 1879, Bro. Andrew J. Lowndes, Chairman of the Committee on 
 
 Finance for that year, prepared a careful report of the pecuniary 
 
 work of the Association from its beginning. We give the following 
 
 extract to show at a glance the yearly contributions of our Churches 
 
 to its funds, bringing it up to this date : 
 
 1837, 
 1838, 
 1839, 
 1840, 
 1841, 
 1842, 
 1843, 
 1844, 
 1845, 
 1846, 
 
 535 members gave. . .$448 94 
 
 550 " " ....211 81 
 
 5(55 " " 62 59 
 
 1183 " " ...794 75 
 
 1554 " " ....766 11 
 
 1690 " "... .997 34 
 
 1850 " " ....793 08 
 
 1889 " " ....351 59 
 
 1755 " " ....375 64 
 
 1437 " "... .543 63 
 
 13044 $5 445 48 
 
 Yearly average of each member, 42 cts. 
 
 540 members gave. . .$816 32 
 
 " 776 14 
 
 " ..1 727 11 
 
 " . . 1 657 64 
 
 " ..1 816 14 
 
 " ..2 436 21 
 
 " ..2 438 31 
 
 " . . 1 627 42 
 
 " ..4 147 96 
 
 " ..3 662 91 
 
 1847. 
 
 1540 
 
 1848, 
 
 2004 
 
 1849, 
 
 2003 
 
 1850, 
 
 2034 
 
 1851, 
 
 2342 
 
 1852, 
 
 2448 
 
 1853, 
 
 2527 
 
 1854, 
 
 2808 
 
 1855, 
 
 3149 
 
 1856. 
 
 3291 
 
 24146 
 
 ^21 106 16 
 
 Average per member, 89 cents. 
 
 1857, 3834 members gave. $2 829 45 
 
 1858, 4154 " " ..2 891 87 
 
 1859, 4143 " " ..3 763 94 
 
 1860, 4274 " " ..4 027 61 
 
 1861, 4295 " " . .3 166 30 
 1863, 4027 " " ..2 498 58 
 
 1863, 
 
 4137 members gave. .2 744 0] 
 
 1864, 
 
 4315 " " ..3 324 28 
 
 1865, 
 
 4545 " " ..2 515 53 
 
 1866, 
 
 4843 " " ..4 689 56 
 
 42567 $33 451 \Z- 
 
 Average per member, 79 cents. 
 
 1867, 
 1868, 
 1869, 
 1870, 
 1871. 
 1872, 
 1873, 
 1874, 
 1875, 
 1876,* 
 
 5076 members gave. $2 510 52 
 5134 " ^ 
 5324 
 
 5544 
 5434 
 5528 
 6756 
 7773 
 8659 
 10271 
 
 65499 
 
 ..5 
 
 366 58 
 
 ..3 
 
 275 
 
 47 
 
 ..3 
 
 220 
 
 33 
 
 ..5 384 83' 
 
 ..5 
 
 148 
 
 m 
 
 ..9 
 
 399 
 
 71 
 
 ..6 
 
 145 
 
 57 
 
 ..8 479 
 
 60' 
 
 ..5 
 
 923 67 
 
 $54 
 
 854 87 
 
 Average per member, 83 cents. 
 *Centennial contribution of $12,744. 15- 
 not included. 
 
 1877, 
 1878, 
 1879, 
 1880, 
 3881, 
 1882,. 
 1883, 
 
 10716membersgave.$5 116 07 
 
 9424 " " ..4 240 33 
 
 9847 " " ..4 316 06 
 
 8306 " " ..4 948 66 
 
 8755 " " ..5 290 63 
 
 9353 " " ..5 103 09 
 
 9307 ■ " " ..6 419 m 
 
 66208 $49 549 80' 
 
 Average per member, 53|^ cents. 
 
 During our Association, 17,441 members have been received into the 
 Churches by baptism, and 7,713 by letter ; total 25,154. Deaths, dis- 
 missals and exclusions from year to year, leave the present number of 
 members about 10,000. [See Table at end of Volume.] 
 
 The year 1884 brings us to the close of our record. It is one hun- 
 dred and forty-two years since the first Baptist congregation was plant- 
 ed in our State; one hundred years since the founding of the first Bap- 
 tist Church in Baltimore; ninety-one years since our first Baptist As- 
 sociation was organized, and forty-eight years since the beginning of 
 the ''Maryland Baptist Union." The present hour is joyous from re- 
 cent successes. May God continue to bless his Churches !. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 2 3 
 
 1742. 
 SATER'S BAPTIST CHURCH/== 
 
 WITH A NOTICE OF OTHER EARLY CHURCHES. 
 
 About the year 1709,-Mr. Henry Sater, of England, purchased a tract 
 of hind on what was then known as "Chestnut Ridge," about nine miles 
 northwest of "Baltimore Town." He belonged to the "General Bap- 
 tists" as distinguished from the "Particular," or more properly Calvin- 
 istic Baptists. He was frequently called upon to entertain strangers. 
 Among the travelers from eastern Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia, 
 there was found occasionally a Baptist minister, and such Mr. Sater 
 always invited to his "plantation," to preach at his dwelling. En- 
 couraged by the number who attended services, he at length deter- 
 mined to provide a more suitable place of worship, and erected a meet- 
 ing house on his own land at his own expense. He afterwards, Novem- 
 ber 17, 1742, deeded the house with "one acre of land for a Meeting 
 House, burying place and all other conveniences, for the Church and 
 Congregation for ever, to the end of the world." The trustees were 
 Henry Loveall, Thomas West, William Towson and William Brown, 
 "Deacons and Elders to the Church, Congregation, or People of God, 
 commonly called General Baptists." Some of Mr. Sater's descendants 
 are still to be found in some of our Churches in the city and country. 
 
 The first minister whom Mr. Sater obtained to preach in his house, 
 was George Eglesfield of Pennsylvania. After him was Paul Palmer, 
 who baptized nine persons. The next was Henry Loveall, who 
 may be regarded as the first pastor. He baptized forty-eight persons, 
 and with nine others organized a Church of fifty-seven members. 
 Mr. Loveall was from New Jersey. He is said to have been a man of 
 talent and an acceptable preacher. He remained pastor four years. 
 
 The Covenant under which this Church was organized, is a unique 
 politico-ecclesiastical document, and is herewith given as a curiosity : 
 
 "We, the humble professors of the Gospel of Christ, baptized on a 
 declaration of faith and repentance, believing the doctrine of general 
 
 *Sater's Baptist Church, as now constituted, is not placed properly at the 
 head of our list as the oldest, the present organization being onlj' one of several 
 successive corporations founded after the extinction of the earlier ones. Its loca- 
 tion, however, being that of the first congregation of Maryland Baptists, It became 
 necessary to describe it and other early Churches here, to preserve the chronology 
 of our narrative. In point of fact, the First Baptist Church of Baltimore is the 
 oldest body in our A.ssociation. 
 
24 Alary /and Baptist History. 
 
 redemption (or free grace of Gcd to all niaukiiuV), do hereby, seriously 
 heartily and solemnly, in the presence of the Searcher of all hearts, and 
 before the world, covenant, agree, bind and settle ourselves into a 
 Church to hold, abide by and contend for the faith once delivered to the 
 saints, owned by the best reformed Churches in England, Scotland and 
 elsewhere, especially as maintained in the forms and confessions of the 
 Baptists in England, differing in nothing from the articles of the 
 Churches of England and Scotland, except in infant baptism, modes 
 of Church government, the doctrine of absolute reprobation, and some 
 ceremonies. We do also bind ourselves to defend and live up to the 
 Protestant Religion, and to abhor and oppose the whore of Rome, pope 
 and popery, with all her anti-christian ways. We do also engage with 
 our lives and fortunes to defend the crown and dignity of our gracious 
 sovereign King George, to him and his issue forever, and to obey all his 
 laws, humbly submitting ourselves to all in authority under him, and 
 giving custom to whom custom, honor to whom honor, tribute to 
 whom tribute is due. We do further declare that we are not against 
 taking oaths, nor using arms in defence of our king and country, when 
 legally called thereto : and that we do approve and will obey the laws 
 of this Province. And further, we do bind ourselves to follow the 
 patterns of our brethren in England, to maintain order, government 
 and discipline in our Church, especially that excellent directory of 
 Re\% Francis Stanley, entitled 'The Gospel Honor and the Churches' 
 Ornament,' dedicated to the Churches in the counties of Lincoln, 
 Nottingham and Cambridge. We also engage that all persons, on join- 
 ing our Society, shall yield consent to and subscribe to this our solemn 
 league and covenant. Subscribed to by us, whose names are under- 
 written, this 10th day of July, 1742." 
 
 This Church from its location was originally called Chestnut Ridge. 
 After Mr. Loveall left, it was supplied by Revs. Benjamin Griffith, Peter 
 Van Horn and others. Most of these ministers appear to have been of 
 the Calvinistic order. During the war of the Revolution, the members 
 were very much scattered, and the Church became extinct. 
 
 After the country was blessed with peace, the scattered fragments 
 were gathered by the ministry of the venerable John Davis, and were 
 reorganized under the name of "Sater's." Elders Absalom Butler and 
 George Grice, both of them good men and true, afterward ministered 
 to this Church. 
 
 The original meeting house built by Mr. Sater became too small, 
 and was enlarged early in the present century. To celebrate the re- 
 dedication of the house after its enlargement, a 'June Meeting" was 
 established. From that time to the present, this meeting has been 
 irregularly maintained on the second Sunday in June. Scores of 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 25 
 
 people come from the surrounding country and from the city of Balti- 
 more, to hear the word preached. Sometimes the crowd has been so 
 large, that they have been obliged to abandon the house and hold their 
 service in the grove of primeval caks surrounding the house. Mr. 
 Grice continued to be their pastor till his death, in 1826. His remains 
 lie buried near the northwest corner of the meeting house. The 
 headstone bears this inscription : "He was a good man, a good preacher, 
 kind and afltectionate, and lived beloved and died lamented." 
 
 For many years after the death of Mr. Grice, we find no materials 
 from which to gather any satisfactory information of Sater's Church ; 
 but it continued to exist and, at least occasionally, to have had 
 preaching by visiting ministers. About the year 1840, after the great 
 revival under the ministry of Elder Knapp, there was quite an awaken- 
 ing of the almost dead Churches of Baltimore county. The Church 
 at Sater's had become so nearly extinct that there seemed to be almost 
 no one to hold the property. In 1842, just a century after the original 
 organization, the Legislature passed an act creating trustees. The 
 corporators were: Edward Eider, Sater T.Walker, George F Adams, 
 Frederick Harrison, (only one now surviving,) William Crane, Thomas 
 Poteet, Edward Green, Kichard Pierce, Edward Norwood, Lewis E. 
 Cole, Edward Burnham. Of these eleven, only three. Eider, Harrison 
 and Burnham, lived near the meeting house, but they were all mem- 
 bers of other Baptist Churches. Eev. Joseph Mettam and Eev. Daniel 
 Cumming came occasionally to preach there. Mr. Gumming baptized 
 one and Mr. Mettam baptized fourteen. These however united with 
 Pikesville Church, there being no organized Church at Sater's. As 
 this was however the oldest place of worshi}> of our denomination in the 
 State, there was a proper desire to maintain an interest there. Mr. Ei- 
 der and Mr. Harrison were always ready to aid the cause. Through 
 these brethren, Revs. F. Wilson, J. A. McKean, S. P. Hill, G. F- 
 Adams, E. Fuller and others visited and preached there. The June 
 Meetings were revived. 
 
 In November, 1864, the Executive Board of our Association ap- 
 pointed Eev. J. L. Lodge as their missionary to labor in this field. So 
 low was the condition of the Church, that Mr. Lodge's first congrega- 
 tion consisted of only three persons. The meeting house was almost 
 ruined from neglect and exposure to the weather. Mr. Lodge soon 
 gathered a Sunday school of nearly forty children, and in a short time 
 quite a large congregation to regular preaching services. A few were 
 baptized, and at the June meeting the next year, there were found 
 eight members, who were desirous of forming into Church relationship, 
 the old organization having through deaths and removals become ex- 
 tinct. These were constituted and recognized as a regular Church by 
 
26 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Eevs. Dr. Cole and Geo. F. Adams, visiting ministers, and Mr. Lodge 
 was chosen pastor. It was thought best also to elect and incorporate 
 a new board of trustees. A meeting of the qualified voters according 
 to charter was called, and the following persons were duly eleoted, viz : 
 Franklin Wilson, Wm. T. Foster, Hiram Woods, J. W. M. Williams 
 and George G. Tyler ; James L. Lodge, pastor, being ex-officio also a 
 member of the said board. In September, 1865, the surviving members 
 of the old board transferred all their right in the property to the new 
 trustees. By November following, fifteen persons were baptized. The 
 Church was that year received into our connexion. Mr. Lodge con- 
 tinued pastor four years. Accessions were made from time to time . 
 The school at one time, 1868, numbered 14 officers and teachers, with 
 112 scholars, and the Church increased, reaching 48 members in 1870- 
 During Mr. Lodge's pastorate, the house was completely renovated. 
 The old high wine-glass pulpit, reached by a winding stair-case, with 
 an octagonal sounding board, suspended from the ceiling over the 
 preacher's head, gave place to a modern platform. A cupola was erect- 
 ed, a bell procui-ed, new seats furnished, doors and windows repaired, 
 the whole jjainted, and a new substantial fence placed around the lot. 
 The cost of these improvements was nearly $1,000. 
 
 In 1866, the Church experienced a heavy loss in the death of deacon 
 Edward Kider. He was a man of much efficiency of character, of bus- 
 iness habits, and to his energy and liberality the Church was largely 
 indebted for its sustenance. In the same year, Bro. Lodge resigned and 
 was succeeded by Eev. John W. Jones, who remained until 1871. La- 
 ter, Dr. Isaac Cole supplied the pulpit semi-monthly. From 1876 to 
 1880, Rev. E. B. Walts labored earnestly as pastor. Subsequently, Rev. 
 T. D. D. Clark and Rev. C. D. Parker preached there for brief periods. 
 
 The Church, however, barely maintained an existence, until, in 1882, 
 an improvement took place. Ten members of the Eutaw Place and Sev- 
 enth Churches living in this neighborhood, united with Sater's. They 
 were Bro. Wm. T. Poster and wife Angelina A., their daughter Anne 
 A., and sons Chas. T. and Edvv'd R. Foster; Mrs. Elizabeth Stevenson? 
 sister of Mrs. Foster, (both daughters of the late Edward Rider;) also, 
 Dr. W. G. Rider, son of the same ; John G. Cockey and wife Mary Ann, 
 and Mrs. Helen Brady. The Church is now lively, self-supporting^ 
 contributes liberally to home and foreign missions, and has lately ex- 
 pended about $500 in enlarging and repairing its meeting-house. Its 
 membership is reported at 30. Rev. Jas. A. Woolf was called to the 
 pastorate the present year. The following are the officers : Deacons, 
 John G. Rider, Abraham Brown ; Treasurer, William G. Rider; Clerk? 
 Charles T. Foster. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 27 
 
 HARFORD CHURCH. 
 
 In connection with Sater's, it may not be amiss to state some facts in 
 relation to Harford Church. Although Sater's was the first Baptist 
 Church formed in this State, yet Harford in its early history was a more 
 active and efficient body. If Sater's claims priority in age, her younger 
 sister can justly boast of a more numerous offspring, and be regarded 
 as a "mother Church." The early ministers of Harford were active 
 and enterprising, men of decided missionary spirit, and by the divine 
 blessing on their abundant labors, the gospel was spread abroad, took 
 root, and brought forth fruit in distant places, as well as in their own 
 immediate neighborhood. 
 
 A few years after tlie constitution of the Church at Chestnut Ridge, 
 some of the members wlio preferred the doctrines of the "Particular 
 Baptists," obtained letters and constituted a new Church at Winter's 
 Eun, in Harford county. This was in 175-4. They were immediately 
 received into the Pliiladelphia Association. Revs. Benjamin Griffith 
 and Peter Van Horn were their ministers. They afterwards assumed 
 the title of "Harford Chnrch." John Uavis, a young preacher, from 
 Pennepek, Pa., was called, and remained pastor until his death in 1809, 
 aged 87 years. In recording this, the minutes of the old Association 
 contain this comment of praise: "Precious in the sight of the Lord 
 is the death of his s lints." Bro. Davis discharged the duties of his 
 office for fifty-three years, the longest pastorate known in this region 
 among Baptists. All who knew him rejoresent him as having been a 
 man of eminent piety, sound views, consistent character, and fervent 
 zeal. He traveled much, and generally on horseback, preaching Christ 
 wherever he went. The woods, the school-house, the barn, the cabin, 
 the parlor, the meeting house, were all alike to him places of worship 
 and of labor.* Nor did he fail to preach to the solitary traveler on the 
 highway. While manifesting this primitive zeal, he was sometimes 
 called to endure primitive persecution, for though the law guaranteed 
 protection to his calling, yet there were not wanting "lewd fellows of 
 the baser sort" who resorted to violence, in their efforts to hinder the 
 gospel. 
 
 *In his old age, Father Davis fell into the habit of reading the Bible as he was 
 riding to his appointments. Joseph H. Jones says, in his pamphlet, "I have been 
 informed by one who knew him very well, that he would sometimes be late in 
 getting to Sater's, when he would pleasantly say, 'Well, brethren, old John Da- 
 vis is as sure as a gun, but not quite so quick !' Frequently this detention would 
 arise from his becoming so engaged in his medita-tions on the way, that the horse 
 on which he rode would stop in a fence corner to nip grass, while he, with Bible 
 in hand, would sit on his saddle, until some passer-by would say to him, 'Father 
 Davis, it is near meeting time.' The reply would be, 'Is it ? dear me !' and he 
 would jog along." 
 
28 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Harford gave rise to the First Baltimore, Taneytown, Gunpowder, 
 Frederick and Westminster Churches, the last three now extinct. A 
 short distance from Westminster there was once a flourishing Baptist 
 interest. Father Davis, Elders Green, Grice and others visited that 
 field frequently, preaching to large crowds and baptizing many con- 
 verts. Sixteen acres of ground were given to trustees for the uses of a 
 Baptist Church. About 1841, Rev. Wm. Laws, then a missionary of 
 our Board, procured lumber and other materials for the erection of a 
 house of worship on that land. The frame-work was put up, but the 
 building was never completed. At one time, Harford was the largest 
 and most flourishing Baptist Church in Maryland. From 1799 to 1803, 
 there was a gracious revival there, increasing the membership from 101 
 to 226. Rev. Absalom Butler was associated with Father Davis. For 
 several years after Bro. Davis' death there was no settled pastor. About 
 1814, Rev. Thos. Barton took charge for six years; then Rev. Thomas 
 Poteet, and afterwards Rev. Wm. \\ ilson. The Church became aff'ected 
 with anti-missionary views and lost its power for usefulness. In 1836 
 it remained in the old Baltimore Association, and still exists. 
 
 FREDERICKTOWN CHURCH. 
 
 In chronological order, the next Baptist Church formed in Maryland 
 was at Fredericktown, now City. The minutes give no information of 
 its origin, except tlie date, 1773. In that year it was received into the 
 Ketoctin Association, Va. Its first pastor was Rev. Absalom Bainbridge, 
 who was succeeded by Revs. William Parkinson, William Gilmor, John 
 Welch, Plummer Waters and Jos. H. Jones. Its largest membership 
 never exceeded fifty. In 1854, it joined our Association, but failed to 
 report after a few years, and has become extinct. A good stone meeting 
 house belonging to that body is now occupied by a Colored Baptist 
 Church. 
 
 OLD SENECA CHURCH. 
 
 This Church was organized in 1773. through the labors of Daniel 
 and Wm. Fristoe, Richard Major and .Jeremiah Moore, all well-known, 
 faithful preachers. It was located in Montgomery county, near Seneca 
 creek. Daniel Fristoe was the first pastor, but died a year after enter- 
 ing duty. Rev. Jeremiah Moore was then called, and served for forty 
 years. He was regarded as a remarkable man and preacher. He died 
 in 1815. Rev. Plummer Waters succeeded to the pastorate for nearly 
 the same period. As this Church was never connected with our As- 
 sociation, it is not necessary to follow its history here. 
 
REV. J. W. M. WILLIAMS, D. D. 
 
 PASTOR OF THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. BALTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 31 
 
 1/85. 
 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
 At what precise date a meeting of Baptists was first held in Balti- 
 more, we have no means of ascertaining; but certainly, twelve years 
 before the actual organization of a Church, the propriety of forming 
 one was under consideration by a number of brethren then resident in 
 "Baltimore Town." In 1773, Thomas Bailey, executor of William and 
 Ezekiel Towson, conveyed to Benjamin Griffith, Nathaniel Griffith 
 David Shields, George Presstman, Kichard Lemmon, John McKim, 
 James Cox and Alexander McKim, the right and title to a lot of 
 ground, in Jones' addition to ''Baltimore Town" for the sum of £150, 
 *'for a house of public worship and also for a burying place, for the 
 service of the congregation or Society that is now or may hereafter 
 be established or constituted in Baltimore Town known by the name 
 or appellation of Baptists." This lot was half an acre in extent, suit- 
 able to contain a house of worship and a grave- yard, and accessible to 
 Jones' Falls for baptism. A house was shortly erected, 40 x 60 feet, 
 which remained until 1828, when the Merchant's Shot Tower was 
 erected on its site. A small school house and a dwelling for the pastor 
 were also erected on this lot. 
 
 Eev. John Davis, the pastor of Harford Church, was then in the 
 habit of gathering a small band of disciples together, and preaching to 
 them once a month. Most of them were members of his Church in 
 Harford. This arrangement continued till 1784, when Rev. Lewis 
 Richards, a Welchman by birth, came to this city from Charleston, S. 
 C. Finding in him a suitable under-shepherd, these disciples withdrew 
 from Harford Church by regular letters of dismission, and with their 
 pastor elect were conftituted an independent body, January 15, 1785. 
 The constituent members were Rev. Lewis Richards, pastor, David 
 Shields and wife, George Presstman and wife, Richard Lemmon, Alex- 
 ander McKim, Thomas Coal and wife, William Hobby and Mrs. Eleanor 
 Thomas. The same day on which the Church was constituted, their 
 first baptism took place. The Church united with the Philadelphia 
 Association. The number of members in 1787 was twenty-eight. 
 
 Before proceeding further, it may not be amiss to give a brief notice 
 of their first pastor. Mr. Lewis Richards was born in Cardiganshire, 
 South Wales, in 1752. He made a public profession of religion at 
 nineteen years of age, and united with the "Independents." Soon after 
 
32 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 this, becoming >icqu;iinted with tiie celebrated Lady Huntingdon, he 
 pursued a course of study in the College endowed by her liberality. 
 Several years later he embarked for America, intending to continue 
 his studies at the famous "Orphan House," founded by Whitefield in 
 Georgia. How long he stayed there, is not known. He was baptized 
 by Rev. Richard Furman, at the High Hills of Santee, 8. 0., in 1777, 
 and ordained the same year by Rev. Messrs. Oliver Hart and Joseph 
 Cook. He traveled and preached acceptably in difterent parts of South 
 Carolina and Georgia. In 1780, he moved to Northampton County, 
 Va., and thence to Baltimore in 1784. He was elected pastor of the 
 First Church and remained alone in this office thirty years. In 1815, 
 Rev. Edmond J. Reis was elected assistant pastor, and they continued 
 to cooperate thus for three years, when in 1818, Mr. Richards resigned 
 his pastorship, but continued his connection as a member of the Church 
 until he died, February 1, 1832, being then in his eightieth year. 
 
 Mr. Richards was about five feet, four inches in height, and of 
 rather handsome appearance. He was not distinguished for learning 
 or eloquence, yet by his blandness of manner, his affectionate dispo- 
 sition, simple hearted, yet intelligent and consistent piety, his meekness 
 of spirit, his unselfishness, his untiring devotion to the Master's cause, 
 he not only won the esteem of Christians, but the respect even of 
 unbelievers. His charity was that which "seeketh not her own, is not 
 easily provoked, thinketh no evil." 
 
 In ministerial labors, till the infirmities of age prevented, he was 
 untiring. He not only filled his own pulpit creditably to himself and 
 acceptably to his people, but he traveled much to spread the gospel in 
 regions beyond him. The Churches at Taneytown, Fredericktown, 
 Hammond's Branch and others were often indebted to him for sermons. 
 During his ministry of thirty years, the membership increased from 
 eleven constituents, to one hundred and sixty- four. His style was de- 
 cidedly calvinistic, without the least approach to antinomianism. He 
 was eminently practical, both in preaching and in living. Of him it 
 might be said as emphatically as of any man ; "mark the perfect man 
 and behold the upright, for the end of that man is peace." Mr. Rich- 
 ards was twice married. 
 
 The Church prospered, baptisms and receptions by letter were fre- 
 quent. In its infancy, however, it was not wichout trouble in financial 
 matters. So limited were the resources, that in August, 1787, the Clerk 
 was directed to inform the pastor that they were not able to pay his 
 salai'y, and to give him leave to seek a better field. But he continued 
 with them for what they could raise, which was at that time about 
 $650 per annum. What means of support the pastor had beyond 
 this, we know not. The relation, however, between him and the people 
 
Maryland Baptist History. -li?) 
 
 of his charge continued without interruption for many years. In 1792 
 William Clinghani was baptized. After diligent inquiry, his character 
 was found to be blameless, and his gifts for the ministry being ap- 
 poved, he was ordained. After preaching in Baltimore, and through 
 the State, he moved to Mifflin County, Pa., where his labors were 
 blessed to the conversion of many souls, and the constitution of a 
 Church. He afterward returned to Maryland and was for some time 
 pastor of both Old Seneca and Bethel Churches. He lived and labored 
 to a good old age, and departed this life, beloved by his fellow Chris- 
 tians and respected by all who knew him. 
 
 In 1795, this Church united with the Baltimore Baptist Association. 
 So far, the support of the minister had been by voluntary subscriptions 
 In the same year a plan was adopted for "pewing" the meeting house. 
 Some members agreed to advance the funds necessary, to be repaid by 
 a small tax on the pews exclusive of what might be laid on them for the 
 minister ; this exclusive tax was to be paid at the beginning of each 
 year, until the wbole expense of pewing was paid. 
 
 The affairs of the Church moved smoothly. In 1801, seventeen were 
 added by baptism and nine by letter; total number of members, one 
 hundred and three. The year following twenty-five were baptized. 
 In 1815, the assistant pastor was elected. Some questions of importance 
 were occasionally brought up for discussion. Among these was the 
 condition of the colored people. In a letter to the Philadelphia Asso- 
 ciation in 1789, the Church wrote : 'Brethren, contemplating the suf- 
 ferings and unhappy condition of the negroes, who are held in slavery 
 among us, we are induced to recommend their case to your notice, and 
 to solicit the influence of your counsels in their behalf. Societies have 
 been formed in this and some of the neighboring States for the protec- 
 tion of those who are unlawfully held in bondage, and we are happy to 
 observe that the society lately established in this town has been ser- 
 viceable in the cause of Liberty. This matter dwells on our minds 
 with peculiar weight." On another occasion, it was discussed whether 
 slaves were "capable of being Church members," and decided in the 
 affirmative. A number of slaves had, in fact, already been admitted 
 by baptism and letter. Another query was brought forward several 
 times : "Whether colored members might vote at business meetings ?" 
 No record is made of a decision. 
 
 Church discipline was maintained. Not only were vices made sub- 
 ject to reprobation, but such popular amusements as the people style 
 "innocent" received decided censure. Dancing was denounced as "at 
 variance with Christian propriety." A resolution was adopted "that 
 this Church have no fellowship with those members who send their 
 
34 Maryland Baptist liistoiy. 
 
 children to dancing school." In consequence of this, two of the most 
 respectable and wealthy members of the Church were excluded. 
 
 A number of young men were brought into the ministry through this 
 Church in its early years. Among them was Wm. Clingham, already 
 named, John Welsh, George Grice, Thomas Barton, Geo. H. Marcher, 
 Samuel Nightingale, James Osborne, and John Johnson. 
 
 A feature in the early Church books is a record of the deaths of the 
 Members, and notices of their character. 
 
 In 1815, Rev. Edmond J. Reis came to this city from St. John's, Xew 
 
 Brunswick. He was a French Canadian, of good education, sprightly 
 
 intellect and eloquent speech. His command of the English language 
 
 was complete, but his accent was French, which was noi disagreeable, 
 
 however, to most of his hearers, and he drew crowds to his preaching. 
 
 -A rumor that he had studied for the Catholic priesthood added public 
 
 interest to his name. Mr. Reis was invited to become assistant pastor 
 
 -of the First Church, and accepted. In six months he was chosen' as 
 
 ' co-pastor, of course by desire of Bro. Richards, who was now becoming 
 
 infirm. The Church improved under the change, and many member* 
 
 "Were added to its roll. There was a continuous revival for several years.- 
 
 In November, 1817, Mr. Richards resigned and Mr. Reis was elected 
 sole pastor, for one year. To show their feelings toward the retiring 
 pastor, it was agreed, Feb., 1818, "that the Church make ample provi- 
 sion for our late pastor, Bro. Lewis Richards, during the remainder of 
 his life." It was decided that $600 per annum should be paid him in 
 •quarterly instalments, as long as he lived. This was a just tribute to 
 a worthy servant of the Lord, who had ministered to them for a third 
 'Of a century, A more suitable token co'uld hardly have been given. 
 
 About this time a new place of worship was mooted, the old house 
 V)n Front street becoming too small. Rev. Dr. Staughton, of Philadel- 
 phia furnished a plan for an imposing building, modeled somewhat after 
 the Pantheon at Rome. Its circular shape involved a large expense 
 beyond that of a square structure, which was a serious objection to 
 those on whom the responsibilty of its cost would mainly fall, among 
 TtisrJiom was, chiefly, Mr. William AVilson. The majority of the Church, 
 however, decided in favor of the costly edifice, and it was built. Mr. 
 Wilson stood up generously to their aid, and advanced a large sum of 
 money to pay for materials and labor. The cost was about $56,000. 
 Many and liberal subscriptions were made by members and citizens 
 ; generally, but a large sum, about $.30,000, remained as a debt. The 
 ^ house was located admirably on the north-east corner of Lombard and 
 ^i^iarp streets. It was dedicated by Dr. Staughton, March, 1818. 
 
 Mr. Reis was quite popular, the Church prospered, and the sum of 
 $600 for Mr. Richards was raised readily in. addition to the $1,300 sal- 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 35 
 
 ary of the pastor. A new cemetery lot was purchased in the south-west- 
 ern part of the city, quite away from what was thought likely to be 
 built upon, and the dead Avere removed thither from the old lot on 
 Front St. This property was now sold, excepting the ground occupied 
 by the meeting house. Had Mr. lieis's popularity continued, the pros- 
 perity of the Church might have remained ; but some of the members 
 became aggrieved with his public utterances, and asked for letters of 
 dismissal, to form a new body, which they called the Third Baptist 
 Church. Charges -were brought against Mr. Eeis. His preaching be- 
 came sarcastic and denunciatory. Many hearers considered themselves 
 personally abused in his public discourses. In the meantime, the con- 
 -dition of the finances became very embarrassing. All this finally led 
 to the resignation of the pastor and the withdrawal of a number of his 
 friends, who constituted themselves as the Ebenezer Baptist Church, 
 with Mr. Reis in charge. 
 
 The state of the First Church was now discouraging — without a pas- 
 tor, depleted of members, with expenses ftir exceeding revenues, and 
 a heavy debt I Still the faithful were not hopeless ; they met weekly 
 to pray for a pastor and for God's blessing. In May, 1821, Eev. John 
 Finlay, of Albany, N. Y., accepted a call as pastor for six months ; but 
 remained a year, and was then elected permanently. He however re- 
 served the "inalienable right of resigning his office and withdrawing 
 his social relation absolutely and fully, according to conviction of du- 
 ty." He discharged his duties acceptably for fifteen months, when he 
 suddenly resigned and withdrew from the Church. In response to a 
 committee, he replied that "according to his perception of the present 
 state of things, it was not possible for him" to resume his place. The 
 Church however regarded him as too valuable a man to lose, and he 
 was requested to supply the pulpit at convenience, to which he agreed. 
 It was understood by the Church that a change in its mode of govern- 
 ment would make the way clear for Mr. Finlay's resumption of the pas- 
 torate. Accordingly, it was decided "that four of their members shall 
 be chosen as ruling elders, on whom, in conjunction with the pastor, 
 the government of the Church shall rest. Also, that two deacons shall 
 be appointed, whose duty it shall be to furnish the table of the Lord, 
 also the table of the pagtor, and attend to the necessities of the poor 
 saints." The deacons and clerk now resigned, and the following officers 
 were elected : Thomas Maybury, John Miles, Samuel King and .Jas. 
 Carnighan, ruling elders; John C. Richards, deacon. A covenant of 
 fellowship was signed, and the new form of government approved by 
 the members generally. Mr. Finlay resumed charge of the Church, 
 the ruling elders managed its affairs, received members, exercised dis- 
 cipline, appointed superintendents of the Sunday school, &c. 
 
36 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The Church moved along well, spiritually, but '-the appalling debt"^ 
 was hanging upon them. Happily, it was due mainly to one individ- 
 ual, who Avas not only a member of the Church and a man of wealth, 
 but a man of noble and generous disposition. The Church addressed 
 a letter to IVlr. Wilson, confessing their inability to raise more money 
 than what was necessary for current expenses. Mr. Wilson, who had 
 already released them of considerable interest, proposed to give them a 
 lease free for five years, and then renew on liberal terms. Yet even this 
 offer was beyond the power of the trustees to accept, so unpropitious 
 appeared the future. Mr. Wilson then relinquished any claim for in- 
 terest for several years to come, and remarked, "Let the matter remain 
 in this state for the present." The Church gratefully acknowledged 
 the favor, and continued to occupy the building. This was in 1823. 
 The following year this benefactor died. But for his liberality and 
 that of his family, the house would never have been built nor the debt 
 finally canceled. 
 
 Mr. Finlay had been teaching school to obtain a support, as his sal- 
 ary as pastor was insufficient. Mr. Wilson's action now enabled the 
 Church to pay Mr. Finlay $1,500 a year and secure his entire time. 
 They also started a sinking fund, toward paying their great debt. In 
 the meantime the Church was blessed with evidences of divine presence. 
 
 It is unknown when the Sunday school was organized, but it was 
 probably existing in 1814. In 1824, the Church records make their 
 first reference to it, in stating the appointment by the ruling elders, of 
 Mrs. Lucretia E. Clark to be superintendent of the female department. 
 Under her excellent management the school grew in usefulness. Her 
 heart and purse were ever open to its necessities. The following reso- 
 lutions were passed about 1827: "Whereas, we have this day examined 
 the book of accounts which records the labors and expenditures of our 
 sister Clark and her coadjutors for the female Sunday school, therefore 
 Resolved, that we cannot too highly approve the faithfulness and dili- 
 gence of our sisters engaged in this noble charity, and which is designed 
 to rescue many immortal souls from ignorance and vice, and fit them to 
 become useful in society, and through grace, in the Church of God. 
 Resolved, that the thanks of the Church be presented to sister Clark 
 and her fellow laborers, bidding them God speed, and reminding them 
 that their labor is not in vain in the Lord." ]5lrs. Clark continued to 
 work incessantly in this field, as long as health and strength would 
 permit, and departed with the harness on, in July, 1872, having been 
 superintendent of the female department for forty-eight years. 
 
 Mr. Finlay resigned April 1, 1834, having served thirteen years. He 
 was a man of talent and learning, an able preacher, with some peculiar- 
 ities that detracted from his usefulness, but on the whole, his ministry 
 
Maryla7id Baptist History. 37 
 
 was quite successful. The Church advanced in every respect under 
 his charge. 
 
 Shortly after, the Church resolved to hold a '"protracted meeting." 
 Rev. Wm. F. Broaddus, of Virginia, Kev. Wni. T. Brantly, (the elder,) 
 and Eev. J. 0. Choules, were invited to preach. This was the first 
 time Mr. Broaddus had visited Baltimore, and when the evening came 
 when he was announced to preach, there was but a small attendance, 
 which did not please him, so instead of preaching at the hour appointed, 
 he arose and remarked, that he was from the country, merely a plain 
 country preacher, and did not know how to adapt himself to city man- 
 ners and city style of preaching, and should not try to do so; that at 
 home he sometimes told his unconverted hearers that they had no right 
 to go to hell. He added : "As the brethren have made an appointment 
 for me to-morrow, it may be interesting to some to know what a strange 
 country preacher will preach about. I therefore give notice that I will 
 try to prove from Sci'ipture and reason, that sinners in the city have no 
 more right to go to hell than sinners in the country.'' He then im- 
 mediately dismissed the congregation. The otlier ministers were an- 
 noyed by this, and remarked that such an announcement was likely to 
 keep the people away. "It can't be helped now," said Mr. B. "We'll 
 see if they are so easily frightened." Next night the house was well- 
 filled. The preaching was in power and demonstration of the Spirit. 
 From that hour the meeting was successful. Many were brought to a 
 knowledge of the truth, and some who had long been interested in sal- 
 vation, but never professed it openly, came out on the Lord's side, and 
 were baptized. Among them were a number who gave wealtl], talent 
 and social influence freely for the cause, and remained through life as 
 pillars of the Church. Mr. Broaddus chiefly conducted the meeting 
 to its conclusion. Brethren Brantly and Choules being called away, 
 he was assisted by Rev. Stephen P. Hill, then happening to be present 
 on a journey to the north. TheCliurch was so deeply impressed with 
 the good sense, sound doctrine, laborious zeal and earnest piety of Mr. 
 Broaddus, that they gave him a unanimous call to become their pastor. 
 His Churches in Virginia, however, raised such serious objections, that 
 he declined the offer. Rev. Henry A. Wyer,of Savannah, Geo., was al- 
 so called, but his health would not permit him to accept. 
 
 A few months later. Rev. Mr. Hill was elected, and remained in the 
 position for sixteen years. Though his ministry was from the begin- 
 ning attended with gratifying success, it was not unattended with dif- 
 ficulties and trials. One of these appeared soon after the beginning of 
 his pastorate. Some of the members, men and women of position in 
 •society and influence in the Church, had not only embraced the peculiar 
 views of Alexander Campbell, but were not backward in propagating 
 
38 Mixrylaiid Baptist History. 
 
 them, much to the annoyance of a hirge majority of the members. The- 
 pastor, though a man of remarkably mild and amiable disposition, na- 
 turally shrinking from everything in the shape of controversy, yet bold 
 for the truth, felt it was his duty to meet this error. He accordingly 
 prepared and preached a sermon on the "New Birth." If the decision 
 and straight-forward earnestness of the pastor did not reclaim those 
 "disciples," at least one good result followed : the disaffected ones im- 
 mediately withdrew and left the Church in peace. Among them wa» 
 a brother whose fervent piety and consistent character made his depar- 
 ture a matter of extreme regret. That man was Thomas Maybury. 
 Very soon, however, he found that the theory of his new associates did 
 not supply the spiritual aliment that his soul required. He sought an 
 interview with his former pastor and expressed his desire to be restored 
 to fellowship. Some changes in the management of the Church had 
 occurred during his absence, and a manual had been printed setting 
 forth the new order. Mr. Hill gave him a copy to read; and he soon 
 again renewed his application. Mr. Hill enquired whether the manual 
 suited his views. Mr. Maybury replied that most of it met with his 
 hearty approbation, though to some things he might take exception. 
 "But," he added, "I am not disposed to drain at a gnat." "No," re- 
 sponded Mr. Hill, "not after having swallowed A. Campbell^ The- 
 good man was not offended at the pun, but enjoyed it. He was restored 
 to the Church, and to the day of his death remained one of its most 
 efficient members. 
 
 It has been stated that while Mr. Finlay was pastor, a radical change- 
 had been made in the government of the Church. To the pastor and 
 ruling elders its entire management had been given. This was an in- 
 novation on established Baptist usage, and was now modified. The 
 Church decided that an "executive committee" should be appointed 
 annually, to attend to the usual detail of discipline, reception, dismis- 
 sion and exclusion of members, to report from time to time to the- 
 Church for their approval. 
 
 The Church prospered now generally. Among those baptized by- 
 Mr. Hill in 1835, was one who became a power in the denomination, as 
 a man of piety and scholarship — the late Prof. Horatio B. Hackett.. 
 Considering his character and services as a translator and commenta- 
 tor, no small credit is due to the pastor and Church who brought him 
 into our fellowship. 
 
 Another event occurred during the ministry of Mr. Hill that cannot 
 be omitted in this sketch — the great revival of 1839, under the labors 
 of Elder .Jacob Knapp. At that time the condition of all the Baptist 
 Churches in Baltimore was discouraging. Hearing of Mr. Knapp's 
 success and ability to move the masses, Bro. Hill and Rev. G. F. Adams^ 
 
Maryland Baptist History^ 39 
 
 then pastor of the Calvert St. Church, jointly invited Mr. Knapp to 
 hold a series of meetings in Baltimore. He accepted the invitation, re- 
 questing the Church to procure the largest hall in the city as the place 
 of meeting. Our brethren smiled at the idea of his drawing a crowd 
 greater than the house of the First Church could conveniently accom- 
 modate, and as it was then among the largest rooms in the city, it was 
 fixed upon as the place for the meeting. Mr. Knapp began his service 
 early in October, 1839, and held three meetings daily for seven weeks. 
 It is generally admitted by all, that there never had been such religious 
 excitement, and such deep and generally abiding interest on the subject 
 of salvation, in Baltimore. In the mornings, the house was almost 
 uniformly well filled. In the afternoons, the lecture room was crowded 
 with enquirers, and Christians coming to talk and pray with them, and 
 at nights the large audience room was densely packed with a deeply in- 
 terested and attentive mass of human beings. 
 
 Mr. Knapp, though not so refined as some, was beyond question an 
 earnest and powerful preacher. His style was simple, plain, ])ointed. 
 His illustrations, a marked peculiarity of his efforts, were drawn from 
 well known affairs of every day life. It may be said literally, that his 
 word was "with power." The immediate result was the baptism of 
 about 270 persons who connected themselves with this Church, besides 
 probably as many more, who professed faith in Christ at this meeting, 
 but attached themselves to other Churches. 
 
 In more than one instance in this sketch, the crippled condition of 
 the finances of the Church has been the subject of remark. This was 
 a source of anxiety to the pastor. The overwhelming debt was riglit 
 in his way, and hitherto there had seemed no prospect of relief. Now 
 however there seemed a little hope. Among those brought into fellow- 
 ship during the revival were some men of means and large business ex- 
 perience. A committee was appointed to devise means of relief. The 
 debt due Mr. Wm. Wilson at his death was about $20,000. The accu- 
 mulated interest for fifteen years now nearly doubled it. The whole 
 amount was now due to Mr. James Wilson. The committee waited 
 upon him, and after a full and frank expression of the case, Mr. Wil- 
 son agreed to release the entire debt upon the payment of $15,000. A 
 subscription was at once started, and without much difficulty, two- 
 thirds of the amount was raised. Not willing to have so desirable an 
 object fail, it was further agreed by Mr. Wilson that he would accept 
 the amount raised, and allow the balance to remain as an annual 
 ground rent of $300, the interest of the $5,000 yet due. This of course 
 was a great relief to all concerned. It was equivalent to a donation of 
 $25,000 on the part of Mr. Wilson. 
 
40 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The trials of the Church and pastor, however, were not over. If the 
 debt were removed or so reduced to a manageable amount as not to be 
 a hindrance to the prosperity of the body, other difficulties were in 
 store. There was evidently on the part of some a desire for a change 
 of ministry. Mr. Hill's mild and gentle disposition did not suit some, 
 who were brought in under the influence and excitement of the revival 
 of 1839. This Mr. Hill perceived, and rather than be thought an im- 
 pedim.ent in the way of the Church's prosperity, resigned in December, 
 1843. The Church, by a vote of at least four to one, declined to ac- 
 cept the resignation. Mr. Hill finding those who were before dissatis- 
 fied still of the same mind, a few months later again offered his resig- 
 nation. It was accepted. But when the time for an election drew 
 near, as a very large proportion of the members were females, an eftbrt 
 was made for the first time in the history of the Church, to exclude 
 the ladies from the privilege of voting. The result was a division in 
 the body. The friends of Mr. Hill, comprising a large majority of the 
 members, withdrew, and for some time worshi ped in a hall. After 
 several efforts to settle the difficulty by arbitration, they entered suit for 
 possession of the property to which they conceived they were justly en- 
 titled. After some months of 'Maw's delays," the case was decided in 
 favor of those who sided with Mr. Hill. The others unwilling to ap- 
 peal, at once withdrew, and the Church again took possession of their 
 property. Tliose who withdrew organized the "Seventh Church." 
 
 The pastorate of Mr. Hill continued until Feb. 13, 1850, when he 
 gave the Church a final and positive resignation. In receiving it, the 
 Church renewed their expressions of esteem for his character. During 
 his ministry, the body iiad permanently increased in numbers and in- 
 fluence. Excepting in 1839, during Elder Knapp's meeting, the in- 
 crease was not rapid, but his ministry was blessed not only in the con- 
 version of many souls to Christ, but in bringing a number of talented 
 men into the ministry, some of whom are passed away, whilst others 
 are still filling spheres of usefulness in the Redeemer's kingdom. These 
 were W. R. Maybiiry, S. Ward, J. A. McKean, Benjamin Griffith, C- 
 H. Parker, W. B.Clark, Franklin Wilson, E. W. Pray, J. Grant and 
 Daniel Gumming. Mr. Hill died in Washington, D. C, Sept. 16, 1884- 
 
 The Church now called Rev. Thos. S. Malcom, Rev. H. H. Wyer, 
 and Rev. W. H. Jordan, successively, all of whom declined. 
 
 The Baptist Church at Lynchburg, Va., of which Rev. John W. M. 
 Williams was pastor, were engaged in erecting a new meeting house, 
 and sent their pastor abroad to collect funds. He visited Baltimore, 
 and was invited to preach repeatedly in the First Church. The result 
 was a unanimous call to the pastorate. He accepted and entered l^pon 
 his duties in January, 1851. From the beginning, Bro. Williams has 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 4 1 
 
 been a successful pastor. Among bis earliest acts was tbe baptism of a 
 venerable man who had for years been waiting, like thousands of others, 
 for something to occur to lead him to a decision. Shortly after, twen- 
 ty-eight others w^ere received by baptism, and several by letter. 
 
 But all did not continue bright. Scarcely a month elapsed, before 
 the Church suffered a bereavement in the death of their senior deacon, 
 Mr. Jas. Wilson. He was a man of great moral worth, and in both tem- 
 poral and spiritual respects they felt deeply indebted to him. He died 
 in February, 1851, aged 76 years, the only surviving son of the vener- 
 able William Wilson, to whom the Church was so deeply obligated in 
 the building and occupancy of their house of worship. Resolutions 
 were passed expressive of their appreciation of his character. He was 
 indeed a truly good man, whose counsels were ever judicious, wise and 
 practical, who was liberal to all good objects, outside as well as inside 
 the Church of his choice. 
 
 But this affliction was followed by a grievous one of another charac- 
 ter. There were some in the Church who did not like its plan of gov- 
 ernment, as placing too much responsibility in the hands of the execu- 
 tive committee. They proposed an alteration of the manual to suit 
 their views. The Church by a large majority refused to accede to their 
 wishes. Feeling themselves aggrieved, twenty-three members at once 
 withdrew "to seek homes in other Churches. This was quite a severe 
 blow to the prosperity of the First Church, as some of the seceders 
 were among its most intelligent and efficient workers, and it was left 
 without a deacon or a male superintendent or teacher in the Sunday 
 school. Yet notwithstanding this drawback, the number of members 
 soon increased, and the close of that year showed a net gain of twenty- 
 two. Such divisions are sad events in the history of Churches, yet 
 they are not without advantages sometimes. T'hey often serve to make 
 those who remain more united, and develope in tl>e others increased 
 usefulness in new fields. "Circumstances make men." 
 
 The Church was blessed with a revival and accessions the following 
 year. The Sunday school was reorganized. An effort was also made 
 to extinguish their debt, "relying on the blessing of God to sustain 
 us in any sacrifice we may make to effect a result so desirable." The 
 debt was paid, and the ground-rent greatly reduced. Besides this, the 
 house needing repairs after thirty-live years of use, -t 3,200 were raised 
 for the purpose. An organ, the first in a Baptist church here, was ob- 
 tained and still remains in use. Together with |6,000 given for other 
 Church and missionary purposes, the expenditures reached $10,700. 
 
 This liberality was followed by a spiritual blessing, resulting in the 
 addition of ninety members during 1854. Little wealth was brought 
 in, but the spirit of liberality was augmented, and that year, besides 
 
42 Maryland l^aptist History. 
 
 paying their expenses, the members contributed to various benevolent 
 purposes over $1 1,000. 
 
 In 1853, a number of brethren and sisters of this Churcli established 
 a colony in the southern part of the city, which finally became known 
 as the Lee St. Church. 
 
 The Church and school continued to prosper year after year. Many 
 children in the latter, which was under the direct superintendence of 
 the pastor, trained under pious teachers, received here their first serious 
 impressions of divine truth, and became later among the most useful 
 members of the Church, Two young brethren, Alfred L. Bond and I. 
 F. Stidham, were educated by the Church at Columbian College, with 
 a view to the ministry. 
 
 Another season of refreshing visited the Church in 1863, resulting in 
 the addition #f a small number by baptism, by letter and by restoration. 
 An interesting event of the year was the ordination of three young 
 brethren to the ministry, viz: Alfred L. Bond, J. Q. A. Rohrer, and I. 
 F. Stidham. The two former had consecrated themselves to Foreign 
 Missions. They completed a thorough course of preparation for their 
 work, and with their devoted wives, embarked as missionaries, the one 
 for China and the other for Japan. They sailed from New York, Aug- 
 ust 3, 1863, in the ship "Edwin Forrest," which has never b'ee.n heard 
 from, and was doubtless lost. 
 
 For several years, during the war between the States, while strife was 
 prevalent without, there was no conflict within the Church. There 
 were different views entertained among the members in relation to 
 political matters, yet this subject never disturbed the minds or actions 
 of the members in their Church capacity. Peace and harmony marked 
 all their proceedings. Candidates were I'eceived and baptized, mem- 
 bers were received and dismissed by letter, wholesome discipline was 
 maintained, without any reference to the contending elements abroad. 
 During these troublous times, 1861 to 1865 inclusive, 134 additions 
 were made to the membership. During 1866, there was a powerful re- 
 vival; 150 were added to the Church, of whom 111 were baptized — the 
 year was one of unexampled prosperity. The young men of the Church 
 organized among themselves a "Home Mission Society," and instituted 
 a branch Sunday school in a destitute portion of the city. 
 
 Bro. Williams received the honorary degree of Doctor of Divinity 
 from the Columbian University in 1866. 
 
 During four months in 1867, the pastor was absent in Europe, when 
 Rev. Geo. Bradford supplied his pulpit and baptized several converts 
 into the fellowship of the Church. 
 
Maryland Baptist Histoiy 
 
 45 
 
 111 1866, this Church reported 616 members; while in 1867, with 
 120 additions, only 564 were reported. This, when understood, may be 
 regarded as a symptom of good health at the time ; for in spite of all 
 vigilance and care, "dead heads" will accumulate, and in this year a 
 ^'pruning process" took place, which reduced the Church to her true 
 status of ''living members." 
 
 KIKST BAPTIiiiT CHURCH — ERECTED 1817, DEMOLISHEI) IS'.T. 
 
 In the course of time, the encroachments of business upon the streets 
 within a half-mile of the "old First Church" became so great as to 
 banish a large portion of the members to a residence in distant parts 
 of the city. This finally required a cliange of location. 
 
 After several years of anxious consideration, the Church decided to 
 remove to Townsend street, near Fremont. They gave the old property 
 (valued at $60,000) and $5,000 cash, for the present new buildingj 
 erected expressly for them, upon a lot which cost about $10,000 addi- 
 tional. The refitting cost $10,000 more. The old temple was vacated 
 May 6, 1877. The Church held services in the Academy of Music on 
 Sunday mornings, and in the Seventh church on Thursday evenings^ 
 until January 6, 1878, when they took possession of the new house. 
 It is a fine, spacious, marble building, with modern conveniences, and 
 accessible from a large part of the city. Wm. H. Marriott, Architect. 
 
 At this point of transition, it seems appropriate to notice some of the 
 most prominent members identified with the old church, who, like it, 
 are now numbered with the things that are past. There were many 
 others whose names are dear to memory, but our space limits us to the 
 mention of only a few. 
 
 The character of Mr. Wm. Wilson has already been referred to. We 
 shall simply give as a fitting tribute to his memory the following para- 
 graphs of the funeral sermon preached by his pastor. Rev. John Finlay, 
 on the occasion of his death, in April, 1824. 
 
Erected 187S. 
 
 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 45 
 
 "In him the Church has found a nursing father, (by whose forbear- 
 ance we continue to worship in this house of prayer,) and a peace- 
 maker among brethren. In his death the poor have lost a steward, the 
 lonely and neglected widow a husband, and society at large a common 
 benefactor. It were easy to multiply illustrations of the Scripture 
 that 'the liberal man deviseth liberal things.' Suffice it that you have 
 seen hundreds of the poor weeping for his loss — that the audience be- 
 fore me contains many — who live to cherish the remembrance of the 
 man, whose capital and counsel furnished the means of employment 
 and the instrument of success. Suffice it that all the institutions which 
 the piety of our times has erected for the evangelization of the world 
 unite with the heart of the widow and the face of the orphan to say 
 that neither piety nor poverty ever asked and did not receive. 'Blessed 
 are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.' 'Inasmuch as ye have 
 done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto 
 me.' It is pleasing and improving to think of such a man; the recollec- 
 tion refreshes the heart and gives elasticity to the soul. We sum up 
 the series by one general statement — Wm. Wilson was a just and good 
 man, a firm believer in the Word of God, an approved Christian — a fol- 
 lower of the fishermen of Galilee in the ordinances of the Gospel, a 
 blessing to society and an argument for the religion of the Bible. 
 
 Let us bless God for the gifts he possessed and the graces he attained, 
 and be admonished that the proper method of honoring his memory is 
 to imitate him, as he copied the Saviour. Would to God that his 
 mantle may have descended on some one of his natural representatives, 
 who shall fill his place in society and in the Church of the living God, 
 and that in the long train of his descendants, who shall bear his name 
 and be warmed by his blood, there may be a perpetuity of his virtues 
 and possession of his /«i/A, yes! — Ms precious faitli — his love to the 
 Bible and the brethren of Jesus. Avaunt ye infidels! presume not to 
 judge of such a theme of purity and gladness, or else approach with 
 tears of shame and confession of repentance. Our deceased brother 
 was a Christian ! He had no relish for the refinements of a false phil- 
 osophy, which enfeeble the moral principle, harden the heart and blight 
 the hopes of man. In him behold and confess the worth and reality of 
 religion, and admire the happy combination of universal charity, inflex- 
 ible honesty, unaflfected humility and abundant prosperity. Be as- 
 sured it is the blessing of God that maketh rich and addeth no sorrow, 
 that a life of virtue is a life of honor and peace. Approach his death- 
 bed! His mind is clear, serene and resigned. The blood of Jesus is 
 his only trust. With perfect patience he submits to the appointment 
 of his Lord. The hour of his departure has come, and the waiting be- 
 liever expires without a struggle or a groan. This is the first Lord's 
 
46 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 day he is spending in heaven, his Father's house. His ears (stopped 
 so long by the hand of decay) are open to drink in the full chorus of 
 redeeming love. 'Be ye also ready.' Be followers of them who inherit 
 the promises, that when your earthly pilgrimage is finished you may live 
 with God ; and the survivors, while they make lamentation over you, 
 may be mutually comforted in applying the words of the text. 'The 
 memory of the just is blessed. Amen.' " 
 
 James CARNiGHAivr was baptized December 3, 1803, by Elder Lewis 
 Eichards. He was a man of personal activity. In whatever he under- 
 took he worked with a will. This was true in his secular business, and 
 as is usually the case, he brought the same disposition to bear in all the 
 responsibilities of his religious profession. The frequency with which 
 he was appointed on important committees, whether temporal or spirit- 
 ual in their nature, shows the confidence the Church had in his piety 
 and his judgment. The same is' true in relation to his election for a 
 series of years to the offices of deacon and trustee. In the absence of 
 the pastor, he or his associate deacon Maybury was almost always ex- 
 pected to take the lead of the meeting. 
 
 His regularity of habit, his strong faith, his bright hope, his ardent 
 love, his abhorrence of wrong, his keen sense and earnest appreciation 
 of right, his sound judgment, all combined to show forth in the 
 world, the character of a good man and a devoted Christian. He was 
 ■ever ready to cooperate with his brethren in anything and everything 
 that seemed to promise glory to God or good to man. The successful 
 protracted meeting in which Elder Knapp labored has been mentioned. 
 He anticipated this meeting with much interest, and always in his 
 prayers invoked the divine blessing upon the coming preacher and his 
 preaching. But he did not live to see the answer of his prayers. He 
 was taken just as the meeting begun, and departed at an advanced age, 
 in October, 1839. His pastor, Eev. Mr. Hill, preached an appro- 
 priate sermon at his funeral, from Acts xi: 24. "He was a good man." 
 
 Nearly allied to deacon Carnighan both in things of this life and of 
 that which is to come, was Thomas Maybury. They were baptized 
 and received into the Church the same day, and throughout their long 
 Christian career were ever ready to cooperate in all that pertained to 
 the welfare of the Church, and the salvation of souls. As men of busi- 
 ness neither of these disciples of Christ occupied a prominent position, 
 neither accumulated wealth, but in all their spiritual interests they 
 were preeminently useful. 
 
