^ PRINCETON, N. J. <J> 
 
 Presented by Mr. Samuel Agnew of Philadelphia, Pa. 
 
 Aguciv Coll. on Baptism, No. 
 
 /Oil' 
 
Digitized by the Internet Archive 
 
 in 2011 with funding from 
 
 Princeton Theological Seminary Library 
 
 http://www.archive.org/details/historyofbaptistOOmil 
 
HISTORY 
 
 BAPTISTS IN MAINE; 
 
 TOGETHER WITH BRIEF 
 
 NOTICES OF SOCIETIES AND INSTITUTIONS, 
 
 DICTIONARY OF THE LABORS OF EACH MINISTER. 
 
 BY REV. JOSHUA MILLET. 
 
 PORTLAND: 
 
 PRINTED BY CHARLES DAY & CO. 
 
 1845. 
 
Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 1845, by 
 
 JOSHUA MILLET, 
 
 In the Clerk's Office of the Eastern District of Maine. 
 

 
 <%! 
 
 PREFACE. % 
 
 ^*>*w 
 
 The following work was commenced amidst much hope 
 and fear. The Author saw the desirableness of arresting 
 from oblivion many facts important to the history of the Bap- 
 tists in Maine, before the fathers and all the original members 
 fell asleep. He therefore, for some years previous to com- 
 mencing himself, suggested the importance of the undertak- 
 ing to several ministers whom he believed competent to the 
 undertaking. But no one was disposed to engage ; and he 
 saw many obstacles to forbid his commencing so important a 
 work. He anticipated a variety of perplexities, a long and 
 arduous labor, and felt his incompetency. 
 
 Nothing therefore but an impression of duty, and the desir- 
 ableness of the object induced him to begin. And even then 
 little more was expected to be accomplished by him than the 
 collection of materials, which some other person might ar- 
 range and publish to the world. But by prayer, and the 
 blessing of heaven upon his persevering toil, he is rejoiced to 
 be able to give to the public the following sketches. No la- 
 bors have been spared, that could be consistently devoted to 
 the work, to collect the necessary information and to arrange 
 the facts in an intelligible manner. A chronological order is 
 observed so far as possible. There has been also a constant 
 and careful aim at correctness, and yet, considering the sta- 
 tistical character of the work, and the defectiveness, in many 
 instances, of the sources of information, the reader will not 
 be surprised to find some errors, especially in the numbers, 
 names and dates. Nothing, ho vever, has been stated which 
 did not appear to have a strong "probability at least of cor- 
 rectness. 
 
Vlll PREFACE. 
 
 Information has been gathered from Backus' History of the 
 Baptists ; Benedict's History of the Baptists ; Greenleaf's 
 Ecclesiastical Sketches of Maine ; Williamson's History of 
 Maine ; Willis' History of Portland ; Bancroft's History of 
 America ; Waterville Intelligencer ; Baptist Herald ; Zion's 
 Advocate ; Journals of aged ministers, especially those of 
 Elders Isaac Case and James Potter ; Records of Churches; 
 Minutes of Associations, and other religious Bodies ; and 
 something from the memories of aged brethren still lingering 
 among the living ; and Biographical Sketches of deceased 
 ministers. The Author would here gratefully acknowledge 
 the important aid he has received from many of his minister- 
 ing and lay brethren, with whom he has corresponded. 
 
 In the history of the Associations, the most important things 
 transacted, resolved, decided, or recommended, are given. 
 In the accounts given of the Churches, the most important 
 facts touching their history, were carefully selected from the 
 information received. In some instances no direct informa- 
 tion was received. The sketches therefore of such churches 
 are necessarily brief. 
 
 In regard to the Tables, they are as correct as the records 
 of the denomination from which they are made, can make 
 them. It is not pretended that they are entirely perfect, but 
 nearly so. 
 
 The Dictionary of the labors of the Ministers is intended 
 to embrace all the stated labors of each minister who have 
 labored and are now laboring in the State. Many of the 
 dates have been gathered from the Minutes of the Associations 
 and churches where these labors were performed, and there- 
 fore believed to be correct. 
 
 In speaking of the adversity and prosperity of the Denom- 
 ination, those things only are admitted which were deemed 
 important and necessary, to show the causes of their peculiar 
 trials, and their means and opportunities for advancement. 
 
CONTENTS. 
 
 Preface, 
 
 CHAPTER I, 
 
 The shores of Maine discovered by Pring 1603 — a temporary English set- 
 tlement at the mouth of the Kennebec 1607 — a temporary French Catholic 
 settlement the same year at Mt. Desert — first permanent settlement at 
 Saco 1623 — the first settlers, Episcopalians — Maine, on account of her 
 religious tenets, not admitted to the confederacy of the other New-Eng- 
 land Colonies — Massachusetts obtains the jurisdiction, first west of Saco 
 river, and then over the whole province — and with her civil power grad- 
 ually extends her religious influence, 13 
 
 CHAPTER II, 
 
 First manifestation of Baptist sentiments in Maine fifty-eight years after the 
 first settlement at Saco — Character and ministry of Mr. Screven — the first 
 church at Kittery — the feelings of the people toward Baptists — the pro- 
 ceedings of the Government — Mr. Screven forbidden to preach — Mr. S. 
 and his principal adherants driven from the Province — no other Baptist 
 church gathered for a period of eighty-five years— changes in civil 
 laws, 24 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 C hurches in Berwick — Berwick and Madburj — a temporary church in Gor- 
 ham — first Baptist Ordination in Maine — Churchin Sanford — first Baptist 
 meeting-house in Maine — Churches in Wells and Lyman, - - 30 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Waterborough — Cornish — a temporary church in Fryeburg — Parsonsfield— 
 Limerick — Buxton, ...... 41 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Lebanon and North Berwick — Berwick 2d — Berwick 3d — Limington — 
 Kennebunk-port — Kennebunk — Waterborough 2d, a temporary church 
 Hollis — Newfield 1st and 2d, both temporary — Hiram, 49 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 South Berwick Village — Saco — Acton — Cape Neddock — North Kenne- 
 bunk port — Kennebunk Village — Alfred — Parsonsfield 2d — Shapleigh 2d 
 — 1st Kennebunk and Lyman — Sanford 2d — Mt. Hope — Springvale, 59 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 
 York Association — Brentwood Conference — New Hampshire Associa- 
 tion, - 73 
 
 CHAPTER VIII. 
 
 Central parts ofthe State — origin of Baptist principles in this part of the 
 State — first Church in ihese parts at Bowdoinham — second at Thomas- 
 ton — third at Harpswell — first Association in these parts, formed by these 
 three Churches in a dwelling-house in the town of Bowdoinham, and call- 
 ed " the Bowdoinham Association/' - .... 86 
 
X CONTENTS. 
 
 CHAPTER IX, 
 
 Origin of Bowdoinham Association, .... 101 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Churches added to the Bowdoinham Association from 1788 to the time of 
 its division, 1804 — First Bowdoin — First Vassalboro' — Second Vassal- 
 boro 7 — Whitefield— First Sidney— Litchfield— Hebron— First Buckfield 
 — Paris — Lewiston — Readfield — Fayette — Miscongus Isle and Bristol — 
 First Livermore — First Nobleboro' — Greene — Wayne — Webster — Hope 
 — New Gloucester — Clinton — 2d China — Farmington — Second Litchfield 
 — Wales — Jay — Mt. Vernon — Brunswick — Leeds — Woolwich — Friend- 
 ship — W arren — Portland — First China — Swan ville — Second Buckfield — 
 New Sharon — Canaan — Islesboro' — Vinalhaven — Jefferson and Lancas- 
 ter — Surnner — Bethel, ------ 105 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 History of the Bowdoinham Association from 1790 to the formation of the 
 Lincoln Association in 1804 — Extensive revivals in 1798 and 1799 — the 
 Lord's Supper administered at the Association in '98 — an Ordination in 
 7 99 — success of the ' Gospel Mission' — Dr. Baldwin present, and Ordina- 
 tion of Mr. Titcomb in 1801— Revision of Articles of Faith in 1802, 192 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Churches which united with the Bowdoinham Association during the seven 
 years, between the formation of the Lincoln Association in 1804, and the 
 formation of the Cumberland Association in 1811 : Second Sidney — Se- 
 cond Bowdoin — Belgrade — Norway — Hallowell — Minot (now Auburn) — 
 Freeport — Second Lisbon (now first in Webster) — Perjepscolt (now 
 Danville,) — Cornville — Harmony — Denmark — Weld — Sangerville — 
 Bridgton — Hartford — Monmouth — Palmyra — New Portland, 200 
 
 CHAPTER XIII, 
 
 Churches added to the Bowdoinham Association since 1811 — Third. Church 
 Livermore — Second Canaan, (now Skowhegan) — Moscow — Philips- 
 Second Mt. Vernon, a tern porary church — Topsham — First Church Gar- 
 diner — Guilford — Waterville — Parkman — Brighton, ;i temporary church — 
 Canaan, formerly Canaan Second — Norridgewock — Athens — Gardiner 
 Second Church — Anson — Second Bowdoinham — East Dixfield — Ripley — 
 Corinna — Winthrop— -Newport — Monmouth — Nonidgewock-- Madison — 
 Hallowell — Third Gardiner — South Bowdoin — East Monmouth — Piltston 
 — Monmouth Centre — Second Litchfield — Second Leeds, - - 222 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 Bowdoinham Association from 1804 to 1843, .... 244 
 
 CHAPTER XV. 
 
 Histories of its sixteen original Churches have been given, Thomaston, p. 
 
 95; Vassalboro', p. 109; Ballstown, p. 114; Miscongus Isle, p. 135; 
 
 St. George, p. 186; Nobleboro', 139; Hope, p. 145; Harlem, p. 150. 
 
 Woolwich, p. 165; Medumcook, p. 166; Warren, p. 168; Fairfax, p. 
 
 176; Mt. Ephraim, p. 177; Islesboro', p. 188; Vinalhaven, p. 189; Bow- 
 doinham, p. 93. 
 Palermo and Beaver Hill ; First Sedgwick ; Unity, now Knox ; Columbia ; 
 
 First Bluehill ; Norlhport, a temporary Church ; First Montville ; Carmel; 
 
 Surry; First Jefferson ; Second Jefferson ; Malinieus ; Deer Island; 
 
 Stetson, a temporary Church ; Camden, First and Second Church ; Union, 
 
 first called Second Hope; Second Palermo; First Belfast; Dixmont; 
 
 Cherryfield ; Steuben; First Trenton; Sullivan; Charleston; Belmont; 
 
 Castine ; Freedom ; Second Montville ; Isle au Haut ; Second Thomaston ; 
 
CONTENTS. XI 
 
 Second Sedgwick j Brooksville 5 Second Brooksville; Mount Desert; 
 Monroe; Appleton; Second St George; Eden; Prospect; Second 
 Nobleboro' ; Bangor; Windsor; New Castle and Alna; Waldo; Dover; 
 Wiscasset ; Corinth ; Waldoboro 7 ; Atkinson and Milton ; Third Jefferson ; 
 Searsmont ; Third Whitefield ; North Whitefield ; Richmond ; Patrick- 
 town Plantation ; Washington; Third Nobleboro'; First West Thom- 
 aston; Damariscotta Mills; Cushing; 3d Camden; 3d St. George, 262 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 Lincoln Association, organized in 1805. After 13 years it gave rise to Eas- 
 tern Maine in 1818 ; and in 7 years more to the Penobscot in 1825 ; and 
 17 years later to the Damariscotta, in 1842, ... 325 
 
 CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 Eastern Maine Association. Whole period of its existence 16 years from 
 1818 to 1834 ; then yielded its name to two Associations, one to be called 
 Hancock, the other Washington, -_.-.- 335 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 Churches added to the Eastern Maine Association between 1818 and 1834. 
 Eastport ; Gouldsboro' ; Deer Isle ; Columbia and Addison ; Penobscot ; 
 Swan Island ; Jonesboro' and Addison ; Lubec ; Mariaville ; Cutler ; 
 2d Sullivan ; Hancock ; Franklin ; Addison ; 2d Bluehill ; 2d Sedgwick ; 
 Ellsworth ; Dennysville ; Charleston ; Cooper ; 2d Mariaville ; Calais ; 
 Harrington; Branch Pond; Heed's Brook, and East Machias. 337 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 Hancock Association. Original Churches — Eden, p. 309 ; First Sedgwick. 
 263 ; Bluehill, 272 ; Surry, 278 ; Deer Isle, 282 ; Isle au Haut, 302 ; Tren- 
 ton, 296 ; Sullivan, 297; Orland and Bucksport, 285; Brooksville, 305 ; 
 Mt. Desert, 305; Gouldsboro', 340 ; Penobscot, 342 ; Swan Island, 343 ; 
 Amherst, 346; Hancock, 348 ; Franklin, 348 ; Second Bluehill, 351; 
 Second Sedgwick, 304 ; Ellsworth, 351 ; Mariaville, 354 ; Branch Pond, 
 358; Reed's Brook, 358. 
 
 Churches added between 1835 and 1843 — Village church Ellsworth; Little 
 Deer Isle ; West Trenton ; North Penobscot ; Second Hancock ; North 
 Sedgwick ; Long Island ; Aurora, ------ 360 
 
 CHAPTER XX. 
 
 Washington Association. Original Churches — Columbia, 269 ; Cherryfield, 
 294; Eastport, 337 ; Steuben, 295; Macbias-port, 340 ; Jonesboro' and 
 Addison, 344; Lubec, 3-15; Cutler, 347 ; Crawford, 351 ; Addison, 350; 
 Cooper, 354 ; Pembroke, 352; Harrington, 357 ; East Machias, 353 ; Ca- 
 lais, 344; Charlotte, 353, 
 
 Churches added between 1835 and 1843 — Hodgdon ; Eastern Calais ; Bar- 
 ing ; Beddington ; Jonesboro' ; Topsfield ; Amity and Orient ; Calais 
 Village; Second Lubec ; Houlton; Second Harrington; East Harring- 
 ton ; Hodgdon and Richmond, N. B. - 366 
 
 CHAPTER XXI. 
 
 Penobscot Association. Original Churches — Harmony, p. 212; Sanger- 
 ville, 215; Guilford, 227; Parkman, 231; Athens, 233; Ripley, now 
 Cambridge, 237; Comma, 238 ; Carmel, 277; Hampden, 291 ; Dixmont, 
 293; Charleston, 299 ; Dover, 315; Corinth, 316. 
 
 Added at their first session from Bowdoinham Association — Frankfort, 286 ; 
 N. Hill, 232; Bangor,311 ; Munroe, 307; Palmyra, 219; Newport, 240. 
 
 Added between 1826 and 1843 — Dexter; Enfield; Bradford; Monson; 
 Levant ; Kirkland and No. 8, temporary churches; Second Hampden; 
 Greenfield ; First St. Albans ; Abbot; Lincoln ; Lee ; Blanchard, a tempo- 
 rary church ; Plymouth; Foxcroft, a temporary church; Garland; Pitts- 
 
Xll CONTENTS. 
 
 field ; Athens Village ; Exeter ; Old Town ; Sebec ; Bangor and Glen- 
 burn ; Newburg ; Passadunkeag ; Palmyra 5 Springfield : Eddington : 
 Argyle : Newport Village : North Bangor : Patten, - - 375 
 
 CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 Piscataquis Association. Original Churches — Parkman, p. 231 ; First San- 
 gerville, 215 ; Sebec, 388 ; Dover, 315 ; Abbot, 382 ; Athens Village, 387; 
 St. Albans, 382 ; Harmony, 212 ; Guilford, 227 ; Athens, 233 ; Corinna, 
 238 ; Dexter, 376 ; Monson, 379; Cambridge, 237. 
 
 From Lincoln Association — Atkinson and Milton, 318; St. Albans and 
 Hartland; North-Hill, 232. 
 
 Added between 1839 and 1843 — Second Sangerville ; Foxcroft and Dover 
 Village; East St. Albans; Milo; Greenville and Shirley; Second Pal- 
 myra; Hartland, 393 
 
 CHAPTER XXIII. 
 
 Waldo Association. Churches whose histories have been given — First Vas- 
 salboro', 109 : Second Vassalboro', 112 : First China, 176 ; Second China, 
 150; First Palermo, 262: Second Palermo, 288: First Montville, 276 : 
 Second Montville, 302; Freedom, 302 : Knox, 268 : Appleton, 307 : Bel- 
 fast, 289 : Waldo, 314 : Albion, 217 : Searsmont, 319 : Monroe, 307 : 
 Frankfort, 286 ; Windsor, 313 : Dixmont, 293 : Swanville, 177 : Islesboro 7 , 
 188: Belmont, 301. 
 
 Added between 1828 and 1843 — Winslow : Second Searsmont : Second 
 Belfast r Frankfort Village : Unity. 397 
 
 CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 Kennebec Association. Churches from other Associations — First Sidney, 
 p. 116; Second Sidney, 200; Clinton, 149 ; Industry, 151 ; Farmington, 
 153; Mt Vernon, 158; New Sharon. 178 ;Bloomfield, 180; Belgrade, 
 202 ; Cornville, 241 ; Milburn, 223 ; Moscow, 223 ; Waterville,229 ; Ca- 
 naan, 232 ; First Norridgewock, 233 ; Second Norridgewock, 241 ; Strong, 
 234; Chesterville, 235; Madison, 261 ; Anson, 235; New Portland, 221. 
 
 Added between 1830 and 1843 — Fairfield ; Augusta ; Starks ; Avon ; Second 
 Bloomfield ; Solon ; Oak Hill, 401 
 
 CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 Cumberland Association. Original Churches — East Brunswick, p. 99 ; He- 
 bron, 119; First Buckfield, 122; Paris,123; First Livermore, 135; New 
 Gloucester, 147 ; Jay, 156 ; Brunswick, 159 ; First Portland, 170 ; Sec- 
 ond Buckfield, 177; North Yarmouth, 183; Jefferson and Lancaster, 
 190; Sumner, 190 ; Bethel, 191 ; Norway, 204 ; Minot, 207 : Freeport 208 : 
 Danville, 210 i Denmark, 213 : Weld, 214 : Bridgton 217 : Hartford, 218. 
 
 Added between 1811 and 1843 — Bath : Second Livermore : Water ford : 
 Scarboro' : Peru : Cape Elizabeth : Byron : Canton : Turner : Poland : 
 Oxford : Harrison : Hamlin's Gore : Woodstock : Village Church Bruns- 
 wick: Chebeague Island: Free Street Portland : Harpswell : Durham : 
 Main St. Brunswick, 406 
 
 CHAPTER XXVI. 
 
 Oxford Association. Original Churches — Hebron, 119: First Buckfield, 
 122: Paris, 123: First Livermore, 135: Second Buckfield, 177: Sum- 
 ner, 190: Bethel, 191: Norway, 204: Denmark, 213: Weld, 214: 
 Bridgton, 217 : Hartford, 218 : Second Livermore, 409 : Peru, 412 : By- 
 ron, 413 : Canton, 413 : Turner, 413 : Harrison, 416 : Hamlin's Gore, 
 416: Woodstock, 416. 
 Added between 1828 and 1843 — Paris and Woodstock : Second Brunswick : 
 Second Bath : Sweden : Andover : Rumford : Rumford and Milton, 420 
 General Operations, ------ 424 
 
 Dictionary of Ministers, - - - - - 433 
 
 Statistics, -------- 461 
 
HISTORY 
 
 CHAPTER I. 
 
 Tlie shores of Maine discovered by Pring 1603 — a temporary English set- 
 dement at the mouth of the Kennebec 1607 — a temporary French Catholic 
 settlement the same year at Mt. Desert — first permanent settlement at 
 Saco 1623 — the first settlers Episcopalians — Maine, on account of her 
 religious tenets, not admitted to the confederacy of the other New-Eng- 
 land Colonies — Massachusetts obtains the jurisdiction, first west of Saco 
 river, and then over the whole province — and with her civil power grad- 
 ually extends her religious influence. 
 
 Previous to 1602, the territory of Maine was unknown 
 to civilized man. Savages and wild beasts were its sole 
 and natural occupants. Bartholomew Gosnold, an English 
 navigator, and one of those bold adventurers, trained to the 
 career of discovery by the exertions of Sir Walter Raleigh, 
 conceived the idea of a shorter route across the Atlantic, 
 than by the Canary or West India Islands.* Encouraged 
 by Raleigh, he attempted to make the discovery in 1602 ; 
 and supposed that in May he saw some of the islands and 
 points of land along the coast of Maine. But it was soon 
 discovered that Gosnold was mistaken, from the fact that 
 the places which he saw, were in a much higher latitude 
 than he had given to them.f His reports of these places, 
 and the valuable cargo of furs and sasafras which he pro- 
 cured during his voyage, gained for him, however, much 
 honor and respect, and awakened a spirit of commercial 
 enterprise in England. But the honor of discovering these 
 shores belongs to Martin Pring.J 
 
 *Williamson's his. Me. vol. 1, p. 184. tp- 185. Jp. 185, and Bancroft's 
 his. of Amer. vol. 1, p. 114. 
 
 2 
 
J4 CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607— 1767. 
 
 Moved by commercial interests, and encouraged by Ra- 
 leigh and others, several merchants of Bristol, Eng., fitted 
 out the small ship " Speedwell," of 56 tons, with trinkets 
 and merchandize suited to a traffic with the natives ; and 
 Mr. Pring was appointed the principal agent. This expe- 
 dition was commenced April 30, 1603, a few days after the 
 death of Queen Elizabeth ; and on the 7th of June they 
 found themselves in the waters of Penobscot Bay.* Inte- 
 rested to astonishment with the lofty appearance of the 
 forests and high lands, and cheered with success in their 
 undertaking, the expedition was continued till most of the 
 islands and the principal bays and inlets along the whole 
 coast of Maine were visited.f 
 
 This voyage was most successful, and the reports of it 
 awakened a more general interest for the new country, both 
 in England and in France. They became at once delighted 
 with an imaginary view of these extensive dominions, and 
 each resolved on possession ; consequently from this time, 
 like expeditions and for similar purposes were annually 
 made to these shores. To secure a prior claim to these 
 dominions was now an object with both these rival nations.j: 
 
 In the spring of 1605, prompted by the Earl of South- 
 ampton and Lord Arundel, Geo. Weymouth was despatched 
 from England for the purpose of exploring this territory, 
 and of establishing a claim to its advantages. On the 11th 
 of May he was among the islands along the shores of Maine, 
 and remained here several weeks, mostly in Penobscot Bay. 
 He and his comrades made frequent excursions on shore, 
 and were not a little amused with the novel and picturesque 
 scenery. At a point of land near Belfast, the ultimate end 
 of their route, Weymouth erected the cross as the lawful 
 sign of possession. Subsequently the right of possession to 
 
 *Wms. his. vol. 1, p. 185, and Ban. his. vol. 1, p. 111. tWms. his. Me. 
 vol, 1, pp. 184, 185. JWms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 185. 
 
CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 15 
 
 other portions of the territory was claimed by other associ- 
 ations, their title being established in like manner. The 
 lines marking the territory claimed by each not being ac- 
 curately denned, and titles to the same territory being often 
 granted to different persons or communities, many fiery 
 disputes, many labored and bloody contentions about rights 
 of possession, arose among these claimants.* The first 
 settlement attempted on these shores, was commenced by 
 an association of English planters, 1607. They colonized 
 on the extreme western point of land at the mouth of Ken- 
 nebec river, and called it the " Sagadahock Colony." But 
 the death of Capt. Geo. Popham, their president, together 
 with other disappointments, caused a total abandonment of 
 the undertaking in 1608. f During this year another settle- 
 ment was commenced by two French Jesuits, " Bairde and 
 Masse," on Mt. Desert island. This opened the way for 
 the introduction of a French colony. The magistrates of 
 Virginia regarding these French and Catholic settlers as 
 intruders upon their chartered rights, sent Capt. Argal, in 
 1613, with an armed posse, who expelled these settlers from 
 the island, destroyed their rude habitations, broke down 
 their cross, and erected another in the name of their king. 
 Thus ended this Jesuitical colony on the shores of Maine. \ 
 Between the years 1607 and 1620, several attempts were 
 made to establish permanent colonies within the new Prov- 
 ince ; but hostilities among the natives, in 1615 and '16, 
 and a severe pestilence in 1617 and '18, rendered the pur- 
 pose of every adventurer abortive. No permanent settle- 
 ment was therefore gained till 1620. 
 
 After the reorganization of the " Northern," or " Ply- 
 mouth" company in 1620, a new era opened more favorable 
 to the settlement of this then unbroken but inviting count- 
 
 *Wms. his. vol. 1, p. 191, and Ban. his. Amer. vol. 1, p. 114. | Wins. his. 
 Me., vol. 1, pp. 198, 201, 216. tWms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 209. 
 
16 CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 
 
 ry. This company obtained a new charter from king 
 James, embracing the territory lying between the 40th and 
 4Sth degree of N. lat., including the country from Phila- 
 delphia to the Bay of Chaleurs. Previous to this time the 
 English had occupied the territory west of the Kennebec, 
 and the French east of that river, with the exception of some 
 interruption. But now it was recognized by this charter 
 as the sole possession of English subjects.* 
 
 In 1622, Sir Ferdinand Gorges and Capt. John Mason, 
 obtained of the Plymouth Council, a patent to all the count- 
 ry between the Merrimack river N. H., and Kennebec river 
 Me., and called it the " Province of Livonia." By Gorges, 
 Mason, and their associates was the first permanent settle- 
 ment commenced within the limits of Maine, and on the 
 island Monhegan,t a suitable place for trading and fishing. 
 In 1623, the first permanent settlement on the main land 
 was commenced at the mouth of Sacoriverf (now Saco and 
 Biddeford). In 1630, John Oldham and Richard Vines, 
 were made patentees to a small tract of land lying on either 
 side, and at the mouth of this river, and immediately enter- 
 ed upon possession. § 
 
 About this time, attracted by the advantages of traffic 
 with the natives and other inviting circumstances of the 
 country, emigration to the shores began to be rapid, and as 
 a consequence, the forests about the Kennebec, Sheepscot, 
 Damariscotta, Pemaquid, and St. George rivers began to 
 give way before the industry of the white man.|| Openings 
 in the wilderness then appeared, where now are spread 
 out the fruitful fields, or grows the flourishing village, or 
 stands the imposing city. Notwithstanding the disadvan- 
 tages peculiar to the settlement of a new country, the work 
 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 221— Willis, his. Port. vol. 1, p. 10. t Willis' 
 his. Port. vol. 1, p. 12. {Wins. his. Me. vol.1, p. 226— Willis' his. Port. vol. 
 1, p. 16. §Wms. his. Me. v. 1, p. 226— Ban. his. Am. v.l, p. 330—WilhY 
 his. Port. vol. 1, p. 16. ||Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 228. 
 
CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 17 
 
 went on vigorously for several years. Trading-bouses were 
 erected in several favorable positions, and the abundant 
 fruits of a rich soil cheered the heart of the bold adventur- 
 er. Settlements were now commenced at Boothbay, 
 Woolwich, Kittery-Point, Elliot and Berwick.* 
 
 Emigration soon however received a serious check. 
 Expenses and disappointments, the direct results of contin- 
 ued contention and disputes about titles and claims, veiled 
 the new settlers in a gloom of discouragement. The con- 
 stant changing of titles caused a continued changing of 
 residence by occupants. The distance between the settle- 
 ments, the difficulties of intercourse, together with these 
 ruinous agitations among claimants, tended seriously to in- 
 terrupt the progress of society in order, morals and religion. 
 
 The wars about claims ended in 1675, and Massachusetts 
 was recognized as sole owner of the Province. This peace- 
 ful state of things is accredited to the wisdom and influence 
 of the Hon. John Usher, by whose advice Massachusetts 
 purchased all the title which Gorges held to the Province, 
 for 1250 lbs. sterling.! At this time the population did not 
 exceed 6000. f As regards the general character of the 
 people throughout the Province in the first stages of its 
 history, it was loose and immoral. § Many attempts were 
 made to check the increase at least of so loose, so reckless, 
 so licentious an influence as was then too prevalent. These 
 efforts however, did but little more than to check that 
 increase ; for religion was confined to the few, while the 
 many were lawless and wicked. 
 
 The first organized form of government in Maine, was 
 established by Sir F. Gorges in 1636, who obtained abso- 
 lute possession of the territory west of Pemaquid (Noble- 
 borough) in 1635. The French claimed at this time the 
 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 237. fWms.his. Me. vol. l,p. 551. J Vol. \ f 
 p. 554. § Willis' his. Port, v. 1, pp. 97, 123. 
 
 2* 
 
18 CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 
 
 Penobscot and the country eastward. They held, however 
 only a disputed right of possession. Sir F. Gorges appoint- 
 ed his nephew, Wm. Gorges, governor, with jurisdictional 
 powers to administer justice, and to punish all criminals 
 within his territorial limits. By him was raised the first 
 court of justice, or of legislation, which was convened at 
 Saco, in 1636. There were at this time, nine settlements 
 or plantations, and the best estimate numbered a population 
 of 1500 souls, under his authority.* The government of 
 Gorges assumed an ecclesiastical character. It embosomed 
 the Episcopal faith. The king of England, in order to aid 
 Gorges in his endeavors to establish and perpetuate the 
 forms of Episcopacy in the new Province, issued his decree 
 that none should leave the shores of England, for these 
 new settlements, until they had taken the oath of suprem- 
 acy and allegiance to the crown, and pledged themselves to 
 observe strictly the rules of Episcopal discipline. f The 
 people of this Province, therefore, were mostly of that faith, 
 and practiced the usages of the mother church. As a con- 
 sequence, the affairs of religion were blended with the 
 affairs of state. 
 
 The first religious communion was organized on Hog- 
 island in 1639. J A meeting-house was erected, and Rev. 
 Mr. Hull became the officiating minister. Gorges was a 
 firm Episcopalian and royalist, and a zealous friend to the 
 king.§ In 1639, his title to the territory which he claimed 
 was confirmed by the king. The powers of government 
 conferred upon Gorges, were almost absolute ;|| and the 
 forms of legislation and powers of the executive were ex- 
 plicitly defined.^} At the first session of the court convened 
 under this new charter, at Saco 1640, an order was passed 
 that all the inhabitants, who have any children unbaptized, 
 
 *Wms. Me. vol. 1, ch. 5— Willis' his. Port. vol. 1, p. 48. +Wms. his. Me. 
 vol. 1, p. 268. +Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 277. ^Willis' his. Port, vol. 1, p. 
 48. || Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 286— Willis' his. Port. v. 1, p. 45. TlWms. 
 is. Me. vol. 1, p. 286. 
 
CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607-1767. 19 
 
 should have them baptized as soon as any minister is set- 
 tled in any of their plantations.* This order was enforced 
 by punishment, if any refused.! This was laying the foun- 
 dation strong for an Episcopal(a half Roman) a half political 
 church in Maine ; but the Lord God had better things for 
 this new world. 
 
 The government established by Gorges was sustained, 
 with some alterations and amendments, for several years ; 
 and the dominant religious influence was decidedly Episco- 
 palian. Previous to 1653, several towns west of Saco 
 river were brought under the government and religious 
 influence of Massachusetts. But east of that river, <l the 
 most influential men," says Mr. Willis, " were decidedly 
 Episcopalian in their form of worship, and looked with 
 dread upon the uncompromising," and we may add, the 
 intolerant " spirit of the Puritan government of Massachu- 
 setts."! The religious feelings in Maine therefore were 
 viewed with distrust by the people of the other colonies. 
 Nor were they slow to express their abhorence of Episco- 
 pacy. The other colonies in New England, Massachusetts, 
 Plymouth, Connecticut and New Haven, had, for mutual 
 assistance and defence, united in a civil and religious con- 
 federacy. Maine was refused the privilege of uniting with 
 them, because of her religious tenets.§ 
 
 Massachusetts having obtained jurisdiction over the ter- 
 ritory west of Saco river, continued her exertions to extend 
 it over other parts of the Province. But she was vigorously 
 resisted. || To the religious intolerance practiced in Mas- 
 sachusetts under the authority of the " Cambridge Plat- 
 form" against the Jesuits, Quakers and Baptists, the people 
 of Maine were resolved not to submit. fl " What," said 
 they, " have we to do with projects of political ambition, 
 
 * Willis' his. Port. vol. 1. p. 48— Y. records— Wms. his. Me. vol. 1. p. 286. 
 tp. 286. {Willis' his. Port. vol. 1, p. 57. $Wms. his Me. vol. 1, p. 297. 
 II Willis' bis. P. vol. 1, p. 57. f Wms. his Me. vol. \, p. 379. 
 
20 CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767, 
 
 or with the weapons forged against heresy. Notwithstand- 
 ing their passion for Episcopacy, they had more rational 
 ideas of liberty than the Puritans, and were more friendly 
 to religious tolerance. 
 
 As soon as Massachusetts obtained the acknowledged 
 right of possession to the Province, she commenced the 
 exercise of her judicial powers. The governor of Massa- 
 chusetts, with a board of colonial assistants, had the over- 
 sight and management of affairs in Maine. This board, 
 or standing council, of eight persons, were to be without 
 exception, of Congregational faith. All other sects were 
 at once excluded from any participation in government. 
 This caused much uneasiness and bitter complaining 
 among the royalists and Episcopalians. They made known 
 their grievances to the court of England, yet they obtained 
 only a prevention of persecution and a partial toleration. 
 All other sects remained unprotected by legislation. The 
 change of government as made by the Province Council, 
 did not relieve the disadvantages of other religious com- 
 munions. By means of their authority and influence, and 
 from the results of emigration from the other colonies, the 
 religious character and faith of Maine, assumed gradually 
 more and more of the Congregational form.* 
 
 Mr. Bancroft! attempts an apology for the spirit mani- 
 fested by the Puritans. He says, " The spirit of the 
 Pilgrims was truly Catholic. Christianity was their life — 
 and the religious union of these exiles was the rock on 
 which rested the stability of church and state. Hence 
 they welcomed none but those who were truly of a Presby- 
 terian faith. The orders of church and state, were with 
 them exclusive, for they had come to the outside of the 
 world to live by themselves." But can this circumstance 
 justify their course? Did they not claim for themselves 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 558. fBan. his. Am. vol. 1, p. 366. 
 
CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 21 
 
 what they were unwilling to award to others ? They had 
 fled from a religious intolerance, which they regarded as un- 
 just and unchristian. Why then do they do to others what 
 they were unwilling should be done to themselves 1 
 
 It is not certain that any of the Pilgrims who first landed 
 on these shores were Baptists.* It is believed, however, 
 that soon after the organization of the Massachusetts Col- 
 ony, there were persons there who embraced their senti- 
 ments. But a few years had elapsed before Baptists began 
 to appear publicly in different parts of the colony. But all 
 religious intercourse with them was seriously objected to 
 by the Presbyterian establishment. For a while, this 
 checked the progress of their faith ; but the fire of holy 
 love to Christ was not always to be concealed beneath a 
 crushing religious arrogance. The first attempt to unite 
 in organized operation in Massachusetts, was made at Wey- 
 mouth 1639.f A Baptist church was constituted. But 
 the building was soon overthrown, and its principal erectors 
 suffered the penalties of provincial laws. The powers 
 against them were consolidated into a civil and ecclesiasti- 
 cal oppression. The principles of church and state were 
 so blended in the colonial government, as to give to the 
 Congregational clergy all but supremacy in power. None 
 were admitted to the ballot-box, but church members of 
 that faith, and none could find admission into the church, 
 but by the consent of the ministers ; so that the keys of leg- 
 islation were almost entirely in their hands. £ It soon be- 
 came a law in Massachusetts, that every person in parishes 
 who did not voluntarily subscribe to the support of the 
 established ministry, should pay his due proportion of such 
 needful expense.^ Although this law was much opposed, 
 it prevailed with some partial amendments and alterations, 
 
 *Bach. his. Bap. vol. 1, p. 56. -fBen. vol. 1, p. 556. JBach. vol. 1, p. 63. 
 §Bach. vol. 1, p. 100. 
 
22 CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 
 
 till general intelligence, a love of religious freedom, and a 
 more pure spirit of the gospel, severed from civil authority 
 this ecclesiastical power, and thereby withered the right 
 arm of clerical oppression. This however was the work of 
 many years, during which, many trials were the experience 
 of the different religious communities in Massachusetts 
 and in Maine. 
 
 Roger Williams " was the first person," says an Ameri- 
 can historian, " in modern Christendom to assert in its 
 plenitude the doctrine of liberty of conscience."* The 
 relation that Mr. Williams held to the Baptists, and the 
 place to which the friends of freedom have elevated his 
 name in the annals of history, forbid that he should be 
 passed over in silence in this place. 
 
 Roger Williams was born in Wales in 1598. He was 
 an educated lawyer, but that employment being disagreea- 
 ble to him, he turned his attention to divinity. As a 
 preacher, he was highly esteemed in his native country. He 
 crossed the atl antic in February 1631. f New England 
 now became the scene of his ministerial operations. On 
 account of his sentiments as a Baptist, and his doctrine of 
 liberty of conscience, he suffered much persecution in the 
 early part of his career in America. And yet, says Gov. 
 Hopkins, " R. Williams justly claims the honor of being 
 the first legislator in the world."! His doctrine was that 
 " the civil magistrate should restrain crime, but never con- 
 trol opinion ; should punish guilt, but never violate the 
 freedom of conscience." He was an enemy of all intole- 
 rance, and when he became a Baptist, his actions illustrated 
 his doctrine.§ This new doctrine of Williams brought 
 him into collision both with the government and clergy of 
 Massachusetts ; and was the occasion of persecution, pro- 
 
 *Ban. his. Amer. vol. 1, p. 375. fDavis. his. Welch Bap. p. 32. \D. his. 
 W, B. p. 33. $Ban. his. vol. 1, p. 366. 
 
CIVIL CONDITION OF MAINE, 1607—1767. 23 
 
 scription and banishment to himself and his adherents. 
 The controversy between the friends of a more libera] pol- 
 icy and the Puritan clergy, was conducted with impassioned 
 zeal. Questions of the nicest subtilty respecting the free- 
 dom of conscience and abstract truths in theology, were 
 agitated with enthusiasm. Arrogance, pride, the vagaries 
 of imagination, and speculative extravagancies led ultimate- 
 ly to the formation of two parties. To prevent the danger- 
 ous results of this controversy, and the increase of faction 
 as anticipated by the clergy, a law was enacted, somewhat 
 like the alien law of England. None should be admitted 
 within the jurisdiction, but such as should be allowed by a 
 magistrate. And it should be remembered that the magis- 
 trates were mostly clergymen, or others who favored the 
 Puritan policy. But this did not put the spirit of toleration 
 into a final sleep. The principles of liberty were alive in 
 the soul, and ever diffusing their beneficent influences, so 
 that an enlightened toleration gained the faith and affections 
 of many.* At length the spirit of intolerance was again 
 revived, and a law was now passed, which required every 
 person under penalty to attend regularly the established 
 forms of worship. Nor was this spirit of religious oppres- 
 sion, and its withering influence confined to Massachusetts. 
 It went where her power could be sustained. Still from the 
 days of Roger Williams, Baptists have multiplied, till they 
 have become a large, respectable and strong nation in the 
 " Old Bay State." 
 
 *JBan. his. Am. vol. I, ch. 9— vol. 2, ch. 12. 
 
24 BAPTISTS IN SECOND PERIOD OF 
 
 t 
 
 CHAPTER II. 
 
 First manifestation of Baptist sentiments in Maine fifty-eight years after the 
 first settlement at Saco — Character and ministry of Mr. Screven — the first 
 church at Kittery — the feelings of the people toward Baptists — the pro- 
 ceedings of the Government — Mr. Screven forbidden to preach — Mr. S. 
 and his principal adherants driven from the Province — no other Baptist 
 church gathered for a period of eighty-five years— changes in civil laws. 
 
 Baptist sentiments first appeared in Maine 1681.* At 
 this time there was peace and prosperity in the Province. 
 The war-whoop was not heard; disputation and wrangling 
 about claims and titles were at an end ; and Massachusetts 
 and Maine moved under the same forms of government. 
 Massachusetts had spread over the Province, not only her 
 laws, but her spirit of religious intolerance. This spirit had 
 already erected its battlements against the ' wild fanaticism' 
 of all sects who did not bow to its authority. 
 
 Kittery ,t the oldest town in the Province, incorporated 
 1647, was selected as the place first to raise a Baptist 
 standard. The first avowal of Baptist sentiments tested 
 the spirit of charity in other sects. As in Massachusetts, 
 so in Maine, the Congregationalists were recognized by 
 law as the ' Standing Order.' They viewed the Baptists in 
 the light of religious fanatics, and regarded their doctrines 
 and influence as deleterious to the welfare of both society 
 and religion. $ 
 
 It was soon known that in Kittery there were several 
 persons professing to be Baptists. l^rom whence they 
 came is now unknown. In the course of events an oppor- 
 tunity offered to them the privileges of church communion 
 agreeable to their own theological views. The nearest 
 Baptist church was at Boston, Mass., over which Rev. Isaac 
 Hull then presided. § At the advice of Mr. Hull, these 
 Baptists in Kittery united with his church. 
 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 568. fVol. 1. p. 303. iBen. vol. 1, pp. 364. 
 381. § Vol. 1, p. 309. 
 
MAINE HISTORY, 85 YEARS FROM 1681—1766. 25 
 
 Wm. Screven, an early emigrant from England,* was 
 one of their number. Being a man of more than common 
 talents, and devotedly pious, he officiated as leader in their 
 worship.t The brethren in Kittery and in Boston were 
 satisfied that the Great Head of the church had designed 
 and called him to preach the gospel of Christ. He was 
 accordingly licensed by the church in B. ' to exercise his 
 gifts in Kittery, or elsewhere, as the providence of God 
 may cast him.'f 
 
 The Baptists in Kittery being now blessed with a minis- 
 ter, and situated at so great a distance from Boston, deemed 
 it expedient for their own spiritual advantage, and for the 
 cause of Christ in the new settlements, to unite in a separate 
 church. But their desire was at once disappointed by the 
 violence of opposition. 
 
 Moved by the same spiritual despotism which had dis- 
 turbed the Baptists in Massachusetts, Mr. Woodbridge, the 
 minister, and Mr. Huck, the magistrate, awakened preju- 
 dice and hatred against these conscientious disciples in 
 Kittery. Slanderous abuses and legalized tyranny were 
 now to be endured by them. Church members suffered 
 not alone ; but those who assembled with them for worship 
 were repeatedly summoned before the magistrate, and by 
 him threatened with ' a fine of five shillings for every such 
 offence in future. '§ 
 
 Humphrey Churchwood, a man worthy of respect and 
 esteem, for exercising his liberty of conscience, and encour- 
 aging the baptism of some of his friends, was convented 
 before Mr. Huck and Woodbridge, to answer for abuses 
 against the established order. 'But it does not appear that 
 much was done, but to revile and ridicule the Baptists. 
 This movement however did not prevent the baptism of 
 several others soon after.' || 
 
 *Wms. his. Me. v. 1, p. 569. fBoston ch. Records, t Bos. ch. Records. 
 §Bach. his. Bap. vol. 1, p. 503. ||Rev. J. Tripp's statement. 
 3 
 
26 BAPTISTS IN SECOND PERIOD OP 
 
 Alarmed at the success which attended these incipiant 
 and feeble efforts of the Baptists, the General Assembly of 
 the Province ' took the business of oppression into their 
 own hands.' At the August session of the council, 1682, 
 (Maj. B. Pendleton was then Deputy President of the Pro- 
 vince) Mr. Screven was tried and placed under bonds for 
 good behavior. The following is a copy of records made 
 by Edward Bishworth : 
 
 " William Screven, appearing before this court, and be- 
 ing convicted of contempt of his Majesty's authority, and 
 refusing to submit himself to the sentence of the court 
 prohibiting his public preaching; and upon examination 
 before the court, declaring his resolution still to persist 
 therein; the court tended him liberty to return home to 
 his family in case he would forbear such turbulent practices, 
 and amend for the future ; but he refusing, the court sen- 
 tenced him to give bonds for his good behaviour, and to 
 forbear such contentious behavior for the future ; and the 
 delinquent stand committed until the judgment of this 
 court be filed." 
 