 All who attended prayer meetings with "father Maybury" — as he 
 was usually called among the brethren — bore testimony to the re- 
 markable power of his prayers. He always not only seemed himself 
 conscious of being in the very presence of God, but by a holy sympathy 
 
Maiyland Baptist History. 47 
 
 of which none present could divest themselves, he seemed to carry 
 those around him into that presence. Among the hundreds of good 
 Christian men with whom the writer has joined in prayer, he cannot 
 recollect one, who seemed so sublimely conscious of the immediate pres- 
 ence of the Almighty, as deacon Maybury. 
 
 From the constant study of the sacred scriptures, his soul seemed to 
 be saturated not only with Bible truth but Bible expressions. These 
 would often roll out in his pra3'ers and exhortations promiscuously, and 
 yet always so appropriately arranged, as to remind the hearer of the old 
 prophets. In con versaliou, especially with his fellow disciples, it was 
 truly edifying to witness his familiarity with the Bible, and the appro- 
 priateness with which he would quote the sacred word. 
 
 He had for many years "used the office of a deacon well." Indeed 
 in all the relations of life Mr. Maybury was found faithful, consistent, 
 zealous ; yet his modest, self-denying humility seemed to render him en- 
 tirely unconscious of attainments in piety beyond the great mass of his 
 fellow disciples. In the language of Dr. Hill, his former pastor, in 
 reference to his funeral service : "could he dictate to me, what I should 
 say on that occasion, they should be words that should abase the crea- 
 ture and exalt the Creator, that there is no goodness, or greatness, or 
 merit in man, and that he would ascribe all that he was, or hoped to be, 
 to divine mercy alone; for his spirit was one of deep humility and self- 
 abasement before God." After a long and well spent life, in which 
 eminent wisdom in counsel and well directed zeal in the service of his 
 divine Master were conspicious to all around him, he departed in the 
 blissful hope of glory in October, 1850. Kev. S. P. Hill, D. D., 
 preached his funeral sermon. His text was Job iv: 16-20. "The best 
 of men stand in need of mercy," was the theme of the discourse. 
 
 James Wilson, son of Wm. Wilson, professed faith in Christ, like 
 many others, years before he ventured to declare his hope publicly, in 
 the ordinance of baptism. He was one of a number already referred 
 to, as having been brought into the Church during the protracted 
 meeting held by Rev. Wm. F. Broaddus, in 1834. Partly by inherit- 
 ance and partly by his own industry he possessed an ample fortune. 
 This he largely used in quietly and judiciously promoting the honor 
 of religion and the happiness of those around him. It has already 
 been stated that the Church of which he was a member, was largely 
 indebted to his father for advances made for their house of worship. 
 This debt, in the division' of the estate, fell to the subject of these re- 
 marks. When an inquiry started as to how this indebtedness could be 
 removed, Mr. Wilson, with a generosity noble as it is rare, at once 
 agreed to relinquish more than two-thirds of his rightful claim. But 
 for this, it is not probable that to this day that debt would ever have 
 
48 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 been paid. But if Mr. Wilson was generous, it is certain that his hu- 
 mility and shrinking from ostentation in giving were quite equal to 
 his liberality. Though of the poor not a few were pensioners upon 
 his bounty, no one outside of his family knew it. and even his bene- 
 ficiaries were ignorant of the hand that fed them, thus as literally as 
 possible "not letting the left hand know what the right hand did." 
 His was practical Christianity. 
 
 Joseph B. Thomas, Sr., was born in New Orleans, La., November 
 5, 1807, and came to Baltimore with hisparents while yet a child. He 
 became a member of the First Baptist Church early in life, and led its 
 choir for many years with a voice that was remarkable for its sweetness 
 and power. It was chiefly through his energy and contribution of time, 
 labor and means that the organ previously referred to was secured, and 
 which is still in use in the new church. He took an active part in the 
 mission on Hill St., established and sustained by the First Church. 
 He was j^the leading spirit in the selection of the lot, in erecting the 
 building and in securing funds to sustain the missionary, Rev. J. H. 
 Phillips, who became the first pastor of the Church organized there. 
 When they removed to Lee Street, Bro. Thomas gave gratuitously much 
 labor in erecting the new house. In recognition of this, the Church 
 presented to him, publicly, through Dr. Franklin Wilson, a handsomely 
 bound copy of their manual, which his family retain as an honorable 
 memento. Mr. Thomas was a bricklayer, and contracted for the erec- 
 tion of many private and public buildings in this city, among them 
 the Leadenhall st. Church, which he also aided materially from his own 
 pocket. In fact, he contributed liberally to every Baptist church 
 erected in this State during his life. He was an active trustee and 
 deacon of the First Church for many years. His death occurred 
 December 23, 1879, in his 73rd year, after a few days' sickness. His 
 last audible words were, "Lord Jesus, thy grace is sufficient." 
 
 Among other deceased members deserving of honorable mention are 
 Mr. R. P. Brown, Mr. J. McKim Marriott, long a treasurer of the 
 Church ; Benj. G. Fry, a deacon ; Jas. D. Spilman, who led the choir 
 for many years, and was remarkably active in every good work. 
 
 Besides Mrs. Nelson Clark, already named, there were other "hon- 
 orable women, not a few." We take the liberty to mention several 
 whose example was worthy of all praise. 
 
 Mrs. Peter Levering was indeed a "mother in Israel." Kind in 
 manner and in heart, she looked after the condition of the poor of 
 the Church, not merely in supplying their wants, but even suggesting 
 and teaching lessons of economy by which many of their wants might 
 be prevented. She often gave them herself or procured from others 
 employment, that while it relieved their necessities, raised them above 
 
Maryland Baptist History. Ag 
 
 the distress of absolute want. While thus assisting them in their tem- 
 poral matters, she generally availed herself of the influence thus ac- 
 quired to speak to them of their eternal interest. Some who proved 
 to be among the most devoted members of the Church were brought to 
 embrace the truth by her pious conversations. 
 
 Mrs. Thos. M. Locke was another Dorcas of the same class. Her 
 mission seemed to be emphatically among the poor without regard to 
 church or denomination. As a member of the "Indigent Sick Society," 
 Mrs. Locke was ever on hand, ready to go from house to house with 
 supplies of food and clothing to distribute with judicious care, as cir- 
 cumstances seemed to require, and always made it her business in these 
 visits to endeavor to impress some heavenly truth upon the minds of 
 her beneficiaries. 
 
 Mks. James Wilson will never be forgotten by any who knew her, 
 as a remarkable woman. To a clear and well-balanced mind, a sin- 
 gularly retentive memory, she added refined manners and a generous 
 soul. Naturally shrinking from ostentation, she gave largely to all be- 
 nevolent objects that commended themselves to her better judgment. 
 She was a truly Christian woman. To the missionary work, the Sun- 
 day school, the education of young ministers, her heart and hand weje 
 ever open. 
 
 We add to these, Mrs. E. P. Brown, a bright example of conse- 
 crated life in high society; Mrs. A. Porter, faithful and benevolent; 
 Miss Eliza M. Wilson and Mrs. Henry Patterson, sisters, both 
 of ihem life- long friends of the cause, and contributors of many thou- 
 sands of dollars to the Church, the Association and missions generally. 
 Mrs. Joseph B. Thomas, Sen., an intelligent, earnest Christian, 
 unweariedly active in Church work, even to old age. Mrs. Dr. J. J. 
 Graves, mother of Dr. Kosewell H. Graves, our missionary in China, re- 
 markable for her Christian influence, and also her daughter Annie, a 
 consecrated worker. In the last day, many will rise up and call these 
 women "blessed." 
 
 Dr. Williams made a second trip to Europe in the summer of 1884, 
 with his wife and son, E. Calvin Williams, Esq. His pulpit was sup- 
 plied by Rev. H. M. Wharton. The Church derived benefit from these 
 repeated visits abroad, as he returned with increased strength to his 
 pastoral work, and was received each time with enthusiasm. His long 
 pastorate of thirty-three years was recently commemorated by a sermon 
 which has been published. His health and spirits remain apparently 
 undiminished, and many more years of service seem to be awaiting him 
 It is but a just tribute to add here, that Dr. Williams' usefulness has been 
 supplemented greatly by his wife, Mrs. Corinthia E. Williams, who has 
 
50 Maryla7id Baptist Histoiy. 
 
 aided hiin constantly in Chiircli work, and in teaching an adnlt class 
 in the Sunday school. She has also exerted a wide influence by means of 
 "Woman's Mission to Woman," which she was greatly instrumental in 
 establishing among the southern Churches, for the benefit of the 
 women in China and elsewhere. 
 
 The Church is prosperous and harmonious, and widening in influ- 
 ence every year. The entire cost of the church lot on Townsend street 
 is secured by subscription, so that the Church may be considered free 
 of debt. Altogether, as we close this record, the condition of the 
 Church was never better, and promises great good through an extended 
 future. The officers of the Church at this date are as follows : Dea- 
 cons : Edward Soper, T. N. Patterson, Wm. Miller, Wm. Waggner and 
 John Nicklas. Trustees: T. N. Patterson, Edward Soper, E. Calvin 
 Williams, Joseph Renshaw. A. J. Palmer, and the Pastor. Treasurer : 
 T. N. Patterson. Clerk, W. T. Young. 
 
 The officers of the Sunday school for 1884-5 are as follows : E. Cal- 
 vin Williams, Superintendent; Chas. M. Palmer, Assistant Superin- 
 tendent ; J. H. Wilson Marriott, Secretary ; Geo. W. Evans, Chas. T. 
 Fleet, Assistant Secretaries; George W. Ward, Treasurer ; F. A. Bier- 
 bower,Chorister ; E. D. Durborrow, Librarian ; John E. Warner, Al- 
 bert Honeywell, George Warner, William Giles, H. H. Maclellan, A. 
 A. Ehoderick, Assistant Librarians ; Prof. Harry W. Porter, Organist. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 5 1 
 
 1791. 
 TANEYTOW^N BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The name of this Church has disappeared from our Minutes for 
 about ten years, but it is necessary in this connection to make a few notes 
 of its existence. It appears, as far back as 1785-90, there were a few 
 Baptists in the neighborhood of Taneytown, among them a Mr. Chas. 
 Jones, at whose house there was occasional preaching by Rev. John 
 Davis, Lewis Eichards, Wm. Clingham, Wm. Parkinson and Absalom 
 Bainbridge. In May, 1701, a Church was organized. The constituents 
 were Thomas Jones, Amos Thomas and Ruth his wife, John Bowden 
 Elizabeth Chenowith, Rebecca Rial, Isaac Hill and Margaret his wife, 
 Richard Hill and Jane his Avife, William Hill and Mary his wife. Two 
 years after, the Church sent delegates to a convention in Frederick to 
 constitute an Association for the Western Shore of Maryland. Their 
 first pastor was Rev. Wm. Clingham, 1797 to 1803. The Church then 
 remained destitute of a pastor till 1822, when Edward C boat was elected. 
 From thirteen to thirty members are reported at various dates. From 
 1823 to 1827 the feeble flock was without a shepherd. Eider Thomas 
 Leanian was pastor from 1827 to 1834. He lived more than twenty 
 miles from the Church, and being entirely blind and performing his 
 monthly journeys en horseback, his ministry was attended with great 
 personal inconvenience. 
 
 This Church, feeble in number and in resources, had the honor of 
 being one of the seven that refused to endorse the Black Rock resolu- 
 tions in 1836, and withdrew from the old Baltimore Association, to 
 become one of the constituents of the Maryland Union Association. 
 
 The meeting-house which the Church had occupied, was for many 
 years standing immediately on the road, two miles west of Taneytown. 
 It was a plain log structure, built by the neighbors, on a lot given by 
 Mr. Thos. Jones. It was renovated in 1836, when Rev. Jos. Mettam, 
 of Pikesville," became their pastor. With the exception of a few years, 
 when Rev. Adam Baush, Abner Webb and others supplied them, Mr. 
 Mettam continued to minister to them frequently, as pastor or visitor, 
 about twenty years. In 1838, our Association held its session with 
 this Church. The delegates were cordially received and very hospi- 
 tably entertained by the friends in town and the surrounding country. 
 Mr. Mettam baptized a number during his ministry, among whom was 
 a young man, Jacob Fream,who afterward settled as a minister in Vir- 
 ginia. From 1854 to 1857, Rev. D. Cumming, residing near Reisters- 
 
52 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 town, supplied them once a month, and a few were added by baptism. 
 Later, a young convert named A. E. Harbaugh preached for a short 
 time, till his death. About 1859, Mr. Gumming resumed his pastoral 
 charge, and ministered for several years. In 1865 and 1866, Rev. J. L. 
 Lodge is reported as pastor. From 1869 to 1874 Eev. Joseph Mettam 
 again filled the pastoral office. Since then the Church, which was al- 
 ways feeble in membership, seems to have ceased active existence. Its 
 location, out of town, was a serious hindrance to its success. We have 
 no further account of it. 
 
 793- 
 NANJEMOY BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 As nearly as can be ascertained, the gospel, as understood and 
 practiced by the Baptists, was introduced into Charles county in the 
 year 1790. William Fristoe, Jeremiah Moore, Andrew Leach and 
 Henry Hagan, all from the opposite side of the Potomac, were the first 
 preachers of the denomination who visited that part of Maryland. 
 They were often personally insulted and abused. Hagan was once 
 dragged into the Potomac and held under until almost drowned. On 
 raising him, his persecutors asked him if he "believed." This, they 
 did to ridicule the well known scriptural doctrine, that none but 
 "believers" ought to be baptized. The good old man, nearly exhausted, 
 at length replied, "I believe that you intend to drown me." These 
 persecutions were borne with the meekness of Him "who when he was 
 reviled, reviled not again." As has ever been the case, opposition 
 served but to call attention to the preaching : the congregations in- 
 creased and many hearing the word, believed and were baptized. 
 
 Nanjemoy meeting-house is situated a few miles north of the Po- 
 tomac river, about fifty miles below Washington. The Church was 
 organized in 1793, and joined theKetoctin Association, Va. Later, they 
 withdrew from that body and united with the Columbia Association. 
 In 1837, they entered the Maryland Union Association. Their pas- 
 tor. Rev. William I. Chiles, and Wm. P. Flowers were delegates. 
 
 For many years after their organization, the Church had no settled 
 pastor, and were entirely dependent for preaching upon such voluntary 
 visits as could be obtained from brethren elsewhere. Among the 
 ministers who visited this little band were Elders Samuel L. Straughan, 
 Philip T. Montague, of Essex, Va., 0. B. Brown, of Washington, D. C, 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 5 3 
 
 Samuel Cornelius, of Alexandria, A. H. Bennett of Fauquier, and Geo. 
 F. Adams of Fredericksburg. In consequence of irregular services, 
 the Church became by deaths, removals and other causes, much reduced 
 in numbers and influence; and their house of worship became much 
 dilapidated. In 1833, Rev. Thomas Conduit, of Virginia, came into the 
 neighborhood and preached for the Nanjemoy Church. A wide-spread 
 revival ensued and many were added to the membership. The meeting 
 house was repaired and enlarged, crowds attended the services and the 
 morality of the entire neighborhood was greatly improved. Places for 
 drinking and gambling were forsaken, merchants who dealt in spirit- 
 uous liquors abandoned the abominable traffic. That was a happy day 
 for Nanjemoy. But on earth, "there's nothing constant but change." 
 Not long after, Mr. Conduit and several prominent families connected 
 with the Church removed to Alabama. The Church was again left 
 without a bishop. However, prayer-meetings were kept up and a Sun- 
 day school established. After Mr. Conduit had been absent about a 
 year, he returned with the intention to settle with this Church, but 
 he had scarcely got back and greeted his flock before God took him. 
 His successor was Rev. William Isham Chiles, who engaged to preach 
 at "Good Hope," thirty miles below, once a month, and continued to 
 labor thus for about ten years, without any pecuniary compensation. 
 His health failing he was obliged to give up this part of his charge. 
 During his ministry at Good Hope, he baptized a few. He continued 
 his relation with Nanjemoy till 1859, when ill health compelled him 
 to resign. He however continued to preach as he was able, for two or 
 three years. During the ministry of Mr. Chiles, the Church was blest 
 with several seasons of revival, when many were added to them by 
 baptism. In these ingatherings, the Church was enlarged in numbers 
 and usefulness. It was atone time reckoned among the best and most 
 efficient of our country Churches. In May, 1856, there was a revival 
 under the labors of Revs. T. W. Greer, pastor of the Navy Yard 
 Church at Washington, D. C, and F. L. Kregel of Baltimore. Between 
 thirty and forty were added by baptism. Early in 1857, Rev, Charles 
 Griffin, of Philadelphia, was elected pastor, but remained only a short 
 time. He baptized four persons. In August, 1858, the Church held a 
 protracted meeting, in which Rev.C. C. Meador and Mr. Chiles labored. 
 This resulted in the baptism of about twenty individuals. In Febru- 
 ary, 1862, the Church invited Rev. I. F. Stidham, of Baltimore to be- 
 come their pastor. He eutered upon his duties and remained at his 
 post during a part of the troublous times of the civil war. On the 
 Virginia side of the Potomac was a depot of military stores of the 
 Government, and on the Maryland side an encampment of troops. 
 The presence of these kept the minds of the people in such a state that 
 
54 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 church services were comparatively of little use. Mr. Stidham left in 
 1863, and was succeeded by Rev. John Bray, in August, 1864. A few 
 were baptized, but many members having removed on account of the 
 war, the Church was numerically smaller than it had been for several 
 years. He resigned in 1866. In 1867, Rev. Wm. I. Chiles, who had 
 been their stand-by in seasons of destitution for many years, was again 
 called to the pastorate. Another season of revival followed, when a few 
 were baptized and added to the Church. He continued pastor till his 
 death in April, 1874. He had preached in Nanjemoy for about thirty- 
 seven years, and had baptized about four hundred persons. Many of 
 these were colored people who have since organized a separate Church. 
 His wife, who was Mrs. Jane Barnes, to whom he was married about a 
 year after his settlement in Maryland, had died about 1873. He was 
 born in Caroline county Va., May 20, 1808. He professed religion in 
 early life and united with Burrus' Church. Soon after his conversion, 
 he studied for the ministry under Rev. Robt. Ryland. 
 
 Rev. Samuel Saunders took charge of the Church from 1874 to 1879, 
 during which time there was a large number of accessions by baptism* 
 Rev. A. J. Ashburn served for a short time in 1881-2. Rev. G. V. 
 Board took charge in 1883. The Church has shown considerable 
 prosperity of late, and is now in a healthful condition. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 55 
 
 1797. 
 
 SECOND B APTIST C H U RCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 In giving an account of this Church, we cannot do better than begin 
 with an extract from a letter of their first and venerable pastor, Elder 
 John Healy. It was written to Rev. Ira M. Allen, and published in 
 the ''Baptist Register" for 1833, pp. 133, 134. 
 
 "The origin of our Church was as follows: In the year 1794, three 
 families of us, viz: John Healy and wife, Matthew Hulse and wife, 
 William Lynes and wife, all members of the Baptist Church, England, 
 which was called 'The New Connexion,' determined to emigrate to 
 the United States and remain together as a religious community. 
 We arrived in New York October 5, and stayed till February following, 
 when we embarked for Baltimore." The vessel in which these emi- 
 grants set sail was the brig Independence, and the date of their depar- 
 ture July 4, 1794. 
 
 Besides the above, there were twelve children and a young lady, a sis- 
 ter of Mrs. Hulse, belonging to the party, making nineteen persons in 
 the "community." Before leaving England, they had chosen Mr. Healy 
 as their minister, and left the selection of their place of abode entirely 
 to him. He fixed upon Baltimore because, as he more than once re- 
 marked, he had read in Morse's Geography, that in religion the people 
 of this city were "Nothingarians,"* doubtless supposing that people 
 of no decided religious proclivities would be more apt to listen to the 
 doctrines he proposed to advance, than those whose sentiments were 
 stereotyped in their minds. 
 
 They reached the city in the spring of 1795, and located on "■Fells 
 Pointy This was then the commercial part of the city, and bid fair to 
 be the centre of trade and influence. Mr. Healy gave himself at once 
 to the work of his high calling, and procured the use of a sail loft which 
 had been fitted up as a mission by the Episcopal Church under Rev. 
 Dr. Bend. As Dr. Bend held service there but once a month, he gen- 
 erously ofi'ered the use of the room to Mr. Healy, three Sundays in the 
 mont hrent free. This was highly appreciated by Mr. Healy and his 
 little band, from the contrast which it presented with the feelings 
 usually entertained by the same Church toward '"Dissenters" in Eng- 
 
 * A singular statement. 
 
56 Maryla7id Baptist History. 
 
 land. They were soon encouraged to seek a larger room formerly used 
 as an armory. It was above the '^Watch Hoiise" located on the corner 
 of Broadway (then known as "Market st. on the Point") and Aliceanna 
 st. They held a regular weekly prayer meeting in this room. Some 
 of the women of the Church visited from house to house, and invited 
 their neighbors to these meetings. 
 
 The moral tone of the community in that part of the city was not at 
 that time very high. Large numbers were emphatically "lovers of 
 pleasure." Low and groveling vice prevailed. Not only was intemper- 
 ance quite common, especially on the Sabbath, but dog-fighting, cock- 
 fighting, gambling, horse-racing and quarreling were the usual Sabbath 
 pastimes; yet neither the pastor nor his people were discouraged. Ac- 
 cording to their ability they gave themselves to the work. Their con- 
 gregations increased quite encouragingly. They began to talk of build- 
 ing a house of worship of their own, but their pastoi was taken sick, 
 and it was some time before he could resume his labors. Li the mean- 
 time the congregation he had gathered was much scattered, and two 
 of the original members became disaffected and withdrew entirely 
 from the Church. The others remained faithful, and assisted occasion- 
 ally by Rev. Mr. Richards, pastor of the First Church, they not only 
 held together, but were kept by divine grace. They thus continued 
 without the formality of organization, for about two years. On the 
 11th of June, 1797, they held a meeting for the purpose of adopting a 
 form of constitution, "pledging themselves in the presence of God that 
 they would give and take reproof of each other, and endeavor through 
 grace to keep the ordinances of the Lord Jesus Christ as delivered to 
 them in his word." At the same meeting, it was concluded "that 
 brother John Healy do preach the Gospel statedly among us, in season 
 and out of season, and administer the ordinances of God unto us 
 regularly as our pastor." In the same year, they began, with a zeal 
 that does honor to their memories, to build a house for God. This of 
 course devolved a great amount of labor upon their pastor. On him 
 rested the work of collecting subscriptions for the object. The house 
 was built, 27 by 40 feet in size, and quite plain in style. It is still 
 standing on the corner of Bank and Eden sts. 
 
 A severe trial now came upon this little band. Before their house 
 was completed, the yellow fever visited this part of the city, and many 
 people became victims of the fell destroyer. About half of the Church, 
 including every male member except the pastor, were among those who 
 died. In the letter already quoted, Mr. Healy says, "being the only 
 male member left. I went through great tribulation, laboring with my 
 hands, preaching and begging to finish the house." In this place the 
 half cannot be told. It was a time of public calamity and much per- 
 sonal distress. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 57 
 
 The following spring, they had an addition of three male members. 
 One of these was Daniel Dodge, who was licensed to preach, and who 
 afterward became pastor of the Budd street Church, Philadelphia. 
 The first candidate baptized was Henry Sherwin, March 25, 1798* 
 Mr. Healy, however, was not regularly ordained until July 20, 1798' 
 Rev. Lewis Richards and Rev. John Davis were solicited to assist, but 
 for some reason neither was present, and "brethren .Joshua Jones and 
 John Austin, to the peace and comfort of the Church, attended to it." 
 The following is a copy of the unique certificate of the ordination: 
 "We, the Baptized Church of Jesus Christ, meeting at the new meeting- 
 . house at ye Point, Baltimore, have, this day, chosen and ordained Bro. 
 John Healy as our Bishop, Elder or Pastor. And in testimony of 
 which, we, the Elders of the Baptist Churches of the City of Lincoln 
 and Bessel's Green, near Seven Oaks, Kent, Great Britain, have affixed 
 our signatures. Joshua Jones, John Austin. Baltimore, July 20, 
 1798. True copy from ye original signed in behalf of ye Church. 
 John Juden, Deacon." 
 
 The Church continued to worship in the Eden street house till 1811. 
 But as many of the members lived at a distance, and could not therefore 
 always attend the regular services, meetings for prayer and for preach- 
 ing were often appointed at their homes. 
 
 The first Sunday school in Maryland was organized in this Church* 
 Doubtless the pastor and others of the brethren were engaged in aiding 
 this good work, but the chief responsibility of the enterprise devolved 
 on William Carman, a Scotchman, who, like many of his countrymen, 
 had known the Scriptures /rom his youth. That school, except with 
 the, variations to which all things on earth are subject, has continued 
 to the present day. It was originated, as stated by different persons, 
 in or about the year 1797 or 1803. Some years since, the oldest 
 surviving male member of the Church, in company with another mem- 
 ber of a sister Church, visited Mr. Hulse and his wife, who were con- 
 stituent members of the Church, for the purpose of satisfying them- 
 selves in regard to the date of the organization of this school, and they 
 were satisfactorily convinced by these last surviving witnesses that it 
 had its origin as early as the year 1797. This school, like that of 
 Raikes, began with hired teachers, the kind-hearted pastor himself 
 bearing the chief part of the expense. 
 
 After occupying the house on Eden street about fourteen years, the 
 Church resolved on seeking a new location, and the meeting-house on 
 Fleet street, (now Canton Avenue) was built. The undertaking was 
 not without its trials. They seem not to have had much cordial sym- 
 pathy from the outside community, and even some of their own 
 members declineil to help. The house was, however, built and paid for. 
 
58 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The congregation grew larger, and from time to time many were 
 added to their number by baptism and by letter. The influence of the 
 pastor on the Church and of the members on each other was decidedly 
 conservative. That article in their covenant "pledging themselves 
 mutually to give and take reproof" was no unmeaning thing. The 
 discipline was so strict that no act unbecoming a Christian was long 
 tolerated. If a transgressor could not be reclaimed by kind and 
 persuasive means, he was cut off' as a useless branch. 
 
 An impression has gone abroad that this church was of an anti-mission 
 and even an antinomian stamp. Such was not the case. The follow- 
 ing resolution, adopted Peb. 27th, 1798, shows that from the beginning 
 this Church was sound in its views of the obligations of Christians in 
 relation to the missionary cause: "Resolved, that there be kept up a 
 public prayer meeting the first Monday in every month, for the express 
 purpose of a revival of the kingdom of Christ, over the whole world." 
 They also sent their pastor as a delegate to the meeting in Philadelphia, 
 -at which the Baptist Triennial Convention was formed. Their pastor 
 Avas elected one of the "Board of Managers" of that body. For many 
 years, a female missionary society was maintained by the ladies of this 
 ■and of the First Church, the object of which was to assist in the main- 
 tenance of Kev. Evan Jones, missionary to the Cherokee Indians, in 
 the South. This society contributed in clothing and money to that 
 mission until the death of Mr. Jones. Their usual plan was to make 
 up annually a large box of clothing for the missionary's family and 
 others. If this did not reach a hundred dollars in value, the balance 
 Avas added in money, so as to entitle the society to a delegate in the 
 Convention. Mr. Jones Avas usually their delegate. He appreciated 
 the honor and frequently paid the society a visit, sometimes accom- 
 panied by one of the converted Indians, generally by the celebrated 
 Jesse Bushyhead, an earnest and powerful preacher among his country- 
 men. 
 
 For several years after their organization, the Church remained 
 iinassociated,i)ut in February, 1799, it was resolved that a letter be 
 addressed to the Baltimore Baptist Association to request them to 
 admit this Church in their connexion. Their pastor bore the letter, 
 and though he was kindly received and invited to preach, there was 
 some opposition, and the reception was postponed, and the matter 
 referred to a committee consisting of Elder Davis, Richards, Moore and 
 Parkinson. Whatever may have been the action of the committee, the 
 €hurch was not received into the Association for some time. The con- 
 sequences were not pleasant ; pamphlets were published on both sides, 
 saying things of each other that ought not to have been said. But at 
 the meeting, October, 1807, held witli Pleasant Valley Church, mutual 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 59 
 
 concessions were made, and the Church was cordially received into the 
 Association, and continued with that body until 1836, when in con- 
 sequence of a resolution passed by the Association at Black Rock 
 Church, declaring non-fellowship Avith the Churches that labored and 
 contributed of their means for the spread of the gospel, this Church 
 with several others withdrew from that body. They again remained 
 unassociated until 1848, when they were received into the Maryland 
 Union, with which they still remain in cordial fellowship. 
 
 The Church continued under the pastoral care of Mr. Healy until 
 a few months before his death, when the infirmities of age compelled 
 him to cease from his labors. His pastorsbip embraced a period of 
 nearly fifty-four years, about the same as that of the venerable John 
 Davis, of Harford Church. During that time the Church was blessed 
 with seasons of revival, as well as called to pass through times of trial 
 and depression. One of these trying times is worthy of notice partic- 
 ularly, as it developed a striking peculiarity of the pastor. It was his 
 practice occasionally to make a tour of the more destitute portions of 
 the State and labor there in preaching. On one of these occasions he 
 secured a Mr. McPherson to supply his pulpit in his absence. This 
 man seems to have availed himself of the opportunity to try and win 
 the hearts of the people from their faithful and well tried pastor, and 
 supplant him in the bishopric, and he well nigh succeeded. As Mr. 
 Healy was about to return home, having heard nothing of the matter, 
 his mind became disturbed and apprehensive that things in the Church 
 were not going as smoothly as Avas to be desired, and while pondering 
 over the matter, the prayer of David came with unusual force upon his 
 mind : "0 Lord, I pray thee turn the counsel of Ahithophel into 
 foolishness.'-' He repeated the words and made the prayer his own. 
 As soon as he reached home, his daughter, who was anxiously awaiting 
 his arrival, began to tell him about the difficulty created by McPherson. 
 "I know it, I knoAv it," said he, "but the Lord that turned the counsel 
 of Ahithophel into foolishness, will bring everything right." After a 
 little time the trouble disappeared. Seldom has any pastor succeeded 
 in securing more permanently the confidence and the affections of his 
 people than did "Father Healy." To this day, when nearly all of that 
 generation have passed away, his memory is sacred in the minds and 
 hearts of the children's children of those who through grace were 
 brought to Christ by his instrumentality. Solitary remarks from his 
 lips, from time to time, made impressions which eternity will not efface. 
 One of his traits is worthy of imitation by every Christian and minister. 
 So full was his heart of Christ, that whenever engaged in conversa- 
 tion upon any subject, he watched his opportunity and in some easy 
 and natural way introduced the subject of religion to gain the attention 
 
6o Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 and sometimes the liearts of those with whom he was conversing. 
 His wit was frequently striking, and always appropriate. On one oc- 
 casion, he was at the water's edge, preparing to baptize. iVmong the 
 crowd were some thoughtless girls. As the venerable pastor was step- 
 ping into the water, one of them turned to a companion and remarked, 
 "0, 1 would not go into that water for the world !" Turning his small 
 bright eye to her, he said, "No, my child, you would not for the world, 
 but you would for Jesus." The reply was an arrow to her soul. It led 
 her to Christ, and very soon the humble young convert did "for Jesus" 
 what the careless young lady would not do for "the world." Father 
 Healy was once summoned as a witness in court. After the trial was 
 over, as he remained, standing among the spectators, the Judge ap- 
 proached him, and taking him kindly by the hand, said, in a tone of 
 serious inquiry, "Mr. Healy, I want to ask you a question — What is the 
 Gospel ?" "The Gospel, Judge, is a general jail delivery to all who will 
 accept it," was the ready answer. 
 
 Although the members were mostly poor, and the debt on their new 
 building was a serious burden, yet with systematic regularity they col- 
 lected small amounts and paid it. But the ground rent remained, and 
 after seven years they determined to liquidate that also, and by a mite 
 society and monthly contributions for a few years, they purchased the 
 ground. One thing that contributed to the financial aid of the Church, 
 was the fact that their pastor not only did not depend on them for a 
 support, but regularly gave of his slender purse to the general fund. 
 His own hands ministered to his necessities. He was a silk dyer, having 
 learned the trade in his native land, and followed it assiduously after 
 his settlement here, that he might preach the go&^ol freely. This, he 
 afterwards confessed, was an error, as it led the Church to a misunder- 
 standing of their pecuniary obligations. In another respect his example 
 was worthy of imitation by every Christian bishop : he never urged his 
 people to any work in which he was not ready to engage, and he illus- 
 trated the text, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Finally, 
 the membership perceived that their pastor contributed for religious 
 purposes more than his proportion. Besides money given, his hospital- 
 ity was shared among many traveling brethren, whom he lodged. The 
 Church therefore decided unanimously, May 32, 1809, "to appropriate 
 fifty dollars to Hro. Healy, in consideration of his often being under 
 the necessity of receiving strange ministers." The pastor's unwilling- 
 ness to receive recompense for his services was overcome some years 
 after, probably through necessity. In 1814, the first record is made of 
 a compensation for his services, and a few years later, a systematic con- 
 tribution was voluntarily made weekly for his benefit. 
 
 We find that about 1813 and later, several young ministers were 
 raised up in this body. If Harford Church is styled the "mother of 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 6 1 
 
 churches," this Church may with equal propriety be called the "uiother 
 of ministers." Care, however, was exercised in the licensing of those 
 who aspired to the sacred office. The records show that on one occa- 
 sion, after patiently hearing a young brother, "it was thought not to be 
 the will of Christ that he should teach publicly." At another time, in 
 reference to another candidate, it was "Resolved, that brother X. be ad- 
 vised to continue his reading and studying of the Scriptures, and to 
 attend the prayer meetings of the Church, that he may have opportu- 
 nity of improving his gifts, but he is not at liberty to speak in a public 
 way at present." The Church seemed determined not to "lay careless 
 hands on skulls that cannot teach and will not learn." Some, however, 
 were approved by the brethren, who became men of power in their day, 
 William Brinkett, well remembered for his piety and simple earnestness 
 in the Master's cause, was licensed in 1830. The highly esteemed Jos. 
 H. Jones was ordained at a meeting of the old Baltimore Association 
 in 1820, by request of this Church. Lawrence Greatrake was ordained 
 in 1822. Bartholomew T. Welch was licensed in 1824, and Jos. Cone 
 in 1820. Spencer H. Cone was once a member and exercised his gifts 
 in this Church, but was licensed to preach in Washington. Robert A. 
 Stevens, Joseph Trapnell, James Wood, George Keck and Joseph Met- 
 tam were all licentiates of this Church. 
 
 During this entire period, the Church was favorable to Missions, 
 Bible Societies, and Sunday schools, and gave frequent collections to 
 these causes. 
 
 In 1839, when a glorious revival took place under the preaching of 
 Elder Jacob Knapp, this Church partook of its blessings. In Novem- 
 ber, twelve were baptized, and subsequently many more. Up to that 
 time, the Sunday school had been confined to a small and inconvenient 
 gnUery at the end of the building. Some of the new converts were 
 persons of influence in the community. They threw themselves into 
 the good work with zeal. The result was an enlargement of the school, 
 which obliged it to be removed from the gallery to the main floor, and 
 soon this was well-tilled. In 1845, it became necessary to build an ad- 
 dition on the rear, twenty-six by fifty feet, to be used as a school and 
 lecture room. The expense incurred a debt, but the room was rented 
 for a week-day school, and this relieved them. 
 
 Mr. Healy, though much enfeebled by age, continued to discharge 
 the duties of his bishopric until within a few months of his decease. 
 His whole career as a minister of the Lord Jesus, though not marked by 
 the brilliancy that attracts human applause, was characterized by what 
 to him and all righteous persons is far better, an humble, consistent, 
 self-denying devotion to the service and honor of his Master. He de- 
 parted this life, at the age of eighty-four years, on June 17, 1848. "O 
 
62 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 man, greatly beloved!" He was the only pastor of the Church, and 
 had never served another; and was anxious to die in harness. But his 
 energies failing, he found himself unequal to the duties of his station, 
 and resigned about six months before his death. The following com- 
 ments upon his character were written by Rev. Dr. B. T. Welch, who 
 began his own eminent ministry under the teaching of the deceased. 
 
 "Whilst Father Healy was eminent for a devotional spirit, and was 
 one of the finest models of Christian character that I remember to have 
 met with, he had naturally one of the most lovely and loving of dispo- 
 sitions. One incident illustrative ot this trait that came within my 
 immediate knowledge I can never forget. On my return to Baltimore, 
 some time after I came to the North, I was prompted alike by filial 
 duty and filial love to call upon him soon after my arrival. The mo- 
 ment I entered the room in which he was sitting, he sprang from his 
 chair, rushed to me, threw his arms around my neck, lay his head upon 
 my shoulder and burst into tears. It was the overflowing of one of the 
 kindest, warmest hearts that God ever placed in a human bosom. It 
 is not easy to say how much of the benevolence that came out in his 
 life was to be set to the account of nature and how much to that of 
 grace; but it was impossible to mark the generous and kindly working 
 of his spirit from day to day, and resist the impression that he was a 
 debtor to both in a higher degree than often falls to the lot of humanity. 
 
 "Father Healy was far from being a popular preacher. His sermons 
 were not distinguished for either the logical or the imaginative — they 
 Avere little more than familiar talks — and yet they were always sensible, 
 and always embodied material for useful reflection. His manner as 
 Avell as his matter was characterized by the utmost simplicity, and uni- 
 formly impressed you with the idea that he was striving to do you 
 good. His salary was so small that he might almost be said to have 
 rendered his services gratuitously; and the necessity of connecting 
 with his professional engagements a secular occupation as a means of 
 supporting his family, no doubt greatly lessened the force and attract- 
 iveness of his public ministrations. In personal appearance, Father 
 Healy was a fine specimen of an Englishman. He was rather inclined 
 to plethoric habit. He had an intelligent face, a keen eye, and while 
 his countenance readily took on an arch expression, it was always 
 blazing forth in a warm glow of hearty good will. Though nobody 
 regarded him as, in the common acceptation of the word, a great 
 preacher, yet everybody esteemed, loved and honored him, and I ven- 
 ture to say that if I were to revisit the scene of his labors, I should find 
 that his name there is still a household word, and that with all the 
 surviving members of his flock, at least, his memory is as fragrant as 
 ever." 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 65. 
 
 Six montlis after the death of Father Healy, the Church elected a 
 new pastor. They chose Rev. George F. Adams, who had frequently 
 preached for them during Bro. Healy's infirm health. Previous ta 
 this, however, the Church adopted some new rules of government^ 
 among which was one requiring the pastor to be elected biennially. 
 This article was not objectionable to Bro. Adams, and he accepted the 
 charge. His election was renewed for twelve years, and the relation 
 continued a year boyond that time, with mutual good-will and cooper- 
 ation. The first eftbrt of the new pastor was to ascertain the names 
 and residences of all the members. The roll was found to be imperfect, 
 a fault not uncommon in our Churches. After some months of enquiry, 
 a new list was made. Exactly one hundred members were recorded. 
 
 During 1849, an interesting revival occurred. The members became 
 more deeply interested in religious work, and all their meetings were 
 increased in attendance and devotion. The Sunday school was revived 
 and enlarged. The baptismal waters were visited frequently, and the 
 many new converts, who gave evidence of being born again, were wel- 
 comed into fellowship. Some of the Sunday school scholars, Avho were 
 then brought into the Church, are now, after thirty-five years, among 
 the most pious and efficient members. 
 
 The location of their house of worship had long been found inconve- 
 nient to the Church on two accounts. The numerous Germans making 
 their home in this city, had settled largely in that neighborhood, and 
 rendered it unsuitable as a place of meeting for an English-speaking 
 congregation. Then the Philadelphia Railroad ran immediately past 
 the front of the building. The continual passage of the trains, the 
 ringing of bells and blowing of steam during worship were exceedingly 
 annoying. It was finally resolved to remove to Broadway, near Pratt 
 street, their present location. A lot was leased, and a contract made 
 for building. The present neat, comfortable and convenient edifice 
 was erected at a cost of about $16,600. The sale of the old property 
 on Canton Avenue, and afterwards, of a portion of a burying ground 
 near the present Johns Hopkins Hospital, aided largely in the payment 
 of this expense. A considerable part, however, was collected by the 
 pastor from members of the other Baptist Churches in the city. The 
 house is sixty feet wide and eighty-five feet in depth. Its corner stone 
 Avas laid in 1853, and it was finished and occupied in November, 1854. 
 The building committee consisted of Rev. Geo. F. Adams, pastor, Geo., 
 Waggner, Wm. M. Johnson, George W. Wolf, Wm. Waggner and John 
 E. Hardesty. There was harmonious and earnest cooperation among 
 all the members. The house became filled with interesting congrega- 
 tions. Revival after revival followed for several years, and many Avere 
 from time to time added by baptism. 
 
64 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 In the antmiiii of 1860, Hev, G. F. Adams resigned the pastorate and 
 removed to \'irginia. In April, 1861, Rev. A. G. Thomas, of Pennsyl- 
 vania, was called, and accepted the charge. He was a young man of 
 talent, and might have enjoyed a long and useful service here, but the 
 minds of the people were absorbed with the prospect and afterwards 
 with the reality of the late Civil War, and the consequent public ex- 
 citement was very unfavorable to the prosperity of all our Ciiurches. 
 Bro. Thomas won the confidence and esteem of his brethren, and bap- 
 tized about a dozen persons ; but after eighteen months he resigned, to 
 accept a chaplaincy in a U. S. army hospital. Eosolutions of respect 
 to his character are entered on the Church record. 
 
 In April, 1863, Rev. A. Latham accepted charge of the Church, but 
 resigned, after a short service of four months. 
 
 In December, 1863, Rev. E. F. Crane was invited to supply the pul- 
 pit for three months. A revival ensued and twenty persons professed 
 conversion and were baptized. Mr. Crane was urged to remain and was 
 elected pastor, March 27, 1864. For some years the Church had been 
 receiving aid fi'om the Maryland Union Association. Mr. Crane made 
 his acceptance of the call conditional upon the discontinuance of this 
 aid; since which time the Church has been self-sustaining. The min- 
 istry of Mr. Crane was quite successful, so much so that the Church 
 twice increased his salary, besides making up his expenses of removal 
 from New York. But in August, 1865, he resigned, to their great re- 
 gret, as expressed in commendatory resolutions. 
 
 In October, 1865, John W. Taylor was ordained from this Church, to 
 become pastor of the Baptist Church in Peekskill, N. Y. 
 
 In November, 1865, Rev. A. J. Huntington was elected pastor, but 
 declined. The following December, Rev. John Berg, so long and so 
 favorably known in Baltimore, was elected pastor, and at once entered 
 upon his duties. Mr. Berg received a nuniber of persons by baptism 
 and letter, but he measured the value of a Churcli by its efficiency in 
 work rather than by numbers, and therefore made a thorough visita- 
 tion of his membership, and found it necessary for the Church to lop 
 off many dead branches. Their places were supplied, from time to 
 time, by an equal number of more useful members.. The contributions 
 were also improved by the adoption of weekly envelopes. Mr. Berg's 
 administration may be regarded as one of the most successful ones the 
 Church has enjoyed. When the constitutional period arrived for the 
 biennial election of a pastor, Mn Berg disagreed as to the propriety of 
 the rule, and having been elected without mention of the stipulation, 
 he declined to submit to another election, and resigned, April 32, 1868. 
 
 Upon this resignation, there had unhappily arisen such ditferences 
 and alienation between the members as rendered it necessary to take 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 65, 
 
 some corrective measures, which, to the credit of all concerned, was 
 done immediately. At the regular business meeting on the above date, 
 Brethren G. G. Tyler, Geo. W. Wolf, J. R. Gould, A. Hirshfeld and L. 
 S. Healy were appointed to revise the constitution. On June 4, their 
 report, which expunged the objectionable article, was adopted. The 
 manual as revised then, has been their rule of action since. 
 
 For about a year, the pulpit was supplied by visiting ministers. In 
 May, 1869, Rev. Geo. Cooper, of Mass., was called, and declined. The 
 Church was not dispirited, but carried forward its usual work. The 
 Sunday School, under charge of Bro. F.W. King, maintained a consid- 
 erable intei'est. 
 
 In September, "1869, Rev. Joseph E. Chambliss was elected pastor, 
 and entered service the following month. Shortly after. Rev. A. B. 
 Earle, Evangelist, held special services in this city, and in common 
 with all the Baptist Churches, the Second was greatly blessed, and 
 nimierous additions were made by baptism. 
 
 Mr. E. M. Onion, one of the new members, a man over three-score 
 years of age, proposed to renovate the church building, if properly 
 assisted, which was agreed to, and the house was frescoed, painted, car- 
 peted and upholstered, at acost of §1,119.74. In December, 1870, Mr. 
 Chambliss resigned the pastorate ; and a few weeks after. Rev. E. IST. Har- 
 ris, of R. I., was elected to fill the position. The Lord greatly blessed 
 Bro. Harris' labors. He was an elderly man, of imposing personal ap- 
 pearance and devout character. His son, Chas. A. Harris, was licensed 
 to preach by the Church, Feb. 15, 1872. 
 
 In 1874, the lecture room was renovated and reseated, at an expense 
 of $793.51. Bro. Harris resigned in April, 1874, and in September, 
 Rev. G. L. Hunt, of Ct., was called to succeed him,' but declined. In 
 April, 1875, Rev. A. J. Hires, of N. J-., accepted charge and sustained 
 the relation with fidelity to the cause of Christ and the satisfaction of 
 the Church until April, 1880. In 1872, the Church sold the portion 
 of the graveyard remaining to them, to the trustees of Johns Hopkins 
 Hospital, for $3,000, which, with $1,000 otherwise raised, was paid for 
 the ground of the Broadway building, and disencumbered it of all debt. 
 
 Rev. George W. McCullough, a member and licentiate of the High 
 St. Church, became pastor of the Second Church, September 19, 1880. 
 His course has been marked by activity and zeal, resulting in the pro- 
 gress of the cause of Christ. The interior of the church edifice has 
 been recently remodeled, carpeted, decorated, and illuminated with a 
 large reflector, and a hew roof has been placed on the building. 
 
 The Church has in its long course of time, lost hundreds of members 
 by death, among them all of the constituent families and nearly all of 
 
66 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 the second generation of members. Recently, one of the oldest of these 
 ]\rrs. Elizabeth Clackner, for sixty years a member, died at the age of 
 ninety-six. ^\q. G. W. "VVoif, who married a grand-danghter of Father 
 Healy, preserves, both in his memory and in the old records written 
 by the first pastor, many interesting reniiniscences of the Church. 
 
 The present organization of the Churcli is as follows: Pastor, G. W^ 
 McCullongh. Deacons : Geo. W, Wolf, John A. Hirshfeld, P. Andrew 
 Troeger, J. E. Bishop. Clerk : J. E. Bishop. Treasurer : T. W. Swank. 
 Trustees: J. F. Eossiter, P. Samuel Spencer, R. M. J. Harker, Thomas^ 
 Merie, H. T. Wakeman. 
 
 We have referred to the origin of the Sunday School of this Church 
 in 1797, As it is one of the oldest in the United States, it deserves a 
 more specific notice. William Carman, its first superintendent, carried 
 on his charge in an humble and primitive way until 1817. Among 
 the first scholars were John Hulse, George Decker and John Healy. 
 From 1818 to 1832, Deacon Richard Bevens, George Waggner, John 
 Combs and Joseph H. Jones, (afterwards preacher,) acted as leaders in 
 the school, and made it one of the largest and most useful in the city. 
 Martin Peterson was the next superintendent. He was considered a 
 monument of divine grace. He learned to read after his conversion, 
 and besides managing the school became leader of the singing. After 
 him, for about twenty-five years, Geo. W. Wolf, assisted by his brother 
 Elbert, conducted the school, which grew in healthful influence and 
 numbers, until it filled the old church on Canton Avenue and required 
 the additional building that was erected in 184:5. Out of this prosper- 
 ity partly grew the necessity for a removal to Broadway. F. W. King 
 next succeeded to this charge and served with laborious zeal for a long 
 term of years. He was followed by Leonard S. Healy, Frank Townsend,. 
 T. W. Swank, and recently, by J. F. Eossiter. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 67 
 
 1806. 
 GUNPOWDER BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The "Gunpowder Baptist Church," now located at Middletown, in 
 Baltimore County, was organized at "Tipton's Meeting House," known 
 also as the "Stump Meeting House," August 16, 1806. The ministers 
 present were Rev. John Davis, of Harford, and John IST. Welen, with 
 some fifty members. Mr. Welen was chosen pastor, and John Peregoy 
 deacon. The Church seems to have prospered gradually, until it num- 
 bered nearly a hundred members. In 1815, a division occurred, and 
 about fifty members withdrew, leaving forty-nine, as the record shows, 
 in fellowship, still worshiping at the Stump Meeting House. These 
 remained, without a pastor, until 1821, when Kev. Thos. Leaman re- 
 ceived a unanimous call and acted as pastor and assistant pastor about 
 twenty years. 
 
 The Church experienced both prosperity and reverses, increasing 
 somewhat in numbers. They had several appointments through the 
 country. In 1833, they helped to build the Union Meeting House in 
 Middletown, to which they removed in 1834, adopting the title at that 
 time of "Gunpowder," from the river of that name. 
 
 In 1836, the Church unanimously adopted the following resolutions: 
 
 "Whereas, we have been greatly disappointed in the proceedings of 
 the late convention in the Navy Yard church at Washington, and as we 
 do not wish to take part with either of the conflicting parties, therefore 
 Resolved, That we will not consider ourselves any longer of the Balti- 
 more Association. And whereas, there are several Baptist Churches 
 called to convene with the First Church, Baltimore, on October 27th5 
 1836, with a view to organizing a new Association, therefore Resolved' 
 That we appoint our delegates to the said Convention." The messen- 
 gers appointed were Rev. Thos. Leaman and Zechariah Albin. 
 
 The Church accordingly joined the Maryland Union, and the next 
 year had the pleasure of entertaining that body at its second meeting, 
 Rev. G. F. Adams, Moderator. 
 
 During the latter part of Bro. Leaman's time, Revs. Wm. Laws, G. F, 
 Adams and Jos. Mettam held meetings at Middletown and throughout 
 the neighborhood, resulting in many conversions and the addition 
 of members. In January, 1841, Rev. W. H. Dix was called to the pas- 
 torate. He was young and newly married. On the 16th of May, he 
 was taken ill with typhoid pneumonia, and died in a very short time, 
 during the temporary absence of his wife. She met his corpse in Bal- 
 .timore, asit was being conveyed to his former home in Virginia. 
 
'68 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 In April. 1842, Kev. H. J. Chandler took charge and remained for 
 <?igbteen months. The membership numbered one hundred and thirty. 
 In 1843, fifty of these took letters of dismissal and organized the Forest 
 Baptist Churcb, building also a new meeting house. In September, 
 1843, Rev. G. F. Adams accepted a call and served faithfully for two 
 years. He was succeeded by liev. \"incent Palen for the same length 
 •of time. Subsequently, Bro. Chandler was recalled and served about 
 a year. Fn 1852, Rev. T. W. Haynes occupied the pastorate, and re- 
 mained two years. In 1855, Rev. E. R. Hera followed for two years. 
 
 The Church had then become quite feeble, and has never since per- 
 manently recovered. For a short time it would revive and then fall back 
 into lethargy. It has had a succession of pastors for short periods, and 
 then for months and years had none, and sustained no regular worship. 
 Among those who filled the pastorate were the following: Rev. J.Por- 
 ter in 1858. No record is given for several years after this. In 1866, 
 Rev. M. H. Austin preached for a time acceptably. Later, Rev. H. E. 
 Paull, who remained in charge for two years ; then Rev. J. W. Jones, in 
 1872-3 ; Rev. J. L. Wilhelm in 1874 ; Rev. E. B. Parker in 1875 ; Rev. 
 E. B. Walts in 1875-6 ; Rev. A. W. Eastman, in 1877-8, and after about 
 a year, Rev. C. L. Amy, who took charge May, 1880, and resigned May, 
 1883. All these pastors have been supported mainly from the funds of 
 the Maryland Union Association. Since the last date, the Church has 
 been without a pastor, has but thirty members, and is in need of a vis- 
 itation of God's Spirit to preserve it from dying out. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 69. 
 
 1821. 
 ROCKVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located in the pleasant county seat of Montgomery^ 
 about sixteen miles west of Washington City. It was organized under 
 the following circumstances. The members of the Church at Seneca 
 resided so widely apart that it was difficult for them to meet together. 
 There was also a difference of views between some of them and their 
 pastor, Elder Plumer Waters. The latter was not only an uncom- 
 promising opponent of missionary enterprises; but denounced all wha 
 sympathized in that work. The consequence was that eight of the 
 members withdrew from the Church and united in an organization of 
 their own, and in October, 1831, were recognized as a regular Baptist 
 Church by a council of ministers, viz: Rev. John Healy, of Baltimore,. 
 Eevs. 0. B. Brown and Thomas Barton, of Washington. The new 
 Church chose Rev. Jos. H. Jones as their pastor, with Rev. William 
 Sedgwick, as assistant. In May, 1822, they were received into the 
 Baltimore Association. They reported eighteen members, having 
 doubled their number in six months. 
 
 The Church at once began building a house of worship in Rockville^ 
 Meetings in the meantime were held in the Court House or the 
 Academy, in that town, on Lord's days, and at private houses during 
 the week. In about a year their house was finished. It was of brick,, 
 costing about $1,500. Besides the pastor, deacons Jesse Leach and 
 William Janes were prominent in this work. In 1824, Mr. Sedgwick 
 resigned as assistant pastor and moved to Adamsville, Ohio, where he 
 labored a long time, and died at the age of fourscore years. 
 
 Under Mr. Jones, the Church gradually increased in numbers and 
 influence. As the members were widely scattered, it was agreed 
 among themselves that, while acknowledged as one Church in the 
 Association, they would form themselves into two branches, one meet- 
 ing in Rockville and the other near Poolsville, the former known as 
 Longer and the latter as Upper Bethel. Business meetings were held 
 at each place, in the name of the whole. This state of things con- 
 tinued about ten years, when (December, ]831,) by mutual agreement, 
 the upper branch became a separate organization under the name of 
 ^^Bethel," while the lower branch assumed the name of "EockviUe.^'' 
 The latter gradually inci'cased to a membership of fifty-four, in 1834. 
 For several years after this there seems to have been no change in num- 
 bers. In 184.5, after twenty-four years of service, Mr. Jones resigned 
 his })ast«rate and removed to Frederick. 
 
JO Maiylaiid luxptist History. 
 
 As Rev. Joseph H. Jones was one of the constituent members of this 
 Church and its first pastor, and continued in that relation for nearly 
 a fourth of a century, and as he has but recently passed away from 
 among us, it seems proper that the folJowing notice of his life and 
 character should be recorded here. Mr. Jones was of Irish parentage. 
 His father, Charles Jones, was a captain in the Irish Rebellion, for 
 whose arrest a reward of two hundred guineas was offered. He escaped 
 and came to America. Here he married Prudence Hawkins, a widow, 
 of Providence, R. I. He lived for some time in Fairfax County, Va., 
 Avhere the subject of this sketch was born, Dec. 3, 1798. The family 
 afterward moved to Washington City. Joseph's father died when he 
 was about twelve years of age. Soon after that he was apprenticed to 
 a silver-plater in Baltimore. He served his time and returned to 
 Washington. When but a boy, he became acquainted with Rev.'O. B. 
 Brown, pastor of the Baptist Church in that city. Mr. Brown took 
 much notice of his boy friend and often pronounced a blessing upon 
 him. Such attention naturally drew forth his youthful confidence. 
 The mutual attachment thus formed never waned. The lad was 
 converted at the age of eighteen, and was baptized by Mr. Brown 
 and united with his Church. He studied under Rev. Mr. Breckenridge, 
 at Rockville Academy, about a year. This, with the little schooling he 
 had in his father's life-time, constituted all the education he enjoyed. 
 
 About 1818, he began to exercise his gifts in preaching. Soon after, 
 the Church licensed him to preach. In 1821, he was married to Miss 
 Elizabeth Clagett, of Montgomery County. He settled in Rockville, 
 worked at his trade and subsequently engaged in the sale of merchan- 
 dise. But his heart was bent on the ministry. His appointments were 
 chiefly at Rockville and Bethel, though he often went to Linganore 
 and Upper Seneca. He was ordained in 1821. After a few years, find- 
 ing the claims of the ministry pressing upon him, he gave up his sec- 
 ular business, except cultivating a small farm, and devoted his time to 
 pastoral duties. He served four Churches, spending one Sunday in 
 a month with each Church. His field was generally Rockville, where 
 he resided, Upper Seneca, distant 14 miles, Linganore, 28 miles, and 
 Pleasant Valley, 40 miles, making a monthly trip of 164 miles, besides 
 frequently attending funerals and associations. These journeys were 
 always performed on horseback, making an annual round of more than 
 two thousand miles a year. After some years, he resigned the charge 
 of Pleasant Valley and transferred his labors to Ebenezer Church, 
 Loudon County Va., to which he had been invited. Some time after- 
 ward, Frederick City Church was added to his field. In 1845, he 
 resigned his charge and removed to Frederick. While living there, he 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 7 1 
 
 preached at Barnesville, and after the close of the late Civil War, a 
 Church was organized at that place, and was regularly supplied by him, 
 and a meeting house was built under his auspices. 
 
 In 1864, his wife, who had been a help-mate in all his labors of love, 
 for more than forty years, departed this life. This severe trial, with 
 rather a delicate state of health, induced him to spend his winters with 
 his son, Judge Jones, of King and Queen County, Va. Thence, he Avas 
 called home to his Father's house above, Dec. 31, 1871. 
 