 " Verai Copia transcribed and with the records compar- 
 ed this 17th of Aug. 1682.* E. B. Recorder." 
 
 Mr. Screven, regarding the precepts and examples of 
 Christianity the only just rules of conduct, did not comply 
 with the requisitions of this court. A fine of ten pounds 
 was therefore imposed upon him. He was moreover threat- 
 ened with an infliction of the penalties of the law for each 
 and every future offence against the established order. This 
 treatment constituted another part of the important business 
 of the same session. 
 
 " This court having considered the offensive speeches of 
 Wm. Screven, viz. his rash and inconsiderate words tend- 
 ing to blaspheme, do adjudge the delinquent for his offence 
 to pay ten pounds into the treasury of the court or Province. 
 And further, the court doth forbid and discharge the said 
 Screven, under any pretence to keep any private exercise 
 at his own house, or elsewhere, upon the Lord's day, either 
 
 *Rec. of Prov. Court, Aug. 17, 1688, as given by Mr. Bachus, v. l ; p. 504. 
 
MAINE HISTORY, 85 YEARS FROM 1681—1766. 27 
 
 in Kittery or any other place within the limits of this Prov- 
 ince ; and is for the future enjoined to observe the public 
 worship of God in our public assemblies upon the Lord's 
 days according to the laws established in this Province, 
 upon such penalties as the law requires upon such neglect 
 of the premises."* 
 
 Neither these terrific proceedings of a Provincial court, 
 nor the slander and abuse of the clergy could crush the 
 spirit and zeal of Screven, or prevent the embodiment of a 
 Baptist, church in Kittery. By the assistance of Rev. Isaac 
 Hull, of Boston, the following persons were recognized, 
 Sept. 1682, as a church of Christ in gospel order, they hav- 
 ing been previously baptized. ' Wm. Screven, minister ; 
 Humphrey Churchwood, deacon ; Robert Williams, John 
 Morgandy, Richard Cutts, Timothy Davis, Leonard Brown, 
 Wm. Adams, Humphrey Azell, George Litter and several 
 females. 't Storm and violence, obloquy, fines and impris- 
 onment were now experienced by this little band of disci- 
 ples. As the result of along cherished and well organized 
 religious intolerance, venting itself in vehement and 
 impassioned persecution, these humble christians became 
 disheartened and overcome. In less than one year from 
 its recognition, the church was dissolved, and the members 
 scattered ' like sheep upon the mountains. '| 
 
 To avoid the embarrassments of clerical oppression and 
 further litigations, to shun the evils of slander and calumny, 
 Mr. Screven, accompanied with his family and some of his 
 suffering brethren, left the Province, removed to South 
 Carolina, where he gathered a Baptist church, which sub- 
 sequently became a flourishing society.^ 
 
 Mr. Screven was a native of England, born 1629. Soon 
 after his residence in Kittery, he married Bridget Cutts, 
 and was with her blessed with eleven children.' || His tal- 
 
 *Records of Court, Aug. 17, 1682, E. Bishworth, recorder. fRec. of Bos. 
 ch —Ben. his. Bap. vol. p. 309. JBea. his. vol. 1, p. 309. §Bach. his. vol. 
 2, p. 120. ||Wms. his. Me. vol. 1. 
 
28 BAPTISTS IN SECOND PERIOD OF 
 
 ents were above mediocracy. Though favored with but a 
 partial literary competency, yet a brilliant and energetic 
 imagination, a fervent heart, enlivened by the genial influ- 
 ences of Christianity, wonderfully supplied that literary defi- 
 ciency.* He was beloved by his brethren ; his ministrations 
 were listened to with delight, and received with edification 
 and profit.! He was eminent for devoted piety and religious 
 usefulness. Mr. Screven died near Charleston, S. C. at the 
 age of eighty-four years, leaving a respectable posterity to 
 bear testimony to his worth. J 
 
 From the commencement of colonization on the soil of 
 Maine till the termination of the French war in 1763,§ hos- 
 tilities were maintained with the exception of short intervals 
 by England against the French or Dutch, by the colonies 
 in America against the Indians, or by different tribes of 
 Indians against their neighboring tribes. || These hostilities 
 seriously embarrassed the colonies and checked emigration. 
 When these scenes of blood were ended, and the noise of 
 war was hushed to silence, the whole population of Maine 
 did not exceed 24,000.fl 
 
 Undoubtedly among this number there were some Bap- 
 tists, but a spirit of religious oppression was kept alive by the 
 civil authorities and the clergy. Men differing in religious 
 opinions from the dominant sect, dreading its religious dis- 
 franchising influence, were slow to become residents in 
 Maine. And those who might venture an approach, kept 
 silence through fear, or but privately gave ' a reason of the 
 hope' they cherished in Christ. From the dissolution of the 
 church in Kittery, no Baptists appeared publicly in Maine 
 for an interval of about eighty-five years. 
 
 The attempts to establish Baptist churches in Massachu- 
 setts at Weymouth and Lynn in 1639, nineteen years after 
 
 *Bach.|his. Bap. vol. I, pp. 502, 505. fBach. his. Bap. v. 3, pp. 201. 202. 
 *Ben. his. Bap. abridged, p. 357. §Wms. his. Me. || Willis' his. Port. 
 I Wms, his. Me. 
 
MAINE HISTORY, 85 YEARS FROM 1681— I76G. 09 
 
 the landing of the Pilgrims, "we have seen, proved unsuc- 
 cessful, through the opposition then made both by govern- 
 ment and people to Baptist principles.* But this opposition 
 was destined to an ultimate defeat. Twenty-four years 
 later, in 1663, a permanent foundation was laid for Baptist 
 principles in that colony by the establishment of the Baptist 
 church in Swansea.! From that time, churches of this order 
 arose and prevailed amid slander and contempt, until in less 
 than a score of years, Baptist churches were found scattered 
 throughout the colony. J 
 
 In 1728, the Legislature of Massachusetts, of which 
 Maine was then a part, passed a law exempting Episcopali- 
 ans, Baptists and Quakers from taxation to the support of the 
 Congregational clergy, if they lived within five miles of their 
 own respective places of worship. This law expired in 
 1733 ; but was revived again in 1740. Yet through the 
 influence of the 'Standing order of Congregationalists,' it 
 was again repealed in 1752. § Again the opposed sects 
 begged for mercy at the hand of the court ; and again anoth- 
 er law was enacted in 1757, somewhat liberal towards 
 Episcopalians and Quakers; but less so toward Baptists. 
 One feature of this law was peculiarly proscriptive and 
 against them. No certificate was allowed as legal, unless 
 it acknowledged the term Anabaptist to be expressive of 
 their sentiments. ]| This the Baptists could not do without 
 sacrifice of conscience and faith. They therefore endured 
 the oppression thirteen years, when this law was revised and 
 amended in 1770. By this law,fl as amended, they were 
 exempted from taxation by presenting a certificate from the 
 church and minister. Three years before the revision of 
 this law, in 1767, there were in Massachusetts 64 churches. 
 Under the influence of the revised law, their churches be- 
 came more conspicuous, and multiplied more rapidly. 
 
 *Ben. vol.1, pp. 356, 358 t Vol.1, p. 354. jBen. vol. 1, p. 381. $Bach, 
 vol. 2, pp. 85, 88. ||Bach. vol. 2, p. 193. HBen. vol.1 , p. 445. 3* 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 
 
 CHAPTER III. 
 
 Churches in Berwick — Berwick and Madbury — a temporary church in Gor- 
 ham — first Baptist Ordination in Maine — Church in Sanford— first Baptist 
 meeting-house in Maine — Churches in Wells and Lyman. 
 
 Berwick. In May, 1764, a few Baptists in Haverhill, 
 Mass., had been organized to exert their religious influence 
 in church capacity under the ministry and council of Rev. 
 Hezekiah Smith.* Mr. Smith did not escape abuse. He 
 counted not his life dear to himself; and continued the 
 useful Pastor of that church till his death, 1804.f Mr. 
 Smith's labors were not confined to that people. Never 
 tiring in his efforts to extend the Redeemer's kingdom, 
 like his cotemporaries in the ministry, he journeyed into 
 new and distant places, to preach the gospel to the poor.J 
 The town of Madbury, N. H., and Berwick, Me., first 
 received his attention and occasional ministrations. He 
 went forth not alone. God was with him; souls were 
 converted; and, he soon had the pleasure of administering 
 the Apostolic ordinance of Baptism in the province of 
 Maine, not far from the place where oppression had anni- 
 hilated the pious desires, hopes, and prospects of Screven 
 and his brethren. As in Kittery, so in Berwick, opposition 
 threatened to overthrow the work. But the time for God 
 to favor Zion had come.§ Having already learned to 
 endure the cavils and cruelties of persecution with persever- 
 ing fortitude, the undaunted Smith proceeded in 1768, at 
 their request to organize the Baptists in Berwick into a 
 regular church of Christ. This church was composed of 
 eight males and four females.|| This was indeed a "little 
 one," but it was to the Baptists in the colonies, as a " Star 
 in the East." Kittery, when incorporated into a town, in 
 
 *Ben. v. i, p. 419. tp. 419. Jp. 418. §Rev. J.Tripp. ||Ben. v. 1, p. 309. 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 31 
 
 1647, embraced the plantations of Berwick and Elliot.* 
 Soon the plantation of Berwick became a parish, and in 
 1713, was incorporated into a town.f One hundred and 
 fifty acres of land had been granted in 1669, for the support 
 of the ministry. £ For more than a century the inhabitants 
 had been under the influence of the Congregationalists. 
 A prominent circumstance which introduced the senti- 
 ments of the Baptists into Berwick, was an incident in the life 
 of Joshua Emery. Previous to the visits of Mr. Smith, Mr. 
 Emery had separated himself from the Congregational 
 connection. Although esteemed a man of eminent tal- 
 ents and a christian, sound in orthodoxy, yet on account 
 of his dissenting views, he obtained little favor with the 
 community. By way of irony and ridicule he was called a 
 * New Light.'§ He invited Mr. Smith to visit Berwick. 
 Subsequently he became a principal actor in the Baptist 
 cause there. With the rise of the church, persecution 
 awoke, and entered a violent crusade against its members 
 and their friends. The presentation of certificates in com- 
 pliance with law did not prevent their being taxed to the 
 support of the standing Armenian faith. || Mr. Emery and 
 John Gowen, two distinguished members of this infant 
 church, were imprisoned through the bigotry of an eccle- 
 siastical hierarchy. Their property was seized and sacrificed 
 to sustain the intolerent spirit. But inspired by a love and 
 zeal kindred to that which burned in a ' Pilgrim's heart,' 
 on the unfrequented heath of Lincolnshire, and which 
 lighted up the nightly surf on which he embarked, the 
 church in Berwick were not to be intimidated by such 
 violence. They persevered; and the blessing of God 
 cheered them in their progress; and their humble and 
 untiring efforts in the cause of liberty, humanity and 
 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 303. fGreen. Eecl. Sketches, p. 26. JKittery 
 town records— Greenleaf, p. 26. ^Statements of Rev. James Hooper,Paris, 
 HBaclius vol. 2. p. 263, and vol. 3, p. 202. 
 
32 CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 
 
 religion, soon taught their oppressors to moderate their 
 vehemence. Mr. Emery entered the ministry, though 
 never ordained, and long sustained his office with dignity 
 and usefulness. Mr. Joshua Eaton was also a member 
 and united his labors with Mr. Emery, in teaching the 
 people. Under the united efforts of Emery and Eaton, 
 this church, like the rising sun, cast its cheering beams 
 over the surrounding darkness, and sent forth its healthful 
 influences into the new and growing settlements Fines, 
 imprisonment, loss of property ; irony, calumny, threats ; 
 all, could not prevent their operations or their influence. 
 In a few years their numbers were so multiplied as to render 
 it proper to divide. A division was made. The brethren 
 in the north part of the town were dismissed to unite with 
 the Baptists in Madbury, N. H., to form one church. This 
 church was then known by the name of the ' Berwick and 
 Madbury.' Over this church William Hooper was ordained 
 as Pastor, at Berwick, August 14, 1776. He was the first 
 Baptist minister ever ordained into the holy office, on the 
 soil of Maine.* 
 
 The original church in Berwick, now takes the name 
 of ' Berwick church at the Great Hill.' Mr. Emery con- 
 tinued to preach with this church till he was succeeded 
 by the ordination of William Batchelder, as Pastor, August 
 14th, 1796.'t During a period of nine years, the church 
 flourished under his ministry. It was increased by a gradual 
 accession till 1805, when a large accession was made to its 
 numbers as the fruits of a special and general revival. The 
 church now showed a total of one hundred and eighty-seven 
 members, and Mr. Batchelder left for another field of 
 labor. Having remained destitute about two years, Rev. 
 Joshua Chase was made their Pastor. He continued with 
 them but a few years, and left them with a diminution of 
 *Rev. John Tripp's communication. \Rev. J. Tripp. 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 33 
 
 members, although at first the church under his ministry 
 obtained some prosperity. They were now without a 
 pastor several years ; and, trials and divisions cast a gloom 
 over the church. On account of peculiar internal disorders, 
 the church was suspended from the privilege of associa- 
 tional connection in 1818 ; but was restored again to its 
 1 former standing' in the Association in 1821, under the 
 names ' Berwick and York,' and with but twenty members. 
 June 7/1828, Joseph Gillpatrick was ordained its minister. 
 During hsi labors with them its number was almost tripled, 
 and the church, with the new name of South Berwick and 
 York, was ready to move forward under the ministry of 
 Rev. Nathaniel Littlefield. In 1839, it assumed its present 
 name, ' South Berwick,' and received Rev. J. Hubbard as 
 pastor, who was a rich blessing to the church, till he 
 removed in 1840. In 1838 and '9, a precious revival was 
 enjoyed. Since Mr. Hubbard left, the church has had no 
 pastor, and but occasional preaching.* 
 
 This is the oldest church in the State, and has passed 
 through much persecution, many severe trials, and several 
 changes. It has seen precious seasons of divine mercy, 
 and numerous other churches rise and flour sh around it. 
 Here was built the first house for the worship of God, erected 
 among the Baptists in Mains. Of this house the devoted 
 Emery built one-fourth, and gave it to the church. f 
 
 Gcrh\m. The labors of Rev. Mr. Smith of Haverhill, 
 did not close in Maine with the gathering and embodiment 
 of he chtrch n Berwick. He penetrated farther into the 
 interior of the Province, visiting from settlement to settle- 
 ment, preaching Christ, and searching out the friends of 
 Baptist sentiments. He came to Gorham, a town first set- 
 tled about 1740, and where a Congregational church was 
 
 *Facts gathered mostly from the Minutes of York Assoc. ^Statement of 
 Rev. J. Hooper, of Paris. 
 
34 CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 
 
 organized in 1750.* It does not appear that the people had 
 as yet been favored with a revival of religion. Those who 
 were professedly pious, had emigrated from other places. 
 Here Mr. Smith found a few Baptists like sheep scattered 
 in the wilderness. With the feelings of a good Shepherd, 
 he collected them into a fold, and recognized them as a 
 Baptist church 1768.f Previous to this movement, all was 
 quiet in Gorham. But this step of these humble and un- 
 privileged disciples at once excited the intolerant spirit 
 which had before slept in the breast of the established order. 
 They were reproached, slandered, and vexed with ministe- 
 rial taxes, though less so than was the church at Berwick. 
 We do not learn that they ever had a pastor. In 1796, it 
 appears that they were not in fellowship with the Baptists, 
 and probably became Free-will Baptists. It is quite cer- 
 tain that the church was never a member of any associa- 
 tion al body. 
 
 Sanford. This town was first settled about the year 
 1747, and was then called Philipstown. It is said that no 
 religious communion was formed here till the gathering of 
 the Baptists into a church. J The church in Berwick, like 
 a fruitful vine in a genial soil, flourished, spread its branch- 
 es into different and distant places, yielding fruit. Its 
 conflicts only quickened its zeal. Watered by frequent 
 showers of holy influence, it soon caused new shoots of 
 heavenly origin to appear. Sanford was a settlement but 
 a few miles to the north of Berwick. A church was recog- 
 nized here, four years after that in Berwick, in 1772. At 
 first it was a small and feeble band. There were Congre- 
 gationalists here; and a church was organized of that faith 
 in 1786,§ and we regret to say that there was not the best 
 feelings cherished by the latter towards the former. They 
 had a pastor, but the Baptists still remained destitute, and 
 
 *Green. Eccl. Sk. p. 89. {Gathered from statements made by Rev. J. 
 Tripp. JGreenleaf Eccle. Sk. p. 109. §Page 89. 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 35 
 
 from 1790 to the settlement of their first pastor, were call- 
 ed to endure the storms of persecution. 
 
 Rev. Otis Robinson became the pastor in 1798. Now 
 their days of darkness found an end. A precious and gen- 
 eral revival commenced with the ministry of Mr. Robinson, 
 which, in two years enlarged the church from thirty to one 
 hundred and forty-four. Mr. R. took up his pastoral charge 
 1810, which left the church without the stated ministry till 
 Rev. Gideon Cook received the pastoral care in 1816, when 
 a second special refreshing was experienced, and the church 
 much enlarged. Mr. Cook continued their useful minister 
 about ten years, and left to officiate in the second church, 
 at Kennebunk-port. After struggling with trials and dis- 
 couragements several years, the church was again restored 
 to a happy state of prosperity, and Rev. Mr. Cook became 
 pastor a second time, in 1832. In 1838, Mr. Cook again 
 resigns his charge, leaving the church in a happy and 
 prosperous state. Having been destitute several years, 
 and having had only occasional preaching, the church 
 suffered a loss of members. Rev. Joseph Gillpatrick, their 
 present pastor, commenced his labors with the church in 
 1842. This church has existed seventy-one years, and is 
 now a respectable church of one hundred and two mem- 
 bers.* Rev. Paul S. Adams received ordination in this 
 church, September 19, 1838. 
 
 Wells. As new fields were opened to the Baptists, the 
 Lord of the harvest raised up laborers to enter and cultivate 
 them. In Wells, a town in the immediate vicinity of Ber- 
 wick, Baptist sentiments next began to gain an influence, 
 and aided by the exertions of Mr. Nathaniel Lord, a 
 licentiate, several persons became pious. This influence 
 was much resisted and abused at that time. To become 
 a Baptist was regarded by the popular sect as evidence of 
 
 *The above statements are gathered from Minutes of York Asso. 
 
36 CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1733. 
 
 a radical deficiency in religious faith, if not in common 
 sense.* Reproaches, however, did not prevent the pious 
 converts from professing Christ by baptism, nor from 
 securing to themselves the privileges of church communion 
 and fellowship. In October, 1780, fourteen persons were 
 recognized by Rev. Dr. Shepherd and Rev. Wm. Hooper, 
 as a church of Christ, and in November following, Mr. 
 Lord, who had been the principal means in winning them 
 to Christ, was ordained pastor of this little flock, and 
 officiated in the church as such for a period of eighteen 
 years. 
 
 During the ministry of Elder Lord, considerable pros- 
 perity attended the efforts of the church. When his 
 labors terminated with this church, it numbered sixty-two, 
 having obtained a net increase of fcrty-eight in that period. 
 Of the early life of Mr. Lord, we have no information. 
 From the beginning of his ministry with this church, till 
 death closed up his work on earth, 1832, at the age of 
 78 years, he officiated as pastor 18 years with the church 
 in Wells, and 28 with the church at Berwick. It is said 
 of him that ' he was eminently useful as a preacher and 
 pastor.' The last sermon he preached, was an affectionate 
 address to his brethren, from these words : ' See that ye 
 fall not out by the way.'f 
 
 On the 28th of February, 1798, Joseph Eaton was 
 ordained the second pastor of this church. During the 
 period of Elder Eaton's career with the church, it passed 
 through several important changes; sometimes it had 
 seasons of prosperity, and then seasons of peculiar adver- 
 sity. Between 1798 and 1803, the church was much 
 enlarged by special revivals. In 1804, the number of the 
 
 *Note. The Congregationalists, who had operated in Wells, from an ear. 
 ly period, after the first settlement was made in 1643, were much disturbed 
 by the movements of the Baptists, and especially was Mr. Hemmenway, 
 their minister, much perplexed and excited to jealousy and oppressive 
 measures. tMin. of York Asso. 1832. 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 37 
 
 church was reduced nearly one half by the dismission of 
 seventy-six members to constitute a second church in Ber- 
 wick, subsequently called the North Berwick. The church 
 now entered a period of trials and discouragements. From 
 1809 to 1811, several members withdrew connection from 
 the church, being dissatisfied with the doctrines taught by 
 the pastor, Elder E., and as embraced by most of the 
 church, which were 'hyper Calvinistic,' or Antinomianism 
 to an extreme. These dissenting members originated the 
 Free-will Baptist church in Wells. These movements, with 
 other causes colateral to them, produced a sad state in the 
 church, — division and strife, and a gradual decrease of 
 members, so that in 1820, when Eld. E. was succeeded in 
 the pastoral office by the introduction of Rev. Oliver Bar- 
 ron, the church showed a total of twenty-nine members 
 only. For nine years, the first period of Mr. Barron's min- 
 istry in the church, little more was done than to rectify 
 disorders by instruction and discipline. Rev. Abner Flan- 
 ders succeeded Mr. Barron in the pastoral office for a term 
 of one year, and Rev. Isaac Merriam was elected pastor in 
 1831. Order, peace and love being again established in 
 the church, and the fogs and clouds of Antinomianism be- 
 ing scattered, Mr. Merriam commenced his ministry with 
 encouragement. Nor was his hope disappointed. Revi- 
 vals were successively enjoyed under his ministry, by which 
 in a fraction more than five years, the church was increased 
 from thirty to one hundred and fifty-six members. Rev. 
 Oliver Barron became its pastor a second time in 1837, by 
 whose exertions the church continued to enjoy a pleasing 
 prosperity.* The revival in 1831, introduced three persons 
 into the ministry ; John Chick, preaching in New-Hamp- 
 shire, Joseph Storer, and Moses Curtis, who died however 
 
 *This history is gathered principally from the Minutes of York Associa- 
 tion, and a communication from Re v. Oliver Barron. 
 
 4 
 
38 CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 
 
 before he had concluded his course of preparation at Brown 
 University. This church is favorably disposed towards 
 the objects of benevolence. 
 
 Shapleigh. Shapleigh, a town adjoining Sanford, on 
 the north, was next blessed with the influence of gospel 
 principles. Rev. Nehemiah Davis was the first Baptist to 
 unfurl the glorious gospel banner in this place. Nor was 
 the effort in vain. A few persons became pious Baptists, 
 who, in 1781, united together for the worship of God.* 
 Mr. Davis was their gospel leader till about 1798, when he 
 removed to the State of Ohio. The following circumstance 
 shows the increased influence of Baptist sentiments in the 
 town. In 18C2, a meeting-house was erected for the ac- 
 commodation of the Baptists at an expense of $1500. 
 
 From among the Baptist professors in Shapleigh, who 
 had for several years considered themselves a church of 
 Christ, and had reported themselves as such to the New- 
 Hampshire Association, a church was regularly organized, 
 in their meeting-house Oct. 6, 1803, and called the second 
 church in Shapleigh ; the remaining persons claiming to be 
 the first church. (The church now constituted contains 
 twenty-two members ; twelve males and ten females.) From 
 this time till 1818, the church prospered, by the occasional 
 labors of neighboring ministers, especially, by those per- 
 formed by Rev. Z. Delano, of Lebanon ; and by the untir- 
 ing and devotional efforts of its deacons, Thomas Shackley 
 Jonathan Ross and Jchn Chadborne. Mr. Chadborne, 
 after preaching by the authority of a license, was ordained 
 the first pastor of the church, Sept. 1818, and discharged 
 the duties of that office for four years, when, by his request, 
 he was dismissed from his charge of the church in 1822. 
 Three pastors have succeeded Mr, C. * Rev. Charles Blan- 
 chard officiated from April 1823 to 1828 ; Rev. Parker L. 
 
 *Dca. J. Bragdon. 
 
CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 39 
 
 Fogg, from 1S29 to 1832 : and Rev. Joseph Gillpatrick, 
 from Dec. 1833 to Sept. 1841. During these successive 
 ministrations, the church experienced several refreshing 
 revivals, which swelled the number of members to one 
 hundred and nineteen in 1841. Rev. J. Chadborne and 
 Rev. Luther C. Stevens, originated with this church ; and 
 its present deacons are James Ross and Ivory Bragdon.* 
 Since 1841, this church is recognized as the first in Shap- 
 leigh. Those brethren who refer to 1781, as the time they 
 originated as a church, have since passed through several 
 changes. Several persons having become Baptists, in Mil- 
 ton, an adjoining town in New Hampshire, and having 
 united with those brethren, they were constituted regularly 
 in 1828, by the name of ' Shapleigh and Milton ;' in two 
 years after it appears with the new name, ' Acton and Mil- 
 ton ;' and in 1835, the Baptists in Milton, by their request, 
 were dismissed to constitute a church in that town, where 
 the old church takes the name ' Acton,' and thus the old 
 name ' Shapleigh,' is lost among these changes. 
 
 After the removal of Mr. Davis, those brethren, called 
 the first church, were destitute of the regular and constant 
 ministry till Rev. Wm. Godding, from Wayne, united with 
 them in 1807, who was one of their firm supporters through 
 all their changes, and who is now a member of the church 
 in Acton. By the ministry of Eld. Godding, their numbers 
 were increased, and in 1816, a pleasing revival was expe- 
 rienced, which increased their number by forty-three bap- 
 tisms. From this time till the church was constituted, 
 1828, their numbers were considerably diminished. (See 
 history of Acton church.) 
 
 Lyman. Not a year had elapsed after the Baptists com- 
 menced operations in Shapleigh, before a central light was 
 enkindled in a joining plantation, called Coxhall, now Ly- 
 
 *Com. Dr W. Stevens, 
 
40 CHURCHES IN MAINE, 1767—1783. 
 
 man. A church of twenty-nine members was constituted 
 here, in the dwelling-house of Jacob Rhodes, March 5, 
 1782, and Simon Locke, who had been especially useful 
 to them as a lincensed preacher, was at the same time, or- 
 dained its pastor. Rev. Mr. Locke, like a polar star, 
 remained in this one position, shining ever with celestial 
 beauty for a period of forty-nine years. He was distinguish- 
 ed as a devoted christian, as a plain and faithful preacher 
 of evangelical truth, and as the affectionate and sympathiz- 
 ing pastor. He finished his course and the ministry he 
 had received, in a peaceful death, Sept. 6, 1831. 
 
 With a skilful and steady hand, Eld. Locke led this 
 church safely through all the hardships and trials peculiar 
 to the early progress of the Baptists in this part of the 
 State, where clerical oppression, with an iron hand, threat- 
 ened the overthrow of every movement by them in every 
 place. The church did not, like some, obtain a rapid in- 
 crease by special revivals, but by gradual accession, it 
 received an addition of one hundred and seventy members 
 during the period of Eld. Locke's ministry. 
 
 N. G. Littlefield, a member of this church, was licensed 
 to preach the gospel in 1822, ordained as an evangelist in 
 1827, and became pastor of the church in 1839 or '40. 
 Previous to the death of the first pastor, Mr. Littlefield ren- 
 dered him much timely aid while struggling with the infir- 
 mities of age. Soon after the removal of their venerable 
 pastor, the church was divided, and a second church in 
 Lyman was constituted, with Mr. Littlefield their pastor ; 
 but time and circumstances in a few months convinced all 
 concerned of the impolicy of such a movement. Divided, 
 both churches were too small and feeble to sustain the gos- 
 pel among them respectively ; united, and the work would 
 be comparatively easy. A union of the churches was there- 
 fore effected in 1833, since which the church moves on 
 harmoniously and prosperously. 
 
WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 41 
 
 At first, the Baptists in L. worshipped in barns, dwelling- 
 houses and school-houses. In six years after they became 
 a church, they built a small house for the worship of God, 
 at a cost of $700, which accommodated them till 1820, 
 when a second and more convenient house was erected at 
 an expense of $2100. Joshua Smith, Stephen Butler, 
 Lemuel Burnham, Daniel Kimball, Wm. Waterhouse, John 
 Grant, Joseph Cleaves, and Simeon Andrews, have acted 
 as deacons in the church. 
 
 CHAPTER IV. 
 
 Waterborough — Cornish — a temporary church in Fryeburg — Parsonsfield— 
 Limerick — Buxton. 
 
 Waterborough. This town is situated east of Shap- 
 leigh, and north of Lyman, and presented a convenient field 
 for the occasional labors of Davis and Locke; and the spirit 
 of opposition being violent in the towns south of them, it 
 would be more agreeable, if not more consistent, to occupy 
 those places where at least the liability to trials would be 
 less. In Waterborough, no religious community was as 
 yet formed — the minds of the people were therefore un- 
 trammelled by the influence of any sectarian creed. The 
 influence of the gospel, as exerted by the ministers and 
 churches in Shapleigh and Lyman, was consequently salu- 
 tary in preparing materials for a Baptist church in that 
 place, which were collected and constituted into a church, 
 Oct. 27, 1791. This church moved on peacefully — the 
 clouds of persecution lowered not around its pathway. Rev. 
 Henry Smith, of Alfred, became its pastor in 1794, and for 
 a period of more than forty-two years he fed this people 
 with the bread and water of life, and was with them in a 
 4* 
 
42 WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 
 
 variety of conditions ; although generally they enjoyed a 
 pleasing prosperity — 1798, 1815, 1830 and '31, werespecial 
 seasons of revivals which cheered pastor and church, with 
 large additions, besides the encouragement aiforded by an 
 annual increase nearly equal to the diminution by dismis- 
 sions, &lc. Mr. Smith lived a farmer in Alfred, till about 
 the age of 34 or 35, when, from a generous heart, from 
 love to God, and compassion for sinners, he left his honest, 
 secular business, for a more heavenly employment, and 
 was ordained to the ministry in 1785, and very probable 
 was an important means in laying the foundation of the 
 church with whom he spent the subsequent part of his life, 
 and among whom he died Feb. 11, 1836, aged 84. Mr. 
 S. possessed a feeling heart, a tender conscience, a correct 
 judgment ; — he was exemplary, evangelical, devoted, and 
 his sermons were solemn, argumentative and impressive.* 
 Mr. Smith's successors to the pastoral office in this church, 
 are Rev. Abner Flanders, from 1836 to 1838 ; Rev. E. 
 Robbins, ordained Jan. 3, 1839, and served from Jan. 1839 
 to 1842, and Rev. J. Merrill now officiating. The church- 
 es, Alfred and second in Waterborough, have their origin 
 with this church, and Elders John Haines, Stephen Web- 
 ber and Timothy Hodsdon, were once disciples among this 
 people. It is now an efficient, benevolent church of one 
 hundred and eleven members. 
 
 Cornish. This town is still farther north than Water- 
 borough, and was settled at a later period. Among the orig- 
 inal inhabitants, were several pious Baptists from Sanford, 
 who immediatelv commenced holding meetings for social 
 worship, and was thereby instrumental in the conversion of 
 sinners. Among these converts, in the opening wilder- 
 ness, was a Mr. John Chadborne, who at once became 
 ardently and zealously engaged in the cause of Christ, and 
 
 *Com. of James H. Pierce, ch. elk., and file of Min. Y. A. 
 
WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 43 
 
 was instrumental in promoting a very extensive revival of 
 religion, which spread with a powerful influence into sev- 
 eral of the surrounding settlements, and laid the foundation 
 for, not only the church in Cornish, but also for churches 
 in several other towns. The converts in Cornish were 
 baptized and became a branch church to the church in 
 Sanford, and Mr. J. Chadborne was elected its deacon ; 
 which office he honored till ] 798, when he was ordained as 
 an evangelist, and was very serviceable to the Baptists in the 
 vicinity of Cornish. In 1792, this branch was recognized 
 as a regular church ; and J. Allen and A. Sherborne were 
 made deacons. In 1801, Dea. Sherborne commenced 
 preaching in this place, by whose labors the church was 
 greeted by several valuable additions. Mr. Sherborne was 
 afterwards ordained at Kennebunk-port, and subsequently 
 was engaged as a Home Missionary and died at Utica, N.Y. 
 
 June 1805, Timothy Remick was ordained its first pas- 
 tor, and served the church faithfully 27 or 28 years, when, 
 on account of ill health, he resigned his charge. Eld. R. 
 saw the fruits of his ministry in this church but a few years. 
 For about twelve years from the commencement of Elder 
 R's labor with the church, a cheering prosperity was en- 
 joyed, so that in 1816, it had a total of eighty members. 
 From that date, its members began to be diminished, and 
 gradually decreased, till in 1832 it numbered thirty-seven 
 members only. During this down-hill course, the church 
 had many severe trials. 
 
 During the year 1833, D. C. Haines, a licentiate of Port- 
 land supplied them with preaching, and his labors were 
 useful to them. But a more serious evil, and more trying 
 season awaited the church. March 4, 1834, the dwelling- 
 house of Dea. N. Jewett,* together with the records, and 
 
 *The relation that Dea. Jewett sustained to the welfare of this church, and 
 to the cause of God, forbid injustice that he should be forgotten. Dea. J. 
 was born in Hollis, N. H. Feb. 11, 1758, became a resident in Cornish; Me. 
 
44 WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 
 
 communion furniture of the church were consumed by fire, 
 and in a few weeks the church was disbanded. There 
 were however many pious souls in Cornish, who soon com- 
 menced holding meetings for the worship of God; but be- 
 ing much divided in opinions as regards gospel discipline, 
 they were considerably perplexed what measures to adopt, 
 in which a general union could be felt, and a harmonious 
 co-operation could be enjoyed. May 15th, 1834, at one of 
 these meetings, five brethren being present, it was agreed, 
 that they dispense with the Articles of Faith and Covenant, 
 as held by the old church, and that they take the New 
 Testament for their rule of faith and practice, allowing 
 each member belonging to the union thus formed to fix his 
 own rule of faith and practice, according to his best under- 
 standing of the sacred scriptures. Measures were immedi- 
 ately taken to bring all the Baptists in Cornish into fellow- 
 ship upon this plan. The plan did not succeed so well as 
 the projectors of it anticipated. Here they were still divided 
 among themselves, and rejected by the Association as a 
 church, and lost to the denomination, beyond all hope of 
 recovery. A committee composed of Elders Roberts, 
 Seavey, Littlefield, Hubbard and A. Clarke, raised by the 
 Association in 1835, visited them, who, after much prayer- 
 ful investigation and consultation, gave the right hand of 
 fellowship to four males and twelve females, as a church of 
 Christ, which has since been uniformly blessed with union 
 and prosperity. Eld. Remick is still living as a member of 
 this church, and has, during this long day of darkness and 
 trial preached to them, as often as the infirmities of age 
 would allow him the privilege. The church is now blessed 
 with the pastoral efforts of Rev. J. Hubbard, jr., who was 
 
 1798, and soon became a member of the Baptist church, and remained a 
 worthy member and pillar in it till his death, Oct. 10, 1839. He had pious 
 parents, and was supposed to have experienced religion at the age of 14 ; 
 but he did not profess his hope in Christ immediately. He at first united with 
 the Congregational church in Durham, N.H. He waa baptized by T.Remick. 
 
WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784r-1800. 45 
 
 ordained among them in 1843 ; and shows a total of seven- 
 ty members. It is now alive to the various objects of 
 benevolence. Joseph Chadborne and Stephen Pearce 
 were its deacons in 1841.* 
 
 Fryeburg. It appears from the best accounts we can 
 find, that there was a church in Fryeburg as early as 1787, 
 of which Eld. L. Richardson was pastor ; and that for sev- 
 eral years flourished in common with its neighbors. It 
 continued to maintain its progress and a connection in 
 the Association till about 1805, when it disappeared as a 
 church. It then showed as a total of members eighty-three. 
 Ey the circumstance that the churches, Cornish, Limerick 
 and Liminsfton, received large additions in 1806, of which 
 no account is reported, we conclude that the church in 
 Fryeburg was disbanded, and most of the members united 
 in those churches, and Eld. Richardson became a member 
 in the church in Cornish. This seems to us most probable, 
 although we have no certain evidence that this was the fact. 
 This we know, that there was a church in Fryeburg, at a 
 very early period, and that it was lost to the York Associa- 
 tion in 1805, and that those churches in the vicinity did 
 receive in 1806, large additions, of which no account as to 
 the manner of reception, is given in their returns to the 
 Association that year.f 
 
 Parsonsfield. A church was gathered in Parsonsfield 
 about the year 1792, and Levi Chadborne became its pastor. 
 In 1793 the labors of Eld. C. were extended into Limerick 
 and Newfield, and additions to the church in Parsonsfield 
 were made from those settlements. The brethren in Limer- 
 ick! were recognized as a branch church, and the members 
 in Newfield becoming nearly equal in number to those 
 in P., the church was called * Parsonsfield and Newfield,'^ 
 
 *Com. Mark Pearce, eh. elk.— Min. Y. A. tMin. Y. A. 
 tSee his. of Lim. §Min. Y. A. r807. 
 
46 WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 
 
 and retained this name till 1807, when the church in New- 
 field was organized. Eld. Chadborne was pastor of this 
 church till about the year 1805, which was a period of un- 
 usual prosperity to the church, as the number of members 
 when his labors closed, evince ; that number being one 
 hundred and eighty-eight. The Congregationalists began to 
 make exertions in Parsonsfield in 1791, and organized a 
 church 1795, under the pastoral care of Rev. Mr. Rolfe, 
 but their prosperity was much less than the Baptists. 
 
 Mr. Chadborne was succeeded by Wentworth Lord, 
 who became an early member in the church ; was ordained 
 an evangelist in 1803, and became pastor 1806, discharged 
 the duties of the office till about 1830, when age and in- 
 firmity required that he should have the assistance of a 
 junior pastor, and remained the senior pastor in the church 
 till 1835. 
 
 Mr. Lord was eminently useful as a pastor of this church 
 and to the Baptist cause in its vicinity. While the senior 
 pastor, he was assisted by the ministry of Rev. S. Tyler, 
 Parker L. Fogg, and Wm. N. Slason ; and was succeeded 
 by Charles H. Green, ordained 1838, who was a blessing 
 to the church till 1842, when he resigned his charge. From 
 1806 to 1828, the church, although encouraged by frequent 
 additions, yet by large dismissions, it sustained a net loss 
 of one hundred and sixty members. The scale of prosper- 
 ity now turned more favorable ; and from 1828 to 1836, it 
 received a net increase of sixty-five members. A brighter 
 day began to dawn upon the church in 1838, than had 
 been experienced since its early prosperity. Although 
 diminished by the dismission of about twenty of its mem- 
 bers to constitute a second church in town, the settlement 
 of Mr. Green as pastor, encouraged their perseverance; 
 and in 1839 the church received the cheering additions of 
 fifty by baptism. This church is situated in the centre of 
 
WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 47 
 
 the town, and is accommodated with a neat and convenient 
 house of worship, and is able to support a pastor. Present 
 number of members, eighty-two.* 
 
 Limerick. f As early as 1793, a few Baptist members 
 resided in Limerick, and constituted a branch church to 
 the church in Parsonsfield, over which Rev. Levi Chad- 
 borne then presided, and by whose occasional labors the 
 Baptists in Limerick originated. The influence of the pa- 
 rent church, and the efforts of their pastor, tended to 
 increase their number. In October 1796, a church was 
 organized in Limerick, composed of twenty-five members, 
 and Ebenezer Kingman was ordained pastor a short time 
 after its organization. Eld. Kingman was pastor eleven 
 years, during which the church saw days of prosperity, and 
 a net increase of thirty-eight. After his resignation, the 
 church was destitute of a pastor eight years ; and though 
 favored with preaching most of the time, yet the church 
 sustained a net loss in this period of thirteen members. 
 Since 1815, the church has had several pastors, but not in 
 immediate succession. Rev. Willard Glover, from 1827, 
 two years ; Rev. Joshua Roberts, from 1832, two years ; 
 Rev. Noah Hooper, from 1837, two years ; Josiah H. Til- 
 ton, ordained pastor in April 1840. 
 
 Thomas Paul, Benjamin Paul, Jotham Day, Ezra Tomb, 
 Atherton Clark, Alvan Felch, and Obed Walker, have gone 
 forth from this church into the gospel field, to preach 
 Christ to their fellow-men. J 
 
 Buxton. This place was at first called ' Narragansett 
 No. 1,' and was settled between the years 1740 and '50; 
 and when there were but twenty families, Rev. Mr. Coffin, 
 a Congregationalist, began to preach among them, whose 
 
 *Min. Y. A. fA Congregationalist church was organized in Limerick in 
 1795. Like the Baptist church, it remained small and feeble for many years. 
 tCom. by Jesse Locke, ch. elk. 
 
48 WESTERN DISTRICT FROM 1784—1800. 
 
 labors were continued in the town for sometime after the 
 Congregational church was organized, in 1763.* The re- 
 ligious views and feelings were, as a consequence, by these 
 exertions, very nearly established, which were strictly of 
 an Armenian character. They were therefore disqualified 
 to receive cordially the doctrines of a gracious dispensation. 
 But at length the clear light, shining from a northern point 
 in their moral heavens, when most of the Baptist churches 
 were gathered into a beautiful constellation, illuminated 
 some of the souls in Buxton. John Chadborne, of Par- 
 sonsfield,t and Simon Locke, of Lyman, were among the 
 first Baptist ministers to visit and preach the gospel in this 
 place, and those who became Baptists, at first united with 
 the church in Lyman. The influence against the Baptists, 
 as was common in all the places where the Puritan spirit 
 reigned predominant over the minds of the people, was 
 strong here. And the passion for Pedo-baptism was too 
 unyielding to allow willingly the Baptists even a name or 
 place. But the Lord opened a goodly heritage for them, 
 and a church was organized Dec. 1799. One of their num- 
 ber, Abner Flanders, was called of God to be their teacher 
 and guide, who was ordained pastor about the year 1803, 
 and continued to preach alternately at Buxton Centre, and 
 in the south part of the town, till about the year 1825, 
 during which period the Baptist cause made a pleasing 
 progress. The church lost many by dismissions, &c, but 
 the increase was considerably more than to balance the loss. 
 The original number was fourteen ; and in 1825, when the 
 North church was set off, the number was ninety. North 
 Buxton church was constituted of forty-nine members, dis- 
 missed from the South church June 2, 1825. By this di- 
 vision, the old church was diminished not only in numbers 
 but in ability ; and thereby rendered wholly unable to sus- 
 
 *Greenleaf Eccl. his. p. 108. fMin. Y. A. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 49 
 
 tain the preaching of the gospel. They therefore declined, 
 being destitute, and in 1833 were dropped from the Asso- 
 ciation as having lost its visibility as a church. Rev. A. 
 Flanders received the pastoral care of the North church till 
 1829, when this venerable pastor, after a term of 26 years in 
 B., by his request was honorably dismissed. The next ten 
 years this church had no pastor, but was assisted, and by 
 the blessing of God, enlarged, by the ministry of various 
 preachers, but principally by that of Rev. A. Wilson, of 
 Portland, who preached from 1830 to '32, much of the 
 time, when the church was increased to seventy-five mem- 
 bers ; by Rev. Samuel Robbins, in 1834, when the church 
 received some additions. In April 1840, William Bailey 
 was ordained, by whose ministry the -church increased to 
 one hundred and twenty members. 
 
 The Baptists in Buxton have passed through many se- 
 vere trials ; among other evils, they have been afflicted by 
 ' a frequent change of ministers.' The churches in Hollis 
 and Scarboro' have their origin with the Baptists in Buxton.* 
 
 [Mr. Bailey left this church and removed to Bowdoinham 
 in 1844.] 
 
 CHAPTER V. 
 
 Lebanon and North Berwick — Berwick 2d — Berwick 3d — Limington— 
 Kennebunk-port — Kennebunk — Waterborough 2d, a temporary church — 
 Hollis — Newfield 1st and 2d, both temporary — Hiram. 
 
 Lebanon and North Berwick. A church was con- 
 stituted in 1801, which was composed of members residing 
 in Lebanon, and in the northerly part of Berwick, and 
 called ' Lebanon and Berwick.' It is not known that 
 any one preacher in particular was instrumental in laying 
 the foundation of this church ; but probably was a field 
 
 *Com. W. Bailey, Pas. N. Ch. B. 5 
 
,0 WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 
 
 occupied occasionally by all the neighboring ministers 
 Rev. Zebedee Delano is returned as their pastor, 1802,* 
 and is yet the senior pastor in the church. Since 1831, 
 assistance has been rendered by several in the ministry ; 
 Rev. A. Flanders was a member and preached from 1832 
 to 1835; John Boyd, a licentiate, from 1836, nearly two 
 years; Rev. J. E. Strong, from 1840 to the present, has 
 officiated as the acting pastor, and continues his useful la- 
 bors with them. Rev. Mr. Delano was one of the early resi- 
 dents in the town of Livermore, Me., and one of the first 
 converts in the first revival in that town, 1793.f He soon 
 entered the ministry by ordination, and has ever remained 
 piously devoted to the cause he then embraced. 
 
 This church has -passed through many seasons of trial, 
 and has experienced much prosperity. In 1835, when the 
 North Berwick church was dropped from the Association, 
 it took the name of ' Lebanon and North Berwick,' and 
 has since become an interesting and flourishing body of 
 seventy-five. 
 
 Berwick 2d, or subsequently North Berwick. This 
 church originated with the church in Wells. In 1804, 
 seventy-six members were dismissed from that church for 
 the purpose of constituting this second church in Berwick, 
 leaving eighty-two only to maintain the cause in Wells. 
 Rev. Nathaniel Lord was settled as pastor at the time they 
 became a church, leaving Eld. Eaton to guide that flock. 
 Eld. Lord continued pastor of this church till his removal 
 by death, April 28, 1832, when the number of members 
 was 106; when he was succeeded in the pastoral charge 
 by Rev. Philander Hartwell, of the church now called N. 
 Berwick. Eld. Hartwell labored one year, and then the 
 church were left destitute, and owing to its ' hyper-Calvinis- 
 
 *Min. Y. A. fSee his. of that Church. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 51 
 
 tic' views, in 1835, was dropped from the Association, with 
 permission to unite as individual members with other 
 churches in the Association. During its existence as a 
 church, it enjoyed but one special revival, which occurred 
 about the year 1815. Previous to this revival, there was a 
 gradual loss of members, but subsequently, the church ex- 
 perienced more general prosperity, receiving a gradual gain 
 of members.* 
 
 Third Church Berwick. A small church of fourteen 
 members was constituted in Berwick, in 1808, called the 
 1 3d in B.,' and Rev. William Chadborne officiated as 
 pastor till 1817, when he retired from their midst, and 
 the body having never obtained much strength or increase, 
 and now being destitute of the ministry, declined, and in 
 1824, set among the stars which rise no more.* 
 
 Limington. This town is situated in what was at first 
 called the ' Ossipee' county, and settlements were com- 
 menced here about 1775, and a Congregational church 
 was organized in Limington, 1789. Rev. Dr. Adams, a 
 Congregationalist, having preached in this and the adjoin- 
 ing towns nine years, and, being a physician as well as 
 minister,! he had great influence over all the early 
 inhabitants ; they were therefore strongly fortified with the 
 faith of Pedo-baptism. With this opposing faith, the 
 Baptists had to contend in this as well as in most other 
 places. 
 
 About ten years after the Congregational church was 
 constituted, the Rev. John Chadborne, pastor of the Baptist 
 church in Cornish, began to visit L., and preach the gospel 
 to the people. Now comes a conflict between baptism and 
 sprinkling; but in the contest God gave the victory to the 
 Baptists in a few cases of conversion ; and those who 
 became Baptists, united immediately with the church in 
 
 *Mia. Y. A. tGreen. Eccl. his. p. 113. 
 
52 WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 
 
 C, and under the pastoral care of Elder Chadborne. Their 
 numbers increased, and in 1802, they withdrew from C. 
 and formed the church in L., and Elder Chadborne, by 
 their earnest request left the church in Cornish, and be- 
 came their pastor. With this church he labored success- 
 fully one year, and resigned to occupy another field. Mr. 
 Chadborne was succeeded the same year by the ordination 
 of Stephen Webber, who continued in the office till 1809, 
 when he resigned. The church now numbered thirty-four 
 members. After being destitute of a pastor about four 
 years, John Seavy, an active member in the church, was 
 useful to the church in the capacity of a licentiate, till 
 1816, when he was ordained their pastor, who has been a 
 shining light in the church. The year previous to the 
 ordination of Rev. Mr. S., the church, after much per- 
 plexity and trial, with a portion of the members who 
 refused aid in assisting the poor of the church, excluded 
 one-third of its number. This greatly diminished the 
 church, but brought peace and prosperity, as the encour- 
 aging result.* 
 
 From 1823 to 1840, the church passed through a period 
 of darkness and discouragement ; during which, the faithful 
 pastor almost concluded several times that his usefulness 
 was at an end in that place; but as often some circum- 
 stance occurred to increase his faith that the ' vision' was 
 only tarrying for a season, and ultimately would be disclosed 
 in the building up of Zion. He waited not in vain. The 
 blessing was given in 1840, when a general work of divine 
 mercy was experienced. Probably if Mr. Seavy had been 
 as faithless as some, he would have seen sufficient cause 
 to justify a removal, and left the church to mourn and 
 wait alone, and the blessing of 1840, to a successor. It is 
 
 *Ch. Clk., Samuel Hopkinson 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1800— 1810. 53 
 
 very certain that such a faith in God, is the best support 
 which a pastor can have in a day of adversity, and the 
 best antidote for an uneasy and indeterminate state of mind. 
 
 John Andrews, James Lord, Isaac Small, Isaac Small, 
 2d, Benjamin Small, and Nathaniel C. Small, have officiated 
 as deacons. John Seavy and Samuel Tyler, became 
 ministers of the gospel. This church has existed forty-one 
 years ; its original number was thirteen. 
 
 Kennebunk-port. This is a shore town, about half way 
 from Portland to Portsmouth, and is a large, commercial 
 and wealthy town. It was settled at an early period, and 
 was affected religiously by the influence of the Congrega- 
 tionalist church in Wells, which was organized in 1701. 
 As a result of this influence a Congregationalist church 
 was gathered in Kennebunk, in 1730, with Rev. Daniel 
 Little, pastor,* who was the only minister in the town 
 when the Baptists began to preach Christ in the place, 
 which must have been about the time the Baptist church 
 was gathered in "Wells, 1750. A Baptist church was 
 not gathered here, however, till about the year 1803, and 
 in 1804, the church ( Arundel,' now Kennebunk-port, 
 with Rev. Andrew Sherburne, pastor, united with N. H. 
 Association, and numbered twenty-eight members. Mr. 
 Sherburne continued to minister to this church till 1819, 
 and the blessing of God upon the exertions which were made 
 during this period laid the foundation for the Baptist in- 
 terest in Kennebunk. In 1818, its total of members was 
 ninety-two, but it soon experienced a rapid diminution ; 
 in 1820, a second church in Kennebunk-port was set off, 
 and Rev. Jotham Day became its next pastor, but during 
 his stay the church was like ' Lot's wife,' stationary, and 
 in 1829, it was lost to the denomination, having become 
 extinct.t 
 
 *Green. Eccl. his. p. 23. +Min. Y. A. 
 
 5* 
 
54 WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 
 
 The tender shoot which sprang from this old stock, 
 1820, soon became a flourishing plant, and is now a most 
 fruitful vine. This was the second church in Kennebunk- 
 port, now the ' Kennebunk-porV ; the first being lost. 
 
 Kennebunk. The same year, (1803), that the first 
 church Kennebunk-port was organized, a church was con- 
 stituted in the eastern part of Wells, by the name, 'second 
 Wells,' and was composed of fifteen members, some of 
 whom resided in Wells, some in Kennebunk ; Rev. Joshua 
 Roberts, who at that time became its pastor, was much 
 respected by the church and useful in its service, till 
 about the year 1831, when he resigned his charge, and 
 removed to another part in the vineyard of the Lord. In 
 1830, it numbered sixty-three members, and was in a pros- 
 perous condition. This church was called ' second 
 Wells' till 1812; from that time till 1820, < East parish 
 in Wells'; since 1820, 'Kennebunk.' Since the resig- 
 nation of Elder Roberts, the church has not received 
 additions sufficient to meet its losses, although blessed with 
 a succession of faithful pastors — as Samuel Robbins, who 
 labored with the church in 1833, one year ; (1834, desti- 
 tute); 1835 and '36, Shubael Tripp, two years; (1837, 
 destitute); 1838, Charles Emerson, one year ; 1839 and 
 '40, Elias McGregor, two years ; from 1841 to the present, 
 Rev. John Hubbard, (1842). In 1841, its number of 
 members was twenty, only ; but its prospects have recently 
 brightened, and the church is much encouraged, although 
 small and feeble.* 
 
 Rev. S. Tripp was removed from his labors among 
 this people in 1837, by death, in view of which event, we 
 find the following expression of the Association : — ' In 
 his death we feel that the cause of Christ has lost a worthy 
 and faithful minister ; society an ornament, and his 
 
 ¥ Min. Y. Asso. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 55 
 
 family, with whom we deeply sympathize, a kind and 
 affectionate head.'* 
 
 Dea. John Taylor, who died October 20, 1838, was a 
 member of this church from its commencement, and was 
 deacon most of that period. f He was beloved by the 
 church in life, and lamented in death. 
 
 Second Waterborough. The next church gathered 
 in this Association, was a small church, organized in 1804, 
 by the name of second Waterborough. It appears from 
 its history as traced in the minutes of that body, that its 
 early and principal supports were, deacons John Hill and 
 Paul Chadborne ; and, during the last period of its ex- 
 istence, Rev. Atherton Clarke endeavored, from 1826 to 
 1834, to promote its life and a more cheering prosperity 
 than it had before enjoyed. But his labor was almost in 
 vain, and he relinquished the hope of seeing the church 
 ever arise to distinction and usefulness. Its number of 
 members never exceeded twenty-five, and its visibility was 
 lost to the Association in 1836.| This church in 1842, 
 was again resuscitated, and, like a star which had wan- 
 dered from its proper orbit, brought back to its place in 
 the Association, to move forward in harmony with its as- 
 sociate churches. § 
 
 Hollis. A small Baptist church was organized in 
 Hollis, formerly Philipsburg, Aug. 20, 1805, principally of 
 members previously dismissed from the church in Buxton, 
 and partly of persons who had become Baptists by the 
 ministry of Timothy Hodsdon, who was ordained its first 
 pastor, October 9, of the same year. Rev. Mr. Hodsdon 
 was a faithful laborer in this church till about the year 
 1822, when it pleased the Great Head of the church to 
 remove him to his home in heaven. During his ministry 
 the church received but a small enlargement, and but few 
 
 *Min. 1837, p. 9. fZion's Advocate. JMin. Y. A. §Min. Saco Asso. 
 
|6 WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 
 
 alterations, there being no extensive revival in that period. 
 From the death of Elder H. till 1832, the church was 
 destitute of a pastor, though not altogether deprived of 
 preaching, and still remained small and inefficient. This 
 church owes much to the piety and faithfulness of deacon 
 S. Bradley and Daniel Haley. Sometime in 1832, John 
 Hubbard began to preach in the capacity of a licentiate, 
 and on the 9th of October was ordained as pastor, and 
 soon, under his ministry the church appeared like one 
 coming up out of the wilderness, clothed in light ; and 
 for three years advanced, obtaining a small net increase of 
 members. Rev. Mr. H. left in 1835, since which time 
 the church has been destitute ; in a low, tried and dis- 
 couraged state, and at present has thirty-four members 
 only.* 
 
 Newfield. The Congregationalists were forward of 
 the Baptists in Newfield. They organized a church there 
 in 1801. But being unfortunate in their first pastor, it 
 was many years before they realized much prosperity. f It 
 is quite probable that Baptist ministers in the vicinity 
 began many years before this time to preach occasionally 
 in Newfield. Rev. Levi Chadborne, of Parsonsfield, was 
 blessed in his efforts to evangelize the people in N., as 
 early as 1793, and soon a part of the church in Parsonsfield 
 belonged in that town.| In 1807, thirteen were dismissed 
 from P., and a church was constituted in N. of fourteen 
 members. In 1809, William Goodwin, who had been 
 useful to the church as a licensed preacher, was ordained 
 pastor, the church then numbered thirty-nine. He left the 
 church 1810, with the number of members increased to 
 fifty-one. The church was then destitute of a pastor till 
 1824, and sustained in that time a loss of more than one 
 
 *Com. Wm. Bailey, Buxton. fG. Eccl. his. p. 115. JSee his. Par. C. p. 45. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 57 
 
 half of its members. This year, Shubael Tripp, who had 
 held a license in the church two or three years, was 
 ordained to the ministry, and assisted the church. The 
 church had now twenty members, having been diminished 
 by the dismission of several members to aid in forming a 
 second church in the town. Rev. Mr. Tripp retired from 
 this field in 1825, and the church was again destitute, and 
 after a conflict with darkness several years, and no prospect 
 of surviving the trial, by a recommendation of the Asso- 
 ciation in 1836, the church was disbanded to unite with 
 other churches in the vicinity.* 
 
 Second Church, Newfield. This church was con- 
 stituted May 14, 1818, and the same year united with 
 Association, with twelve members, some of whom were 
 previously dismissed from the first church for this purpose. 
 This church like the one from which it originated, was 
 destined to a few years' existence, only; and these formed 
 a period of trial and discouragement, which ended about 
 the year 1837. Since that time there has been no Baptist 
 church in Newfield to unite with the denomination in ex- 
 tending the Redeemer's kingdom.! 
 
 Hiram. This town is situated north of Cornish, and 
 is the most southerly in Oxford county, and was among the 
 early settlements in that section of the country. As early as 
 1787 and '88, Rev. Zebediah Richardson, of Fryeburg, 
 and Rev. John Chadborne, of Cornish, introduced Baptist 
 sentiments among the people, by occasional visits, and 
 preaching the gospel to them, and some few of these early 
 settlers became Baptists. Mr. John Watson, and Lucy, 
 his wife, and Mr. Asa Osgood, and Lydia, his wife, were 
 the first baptized by Elder Richardson, and united to the 
 church in Cornish, that being the nearest and most con- 
 venient for them ; and although the distance was eleven or 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1836. fMin. Y. A. 1813 and 1836. 
 
58 WESTERN MAINE, 1800—1810. 
 
 twelve miles, Watson, Osgood, and their wives, on foot, 
 and in bad roads, punctually attended the meetings in 
 Cornish. This they did till 1803, when they were favored 
 with more preaching in Hiram ; and 1804, under the labors 
 of Rev. Levi Chadborne, of Limerick, a very glorious work 
 of grace was enjoyed, which resulted in a pleasing increase 
 of Baptists, who were added to the same church with Wat- 
 son, etc. In 1805, Elder William Godding, on a mission 
 by the direction of the Association, spent a short time 
 among them, and baptized fifteen persons. From this time 
 till 1809, the people of Hiram obtained a portion of the 
 ministry of Rev. T. Remick, who was then pastor in Cor- 
 nish, and were blessed with many precious seasons in this 
 period. The foundation being now laid, and the materials 
 for the building being now prepared, the erection of the 
 edifice was the next thing to be done. The Baptists in 
 Hiram, therefore, were assembled in the dwelling-house of 
 Mr. Stephen Burbank, and recognized by a council as a 
 church of Christ, with nine males and nine females, eigh- 
 teen in number. Since this church was constituted, there 
 have been but a small increase of members, never exceed- 
 ing twenty-seven ; never able to erect a house for worship ; 
 therefore they have been obliged to meet in dwelling-hous- 
 es, barns, schocl-houses, and town-house. They never had 
 the assistance of a pastor, till Rev. J. Chadborne became 
 their minister, in 1835 ; and were blessed with no special 
 revival till 1839, when a few souls were converted and 
 added to the church. Mr. John Watson was a prominent 
 member in this church, and was active in all its interests. 
 He lived to see all his children converted. He died 1827, 
 aged 77 years. Dea. Thomas B. Watson died in 1836. 
 Dea. Osgood died some time previous. These all distin- 
 guished themselves for usefulness in the church. John 
 Watson is their present clerk. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—184$. 59 
 
 CHAPTER VI. 
 
 South Berwick Village — Saco — Acton — Cape Neddock — North Kenne- 
 bunk port — Kennebunk Village — Alfred — Parsonsfield 2d — Shapleigh 2d 
 — First Keunebunk and Lyman — Sanford 2d — Mt. Hope — Springvale. 
 
 South Berwick Village Church. This church is 
 the offspring of the first and oldest church in Berwick, a 
 division of which took place before the ordination of Rev. 
 William Hooper ; and that portion of the members residing 
 in the south part of the town, then distinguished by the 
 name 'Quampeagan,' united with the Baptists in Madbury, 
 N. H., and settled. Elder Hooper, as their pastor. 'Quam- 
 peagan'* is the place where now stands the pleasant village 
 of South Berwick, in which is situated the church we now 
 describe. The Baptists being a branch of the church in 
 Madbury, received a portion of the ministry of Elder H. 
 
 The Congregationalists formed a society at ' Quampea- 
 gan landing,' in 1700, built a house for worship, and 
 organized a church in 1701, and settled a pastor in 1702.f 
 They then obtained the ministerial lands belonging to the 
 ancient ' Piscataqua,' and laid serious obstacles to the 
 progress of the Baptists, and occasioned their long and try- 
 ing struggle, to obtain a permanent location as a denom- 
 ination in that village. At length the victory was won, 
 and a small church of fifteen members was organized in 
 1824,| by the name it now bears. At first it was aided in 
 its operations as a church by its deacon, Charles Shorey 
 and Christopher S. Hale, a licentiate preacher. As evi- 
 dence that these movements pleased the great Shepherd, 
 prosperity began to attend the church at every step in its 
 progress. 
 
 In 1826, Rev. Charles Miller became pastor; Rev. Jo- 
 seph Ballard, in 1S29 or '30; Rev. Lewis Colby, in 1838; 
 
 *Rev. J. Tripp. fGreen. Eccl. his. pp. 26.27. JMin. Y. A 1824. 
 
60 WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 
 
 Rev. J. Richardson, in 1842. These pastors officiated in 
 immediate succession, and were each eminently useful in 
 promoting the advancement of the church in numbers and 
 ability. 
 
 The first revival witnessed in this church was in 1826, 
 in connection with the ministry of Elder Miller ; but this 
 was only as the few drops before the more glorious shower 
 of divine grace and mercy received under the ministry of 
 Elder Ballard in 1831, '32 and '33, which added one hun- 
 dred and forty-five to the church by baptism. By this and 
 subsequent prosperity, the church has become a large and 
 useful body, being active in the various benevolent enter- 
 prises of the age. 
 
 North Buxton. For an account of this church, see p. 48. 
 
 Saco. In this ancient town commenced the first per- 
 manent settlement in the State of Maine, in 1623,* and 
 the first seat of government in the Province. f This settle- 
 ment underwent many changes, so that no religious 
 organization took place till the formation of a Congrega- 
 tional church, September 30, 1730; although the town 
 had been favored with several ministers previous to the ex- 
 istence of this church, and a house for the worship of God 
 had been erected in 1674. j: We do not learn that any other 
 religious sect made efforts in this town, till the Methodists 
 commenced about the beginning of the present century. 
 
 From the best accounts that can be obtained, it does 
 not appear that the Baptists made any movements earlier 
 than 1800. It is reported that Elders Simon Locke, 
 Abner Flanders and Josiah Converse, were the first Bap- 
 tists to bestow any labor to advance the cause of Christ in 
 this place, and that Elder Converse was the first to admin- 
 ister the ordinance of baptism there. This, we think, 
 
 *Willis' his. Port. vol. 1, p. 16. fWil. his. Port. vol. 1, p. 48. JGreen. 
 Eccl. his. pp. 53,54. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. (5|i 
 
 must have been performed between the years 1806 and 
 '10, while Elder Converse preached in Portland. Most 
 of the early efforts made by the Baptists in the town, were 
 however by Rev. A. Flanders; and these occasional efforts 
 are to be regarded as among the preliminary means which 
 have ultimately originated the Baptist interest among 
 the people ; also the church whichwas organized Febru- 
 ary 8, 1827. The original number was seven, two males 
 and five females, which number was soon increased to 
 sixteen. 
 
 Rev. Frederick Clarke was their pastor in 1828, and 
 the number of the church was that year increased to 
 thirty-two members, and their prospects encouraged them 
 to make an effort to provide for their accommodation, a 
 house of worship. The church was small and composed 
 mostly of females. It was therefore resolved to lay their 
 situation before the Association for their advice and 
 assistance. They did so, and the Association sympathiz- 
 ing with them in their condition, recommended to the 
 churches and all benevolent persons, to do what they 
 Gould to assist the church in their undertaking. Mr. 
 Clarke was the principal actor in the business, and espe- 
 cially in collecting voluntary contributions. 
 
 A lot of land was purchased at the cost of 8500 ; a 
 frame for the house was erected; and a vestry was built 
 which served for meetings. Now comes n scene oi trials 
 and difficulties in the church, which entirely prevented 
 their enterprise. For want of means the frame of the 
 house was never covered, and the lot of land lost for want 
 of a good title; and Mr. Clarke deposed from his high 
 calling in the denomination on account of his fraudulent 
 acts in the business. The church was divided in the 
 affair ; one part favored Mr. Clarke, the other part con- 
 sidered him faulty. Councils were called, but in vain ; 
 6 
 
62 WESTERN MAINE, 1310—1843. 
 
 a third* council who deliberated upon the proceedings 
 and results of the two former, and upon the doings of the 
 parties in the church, also upon the conduct of Mr. 
 Clarke during the whole affair, settled the matter. They 
 reported to the Association, (by whose authority they had 
 acted), through the medium of a select committee chosen 
 by the same body to examine and advise respecting that 
 report ;f that Mr. Clarke had not ' given satisfactory ac- 
 count of the monies' collected by him to aid the building 
 of the house ; ' that we have not confidence in Mr. F. 
 Clarke as a faithful brother or minister of Christ, and that 
 we do not fellowship him in that sacred office '; believing 
 that Mr. F. Clarke has forfeited all claim to Christian and 
 ministerial character and standing ; your committee also 
 recommended that the church withdraw from him their 
 fellowship both as a Christian and as a minister; and this 
 same committee recommend to the Association the appoint- 
 ment of a committee to assist the church in Saco, in carry- 
 ing into effect what was advised by the committee. These 
 unfortunate occurrences operated to almost annihilate the 
 Baptist cause in Saco, by bringing down upon the denomi- 
 nation an overwhelming weight of prejudice. But that 
 God who can make the wrath of man to praise him, and 
 restrain the violence of prejudice, opened a fair prospect to 
 the church, by soon restoring harmony, principally by the 
 wise, the prudent and timely efforts of Rev. Adam Wilson, 
 who labored in the gospel with them the most of the time 
 for two or three years, next subsequent to the removal of 
 Mr. Clarke. When Rev. Clark Sibley was installed pas- 
 tor, Feb. 17, 1836, the church was increased to about sixty 
 members ; he remained one year, and again the church 
 was destitute ; but prospered under the ministry of Rev. 
 S. Sargent, Rev. S. W. Field, and Rev. C. W. Bradbury, 
 *Min. Y. A. 1832, p. 5. tMin. Y. A. 1833. p. 5. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1834. 63 
 
 during the interval between the resignation of Mr. Sibley 
 and the ordination of Ahira Jones, as pastor, August 16th, 
 183S. Mr. Bradbury was ordained as an evangelist in this 
 church, March 14, 1838. 
 
 Rev. Mr. Jones continued his useful ministry in this 
 church till the year 1843, which was a period of peculiar 
 prosperity to the church, its number being increased to one 
 hundred and fourteen. In the summer of 1841, they com- 
 pleted a new and convenient house of worship, at a cost of 
 63,500.* Rev. A. Colburn is their present pastor. 
 
 Acton. (See First Shapleigh, p. 38.) A- Baptists 
 increased in Shapleigh, their influence was felt in Milton 
 and Acton. After the division in Shapleigh, 1803, the 
 Baptists in the west part of the town were called the first 
 church, and was so considered (although there are doubts 
 whether it was ever regularly organized, as no records of 
 its proceedings can be found) till 1828, when a church was 
 gathered by the name of ( Shapleigh and Milton,' in which 
 places the members resided. Within two years it passed 
 through another change, and takes the name of ' Acton and 
 Milton,' most of the members living in these towns. In 
 1835, the Baptists in Milton, became a separate church, 
 leaving the old stock with the name Acton, and which is 
 the present church in that town. Its origin being some- 
 what peculiar, it will be proper to trace it by a review of 
 the Baptists in West Shapleigh. We find these Baptists 
 without a pastor from the removal of Eld. Davis, till 1807, 
 when Eld. Wm. Godding became their minister, and offici- 
 ated till 1835, when, on account of his age, he resigned the 
 responsibility, but remains an honorable and venerable 
 member of the church in Acton. Eld. Godding was among 
 the first converts in the town of Livermore, and ordained 
 to the work of the ministry in Shapleigh, in 1807. He was 
 
 *Rev. A. Jones and Min. Y. A. 
 
£4 WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 
 
 assisted in all his labors by the worthy deacons, John Bod- 
 well, Aaron Hubbard, John Lary and Nathan Brackett, all 
 of whom were early members of the church, and efficient 
 promoters of its cause. Enoch Wood was afterwards 
 added to the list of deacons, who, with John Bodwell,were 
 regularly ordained to the office. There were several inte- 
 resting revivals among these brethren previous to any 
 change in their name as a body. They numbered in 1827, 
 seventy-nine members. 
 
 Rev. Tozier Lord was the first to labor in Acton in 
 behalf of the Baptists, about the year 1780 ; but Elder 
 Godding has been the principal agent under God in plant- 
 ing the vineyard of the Lord in that town.* 
 
 Jan. 24, 1828, the Acton church was organized, by "the 
 name of Shapleigh and Milton, consisting of twenty-eight 
 members ;f Rev. Willard Glover came to their assistance, 
 and aided their progress several months, in which time there 
 was a revival, which introduced new members, and induc- 
 ed most of the old members to unite with the church. 
 Charles Emerson was ordained pastor, July 17, 1828. 
 Under the united labors of Emerson and Godding, the 
 church obtained great prosperity. Mr. Emerson closed 
 his pastoral charge, Aug. 1834, and Rev. Thomas Jame- 
 son succeeded him as the acting pastor, Sept. 1837, and 
 continued his useful ministry in the church 1843. As 
 evidence of their prosperity, their number is one hundred 
 and fifteen; and in 1841, they finished a new meeting- 
 house at a cost of $850. Samuel Stady and Benjamin 
 Brackett are the present deacons. This church has expe- 
 rienced more than ordinary trials, most of which were 
 caused by intemperance, and on account of which several 
 members have been excluded.^ The cause of these trials 
 is now, however, almost entirely removed. 
 
 *Min. Y. A.. tMark C. Heard,. Ch, Clk. }M. C. Heard, Ch. Clk. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810-1843. 65 
 
 Cape Neddock. This church is situated on a point of 
 land in the town of York, and was organized August 20th 
 1829, of twelve members, five males and seven females. A 
 few Baptists and members of the church in South Berwick, 
 nad resided here many years. Eld. N. Lord preached one 
 sermon at the dwelling-house of Jeremiah Weare, in 1780, 
 but opposition prevented further attempts at that time to 
 evangelize the people. After an interval of about twenty- 
 three years, Eld. W. Batchelder* preached a lecture in an 
 orchard, owned by David Webber, and God gave power 
 to the truth, which awakened attention ; and though his 
 efforts were vigorously opposed, nearly fifty souls, in a 
 short time, were converted ; part of whom united, as a 
 branch, with the church in South Berwick ; the remainder 
 originated a Free-will Baptist church. In a few years the 
 Methodists commenced preaching, and some of these 
 united their efforts with them. 
 
 The interested reader may ask why the Baptists were so 
 unwelcome to the people of York. We cannot answer the 
 inquiry, unless it were owing to an aversion to their senti- 
 ments, created by the influen of Pedo-baptism, into the 
 principles of which the people had for many years been 
 indoctrinated. The half-way covenant church had existed 
 here from 1673, and Pedo-baptism in Episcopalian form, 
 at a much earlier period. But the violence of persecution 
 being checked, if not entirely overcome, by the freedom 
 of American institutions, the way was open for a more 
 peaceful effort by the Baptists on the Cape. While a branch 
 church to South ertvick, they were assisted by the occa- 
 sional preaching of several ministers, and especially of 
 Elders Andrew Sherburne and Joshua Chase. When the 
 
 *On hearing Eld. B. preach, Samuel Weare, Cotton Chase and John Ten- 
 ney, Congregationalists, renounced their favorite notions of baptism, and 
 became piously engaged in the cause of truth, and Mr. C. is a worthy dea- 
 con in the church. 
 
66 WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 
 
 Methodists began, they professed great love and union to 
 the Baptists, and feeling that their profession was sincere, 
 the Baptists united with them in building a house of wor- 
 ship in 1823. And now eomes a test of their love. 
 They must have a deed of the house, and provide the 
 preacher. But the Baptists, disliking the yoke of aristoc- 
 racy, concluded to act for themselves. 
 
 Rev. Oliver Barr m c mmenced preaching here May 
 1829. At first he found many to oppose his efforts, but by 
 the blessing of God he was successful among them for a 
 term of about three years. The church was increased to 
 twenty-four members. They have since prospered under 
 the labors of a succession of ministers. Rev. John Haines 
 preached one half of the time in 1832. Joseph Ames, a 
 licentiate, occasionally in 1833. Rev. Clarke Sibley re- 
 ceived the pastoral care Jan. 1), I..- 34, and remained three 
 years; and then the church a ' a supply several weeks by 
 Noah Hooper, jr., then a student at Newton Theological 
 Institution, and nearly one year by Rev. D. M'Master ; till 
 April 15th, is3s, when Rev. Gideon Cook commenced 
 his labors as pastor. He having preached three years, 
 resigned his charge, and was succeeded by I. Merrill, a 
 licentiate, who preached about a year, and left the church 
 destitute. 
 
 This church has held several protracted meetings, which 
 have been the means of much increase in numbers, and 
 power of influence, while other sects have rather dimin- 
 ished. The second church in Wells originated partly with 
 this church ; Rev. Theodore H. Lunt was sent forth to 
 the gospel ministry ; and Cotton Chase, Jonathan Talpey, 
 and Samuel Webber are its deacons. Whole number receiv- 
 ed by baptism is seventy-one ; present number, fifty-five.* 
 Biddeford, now North Kennebunk-port. This 
 *Dea. Samuel Webber, Ch. Clk. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. ^7 
 
 church was received into the Association in 1835, with ten 
 members. It retained the name Biddeford, and a place in 
 the Association without any alteration in its number of 
 members till 1840, when it was increased by an addition of 
 twelve by letter, and its name changed to North Kennebunk- 
 port. It grew to be more prosperous, with occasional 
 preaching. It has never been blessed with the labors of a 
 pastor, and remains a small feeble church of twenty-eight 
 members, who are ' at peace' among themselves.* 
 
 Kennebunk Village Church. This church is situated 
 in a pleasant and flourishing village, and was organized in 
 1834. Soon after it was embodied, Thomas O. Lincoln of 
 Boston, and a graduate of Newton Theological Institution, 
 became its pastor. During his ministry here, a period of 
 about two years, the church prospered, being blessed with a 
 revival and a pleasing addition by baptism in 1836. After 
 Rev. Mr. Lincoln left for a more important field, in the city 
 of Portland, the church remained without a pastor, and des- 
 titute of the stated ministry, and as a natural result, their 
 number diminished, and the ability of the church lessened, 
 till the summer of 1839, when the labors of J. M. Harris, a 
 licentiate were obtained, which proved a great blessing to 
 the Baptist interest in that village. The gifts and labors 
 of Mr. Harris being acceptable, he was ordained pastor Oct. 
 15th, 1840. The same year this small church erected ' a 
 neat and convenient' house of worship, every way adapted 
 to their wants and circumstances, and an ornament to the 
 village.' Although Mr. Harris resigned his pastoral charge 
 and retired to another field of labor, in 1842, the church 
 was blessed with preaching the most of the time, and their 
 number and ability increased as the fruits of a special work 
 of divine grace. Rev. G. Cook succeeded Mr. Harris 
 The total of members in 1843, was eighty-two.f 
 *Min. Y. A. fMin. Y. A. 
 
gg WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 
 
 Alfred. As early as 1799, Eld. H. Smith of Water- 
 borough, preached occasionally in Alfred. Other denomi- 
 nations had preceded him, so that it was not till several 
 years had passed away, that he saw any particular fruits of 
 his labors. Fourteen years after the first settlement was 
 commenced in what is now Alfred, the Congregationalists 
 began to preach among the people, and a church of that 
 faith was organized in 1780.* Soon after, a society of 
 Shaking Quakers was founded in the town. The minds 
 of the people therefore were prepared for any thing but for 
 the reception of Baptist sentiments and practices. But 
 Eld. Smith continued his labors, and in 1805 he had the 
 privilege of administering baptism in the place. This 
 opened the way for others, who from time to time were 
 joyful to embrace the ordinance. In 1817, a sufficient 
 number having become Baptists, a branch to the church 
 in Waterborough was formed in Alfred. The same year, 
 this branch church erected for their own accommodation, 
 in Alfred, a house for worship at a cost of eight hundred 
 dollars, in which Eld. Smith preached the gospel to them 
 one-fourth of the time, till his death. Before his departure, 
 he advised these brethren to embody an independent church. 
 With his advice they complied ; and Aug. 22, 1836, eleven 
 males and twenty females were regularly, by council, con- 
 stituted into a Baptist church ; Jedediah Tripp and James 
 P. Nutter were ordained into the office of deacons, who 
 have conducted their seasons of worship when destitute of 
 a minister. 
 
 From May 1835 till January 1841, Rev. N. G. Little- 
 field was their pastor, and preached with the church one 
 half of the time, the other half being devoted to the church 
 in Lyman and elsewhere. Eld. Littlefield was as useful 
 among them as the circumstances and the peculiar notions 
 
 *Green.Eccl. his. p. 110. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 69 
 
 and feelings of the church would warrant. There was 
 some increase of members. Since his labors were with- 
 drawn,* the church has not been favored with preaching 
 regularly. Within the year 1841, they were blessed a few 
 months with the preaching of John Hubbard, jr., a licen- 
 tiate ; and at present, one half of the time, by Rev. Z. 
 Morton. The church has passed through many trials, 
 arising mostly from internal causes — has been blessed with 
 several pleasing revivals — and is now enjoying union and 
 an encouraging prosperity. Its total number of members 
 in 1843 was forty-four — it once numbered forty-nine. Four 
 have been added from other denominations.f 
 
 Second Church in Parsonsfield. The original 
 members of this church were dismissed from the first 
 church in Parsonsfield, 1838. On the 31st of May, the 
 same year, they were recognized as the second church in 
 P. This church is located in the southwest part of P., 
 at a distance of four miles from the first church. The 
 Baptists here own about one half of a small Union house 
 of worship, the other half is owned principally by the Free- 
 will Baptists. This church has a fund of one thousand 
 dollars, bequeathed to them by the late James Marston, of 
 P., the interest of which is to be appropriated for preach- 
 ing the gospel to the benefit of the Baptist cause in that 
 place; which, with the ability of the church, although 
 never favored with a pastor, they have been supplied more 
 than one half of the time since their organization, and suc- 
 cessively, by Rev. A. Flanders, Levi Smith, John San- 
 born, Curtis C. Taylor, licentiates, and students in New 
 
 *The cause of his leaving, was the imprudence of one of the members. 
 The circumstance was, " a certain female, without just cause, became alien- 
 ated in her feelings towards him, and to seek the gratification of her re- 
 vengeful spirit, originated false reports, implicating his moral character, and 
 circulated them, secretly from him, which created suspicions and jealousies 
 among some of the members, which, when known by him. were a source of 
 trial, and he immediately resigned his charge of the church." 
 
 tJohn Friend, Ch. Clk. 
 
70 WESTERN MAINE, 1810-1943. 
 
 Hampton Institution, N. H., by Rev. E. Cox, who was 
 ordained as an evangelist at Shapleigh, in 1841, and 
 by John Hubbard, a licentiate of the church in South 
 Berwick. Their original number was twenty-two, and by 
 these labors the church has increased to the number of 
 twenty-eight. It is a singular circumstance that they have 
 had three deacons, all of the name of Marston, — Caleb, 
 Jacob, and Simeon.* 
 
 Shapleigh Second. This church is located at ' Em- 
 ery's Mills,' so called, in Shapleigh. Here is a small 
 village, at a distance of three or four miles from any Bap- 
 tist house of worship, and several Baptist professors resid- 
 ing here, it seemed important to them that something more 
 should be done in that village by them for the cause of 
 God, than they were doing. Consequently, in the spring of 
 1840, they commenced, regularly, a semi-weekly prayer- 
 meeting. This movement pleased the Lord of the har- 
 vest; a revival of religion and the conversion of sinners, 
 were its blessed fruits. Materials were now prepared for 
 a church in that village. These were brought together, 
 and embodied January 21, 1841, and consisted of ' five 
 males and nine females.' On the 9th of June, 1841, two 
 of their number, George Heard and Elbridge Cox, were 
 ordained as evangelists; the former of whom did, for two 
 years subsequent to his ordination, devote much of his 
 labor to the benefit of this feeble church. September 28, 
 1842, John M. Wedgewood, their present pastor, was 
 ordained among them. Total of members in 1843, 
 twenty-seven.f 
 
 First Kennebunk and Lyman. It appears from the 
 minutes of York Association for 1841, that a division had 
 taken place in the church in ' Kennebunk '; that two 
 letters were received, each coming as from the church. 
 
 *Com S. Marston Ch. Clk. fMoses Goodwin, Ch. CI. per W. Stevens. 
 
WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 71 
 
 The first speaks of ■ a part of our number having gone 
 out from us ; have erected a house and worship God in 
 another town, (Lyman), and although by dropping those 
 members which is nearly one half of our number,' &c. 
 The other letter says, ' we have completed our house ' of 
 worship, and then speak of prosperity. The first letter 
 returns a total of twenty members, and Rev. J. Hubbard, 
 pastor ; the second, twenty-nine members, and Elder 
 Flanders, preacher, three-fourths of the time.* These 
 parties are recognized as distinct churches — their difficul- 
 ties being so far removed, that the brethren with Mr. 
 Hubbard, pastor, remain the old Kennebunk church, and 
 those with Father Flanders, preacher, and the new meet- 
 ing house, the ' First Kennebunk and Lyman ' church. 
 These churches have since prospered. In 1842, this 
 church received an addition of twenty-six by baptism, as 
 the fruits of a pleasing revival, under the labors of Rev. 
 E. Robbins, who preached to the church three-fourths of 
 the time for several months from the beginning of the 
 year. The church is now prospering under the labors of 
 their pastor, Rev. S. Ladd. Total of members, sixty- 
 four, t 
 
 Sanford Second. This small church was organized 
 with seventeen members, by council, July 27, 1830 ; and 
 is situated in the south-eastern part of Sanford, where these 
 brethren resided, and previously existed as a branch of a 
 church in Kennebunk. Their strong inducements to be- 
 come an independent church were, the distance from that 
 church, and the place of worship in Sanford, together with 
 the circumstance of their having erected a convenient 
 house for their accommodation in their midst. It was 
 desirable therefore that the ordinances of the gospel should 
 be administered to them in their own house, which privi- 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1841, p. 8 : and Statistic, p. 6. fMin. of Saco Ass. 
 
72 WESTERN MAINE, 1810—1843. 
 
 lege was now granted them. At the time they were em- 
 bodied, they enjoyed the labors of Philander Hartwell, then 
 a licentiate, but who was in a few months ordained to the 
 work of an evangelist, whose ministry was continued with 
 them something more than a year, and blessed with a re- 
 vival, which increased the number of the church to forty 
 members. The church next received the ministry of Rev. 
 John Chadborune, and were encouraged to perseverance. 
 From 1833 to 1836, they were in a destitute, tried and 
 scattered condition, when, by the assistance of neighboring 
 ministers, they awoke from their slumbering, called upon 
 God, who vouchsafed to hear, and answer their request, by 
 a revival of his work, which added twenty-one willing con- 
 verts to their number. Since that time the church has 
 made but a small progress, and are at present destitute of 
 a pastor.* 
 
 Sanford, Mt. Hope Church. This church had its 
 origin with the first church in Sanford. The members 
 residing about Mt. Hope, in that town, being at a consid- 
 erable distance from the old place of worship, and in the 
 midst of a growing population, decided that it was their 
 privilege and duty to be embodied into a separate church. 
 On application, they therefore received a dismission from 
 that church, and were organized February 25, 1841, six 
 males and twelve females, with Rev. G. Cook, as their 
 pastor. Previously, and in 1840, these brethren, with 
 others friendly to their cause, erected a convenient house 
 for worship, forty feet by forty-six feet. Total abstinence 
 from all that intoxicates, was adopted as a special article in 
 their creed ; and Sabbath School instruction receives their 
 united efforts. Daniel Johnson is their worthy deacon. Soon 
 after their organization, they were encouraged by a revi- 
 val, and since with a cheering prosperity. At present 
 
 *Miu. of York Ass. 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION. 73 
 
 they have preaching one half of the time, by Rev. J. 
 Boyd ; and present, as a total of members, twenty-seven.* 
 Sanford, ' Springvale Church.' This church wast 
 organized a few months since, with thirteen members, and 
 is situated in a manufacturing village of some importance, 
 and though ' few in numbers,' yet, says a writer, ' having 
 a mind to work and combining no ordinary degree of effi- 
 ciency, we trust their course will be onward.' They are 
 favored with some aid by the occasional labors of Rev. E. 
 Robbins. Total, thirteen. 
 
 CHAPTER VII. 
 YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Brentwood Conference — New Hampshire Association. 
 
 With the Brentwood conference originated the York Asso- 
 ciation. That conference was formed in 1776, and 
 embraced three churches. Two of them, Berwick and 
 Sanford, were in Maine. f Dr. Shepherd, the founder of 
 the church in Brentwood, and Rev. Wm. Hooper, of Ber- 
 wick, ' were the principal promoters' of this body.J Not- 
 withstanding the obstacles in the way of progress, Bap- 
 tist churches multiplied and united to this conference. 
 This community continued till 178-5,t when it assumed 
 the character of an Association, and embraced in addition 
 to the two already mentioned, the following churches in 
 Maine, Wells, Shapleigh and Lyman — a majority of the 
 Association w r ere still in Maine, and associated with these 
 churches were the following ministers, William Hooper, 
 Nathaniel Lord, Nehemiah Davis, and Simon Locke. These 
 
 *Gideon Cook, and Min. Y. A. tMin. Y. A. 1843. Dig. Let. p. 8. 
 {Benedict's his. Bap. vol. 1, p. 319. 
 
74 YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 five churches and four ministers, constituted the entire 
 denomination in Maine, while at the same time there 
 existed something more than eight times the number of 
 Congregational churches* and ministers, who were encour- 
 aged by the protection of law, and privileged with the 
 disposal of all the ministerial lands in the places where 
 they were located. They had, therefore, the power of 
 influence, and possessed every facility for retaining it, 
 nor were they slow to secure every means favorable to 
 their success.! The Baptists were few and surrounded by 
 disadvantages, yet relying upon God they sought and 
 obtained prosperity by his blessing. From 1785 to 1800, 
 the number of churches in Maine belonging to this body 
 was doubled by the addition of churches in the following 
 places: Waterborough, Cornish, Parsonsfield, Limerick 
 and Buxton. The churches in Maine belonging to this 
 body in 1800, embraced six hundred and sixteen members 
 and eight ministers. 
 