 The peculiarity of his disease induced much bodily suffering. This 
 he bore with not only resignation, but cheerfulness. He was a man 
 oi strong faitli. He believed what God said. Hence, whether it was 
 declaration, prophecy, threatening or promise, that was under consider- 
 ation, he dwelt upon it with the earnestness of one who felt that he was 
 standing by the truth. He was a man of untiring energy. Wherever 
 a sense of duty led, there he was bound to go, and do his best. He was 
 never known to fail of meeting his appointments, unless something be- 
 yond his control prevented. He was possessed of a remarkably kind 
 heart. On account of his great tenacity in adhering to what he con- 
 cientiously believed and with equal candor proclaimed, some have 
 thought him cold and uncharitable. Nothing could be farther from 
 his true character. 
 
 H'a minister's usefulness is to beestimatedby the number of converts 
 brought into the Church, Mr. Jones cannot be said to have been emi- 
 nently successful. His preaching and conversation seemed more bent 
 on instructing and comforting Christians than the conversion of sinners. 
 His preaching was much after the' order and style of the venerable 
 Jeremiah Moore, whom Semple describes as "well versed in Scripture, 
 often giving lucid explanations of different passages." His general 
 style of preaching was decidedly Calvinistic. Yet he was practical, 
 as well as doctrinal. Christian experience was with him a favorite 
 theme. As a man, a Christian and a preacher, his life was an ornament 
 to religion, an honor to his country, the Church, the family and him- 
 self. His last sickness and death-scene were consistent with his life. 
 He was remarkably cheerful even when suffering, and more than once 
 remarked to those around him, that he would not turn his hand to 
 decide the question of life or death. He was particularly joyful during 
 his last illness. His last utterance was "Happy, happy, happy." 
 
 From 1845 to 1851, the Church had no pastor, and by deaths and 
 removals became reduced to a handful. Occasionally, Rev. Dr. Bacon 
 and Kev. Dr. Samson of Columbian College, and F. L. Kregel, a licentiate 
 of the First Church, Baltimore, preached for them. Still, for want of 
 regular pastoral oversight, Zion languished. In consequence of the 
 
"]2 Maryland Baptist /iistoi'v. 
 
 anti-mission resolutions passed by the "Baltimore Association" in May, 
 1836, the Church withdrew from that body and remained unassociated 
 for about thirteen years. 
 
 At the Maryland Baptist Union Association, in November, 1S49, the 
 Church united with that body. In their letter, they represent their 
 condition as "a taper flickering in its socket, that must go out unless 
 oil be speedily applied." They add, "We are anxious to have the word 
 and ordinances regularly administered, and think there is great en- 
 couragement for missionary labor here and at other points around." 
 Subsequent events proved that this last expression, if not prophetic, was 
 truly verified. For a very few years later, not only were out-stations 
 established and sustained, but new fields were formed, planted, culti- 
 vated and became fruitful, so that the "taper flickering in its socket" 
 became a burning, shining light. In the next letter to the Association, 
 they write more encouragingly. They had during the winter and 
 spring been regularly supplied with the preached word by a brother 
 May, from England, whose labors were blessed to the little Church. 
 The congregation increased regularly under his preaching. In 1851, 
 Eev. F. L. Kregel was elected pastor. As his salary was limited, he 
 taught school to make up a support. Soon after. Rev. N. G. Collins, 
 State missionary, held a series of meetings in Rockville, and four con- 
 verts were baptized. Mr. Kregel was also appointed a missionary of 
 our Board and was enabled to give himself wholly to the work. He 
 was ordained, November 21, 1852, and continued pastor about two 
 years, during which time a few additions were made by baptism and 
 by letter. 
 
 Dr. Samson and Kev. C. C. Meador, then a student at Columbian 
 College, supplied their pulpit for a short while. In February, 1855, 
 Mr. Thos. Jones, a licentiate of the Hereford Church, and a graduate 
 of Columbian College, was called to the pastorate. He threw himself 
 into the work with energy, and the Church was increased rapidly in 
 number. At the school house since known as Mount Zion, he baptized 
 six, and at Darnestown about twenty. Through his ministry about 
 fifty were added by baptism. In his abundant zeal, belabored alone in 
 a protracted meeting to the utter prostration of his physical system, 
 and was compelled to resign in September, 1S58. To this day his name 
 is held with more tlian respect among the people of his former charge. 
 
 The Church was again without a pastor for about a year. Mr. J. 
 W. T. Boothe and Mr. S. R. White, both students at Columbian Col- 
 lege, preached there occasionally. In 1859, Mr. White became their 
 pastor. The Church then numbered sixty-six members. During that 
 and the following year, there was a revival in Mt. Zion, Darnestown and 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 73 
 
 Poolesville. As the result, seventy persons were baptized ; two young 
 brethren, M. H. Anstin and J. L. Lodge, were licensed to preach ; three 
 new Churches were constituted — at Darnestown, (now removed to Ger- 
 raantown,) Poolesville and Georgetown. Also, a neat frame meeting 
 house, 30 by 40 feet, costing about $1,600 was built at Mount Zion. 
 Houses of worship were built at Poolesville and Germantown. Besides, 
 they also renovated and enlarged their church edifice at Rockville, at a 
 cost of nearly $3,000. The pastor was aided part of the time at all of 
 his stations by Rev. H. G. DeWitt, State Evangelist. 
 
 For the last twenty years, Rockville has been one of our best mis- 
 sionary Churches. Three young ministers have been raised up within 
 her bounds, while of her female members four have become wives of 
 ministers. Within the last few years, the Church has suffered the loss 
 of some of her most valuable members by death. Most of those were 
 among the fathers and mothers, whose counsel and help we now sadly 
 miss. 
 
 In 1873, Mr. Charles Spates, a deacon, died, and left to the Church 
 his entire estate valued at $4,000. The Church declined accepting 
 the whole amount, but needing funds to repair their house of worship, 
 they consented to receive $1,600. 
 
 In September, 1880, Rev. S. R. White, having accepted the position 
 of Superintendent of Public Schools of Montgomery County, resigned 
 the care of the Church after a pastorate of twenty-one years. He 
 officiated by request until January, 1881. During that period he had 
 baptized two hundred and eighty-seven believers, who became members 
 of Baptist Churches. His long pastorate was not however a pecuniary 
 advantage, for he taught school a large part of the time to support his 
 family. Active, zealous and progressive, he has impressed a religious 
 and educational influence on the community, where he still resides. 
 
 In the fall of 1880, thirty-five members were dismissed by letter, to 
 form a Church at Mt. Zion. which has now a membership of fifty-nine. 
 
 In 1881, Rev. H. E. Hatcher, of Va., took charge and continued for 
 two years, during which twelve additions were made by baptism. For 
 a year, the Church was without a pastor, yet still seven additions 
 were made by baptism. In February, 1884, Rev. W. S. 0. Thomas 
 became pastor, since which date twenty more persons have been bap- 
 tized. The pastor has been aided in special meeetings by Rev. W\ F. 
 Kone and Rev. L. R. Steele. The present officers of the Church are: 
 Pastor, Rev. W. S. 0. Thomas. Deacons: E. M. Viers, S. B. Haney, 
 D. H. Bouic, H. Grady, R. A. Bogley. Clerk and Treasurer: D. H. 
 Bouic, who is also Superintendent of the Sunday school. Membership 
 of the Church 175. In 1884, Spencer Cone Jones, son of the first pastor* 
 J. H. Jones, presented a lot of ground to the Church, upon which is 
 now erected a parsonage, at the cost of $2,200. 
 
74 Maryland Baptist History 
 
 1832. 
 
 GOOD HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located near Newburg, Charles County, and was or- 
 ganized in 1832. It was the result of the preaching of Rev. Sam'l L. 
 Straughan, of Va., and Rev. Thos. Conduit. The latter acted as pastor, 
 during his service at Nanjemoy in 1833-35. After that, Rev. W. I. 
 Chiles supplied the pulpit frequently, until his resignation in 1859. 
 At first, this Church united with the Dover Association in Virginia, 
 but in 1841 joined with the Maryland Union. One of their deacons, 
 Sylvester W. femoot, was ordained to the ministry, Nov., 1849. After 
 his death, Rev. Joseph Mettam, of Pikesville, visited and preached for 
 them for many years. There was generally a large congregation in 
 iittendance and the prospect was at times encouraging. Mr. Mettam 
 baptized quite a number of believers. Rev. J. V. Iddens served as pas- 
 tor in 1860. The prospect soon changed. During the war of the States* 
 nearly every white male member died, and for some time the meeting- 
 house was occupied by soldiers, and of course was left in an almost 
 ruined condition. This Church was never very large or infiuentiah 
 yet for about fifty years, there has been a little light steadily burning 
 there. A few faithful women have always remained steadfast in the 
 darkest hour. 
 
 About 1870, a Sunday school was organized there under the super- 
 inlendance of Mr. R. Price. For three years a sermon was preached by 
 Rev. S. Saunders, monthly. 
 
 Rev. A. W. Graves served this field during 1880-81, during which 
 time, a neat substantial house of worship was built. In 1883, Rev. Dr. 
 J. L. Lodge and Rev. J. B. English held a protracted meeting there, 
 resulting in several conversions. Since then, this body has had occa- 
 sional preaching and irregular service. Its membership is now reduced 
 to forty. If an efibrt were made by the people, and an earnest pastor 
 should take charge of the work there, the Church would revive and 
 <]oubtless become quite influential in that part of the country. 
 
 The officers of the Church are as follows: Deacons: J. T. Dutton, 
 also Superintendent of the Sunday school; and J. T.F. Wingate, also 
 Treasurer. Clerk, J. E. Simpson. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 75 
 
 1835- 
 
 HIGH STREET BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 This Church owes its origin to the christian zeal of two brothers, 
 William and James C. Crane, who for many years carried on the leather 
 business in Richmond, Va. They opened a branch house in Baltimore 
 about 1834. W. Crane removed here shortly afterward with his family- 
 His heart was grieved at the slow advance of Baptist principles in this 
 Citv, as there were only four Churches then here, and he set to work 
 to organize another. He bought a meeting house on Calvert street* 
 near Saratoga, which at that time was held for sale by a private indi- 
 vidual, for which he paid $4,000, subject to a ground rent of $204 a year. 
 Mr. Crane had made up his mind to hold this property, and besides the 
 annual ground rent, to bear the expenses of maintaining the cause 
 there, for ten years at least, hoping by that time, a self-sustaining 
 Church would be raised up. This purchase was effected in August, 
 1834. During that autumn and the next winter, he and his family 
 attended worship at the First Church, then under the care of Rev. S. 
 P. Hill. In the meantime, he was making inquiry personally and by 
 correspondence, for a suitable coadjutor as a preacher of the gospel. 
 The result was that in the January following, Rev. Joseph G. Binney, 
 who afterward went as a missionary to Burmah, was fixed upon as a 
 suitable man to lead in the new enterprise. Here was ths pastor and 
 here was the meeting house, but where were the members ? Upon in- 
 quiry, it was ascertained that there were ten individuals willing to 
 unite in the new organization, not one of them a citizen of Baltimore. 
 These were Mr. Binney and his wife, Mr. Crane and his wife and four 
 of his children, Mrs. Sarah Justis and Mrs. Maria Davis, both widows. 
 
 A Church covenant was adopted by the constituents, and a number 
 of ministers were invited to recognize them as a Church, This council 
 consisted of Rev. Wm. F. Broaddus, Rev. John Kerr, Rev. James B. 
 Taylor, all from Va., and Rev. S. P. Hill, of Baltimore. The ministers 
 spent several days in the city, and preached for the new Church. They 
 were gratified by the accession of several new members, in the persons 
 of Rev. William Richards, his wife and some of his children, who had 
 recently moved to the city. Mr. Binney, though a good and able man? 
 not seeing the Church prosper as he wished, resigned after a brief 
 pastorate of four months. During that time, one was received by bap- 
 
76 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 tism and eight by letter. The candidate baptized was a Jewess, Miss 
 Cohen, formerly of Richmond. For several months, Mr. Richards and 
 snch other supplies as could be obtained, kept up the services on the 
 Lord's day, and a prayer meeting during the week. Simultaneously 
 with the constitution of the Church, a Sunday school had been formed 
 and was held twice every Sunday. It was, however small, consisting, 
 of few besides the families of the members of the Church. Yet dis- 
 couraging as things seemed to be, they were not without some additions 
 to cheer and comfort. Three persons were baptized, and four received by 
 letter, while there was no pastor. 
 
 In January, 1836, Rev. G. F. Adams was invited to take charge of 
 the Church, which now numbered fifteen members; and very few be- 
 side the members attended the services. The prospect of building up 
 a self-sustaining interest seemed to be discouraging. The occasional 
 presence of strangers however was noticed. During the first year, four 
 were baptized and nine received by letter. Early in 1837, Mr. J. C. 
 Crane removed to Baltimore and identified himself with the new 
 interest. He at once threw his soul into the Sunday school and prayer 
 meetings, and gave interest to the cause generally. Soon a brighter 
 state of things appeared. A number of strangers, Baptists from abroad, 
 wliose business brought them to the city, presented letters and were 
 received; a few also joined from the Churches in thecity, and occasion- 
 ally one was baptized. As the congregation and Church increased, so 
 did the Sunday school. Thus the course of affairs slowiy prospered, 
 till 1839, a year ever memorable in the history of the Baptists in Balti- 
 more. This Church reported that year a membership of fifty-one, a 
 net increase of seventeen during the year. Just at the time of the an- 
 nual meeting of the Association at Nanjemoy, the celebrated Elder 
 Jacob Knapp began a protracted meeting in the First Baptist Church, 
 of which a mention is made in the sketch of that Church. 
 
 For some weeks previous to Mr. Knapp's visit, there had been quite 
 an interest manifested in the Calvert street Church, so that Mr. Crane 
 determined to make considerable improvement in the house. The 
 basement was enlarged and made comfortable for the Sunday school. 
 Gas was introduced; galleries and a baptistery were added. This was 
 the first baptistery ever known in the city. This work was just com- 
 pleted as Mr. Knapp was about closing his meeting at the First Church. 
 He held one meeting in the Calvert street house, which was crowded to 
 its utmost capacity, and the stillness of the grave, save only the 
 preacher's voice, pervaded the whole congregation. Already about 
 twenty had been baptized at the Spring Gardens, having been received 
 as candidates in Calvert street Church. But now that a baptistery was 
 prepared in the house, there was no necessity of going such a distance. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 77 
 
 A baptism in a church, at that time, was a novelty in Baltimore, and 
 attracted many. Some came no doubt from mere curiosity, and some 
 even for amusement. In more than one case it was true, that "Fools 
 who came to laugh remained to pray." The good work continued for 
 about two years. The Church, at the Association in 1840, reported 
 additions by baptism 157, by letter 23, making 180. In 1841, there 
 were 62 received by baptism and 12 by letter, again of 254 in two years. 
 
 As the Church was now strong enough in numbers to be independ- 
 ent of the two individuals who liad borne the burden of its expenses, 
 Mr. Crane offered to transfer the property to the Church, subject only 
 to its annual ground-rent of $204, and the amount recently expended 
 for improvements, agreeing to donate $4,000, the original purchase 
 money. This generous proposal was consistent with his object in the 
 beginning of the enterprise, and the offer was accepted. The Church 
 appointed as trustees, Wm. Crane, J. C. Crane, Edward Cockey, T. M. 
 Ward, John B. Moody, A. J. Hampson, W. Smith, G. S. Eichelberger, 
 Samuel S. Addison, Jas. B. White. 
 
 In 1842, the Church received 47 accessions, by baptism and letter. 
 At the close of that year, the Association desiring a suitable man as 
 State Missionary, Bro. Adams was induced to accept the important po- 
 sition, and resigned his charge of the Calvert Street Church. For six 
 months, the congregation suffered for lack of pastoral oversight. In 
 July, 1843, Kev. Jonathan Aldrich was unanimously elected, pastor, 
 and accepted charge. A revival, chiefly in the Sunday school, occurred 
 soon after. 
 
 In May, 1844. it was found impracticable for the Church to carry 
 out the terms of its contract with Mr. Crane for the purchase of the 
 building they occupied. They decided consequently to seek another 
 location, and rented a small vacant chapel on the S. W. corner of Bal- 
 timore and Exeter streets, familiarly known then as the "Hargrove 
 church." Measures were at once taken to build a new house. A lot 
 was secured on High Street, and the present edifice erected. The corner 
 stone was laid Sept. 10, 1844, and the building occupied in November, 
 1845. The Church then assumed its present title. Prospects were fa- 
 vorable for success, but the debt they had incurred in this undertaking 
 soon embarrassed them. The pastor had hoped to collect considerable 
 money from his friends in the North, but failed, and the membership 
 being mostly poor, were entirely unable to meet their indebtedness and 
 even their current expenses. The house had cost $17,000, of which 
 $13,000 was unpaid, under interest. The other Churches sympathized 
 with their impecunious brethren, but were unable to relieve them. 
 Discouraged in all his efforts, Mr. Aldrich resigned in 1846. During 
 his service, he had received 49 members by baptism and 55 by letter. 
 
78 Marylajid Baptist History. 
 
 Here now was a Church, with considerable faith and vigor, but poor 
 in money, overwhelmed with debt and without a pastor. After various 
 efforts to obtain relief, and the calling of a council of Churches for aid 
 and advice, an arrangement was made leading to a gradual improve- 
 ment in their circumstances. Rev. Franklin Wilson was unanimously 
 elected pastor, and accepted the charge, with the understanding that 
 the Church should make a vigorous effort to collect funds for the ex- 
 tinguishment of the debt, and he relinquishing his entire salary to the 
 same object. The creditors generously agreed to wait. Bro. Wilson's 
 pastorate began April 11, 1847, with the debt then reduced to $11,000. 
 In November, 1850, he was compelled to resign, on account of the loss 
 of his voice. He continued to preach occasionally, as his health would 
 permit. During his pastorate, 97 persons were received by baptism and 
 69 by letter ; and nearly half of the debt was paid. Encouraged by this 
 liberal arrangement and lightened of so much of their burden, the 
 Church became more interested in spiritual matters, a revival ensued, 
 under the preaching of Eev. H. J. Chandler, who supplied the pulpit 
 during the winter of 1850, and fifty souls were added to their number 
 by baptism. Mr. Chandler was elected to the assistant pastorship of 
 the Church, Mr. Wilson still preaching when able, and this joint oc- 
 cupancy continued until October, 1852, when Mr. Chandler resigned 
 and Mr. Wilson ceased altogether. In the meantime, by earnest indi- 
 vidual effort, the debt had been further reduced to about $3,000. 
 
 During Mr. Wilson's pastorate, the following converts were baptized 
 into the fellowship of this Church : John Wesley Taylor, Thomas C. 
 Gessford, Charles Thompson, and soon afterwards J. B. T. Patterson ; 
 all of whom afterward became ministers. 
 
 In June, 1853, Rev. John Berg accepted the pastorate. Mr. Berg 
 was faithful and successful in all his duties. !Some useful members 
 were gathered in, and those who had become useless were excluded. 
 After nearly two years, he resigned, on account of a new rule of the 
 Church requiring the annual election of a pastor. 
 
 Rev. E. S. Dulin, of Missouri, who had been licensed by this Church 
 some years "before, was now called to the pulpit, but declined. 
 
 In June, 1855, Rev. L. W. Seeley, of Kentucky, was unanimously 
 elected, and entered the pastorate in the following September. During 
 the interval, the church building was thoroughly repaired and painted. 
 Early the following year, a revival occurred, which continued many 
 months, and resulted in numerous conversions. Mr. Seeley resigned 
 Sept. 34,1857, having received 35 converts by baptism and 20 by letter. 
 
 For some months, the finances of the Church were so inadequate to 
 their duty and work, that they hesitated to call a pastor, but a healthy 
 reaction set in, and Rev. E. R. Hera, of Baltimore County, was invited 
 
Alary land Baptist History. 79 
 
 and took charge, Jan. 1, 1858. Seldom has a pastor entered his field 
 with greater tokens of favor than those shown to Mr. Hera. He was 
 also popular with other Churches, one of which called him, uusucess- 
 fully, in 1859. The cause prospered and Zion was hopeful. In the 
 year just named, rumors of personal imprudence and indiscretions af- 
 fected Mr. Hera's character, so as to impair his influence with a ma- 
 jority of his congregation. After a report of censure had been passed 
 by the Church, he resigned, in October, 1859. About fifty members,^ 
 taking side with Mr. Hera, withdrew also, and with him, organized 
 another body, which was, however, of short duration. Mr. Hera took 
 the position of army chaplain in 1861, and removed to the West. 
 
 In January, 1860, Eev. George P. Nice was elected pastor. Consid- 
 ering the recent disruption of the Church, immediate prosperity was 
 not expected, but the faithful labors of the preacher and people were 
 blessed. Some were restored to membership, others added by baptism,, 
 and a revival during the ensuing months caused a total increase of 
 thirty. Among them was J. T. Beckley, a youth, who, after a collegiate 
 education, became co-pastor with Dr. E. H. Neale, of the First Baptist 
 Church, Boston, Mass. Thence he removed to Newburyport, and after 
 a successful pastorate, was called to the Beth Eden Church, Philadel- 
 phia. Also, Geo. W. McCullough, who was educated for the ministry, 
 served a Church in Massachusetts, and is now the efficient pastor of 
 the Second Church in this city. Henry Taylor and F. A. Mitchell, af- 
 terwards deacons, entered our fellowship at that time. J. W. T. Boothe, 
 a young member, was ordained to the ministry. After useful pastorates 
 in the States of New York and Indiana, he is now serving a large 
 Church in Philadelphia. Then the Civil War broke out, and all the 
 pleasant prospect was beclouded. The membership sympathized on 
 opposite sides of the contest. But the prudent and discreet course of 
 the pastor tended greatly to preserve the integrity of the organization 
 through that trying ordeal. L)nring the War, in response to an appeal 
 from James B. Taylor, Secretary of the Southern Board, a hundred dol- 
 lars was promptly sent to Foreign Missions. 
 
 There still remained a balance of the old debt unpaid. Providence 
 now made a way of relief. A venerable sister, Mrs. Ellen Faulkner, 
 dying, left a legacy of $200 toward the debt. The remainder being due 
 to Eev. Franklin Wilson, he generously relinquished his claim. This 
 cleared away a cloud that had long overshadowed them, and a testimo- 
 nial of gratitude was presented by the Church to B/o. Wilson, at a 
 public meeting. During the winter of 1865-6, Bro. Nice's labors were 
 further blessed in the reclamation of backsliders and the baptism of a 
 number of new converts. In November, 1866, the pastor resigned. It 
 was with great reluctance that the Church accepted this decision, and 
 
8o Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 they passed resolutions expressive of the highest regard for him. His 
 ministry had lasted nearly seven years, and he left the Church free of 
 debt and dissension and in a healthful spiritual condition. 
 
 The Church now. carried on its work for some months without a 
 pastor, using their finances for the renovation of their building, at an 
 outlay of $2,500. Col. Wm. Chestnut, through his daughter, Mrs. 
 Saunders, kindly donated |350 of this sum. Eev. E. B. Kelsay, of Phil- 
 adelphia, then accepted charge, in September, 1867. His labors were 
 blessed from the beginning, and resulted in accessions at nearly every 
 weekly meeting. In February, 1868, the Church voted to increase his 
 salary from $1,500 to $3,000, but he positively declined the advance. 
 
 In the same year, a reunion took place, participated in by all the for- 
 mer pastors of the Church. It was an occasion of interesting remin- 
 iscences and hopeful anticipations. 
 
 Not being able to buy a parsonage, the Church now added $300 to the 
 pastor's salary for the rent of one. The ground-rent of the church 
 edifice being a yearly tax of $180, four of the brethren nobly offered to 
 contribute $2,500 toward its liquidation, provided the Church would 
 raise $500 more. This was not done immediately, but in about six 
 months, in April, 1870, the ground was purchased for the Church, and 
 this enabled them to move more freely in their mission for Christ. The 
 cause prospered throughout the year, and over a hundred members were 
 received, but to the surprise and regret of the entire fellowship, Mr. 
 Kelsay resigned, in December, 1870. 
 
 In March, 1871, Rev. Mark E. Watkinson was elected by a small 
 majority at a regular meeting, and a motion failed to make it unani- 
 mous. The minority comprised the official and active portion of the 
 Church. Mr. Watkinson accepted, hoping to harmonize both sides ; 
 and it is due to say that both parties endeavored to act for the general 
 peace. But as time passed on, it was evident that there was a lack of 
 that cordial cooperation necessary to prosperity, and in March, 1872, 
 a vote was taken at a business meeting of the Church on the question of 
 retaining or dismissing the pastor. The ballot stood seventy-nine in 
 favor of Mr. Watkinson and thirty-three against him. This settled the 
 debate, for the time. 
 
 On May 15,1873, the funeral of Rev. John Berg took place from this 
 Church. As the former pastor of this and the Second Church, and as 
 editor of the "True Union,"' Mr. Berg had acquired many friends. Of 
 late, his health had become impaired, from partial paralysis. He had 
 spent a season at a Virginia Spring under medical treatment, and then 
 gone to the seaside at Hampton. Eor a few days, at that place, he ap- 
 peared to improve. Always cheerful, he once remarked that he had 
 long admired the prayers of the Episcopal service, with one exception. 
 
■ Maryland Baptist History. 8i 
 
 He could not join in the petition "From sudden death, good Lord, de- 
 liver us." "Were 1 allowed to choose," said he, "I would prefer to die 
 suddenly;" and then raising both hands, he exclaimed, "Sudden death 
 — sudden glory !" He took a short walk, and returning, locked himself 
 in his room. After some time, his observant friends, fearing the worst, 
 forced the door and found the good man dying. His desire was grant- 
 ed ; he died suddenly. His remains were buried in Greenmount, and 
 covered by an appropriately inscribed marble. His funeral was con- 
 ducted by Eevs. M. R. Watkinson, Franklin Wilson, G. F. Adams, E. 
 N. Harris and Dr. Fuller. 
 
 In September, 1873, finding that he had failed in uniting the mem- 
 bers under his administration, Mr. Watkinson resigned. Just about 
 that time, a neat chapel had been erected on Eager street, near Broad- 
 way, chiefly through the means of Mrs. Geo. E. Dodge. Mr. Watkin- 
 son was invited to take charge of the congregation at this mission, and 
 accepted. 
 
 The High Street Church was now without a pastor for over seven 
 months, during which some repairs were made in their building. In 
 August, 1874, Rev. John T. Craig, of Scotland, and late of New Jersey, 
 who had preached here frequently, settled as pastor. All things now 
 worked harmoniously, and the Church took a step forward in all that 
 constitutes a healthy, zealous. Christian body. 
 
 In the summer of 1875, Deacon James D. McKean died suddenly, on 
 his way home, one night, from a meeting at the church. His age was 
 sixty-eight years. Born in Trenton, N. J., he resided in Philadelphia, 
 in early manhood, where he was converted. In 1840, he united with 
 the First Church of Baltimore, and in 1847 with the High St. Church. 
 He was a man of great industry, indomitable energy, strong faith, and 
 consistent piety. It is seldom that a Church loses a member more val- 
 uable and punctual as an officer, and kind-hearted as a man. A memo- 
 rial service was held in his honor. 
 
 This Church was constituted when the aggressive spirit of Missions 
 was little known as compared with the present period, yet there has 
 always been a feeling favorable to such work, which was retarded only 
 by adverse financial circumstances. An earlj effort in this direction 
 was made at Huntingdon, in 1843, when a Sunday school was planted 
 by J. B. Bradley, J. F. Helm, T. E. Edmonds,_E. S. Dulin, L. Raymo 
 and others, near the toll-gate on the York Road. This school and the 
 meetings connected with it under the labors of Rev. Franklin Wilson, 
 may be regarded as the origin of the Baptist Church in Waverly. 
 More recently, a mission school was originated, which, combined with 
 another mission, resulted in the foundingof Shiloh (now Grace) Church. 
 
82 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The Young People's Association has been in the past quite active 
 in all Sunday school and mission labors. Several years ago, a vigorous 
 monthly Church paper was published by Mr. C. S. Stewart, and edited 
 by the pastor and Mr. Henry Taylor. Large numbers of tracts have 
 been distributed by the society. 
 
 In 1876, considerable improvements were made in the house, in ad- 
 dition to a new baptistery, costing $600, without incurring any debt. 
 
 Bro. Craig's administration was marked by a general improvement 
 and growth. The Church, school and missions, were all active. Con- 
 tributions to all purposes were increased. In 1879, a spire designed by 
 J. Appleton Wilson, son of the former pastor, was added to the church 
 edifice, at a cost of $4,000. Having received a call to general mission 
 work in Delaware, to which he felt a special inclination, Bro. Craig 
 resigned his pastorate, Jan. 2, 1881. 
 
 Rev. W. S. Penick, of the First Baptist Church of Alexandria, Va., 
 was chosen pastor in March, 1881. He entered upon his labors the 
 following May. In a short time, after thoroughly acquainting himself 
 with the condition of the membership, he urged the Church to revise 
 its lists, which they begun to do in October. During this year the 
 number of members was reduced by erasure and the withdrawal of fel- 
 lowship, from 153 to 354 ; and the next year, ending in October, 1882, 
 the membership was further reduced for the same reason to 314, al- 
 though there were 38 receiveil during the year, 29 of them by baptism. 
 
 While this reduction of membership was going on, the Church large- 
 ly increased its contributions to the various causes of benevolence. In 
 1881, the contribution to the Maryland Union Association was $125 ; 
 in 1882, it was $200 ; the following year it was $300, and in 1884 it had 
 reached about $350. To other objects, including Home and Foreign 
 Missions, the amount given in 1881 was about $150, and in 1882, it was 
 $595. In November, 1882, the'Church increased the pastor's salary 
 $500. Besides these advances, expensive improvements were made in 
 the building. The Sunday school covered the floor of the lecture room 
 with a new carpet; the ladies put a new set of furniture in the pulpit, 
 and about this time a new hymn book was introduced at considerable 
 cost. The number of members in October, 1884, was 348. 
 
 A ladies' missionary society was organized in November, 1882, which 
 IS doing a noble work in making clothing for the Indian children of 
 the Levering Manual Labor School, besides contributing liberal sums 
 of money to various other benevolent,objects. Recently, another society, 
 called, "The Young Ladies' Home Mission Society," has been organized. 
 
 The High St. Church has just celebrated its semi-centennial. These 
 fifty years have been characterized by great struggles, and abundant 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 83 
 
 usefulness. The Church now proposes, as soon as the necessary ar- 
 rangements can be made, to remove from its present locality, which is 
 being rapidly surrounded with business houses, to a more eligible situ- 
 ation, where it is hoped that a still more abundant success may crown 
 its efforts in the future. 
 
 Within two years, the Church has been bereaved by death of three 
 of the oldest members,Theresa Grace, Ann V. Beckley and B. M. Mason. 
 
 The present officers of the Church are : Pastor, Rev. W. S. Penick. 
 Deacons: Jas. P. Frames, also Treasurer ; John F. Helm ; Wm. Leon- 
 hardt; and W. E. Mason, also Clerk. 
 
 The Sunday school of this Church has always been a power for good, 
 and its faithful teaching has won many souls to Christ. Its successive 
 superintendents have been as follows : Wm. H. Ryan, A. J. Hampson, 
 J. D. Tustin, J. B. Moody, Wm. H. Hamer, Wm. S. Foster, James D. 
 McKean, Stephen Jones, W. S. Crowley, Jas. P. Frames, the last of 
 whom has served since 1864. The other officers, at the present time, 
 are : Assistant Superintendent, Wm. Leonhardt ; Treasurer, H. Taylor ; 
 Secretaries, Charles Woodward, Wm. Porter; Librarians, J. B. Vail, 
 W. Colmus. 
 
84 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 ■835- 
 
 PIKESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 PiKESViLLE is a pleasant village on the Reisterstown road, about 
 eight miles northwest of Baltimore. For a long time it was the location 
 of a U. S. Arsenal. In 1832, Mr. Joseph Mettam landed at Norfolk, 
 Va., from England, and coming to Baltimore, united with the Second 
 Church. Here he was licensed to preach, and attended the Baltimore 
 Association at Black Bock, in 1834, as a delegate. "While there, he was 
 thrown from a horse and dragged some distance by the stirrup. Among 
 the friends who aided to restore him from the effects of the accident, 
 was a lady who conducted a female academy near Pikesville. She in- 
 vited him to preach there, especially for the spiritual advantage of her 
 pupils. He consented, and finally brought his family and settled in 
 the village and opened a school. Teaching through the week, he used 
 his sehool-room for divine worship on Sunday, and it was filled with an 
 interested congregation. Dr. James Smith now gave half an acre of 
 ground for the site of a chapel. Other friends contributed money and 
 material, and by February, 1835, a stone house was built, thirty by forty 
 feet in dimension, comfortable, and ready for occupancy. It was ded- 
 icated by Rev. John Healy, assisted by Elder Eli Scott, of Black Rock. 
 In May following, Mr. Healy baptized two converts, the first fruits of 
 Bro. Mettam's labors in the school-house. Soon after, two more were 
 baptized by Bro. Healy. On September 8, 1835, a Church was consti- 
 tuted, in the presence of brethren from the First and Second Churches 
 of Baltimore. The constituents were Joseph Mettam and Ruth B., his 
 wife, Miss Eliza Trott, from the Second Church of Baltimore, and the 
 four recently baptized, John G. Cox, Geo. Robinson, Ann Turner and 
 John Ports. 
 
 On June 29, following, Bro. Mettam was ordained to the ministry by 
 Revs. John Healy, Joseph H. Jones and Stephen P. Hill. He had al- 
 ready been chosen as pastor by the little flock. A debt of $400, which 
 remained on the meeting house, was presented before the Churches in 
 Baltimore, and soon after paid by their contributions. 
 
 In 1836, when the Maryland Union Association was organized, this 
 Church was a constituent. The pastor labored faithfully and reported 
 fourteen members at the second meeting of that body. In 1840, the 
 Union assembled at Pikesville, and began a protracted meeting, which 
 continued under charge of the pastor and Rev. L. W. Allen, of Va., 
 until a large number of souls were converted. Forty-two members 
 were reported in 1842. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 85 
 
 For the next twenty years there were occasional additions, but noth- 
 ing of importance occurred. The pastor not only served this Church, 
 but acted occasionally as a missionary of the Board, preaching at Ta- 
 neytown, Hereford, Forest, Good Hope and other points. In 1860, Kev. 
 H. G. DeWitt, State Evangelist, held a series of meetings at Pikesville, 
 resulting in thirty additions to the Church. In 1861, fifty-four mem- 
 bers are recorded, the largest roll ever given. Since then, many have 
 died or removed, and the number at present is only seventeen. The 
 whole number received during the existence of the body has been con- 
 siderably over one hundred. 
 
 Feeble as this Church has been, it has nevertheless been a power for 
 good in the community. At the time of its origin, there was no place 
 of worship within several miles. Now, there are three large churches 
 in the place. Its Sunday school has been recognized for its influence 
 on the young of the neighborhood. The village, in early years, was the 
 place of resort for sport, especially on Sunday. But the gospel made 
 a great change, and brought decency and piety to the homes and hearts 
 of the people. Even the youths who robbed orchards for pastime, came 
 to the school, and ceased to annoy the neighboring farmers. 
 
 The venerable pastor, who has never missed but two or three meet- 
 ings of the Association during its fifty years, still lives, at this writing, 
 but is unable to preach, and awaits the end of his well-spent life. 
 
Erected IHSl). 
 
 FIRST COLORED BAPTIST CHURCH 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 87 
 
 1836. 
 
 FIRST COLORED BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 In compiling this sketch, we must rely upon detached reports in the 
 Minutes of the Association, on the recollection of aged persons, and on 
 imperfect Church records. The following is all we can gather in regard 
 to the first church organization among the colored Baptists. 
 
 In 1818, a colored Baptist preacher, whose name is forgotten, but 
 whose labors are remembered, came to Baltimore, and preached about 
 a year to a few Baptists in a private house on Potter street, near Fayette. 
 But it does not appear that any Church was organized. There were 
 a few colored Baptists to be found, and occasionally a meeting was held 
 in some private house, but the race were then in slavery, and both laws 
 and public opinion were unfavorable to their separate organization. A 
 number, however,were members of the First (white) Church. It was not 
 until 1834, when Mr. Wm. Crane came from Richmond, that any spe- 
 cial effort was made to gather them into a distinct body, so as to enable 
 them to extend the truth among the large numbers of their kindred 
 dwelling among us. With his advice, Moses Clayton, who had been a 
 slave, but was now free, and had come to Baltimore from Norfolk, Va., 
 made an effort in this direction. Mr. A. Stirling, who owned a school 
 house on the corner of Young and Thomsen streets, kindly gave its use 
 free of rent to Clayton, for a Sunday school. Clayton had learned to 
 read and write, could speak with some fluency, and began teaching 
 and preaching at once. Being a carpenter, he made his living by labor 
 during the week. He began a school with three children, two of them 
 his own, and gradually gathered a few others. He often preached to 
 an audience comprising his wife and two or three others, and strange 
 as it may seem, spoke with as much ardor and enthusiasm as if he were 
 addressing a thousand people. Clayton's piety and earnestness had a 
 reward so far that he gathered in some eight or ten believers, formed a 
 Church and was ordained as pastor. The organization took place Feb. 
 20,1836, with the assistance of the following ministers: Rev. John 
 Healy, of the Second Church, Rev. S. P. Hill, of the First Church, and 
 Rev. Gr. F. Adams of the Calvert St. (now High St.) Church. 
 
 The First Colored Church did not grow rapidly, but maintained reg- 
 ular worship and served as a small beacon light for many years. In 
 1841, the Church was received into the Association, and reported a slow 
 advance from time to time. In 1860, the pastor, Rev. Moses Clayton, 
 
88 Maryland Baptist History, 
 
 finished the work God had sent him to do, and died at the age of seventy- 
 seven years. 
 
 Eev. J, Gary preached for this Church a short time. Bro. John Whye 
 also acted as pastor in 1863, and is the oldest member now living. In 
 1864, Rev. J. Underdue, of Philadelphia, was called, and served as pastor 
 for a few months, when he joined the Union army. The Church re- 
 ported about eighty members during this period. In 1865, Rev. Lewis 
 Hicks became pastor. This brother had been a slave, had traveled* 
 and was quite a character. He was illiterate, but had great vigor and 
 fluency of speech. Short of stature, with an intelligent eye and frank 
 countenance, he possessed an energy of character that caused him to 
 be noticed whenever he was engaged in public speaking. He frequent- 
 ly plead before the Board and the Association for his various charges, 
 and was always accorded a very friendly hearing. He undertook to 
 build a meeting house in place of the old school house, which had be- 
 come dilapidated, and with the aid of Rev. John Berg, succeeded in col- 
 lecting the required means. He remained pastor till 1869, leaving a 
 membership of over one hundred. He afterwards went to Cumberland 
 and organized an interest there. He died at Charlotte Hall, in 1880, 
 aged seventy years. 
 
 In 1872, Rev. J. C. Allen, a student of Iberia College, Ohio, entered 
 the pastorate of this Church. It was ^t first in age, but others had 
 outstripped it, and it stood, weak and somewhat in debt, not knowing, 
 but hoping for a future. Bro. Alien labored judiciously and success- 
 fully, and soon required a larger house to hold his hearers. Conver- 
 sions blessed his ministry. The Church grew in character, and shortly 
 numbered three hundred members. The unfavorable location of the 
 house of worship caused many to leave, and the Church Extension So- 
 ciety saw the need of a larger house and better position, if a great work 
 was to be done. The Church were therefore encouraged to collect 
 funds and build elsewhere. They soon paid off all existing debts and 
 began to save money for the new enterprise. In 1873, their letter to the 
 Association says: "Our house is too small to hold the people. Want 
 another and are trying to get one. Have $1,000 in bank for that object. 
 Who will give a dollar to help along? Have baptized fifty-eight per- 
 sons this year." In 1875, a lot was secured on the corner of Caroline 
 and McElderry streets. In three years, by great effort and self-denial, 
 the Church had paid for it, $3,500. In 1880, a large and handsome 
 building was erected on this lot by the Church Extension Society, to 
 be deeded to the Church after all the cost shall be secured. It was de- 
 signed by J. A. and W. T. Wilson, Architects, built by H. C. Smyser 
 and Edw. B. White. Dr. G. K. Tyler and Charles Tyler, F. W. King, 
 Chas. A. Keyser, and other members of the Board, gave not only con- 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 89 
 
 siderable money, but also much gratuitous personal supervision to the 
 work. The house and ground cost about $16,500. 
 
 On the last Sunday in January, 1881, the Church occupied its new 
 home, and before a month had passed, fifty converts were baptized. A 
 joyful opening ! Since then the members have set themselves to work 
 for the extinguishment of their debt and the increase of such as shall 
 be saved. They now number 371. The pastor still occupies his place 
 as a modest, yet faithful leader, and has been honored several times by 
 the colored Churches in being elected President of the Baptist State 
 Convention, The deacons of this Church are: Joseph Reed, Welford 
 Day, Dabney Noel, Gabriel Sutton, Cornelius Smith, Arthur Richard- 
 son, George Cephas. Trustees : Jeremiah Griffin, Lewis Washington, 
 Tobias Robinson, Peter Parker, John Sharp. Superintendent of the 
 Sunday School, Lucius Johnson. 
 
go Mai-yland Baptist History. 
 
 1842. 
 HEREFORD BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The origin of Hereford Church may be ascribed to the influence of 
 Mr. John K. Rowe. He was a native of England, and came to Baltimore 
 in 1801, where he worked as a ship-joiner. In 1807, he raised and 
 commanded a volunteer military company, in anticipation of a war 
 with England, and in 1814 served in the defence of this city. He was 
 subsequently converted, and became a member of the First Baptist 
 Church under Kev. J. Finlay. Later, Mr. Rowe removed to Hereford* 
 About 1840, he set apart a lot of two acres in the centre of the village' 
 and being an able mechanic, built upon it a neat, substantial house of 
 worship, at almost his own expense, receiving contributions if offered, 
 but never soliciting any. Bro. D. B. Wilhelm states* that the active 
 
 *"We held a series of protracted meetings. We went to Hereford. Old Bro. 
 Rowe had built a meeting house. We begun a prayer meeting there and kept it 
 up for a week. We held our meetings at night, and went around praying with 
 the families in the day-time. There was power in prayer there. Bro. Rowe's 
 children had grown up unconverted— all except one, who was a Methodist, and 
 afterward joined the Baptists— they were all brought in at this meeting. Bro. 
 Rowe's youngest son was a sailor, and had just come home from sea. He told 
 his mother that he 'would have to go back to sea; for if he went up to Bill's 
 they were' praying there ; if he went to Bro. John's, they were praying there ; if 
 he went to brother Jim's, they were praying there ; and if he went back to home) 
 they were praying there. He had no place to put his foot.' So he got his mother 
 to pack up his clothes. He went around to bid his brothers good-bye. He met 
 brother Jim down in a field, who told him all that he wanted was religion, and 
 both got right down on their knees on the ground, and the Lord converted 
 him right there. He did not go back to sea, but got aboard the old Ship of Zion. 
 and has no doubt sailed to heaven. But T must speak of another case before I 
 leave Hereford. I went down to old Bro. Freeland's. His wife had been out to 
 our meeting, and had been so powerfully convicted, that when she returned home 
 she took to her bed and sent for a doctor. While I was there, the doctor came in. 
 After questioning the patient, he said to her, 'You are afflicted more in mind than 
 in body, for I know I am.' With that he took a seat beside me and said, 'Now, 
 if there is any religion for me, I want it.' This took me by surprise; I thought, 
 'What can I say to this man? — he has been to Congress, and I am only a young 
 convert.' But I pointed him to Jesus. He wanted me to go home with him, as 
 he lived in the village. After I had prayed with Mrs. Freeland, I started up to 
 see the doctor, but met him coming down, praising the Lord. God had blessed 
 him, and we had a happy time there. Mrs. Freeland came to the meetings again, 
 and was also converted. So the doctor and his patient were both converted 
 within twenty-four hours. The doctor's name was John C. Orrick — he preached 
 the gospel in the Methodist connexion for a number of years before his death. 
 Hereford Baptist Church was started from this meeting." — From '^ Recollections of 
 Uncle Daniel,''' pub. by WeisJiampel, Baltimore, 1883. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 91 
 
 members of Gunpowder Church held prayer and enquiry meetings in 
 this building, and that a revival followed, which led to the organization 
 of a new Church. Bro. Rowe then invited all who desired to form a 
 Baptist Church to unite, and presented the property to the body. The 
 following were the constituent members : John K. Rowe, Ann Bevan, 
 Thos. Miller, Ann Miller, Johanna Boyd, Wm. Cross, Jas. Rowe, John 
 L. Price, Rachel Price, Mary Rowe, Thomas Jones, Ann Little, Sarah 
 Turner, Mary Little, George Little, Elizabeth Price, Elizabeth Ways, 
 Margaret Rowe, Martha Turner and Wm. Rowe. The Baltimore and 
 Gunpowder Churches sent delegates to recognize the new body, on Jan- 
 5, 1843. A covenant was adopted, and a sermon preached by Rev. G. 
 F.Adams. Rev. H. J. Chandler gave the right hand of fellowship ; 
 and was subsequently chosen pastor of this and the Gunpowder 
 Churches. His labors were blessed, and seven persons were baptized. 
 Among them was one man, who kept a drinking house, and who gave 
 evidence of his sincerity by abandoning the traffic. A few weeks later, 
 a Sunday school was established, which though sometimes interrupted, 
 has been continued to the present time. In March 39, 1843, the fol- 
 lowing was adopted ; "Whereas, brother John K. Rowe has built a 
 meeting house at his own expense in the town of Hereford, and has 
 made said house, with two acres of ground, a present to us, the Baptist 
 Church at Hereford; Resolved, That we gratefully accept the same, and 
 hereby return to Bro. Rowe our sincere and hearty thanks for so val- 
 uable a present." 
 
 In the following autumn, a missionary society was constituted, and 
 a monthly concert of prayer established. During 1843, a camp-meeting 
 was held by the members of this and the Gunpowder Churches. Min- 
 isters from Baltimore and elsewhere attended and preached with power. 
 Many were converted, baptized, and added to the Churches. In 1843, 
 Mr. Chandler was recalled to his native State, Virginia, In Augustof 
 that year. Rev. G. F. Adams took charge of this field, including that of 
 Gunpowder, and also Price's school-house, about half way between the 
 other two. This continued until the Forest Church was constituted. 
 At this time was licensed Bro. Thos. Jones, who served as missionary at 
 Rockville, as heretofore stated. Mr. Adams resigned in March, 1846. 
 
 Rev. Adam Baush succeeded as pastor, at the same time teaching a 
 school. He remained two years, and baptized seven persons. \n 1848, 
 the Hereford and Forest Churches recalled Mr. Chandler, who served 
 them with fair success for three years, during which time a baptistery 
 was made in the Hereford house. In 1851, Rev. T. W. Haynes, of S. C.> 
 occupied the pulpit for a few months. In 1854, Rev. E. R. Hera, then 
 of Dover, Del., accepted charge. Soon after, occurred the death of Mr. 
 J. K. Rowe, aged eighty-six years. Besides his former gift, he left to 
 
92 Maryland Baptist //istory. 
 
 the Church an annual ground-rent of ,|U6 in lialtiniore City, to legalize 
 which his heirs generously obtained a special act of the Legislature. 
 Mrs. Ruth Rowe, his widow, also presented the Church with a house 
 and lot in the village to be used as a "pastor's home." This was the 
 only one of our Churches at that time so comfortably endowed. Two 
 years later, Mr. Hera left, at the call of High St. Church, Baltimore. 
 Rev. J. Porter, the pastor of Gunpowder and Forest, now preached at 
 Hereford also, for about two years. In 1<S60, Rev. John Kingdon, a 
 young student, acted temporarily as pastor. In 1864, Bro. M. H. Aus- 
 tin, a convert under the preaching of Bro. Thomas Jones, at Rockville, 
 was ordained as pastor. Bro. Austin's earnest labors were blessed, and 
 he remained in charge four years. Rev. J. W. Jones, of Va., succeeded 
 for over two years. Dr. Isaac Cole, living in Westminster, preached 
 here during 1873. Rev. B. G. Parker became pastor in 1874 and con- 
 tinued fourteen months. Rev. E. B. Walts next assumed charge, in 
 July 1875, and served until 1881. Bro. E. Wilcox a member of the 
 Seventh Church, took charge for a few months in 1881. During all 
 these terms, there was a fair amount of work, vvith occasional special 
 eflbrts, a few baptisms by each pastor, and periods of prosperity. Most 
 of the pastors were missionaries of our Association. 
 
 In 1882, Rev. C. L. Amy was chosen pastor. During 1883, Rev. J. 
 B. English, then State Evangelist, held a meeting, at which four con- 
 verts were reported. The Church seemed hopeful. In November, 
 1884, Mr. Amy resigned. Members in 1884, forty-six. 
 
 Recently, Bro. Edward Austen, a native of Baltimore, but for many 
 years engaged in business in New York, has removed to his beautiful 
 farm near Hereford, and greatly aided the Church by his presence, con- 
 tributions and wise Christian counsel. Rev. Ed. Small, a student from 
 Spurgeon's College, has been lately elected missionary pastor, with a 
 hopeful prospect. 
 
 The present officers of the Church are as follows. Deacons: T. R. 
 Rowe, U. Harvey ; Clerk, W. G. Little ; Treasurer, A. J. Rowe. The 
 Superintendent of the Sunday school is T. R. Rowe. 
 
Maryland J^aptist History. 93 
 
 1843. 
 
 FOREST BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 *'The Forest Baptist Cliurch was organized on January 24, 1843, by 
 fifty members who witlidrew by letter from tbe Gunpowder Church. 
 Revs. Wm. Laws and Joseph Mettam had been liolding meetings at 
 Gunpowder Church, in 1840. The good work spread for miles all over 
 the country and hundreds were converted, most of them heads of fam- 
 ilies. They went to the Old Stump meeting house, which had been oc- 
 cupied by the Old Side Baptists, a few of whom were still holding on 
 to the house. Brn. Laws and Mettam were locked out, but they held a 
 meeting in the Grove alongside of the old house. They kept up this 
 meeting for some time, as the weather was warm. There they had a 
 number of converts. They held another meeting at old Father Albin's 
 in Carroll county, where they had several converts. They also preached 
 in Bro. J. L. Price's school house. All those meetings were held un- 
 der charge of the members of the Gunpowder Church, and all the 
 converts baptized were received into that Church, for it was the only 
 Eegular Baptist Church in that county within 25 miles. The Forest 
 Church was organized, as already mentioned, at Price's school house. 
 The last night Bro. Laws preached there, he had some three converts, 
 and as he was going to leave the next day, he took them at the same 
 hour of the night down to the creek and baptized them. But after 
 Bro. Laws left, the work still continued and a camp-meeting was held 
 near this place. The Gunpowder and Hereford Churches had united 
 to call Bro. H. J. Chandler as their pastor, and he took charge of the 
 camp. He also preached at Price's school house, till the Forest Church 
 was organized. The first deacons were J. L. Price, John Sater and D. B. 
 Wilhelm. After Bro. Chandler resigned, Bro. Geo. F. Adams took 
 charge of the three Churches, Gunpowder, Hereford and Forest, the 
 latter still occupying Price's school house."* 
 
 In the following year, they built a meeting house, to which they 
 gave the appropriate name of "Forest," from its natural surroundings. 
 Having competent carpenters and masons among them, they built this 
 house chiefly with their own hands, and at its dedication, its cost had 
 been almost made up. Daniel B. Wilhelm, known as one of the sur- 
 viving constituents of the Forest Church, states that his father owned 
 a whiskey distillery in that neighborhood some years previous to this 
 organization, but having been converted under the preaching of Elders 
 
 *Wilhelm's "Recollections." 
 
94 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Win. Laws and Josepli Mettain, he abandoned the accursed manufac- 
 ture and tore down his distillery. He adds, that some of the planks 
 of the demolished building were used as flooring in the tents at the 
 camp-meeting near Forest ; and afterwards, when the Forest church 
 was built, the same planks were used as flooring there also, where they 
 still remain. The house is located about six miles from Gunpowder 
 and six miles from Hereford at a point about three miles west of the line 
 between the two places. 
 
 This Church has had a history somewhat similar to the other tv/o, 
 with which she has been frequently united in pastoral connection, 
 the same pastor generally serving two or all three of the Churches. 
 
 It had at one period the most flourishing Sunday school of any of 
 our country Churches. Bro. John L. Wilhelm, superintendent, was 
 licensed to preach, and acted as pastor during 1874-5. The school was 
 suspended for some time in consequence of a disagreement between 
 the pastor and the Church, but in 1884 it was revived, and now num- 
 bers 151 teachers and scholars. The present superintendent is Richard 
 Kelbaugh. 
 
 Although frequently without a pastor, the members have sometimes 
 carried on meetings for weeks. Occasionally, Dr. J. W. M. Williams, 
 Dr. F. Wilson and Dr. Isaac Cole have visited the church, preached 
 during stated meetings, and baptized converts. 
 
 Rev. Dr. James Nelson, now of Farmville, Va., State missionary at 
 the time, held meetings in Forest several years ago, resulting in nu- 
 merous conversions. During 1881, Rev. John B. English lield a pro- 
 tracted meeting which greatly encouraged the Church. 
 
 The Church has had its seasons of elation and depression, and has 
 been distracted by divisions. Its members have increased at various 
 times, but of late years have diminished, from losses by exclusions, 
 removals and deaths, until the number is now only fifty-six. At one 
 period, eight were dismissed to Missouri, at other times many to Bal- 
 timore and Virginia, eleven to organize Hampden Church, and as Bro. 
 Wilhelm observes, "a great many have gone to heaven, we believe." 
 
REV. W. T. BRANTLY, D. D., 
 
 PASTOR OF THE SEVENTH BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 1871— LS8:2. 
 
Maryland Baptist History 
 
 97 
 
 1845- 
 
 SEVENTH BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 The Seventh Baptist Church had its origin in a meeting held by 
 about one hundred persons, in the old meeting-house on Calvert Street, 
 near Saratoga, on October 17, 1845. The company was composed of 
 members of the First Baptist Church of Baltimore, who had withdrawn 
 from that body, owing to differences upon matters of Church govern- 
 ment, &c., and who met to consider the proposition of organizing a 
 new Baptist Church. 
 
 After the great revival services held in the First Church, by Elder 
 Jacob Knapp, in November, 1839, the Church had experienced consid- 
 erable increase, and among the new members were many brethi*en of 
 zeal and energy, occupying a high position in social and business cir- 
 cles. A number of these earnest and progressive brethren, though per- 
 sonally loving their pastor. Rev. Stephen P. Hill, regarded his admin- 
 istration as too conservative, and decided to organize themselves into a 
 body that would be modeled according to their views of Church 
 government and discipline. Though the secession of so many brethren 
 from that Church was much deplored, yet subsequent events proved 
 that the separation was providential. 
 
 Th^ members present at this preliminary meeting desired to organ- 
 ize at once as a Church, and appointed a committee, consisting of Daniel 
 Chase, Samuel Scribner, L. P. Bayne and A. R. Levering, to purchase 
 from William Crane, the house in which they were assembled. The 
 owner agreed to take $6,000 for the property, the amount subsequently 
 raised by the committee. At the meeting held on Oct. 17, the mem- 
 bers present decided to ask for letters of dismission from the First 
 Church, and also invited the Calvert St. Church to join them. The 
 Constitution of this new organization was immediately acted upon, and 
 
98 Marylajid Baptist History. 
 
 finally adopted, October 27. This iustniment was decidedly central- 
 izing in tendency, conferring large discretionary powers upon a few 
 officers. The constitution prescribed that the bishop and deacons 
 should constitute a Board of Elders, whose duty it should be to take 
 action upon matters connected with the general welfare of the 
 Church, and to act in her behalf during the interval between the busi- 
 ness meetings of the Church. The Board of Elders had the poAver to 
 decide upon the case of any brother walking ungodly, and could drop 
 his name from the Church books, subject to an appeal to the Church. 
 They were also instructed to accept candidates for admission, subject 
 to confirmation by the Church. They became in a measure the execu- 
 tive committee of the Church. The earlier records contain full ac- 
 counts of Ihe Eiders' meetings, which were for a time held weekly* 
 
 The number of members who decided to secede was found to be 
 ninety-two. Of this number thirteen belonged to the Levering family, 
 five to the Rous family, and among the others were brethren D. Chase, 
 Leonard Burbank, C. M. Keyser, Samuel Scribner, Chas. D. Slingluff, 
 Allen A. Chapman, George W. Norris, A. D.Kelly and A. W. Poulson. 
 On November 3, a council of city Churches met to consider the pro- 
 priety of recognizing the new organization. Rev. Geo. F. Adams was 
 chosen moderator, and A. R. Levering Clerk. Among the delegates 
 present were: from the First Church, Thos. Maybury; Second Church, 
 Rev. John Healy ; Calvert St. Church, Jas. D. McKsan ; Madison St. 
 Church,* Peter Potts and Alexander Butcher; High St. Church, Rev. 
 Jonathan Aldrich ; Hollins St. Church,* Jas. Morrison. The council 
 decided to recognize the new body as a "Regular Baptist Church under 
 the name of the Seventh Baptist Church of the City of Baltimore.'* 
 The public recognition services were held on the following evening, 
 Tuesday, Nov. 4, 1845. 
 
 The first regular business meeting was held on Nov. 5, Rev. 0. W. 
 Briggs in the chair, and A. D. Kelly clerk. The evening was made 
 notable by the accession of eleven new members, comprising three fam- 
 ilies, from all of which deacons were afterward selected, viz: Wm. and 
 A. Fuller Crane, L. P. Bayne and John W. Bail. 
 
 The time had now arrived for the election of permanent oflicerg. On 
 November 1!», seven brethren, "experienced, liberal and God-fearing," 
 were elected deacons and trustees, as follows: Daniel Chase, Alex. W. 
 Poulson, A. D. Kelly, A. R. Levering, L. P. Bayne, John G. Rous and 
 A. A. Ciiapman. F. A. Levering was elected treasurer, and W. W. 
 Lawrason clerk. Tlie voting for pastor resulted in the unanimous 
 election of Rev. E. L. Magoon, of the Second Baptist Church, Rich- 
 mond, Va. Rev. 0. W. Briggs was invited by the deacons to serve as 
 temporary pastor. At a meeting held Nov. 25, "a memorial was read 
 
 *Long since extinct. 
 
Miuyland Baptist History. 99 
 
 from Bro. A. F. Crane, in relation to the Chiircli choir." Like the 
 sweet singer of Israel, this talented brother early devoted his musical 
 gifts to the cause of his Master. 
 
 The Church went to work immediately. The deacons met weekly, 
 and regular business meetings of the Church were held quarterly. On 
 Dec. 9, the deacons voted that "Bro. Poulson be appointed treasurer ol 
 the Poor fund." For nearly thirty years, Bro. Poulson continued his 
 labor of love in this office, bringing joy and comfort into hundreds of 
 poor, neglected families. 
 
 Rev. E. L. Magoon came on from Richmond, and had a conference 
 with the deacons, on December 15 ; but after a subsequent correspond- 
 ence, he finally concluded, in January following, to decline the call. 
 
 The declination of Bro. Magoon, who was a godly man of ^reat power 
 and eloquence, was felt to be very discouraging, but the Church took 
 a broader survey of the field to secure a pastor. Rev. Dr. J. B. Jeter^ 
 of Richmond, happening to be in Baltimore at this time, suggested to 
 Bro. Wm. Crane the name of Richard Fuller, of South Carolina, as 
 that of one qualified in every way to lead the new organization. The 
 suggestion was endorsed by the Church, and on January 15, 1846, they 
 voted, "We believe it to be the unanimous wish of this Church that 
 Bro. Richard Fuller should become its pastor, and the deacons of the 
 Church are authorized to correspond with him on the subject." The 
 cori-espondence between Dr. Fuller and the deacons of the Seventh 
 Church fornjs a very interesting chapter in its history. On the one 
 side, we see a man of God unwilling to leave his beautiful Southern 
 home and its hallowed memories, yet longing, like Paul, to spend and 
 be spent in the service of his Master. On the other side, we see a body 
 of earnest, zealous, influential brethren, intent upon extending the Bap- 
 tist cause in Baltimore, and winning souls to Christ. In their letter 
 urging his acceptance of their call, they say. "The village of Baltimore 
 has become a great city; but alas! our denomination has not grown 
 with her growth nor strengthened with her strength. We have banded 
 togethe'r for the holy purpose of elevating her down-trodden standard, 
 and for the vindication of the time-honored Baptist name. We con- 
 sider that the time past is sufficient in which to have witnessed the 
 humiliation of Zion; and now in the strength of the Lord, we would 
 go forward and labor for better things." Such sentiments as these 
 touched the heart of the young and ardent pastor of Beaufort ; and on 
 February 24, 1846, he informed the deacons in a letter, of his readiness 
 to accept the call, provided a larger and more accessible house of wor- 
 ship should be secured. 
 
 The terms of Dr. Fuller were accepted at a meeting held March 11^ 
 and a committee of five brethren, consisting of W. Crane, Daniel Chase, 
 
lOO Mary/and Junplisl History. 
 
 <J. D. Slinglut!', C. M. Keyser, and ISaiimel Scnbner, was aijpoiutcd to 
 submit a plan for a new "house of worship, which shall be creditable 
 to the denomination and satisfactory to the pastor elect.'" A plan was 
 submitted on June 29, and the committee were instructed to purchase 
 51 lot on the north-west corner of Paca and Saratoga streets,* and to pro- 
 ceed with the erection of the new building. A. D. Kelly and L. P. 
 Bayne were added to the committee, D. Chase being elected chaii'man. 
 A building fund of $16,400 was soon subscribed. Among the principal 
 donors were : 1). Chase, C. M. Keyser, iS. Scribner, A. D. Kelly, Wm. 
 Crane & ISon, A. E. Levering, John W. Ball, Hannah Levering, L. P. 
 Bayne, C. D. Slingluff, J. D. Armstrong, A. A. Chapn)an, J. G. Pons, 
 A. W. Poulson and E. Hubball. 
 
 On the same evening upon which the Church decided to erect a new 
 house of worship, they also adopted a comprehensive plan for benevo- 
 lent purposes. Among the organizations specified for which collections 
 should be made periodically, were the American and Foreign Bible So- 
 ciety, Home and Foreign Mission Boards of the Southern Baptist Con- 
 vention, American Baptist Publication Society, and the Sunday school 
 and poor of the Church. Bro. A. P. Crane was appointed to take charge 
 of all moneys collected for benevolent purposes. 
 
 On Sept. 3, 1846, Bro. Briggs resigned the temiiorary pastorship of 
 the Church, to accept a charge in Alexandria, Va. He continued to 
 serve however for several weeks, and on Oct. 4, Kev. G. F. Adams was 
 requested to occupy the pulpit until the arrival of Dr. Fuller. Bro. 
 Adams signified his consent the following week. The Calvert St. house 
 was sold, and the Church accepted the invitation of the Madison Sti-eet 
 Church to meet in their house until the building on Paca street should 
 be completed. 
 
 Though without a pastor or a house of their own as yet, the Church 
 work was earnest and active. Vigorous resolutions were unanimously 
 adopted, recommending Missions, and liberal sums of money were ap- 
 propriated to benevolent objects, even though the Church was strait- 
 ened for money, and the members had been urged to pay their pew rent 
 in advance. The contribution to the Southern Baptist Convention 
 was directed to be applied to the erection of a Baptist chapel in Canton, 
 China, and the delegates to the Convention were instructed to invite 
 that body to hold its next meeting in Baltimore, and also to endeavor 
 to have the Foreign Board located here. 
 
 A resolution was unanimously adopted by the Church, in answer to 
 a communication from the First Church, that "theatre-going was irreg- 
 
 *The late George W. Norris stated that Dr. Fuller visited BMltimore about this 
 time, and was taken in a carriage to view a number of eligible locations. Finally, 
 on arriving at this corner, he expressed for it his decided preference, and the lot 
 was at once chosen. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. loi 
 
 uhir, and unworthy of the Cliristiau cliaracier." bt)ine years after this, 
 the Church emphasized its sentiment by excluding from membership 
 a brother for "habitually visiting the theatres, and playing with dice." 
 
 Bright days were now dawning. On June 15, 1847, the formal elec- 
 tion of Dr. Fuller to the pastorship took place, resulting in his unani- 
 mous call. On July 5, the pastor-elect presented to the board of elders 
 his letter of application for Church membership, and agreed to retain 
 the pulpit for one year, and after that he would decide definitely up- 
 on his continued acceptance. 
 
 The new building, which the pastor was so influential in promoting, 
 was completed early in June, and on the third Sunday of that month 
 he preached its dedicatory sermon. A choir was now organized, with 
 the pastor as president and Bro. John Mason as conductor. The pew 
 system was rejected after a slort trial, and on August 24, the Board of 
 Elders voted that all the seats should be free, which action was at once 
 confirmed by the Church. 
 
 Though from the very center of the slavery section,, and himself an 
 owner of slaves, Dr. Fuller took a fraternal interest in tlie welfare of the 
 colored race, and on September 26 he baptized the first colored mem- 
 ber of the Church, Jos. M. Harden. At every Sunday service, a dozen 
 or two of colored persons, free and slave, could be seen in the west end 
 of the south gallery intently listening to the words of life from the 
 eloquent pastor. The number of colored members gradually increased, 
 so that on Feb. 1, 1848, with a view of instructing them in liberal giv- 
 ing, they were requested to "give aid and comfort to one of their own 
 number," Noah Davis. Bro. Davis, who had just come from Virginia, 
 having afterwards been ordained for the ministry, received letters of 
 dismission for himself and others on Oct. 28 to assist in constituting 
 "the Second Baptist Church of Color of Baltimore." Davis afterwards 
 became pastor of the organization, subsequently known as the Sara- 
 toga Street Cliurch. 
 
 Two important movements took place in the Church shortly after 
 the arrival of Dr. Fuller, the one in Church government, the other in 
 Church work. The change in the administration of the Church busi- 
 ness was quite marked. More vigor was thrown into the general busi- 
 ness meetings of the Church, and the Board of Elders was stripped of 
 much of its discretionary and executive power, and its name changed 
 to "General Committee," its principal business being to act during 
 intervals of Church meetings. On the same evening, October 21, 1847, 
 when these constitutional changes were adopted, a plan was agreed 
 upon to bring the Church membership into closer communion, and to 
 develop a broader missionary spirit. The city was divided into twelve 
 districts and over each district was placed a member in good standing, 
 termed "watchman." The duties of the watchman were to have an 
 
I02 Mary land Baptist History. 
 
 •oversight over the Church iiieinbership in his district, to hold in the 
 district weekly meetings of these associated members "for prayer and 
 reading of the Holy Scriptures or religious conference and conversation." 
 
 The chief object of these district meetings, like that of the Method- 
 ist class meeting, was to bind together in stronger ties the Church 
 membership; the secondary object was to develop a missionary spirit. 
 It was hoped that brotherly love and cooperation would take the 
 place of the coercive disciplinary measures of other Churches. Among 
 the twelve watchmen were enrolled five of the deacons. The watch- 
 man system continued for several years, but was gradually abandoned. 
 An effort was made in January, 1853, to inaugurate a similar system, 
 but nothing of any consequence resulted. A committee was appointed 
 to subdivide the membership, territorially, into thirty divisions, the 
 leader of each district to be termed ''supervisor." 
 
 The building committee having erected and furnished an admirable 
 edifice, made their final report, Jan. 13, 1848. The entire cost of the 
 house of worship, including fixtures, was $22,016; ground rent, &c. 
 $1,492; total cost |23, 508. A balance of $7,809 remained due; and 
 the committee gave their joint note for $6,873 of this debt ; the note 
 to be afterward redeemed by the Church. The general expenses of the 
 Church gradually assumed larger proportions than was expected, and 
 as one of the means of increasing the general receipts, it was decided 
 to abolish the free-seat system and to revert to the former pew system. 
 On Feb. 1, 1848, resolutions were adopted, reading in part: "Resolved, 
 That the experiment of free seats has failed; the collections on the 
 Sabbath and other facts show that the public ai'e not in favor of the 
 system. The pews therefore must be sold, and those not sold rented, 
 but the members of this Church do here most unanimously and cheer- 
 fully throw open to the community pews which they may buy or rent, 
 and do direct the deacons and sexton to fill such pews at all times 
 with such persons who may desire to attend the church." 
 
 As the end of the year drew near for which Dr. Fuller liad consented 
 to fill the pulpit, the members were filled with anxiety, lest their beloved 
 pastor might not consent to remain longer with them, and on June 9, 
 1848, at a largely attended meeting, a resolution was adopted, in part 
 as follows: "We, the members of the Seventh Baptist Church of Balti- 
 more, in regular Church meeting assembled, with hearts filled Avith 
 gratitude, love and adoration to our Heavenly Father for his loving 
 kindness and especial care towaid this branch of his Church, in grant- 
 ing to us the efficient services of so faithful, so prudent, so talented, so 
 useful and altogether so acceptable and successful a pastor, hereby Re- 
 solve, That this Church earnestly desire and affectionately invite our 
 beloved pastor, Dr. Richard Fuller, to continue with us in the pastoral 
 charge of this Church." Whatever may have been the intentions of Dr. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 103 
 
 Fuller, the pleading importunity of the letter was irresistible. He 
 decided to cast in his future lor, with the Seventh Church. The affec- 
 tionate relation between pastor and people continued uninterrupted 
 till the departure of the pastor to another scene of labor. 
 
 A very interesting scene took place at the close of the Church prayer 
 meeting of Wednesday, October 4, 1848, in the reception for baptism 
 of two widely contrasted candidates, Mrs. Ann Galloway, aged seventy- 
 three years, and Eosewell H. Graves, aged fifteen years; the one soon 
 after called to her rest, the other becoming an ambassador for Christ 
 to a remote heathen land. Bro. Graves, after a career of usefulness in 
 the Church, was publicly ordained for the ministry in the Seventh 
 Church, on Sunday evening-, April 13, 1856. He had well prepared 
 himself for the varied duties of a foreign missionary by a severe train- 
 ing at college and afterward by taking a full course of studies at a 
 medical institution. Dr. Graves set sail for Canton shortly after his 
 ordination. With no interruption except two visits home, his work has 
 continued for a generation among the benighted millions of China. 
 
 In the same year in which Bro. Graves was received into the Church, 
 was begun the concentration of local mission work which led, on Sept. 
 9, to the organization of a city mission tract society. Bro. Wm. H. 
 Perkins presided at the preliminary meeting and Hiram Woods acted 
 as secretary. At the suggestion of the pastor, the title "Young Men's 
 City Mission Society" was adopted. Its chief work was the holding of 
 weekly meetings in the church and in private houses, the distribution 
 of tracts, and visiting the sick and neglected. Dr. Fuller took a warm 
 interest in the movement, and many of the Church members, old and 
 young, became identified with the Society. In 1864, the young men 
 contributed and collected $500 to purchase a small, dilapidated chapel, 
 on Pierce street, near Fremont. They improved and enlarged it after- 
 wards at an expense of $500 more. Here they planted a Sunday school, 
 beginning with twenty-two children, gathered from the neighborhood. 
 Bro. Geo. B. White was appointed first superintendent, with about ten 
 teachers. It was a remarkably successful effort, and accomplished 
 much good in a neighborhood particularly needing the light of God's 
 word. In three years, the average weekly attendance was 25 teachers 
 and 200 scholars. In 1866 the Society was incorporated. In 1870, its 
 members had increased to eighty-seven, two-thirds being active, and 
 most of their efforts were concentrated in the mission. Occasionally, 
 meetings were held during the week in the chapel and in private iiouses. 
 The school occupied this place until 1880, when they removed to the 
 large and comfortable building on the corner of Schroeder and Pierce 
 streets, formerly occupied by the Young Men's Christian Association. 
 This was secured through the energetic efforts of brethren Joshua 
 
I04 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Levering, Jiidson Gilinuu, Chus. Tyler and G. H White. The building 
 and repairs cost |3,000. It is free from debt, and is in the care of 
 trustees selected by tlie Society. For a number of years the work of 
 the Young Men's Society was supplemented by a similar society among 
 the ladies, who are still carrying on earnest work for both the home 
 and foreign fields. 
 
 As an item of interest, we give the names of the presidents of the 
 Young Men's Society from its organization in 1848; many of these 
 brethren also served as superintendent of the mission school : B. G. 
 Latimer, Hiram Woods, Rosevvell H. Graves, Wm. H. Perkins, Jeffer- 
 son Shultze, Geo. F. Cobb. Nathan Webb, J. Henry Brittain, Geo. B. 
 White, Dan'l G. Stevens, Geo. W. Richardson, John F. Weishampel, jr., 
 J. F. Mills, Eugene Levering, jr., Joshua Levering, Richard Bayne, 
 W. E. Lindsay, Howard B. Weishampel, Frank T. Grady, Wm. B. 
 Whiteside, Lewis W. Wilhelm, James Gessford, jr., H. N". Hammond, 
 S. J. Hush, Thos. G. Potts. 
 
 The encouragement given by the Church to the young men is a good 
 illustration of the proverb, '-There is that scattereth and yet increaseth." 
 The spiritual growth of the Church still continued undiminished. 
 
 During 1849, when the cholera was spreading death over portions of 
 our country, a number of special services were held "that God would 
 mercifully avert from us the impending calamity, or graciously sanctify 
 it to our everlasting good." On June 1, five meetings were held dur- 
 ing the entire day. 
 
 In October, 1850, Bro. Wm. H. Perkins was elected treasurer of the 
 missionary funds of the Church, and has remained ever since actively 
 useful in its financial matters. The following year, Rev. Joseph Sharp 
 was received by letter and engaged by the ladies' "sewing society" as a 
 city colporter. After faithful service in this capacity until 1859, he 
 was requested to serve as assistant to the pastor, which he did until 
 1861, when he accepted charge of a Church in Virginia. 
 
 In August, 1851, Bro. Henry Wyer was licensed to preach. On Sep- 
 tember 28, 1851, Dr. Isaac Cole, a former minister of the Methodist 
 Episcopal Church, was, at his own request, baptized by the pastor in 
 the Spring Gardens. Thousands of interested spectators witnessed the 
 novel event. The same month, Bro. Alexander Butcher and twenty- 
 two other members were received by letter from the First Church. Bro. 
 Butcher became one of the most useful workers of the Church, and re- 
 mained such until his death, in 1884. He was especially active in Sun- 
 day school labor, and devoted much time to the West End School, just 
 then organized, on the south-east corner of Fayette St. and Stockton 
 alley, from which, four years later, originated the Franklirt Square 
 Baptist Church. 
 
Maryland Baptist Histoiy. 105 
 
 On Nov. 7, 1851, Bro. John Mason resigned the leadership of the 
 choir. The thanks of the Chnrch were unanimously tendered to him 
 for his efficient woi'k. 
 
 The year 1853 was noted for the number of clerical brethren en- 
 rolled in tlie Seventh Church. It was represented in the Association 
 by five heralds of the Cross, brethren Fuller, Sharp, Thomas Brittain, 
 Kingdon, Burlingame. Bro. E. H. Graves was instructed to write the 
 Church letter. An appeal came from the New Orleans Baptists, during 
 this year, asking the Church to grant them the services of Dr. Fuller, 
 for a few months, to assist in awakening the Baptist cause in that city. 
 The Church expressed their sympathy, but declined the request- 
 When, however, the request was renewed, some years later, they replied 
 that as Dr. Fuller intended shortly to visit his old home in South Car- 
 olina, they would offer no obstacle to his extending his journey to 
 New Orleans and spending several weeks there. 
 
 Twenty-two members drew their letters to aid in the organization 
 of the Franklin Square Baptist Church, on October 31, 1854. At the 
 same time, the West End Sunday school was "committed to the foster- 
 ing care and protection" of the new Church. 
 
 A. new mission school having opened, on Fremont St., below Pratt, 
 the Seventh Chufch now adopted it, and appropriated $100 a year for 
 its support. Bro. Butcher became superintendent, and for a number 
 of years, he and several other brethren and sisters carried on the en- 
 terprise, under difficulties. This mission, usually called the Elbow 
 Lane School, gradually died out, for want of regular teachers, but is 
 known to have reformed a number of vicious youth, and taught some 
 souls the way to Christ. 
 
 In March, 185G, the Church purchased a section of ground in the 
 Baltimore Cemetery, in which to bury their deceased poor. 
 
 Sunday, December 14, 1856, was notable for a severe storm, which 
 caused a very sparse attendance at divine worship; but the handful of 
 members present resolved to make an earnest effort for an outpouring 
 of God's Spirit. After communion, Dr. Fuller was instructed to invite 
 Elder Jacob Knapp to aid him in holding a protracted meeting. Bro. 
 Knapp came in January and remained two months, preaching almost 
 daily to crowded audiences. The result was a large increase in the zeal 
 of the membership and the addition of 163 converts by baptism. This 
 was the second visit of Bro. Knapp to our city, and like the first, it 
 will be long remembered by those who enjoyed the pentecostal season. 
 The work of grace continued for months. Twenty more baptisms are 
 reported, and the pastor labored incessantly, without needed rest. 
 
^o6 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 A resolution of the Church adopted in July, 1857, speaks for itself.* 
 It was voted "that the pastor be requested to intermit his arduous la- 
 bors for a few weeks, that he may have an opportunity of restoring his 
 wasted health and strength." 
 
 Bro. Christopher West was elected deacon on Jan. 2, 1857, but being 
 about to unite with the Franklin Square Church, declined the office. 
 
 Bro. Daniel Shafer, feeling himself called to the work of the minis- 
 try, was about this time granted a letter of recommendation to the 
 Pennsylvania Baptist Educational Society. 
 
 In the summer of 1858, a general revision of the constitution took 
 place, and also extensive repairs were made upon the church building. 
 During the interval of the repairs, the Church met with the First and 
 Franklin Square Churches. 
 
 The sum of |900 was appropriated in April, 1859, to assist in the ed- 
 ucation of brethren J. Henry Brittain and Eicliard B.Cook, at Colum- 
 bian College, for the work of the ministry. The following year, $800 
 were appropriated to improve the baptistery. 
 
 The pastor stated that he had received from the E Street Churcli, 
 Washington, D. C, a call to become its pastor, but after prayer for di- 
 vine guidance, liad declined it. It may be added here, that during 
 his ministry at the Seventh Church, Dr. Fuller had repeated calls of 
 a most flattering character to other fields. Though he was offered un- 
 usually large salaries, in one case $10,000 a year, he refused to leave his 
 charge. It is now known that in one Aveek he received two calls from 
 noted Churches, neither of which was mentioned to this Church. 
 
 On Dec. 14, 1860, Bro. J. Henry Brittain was licensed to preach. f 
 
 The year 1861 was begun with profound dread. The war-clouds of 
 "the great civil struggle hung ominously over the land. A national day 
 of fasting and prayer was solemnly observed and earnest prayers went 
 up for a return of peace to the land. Dr. Fuller preached from the 
 text, "0 Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our 
 princes and to our fathers, because we have sinned against tuee." (Dan. 
 ^: 8.) The record says "the lecture room was crowded with our own 
 people, who seemed to be impressed with a profound sense of the criti- 
 cal condition of the country." 
 
 During the entire war period, though he was deeply attached to his 
 native State, South Carolina, and averse to the policy of the North, he 
 ■conducted himself toward the Church with perfect impartiality, and 
 
 *Thi8 was previous to the universal custom, since prevailing, of ministerial va- 
 cations during the summer. 
 
 fBro. Brittain entered the ministry and served successfully for a number of 
 years in New Jersey. In 1881, he was called to the Fuller Memorial Church, in 
 '•this City, of which he is now the pastor. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 107 
 
 was in himself the principal bond, under God, which united the large 
 congregation, divided as they were in their sympathies during that 
 fratricidal contest. When it is borne in mind, that while he was 
 preaching the gospel of peace to his deeply stirred people, his own 
 flesh and blood were falling in the struggle, and the beautiful planta- 
 tion of his family at Port Royal was ruined by the necessities of war, 
 and his home turned into a hospital for the freedmen, we may form a 
 notion of his harrowed feelings, and the true piety which enabled him 
 to fill Avithout defection the full measure of an apostle of Christ. At 
 the close of the war, on the day of fasting and prayer, appointed soon 
 after the death of President Lincoln, Dr. Fuller concluded a sermon 
 with the scriptural injunction: "Let all bitterness and wrath and 
 anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all 
 malice, and be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one 
 another, even as God, for Christ's sake, has forgiven you." 
 
 The regular work of the Church, under such leadership, had not 
 been seriously interrupted by the war; and large sums were raised for 
 foreign missions, at a time when our Southern brethren were unable to 
 sustain them. 
 
 During nearly the entire month of May, 1861, special prayer meet- 
 ings were held daily, a number of the sister Churches taking part in 
 the services. Beginning this year and continuing for several years, the 
 Sunday evening service in the summer, was held at 5 P. M. In April, 
 1861, Bro. John Kingdon was licensed to preach. Tn August and Sep- 
 tember, respectively, Bro. Eichard B. Cook, and Rev. Alex. Anderson, 
 a former Presbyterian minister of Durham county, England, were 
 granted a similar license. In May, 1864, Bro. Anderson was excluded 
 for repeatedly preaching pedo- baptist doctrines, in Montgomery county. 
 In December, 1865, Bro. Cook was granted a letter to the Holmes- 
 burg Church, Pa.* In April, 1867, the deacons were appointed a 
 committee to make sundry repairs in the church, at a cost not exceed- 
 ing $5,000. 
 
 In the year 1867, the beginnings of the movement were made, that re- 
 sulted several years later in the erection of the Entaw Place Church. 
 On October 7, of this year the pastor was requested to preach a sermon 
 upon the importance of establishing a new organization and erecting a 
 new church in the north-western part of the city. At the close of the 
 services on Sunday morning, Dec. 8, the pastor stated that Bro. Hiram 
 Woods had agreed to give for this object a lot of ground and the sum 
 of $5,000 in money. The following brethi*en were appointed a com- 
 
 *Bro. Cook became pastor of the Baptist Church in Holnoesburg, Pa., for eleven 
 years. In 1875, he was called to the Second Church in Wilmington, Del., where 
 he remains, having been highly successful in both fields. 
 
io8 Maryland Baptist History, 
 
 mittee to ascertain what additional amount could be raised: A. F. 
 Crane, E. Levering, sr., H. S. Shryock, E. T. Norris, Chas. Ferguson^ 
 John Cassard, A. J. Lowndes, D. Gr. Stevens, W. T. Foster, J. F. 
 AVeishampel, jr., E. Levering, jr., J. A. McOomas, Thos. M. Johnson. 
 The committee made report on Dec. 27, that the sum of $30,226 had 
 been subscribed. The building of the new Eutaw Place Church was 
 shortly after begun. On motion.of Bro. Poulson, the following brethren 
 were dismissed on Dec. 11, 1868, at their own request, to form a body 
 politic, to hold in trust the property and vested interests of the new 
 Church: Hiram Woods, Eugene Levering, sr., A. Fuller Crane, Henry 
 S. Shryock, Edward T. Norris, Thos. M. Johnson and Dan'l C Stevens. 
 As the withdrawal of the members was only nominal, to satisfy a legal 
 necessity, the Church clerk was instructed to retain their letters of 
 dismission. 
 
 At the regular quarterly business meeting of the Church held Jan* 
 4, 1869, a series of resolutions, offered by the pastor, relating to the ob- 
 servance of the Lord's Supper, was adopted and ortlered to be printed. 
 These resolutions emphasized particularly : "1. The necessity of a vis- 
 ible Church. 2. Baptism before communion. 3. That Baptists who 
 partook of the Lord's Supper in a pedobaptist Church acted without 
 regard to true charity and in opposition to the Scriptures." The res- 
 olutions concluded, that the blessings of God could only be secured by 
 "a calm, saintful, self-denying adhesion to duty and consistency in all 
 things." 
 
 The year 1869 was made memorable by the arrival in Baltimore of 
 the noted evangelist, Eev. A. B. Earle. On July 6, the pastor recom- 
 mended that Mr. Earle be invited to hold special services in the 
 church in the ensuing October and November. On this same evening, 
 the question arose "whether a member of the Disciples' Church could 
 be admitted into the fellowship of the Church without being re- 
 baptized." It was decided to settle each case that might arise, upon 
 its own individual merits. 
 
 Bro. Earle preached during December, 1869, and continued nightly 
 until the middle of the following February. Hundreds of eager people 
 were unable to enter the crowded doors; and at the close of each Sun- 
 day service, scores of converts were buried in the waters of baptism. 
 One hundred and thirty-two candidates were received into membership, 
 among them many of the Sunday school scholars. 
 
 On Nov. 7, 1880, brethren Kichard Bayne, W. H. Perkins and John 
 Cassard were appointed a committee to devise means for introducing 
 the "envelope system" into the Church. Their report has been the ba- 
 sis of all subsequent work in systematic contributions. 
 
 The time was now drawing near for the separation of the member- 
 ship, which had been anticipated with mingled hope and fear. On 
 
Maryland Baptist liistory. 109 
 
 Monday, Feb. 6, 1871, a resolution was adopted, authorizing the mem- 
 bers interested in the Eutaw Phice movement, to hold a preliminary 
 meeting, which was convened on the following Monday. The neces- 
 sary arrangements were then made to organize and remove to the new 
 building. Dr. Fuller was called to the pastorship of the Eutaw Place 
 Church, and on February 17, one hundred and thirty members asked 
 for letters of dismission to migrate to the new scene of labor. Addition- 
 al letters were granted from time to time, so that within a few months 
 they reached to one hundred and eighty-five. 
 
 Although Dr. Fullei-did not send his resignation to the Church un- 
 til xVIarch 31. a comn)ittee. consisting of brethren Poulson, Butcher, W. 
 Bayne, C M. Keyser, and J. Frank Brown, was appointed on Feb. 24, 
 to open up correspondence in regard to obtaining a new pastor. Dr. 
 Fuller did not separate himself from his old flock without numy pangs 
 of regret, and his repeated visits and letters to the Church indicate the 
 intense interest he felt in the society where he had labored so faithfully 
 for a quarter of a century. 
 
 There seemed to be a great unanimity among the members, to call 
 to their palpit one of three able ministers who were known to hold most 
 affectionate relations with their old pastor, viz: Eev. Dr. Jas. Cuthbert, 
 of Washington, D. C, Rev. Lucius Cuthbert, of Aiken, S. C, and Eev. 
 Dr. W. T. Brantly, of Atlanta, Geo. All were written to, but their replies 
 were so discouraging, that the committee on the pulpit resigned. An- 
 other committee, consisting of brethren Wm. Bayne, W. H, Perkins, 
 A. W. Poulson, J. Frank Brown and Samuel Bevan, was appointed 
 to recommend available names. A day of fasting and prayer was ap- 
 pointed for March 31, that God would enlighten the members to discern 
 his will. 
 
 On April 3, a series of resolutions, expressing the profound sorrow of 
 the Church at the resignation of Dr. Fuller, was unanimously adopted. 
 
 At a large gathering of the members on April 17, 1871. Bro. Poulson 
 in the chair, the Church unanimously elected Rev. Dr, W. T. Brantly 
 to the vacant pulpit. Fervent prayers were offered that he would 
 be able to give an affirmative answer. Several letters passed between 
 him and the committee, but it was not until June 14, that Dr. Brantly 
 finally gave a conditional assent. The Church agreed unanimously to 
 the conditions imposed. A letter was received from the Second Bap- 
 tist Church of Atlanta, Geo., earnestly requesting this Church to de- 
 sist from their call ; but on September 29, Dr. Brantly and his family 
 arrived here, and he immediately assumed charge as pastor. The re- 
 lations begun so auspiciously, continued on in uninterrupted harmony 
 and brotherly love. The wide gap made in the Church membership 
 57 the colonizing at Eat-iw Place, had greatly reduced its working 
 
I lo Maryland Baptist /fistory. 
 
 force, and the new pastor now labored faithfully to bring up its former 
 prosperity ; and among other endeavors, was particularly desirous of 
 making the younger members recognize their responsibility. 
 
 In 1873, the Pierce St. Chapel was further enlarged and improved, 
 at a cost of about $500. In October, 1874, a resolution was adopted to 
 purchase a parsonage, which was accomplished by generous individual 
 subscriptions. Dr. Brantly insisted upon the Church retaining $1,000 
 annually Prom his salary, in return for the occupancy of the dwelling. 
 
 During the fall of 187G, the Church were depressed by the continued 
 illness of their late pastor. Dr. Fuller, and on October 26, the hearts 
 of all were filled with pain at the announcement of his death. The 
 deepest sorrow weighed down the older members of the Church, when 
 they recalled the mighty work done by the beloved Fuller, and knew 
 that his great heart, throbbing with divine love and human sympathy, 
 was stilled in death. Brethren W. H. Perkins, John Curlett, Geo. W. 
 Eichardson and the pastor, Dr. Brantly, were appointed a committee, 
 to draw up appropriate resolutions. 
 
 In November following, special services were held, the pastor being 
 assisted by Kev. J. L. Hutson, of Va. The Spirit of God brooded over 
 the meetings, and a score or more of believers were added to the Church 
 by baptism. 
 
 On May 17, 1880, the Church authorized the purchase of the chapel 
 on Schroeder St., heretofore referred to, and directed the deed to be 
 made in the name of the Young Men's City Mission Society. 
 
 The "Boys' Prayer Meetings," inaugurated in August, 1881, have 
 continued to supply a need long felt, in giving young converts an op- 
 portunity to mingle more intimately in Christian exercises and receive 
 from one another sympathy and encouragement in the severe trials 
 that often beset them. 
 
 On Monday, March 6, 1883, the readers of the Baltimore Sun were 
 shocked to learn that, within a few hours after leaving his pulpit, on the 
 previous evening, 'Dr. Brantly had been summoned into the presence of 
 his Maker. So.appalling was the news, that many of the members who 
 had seen him in the vigor of strength in the pulpit the preceding day, 
 refused to believe it, and in a short time, scores of the stricken flock had 
 gathered at the parsonage to ascertain the truth of the rumor. Alas ! 
 the faithful laborer had been summoned away. By a general unan- 
 imity, the members gathered at the church at the close of the day, 
 and a special meeting was called to take action on the great and 
 sudden loss sustained by the Church. Bro. Judson Gilman was called 
 to the chair, and after the stillness was broken by the sorrowful words 
 of many brethren, a committee consisting of brethren W. H. Perkins, 
 Milton Hammond, Charles Tyler, B\ T. Grady and Henry E. Crane, 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 1 1 
 
 was appointed, to draft resolutions expressive of the feelings of the 
 Church on the death of their beloved pastor .Resolutions of condolence 
 were received from Baptist bodies, North and South. A committee, 
 consisting of brethren Charles Tyler, F. T. Grady, W. H. Perkins, H. 
 R. Crane and L. Cross was appoined on March 24, to make preparation 
 for holding special services in memory of Dr. Brantly, and to erect in 
 the church a suitable tablet to commemorate his virtues. 
 
 The memorial services were held on Monday evening, May 1, in the 
 main room of the church. Nearly all of the Baptist ministers of the 
 City were present at the services. Addresses were delivered by Rev. W. 
 W. Landrum, of Ga., Rev. Geo. E. Rees, of Philadelphia, Rev. Dr. C. C. 
 Bitting, of Baltimore and Rev. Dr. H. H. Tucker, of Atlanta, Ga. 
 
 While the church was still in mourning, an invitation was extended 
 to the Rev. J. M. Frost, of Staunton, Va., to hold a series of special meet-' 
 ings. These meetings were held for two weeks, beginning onlVIarch 20, 
 and some of the Sunday school scholars were buried in baptism, and 
 united with the Church. 
 
 On May 29, 1882, the Rev. J. B. Thomas, of Brooklyn, received a 
 call from the Church to become its pastor, but though Dr. Thomas 
 wrote to the Church that no other place on earth appealed more 
 strongly than Baltimore, he felt it impossible to sever his present pas- 
 toral relations. 
 
 Rev. Thos. D. Anderson, jr., of Portland, Maine, was elected on Oct. 
 2, 1882, to fill the vacant pulpit. The call of the Church was heard. 
 
 On Nov. 17, the letter of Bro. Anderson was received and accepted, 
 and the present pastoral relation begun. 
 
 It is somewhat significant that the last words of the late beloved 
 pastor, Brantly, were unconsciously echoed by the present pastor, in 
 his letter accepting the call. In the sermon preached by Dr. Brantly 
 a few hours before his death, the missionary spirit of the great apostle, 
 Paul of Tarsus, was warmly eulogized, upon the text, "Straightway he 
 preached Christ in the synagogues that he is the Son of God." The 
 closing words of the letter of acceptance of Bro. Anderson breathed a 
 similar Pauline spirit : "I come then, brethren, with full purpose of- 
 heart to labor among you, and with you ; and may we not pray and 
 hope that the same spirit who leads the pastor to labor with the Church 
 may cause the Church to labor with the pastor, so that, as with Paul 
 among the Romans, 'wlien I come to you, I may come in the fullness 
 of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.'" 
 
 The Seventh Church has long since realized the high hopes enter- 
 tained by its wise founders. For many years, it has continued to oc- 
 cupy a front rank, not only among the Baptist Churches of Baltimore, 
 but throughout the entire South. Hundreds and probably thousands. 
 
112 Mdrylaiid J^aptist IIis(oi-v. 
 
 ot men and women liave liad occasion to thank the Lord Jesns that 
 here was phinted one of his watcli-towers. Its influence has gone forth, 
 like the stream tliat issues from tlie throne; and to discant corners of 
 the earth the Word iuis been carried by its members to the worshipers 
 of wood and stone. Tlie Church has been known far and wide for its 
 liberality. Many of its members can recall the almost incessant pleas 
 for aid, made during and after the war by Churches in distress, and few 
 went away empty-handed. Many godly men widely known throughout 
 the community have here waited upon the Lord; many of these patient 
 laborers have gone to their reward. 
 
 Among the deacons of the Church have been enrolled the names of 
 Daniel Chase, A. W. Poulson, Alex. D. Kelly, A. R. Levering, L. 
 P. Bayne, John C Rous, A. A. Chapman, Wm. Crane. P. A. Levering, 
 John W. Ball, Samuel Hcribner, Samuel Bevan, Alexander Butcher, A. 
 Fuller Crane, Wm. Bayne, J. Frank Brown, Geo. G. Tyler and Dr. 
 Jndson Gilman. 
 
 Upon three occasions, in 1853, 1868 and 1884, the meeting of the 
 Southern Baptist Convention was held with the Seventh Church. 
 
 One of the most important movements undertaken by members of 
 this Church was the establishment of its Sunday school. It origin- 
 ated in February, 1846, in the Calvert St, meeting house. When that 
 building was vacated by the Se.enth Church, the little school became 
 disintegrated, and the teachers returning to the several Churches to 
 which they belonged, took many of the scholars with them. A hand- 
 ful of children attended the Church services during its perambulatory 
 period, in 1846-7, but no regular sessions of the school occurred till 
 the spring of 1847, when a hall on the corner of Green and Saratoga 
 Streets was secured, until the completion of the present church edifice, 
 in June. On the first Sunday in July, the school began its regular 
 services, which have continued since without interruption. 
 
 Bro. George W. Norris was the first superintendent, and conducted 
 the school for about four years. Bro. John W. Ball served in that ca- 
 pacity for a year or two. Bro. A. D. Kelly succeeded, for two years. 
 In 1855, Bro. A. F. Crane was elected, and was continuously reelected 
 for seventeen years. During his term of service, the school was brought 
 to a high degree of prosperity, and its reputation, with that of its genial 
 superintendent, spread widely through the South. Many of the 
 present members of all our Churches recall with pleasure the lessons 
 and the hymns taught them in early years by Bro. Crane. Frequent 
 alterations were made in the lecture room, to accommodate the growth 
 of the school ; which continues to be one of the largest in the city. 
 
 Since the resignation of Bro. Crane, the responsible office of superin- 
 tendent has been filled by brethren Wm. Bayne, Henry R. Crane, F. T- 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 13 
 
 Gmdy, Andrew K. Boteler, and Charles M. Keyser, the present incum- 
 bent. One of the features of the school, is the annual distribution of 
 the "Sevan premiums" purchased from a fund left for this purpose by 
 the late Samuel Bevan. 
 
 The present officers of the Church are as follows : Pastor, Rev. Thos. 
 D. Anderson; Deacons: Dr. Milton Hammond, Charles Tyler, A. K. 
 Boteler, Chas. M. Keyser, F. S. BullocL Treasurer, W. H. Perkins. 
 Clerk, Thos. G. Potts. Xumber of members, 581. 
 
 1846. 
 
 HUNTINGDON BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 VV^AVERLY. 
 
 In 1835, Mr. Frederick Harrison, then U. S. civil engineer, gathered 
 a small Sunday school, which met during the summer in an old build- 
 ing, formerly used as a barracks by the soldiers of Fort McHenry. It 
 was located near the first toll gate on the York Road, and was occupied 
 by the soldiers in the summer and fall, to escape the malaria prevalent 
 at the Fort during that season. Mr. Harrison was then a member of 
 the First Church, with which he still holds fellowship, though residing 
 some distance from the city, beyond Waverly; and is now living at the 
 advanced age of eighty-one years. 
 
 During that summer. Rev. John Breckenridge and Rev. Stephen P. 
 Hill, of Baltimore, preached each week alternately in that room. In 
 the winter, when the school was discontinued, meetings were held on 
 Sunday evenings, and were sustained by ministers of different denomi- 
 nations, mostly Baptist. Among those who preached were Revs, Wm. 
 Laws, G. F. Adams, Wm. Maybury and Joliii A. McKean. 
 
 About 1843, as stated in the sketch of High Street Church, several 
 young men of that congregation aided greatly in the establishment of 
 this as a permanent mission. Among those who fostered the effort, was 
 Bro. Franklin Wilson, then quite a young man, and a member of the 
 First Church. His earliest exercise as a regular preacher began here, 
 and he held stated services every Sunday evening during the summer 
 of 1844. The congregations increased, until the room in the barracks 
 became too small to hold them. About this time, a small chapel was 
 erected near, by Mr. Jas. Wilson, whose useful life is referred to in the 
 history of the First Church. The house was dedicated October 20, of 
 this year. Revs. S. P. Hill preached. Rev. John Healy and F. Wilson 
 
114 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 assisted, and Rev. Messrs. Webster and Ball of the M. P. Church, also 
 participated. At night, Bro. Wilson preached from the text, "Holiness 
 becometh thy house, Lord." Mr. James Wilson said, "The chapel 
 was paid for when the first soul was converted in it." He bequeathed 
 it with the ground on which it stood, to trustees named in his will, to 
 be occupied by any evangelical denomination approved by them. By 
 their consent the Baptists took possession. 
 
 In April, 1845, a work of grace was enjoyed and many souls were led 
 to rejoice in hope of salvation. In June, five converts were baptized 
 in Stony Run, by Rev. S. P. Hill, Bro. Wilson, though acting pastor, 
 not yet being an ordained minister. On this occasion, one of the can- 
 didates, on coming up out of the water, was so overjoyed that he 
 clasped Bro. Wilson in his arms until he also became dripping wet. 
 
 Rev. B. Griffith, a licentiate of the First Church, preached for this 
 mission in 1845, during the temporary absence of its regular supply. 
 
 In February, 1846, there was another revival and an ingathering of 
 converts, which culminated in the formation of a Church. On May 4> 
 following, a council of thi rty members of the First, High St., Second, 
 Madison St., and Sixth* Baptist Churches, convened at Waverly and 
 advised such organization. Thereupon eight brethren and sisters were 
 constituted as the Huntingdon Baptist Church. Seventeen more were 
 shortly added by baptism. In November, the Church joined our Asso- 
 ciation, and reported twenty-five members, with Rev. F. Wilson as pas- 
 tor, who remained until April, 1847, when he resigned, to take charge 
 of the High St. Church. He had been in charge three years and bap- 
 tized twenty-three persons. 
 
 On July 1, 1847, Rev. Wm. Wilder was called to the pastorate, and 
 was ordained September 5. Dr. Fuller preached. Rev. Geo. F. Adams 
 oflered prayer. Rev. S. P. Hill delivered the charge, and Rev. F. Wilson 
 gave the hand of fellowship. Bro. Wilder remained nearly three years? 
 baptized seventeen converts, and removed to Pennsylvania. 
 
 From April, 1850, the field was supplied by various ministers, chief- 
 ly by Rev. J. H. Phillips, until January, 1852, when Rev. Thos. Jones 
 took charge. This brother served earnestly until March, 1854, when 
 he resigned, and removed to Rockville. For three years,Bro. Phillips, 
 Rev. Levi Thome and Rev. F. L. Kregel, successively acted as pastor^ 
 but the membership was now reduced to eighteen. In 1857, Bro. Phil- 
 lips preached again for some months ; the Church was revived,. and twO' 
 converts were added by baptism. 
 
 For the next seven years, from 1859 to the close of 1865, Rev. John 
 
 *The Sixth Church was organized in 1844. It lasted but a short time, as did 
 the Fifth Church, and the Madison Street Church. Dr. Fuller once remarked 
 that the name of the "Seventh" Church was a standing reproach to the Baptists, 
 of Baltimore. 
 
Majyland Baptist History. 1 1 5 
 
 Berg served as pastor. The Church, however, from various causes, 
 experienced no material advance, only two members having been re- 
 ceived by baptism and six by letter, in all that time. Bro. I. F. Stid- 
 ham then succeeded to the place, labored efficiently for about two years, 
 and baptized seven persons. On Feb. 23, 1868, he resigned, to accept 
 charge of a Church at Schuylkill Falls, Philadelphia. Bro. Berg re- 
 sumed charge and remained for over four years, during which time his 
 earnest efforts resulted in the baptism of nineteen converts. Failing 
 health now compelled his resignation. He died in 1873. 
 
 About this time, the membership had reached to nearly fifty, and it 
 was deemed necessary for the development of our cause that a larger 
 house of worship should be erected. A lot on the corner of Waverly 
 Avenue and Barclay St., (then unopened,) a short distance from the old 
 chapel, was deeded by the trustees of the estate of James Wilson, and 
 on it there was erected a new building, upon a plan which was in some 
 favor at that time. Talraage's Tabernacle, in Brooklyn, N. Y., subse- 
 quently destroyed by fire, was a model of the peculiar construction ; and 
 Bethany M. E. Church, Baltimore, is similar. It was built of frame 
 studding, filled in with brick, and covered within and without with a 
 sheeting of corrugated iron plates. The building was designed by L. 
 B. Valk, aNew York architect, and cost $13,000. Bro. Berg was very 
 urgent for the adoption of this new style of architecture, but it has not 
 proved satisfactory in this case. The walls were found to be too hot in 
 summer and too cold in winter. This has been partially remedied, by 
 lathing and plastering the interior, and putting on a shingle roof. 
 A neat chapel and Sunday school room has also been built on the rear 
 of the lot. The cost of this church and the improvements was paid 
 by contributions from the Churches generally, a large proportion from 
 the Wilson family, and from friends in the neighborhood. 
 
 In March, 1873, Rev. 0. F. Flippo was called to this charge, as a 
 missionary of the Association. Bro. Flippo published the "Baptist 
 Visitor" during his residence in Waverly, and otherwise performed an 
 active part in the spread of Baptist principles. He also infused ad- 
 ditional interest into the Church, baptized thirty-four converts, and 
 reported seventy-one members in October, 1877 ; when he resigned, to 
 settle in Sufiblk, Va. 
 
 In April, 1878, Rev. E. M. Barker, of New Jersey, accepted the call 
 of this Church and rendered faithful service about four years, when 
 the infirmities of age compelled him to resign. This venerable brother 
 is now spending his last days with his son, in Baltimore, after a long 
 and useful career in the work of the ministry. 
 
 Rev. E. B. Morris was elected pastor June 29, 1882, since which date 
 the Church has increased considerably in active membership. Twenty- 
 
ii6 Maryland Baplis/ Ilisiory. 
 
 four have been received by baptism and thirteen by letter. Twelve 
 have been dismissed and others are deceased. Membership at present, 
 ninety. As this Church originated in a Sunday school, so it has ever 
 since been in connection with one. For the past eight years Bro. Chas. 
 H. Bond has been superintendent. The teachers and scholars number 
 179. The trustees of the Church, to whom the trustees of Jas. Wilson 
 have transferred the property, are Thos. J. Wilson, N. M. Rittenhouse, 
 L. Scott Carswell, G. J. Koche, Henry Taylor, J. Wilson Brown, 
 Chas. H. Bond, and the pastor. 
 
 The first deacons were Robert Jones and Lewis Elder. The follow- 
 ing brethren have served since: James H. and Geo. W. Stran, B. M. 
 Cook, R. H. Hyde, John Watson, Jesse Mathews, J. Wilson Brown and 
 L. Scott Carswell ; the last named is at present serving as treasurer and 
 clerk. 
 
 Among the most generous friends of the Church have been Frederick 
 Harrison, Thomas J. Wilson, Wm. Patterson, Miss Eliza Wilson, Mrs. 
 Henry Patterson, Mrs. W. Hall Harris, Mrs. Robert P. Brown, and its 
 first pastor. Rev. F. Wilson, without whose fostering care the organi- 
 zation would probably never have existed. 
 
 Having collected the necessary money, the Church is now building a 
 parsonage, on a lot of ground donated by sister F. L. Aull. The ladies' 
 aid society has done a great work in the raising of funds for this and all 
 the enterprises of the Church. At this time there is no debt or other 
 discouragement upon this people, but they are full of cheerful courage 
 for the future. There is no reason now, why the Huntingdon Church 
 should not take a leading place in the fast increasing community of 
 Waverly. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 1 7 
 
 1847. 
 CUMBERLAND BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 Fkom the beginning, the object of the Maryland Baptist Union As- 
 sociation has been to plant Churches where they wonld be most useful. 
 The important coal and iron interests of Cumberland led them to be- 
 lieve that place was a desirable position for our work. Therefore, in 
 December, 1846, the Executive Board sent Rev. George F. Adams and 
 Eev. Franklin Wilson to survey the field. They found five or six Bap- 
 tists there, and sought to secure a suitable lot on which to build a church 
 edifice in the future, but found no land-owner willing to sell or lease 
 ground for a church on any better terms than for any secular purpose. 
 The matter was reported to the Board, and there rested. 
 
 The Board appointed as a missionary to Cumberland, Benjamin Grif- 
 fith, a young brother, a licentiate of the First Church in Baltimore. 
 Mr. Griffith entered upon his duties in June, 1847. He went there and 
 secured a small room over an engine house, where he preached and 
 made known to his hearers his object to organize a Baptist Church. 
 He found one gentleman and five ladies, who agreed to unite with him. 
 
 On July 22, 1847, they met for that purpose. They were Benjamin 
 Griffith, Travis Coppage, Harriet R. Stevens, Sarah Weldon, Matilda 
 A. Wardwell, Catherine Durham and Sophie Kuhn. They assumed 
 the name of the "First Baptist Church of Cumberland." At their first 
 meeting they elected Bro. Griffith as pastor. Tavo months later, a man 
 and his wife were received by letter. The first baptism occurred in 
 January, 1848. Mrs. Catherine Cross was the candidate. Although 
 the pastor was a missionary of the Board in Baltimore, yet the Church 
 adopted a resolution that each member should contribute to his sup- 
 port. In anticipation of building a church, an act of incorporation 
 was obtained under the law, May 27, 1848. The body corporate con- 
 sisted of the pastor, ex-officio, Benjamin Coates, J. H. Tucker, A. F. 
 Roberts, Franklin Wilson and Richard Fuller. 
 
 In November following, the Church was received into our Associa- 
 tion, reporting as having baptized five, received by letter ten ; their 
 present number nineteen, more than double the original number. 
 This was encouraging, especially as they labored under great dis- 
 advantage for want of a convenient place of worship. 
 
 The Church now determined on the erection of a suitable house. 
 A lot was secured and a subscription opened'for the purpose of build- 
 ing. Each member agreed to pay twelve cents per week, to meet the 
 
1 1 8 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 payments on the lot as they shonld become due. The principal part of 
 the money for the erection of the house was furnished by the Baptists 
 of Baltimore. The building was begun and progressed slowly, and 
 although some difficulty arose in consequence of the contractor 
 not fulfilling his engagement, the house was ready for dedication by 
 November, 1849. On the fourth of that month, it was publicly dedi- 
 cated to Divine worship with appropriate ceremonies. Eev. Dr. Fuller 
 andEev. Franklin Wilson, from Baltimore, performed the service. The 
 house was densely filled. At the close of the afternoon session, the or- 
 dinance of baptism was administered by the pastor in the baptistery. 
 John Schilling, afterwards a deacon, was the candidate. 
 
 After the opening of their house, the congregation was very consider- 
 ably increased. Baptisms were frequent and were always attended by 
 large and attentive audiences. Indeed there was quite a revival of re- 
 ligion in the Church. The Sunday school grew rapidly in interest and 
 in numbers. 
 
 Mr. Griffith continued to minister to the Church till April, 1851, 
 when he removed to Philadelphia and took charge of the New Market 
 Street Church. Under his ministry there were added to the Church 
 twenty-four by baptism and twenty by letter from other Churches. 
 His mission, considering all circumstances, was regarded as successful. 
 
 Eev. John H. Phillips was now chosen pastor. He accepted the 
 charge in April, 1851, and resigned in September, 1852. There was no 
 special advance during that period. 
 
 The Church was without pastoral oversight till March, 1853, when 
 Eev. Stejohen W. Price was unanimously elected pastor. Mr. Price 
 was a native of Burmah, the son of Dr. Price, one of the early mission- 
 aries sent to that country by the Board of Foreign Missions of the 
 Baptist General Convention. His mother was a native of Burmah, 
 whom Dr. Price had married after the death of his first wife. Mr. 
 Price was a student at Newton Theological Institute, when called to 
 the charge of the Church, but had nearly closed his studies. He ac- 
 cepted the charge, the Executive Board of our Association agreeing 
 to pay a portion of his salary. He was ordained in Baltimore, in May 
 1853. The beginning of his pastorate was cheered by the baptism of 
 three candidates. During the summer, the cholera prevailed to some 
 extent and caused quite a panic among the citizens, so that many left 
 the place. The Church suffered more or less in consequence. Yet 
 there was life and interest enough in the body to maintain their reg- 
 ular worship, and repair their house at a cost of more than |650, which 
 by a little extra eftbrt was made up and paid. 
 
 In July, 1854, Mr. Price resigned the charge of the Church, after a 
 brief pastorate of about fifteen months. A very kind letter was sent to 
 him by the Church expressing their regret at his decision. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 1 9 
 
 The Church having an ordained minister among their members, 
 though engaged in secular business, school teaching, requested him 
 to supply the pulpit, at least on Lord's day mornings, till more perma- 
 nent arrangements could be made. This was Eev. A. Baush. Soon 
 afterward they invited Rev. Levi Thorne to become their pastor, but he 
 declined. Rev. F. G. Brown, of Massachusetts, and Rev. Mr. Chase, 
 were also unanimously invited to become pastor, but declined. 
 
 In December, 1855, one of their number, Mr. John G. Schilling, com- 
 ■ municated to the Church his desire to pursue a course of study with 
 a view to the ministry. The Church recommended him to do so. 
 He was afterward accepted by the Foreign Mission Board of the South- 
 ern Baptist Convention and sent as a missionary to China. 
 
 Rev. John Bray became their pastor, March, 1856, and in April he 
 ■entered upon the duties of this oflfice. Eev. Dr. Williams, of Balti- 
 more, and Rev. Dr. Samson, of Washington, were invited to conduct 
 his installation services, June 8. 
 
 Mr. Bray's ministry opened with fair prospects of success. Addi- 
 tions were made from time to time both by baptism and by letter. Re- 
 pairsand improvements were made to the building, which were promptly 
 paid for. The Sunday school was cared for and much precious seed 
 was sown. In 1857, however, some trouble arose, which caused the 
 pastor to resign. He continued to labor in the vicinity for some 
 time after, preaching at Eckhart Mines, Mount Savage and other places. 
 
 In the autumn of that year, the Association met at Cumberland. 
 This session proved to be profitable. It was however attended with a 
 sad dispensation. Mrs. Price, the widow of the late S. W. Price, for- 
 merly pastor of this Church, was taken ill and died on Saturday, Nov. 
 14. The funeral services were held in the church on Monday. 
 
 After the resignation of Mr. Bray, the Church was without a pastor 
 for more than a year. During that time, however. Rev. A. Baush 
 preached for them frequently, and the members kept up their social 
 prayer meetings. 
 
 In October, 1858, a unanimous call was extended to Rev. J. T. B. 
 Patterson to become their pastor. The Board agreed to appoint him 
 as their missionary and to be responsible for a part of his salary. The 
 pastorate of Mr. Patterson was very brief. He resigned, June 5, 1859. 
 
 Rev I. .J. Hoyle, of Pennsylvania, visited and preached several times, 
 but declined to accept a call to the pastorate, which the Church unan- 
 imously extended to him. From removals by members to other places 
 the Church became much enfeebled, and having no pastor, their house 
 was rented to the German Reformed Church, to be used by that de- 
 nomination two Sundays in each month. 
 
 In the spring of 1861, Rev. Mr. DeWitt, State missionary, visited the 
 Church and preached several times, and baptized two persons. 
 
I 20 Maryland Baplist History. 
 
 From 1859 to 1863, there was no delegate from this Church to the 
 Association, an evidence of decay. It appears, from the Minutes, that 
 Eev. Wm. Ellis was pastor there and at Eckhart for a while, being a 
 missionary of the Board in 1864. During the war period, the Church 
 suffered greatly, its spiritual interest almost dying out. In 1866, Rev. 
 R. W. East was appointed there. He labored faithfully, and seemed to 
 have some prospect of success, when he was taken ill, and died, in the 
 first year of his service. 
 
 In June, 1867, Kev. P. T. Warren became pastor, supported mainly 
 by the Board. Within a few months he baptized nine persons, and the 
 outlook was encouraging. He served faithfully until October, 1868, 
 when he left, to accept a charge.' in Mobile, Alabama. Hard times in 
 the community niade sad work in the Church, which became unable 
 to meet any of its expenses. 
 
 At a meeting, March 16, 1869, the Church, reduced to a remnant, re- 
 solved to disband, and the members were released from their covenant 
 obligations. From that date until 1871, there was no Baptist Church 
 in Cumberland ! 
 
 In elanuary, 1870, Rev. W. W. Meech was appointed to Cumberland 
 as a missionary. He labored there and in the vicinity, preaching, dis- 
 tributing tracts and visiting, until disabled by ill health. 
 
 In January, 1871, the Board sent Rev. H. J. Chandler as missionary 
 to Cumberland, with instructions to resuscitate the Baptist interest, if 
 possible. He succeeded in finding sixteen of the former members who 
 were willing to reorganize. These, with five members of his family 
 and five converts baptized by Bro. Chandler, after several months of 
 arduous preaching, made twenty-six persons, who were formally 
 reunited as the Baptist Church of Cumberland. 
 
 During the ten years of Bro. Chandler's stay at Cumberland, he 
 had the most serious disadvantages to contend with — the repeated de- 
 pression in business, the frequent stoppage of work among the miners 
 and railroad men, the floating character of the population, and their 
 poverty, all combined to render the field a difficult one in which to 
 gather the fruits of Christian labor. When Bro. Chandler resigned in 
 October, 1880, the membership, which had reached ninety in 1874, had 
 diminished from the above causes to fifty-six ; leaving a gain however 
 in the reliabilitation of the Church, and the improvement of the house 
 of worship at considerable expense. 
 