 Some important business touching the Baptist cause in 
 Maine, had already been transacted in this Association. 
 Although most of these ministers had performed voluntary 
 missions into the middle and eastern parts of Maine, and 
 aided in promoting the cause in some of the remote and 
 new settlements, yet feeling that something more efficient 
 must be done than could in this way be accomplished, the 
 Association at its anniversary in 1800, appointed Elders 
 Hooper, Smith and Batchelder, a committee to employ a 
 missionary to travel into the eastern parts of the State, c to 
 preach and administer the ordinances of the gospel ;'£ and 
 
 *Green. Eccl. his. .p 22 .Appendix — Also p. 34, Appendix. 
 
 +The Friends or Quakers commenced operations in Maine Oct. 1730, at 
 Kittery, now Elliot, and in 1785, they had six meetings or Societies for 
 worship weekly, and four monthly meetings. 
 
 Elder Benj. Randall, the founder of the Free-will denomination in Maine, 
 began to travel and collect societies in 1781, and in 1785, nine of these 
 societies existed in Maine, six or seven preachers.and two quarterly meetings 
 
 tMin. Y. A. p. 7. 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION. 75 
 
 contributions were taken in the Association and in the 
 churches, to aid the benevolent work. They saw that the 
 field was large and the laborers but few, and as the zeal 
 of their persecutors moderated, they felt that the churches 
 were more safe, and therefore they could with less danger 
 extend their influence abroad. Although these pioneers 
 to the Baptists had learned to endure the trials of a cruel 
 opposition, yet they rejoiced when its rage and violence 
 were checked. Something can be learned of the feelings 
 of the Baptists as regards these trials, and their causes, 
 from their corresponding letter to other Associations in 
 1800. ' Under the auspicious smiles of Heaven/ says the 
 letter, ' we see our churches generally advancing in love. 
 There have been several revivals the year past ; and glory to 
 God, the work appears to increase. However, we are not 
 wholly exempt from trials, for in many places irreligion 
 raises her indignant clamor to attack Christianity and her 
 children with pointed railery and impious defamation. But 
 comparatively we have little reason to complain ; for 
 through the condescension of our heavenly Father, the 
 persecuting reign of tyranny and religious oppression are 
 greatly suppressed, and the inhuman barbarity experienced 
 by our ancestors, is now generally contemned by the civil- 
 ized part of community, and blessed be God, an enraged 
 multitude, blood-thirsty accusers and partial judges, are 
 not permitted to desolate the church as in ages past.'* 
 They felt that ' vigilance, firmness and fervor' were neces- 
 sary even now, lest * the cause become a prey' to those 
 * demoralizing principles' which were then too industrious- 
 ly propagated. 
 
 In addition to this arrangement before mentioned to send 
 aid to the Baptists farther eastward, a system of voluntary 
 suppliest to assist the feeble and destitute churches within 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1800, p. 11. tMin. Y. A. 1300, p. 7. 
 
76 YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 the Association, was vigorously sustained. This plan of 
 voluntary operation was commenced in 1798, and was 
 highly beneficial to the cause of truth and righteousness in 
 many destitute regions. 
 
 One important means of success in these early days of 
 the Baptists in Maine, were frequent days of fasting and 
 prayer for special manifestations of the Divine Spirit on 
 the churches. Such seasons were recommended by the 
 Association* in 1798. 
 
 Operating with the spiritual means of gospel truth, and 
 upon these simple missionary plans, with faith in the ever 
 precious promises of God, the Baptists in York county 
 prospered with more than anticipated success. The 
 churches constituted at an earlier period than 1800, had 
 most of them enjoyed precious revivals, bringing in rich and 
 large harvests, to enlarge and render them distinguished and 
 powerful. Other churches had sprung into being, and 
 radiated with the same celestial light, combined their 
 power and influence with those which preceded them, and 
 thus contributed to the permanency and usefulness of the 
 denomination in this part of the State. 
 
 The system of voluntary supplies to the destitute, and 
 their co-operation with the Maine Domestic Missionary 
 Society, had accomplished much towards the ultimate suc- 
 cess of their cause. Something may be learned of their 
 progress in the period of the last ten years, from the 
 increase of their numbers and facilities for further 
 advancement; — and, something of their spirit, their zeal, 
 their wisdom, and their ability, from some of their move- 
 ments in an associational capacity. 
 
 In 1810, there were seventeen ordained ministers of the 
 gospel ; twenty-one churches ; and nearly thirteen hundred 
 and eighty-one communicants in Maine, who composed the 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1798, p. 6. 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION, 77 
 
 principal ministers and churches in the New Hampshire 
 Association; making a net increase of nine ministers, 
 twelve churches, and seven hundred and sixty-five com- 
 municants. 
 
 To advance their cause, the Baptists were far from 
 making any compromise with heterodoxy, or countenanc- 
 ing error. All persons or churches seeking fellowship and 
 admission, were required to give evidence especially of 
 experimental piety ; a satisfactory testimonial of soundness 
 in gospel faith and doctrine, and of consistency of christian 
 and gospel practice. In 1802, two churches wishing to 
 unite with this Association were refused the privilege 
 because of what was deemed by that body to be a radical 
 deficiency in their doctrinal creed. The Association felt 
 that to receive them with their creed, would introduce a 
 seism into the body, and endanger its peace and harmony.* 
 
 The evils of intemperance began to be felt and consid- 
 ered by the Baptists in 1803, when they commenced 
 measures to prevent the sale of spirituous liquors at their 
 annual meetings, and in a few years the practice was 
 entirely broken up in this Association. About this time 
 some of the churches were troubled with some who crept 
 in unawares, and who made great pretensions to piety, 
 and yet believed in the Universal salvation of all men. 
 That such hypocritical innovators upon the faith and 
 practice of the churches should be at once excommunicated, 
 the Association gave it as their unanimous decision. t 
 
 The year 1803 was a jubilee season in the churches 
 composing this body, during which nearly two hundred 
 were added by baptism, which was in those days to the 
 Baptists an unparalleled increase for so short a time. 
 
 At the annual meeting of this body in 1809, it was 
 recommended to the churches to observe the first day of 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1S02, p. 6. tMin. Y. A. 1803, pp. 6 and 2. 
 
7g YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 January as a ' day of Fasting, Humiliation and Prayer : 
 and that they pray for an increase of laborers ; — for the 
 revival and speedy enlargement of the baptised churches ; — 
 for a more liberal spirit to be given to them, that the 
 laborers may be supplied, and destitute be assisted; — for a 
 more perfect understanding of gospel doctrines and gospel 
 discipline ; — and that God ' would rend the vail from off 
 the minds of such of his own people, as are yet blindly 
 partaking of the sins of great Babylon; that they may 
 know the order of his house, and the purity of his gospel 
 kingdom.'* 
 
 At the annual meeting of this body in 1815, the subject 
 of Foreign Missions was first introduced to the consider- 
 ation of both ministers and people. And as might be 
 expected from the missionary spirit which had always 
 characterized the movements of the Baptists in this vicinity, 
 the subject received a cordial welcome, and the enterprise 
 of the Baptist Board of Foreign Missions liberally aided. 
 It was now most solemnly and earnestly recommended to 
 the churches to form auxiliary societies to promote the 
 pious design to carry the gospel to the heathen. This call 
 upon the churches was heard by some, and at the meeting 
 in 1816, $61 59 were brought into the treasury of the 
 Lord, and since that time the cause has been sustained in 
 these churches by a praiseworthy and liberal benevolence. 
 It may be somewhat surprising to many, that there 
 should be a loss of numbers in this body at this point in its 
 history, seeing that there were more extended efforts made 
 to give a more general increase to the denomination ; and 
 the inquiry may arise, why that loss ? All astonishment will 
 vanish, when it is remembered that during the period from 
 1810 to 1820, the whole country was brought into painful 
 extremity by embargoes, wars, and heavy taxes, which oc- 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1809, pp. 6 and 7. 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION. 79 
 
 casioned many removals from the older towns to the new 
 settlements in the interior of the State, for the important 
 purposes of gaining a more easy subsistence in such ' hard 
 times.' And, by these removals, dismissions from these 
 churches were frequent, to unite with others situated among 
 these settlements, which, subtracted from the net gain by 
 baptisms, left a balance of gain, much less than the dimi- 
 nution by exclusion and death. Neither is it surprising to 
 find, which is in reality the fact, that more loss was sus- 
 tained by removals in this period, than in any other, of the 
 same length of time, in the whole history of the Associa- 
 tion, considering the proportions of members in each period. 
 From 1820 to 1830, there was still a numerical loss of 
 communicants, but it was a period of more enlarged and 
 well directed movements by the Association towards the 
 accomplishment of Zion's victory, and for the general in- 
 terests of the Baptists in the State. During this period, 
 Foreign and Domestic Missions received increasing atten- 
 tion and aid ; a fund was raised for the assistance of those 
 widows of deceased Baptist ministers residing within the 
 limits of the Association, who are needy of the comforts of 
 life ; and more systematic operations were made for the 
 religious education of the youth connected with the denom- 
 ination. As early as 1815, male and female societies, aux- 
 iliary to the B. B. F. M., began to be formed in these 
 churches, the donations of which were transferred to that 
 Board through the medium of the treasurer of the Associ- 
 ation, till the York County Auxiliary Society was organ- 
 ized in 18*27.* All the monies raised in the Association, 
 and within the circle of this auxiliary, took the direction 
 of that society. The efforts for this cause now became 
 more general and prompt. Previous to 1823,f (June 12,) 
 the Association had acted as a Domestic Missionary So- 
 
 *Min.Y. A. 1836 fl824. 
 
gO YOKK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 eiety, operating by a Board of trustees appointed at each 
 annual meeting, who received and expended all the funds 
 raised by the churches and otherwise, for that purpose. 
 A Domestic Missionary Society was then formed, which 
 relieved the Association from the responsibilities of that 
 business. By this society much was annually done for the 
 feeble and the destitute. 
 
 At the meeting of the Association in 1824,* it was re- 
 solved by the Association to take up an annual contribu- 
 tion for the ' relief of needy widows and children of de- 
 ceased ministers in the Association.' This resolution has 
 been sustained liberally, and by it the widow and fatherless 
 have been made glad. 
 
 In 1827, f the Association recommended to the churches 
 the importance of Sabbath Schools, and urged them to es- 
 tablish immediately schools and libraries in each church 
 and society. Several schools were already in operation, 
 and some had been established for years. 
 
 In 1828,| the Association became a Temperance society, 
 what would be called now, a Washington Total Abstinence 
 Society — for entire abstinence was recommended ; and the 
 resolutions now passed were spirited and truly catholic. 
 
 In the State Convention, formed in 1824, § this Associ- 
 ation united and sent delegates annually to co-operate with 
 their brethren in those measures pertaining to the general 
 interests of the denomination in the State — and toward the 
 close of this period, three Quarterly Meetings, the 'North,' 
 the * South,' and the ' South-western,' were organized in 
 the County of York. There were but few special revivals 
 enjoyed by the churches in this county during this period ; 
 and the annual additions were small compared with some 
 other societies in the State. There was however an ac- 
 cession of several new churches. 
 
 *Min. Y. A. 1724. t!827. J1828. $1824. 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION. 81 
 
 From 1830 to 1843, this Association made a more pleas- 
 ing progress than it had done in any former period. The 
 number of churches, ministers and communicants, were 
 increased, so that, after a reduction of all losses by 
 churches and individuals, the aggregate of members in 
 1843, was considerably larger than in 1830.* In 1841, 
 the Association was divided, and in 1842, several of the 
 churches were organized into the Saco River Association ; 
 making two bodies where had existed for a period of sixty- 
 five years, but one. The reason for this division is re- 
 corded in the minutes of the York Association for 1841, f 
 in the following language : — ' Whereas this Association 
 being scattered over a large extent of territory so as to sub- 
 ject the delegates to the necessity of travelling a great dis- 
 tance, unless its session be held with some of the central 
 churches, and being so large as to render it impracticable 
 for the smaller churches to invite it ; and also to subject 
 the larger ones to considerable inconvenience, it would 
 evidently be for the convenience and interest of the body 
 to be divided ; therefore, Resolved, That this Association 
 be divided, and hereafter make two distinct bodies.':): 
 
 Between 1830 and this division, six new churches were 
 added to York Association ; and subsequently, one to 
 York, and one to Saco, making eight new churches which 
 sprang into life in this period, within the old limits of 
 York Association. (See statistics.) Owing, however, to 
 some changes made respecting the condition and circum- 
 stances of several of the older ones, and the total disap- 
 pearance of several of them, the net increase is but six, 
 making the total of churches in both bodies, thirty ; four- 
 teen in York,§ and sixteen in Saco. 
 
 The relations and places of pastors and ministers have 
 
 *See Statistics, Table No. . tY. A. min. 1841, p. 12. JY. A. 1843, 
 Table of churches. §Saco Ass. Table Ch. ; 1843. 
 
82 YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 been constantly changing, and yet about the same number 
 have been employed within the limits of these churches, 
 annually. These changes have been occasioned by death, 
 which has removed several of the venerable Fathers in the 
 ministry to their glorious rest in heaven, and by the remo- 
 val of others who have exchanged their fields of labor ; and 
 while the friends of Zion mourn in view of vacancies thus 
 made on the walls of her strength, they should be excited 
 to admiration and encouragement that the Lord of the 
 harvest holds in reserve others whom he has designed to 
 fill them. This design has been accomplished for York. 
 When the labors of Locke, Eaton, Lord, Smith, Tripp and 
 Roberts, were finished on earth, others, the sons of the 
 churches whom they and other pastors, nurtured, are 
 raised up, qualified, and sent into this vineyard, to cultivate 
 and watch over it. In 1830, the number of pastors and 
 m isters were twenty-five ; in 1843, twenty-six ; nineteen 
 of whom only are pastors. 
 
 As with the natural world, so with the moral, in some 
 interesting respects. While some parts are blessed with 
 copious showers and fruitful seasons, other parts are 
 parched with scorching droughts and cursed with blighted 
 harvests ; and then the scene reverses. The barren be- 
 comes fruitful and the luxuriant becomes sterile. So with 
 spiritual vineyards. At one time, blessings of heavenly 
 grace fall upon some of the tender plants, cau&ing them to 
 yield a plentiful increase ; while others seem to be left for 
 a season to wither and droop under the pressure of a cold 
 and cloudy atmosphere. Arid then the cloud of mercy 
 moves, to refresh these thirsty hills of Zion. The reviv- 
 ing and saving influences of the Holy Spirit have been an- 
 nually experienced in this Association ; but in 1831, '32, 
 '34, 39 and '40, they were most copious and general 
 among the churches, when large accessions were made to 
 
YORK ASSOCIATION, $3 
 
 them of such as hope to be saved, and the friends *# Zion 
 sat together in heavenly places, and were constrained to 
 shout aloud for joy. 
 
 The benevolent objects which began to receive the 
 attention of the Association previous to 1830, and those 
 which have subsequently claimed their co-operation con- 
 tinue to be encouraged by these friends of God and of hu- 
 manity. The resolutions almost annually passed by them, 
 evince the spirit and feelings they cherish towards these 
 causes. We notice with pleasure, resolutions on Missions ; 
 Foreign, Home and Domestic ; on Temperance ; on S. 
 Schools; on the Observance of the Sabbath; on Institu- 
 tions — Theological and literary ; on Periodicals and other 
 publications; on Ministerial Education; on Bible Cause; 
 on Popery ; on Slavery ; on War ; on Days and Objects 
 of Prayer ; on the Death of Ministers ; and on other sub- 
 jects immediately connected with the welfare of Zion and 
 the spiritual good of mankind, passed by this body, thereby 
 expressing their opinion, desire and preferences respecting 
 these objects severally. 
 
 These resolutions entertain the subject of Missions with 
 deep interest ; recognize total abstinence from intoxicating 
 drinks as the sacred duty of all men, and especially of 
 Christians ; recommend S. Schools, observance of the Sab- 
 bath, education of the ministry, the circulation of tracts, 
 and other religious publications, and the bible cause, to 
 the prayerful attention and aid of the churches ; urge the 
 importance of spending the seasons set apart for prayer as 
 the nature of objects to be prayed for, demand ; and 
 
 regard popery, slavery and war, as most serious evils, to be 
 deprecated and opposed. 
 
 While the Baptists in this country promoted the welfare 
 and usefulness of Waterville College and other public in- 
 stitutions, without the limits of the Association, by a com- 
 
84 
 
 YORK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 mendable liberality, they did not forget that their children 
 at home required more enlarged and more suitable facili- 
 ties for an academical education than was afforded them 
 by the common school system. To provide means 
 for the culture of their minds, an academy at Kennebunk 
 village was established in 1834, and has hitherto been sus- 
 tained by a liberal and general patronage by the churches, 
 and exerts a respectable and useful influence on the sur- 
 rounding community. 
 
 It deserves to be remarked here that, in 1830, Baptist 
 churches existed in twenty-one towns in the county of 
 York, leaving only three, Elliot, Kittery and Biddeford, 
 unoccupied by churches, though Baptist professors reside 
 in, at least, two of them. These towns still remain with- 
 out any Baptist organization. 
 
 YORK ASSOCIATION....TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1785. 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 c 
 
 H 
 
 4 
 
 CO 
 
 r 
 
 fc 
 
 P. 
 
 
 
 
 a 
 
 
 
 Q 
 
 J 
 
 9, 
 
 5' 
 
 a 
 
 CD 
 
 s> 
 
 o 
 
 1. 
 en' 
 
 — 
 
 p. 
 
 
 
 s. 
 
 p 
 a 
 
 0. 
 
 cd" 
 
 p 
 
 03 
 
 8 
 
 o 
 
 s 
 
 Q. 
 
 
 Zl. 
 
 CD 
 
 p. 
 
 
 c 
 
 
 
 25 
 o 
 1 
 
 S. Berwick * 
 
 First San ford, 
 
 Wells, 
 
 Lebanon & N.Berwick. 
 
 Acton, or 1 Shapleigh,f 
 
 Kennebunk, 1 Arundel, 
 
 First Shapleigh, 
 
 S. BerwickVil. Churchy 
 
 Cape Neddock, 
 
 Second Sanford, 
 
 Kennebunk Vil.Ch.urch. 
 
 Mt. Hope, Sanford, 
 
 Second Shapleigh, 
 
 Springvale, Sanford, 
 
 12 
 
 60 
 
 1768 
 
 296 
 
 21 
 
 1 
 
 49 
 
 50 
 
 25 
 
 
 204 
 
 
 378 
 
 
 144. 
 
 1772 
 
 245 
 
 12 
 
 5 
 
 109 
 
 63 
 
 46 
 
 12 
 
 70 
 
 
 396 
 
 14 
 
 63 
 
 1780 
 
 305 
 
 19 
 
 2 
 
 123 
 
 65 
 
 47 
 
 7 
 
 
 5 
 
 389 
 
 62 
 
 
 1801 
 
 181 
 
 9 
 
 3 
 
 58 
 
 32 
 
 42 
 
 
 34 
 
 
 245 
 
 
 53 
 
 1781 
 
 285 
 
 20 
 
 2 
 
 109 
 
 33 
 
 52 17 
 
 31 
 
 
 sr,o 
 
 15 
 
 
 1803 
 
 131 
 
 27 
 
 
 53 
 
 17 
 
 28 15 
 
 30 
 
 
 173 
 
 22 
 
 
 1803 
 
 199 
 
 5 
 
 
 43 
 
 20 
 
 21 
 
 
 44 
 
 1226 
 
 15 
 
 
 1824 
 
 276 
 
 84 
 
 
 130 
 
 23 
 
 23 
 
 28 
 
 
 18 375 
 
 12 
 
 
 1829 85 
 
 9 
 
 2 
 
 35 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 
 J. 
 
 H)8 
 
 17 
 
 
 1830 
 
 59 
 
 ! 4 
 
 
 3 
 
 15 
 
 n 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 80 
 
 17 
 
 
 1835 
 
 72 
 
 21 
 
 1 
 
 20 
 
 2 
 
 i 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 111 
 
 18 
 
 
 1842 
 
 4 
 
 .) 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 27 
 
 15 
 
 
 1841 
 
 9 
 
 9 
 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 i 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 37 
 
 13 
 
 
 1843 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 13 
 
 50 
 
 96 
 
 152 
 
 79 
 
 118 
 
 30 
 
 98 
 
 189 
 
 65 
 
 45 
 
 82 
 
 27 
 
 27 
 
 13 
 
 *Gr. Hill B Reorg. 
 1821. fReorg. 1830 
 
 £2 g 
 
SACO RIVER ASSOCIATION. 
 
 85 
 
 SACO RIVER ASSOCIATION, 
 
 This Association embraces seventeen churches in this 
 State. The histories of sixteen of these have already been 
 given. The church in Alfred Gore, consisting of fourteen 
 members, was added in 1844. The anniversary that year 
 was at Kennebunk-port. The circular letter was on the 
 importance of giving our youth a religious education. 
 
 * Consider,' says this letter, ' the importance of giving 
 youth a religious education. There is on their part an 
 actual demand for it. They, in common with adults, are 
 subjects of physical, intellectual and moral wants. o 
 meet the actual necessities of youth, all these must be sup- 
 plied. To neglect either, is to impair their vigor. To 
 supply their physical wants, you give them food and rai- 
 ment. To meet their intellectual, you provide them with 
 Looks and teachers, to give them a knowledge of the arts 
 and sciences. To meet their moral wants, you should give 
 them a knowledge of God.' 
 
 SACO RIVER ASSOCIATION TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 -. 
 
 <J 
 
 CD r 
 
 7S a K| C 
 
 a 
 
 — 
 
 ~ 
 
 3 
 
 ~3 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 0> fB 
 
 a 
 
 
 * E" 
 
 
 
 
 i; 
 
 
 ORGANIZED 1842. 
 
 
 o 
 
 ofq' 
 
 
 
 3_ 
 
 I?" 
 
 o 
 
 ■a 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 3' 
 
 n 
 
 2! 
 
 
 a 
 
 en' 
 
 <^> 
 
 ■a 
 
 
 2 
 
 en 
 
 3 
 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 1 
 
 O 
 
 3 
 
 p 
 
 C- 
 
 
 O 
 
 cJ 
 
 a 
 
 
 
 2 
 p 
 
 2 
 O 
 
 Lyman, 
 Waterborough, 
 
 36|17 
 
 21 
 
 2 
 
 92 23 48 
 
 
 
 ,20 
 
 259 
 
 106 
 
 68 
 
 1791'un 268 
 
 35 
 
 4 
 
 112 30 33 
 
 1 
 
 88 
 
 
 375 
 
 111 
 
 Cornish, 
 
 48 
 
 1792) 
 
 136 
 
 8 
 
 1 
 
 44 38 43 
 
 4 
 
 
 5 
 
 193 
 
 70 
 
 Parsonsfield 1st, 
 
 90 
 
 1792 
 
 236 
 
 19 
 
 1 
 
 71 53! 48 
 
 9 
 
 S3 
 
 
 346 
 
 82 
 
 Limerick, 
 
 40 
 
 1796 25 
 
 118 
 
 2<J 
 
 4 
 
 50 19 36 
 
 10 
 
 8 
 
 
 191 
 
 68 
 
 Limington, 
 
 
 1802 14 
 
 172 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 20,21 35 
 
 
 
 10 
 
 191 
 
 125 
 
 Waterborough, 2d,* 
 
 
 1804 16 
 
 24 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 2 5 
 
 
 12 
 
 
 42 
 
 23 
 
 Hollis, 
 
 
 1805 251 56 
 
 71 
 
 11J10 23 
 
 
 10 
 
 
 88 
 
 34 
 
 Hiram, 
 
 
 1809,18 
 
 18 5 
 
 3 
 
 8,16 6 
 
 ! 
 
 4 
 
 44 
 
 18 
 
 Vil. Ch., Kennebunk-pt., 
 
 
 1820 21 
 
 190 33 
 
 3 
 
 47 
 
 1630 
 
 
 
 12 
 
 247 
 166 
 
 157 
 
 North Buxton, 
 
 
 1825 '49 
 
 108 9 
 
 
 22 
 
 222 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 120 
 
 Saco, 
 
 
 1827 7 
 
 84 '59 
 
 2 
 
 44 
 
 14 13 
 
 
 
 3.3 
 
 152 
 
 116 
 
 North Kennebunk-port, 
 
 
 1835 10 
 
 8J13 
 
 
 2 
 
 2 1 
 
 
 
 
 31 
 
 28 
 
 First K. and Lyman, 
 
 
 1813 24 
 
 36 12 
 
 
 
 12 2 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 72 
 
 64 
 
 Alfred, 
 
 
 1836 31 
 
 14 8 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 2 2 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 54 
 
 44 
 
 Parsonsfield 2d, 
 
 
 1838|33 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 l| 2 
 
 
 
 
 33 
 
 28 
 
 
 X 
 
 
 Ml —> 
 Ol Ci 
 
 g 
 
 
 i:. 
 
 8|SS 
 
 
 CO 
 
 to 
 
 £ 
 
 ^Reorganized 1842. 
 
 ts 
 
 
 
 oc. 
 
 
 
 to 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 CO 
 
 CO 
 
 The whole number of members reported in a church, may be greater or 
 less than the reported alterations would make — in the former case, the sur- 
 plus is put down in the column ' gained/ in the latter case the deficiency in 
 the column ' lost.' 6 
 
CHAPTER VIIL 
 
 CENTRAL PARTS OF THE STATE, 
 
 Origin of Baptist principles in this part of the State — first Church in these 
 parts at Bowdoinham — "second at Thomaston — third at Harpswell — first 
 Association in these parts, formed by these three Churches in a dwelling- 
 house in the town of Bowdoinham, and called " the Bowdoinham Associ- 
 ation.' 7 
 
 That section of the State in which the Baptists next be- 
 gan to operate and multiply, was along the western side of 
 Kennebec ; and soon after, they commenced progress in 
 the eastern part of what is now Lincoln County, and among 
 the people in the new settlements along the western shores 
 of Penobscot Bay. These movements were began soon 
 after Baptist churches first commenced operations in York 
 County. The circumstances which opened the way for the 
 Baptists in this new country were somewhat singular if not 
 mysterious, and as interesting as singular. As in almost 
 every part of the State, so in this, the Congregationalists 
 had planted themselves in all the leading settlements, and 
 most nourishing and promising towns. But God had in 
 reserve fields and opportunities for the Baptists, and in his 
 own time and by his own wise method, did he open these 
 fields to them, and confer these opportunities. 
 
 Considerable settlements were made along the shores of 
 the Kennebec and Androscoggin rivers, previous to 1770, 
 but in the more interior, they were commenced at later 
 periods. About this time openings in the forests began to 
 appear, where are now Bowdoinham and Bowdoin, and the 
 inhabitants were continually removing from the settlements 
 along the rivers to those commenced in the interior. A few 
 pious families were among the first to commence the set- 
 tlement called Potterstown, (now Bowdoin.) These soon 
 
ELDER JAMES POTTER. §7 
 
 began to hold regular meetings for social religious wor- 
 ship.* Having no minister, they spent the time in pious 
 conversation, prayer, and singing praises to the Lord. These 
 were seasons of refreshment, spiritual and heavenly refresh- 
 ment. 
 
 In January 1781, Mr. James Potter, whose history fills 
 an important place in the annals of the early Baptists in 
 this part of the State, removed with his family from Tops- 
 ham to Bowdoin, or Potterstown.f Mr. P. entertaining 
 favorable views respecting the religion of Christ, although 
 not pious at heart, was much gratified to find religious 
 worship maintained in this new settlement, and became a 
 constant attendant upon these seasons of devotion. How 
 interesting to a pious mind to trice the peculiar means 
 which are employed by a gracious God to develope his 
 wise designs ! Mr. Potter, a chosen vessel of mercy, was 
 now to be converted, and called to be au apostle to these 
 inhabitants in the wilderness. And these social meetings 
 were selected as the important means to bring him from 
 the love of sin to the love and service of God. J 
 
 Soon after Mr. Potter took up his residence in Potters- 
 town, he was converted by the grace of God, and became 
 actively engaged in the cause of Christ. His prayers and 
 exhortations gave new interest to these social meetings, 
 and added to their influence. He began to feel that he 
 ought to profess Christ publicly, by uniting with a chris- 
 tian church. He therefore united with a Congregational 
 church in Harpswell ; but with the faith and practice of 
 this church, he was not satisfied. He turned his attention 
 wholly to the Bible, and although he knew nothing of the 
 Baptists, he saw clearly that the immersion of believers 
 only, was scripture baptism. He says that ' he saw him- 
 self, and all others unbaptized, who were not baptized by 
 immersion upon a profession of faith.'§ 
 
 *Potter's Nar. p. 7. tPotter's Narrative, pp. 7, 8. $P. 14. §P. 14. 
 
88 LABORS OF N. LORD. 
 
 Although convinced that Pedo-baptism and sprinkling 
 were unscriptural modes of baptism, he did not at once 
 separate himself from the churck with which he had united ; 
 but immediately without the usual forms of qualification 
 confered by the church, he began to labor for the conver- 
 sion of sinners. Nor did he labor in vain. A reformation 
 commenced in Potterstown, March 1782, and continued 
 through the following spring and summer. During this 
 revival, Rev. Nathaniel Lord, of Wells, while on a journey 
 through this part of the State, and who was the first Baptist 
 preacher whom the people had ever seen or heard, visited 
 and preached two discourses to the people in Potterstown. 
 His preaching was to these thirsty disciples as the pure 
 waters of life. ' After the service was over,' says Mr. Pot- 
 ter, he went out and sat down with about fifty young 
 christians around him, and we did rejoice and praise God 
 together.' Mr. Potter, with no uncommon interest and 
 emotion, says to Rev. Mr. Lord, that he had learned ' that 
 he was a Baptist' Mr. L. replied, that he was. Mr. Pot- 
 ter, after requesting him not to relate his peculiar senti- 
 ments, wished the privilege of stating to him his own views 
 of the gospel and gospel ordinances, as he was called a 
 Baptist, and that after hearing his statements, he desired 
 him to decide whether he was a Baptist or not. His 
 wishes were granted, and after Mr. Potter had related his 
 views, Mr. Lord informed him that ' if he believed what he 
 had told him, he was one, for he told all that they believe 
 and hold.'* From this time Mr. Potter began to travel and 
 preach Christ to the people in the different surrounding 
 settlements and towns. He was beloved by the people, and 
 received earnest solicitations from almost every place in 
 this then new country. And his ministry was blessed to 
 the conversion of many souls, which became the spiritual 
 *Potter's Narrative, p, 17. 
 
ELDER I. CASE. 89 
 
 germs, where have originated several flourishing Baptist 
 churches. 
 
 His peculiar views upon gospel ordinances, however 
 brought down upon him the anathamas of the Congrega- 
 tional clergy, who considered the introduction of Baptist 
 sentiments as opening the way for a rapid spread of hetero- 
 doxy, which would fill the country with strange delusions. 
 Mr. Potter was frequently interrogated respecting the 
 soundness of his principles, the genuineness of his motives, 
 and by what authority he preached the gospel. i) 1*<83, 
 however, Mr. Potter intimates that their opposition began 
 to be more moderate*, or to use his own language, ' some 
 of them began to be more friendly.' In this way Mr. Pot- 
 ter toiled on in the cause of truth and righteousness, till 
 Oct. 1783, when the Lord of the harvest, in great compas- 
 sion, sent to his assistance Rev. Isaac Case, of Rehoboth., 
 Mass.t Never were the labors of a preacher, or his com- 
 ing more timely. Converts were multiplying as the fruits 
 of special revivals in many places, and for want of a proper 
 administrator, they sighed in vain for the ordinances of 
 the gospel. When Mr. Case came into this section of 
 Maine, the field therefore was ' already white to the har- 
 vest/ and he began immediately to gather in the precious 
 fruits. 
 
 Mr. Case arrived at Brunswick, Oct. 21, 1783. Being 
 an entire stranger, he tarried that night at a public house. 
 The next morning, on inquiring for some pious persons on 
 whom he might call, he was directed to the dwelling of a 
 Mr. Woodard. Mr. W. and wife being pious, gave him a 
 cheering welcome. At their request, Mr. Case preached 
 at their house in the afternoon and evening of the same 
 day, and the afternoon of the next day he preached at the 
 dwelling-house of Mr. Samuel Getchell. These opportuni- 
 *Potter's Nar. p. 18. fMr. Case's Jour. 
 
90 ELDER I. CASE. 
 
 ties gave Mr. Case a favorable introduction, and prepared 
 the way for his subsequent reception in the neighboring 
 settlements.* 
 
 There being some revival then in progress on Sabasde- 
 gan Island, in Harpswell, he went to that place, where he 
 saw the power and love of God displayed in the conversion 
 of sinners. On the even tug of the 23d of October, he 
 preached his first sermon on the Island, and to use his own 
 description of the meeting, ' the Lord poured forth the 
 effusions of che Holy Spirit ; sighs, groans and tears were 
 among the people.' Several persons were awakened to see 
 their lost condition by nature; among whom were two 
 brothers, Isaac and Ephraim Hall, who were subsequently 
 made joyful in nope,, and became useful ministers in the 
 Baptist churches. These were the first ' seals' of the min- 
 istry of Mr. Case in Maine. f Oct. 25, in compliance with 
 the earnest solicitation of a pious female, whose heart was 
 filled with the love of God, and compassion for perishing 
 sinners, Mr. Case left the Island, and made the people in 
 Potterstown a visit. At a place called the ' New Mead- 
 ows,' he met Mr. Potter. Here these two holy men formed 
 an interesting and religious acquaintance — interesting to 
 Mr. Case to find a fellow-laborer in this wide-spread mis- 
 sionary field, and most cheering to Mr. Potter to receive so 
 spiritual and devoted an associate in the good and abundant 
 work before them. After spending the day and evening 
 with Mr. Potter and the people at Potterstown, Mr. Case, 
 with Mr. Potter, returned to the Island. On the following 
 Sabbath, they not having made arrangement for a meeting, 
 attended at the Congregational meeting-house, and Mr. 
 Case preached in the afternoon. But, says Mr. Case, we 
 ' being received rather coolly,' met in the evening whom- 
 soever were disposed to attend at the dwelling-house of a 
 *Mr. Cast's Jour. |Mr. C's Jour. 
 
FIRST BAPTISM BY MR. CASE. Q\ 
 
 Mr. Purington. The work on the Island was general. On 
 visiting, says Mr. C. * in almost every family some were 
 weeping in the bitterness of their souls, others rejoicing in 
 hope.' 
 
 October 29th, Mr. Case visited Georgetown (now Bath) 
 where the labors of Mr. Potter had been blessed to the 
 conversion of souls, and for several weeks he went from 
 place to place, and from house to house, preaching, exhort- 
 ing and praying, and ' the hand of the Lord went with him.' 
 If opposition arose, he heede^ it not. 
 
 November 4th, Mr. Case administered the ordinance of 
 baptism to a female, on the Island, which was the first 
 instance of baptism by Mr, Case in Maine, and the first 
 administered by any Baptist east of the town of Gorham. 
 About this time a Rev. Mr. Randall, the celebrated Free- 
 wilier, came to the Island and labored with success a short 
 time. Mr. Case spent about three months in this section, 
 uniting his labors with Mr. Potter ; during which he visit- 
 ed most of the settlements in this vicinity, preaching to 
 the people, and baptized many converts* 
 
 From an impression of duty, Mr. Case left these settle- 
 ments in January 1784, and directed his way eastward. 
 He felt that the Lord had a special work for him to do in 
 that direction. His convictions were confirmed when he 
 arrived at New Castle. ' Here,' says he, ' I received evi- 
 dence that my convictions of duty to go eastward were of 
 the Lord.' circumstance was this — at this place he 
 
 met two messengers from Thomaston, who were on their 
 way to Sabasdegan, to invite him to ' come over nd help 
 them.' He proceeded forthwith, as Peter went to the 
 house of Cornelius, to Thomaston, where he found the 
 people prepared to receive the word of the Lord. Mr. Case, 
 on his arrival, found a few pious souls who had been spend- 
 
 *Mr. Case's Journal. 
 
92 MR. CASE'S FIRST VISIT TO THOM ASTON. 
 
 ing that very day in fasting and prayer in view of his com- 
 ing. Thus the way of the Lord was prepared. On the 
 31st of January, he preached his first sermon in Thomas- 
 ton, which was the opening of a new era in the religious 
 state and character of the town, it being blessed to the 
 awakening of three persons to a sense of their rebellious 
 character against God, and lost condition in sin. A most 
 glorious and extensive revival of religion was the immediate 
 result of these movements.* 
 
 A wide and extensive field for gospel labor was now 
 open before Mr. Case. He therefore made Thomaston his 
 place of residence, where he remained about eight years, 
 preaching in that and in the adjoining towns, settlements,, 
 and on the Islands in Penobscot Bay ; while Mr. Potter 
 remained in the vicinity of Kennebec, travelling and preach- 
 ing in the new settlements, which were annually multiply- 
 ing in the interior of the State. Many were the obstacles 
 which these servants of the Lord had to overcome. The 
 country was new, roads were bad, or no roads at all. They 
 had therefore to travel on foot, or on horse-back, to carry 
 the word of life to the destitute, and in many instances 
 opposition, slander, and ridicule tried their patience and 
 fortitude. 
 
 The weapons which the enemies now wielded against 
 the Baptists in this part of the State, were in some res- 
 pects unlike those which were applied against them in York 
 County. To prevent their increase, every attempt was 
 made in almost every place to prejudice the minds of the 
 people against them. ' Ignorant Fanatics,' ' Bigoted Bap- 
 tists,' ' New-Lights,' ' Close Communicants,' etc., were no 
 uncommon epithets. Irony, slander, and reproaches were 
 heaped upon them.f No wonder they considered them- 
 selves as the sect ' every where spoken against. 5 But con- 
 *Mr. Case's Jour. tMr. C's Jour. 
 
BOWDOINHAM CHURCH. 93 
 
 scious that they were not persecuted for impious motives, 
 or evil deeds, but for righteousness' sake, they rejoiced and 
 persevered. When reviled, they reviled not again. 
 
 As the history of the several churches will embody most 
 of the incidents and particular circumstances important to 
 the history of these early movements, we shall proceed to 
 give in brief narrative and order of time, as they were or- 
 ganized, their history severally, and shall commence with 
 the chare 1 
 
 Bowdoinham. The first Baptist church in Bowdoinham 
 was constituted on the th of May, 1784.* This church 
 owes its origin to a revival experienced in this town, under 
 the labors of Mr. James Potter in 1782; at which time 
 there were no Baptists in this part of the State, nor had Mr. 
 Potter or the people ever seen or heard one of their 
 preachers ; and there being no church of any faith in the 
 vicinity, these disciples remained without the ordinances 
 of the gospel and church privileges. Between this time 
 and the organization of the church, Rev. N. Lord, of 
 Wells, Rev. Simon Locke, of Lyman, Rev. I. Case, and 
 Job Macomber, preached occasionally to them, by whose 
 ministry they were instructed and comforted. They had 
 no particular trials to endure, and no persecution. Mr. 
 Case visited Bowdoinham, in November 1783, and on the 
 24th day of that month he baptized six persons, who were 
 the first to receive the ordinance in this place. Mr. Case 
 relates the following instance as connected with this bap- 
 tismal season. After baptizing five persons who had been 
 previously received as candidates, a woman came forward 
 to the water and desired baptism. She was informed that 
 if she believed in Christ with all her heart, she might. 
 She then related what the Lord had done for her soul, 
 which relation evinced that she had experienced a work of 
 
 *Syms Gardner of 2d Ch. 
 6* 
 
94 BOWDOINHAM CHURCH. 
 
 renewing and saving grace, and consequently she was re- 
 ceived as a proper subject of baptism. While preparing to 
 go ' down into the water,' her husband came forward filled 
 with anger and great rage, and threatened to kill himself 
 if his wife was baptized. The husband was warned of his 
 guilt and danger, and the wife was baptized, and instead 
 of suicide, the man was slain by the law of God, and then 
 made alive by the blood of Christ.* Others were subse- 
 quently baptized, and thus the foundation was laid for a 
 church. The church being'formed, a central point of in- 
 fluence was created, and a home provided for the converts 
 in the vicinity. About the time the church was constituted, 
 Mr. Job Macomber, from Middleborough, Mass., who had 
 previously taken up his residence in Bovvdoinham, became 
 a member, and was ordained as its first pastor in August 
 of the same year. As there was no convenient place pro- 
 vided for the ordination, a stage was erected under the 
 open canopy of heaven, on which he was set apart for the 
 great work of preaching the gospel of Christ. Rev. I. 
 Case preached on the occasion, and Rev. Simon Locke, 
 participated in the exercises. 
 
 Elder Macomber discharged the duties of pastor till 
 1810, when he was succeeded by Daniel Pierson, one of 
 it's members, who was ordained May 9, 1810. Elder P. 
 continued with this church till a second church in Bowdoin- 
 ham was constituted, when he resigned his charge of the 
 first church and became pastor of the second. Twenty-nine 
 were now dismissed from this church, which left it small, 
 feeble and destitute of a pastor. f Although blessed with oc- 
 casional revival visitations, its numbers never exceeded six- 
 ty-eight, and it was now reduced to a total of twenty-fout. 
 Rev, Elihu Purington, from Topsham, became a member 
 in 1818, and subsequent to the resignation of Eld. Pierson, 
 
 *Itev. Mr. Case's journal. fSyms Gardner, of 2dCh. 
 
THOMAS TON CHURCH. 95 
 
 administered to the church though not as pastor. Remain- 
 ing destitute of a pastor's care, it did not obtain much 
 prosperity; and influenced by a high tone ofAntinomian 
 faith, in 1840 it withdrew its connection from the Bow- 
 doinham Association, of which it was one of the original 
 members.* It was never able, (or disposed) to provide 
 for its own accommodation a house of worship, and being 
 opposed to the general movements of benevolent associa- 
 tions, it has never done much for the general interests of 
 Zion, or the cause of humanity. t Thus has waned the 
 first light enkindled in this new wilderness. 
 
 Thomaston, now known by the name of 'First Thom- 
 aston.' This was the second Baptist church constituted 
 east of the York Association, and the first east of the 
 Kennebec river. Thomaston is in the eastern part of Lin- 
 coln county. The first settlement here was commenced 
 about 1741, and between this time and 1756, some efforts 
 were made by the Rev. Robert Rutherford to establish the 
 Congregational principles, but it does not appear that he 
 succeeded. He died in October, 1756. There was no 
 church formed here of any faith previous to the gathering 
 of the Baptist church by Rev. I. Case, in 1784.J Previous 
 to the arrival of Mr. Case in January of that year, a few 
 pious persons lived in the town who sighed over the spirit- 
 ual condition of the people. When Mr. Case came, he 
 was made welcome by many joyful hearts, and especially 
 by Mr. Brown and family, with whom he first tarried. The 
 anxiety expressed that he would remain and preach to the 
 people were to Mr. Case, favorable indications for good ; and 
 the first sermon which he prsached being blessed to the awa- 
 kening of three persons, strengthened his hope that his labor 
 woild not be in vain. The next day, (Sabbath) he preached 
 at the dwelling house of Mr. Oliver Robbins, whose wife 
 *Min. B. A. 1850. fSyms Gardner of 2d Ch. |Green. Eccl. his. p. 172. 
 
96 THOM ASTON CHURCH. 
 
 was the only pious Baptist to be found in all this eastern 
 country.* Another person was awakened at this meeting, 
 and thus commenced the special season of mercy which 
 became general in Thomaston, and which spread into 
 several surrounding neighborhoods. Many souls were 
 soon converted to God, and some who had strayed like the 
 prodigal, were reclaimed, among whom was Mr. Elisha 
 Snow, whose name is remembered especially in all the 
 churches in the eastern part of the State. Mr. Snow im- 
 mediately entered the ministry of the gospel, and was 
 eminently useful in the work till he was eighty years of 
 age. He died in his ninety-third year. 
 
 Frequent seasons for humiliation, fasting and prayer, 
 were among the most efficient means which promoted the 
 rogress of this revival. The first baptismal season was on 
 the 26th of Feb., when Mr. Case baptized fifteen converts. 
 This season is still remembered as one of great mercy and 
 joy. March 12th, eighteen more received the precious 
 ordinance. The work now became more powerful and 
 glorious, in view of which Mr. Case exclaims, ' 'Tis won- 
 derful to see God's work among poor sinners; and we may 
 stand still and see the salvation of God.' In April, twenty- 
 five more happy converts embraced baptism with rejoicing ; 
 and in May 23, six others. 
 
 The foundation being now laid, and suitable materials 
 prepared for a Baptist church in this far eastern settlement, 
 it was believed to be duty to bring them together. Con- 
 sequently on the 27th day of May, 1784, the disciples of 
 Jesus in Thomaston, assembled in the barn of Mr. Oliver 
 Robbins, voted Eld. Case Moderator, and Samuel Brown 
 Clerk. They then voluntarily gave themselves to each 
 other in solemn covenant and church relation, and received 
 the hand of Fellowship from the Moderator as a church of 
 
 *Mr. Case's Jour. 
 
THOMASTON CHURCH. 97 
 
 Christ in gospel order. The same day, fourteen were bap- 
 tized, three of whom were added to the church, making 
 fifty in all ; forty-seven constituting the original number ; 
 and, on the 30th, the church celebrated the ' Lord's Sup- 
 per' for the first time. Rev. Mr. Case was now joyfully 
 received as the pastor of the church, who continued his 
 ministry with them about eight years, when he removed to 
 another field.* The original members of this church at 
 this time were not all fruits of the extensive revival in this 
 place. Under the labors of Messrs. Case and Snow, disci- 
 ples had been multiplied in other places, wherever they had 
 travelled and preached. In Camden, Warren, St. George, 
 Damariscotta, on Deer Island, Long Island, Fox Island, 
 Isle Haut, converts had been gathered to Christ. In May 
 1787, persons had become pious by means of their labors, 
 and had been brought into connection and fellowship, and 
 under the watchcare of the church in Thomaston, from 
 Ballstown, (Jefferson,) N. Castle, Nobleboro', Waldoboro', 
 Friendship, Cushing, Warren, Union, Camden, Castine and 
 Fox Island ; so that at this time this church embraced a 
 territory in extent more than 30 miles. About this time 
 a serious trial disturbed the peace of the members in Thom- 
 aston ; the cause of which was lodged in the bosom of the 
 church, which resulted in a painful rending of the body. 
 Thirty-four members were excommunicated Sept. 1790, 
 among whom was the Clerk of the church, who refused to 
 deliver up the records to the church. But, says Eld. Case, 
 ' the building was of God, it therefore withstood the storm.' 
 The origin of the trial and division arose with a difference 
 of opinion respecting the doctrine of Atonement, between 
 Mr. Snow and S. Brown. 
 
 In the spring of 1792, Rev. Mr. Case resigned his pas- 
 toral care of the church, and was succeeded in 1794 in the 
 
 *Mr. Case's journal, and com. of Rev. L. B. Allen, pastor, 1842. 
 
98 THOMASTON CHURCH. 
 
 pastoral office by Rev. E. Snow ; since which the church 
 has enjoyed the faithful labors of a succession of worthy 
 pastors, by whose ministry they have experienced several 
 pleasing and fruitful revivals. In 1795, by Eld. Snow's 
 labors, the church was revived, and made to forget in part 
 its former affliction. But this refreshing was, to the more 
 wonderful work of divine grace and mercy which appeared 
 in 1808, as the ' former' is to the ' latter' rain, when one 
 hundred and forty-eight additions by baptism cheered and 
 encouraged the church. Revivals were experienced in 
 1811, when fifty were added; 1815, fifty added; 1824, 
 Eld. S. Fogg, pastor, twenty added; 1831 and '32, Rev. 
 A. Kalloch, pastor, sixty-nine added ; 1842 and '43, Rev. 
 L. B. Allen, pastor, sixty-seven added.* These are among 
 the special and peculiar blessings which this church has 
 received from God. But many trials at different times have 
 afflicted the church. One we have described. A second 
 commenced with the instability of Samuel Baker, who had 
 left the Methodist connexion and united with the Baptist 
 church in T., and was ordained colleague pastor to Elder 
 Snow in 1808. As is frequently the case with such as 
 hastily change their doctrinal views, he made shipwreck 
 concerning the faith, and was excluded from the denomi- 
 nation in 1813, for preaching the unscriptural and skepti- 
 cal doctrines of Universalists. Since that time, the church 
 has been much annoyed and perplexed by his changes. 
 Upon his apparent humble repentance and sincere confes- 
 sion of his erroneous views and practices, he was restored 
 to the confidence and fellowship of the church, March 7, 
 1813, and on the 24th day of the same month, and for simi- 
 lar offences, was again excluded. In this way, and for 
 similar reasons, Mr. Baker has been excluded and restored 
 again and again, till but a small degree of confidence in 
 his integrity is felt by any. 
 *Com. Rev. L. B. Allen — Rev. I. Case's journal— Lincoln Asso. Min. 
 
CHURCH IN HARPS WELL. 99 
 
 Several members of this ancient church have become 
 ministers. Elisha Snow, ordained at Harpswell ; Tristram 
 Jordan, ordained in the church, 1808, (June 5) ; Thomas 
 Merrill, received as a licensed preacher from the Congre- 
 gationalists ; and Isaac Bridges, licensed January 24, 
 1812. And the following churches owe their existence, 
 in part, to dismissions from this ; — Cushing, Fox Island, 
 West Thomaston, Appleton, and 3d Thomaston. It has 
 existed fifty-nine years. The whole number of persons who 
 have belonged to it is seven hundred and five. Present 
 number, 1843, is two hundred and eight.* 
 
 Harpswell, now " East Brunswick." Harpswell, or 
 Harpswell neck, is a strip of land at the mouth, and along 
 the western side of Kennebec river. It was settled at an 
 early period in the history of Maine, and was soon occu- 
 pied by the Congregationalists, and became a district 
 Parish to that denomination in 1750, f and soon after a 
 church of that faith was organized. Connected with this 
 parish was the large Island, called " Sabasdegan," on 
 which resided a considerable number of inhabitants, who 
 were also under the influence of a Pedo-baptist faith. 
 Baptist principles were unknown among the inhabitants of 
 Harpswell, till proclaimed on this Island by Rev. Isaac 
 Case and x\Ir. Potter, who first visited this people in 1783. 
 In the course of two or three months, Mr. Case preached 
 twenty-five sermons on the Island, which were blessed to 
 the conversion of many souls, several of whom he baptized. 
 Mr. James Potter was an efficient co-laborer with him in 
 this work. Some opposition was manifested, and, Mr. 
 Case says he was treated ' rather coolly' by Mr. Samuel 
 Eaton, the Congregationalist preacher in Harpswell. But 
 opposition ' was overruled to the furtherance of the cause, 
 rather than to check its progress.' During the year of '84, 
 
 *Rev. L. B. Allen, Com. and Miss. L. A. fGreen. Eccl. History, p. 63 
 
100 CHURCH IN HARPSWELL. 
 
 Mr. Potter preached to the comfort and instruction of these 
 baptized disciples and their friends, and their number 
 slowly increased. On the 19th of January, 1785, a church 
 was organized on this Island, by Rev. I. Case, and Rev. 
 J. Macomber, consisting of thirty-one members. These 
 original members resided in Harpswell, Bath, Brunswick 
 and Bowdoin. This was another refuge for the Baptist 
 disciples scattered in this new and broken country.* 
 
 A short time after the organization of this church, Mr. 
 Potter was baptized, and united with it ; and on the 5th 
 of October, 1785, he was ordained by Messrs. Case and 
 Macomber, as an evangelist, but was soon called and ac- 
 cepted the pastoral charge of this church. Mr. Case 
 preached the sermon from, ' Lo, I am with you always,' 
 &lc. Elder P. continued the acceptable pastor till the 
 church was constituted in Bowdoin, 1788, when he resign- 
 ed his care of the church in Harpswell, and took charge 
 of that in Bowdoin. It does not appear that this church 
 was increased much during its infant state. Something 
 more than twenty were added, however, to it during the 
 continuance of Mr. P.'s ministry with them. About the 
 time that Mr. Potter retired from the church, Elisha Snow, 
 of Thomaston, became a member, was ordained in 1790, 
 and continued their minister about two years. He was 
 succeeded by Rev. Samuel Woodard, of Brunswick, who 
 was ordained at his own house, October 11. 1792. Rev. 
 Samuel Mariner, another of its members, upon the resigna- 
 tion of Elder Woodard, was called to the pastoral office, 
 by ordination, January, 1802. Elder Mariner was pastor 
 till his death, 1832, a period of about thirty years. These 
 pastors became members of the church previous to their 
 ordinations, so that it maybe said truly, that God raised up 
 in the church its own pastors and teachers. 
 
 *Rev. I. Case's Journal, and Min. C. A. and B. A. 
 
ORIGIN OF BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 101 
 
 Since the revival in 1783, this church and people have 
 been blessed with four precious and refreshing seasons 
 from the presence of the Lord. In 1798, Elder Wood- 
 ard, pastor ; in 1816, Eld. Mariner, pastor, and in '34 and 
 40. From thedeath of Eld. Mariner, the church has been 
 destitute of a pastor, but its pulpit has been supplied the 
 most of the time, by the successive ministry of Elders S. 
 Owen, H. Kendall, D. Pierce, Win. Johnson, J. Butler 
 and N. Hooper.* 
 
 This church has had several names. First, ' Harps- 
 well ;' second, 1834, ' Harpswell and Brunswick ;' and 
 third, ' East Brunswick,' its present name. By a dismis- 
 sion of members, this church has aided in the building up 
 of several others in the vicinity, but how many and what, 
 we have no means to determine. 
 
 Although opposition has always marked its pilgrimage, it 
 has, nevertheless, usually experienced a pleasing prosperity. 
 The whole number gathered into this fold from its com- 
 mencement to 1843, is about two hundred, and it has a 
 present total of eighty-three members. 
 
 CHAPTER IX. 
 
 ORIGIN OF BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 
 
 The three churches before described, increasing in 
 numbers, power and influence, and Baptists rapidly multi- 
 plying in the new settlements in every direction around 
 these central points of gospel light, encouraged the belief 
 that the prospect was br^htening, that other churches 
 would soon arise to co-operate in the general work of evan- 
 gelizing the whole State. It was deemed, therefore, not 
 only expedient, but even the duty of these churches, to 
 commence holding annual meetings, in which all the 
 
 *Rev. I. Case's Journal and Min. B. A. and C. A. 
 
102 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 
 
 churches might associate, and deliberate upon things rela- 
 ting to their own welfare, and the prosperity of Zion in 
 general. These views, and the feelings of fraternal love 
 and interest which dwelt in the hearts of these early Bap- 
 tists, originated the ' Bowdoinham Association,' which 
 was organized at the dwelling house of Rev. Job Macom- 
 ber, in Bowdoinham, on the 24th day of May, 1787. This 
 meeting was composed of delegates from the three church- 
 es, Bowdoinham, Thomaston, and Harpswell ; and with 
 their pastors, Elders I. Case, J. Potter, and J. Macomber. 
 It was organized by choosing Elder Case, Moderator, and 
 Ebenezer Kinsman, Clerk. Rev. J. Potter preached the 
 first sermon, from Luke 5 : 34, 35 ; and E. Kinsman pre- 
 sented a circular Letter. This was a memorable day to 
 the Baptists in this part of the State. Being but few in 
 number, (as the entire number of Baptists represented in 
 this meeting was 183 only,) and in the midst of a rapidly 
 growing population, and an increasing Baptist community, 
 it became important that every measure adopted, every 
 sentiment expressed, and every motive professed, should 
 be according to gospel love, truth, and righteousness ; and 
 that every precedent established should be such as all the 
 churches and Associations which might afterwards arise, 
 could follow with safety and delight. In the course of bus- 
 iness, the Association adopted a summary of doctrinal 
 articles, which constitute the foundation, yea, which em- 
 body the very soul and spirit of the articles of Faith and 
 Covenant now universally adopted by the denomination 
 throughout the state. Our churches and Associations have 
 not indeed clothed these sentiments all in the same dress, 
 or used the same language, yet their doctrines and practic- 
 es, so far as we are able to discover, are essentially the same. 
 The design of this movement is also expressed on this 
 occasion, and recorded for the perusal of the churches. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 103 
 
 The document to which we refer reads thus : ' In asso- 
 ciating ourselves we disclaim all pretensions to the least 
 control on the independence of particular churches ; our 
 main design is to establish a medium of communication 
 relative to the general state of religion ; — recommend such 
 measures; — give such advice; — and, render such assis- 
 tance as shall be thought most conducive to the advance- 
 ment, peace and enlargement of the Redeemer's kingdom 
 n the . r d. 
 
 Two measures in particular were then adopted to promote 
 the objects contemplated in this design. Besides the 
 requirment of an annual epistle from each of the churches, 
 it provided that ' a sermon shall be preached at the com- 
 mencement of each annual meeting, calculated to bring 
 into view the expediency of sending the gospel to the 
 destitute, at the close of which a contribution shall be 
 taken for that purpose ;' and secondly, ' a circular shall 
 be addressed annually to the churches containing something 
 profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, righteousness ; 
 and, also, a letter of correspondence to those Associations 
 with whom correspondence is maintained.' 
 
 Upon the question whether it was agreeable to truth and 
 the example of Christ and his Apostles to receive unbap- 
 tized persons to the ' Lord's Supper,' or allow any person 
 or member, to receive that privilege, who will commune 
 with such, the important decision was made by vote at this 
 meeting, ' that it is not agreeable.' Of the meeting of this 
 body in 1788, there are no records. It held its session 
 that year in Harpswell. The next year, (1789,) the Asso- 
 ciation met a Ballstown, now Whitefield, with an addition 
 of three new churches, and one ordained minister, (Rev. 
 Elisha Snow.) This was to the Baptists, a precious and 
 encouraging season. They now opened correspondence 
 with the Warren Association, Massachusetts and Rhode 
 
104 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Island, and New Hampshire — and a circular was addressed 
 to the churches upon christian faithfulness and honesty, 
 which was an important document in those times. In 1790, 
 the Association met at Harpswell. God gave evident man- 
 ifestation of his approbation of this Association at their 
 first meeting. The exercises were blessed to the conver- 
 sion of one soul, and each subsequent meeting was cheered 
 by his gracious presence. 
 
 To show the comparative increase of the Baptists with 
 the increase of population in the State, we remark that in 
 1764, four years before there was a Baptist church in the 
 State that out-lived the storm of persecution, there were 
 twenty-three thousand six hundred and eighty-eight whites 
 and three hundred and thirty-two blacks in Maine. There 
 were three thousand five hundred and seventy-two families 
 and two thousand seven hundred and eighty-nine 1 ouses. 
 In 1790, there was a population of ninety-six thousand five 
 hundred and forty, and only eleven Baptist churches, with 
 not more than five hundred members. 
 
 It may seem somewhat surprising to the present genera- 
 tion who are accustomed to see the Baptists multiplying so 
 rapidly in these eventful days of enlarged means and won- 
 derful prosperity, that they should make so slow progress 
 at their commencement. But should those who thus 
 wonder, consider the persecutions of some, the trials, the 
 obstacles to success common to all in a new country ; — 
 could they see the minister travelling on foot through the 
 woods, guided only by ' spotted trees/ to get to destitute 
 settlements; — could they see the scattered settlers, walking 
 six, ten or twelve miles to an evening meeting, or drawn 
 through the unbeaten snow on an ox-sled, seated on a 
 bundle of straw, to the place of worship where they might 
 hear the words of life, the wonder would seem to be, that 
 *Wms. his. Me. vol. 1, p. 549. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN BOWDOIN. |05 
 
 they multiplied so fast. The minister was encouraged to 
 endure hardness as a good soldier, from the success he 
 witnessed ; — and the people were excited to make great 
 exertions to hear such ministers as manifested so much 
 concern for their souls. As the result of such movements, 
 the obstacles notwithstanding, churches continued to in- 
 
 CHAPTER X. 
 
 Churches added to the Bowdoinham Association from 1788 to the time of 
 its division, 1804 — First Bowdoin — First Vassalboro' — Second Vassal- 
 boro'— Whitefield— First Sidney— Litchfield— Hebron— First Buckfield 
 — Paris — Levviston — Readfield — Fayette — Miscongus Isle and Bristol — 
 First Livermore — First Nobleboro 7 — Greene — Wayne — Webster — Hope 
 
 £ — New Gloucester — Clinton — 2d China — Farmington — Second Litchfield 
 — Wales — Jay — Mt. Vernon — Brunswick — Leeds — Woolwich — Friend- 
 ship — Warren — Portland — First China — Swanville — Second Buckfield — 
 New Sharon — Canaan — Islesboro' — Vinalhaven — Jefferson and Lancas- 
 ter — Sumner — Bethel. 
 
 Bowdoin, First Church. The town of Bowdoin was 
 first called Potterstown, and was among the first settlements 
 in Kennebec County. In this place, and for which it is 
 memorable in the history of the Baptists in this part of the 
 State, was the first revival of religion to introduce the sen- 
 timents of the Baptists into the country, the circumstances 
 of which have already been described. Rev. James Potter, 
 who had previously become pious, was instrumental in pro- 
 moting this work of grace. Elder N. Lord, of Wells, 
 visited them at the time of its progress, and although the 
 people were generally under a Pedo-baptist influence, his 
 instructions, as given in two sermons only, led several of 
 the converts to search the Bible to see if what he taught 
 was according to the word of God. The result was, as is 
 generally the case, those who took the B ble only for their 
 guide, became Baptists. But there being no Baptist ad- 
 ministrator, they did not publicly profess their faith in 
 
J06 FIRST CHURCH IN BOWDOIN 
 
 Christ and in his gospel, till 1784, more than a year after 
 this revival, when they were baptized by Elder Case, and 
 became connected with the Baptist church in Harpswell. 
 This connection continued, notwithstanding their distance 
 of a dozen miles or more, until 1788, when, by the assist- 
 ance of Elder Case, they were organized as the church of 
 Christ in Bowdoin, and Elder Potter became their pastor. 
 The name which this church then assumed, is some- 
 what peculiar, and is expressive of the strong Calvinistic 
 doctrines they embraced, and which have since obtained 
 considerable prevalence in this section. It was denomi- 
 nated ' A Regular, Particular Baptist Church.' Its 
 early progress was onward, especially while under the min- 
 istry of Mr. Potter, whose labors were continued till 1811, 
 when age and infirmity led him to resign his charge of the 
 church. He died in full view of the promised rest, March 
 2, 1815. In 1798 and '99, a very precious and extensive 
 revival was experienced, when a large addition was made 
 to the church, which, together with occasional additions, 
 showed an increase of one hundred and forty-five to its mem- 
 bers while he was pastor. The influence of this church 
 was felt in all the adjoining settlements, by means of which 
 a foundation was laid for several of the present flourishing 
 churches in that vicinity, among which are Lewiston and 
 Greene. 
 
 After the revival in 1798, the church could no longer 
 be accommodated in barns and private houses. They 
 therefore erected a house for the worship of God, in 1799, 
 at a cost of about $1500. That year David Buker and 
 Samuel Smith were elected and ordained as deacons. 
 Humphrey Purington, Thomas Adams, Asahel Polly and 
 John Small, also have acted as deacons, by a vote of the 
 church. Elder J. Dinslow was an associate deacon, with 
 Buker and Smith. Joseph Dinslow was ordained to preach 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN BOWDOIN. 107 
 
 the gospel of Christ, by a council convened at the request 
 of the church, 1794, and after the resignation of Mr. Pot- 
 ter, became the stated minister of the church, but not their 
 pastor. He was elected pastor, but declined the charge, 
 from a conscientious belief that few ministers have a pas- 
 toral gift, and that it was especially true of himself. He 
 therefore consented to be their minister only. Mr. Dins- 
 low began to preach soon after he was elected deacon, and 
 was useful to the church when destitute, and was especially 
 instrumental in aiding its progress till 1820 ; seventy-five 
 being added to the church while he preached to them as 
 the fruits of a special refreshing in 1815. 
 
 Nothing of special interest occurred affecting the inter- 
 est of the church after the period of Elder Dinslow's min- 
 istry closed till in 1829, when the church was cheered and 
 assisted by a donation of $700, by John Thompson, one of 
 its members, the interest of which was to be expended 
 annually for the benefit of the church. 
 
 In 1834, they suffered the loss of their house of worship, 
 by fire, which was supposed to be the work of an incen- 
 diary. They were now obliged to meet in school houses, 
 till their present neat and convenient house for worship 
 was opened by appropriate services, November, 1839. 
 The lot of land on which it stands, was presented to the 
 church and society, by Solomon Eaton, Esq. 
 
 When destitute of a pastor, or stated preacher, this 
 church has received occasional, if not stated supplies, by 
 Elders L. Jackson, B. Cole, J. Garcelon, W. Stinson, E. 
 Purrington, S. Owen, and D. Pierce, respectively and suc- 
 cessively, as often, at least, as one Sabbath in each month, 
 which labors have been of great utility and comfort to its 
 members. Besides these labors,- the churc : has always 
 been blessed with eminently valuable gifts in their deacons, 
 who have most readily and profitably supplied the defi- 
 ciency of a preacher, when none was provided. 
 
108 FIRST CHURCH IN BOWDOIN. 
 
 The peace and prosperity of this church is greatly owing 
 to a wisely regulated and promptly maintained discipline, 
 for the promotion of which Dea, Buker was peculiarly 
 qualified; and its spirituality to the activity of Dea. E. 
 Brown, who was ordained to that office in 1822. The rich 
 experience, the unwavering faith, and upright example of 
 deacon B. exerted a healthy influence on the character of 
 the church, and a pious attractiveness on all around him. 
 
 This church, though generally cheered with an encour- 
 aging prosperity, has endured many severe trials. 'Trials,' 
 says one of its worthy members, ' of all kinds common to 
 this sect every where spoken against.' In its infancy it 
 had to contend with some heated and zealous Arminians, 
 who labored to prejudice the minds of young christians 
 against the Baptists. Their hard expressions were charged 
 upon them, but they continued in their unjust animadver- 
 sions, and unfeeling aspersions, till a certain distinguished 
 person among the Baptists requested a public discussion of 
 some doctrines which had been sinfully misrepresented. 
 * The discussion was attended with this result,' sajs Mr. 
 Potter, ' since which, to the present time, the Arminian 
 sentiments have been disowned by us, both by saints and 
 sinners.'* 
 
 This church still claims to be regarded as upon the true 
 original Baptist Platform, and are^very seriously inclined 
 to charge their brethren generally in the State at the pres- 
 ent day, with having removed from the original principles 
 of the Baptist Faith. This charge, undoubtedly, is true, 
 as respects some peculiar views of some particular and nice 
 points of theology ; but we do not as yet discover any ma- 
 terial change in the essential doctrines of their profession 
 and faith. 
 
 This church has existed nearly fifty-six years ; has always 
 *Pot. Nar. p. 26. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN VASSALBORO'. JQ9 
 
 had much trouble as respects the proper mode of support- 
 ing the ministry ; and this trouble some how or other so 
 happens when but little is done in this business. At first, 
 they came up to the work of supporting the ministry much 
 better than latterly ; and it is worthy of notice, that their 
 prosperity at that time holds a just proportion to their libe- 
 rality. In 1800, the church had a total of members of 
 one hundred and ten ; in 1810, of one hundred and twenty ; 
 1820, of fifty-nine ; 1843, of twenty-five. Its decrease has 
 been occasioned, however, very much, by large and frequent 
 dismissions ; but not more so in its last days, than in its 
 former, when it enjoyed its greatest prosperity.* 
 
 Vassalborough. This town lies on the east side of 
 Kennebec river, a few miles above Augusta, and was set- 
 tled about the same time, (1770.) The first religious so- 
 ciety gathered here was a society of Quakers, or Friends, 
 which obtained considerable influence. The next reli- 
 gious movements were made by the Baptists. In 1788f 
 Rev. N. Lord, of Wells, visited this settlement, and his 
 preaching was cordially received by the people generally. 
 As the result of Mr, Lord's labors, a revival laid the foun- 
 dation for a Baptist church and community in this town, 
 lulder Lord was followed by Elders Potter, Snow, and 
 Case, who made similar occasional visits, and was benefi- 
 cial in extending the privileges of the Baptists here, and 
 extending their influence into adjoining settlements.! 
 
 Elder Macomber, of Bowdoinham, had the privilege of 
 introducing the precious ordinance, by baptizing several 
 persons, in 1788, who were the first to receive the bless- 
 ing in this wilderness ; and soon others, in some of the 
 surrounding neighborhood, followed Christ l s example in 
 the same rite. These scattered disciples were collected 
 
 *We are indebted to Mr. Green, a member, for much of JTre information 
 we have received of this Church, the amount of which is here embodied. 
 fEld. Case's Jour. JThe same. 
 
110 FIRST CHURCH IN VASSALBORO^ 
 
 by Elder Case, who had previously baptized the most of 
 them, and organized into a regular church,* 
 
 This was the first church in that town, and consisted of 
 eleven members. At the time of the first baptism, there 
 were not more than one hundred inhabitants in the town, 
 and these lived in the utter neglect of religion, and the Sab- 
 bath was almost wholly disregarded. There were some 
 who professed piety, but they had wandered from the Lord, 
 and exerted no favorable influence on their neighbors, 
 Among the first to profess their love to Christ, by baptism, 
 were Nehemiah Gould and Jabez Lewis, who subsequent- 
 ly were ordained to the work of the ministry, and useful 
 in promoting the cause of the Redeemer in the State, 
 
 This church occupied a central power of influence,, 
 and was soon increased in numbers. Several of the mem- 
 bers residing in Harlem (now China), the prosperity of 
 the cause required that they should be set off to exert an 
 influence in a separate capacity; consequently in 1796, a 
 church was constituted in this settlement, of nineteen 
 members, and located in the south part of that town. This 
 year, Job Chadwick and N. Gould were inducted into the 
 office of pastors ; the former of the church in Harlem, 
 and the latter, of Vassalborough. Thus God raised up 
 from among these disciples, two, to be their spiritual 
 guides, men, who were experienced in all the peculiarities 
 of a new country, and therefore qualified to lead the flock 
 of God in such times. About this time the church in 
 Vassalborough enjoyed union and prosperity. In a few 
 years it embraced members who lived in Freetown, (now 
 the north part of China, and where is situated the first 
 church). These were dismissed, and organized into an 
 independent church in 1800. 
 
 *Mr. Case's Jour. 
 7 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN VASSALBORO'. H| 
 
 Trials awaited this church, and soon a dark cloud sa- 
 bled its brightest prospects. Their happy seasons of love 
 disappeared, and disagreement severed their long cherished 
 ties of union. An unhappy difficulty arose between the 
 pastor and the church, which terminated in the deposition 
 and exclusion of the pastor, and the church became like an 
 unfruitful vine. The pastor was, however, afterwards re- 
 stored to membership, but not to his sacred office.* 
 
 In 1796, the Baptists in Vassalborough erected a house 
 for worship where is now the ' outlet village.' Previous 
 to this, dwelling houses, which were at that time generally 
 constructed of logs, were their sanctuaries and bethel 
 places. Here they worshipped and praised God. 
 
 They were made to forget their trials and to sing with 
 gladness in 1801, when a precious and spirit-stirring revi- 
 val was experienced, which enlarged the church by an addi- 
 tion of about fifty members. Among this number were 
 two, whom God called into the work of preaching his gos- 
 pel ; Jesse Martin, who was ordained to the pastoral care 
 of the church June 27, 1804, and Coker Marble, who 
 was set apart as an evangelist, June, 1805. Under the 
 ministry of Elder Martin, the church was comforted and 
 enlarged. The ministry ol Elder Martin occupies two 
 periods in the history of this church. The first from 
 his ordination to 1813, the second from 1824 till 1829. 
 The interval of these periods was filled with trials, dis- 
 couragements, and a gradual decrease of members ; disci- 
 pline and the ordinances of the house of God were neg- 
 lected, and the enemies triumphed, believing that the 
 church would rise no more. But God who holds his 
 church in his own gracious hand, had blessings still in 
 reserve for this his afflicted people. By their request, in 
 December, 1824, Elder Martin came again to their help, 
 
 *Ch. Records. 
 
112 SECOND CHURCH IN VASSALBORO.' 
 
 and the church was encouraged by the fruits of another 
 revival. From the close of the second period of Elder 
 Martin's labors, in 1829, the church was supplied by 
 Elder H. Kendall and others, and was refreshed by a sea- 
 son of divine mercy in 1830. Fifty more were now added 
 to them by baptism. For a period of five years the church 
 is again destitute, during which but a little prosperity is 
 witnessed. In 1836, Rev. E. R. Warren became pastor, 
 and remained one year and resigned, and from that time 
 the church and Baptist friends were again left, with only 
 occasional preaching till 1840, when an important event 
 occurred affecting the Baptist interest in Vassalborough. 
 This year, the first and second Baptist churches in this 
 town united in one church, and erected anew and conven- 
 ient meeting-house, two and half miles south of the old 
 place of worship, in which the new church now worships. 
 Having arrived to this period in the history of the first 
 church, before we proceed with the description of the 
 church in its present appearance, it will be proper to say 
 something of the 
 
 Second Church in Vassalborough. This church 
 originated with the first church, and was constituted with 
 twenty-two members, August 17, 1808. Rev. C. Marble, 
 who had been previously ordained in the first church, now 
 became a member and pastor of the second. This charge 
 he sustained with fidelity and usefulness, till about 1820. 
 Within this period (1811 and 12) large additions, consid- 
 ering the sparsness of population, were made to this body 
 as the products of a rich revival harvest. At the time of 
 this refreshing, the work having extended into China, 
 twenty-six were dismissed from the church to aid the organ- 
 ization of a third church in that town. From the close of 
 the pastoral care of Eld. Marble, this church received only 
 the occasional preaching of ministers, who were obliged to 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN VASSALBORO.' H3 
 
 labor with their hands during the week for support, for 
 whose services, the church paying them per week probably 
 not more than a fair compensation for a common day's 
 work. Eld. N. Bowler, was one who rendered them the 
 greatest service. Being destitute, and much enfeebled, 
 and not able to provide for themselves the labors of a pas- 
 tor ; and the first church being in like circumstances, it 
 was agreed, that these churches unite in one body, to be 
 the first church in town. The independency of the second 
 was now lost, and it ceased to be a church in 1840. At 
 this time it was composed of forty members. 
 
 From the foregoing remarks, we see that there is now 
 but one church of Christ of the Baptist faith in Vassalboro'. 
 When the union was formed, it was composed of one hun- 
 dred and fifteen members, the number of the first church 
 being seventy-four. In a few months after this union was 
 formed, Rev. E. W. Cressy became their pastor, by whose 
 labors, which were continued till the spring of 1843, the 
 church was increased. Since his resignation, the church 
 has had no pastor. 
 
 This church is regarded as the first and old church, the 
 age of which is about fifty-six. The Baptists in Vassal- 
 borough have had five pastors, the first church, four ; the 
 second, one. They have had thirteen deacons ; Timothy 
 Hamlin, Coker Marble, Jesse Martin, Allen Wing, Phine- 
 has Weeks, Coker Marble, Jr., Alpheus Ewer, John 
 Coleman and William Cross, of the first church ; and 
 Joseph Coleman, Thomas Hawes, John Coleman and 
 William Cross, in the second church. 
 
 God has raised up, and sent forth from them seven 
 preachers of the gospel, several of whom have, as has been 
 already said, served them in the pastoral office. Besides 
 the names already mentioned, as Gould, Martin, Chad- 
 wick, Lewis and Marble ; Rev. A. Wing, ordained in 
 
114 FIRST CHURCH IN WHITEFIELD. 
 
 Windsor, and Rev. Mr. Blaisdel, in Clinton, originated in 
 this body.* 
 
 The whole number of Baptists in Vassalborough from 
 their commencement to 1840, is three hundred and eighty. 
 Two hundred and fifty-seven have belonged to the first 
 church, and one hundred and forty-two to the second. 
 The whole in 1840, was one hundred and thirty-four, a 
 net gain of eighteen being added that year. The whole 
 number up to 1843, is four hundred and twenty-nine. 
 Present number is one hundred and forty-nine. 
 
 Whitefield, (formerly called Ballstown.)! The 
 Baptists were the first to commence religious operations in 
 this town. The first settlement made in this place, lay 
 on a convenient route from either Thomaston or Bowdoin- 
 ham to Vassalborough, where were already Baptist 
 churches, and at suitable distance for stopping while pass- 
 ing. Baptist ministers therefore would find it very easy to 
 become acquainted with the people, and a very great ac- 
 commodation and privilege to tarry and preach occasional 
 lectures to them, as they journeyed into the more retired 
 settlements along the Kennebec, and especially for Elder 
 Case of Thomaston, who made frequent missionary excur- 
 sions in that direction. 
 
 Says Elder Case,J who witnessed the rise of all the 
 churches in this vicinity, 'previous to 1788, the people of 
 Ballstown were not favored with stated preaching of any 
 kind, as there was then no church of any order in the set- 
 tlement.' We learn from the same source, that as the fruits 
 of occasional visits and preaching by Baptist ministers, the 
 attention of the people was slowly drawn to religious sub- 
 jects and inquiry, and their views gradually and generally 
 became favorable to their doctrines. Soon, several became 
 
 *Rev. E. W. Cressy's Com. and Min. Bowd v Lin. and Waldo Associa. 
 tMin. of B. A. {Mr. Case's Jour. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN WHITEFIELD. 115 
 
 pious, and were baptized. Among the preachers who 
 visited this place, were Elders Case and Potter.* 
 
 Jan. 6, 1788, fifteen persons, who had been previously 
 baptized, were, by Elder Case and others, organized into an 
 independent church. Here then was now embodied the 
 amount of Baptist strength and influence in this part of 
 Lincoln County. This church being blessed with only 
 occasional preaching, obtained but a small annual increase 
 for several years. At length they were encouraged and 
 eminently assisted in their spiritual progress, by the stated 
 ministry of Rev. Joseph Bailey, who became its first pastor 
 in 1796. Now was fulfilled unto them the saying of the 
 Prophet, ' I will open springs in the desert, and the parched 
 ground shall become pools of water.' The blessings of 
 heavenly grace were poured forth, and the first eight years 
 of Eld. B's ministry was made instrumental of bringing into 
 the church large numbers, so that in 1804, the church had 
 a numerical strength of one hundred and four members, 
 which was a large church in this new and thinly populated 
 town. Another revival added thirty or forty more to the 
 church in 1808, and in the next year several were dismissed 
 to constitute a second church in town, but its efficiency 
 was by this dismission but little effected. 
 
 Nothing of special importance occurred in the history of 
 this church from 1809 till 1820, when its numbers were 
 again diminished by the dismission of ten to unite in the 
 formation of a church in New Castle. During this period, 
 however, it may be said that it made an advancement equal 
 to other churches in the vicinity. And in 1822, the vacan- 
 cy made in its numbers, was more than filled by an addi- 
 tion of twenty-two, thefprecious fruits of a revival — and by 
 the reception of thirty-five in 1827, in the time of another 
 revival. Rev. Enos Trask, who had previously united with 
 
 *Potier's Nar. p. 24. 
 
116 FIRST CHURCH IN SIDNEY. 
 
 the church from the third church in Jefferson, was ordain- 
 ed this year by this church and assisted their aged pastor, 
 Eld. Bailey, in promoting this gracious work. As the clear 
 light of the sun at its meridian splendour, is darkened by 
 thick tempest clouds, so was the glory and prosperity of this 
 church obscured by the mists of ' Antinomianism/ and 
 severe outward trials. About this time a third church arose 
 in Whitefield, and between this church and that new body, 
 a serious difficulty arose respecting the proper treatment of 
 ' censured and excluded* members.* But the Association 
 seeing no cause of complaint in the doings of this third 
 church, received it into associational connection, on which 
 account this first church withdrew, and was by a vote of 
 the Association dropped from its fellowship in 1830.f It 
 then numbered one hundred and five members, and was 
 under the ministry and counsel of their aged pastor. 
 
 First Sidney. This church is situated in the western 
 part of the town of Sidney, on the west side of Kennebec 
 river, about ten miles north of Augusta. Baptist ministers 
 began to visit this settlement about the time of the first 
 revival in Vassalborough, 1788. Some of the fruits indeed 
 of that revival were gathered here. In 1791, by the labors 
 of Elder Potter, a revival in Sidney added to the harvest, 
 and as the result a church was organized, and known at 
 first by the name of second Vassalborough, and united 
 with Bowdoinham Association, having sixteen members. 
 A revival was enjoyed in the town in 1792 and '93, which 
 added much strength to the church. This work was pro- 
 moted, if our information be correct, by the efforts of Asa 
 Wilbur and Lemuel Jackson, who were then licensed 
 preachers in the church, and who, says Elder Case, ' were 
 ordained to the work of the ministry in a private house in 
 Sidney, in 1793.'j: 
 
 *Lin. A. Min. 1829, pp. 5 ; 6. fL. A. Min. 1830. JEld. C's J. & M. A. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN LITCHFIELD. 117 
 
 Rev. Asa Wilbur, by request received the pastoral 
 charge of the church in 1796. The church at that time 
 numbered fifty-seven. The ministry of Elder Wilbur was 
 useful, and although the church was not for a period of 
 many years blessed with a revival, yet the annual additions 
 were equal to the diminutions. The church however was 
 diminished in 1806, by a dismission of 'nineteen, to form 
 the second church in that town. General prosperity still 
 continued in the church for several years, till another 
 special season of mercy refreshed the church, (1811.) 
 Subsequent to that revival the church gradually fell into 
 darkness till its light was nearly obscured. In 1829 they 
 were left without a pastor, and till 1843, had little above a 
 mere name. Their numbers were reduced to eighteen. 
 A beam of hope arises to chase away discouragement, in 
 connection with some assistance rendered them by William 
 Wilbur, a licensed preacher. There is evidence, there- 
 fore, that God has not forgotten them. This church is 
 characterized by a high degree of Antinomianism. 
 
 Litchfield, (called 2nd Bowdoin.) What is now the 
 town of Litchfield, was first called Potterstown, or a part 
 of that section of country subsequently Bowdoin, which 
 accounts for the original name of this church. Soon after 
 the church was organized in what is now Bowdoin, Baptist 
 sentiments began to be known, and their influence felt in 
 the settlement where this church was gathered. Eld. Pot- 
 ter was in all these settlements, and with his travels and 
 by his labors, the Baptist cause made progress. A few 
 persons embraced their doctrines, by means of the occa- 
 sional labors of brethren Potter, Macomber and Case; and 
 in 1791, a church of twenty-one members was organized 
 And in June of the next year, William Stinson, one of its 
 members, was ordained its pastor. The services on the 
 occasion were held in a barn. At the organization of this 
 
118 FIRST CHURCH IN LITCHFIELD. 
 
 church, and at the ordination of Rev. Wm. Stinson, breth- 
 ren Potter and Case conducted the services.* By means 
 of these labors and these movements, a foundation was laid 
 for permanent influence in Litchfield, by which name the 
 church was known from 1796. Eld. W. Stinson was its 
 pastor for a period of 30 years. f During his ministry it 
 passed through many trials and several changes. Till 
 about the year 1810, it enjoyed a pleasing prosperity ; and 
 in 1799, a most glorious revival, which swelled its mem- 
 bers to a total of one hundred and twenty-one. In 1798, a 
 second church in Litchfield was organized with fourteen 
 members, and received into the Association, and called the 
 second church in Litchfield; but in 1811, some singular 
 changes occurred, seriously affecting the first church, from 
 which time the second takes place of the first, and the first 
 that of the second.f So that the church constituted in 1798, 
 becomes the first church, and the old church the second, 
 with a considerable loss of members, there being but forty- 
 five ; and to that time is the date of its origin fixed ;§ 
 whereas, 1791 1| is the proper date ; and the origin of what 
 is now Litchfield, is fixed on a wrong date also. Instead 
 of 1792,fl it should be 1798.** If the old church under- 
 went a new organization in 1811, it has the same pastor 
 and a portion of the same members, And we find the same 
 thing true of the second churchy (or now first church). 
 From the records before us, we consider the old church, 
 which we now describe, as existing through all these 
 changes, essentially the same body. From 1811 to the 
 time it was left destitute of a pastor, in 1822, there was a 
 small net increase ; but it soon after began to decline, til) 
 its influence and efforts ceased ; it was therefore dropped 
 from the Association in 1838, it having made no report to 
 
 *Eld Case's Journal, fJVIin. B. A. 1822. JMin. 1810 & '11. §Min, 
 1828. ||Min, 1791, TTMinutes 1828. **Min. 1798. 
 
CHURCH IN HEBRON. 119 
 
 that body for several years next preceding that time. The 
 last information received by letter, was in 1832, when it 
 reported a total of forty-eight. This church has fallen, 
 leaving the entire field of Litchfield to the spiritual occu- 
 pancy of the church organized in 1798. 
 
 We find the names of Samuel Blanchard and Joseph 
 Ring, who were deacons in this church. 
 
 Hebron, (formerly called Shepherdsfield). This 
 town was originally called Shepherdsfield, and first settled 
 about the year 1780. A few of the first inhabitants being 
 professors of religion, meetings were soon held for the wor- 
 ship of God, which were conducted by two of their number, 
 Reuben Packard and William Barrows; the former of 
 whom subsequently became a deacon of a Congregational 
 church, and the latter of a Baptist church. These move- 
 ments tended to establish religious principles among the 
 people, and to prepare them to appreciate the gospel. 
 Towards the close of 1789, in compliance with an invita- 
 tion extended to him by one of the people in Hebron, Rev. 
 J. Potter visited this place.* He was gladly received, and 
 his preaching was blessed to the good of souls. Mr. Pot- 
 ter having thus a favorable introduction, and the people 
 awakened to an anxiety to hear the gospel, by their earnest 
 request visited them several times during the next two 
 years, preached with similar success, and baptized thos 
 who desired the sacred ordinance. And Aug. 23, 1791, 
 the number baptized being thirteen, they were organized 
 into a gospel church. 
 
 The church now formed was without a pastor during 
 several years, receiving only occasional supplies by minis- 
 ters from abroad ; and Rev. S. Flagg, who supplied them 
 at one time for a term of six months. At the close of the 
 first three years, the church numbered thirty-eight mem- 
 
 *PoUer's Nar. p. 27. 
 
120 CHURCH IN HEBRON. 
 
 bers. Soon a trial arose, which prevented prosperity. This 
 trial was occasioned by an unhappy dispute among some 
 of the members about what they called ' a preparatory work 
 before the conversion of a sinner.' This unpleasant alter- 
 cation and division resulted in spiritual declension, and the 
 exclusion of five of its members. This exclusion in this 
 church occurred in 1798. 
 
 On July 5, 1798, Rev. John Tripp, who was their first 
 and is their present senior pastor, moved from Carver, 
 Mass., with his family and took up his residence among 
 this people, and was inducted into the office by installation, 
 February 14, 1799. He found the church borne down 
 with trials and internal difficulties, but ' the body being 
 sound,' by long, tender and patient labor he saw the diffi- 
 culties remove, and, says Elder Tripp, ' we have had no 
 distressing difficulty since.' 
 