 Rev. E. B. Walts was called to supply this field Feb. 1, 1881, and re- 
 mained until ill health compelled him to resign in the following De- 
 cember. In April, 1882, Rev. H. L. Quarles, of Virginia, was secured 
 by the Executive Board as missionary pastor at Cumberland. The 
 membership had by that period become reduced to thirty. He entered 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 121 
 
 upon his work with energy and a determination to succeed. He has 
 served there now over three years. During this time, considerable im- 
 provement has been made in the meeting house, rendering it comfort- 
 able and attractive ; the Sunday school has become more popular and 
 efficient, and tlie Church has increased to sixty-eight members. 
 
 Whether the mission at Cumberland will ultimately repay with 
 prosperity and reacting zeal, all the anxiety, labor and money expended 
 upon it for so many years, is with some a problem. We trust, however, 
 that the Cliurch is working out, amid its many trials, a strong char- 
 acter, and laying the foundation of an enduring Zion. 
 
 The present officers of the Church are as follows: Pastor, Eev. H. L. 
 Q.uarles. Deacons : John Schilling, C J. Everstine, D. W. Bussard, 
 Joseph Schilling, R. J. Miles, Ephraim Stuller, Samuel Brant. Treas- 
 urer, S. Brant. Clerk, (1. J. Everstine. 
 
 1847;== 
 
 PITTS CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located some live miles south of Pocomoke City, in 
 the lower part of Worcester County. It was constituted May 24, 1817, 
 with twenty-six members. Within the period of 1817 and 1841, the 
 old Church records contain one hundred additional names of members. 
 The first pastor, Rev. Levin Henderson, served from 1817 to about 1840. 
 During that time and later, the Church was connected with the Salis- 
 bury Association, an anti-mission body; but about 1844, the letter of 
 the Pitts Creek brethren expressing a liberal feeling toward missionary 
 and kindred societies, the Association disfellowshiped them. They re- 
 mained true to their convictions, but being few in number, (our Minutes 
 say fourteen,) they were unable to maintain I'egular worship or support 
 a preachei'. In 1847, Rev. S. C. Boston, missionary of the Maryland 
 Union, began to labor with this almost extinct Church. He held a 
 series of meetings, and baptized thirteen converts. Rev. J. H. Phillips, 
 his co-laborer in the same field, comprising several missions on the East- 
 ern Shore, succeeded him in 1848, with equal success, and the little 
 band at Pitts Creek was increased to forty-three members. During 
 the following several years, Bro. Boston, Bro. Phillips and Rev. Joseph 
 Walker and Rev. George Bradford preached at times for this Church, 
 by appointment of our Board, although it is stated in our Minutes that 
 
 *This Clmrch, as stated in the sketch, was originally organized in 1817, but it 
 'became practical!}' extinct, and began its career as a missionary C'hurch in 1S47. 
 
122 Maryland Jniptist History. 
 
 when this Church eutertU our Association, iu October, 1855, it "came 
 from the Accomack Association."' At this date, liro. Boston was con- 
 tinued in charge of this and two other Churches. In November, his 
 labors were rewarded with eleven conversions, and the meeting house 
 had also been repaired. In 1856, he removed, and after a year, was suc- 
 ceeded by Rev. A. G. Harley, who reported a fair degree of prosperity 
 during two years. Kev. 0. F. Flippo took charge of this field in 1859> 
 and remained about eight yeai's, with varying success, the Church re- 
 porting 107 members in 1867. He was followed by Rev. J. G. Councill 
 for two years ; Rev. E. M. Byrne, one year; Rev. L. D. Pauling about 
 three years ; Rev. L. P. Judson, a few months in ]877; Rev. H.J. Han- 
 dy from 1878 to 1880; Rev. J. A. Woolf in 1882-83, and finally the 
 veteran Rev. S. C. Boston, who is now again pastor, since December 
 1883. It was during the pastorate of Bro. Handy, that a new meeting 
 house was built and almost finished, when it was, one night, from some 
 cause unknown, burned to the ground. There was no insurance, and 
 the loss was felt deeply. In a few days, the pastor and people aroused 
 from the depression caused by the disaster, and planned the immediate 
 erection of the present beautiful sanctuary, wliich was completed in a 
 few months, and is now entirely paid for. 
 
 Since 1847, one hundred and ninety-two persons have been received 
 into the Church by baptism and twelve by letter ; but the removals? 
 exclusions and deaths have depleted the number, until there are at 
 this time only sixty-seven members. Among the brethren of the old 
 Church, and who cooperated efficiently Avith Bro. Boston in the revival 
 of 1847, were brethren Levin Merrill and John B. White. Bro. Mer- 
 rill lived only a few years after, but left a family of noble children, all 
 of whom became members of Baptist Churches. Some have removed 
 elsewhere, others have died, but two, Henry T. and Alfred D. Merrill, 
 have been identified with the Pitts Creek Church since their youth' 
 exerting a wide influence, and training their children to usefulness in 
 the same faith. Bro. J. B. White became a constituent member of the 
 Church in Pocomoke City. 
 
 The following brethren have sustained official relations in this body: 
 Levin Merrill, J. B. White, John Howard, L. M. Houston, Esau Bos- 
 ton, L. H. Merrill, Peter Pilcher and S. J. Connor. The present dea- 
 cons are A. D. Merrill and Urban White; treasurer, H. T. Merrill; 
 clerk, E. F. Merrill. 
 
 From the time this Church discarded anti-mission sentiments and 
 became associated with us, its contributions have been liberal to all 
 missionary enterprises. The Sunday school has always been a blessing 
 to the Church and community. A. D. Merrill is the present superin- 
 tendent. In 1884, five converts from the school were baptized. A fine 
 
Maiyiand Baptist History. 125 
 
 chapel organ has been recently placed in the church, which adds much 
 interest to the singing of the school and congregation. 
 
 The field in which this Church is located is circumscribed, there not 
 being a very large area of country from which to draw congregations ;. 
 still the attendance is very good ; and the Church is emphatically the 
 light and centre of religious influence in that community. 
 
 1850. 
 
 ECKHART BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The Eckhart Mines are situated in the Allegheny Mountains, nearly 
 two hundred miles west of Baltimore, ten m^les west of Cumberland^ 
 and two miles east of Frostburg. Their elevation is about two thous- 
 and feet above the level of the sek They are a portion of the vast 
 coal regions developed by the railroads. The population numbers sev- 
 eral hundred within a mile or two, chiefly miners and their families. 
 
 Prior to J850, a Mr. Jennings came from England with his family, 
 and settled at the Mines. He was a Roman Catholic, but his wife had 
 been converted and had joined a Baptist Church, during a short stay 
 in New York, and was now desirous of finding other persons of this 
 faith in her new home. Hearing of the Baptist Church in Cumberland, 
 she visited that place, and after making herself known, induced 
 Rev. Benjamin Griffith, the pastor of the Church, to come to Eckhart 
 and hold a series of meetings. The basement of the Episcopal church 
 was secured for the first meeting, and Bro. Grriffith preached there to 
 a crowded audience, on Thursday night, September 5, 1850. The M. 
 E. church was then secured, and beginning September 19, he preached 
 every night for two weeks, and baptized six persons, namely, Wm. Ste- 
 venson and his wife Margaret Stevenson, who had been Congregation- 
 alists. Miss Margaret Carney, who had been a Methodist, Mrs. Jane 
 McFarlin, who had been a Lutheran, Hamilton Tibbetts and his wife 
 Ann Tibbets. 
 
 There now being this number of Baptists at the Mines, it was thought 
 advisable to organize a Church. Accordingly, on the night of October 
 25, 1850, the above-named persons, with Miss Esther Sewell and Mrs. 
 Catherine Jennings, the mover of the enterprise, met in the Methodist 
 church for that purpose. Bro. Griffith acted as moderator, and Bro. 
 Tibbets as clerk. A covenant and articles of faith were adopted and 
 signed. Rev. A. Baush delivered a charge to the new body. A vote 
 of thanks to their Methodist brethren for the use of their church was 
 the first business recorded. Brethren Griffith and Baush agreed to visit 
 the Church alternately, every week. 
 
1 2 4 Alan 'la n d Baptist History. 
 
 The Church now vented tlie Railroad Company's school house, for a 
 time, and decided to build a chapel. With great effort they succeeded 
 in obtaining funds and materials, and erected a house suitable for their 
 purposes. 
 
 After Bro. Griffith left Cumberland, Rev. J. H. Phillips preached at 
 Eckhart occasionally. In April, 1854, the Church called Rev. W. W. 
 Kone as pastor, who served for about a year, and received eight mem- 
 bers into fellowship. Between 1855 and 1858, Rev. John Bray, of the 
 Cumberland charge, preached frequently, and received members. 
 
 In 1858, Rev. Wm. Ellis was called as pastor, and served the cause 
 earnestly for eight years. Many souls were added to the Church. His 
 pastorate reached through the period of our Civil War, and though the 
 times were dark and cruel, the Church remained and flourished. 
 
 In 1867, Rev. Jas. R. Brown was called. He served the Church 
 three years. His ministry was attended with great good. 
 
 About this time the Welsh Baptist Church was organized in Frost- 
 burg, twenty-two members going out of Eckhart Church to constitute 
 it. 
 
 On April 1, 1870, the Church called Bro. Lewis Sammons as pastor. 
 He preached about three years, having only the good of the cause and 
 the interest of his Master's kingdom at heart. During his stay among 
 them the Church had sore trials for a season. In the fall of 1873, he 
 tendered his resignation. 
 
 In March, 1874:, the Church called Rev. James T. Bradford, in con- 
 nection with the Frostburg Church. He served about two-and-a-half 
 years and left in December, 1876. 
 
 In March, 1877, the Church called Rev. AVm. T. Fortney. Times 
 being very hard, the members could not pay him his salary and notified 
 him in August of the fact. He left in November. They were without 
 a pas I or until the spring of 1879, when they extended a call to Rev. 
 Wm. S. Holt. When he came, the charge was in rather an indifferent 
 condition, but soon became united and healthy. Bro. Holt's ministry 
 was successful in building up the cause. He remained, however, only 
 for a year or so. In 1882 and 1883, the Church had no pastor. They 
 had preaching occasionally by Rev. H. L. Quarks and W. 0. Petty, 
 and a few baptisms. 
 
 In December, 1883, Rev. James Miller was called to the field, and is 
 still hil^oring there, with evidence of divine favor. The Church now 
 numhiM's sixty-five members, and is in a hopeful and prosperous condi- 
 t on. 
 
 This Church has expressed its gratitude to the brethren of the Ex- 
 ecutive Board "for their oft-repeated and timely help." They say in a 
 
Maryland Baptisi History. 125 
 
 resolution, passed in May, 1881, "If it had not been for their aid, many 
 times we would have been compelled to do without preaching. Their 
 help has not been in vain. God has owned their sacrifice in sustaining 
 the cause at Eckhart. Our prayers are united that He may bless their 
 arduous labors of love and mercy throughout the State." 
 
 1850. 
 
 VIENNA BAPTIST CHURCH. • 
 
 The First Baptist Church of Vienna, Dorchester Co., Md., was 
 constituted October 14, 1850. It was the outgrowth of the labors of 
 Rev. S. 0. Boston, who became its first pastor. He had been serving 
 as a missionary for a year or more in the employ of the Maryland Union 
 Association, and was then, as now, one of the most zealous and faithful 
 of gospel preachers. It was also through his persevering efforts that 
 their house of worship was built. The constituent members were but 
 six in number, namely, Bro. Boston himself, Mary A. Boston, Henrietta 
 Wetherly, Elizabeth Smith, Harriet Carsely and Biddie Brown. 
 
 A council composed of Rev. J. H. Phillips, then a missionary of our 
 Board, and Deacons John White and L. Merrill of the Pitts Creek 
 Baptist Church, approved of the organization. 
 
 Bro. Boston's labors were blessed remarkably. In twelve months, he 
 had baptized thirty-nine converts. These increased his little Church 
 so that it became an established success. Six more additions were 
 made by letter. There were, however, six deaths and several exclu- 
 sions. The Church had now material for officers, and elected the fol- 
 lowing: Deacons, Savage Smith, L. Kennelly; treasurer, W. W. Hearn ; 
 clerk, V. Insley. These with the addition of J. Culver, were chosen 
 as trustees also. They at once raised $100 toward the pastor's salary. 
 Bro. Boston remained until Oct. 23, 1852, when he was transfen-ed to 
 Pitts Creek and Rehoboth. 
 
 The Board appointed Rev. .T. H. Phillips to succeed him, and he re- 
 mained on the field, preaching, as had his predecessor, at two other 
 stations in addition to Vienna, until 1854, baptizing seven persons. 
 
 Rev. F. L. Kregel was elected pastor May 1, 1854, and remained for 
 two years. Rev. Daniel Gumming took charge in 1857, and continued 
 till July 9, 1859. In a few months later. Rev. J. S. Ker was called to 
 the field, and served about a year ; during which time Rev, Mr. DeWitt, 
 evangelist, assisted him in a protracted meeting. Twelve conversions 
 were reported, with fifty-nine members. 
 
126 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The Church luid no regular preaching after this for several years, 
 and declined to forty members, in 1864, when Rev. P. T. Warren took 
 charge. He reported "the field a hard one, with no male members to 
 aid him," but labored faithfully with some success, till October, 1866. 
 
 Rev. A. Ct. Harley succeeded, and remained until ill health forced 
 him to resign Nov., 1868. The Church letter re})orts a term of 'pleasure 
 and profit;' $250 raised for the pastor's salary, and house of worship re- 
 paired. There was no pastor for two years after the last date. In 1871, 
 Rev. N. C. Naylor was appointed here, and labored zealously for about 
 two years. The meeting house was improved and beautified. In 1874, 
 Rev. P."T. Warren again preached here and remained two years. He 
 reported only twenty-eight members. In 1876, Rev. L. P. Judson as- 
 sumed charge for a short period. Rev. C. W. Teasdale acted as pastor 
 during part of 1879 and 1880. In 1883, Rev. J. B. English preached 
 here for some days, assisted by Bro. J. W. Lyle. A revival was the result, 
 increasing the Church to about forty members. Since January, 1884, 
 Rev. F. R. Underwood has labored on this field, serving also two other 
 Churches, at Cambridge and Cabin Creek. The prospects are hopeful. 
 
 The membership now numbers fifty. The meeting house, which is 
 valued at $1,500, seats about two hundred people, and is generally well 
 attended. 
 
UNION BAPTIST CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
REV. HARVEY JOHNSON, 
 
 PASTOR OF THE UNION BAPTIST CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
 Engraved for this work from a photoffraph by Holyland. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 129 
 
 1852. 
 
 UNION BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 The Union Baptist Church of this City presents of late years a rec- 
 ord of almost unexampled prosperity. In 1852, at its origin, the mem- 
 bership numbered fifty-seven : they now exceed two thousand, besides 
 many who have left from time to time to form new Churches. This 
 prosperity is attributable, under God's blessing, to several circumstan- 
 ces. First, the central location of their house of worship, which is ac- 
 cessible from all parts of the city. Next, the energy and faithfulness 
 of their pastors, the last of whom stands high in the community as an 
 evangelical leader. And again, to the fact that Baptist principles are 
 readily accepted by the masses of the people who have not been pre- 
 viously educated to perversions of the Bible, and to ritual and unscrip- 
 tural doctrines. All over the world, among all nations, the words of 
 the evangelist in reference to Christ, are found to be a verity with Bap- 
 tist doctrines, that "the common people hear them gladly," while the 
 followers of tradition and ceremonies and half-truths, who boast of a 
 superior education, reject His truth, because of its simplicity. 
 
 We have little knowledge of the origin and early days of the Union 
 Church beyond the data furnished by Dr. Wilson, in a sketch read at 
 a recent anniversary. Of its later history and work, we have obtained 
 the necessary information from the members, and from our Minutes. 
 
 The Union Church was organized in 1852, with fifty-seven members, 
 and met for worship in a small building on Lewis street, near Mullikin. 
 The first pastor was named John Carey. The people were very poor, 
 made but slow progress, and could not manage their expenses. Bro. 
 Carey left in 1854, and we understand, is still in the ministry, serving 
 a Church in New Jersey. For many months, the members held together 
 without a pastor, though at length they diminished to forty-three. In 
 1856, Eev. Chauncey Leonard was called to the charge, and remained 
 about a year. Subsequently, Rev. Isaac Kendall was engaged ; but as 
 the Church could not pay him a salary, he soon resigned. In 1861, 
 the membership was only forty-one. In that year, Rev. Wm. Williams 
 was elected pastor, and took charge with a hope of improving the situa- 
 tion, Avhich he did, and remained at his post for eight years. He begun 
 under the unfavorable influences of the Civil War, but in about four 
 years, the membership increased to 124. In 1866, the "Saratoga St. 
 
13c MaTyland luxptist Ifistory. 
 
 African Baptist Church" having disbanded, many of its members joined 
 the Lewis St. congregation, which now became incorporated under the 
 title "Union Baptist Church." They now numbered 175, and much 
 encouraged, began to look around for a more central location in which 
 to establish their Zion. 
 
 In 1868, Kev. Franklin Wilson, Christopher West, Hiram Woods 
 and Henry Taylor, at the earnest request of Bro. Williams, the pastor, 
 purchased the Disciples' meeting house, on North street, near Sara- 
 toga, and offered it to this Church on certain conditions, at the same 
 time making liberal donations toward the purchase. After consider- 
 able opposition on the part of some of the m.embers, who clung tena- 
 ciously to the little old house on Lewis street, it was accepted, and the 
 Church removed to its new quarters, from which day its course has 
 been onward. 
 
 Eev. Wm, Williams died suddenly, in 18G9. He had preached on 
 Sunday morning, and baptized five persons. At the afternoon service, 
 he was in the act of giving out a hymn beginning, "Lord, why was I 
 made to hear thy voice," when he lost utterance and fainted. He 
 was carried home and died shortly after, at the age of fifty-five years. 
 He Avas a grave, prudent and sincere Christian pastor, and Avas highly 
 esteemed for his work. 
 
 Soon after. Rev. William P. Thompson was elected pastor. He had 
 ibeen a student at Wayland for a short time, had served as a col porter 
 for the Executive Board, and had been licensed to preach by this 
 €hurch a few months previous. His health, however, was not robust, 
 and he served the Church only two years, dying Jan. 24, 1872, aged 
 thirty-two. His ministry was blessed by conversions and baptisms, and 
 he left a membership of 240. His memory is tenderly cherished. 
 
 By this time the Church had paid $5,000, the purchase money, of 
 their house, much of which was contributed by their white brethren. 
 
 For about nine months, the congregation remained without a shep- 
 herd, but many prayers were offered to God, for guidance in the choice 
 of one. To facilitate this, the Church requested Prof G. M. P. King, 
 President of Wayland Seminary, Washington, to send students to 
 preach for them, that they might be able possibly to make a selection, 
 which he did. Among the number who visited Baltimore and occu- 
 pied the pulpit, was Bro. Harvey Johnson, not at the time a student, 
 but a graduate, and then laboring in Virginia, under the northern 
 Home Mission Society. He was born in Fauquier county, of that State 
 and partly raised in Alexandria, where he was converted early, and 
 baptized by Rev. S. W. Madden.* Bro. Johnson made known his de- 
 
 *S. W. Madden, then pastor of the Alfred ISt. Church, Alexandria, had been 
 baptized some years previous by Rev. Noah Davis, of the Saratoga St. Church. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 3 1 
 
 sire to prepare himself for the ministry. Bro. Madden took him to 
 Washington and entered him in Wayhxnd Seminary, where he remained 
 studying for five years, being aided in part by friends in Watertown, 
 Mass., and otherwise supporting himself by laboring during vacation, 
 as missionary and school teacher, under the Home Mission Society. 
 
 Jiro. Johnson was elected pastor, and entered service, October, 1872. 
 The Church had 278 members at that date. A wonderful success at- 
 tended the new pastor's ministry. The first year he baptized 200 con- 
 verts and received 95 by letter. Up to that time, the Church had re- 
 ceived a small annual appropriation from our Board, to aid in support- 
 ing their pastor ; this was now declined and the Church raised all the 
 money needed. They still owed $3,000 on the ground of their church. 
 They immediately set to work systematically, and by continuous col- 
 lections, succeeded in lifting the debt in two years. 
 
 A portion of the members, above referred to as tenaciously holding 
 to the Lewis street property, having involved the Church in a lawsuit, 
 were about this time excluded, to the number of thirty-six. After the 
 settlement of the difliculty, most of them returned to their fellowship. 
 
 In 1874, the membership had reached 787, and the next year, 928. 
 
 The church building had now become inadequate to hold the con- 
 gregation, and it became necessary to tear it down, and erect a larger 
 one. This was done, at a cost of |20,000, including refitting. The 
 undertaking was great, for this people, but they were equal to it ; and 
 by the energy and perseverance of Bro. Johnson and his leading mem- 
 bers, it was carried through triumphantly. The necessary money was 
 collected, partly by subscription books placed in the hands of those 
 Avho could solicit from the public ; but mainly by the envelope system 
 from the members themselves, each of whom subscribed from |5 to 
 $100, paying it by instalments from week to week, as they were able. 
 The "whole $20,000, with the exception of about $500, was raised by 
 the Church in the above manner, within four years. The $500 were 
 contributed by friends in Baltimore and in the North. The new edifice 
 was dedicated in January, 187G. It holds, when crowded, about twelve 
 hundred persons, and is again found insufficient to contain the multi- 
 tudes who throng its doors. 
 
 The impulse given to our cause among the colored people of Balti- 
 more by this success, has been marked. The Church itself has been a 
 fountain-head of mission work. In 1874, the Macedonia Church was 
 organized by some of its members; in 1879, the Calvary Church was 
 established by a colony from its fold ; in 1880, Perkins Square Church 
 was established by its aid. It has also established Churches at Freder- 
 ick, Winfield and Westminster. At the last place it built a house of 
 worship, costing $900. The Union Church has also sent forth six men 
 
132 Alary land Baptist History. 
 
 to serve in the ministry, all of whom were required to pass a satisfac- 
 tory course of study at school. The following have been ordained: T. 
 Clements, (deceased ;) C. A. Dennis, now pastor in Texas ; T. A. An- 
 derson, now pastor in West Virginia ; C. H. Jones, now pastor at West 
 Point, Va., W. M. Alexander, now State Missionary in Maryland ; and 
 A. il Callis, now pastor in Virginia. 
 
 This Church has been gaining in numbers with great rapidity. In 
 1876, it had 1100 members, and each year since it has reported succes- 
 sively, 1368, 1423, 1497, 1578, 1621, 1684, 1790, 1859, and at the pres- 
 ent writing, it has over 2000 members. 
 
 Rev. Harvey Johnson, the pastor of this large congregation, occupies 
 a position of grave responsibility, and the prayers of God's people are 
 continuously offered, that he may prove equal to his opportunity. He 
 has also been active in work outside of his own charge, and was mainly 
 the originator of the "Baptist State Convention," which comprises all 
 the Colored Baptist Churches in the State, and is growing in effective 
 working power. He published, recently, an original discourse on the 
 "Equality of the Father and the Son," which has had a large circula- 
 tion in pamphlet form, and been reprinted in tlie "National Baptist." 
 
 In 1884, |1,200 was raised for missionary and benevolent purposes. 
 
 The Sunday school numbers 30 teachers and 600 scholars. Bro. Ben- 
 jamin Weaver, one of the oldest and most useful members of the Church 
 has been superintendent since 1859. 
 
 The following are the deacons of the Church, with the date of their 
 election: George West, 1852; Benjamin Weaver, 1856 ; R. Blackwell, 
 1861; Moses Campbell, (deceased,) 1861; P. Patterson, 1867 ; H. P. 
 Waters, 1868 ; Jas. Robertson, 1884 ; Harris More, 1874 ; Lewis Minor, 
 1879 ; Thos. Porter, 1879 ; H. H. Lewis, 1884. The treasurer is R. T, 
 Hunter; clerk, Lewis Minor. 
 
 NOTE. 
 
 "Saratoga St. African Baptist Church." — This Church originated October 
 29, 1848, with four members, under the pastorship of Noah Davis, who was called 
 from Fredericksburg, Va., by the Board of the Association, in 1847, as a mission- 
 ary among the colored people of Baltimore. They were obliged to worship in a 
 hall up a flight of stairs, and Bro. Davis labored under many difliculties. By 
 1854, he reported only nineteen members. At that time the body was called the 
 "Second Colored Baptist Church." On Feb. 18, IS.'jS, a large and commodious 
 chapel on the corner of Saratoga and Calvert streets, erected by Bro. "Wm. Crane, 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 133 
 
 was occupied by this Church, and its name changed accordingly. The congre- 
 gations at once increased four-fold, and the Church began to prosper. By 1857 
 they reported seventy -one members. In 1861, they enjoyed a revival; 70 were 
 baptized, and they reported one hundered and sixty-seven members. But quite a 
 number of these were afterwards excluded, so that in 1800, the membership had 
 
 REV. NOAH DAVIS. 
 
 fallen to one hundred and forty -eight. In May of that year, the Church, though 
 assisted liberally by Mr. Crane and others, found themselves unable to raise the 
 amount necessary to pay for their building, or the interest on the debt, or even a 
 small rent. Becoming entirely hopeless of success, they concluded to abandon the 
 house. Bro. Davis became too feeble to preach, and the Church gradually dis- 
 banded, uniting with the Union Church, as already stated, Bro. Davis died, 
 April 6, 1807, lamented by many who knew his great worth as a Christian and a 
 minister. 
 
134 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1854. 
 FIRST B APT 1ST CHURCH OF 
 
 POCOMOKE CITY. 
 
 The first entry we find on theChiirch book is this: "Newtown, Md,, 
 May 14, ]854. On this day, the Newtown Baptist meeting house, erect- 
 ed through the labors of Rev. S. C. Boston, missionary of the Maryland 
 Baptist Union Association, was dedicated to the worship of God. The 
 following was the order of exercises ; Eeading of the Scriptures by Rev. 
 S. C. Boston. Dedicatory prayer, Rev. W. Fisher. Sermon, Rev. J, W* 
 M. Williams. Prayer, Rev. W. T. Wilkerson. Begging speech, Rev. 
 S. C. Boston. The cost of the house, furniture, lot and railing, was 
 about $2,700, of which $1,000 was raised this day. A creditable col- 
 lection truly." This building has a baptistery, steeple and bell. It is 
 an excellent house, and for years was superior to any other church in 
 the town, but recently two of the other denominations have erected 
 better structures. 
 
 The next entry on therecord states, "May 15, 1854. On this day the 
 Newtown Baptist Church was organized, consisting of the following 
 brethren and sisters: S. C. Boston, Mary A. Boston, John B. White, 
 Susan White, John W. Clarke, Samuel Boston, Elizabeth Boston, Ur- 
 ban White, Elizabeth Adams, Major Hall, Jerome Hall, Julia Hall, 
 Zadoc Hall, W. James Merrill. The recognizing council consisted of 
 Rev. J. W. M. Williams, of Baltimore, Rev. W. Fisher, of Accomack co., 
 Va., and Rev. F. L. Kregel, of Vienna." 
 
 The name of Newtown having been changed to Pocomoke City, on 
 July 5, 1878, the name of this organization was changed to the "First 
 Baptist Church of Pocomoke City." 
 
 The first officers m this body were as follows : Deacons, Major Hall 
 and J. B. White; treasurer, Z. Hall ; clerk, W. J. Merrill. In Febru- 
 ary, 187"-i, brother C. P. I3yi'd was elected an additional deacon. He and 
 brother Hall still fill the position, but brother White has deceased, af- 
 ter a number of years of faithful service. Bro. W. J. Merrill has also 
 departed to a higher sphere; his successors as clerk have been breth- 
 ren J. C. Riley, C. H. Council, and H. H. Husted who serves now. The 
 successors of the first treasurer have been brethren H.H. Husted, C. P. 
 Byrd, and A. W. Cranmer, at present in office. Bro. Zadoc Hall still 
 manages the "incidental expenses." 
 
 The pastors have succeeded each other as follows : Rev. S. C. Boston 
 from May, 1854, to Sept., 1857; A. G. Harley, April, 1858, to April, 
 
Alary land Baptist History. 135 
 
 1859; S. C. Boston, Jan., 1860 to Jan., 1861 : 0. F. Flippo, Jan., 1861, 
 to March, 1868 ; J. G. Councill, Sept., 1868 to Jan., 1871 ; E. M. Byrne, 
 March, 1871, to Feb'y, 1873; L. D. Paniing, July, 1872, to Jan., 1876 ; 
 H. J. Handy, Nov., 1876, to June, 1881 ; J. A. Woolf, Nov., 1881, to 
 April, 1883. In December, 1883, Bro. Boston again entered this field, 
 and is the pastor now, thirty years after the first record quoted in the 
 opening of this sketch. All these ministers have been more or less 
 blessed in their work. Some precious seasons of ingathering have been 
 enjoyed, and at different times, a goodly number have been added to- 
 the Church by baptism. 
 
 During Rev. 0. F. Flippo's term, a neat parsonage was built and paid 
 for. While Rev. J. G. Councill was pastor, the house of worship was 
 improved, at a cost of $300. All these pastors are still living, except- 
 ing Rev. L. [). Pauling, who removed to Pennsylvania, and died soon 
 after. Rev. William T. Wilkerson should be mentioned here. He was 
 a resident minister, and often rendered the Church good service as a 
 a supply, when destitute of a pastor. He has gone to his reward. 
 
 The Church has, from its beginning, been remarked for its devotion 
 to the weekly prayer meeting. Its contributions to the different Mis- 
 sion Boards and other means of benevolence, have been liberal. It has 
 suffered, however, all along its history, from theremo.al of its members 
 to other places. It has also lost some members by their marriages to 
 members of other denominations, and some by exclusion and death. 
 Its present number is ninety-nine, seventeen of whom were baptized 
 during the past year. 
 
 The Church is in a healthful condition, with a good Sunday school. 
 The church building has been recently painted. A ladies' aid society 
 and a ladies' missionary society are doing good service. 
 
1 36 Maryland Baptist History 
 
 FRANKLIN SQUARE BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 The first meeting for the formation of this Church was held October 
 15, 1854, in a liouse on Fayette street, near Carey, then occupied by a 
 mission of the Seventh Church, designated as the West End or West- 
 ern Branch Sunday school, and taught by brethren Alexander Butcher, 
 Eosewell H. Graves, and other well known workers. At this time it 
 had sixty-four scholars, who were transferred to the charge of the new 
 Church. The persons gathered on this occasion were principally mem- 
 bers of the Seventh and High Street Churches. After prayer, led by 
 Eev. Franklin Wilson, and on his motion, it was "Resolved, That it is 
 expedient to proceed, at the earliest possible period, to the formation of 
 a Baptist Church at Franklin Square." All present who proposed to 
 join such Church were requested to report their names, and a comrtiit- 
 tee was appointed to receive other names and to arrange for the forma- 
 tion of the Church. The pastors of the city Churches were requested 
 to announce the intention to organize a new body, and to recommend 
 such of their members as proposed to join it to report their names at 
 once. An adjourned meeting was held October 22, when a committee, 
 consisting of brethren Franklin Wilson, Wm. H. Ryan, John W. Jevens, 
 AV. W. Lawrason and George Hosking, was appointed to prepare a cov- 
 enant, articles of faith and constitution. This committee reported on 
 October 26, when a manual was adopted. On the 31st the Church was 
 fully and regularly organized. 
 
 The public recognition by a council of sister Churches, took place in 
 the old "Round Top'' church, formerly on the corner of Lombard and 
 8harp streets. The sermon was preached by Rev. John Berg, the ad- 
 dress to the Church made by Rev. Dr. Richard Fuller, the hand of fel- 
 lowship given by Rev. Geo. F. Adams, and the prayer offered by Rev. 
 J. W. M. Williams. 
 
 Although the number of constituent members was only thirty, yet at 
 their first meeting, more than one thousand dollars were subscribed for 
 the support of the ministry, and from the beginning, the Church has 
 not only sustained itself, but has contributed liberally to the various 
 objects of Christian benevolence. 
 
 It was not originated on account of any dissension or rivalry, but 
 from a conviction that a Baptist Church was needed in tlie rapidly- 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 137 
 
 growing West End of the city ; and the movement obtained at once the 
 sympathy and encouragement of all the sister Churches. 
 
 The "Church Extension Society," composed of members of the city 
 Churches, became actively interested in the erection of a house of wor- 
 ship for the new Church. Bro. Alexander D. Kelly, then president of 
 that Society, and Eev. F. Wilson, its secretary, selected the site upon 
 which the present edifice stands, on Calhoun street, north of Lexing- 
 ton. The Homes of the Aged were not then built on the adjoining 
 corner lots. The ground cost $4,400 ; the building, which was com- 
 pleted in about a year, cost about $20,000. In November, 1855, the 
 house was dedicated. Only a few of the members had contributed an 
 appreciable part of the large expense. 
 
 The first pastor was Eev. Ceorge B. Taylor, who entered service in 
 September, 1855. The first baptism took place, Feb. 7, 1856. Shortly 
 after, Bro. J. L. Holmes united with this Church, and was aided by 
 it in pursuing his studies in Columbian University. He was ordained 
 to the ministry June 4, 1858, and labored in China as a missionary, 
 until October, 1861, when he was murdered by the Tae Ping rebels. 
 
 For several years, the Church experienced much hardship. The lo- 
 cation was then isolated; the streets and sidewalks unpav^d; the heat- 
 ing apparatus defective ; the cellar frequently flooded ; and during the 
 first winter a succession of severe snow-storms occurred, which almost 
 suspended attendance at the services. A long plank foot-walk which 
 led to the church was stolen for firewood. But the pastor and his 
 people struggled along, in the hope of establishing the permanent and 
 prosperous Zion which has since rewarded all their labors. 
 
 Bro. Taylor held two protracted meetings, in which he was aided by 
 Rev. A. E. Dickinson, of Va., and Rev. Jacob Knapp, during which 
 many persons were converted, some of whom became useful members. 
 During this pastorate, 31 persons were added by baptism, and 33 by 
 letter. The monthly concert of prayer for missions was established, 
 and has been held regularly since. On April 11, 1856, the Church 
 by resolution planted itself firmly in favor of the great cause of Tem- 
 perance. On Sept. 5, 1857, Bro. Taylor resigned. During his leisure 
 hours, he had written the "Oakland Stories," a series of volumes for 
 the young, which achieved a deserved popularity. Since that time, 
 Bro. Taylor's reputation has become world-wide, as missionary in Italy. 
 
 The membership now numbered 86, and for a year or more, were 
 without a pastor, during which time Rev. Franklin Wilson was invited 
 to preach and perform such pastoral work as his health would permit, 
 which he did most faithfully and satisfactorily. 
 
 On October 15, 1858, Rev. Francis M. Barker, of Virginia, became 
 pastor. His labors were attended with a cheering revival. Numerous- 
 
1 38 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 •additions were made by conversion iind letter. But on account of do- 
 mestic ties, Bro. Barker resigned, in less than a year, and returned to 
 his native State, in September, 1859. He has since deceased. During 
 his stay here, 21 persons were baptized and 14 received by letter, bring- 
 ing the total membership up to 118. 
 
 Possibly, one reason that promoted the decision of Bro. Barker not to 
 remain here, was the fact that the acoustic defects of the church 
 caused a reverberation of his powerful voice to such an extent as to 
 render his words indistinct, and therefore much of his able discourse 
 was lost. This fault in the sound became still more apparent under 
 the preaching of his successor. Several architects were consulted, and 
 some expensive alterations were made, but no successful remedy was 
 found until 1866, when an arc or curve of seven feet span was inserted 
 at the junction of the four walls and ceiling. This made the acoustics 
 of the hall satisfactory to every speaker and hearer. 
 
 In August, 1859, the Church became incorporated, and the Church 
 Extension Society transferred the church property to its trustees. 
 
 In October, 1859, Rev. Thos. H. Pritchard, of North Carolina, took 
 charge of the Church, and remained pastor until September, 1863, near- 
 ly four years. During most of this period, the land was convulsed with 
 •civil war, and there was a general distraction of mind on account of 
 the nearness to the conflict; yet, many times, the congregations were 
 large ; 13 were added by baptism and 40 by letter, making the total 
 membership 150. 
 
 After an interval of six months. Rev. Tiberius Gracchus Jones, D. D., 
 of Norfolk, Va., became pastor, March 4, 1864, and remained until Dec. 
 1, 1865. The War continuing part of that time, the Church made but 
 little progress, the additions being one by baptism and five by letter. 
 
 For sixteen months the Church was again without a pastor, and Rev. 
 Dr. Wilson supplied its ministrations as before. Twelve converts were 
 baptized by him, and eight were added by letter; but so many members 
 were excluded for unfaithfulness, or dismissed to other Churches, that 
 only 118 names were left on the roll book. 
 
 On April 1, 1867, Rev. Wm. E. Hatcher, of Virginia, became pastor, 
 but remained only fifteen months, resigning July, 1868, to return to his 
 native State, where he has since held important pastorates, and acted 
 •of late years as editor of the "Religious Herald," in Richmond. During 
 his term, 27 were baptized and 41 added by letter, increasing the total 
 membership to 181. 
 
 In August, 1S66, the congregation resolved to cushion the pews and 
 •otherwise improve their sanctuary. This was done at a cost of $3,000, 
 which was raised among themselves. From that date, an era of pros- 
 perity began, which has continued to the present time. Previously, the 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 39 
 
 Church had been indebted to the Church Extension Society for its 
 house of worship, only two or three of its members contributing liber- 
 ally toward its erection, and therefore the great body of them, not hav- 
 ing made sacrifice for it, did not feel the same interest in it they cher- 
 ished after their own money had been invested there. Much practical 
 good resulted from this, and valuable lessons may be learned from the 
 fact. 
 
 On Sept. 14, 1868, Rev. J. B. Hawthorne was elected pastor. The 
 succeeding year was one of great blessing to the Churches of Baltimore, 
 all of which were cheered by revivals of more or less power; and the 
 Franklin Square Church shared in this season of refreshing. Eev. A. 
 B. Earle visited the city, and by his labors awakened both pastors and 
 people to more earnest prayer and active effort for the salvation of sin" 
 ners. Bro. Hawthorne baptized 72 persons, and 35 were added by let- 
 ter, increasing the membership to 240. Bro. Hawthorne resigned in 
 June, 1870, to go to Albany, N. Y. 
 
 In January, 1868, a systematic plan was adopted for collecting funds 
 by means of weekly contributions deposited in envelopes. This system 
 was gradually improved by the teachings of experience, and finally in- 
 corporated in the Manual as obligatory. It has proved to be the most 
 successful means ever adopted for providing a regular income. 
 
 In 1868, a house was purchased , to be used as a parsonage. Some, 
 years later, it was deemed advisable to dispose of it, and the money re- 
 ceived was applied to enlarging the church edifice. 
 
 On May 11, 1868, a reunion was held of all the former pastors, ex- 
 cepting only Rev. F. M. Barker, recently deceased. Rev. C F. Adams 
 and Eev. Dr. Wilson, who had frequently served as supply, were also 
 present. A large congregation enjoyed pleasant remarks from each. 
 
 In 1869, a Foreign Mission society was formed. A mission Sunday 
 school was also sustained temporarily. A "plan of organization" was 
 likewise adopted, by which all the members might be placed at work. 
 
 In 1870, the lecture room was enlarged, at a cost of $2,500. 
 
 In January, 1870, the Church mourned the death of Bro. W. W. Law- 
 rason, one of its original membei's, a deacon, treasurer, Sunday school 
 superintendent and leader of the choir. To the gratuitous services of 
 Bro. Lawrason and family, the congregation had been indebted during 
 fifteen years for the delightful music of their public worship. Suitable 
 resolutions were passed, eulogizing his character and self-sacrificing 
 labors. In 1880, Mrs. Lawrason died. A beautiful stained glass win- 
 dow was placed by their children over the front entrance of the church, 
 as a memorial of these beloved members. 
 
 On March 1, 1871, Rev. G. W. Sanderlin, of North Carolina, began 
 his pastorate. He served for five years, during which the Church ad- 
 
140 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 vanced rapidly in numbers and usefulness. Perfect harmony reigned, 
 pastor and people labored together earnestly; all the benevolent efforts 
 of the Church were greatly stimulated by his faithful appeals, and God 
 crowned the union with his blessing. During this period, 115 were 
 baptized, and 146 added by letter, increasing the total to 377. During 
 this time also, the present elegant and beautiful organ was purchased, 
 at a cost of $3,000 ; and the lecture room was entirely renovated. 
 
 In 1876, the health of Bro. Sanderlin became greatly impaired, and 
 by the advice of physicians he resigned the charge, to relinquish pastor- 
 al duties for at least a few years. He is now restored to health, and 
 living on his farm in North Carolina. Just prior to his resignation, 
 Eev. J. L. Hutson, of Virginia, aided him in a protracted meeting- 
 Rev. Dr. Isaac Cole and Eev. James Nelson had previously labored here. 
 
 In 1872; the Young Men's City Mission Society was first organized, 
 which opened a mission on Columbia Avenue, and subsequently, under 
 a reorganization, conducted the West End Mission, on Fulton Avenue. 
 
 After an interval of five months. Rev. C. C. Bitting, D. D., of Rich- 
 mond, Va., entered upon this field as pastor, September 1, 1876. The 
 Church had become somewhat depressed by the illness of its former 
 pastor and the continued financial disturbances in the community ; 
 but Dr. Bitting's vigorous and inspiriting preaching soon restored 
 a healthful condition, and the Church rapidly took a leading position 
 in the denomination. The congregations attracted by the pastor's dis- 
 courses necessitated the enlargement of the church. It was completely 
 renovated and beautified, under the supervision of J. Appleton Wilson, 
 Architect, a member of the Church. Its seating capacity was increased, 
 and new pews, a new pulpit, new stained glass windows, a marble bap- 
 tistery, and other improvements, were introduced. It was handsomely 
 frescoed and carpeted. The total cost was $6,000. 
 
 Besides the above expenditures, the contributions for Missions were 
 also increased. Dr. Bitting remained about seven years, which were 
 marked by general prosperity. In August, 1883, he resigned, to accept 
 the position of Bible Secretary of the American Baptist Publication 
 Society, in Philadelphia. During his term, 172 persons were baptized, 
 and the total number of members reached 496. 
 
 In May, 1881, the Church experienced a severe loss in the death of 
 Bro. W. H. Hamer, who had been for a number of years a deacon, and 
 also superintendent of the Sunday school ; and who, by his faithful- 
 ness in every duty, his wise counsels, his active labors and liberal ben- 
 efactions had greatly added to her prosperity. 
 
 For two brief periods, the latter ending with his death. Rev. Geo. F. 
 Adams, D. D., had his membership with this Church. One of the pi- 
 oneers of our cause fifty years ago, he was regarded in his old age as a 
 Avorthy veteran, and his venerable form was always made Avelcome. 
 
JMaryland Baptist History. 141 
 
 Among the members recently deceased, we nunie Mrs. J. Frank Brown, 
 who with lier luisband came from the Seventh Church in 1876. She 
 had been a Baptist for twenty-six years and was identified with much 
 benevolent work. After a long, painful illness, she died, Oct. ]3, 1884. 
 
 In October, 188.3, fifty-five members withdrew, to organize the Fulton 
 Avenue Baptist Church, which grew out of the West End mission, sus- 
 tained by this Church for several years. 
 
 In 1883-4, a two-story addition was built to the lecture room, giving 
 a library, a large room to the infant class of the Sunday school, and 
 a handsome parlor for reading or social meetings. 
 
 Eev. A. Judson Rowland, D. D., entered service as pastor of this 
 Church, March 1, 1884. His labors have already been blessed in the 
 further upbuilding of the cause. Up to April, 1885, fifty persons have 
 been baptized by him and forty received by letter. The Sunday school, 
 to which the pastor's wife greatly devotes herself, has also enjoyed much 
 prosperity. On a recent Sabbath, 490 teachers and scholars were present. 
 
 Although so many changes have occurred in the pastoral relation, it 
 is to be remarked that not one of them was occasioned by any interrup- 
 tion of harmony between the pastor and the Church. 
 
 In a recent notice of Franklin Square Church, Dr. Bitting justly re- 
 marked, that "Rev. Dr. Franklin Wilson, one of the constituent mem- 
 bers, has also been one of the loved benefactors of the Church. The 
 aggregated time of the intervals during which he has gratuitously 
 supplied the vacant pastorate, has exceeded the longest term but one 
 of all the regular pastors. His prudence and wisdom in council, his 
 unremitting punctuality, notwithstanding bodily infirmity ; his loving 
 heart ; his generous contributions to every good cause ; his active sup- 
 port to every pastor ; his ready and able help in all labor, and his sin- 
 cere and warm sympathies, have justly merited the preeminent place 
 which he holds in the aflections of the Church. To him, under God, 
 more than to any other human instrument, she feels that her growth 
 and present prosperity are due." 
 
 The Sunday school has from its foundation always been a great fac- 
 tor in the moving force of this Church. It has truly been a nursery 
 through which scores of the young have been trained to Christian life. 
 The superintendents have been, successively, Wm. H. Ryan, Franklin 
 Wilson, Thomas Toy, W. W. Lawrason, William H. Hamer, J. Frank 
 Brown, G. S. Howser, and W. Judson Brown. 
 
 The deacons have been as follows : J. \V. Jevens, W. W. Lawrason, 
 C. H. Pepar, C. West, B. Todd, W. H. Hamer, Patterson Bayne, Wm. 
 B. Graves, W. Judson Brown, G. S. Howser, J. Frank Brown, Charles 
 S. Adams, George G. Tyler, P. R. Clark. Present treasurer, Charles S. 
 Adams; clerk, Fort E. Wilson. Membership, 465. 
 
142 Marvland Baptist History, 
 
 LEE STREET B A PT I S T C H U R C H , 
 BALTIMORE.. 
 
 For many years, the First Baptist Church stood as the sole beacon 
 of Baptist faith in the southwestern part of our city. Her light was 
 radiant, but it could not extend to every dark spot. Hence there was 
 a necessity for one or more Baptist Churches amid the large population 
 covering a space half a mile wide and a mile long, south of that church. 
 The membership of that body felt their I'esponsibility in this matter, 
 and after an exploration of the field resolved to attempt a missionary 
 eflFort. Brethren Joseph B. Thomas, sen., and William H. Hamer, were 
 among the active promoters of the enterprise, and Mrs. James Wilson, 
 Mrs. Nelson Clark, Miss Eliza M. Wilson, and Mr. Melville Wilson, all 
 noted for their consecrated benevolence, proffered the necessary pecuni- 
 ary aid. The Church, at a regular meeting, February 5, 1854, passed 
 the following resolution, endorsing the movement : "Resolved, That a 
 committee of four persons be appointed to procure subscriptions under 
 the authority of this Church, and to lease a lot in the neighborhood of 
 Federal .Hill, on which to erect a building for the accommodation of 
 a Sunday school, and when a sufficient amount of subscriptions shall 
 have been procured, to proceed to the completion of said object." Jos. 
 B. Thomas, W. H. Hamer, M. Wilson and S. Scribner were appointed. 
 A resolution was also passed looking to the employment of Eev. John 
 H. Phillips as a missionary in this field. Rev. Dr. Adams states that 
 "the action of the First Church in adopting these resolutions may be 
 properly regarded as the first definite movement made toward the or- 
 ganization of the Lee Street Baptist Church."* 
 
 *There had been, however, a transient effort made previous to this, by Dr. W. 
 Burlingame, a member of the Seventh Church, to establish a mission on the south- 
 west corner of Hanover and Montgomery streets. Dr. Burlingame was practising 
 dentistry, having retired from the pastorate, but preached occasionally, and organ- 
 ized a Sunday school at this location. His helpers were brethren J. C. M'Connell, 
 Wm. Sweet and Wm. Addison, Delahay, Sliarp. and several ladies. The first 
 place, a public hair, being too expensive, they rented the second floor of a large 
 carpenter shop, on the site where St. Stephen's Episcopal church now stands, and 
 about a hundred children were gathered for Sunday instruction. This mission 
 lasted five or six months, but not being supported by any Church, gave but little 
 indication of permanence. When the movement was made, above mentioned, the 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 143-. 
 
 We extract the following memoranda of this undertaking from a 
 historical discourse by Eev. Dr. John Pollard, delivered in 1876. 
 
 The committee went immediately to work. They rented premises on 
 Hill street, one door from Hanover, then occupied as a stable, holding 
 twenty-two horses and cows. The live stock were transferred elsewhere, 
 and the building thoroughly cleansed, renovated, refronted, and fitted 
 up with seats, gas, &c. Bro. Jos. B. Thomas personally attended to all 
 the work of remodel-ling. On March 26, 1854, the place was opened for 
 public worship, and a Sunday school was organized, with twelve schol- 
 ars, six teachers, and Bro. Hamer superintendent. The prospect at 
 once became hopeful; the school grew rapidly, and within a year num- 
 bered one hundred and fifty-four pupils, with a good library and other 
 equipments. This success was not acquired without anxious and ar- 
 duous toil. As illustrating what earnestness and determination were 
 exhibited, the fact is worthy of record that on afternoons when the 
 children were dismissed from the public schools, the wife of the superin- 
 tendent might have been seen at the door, as the crowds of little ones 
 rushed out from their studies, inviting them with cheerful, pleasant 
 words, to come to the Hill street school, on the next Sunday morning. 
 It was by work like this, and the visiting of f^imilies by officers and 
 teachers, that prosperity was secured. 
 
 But a Baptist Church was needed, as well as a school, and measures 
 had been adopted to that end. In March, 1854, the First Church voted 
 that Eev. John H. Phillips should be employed to preach in the Hill 
 street chapel; and a committee was appointed to make collections to 
 sustain the mission. Eegular preaching was had, on every Sabbath, in 
 addition to the services of the school, and sometimes the room Avas 
 crowded with attentive hearers. In about a year, on April 30, 1855, 
 nine brethren and nineteen sisters, mostly from the First Church, 
 brought their letters, and organized a Church. 
 
 The first officers were as follows : J. D. Marsters and Joseph Ward,, 
 deacons; Jos. C. Eiley, clerk; Fred'k W. King, treasurer. 
 
 Bro. Phillips was elected pastor. The Church was admitted into 
 the Association in November, 1855, and reported fifty-six members. 
 
 About this time, the Baptist Church Extension Society purchased 
 the house of worship then occupied by St. Stephen's P. E. Church, on 
 Lee street, near Hanover, and offered it to the new Church. As the 
 building was greatly superior to their own, the Church gratefully ac- 
 cepted it, and removed to Lee street, changing their title accordingly 
 
 school was disbanded, and the children recommended to attend the new one. 
 Several of the teachers now took part in the mission school corner of Fremont at. 
 and Elbow Lane ; two of them, brethren Addison and Sweet, subsequently joined 
 Lee street Church. Dr. Burlingame deceased about the year 1870. 
 
144 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The house to which the brethren and sisters thus came, though built 
 by Episcopalians for themselves, seems to have been predestinated to 
 be a Baptist church, for by some almost unaccountable circumstance, 
 the builders had constructed — what is to them a useless appurtenance 
 — a large and well arranged baptistery, admirably suited to the immer- 
 sion of believers. 
 
 The change of location greatly advanced the growth of the Church^ 
 which in 1856 reported seventy-five members. The school increased to 
 200 scholars. In September, 1858, Bro. Phillips resigned, after a fruit- 
 ful service of over three years with this charge. 
 
 For eight months the Church was now without a pastor. During 
 this time, it moved under judicious care, and ordained one of its mem- 
 bers. Rev. J. B. T. Patterson, to the ministry. Eev. F. Wilson and 
 •other ministers supplied the pulpit. 
 
 In May, 1859, Rev. R. J. Wilson, of Elmira, N. Y., was elected pas- 
 tor, but in less than a year, in March, 1860, feeble health compelled 
 him to resign, to go to a more southern clime. He left a membership 
 of 170. Shortly afterward, at a business meeting, the following pream- 
 ble and resolution was adopted : 
 
 "Whereas, there is a want of agreement among professing Christians 
 as to the propriety of participating in certain amusements; and whereas, 
 it is deemed important that some rule should be made, governing this 
 Church, so as to avoid the very appearance of evil in this matter. 
 
 Therefore, Resolved, that attending theatrical performances, dancing 
 partips, circuses, and negro operas, be considered an ofience against the 
 Church, and consequently a matter for discipline." 
 
 Rev. Isaac Cole, M. D., was called, and entered the pastorate in May, 
 1860. His service marks an era in the progress of the Church, although 
 it lasted throughout the gloomy period of the Civil War. Dr. Cole, in 
 those days, was an ardent and eloquent speaker, and carried on revival 
 meetings with great success. The Church was greatly blessed by his 
 faithful ministry. Having been formerly a Methodist, it was often re- 
 marked that he believed in Methodist fire and Baptist water, as means 
 to create the powerful motor steam. Dr. Cole was largely instru- 
 mental in rebuilding the house of worship, which had become unequal 
 for the purposes of the Church. In May, 1852, it was torn down, and 
 the people met for worship in the No. 2, Engine House, on Barre street, 
 for about four months. 
 
 The corner stone of the present building was laid, May 26, 1863. 
 Addresses were delivered by Rev. Wm. B. Edwards, D. D., of the M. E. 
 Church, and Rev. Thos. H. Pritchard, then pastor of Franklin Square 
 Church. Rev. Dr. Wilson and Bro. Hiram Woods laid the corner-stone. 
 In October the lecture room was completed and occupied by the con- 
 
LEE STREET BAPTIST CHURCH 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
REV. H. M. WHARTON. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 147 
 
 gregatioii ; and on June 26, 1864, the whole house was finished, and 
 dedicated. Dr. Richard Fuller, Dr. J. W. M. Williams and Dr. F. 
 Wilson preached daring the day. The entire actual cost of the edifice 
 was $15,206.46. The Church members contributed |3,000. Hiram 
 Woods and Dr. F. Wilson gave |2,000, each ; Samuel Bevan |1,000 ; 
 Henry Taylor |700, and others less amounts, tlius representing a gen- 
 erosity which the Church gratefully remembers. The Baptist family 
 in Baltimore have always shown a fraternal *nterest in the Lee street 
 Church, and it now stands in a position where, in its turn, it can show 
 the same spirit in extending the Redeemer's cause. 
 
 Dr. Cole having finished his labors toward building and paying for 
 this new house, thought proper to resign his charge in June, 1865. He 
 will ever be held in thankful remembrance for his self-sacrificing devo- 
 tion and indefatigable labors. He is spending his last years at his home 
 near Westminster. 
 
 On September 25, 1865, Rev. James Dubois, of New York, became 
 pastor, but resigned at the end of a year. For eight months the field 
 was without pastoral oversight, but the members seemed disposed to 
 oversee themselves. At a business meeting, Feb. 22, 1867, a committee 
 was appointed to examine the Church roll and report the condition of 
 the membership. The ensuing month, they reported the total number 
 at 207; which they divided into three classes: "98 good, 22 doubtful 
 and 87 bad." That was surely a large mixture of the evil with the 
 pure, particularly for a Baptist Church, where the principle of a con- 
 verted Church membership is the accepted theory; but it was a hopeful 
 sign that the sound flesh in the body was trying to throw off that which 
 was gangrened. The last named cases were referred to the deacons for 
 a careful examination, who, at the next business meeting, preferred nu- 
 merous charges against delinquent and unworthy members. Without 
 the slightest hesitation or misgiving, eighty-one were at once excluded 
 from the fellowship of the Church.* 
 
 Eev, S. C, Boston, a native of this State, but at the time laboring in 
 Virginia, was elected pastor, and entered service in May, 1868. Bro. 
 Boston labored here in his usual pure, efficient and earnest manner, for 
 
 * After narrating the above fact, Dr. Pollard says, "I never knew of such a case 
 before. A Church excommunicating eightyone persons at one time — more than 
 one-third of their entire membership — and that too without a pastor to lead them ! 
 It showed resolution, it showed courage, it showed that the eyes of the brethren 
 were opening to the fact that there is no place in the Church of Christ for the 
 vicious, or the worldly, or the slothful. What was done with the"doubtful," the 
 record does not show. Unquestionably, the Church should have dealt with them 
 as she did with the "bad ;" for in this life no man, and especially no professing 
 Christian has aright to occupy a doubtful position between Christ and the world. 
 Jesus himself has said, 'I would thou wert cold or hot. So then, because thou art 
 lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.' " 
 
148 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 about two years. During his time, some of the most faithful members 
 came into the Church, and there was organized the "Young Disciples' 
 Association," a society which has greatly promoted the piety of the 
 younger people, and trained them for usefulness. To Brol Frank A. 
 Bierbower, now deceased, is due the honor of having proposed this or- 
 ganization, which still flourishes. Bro. Boston's residence in Baltimore 
 was saddened by the long illness and death of his wife. 
 
 In December, 1869, after an absence of eleven years, Eev. J. H. Phil- 
 lips was engaged as a supply for six months, during which a revival 
 occurred, and many converts were brought into the fold. 
 
 On October 15, 1870, Eev. John Pollard of Virginia, accepted charge 
 of the Lee street Church. There had been some divisions among the 
 members, and the congregations had greatly diminished. Within iwo 
 months, perfect harmony was recovered, and the Church began a new 
 era of prosperity. Up to that period, the Executive Board had aided 
 in the support of the pastors. This was now dispensed with ; and in 
 return, a contribution has been made every year since to the Board. 
 Bro. Pollard was happily successful in bringing his people to recognize 
 their privileges and duties as disciples of Christ. Contributions were 
 greatly increased; the building was improved ; a new organ was pur- 
 chased ; and the Church assumed a higher standing generally. The 
 pastor held several protracted meetings, in which he was assisted by 
 Kev. James Nelson and Eev. H. G. DeWitt, which resulted in strength- 
 ening her. Two young men, trained in her Sunday school, were con- 
 verted and sent forth to preach. They are now in the ministry. Eev. 
 Henry C. Applegarth, in New Brunswick, N. J., and Eev. F. LaBarrer, 
 pastor of Woodberry Church, Balto. Co. The membership increased 
 each year until it reached 407, in 1880. Dr. Pollard was three times 
 elected moderator of the Maryland Union Association. He resigned 
 the Church in 1880, after a term of over nine years, to accept the large 
 and responsible charge of Leigh street Church, in Eichmond, Va. 
 