 The church under the faithful and judicious labors of 
 their aged and venerable pastor, has enjoyed more than 
 usual prosperity, during the whole period of his pious 
 ministry with them. The following statistical account will 
 give some idea of the rapid growth of this church. When 
 Mr. Tripp was made pastor, their whole number was 
 thirty-one members. In 1801, that number was forty ; in 
 1812, thirty ; 1817, one hundred and eighteen ; 1839, two 
 hundred and eighteen ; making a net increase in a period 
 of forty years, of one hundred and eighty-seven. 
 
 In this period the church has experienced many precious 
 revival seasons, the most signal of which, was in 1839. 
 During this work of love and mercy, one hundred and six 
 souls were added by baptism. This revival, so powerful 
 and glorious, deserves a special notice in this history. 
 The ability and strength of the church were increased with 
 the numerical enlargement. It should be said that in this 
 extensive work of grace, the church was cheered with the 
 
CHURCH IN HEBRON. 12] 
 
 presence and labors of Rev. John Butler, who very provi- 
 dentially came to share a portion of the arduous and nu- 
 merous labors then accumulating rapidly at the hands of 
 their aged and very infirm pastor. So rapid and power- 
 ful was this work, that converts multiplied daily. Forty- 
 six happy converts were baptized on one joyful occasion, 
 who, together with others, were added to the church. 
 
 We would mention, not only as a matter important to 
 the history of this church, but as a circumstance affording 
 a wise and benevolent example to other churches who have 
 among them aged ministers, whose lives and energies have 
 been devoted in their service, that this church, feeling the 
 expediency of more labor than could reasonably be re- 
 quired of their venerable pastor, wisely provided for the 
 deficiencies of age and infirmity. Two circumstances, in 
 the judgment of the church combined, which were, that 
 the members of the church were scattered over a large ter- 
 ritory, and the age and feebleness of their pastor whom 
 they revered and loved, to render it indispensable that an 
 associate pastor should immediately be secured. The 
 church, therefore, with the consent of Elder Tripp, ob- 
 tained a portion of the labors of Rev. Eliab Coy, to be 
 expended in connection with those of their senior pastor, 
 for their benefit. Elder Coy was engaged for three-fourths 
 >f the time, only leaving one-fourth of the usual salary for 
 Elder Tripp. By this arrangement both pastors receive a 
 comfortable support. This arrangement still continues, 
 and the church prospers. Several ministers of Christ 
 originated in this church ; Rev. Messrs. Job Cushman, 
 Shubael Tripp, Philip Chamberlain, Benjamin Donham, 
 Walter Marshall, and Harvey Hawes. The present num- 
 ber belonging to the church, is two hundred and fifty- 
 seven.* 
 
 *Rev. J. Tripp's Com. 
 
122 FIRST CHURCH IN BUCKFIELD. 
 
 First Buckfield, (formerly called ' Bucktown.') 
 This town was settled about the same time with Hebron, 
 and similar meetings for the worship of God were held 
 here as in that town, previous to their being favored with 
 the ministry of the gospel from any preacher. This was 
 the first'settlement in this vicinity which Elder Potter visited 
 by invitation. His first arrival among them was in 1789.* 
 Here, he says, ' I found a number of loving brethren with 
 whom I had fellowship, but had no message to sinners in 
 any of these places,' i. e. the places through which he had 
 journeyed and preached while on his way to B. As in 
 Hebron, so in Buckfield, as the results of subsequent and 
 occasional visits, by Elder Potter and Elder E. Snow, of 
 Thomaston, seventeen persons became Baptists, and were 
 united to church relations and fellowship, in 1791. This 
 church was called Buckfield, in 1794. Being destitute of 
 a pastor, and favored therefore with but little preaching, it 
 made but a small progress for several years. It however 
 received some assistance and a small increase by means of 
 voluntary supplies by ministers of Bowdoinham Associa- 
 tion, and occasional visits by travelling preachers. They 
 had but few outward obstacles to resist their onward 
 course ; and yet, for want of a stated ministry, the church, 
 after a few years of prosperity, began to suffer an annual 
 loss of members and the sad results of a declining pious 
 activity. 
 
 In 1801 , Rev. Nathaniel Chase became its pastor. With 
 a warm, vigorous and zealous piety, he strove untiringly to 
 strengthen the things that remained. Nor did he toil in 
 vain.t The work of the Lord prospered in his hands, and 
 pleasing additions were soon made to the church, which 
 now appeared like one coming up from the wilderness. 
 But these days of special prosperity were comparatively 
 
 *Pot. Nar., p. 25. +Min. B. A. 1803. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN PARIS. J£3 
 
 few. From 1803, there was a net loss annually until it 
 was reduced in 1841 to twelve members, and was dropped 
 from the Association, with a recommendation to these 
 members to disband and unite with other churches.* Eld. 
 Chase, after a ministry of about thirty-five years, removed 
 his relation to the church in Hebron, where he now sus- 
 tains an honorable connection, beinp; beloved by his 
 brethren in all the vicinity. The brethren who aided both 
 pastor and church, were Job Prince, Stephen Benson, and 
 Job Packard, the former of whom died in prospect of a 
 glorious immortality in 1832. The same year the beloved 
 wife of Eld. Chase, made the happy exchange of ' being 
 absent from the body to be present with the Lord.'f 
 
 Paris, (called No. 4.) This town began to be settled 
 about 1780. Among the original settlers were several 
 members from the third church in Middleborough, Mass., 
 and the people generally were favorable to the Baptists. 
 At an early period they opened and maintained a Baptist 
 meeting. They had no preacher, but these meetings pre- 
 pared the way of the Lord in this new and rising settle- 
 ment. The first revival enjoyed in this town was witnessed 
 in 1790, in connection with the labors of Rev. J. Potter. 
 In this revival the hearts of the pious were rejoiced and 
 sinners converted. Mr. P. made a few visits to this place 
 during '91 and '92. The foundation being laid for a 
 church in Paris, Rev. E. Snow, of Thomaston, while on a 
 mission to the destitute, visited these disciples of Christ 
 and united them in church relation November 18th, 1791. 
 (They were twelve males and sixteen females, according 
 to the statistics Eld. Hooper has given of the church, | but 
 the minutes of the Bowdoinham Association for 1792, give 
 a total of twenty-one only.) If the account given by Eld. 
 H. be correct, then there was a net loss of seven that year, 
 
 *Min. O. A. 1841. fMin. O. A 1832. +Rev. J. Hooper, per Rev. C. B. 
 
 Davis's com. 
 
124 FIRST CHURCH IN PARIS. 
 
 which seems not very probable. (In making our statistics 
 for the church, however, we shall number the seven lost 
 members.) 
 
 From the time of its existence till 1795, the church 
 was aided in its work of faith by the frequent labors of 
 visiting ministers, and obtained some numerical strength. 
 On the 25th of June of that year, Rev. James Hooper 
 was ordained its first pastor. He was the acting pastor for 
 a period of forty years. June 27, 1838, Rev. Caleb B. 
 Davis, their present pastor, was ordained to the work of 
 the ministry and junior pastor of the church, the Rev. Mr. 
 Hooper remaining the honored and beloved senior pastor, 
 until he was removed to his heavenly rest by death, Dec. 
 24th, 1842, at the age of seventy-four years. 
 
 During the period of their former pastor, the church 
 was blessed with usual prosperity, and several seasons of 
 special mercy and grace, when the number of the church 
 was enlarged. The most distinguished of these seasons 
 occurred, first in 1814 and '15, when seventy were added 
 to the church; and the second, 1830 and '31, when sixty 
 more were united to the body by baptism. Their pros- 
 perity, therefore, did not decline with the energies of their 
 pastor, which gradually failed by means of advancing age 
 and increasing infirmity. This church has experienced 
 * no peculiar persecutions ;' but has passed ■ many trials,' 
 occasioned both by ' internal and outward circumstances.' 
 Rev. Mr. Davis was a graduate of Newton Theological 
 Institution, and coming directly from that ( school of the 
 Prophets,' he was qualified for the important station, and 
 the results which have attended his ministry have met the 
 most sanguine expectations of those who elevated him to 
 it. Between the time of his ordination and 1841, by the 
 blessing of God upon the united labors of these associated 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN LEWISTON. 125 
 
 pastors, the church received the precious harvest of eighty 
 converts. This was a season of joy and gratitude. 
 
 This church, located in a central point of influence, 
 has originated several important and flourishing branches 
 of Zion. Members were dismissed in 1802, to constitute 
 the second church in Buckfield ; in 1806 the church in 
 Norway ; in 1824 church in Poland; in 1827 the church 
 second Hebron; in 183C, second Hebron and Poland 
 churches united to form the church Poland and Oxford ; 
 in 1828, church in Woodstock and Greenwood ; in 1828, 
 church in Hamlin's Gore ; in 1829, church in Woodstock 
 and Paris : in 1830, church in Lincoln, Penobscot county. 
 These churches were set off because localities and circum- 
 stances so demanded. 
 
 Of the number and names of the deacons we have 
 received no information. ' Rev. George Ricker, of Minot, 
 originated in this church. Deacon John Willis was ordained 
 as an evangelist by this church in 1811, and died in 1812. 
 Others have become preachers who first united with this 
 church, but their history cannot be gathered from its 
 records.' The present number of the church is two hundred 
 and one.* 
 
 Lewiston. The history of this church is important to 
 the history of the Baptists in the interior part of the State. 
 Between the years 1782 and '89, the number of Baptists 
 increased in the different settlements in this section of 
 country, by means of the occasional labors of brethren 
 Potter, Case, Macomber and some others, who travelled and 
 preached among them. As there were but few ministers, and 
 these already settled as pastors, instead of organizing small 
 churches in all these settlements, as a matter of prudence, 
 those who had become pious in Lewiston, Bowdoin, (now 
 Webster) Greene, Freeport,Wales, New Gloucester, Pejep- 
 
 *Rev. C. B. Davis's com. 
 
126 FIRST CHURCH IN LEWISTON. 
 
 scot, (now Danville,) united in an association, called a 
 ( Conference/ and agreed to meet every fourth month at 
 Lewiston, for mutual religious worship. Though scattered 
 over so great an extent of territory, this conference was 
 sustained by a general attendance of its members from 
 1789 to 1792, when the church in Lewiston was formed 
 by Elders Case, Potter and Macomber. This organization 
 took place on the 3d of March, in which fifty-five persons 
 were united. During the existence of the conference, 
 these disciples enjoyed many precious seasons, and their 
 numbers were increased. In 1791, Rev. Levi Chadbourne 
 came among them, whom these thirsty disciples received 
 joyfully, but unfortunately for their cause, he within one 
 year, ' like the dog which turns to his vomit,' turned into 
 the ways of sin, destroyed his usefulness and was deposed 
 from the ministry. Their cause however did not fall with 
 him. Baptists continued to multiply. 
 
 A church being constituted in Lewiston, and Baptists 
 increasing with a rapidly growing population in the different 
 settlements where they resided, it was thought advisable 
 that the brethren in their several places should hold sepa- 
 rate conferences. This was not, however, done at once. 
 In 1793, those who belonged in Greene were constituted in 
 a separate church; the same year those in Webster set off 
 as a conference ; and in 1794, those in Pejepscot, as a 
 conference, with the privilege of attending meetings and 
 seasons of communion at Lewiston ; in 1794, those resid- 
 ing in Webster, and those in New Gloucester, were dis- 
 missed to constitute new churches ; and 1797, those in 
 Freeport were dismissed to join the church in North 
 Yarmouth. The vacancies made by these dismissions were 
 more than filled by additions made by baptism, as the fruits 
 of a precious revival between 1794 and '96. Benjamin 
 Cole, by whose efforts the church in Lewiston, and the 
 
CHURCH IN LEWISTON. 127 
 
 brethren in Webster were essentially assisted in these days 
 of ministerial destitution, was ordained in Webster in 1802, 
 and became pastor of the church in Lewiston, and with 
 this people he remained the affectionate and successful 
 pastor until his death, Sept. 10, 1839 ; with the exception 
 of short intervals in missionary labors, and one year which 
 he spent as an evangelist, during which he strengthened 
 and comforted many feeble churches. 
 
 In 1808, the brethren residing in Danville, were set off 
 to unite with others in a church in that place ; and again 
 the vacancy is filled. In 1808 and '09, a very interesting 
 and refreshing season was enjoyed, and the church enlarg- 
 ed. James Garcelon, one of the original members of this 
 church, was ordained at Webster, Sept. 1809. The most 
 of his ministry was devoted to the benefit of destitute 
 churches, officiating one year only in this church as pastor. 
 He died Dec. 28, 1838. From its origin to 1826, this 
 church experienced uninterrupted prosperity, and had fel- 
 lowship among its members. But with the close of this 
 period commenced a season of trial and discouragement ; 
 yet it, like the bush which Moses saw, passed through the 
 fire unconsumed. The causes of their trials may be men- 
 tioned as affording to Baptists, at least, a useful lesson. 
 
 The trial now endured, originated ' with the hypocrisy 
 of a Mr. Frost, and some imprudence on the part of the 
 church.' In building a house for the worship of God, the 
 Baptists were induced to unite with the Universalists, on 
 the condition that the Baptists should control the house. 
 The house was built by the friends of God and the friends 
 of Baal. How could they agree 1 A Mr. Frost of Lisbon, 
 (now Webster) was introduced as a Baptist preacher. He 
 had previously renounced the views and practices of the 
 Methodists, and was a professed Baptist ; but ' a wolf in 
 sheep's clothing, and the Universalists understood the 
 
128 CHURCH IN READFIELD. 
 
 hypocrisy.' They esteemed him highly, and labored to 
 secure a majority of the proprietors in his favor, that he 
 might be settled as the minister of the people. His settle- 
 ment was contracted, and he entered upon his work, and 
 when he supposed that the contracts were permanently con- 
 cluded, he publicly avowed himself a decided Universalist. 
 Being dismantled of his hypocrisy, his dark visage, and 
 vileness appeared to all. Now the church arose in its 
 strength, seized upon the condition in the original contract, 
 and by the help of God, resumed the control of the house, 
 and Mr. Frost retired disgraced ; and since their recovery 
 from this captivity, they have enjoyed peace and prosperity. 
 God has raised up in this church five preachers ; B. Cole, 
 J. Garcelon, Joseph Roberts,* Jacob Golder,t and James 
 Garcelon, jr., the present pastor of the church ;£ and as we 
 have already noticed, with it five churches have originated. 
 Present number of members forty-two.§ 
 
 Readfield, (first called Winthrop). The original 
 town of Winthrop embraced the territory now Winthrop 
 and Readfield. A settlement was commenced where now 
 stands the flourishing Winthrop village, about 1770. In 
 1773, the people commenced the work of erecting a house 
 for the worship of God, and arrangements were made to 
 settle a Congregational minister. It does not appear that 
 they succeeded in the permanent settlement of a pastor 
 until 1782, six years after a church of that faith was or- 
 ganized. || The whole territory since called Winthrop, was 
 then known by the name ' Pond Town. 'ft That part now 
 
 *Eld. Roberts was born in Durham, Me., experienced religion in Bruns- 
 wick, united with this church and licensed to preach — labored in Danville — 
 dismissed with others to form Danville church 1808, and was ordained pastor. 
 
 fElder Golder was deacon in this church previous to his entering the 
 ministry. 
 
 JThere was also a Mr. John Wagg, licensed by this church, and ordained 
 at Norway, but finally made shipwreck of his faith. 
 
 §Min.B.A. and Thomas Hodgkins; Com. and Pot. Nar. 
 
 ||Green. Eccl. his. p. 174 Eld. Case's Com.1T 
 
CHURCH IN READF1ELD. 129 
 
 called Readfield, became an incorporated town in 1790. 
 The central positions in these settlements being occupied 
 by the Ccngregationalists, the Baptists were limited to some 
 outer neighborhoods. Here they commenced, and here 
 they accomplished much good for the spiritual welfare of 
 souls. 
 
 In 1791, both parishes, Winthrop and Readfield, being 
 destitute of stated preaching, Eld. Potter found his way 
 there, but devoted his efforts to the interests of the people 
 residing in the south-east corner of Readfield, and in the 
 vicinity now called " East Winthrop." By the blessing of 
 God upon his labors, and in answer to the prayers of the 
 converts in Sidney, where a special revival was in progress 
 under the ministry of Eld. Potter, some persons became 
 pious Baptists in Winthrop and Readfield. This prepared 
 the way for more extended efforts by the Baptists. Rev. 
 Isaac Case, of Thomaston, was the next Baptist preacher 
 to operate here. He came in the spring of 1792, while on 
 a mission to the destitute in Oxford County. Finding some 
 pious Baptists here, destitute and unbaptized, surrounded 
 by a growing community, he spent several weeks among 
 them, baptized several, and returned to Thomaston, leaving 
 
 promise to visit them again in a few months. He re- 
 deemed his promise, and while with them baptized several 
 more. The baptized believers in this vicinity desiring 
 other gospel privileges, Eld. Case proceeded to organize 
 them into a regular church, to be called the Baptist church 
 in Winthrop. For want of a more convenient place, the 
 meeting on this occasion was held in a barn. It was nev- 
 ertheless a joyous season to the twenty happy souls then 
 united in church fellowship. 
 
 Elder Case became deeply interested for this little 
 church ; and although pleasantly settled, with a large 
 church in Thomaston, he could not resist the invitation to 
 
130 CHURCH IN READFIELD. 
 
 become their pastor. He yielded to their request, removed 
 his family to Readfield where they now peacefully reside, 
 and took the pastoral care of the church. Monthly additions 
 were made to this infant church during the summer, giving 
 it a total of thirty-five, when it united with the Bowdoin- 
 ham Association. This new situation was surrounded by 
 several inviting fields, which Elder Case did not fail to 
 occupy. 
 
 During the autumn of 1792, by request he visited the 
 lower part of the town, or a neighborhood, immediately 
 joining the west part of Augusta. God went with him, and 
 at the end of a few months, thirty-five happy converts were 
 added to the church, making their number seventy. This 
 last addition brought into the church, persons who resided 
 in Hallowell and Augusta. The centre of territory now 
 embraced within the limits of the church, was therefore in 
 the south-east corner of Readfield ; and here, in 1793, 
 house for the worship of God was erected, which was the 
 first Baptist meeting house in this part of the State. The 
 name of the church was now changed to ' Readfield.'* 
 
 Elder Case, after holding the pastoral office in this church 
 with pleasure to himself and profit to the people, resigned 
 his charge for the purpose of devoting his time to mission- 
 ary efforts. He has, however, aided the church when des- 
 titute of a pastor, with his occasional ministry. When he 
 took up his pastoral relation, this church numbered only 
 fifty-seven, large dismissions having been made to aid in 
 forming other churches. At one time, the church held 
 members from Winthrop, Hallowell, Augusta, Mt. Vernon, 
 Belgrade and Monmouth. 
 
 The church was now destitute for several years, and 
 having but a small amount of ministerial privileges, like the 
 Israelites in the absence of Moses, they became worldly, 
 
 *Elder Case's Journal— M in Bow. Ass. ; 1793. 
 
CHURCH IN READFIELD. 131 
 
 and consequently had little prosperity. In 1804, Elder 
 Pillsbury, of Sedgwick, made the church a visit, which 
 was to them like the return of Moses from the Mount. 
 He preached about one year, and sixty were added to the 
 church. The church was now destitute of a pastor two 
 years, but prospered. Rev. Robert Low took up his resi- 
 dence in Readfield, in 1807, and the same year was elected 
 pastor of the church. And for a period of eight years the 
 church received a gradual increase under his ministry. 
 His labors closed September 10, 1815, and he was suc- 
 ceeded in the pastoral charge by Rev. Josiah Houghton, 
 who was eminently blessed in his ministry to the church, 
 for a period of seven years. This period was succeeded 
 by one of two years which constitutes an important era in 
 the history of this church. In 1824, by invitation, Oren 
 Tracy, a licentiate, and student of Waterville college, 
 came and preached to the church. The work of the Lord 
 appeared, and a general revival was experienced in all the 
 immediate vicinity. The year previous, the brethren 
 residing in East Winthrop, erected their commodious house 
 of worship. Here the work of revival was powerful that 
 year, in connection with the ministry of Phinehas Bond, 
 who was also a licentiate. The occasional visits of Elder 
 Otis Briggs and J. Haines, were made beneficial in 
 the work, and in 1824, a church was organized here. 
 Seventy-five were dismissed to aid that organization, from 
 the church in Readfield, which left that church with a small 
 total of members. But the revival under the ministry of 
 Mr. Tracy, more than restored its numerical strength, 
 seventy-seven being added by baptism.* 
 
 Since that period this church has had four pastors; 
 R,ev. Joseph Torry, from February 18, 1826, to Nov. 11, 
 1830; Elder Robert Low, from 1832 to 1834; Rev. Wra. 
 
 *Ch. Records. 
 
132 CHURCH IN FAYETTE. 
 
 Johnson, from 1834 to 1837; and Rev. Wra. Smith, from 
 1837 to 1841, and is now destitute. During this last 
 period of the church's existence it has moved on in love, 
 • but has sustained a loss of members. 
 
 James Murphy, Samuel Fogg, Thomas Goldthwait, E. 
 J. White and Wra. Cross, were first members of this 
 church, but officiated in the ministry elsewhere. The 
 churches, Mt. Vernon, Belgrade, first Hallowell, Winthrop 
 and Hallowell Cross Roads, owe their origin mainly to the 
 influence of this church. It has a new and commodious 
 meeting house, built near where the old one stood, and 
 dedicated in 1839 ; and has a total of seven members.* 
 
 Fayette, (first called Sterling.) The original settle- 
 ment in Fayette was called first ' Taytonstown,' and second 
 ' Sterling,' and then incorporated with its present name. 
 It was begun in 1788. Rev. Eliphalet Smith, of Massa- 
 chusetts, first introduced the gospel, in 1790. The people 
 were then poor, but industrious, and lived in log houses 
 covered with bark. Some few became pious by Mr. Smith's 
 labors. Rev. I. Case visited them in 1792. He says, he 
 * found that it then was in contemplation to form a church 
 upon the ' mixed communion' plan, Mr. Smith being an 
 ' open communionist.' He says, further, that an attempt 
 was made to convince him of its scriptural propriety ; 
 whereupon he proposed the following simple question : ' I 
 a person should come to your house and you should invite 
 him to walk in, but he should object to coming in at the 
 door, would you take down one side of your house to ac- 
 commodate him V* This simple question was to them full 
 of meaning, and led them to see that their views upon the 
 subject were incorrect, and to embrace believers' baptism 
 as the only proper way to church communion. Before 
 Eld. Case left the settlement, a conference was held, am 
 
 *Ch. Records, and Elder Case's Com. |Mr. Case's Jour. 
 
CHURCH LN FAYETTE. 133 
 
 Mr. O. Billings and wife, with others, requested baptism, 
 whom he had the pleasure of receiving to that gospel ordi- 
 nance. By the advice of Mr. C, a council was convened 
 in Aug. 1792, who organized a church of twenty-three 
 members. The same year, Mr. Smith was elected its first 
 pastor. The subject of communion being now settled, the 
 church in union and love, advanced prosperously. Mr. 
 Smith continued pastor six years. The whole of his labors 
 were not however devoted to the benefit of this church. 
 When the church was not supplied with preaching, the 
 reading of a discourse constituted a part of the service on 
 the Sabbath, and Mr. Oliver Billings was appointed one of 
 the principal conductors of their meetings. 
 
 Notwithstanding these brethren were subjected to those 
 laborious toilings for subsistence peculiar to anew country, 
 and in 1794 to the expense of building a house of worship, 
 they did not forget the wants of their pastor. It was ' voted 
 that each individual should carry in as much corn or grain 
 as he should see fit, to defray church expenses.'* In 1798, 
 Mr. Smith closed his ministry with the church. Mr. Bil- 
 lings having received the approbation of the church to 
 preach, was ordained in 1800 as an evangelist, but shortly 
 after became pastor, and continued actively engaged in the 
 faithful discharge of the duties of that office until the infirm- 
 ities of age laid him aside. 
 
 The church has had several associate pastors, who have 
 sustained the active duties of the office ; and perhaps no 
 church in the State has been blessed with more signal re- 
 vivals. In 1804 and '05, by the united labors of the pastor 
 and Rev. P. Pilsbury, seventy-seven were added to the 
 church as the rich harvest of a revival ; — in 1816 and '17, 
 another revival, added sixty-nine ; — in 1824 and '25, Rev. 
 John Haynes acting pastor, seventy-two were added ; — and 
 
 *Church Records. 
 7 
 
134 CHURCH IN MISCONGUS ISLE AND BRISTOL. 
 
 while Rev. Josiah Houghton, and Rev. L. C. Stevens were 1 
 associate pastors, there were revivals with somewhat less 
 additions. Rev. P. Bond, their present pastor, entered 
 upon his duties in the church in 1841. In 1842, the 
 church was called to part with their aged, their affection- 
 ately beloved and venerable pastor, Rev. O. Billings. 
 
 They have anew and commodious house, dedicated Jan. 
 10, 1838. It has had three regular pastors, Smith, Billings,, 
 and Bond; and four associate pastors, Martin, Haynes, 
 Houghton, and Stevens. Those who have assisted their 
 aged pastor (Eld. B.) at different stated times, are Elders 
 P. Pilsbury. J. Palmer, C. Marble, S. Dinsmore, (who died 
 among them in 1827) J. Butler, S. Fogg, E. W. Garrison, 
 Thomas Wyman, and Caleb Clarke. Rev. John Billings, 
 was son of Eld. O. Billings, and professed religion in this 
 church ; also, Rev. R. Y. Watson, present pastor of the 
 churches, Hancock and Sullivan, first united with this body. 
 This church has always been eminently distinguished for a 
 missionary spirit, and the churches, ' East Livermore and 
 Chesterville,' owe their existence, in part, to its influence. 
 It is still a prosperous and influential church, with one 
 hundred and forty-seven members, and an efficient pastor.* 
 
 Miscongus Isle and Bristol. Miscongus Island lies 
 at the mouth of Damariscotta river, and is separated from 
 Bristol, by a small strait. A small Baptist church was 
 gathered here in 1792, consisting of nineteen members. 
 By whose influence they became Baptists, is not certainly 
 known, but most probable by the occasional preaching of 
 brethren Case, Macomber and others. Andrew Fuller was 
 ordained at Nobleborough in 1794, and the same year be- 
 came pastor here, but remained with the church but about 
 four years. Connected with his labors, there was a small 
 increase. Rev. Samuel Flagg was ordained pastor of this 
 
 *Rgv. L. C. SteVens'sCom. and Eld. Case's Journal. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN LIVERMORE. 135 
 
 church in 1808. He had rendered them important services 
 previous to his settlement, and subsequently, he continued 
 to assist the church for a period of about thirty-two years, 
 with but little encouragement or success. A few of the 
 members residing on the main, in Bristol, it took the name 
 it now bears in 1807. Bristol was first called 'Pemaquid,' 
 and was among the earliest settlements on this part of the 
 coast of Maine ; and a Presbyterian church was organized 
 as early as 1766, on the ' Westminster Confession or Pres- 
 byterian rules.' The Pedo-baptist faith has ever since held 
 the power of influence in Bristol. Since the removal of 
 Mr. Flagg, the church has been destitute, tried and en- 
 feebled. It hacl forty-six members in 1843, having been 
 cheered that year with an addition often by baptism.* 
 
 First Livermore. The first settler in this town, says 
 Elder Case, was ' Dea. Livermore, an Arminian Congrega- 
 tionalist.' He made an opening in the wilderness about the 
 year 1780. t In 1792, there was a number of inhabitants 
 in town, with not much gospel preaching, and but few who 
 gave evidence of piety. But their religious character was 
 soon changed. The first revival was in 1793.t This work 
 of grace commenced in a somewhat singular way. Mr. Z 
 Delano, who subsequently became a Baptist preacher, but 
 then a thoughtless sinner, while on a visit in Winthrop, 
 heard a sermon preached by Elder Case, in the Congrega- 
 tional meeting house, from Rom. 1 : 5. While listening to 
 the preacher, the Lord discovered to him his ' sin and his 
 wretched condition as a sinner. 'f Mr. D. returned home 
 1 filled with a sense of his own ways,' and ' remained in a 
 distressed state of mind several months. f Mr. D. submit- 
 ted to Christ in the winter of '93, and opened the worship 
 of God in his own family, but revealed not his piety to 
 his neighbors. His light, however, was not to be shut up 
 
 *Min. B. and I . A. tElder Case's com. 
 
13(3 FIRST CHURCH IN L1VERMORE. 
 
 always within the walls of his own house. It must shine 
 out. An interesting providence of God brought it forth. 
 Elisha Williams, son of a Congregational minister, of East 
 Hartford, Conn., a liberally educated young man, was at 
 that time in Livermore, teaching school. One morning 
 while passing to the school-house, he had occasion to call 
 on Mr. Delano. He found Mr. D. in the midst of his 
 family conducting his religious devotions. This was un- 
 expected by Mr. W., not knowing of a pious family in the 
 town, and being himself careless of religious things. The 
 event was blessed to Mr. W. He thought of himself — his 
 advantages — his neglect of God and religion. He left Mr. 
 D., but ' before he reached his school he was so over- 
 whelmed with a sense of his lost condition, that he was 
 constrained to call upon God for mercy.' That mercy soon 
 appeared. He became a happy convert.* This was the 
 commencement of a work of mercy among the people. 
 Those who became pious were privileged with clear and 
 cheering views of the gospel plan, and were bold to invite 
 sinners to Christ. Yet the impenitent were violent in their 
 opposition.* Still the grace of God prevailed, and although a 
 Pedo-baptist orthodoxy had the power of influence previous 
 to this revival, several became Baptists; and in August of 
 '93, a church of their faith was regularly constituted. In 
 this revival, Elder Case and Mr. Smith, of Fayette, were the 
 principal Baptist ministers, and Mr. S. aided the church for a 
 short period after it was organized. Mr. and Mrs. Williams, 
 after much prayer and study of the scriptures, were convinc- 
 ed of the incorrectness of their Pedo-baptist notions, and 
 were baptized and united with this church, and subsequent- 
 ly Mr. W. very eminently distinguished himself as a min- 
 ister of the gospel. 
 
 The Baptists found opposition not only from the world, 
 
 *Elder Case's com. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN LIVERMORE. 137 
 
 but from some who ought to have been friendly to the cause 
 of truth. There were several respectable, moral and edu- 
 cated Congregational persons, who retained their faith 
 through the revival. They were opposed ' to the doctrines of 
 grace,' and ' set about forming a church upon the Arminian 
 Congregational plan. 5 To aid them in the work, they 
 sent for Rev. Mr. Johnson of Freeport. He came, and 
 ' while attending to the business for which he was called, 
 he rather made light of the revival, considering it of but 
 little consequence.' The church, ' as it was called,' was 
 organized. Shortly after they applied to a Mr. Ezekiel 
 Emerson, to visit them and administer the sacrament to 
 the church. He came, but before proceeding to grant the 
 privilege desired, he examined their articles of faith, and 
 condemned them as heterodox. He was a 'good man,' 
 and preached the gospel to them, for which he was accused 
 by them of favoring the Baptists. His preaching was 
 nevertheless the power of God unto salvation to several of 
 this small band. They were converted to God, became 
 Baptists, and their church was soon found among the 
 ' things that were.' Rev. S. Boardman and Rev. Ransom 
 Norton, were among those whom God called at that time 
 with an holy calling. After these things passed away, the 
 Baptists moved on in their cause having no serious obstacles 
 to resist their progress. It is worthy of note, and an inter- 
 esting fact connected with these early successes of the 
 Baptists, that God raised up as fruits of these first efforts, 
 four who have been good ministers of Jesus Christ; — Elders 
 Zebedee Delano, Elisha Williams, Sylvanus Boardman, 
 and Ransom Norton. Six other ministers, distinguished 
 for usefulness, have gone out from this church ; — Henry 
 Bond, Otis Robinson, William Godding, Thomas Wyman, 
 Jason Livermore, and William Wyman.* The original 
 *Elder Case's com. 
 
138 FIRST CHURCH IN LIVERMORE. 
 
 members were seventeen in number, (ten males and seven 
 females.) The first nine years from its organization it had 
 no pastor, but was assisted by occasional preaching ; and 
 having within itself many valuable gifts, it increased in 
 numbers and influence. It deserves to be recorded that 
 Isaac Lovell, one of these original members, distinguished 
 himself by his benevolence and liberality. He sustained 
 a large share in the erection of their second house of wor- 
 ship, and at his death he made a donation to the church 
 of about $600, to aid the support of the gospel. 
 
 Mr. Boardman was ordained its first pastor Feb. 2d, 
 1802, and 1810, by his request was dismissed from his 
 charge of the church. Mr. Boardman being the first set- 
 tled minister in the town, obtained by a vote of the town 
 the lands reserved for such, a boon which few Baptist min- 
 isters in this State ever gained. The church has also 
 enjoyed a portion of a fund arising from other lands designed 
 for the support of the ministry in town. 
 
 Mr. Boardman was succeeded in the pastoral office in 
 this church by Rev. John Haynes, who entered upon its 
 duties May, 1811, and was successfully engaged for the 
 spiritual welfare of the church until 1822. Since his 
 resignation the church has been supplied by several min- 
 isters and pastors successively employed ; Rev. David 
 Nutter from 1824, nine or ten years ; Rev. R. Milner, one 
 year; Rev. Nathan Chapman, from Brewster, Mass., from 
 1836, two years ; Rev. Chas. Miller, from 1839 to 1843. 
 [J. Billings is their present pastor.] 
 
 This church has been blessed with several seasons of 
 revival, which increased their numbers by large additions. 
 It has also aided the organization of four churches in its 
 vicinity by numerous dismissions, and still has a total of 
 one hundred and seventy-three members.* 
 
 *Rev. John Haynes's com. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN NOBLEBORO.' 139 
 
 First Nobleborough. As early as 1787, there were 
 a few Baptists in Nobleboro.'* Elders Case, Potter and 
 Woodard were instrumental in planting the principles of 
 the Baptists here ; and twelve having embraced their doc- 
 trines, were by brethren Case and Woodard, constituted 
 Into a church in 1793.f They were small, and destitute 
 of a pastor, and travelling preachers having a wide field 
 open in the interior of the State, and being constantly 
 pressed with earnest solicitations to occupy that field, 
 could afford the small churches along the coast but little 
 If any aid. This church, therefore, made slow progress. 
 In 1808, the Lord of the harvest sent to their assistance 
 Rev. PhinehasPilsbury, who was ordained at Fayette, Jan. 
 3d, 1805, and whom God had made a distinguished blessing 
 of spiritual mercy to the people in many places. Brighter 
 scenes now began to open before this church, and the pre- 
 diction made by Elder Case on the first baptismal occasion 
 in that place, that 'God had glorious things for Noble- 
 borough,' began now to be fulfilled. The history of the 
 Baptists in N. from that period proves that Elder C. was 
 not mistaken in his impression. A revival commenced 
 with the labors of Elder Pilsbury, and he soon by election, 
 became its first pastor, and for a period of twenty-seven 
 years, he was joyfully employed in the office ; and under his 
 ministry the church rose from a ' little one to be a strong 
 nation,' and the beautiful vine, bearing several fruithful 
 branches. The first revival swelled its number from twen- 
 ty-two to seventy-nine; — a second in 1815, added by bap- 
 tism one hundred and twelve ; — a third in 1824, added 
 one hundred and thirty-one — and during the intervals of 
 these revivals, there were occasional additions, but not 
 sufficient to prevent a net loss of members, so that the 
 prosperity of the church has been somewhat periodical. 
 
 *See his. Thomaston Ch. tEld. Case's Jour. 
 
140 CHURCH IN GREENE. 
 
 Elder P. was succeeded in 1836, by Rev. Enos Trask, 
 who became its second pastor. As commenced the pas- 
 toral labors of Elder P., so did the ministry of Mr. T., with 
 a precious revival, which added to the church one hundred 
 and fifty-one by baptism. The same year fifty-four were 
 dismissed to constitute a third church in the town. In 
 1840 and '41, there were forty-one added, and fourteen 
 dismissed to constitute a church at Damariscotta Mills ; 
 and in 1842, sixty-nine more were added as the fruits of a 
 sixth revival. Elder Trask is still faithfully and success- 
 fully engaged with this interesting and highly favored 
 church, with a present total of two hundred and ninety- 
 nine members.* 
 
 Greene. Soon after a settlement was commenced, Rev. 
 James Potter carried the gospel to the people. Several 
 professed Christ and united with the church in Lewiston, 
 and with that church enjoyed many precious seasons. In 
 1793, they were dismissed from L., and by brethren Case, 
 Potter and Macomber, were regularly organized into a 
 church of Christ, consisting of twenty-seven members. f 
 Mr. Potter afforded them much assistance by his frequent 
 visits and labors, until they were blessed with a pastor. 
 There was some revival in 1794, which added nineteen to 
 the church. Rev. Lemuel Jackson, of Sidney, became 
 the first pastor in 1797 — soon after he entered upon the 
 duties of his office in the church, another season of mercy 
 added thirty-five more to its number. | 
 
 A brief notice of Lemuel Cummings, the first deacon of 
 this church, constitutes an interesting item in its history.' 
 Mr. C. was born in Charlestown, Mass., 1745, removed to 
 Maine in 1775, and made a permanent residence in the 
 town of Greene. He was a pious Congregationalist. The 
 
 *Eld. Case's com. and Min. Bow. and Lin. A. fEld. Case's Jonr. 
 tMin. B. A. Pot. Nar. Eld.. Case's Journal. 
 
CHURCH IN GREENE. 141 
 
 new settlement was then entirely destitute of the preaching 
 of the gospel, and Mr. C. felt for their salvation. Like 
 Nehemiah, he first prayed and then proceeded to exertion. 
 By his suggestion the people began to assemble on the 
 Sabbath for religious services some time previous to the 
 efforts of Elder Potter, and Mr. C. officiated as leader in 
 these meetings, prayed, read, exhorted, and was instru- 
 mental in the conversion of some souls. During the first 
 Baptist movements, Mr. C. was very indifferent as regards 
 the ordinance of baptism ; having never investigated the 
 subject, he passed it off with the old trite remark, ' It is 
 not essential.' At length, however, his mind was impressed 
 with several inquiries upon the subject. He revealed his 
 convictions to no one, but pursued his investigations alone, 
 the result of which was a firm belief that ' Christ was 
 immersed in the river Jordan, as an example and pattern 
 to all his followers.' He was now baptized by Rev. Wm. 
 Stinson, united to the church, and became its worthy and 
 highly useful deacon, in which office he served the church 
 till age induced him to resign, and give place to his son 
 Lemuel, who experienced and professed piety in the time 
 of the previous revival in 1805, by the labors of Rev. Phin- 
 ehas Pilsbury.* From 1802 to 1808 the church had no 
 pastor, but provided with a gift like that of Dea. C, it could 
 hardly fail of prosperity. As has been remarked, in 1805 
 there was some revival, and the church enlarged. In 1808, 
 Rev. Thomas Wyman preached for the church one year, 
 and an interesting revival was experienced. The next 
 year Rev. John Daggett became pastor, Another glorious 
 season of refreshing was experiencedjfrom the presence of 
 the Lord in 1817. This increased the church by sixty 
 new members. Mr. D. was pastor ten years. From 1821 
 to 1824, the church was again without a pastor, and suffered 
 
 *Waterville Intelligencer. 
 
 7* 
 
142 CHURCH IN WAYNE. 
 
 a loss of members. Rev. Daniel Pierce now became pastor. 
 In 1826, the Lord appeared again in the plenitude of his 
 grace, and blest the church with a most luxuriant harvest. 
 Seventy-four were added by baptism. Rev. D. Nutter, 
 and other ministers in the vicinity, aided the work. Mr. 
 P. closed his care of the church in 1828 ; since which 
 time the church has had several ministers and pastors, by 
 whom their pulpit has been generally supplied. Rev. S. 
 Fogg supplied from 1829—1831 ; D. P. Bailey from 1833 
 to 1835, when he was ordained as an evangelist ; in 1839 
 the venerable father P. Pilsbury became pastor, and the 
 next year the church were enlarged by an addition of fifty- 
 four by baptism. This aged pastor is still laboring suc- 
 cessfully in this church.* 
 
 This church has built a second house of worship, has 
 licensed, ordained, and sent into the gospel field two min- 
 isters — Rev. Reuben Curtis, and Rev. D. P. Bailey. Its 
 present number of members is 186. 
 
 Wayne, (first called New Sandwich.) The next church 
 gathered by the Baptists in the interior of the State 
 was in this settlement. Some of their travelling preachers 
 occasionally passed through the place, and preached to the 
 few inhabitants, by means of which several persons be- 
 came pious. As a consequence, meetings for social wor- 
 ship were commenced, and held statedly, from the begin- 
 ning of 1793. This year Elder Potter visited them, and 
 several more were converted under his ministry, all of 
 whom he baptized ; and the next year, January 9th, they 
 were, by a council, organized into a regular Baptist church, 
 consisting of eleven members, (nine males and two fe- 
 males.) For many years this feeble church was assisted 
 and edified with occasional preaching. Eld. Potter, Jack? 
 son, and Case were among them frequently, and the As-. 
 
 *Min. Bow. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN WAYNE. 143 
 
 sociation did not forget them in the distribution of their 
 voluntary supplies to the destitute. By these aids, the 
 church made a slow progress, obtaining an annual net 
 increase for a period of six years. 
 
 Several persons had united with this church from the 
 settlement, called Littleboro', now the town of Leeds, 
 among whom was Thomas Francis, who was ordained to 
 the work of the ministry in 1798; and in 1800, the church 
 was diminished by the dismission of Mr. F. and several 
 others, to constitute a church in that settlement. Though 
 now enfeebled, the church was like the little host of Joshua, 
 ' faint yet pursuing.' From 1800 to 1817, being desti- 
 tute, and favored with but a small amount of ministerial 
 assistance, the church passed through much adversity, the 
 members were scattered and diminished. But that Eye 
 that never slumbers, watched over them, and that Redee- 
 mer that never forgets his own, in 1817, by raising up one 
 of their number, Nathan Thomas, to break unto them the 
 bread of life, opened pleasant prospects before them. Mr. 
 T. was qualified with a license, and the church strength- 
 ened by his ministry, returned to the sanctuary as one that 
 ariseth out of obscurity. From this time to 1828, the 
 church was greeted with annual additions, which prepared 
 its members for the reception of richer blessings which 
 was then in reserve for them. During the years 1829 and 
 '30, the church was like one leaning on the bosom of her 
 beloved. The revival then experienced, constitutes a 
 pleasing era in its history. Its number was more than 
 tripled, and the increase of faith, joy and ability, held an 
 encouraging ratio to the increase of members. This revi- 
 val was promoted by the faithful labors of Rev. Ezra 
 Going, who was then their preacher. 
 
 This church has had five regular pastors ; Wm. Godding, 
 1802—1806; Nathan Thomas, 1817—1819; T. B. Rob- 
 
144 SECOND CHURCH IN WEBSTER. 
 
 inson, 1831—1835; D. P. Bailey, 1836—1838; R. C. 
 Starr, 1841 — 1843. It has received also for stated pe- 
 riods, the ministry of several useful preachers. It has sent 
 two ministers, Thomas Francis* and Nathan Thomes, into 
 the gospel field. As a general remark, as regards its pas- 
 tors, they were good men, faithful preachers and prudent 
 pastors. The church and society have formerly had some 
 perplexity about their house of worship, which, at first, was 
 a ' union house,' but now, being the principal owners, 
 they peacefully worship there.f 
 
 Webster Second. The history of this church is some- 
 what singular. The original town of Bowdoin embraced 
 a large territory. That part where this church was first 
 located, was called, in 1799, Thompsonborough; in 1802, 
 it was incorporated by the name of Lisbon, and a few years 
 since, its name was changed to Webster. The church 
 here was constituted of about twenty members, as the fruits 
 of the occasional ministry of brethren Potter and Macom- 
 ber, in 1794. It has passed through a routine of names, 
 and has undergone a reorganization. It was called the 
 First church in Lisbon until 1836, when it was induced to 
 give up its old charter, and begin anew, with the name of 
 ' Lisbon Corner.' It has since appeared with the name 
 Second Lisbon, and now Second Webster, leaving the 
 originally Second church in the town to hold the First in 
 rank and name. The Baptists in this town have never 
 risen to a high eminence, nor acquired a very great influ- 
 ence. The church we now describe has, however, had 
 several good and faithful ministers, and many worthy and 
 stable members. It was assisted in its infancy by the min- 
 istry of the late Elder B. Cole, and between the years 
 1797 and 1800, by means of his aid, it saw its best and 
 most prosperous days. In 1803, Rev. Ichabod Temple 
 
 *See His. of Leeds Ch fMin. 1). A. — Pot. Nar. — Zion's Advocate. 
 