 In 1880, about $1,200 were expended in improvements of the church. 
 
 Eev. H. M. Wharton, of Luray, Va., accepted the call of this Church, 
 in January, 1881, and entered the pastorate with characteristic ardor. 
 A revival spirit constantly attended his preaching, and hundreds of 
 souls were converted. The Church was largely increased, and its in- 
 fluence greatly extended over the population of that part of the city, 
 leading ultimately to the organization of a new Church further south. 
 About $1,000 was contributed, in 1882, towards a Baptist chapel in 
 Italy. Bro. Wharton resigned in December, 1883, to engage in editor- 
 ial and evangelistic Avork, leaving the Church with 770 members. 
 
 In March, 1884, Eev. W. F. Kone, of Alabama, accepted charge of 
 this responsible field, and is pastor at present. One of his first acts 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 149 
 
 has been to aid in ihe organization of the new body above referred to. 
 h\ Nov., 1884, thirty-three of his members constituted the Riverside 
 Church. Bro. Kone is a faithful preacher, and up to this time has re- 
 ceived seventy-five accessions to the Church. 
 
 Lee Street Church has now two young men studying at Crozer Sem- 
 inary : brethren Frank G. McGee and John W. Lyell. 
 
 The following brethren have served as deacons since the two already 
 named at the organization in 1855 : Richard King, W. H. Hamer, Geo. 
 A. Cox, John E. Nimmo, Charles D. Milbourne, Francis LaBarrer, W. 
 T. Adams, Jonathan Shakspeare, Geo. T. Jones, Jos. C. Riley, John J. 
 G. Riley, Robert Hults, John W. Billups, Jas. Pollard, J. M. Gressitt. 
 Present treasurer. Dr. C. E. Bierbower; clerk, Jas. E. Shafi'er. 
 
 Since the origin of the Sunday school, after Bro. Hamer, the follow- 
 ing brethren have served as superintendent: .J. D. Marsters, Richard 
 King, Jos. C. Riley, F. A. Bierbower, George T. Jones, James Pollard, 
 John M. Gressitt. The school numbers 300 scholars. 
 
 We conclude, in the language of Bro. John J. G. Riley, "While this 
 Church has passed through some very dark days, yet the Lord has 
 never forgotten her. Those who have knowledge of her history, can 
 readily see that she was not a vine of man's planting, but of the Lord's. 
 She has grown steadily and solidly. Blessed be God for the noble pi- 
 oneers who left their places of ease and comfort to go out on the high- 
 ways and by-ways to teach his truth ! It can be safely said of those at 
 least who have passed from the earthly vineyard to the heavenly rest, 
 that 'they have their reward' — a comfort to those who are still striving 
 against many adverse circumstances to maintain the cause so faithfully 
 established. 'Their labor is not in vain in the Lord.' " 
 
150 Maryland Baptist History 
 
 .856.* 
 
 REHOBOTH BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located in the lower part of Somerset county, some 
 eight miles from the mouth of Pocomoke Kiver, and near the little vil- 
 lage whose name it bears. There had been occasional Baptist preach- 
 ing at this place, years before the meeting house was built. Rev. Levin 
 Henderson, of the early Pitts Creek Church, used to preach under an 
 arbor on the same spot now occupied by the meeting house. About 
 1828, or a little later, a series of meetings was held by Eev. Wm. Laws 
 and Eev. Levin Dix, of the Accomack Association, Va., in a school 
 house, some five miles below, which resulted in the baptism of several 
 persons. These united with the Pitts Creek Church, just opposite, 
 on the other side of Pocomoke river. Among them was a Mrs. Nancy 
 Roach, possessed of means, whose heart, some ten years later, was in- 
 clined to build a Baptist meeting house and give it to the Lord. She 
 secured a lot, and a building was nearly completed, when she was quite 
 unexpectedly removed by death. Her heirs however generously carried 
 out her wishes, and deeded the property to the Rehoboth Baptist 
 Church, after its organization. The house was of the best material, 
 well built, and cost about $2,000. Rev. Joseph Walker, then of Acco- 
 mack Association, visited the community, preached the dedicatory ser- 
 mon, and excited considerable interest by a number of services held in 
 the church and neighborhood. 
 
 Not long after this. Rev. Wm. Laws, Rev. W. A. Dix, Rev. P. Warren, 
 sen., and Rev. George Bradford, of the same Association, paid a united 
 visit to Rehoboth, and preached several days. The congregations were 
 immense. On this occasion, Bro. S. C. Boston was baptized by Rev. W. 
 Laws, the first baptism perhaps ever witnessed in that immediate vicin- 
 ity. A few months later, his father, Daniel Boston, was baptized by 
 Rev. Joseph Walker, during another visit. 
 
 On November 2, 1839, the following brethren and sisters were regu- 
 larly organized into what is known as the Rehoboth Baptist Church: 
 Thos. Marshall, Sally Marshall, Natia Boston, Peggy Marshall, Julia 
 A. Gibbons, Susan Payden, Solomon C. Boston, Daniel Boston, David 
 Roach, (col.) Rev. W. Laws presided as moderator, and Rev. Richard 
 Clark acted as clerk of the meeting. 
 
 From the date of constitution to 1843, the Church had no regular 
 pastor. They were supplied by the above named preachers frequently, 
 
 *Organized in 1839; entered Maryland Union Association 1856. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 151 
 
 and enjoyed several precious seasons of special blessing. At one time, 
 forty-three converts were added to them by baptism. 
 
 In January, 1843, Eev. George Bradford became their first pastor. 
 Their services under him became fixed and regular, and he built up a 
 good congregation. He remained about two years and baptized seven 
 persons. 
 
 In November, 1845, Bro. S. C. Boston was called to the pastorate, 
 having just completed his course of study at Columbian College. On 
 December 6, he was ordained, and entered upon his work. Including 
 ■a subsequent term from 1853 to 1857, he was there six years. At the 
 beginning of his ministry he was appointed by the Board of the Mary- 
 land Union Association to labor as their missionary in connection with 
 his work as pastor of this Church. During his time, then and later, a 
 house of worship was built at White Haven, in the upper par{ of Som- 
 erset (now Wicomico) county, and a Church organized there. As 0- 
 ticed in the sketch of the Pitts Creek Church, that interest was also 
 revived, and a Church formed and house of worship built in Pocomoke 
 City. During the last year of his pastorate, the Kehoboth church, 
 built by Mrs. Eoach, was burned to the ground, through the careless- 
 ness of laborers, while burning brush in an adjoining field. By the 
 liberal contributions of the congregation and help from sympathizing 
 friends in other places, enough money was secured in a year or so, to 
 erect the present beautiful building. Bro. Boston baptized twenty-five 
 persons. 
 
 Eev. J. H. Phillips was pastor for two years and baptized fourteen 
 converts. Eev. A. G. Harley succeeded him for eighteen months, and 
 baptized seven. Eev. 0. F. Flippo was pastor from January, 1861, to 
 December, 1867, and baptized thirty. Eev. J. G. Councill served from 
 April, 1869, to October, 1870, and baptized eight. Eev. L. D. Pauling 
 followed, for four years, baptizing forty-nine. Eev. H. J, Handy occu- 
 pied the field for four years from January, 1877, and baptized fifteen. 
 Eev. J. A. Woolf served from October, 1881, to July, 1883, and baptized 
 twenty-one. After the lapse of forty-six years from his baptism there? 
 Bro. Boston is again the pastor of Eehoboth Church, having entered 
 the charge in December, 1883. 
 
 Bro. Daniel Boston was the first deacon and also the first clerk of 
 this Church, both of which oflfices he continued to fill from its organ- 
 ization in 1839 to 1861, when, from infirmities and disease, he was no 
 longer able to attend the sanctuary. His associates in the deaconship 
 at different times, were brethren John S. Scarbrough, George F. Ward» 
 and Wm. T. Adams. The present deacons are brethren Joshua J* 
 Mathews and A. A. Long. His successors in the clerkship have been 
 brethren Adams, Mathews, L. E. Milbourne, C. A. M'Cready, and T. 
 
152 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 H. Beal. The treasurers have been brethren Ward, G. A. Cox, Adams^ 
 T. C. Lankford, John Riggin and J. J. Mathews. Dr. S. W. Handy* 
 brother to a former pastor, was a very active member until his death, 
 two years ago. 
 
 Being aided and supplied in their early years by ministers from the 
 Accomack Association, and its point of location being nearest to them, 
 it was natural for the Church to seek membership in that body, which 
 they attained in 1840. But after fifteen years, they withdrew by letter 
 and joined the Maryland Union. They decided to take this action be- 
 cause the Church was in our own State and their pastor was aided by 
 our Board. 
 
 This little Church has sent out four ministers — Rev. S. C. Boston, 
 Eev. F. R. Boston, his son, now settled at Warrenton, Va., Rev. H. J. 
 Handy, for a long time pastor at Parmville, Va., and elsewhere, and 
 now principal of the Academy in Pocomoke City; and Rev. L. R. Mil- 
 bourne, now pastor in Luray, Va. 
 
 From the beginning, this Church has been of the liberal sort, in pro- 
 portion to their means, and never more so than now. They contribute 
 regularly to our missionary Boards. During the past, 224 persons have 
 been added by baptism and a few by letter, but i-emovals, deaths and 
 exclusions have left but 102 members at present. The only original 
 member living is the pastor. Congregations are large, a prayer meeting 
 is held weekly, and a good Sunday school is maintained. An organ 
 has recently been purchased to aid the singing during divine worship. 
 
Ma T) da 11 d Baptist History. 153 
 
 1859. 
 SALISBURY BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 Salisbury is an active town of about 4,000 inhabitants, in Wicomico 
 county. In June, 1859, Bro. 0. F. Flippo, who was then studying for 
 the ministry, was appointed by the Executive Board to labor as a mis- 
 sionary in this county, and especially at Salisbury. At that time, the 
 Presbyterians of the place, desiring to erect a new house of worship, 
 offered their old one at an extremely low price. Bro. Flippo immedi- 
 ately arranged for its purchase, and it was dedicated as a Baptist church, 
 on July 24. Two days later, Bro. Flippo was ordained to the ministry. 
 He set to work with enthusiasm, earnestly preaching a Baptist gospel, 
 and was soon rejoiced to immerse four converts. On September 30, 
 following, he organized a Church of twelve members, Rev. J. W. M. 
 Williams assisting, and baptizing two of the constituents. In October, 
 four more were added by baptism. The same mouth they licensed Bro. 
 S. J. Kerr to preach. In November, the Church was admitted to the 
 Maryland Union Association. 
 
 Bro. Flippo remained in charge of this field for about fifteen months, 
 and left it in a healthful condition, with twenty-four members, to take 
 charge of the Church in Pocomoke City. Bro. Flippo subsequently 
 served other Churches in Maryland and Delaware, and is now pastor 
 of the First Baptist Church in Alexandria, Va. 
 
 A destructive fire consumed sixty-three honses in Salisbury, during 
 1860, including the Episcopal church. The congregation worshiping 
 there were kindly invited to use the Baptist church, until they were 
 able to build another. 
 
 Eev. Wm. T. Wilkerson was appointed missionary at Salisbury, in 
 December, 1861, and preached there about a year. During 1862, it is 
 recorded that "the Sunday school was suspended, on account of the 
 absence of the superintendent." In that year, Kev. S. C. Boston visited 
 Salisbury regularly foi' six months, and found the membership scat- 
 tered, and the community prejudiced. For a number of months, there 
 was no regular service in the church. In 1864, Eev. I. F. Stidham 
 preached a few times. Rev. P. T. Warren was appointed missionary 
 in that year and served the Church as pastor until October, 1866 ; but 
 the field seemed hard. Rev. A. G. Harley preached there for the two 
 succeeding years, and reported a slight increase of membership. 
 
 For three years, the Salisbury Church was apparently lifeless, but in 
 1871, Rev. K". C. Naylor took cliarge for a few months, and the mem- 
 bers raised ^250 to make repairs in their building. 
 
154 Maryland Baptist History, 
 
 The Church again languished, but in 1874-5, Rev. E. Schaffer acted 
 as pastor and baptized eighteen persons. The Church letter to the As- 
 sociation says, "We do need a pastor so much — one who can draio and 
 /fcee/j a congregation ;" [a general want] '*but we are poor, and not able 
 to get such a pastor." 
 
 Eev. C. W. Teasdale spent a few months there in 1877. Rev. George 
 Bradford preached there occasionally in 1878, and reported forty mem- 
 bers. In 1879, Rev. J. W. Taylor was appointed pastor; the Church 
 revived, improved their house, purchased an organ, enlarged their Sun- 
 day school work, and reported fifty members. Bro. Taylor resigned in 
 May, 1880, to go to another State. 
 
 Bro. Franklin Pierce, a student of Crozer Seminary, served as a mis- 
 sionary several months of that year. In 1881, Rev. G. Vincent Board 
 labored at Salisbury for a time, but illness prevented him from continu- 
 ing. No report was made to the Association for two years. In Janu- 
 ary, 1884, Rev. James M. Hope was called as pastor of this Church, in 
 connection with Delmar. About twenty-five members have been re- 
 gathered, and regular worship maintained, with a hope of improvement. 
 
 i860. 
 
 GERMANTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The missionary zeal of the Church at Rockville, some years ago, led 
 to the establishment of several stations, east and west of that place. 
 At Darnestown and Poolesville, special efforts were made, and regular 
 services established, preaching being supplied by the pastor at Rock- 
 ville, and others. In 1860, it was thought advisable that both these 
 missions should assume the responsibility of distinct Church organiza- 
 tion. 
 
 Near Darnestown, was a meeting house free to all denominations, in 
 which the Baptists held their services. Here, in the fall of 1860, the 
 "Darnestown" Church was organized, with Rev, S. R. White, of Rock- 
 ville, as pastor. But as the house was much dilapidated, and as most 
 of the members lived nearer to the neighboring village of Germantown, 
 they decided to build a new house in the latter place. A lot was pur- 
 chased and a log structure erected, twenty-five by thirty feet in size,^ 
 which was plastered inside and weather-boarded outside, and painted. 
 It cost about $1,500, which was raised with very little help from abroad, 
 and was dedicated, in September, 1864. The Church retained its title 
 until 1872, when it appeared more properly on the Association Minutes 
 as "Germantown." 
 
Maryland Baptist History, 1 5 5 
 
 Bro. White acted as pastor for five years, with happy results, resign- 
 ing in 1865. Eev. H. J. Chandler succeeded him for about the same 
 period, baptizing about twenty persons. 
 
 The name of Mrs. E. A. Hawkins should be honored for her aid and 
 services to the support of the cause here for many years, when it would 
 otherwise have failed. She served as superintendent of the Sunday 
 School, and was unweariedly at work, until her death in 1871. 
 
 Tn 1874, Eev. T. E. Woodson preached twice a month, and held a 
 protracted meeting, which resulted in twelve conversions. 
 
 Rev. W. 0. Petty, who had been recently ordained by the Rockville 
 Church, took charge here in September, 1875, and preached fortnightly 
 for several years, during his education at Columbian College. The 
 Church prospered fairly, paid a debt, and reported several conversions. 
 Bro. Petty went to Frostburg in 1879. Rev. H. E. Hatcher supplied 
 the G-ermantown Church with monthly preaching for about two years. 
 Since January, 1884, Rev. W. S. 0. Thomas has been preaching there 
 every two weeks, as pastor, in connection with the Rockville Church. 
 The membership numbers 61. Deacons, Henry Williams, N. Page and 
 Thos. Broome. H. Williams, clerk. 
 
 i860. 
 
 POOLESVILLE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 PooLESViLLE also was a mission station of Rockville. It is one of 
 the oldest towns of Montgomery county, and has several church edifices, 
 of different denominations. In May, 1860, Rev. S. R. White held a 
 meeting of several days continuance, in the town hall, which resulted 
 in a regular weekly service, the conversion of souls, and finally in the 
 organization of a Church, of nine members, during November of the 
 same year. It was constituted in the presence of Revs. H. G. DeWitt, 
 M. H. Austin and S. R. White, the last named being chosen pastor, 
 and Rev. J. W. T. Boothe, who was then teaching school in the town? 
 assistant pastor. The little Church met successively in the Presbyter- 
 ian house, a room in the hotel, and in a school house. During the fol- 
 lowing winter they bought a lot and some bricks. In 1864, the Church 
 was incorporated, and active efforts made to raise means to build a 
 house of worship. Bro. Boothe having left. Rev. S. C. Boston acted as 
 assistant pastor for a few months. At length, a neat and comfortable 
 brick building was erected, forty by twenty-five feet in depth and width,- 
 costing |2,500. It was dedicated. May 25, 1865, by Rev. Drs. George 
 W. Samson and George F. Adams. Shortly after, Bro. White resigned 
 charge of this body. During these five years, about thirty persons had 
 been baptized and added to its roll. 
 
156 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 A few months later, Rev. H. J. Chandler was chosen pastor, and 
 took up his residence with his family in the village. He remained 
 there about four years, during which time he baptized ten persons. 
 
 After Bro. Chandler's departure, which was in 1870, to Cumberland, 
 the Poolesville Church was without a regular pastor for five years; but 
 occasional preaching was held and a Sunday school maintained, with 
 about fifty teachers and scholars. 
 
 In 1879, Eev. C. L. Amy was appointed to this Church, for a partial 
 service, and remained for about two years, during which he reported a 
 revival and thirty-five conversions. The past year. Rev. M. H. Austin 
 lias assumed pastoral charge, and the condition of the Church is fair. 
 
 They maintain a good Sunday school of eighty scholars. 
 
 H. U. Miles, deacon and clerk. 
 
 1865. 
 
 FIRST GERMAN BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 In 1855, there were about 50,000 Germans in Baltimore, which num- 
 ber is since largely increased. Occupying the position they do among 
 our most useful citizens, it became an earnest question how to reach 
 this rapidly augmenting population with evangelical truth. The pe- 
 culiar difficulty to surmount in this work is, that while many of the 
 German people are avowed sceptics and rationalists, a still larger pro- 
 portion are nominal Christians trained in a State religion, and knowing 
 nothing of experimental personal faith in Christ. Both of these 
 classes repel the true Christian evangelist, the latter indignantly, be- 
 cause they already claim a Christian faith — but, alas, denying the 
 power thereof. 
 
 In the Minutes of our Association for 1855, we find in the report of 
 the Executive Board, a notice of the first movement made by the Bap- 
 tists to reach this people. There were about five Germans in the city 
 who were members of English-speaking Baptist Churches. One of these 
 was Bro. John L. Rappold, a member of the Seventh Church, who in- 
 vited Rev. K. A. Fleishmann, editor of the '^ Sendhotej" Philadelphia, 
 to visit Baltimore and examine its aspects as a mission field. He came 
 here, preached, baptized two persons, started a prayer meeting, and on 
 the whole was favorably impressed. His report being brought before 
 the Board, they requested Bro. C. Bobenbender, a student of Rochester 
 University, to spend his vacation here as colporter and preacher among 
 
Maryland Baptist Histoiy. 157 
 
 the Germans. From this time, a small company began to meet regular- 
 ly in prayer meeting, led by Bro. Gr. D. Menger. A small appropria- 
 tion was made to pay the rent of their place of meeting. 
 
 The Second Church at this time offered their old building on Fleet 
 street at a low price for a G-erman mission, but it was not accepted. 
 
 In .January, 1859, when the German Baptists had increased to twelve, 
 they met in a chapel on Hill street, and organized a Church. Eev. J, 
 E. Meuri, formerly a Catholic priest, and a recent convert, was invited 
 to become their pastor. In a short time, they reported twenty-two 
 members to the German Conference. In 1860, there were twenty-seven 
 additions, and the following year their membership reached sixty-two. 
 In 1860, the Church joined onr Association. Bro. Meuri left in 1862, 
 to return to Germany. The Church had no pastor now for three years 
 and consequently diminished, fell into dissensions and finally dissolved^ 
 
 In 1865, the Board invited Rev. Henry Schneider, of Rochester, N. 
 Y., to locate here as a missionary. A new Church was organized with 
 twenty-six members, which met first in Rechabite Hall, Fayette street, 
 and afterwards in Wildey Hall, East Pratt street, both unsuitable and 
 inconvenient places. Bro. Schneider baptized three persons the first 
 year, and preached indefatigably, not only in his hall, but to large con- 
 gregations in the Broadway market house. He also undertook the 
 building of a church. A lot was secured on the corner of Caroline and 
 Hampstead streets, and a neat chapel erected, at a cost of $4,000, of 
 which $1,500 was raised by subscription, leaving a debt of $2,500. The 
 house Avas dedicated April 28, 1867. In 1868, the Church paid on the 
 debt and for current expenses, nearly fifteen hundred dollars. 
 
 Having accomplished a good work here, which remains to his honor 
 as a faithful apostle, Bro. Schneider resigned, in July, 1869, to assume 
 a charge in New York. He labored afterwards in Philadelphia, and is 
 now deceased. The Church had at the time of his resignation about 
 thirty members, and although bearing a heavy debt, were confident 
 with the hope of establishing themselves permanently. 
 
 In 1869, the Church called Rev. Henry F. Miller, then a missionary 
 among the Germans of Parkersburg, West Virginia, and at Marietta, 
 Ohio, who began his labors here in November. Bro. Miller entered in- 
 to the work with marked energy, preaching, visiting and completing 
 means for the liquidation of the debt of the Church. The first year, 
 forty-eight members were added. A plan had been arranged for sys- 
 tematic contributions of the members through a building association, 
 by which the entire debt was paid in several years. The building was 
 also repaired. Bro. Miller lost the use of his voice in 1874, and was 
 compelled to cease public speaking. After medical treatment, finding 
 
158 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 no prospect of a cure while in the pulpit, he resigned his charge, June 
 1, of that year. This was a severe loss to the missionary force of the 
 denomination, but Bro. Miller engaged in business in the eastern part 
 of the city, and retained his membership in the Church, and has been 
 its faithful supporter through all its trials to the present time. At 
 the date of his resignation, the Church numbered 120 members. 
 
 Rev. J. Fellman, of Wilmington, Del., was then invited and became 
 pastor for two years, laboring faithfully, but finding the field difficult, 
 as had the other pastors, on account of German prejudices against the 
 Baptists. He resigned to goto Berlin, Canada. For eight months of 
 1877, the Church had no pastor, during which time the pulpit Avas 
 filled by Bro. Miller, when the condition of his voice permitted. Eev. 
 Eobert Langer, pastor of a Church in Holland, N. Y., then accepted a 
 call to this Church. In 1878 he was excluded; and again, for eleven 
 months the flock was without a regular pastor; though Bro. Miller 
 gave gratuitously, as before, hip best services. 
 
 Rev. E. J. Deckman then accepted charge and served for two years, 
 to the edification of the members, though but few converts were made. 
 He resigned, April, 1881, to return to a former pastorate in Pittsburgh. 
 
 Rev. J. C. Kraft, of Newark, N. J., became pastor in May, 1881, 
 and is still in charge. Feeling his responsibility, he labors faithfully, 
 and witli his people, hopes for the time when his countrymen shall 
 more generally yield to the simple truths of faith and regeneration. 
 
 The Church now numbers 76 members, less than in some former 
 years, owing chiefly to emigration westward, and removals in the city ; 
 but it is in a healthful condition, and is self-supporting. The officers 
 are as follows : Deacons, H. P. Miller, also treasurer, and John H. Ross. 
 Clerk, John Linsfsch. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 159 
 
 1868. 
 MOUNT HOPE BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located near the village of Doncaster, in Charles 
 county. It ^vas organized during 1868, by Kev. C. Leonard, then pas- 
 tor of the Second Colored Baptist Church of Washington, D. C. The 
 constituent members numbered about twenty-five. Mr. Leonard visited 
 the new body, until 1869, when Eev. A. A. Watts was called as pastor. 
 He served for several years, and was followed by Rev. H. V. Plununer, 
 of Bladensburg, as a supply, until 1881. Under Mr. Plnmmer's ad- 
 ministration, the Churcli advanced greatly, and began to build the new 
 meeting house, which has been since completed and paid for, under the 
 late pastor. 
 
 Eev. S. J. R. ISTelson, who was induced to take this field in 1881, by 
 advice of the "Committee on the Colored People,"was very successful. 
 Many conversions were reported through his labors, and he was instru- 
 mental in organizing other missions, which are now prosperous. He 
 resigned in April, 1885. The Mount Hope Church numbers about 123 
 menfbers. 
 
 1869. 
 BLADENSBURG BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The historic village of Bladensburg is located a few miles north 
 of Washington City, near the line dividing the District of Columbia 
 from Prince George's county, Maryland. It is almost unknown to the 
 traveler, although multitudes pass it daily on the railway, excepting 
 by its notoriety as a former place of meeting for duelists, and as the 
 scene of an American defeat in the war of 1814. AVe have no record 
 of any Baptist interest in this place until 1868, when several colored 
 people, who had come there from other parts, started a prayer meeting, 
 and after carrying it on for a few months, invited Rev. Chauncey Leon- 
 ard, pastor of the Second Colored Baptist Church of Washington, to 
 take charge of them. A Church was constituted January 31, 1869, of 
 seven members, and Mr. Leonard preached and cared for them nearly 
 two years. Rev. Augustus A. Watts succeeded as pastor in 1871, the 
 Church meeting for worship in a private dwelling, and increasing in 
 numbers and interest all the time, until a pressing necessity arose for 
 a regular house of worship. 
 
1 60 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 It happened that a Presbyterian church was for sale in Bladensburg, 
 which was olTered to the Baptists at the very low price of $750, though 
 valued at |3,000, including ground. The house is brick, 30 by 40 feet. 
 The "Building Loan Fund," authorized by our Association, was in- 
 tended for occasions like this, and after a visit to the field by Dr. Wil- 
 son, the sum of §500 was advanced on the property, for the use of the 
 colored Church, who took possession in June, 1873. 
 
 The work increased, and the cause prospered. Bro. Watts resigned 
 in 1876, and was succeeded, in 1877, by Rev. H. V. Plumnier, under 
 whose ministrations the membersliip advanced to ninety-two. System 
 prevailed and in all respects there was growth and improvement. 
 
 Rev. W. M. Alexander took charge of this Church in 1880, after the 
 resignation of Bro. Plummer. The body continued to improve, and 
 established a mission at "Sitka," several miles distant, building a 
 chapel there at a cost of $350. In 1882, that mission gave $60 toward 
 the pastor's salary. Bro. Alexander resigned in 1882 to become Col- 
 porter for our Board and for the American Baptist Publication Society* 
 
 Rev. F. Gr. Hall became pastor in 1883. In that year, the Church 
 purchased a burying ground. In 1884, they repaired their house, at a 
 cost of $300. They have also repaid their debt to the Building Loan 
 Fund. The membership numbers 117. 
 
 187I. 
 
 FOREST HALL BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 Forest Hall Church was organized in 1871, in a barn, on the plan- 
 tation of a gentleman, near Mechanicsville, St. Mary's county, by Bro» 
 Wm. P. Thompson, then pastor of Union Church, Baltimore. 
 
 It began with nine members. The Board sent Rev. John Kelly to 
 work up the field, and he remained about six years. 
 
 They built a neat meeting house, in 1874, costing $600. 
 
 Rev. Lewis Hicks was then called to the Church, but lived only a 
 short time. His last public act was a baptism. He died at Mechan- 
 icsville, and is buried in the rear of the meeting house. 
 
 Rev. C. H. Newman, a graduate of Wayland Seminary, and a mem- 
 ber of Tremont Temple Church, Boston, where he was baptized, took 
 charge of this interest in 1881, where he has labored faithfully and 
 improved the prospects. Membership now fifty. 
 
EUTA.W PLACE BAPTIST CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist HistoTy. 163 
 
 1871. 
 EUTAW PLACE BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 The Seventh Baptist Church, having increased to over a thousand 
 members in 1867, felt the duty of enlarging the borders of Zion, and 
 "colonizing" in the north-westernpart of the city. As the outgrowth 
 of this feeling, Mr. Hiram Woods made a written coni'iiunicatiou to 
 this Church, of which he was a member, offering to donate a lot 
 on the corner of Eutaw and Dolphin streets, valued at $20,000, and a 
 further gift of $5,000 in money, on condition that $40,000 should be 
 contributed promptly by others, towards erecting on the site a suitable 
 church edifice. This may be regarded as the initiative movement in 
 the building of the Eutaw Place Baptist Church. 
 
 In December of the above year, the Church appointed a committee to 
 collect subscriptions. The committee individually subscribed $9,000; 
 the ladies' sewing society pledged $1,000 ; and in a few weeks, addi- 
 tional sums were promised, making a total of $33,000. Dr. Fuller 
 wrote a circular, which was adopted by the Church, and addressed to 
 all sister Churches asking their cooperation in the enterprise. 
 
 Although the subscriptions had not yet reached the amount specified 
 as necessary to secure the lot, the Church now appointed two commit- 
 tees to proceed with the work ; one on Building, consisting of Rev. Dr. 
 Fuller, Hiram Woods, E. Levering, sen., A. A. Chapman, H. S. Shryock, 
 T. M. Johnson and Wm. H. Perkins ; and one on Finance, comprising 
 H. S. Shryock, A. J. Lowndes, W. T. Foster, E. Levering, jr., C. Fer- 
 guson, D. C Stevens, John Cassard, Joshua Levering, C. A. Keyser, 
 A. F. Crane, Geo. W. Norris, Edward T. Norris and G. W. Sanders. 
 
 Tlie building committee visited several cities and examined various 
 church edifices. They fixed upon one in Cambridge, Mass., as in the 
 main most desirable as a model for their purpose. The distinguished 
 Architect, Mr. Thomas L^. Walter, of Philadelphia, a Baptist and per- 
 sonal friend of Dr. Fuller, generously offered to make all the necessary 
 drawings. These were prepared by the middle of the summer of 1868, 
 and accepted by the committee, with a cordial resolution of thanks. 
 
 The subscriptions, however, were as yet inadequate to the terms of* 
 Mr. Woods' proposition. After much time spent in deliberation and 
 in prayer, it was suggested that several members of the committee 
 
1 64 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 above named would give their individual pledge that the remaining 
 amount required to make the subscription reach $40,000 should be 
 forthcoming, when needed for the work. Mr. Woods accepted this 
 arrangement and gave a deed for the lot. Mr. Jas. A. McComas was 
 entrusted with the erection of the building, according to Mr. Walter's 
 specifications; the ground was broken by two ladies of the Church, and 
 the work began. On April 22, 1869, the walls were so far advanced 
 that the corner stone was laid, with appropriate ceremonies. A large 
 multitude was assembled, a choir of Sunday school voices, led by the 
 late A. Fuller Crane, sang several hymns, and Dr. Fuller delivered an 
 address. Kev. Drs. F.Wilson and J. AV. M. Williams, and Eev. R. B. 
 Kelsay aided in the services. 
 
 The work progressed, though from time to time the building com- 
 mittee were seriously pressed for funds. Many of them increased their 
 own subscriptions, already large, and Mr. Woods paid the $5,000 which 
 had been made contingent upon their liberality. But as the structure 
 advanced, more money was needed. A mass meeting of the Churches 
 was held in February, 1870, and $30,000 raised. Of this sum, Eugene 
 Levering, sen., Daniel Chase and Samuel Bevan gave $5,000 each. Mr. 
 Levering died June 19, 1870, before the completion of the enterprise 
 of which he had been so large and earnest a promoter. 
 
 The building was completed, and dedicated on April 2, 1871. Dr. 
 Fuller preached the sermon, from Hebrews i : 8, "But unto the Son He 
 saith*, Thy throne, Clod, is forever and ever." Rev. Dr. H. C. Fish^ 
 of Newark, X. J., assisted in the services. 
 
 The church is among the finest specimens of Baltimore architecture. 
 It is of white marble, sixty-five feet wide, one hundred and six feet in 
 length, with a symmetrical tower and spire one hundred and ninety feet 
 high. The building contains all modern conveniences, including a 
 spacious lecture room, pastor's study, &c. The cost when finished was 
 about $102,000, including furniture and a fine organ, of which amount 
 $33,000 remained unprovided for at that date. A meeting was then 
 called, and $15,000 more were contributed, chiefl;y by the same generous 
 brethren who had been giving all the time ; and one-fourth of the sum 
 being the gift of three ladies. Other contributions reduced the debt ta 
 $15,000, wliich has since been nearly liquidated, by the systematic 
 contributions of the members of the Church. The communion service, 
 the pulpit furniture, and the stained glass window in front, were all 
 donated by ladies. 
 
 We have given space to a narrative of the pecuniary efibrt in this 
 enterprise, because it opened a new period of Baptist progress. The 
 denominatidn here now assumed a braver front, enlarged its aims, and 
 became more liberal in contributions of money for God's work. 
 
Maryland Baptist Histoiy. 1 65 
 
 As has been stated in the history of the Seventh Church, on February 
 17, 1871, one hundred and thirty members of that body withdrew by 
 •letter, and on the 20th, assembled in the lecture room, to organize a new 
 Church. According to their record, one hundred and thirty-^^ree per- 
 sons adopted a covenant and confession of faith, and assumed the title 
 ^'Eutaw Place Baptist Church," and invited Rev. Dr. Richard Fuller 
 to become their pastor. They also elected the following brethren to 
 be deacons: A. A. Chapman, Hiram Woods, A, F. Crane, T. M. Johnson, 
 E. T. Norris, W. Martien, and Eugene Levering, jr. The public recog- 
 nition of the Church took place in the new building, on the afternoon 
 of April 2. Within a short time, about fifty more members of the 
 Seventh Church came into the new Church by letter, making about 
 ■one hundred and eighty-five in all. 
 
 Dr. Fuller, though warmly attached to the old Church, felt that his 
 duty lay with the new body, and accepted their call. With enthusiasm 
 and zeal, both pastor and people now labored to make their new house 
 as redolent of God's glory as was the other, and divine favor rewarded 
 them. Twelve converts were baptized during the months following, 
 and in November, when the Church was received into the Association, 
 her membership had increased to two hundred and thirty. And, not- 
 withstanding the large drafts upon their resources by recent expenses, 
 they reported $2,453 for foreign missions, $6,239 for home missions, 
 and $1,528 on the reduction of their debt. 
 
 As an item of interest, we may state here, that at the first business 
 meeting in the new building, a committee was appointed to solicit con- 
 tributions from the owners of adjacent property, on the plea that this 
 beautiful structure had greatly improved and increased the value of all 
 the neighborhood. But it was a bootless visit. Dr. Adams says, "How- 
 ever willing men may be to profit by the liberality and energy of others, 
 they are seldom willing to pay for the advantages after they are con- 
 ferred. If the committee had called on those men before building, and 
 expatiated on the prospective advantages, subscriptions might have 
 been obtained from them." 
 
 Shortly after, the Church by vote decided not to have a choir, and 
 adopted, and still conthiue, congregational singing. 
 
 The young men of the Church organized a City Mission Society, in 
 1871, which became a power for good. They opened a mission school 
 on Patterson Avenue, and subsequently, one in the northern part of the 
 city, both of which developed into Churches. 
 
 A Sunday school was immediately organized, which has kept pace 
 with the spirit of the Church, and been a great element of her strength. 
 Brethren Hiram Woods and Joshua Levering have been, successively, 
 the superintendents. 
 
1 66 Maryland Baptist Histoiy. 
 
 The second year's report showed an increase of seventy-one members 
 and a total contribution of |7,138.42. The two years following brought 
 np the total membership to 449, and largely increased the contributions. 
 
 In 1874, a young student for the ministry of the Episcopal ChurcliJ 
 Mr. ]\Iiles S. Read, on profession of faith, was baptized by Dr. Fuller- 
 Soon after, he was licensed to preach and placed in charge of amission' 
 Avhich had been for some years under the watch-care of the High Street 
 Church. The mission became so prosperous under Bro. Read's labors, 
 that in June, 1874, it was thought advisable to organize a Church* 
 Accordingly the "Shiloh Baptist Church" was constituted with thirty- 
 six members, and Bro. Read was ordained as their pastor. This body 
 is now known as "Grace Church." 
 
 Miss Jane Norris, one of the most efficient members of the Church, was 
 in 1874, married to Rev. R. H. Graves, missionary to China, then on 
 a visit here. Mrs. Graves shortly after sailed to the mission field with 
 her husband, and has aided him greatly in his arduous work. In 1882 
 they paid a visit to their old home, and increased our interest in the 
 Chinese people. In 1875, Dr. Fuller had a serious spell of illness for 
 about two months, but happily recovered, and resumed preaching, with 
 additional fervor and consecration. 
 
 In 1875, after a thorough discussion of the subject and special prayer 
 for guidance, the following resolutions were adopted: 
 
 •'Resolved, That in view of the great spread of intemperance at the 
 present time, we believe that the making or selling of strong alcoholic 
 liquors for ordinary use as a beverage is clearly inconsistent with and 
 repugnant to the law of Christian love, which worketh no ill to our 
 neighbor. 
 
 "Resolved, That no person engaged in the manufacture or sale of 
 intoxicating liquors shall be eligible for, or admitted into the member- 
 ship of this Church." 
 
 Prosperity and progress attended the Church, with frequent acces- 
 sions and a growing missionarv spirit. In 1876, the pastor took his 
 customary vacation during the summer, and returned in September^ 
 with an appearance of renewed health. 
 
 On September 10, Dr. Fuller preached* in his pulpit from I Chron» 
 xxix ; 15. A hearer remarked, "Our pastor had some heavenly touches 
 this morning; he is far ahead of us, and is evidently ripening for the 
 Kingdom." He preached on the evening of the same day from the 
 words, "What I do, thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know here- 
 after." (John xiii : 7.) The sermon was "aglow with pathos and tender 
 expression." The week succeeding, he felt the inroads of a malady that 
 hastened his end. For several days he experienced great pain in his- 
 
 *The account is taken from a pamphlet published at the time. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 67 
 
 left shoulder. Though suffering severely, on the morning of September 
 17, he preached, from the text, "We walk by faith and not by sight." 
 (II Cor. v: 7.) This was his last sermon. At its close, he informed 
 the Church of his condition, and returned home, to endure an intense 
 affliction, that developed itself in a large, fiery and malignant carbuncle 
 on his shoulder. 
 
 Doctors James A. Steuart and Alan P. Smith and Prof. Nathan R. 
 Smith gave their skillful attention to his case, but without much hope, 
 as his system seemed too deeply affected. A surgical operation led to 
 temporary relief, but his strength gradually declined. On October 8, 
 another operation was performed upon the ulcer, now spreading fright- 
 fully, but all was of no avail. The patient sunk prostrate, and the an- 
 swer to countless anxious enquirers was, "He is slowly dying." He 
 died on the 20th of October, 1876, at nine o'clock in the morning. 
 
 Dr. Fuller was impressed that this was his last sickness. But there 
 was nothing in the future that terrified him. His great desire was to 
 depart and be with Christ. His hope was bright ; his peace was perfect ; 
 his faith illustrious. 
 
 The funeral services were held in the Eutaw Place Baptist Church. 
 The Sunday school repaired to the residence of the deceased, to view 
 his body, where they were met by the Sunday school of the Seventh 
 Chnrch. Visitors comprising all classes of citizens and all denomina- 
 tions, flocked to pay the mournful visit. Rarely have any clergyman's 
 obsequies attracted such large crowds of sympathizing friends, and 
 many incidents occurred around the corpse that evinced the affection 
 and gra'teful remembrance of those who had been led to Christ through 
 his teachings and ministrations. Their emotions were betrayed in 
 tears and sobs as well as utterances. Old and young, male and female? 
 white and colored, alike testified their regard and gave vent to their 
 sorrow. The features of the deceased looked very natural, taking into 
 consideration the exhausting nature of his disease. They were some- 
 what attenuated, but there was the massive brow and the noble outline 
 of a visage that when alive was kingly in appearance. The coffin was 
 adorned with tributes of flowers. Rev. Dr. C. C. Bitting, of Franklin 
 Square Church, uttered a suitable prayer whilst at the dwelling, and 
 then the body was conveyed to the church. The deacons of the Eutaw 
 Place and Seventh Churches acted as pall-bearers. 
 
 A great concourse of people had assembled within and around the 
 edifice. Rev. Dr. Franklin Wilson, Rev. Dr. J. C. Backus, of the Pres- 
 byterian Church, Rev. Dr. Brantly, of the Seventh Church, Rev. Dr. J. 
 W. M. Williams, of the First Church, and Rev. Dr. John Poisal, of the 
 Methodist Church, took part in the funeral services. The hymn, be- 
 ginning "Jesus, Saviour, pilot me," was sung, it having been sung for 
 
1 68 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Dr. Fuller at his request the night before he died. Dr. Brantly deliv- 
 ered an admirable and faithful portraiture of the character of the 
 deceased, and Dr. Williams paid a glowing tribute to his memory. 
 
 The body was then carried to Greenmount Cemetery, and deposited 
 in the earth. Gently and slowly it was lowered to its resting place, 
 reminding one of the deliberation and gentleness with which it was 
 always his care to bury in baptism the living body of the believer in 
 Jesus. At the same moment, voices tremulous with emotion sang the 
 hymn beginning, 
 
 "Asleep in Jesus ! — blessed sleep ! 
 
 From which none ever wake to weep !" 
 
 Eev. Dr. Elliott, of the Episcopal Church, and Kev. Dr. Jas. H. Outh- 
 bert, of Washington, both relatives, closed the services. Subsequently, 
 a monument was placed over the grave, and a, tablet erected in the 
 church to commemorate his services. 
 
 A notice of Dr. Fuller's career is necessary at this point. He was 
 born in Beaufort, S. C, in April, 1805. His parents were worthy mem- 
 bers of the Baptist Church in that town. His early studies were pur- 
 sued under the direction of Eev. Dr. W. T. Brantly, senior, (father of 
 Dr. W. T. Brantly, of the Seventh Church,) who was the pastor there, 
 and president of Beaufort College. He graduated at Harvard College. 
 The first serious religious impressions he had were during an alarming 
 illness, in the year 1823. He said, afterwards, "My mind now awoke 
 out of her dark oblivious sleep for the first time; and I began to think 
 of eternity. In this concern I was not alone; Dr. Brantly heard of my 
 sickness, and wrote me a letter, which reached my very soul with its 
 earnest and pathetic counsels and prayers." 
 
 In 1829, young Fuller united with the Episcopal Church. Satisfied 
 at that time that immersion was the only real baptism, he insisted on 
 this administration of the ordinance. In 1832, when a powerful revi- 
 val was in progress under the labors of Rev. Daniel Baker, of the Pres- 
 byterian Church, he was present at a meeting held one afternoon in 
 the Baptist chnrcli, and there, for the first time, was truly converted to 
 God, He was rebaptized and joined the Baptist Church. At that time 
 he was a lawyer, married, and popular, with a lucrative practice; but 
 he relinquished his business, and at an early day studied for the min- 
 istry. In 1833, he became pastor of the Beaufort Church, where he re- 
 mained fourteen years. Meanwhile, he acquired a great reputation as 
 an able preacher and writer. He held controversies through the press 
 with Bishop England and Eev. Dr. Francis Wayland, (with the latter 
 on Slavery,) which excited much favorable attention. In 1847, he re- 
 moved to Baltimore and took charge of the Seventh Baptist Church, 
 which he held for twenty-four years. During this time he published 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 169 
 
 a popular work on "Baptism and the Terms of Communion," and a vol- 
 ume of sermons. Later, he was a frequent writer for the "Eeligious 
 Herald," of Eichmond, Va. The rest of his history has been given.* 
 
 For a year after the death of Dr. Fuller, the Eutaw Place Church 
 was without a pastor. It prospered, however, and carried forward all 
 its work with great activity. In November, 1877, Rev. F. H. Kerfoot, 
 of Midway, Ky., succeeded to the pastorate. The death of Dr. Fuller 
 was a crisis, not only to the Church of which he was pastor, but to the 
 denomination in the city and State; and to take the place he had filled 
 was no ordinary trial. Bro. Kerfoot came to the Cliurch a very young 
 man and with but few years of ministerial experience. His pastorate 
 lasted over five years , and now that ample time has passed since its 
 close, to review its results and pass judgment thereon, these results and 
 the present state of the Church show clearly, that his ministry here was 
 a most excellent success. Gifted with much iiitellectual and mora] 
 poAverand energy, an untiring industry, a character generous and mag- 
 nanimous, he gave himself, with consecrated purpose, to the whole work, 
 of the Church, its spiritual growth and its thorough organization for 
 service. The members heartily responded to his zeal and devotion, 
 and the whole Church (more especially in the Young Men's Mission 
 and the Female societies) was animated and stirred with freshened life 
 and activity: so that, after his resignation, during the twenty-three 
 months the pastorate was vacant, the power and efficiency of the Church 
 were well-maintained. During his term, 174 persons were baptized; 
 the Fuller Memorial chapel was built, and the Immanuel Church con- 
 stituted, mainly, through the eflbrts of Eutaw Place Church. In Jan- 
 uary, 1883, Dr. Kerfoot accepted an urgent call to the Strong Place 
 Baptist Church, Brooklyn, N. Y. 
 
 During the second vacancy, the pulpit was filled regularly by able 
 ministers, among whom the most frequent was Rev. J. M. Stifler, D. D., 
 of Crozer Seminary. Rev. A. C. Dixon, of Immanuel Church, had 
 charge of the Wednesday night lecture and prayer meeting, visited the 
 sick, and had general oversight and care of the whole spiritual work 
 of the Church. His labors were highly esteemed by the Church, and 
 greatly beneficial to it; and the members warmly appreciated the kind- 
 ness of Immanuel Church in assenting to such an arrangement. In 
 this period, more than twenty persons were baptized. 
 
 On December 3, 1884, Rev. Frank M. Ellis, D. D., of Tremont Tem- 
 ple Church, Boston, Mass.. entered upon the pastorate of this Church, 
 having accepted a unanimous call three months previous. Dr. Ellis' 
 
 *A Life of Dr. Fuller, by his nephew, Rev. James H. Cuthbert, D. D., was pub- 
 lished by Sheldon & Co., New York, 1879. The Sermons of Dr. Fuller, in three 
 volumes, were issued by J. F. Weishampel, jr., Baltimore, in 1877. 
 
I "JO Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 reputation as a faithful minister of God's word ensured him a hearty 
 reception here from the entire Association. 
 
 The Eutaw Place Church has reached forward to a still greater degree 
 
 ■of Christian activity. During 1885, Oratorio Hall and Ford's Opera 
 
 House were secured on Sunday afternoons, for religious effort among a 
 
 large population who never attend churches. Dr. Ellis has preached 
 
 in these places to large audiences. 
 
 Besides Kev. M. S. Eead, heretofore named, the Church has licensed 
 Bro. Thos. L. Eigelberner to preach. Bretliren Frank C. Woods and 
 Chas. G. Merryman are studying for the ministry. 
 
 The ladies have from the beginning cooperated in all the benevolent 
 enterprises of the Church, having a Society, with various committees 
 covering a wide field of mission effort at home and abroad. 
 
 The total amount of money raised in this Church for expenses and 
 benevolent purposes, for five years past, has averaged $15,000 a year. 
 
 The present deacons of this Church are Allen A. ChapmUiU, Hiram 
 Woods, E. T. ISTorris. E. Levering, Chas. A. Keyser, James A. Gould 
 and AYm. Henry Bayne. 
 
 The first treasurer, H. S. Shryock, served until his decease in 1883, 
 when D. Chase Chapman was elected. 
 
 Charles A. Keyser, Andrew J. Lowndes, Chas. T. Crane, C. Powell 
 ■Grady and Wilmer L. Keller have successively served as Clerk. 
 
 The Church has now 540 members. 
 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 7 1 
 
 1871. 
 ENGLISH BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 FROST BURG. 
 
 Frostburg is a thriving town of 5,000 inhabitants, located in Alle- 
 gheny county, Md., in the midst of a mountain region, famous for its 
 coal, and only a short distance from the Eckhart Mines, referred to on 
 another page. There had been for some years a Welsh Baptist Church 
 in this place. In 1872, a few English-speaking members, who could 
 not understand the Welsh language, and who had joined this Church 
 simply because there was no other Baptist Church there, requested the 
 pastor, Rev. L. Llewellyn, to preach alternately in the English tongue. 
 He was willing to do this, but the Welsh members declined to agree to 
 the arrangement. Rev. H. J. Chandler, our missionary in Cumberland, 
 yisited the Church to advise the plan, but unsuccessfully. It was then 
 concluded by all that it would be advisable to organize a new Church 
 for the English-speaking Baptists. Bro. Llewellyn and about thirty 
 members then withdrew by letter, in April, 1871, and assembled infor- 
 mally for about three months in the Southern Methodist church, which 
 was kindly granted them for one preaching service each Sunday. 
 
 On July 7, these brethren and sisters were regularly constituted as 
 the English Baptist Church of Frostburg, with Rev. L. Llewellyn as 
 pastor. Rev. H. J. Chandler and Rev. Jam5s Nelson officiated. The 
 constituent membership numbered thirty-one. During this time, they 
 had labored with ardor for the building of a meeting house. A lot 
 "vvas secured, money was collected, chiefly through Bro. Llewellyn's ex- 
 ertions, and by October 20, a neat church edifice was ready for occupa- 
 tion. Rev. Dr. Williams, of Baltimore, and Rev. H. J. Chandler per- 
 formed the dedicatory services. About $350 in cash was raised on that 
 day toward the cost of the house, and $2,000 had been raised previously. 
 The total expense however, was $3,500, which left a debt upon them for 
 several years. Bro. Llewellyn remained pastor here until January, 1874, 
 when he removed to Virginia. 
 
 Rev. J. T. Bradford was sent to this Church in April, 1874, and re- 
 ported that he found it discordant, so much so that "it was deemed 
 advisable to dissolve, and organize anew." He held special services in 
 this and the succeeding years of his stay there, during which he bap- 
 tized over sixty persons. The "hard times," however, then prevailing 
 among the mining population, retarded the prosperity of the Church, 
 and the pastor being insufficiently supported, he resigned, Dec, 1876 
 
172 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 The Church hud no pastor in 1877. The following year, Rev. H. J. 
 Chandler, of Cumberland, preached there statedly. The Church had 
 some degree of prosperity, and paid $500 on their debt. In 1879, Rev. 
 W. 0. Petty took charge and rallied the membership somewhat. The 
 meeting house was repaired at a cost of $250. Several conversions oc- 
 curred. Eighty members were reported in 1880. In 1883, a "strike" 
 among the miners resulted in much distress. In September, 1883, Bro. 
 Petty's health failed, and he resigned, and removed to Louisville, Ky. 
 
 Prospects were gloomy, but the Church earnestly sought a pastor, in 
 the hope of better times. A committee found one at the Association 
 meeting in November, in the person of Bro. Edward C. Allard,a licen- 
 tiate of Grace Church. The Executive Board agreed to aid in his sup- 
 port; and he was ordained, and entered immediately wpon the pastoral 
 charge of Frostburg Church. Thus far, the Holy Spirit has blessed his 
 labors, and the Church has increased in zeal and good works. Bro. 
 Allard is an earnest preacher and indefatigable in the personal duties 
 of his office outside of the puipit. He has baptized thirty converts, up 
 to this writing. The Church has become more systematic in contribu- 
 tions, raised a larger amount for expenses, and improved its house of 
 worship. The future is more hopeful than ever, though prosperity in 
 a mining region is never to be counted upon as permanent, owing to 
 the uncertainty of employment and the removal of workmen. 
 
 The deacons are John W. Lewis, John Myers, John W. Yates, John 
 J. Yates, John B. Reese, James Williams. Clerk. Wm. Dando. 
 
 Present membership, eighty-five. Sunday school numbers about a 
 hundred scholars. 
 
 1872. 
 
 MT. ELLEN BAPTIST CHURCH, SALISBURY. 
 
 This Church was organized in 1872, in Salisbury, Wicomico.county, 
 by Rev. George Braxton, a student of Wayland Seminary, with seven 
 members. It was entitled "Mt. Ellen" in compliment to an aged sister, 
 named Ellen Johnson. Mr. Braxton remained with the Church until 
 1874, when he left, to accept a charge in Virginia. Rev. W. A. Smithy 
 also a student of Wayland, took charge shortly after, and has remained 
 pastor ever since. By the aid of Rev. Dr. Minor, of New Britain, Ct.> 
 and other friends, the Church has built a neat house of worship, cost- 
 ing $1,800. The membership now numbers sixty. 
 
Mary lafid Baptist History. 173 
 
 1872. 
 LONGWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 This Church is located in a settlement of the same name, in Talbot 
 county, six miles north of Easton. Its establishment suggests a lesson 
 as to the duty of Baptists to maintain their principles without compro- 
 mise, even when in the midst of a pedobaptist community, and distant 
 from a Church of their own faith. Though standing alone, they should 
 hold up the standard of Scriptural doctrine, and invite others to rally 
 around it. And wherever this is done, other Baptists should recognize 
 the act, and give every assistance in their power, by their prayers, their 
 visits and cooperation. 
 
 In the spring of 1867, Bro. R. L. W. Probasco removed with his fam- 
 ily from New Jersey to Longwood. He and his wife and her mother 
 were Baptists, but found here no Church with which to commune, and 
 in fact, Baptist principles were scarcely known among the people. 
 
 Being willing to work for the Master as well as circumstances allowed, 
 they cooperated in Sunday school work with other denominations, first 
 with the Methodists and then with the Episcopalians. These would 
 have welcomed the family to Church relations, and it would have 
 been easy thus to strike their colors. But conscience and loyalty to 
 the truth did not permit them to disavow their distinctive principles 
 and they remained known as decided, unwavering Baptists. 
 
 At length, Bro. Probasco determined to make an effort to secure 
 Baptist preaching for the neighborhood. After several disappointments 
 with other ministers. Rev. 0. F. Flippo was the first to go to his assist- 
 ance. Preaching in the Methodist chapel at Longwood in the morning, 
 and in a hall in Easton, in the afternoon, he was enabled to make a 
 very favorable impression on large congregations, by his plain, full and 
 fearless presentation of gospel truth. 
 
 Bro. Probasco and wife, and Mrs. Challis, her mother, (who was the 
 widow of a Baptist minister,) now decided to start a Sunday school. 
 They rented the little Methodist chapel, supplied books, and carried a 
 melodeon there every Sunday morning, a distance of two-and-a-half 
 miles from their residence. They obtained a fair attendance of children 
 and the aid of other friends in teaching. This was early in 1872. Mr. 
 Elippo repeated his visits frequently, preaching with great acceptance, 
 and strengthening the little band. In October, Rev. George Bradford 
 visited the field, just at the beginning of a special meeting, and preached 
 with much power. Rev. Mr. Waters, of Wilmington, Rev. Jas. Nelson 
 
1 74 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 and Dr. Franklin Wilson, also came in turn, and for seven weeks tha 
 meetings were protracted, resulting in the conversion and baptism of 
 thirteen persons. On the 25th of November, sixteen believers were 
 organized into the Longwood Baptist Church. 
 
 Bro. Bradford became their first pastor. Efforts were made at once 
 to establish the new body in a new house of worship, and, not to make 
 too much detail, suffice it to say that in about two years they were in 
 possession of a neat, tasteful building, and had increased to eighty-five 
 members. The money to build was contributed or collected by them- 
 selves, with very little aid, if any, from Baltimoi'e Baptists. 
 
 In 1876, Bro. Bradford resigned the field, and was succeeded by Rev. 
 P. T. Warren, in 1877. His labors- were blest; a balance of debt on 
 the church was paid off, and the membership was increased to 103. 
 It must be noted here, that like all country societies, the members are 
 widely scattered, many of their homes being several miles distant from 
 the meeting house. Bro. Warren resigned in 1880, to go to Virginia. 
 
 Bro. W. S. Read was ordained in September, 1880, and entered the 
 pastorate, but ill health compelled him to retire within a year, and he 
 died, Nov. 20, 1881. The Church had irregular service for a year. Bro. 
 Probasco removed to the west, and the Church lost ground. In 1882, 
 Bro. Bradford was recalled, and has preached regularly as the weather 
 and his increasing age would permit. The Church building is valued 
 at $2,500, and a parsonage, recently erected, at $1,000, both of which 
 are paid for. Present membership 95. 
 
LEADENHALL ST. BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist History, 175 
 
 1873. 
 LEADENHALL ST. BAPTIST CHURCH,. 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 The Maryland Baptist Union Association has at all times been deeply 
 interested in the religious needs and prospects of the colored brethren 
 wjthin its bounds. The new civil rights and advantages accorded to 
 the colored people, after the close of the Civil War, and their great 
 responsibilities flowing therefrom, served to strengthen and increase 
 the desire that they should have their privileges fully as "fellow citizens 
 of the saints and of the household of faith." At the annual meeting 
 of the Association in 1870, the following resolution was passed : "Ee- 
 solved, That the Executive Board be requested to appoint a Committee 
 of five, to visit the Colored Churches, with such kindly sympathy and 
 such assistance as may be acceptable." In accordance therewith, the 
 Executive Board, at its first meeting, appointed the following Commit- 
 tee: E. W. King, (chairman,) Charles A. Keyser, (secretary,) Bernard 
 Todd, E. Calvin Williams and G, K. Tyler, and subsequently, Christo- 
 pher West. For fourteen years, the work of the Association among the 
 Colored Churches has been, to a very large extent, under the control 
 and management of this Committee ; and it is the testimony of both 
 the Avhite and colored brethren that the appointment of the Committee 
 was wise, and that great good has resulted therefrom. The Churches 
 have been visited, counselled, strengthened; new Churches have been 
 formed, new fields opened and meeting houses built ; missionaries ap- 
 pointed and sent forth ; and the Baptist denomination, among the col- 
 ored people, from being a mere weakling, has grown to be a power in 
 the city of Baltimore and State of Maryland. 
 
 One of the fields of labor first presented to the consideration of the 
 Committee, as especially destitute, and therefore especially inviting, 
 was South Baltimore. There was found there a large colored popula- 
 tion, without Baptist Churches. Early in 1870, a small interest was 
 started there, known as the "Providence Baptist Church," of which the 
 late well-known Rev. Lewis Hicks was elected pastor, and received some 
 support from the Association. The Church rented a small and insuf- 
 ficient place for meeting, inadequate to hold the numbers who desired 
 to attend ; and the Committee deemed it their manifest duty to attempt 
 the erection of a suitable house of worship for the colored brethren of 
 this section. 
 
176 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 On Sunday afternoon, March 31, 1872, a union meeting of the Baptist 
 ■denomination was held in the Seventh Church. This subject was laid 
 before the brethren ; they resolved to build ; and |8,000 were promptly 
 subscribed toward the project. The Committee soon after secured the 
 lease of a lot on Leadenhall street, and began the erection of the pres- 
 ent large and commodious structure. The veteran Baptist, Bro. Jos. B. 
 Thomas, sr., prepared all the plans and superintended the construction, 
 gratuitously. The house is sixty by ninety feet, built of brick ; its 
 ground floor contains a commodious lecture and Sunday school room, 
 and the upper floor, for Church services, with galleries,will hold from 
 twelve to fifteen hundred people. 
 
 The cost of the building was about |18,000. The Church Extension 
 Society managed this enterprise, as it has several others, with complete 
 success, demonstrating its. great usefulness to the denomination. The 
 church was dedicated in November, 1872. 
 
 The building being ready for occupation, on May 13, 1873, eight 
 persons were organized as the Leadenhall Street Baptist Church, and 
 Kev. Thos. Henson was appointed missionary on the field, and labored 
 for about a year. 
 
 He met with some success, but owing to the ignorance and prejudice 
 then prevailing among his people, the truth reached only a few. Rev 
 J. C. Allen, of the First Colored Church, (then meeting on Thomsen 
 street,) was then appointed also to labor here, in addition to his own 
 place,but the field was too wide for one pastor, and he remained only 
 a short time. The Church, however, grew healthfully, and reported 146 
 members in 1874. In the meantime, a number of the members of the 
 Providence Church withdrew and connected themselves here. The old 
 organization shortly ceased, and Bro. Hicks was appointed missionary 
 to the colored people at Cumberland. 
 
 In 1875, the Board secured Rev. Ananias Brown, pastor of a Church 
 in Newport, R. I., to settle here and strive to build up this interest. 
 
 Bro. Brown was born in Richmond, Va., and studied at Wayland Sem- 
 inary when a young man. He entered the work here with hopes which 
 have been realized. Patient, careful teaching, faithful preaching, with 
 the Lord's blessing, have built up the membership, until the Church 
 is now strong in numbers and influence. She has long since ceased to 
 receive aid from the Board, and has contributed to others. A flourish- 
 ing Sunday school is carried on and is shedding gospel light throughout 
 the homes of the neighborhood. 
 
 The Church has now over 600 members. The deacons are : Joseph 
 Luffman, Peyton Taylor, David Pitts, Geo. C. Warren, Jas. Williams, 
 Peter Ail or. Clerk, Richard Freeman. 
 
Maryland Baptist Histo7'y. 177 
 
 1874. 
 HAMPDEN BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 WooDBERRY is a thriving settlement, two miles north of Baltimore 
 City, but extending quite a distance toward it and embracing another 
 settlement distinctively known as Hampden. Several large machine 
 shops and cotton factories are within these limits, and employ a great 
 number of people, who live in the neighborhood. The population is 
 now about ten thousand. The whole district, including Waverly, will 
 probably be absorbed in the City within a few years. 
 
 Before giving an account of the present "Woodberry" or "Hampden" 
 Church, as it is indifferently called, we should notice an earlier attempt 
 to implant a Baptist Church in this important field, made nearly forty 
 years ago, by Rev. Franklin Wilson. 
 
 In the summer of 1847, in connection with Rev. Wm. Wilder, pastor 
 of the Waverly Church, Bro. Wilson held several meetings in the woods 
 in that vicinity, which were attended by such crowds, that he resolved 
 to build a house of worship there. Accordingly, he procured a lot on 
 the Falls Road, near the "Rockdale" factory, (since destroyed by fire,) 
 in the centre of the population at that time, and erected and furnished 
 a handsome stone building, with a basement lecture room, steeple and 
 bell, at a total cost of $5,000. It was dedicated April 23, 18-48, Bro. 
 Wilson preaching the sermon on the distinctive principles of Baptists. 
 Rev. Wm. Wilder made it one of his preaching stations, and Bro. Wm, 
 H. Hamer, with a faithful corps of teachers, principally from the High 
 street Church of Baltimore, conducted a Sunday school there, which 
 soon became large and promising. Before long, souls were converted, 
 converts were baptized, and in 1849, a Church was organized with a 
 few members, which joined the Maryland Union Association as the 
 "Rockdale Church." 
 
 After several years, through fluctuations of the manufacturing popu- 
 lation, the members of the Church removed, the school declined, the 
 house was closed for religious services and rented for a public school ; 
 until in 1854 the Water Board needed the ground, and purchased the 
 property at less than half its cost. The Hampden Reservoir now oc- 
 cupies the spot, and the "Rockdale Church" is a thing of the past. 
 
 In the spring of 1874, Bro. D. B. Wilhelm and a number of other 
 brethren and sisters of the Forest Church, now living in Woodberry, 
 who had been holding prayer meetings with great success for some time, 
 withdrew by letter from that body to organize a new Church. A meet- 
 
1 78 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 ing was held in tlie United Brethren church, of which Kev. J. W. M. 
 Williams was moderator and Dr. li. M. J. Harker was secretary, and a 
 Church constituted with twenty-two members. A hall was rented 
 shortly after, and regular services held. 
 
 Rev. James Nelson, our State evangelist, held a protracted meeting 
 there, which resulted in several conversions, and organized a Sunday 
 school. Rev. J. H. Barnes was called to the charge of the Church in 
 June, 1874:, which had then increased to fifty-four members. The 
 hall being now too small for public services, a large tent was procured, 
 by the aid of Baltimore brethren, "which was located near the site of 
 the present house of worship, and used all the summer for preaching to 
 large audiences. 
 
 A lot was procured in a good position, and a portion of it sub-leasedr 
 so as to reduce its cost to about $700, upon which a church was built, 
 costing about $4,300. The contributions of the members were liberal, 
 but the bulk of the expense was paid by the Baltimore brethren, though 
 not until a year or two afterward. The Board also gave largely to the 
 support of the pastor, as they still continue to do. 
 
 Bro. Barnes returned to A^irginia in 1875. Rev. B. C Parker then 
 labored here acceptably for about nine months, leaving in the summer 
 of 1876 for another State. For some weeks, services were conducted by 
 Bro. E. B. White and other members of the ''Lay Preachers' Associa- 
 tion." In July, Rev. A. W. Graves, of Va., who had been recently or- 
 dained, took charge for a few months. In April, 1878, Bro. A. B. John- 
 ston, a licentiate of the Franklin Square Church, preached there regu- 
 larly, by appointment of the Board, though he resided in the city, until 
 February, 1880. Rev. Samuel Saunders succeeded, and rema*ined until 
 July,' 1881. There were several conversions during his time, but the 
 field appeared difficult. Rev. Chas. A. Harris now accepted charge, 
 and accomplished some thorough work in the upbuilding and strength- 
 ening of the Church, but his health failing, he resigned in June, 1882. 
 Rev. A. S. Flock assumed charge shortly after, and served until May, 
 1884. In December following, Rev. F. B. LaBarrer, of Pennsylvania, 
 but formerly a member of Lee St. Church, took charge as pastor, under 
 appointment of our Board, and js now on the field. The Church num- 
 bers 100 members. The deacons are John Freeland, Harrison Watkins 
 and Daniel G. Stevens. Treasurer, J. Herman Suter. Clerk, D. G. 
 Stevens, jr. The Sunday school numbers about one hundred scholars^ 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 79 
 
 1874. 
 GRACE BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 B A LT I MO R E. 
 
 Ix 1872, at the suggestion of brethren John F, Helm and Solomon 
 E. Wright, the Young People's Association of the High Street Baptist 
 Church decided to begin mission work in a one-story building on Ais- 
 quith street, near Hoffman, and a. meeting was held there, on Sunday 
 afternoon, April 14. There were present, Kev. Mark R. Watkinson? 
 then pastor of High St. Church, brethren J. F. Helm, R. M. J. Harker, 
 and C. .J. Stewart, and Misses Sallie Eckhart and Emma Musick. A 
 school was organized having nine scholars, with Bro. Helm as superin- 
 tendent. Books were supplied by the Bible and Sunday School Union 
 societies. Thus was planted a seed which has brought forth abundant 
 fruit. 
 
 The school soon increased to thirty-nine members, and requiring 
 larger quarters, removed to the dwelling No. 538 Aisquith street, where 
 the largest attendance during the first year reached seventy. Weekly 
 prayer meetings were also held. In the latter part of 1873, Bro. Miles 
 S. Read* and his brother Wm. S. Read, members of the Eutaw Place 
 Church, became attached to this mission, and the former was invited 
 to preach regularly on Sunday afternoons. In a short time, forty per- 
 sons professed conversion. 
 
 By the advice and substantial encouragement of Dr. Fuller and other 
 friends, the brethren determined to organize a Church and build a 
 house of worship. A lot was leased, and a brick chapel erected at a 
 cost of ^4,000. Three-fourths of this amount was raised and paid, and 
 the balance, with $200 additional for improvements, remained for some 
 time as a debt. On June 12, 1874, twenty-one members of the Eutaw 
 Place Church and eleven from the High St. Church, united by letter, 
 and organized the "Shiloli Baptist Church." Charles H. Roberts and 
 Wm. S. Read were elected deacons, and C. J. Stewart clerk. Bro. M. 
 S. Read was unanimously requested to act as pastor, which he kindly 
 consented to do for one year, without compensation. 
 
 *Bro. M. S. Read writes, "ily reason for going to Shiloh mission was one of 
 Dr. Fuller's stirring sermons. I had been in the Church several months, and done 
 nothing. He stirred me that day as I had seldom been moved before. I deter- 
 mined to search for some field of labor." 
 
1 80 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 On June 24, a council of Churches was called, of which Rev. M. R. 
 Watkinson was chairman, and Dr. C. A. Leas secretary, which approved 
 of the new organization. Public recognition services were held on 
 Monday, June 28, in which the following ministers participated: Prayer 
 by Rev. M. R. Watkinson; sermon by Rev. J. T. Craig; charge to the 
 Church by Rev. Dr. Fuller; hand of fellowship, by Rev. Dr. J. W. M- 
 Williams ; scripture reading by Rev. 0. F. Flippo, and benediction by 
 Rev. John Pollard. 
 
 On August 18, the Sunday school was formally surrendered by the 
 Young People's Association of High St. Church. The Shiloh Church 
 was admitted to the Association in November, and reported thirty-nine 
 members, and ninety-five teachers and scholars in the school. 
 
 The year for which Bro. Read had agreed to serve the Church as 
 pastor, without remuneration, having expired, and he having fiulfilled 
 the duty satisfactorily, the members unanimously called him to the 
 regular pastorate, June, 1875, at a salary of $900, of which the Execu- 
 tive Board agreed to pay $700 for the current year. Bro. Read was 
 then ordained, in the Eutaw Place Church, and entered his work anew. 
 
 During 1875, the interest prospered greatly. Twelve converts were 
 baptized, and fifteen members received by letter and experience. The 
 following year seven persons were baptized and twelve were received by 
 letter and experience. There had been some dismissals and exclusions, 
 but the total membership was sixty-five. In September, 1877, Bro. 
 Read resigned, to complete his studies at Crozer Theological Seminary. 
 It was with many regrets the Church parted with its first pastor. 
 
 Only a few can realize what a work it is to conduct a mission suc- 
 cessfully in such a location as was selected for this one, surrounded by 
 a population, most of whom had little respect for God, and none for his 
 servants. On several occasions, Bro. Read was stoned by the rough 
 element of the neighborhood. Even some of those who were received 
 into the Church were lacking in their vows to God and moral obliga- 
 tions to their fellow men. But amidst all these discouragements, Bro. 
 Read labored faithfully, as pastor, financier, and sometimes as sexton. 
 Each year, such part of his salary as the Church was unable to pay him 
 he presented to it. Besides this, he expended in improvements on the 
 church building, several hundred dollars of his own means, which he 
 had earned by commissions on the sale of coal. He is now serving 
 a Church in Virginia. 
 
 Bro. Wm. S. Read also went to Crozer. He afterwards became pas- 
 tor of the Church at Longvvood, where he died, in 1880. 
 
 In August, 1877, the Church called Bro. Charles D. Parker, a licen- 
 tiate of High St. Church, to the pastorate. About this time, the roll 
 of members was revised, and the number reduced to thirty-seven. Bro. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 8 1 
 
 Parker entered into earnest work, and soon reported a number of addi- 
 tions. In October, 1877, the Orient Baptist Church [see note on Beth- 
 any Church] having lost their acting pastor, Rev. M.R. Watkinson, by- 
 death, were invited to join the Shiloh Church. The invitation was ac- 
 cepted, the Orient Church disbanded in December, 1877, and seventy 
 of its members united with the Shiloh Church, on their Christian ex- 
 perience. Of the remaining fifty-five, some united with other Churches, 
 and a portion failed to join any Church. The union of so many of the 
 Orient members with Shiloh brought their entire congregation, so that 
 the building became crowded. A gracious revival followed, and con- 
 tinued for several months, resulting in one hundred conversions ; but 
 owing to the great distance at which many of the converts lived, only 
 thirty-seven were baptized. The pastor, who was not yet ordained, was 
 assisted in ministerial duties by his brother. Rev. B. G. Parker and 
 others. 
 
 The members were now reminded of the heavy debt of over |1,00{> 
 which rested on their building, which was a surprise to some of them. 
 Then began a struggle which was full of anxiety. The Church had 
 only a hundred and twenty-five members, all poor, and would certainly 
 have sunk under the pressure for immediate payment, if it had not 
 been for a friend in Eutaw Place Church, who advanced the money on 
 notes of two of the members. The Building Loan Fund also advanced 
 some money. 
 
 In 1876, when the Maryland Baptists united in raising a Centennial 
 Thank OflFering to God for the payment of the debts of all our mission 
 Churches, the sum of |1,121.&8 was appropriated to Shiloh Churchy 
 and some months afterwards paid. 
 
 The Report of the Board for 1877 says, "Shiloh has been the bright- 
 est spot in our mission field this year." 
 
 The two succeeding years were marked by revivals and conversions. 
 
 On March 17, 1879, a council having given approval, Bro. Charles D. 
 Parker was regularly ordained to the ministry. The officiating clergy- 
 men were Rev. Drs. Williams, Bitting, Brantly, and Wilson, Rev. E. M. 
 Barker and Rev. A. J. Hires. This year forty-one converts were bap- 
 tized, and the membership Avas increased to two hundred. 
 
 In 1880, the Church was much depressed by pecuniary difficulties. 
 The members were compelled to use extraordinary financial exertions, 
 which, they believe now was all that saved them from dissolution, for 
 they had become dissatisfied with the condition of the building and 
 its location. However, they frescoed and finished the interior of the 
 house,(the exterior is still incomplete,) and paid about f 600 of accrued 
 debt. When this was done, they recovered a healthful condition, and 
 continued increasing in numbers and zeal. 
 
1 82 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 In 1881, the Church enjoyed a revival, and thirty converts were bap- 
 tized. In 1882, it was deemed advisable to change the name of the 
 Church from "Shiloh" to "Aisquith St.," in consequence of a colored 
 Baptist Church in south Baltimore (not connected with our Association) 
 adopting the former title. 
 
 On January 29, 1883, the High St. Church gave up the charge of 
 Bethany Chapel, on Eager st., where a mission had been conducted for 
 some time, and the Aisquith St. Church accepted it. The pastor and 
 members at once transferred their regular services to Bethany Chapel, 
 without however ceasing to hold weekly meetings and a Sunday school 
 in the old location. A protracted meeting was held, and glorious spir- 
 itual blessings followed. Over two hundred persons were converted, 
 and the Sunday school attendance increased from one to two hundred. 
 Bro. Parker was assisted by Rev. John B. English, then State Evan- 
 gelist, and the pastors of other Churches. 
 
 In November, 1883, Bro. Parker resigned, to accept charge of the 
 Pittsgrove Baptist Church, Daretown, N. J. His arduous work here 
 necessitated a change of scene. The Church passed resolutions com- 
 mending him for his faithful labors. The membership had now in- 
 creased to nearly three hundred. 
 
 In addition to the loss of their pastor, they were called to part with 
 two of their most efficient deacons; one of whom, Bro. Edward C. Al~ 
 lard, was ordamed to the ministry, and accepted a call from the Frost- 
 burg Baptist Church, where he is now laboring, with much success; 
 the other, Bro. Wm. Bruce, by death. He was a faithful Christian, 
 loved and respected by the entire Church. 
 
 The pulpit was supplied for several months by different ministers, 
 until April, 1884, when Rev. J. B. English entered upon the pastorate, 
 to which he had been unanimously invited. The Church now reached 
 forward to a leading position, and the prospect began to brighten as 
 she took courage to advance. 
 
 For a long time it was felt that both the church buildings were un- 
 suitably located, and inadequate to hold the congregations necessary to 
 a self-supporting Church; and an indefinite desire had been expressed 
 by the memb(;rs of this body, as well as by many brethren outside, for 
 a more commodious building in a desirable locality. With this object 
 in view, they dropped the title of the old house, "Aisquith Street," and 
 became incorporated as "Grace Baptist Church," electing the following 
 trustees: Rev. Franklin \¥ilson, D. D., Dr. Milton Hammond, D.J. 
 Emich, Frank H. Farley, Elijah Beacham, Amos J. Cleaveland, and 
 Rev. J. B. English, (ex officio.) They consulted with the Church Ex- 
 tension Society, and by their advice have secured a lot, eighty by one 
 hundred feet, on the northeast corner of Caroline and Preston streets. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 183 
 
 The house 011 Aisquith street will be held as a mission until sold. 
 The Eager st. chapel is occupied temporarily, it is hoped, until a new 
 church shall be erected on the above lot. The present attendance is 
 frequently overflowing. 
 
 On March 31, 1885, the first anniversary of Bro. English's pastorate 
 was held, and an "Annual Roll Call" of the members made. Rev. Dr. 
 F. M. Ellis, pastor of Eutaw Place Church, and Bro. Eugene Levering, 
 president of the Church Extension Society, made addresses. The year 
 just ended was reported as one of memorable progress in the Church. 
 Eighty-five members were added, making a total of three hundred and 
 sevens-five. The Sunday school attendance in both chapels numbers 
 nearly seven hundred. A normal class of teachers is conducted weekly 
 by the pastor. The members have shown great self-denial, in bearing 
 the increased financial burdens of the Church. A collection is taken 
 at every service an an act of worsliip. A large collection was taken at 
 this Roll Call meeting, which has since been increased to $3,000, to aid 
 in the purchase of their new ground, the location of which is in every 
 way desirable, commanding the whole field. Grace Church is the only 
 Baptist body in a portion of the city about two miles square, containing 
 a population of about 4:5,000 souls. The unoccupied parts are rapidly 
 filling up and increasing this number. 
 
 This Church, with the aid of the Church Extension Society, and 
 the favor of God, has decided to go forward and erect a suitable house 
 of worship on their lot. When that is done, a Sunday school of a thous- 
 and children may be gathered, a large membership may be added to 
 the Church, and the whole may form a great power for the spreading 
 of the Gospel. To that end the pastor and people are perfectly united 
 and enthusiastic. 
 
 The deacons of the]Church are at present, Charles H. Roberts, David 
 C. Noyes, Daniel J. Emich, (treasurer,) Frank H. Farley and Elijah 
 Beacham. Clerk, Otis C. Brownley. 
 
 NOTE. 
 
 Bethany Baptist Church. — This Church was originated through the effort 
 of Mrs. Mary A.. Dodge and Mrs. Jane H. Rupp, who maintained weekly praj'er 
 meetings in 1871, at their residence on Eager street, which resulted iu the conver- 
 sion of several persons. A Sunday school was started in an unoccupied house, 
 which increased so rapidly that Mrs. Dodge leased a lot and determined to build 
 a chapel, which she did, in 1873, at a cost of $7,000, mostly at her own expense. 
 Bro. Geo. G. Tyler also contributed liberally. 
 
1 84 Maiyland Baptist History. 
 
 A Church was now organized with eleven members, and recognized by a regular 
 council. Rev. Mark R. Watkinson was elected pastor. During the following 
 year, a misunderstanding occurred between Mrs. Dodge and a large majority of 
 the members, who were locked out of the chapel. These immediately reorgan- 
 ized themselves in a public hall and adopted the title of "Orient Baptist Church," 
 with Bro. Watkinson as acting pastor. They numbered about one hundred and 
 twenty-five persons. The minority of members reinaining in Bethany Church 
 afterwards met and erased the names of the others. They called Mr. D. D. Reed» , 
 a member of Eutaw Place Church, licensed him to preach, and had him ordained 
 as pastor. He reported twenty-eight members in 1875. A difficulty occurring 
 between the pastor and Church, he resigned in June, 1876. Rev. J. T. Bradford 
 served for a few months, and in a year or two, regular services ceased. The prop- 
 erty was vested in trustees, and was used as a mission, until recently reoctupied 
 by most of its early occupants, as members of Grace Church. 
 
 Rev. M. R. Watkinson, above referred to, is mentioned in the Baptist Cyclope- 
 dia, as a minister of unusual talents, who was greatly blessed in his labors at both 
 north and south. His career in Baltimore was not agreeable, owing to peculiar 
 circumstances, but his death was deeply lamented by all who knew of his worth 
 and deep piety. His knowledge and memory of Scripture were remarkable. 
 
 1874. 
 
 MACEDONIA BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 This Church originated through the efforts of W. Charles Lawson, 
 Leauder Jones and other brethren of the Union Church. They began 
 in a stable loft in Vincent Alley, with a Sunday school and prayer meet- 
 ing, which developed ra])idly into a Church. The stable was remod- 
 eled, floored and seated, by the kindness of Bro. G. C Tyler and others, 
 and on Sept. 29, 1874, a meeting was called to organize a new Church. 
 
 The records state that Mr. J. F. Weishampel, jr., was requested to act 
 as moderator, Mr. L. Minor as secretary. Mr. W. H. Hamer offered a 
 prayer. Sixteen members of Union Church presented a letter of com- 
 mendation. The moderator presented and explained a Baptist manual, 
 which was unanimously adopted, and the following officers elected : 
 Deacons, W. C. Lawson, Leander Jones, Henry Jenkins, John I. Lane, 
 George Jones. Clerk, S. W. Washington. Rev. G, W. Sanderlin, pas- 
 tor of Franklin Square Church, Rev. Harvey Johnson of Union Church, 
 Mr. \Vm. H. Hamer, Dr. George F. Child, Mr. Christopher West, and 
 others, addressed the new Church. On November 5, following, it was 
 properly recognized by a council representing nine Churches. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 185 
 
 The Church adopted the title of Macedonia, licensed Bro. Lawson to 
 preach, held regular worship, joined the Maryland Union Association, 
 leased a lot on Saratoga street, near Gilmor, and prepared to build a 
 house. In this they were generously assisted by Bro. C. West, who 
 advanced a considerable portion of the money for building. A suitable 
 brick chapel, holding three hundred persons, was erected for $3,000» 
 and dedicated June 34, 1876. Mr. Lawson was ordained and elected 
 pastor, August 25, 1878. Previous to his ordination, Kev. Dr. F. Wil- 
 son preached frequently for the Church, and baptized twenty-six persons. 
 
 Within two years, the membership had increased to over 300, and 
 the church debt was paid. They then arranged to buy out the ground, 
 which has since been nearly accomplished. The Church has flourished 
 remarkably, and now numbers 700 members. They find it necessary 
 to build a larger house, and are now preparing to undertake the task. 
 
 The Sunday school of this Church has always been a prominent fea- 
 ture, and is one of the most orderly in the city. Mr. Lawson has gen- 
 erally conducted it. Both the Church and school owe much of their 
 success to Mrs. Lawson, and to brethren Leander Jones, John L Lane, 
 J. L. Mathews and S. W. Washington. 
 
 The Church started a mission in Whatcoat street, in 1881, which 
 has since developed into the Patterson Avenue Church. 
 
 1875. 
 
 FIRST COLORED BAPT. CHURCH, FREDERICK. 
 
 This interest was organized in 1875, through the effort of various 
 brethren. Kev. J. W. Roane was reported as pastor in 1876, with thirty 
 members. Rev. W. B. .Johnson was pastor, 1879-81 ; Rev. W. R. Bur- 
 rill, 1881-3. Many conversions have been reported, but the members 
 at present number only forty. They have a Sunday school of ninety 
 children, and occupy theold meeting house built by the white Baptist 
 Church of Frederick, many years ago, of which Rev. Jos. H- Jones was- 
 pastor, and which has become extinct. 
 
186 JMaryland Baptist History. 
 
 1875- 
 
 EAST NEV/ MARKET BAPT. CHURCH. 
 
 In 1868, thirteen Baptists, living in the neighborhood of "Cabin 
 Creek," Dorchester county, members of tlie Vienna Churcli, fourteen 
 miles distant, prompted by a desire for a more convenient place of pub- 
 lic worship, erected in their vicinity a plain wooden tent or tabernacle, 
 to hold about a hundred and twenty-five persons, A Sunday school 
 was organized, and a prayer meeting established ; and these services 
 were maintained regularly, except in the winter, when the weather Avas 
 too cold to meet in an unplastered house. Preaching was had occasion- 
 ally. In 1872, Rev. N. C. Naylor, pastor of the Vienna Church, was 
 appointed to preach frequently at Cabin Creek, which he did, to the 
 good of the field, for a time, until he removed to Delaware. In August, 
 1883, Eev. P. T. Warren was appointed to that ground, and labored 
 faithfully to improve the prospect. In 1874, he held a series of 
 services in the little meeting house for four weeks, preaching and visit- 
 ing, unceasingly, which resulted in twenty-four conversions. Some of 
 the converts joined other Churches, but eighteen were baptized by Bro. 
 Warren into the fellowship of the Vienna Church, with a view of soon 
 organizing a new Church among themselves. 
 
 On April 18, 1875, these, with the older members, having obtained 
 letters of dismission, met for that purpose. Kevs. Jas. Nelson and P. 
 T. Warren, aided by a committee from the Vienna Church, organized 
 the body with thirty-one members. Among the most active of these, 
 we name B, Millard and wife, Samuel L. Webster and wife, and Frank 
 Loomis and wife. Bro. Warren was elected pastor. 
 
 A movement was now made to build a suitable meeting house in place 
 of the temporary shed, which had become unsaited. A building com- 
 mittee was appointed to collect money and materials, subscribing first 
 nearly |300 themselves. The subscriptions soon reached $500. A lot 
 was bought and a house erected, 24 by 36 feet, with a baptistery. Al- 
 though not finished in the interior, it was occupied, in the following 
 fall. 
 
 Bro. Warren resigned the charge in November, 1875, and was suc- 
 ceeded by Rev. L. P. Judson, of N. Y., in April, 1876, who resigned in 
 five months, for lack of pecuniary support. For two years, the Church 
 was without preaching. 
 
 In 1878, Rev. C. W. Teasdale took charge, and the house was com- 
 pleted, and dedicated in October, of that year, at a total cost of about 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 187 
 
 $700. There were then fifty-three members. Bro. Teasdale resigned 
 in June, 1879. Serious dissensions prevailed among the members, and 
 for along time the house was closed. 
 
 In 1882, Rev. G. V. Board, our missionary at Vienna, made an earnest 
 effort to gather the scattered members. Regular worship and Sunday 
 school teaching were renewed. In 1883, Rev. John B. English, State 
 Evangelist, made a special effort at Cabin Creek, and after protracted 
 services, the Church renewed its vows, and a healthier condition was 
 promoted, with, however, a greatly reduced membership. It was now 
 deemed advisable to dispose of the meeting house to another denomi- 
 nation, and build another in the town of East New Market. The new 
 building is under way. Rev. F. R. Underwood, of N. C, our present 
 missionary on the Eastern Shore, has the Church in charge. Members 
 at this time about twenty. 
 
 EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH, CUMBERLAND. 
 
 The Ebenezer Church at Cumberland was organized in 1875, by 
 Rev. Lewis Hicks, with the aid and advice of Rev. H. J. Chandler. 
 The constituents numbered sixteen, who raised $250 the first year, for 
 expenses. Bro. Hicks labored hard to build a meeting house, which 
 he succeeded in doing in 1876, at a cost of $1,200; but he could not 
 collect over $700 toward it, and he left Cumberland in 1879, very much 
 dejected. The Church however was permitted to occupy the building. 
 
 Rev. Jacob Robinson acted as pastor for two years, the Church being 
 very feeble. In 1882, Rev. L. H. Jackson succeeded him, and remained 
 in charge until April, 1885. In 1883, the Church borrowed $500 from 
 the Building Loan Fund, to aid them in paying the balance due on the 
 house. The members at present number thirty-four. 
 
1 88 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1878. 
 
 CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALT IMORE . 
 
 The Calvary Baptist Church was organized and recognized on Feb- 
 ruary 9, 1878, by a council of delegates from the "Baptist Churches of 
 Baltimore, Rev. A. J. Hires acting as moderator, and Mr. F. AV. King 
 secretary. The members were few in number, and had come fro^i 
 the Union Church. For several years, they had been holding meet- 
 ings, on Oxford street first, and afterwards in an old carpenter shop 
 on the corner of Preston street and Mason alley, where this organization 
 took place. Twelve members constituted the new body. In June, 
 1879, they called as pastor, Eev. P. H. A. Braxton, of Richmond, Va., 
 who was then General Agent for the U. S. Missionary Baptist Con- 
 vention. 
 
 His efforts were repaid by the immediate growth of the Church. 
 In two years it increased to one hundred and twenty-five members, and 
 sustained itself without appealing to the other Churches. They now 
 rented a hall on the corner of Linden Avenue and Hoffman streets, 
 which they fitted up and occupied for about a year. 
 
 In 1883, the pastor and Church leased an admirably located lot, on 
 the corner of Park Avenue and Biddle street, and in a few months 
 collected $1,500 toward erecting upon it a house of worship, besides 
 paying from $40 to $90 per month for current expenses. In 1883, 
 they laid the corner stone of a building, which was completed and ded- 
 icated in March, 1885. It is one of the most picturesque and attract- 
 ive churches occupied byany colored congregation in Baltimore. Being 
 located at the junction of three streets, it occupies a prominent and ac- 
 cessible position. It is built of stone, trimmed with dark red brick, 
 and is roofed with slate. At the most prominent angle is a tower of 
 stone twelve feet square, surmounted by an open belfry and spire, the 
 whole being seventy-two feet from the ground to the top of the finial. 
 Three wide doorways, opening on different streets, enable a crowd to 
 vacate the house in three minutes, if necessary. The audience room is 
 fifty by eighty-two feet, with an open timbered roof, frescoed walls, and 
 seats for a thousand persons. The floors are carpeted, the windows 
 are of stained glass, and the baptistery, dressing rooms and pastor's 
 study, are all convenient. The architects were J. A. and W. T. Wil- 
 son. The total cost Avas about $10,000, most of which has been col- 
 

 CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH 
 
 B ^ LTIMORE. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 189 
 
 lected and paid, through the exertions of the pastor and the Church, 
 wlio desire it to be recorded that among the contributions were $500 
 each from Dr. G. K. Tyler and Cliarles Tyler, and $100 from Dr. F. 
 Wilson. 
 
 During the erection of the church, the members held their meetings 
 ill a frame structure adjoining, made for the purpose. 
 
 There are now two hundred members. 
 
 1878. 
 
 FIRST COLORED BAPT. CHURCH, ROCKVILLE. 
 
 The First Colored Baptist Church of Kockville was constituted in 
 1878, by Eev. S. J. R. Xelsou, a graduate of Howard University. He 
 taught school and preached as he was able. Eev. Mr. Blackwell was 
 pastor in 1883. Bro. Nelson served in 1884. Rev. J. M. Williams is 
 pastor at present. Membership twenty-four. 
 
 1879. 
 
 FIRST COLORED BAPT. CHURCH. ANNAPOLIS. 
 
 Several attempts have been made to establish both white and col- 
 ored Baptist Churches in Annapolis, but all have failed. In 18T9, the 
 scattered members of a disbanded Church which had been fostered by 
 our Association, were in part regathered, and organized under charge 
 of Rev. A. D. G. Raddick. They entitle themselves as above, and have 
 thus far cohered. For two years our Board paid the rent of a school 
 house where they meet. The Baptist State Convention has purchased 
 a lot, and proposes to build a church for them at an early day. 
 
IQO 
 
 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 [Fuller Memorial Baptist Church.] 
 1880. 
 
 FULLER MEMORIAL BAPT. CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 In 1874, the Young Men's City Mission Society of the Eutaw Phice 
 Baptist Church decided on making an effort to establish an interest in 
 the further north-western part of the city, and to that end rented Sew- 
 ell's Hall, cor. Pennsylvania and Patterson avenues, and organized a 
 Sunday school therein, on Sunday afternoon, June 7, 1874, with a total 
 attendance of fifty-five persons. A small Sunday school, which had 
 been previously conducted by Bro. Daniel G. Stevens, in a room on the 
 corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Fremont street, joined with the new 
 school at the time. Bro. Wm. H. Ryan acted as superintendent for a 
 few months. Bro. James R. Edmunds was his assistant; Bro. J. L. 
 Hutchens was secretary, and Bro. Leonard Levering treasurer. Bro. 
 Edmunds shortly succeeded as superintendent, and has filled the posi- 
 tion to the present time. 
 
 The following persons were connected with the school during the 
 first year as teachers or officers : Henry S. Kendall, B. B. Warren, 
 John Brittain, Miss Josephine M. Edmunds, Miss Emma Simmont, 
 Miss Hattie King, Miss Maria E. Kendall, Mrs. S. E. Frush, (all of 
 whom were present at the founding of the school ;) Miss Kate Warren, 
 Miss Harriet C. Edmunds, DeLeon Whilden, D. C. Chapman, Hiram 
 Woods, jr., Wm. A. Zimmerman. Miss Augusta Farmer had charge 
 of the first infant class. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. igi 
 
 After more than two years of faithful work with small numbers, the 
 school began to increase rapidly, and larger premises became necessary. 
 Meantime, frequent public prayer meetings were held in the hall. 
 
 Subscriptions were secured to. build a chapel, and in 1877, a lot 
 was leased on the corner of Patterson Avenue and Calhoun st., and the 
 following committee appointed, to erect a house, at a cost of $3,000, 
 to be entitled "The Fuller Memorial," in commemoration of their late 
 pastor, Kev. Richard Fuller, D. D. Committee: Eugene Levering, J. 
 R. Edmunds, D. 0. Chapman, W. M. Mentzell and H. S, Kendall. 
 
 Mr. A. S. Potter was engaged to build a house, which was completed 
 on June 30,1877. 
 
 The mission school, which had borne the title "Olivet," was removed 
 to the new building the next day, Sunday July 1, and became the Fuller 
 Memorial School. It numbered about 150 teachers and scholars. 
 
 In October, weekly preaching services were begun, Drs. Bitting and 
 Williams, and other ministers officiating. There resulted several con- 
 versions. During 1878 and 1879, Rev. Dr. F. Wilson preached regularly 
 on the Sabbath for several months. The Society then requested the 
 Executive Board to appoint a missionary to this field, which was agreed 
 to. Rev. J, F. Rapson, of JST. Y., was engaged at a salary of $1,000 a 
 year, $400 to be paid by the Mission. The effort was inaugurated by 
 a meeting at Eutaw Place Church, in October, 1879, at which addresses 
 were made by Rev. Dr. F. H. Kerfoot, and others. Bro. Rapson began 
 preaching in the chapel, October 13, to a congregation of eighty-five 
 persons. In the following April, Rev. J. B. English assisted him in 
 holding special services, at which fifteen persons professed conversion. 
 On July 1, 1880, nineteen members of Eutaw Place Church and two 
 of the First Church, having obtained letters, met and organized a new 
 body, under the title of "Fuller Memorial Baptist Church." At a sub- 
 sequent meeting, they elected as deacons, Jas. G.Floyd, H. D. Mentzell, 
 John Brittain ; treasurer, Wm. M. Mentzell ; and clerk, Henry S. Ken- 
 dall. They also called Mr. Rapson as their regular pastor. The mem- 
 bers soon increased to forty. The Sunday school, which was held in 
 the afternoon, had already numbered over 300 scholars. A Sunday 
 morning school was then organized, which is now under the superin- 
 tendence of Bro. H. S. Kendall. In February, 1882, Bro. Rapson re- 
 signed, to go to another State. 
 
 The Church remained without a pastor, until October, 1882, when 
 Rev. J. Henry Brittain, of Moorestown,]S[. J., was invited to this impor- 
 tant field. He was warmly welcomed back to Baltimore, having been 
 baptized by Dr. Fuller, and entered the ministry from the Seventh 
 Church. He began at once to build up the Church, then numbering 
 fifty-three names, preaching faithfully, visiting largely, and holding 
 special meetings. 
 
192 Maryland Baptist Histoi y. 
 
 It became {ippareni, liowever, that a move commodious house must be 
 directed, if the Baptist cause was to be materially strengthened, and 
 proper provision made for the afternoon Sunday school, which had now 
 outgrown the chapel. The matter was considered carefully by the 
 Church Extension Society, with a view to the future needs of the field, 
 and it was resolved, by a union effort, to build a new and larger edifice 
 for this Church. A lot was leased on the corner of Carey and Presstman 
 streets, two squares distant from their first location, and upon it has 
 been erected one of the most attractive of our Baptist churches. It is 
 built of red brick, with blue stone trimmings, in the Queen Anne style 
 of architecture. The interior arrangement is novel and convenient. 
 All the apartments are on the same floor, except the infant class, which 
 is elevated three feer. The church proper is separated from the Sunday 
 school room by a rich heavy curtain of raw silk, 34 by 24 feet, with a 
 large window of cathedral glass above it. When the curtain is raised 
 and the sliding doors pushed back, the entire building can be converted 
 into one large audience room, capable of seating a thousand people. 
 
 The baptistery is situated back of the superintendent's desk in the 
 Sunday school room. The entire length of the church is 109 feet, 
 with a variable width, averaging 65 feet. Architect, Wm. H. Marriott. 
 Builder, A. S. Potter. The cost of the building and its furnishing 
 was $18,000, which amount was raised among the Baptists of Baltimore, 
 many individuals giving generously. 
 
 The Church held its last services in the Chapel on October 5, 1884. 
 Since then that building has been occupied by the recently organized 
 Patterson Avenue Colored Baptist Church. 
 
 On October 13, 1884, the new edifice was dedicated, Rev. J. Henry 
 Brittain preaching the opening sermon, in the morning, from John iv: 
 18, on Christian Worship. Kev. Dr. Franklin Wilson off'ered a dedi- 
 catory prayer. In the afternoon, the Church Extension Society held a 
 mass meeting. Eugene Levering presided. Eev. J. L. Burrows, D. D., 
 of Va., and Rev. A. C. Dixon, of Immanuel Church, made addresses. 
 At night, a sermon was preached by Rev. A. J. Rowland, of Franklin 
 Square Church. 
 
 The opening of this new temple was followed by a series of meetings, 
 in which the pastor was assisted by Rev. H. M. Wharton. 
 
 Recent accessions to the Church have increased the membership to 
 one hundred and eighty, and the prospect is for a prosperous future. 
 
 The Sunday afternoon school, which was the beginning of this in- 
 terest, has now a membership of 688 ; the morning school, established 
 more recently, is also increasing, and the Church is thus obtaining a 
 great vantage ground for future growth. 
 
 The present deacons are John Brittain, H. S. Kendall, J. A. Evans 
 and James Gessford, jr. Clerk, Clarence Hampson. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 193 
 
 1880. 
 ZION COLORED BAPTIST CHURCH, HILL TOP. 
 
 The Zion Baptist Church was organized at Hill Top, Charles county, 
 in 1880, by Eev. S. J. E. Nelson. The Church now numbers about 
 one hundred members, Avho have built a meeting house, at a cost of 
 $300, which seats two hundred persons. 
 
 1880. 
 
 MT. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 Mt. Ziox Church is located about ten miles from Washington City, 
 in the southern part of ■Montgomery county. It originated in mission 
 work under the preaching of Kev. J. S. Teasdale, and was organized in 
 December, 1880, with twelve members. A revival during the ensuing 
 year increased the membership sixteen by letter and sixteen by baptism. 
 A Sunday school was established, with fifty children. In 1882, eight 
 converts were added to the Church, and a meeting house was erected at 
 a cost of $1,500. The pastor, Bro. Teasdale, resigned charge in 1883, 
 to enter Crozer Seminary. 
 
 In December, 1883, Rev. C. W. Teasdale took charge. He reports 
 several conversions, and the present membership fifty-seven. 
 
 1881. 
 
 OAK GROVE COLORED BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 The Oak Grove Colored Baptist Church is located in Nanjemoy 
 district, near Port Tobacco, Charles county. It was organized in 1881, 
 by Rev. S. J. E. Nelson. They have a frame chapel, costing $600. The 
 members number one hundred and thirty. 
 
1 94 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 iSSi. 
 PERKINS' SQUARE BAPT. CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
 Ix 1880, the Wavmaii African Methodist Episcopal Church was in 
 occupancy of the church building on the corner of George st. and Clin- 
 ton Avenue. In September of that year, the pastor of the Church, 
 Rev. F. R. Williams, and about twenty of its members, were baptized 
 by Rev. Harvey Johnson, into the fellowship of the Union Baptist 
 Church. This disbanded the Wayman Church, and the house was oc- 
 cupied as a Baptist mission. On July 22, 1881, twenty-seven members 
 of the Union Church, including Bro. Williams and his former flock, 
 and several who had been carrying on a mission on Smith street, with- 
 drew by letter and organized the Perkins Square Baptist Church. 
 
 They immediately purchased the building in which they had been 
 meeting, for $4,300, paying $500 at once, and called Mr. Williams as 
 pastor. The first year of this movement was marked with evidences of 
 its wisdom. There were one hundred and sixty additions by baptism, 
 and the Church raised by various means about $1,300. The pastor 
 and members of the Union Church generously aided them, as they have 
 frequently done since in all their struggles, both by direct contribution 
 and through fairs. 
 
 In 1882, they repaired their house at a cost of $700. In 1883, they 
 paid $2,000 on their debt, and increased their roll to 470 members. In 
 1884, they remodeled their house, adding improvements and beautifying 
 it, at a cost of $1,100. At the present writing, the pastor reports the 
 debt on the building entirely paid, and the membership 600. 
 
 The growth of this Church has been remarkable. We trust it may 
 grow strong for good in proportion to its numbers, and thus become a 
 great blessing to the community. The deacons are, Jones Watkins, 
 Julius Turner, Thos. Randall, Samuel Moody. Clerk, J. H. Hughes. 
 
 A large Sunday school is attached to this Church. A branch mission 
 has been established at Waverlv. 
 
Maryland B a t)tist History. 195 
 
 1881. 
 FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, CAMBRIDGE. 
 
 This Church is the outgrowth of efforts made by several of our mis- 
 sionaries from time to time. In 1881, Rev. G. Vincent Board visited 
 Cambridge, and secured the cooperation of a number of Baptists living 
 there, in the endeavor to found a Church. Through their liberality a 
 hall was rented, and preaching established. The congregations being 
 small, it was deemed necessary for success to organize a Church and 
 build an attractive house of worship in a suitable location. Accord- 
 ingly, Rev. J. B. English, our State evangelist, who was aiding Bro. 
 Board in holding special meetings, constituted a Church in that town, 
 with fourteen members, on Dec. 18, 1881. The members promptly 
 secured an eligible lot and began raising contributions toward building. 
 
 Bro. Board solicited aid, during a journey northward, but his health 
 failing rapidly, he was obliged to retire altogether from the work. 
 
 About $1,500 was obtained during 1883, chiefly in Baltimore, with 
 the aid of Rev. J. B. English and Dr. Wilson ; and thus encouraged, the 
 Church contracted for the erection of a commodious frame building 
 to cost about $2,500. The corner stone was laid by Rev. Dr. F. Wilson 
 on July 23, 1884. 
 
 A delegation of Baptists was present from Baltimore. Addresses 
 were delivered by Rev. .T. B. English, Rev. H. M. Wharton and Rev. A- 
 C. Dixon. Rev. F. R. Underwood, who had recently assumed charge 
 of the Church, under the appointment of our Board, made a statement 
 of the work on hand, and assisted in laying the stone. 
 The sum of $768.92 was then contributed by the audience toward the 
 cost of the church. Brethren E. N. Clark, B. B. Hearn and F. H. 
 Townsend were appointed the building committee. 
 
 The house, which will hold four hundred people, is an ornament to 
 that part of the town. It was publicly dedicated Nov. 2, 1884, and a 
 series of meetings was held in it immediately afterward, by Rev. H. M. 
 Wharton, which resulted in blessed fruits. Overflowing congregations 
 attended and twelve persons were added by baptism. The Church has 
 about thirty members. There is reason to hope, with such a starting, 
 that they may increase and become influential for great good. As is 
 the case with all earnest Churches, they have a Sunday school. 
 
 The recent death of Bro. F. H. Townsend is felt as a great loss to 
 the cause. 
 
196 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1882. 
 IMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 For some years, the lieaits and minds of certain members of the 
 Baptist Churches of Baltimore had been turned toward the rapidly- 
 growing northern section of the city, and the necessity for a Church of 
 our denomination in that neighborhood became more urgent as the 
 population increased, and opportunities to work for the Master grew 
 more abundant. On November 7, 1880, an afternoon Sunday school 
 was organized, with Joshua Levering as superintendent, which met in 
 Cowman's Hall, at the corner of Boundary and Maryland Avenues. 
 The officers and teachers were mostly members of Eutaw Place Church, 
 with a number of earnest and devoted workers from the First, Seventh 
 and High St. Churches. The scholars were, in the main, children of 
 parents worshiping in the above-named churches, vvith some few resi- 
 dents of the neighborhood, brought in by the ladies of the school. 
 
 As the ground was already occupied by our brethren of the Episcopal, 
 Presbyterian and Methodist Churches, it was scarcely to be expected 
 that any very marked success would crown their labors as a mission 
 school, in the midst of a population far above the average in intelli- 
 gence, respectability and wealth. It became more and more evident, 
 that to establish themselves firmly in that neighborhood, a suitable 
 house of worship was indispensable. 
 
 A few individuals had already secured to the Baptist denomination 
 a very eligible and valuable lot, fronting ninety feet on Boundary Av- 
 enue by one hundred and fifty-three feet on St. Paul street, which they 
 stood ready to turn over at cost, as soon as the funds necessary to its 
 purchase and the erection of a building should be obtained. Chiefly 
 through the liberality of a few persons, among whom may be mentioned 
 particularly George 0. Manning, Henry Taylor, Wm. P. Harvey and E. 
 Levering & Co., a sum approximating $27,000 was subscribed. A num- 
 ber of liberal offerings were made by other members of different 
 Churches, and some by friends not members, a list of whose names is 
 preserved in the records of Immanuel Church. 
 
 At a meeting held in Cowman's Hall, March 19, 1882, the following 
 building committee was chosen : Hiram Woods, chairman, Joshua 
 Levering, treasurer, George 0. Manning, Wm. P. Harvey and Andrew 
 J. Lowndes. To the discretion of this committee, the subscribers and 
 
Maiy land Baptist History. 197 
 
 friends of the enterprise intrusted all questions iis to plans, proposals, 
 contracts, material and cost. The committee immediately addressed 
 itself to the task of erecting as speedily as practicable, a building which 
 should be at once an ornament to the neighborhood, a credit to the 
 Baptists of Baltimore, and appropriate to the worship of Almighty God. 
 
 The committee selected a plan submitted by William H. Marriott, 
 Architect, which provided, for the present, a chapel only, to be erected 
 on the rear of the lot, and facing St. Paul street, to be built of Balti- 
 more County white marble. 
 
 Work on the chapel was begun at once, and the committee and Mr. 
 Marriott, who personally supervised the entire construction of the 
 building, were assiduous and unremitting in their labors, until its 
 completion in the following December. The erection of the church is 
 a problem of the future. The chapel is a handsome, comfortable and 
 commodious building, seating about five hundred persons, and most 
 admirably adapted to the present requirements of the congregation. 
 Mr. Marriott gave the plans and his services as a contribution to the 
 Church. The corner stone was laid June 20, 1882, And the chapel 
 was occupied on Sunday, December 10. 
 
 In the meantime, steps had been taken, looking to the organization 
 of a Church. On October 10, 1882, a meeting was held in the lecture 
 room of the Eutaw Place Baptist Church, then under the pastoral 
 charge of Rev. F. H. Kerfoot, D. D., and fifty-three persons, mostly 
 members of that body, constituted the "Immanuel Baptist Church." 
 They had previously informally called Rev. A. C. Dixon, of Asheville, 
 N. C, to undertake the charge of the proposed work, and now elected 
 him pastor. The leadings of Providence appeared unmistakable to 
 both the new Church and Bro. Dixon, and he accepted the call. The 
 following officers were then elected : Deacons, Wm. Bayne, George 0. 
 Manning, C. Powell Grady, William Martien. Treasurer, Andrew J. 
 Lowndes. Clerk, Wm. H. Marriott. Trustees, Wm. P. Harvey, G. 0. 
 Manning, John Cassard, Chas. T. Crane, Fred. A. Levering, Jefferson 
 Schultz, Wm. Bayne, jr. 
 
 The growth of Immanuel Church, while not rapid, has been steady 
 and encouraging. In a little over two years, the membership has in- 
 creased from fifty-three to one hundred and fifty-five. A more united 
 and harmonious body would be difficult to find. The attendance upon 
 all the services is large and constantly increasing. The seats are free, 
 and the expenses are paid by regular voluntary contributions. 
 
 The growth of the Sunday school has been most gratifying since its 
 removal from Cowman's Hall to the chapel. From forty-five scholars, 
 in December, 1882, it has increased to two hundred and fifty-eight, in 
 
198 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 April, 1885. As many of the members of the afternoon Sunday school 
 did not unite with Immanuel Church, it became necessary to reorgan- 
 ize as a new body. This was done, December 7, 1885, and the time of 
 meeting changed to the morning. The officers are, Henry K. Crane, 
 superintendent; W. C. Lowndes, secretary; L. P. Bayne, jr., treasurer; 
 Jefferson Schultz, librarian. 
 
 1883. 
 FULTON AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 As an illustration of the growth of mission work, however humble, 
 when prosecuted faithfully, we present a few details of the origin of 
 the above Church, from a sketch prepared by Bro. Frank S. Biggs, and 
 published in the "Baltimore Baptist" in 1883. 
 
 In 1875, the Young Men's City Mission Society of Franklin Square 
 Baptist Church, sought a neglected field in which to open an afternoon 
 Sunday school. Mr. and Mrs. Thos.E.Cleason, recent converts from 
 the Catholic faith, and members of the above Church, were deeply in- 
 terested, and offered the use of their house, an old frame building, for- 
 merly an inn, on Columbia Avenue, near Carey street. At that period, 
 there were few houses in the neighborhood, but Mrs. Gieason gathered 
 in some thirty children, and during the summer, a Sunday school was 
 conducted by Bro. J. F. Weishampel, jr., president of the Society. 
 Weekly prayer meetings were also held in the same place. 
 
 On November 7, the interest had increased, and was formally organ- 
 ized by the selection of the following officers: Superintendent, Thos. 
 E. Gieason ; assistant, Frank S. Biggs : treasurer, Francis A. Mitchell ; 
 secretary, Walter S. Biggs. The following served as teachers: John 
 Holyland, Eichard J. Biggs, Dr. J. G. Wiltshire, G. M. Boteler, Manly 
 Barnes, Mrs. Gieason, Mrs. Mildred Bilson, Mrs. Dunkerly, Misses A. 
 Arthur, Katie Bateman and Ella and Julia Donnahaw. The school 
 increased in numbers and usefulness, and within six months the con- 
 version of nine persons had resulted from its influences. 
 
 In the summer of 1876, their rooms being small, Bro. Mitchell pre- 
 sented a tent for the school to occupy, on an adjoining lot, and it was 
 floored and fitted up through the kindness of brethren G. G. Tyler, H. 
 C. Smyser and J. Frank Brown. Bro. Gieason removed to Wasliington 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 199 
 
 in 1876, but the rooms were still held. Bro. Alfred H. Miller acted as 
 superintendent, for a short time, and was succeeded by Bro. James E. 
 Tyler. Bro. Walter Biggs having deceased, Bro..Chas. S. Norris became 
 secretary. 
 
 In 1877, the City Mission Society dissolved, and a new one was or- 
 ganized, under the title of Young Men's Missionary Society of Franklin 
 Square Baptist Church. Brethren John Holyland and J. H. Tyler 
 served as president, for three years each. This Society now carried 
 forward the school as a part of their mission work, besides visiting and 
 holding many cottage prayer meetings. 
 
 But the time liad arrived for a change, and the school was removed 
 to a dwelling house on the corner of Pratt street and Addison alley. 
 Meantime, another school had been started in BowenHall, on Frederick 
 Avenue, near Mount street, by brethren George Gr. Tyler and J. Frank 
 Brown. This school agreed to unite with the Columbia Avenue Mis- 
 sion in the new location, under the title of "West End Mission." Offi- 
 cers were elected Nov. 4, 1877, Bro. James E. Tyler, one of the most 
 efficient of the workers, being made superintendent. The attendance 
 increased to an average of two hundred, although the house was very 
 inconvenient, and in summer weather extremely warm. But greatly 
 encouraged by the good being accomplished and conversions resulting 
 from their patient labors, the Society decided to raise means and build 
 a chapel, to meet the increasing needs of the school and serve as a per- 
 manent location for future work. In a few months, through the school 
 and by envelopes, lectures and entertainments, $660 were raised. 
 
 In 1879, the Society leased a lot sixty by ninety feet, on the northeast 
 corner of Fulton Avenue and Baltimore street, and employed Mr. H. 
 C. Smyser to build a substantial chapel on the rear of the ground, at a 
 cost of about $3,300, which sum was contributed by friends of the cause 
 and paid within six months. The house holds over three hundred 
 persons seated. It was dedicated and occupied July 11, 1880. From 
 that date the school increased, until it required the building of an 
 annex for the infant depart^ient. It has now, as always, a large corps 
 of faithful teachers, whose earnest instructions have led to the conver- 
 sion of a great many of the young people. Prayer meetings were also 
 held in the chapel, weekly. This continued about three years. 
 
 The chapel had been built with the expectation of organizing a new 
 Church at some future time, but no movement was made until August, 
 1883, when the names of fifty brethren and sisters were obtained who 
 agreed to unite at this location. A preliminary meeting was held 
 on Sunday afternoon, Sept. 9. Bro. J. F. Weishampel, jr., was called 
 to preside, and Bro. W. 0. Donnahaw acted as secretary. The propo- 
 sition was discussed favorably, and a committee appointed to report at 
 
200 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 an adjonrnecl meeting. On Wednesday evening, October 10, fifty-live 
 members of Franklin Square Church, dismissed for this purpose, and 
 having no motive but a more faithful service of their Master, united 
 as the Fulton Avenue Baptist Church. A manual was adopted and 
 the following officers elected: Deacons, J. F. Weishampel, jr., John 
 Holyland, Wm. B, Whiteside, Wm. J. Chapman, (treasurer,) and Jos. 
 H.Tyler. Clerk, W. 0. Donnahaw. Trustees: The above-named dea- 
 cons, Frank S. Biggs and F. A. Mitchell. 
 
 Recognition services were held on Sunday, October 21. Rev. Dr. J. 
 W. M. Williams, Rev. A. C. Dixon, Rev. H. M. Wharton, Rev. G. W. 
 McCuUough, Rev. J H. Brittain, and Rev. Dr. F. Wilson, participated. 
 In the same month the Church united with ihe Maryland Union Asso- 
 ciation, and the Board pledged its cooperation in support. of a pastor. 
 
 For five months, the Church held regular services and special meet- 
 ings, and entered into systematic active operation, without a pastor, se- 
 curing the aid of different ministers to preach on the Sabbath. It 
 assumed management of the mission field, and organized an additional 
 morning session of the Sunday school, which was placed in charge of 
 Bro. W. B.Whiteside; Bro. -James E. Tyler being induced to remain as 
 superintendent of the afternoon school by unanimous desire. During 
 this period twenty persons were received into fellowship by letter and 
 experience. 
 
 After much earnest prayer for divine guidance, the Church called 
 Rev. A. C. Barron, of Berryville, Va., who entered upon the pastorate 
 April 23, 1884. The union has been most happy. From that time to 
 the present, the Church has enjoyed the blessing of faithful preaching 
 and pastoral labor, harmonious activity among the members and the 
 presence of the Holy Spirit. Besides twenty additions by experience 
 and letter, fifty-four converts have been baptized. The present num- 
 ber of members is one hundred and forty-nine. 
 
 During the first year, the Chapel was remodeled, the walls frescoed, 
 a baptistery made, and an annex built on the side lot, at a total cost 
 of $1,000. The Franklin Square Church has greatly encouraged this 
 enterprise, not only by Christian kindness, but by the contribution of 
 several hundred dollars. An effort is now making to purchase the 
 ground, for which the Church is under a yearly rent of $240. Within 
 a short time $1,000 have been raised in cash and pledges among the 
 members. The future is hopeful, and the work already done there 
 commends the location to the liberality of the denomination at large. 
 
 Bro. Donnahaw having resigned, Bro. J. L. Hutchens was elected 
 clerk, Feb. 4, 1885. 
 
Mainland Babtist History. 201 
 
 HAGERSTOWN BAPTIST CHURCH. 
 