CHURCH IN HOPE. 145 
 
 became pastor, but resigned his charge in 1806, leaving 
 the church with a loss of members. In 1817, Rev. Daniel 
 Pierce received license, and the next year ordination, in 
 this church, and it enjoyed some revival under his minis- 
 try. In 1819, Rev. James Stuart became a member, and 
 was beneficial to the church ; from 1820 to 1823, Elder 
 Pier ce again afforded the church some ministerial aid ; 
 1825, Rev. S. Owen supplied the church a part of the 
 time. From that time to 1836, generally destitute, and 
 favored with but a small portion of preaching ; but since 
 that period, Rev. Jotham Day and Rev. A. Lothrop have 
 rendered important aid. Deacon Joseph Killgore was 
 among the early members, and has distinguished himself 
 for devotedness to the interests of the church. Its present 
 number is forty-three.* 
 
 Hope. Baptists began to increase in Union and in the 
 westerly part of Hope, then called Barrettstown, previous to 
 1787.t Soon their influence was felt throughout the town. 
 And it appears from the best data of facts we have, that 
 Ebenezer Cox, a resident Baptist, was the first to make 
 any considerable efforts to evangelize the people. He was 
 among them in 1794. Rev. E. Hall came to their aid 
 about the beginning of 1795 ; and although there was 
 much opposition to their doctrines, yet a few having pre- 
 viously become pious, received baptism by Mr. Hall in Jan. 
 of that year. This baptismal season was the first in the 
 easterly part of the town, where this church exists. The 
 few Baptists in the westerly part of the town, now united 
 with those in the easterly part, and a church was organ- 
 ized by Mr. Hall and others, at the dwelling-house of Dea. 
 Samson Sweetland, in 1795. It consisted of eleven mem- 
 bers, seven males and four females. These brethren re- 
 mained united in one body until 1801, when those who 
 
 *Alin. B. A. fEld. Case's Journal. 
 
146 CHURCH IN HOPE. 
 
 resided in the west part of the town, were dismissed to 
 form a new church in Hope, which was constituted by 
 brethren Snow, Hall and Fuller.* It has been supposed 
 that a church existed in the west part of the town previous 
 to 1795. But we find no evidence of its existence. 
 
 The church in Hope has had but four regular pastors, 
 who have devoted all their attention to the wants olTthe 
 church. Three of these were Elders Andrew Fuller, from 
 1798 to 1804; James Steward,! 1809 to 1812; Isaac 
 Smith, 1821 to 1823.$ Besides these pastors, the church 
 has had a succession of ministers, who have labored a por- 
 tion of the time statedly. These were Elders E. Hall, 
 Lemuel Rich,§ Daniel Ricker, Daniel McMaster, Eliab 
 Coy, and Charles G. Porter. These servants of Christ 
 were all useful to the church. It should be stated that E. 
 Cox has rendered important service to this church ; first as 
 a deacon, then a licentiate, and then as an ordained evan- 
 gelist, preaching to the church when destitute, to a con- 
 siderable amount, even down to 1840. This church has 
 been blessed with many precious seasons of refreshing 
 revivals, the most distinguished of which were in 1799, 
 1808, and 1841. It has furnished three gospel ministers, 
 Ebenezer Cox, ordained at Hope Oct. 5, 1822 ; Joseph 
 H. Melvin, ordained at Knox, Nov. 17, 1841 ; and Amos 
 B. Pendleton, ordained at Hope, Dec. 8, 1841. This 
 church has always had to contend with strong opposition 
 from various sources ; but the most trying has been sus- 
 tained by the influence of the delusive doctrines of Univer- 
 salism. It has lived out the storm, and continues to pros- 
 per, enduring all its trials with a pious fortitude. It has 
 now the privilege of a faithful pastor, Rev. M. Dunbar, 
 ordained in 1843, and has a total of ninety-five members. || 
 
 *Rev. Simon Fuller's Com. and Rev. Mr. Pendleton. +Mr. Steward is 
 a hyper-Calvinist ; see Biographical notice, (anecdote.) JRev. Melvin Dun- 
 bar, 1843. §L. Rich, (see 13. notice 5 A. B. Pendleton's Com.) ||Rcv. 
 A. B. Pendleton's com. 
 
CHURCH IN NEW GLOUCESTER. 147 
 
 New Gloucester. Baptists commenced here amidst 
 much opposition, about the year 1780. Elders H. Smith 
 and N. Lord, whose names have already appeared in these 
 sketches, were the first Baptist preachers in this then new 
 settlement. As there were but few Baptist ministers in 
 the State, their visits here were unfrequent, but were in 
 their influence, effectual in laying the foundation for the 
 progress of gospel truth. Jane 26th, 1780, occurred the 
 first baptismal occasion, from which time meetings for the 
 worship of God were regularly held in the town by those 
 favorable to the Baptists. They were favored also, when 
 no regular Baptist preacher was present, with occasional 
 Free-will Baptist preaching. In 17S1, Rev. James Potter 
 visited the people. He says he ' found most of the pious 
 among them embracing Free-will or Arminian sentiments;' 
 which, after some conversation with him, some of them 
 renounced and became more crthodox in their faith. Some 
 revival was enjoyed, and a few others converted ; and by 
 Elder P. a church was soon organized, consisting of about 
 twenty.* In this church there was an unhappy admixture 
 of Calvinism and Arminianism, which produced an effer- 
 vescence, causing much altercation and trial. 
 
 In 1782, Mr. Job Macomber, from Middleboro', Mass., 
 came to their aid, and by license preached with them about 
 one year, with but small success, as the discord in the 
 church still continued. In 1784, Mr. Merrill was ordained 
 among them, who labored several years with no great pros- 
 perity. 
 
 This church found another obstacle to their progress. 
 Like other churches previously formed amidst a Pedo-bap- 
 tist influence, they were seriously oppressed. A Congre- 
 gational minister was settled, and a church of that faith 
 constituted in this town in 1765.f Their influence, unin- 
 
 *Pot. Nar. and Rev. J. Tripp's com. fGreen. Ecc. his. p. 117. 
 
148 CHURCH IN NEW GLOUCESTER. 
 
 terrupted for several years, gave a Pedo-baptist modification 
 to the religious views of the people. As a consequence, 
 Baptist doctrines were generally rejected. More than 
 this ; — they were oppressed — they were persecuted — and 
 yet they prospered. Their prosperity was gained, and 
 their conquest won, wholly by the influence of candor and 
 divine truth. 
 
 Soon after the Baptists were organized into a church, 
 to avoid the evils of persecution, and to secure a liberty of 
 conscience, they, on application, obtained from the legis- 
 lature the privilege of being incorporated into a Baptist 
 Society, with powers and privileges equal to other parishes. 
 But the Baptists soon found this to be to them only another 
 form of bondage, and after four years continuance, the 
 Society was dissolved. The church then proceeded in 
 simple capacity, met and endured their trials alone.* ' On 
 several occasions they were compelled to pay taxes for 
 the support of ministers they never heard ; and in whom 
 they had no confidence. Often was their property seized 
 by the officer, and sold to satisfy the persecuting disposition 
 of the ' Standing Order.' t 
 
 In 1793, Rev. Mr. Potter supplied them with preaching 
 a part of the time. But the old division remained, and 
 finally resulted in a separation and dissolution of the church. 
 How true it is, ' a house divided against itself, cannot 
 stand.' In 1794, by the ministry of Eld. P. another revival 
 was enjoyed, and all those persons who were truly ortho- 
 dox Baptists, twelve in number, were, on the 16th of Oct. 
 1794, by Messrs. Potter, Case, and others, regularly con- 
 stituted into a church. This church stands as if built on 
 the sure foundation. John Warren, Isaac Gross, and D. 
 Nelson, were its first deacons ; the two last of whom were 
 its main supporters, and by them, under God, was carried 
 through its fiery trials.f 
 
 *Re/ J. Tripp's com. fMin. C. A. 1842. tRev. J. Tripp's com. 
 
CHURCH IN CLINTON. 149 
 
 Rev. Robert Low became its first pastor in 1800, and 
 resigned in 1807. He has been succeeded in the pastoral 
 charge, by Elders Daniel D. Lewis, R. C. Starr, Alvan 
 Felch. These were all useful pastors. Rev. E. W. Free- 
 man and Rev. A. Wilson, have also preached to the church 
 with acceptance and success. They now worship in their 
 second house, built in 1837, at a cost of $2500. Since 
 their last organization in 1795, it has been blessed with 
 several interesting revivals, besides a usual and uniform 
 prosperity, and continues to be an influential body under 
 the ministrations of Rev. Joseph Ricker, their present pas- 
 tor, and the labors of O. C. Gross and David Allen, their 
 present deacons. It has a present total of one hundred and 
 fourteen members.* 
 
 Clinton. This church was gathered in 1796 ; and 
 Mephibosheth Cain, who had been instrumental in laying 
 its foundation, became pastor the same year. Eld. Case 
 assisted in his ordination. Previous to these movements, 
 Elders Wilbur and Lewis of Sidney, had labored occasion- 
 ally and with some success in Clinton, Bloomfield, and in 
 the surrounding settlements. This church being the only 
 one of a Baptist faith in the vicinity, those who became 
 Baptists in Canaan, now Bloomfield, united with it, in 
 membership and efforts. f 
 
 Eld. Cain commenced his ministry with this feeble 
 church in the midst of all the embarrassments of a new 
 country, has led it on through all scenes of prosperity and 
 adversity which it has experienced, and still lives to aid its 
 progress. For a period of thirty-four years, he was the 
 acting pastor, during which, he saw the church rise and 
 fall. In 1818, a revival more than doubled its number. It 
 then had one hundred and four members, and was now in 
 its highest state of prosperity. Trials succeeded, and a de- 
 
 *Min. C. A. fHis. 1st Bloomfield. 
 
150 SECOND CHURCH IN CHINA. 
 
 crease of members ; its fall was great. In 1831, it had 
 but eighteen. But days of prosperity have again returned, 
 and its progress has been onward and upward. This year 
 Rev. Samuel Knox became the junior pastor, and things 
 began to be set in order, to the encouragement of their 
 aged and anxious pastor. 
 
 Rev. Mr. Knox preached about two years, when his 
 place was filled by the labors of Dea. Joseph Spearing, who 
 had received a license to preach, and by his labors there 
 was some revival in 1833. Mr. S. aided the church several 
 years with a portion of his labors. In 1836, Dea. Lucius 
 Packard received a license to preach, and the church was 
 again refreshed with revival influences, and some additions. 
 In 1837, Mr. Packard was ordained as an evangelist, and 
 the church encouraged. The church next enjoyed a por- 
 tion of the ministry of Eld. S. Knox, in 1838, and again in 
 1840 ; and in 1841, Joseph Spearing became an associate 
 pastor, and remained two years, which were years of trial 
 and difficulty in the church. During this last period of 
 the church's history, its venerable pastor has been able to 
 preach a part of the time, and aid his associates in the 
 ministry by his counsel. The present number of the 
 church is sixty-eight.* 
 
 Second China, (formerly first Harlem.) This church 
 is located in the south part of China, and owes its existence 
 to the influence of a revival experienced in Vassalborough 
 and its vicinity, in 1788. Several persons became Baptists 
 here at that time, and united with the church in that town. 
 The number gradually increased ; and in 1797, they took 
 their leave of their brethren in V., were organized into a 
 separate church of nineteen members, by the name of Har- 
 lem, and Rev. Job Chadwick was chosen pastor. For a 
 few years the church prospered, receiving an annual addi- 
 
 *Min.ofB.andK. A. 
 
CHURCH IN NEW VINEYARD. 151 
 
 tion. Mr. C. was pastor till 1805, and supplied the church 
 occasionally for several years afterward. It has since had 
 several pastors, but being situated amid a sparse population, 
 its number has always been small. They worship in a 
 neat and commodious brick edifice, at the south end of 
 the ' Pond,' in ■ South China.' Constant Abbot, Daniel 
 Stevens, William Bowler, and Mr. Chadwick have officiat- 
 ed in the pastoral charge of the church.* In 1812, a third 
 church in China was organized of twenty-six members, 
 previously dismissed for that purpose from the (then second 
 church) in Vassalborough. This organization continued 
 its rank among the churches for a period of fifteen years, 
 when, by the advice of the Association, the second and 
 third churches in China united in one, to retain the rank 
 of the second church. As regards the third church, it 
 never had a regularly settled pastor, nor owned a house of 
 worship ; it never enjoyed a general revival of religion 
 which very considerably increased its numbers, nor exerted 
 a very wide influence on the cause of Christ. No minister 
 did more to promote its welfare, than Rev. Jabez Lewis. 
 When it united with the second church, it only increased 
 that church by about twenty members. Since the union 
 was formed, these brethren have moved on in harmony, 
 obtaining from that time to the present, a gain in the ag- 
 gregate about equal to the losses sustained. The present 
 number is sixty-four. t The churches Waldo and Albion 
 owe their origin to the third China ; their original mem- 
 bers being once members of that church. 
 
 New Vineyard, (now Industry.) This town joins 
 Farmington on the east, and was first settled by persons 
 who removed from Martha's Vineyard, Mass., about the 
 year 1793. Some of them were Baptists. A revival was 
 experienced among them in 1795 and '96, and those who 
 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. fMin. L. and W. Asso. 
 
152 CHURCH IN NEW VINEYARD. 
 
 became pious embraced their doctrines.* They were 
 favored with occasional preaching by Eiders Case and E. 
 Smith, who constituted the church of nine members in 
 1797. Rev. Mr. Case, who had baptized these disciples, 
 preached on the occasion, from these words, • What could 
 I have done more for my vineyard,' &c. For several 
 years the church remained small. In 1802, a Congrega- 
 tional church was gathered here by Rev, J. Sewall, of 
 twelve members. The Baptists then numbered sixteen. 
 In 1810, Elisha Robbins was ordained pastor, and was 
 instrumental in promoting a revival in 1809 and '10, which 
 increased the number of the church to sixty-one. Mr. 
 Robbins' work was short. He was removed by death, 
 1811, in the midst of promising usefulness. Thomas 
 Merrill also was raised up in this church, and ordained as 
 an evangelist. He removed to Prospect, where he was 
 very useful, and where he died much lamented. Rev. 
 Levi Young preached in 1814. It was called Industry in 
 1818 ; in 1819, twenty-one were added as the fruits of a 
 revival, and in 1820, the church had fifty-two members, and 
 the Congregational church about twenty. 
 
 Since that time it has had one pastor. Rev. D. T. 
 Allen was ordained in 1828, when the church was again 
 enlarged by a revival, and by another in 1832. In 1835, 
 Mr. Allen resigned the pastoral charge, but continued 
 some years after, a member, and preached occasionally. In 
 1838, Rev. J. Haines favored the church with some 
 preaching. In 1841 and '42, some additions were received 
 in a revival by the labors of Rev. Wm. Wyman and others. 
 The church is now destitute, and numbers sixty-six. Dea. 
 Benjamin Pottle, one of its early members, was for many 
 years eminently useful in promoting the advancement and 
 influence of this church. f Several churches in its vicinity 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. fMin. 13. anclK. Ass. and Elder Case's Com. 
 
CHURCH IN FARMINGTON. 153 
 
 received members from this church at their organization. 
 Farmington. This is another inland town of consid- 
 erable importance, and has now two flourishing villages. 
 The Baptist church is at the 'Upper village,' where also 
 is a Congregational church and an Academy. The revival 
 which occurred in Industry, 1795 and '96, extended into 
 this town, then a small settlement, and in 1798, a church 
 of seven members was gathered and organized by Elders 
 Case and Smith. The roads • to this place' at that time, 
 says Mr. Case, ' were exceedingly bad, even for travelling 
 on horse-back.'* For many years, this church was desti- 
 tute almost entirely of preaching. In 1807, it numbered 
 nine members only. At the time of the second revival in 
 Industry, 1809, Mr. Robbins, preacher, it received the 
 small addition of 13. In 1810, the peace of the church 
 was disturbed by some internal difficulty which was settled 
 by the assistance of Mr. Case. From its organization to 
 1821, a period of about twenty-four years, it received only 
 occasional preaching, by Messrs. Case, Smith, Briggs and 
 others, who voluntarily supplied them by the request of the 
 Association. In 18*21, Rev. Winthrop Morse, from Mass., 
 became pastor ; it had fifty-two members. It may be no- 
 ticed here that in 1812, a Congregational church of twelve 
 members was gathered in Farmington, by means of Mr. 
 Sewall, of Chesterville, and in 1821, had about an equal 
 number of members with the Baptist. In three years, 
 however, the church was again destitute, Mr. M. having 
 resigned. Their next minister was Rev. Hezekiah Hull, 
 from Nova Scotia. He labored with the church in 1828 
 and '29, with acceptance. In 1835, some were added as 
 the fruits of a protracted meeting, and during that year, 
 Rev. Win. Wyman preached one half of the time to the 
 advantage of the church ; and in 1836, they erected a 
 
 *Elder C.'s Journal. 
 
154 CHURCH IN LITCHFIELD. 
 
 house for worship, on account of which they were 
 much straitened in their ability to support preaching. 
 Churches, like individuals, sometimes transcend their 
 means unnecessarily. The church, however, secured 
 preaching, statedly one half or three-fourths of the time, 
 generally, till the settlement of Levi B. Hathaway, by 
 ordination as pastor in 1841. Their present pastor, Rev. 
 N. M. Williams, was settled among them in 1842. Al- 
 though it has been with much extra effort that they have 
 discharged their liabilities created by the building of their 
 house of worship, yet spiritually, the church has prospered, 
 and, at present, is much encouraged. Its present number 
 is ninety-three.* The revival in 1843, almost made them 
 feel that their trials and toils were over. 
 
 Litchfield, (first called Second Litchfield — in 1811 
 First Litchfield.) The church which we now describe^ 
 is therefore the present church in that town. It was con- 
 stituted in 1798, with fourteen members. About this time 
 a glorious work of the Lord commenced in Bowdoin and 
 Litchfield, under the ministry of Elder Potter. As the re- 
 sults of this revival, seventy-two were added to this church 
 in 1799 ; and ninety-six to the first church in Bowdoin, of 
 which Elder P. was then pastor. f Thus in less than two 
 years this church was increased from fourteen to eighty-five, 
 having lost one by death. And although without a pastor 
 till 1804, it prospered by the occasional preaching of neigh- 
 boring ministers, receiving a gain equal to its losses. Feb. 
 1804, Rev. Henry Kendall! moved from Meredeth, N. H., 
 to Litchfield, and by request became pastor of this church. 
 Mr. K. preached for the church only one half of the time, 
 the other half being devoted to itinerant labors among the 
 destitute. In such labors Elder K. has always been suc- 
 cessful. He was pastor until 1817, when he resigned his 
 
 •Mia. B. and K. Ass. fMin. B. A. JRev. H. K.'s journal. 
 
CHURCH IN WALES. 155 
 
 charge and removed to Topsham. The church remained 
 destitute, and suffered an annual loss of members, until 
 1824, when Rev, William O. Grant became its second pas- 
 tor. Mr. Grant was at first cheered with seeing some pre- 
 cious seals of his ministry in the enlargement of the 
 church by baptism. But though faithful to his trust, the 
 church again declined, and by small annual losses, became 
 much reduced, and Mr, Grant retired from the field to 
 labor in another, in 1834. In 1837, by the earnest solici- 
 tation of the church, Mr. Grant returned and again labored 
 with them for advancement. There was a little revival at 
 first, but it was like the early dew and morning cloud. In 
 1842, Mr. Grant retired again ; but he did not leave the 
 church with a diminished number. His labors were not 
 in vain. Since that time they have had occasional sup- 
 plies. In 1843, they had ninety-six members.* This 
 church worships in its second house, and is abundantly 
 able to sustain an efficient pastor. The second and most 
 glorious and extensive revival witnessed in this church, was 
 in 1810, under the ministry of Mr. Kendall, when, ' in the 
 course of seven months,' he says, ' I baptized one hundred 
 and thirty-two willing converts, the larger part from among 
 the youth.' He adds, ' this was a powerful work, in which 
 there were no anxious seats, and no rising for prayers.' f 
 A large portion of the losses have been occasioned by 
 repeated dismissions to aid in building new churches. 
 
 Wales. As Baptists multiplied in all the settlements in 
 the vicinity of Wales, the first occupants of its soil were 
 brought under the influence of their doctrines. Eld. Pot- 
 ter visited them as early as 1793, and found them willing 
 to hear the gospel. In 1798 and '99, the ' great revival,' 
 which occurred in Bowdoin and Litchfield, extended its 
 influence into Wales. Here too Eld P. saw evidence that 
 
 *Min. B. A. fElder Kendall's Com. 
 
156 CHURCH IN JAY. 
 
 he did not preach Christ in vain. A church was gathered 
 in the place in 1799, consisting of about forty members, 
 whom, Eld. P. says, ' I visited from time to time till God 
 raised up others to take them by the hand.' Mr. James 
 Fierce became its pastor in 1811. He labored with this 
 church for about twenty-two years. In 1838, the church 
 was again revived, and a general work of grace was witness- 
 ed, which increased its number by more than one half. 
 This work of mercy was a means of raising the church 
 from a very tried and discouraged state, and placing it 
 among the prosperous. Rev. Daniel Pierce became a 
 member in 1835, and officiated as pastor about two years, 
 when he resigned his charge, but retained his membership. 
 In 1839, Rev. S. Hinkley became a member ; since which 
 time, Elders Pierce and Hinkley, by their occasional 
 preaching have aided the prosperity of the church. A 
 good union among the members, and special mercy recent- 
 ly enjoyed, encourages a strong and active faith. Present 
 number of members is seventy-nine.* 
 
 Jay. At first, the people of this town enjoyed but few 
 gospel privileges. By the occasional preaching of travel- 
 ling preachers, a few became pious Baptists, and were 
 united in church relation in 1799, by a council selected 
 from the churches in Fayette and Livermore. It then con- 
 sisted of fourteen members. Prosperity commenced with 
 he existence of this church, and though it has had periods 
 of extraordinary trials, it has notwithstanding, been blessed 
 with a general and pleasing growth. One of its early 
 members, Joseph Adams, was called to be its first pastor. 
 He was ordained in 1804, by whose ministry, during a 
 period of fourteen years, the church enjoyed almost unmix- 
 ed prosperity. The numbers and ability of the church 
 were much increased. Within this period, both pastor and 
 
 *Min. B. A, 
 
CHURCH IN JAY. 157 
 
 people rejoiced to be co-workers, to promote the cause of 
 truth, and were rewarded by many special seasons of mer- 
 cy. In 1818, Mr. A. resigned his care of the church, and 
 in 1821, Rev. E. Nelson was elected pastor, and entered 
 upon its duties. The interim from 1818 to 1821, was fill- 
 ed by the alternate preaching of Rev. Joseph Macomber, 
 and Joseph Alden, a licentiate. Mr. N. was pastor three 
 years only, and saw the glorious work of the Lord in 1824. 
 The church now had one hundred and fifty-three members. 
 A circumstance now occurs which constitutes in its results 
 an eventful period in the history of this church, and un- 
 known in the experience of any other among the Baptists 
 in this State. A large portion of its members in 1826, 
 dissented from its faith and practice. This schism pro- 
 duced much altercation, which destroyed the union and 
 harmony so long enjoyed. This dissenting party believed 
 that Christ died for a part only of the human family, and 
 therefore objected to preaching the gospel to all indiscrim 
 inately. The church retaining their faith in the sufficiency 
 of the work of Christ to save all who believe in his gospel ; 
 and that it is the duty of all to so believe, could no longer 
 walk with them in church fellowship. This state of trial 
 continued about one year, and after much forbearance, the 
 church excluded forty-six. These persons formed what 
 they called ' the Church of Christ,' and so continue till the 
 present time, without prosperity. The church was not 
 free from the effects of this trial till 1830, when it comes 
 as one out of the fire, purified. Since that period, although 
 without a pastor, by the pious and faithful preaching and 
 assistance of a rapid succession of ministers, it has moved 
 on in union and peace, exerting a commendable and happy 
 influence on the community. Besides its pastors, Adams 
 and Nelson, the church has employed to their benefit, at 
 stated times, Eld. J. Macomber, J. Alden, Hezekiah Hull, 
 8 
 
|58 CHURCH IN MT. VERNON. 
 
 John Hull,* Manassah Lawrence, George Richardson,, 
 Nathan Mayhew, and Walter Foss. The following servants 
 of the cross of Christ received license from this church : 
 Reuben Ball, Joseph Macomber, Joseph Alden, Manassah 
 Lawrence, and Wm. E. Morse. It has been refreshed with 
 six pleasing revivals, and the church in Dixfield owes its 
 existence to its influence. It has had six deacons, two of 
 whom only were ordained. The church now numbers 
 eighty-four.f 
 
 Mt. Vernon. The Baptist church in Mt. Vernon, was 
 constituted of seventeen members previously dismissed from 
 the church in Readfield 1799. In 1798, Elders Case and 
 E. Smith preached frequently there, and the Lord convert* 
 ed several persons, most of whom were baptized by Elder 
 Case, who continued to visit this feeble church for several 
 years subsequent to its organization. In 1802, the church 
 was enlarged by a revival. In 1804 and *05, the church 
 received a part of the labors of Henry Kendall, who was 
 ordained in that church June 1805. Rev. N. Folsom 
 preached the ordination sermon. In 1807, Rev. Peter 
 loore received the pastoral care of the church ; but in 
 1815, he became heterodox in doctrines, and after much 
 trial and perplexity, it withdrew fellowship from him. 
 
 The faithful and wise administrations of Rev. Arthur 
 Drinkwater, has, under God, accomplished much for the 
 peace and prosperity of this church. He has devoted his 
 time and talents to the interests of the church in the pasto- 
 ral office during two periods in its history. These were 
 times of prosperity. He was first inducted into the office 
 by ordination, Dec. 1816. In 1821, having a call from 
 
 *Rev. John Hull was a native of Nova Scotia, came into the State and 
 preached with good acceptance in Turner, and other places. He labored 
 to the great pleasure of this church a few months, and after a ' most distress- 
 ing sickness, died in August 18'29 } and was much lamented by all who bad 
 been favored with an acquaintance with him.' (Min B. A. 1836^. 
 
 tReV. W. Foss com. 
 
 
CHURCH IN BRUNSWICK. 159 
 
 Danvers, Mass., he resigned his charge here, and removed 
 to discharge the duties of the same office there. But he 
 was attached to the church in Mt. Vernon, and the church 
 to him ; and after an absence of about eight years, he re- 
 turned to the pastoral care, and to the more than usual 
 satisfaction and joy of the church. He was with them till 
 1833, when he again removed. In 1835, they received a 
 supply one half of the time by Rev. Wm. Johnson, and in 
 1836, the entire labors of Rev. C. Clarke, with whose min- 
 istry the church experienced a revival. In 1839, Rev. Wm. 
 Bradbury preached one half the time, but the church de- 
 clined ; in 1840, their prospect brightened under the 
 occasional ministry of their once beloved pastor, Elder 
 Drinkwater ; and in 1842 and '43, Rev. Walter T. Sar- 
 gent preached to their satisfaction. This church has passed 
 through many seasons of painful trials, but mostly occasion- 
 ed by internal causes. It has a total of forty-four members. 
 They have a convenient meeting-house, built about 1830, 
 at a cost of about $1000.* 
 
 Brunswick. The first settlement in this town was 
 commenced in 1675, by a Mr. Purchase. t In 1690, it was 
 entirely depopulated by the Indians. J This ancient settle- 
 ment was called ' Pegyscott,' from Pegyscott Indians, who 
 then inhabited the region of Androscoggin river. It was 
 re-settled in 1703, and incorporated as a town in 1735. 
 In 1737, the Legislature of Massachusetts granted the town 
 the privilege of raising money by taxation to support an 
 1 orthodox minister,' which in those days, was only another 
 name for a ' Congregationalist.' It is not certain when a 
 church of that faith was constituted, but probably about 
 1750. § Things were all now well arranged for progress to 
 indoctrinate the people into an ardour for ' Pedo-baptism,' 
 
 *Sam'l Foote, Ch. Clk. com. and Min. B. A. t Hubbard cited by Sullivan 
 p. 177. JSullivan p. 178. §Green. Eccl.his. p. 92. 
 
160 CHURCH IN BRUNSWICK. 
 
 and ' Arminianism.' It was not till about the year 1783., 
 that Baptists preached even so much as occasionally in 
 Brunswick. About this time, Elders Case, Potter and 
 Lord, preached here in some private houses, but very un- 
 frequently, the peculiar notions of the people being unfa- 
 vor«able to their reception. And it is not certain that any 
 person became a Baptist by this occasional lecturing. But 
 the attention of the people was in this way turned to their 
 sentiments ; and soon Baptist preachers were among them 
 more frequently. Through these efforts, and through influ- 
 ence of revivals, which were frequently enjoyed by the 
 Baptists, who were becoming somewhat numerous in places 
 contiguous to Brunswick, several of the inhabitants became 
 pious Baptists. In Sept. 1799, a small church of six males 
 and two females was organized. This church was indeed 
 ' a little one ;' yet it occupied an important position. 
 Rev. Elisha Williams soon commenced preaching, one half 
 of the time to this church, and the other half in Topsham, 
 and became its pastor in 1800. Here he was useful, but 
 God opened before him in Beverly, Mass., a wider door of 
 usefulness, and in 1803, he preached his farewell sermon 
 to this people, and removed to Beverly. Being now with- 
 out a shepherd, Elders Kendall, Woodard, Potter and 
 others, guarded this fold during the year 1804. 
 
 In 1805, Rev. B. Titcomb removed, at the solicitation 
 of the church, and took the pastoral charge It then 
 numbered thirty-five communicants. But notwithstanding 
 the strong tide of influence continually setting in to retard 
 the onward course of the church the first year of Mr. T's 
 ministry, it was enlarged by an addition of twenty, as the 
 fruits of some revival. Nothing particularly important to 
 the history of the church occurred after this time till July 
 1816. On the 22d of this month, at seven o'clock in the 
 morning, Rev. T. Baldwin of Boston, preached at a hall in 
 
CHURCH IN LEEDS. 161 
 
 the village. At this meeting about fifty persons were 
 aroused from their spiritual slumbers. This was the begin- 
 ning of a new era in the progress of this church. The work 
 of God now commenced, was carried forward as powerfully 
 as it began, displaying the divine power, glory and good- 
 ness under the ministry of their pastor, till one hundred 
 and fifty were added to the church by baptism. The influ- 
 ence of the church was now felt throughout the town and 
 in the village. This opened the way, as was supposed, for 
 the formation of new churches. Fourteen of its members 
 were dismissed in 1825 to constitute a church in the village, 
 to be called, ' Second Brunswick,' and ten more in 1827, 
 to constitute what was called the ' Village Church.' But 
 time has shown that these were unwise movements. Both 
 these churches have become extinct. 
 
 Eld. Titcomb resigned his care of the church in 1827. 
 Elders Sam'l Mariner, Adam Wilson, S. Owen and Hen- 
 ry Kendall, supplied the church with a pleasing success the 
 next three years, during which there was an addition of 
 more than to fill the vacancy made by dismission. Rev. 
 John Bailey was its next pastor. He labored two years, 
 and resigned in 1834. A supply for two years was afford- 
 ed by Rev. Wm. Johnson, which brings the history of the 
 church down to 1836. In the spring Rev. Noah Norton 
 became pastor, and still officiates with profit to the church 
 and pleasure to himself. 
 
 Seven of the members of this church have become min- 
 isters — Elisha Snow, Daniel Pierce, Jos. Roberts, Robert 
 Cushman, Shimuel Owen, Benj. Titcomb, jr., and David 
 Given. Present number, one hundred and eleven.* 
 
 Leeds, (first called Littleboro'.) The rise of the Bap- 
 tists in this town is somewhat interesting. It illustrates 
 the power of truth to overcome error. The first religious 
 *Com. by Jonathan Snow, Ch. Ck. 
 
162 CHURCH IN LEEDS. 
 
 meeting held in this place, then but a small settlement,was 
 convened in the autumn of 1794, at the request of Thomas 
 Francis, one of the early residents in the town, and who 
 had but a short time previous, by means of reading and 
 reflection, for which he had a natural passion, became 
 pious. He was the first person in town to profess Christ. 
 He looked upon the extreme wickedness of the people, 
 and moved with anxious concern for them, he invited them 
 to come together for the worship of God. This was to 
 them a novel movement indeed. Excited, however, by a 
 curiosity to see how the meeting would be conducted with- 
 out a minister, many came to the place appointed. The 
 meeting was opened by reading and singing the 51st Ps, 
 1 Show pity Lord,' &.c. Mr. F. then prayed, and addressed 
 the meeting by relating his own religious experience. The 
 effort was blessed, the attention was solemnly gained, and 
 several persons led to reflect seriously upon their own 
 lost condition.* An interest being now excited, it was re- 
 solved before the meeting closed, to no more neglect to 
 assemble themselves together on the Sabbath for the wor- 
 ship of God, which resolution has not yet been broken. 
 There were some Methodist preachers in the adjoining 
 settlements, and hearing of the revival which had now 
 commenced, they came into the town and began to preach 
 statedly once in two weeks on Thursdays. Their exer- 
 tions tended to promote the good work, so that during the 
 winter of 1795, about forty persons were converted to 
 God — a Methodist class was formed, and Mr. Francis was 
 appointed class-leader. But it proved that there were 
 ' tares' among the ' wheat.' 
 
 * Previous to this revival,' says Mr. F., ' the people had 
 not made religion their study ; they therefore knew little 
 of the scriptures, and consequently their knowledge of bible 
 tRev. Thos. Francis' Com. 
 
CHURCH IN LEEDS. 163 
 
 doctrines were very limited; yet experience had taught 
 them some of them.' ' For some of them were truly 
 regenerated. Learning from the Methodist ■ Platform/ 
 that they held to * falling from grace,' some became dis- 
 stisfied, wahich produced much clamor and dispute among 
 them. To silence this, the Methodist preacher on his 
 next visit, preached what he said * were the sentiments of 
 the Methodists.' Here he animadverted, misrepresented, 
 and repudiated the doctrines of grace, and told the people 
 * that the doctrine of the sovereignty of God in election, 
 the necessity of special divine influence to regenerate the 
 heart, and the final perseverance of the saints, were doc- 
 trines originating in helL'* Four persons feeling a greater 
 dissatisfaction than ever, of whom the class-leader was 
 one, immediately withdrew from the class. They were 
 for this expelled from the class. These persons, upon the 
 suggestion of Mr. F., opened a separate meeting, and 
 others from similar feelings soon joined them. Although 
 called by no particular name, and much slandered by the 
 Methodists, yet they found comfort in each other and in 
 the worship of God. 
 
 They now ' began to inquire of the Lord respecting the 
 order of his house/t and by means of the Bible alone, for 
 they had no other guide, some with joy discovered the right 
 path, and desired some one to lead them forward agreeable 
 to apostolic direction. This prayer was heard, and the 
 next June, the Lord sent unto them Rev. Mr. Potter, who 
 instructed them more perfectly, and baptized three persons. 
 This was the first Baptist movement. Soon after Rev. 
 Mr. Case visited them and baptized several more, all of 
 whom joined the Baptist church in Wayne, but continued 
 to hold meetings in Leeds, and increased. The Methodists 
 soon felt themselves vanquished and left the field. In view 
 
 *Eev. T„ Francis' Com. \Mi. Francis' Com. 
 
164 CHURCH IN LEEDS. 
 
 of this revolution in Leeds, it is said, that the Rev. Mr. 
 Lee, then presiding Elder, being asked * What had become 
 of his class at Leeds V replied, ' They are marred in the 
 hands of the Potter.' 
 
 June 29th, 1799, Thomas Francis was set apart by ordi- 
 nation as an evangelist. He had from the first meeting 
 in Leeds, conducted the services of worship in that town ; 
 and here, in the barn of Giddins Lane, who became an 
 influential member and deacon in the church subsequently 
 formed, was Mr. F. qualified to lead forward the flock in 
 he ordinances of the gospel. July 2d, 1800, the brethren 
 in Leeds having taken their dismission from Wayne, were 
 constituted into a church of Christ, consisting of sixteen 
 members, and Mr. Francis was elected their pastor.* 
 His untiring efforts were devoted to the interest of this 
 church, till declining health required an associate pastor, 
 which was provided for him by the employment of Rev. 
 Allen Barrows, as preacher in 1835. Mr F. died May 
 9, 1836. We will only say in this place, that he was an 
 able and faithful minister and affectionate pastor. And 
 yet for all his services he did not receive in the aggregate 
 of years more than $25 annually. During the whole 
 history of the church it has generally prospered. It has 
 seen days of adversity. The greatest trial which it ever 
 experienced was in consequence of an anti-masonic spirit, 
 which resulted in the exclusion of some of its members. 
 It has also had many refreshing revivals.* 
 
 Since the death of its first pastor, it has had several 
 preachers — brethren M. Leonard, A. Barrows, S. Hinkley, 
 R. C. Starr, W. C. Rider and Daniel Hutchinson. Rev. 
 Mr. Leighton was ordained their second pastor in 1842. 
 The following persons received license from this church 
 to preach the gospel : Moses Stephens, removed to the 
 *Ch. Records. 
 
CHURCH IN WOOLWICH. 165 
 
 North Western territory in 1810; Eleazer Carver, was 
 ordained by the society of * Christians/ but finally became 
 a ' Universalist ;' Martin Leonard, Walter Foss, Joshua 
 Millet,and Ozias Millet.* Present number 109. 
 
 Woolwich. The Congregationalists gathered a church 
 in Woolwich in 1765, and Rev. Mr. Winship was pastor. t 
 They therefore had the lead of religious influence, which 
 was Arminian in its character. To their support the whole 
 people were held liable. The next religious faith which 
 was propagated here, was that of Free-will Baptist. Rev. 
 Benjamin Randall, of New Castle, N. H., was here in 
 1781, preached and baptized a few persons, who were the 
 first baptized east of North Yarmouth. Mr. Randall 
 tarried but a short time, but laid the foundation for a suc- 
 cessful church of his peculiar Arminian faith. 
 
 Elders Case, Potter and Macomber visited this town 
 very soon after they began to travel in this part of the 
 State, and previous to 1785, and subsequently more fre- 
 quently. They were received with strong dislike ; although 
 the people were generally moral, yet through the influence 
 of an ' Arminian,' a ' do and live' ministry, they cherished 
 a vituperous prejudice against the doctrines of ' regenera- 
 tion by the Spirit of God,' and ' salvation by the atonement 
 of Christ,' and against those who preached them. This 
 prejudice did not, however, prevent the influence of Bible 
 truths. Some few became regular Baptists of a ' Calvin- 
 istic' faith. But before they could provide for themselves 
 that kind of preaching they desired, they were obliged to 
 unite with the people in Bowdoinham, and petition the 
 Legislature to incorporate them into a Baptist society. This 
 privilege they sought and obtained in 1797. The number 
 of pious Baptists however, in Woolwich, still being small, 
 they united with Bowdoinham church, and remained in that 
 
 *Ch. Records. fGreen. Eccl. his. p. 82. 
 8* 
 
166 CHURCH IN FRIENDSHIP. 
 
 connection till 1800, when the Baptist church in Wool- 
 wich was organized with sixteen members, most of whom 
 were from the Congregational church. The way was now 
 prepared for a peaceful progress in the holy cause, by the 
 side of their neighbors. But having no pastor, and pos- 
 sessing but a small ability, both as regarded numbers and 
 means, the church remained almost stationary for several 
 years. At length Mr. Samuel Stinson, its worthy deacon, 
 began to preach, and was ordained as pastor Nov. 1806. 
 He cast in his lot with this poor, feeble church, and preached 
 with much success, though sustained by the work of his 
 own hands, and a small compensation, until age paralyzed 
 his energies, when he resigned his useful ministry in 1821. 
 He died in the Lord Nov. 1823. He has been succeeded 
 by a number of useful ministers and pastors — Rev. R. C. 
 Starr, from 1818 to 1828 ; Rev. E. Pinkham, 1834 ; S. 
 Tyler, from 1835 to 1838 ; W. Day, from 1840 to 1842. 
 Dea. R. Perkins was a deacon of the Congregational 
 church, and subsequently one of the faithful and worthy 
 deacons of this, and filled the office with fidelity and zeal 
 till his death, March 1837. 
 
 This town has been highly distinguished for extensive 
 revivals, in which the Baptists have shared nearly an equal 
 part. The church in Wiscasset owes its existence in part 
 to this church. Their present pastor, Rev. Lewis Barrows, 
 was ordained April 1843. Present number, seventy-six.* 
 
 Friendship. This church was called ' Medumcook/ 
 then 'Friendship;' and then, as the church was en- 
 larged, some of the members residing in the town of Cush- 
 ing, it was called ' Friendship and Cushing ;' and then 
 again in 1842, the members in Cushing being set off to 
 constitute a church in that town, it was called ' Friendship.' 
 
 Rev. Ephraim Hall, pastor of the church in St. George, 
 
 *Rev. L. Barrows' Com. 
 
CHURCH IN FRIENDSHIP. 167 
 
 extended his parochial labors into this town, which were 
 blessed to the conversion of several persons, who became 
 Baptists. That they might not be scattered like sheep 
 upon the mountains, they were organized into a church 
 July 15, 1800. During the first sixteen years of its exis- 
 tence, it was blessed with occasional supplies only. 
 
 The first stated ministry the church enjoyed, was by 
 Rev. I. S. Starr, who preached with acceptance and suc- 
 cess, from 1816, about two years. They were supplied 
 with preaching by several itinerant ministers till 1822, 
 when Rev. F. S. Smith became pastor. During his min- 
 istry of nine years, the church witnessed the first extensive 
 revival, which increased its number by an addition of fifty. 
 Rev. C. T. Norcross succeeded Mr. Smith in 1832, and 
 was their useful pastor about three years, during which 
 another revival was enjoyed, more glorious than the first, 
 which added seventy to the church. After being again 
 supplied by different ministers, somewhat irregularly, for 
 three years, Rev. A. Dunbar was ordained pastor. He la- 
 bored two years, and resigned. Since that time the church 
 has had no pastor, but has been supplied with preaching one 
 half of the time, successively, by Elders A. Dunbar, two 
 years ; D. Bartlett, one year ; and C. P. Bartlett, 1843. 
 
 This church has been a highly favored branch of Zion, 
 having been unusually free from trials, and having uni- 
 formly maintained a comfortable union among themselves. 
 
 This church has sent two of its members forth as minis- 
 ters — Rev. John Richardson, ordained at Pittsfield, N. H., 
 and present pastor of South Berwick Village church; and 
 Rev. Thomas Jameson, ordained at Islesboro', Me., now 
 pastor of Acton church. The church now numbers one 
 hundred and ten. Their meeting-house was built by the 
 town, and owned in part only by the church,* 
 
 *C. Bradford's Com. and Min. L. A. 
 
1(58 CHURCH IN WARREN. 
 