 Many years ago, the attention of the Board was called, at different 
 times, to the desirability of attempting a mission in Hagerstown, but 
 no movement was made. Of late, since the opening of the Western 
 Maryland Railroad through that place, and the rapid increase in its 
 business and population, the necessity for action became more apparent, 
 especially if we would carry out the policy of making the large towns 
 centres of evangelical effort. Hagerstown has a population of about ten 
 thousand, and is destined to become a considerable city. In 1881, it 
 was understood that a number of Baptists were living in and near the 
 town, and at the request of the Board, one of the Baltimore pastors 
 visited them to ascertain the probabilitv of their cooperation in the or- 
 ganization of a Church. We learn from the Keport of the Secretary, 
 that his advice was favorable, and that in November of the above year, 
 a committee, consisting of Revs. F. H. Kerfoot, W. S. Penick and H. 
 M. Wharton, was appointed to examine the field, hold a series of meet- 
 ings for preaching and evangelistic effort, and if practicable, organize 
 a Church. They fulfilled the service faithfully, and, in succession, 
 held meetings in a public hall for five weeks, during February and 
 March, 1882, at the end of which time a Baptist Church was constituted 
 with twenty-three members, mostly ladies. The hall in which the new 
 body met, being condemned as unsafe, they rented a more suitable one. 
 Rev. J. B. English, State Missionary, preached for a short time, and 
 effected the organization of a Sunday school. The Committee arranged 
 with Rev. Dr. J. L. Lodge and other ministers, to visit Hagerstown 
 regularly and supply the Church with preaching. 
 
 The pruning hand of discipline reduced theChurch somewhat in the 
 year following, but left it in a better condition. On April 1, 1884, 
 Rev. L. R. Steele of Va., took charge as resident missionary pastor. 
 He labored earnestly in visiting and preaching, and both the Church 
 and Sunday school grew in interest and numbers. Rev. H. M. Whar- 
 ton assisted the pastor in special meetings during September, which re- 
 sulted in nine baptisms. In November, with thirty-five members, 
 the Church was admitted into the Association. 
 
 In April and May, 1885, Rev. H. L. Quarles and Bro. S. R. Wright 
 kided the pastor in a series of meetings. Five persons were added to 
 the Church, three of them heads of families. An eligible lot has been 
 secured, and it is hoped that before long a house of worship may be 
 erected. 
 
202 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 1884. 
 RIVERSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH, BALTIMORE. 
 
 A NUMBER of active brethren and sisters of the Lee St. Church began 
 a mission Sunday school in a private dwelling on the corner of Hano- 
 ver and M'Cann streets, during 1882. Finding encouragement, they 
 proposed the building of a suitable chapel and the establishment of a 
 permanent mission for religious services. The Lee St. Church cheer- 
 fully undertook the project and contributed over a thousand dollars 
 for the erection of a frame chapel, on Kandall street, opposite William 
 street, holding about two hundred and fifty persons. A school was 
 established, which has been very useful and has now an average attend- 
 ance of the above number. 
 
 Eev. W. S. 0. Thomas, then assistant pastor of Lee St. Church, was 
 appointed by the Board to preach there, for several months in 1883-4. 
 Eev. J. G. Kedslie succeeded as missionary, for about two months. 
 
 In April, 1881, Bro. W. J. Nicoll took charge of the field, the pros- 
 pect of which became so hopeful as to encourage those working there 
 to organize a new Church. On October 18, 1884, thirty-three persons 
 from Lee St. Church, (including Rev. H. M. Wharton, who had pre- 
 viously entered evangelistic work,) and Bro. Nicoll, from Eutaw Place 
 Church, presented letters, and were constituted and recognized as the 
 Riverside Baptist Church. Bro. Nicoll was shortly ordained pastor, 
 the Board aiding in his support. The chapel has been improved with 
 a baptistery and in other respects. The congregations are large, and 
 the members of the Church have increased to ninety-one. The follow- 
 ing deacons were elected : G. H. Ball, Charles H. Driver, Chas. H. Red- 
 dish. Thos. McGee; clerk, Elijah B. Smith. Superintendents of the 
 Sunday school, C. H. Driver, J. J. Parker. 
 
 T -~.£<5*«&.*=5r'=5i.^- 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 203 
 
 1885. 
 
 PATTERSON AVENUE BAPTIST CHURCH, 
 BALTIMORE. 
 
 In" 1880, Rev. W. C. Lawson, pastor of the Macedonia Church, or- 
 ganized a Sunday school mission station on a vacant lot near Patterson 
 avenue and Whatcoat street. A few months later, he secured a frame 
 building on the same street, put it in repair, and settled the mission 
 there in charge of deacon Leander Jones. The interest flourished, and 
 several persons were converted and added to the Macedonia Church. 
 
 When the Fuller Memorial Churcii vacated their chapel, on the cor- 
 ner of Patterson avenue and Calhoun street, to occupy their new house 
 two squares distant, Mr. Eugene Levering, president of the Church 
 Extension Society suggested to Rev. W. M. Alexander, State Missionary, 
 the propriety of securing that chapel for the colored people. 
 
 Bro. Alexander having canvassed the field, and believing this to be a 
 fine opporiunity to plant a Church, laid tiie suggestion before the col- 
 ored pastors of the city and the Committee (of the Board) on Colored 
 Churches. After securing their ap})rov;il, he succeeded in arranging 
 with the Whatcoat St. mission to agree to purchase the chapel for the 
 sum of $2,500 on easy terms, being little more than half its cost. The 
 Church Extension Society ratified this arrangement, and the mission 
 removed to the chapel on the first Sunday in December, 1884. 
 
 Among those present, and who took part in the exercises, were breth- 
 ren F. W. King, Chas. A. Keyser, Christopher West, E. Levering, Geo. 
 G. Tyler, and Rev. H. M. Wliarton. 
 
 By request of the mission and instruction of the Board, Rev. W. M. 
 Alexander took charge of the mission, and held a series of meetings 
 which resulted in the conversion of fifteen persons, and in gathering a 
 number of Baptists who had come from Virginia, and had not yet con- 
 nected themselves with a city Church. Tliis led to the necessity of 
 organizing a new Church, and nine members of the Macedonia Church 
 drew their letters for that purpose. These met on Thursday evening, 
 Jan. 28, 1885. Bro. F. W. King was invited to act as chairm in, and 
 Rev. W M. Alexander secretary. The Patterson Ave. Baptist Church 
 was then constituted, adopting the Word of God as its rule of faith and 
 practice, and Pendleton's Manual for government. A council of sister 
 Churches met on February 5, with Rev. A. J. Row hind as moderator, 
 and Rev. J. H. Brittam as secretary, which approved the new society. 
 Recognition services were held on February 15, participated in by Rev. 
 Harvey Johnson, Rev. J. H. Brittain and Rev. Dr. Rowhuul. 
 
204 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 Since then theUhurch has i)icreased to forty members. The Sunday 
 school has as yet only about the same number. Besides the current 
 expenses, about |1,000 has been raised in contribution from friends to- 
 ward paying for the chapel. Bro. Alexander is in charge as pastor. 
 
 MEMORANDA. 
 
 The following Churches were formerly connected with the Maryland 
 Baptist Union, but in 1877, the necessity of more efficient work iu 
 Washington, led to their withdrawal and the organization of the "Col- 
 umbia Association :" Second, E Street, Calvary, Fifth and North 
 Baptist Churches of Washington and the Georgetown Church. 
 
 The following Churches were formerly in connection with our Asso- 
 ciation, but have mostly become extinct, some of them very shortly after 
 their organization. The date of their admission is prefixed; their 
 names were dropped from time to time, through failure to report. 
 
 1841, Madison St., (Mt. Zion.) 1842, Elkridge. 1843, Fifth Bal- 
 timore. 1846, Sixth Baltimore. 1848, Hanover. 1848, Wetipquin. 
 1848, Bethel. 1848, Timber Ridge. 1854, Frederick. 1857, Annap- 
 olis. 1859, Mt. Savage. 1866, Mt. Vernon. 1867, Muirkirk. 1870, 
 Providence. 1871, Barton. 1873, Gethsemane. 1875, Westminster. 
 
 The following Churches having been alluded to in the preceding 
 sketches, it is interesting to know a few facts concerning their career: 
 
 The Third Baptist Church was constituted in 1818, and met in the 
 house vacated by the First Church, on the corner of Front and Fayette 
 streets. It never was a strong body. Revs. James Osbourn and John 
 P. Peckworth were successive pastors. Mr. Osbourn published a work 
 on Predestination. There is a print in the Historical Society rooms, 
 representmg a baptism by Mr. Osbourn in Jones' Falls. The Church 
 gradually disappeared, about 1830. 
 
 The Ebenezer Baptist Church comprised a number of disaffected 
 members who left the First Church, in 1821, under the leadership of 
 Rev. E. J. Rels, a former pastor of that body. They built the "Calvert 
 street meeting house," where they worshiped for a few years. The 
 "Baltimore Association" met there in 1835. Not being able to pay in 
 full for the building, they removed to the "Bazar," on Harrison street, 
 and the meeting house was bought by Mr. Wm. Crane. The Ebenezer 
 Church adopted anti-missionary sentiments, and shortly after died out. 
 It never had over a hundred members. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 205 
 
 Y\\idMt. Zion, afterwards the Madison St. Chai-ch, was organized by 
 brethren Alexander Butcher, Win. Cook, Samuel Scribner, Sanvl Sands 
 and James Bannister, wlio came by letter from the above-named Eben- 
 ezer Church, and E. L. Ironmonger, from the First Church, Richmond, 
 Va. They were publicly recognized by a council, Feb. 8, 1830, in the 
 old Masonic Hall, Revs. John Healy, Edward Choate and Wm. Burkett 
 oflSciating. The Church subsequently worshiped in the Athen^um, 
 and in Hargrove chapel. In 1843, they erected a neat meeting house 
 on Madison street, corner of Plover alley, which they occupied for sev- 
 eral years. Their successive pastors were Revs. D. Davis, Fred. Clark, 
 W. Mathews, C. R. Hendrickson, Thos. Burkett, Robert Compton and 
 0. W. Briggs. In 1847, after a hard struggle to pay for their building, 
 the members were compelled to yield it up, to disembarrass themselves 
 of their heavy debt. The Mt. Zion Church then disbanded. 
 
 The Fifth Baptist Church was organized in 1843, with some nine 
 persons who had been carrying on a mission school on Hollins street, 
 near Oregon. Rev. J. A. McKean became pastor, and reported eighteen 
 members in 1844; when he left, to take charge of the Sixth Church. 
 In 1845, Rev. E. S. Dulin served for a short tipie. The brethren en- 
 gaged to purchase the chapel in which they met, for $1,300, but finding 
 themselves unable to raise more than half that amount, the effort was 
 abandoned and the Church ceased to exist in 1846. 
 
 The Sixth Baptist Church was constituted in 1844, of those members 
 of the Calvert St. Church who did not remove to the High St. Church, 
 and several others who came out of the Fifth Church. They numbered 
 about fifty persons. Rev. J. A. McKean became pastor, and in 1846, 
 reported ninety-three members. The newly organized Seventh Church 
 now purchased the meeting house,* and the Sixth Church removed to a 
 hall, where the membership shortly disbanded and sought a resting 
 place in the First, High St., and Seventh Churches. 
 
 *As an item of interest, we append the subscriptions made for this purchase, 
 from the original paper: A. R. Levering |350, Mary V. Levering $50, Hannah 
 Levering $200, Hannah M. Levering $50, Misses Hope $20, Jolin W. Ball $150, 
 E. Gibson $60, J. S. Lamar $10, A. W. Poulson $150, J. Lewis, jr. $50, John G. 
 Rous $350, F. A. Levering $100, Eugene Levering $125, J. W. Harvey $50, E. 
 Hubball $100, W. W. Lawrason $200, A. D. Kelly, jr., $550, W. H. Hale $50, D. 
 Chase $500, A. A. Chapman $550, J. Hahn $100, L. P. Bayne $300, S. Scribner 
 $500, C. D. SlingluflF $200, O.F.Winchester $100, J. W. Sweet $55, G. Irwin $100, 
 J. W. Mercer $60, Miss Peters $50, Geo. W. Norris $325, W. Crane & Son $600. 
 Total, with some interest, $6,000. After the Seventh Church built a new house, 
 the "Calvert St. meeting house" was sold to another denomination. 
 
2o6 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 BALTIMORE BAPTIST CHURCH EXTENSION 
 
 SOCIETY. 
 
 A BRIEF sketch of this society, so often alluded to in the preceding 
 History, seems desirable here. It originated in the Executive Board of 
 the Maryland Union Association, Nov. 21, 1853. Eev. F. Wilson and 
 Kev. Dr. Fuller were appointed to prepare a constitution, which was 
 adopted and the society fully organized, Jan. 3, 1854. Its.first president 
 was Alexander D. Kelly ; secretary, Franklin Wilson. Its first work 
 was the erection of the Franklin Square meeting house, dedicated in 
 November, 1855. Its next task was the purchase of St. Stephen's P. 
 E. chapel for the Lee St. Church, in 1855. Previous to this, a neat 
 brick chapel had been erected by the secretary, nominally under the 
 auspices of the society, on Chase street, opposite the centre of Madison 
 Square. It was dedicated July 9, 1851, and occupied for nearly ten 
 years by a mission and Sunday school of the High St. Church. In 
 1864, it was abandoned and sold for a small portion of its original cost. 
 Some good was accomplished, and the conversion of one young man 
 there, now Rev. J. W. T. Boothe, D. D., repaid for all the investment. 
 
 The society at first took the entire responsibility of erecting the 
 houses, invited Churches to occupy them after they were built, and gave 
 them a deed for the property when they became self-sustaining. This 
 was concluded to bean injurious policy, and it was afterwards decided 
 simply to aid Churches in the efforts they should themselves make to 
 build. Nothing more was done until 1872, when the society, acting 
 on this plan in a very limited degree, buili the Leadenhall St. house. 
 
 In 1880,- it aided the First Colored Church in their earnest struggle 
 to obtain a building. In 1884, it gave the Fuller Memorial Church 
 similar liberal aid in their new edifice. It is now considering other 
 localities. It has done good work, and much more is expected from it. 
 
 THE CHURCH BUILDING LOAN FUND. 
 
 This was originated in the Association in 1869. The object is to 
 secure an annual contribution, averaging ten cents from each member 
 of our Churches, to form a Fund, to be loaned to Churches needing 
 aid, to be repaid on very easy terms. The Fund has not increased as 
 rapidly as desii'ed, having reached only to $1,376.97; but it has accom- 
 plished much in saving several houses from sacrifice and purchasing 
 others at a small cost. It has assisted, more or less, the following 
 Churches: Bladensburg, Frostburg, Shiloh, Good Hope, Forest Hall, 
 Ebenezer, Bethany, Cambridge and Riverside. Most of the original 
 loans have been repaid, and the money used again on its mission of help. 
 
Maryland Baptist Histojy. 207 
 
 WIDOWS AND SUPERANNUATED MINISTERS' FUND. 
 This was originated as a "Widows' Fund" in 1840, and enlarged to 
 include "Superannuated Ministers," in 1848. It has annually distrib- 
 uted a handsome sum among those needing assistance; and now by 
 gifts and legacies amounts to $4,861.20. In 1884, this charity received 
 a noble gift of $1,000 from Bro. Christopher West. 
 
 PLAN FOR PREVENTING CHURCH DEBTS. 
 
 ADOPTED BY THE MD. UNION ASSOCIATION, 1878. 
 
 Resolved — That we recommend the Churches and brethren of this Asso- 
 ciation to refuse subscriptions to any church-building enterprise, until the 
 following conditions have been fully complied with : 
 
 1. That it shall be approved by the Executive Board, or by a council com- 
 posed of delegates of not less than five other Churches of this Association. 
 
 2. That the Board or council be requested to withhold approval, unless: 
 (^a.) The property shall first be deeded by a good and sufficient title ta 
 
 trustees worthy of confidence, all of whom shall be members of Baptist 
 Churches, who shall hold it in trust for a Baptist Church. 
 
 (b.) The elevation, ground plan and specifications of the proposed edifice 
 shall be submitted to said Board or council, with estimates of its entire cost, 
 carefully prepared by a reliable builder or builders. 
 
 (c.) A responsible Building Committee shall have been appointed with a 
 Chairman, who alone shall be empowered to make contracts authorized by 
 the Committee, and a Treasurer, who afcrae shall be authorized to receive 
 money, and to pay bills on the chairman's order ; and who shall be required 
 to enter in a suitable book all receipts, disbursements and accounts. 
 
 3. No subscriptions shall be payable until at least three -fourths of the esti- 
 mated cost shall have been subscribed ; and the work not to be commenced^ 
 or a contract of any kind be made, until said amount shall have been se- 
 cured in reliable subscriptions. 
 
ANNUAL RECORD OF THE MARYLAND 
 
 o a> 
 
 lb36 
 1837 
 1838 
 1839 
 1840 
 1841 
 
 1842 
 1848 
 1844 
 1845 
 1846 
 1847 
 1848 
 
 1849 
 1850 
 1851 
 1852 
 1853 
 1854 
 
 1855 
 1856 
 1857 
 1858 
 1850 
 1860 
 1861 
 1862 
 1863 
 1864 
 1865 
 1866 
 
 1867 
 
 1868 
 1869 
 1870 
 1871 
 
 With what 
 Chukch. 
 
 First, Baltimore. 
 Gunpowder. 
 Taney town. 
 Nanjeinoy. 
 Pikesville. 
 Second, Wash'n. 
 
 Hereford. 
 Calvert St , Bait. 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 First, Baltimore. 
 High St., Bait. 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 Seventh. Bait. 
 
 First, Baltimore. 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 High St., Bait. 
 Seventh, Bait. 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 First, Baltimore. 
 
 Second, Bait. 
 E.St., Wash'n. 
 Cumberland. 
 Seventh, Bait. 
 Newtown, 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 High St., Bait. 
 Franklin Sq. Bait 
 First, Baltimore. 
 Lee St., Bait. 
 Seventh, Bait. 
 Second, Bait. 
 
 Calvary, Wash'n. 
 High St., Bait. 
 First, Georgel'n. 
 First, Baltimore. 
 E. St., Wash'n. 
 
 Moderator. 
 
 James Wilson. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 
 G. F. Adams. 
 S. P.Hill. 
 J. Aldrich. 
 J. Aldrich. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 
 G. F. Adams. 
 Richard Fuller. 
 J. S. Bacon. 
 J. W.M.Williams, 
 A. D. Kelly 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 
 J.W.M.Williams 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 G. W. Samson. 
 FTanklin Wilson. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 
 Franklin Wilson. 
 H. Woods. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 
 1872 Franklin Sq.Balt.i A. F. Crane, 
 
 1873 Eutaw Pl.,Balt. W. T. Brantly. 
 
 1874 Fifth, Wash'n. 
 
 J. Pollard, Jr. 
 
 1875 High St., Bait, j J. Pollard, Jr. 
 
 1876 
 1877 
 ]878 
 1879 
 1880 
 1881 
 1882 
 1883 
 1884 
 
 Seventh, Bait. 
 Second , Bait. 
 Eutaw iPlace,Balt 
 Lee Street, Bait. 
 First, Bait. 
 Franklin Sq.Balt 
 High St., Bait. 
 Second, Bait. 
 Eutaw Place, Bait 
 
 J.Pollard, Jr. 
 O. F. Flippo. 
 C. C. Bitting. 
 C. C. Bitting. 
 C. C. Bitting. 
 E.CalvinWilliams 
 F. H. Kerfoot. 
 James Pollard. 
 James Pollard. 
 
 Preach EK op 
 Annual Sermon 
 
 S. P. Hill. 
 C.C Park. 
 S. P. Hill. 
 Wm. Smith. 
 C. D. Slingluff. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 G. W. Samson. 
 J. A. McKean. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 
 A. P. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 A. F. Crane. 
 
 A. F. 
 A F. 
 J. H. 
 A. F. 
 A. F. 
 A. F. 
 A. F. 
 A. F. 
 A, F. 
 A. P. 
 A. F. 
 A. F. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Phillips. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Crane. 
 
 Letters. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 S. P. Hill. 
 T. Leaman. 
 S. P. Hill. 
 G. F. Adams. 
 
 E. Kingsford. 
 R. Compton. 
 S. P. Hill. 
 J. S. Bacon. 
 G. W. Samson. 
 Richard Fuller. 
 J. S. Bacon. 
 
 G. W. Samson. 
 Franklin Wilson. 
 R. W. Cushman. 
 S. C. Boston. 
 J.W.M.Williams. 
 J. H. Philips. 
 
 Richard Fuller. 
 J. G. Binuey. 
 G. W. Samson. 
 D. Gumming. 
 Richard Fuller. 
 Franklin Wilson. 
 J. S. Kennard. 
 L Cole. 
 O.F. Flippo. 
 S. R. White. 
 G. P. Nice. 
 J. Berg. 
 
 A. F. Crane. J.W.M.Williams. 
 
 A. F. Crane. J. B. Hawthorne. 
 
 E. Calvin Williams.' R. B. Kelsay. 
 E.Calvin Williams.. Jos. E.Chambliss. 
 E. Calvin Williams J. W. Parker. 
 
 I 
 E. Calvin Williams., D. B. Jutten. 
 E.CalvinWilliams. J. Pollard, Jr. 
 
 E. Caivin Williams. L. D. Pauling. 
 
 E. Calvin Williams. G. W. Sanderlin. 
 
 Calvin Williams. 
 Calvin Williams.! 
 Calvin Williams. 
 Powell Grady. 
 Powell Grady. 
 Powell Grady. 
 Powell Grady. 
 Henry Brittain. 
 Henry Brittain. 
 
 C. C. Meador. 
 J. T. Craig. 
 C. C. Bitting. 
 H. J. Handy. 
 W. T. Brantly. 
 F. H. Kerfoot. 
 H. M. Wharton. 
 W. S. Penick. 
 A. C. Dixon. 
 
BAPTIST UNION ASSOCIATION, i 
 
 83(1 
 
 — I 
 
 884. 
 
 
 
 02 
 
 'T3 
 
 V.^ 
 
 73 
 
 1^ 
 
 '6 
 
 
 
 
 
 Churches Received. 
 
 CO 
 
 1 
 
 o 
 
 .2 
 
 
 O 
 
 CO (U 
 
 -a 
 
 t3 
 
 CO 
 
 *3 
 
 C3 <1J 
 
 
 *3 
 
 s 
 J 
 
 03 
 
 S^ 
 
 
 22 >> 
 
 
 
 X 
 
 2 
 
 03 
 
 o§ 
 
 
 i 
 
 6 
 
 CQ 
 
 x-° 
 
 P5 
 
 Q-° 
 
 W 
 
 W 
 
 Q 
 
 E- 
 
 
 4 
 
 478 
 
 Nanjemoy. 
 
 6 
 
 7 
 
 58 
 
 16 
 
 2 
 
 15 
 
 2 
 
 
 8 
 
 535 
 
 
 5 
 
 7 
 
 28 
 
 11 
 
 
 7 
 
 12 
 
 
 5 
 
 550 
 
 
 5 
 
 7 
 
 26 
 
 20 
 
 
 20 
 
 6 
 
 
 7 
 
 565 
 
 
 6 
 
 7 
 
 606 
 
 55 
 
 4 
 
 19 
 
 7 
 
 18 
 
 17 
 
 1*83 
 
 Good Hope, Madison St.* 
 
 8 
 
 10 
 
 285 
 
 38 
 
 1 
 
 21 
 
 7 
 
 
 16 
 
 1554 
 
 Hereford, First Col. Bait. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Elkridge,* E. st. Wasli'n.t 
 
 9 
 
 13 
 
 183 
 
 56 
 
 8 
 
 55 
 
 27 
 
 59 
 
 22 
 
 1690 
 
 Forest, Fifth Baltimore.* 
 
 11 
 
 15 
 
 256 
 
 109 
 
 6 
 
 166 
 
 32 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 18.50 
 
 
 10 
 
 15 
 
 86 
 
 75 
 
 3 
 
 63 
 
 31 
 
 33 
 
 29 
 
 1888 
 
 Seventh Baltimore. 
 
 13 
 
 16 
 
 77 
 
 77 
 
 4 
 
 201 
 
 .8 
 
 44 
 
 35 
 
 1755 
 
 Sixth Bait.,* Huntingdon. 
 
 11 
 
 17 
 
 83 
 
 98 
 
 5 
 
 73 
 
 43 
 
 96 
 
 21 
 
 1769 
 
 
 13 
 
 16 
 
 66 
 
 79 
 
 3 
 
 38 
 
 27 
 
 17 
 
 22 
 
 1802 
 
 Second Bait., Hanover.* 
 
 30 
 
 22 
 
 184 
 
 177 
 
 4 
 
 64 
 
 41 
 
 18 
 
 33 
 
 2021 
 
 Cumberland, Wetipquin.* 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Timber Ridge,* Bethel.* 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Second Col'd Baltimore.* 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Rockdale,* Rockville. 
 
 30 
 
 24 
 
 184 
 
 90 
 
 16 
 
 70 
 
 33 
 
 153 
 
 36 
 
 2024 
 
 Vienna, Sec. Col. Wash'n.J 
 
 17 
 
 26 
 
 95 
 
 51 
 
 2 
 
 57 
 
 26 
 
 35 
 
 35 
 
 2034 
 
 Eckhart, Union, Bait. 
 
 19 
 
 27 
 
 301 
 
 115 
 
 13 
 
 73 
 
 29 
 
 4 
 
 29 
 
 2342 
 
 
 35 
 
 28 
 
 249 
 
 63 
 
 14 
 
 . 55 
 
 51 
 
 33 
 
 31 
 
 2448 
 
 
 23 
 
 25 
 
 162 
 
 93 
 
 10 
 
 76 
 
 30 
 
 16 
 
 43 
 
 2527 
 
 Pocomoke City, Frederick.* 
 
 25 
 
 28 
 
 382 
 
 85 
 
 16 
 
 103 
 
 34 
 
 37 
 
 29 
 
 2808 
 
 Franklin Square, Bait. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Lee Street, Baltimore. 
 
 27 
 
 30 
 
 265 
 
 135 
 
 11 
 
 109 
 
 22 
 
 7 
 
 29 
 
 3149 
 
 Rehoboth, Pitt's Creek. 
 
 32 
 
 30 
 
 342 
 
 100 
 
 19 
 
 77 
 
 37 
 
 4 
 
 42 
 
 3291 
 
 Annapolis,* First Wash'n.J 
 
 28 
 
 32 
 
 559 
 
 123 
 
 7 
 
 158 
 
 41 
 
 36 
 
 45 
 
 3784 
 
 
 35 
 
 32 
 
 420 
 
 140 
 
 17 
 
 154 
 
 44 
 
 34 
 
 51 
 
 4154 
 
 Mt. Savage,* Salisbury. 
 
 80 
 
 34 
 
 . 198 
 265 
 
 121 
 
 16 
 
 204 
 
 75 
 
 55 
 
 41 
 
 4143 
 
 Germantown, Poolesville. 
 
 32 
 
 37 
 
 115 
 
 29 
 
 132 
 
 67 
 
 36 
 
 31 
 
 4274 
 
 German, Baltimore.* 
 
 26 
 
 34 
 
 368 
 
 167 
 
 24 
 
 121 
 
 52 
 
 127 
 
 39 
 
 4295 
 
 
 30 
 
 34 
 
 66 
 
 73 
 
 4 
 
 132 
 
 100 
 
 8 
 
 43 
 
 4015 
 
 
 33 
 
 34 
 
 150 
 
 163 
 
 13 
 
 63 
 
 55 
 
 14 
 
 67 
 
 4137 
 
 
 36 
 
 34 
 
 207 
 
 91 
 
 11 
 
 45 
 
 39 
 
 27 
 
 73 
 
 4315 
 
 First German, Bait., Sater's 
 
 23 
 
 35 
 
 315 
 
 119 
 
 20 
 
 105 
 
 37 
 
 25 
 
 57 
 
 4545 
 
 Calvary, Wash. tMt. Vernon* 
 
 37 
 
 39 
 
 405 
 
 173 
 
 44 
 
 193 
 
 91 
 
 42 
 
 85 
 
 4842 
 
 Georgetown.! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Muirkirk.* 
 
 35 
 
 38 
 
 482 
 
 194 
 
 49 
 
 170 
 
 141/ 
 
 62 
 
 62 
 
 5070 
 
 Mount Hope. 
 
 34 
 
 39 
 
 278 
 
 174 
 
 15 
 
 155 
 
 241 
 
 
 42 
 
 5124 
 
 Bladensburg, Rehob. Col.* 
 
 33 
 
 40 
 
 332 
 
 167 
 
 9 
 
 156 
 
 128 
 
 
 
 5324 
 
 Providence, Baltimore * 
 
 33 
 
 38 
 
 664 
 
 178 
 
 40 
 
 135 
 
 24 
 
 53 
 
 45 
 
 5544 
 
 Eutaw Place, Barton.* 
 
 33 
 
 43 
 
 343 
 
 456 
 
 30 
 
 866 
 
 100 
 
 
 91 
 
 5434 
 
 Cumberland. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Frostburg, Forest Hall. 
 
 37 
 
 45 
 
 335 
 
 213 
 
 21 
 
 123 
 
 134 
 
 
 94 
 
 5526 
 
 Leadenhall St.,Gethsemane* 
 
 37 
 
 49 
 
 746 
 
 397 
 
 33 
 
 213 
 
 61 
 
 
 71 
 
 6756 
 
 North Wash'n,t Longwood. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Annapolis. *Mt. Olivet.* 
 
 51 
 
 54 
 
 1085 
 
 364 
 
 67 
 
 334 
 
 373 
 
 
 78 
 
 7773 
 
 Macedonian, Mount Zion. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Westminister,* Fred'k. Col. 
 
 4G 
 
 CO 
 
 542 
 
 276 
 
 58 
 
 328 
 
 100 
 
 112 
 
 85 
 
 8659 
 
 Georgetown Col. J Eoenezer 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Cabin Creek,ThirdCol.W'nJ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 50 
 
 60 
 
 1031 
 
 411 
 
 98 
 
 80 
 
 379 
 
 
 97 
 
 10271 
 
 
 51 
 
 60 
 
 893 
 
 308 
 
 64 
 
 194 
 
 91 
 
 40 
 
 111 
 
 10716 
 
 
 38 
 
 54 
 
 531 
 
 376 
 
 102 
 
 143 
 
 252 
 
 
 88 
 
 9434 
 
 Annap. col, Rockv. c, Salisb. c. 
 
 38 
 
 54 
 
 865 
 
 347 
 
 104 
 
 179 
 
 275 
 
 
 124 
 
 9847 
 
 Fuller Memorial, Ualvary,Balt. 
 Mt. Zion, Oak Grove coi. 
 Perkins Sqr. ool. Zion, col. 
 
 43 
 43 
 
 45 
 45 
 
 393 
 690 
 
 301 
 230 
 
 65 
 
 72 
 
 165 
 193 
 
 135 
 295 
 
 
 96 
 186 
 
 8306 
 
 8755 
 
 Cambridge, Immanuel. 
 
 42 
 
 50 
 
 792 
 
 189 
 
 210 
 
 193 
 
 268 
 
 
 100 
 
 93.^3 
 
 Fulton Avenue, Baltimore. 
 
 30 
 
 52 
 
 684 
 
 252 
 
 192 
 
 268 
 
 257 
 
 
 485 
 
 9807 
 
 Riverside, Hagerstown. 
 
 50 
 
 54 
 
 605 
 
 275 
 
 315 
 
 232 
 
 182 
 
 
 109 
 
 10376 
 
 * Extinct, t Dismissed in 18T7, to form Columbia Association. ^Dismissed 1879. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 2 1 1 
 
 A PPEISTDIX. 
 
 AN EPOCH IN MARYLAND BAPTIST HISTORY. 
 
 The history of the Baptist denomination in Maryland is marked by 
 several epochs, from each of which it has progressed with increased im- 
 portance. One of these was in 1836, when the Maryland Union Asso- 
 ciation came out from among the old unevangelical Churches, and 
 declared for an aggressive missionary system. Another was in 1839, 
 when the great revival took place under the vigorous preaching of Elder 
 Jacob K'napp, who stirred the community like a John the Baptist, and 
 was the means of bringing into the Churches many of their most sterl- 
 ing members. The settlement of Richard Fuller with the Seventh 
 Church was another of the points, the building of the Eutaw Place 
 Church another. The "Centennial Thank Offering," the erection of 
 many church edifices, and the planning of a thorough and compre- 
 hensive policy for the establishment of Baptist principles in our midst, 
 are all the outgrowth of the foregoing noted periods. 
 
 It is interesting to recall the events of the past upon which so much 
 depended, but which are now dying out in the memory of our people, 
 with the lapse of a generation. Let us describe an episode which was 
 in its results one of the most important in our annals. 
 
 On the 28th of April, 1841, the General Baptist Convention of the 
 United States met in the "First Baptist Meeting House," on the corner 
 of Sharp and Lombard streets, Baltimore. It was a national assem- 
 blage of Baptists, and the last ever held in this city, for after the fol- 
 lowing meeting in 1844, the Southern delegates withdrew and organized 
 the present Southern Baptist Convention. 
 
 The First Church was then under charge of Rev. Stephen P. Hill ; 
 it had about four hundred and fifty members, and occupied the most 
 prominent place in the denomination in Baltimore. As already stated* 
 Elder Knapp had spent some time with this Church, a year or two 
 previous, and aroused it to unwonted activity. The other Churches 
 however, were few and weak ; and all told, the Baptists were in a great 
 minority, and not much regarded. 
 
 When the General Convention met here, delegates came from all 
 parts of the country, and the gathering attracted considerable attention. 
 There were celebrated names among them. Spencer H. Cone, the hon- 
 ored president for nine years, called the body to order, but declined a 
 
2 1 2 JMaryland Baptist History 
 
 reelection. He had spent some of bis earlier yeais here, struggling for 
 a livelihood as an actor, a school-teacher, a clerk, and a printer, and 
 was now regarded as one of the most eloquent pulpit orators in this 
 country, and drew crowds to hear him wherever he preached. The 
 venerable William Bullein Johnson, of South Carolina, afterward pres- 
 ident of the Southern Convention for several years, was elected to pre- 
 side in Cone's place. He still wore the knee-breeches and shoe-buckles 
 of his earlier days, and when he took the chair he impressed all the 
 delegates with the dignity of his words and manner. The impassioned 
 and brilliant Bartholomew T. Welch was there. He also had spent 
 some years of his early life in Baltimore. Many other ministers, then 
 or since prominent, from Ihe North and South, occupied seats as dele- 
 gates, representing large constituencies. Among them, (some venerable 
 with age and others yet young,) were Daniel Sharp, R. H. Neale, Wm. 
 Hague, Archibald Maclay, W. W. Everts, Pharcellus Church, John 0. 
 Choules, George B. Ide, J. H. Kennard, A. D. Gillette, 0. B. Brown, J. 
 B. Jeter, J. 0. B. Dargan, James Furman, Addison Hall, Jas. B. Taylor, 
 (who was elected one of the secretaries,) E. L. Magoon, Geo. F. Adams, 
 Cumberland George, A. M. Poindexter, Thomas Hume, James Fife, 
 Robert Ryland, Daniel Witt and Richard Fuller. 
 
 Among the delegates representing Baltimore, were William Crane, 
 and his son Fuller, then quite a young man, Fred'k A. Levering, Geo. 
 W. Norris, (who with James C. Crane, of Richmond, acted as teller,) 
 and Charles D. Slingluff. Of course, among the representative families 
 who entertained the guests, were many other familiar names, such as 
 the AVilsons, R. P. Brown, Levering, Patterson, Butcher, Baynard, 
 Clark, Poulson and Kelly. 
 
 The meeting was one of great interest, with a spice of that discussion 
 on slavery, which afterward culminated in the rupture of 1844; but on 
 the whole it was fairly harmonious, and comprehended a survey and 
 preparation for reaching the entire home and foreign mission fields. 
 The old "Round Top" church, although a fine and imposing edifice, 
 was not the best in its acoustic properties, but its floor and galleries 
 were crowded day and night to hear the many able addresses; and Bal- 
 timore Baptists began to realize that they had a valiant brotherhood 
 elsewhere, if not at home. But that which rendered the meeting 
 momentous to the Maryland Baptists, is yet to be described. 
 
 The delegate representing the "Savannah River Association" had 
 been appointed to preach before the Convention, and on the first night 
 of the sessions, a crowded audience was gathered to hear his discourse. 
 A heathen convert who was present, excited an increased interest in 
 missions, by singing a plaintive hymn in the Karen language, and when 
 Richard Fuller arose to speak, the congregation was prepared to listen 
 
Maryland B a t)tist History. 213 
 
 with absorbed attention. He was then only thirty-six years old, tall, 
 elegant in appearance, courteous in manner, and with a most becoming 
 dignity and decorum befitting the pnlpit. He had a full suit of dark 
 hair, curling over a prominent brow, and a face kindling with emotion 
 as he became animated. A portrait on the wall of his former home in 
 Baltimore gives a fine representation of his appearance in the bloom of 
 his manhood, about this period.* When he announced his text, a 
 solemn quiet pervaded the house, that remained until the last syllable 
 of his sermon was reached : "And I, if I be lifted up, will draAv all 
 men unto me." 
 
 He began in his peculiar manner,"!" so well remembered by those who 
 heard him then and later: "That was a singular account given by 
 Eusebii>s of the conversion of Uonstantine. He was marching, says 
 the historian, at the head of his army from France, to encounter his 
 rival Maxentius, in a conflict upon the issue of which his empire de- 
 pended. Oppressed with anxiety, he prayed that some god would aid 
 him, when in the heavens and higher than the sun, a luminous cross 
 appeared, emblazoned with these words, 'By this sign thou shalt con- 
 quer.' He did conquer, and ever after the cross was displayed as the 
 banner of the Cfesars. The truth of this narrative I, of course, shall 
 not now examine. It is certain, fathers and brethren, and all-important 
 for us to recollect, that in the noble enterprise in which loe are engaged 
 there is but one standard which can beupreared successfully — but one 
 banner which must flame star-like above our ranks and lead us on to 
 victory — and that this is the cross, the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.'' 
 Having fixed the interest of his auditors, he first stated his arguments 
 and described the power of the gospel, and then appealed to his hearers 
 and plead with them to believe in it, with an earnestness, a force, a 
 pathos and a grace of language, that moved and melted every heart. 
 To this day the surviving listeners of that hour thrill with the emotion 
 then excited. It is impossible to describe the sermon as preached. It 
 comprised repeated climaxes of argument and description and pathos. 
 It must be read, and read aloud, and read by one who has heard 
 Fuller himself, and read with a believing heart, before its marvellous 
 merit is fully realized. The Convention was electrified. As soon as 
 Fuller had finished, the ministers on the platform, among whom were 
 Sharp, Johnson, Cone and Welch, as by one impulse, crowded around 
 
 *The likeness in the front of this volume is an accurate copy of a photograph 
 of Dr. Fuller, taken when he was about sixty years of age. It gives a more cor- 
 rect notion of his expression and bearing than any engraving heretofore printed. 
 
 t Dr. Fuller's tone of voice is here referred to, not the illustration. He sel- 
 dom used illustrations or anecdotes, so distractingly abundant in recent popular 
 discourses. Many of his sermons have no reference to figures, characters or in- 
 cidents outside of the text. 
 
2 1 4 Maryla7id Baptist History. 
 
 him, clasped his luiiids, threw their arms around his neck, and some 
 of them wept. 
 
 Next day, the young preacher was honored by a vote of thanks and 
 a request for the publication of his discourse, which from that day to 
 this has ranked with the finest efforts of pulpit eloquence in any lan- 
 guage. 
 
 The effect of tliis sermon on the people of Baltimore was practical. 
 In 1846-7, after the organization of the Seventh Baptist Church, there 
 was a period of uncertainty, depression and discouragement, arising in 
 part from the antagonism between that body and the First Church, as 
 referred to in their history, and partly from the recent wrecking of sev- 
 eral similar undertakings. Although there were many influential and 
 sturdy men among all the Churches, yet there was no enthusiasm, and 
 the cause seemed unpromising. Tlie position of the denomination then, 
 in our city, was quite different from its reputable standing at present. 
 A leader was wanted, who could consolidate our sparse numbers and 
 head a forward movement. A distinguished Virginia minister was 
 commended for the field, but it offered no attractions for him and he 
 declined it. In this emergency, the eyes of all were turned to a more 
 distant State, and a unanimous call was extended to Richard Fuller. 
 The elegant penmanship of deacon Aaron E. Levering on behalf of the 
 Church, as well as the characteristic chirography of Fuller in his re- 
 sponse* are still preserved. Seeing in the opportunity a platform for a 
 great work, he at once suggested a plan of action which was joyfully 
 
 *We cannot withhold this interesting letter. It was addressed to D. Chase, 
 A. W. Poulson, A. R. Levering, A. A. Chapman, L. P. Bayne, J. G. Rous and A. 
 D.Kelly, jr., deacons of the Seventh Church, only one of whom is now living. 
 
 Beaufort, S. C.Feb. 4, 184(5. 
 
 Dear Brethren : — Here is a strange thing. Over and over have I received calls 
 from large and tiourishing Churches, and this when we were here in a most 
 cramped and uncomfortable house; yet all these calls have occasioned no debate 
 in my bosom. Now, we have just finished a large and beautiful chapel, and re- 
 vivals have filled it. and everything conspires to make me happy, when a call 
 from you fills me with perplexity. It is however as it should be — your wants 
 and afflictions move me when your prosperity would not. I am now (and have 
 been for a month or more) painfully engrossed in trying to save the Second Bap- 
 tist Church in Charleston, and to restore harmony there, and God I trust has 
 blessed his work. Your communication found me thus absorbed. Yet I confess 
 it has pressed me day and night to a degree strange and unaccountable, unless 
 God be meaning sometliing. The sacrifice of breaking up here would be to me 
 and my family such as you little conceive. This however would, of course, not 
 interfere. To be Christians is Xofeel •practieaUy that "living or dying, we are the 
 Lord's," and all sacrifices were, I humbly hope, comprehended in the act by 
 VFhich, years ago, I became the Lord's. The salary, too, to which you allude, (or 
 T would not here mention it,) conld easily be arranged. Twelve years ago, I 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 2 1 5 
 
 adopted, and he came to the rescue. A suitable house was built, and 
 the Seventh Church at one step took a high position in the denomina- 
 tion. Fuller became the foremost preacher in the city, as orator, con- 
 troversialist and evangelist. Hundreds were converted and baptized 
 under his ministry. The Baptist cause rose into consideration among 
 the people at large. Its leading Bible truths became more universally 
 regarded. His discussions of Baptist principles with several opposing 
 ministers (which were widely published in book-form) attracted and 
 convinced perhaps thousands of persons, and his many years of faithful 
 pastorship over a constantly increasing Church made a wide impression 
 
 gave up a profession yielding me annually about $6,000, and have never received 
 a dollar since for my labors. I would employ most of it, should I come, wholly 
 for the good of the Church. But now, there seem to me insuperable difficulties 
 to which you do not refer. 
 
 First, you say nothing of a house. Surely you do not mean me to come and 
 both preacher and people do so suicidal a thing as occupy the shell in Calvert St. 
 If you have bought it, I submit to you that you made a mistake, and whoever be- 
 comes your pastor, unless you rectify that mistake, I feel certain that your posi- 
 tion will be the prophecy and anticipation of utter defeat. Let me know then 
 your intention as to this. You will not understand me as at all promising to give 
 a favorable answer, in any case. The whole thing is with God, and I only wish 
 some worthier man would go. At the same time, my spirit is greatly stirred, my 
 conscience crying, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do V" I love Baltimore — I 
 love you — I confess, too, that if I should move, it would be just into a latitude 
 like yours, as I wish to look at Slavery and other agitating topics with a calm and 
 impartial judgment, and see what is our duty to our poor distracted country. 
 
 But I cannot come to Baltimore to do nothing. I am a practical man, caring 
 nothing about what men talk, and regarding works as the only criterion of char- 
 acter. If I make sacrifices, I must have some to be with me intheni. — For exam- 
 ple : Out of the salary, suppose I subscribe |500 for five years, i. e. $2,500, what 
 will you all do? Will you get a lot and right away begin a large house? Now 
 is the time — your character and usefulness and happiness are gone if you idenlifj'' 
 yourselves with the pastof auy of the former Churches in Baltimore. Begin afresh 
 — and at once take a high stand. Write me on this point. I only wish we could 
 meet, as writing is to me a most wretched means of communication. God bless 
 you. My love to all. Your affectionate brother in Christ, R. FULLER. 
 
 P. S. — I repeat that you will regard my continuing this correspondence at all as 
 simply the result of my conscientious solicitude about duty. I am informed that 
 you have already called B. to you, and M., and both declined. Some say you are 
 the noblest body of Baptists in the land — others have some grains of scruple as to 
 that, and doubt if any pastor could please you. All this to me is moonshine — 
 if you are Christians and feel that you and yours are Christ's, we could easily ad- 
 just minor things. We have the truth, and it is a shame that the advocates of 
 truth should be depressed and downtrodden, as the Baptists have been in your 
 city. What has become of Bro. C. M. Keyser ? Where is Bro. Wm. Crane ? Do, 
 I implore you all, make noble sacrifices, resolve upon great and noble things, and 
 you will yourselves rejoice now in the applauses of God and leceive a crown of 
 no common splendor. R. F. 
 
2 1 6 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 for good on the entire community. Undoubtedly, his settlement in 
 Baltimore was an epoch in our religious history. 
 
 A few years after, in 1851, Rev. J. W. M. Williams, a man of enthu- 
 siastic yet practical and uncommonly energetic temperament, was called 
 from Virginia, to fill the pulpit of the First Church, where he has 
 remained preaching with notable success, like Fuller, for the third of a 
 century. From about that same period, the name of Franklin Wilson 
 becomes known as that of the laborious engineer of the Executive 
 Board of our Association, toiling year after year for the welfare of Zion 
 and the support of our feeble Churches. Previous to these, we recall 
 the memory of George F. Adams, another earnest faithful planter of 
 Baptist principles wherever the soil was most sterile. To them should 
 be added many names less noted, but familiar in every Church, of men 
 and women, who bore the brunt of pioneer advances, paid the never- 
 ceasing and weighty expenses of our progress, and died in the harness 
 — some of them leaving descendants to continue their work on a wider 
 scale. Those who live now can rejoice that "the little one has become 
 a thousand," and is beginning to feel strong enough for grander work 
 — nothing less than the conquest of the State for Baptist principles ! 
 
 WILLIAM CRANE. 
 
 The memory of the just man should be preserved as an heir-loom to 
 his descendants and an example to the world. Some names in this 
 history have been frequently repeated. It could not be avoided. The 
 men whose names are thus honored have been foremost and active in 
 all the best labor that has characterized our Association. Among 
 them from the first, to the end of his life, sturdy, honest, God-honoring 
 William Crane deserves especial mention. 
 
 The different works in which he was engaged are noticed briefly, as 
 they occurred, in the foregoing pages. A memoir of his life is pub- 
 lished, which gives his personal history. We desire in this place to 
 call attention to a plia^e of his usefulness which is not so generally 
 familiar. Among the large crowds who throng the Colored Baptist 
 Churches of Baltimore, there are few who know that they are indebted 
 in a large measure to Wm. Crane, for the privileges they enjoy. 
 
 From his earliest years, he was a devoted friend to the colored race. 
 Away back in 1813, when living in Richmond, Va., he gave much time 
 and labor to their welfare, and at one period carried on a night school, 
 with the help of David Roper, in which he endeavored to educate some 
 twenty colored boys, among whom were Lott Gary, John Lewis and 
 Collin and Hilary Teage, all of whom became widely known in this 
 country and in Liberia, for their activity in the missionary field. 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 1 1 7 
 
 Mr. Crane was president of tlie African Missionary Society, and se- 
 cured the appointment of Gary and Teage as missionaries to Africa. 
 The^^rs^ Baptist Gliurcli of Africa was organized in his house, and 
 these missionaries carried it to the dark continent — then much less 
 known and far more hojieless than now. He frequently forwarded 
 books, goods and money to Africa, and is regarded as the chief means 
 of whatever success may have been achieved at that time in christian- 
 izing the natives. 
 
 After Mr. Crane removed to Baltimore in 1835, he interested himself 
 in the welfare of the colored people here. He aided, with others, to 
 obtain the freedom of Noah Davis, who was employed as a missionary 
 by our Board. He built a house of worship for a congregation which 
 he had gathered, and, in brief, he inspired the Maryland Union Asso- 
 ciation with that steady purpose which has prompted them to do then- 
 utmost for the colored people, and which has led them of late years to 
 the expenditure of much money in the establishment of large churches, 
 and their general encouragement in education and civilization, until 
 now the Colored Baptists of this city stand among the most reputable 
 in the country. 
 
 Everything must have a beginning, and it is to the man lolio makes 
 this heginning in all enterprises for improving his fellow-man, that due 
 honor should be paid, William Crane made those early eflbrts for the 
 •colored Baptists in the days of slavery, and tlius rendered possible their 
 present rapid growth. He died in 1866, sincerely mourned by the 
 feeble Churches then struggling upward through his care. Now, in 
 the day of prosperity, with nearly four thousand members and several 
 spacious houses of worship, they should look back Avith gratitude and 
 lay a crown of thanks upon his grave. 
 
 REV. GEORGE F. ADAMS, D. D. 
 
 Dr. Adams has been referred to frequently in these pages, both as 
 a missionary and pastor of several Churches. We think it is necessary 
 to add at this place, a few items concerning his long and useful life. 
 AVe say useful advisedly, for he was one of those plain, honest, con- 
 scientious workers for the welfare of mankind whom Clod honors by 
 making useful in the highest sense. His labors as an educator and his 
 long service as a minister of Christ have made an abiding mark on 
 the character of all who knew him. He left a memory without a single 
 •stain, as a "faithful servant of the Lord." 
 
 George F. Adams was born in Dorchester, Mass., in 1802. Removed 
 to Ohio at at early age, he was converted and baptized in 1812. At 
 twenty, he was licensed to preach, and entered Columbian College in 
 
2i8 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 182-i, to prepare himself for the ministry. In 1829, he was principal 
 of the College school and pastor of the incipient body which formed 
 the E Street Church, with which he had been ordained in 1827. Thirty 
 years later, the Columbian University honoi'ed its former principal 
 with the title that heads this chapter. From 1830 to 1835, he was 
 principal of a ladies' academy in Falmouth, Va., and assistant pastor 
 with Eev. R. P. Semple of a Church in Fredericksburg. In 1836, he 
 came to Baltimore, served the Board and various Churches as herein 
 recorded, until the Civil War, when he went back to Virginia; but soon 
 returned again, and from 1863 to 1865 labored as missionary here. In 
 1865, he took charge of a female school in Onancock, from which he 
 was called in 1867 to the Baptist Church at Hampton, where he built 
 up the cause for nine years. In 1876, failing in health, he returned to 
 Baltimore, where he died, April 16, 1877. Every suitable respect was 
 paid to his memory by the Baptists of this city, and his remains were 
 placed in Baltimore Cemetery, beneath a marble erect9d by them. 
 
 He was twice married and left a widow and several children. We 
 are indebted to one of his sons. Dr. Charles S. Adan^s, for the privilege 
 of copying a photograph likeness taken in 1850, when his father was in 
 his prime. The engraving is accurate and will recall his familiar fea- 
 tures to those who remember him at that period. 
 
 IN MEMORIAM. 
 
 Besides those who have been already named in the preceding pages, 
 there are others who deserve some special notice. We take the liberty 
 of mentioning several. 
 
 Egbert P. Brown, Nelson Clark, Daniel Chase and Samuel 
 Bevan were among the first business men of Baltimore, and illus- 
 trated the truth that diligence in business and the possession of wealth 
 and high social position are by no means inconsistent with true piety. 
 
 A. D. Kelly, of the Seventh Church from its beginning, was also 
 active in the Board, and in all his relations "adorned the doctrine of 
 God his Saviour." Frederick A. and Eugene Levering, both suc- 
 cessive treasurers of the Board and "pillars of the Church," have left 
 honored names. The latter is specially memorable for his bequest of 
 $33,500 to religious and charitable organizations. Dr. Judson Gil- 
 man, long a Bible-class teacher and deacon in the Seventh Church, 
 died in 1883. 
 
 Charles M. Keyser united with the First Church in 1839, and 
 left it at the formation of the Seventh, and was on the building com- 
 mittee of the latter. He died in 1874, aged seventy-five years. He was 
 one of GUI' most prominent citizens, having been a member of the city 
 
Maryland Baptist History. 219 
 
 council, the State Senate and House of Delegates, the Board of Fire 
 Commissioners, and Public School Board ; and director of the Baltimore 
 and Ohio Railroad, and of several banks and insurance companies. He 
 was a director of the House of Refuge twenty-five years and president 
 fifteen years. In his extensive business, and in all the relations of 
 life, his industry, prudence and integrity secured for him the confidence 
 of the public, while his genial nature, kindly heart and Christian prin- 
 ciple made him eminently useful in the great charity to which so 
 much of his life was given. 
 
 Alexander W. Poulson, who will be kindly remembered by 
 thousands as the upright merchant, the calm, dignified, trusted friend^ 
 and one who for thirty years used the office of a deacon well, was born 
 in Philadelphia, in 1807. He came to Baltimore in his youth, started 
 his business career in the establishment of the late Chauncey Brooks, 
 and in a few years begun the house which still bears his name. Mr. 
 Poulson was converted under Mr. Knapp's preaching in 1839, and was 
 one of the constituent members of the Seventh Church in 1846. He 
 was remarkable for his close attention to duty, his adherence to system^ 
 and his devotion to the welfare of the poor members of the Church. 
 In all these respects and in sincere piety, he was an example. He died 
 in May, 1876. 
 
 Alexander Butcher, who died in 188-4, at the age of nearly eighty 
 years, was another of the kind we have named, to whom the Churches 
 owe so much for their faithful, unostentatious, self-sacrificing labor in 
 the ranks of the common membership. For over fifty years, he was a 
 pillar to lean on in the Church. No movement for good was without 
 his aid, and in the Church to which he belonged, whether the First 
 or Ebenezer, or Mount Zion or the Seventh, he was the same indefati- 
 gable bearer of bui-dens until the infirmities of age unfitted him for the 
 load. At every social entertainment, when the Churches required 
 refreshments, he gave liberally of his goods and his toil. He entertained 
 the Southern Baptist Convention in the Seventh Church in 1868, and 
 from that and numerous other collations, it is doubtful whether he ever ■ 
 made one cent of profit. In all the early, unpopular struggles of our 
 denomination, in mission and Sunday school work, and especially as an 
 encouraging friend of the young, Alexander Butcher leaves a memory 
 redolent of piety and love. 
 
 A. Fuller Crane was from his youth one of the most prominently 
 active members of our denomination here. Secretary of our Association 
 for twenty-five years, and moderator for four years, superintendent of 
 the Seventh Church Sunday school for seventeen years, secretary of 
 the Southern Baptist Convention several years, director of the House 
 of Refuge, president of the Maryland Deaf and Dumb Asylum, an 
 enterprising merchant and citizen, a kind friend, and a sweet singer in 
 
2 20 Maryland Baptist History. 
 
 the Church and Sunday school for forty years — in all these offices Bro. 
 Crane tilled his part with enthusiasm to the full measure of his powers, 
 and left behind many pleasant memories and grateful hearts. He died 
 in 188-1-, after an illness of several years, regretted by all the Churc hes 
 
 Geo. W. NoREis was converted in 1839, and devoted man yyears to 
 Sunday school and other benevolent work. He was a man of strong 
 individuality. One of his daughters is the wife and efficient colaborer 
 of Dr, R. H. Graves, our missionary in China ; another the wife of Kev- 
 J. B. Hartwell, missionary, now in California. Bro. Norris died in 1885. 
 
 \Vm. H. RyA]sr, who died in 1878, is well remembered as the ardent 
 impulsive, humorous and effective advocate of temperance and other 
 causes that he championed at the Association and the Board, of which 
 he was a faithful member. He made many pithy and original speeches. 
 He was an ardent friend of Sunday schools. 
 
 Lawrence P. Bayjste came from Virginia to Baltimore. He aided 
 in organizing the Seventh Church, where he filled the office of deacon? 
 and subsequently the same position in the Franklin Square Church- 
 He was at one time chairman of the Executive Board. He had a tine- 
 pt^rsonal presence, and gifts as a public speaker. He removed to Wash- 
 ington some years ago, and afterwards to New York-, where he died, 
 eiirly in 1885. 
 
 Mrs. Eliza Baynard died March 23, 1883, in her ninetieth year. 
 In early youth, she gave her lieart to Christ, and turning away from 
 the circles of wealth, fashion and pleasure, consecrated her life and 
 property to a better service. She became a member of the First Baptist 
 Church and afterwards of the Seventh, in whicli she renuiined until 
 her death. Her rare abilities, ex})ansive benevolence and devotion to 
 the poor, made her death a great loss to the whole community, Wliile 
 her heart and hand were ever open to the claims of her own Church 
 and all its Christian enterprises, she did not stop here, but listened to 
 the cry of the needy everywhere. Especially was she interested in the 
 friendless orphan. In 1824, she became secretary of the "Baltimore 
 Orphan Asylum," and after nine years' service was chosen president, 
 an office which she filled most nobly for fifty years, giving much close 
 personal attention to the children, and contributing greatly to the uj - 
 building of this most useful charity in the confidence of the public. 
 Thousands of children have been sheltered there and trained to lives of 
 virtue atul usefulness. The docrines of grace were sister Baynard's 
 delight and the si)ring of her cheerful piety, her generous benefactions, 
 her active zeal. For her "to live was Christ; to die was gain." Her 
 last days, though clouded by blindness, were full of peace and joy in 
 the Holy Ghost. 
 
Date Due 
 
 
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