 Warren. The first religious efforts which were made in 
 this town, were by the Rev. John Urquhart, a Presbyterian, 
 between the years 1774 and 1783. On account of some 
 difficulty between him and the people, he was regularly re- 
 moved by the Presbytery at Salem, 1783.* The next 
 movements were by the Congregationalists, in 1791. They 
 gathered a church here in 1795, and Rev. Mr. Huse was 
 settled minister by ordination.* This church still exists. 
 The next exertions were made by the Baptists. Elders 
 Case and Snow visited here as early as 1784, and few per- 
 sons embraced their sentiments and joined the Baptis 
 church in Thomaston, of which Elder Case was thenpastor.f 
 But the people generally being ' not very partial' to the 
 Baptists, their increase was quite small at first. They 
 found no home among their Congregational friends ; and 
 the inconvenience of travel to Thomaston, rendered it de- 
 sirable that they should be formed into a church. This 
 desire was granted them Aug. 2, 1800. Their original 
 number was fourteen. | They were poor and destitute, and 
 had therefore but few means to sustain a pastor. School 
 houses, dwelling-houses, and barns, were for several years 
 their bethels. Their hope and faith were in God, and pros- 
 perity was given in every step of their journey. Rev. A. 
 Fuller and Rev. E. Hall aided them by occasional preach- 
 ing, till 1803, when, although the prospect for a maintain- 
 ance was very discouraging, Mr. Fuller, from a sense of 
 duty, and to the joy of the church, accepted their request 
 to become their pastor. By a gradual growth, they became 
 able in 1807, to build a small meeting-house. Their friends 
 also increased, and a Baptist society was incorporated in 
 1807, so that the burdens of the church were much relieved. J 
 These objects being accomplished, God manifested his 
 approbation of their efforts, by giving them a rich and glo- 
 *Gr«en, Kcc. his. pp. 172, 173. fEld. Case's Com. $Z. A. Mar. 19,1829. 
 
CHURCH IN WARREN. 169 
 
 rious blessing. Fifty were added by baptism in the revival. 
 Mr. Fuller was indefatigable in his labors till 1816, having 
 led the church through a mixture of trials and blessings. 
 His health now began to decline, and gradually wasted 
 away, till death came to remove him to the enjoyment of 
 his heavenly reward. He died Jan. 31, 1820. The church, 
 since the death of Mr. Fuller, has had several of the ser- 
 vants of the Lord to administer to, and watch over them.* 
 
 Rev. John Wakefield was pastor from 1821 to 1827. 
 His health was feeble, but his labors were beneficial to the 
 church. The year following his resignation is full of events 
 important to the history of this church. 
 
 In Sept. 1827, the Lincoln Association met with this 
 church, and the season was made the beginning of a most ex- 
 tensive revival. Soon after the session closed, it was ascer- 
 tained that the labors of Rev. D. Bartlett, messenger from 
 Penobscot Association, during the meeting, had been instru- 
 mental in the conversion of several of the youth. An invi- 
 tation was at once extended to him to become their pastor. 
 He accepted, and removed to Warren as soon as possible. 
 Rev. Samuel Fogg was eminently useful in promoting this 
 revival, previous to the arrival of Mr. B. This work is 
 described as being wonderful in power, producing great 
 and immediate changes. All classes shared in the blessing. 
 The scoffing infidel could not say that the work was con- 
 fined to the '■ weak' and ' timid.' It embraced the rich, 
 the poor, the wise, ana" the simple. The church was en- 
 larged by an addition of ninety, and their present commo- 
 dious meeting house was built the same year. 
 
 Elder Bartlett served the church till 1833, when Rev. 
 Horace Seaver entered upon a supply in the ministry for 
 one year. The next pastor was Rev. P. Bond. His labors 
 began in 1S35, and ended in 1840. Under his ministry 
 
 *Zion's Advocate, March 19, 1829. 
 
170 CHURCH IN PORTLAND. 
 
 in 1838, forty-four were added to the church. Rev. Silas 
 Ilsley became pastor in 1842. The close of this year, and 
 the beginning of 1843, was a time of spiritual release to 
 the church and of jubilee to more than one hundred con- 
 verts, who were emancipated from the bondage of sinful 
 and satanic servitude. When this season of special 
 mercy was over, from an impression of duty, Mr. Ilsley 
 removed to another field of labor. This is a large, wealthy 
 and influential church of two hundred and eighty-five 
 members. Its benevolence is known by its generous and 
 frequent liberalities.* 
 
 Portland. The first religious efforts made by Baptists 
 in Portland, were at the late period of 1796, and even then 
 and for some years after, their exertions were few and 
 limited. It has been asked why the Baptists made their 
 first movements in the interior, and generally in towns and 
 settlements the least populous, leaving the more populous 
 and promising fields to the Congregationalists and others ? 
 It is not our business to answer this question, nor do we 
 see any rational circumstance to justify any neglect on their 
 part of any place, or to excuse any tardiness of which they 
 might be guilty to possess these fields of usefulness as soon 
 as any. But there is an apparent apology at least ; an 
 apology growing out of the state of the times. It may be 
 proper in this place to give the reader a brief view of the 
 state of things, especially as regards ecclesiastical matters. 
 Falmouth, Casco, or Portland, was first settled about 1658. t 
 The morals of the Province were generally lax, if not 
 licentious,| and the people of Casco could not boast of a 
 higher purity than their neighbors. The Episcopalians at 
 this time attempted to hold the power of religious influence, 
 and Rev. Robert Jordan was their minister. But as the 
 Court of Massachusetts held jurisdiction over the territory 
 
 *Zion's Adv. 1829, and Min. L. A. t Willis' his. P. v. 1, p. 63. J Willis' 
 s. P. v. l,p. 97. 
 
CHURCH IN PORTLAND 171 
 
 of Falmouth,* and as a majority of the inhabitants consist- 
 ed of emigrants from that State and Plymouth Colonies, 
 and were of Puritan faith and practice, the government of 
 Massachusetts, ' used their utmost exertions to discourage 
 every other sect.'t ' The religion of the State, enforced 
 by rigorous laws, became from this time (1659) the pre- 
 dominant religion of the Province.' 
 
 The first minister employed here by the permission and 
 direction of the civil and clerical authorities, was Rev. 
 Geo. Burroughs, who was occupied in the ministry for a 
 considerable length of time, commencing previous to 1680 ; 
 a much longer time it is supposed (for no records can be 
 found of his settlement or his success) than his successor, 
 Rev. Mr. Smith, except Mr. R. Jordan, who lived in town, 
 preached, and administered ordinances under the Episco- 
 pal form, for thirty-six years, only when ' licensed' by the 
 Court of Massachusetts. Jordan was opposed to the Puri- 
 tan faith, and his opposition became violent, because ' of 
 the persecution which he had received for his attachment 
 to the Church of England.' 
 
 The powers and privileges granted to Puritans, and to 
 their descendants in Maine, were ' exclusive,' and although 
 the town of Portland was depopulated several times, and 
 the inhabitants, who escaped the destroyer, were scattered ; 
 yet on their return, and re-settlement, the same spirit to 
 keep all under submission to the control of the municipal 
 and ecclesiastical powers, returned with them, and still 
 lived even in 1796, with a vehemence but little mod- 
 erated. This brings us down to the times when the 
 Baptists were making progress in the State. The inquiry 
 then is, what where the characteristics of these times that 
 operated unfavorable to their cause ? There was a preva- 
 lent spirit of opposition to them. It was no uncommon 
 
 'Willis' his. P. vol. 1, p. 98. fWillis' his. P. vol. 1, p. 99. 
 
172 CHURCH IN PORTLAND. 
 
 thing to hear in many places where the Puritan spirit was 
 dominant, the loud 'cry,' when reference was made to 
 the Baptists, of ' strange fire,' ' New Lights,' 'ignorant,' 
 ' unlearned ministers,' * bigoted sectarianism,' ' close com- 
 munion,' ' etc' These expressions were not the dictate 
 of a pure spirit, and the Baptists so understood them. 
 Baptist preachers knew too that they were not privileged 
 with that 'education,' which was the boast of the established 
 clergy. This mode of treatment was for popular effect ; 
 to sow the seeds of prejudice against them. Now in the 
 more promising towns, the ' Standing Order' was careful 
 to first plant their standard. Another peculiarity of the 
 times was the exclusive privileges granted to this leading 
 denomination by the Court of Massachusetts. And when 
 its members had become numerous, the prospects for Bap- 
 tists and other sects were less in those places. Besides, 
 the general doctrines of the sect in power were so strongly 
 impregnated with Arminianism, that the doctrines of grace 
 as held by the Baptists, were regarded by them as a * de- 
 luding heterodoxy,' and by means of the influence of the 
 ' standing' clergy, who were lauded for their superior wis- 
 dom, the same idea of the sentiments of the Baptists were 
 common among the laity. In Portland, there was opposition 
 to their sentiments and movements.* In 1796, the Con- 
 gregationalists, after an uninterrupted progress of about 
 seventy years, had become a numerous, and an influential 
 body, with Rev. Dr. Deane at their head. Their doctrines 
 were, ' Do and Live.' When Dr. Green, of North Yarmouth, 
 Rev. I. Case, and some other Baptist preachers began to 
 visit and preach occasionally in Portland, there were but 
 1 two Baptists' in town, and Eld. Case says, ' we preached 
 to whomsoever might be disposed to hear us.'f Before the 
 close of the year their number was increased to four or five. 
 *Eld. Case's Jour, and E. P. com. fElder Case's Cora. 
 
CHURCH IN PORTLAND. 173 
 
 These invited Baptist preachers to come and preach to 
 them, which was the first efforts by any residing in the 
 town to promote a Baptist influence. It does not appear, 
 however, that they made these efforts because of any partic- 
 ular interest they felt at that time in the subject of baptism, 
 but because of their love to their evangelical doctrines on 
 other points of christian faith. Mr. Benedict says, ' all 
 this time they had no thoughts of becoming Baptists, nor 
 was baptism any part of their study.' The desire for 
 evangelical preaching therefore dictated their invitations. 
 Being dissatisfied with the Arminian preaching of Dr. 
 Deane, when they could not procure a ministry more agree- 
 able to their views, they attended upon the preaching of a 
 Rev. Mr. Clarke, then pastor of a Congregational church 
 on Cape Elizabeth. Of this privilege they were soon de- 
 prived by the death of Mr. C. Benjamin Titcomb, then 
 one of this little number, opened his own house for their 
 convenience, where they met to sing, to praise, and pray. 
 Here too they read sermons and searched the scriptures, 
 and * having taken the Bible alone for their guide/ believers' 
 baptism of course, became an article in their faith. 
 
 Mr. Titcomb saw the truth as held by the Baptists, and 
 by his request, he was baptized by Rev. Mr. Green, and 
 added to the church in North Yarmouth. The same ' ex- 
 ample of Christ,' was soon followed by others in Portland, 
 which was a novel scene here to the curious spectators. 
 This was in 1799. 'About this time,' says Rev. Mr. Case, 
 ' I visited Portland and baptized a Mrs. Robinson, and sev- 
 eral others.' He says, also, that ' at first the Baptists could 
 not secure a congregation of more than a half a dozen ; 
 but now the number of hearers became too numerous for 
 the school-house in which they usually met, and a conven- 
 ient hall was obtained for their accommodation.'* The 
 *Elder C.'s Journal. 
 
174 CHURCH IN PORTLAND. 
 
 number of the baptized increased but slowly. When the 
 church was organized at the dwelling-house of Mr. Tit- 
 comb, July 24, 1801, it consisted of only ten persons, three 
 males and seven females. Thomas Beck, who had from 
 the first been one of their number, was elected their first 
 deacon. Rev. Mr. Titcomb, previously (1799) ordained 
 at North Yarmouth, became its pastor, Sept. 1801 ; and 
 although he labored with this church at that time, under 
 some peculiar disadvantages, the greatest of which was a 
 common ' prejudice' to the Baptists, yet there was an addi- 
 tion of twenty-five, in the three years of his ministry. He 
 resigned the office here Sept. 1804. Their place of wor- 
 ship from 1801, was the upper room of a three storied 
 building, till 1803, when, by the blessing of God, they 
 completed their first house of worship, located on Federal 
 street. 
 
 From the resignation of Mr. Titcomb to the settlement 
 of Rev. Josiah Converse, who was ordained pastor, Oct. 
 20, 1807, the church received an occasional supply from 
 different ministers, and was blessed with some prosperity. 
 Mr. Converse resigned in 1810, leaving the church with 
 its members nearly doubled during his ministry. He was 
 succeeded the same year by Rev. Caleb Blood, who sus- 
 tained the office of pastor, with ability and success, till his 
 death, March 6, 1814. During his ministry, (1811), the 
 Baptists in Portland erected a second and more commo- 
 dious house on the same spot where the first had stood. This 
 was a building two stories high, sixty-one feet by sixty- 
 four, with a vestry. Their congregation was now much 
 enlarged. And although, from the death of Mr. B., they 
 were without a pastor, yet both church and congregation 
 increased by such preaching as could be obtained Their 
 next pastor was Thomas B. Ripley, who was ordained 
 July 24, 1816. Soon after his settlement the church and 
 
CHURCH IN PORTLAND. 175 
 
 congregation were blessed with a very extensive revival, 
 which added to the church upwards of seventy souls. Mr. 
 Ripley resigned March, 1828, and Ebenezer Thresher 
 was ordained pastor, Dec. 18, 1828. He resigned March, 
 1830. The next November, Rev. Mr. Leonard, from 
 Salem, Mass., was installed pastor. He was devoted in 
 his work, and useful to the Baptist cause, till his death, 
 Aug. 12, 1831. His last exhortation was, ' Prepare to 
 meet thy God.' This sudden removal of a beloved pastor 
 was the occasion of much mourning, and more than a year 
 passed away before the church was again provided with 
 another. Rev. John S. Maginnis, from Newton Theo- 
 logical Institution, and now Professor of Theology, at 
 Hamilton, N. Y., was ordained pastor, September, 1832. 
 His labors here were too numerous and arduous for his 
 feeble constitution, and with a declined health he resigned 
 his charge, July 1837. James T. Champlin was ordained 
 pastor, May 3, 1838. Two circumstances combined to 
 induce his resignation, ill health and a call to a professor- 
 ship in Waterville College. He accepted the call from the 
 College, and resigned his charge in 1841. Their present 
 pastor, Rev. L. F. Beecher, entered the office October, 
 1842. 
 
 In 1836, a second church, called the ' Free Street Bap- 
 tist church,' was organized in the city. To aid this 
 organization, fifty-four members of this church were dis- 
 missed. This arrangement has been eminently useful to 
 the general prosperity of the Baptists in the city. 
 
 This church has had nine pastors, and has obtained 
 much prosperity by the labors of each. It has experi- 
 enced many refreshings by revivals, and has passed through 
 many trials, especially in its infancy. 
 
 Nine of the members of this church have received 
 license, and become preachers of the gospel ; John Uphold, 
 
176 FIRST CHURCH IN CHINA. 
 
 Daniel Lewis, Benjamin Farnsworth, Silas Ilsley, D. C. 
 Haynes, B. F. Shaw, John F. Burbank, George Knox and 
 Joseph Ricker. Five of its members have been dismissed 
 to join other denominations, and it has received fourteen 
 from them. There are connected with this church several 
 societies which are doing much, annually, for the various 
 causes of benevolence which they are. designed to promote. 
 This church is still prospering, and numbers two hundred 
 and sixty-seven members.* 
 
 China First Church. This church was organized to- 
 wards the close of 1801, and consisted of seventeen mem- 
 bers, who had previously been members of the first church 
 in Vassalborough. There had been several revivals in 
 this vicinity, and ministers frequently visited this north part 
 of China, then called the ' Freetown settlement.' It took the 
 name of Fairfax, in 1804, by which name it was known 
 till the town was incorporated by the one it now bears. 
 Rev. Jabez Lewis became its pastor about the time it was 
 constituted, and there was no opposition ; but the advan- 
 tages for prosperity being favorable, the church flourished. 
 This church has been highly favored with the ministry of 
 the gospel, having had seven pastors, and in connection 
 with each of these servants of God, a revival, and some- 
 times very extensive and glorious, especially the one wit- 
 nessed while Rev. D. Bartlett was laboring with the church, 
 in 1834 and '35. As the fruits of this revival, more than 
 one hundred were converted and added to its number. 
 Besides Rev. Mr. Lewis, Elders Stephen Dexter, Hadley 
 Proctor, Daniel Stevens, Jesse Martin, Daniel Bartlett and 
 B. F. Shaw, have been honored with a useful occupancy in 
 this pleasant field of gospel labor. The churches in Pa- 
 lermo, Albion and Winslow, received at their organization, 
 members from this church. 
 
 *Edward Pennell, Ch. CI. Com. 
 
CHURCH IN SWANVILLE— SECOND BUCKFIELD. X77 
 
 Within the bosom of this church is a flourishing Acade- 
 my. This institution is under the direction and manage- 
 ment of the Baptists, and is highly beneficial to them as 
 well as to the community generally. 
 
 This church is not only large and influential, considering 
 its location so far in the interior, but is distinguished 
 abroad for its spirit of benevolence and generous liberality 
 to the cause of religion and humanity ; and few churches 
 possess equal ability. Its total of members is two hundred 
 and seventy-three.* 
 
 Swanville. This is a small church, organized in 1801, 
 with seventeen members. It was first called Mt. Ephraim. 
 For several years it prospered under the successive labors 
 of Elders John Haines, Job Cushman, Jason Livermore, 
 Thomas Merrill, and others who occasionally preached to 
 them. But for the last twenty years it has had but little 
 preaching — and still remains destitute. During its days 
 of prosperity many were dismissed to aid the formation of 
 other churches. Deacon Joshua Smart, one of its early 
 members, and deacon James Eaton, have ever been its 
 main supporters. f A church of thirty-eight members in 
 Frankfort originated with this church in 1807, which has 
 become extinct. 
 
 Second Buckfield. A second church in Buckfield 
 was gathered in 1802, and consisted, of eighteen members, 
 most of whom were previously dismissed from the church 
 in Paris. For many years this church, like its neighbor, 
 the first church in this same town, was small, and seemed 
 hastening to a similar fate. Rev. George Ricker was its 
 first pastor and principal promoter from 1805 to 1810, 
 when he removed to Minot. It was then destitute of a 
 pastor and received the assistance of only occasional 
 preaching by neighboring ministers. About 1822, E. 
 
 *Min. L. and W. A. fMin. L. and W. A. 
 
178 CHURCH IN NEW SHARON. 
 
 Harlow who had previously been a deacon in this church, 
 was licensed, and about two years after, was ordained pas- 
 tor. Since then he has labored for the good of this church 
 of Zion. His labors have not been in vain, although the 
 church has not at any time been very prosperous Its 
 present number of members is fifty-two, a fraction more than 
 it was in 1824. It has been known by the name ' Buck- 
 field,' since the first church fell asleep. During the time 
 of its destitution it received aid from the Association, a 
 portion of voluntary supplies being devoted to its interests. 
 At present, this church is wanting in spirituality and ac- 
 tivity.* 
 
 New Sharon. The original inhabitants in New Sharon 
 were of different religious views. Some were Methodists, 
 some were Free-will Baptists, but the greater part were 
 favorable to the doctrines of the Congregationalists, and a 
 church of that order was constituted here in 1801.t There 
 were no Baptists, and none that felt much sympathy or 
 affection for them. The prevailing sentiments were Ar- 
 minian ; and therefore when Rev. Mr. Billings, of Fayette, 
 first visited and preached in 1800, he found much opposi- 
 tion to the doctrines he propagated among them. But this 
 opposition in a few years was mostly overcome by a faithful 
 preaching of the word, and the demonstration of the Spirit 
 which accompanied it. 
 
 Mr. Billings having opened the way, other Baptist min- 
 isters soon followed him, and by their preaching some in 
 this town and some in the settlement now called Mercer, 
 became Baptists, to the small number of twelve, who were 
 constituted into a church in 1802. Their places of wor- 
 ship were dwelling-houses and barns, but with the blessing 
 of God which attended the occasional preaching, which was 
 all they could procure for a number of years, their numbers 
 
 *Mio, B. C. and O. Associations. fGreen. Ecc. Hist. p. 202. 
 
CHURCH IN NEW SHARON. 179 
 
 and influence increased. Mr. Moses Wood, a licentiate, 
 preached considerable with them in 1808 and '9, when the 
 church was blessed with a precious revival, which swelled 
 their number by an addition of forty. In 1812 and '13, 
 another revival blessed the church. They were about this 
 time supplied with preaching by Elder Samuel Sweat and 
 Ambrose Arnold. Mr. Arnold was licensed by the church 
 in 1811 ; ordained in 1812; and died in 1813. From its 
 organization to 1815, Elders Palmer and E. Taylor, preach- 
 ed much with this church, with acceptance and profit.* 
 
 This church was not blessed with a regular pastor till 
 1816, when commenced anew period in its history. Hith- 
 erto they had had no regular place of worship. This year, 
 1816, the first meeting-house in town was built, in which 
 the Baptists owned a share, and which they occupied one- 
 fourth of the time till 1835, when their present house was 
 built at a cost of $1800. This house is fifty feet by forty 
 feet. This year, Rev. Sylvanus Boardman became pastor, 
 which connection still continues, and will, probably, till 
 dissolved by death. Mr. B. preached statedly with this 
 church one half of the time till 1836, receiving a salary not 
 much exceeding the proportion of the Ministerial Fund in 
 town, which belonged to the Baptists, which is about $50. 
 His entire ministry was bestowed upon the church from 
 1836 to 1839, when, by the request of Mr. B., N. M. 
 Williams was settled junior pastor by ordination. 
 
 Mr. Boardman has been a Father to this church, always 
 ready to sacrifice his own interest to the good of his breth- 
 ren. There was not during his ministry any extensive 
 revival experienced, but a gradual progress in the ways of 
 the Lord, added, almost annually, numbers, ability, and 
 influence, to the church. The good accomplished, was 
 permanent. 
 
 *John Clark, Ch. CI. Com. 
 
180 CHURCH IN CANAAN. 
 
 Mr. Williams was much beloved by the church and peo- 
 ple, and his ministry was blessed to the conversion of a 
 number of souls. He was useful in the church till he 
 removed to Farmington, in 1842. Rev. L. C. Stevens is 
 their present junior pastor, and the church is in a pros- 
 perous state. There are several benevolent and religious 
 societies connected with, and embraced in, this church, 
 which contribute about $75, annually. Its present num- 
 ber is ninety-three.* 
 
 Canaan, (now called First Bloomfield). As the first 
 settlement which was made (1775)f in Somerset County, 
 began on the spot where this church is located, it will be 
 proper to confine our attention a moment to the rise of the 
 town, and particularly to the progress of religion as the 
 people increased. 
 
 After the Revolutionary struggle was ended, the town 
 settled rapidly, and a Presbyterian minister was employed 
 in 1784. It appears however that the people did not favor 
 his doctrines ; for after a ten years' struggle to bring them 
 under his influence, the people cast off the yoke and em- 
 braced the Arminian doctrines of the Congregationalists. 
 The Presbyterian church was disbanded in 1794, and in 
 1801, f a Congregational church was organized in its place, 
 or revived, as it appears that a church of the same descrip- 
 tion had existed from 1794. .To this church, says Mr. 
 Coburn, ' every body belonged,' as ' no experience was 
 required, but a moderate morality was a sufficient qualifi- 
 cation to membership.'! 
 
 But among the many were a few individuals, however, 
 who desired a more orthodox ministry, and to secure which 
 they invited Elders Asa Wilbur and Jabez Lewis, of Sid- 
 ney, to visit them and preach to the people the gospel of 
 Christ. This invitation was extended in 1796. It is not 
 
 *J. Clarke, Ch. CI. com. t Green. E. h. pp. 210,211. $S. W. Coburn's com. 
 
CHURCH IN CANAAN. 181 
 
 certain that at this time any of those who were dissatisfied 
 with the town ministry, had any particular preference for 
 Baptist doctrines. But Messrs. W. and L. came and 
 preached, and in this manner Baptist sentiments were intro- 
 duced. Soon some of the people became piously attached 
 to their principles, and were baptized. Opposition to the 
 Baptists now awoke, ' and no reproaches were too severe 
 to heap upon the adherents to the new religion.' * Their 
 doctrines were ridiculed and baptism was repudiated.' But 
 the Baptists multiplied, and the pious united with the Bap- 
 tist church in Clinton. In 1803, a sufficient number was 
 found in Bloomfield, to constitute a church. It was organ- 
 ized with fifteen members at the dwelling-house of Mr. 
 Daniel Smith, who became their deacon.* From this time 
 till 1836, a period of about thirty-three years, its history 
 presents a peculiar mixture of trials and blessings. 
 
 In 1806, Rev. H. Kendall, while performing a mission- 
 ary tour to the Piscataquis County, made a short tarry 
 with this church, and to them his efforts were especially 
 blessed. A revival was enjoyed and fifty added to the 
 church. But their opposers did not permit them to enjoy 
 the blessing quietly. Eld. Kendall says, ' notwithstanding 
 the violent opposition of Arminianism, the revival spread 
 and many were converted, among whom were Jonathan 
 Steward, converted from Congregational errors, and Robert 
 Coburn and David Steward from the love of sin.' The 
 two former became Baptist preachers. Respecting him- 
 self, he says, ' I was called by Congregational professors, 
 a liar, a thief, &c. &c; but at length these persecutors 
 confessed their wrongs and all was still.' 
 
 From 1809 to 1814, the church was unfortunate in the 
 settlement of the ministry. John Wagg from 1809 to '12, 
 and Joshua Brooks from 1812, two years. The efforts and 
 
 *Mr. Coburn's com. 
 9 
 
1Q2 CHURCH IN CANAAN. 
 
 proceedings of both these men were altogether unprofitable 
 to the church and to the Baptist cause. 
 
 From 1814 to 1822, Elders J. Steward, Francis Powers, 
 and R. Coburn supplied the church, and with good suc- 
 cess. From 1823 to 1825, the occasional ministry of Rev. 
 Samuel Densmore was added to that of those just mention- 
 ed. During this period, another revival was enjoyed. 
 From 1825 to 1829, the church received a supply from 
 Waterville College. From 1829 to 1832, Rev. N. Hooper 
 was pastor. This was a period of trials ; Mr. Hooper be- 
 came unprofitable, and resigned. In 1836, Rev. A. Drink- 
 water received the charge of the church. By his judicious 
 labors, the church experienced almost uninterrupted pros- 
 perity. Respecting their first meeting-house, built 1812, 
 they have had much trial and difficulty. 'In 1841,' says 
 Mr. C, ' it was reduced to ashes, when the house, with all 
 the disputes concerning it were ended.' They now have a 
 new and convenient house. 
 
 The churches Canaan, (formerly second Canaan) Madi- 
 son, Norridgewock and second Bloomfield. are the indirect 
 fruits of this ; and brethren J. Steward, R. Coburn and 
 N. Hooper, jr., have become ministers. There are several 
 benevolent societies connected with this body, which con- 
 tribute annually about $75. Seven of its members have 
 officiated as deacons, five of whom have died. It deserves 
 to be remarked, that the old Arminian Congregational 
 church fell by the influence of its own inconsistency, and 
 on its ruins the present church of the Congregational faith 
 was built. By management, this church secured all the 
 ministerial funds belonging to the town, worth about $250 
 annually, so that the Baptists have had to rly upon the 
 . blessing of God upon their own resources.* But although 
 aboring under these unequal circumstances, yet as to 
 *Mr. Coburn's com. and JVIin. B. and K. A. 
 
CHURCH IN NORTH YARMOUTH. JQ3 
 
 numbers and wealth, they are about equal to their neigh- 
 bors. Present number, one hundred and fifteen. 
 
 North Yarmouth. The first settlement in North 
 Yarmouth was made about the year 1680. The settlers 
 were much annoyed by the Indians, and in a few years the 
 little colony was entirely broken up by them. It was re- 
 settled in 1722, and a Congregational church was gathered 
 and a minister settled here in 1730. The first Baptist 
 minister who preached here was Elder H. Smith, about the 
 year 1780. At this time the Rev. Mr. Gilman was pastor 
 of the Congregational church. Mr. Smith visited the peo- 
 ple and preached Christ to them, in compliance with the 
 invitation, it is supposed, of a Mr. Davis, 'who resided 
 near what is now called Davis' Landing, at whose house 
 he first preached, and whom he baptized in an arm of the 
 sea which made up near his house.' It is said, that ' at this 
 meeting Rev. Mr. Gilman made his appearance, abusively 
 assailed and reproached Mr. Smith, and warned the peo- 
 ple against ' strange fire,' ■ New Lights,' and ' wandering 
 men,' calling themselves ministers.' Their opposition and 
 persecution commenced with these pious movements of the 
 Baptists. The baptism of Mr. D. caused much excite- 
 ment. It was said, if not believed, by many, that he was 
 ' crazy,' and ' deranged,' etc., because he was baptized. 
 ' He was the first, and for a time the only Baptist in the 
 town ;' and ' for his love and obedience to the truth, suf- 
 fered much.' It is very probable that Mr. Davis did not 
 live to enjoy the privileges of a Baptist society or church, 
 as his name is not on the records of the church. 
 
 Says Rev. Mr. Bradford,* 'About thirteen years after 
 the baptism of Mr. Davis, Elder Potter preached and bap- 
 tized at the Falls. The first whom he baptized were Mr. 
 
 *Most of the facts embodied in this account, are selected from an article 
 ■written by Rev. Z. Bradford, and published in the Min. of Cum. As. for 1843. 
 
1$4 CHURCH IN NORTH YARMOUTH. 
 
 Jeremiah Stubbs, of the Congregational church, and Judith 
 Winslow ;' and ' very near this time, he baptized John 
 Drinkwater and Dea. S. York,' members of the same 
 church. This renunciation of Pedo-baptism, and the suc- 
 cess of Baptist effort, excited, as the like had done in many 
 other places, ' a violent spirit of scandal and persecution,' 
 against those who embraced Baptist sentiments ; and the 
 trials thereby occasioned, were to them the more severe, 
 because the most vehement of their opposers were pro- 
 fessors of godliness. It appears, that from this time Mr P. 
 preached often; and the community, inflamed with impas- 
 sioned zeal for ' the Diana of the Puritans' — sprinkling — 
 became enraged at the Baptists.' Bitter prejudices and 
 false representations were common among the people. The 
 following anecdote, related by Mr. B., is an illustration : 
 ' Elder Potter passing the house of a family not prof essors 
 of religion, but belonging to the Standing order, and who 
 loved the Baptists as well as any in town, who did not 
 espouse their cause — -one of them remarked, ' There comes 
 that 'awful creature ;' when one of the family, a little girl 
 four years old, now a member of the church, ran at the 
 window, and as soon as she saw him, exclaimed, ■ Why, 
 mother, he's a man — he's a man, mother.' 
 
 Elder Potter preached, at one time, in the barn of Mr. 
 Oliver Byram ; Elder Wm. Hooper was present, and also 
 Mr. Gilman. Mr. Gilman was very complaisant to Mr. P., 
 and ' sat an orderly hearer' during the discourse. As was 
 the custom with Baptists in those days, Mr. P. ' gave liber- 
 ty' to speak after the sermon ; ' whereupon Mr. G. arose, 
 warned the people again against ' strange fire,' ' New 
 Lights,' etc., and asked Mr. P. ' what he came here for ; 
 who gave him liberty ; who sent him,' &c. ; and conclud- 
 ed by saying to the people, that they had no excuse for 
 leaving his ministry, for he preached the same truths they 
 
CHURCH IN NORTH YARMOUTH. 185 
 
 had just heard from Mr. Potter.' Elder Case relates this 
 circumstance as having occurred at the first meeting held 
 in town by Mr. P., and that Mr. Gilman further said, ' the 
 Baptists have the scriptures on their side, and that if they 
 followed their preachers, they would make Baptists of 
 them.' Elder Case says, also, this last remark of Mr. G. 
 4 was the means under God of leading Mr. Stubbs from 
 error into the truth.'* It appears from the account 
 Elder C. gives, that Mr. Stubbs was a man of some educa- 
 tion, and a strong Pedo-baptist. He doubted the correct- 
 ness of Mr. G.'s remark, and resolved on knowing the 
 truth. This he found, and became the first ' lively' stone 
 in the Baptist church. 
 
 Several had now become Baptists, and the inconsistencies 
 of their opposers inclined many to favor them. They 
 were however taxed by the old parish. Dr. Baldwin, of 
 Boston, was now consulted as regards the best measures 
 to be adopted to secure exemption from taxes by the 
 1 standing order/ and for the support of Baptist preaching. 
 By his advice, it seems, a voluntary association was formed, 
 and a subscription made, and the Rev. Abraham Cum- 
 mings was procured as a supply. But they were still taxed ; 
 and more, they were persecuted. Having no house of 
 worship, they were much annoyed, and driven from place 
 to place, from one school-house to another, until some 
 eight or ten of them built a school-house at the ' Corner,' 
 where they peacefully worshipped for tvvo or three years. 
 
 After suffering the obloquy, the calumny, and the 
 seizure and sacrifice of much of their property to support 
 the intolerant spirit for more than three years, they resolved 
 to become incorporated ; but the act of incorporation was 
 not granted them, however, until 1797. In 1796, the 
 Baptists had obtained an influence and strength to erect a 
 
 *Elder Case's memorandum. 
 
186 FIRST CHURCH IN ST. GEORGE. 
 
 house for worship, at a cost of c£1358 4s 5d. This house 
 was built upon ' Byram's hill,' where is their present 
 location. 
 
 On the 18th of January, 1797, the church was organized 
 with seven members, and Dr. Thomas Green was chosen 
 pastor. Opposition to Mr. Green and to the church, 
 1 showed itself in hydra forms.' Mr. Green's ' character 
 was publicly assailed,' and he endured with a pious for- 
 bearance much ' slander and persecution.' Mr. Green was 
 pastor thirteen years, when declining health induced his 
 resignation. He has been succeeded in the pastoral office 
 by Elders Sylvanus Boardman, Otis Briggs, S. Chapin, A. 
 King, J. Butler, and Z. Bradford. During the labors of 
 these worthy servants of God, the church has prospered, 
 and is now a flourishing body of two hundred and fifteen 
 members. The following ministers originated in, and have 
 gone out from this church — Benjamin Titcomb, A. Drink- 
 water, Silas Stearns, B. P. Byram, and E. R. Warren. 
 Rev. G. D. Boardman, missionary to India, received his 
 ordination and his outfit in this church ; also, Sarah Cum- 
 mings, missionary toBurmah, (deceased) and Jane Kelley, 
 missionary to the Indians in the West, were from this 
 church. This church has experienced many precious 
 seasons of refreshing revivals, and many souls have been 
 converted to God. 
 
 First St. George, (formerly Cushing.) The terri- 
 tory lying along the St. George river, in the easterly part 
 of Lincoln county, was called Cushing, (or Cushen), until 
 that part lying on the east side, and south of Thomaston, 
 took the name by which it is now known. There were no 
 religious movements in this place, till the Rev. I. Case 
 visited the people in 1784, in the time of the first revival in 
 Thomaston. Elders Case and Snow frequently preached 
 among them, and there being no established order of reli- 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN ST. GEORGE. 1Q7 
 
 gious faith to exert a controlling influence over them, Bap- 
 tist doctrines were more readily received. A church was 
 constituted in 1789, by the name of Cushing, now the first 
 in St. George, but did not unite with the Bowdoinham Asso- 
 ciation until 1793, when Rev. Ephraim Hall was ordained 
 pastor. It then had nineteen members, but was the same 
 year increased to forty-nine, by a revival of religion. Mr. 
 H. closed his ministry with the church in 1809, and the 
 members were left to sustain the cause, aided only by occa- 
 sional supplies, until 1811, when Rev. Benjamin Eames 
 was elected pastor, who actively and most successfully sus- 
 tained the office until 1839, and still lives the senior pas- 
 tor, to see the prosperity of the church, for whose welfare 
 he so long labored. Perhaps no church in the State has 
 had so uniform, and so uninterrupted prosperity as this 
 church. God has blessed it with several most general and 
 glorious refreshings from his presence. Large additions 
 have been made to its numbers in these seasons of special 
 mercy. Their prosperity did not decline with the age and 
 health of their venerable and useful pastor ; but usual suc- 
 cess has attended the ministry of their junior pastors. It 
 has had two associate pastors, Rev. T. L Pillsbury was 
 ordained in 1839. He preached about two years, and was 
 succeeded by Rev. Joseph Kalloch, who is the present 
 acting pastor. 
 
 There were revivals under the ministry of their first 
 pastor, and a large dismission to constitute a church 
 in Friendship ; six during the active ministry of the 
 second, and another large dismission to constitute a second 
 church in St. George ; and one during the ministry of their 
 present pastor, and a third dismission to constitute a third 
 church in St. George. The church has a total of two 
 hundred and forty-three members, is in a prosperous state, 
 and actively engaged in the cause of benevolence.* 
 
 *Min. B. and L. Ass., and Eld. Case's Journal. 
 
188 CHURCH IN ISLESBOROUGH. 
 
 Islesborough, (or Long Island). This Island lies in 
 the Penobscot Bay, about south-east from Belfast, and was 
 settled about the same time with that place. The Islanders 
 were mostly destitute of gospel privileges till the Baptists 
 began to preach on the Island in 1790.* A revival atten- 
 ded their efforts, and a church was gathered here in 1791, 
 by Rev. I. Case, who had the privilege of baptizing those 
 who were pious. Mr. Case was with them occasionally 
 for many years subsequently, and aided them by his coun- 
 sel and preaching.* Other Baptist preachers also, were 
 occasionally on the Island, and assisted this feeble church. 
 In 1804, Mr. P. Pilsbury, who had been licensed to preach 
 by the Pedo-baptists,was baptized on this Island in the time 
 of this special work of grace, by Rev. I. Case, who partic- 
 ipated in the labors by which this revival was promoted. 
 At this time Mr. C. baptized forty-three persons.* 
 
 Mr. Pilsbury was also eminently useful in this revival, 
 having already commenced preaching. This year Rev. 
 Thomas Ames was ordained pastor of the church, and a 
 meeting-house was erected for their accommodation. In 
 1809, Rev. Lemuel Rich was elected the pastor of the 
 church, and ior many years was useful to the Baptists on 
 the Island, and some revival in 1815, was a means of en- 
 larging the church. Soon after this the stated ministry of 
 Rev. Mr. Rich closed, and the church was left destitute, 
 and remained so for many years ; had but a small amount 
 of preaching, their numbers very much diminished, and the 
 church once large and prosperous, became small and fee- 
 ble. They began to rise from adversity by the labors of 
 Rev. E. H. Emery in 1832. He preached about three 
 years, when its days of prosperity began again to be repeat- 
 ed. In 1840, the Lord revived his work, souls were con- 
 verted, and the church increased; and again in 1843, were 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 
 
CHURCH IN VINALHAVEN. 189 
 
 they refreshed and built up, and Rev. W. J. Durgin, has 
 become theirpastor, Their present number is one hundred 
 and twenty-eight.* 
 
 Vinalhaven. This church is situated on an Island of 
 the same name, lying east of Thomaston in Penobscot 
 Bay. Previous to 1794, when first visited by Eld. Case, 
 the people had been blessed with but a little preaching. 
 For seven or eight years Baptists had multiplied on the 
 adjacent Islands. This year Eld. Case visited and preach- 
 ed Christ to them, and ' about fourteen souls were con- 
 verted and added as a branch to the church in Thomaston.' 
 Anthony Dyer was appointed a deacon among them. This 
 Branch Church held meetings on Lord's day, seasons for 
 conference, and were authorized to receive candidates for 
 baptism. t Eld. Case visited this Island and others around 
 it, occasionally for several years, and baptized a large num- 
 ber who became Baptists. In 1803 and '04, there were 
 extensive revivals on several Islands in the vicinity of Vi- 
 nalhaven. These revivals were promoted by the ministry 
 of Rev. Mr. Merrill, Congregational minister at Sedgwick, 
 P. Pilsbury and Henry Hale, licensed preachers of that 
 church. On this Island the work was truly interesting. 
 Eld. Case baptized on Vinalhaven, nineteen ; among whom 
 was Henry Hale. These uniting with the members of the 
 old Branch, were formed an independent church. f About 
 this time the Baptists on this Island built a convenient 
 house for worship. Rev. John Haines became pastor, and 
 for several years the church continued in a prosperous state. 
 Eld. Haines resigned about the year 1810, From this 
 time till 1830, it does not appear that the church enjoyed 
 the blessing of a pastor's labors. But with such supplies 
 as they could procure, the church received many additions, 
 and sustained the cause amidst every discouragement. 
 
 *Min. B. L. and \V- Asso, tEld. Case's Com, 
 9* 
 
190 CHURCH IN JEFFERSON AND LANCASTER. 
 
 In 1S30, Rev. Richard Y Watson, became pastor, and 
 was beneficial to the cause, till he left (1833). Their next 
 pastor was Rev. G. J. Newton, who was with them from 
 1836, about two years. Being now destitute, there was a 
 loss of members, and a declension of piety in the church, 
 till 1842, when a concern for Zion began to be awakened 
 under the ministry of Eld. N. Copeland, and in 1843, a 
 precious work of revival was experienced, and Rev. Wra. 
 Glover was settled, and is their present pastor. Rev. Benj. 
 Ames and Rev. Sam'l Macomber, received approbation by 
 this church to preach the gospel. The present number of 
 members is one hundred and twenty-four.* 
 
 Jefferson and Lancaster. This church, though 
 united in association with churches in Maine, was located 
 in New-Hampshire. It was organized by Elder Case in 
 1804t — was divided in 1810 into two churches. In 1829, 
 when the Oxford Association was formed, they did not 
 unite with it. 
 
 Sumner. The towns Sumner and Hartford were first 
 known by one name, ' JButterfield.* In 1798, they were 
 incorporated by their present names. About this time they 
 began to be favored with occasional preaching by Baptists 
 and Congregationalists. The latter were before the Bap- 
 tists in gathering a church. They organized a church in 
 S. in 1802, which embraced members in both towns. Elds. 
 S. Boardman and N. Chase were in Sumner, and preach- 
 ed frequently about this time. In 1802, Mr. John Briggs, 
 who afterwards became a Baptist deacon, was baptized by 
 Eld. Chase, and soon several others who united in the 
 church in Buckneld, of which Eld. C. was pastor. We 
 are told that the Baptists ' here had their enemies,' and 
 their pious endeavors were much opposed. They were 
 not however driven from the field, into which they felt that 
 
 *Min. L.A. +Eld. C's Jour. . 
 
CHURCH IN SUMNER— BETHEL. 19] 
 
 Christ had called them. They asked only equal privileges 
 with their neighbors. This they claimed, and this they 
 contended for. They multiplied, and in 1804, nineteen, 
 eight males and eleven females were recognized by a coun- 
 cil, as a church of Christ in Sumner. This was on the 
 14th of June, and the same day Rev. Thomas Macomber 
 was ordained pastor, which office he magnified in the 
 church till 1816, when he resigned. Their next pastor was 
 Joseph Palmer, who officiated from 1817 to 1831. During 
 this period, two revivals blessed the church. The first was 
 in 1823 ; the second about the time he left, which was 
 much promoted by the labors of Eld. Haines. Their pres- 
 ent pastor, Manassah Lawrence, was ordained into the 
 office in 1833, by whose ministry the church prospers. 
 They worshipped in private dwelling-houses and school- 
 houses till 1835, when they completed their present con- 
 venient meeting-house. Though opposed, their increase 
 will not suffer in the comparison with other sects in town.* 
 Present number of the church is one hundred and twelve. f 
 Bethel. This town was first called ' Sudbury Canada,' 
 from the circumstance that it was granted to certain per- 
 sons of Sudbury, Mass., for services performed in Canada 
 in ' the old French war* and the first settlement was made 
 by a Mr. Samuel Ingalls, in 1776. The first settlers were 
 prejudiced in favor of no particular sect of religious faith. 
 The Baptists occasionally visited this town soon after the 
 churches in Paris and Hebron were organized, and in 1795 
 a church of seven members was constituted. At first, they 
 did not prosper. They enjoyed the ministry of Rev. John 
 Chadbourn, but had no increase. At the end of seven 
 years their number was reduced to but two members. In 
 1802, assisted by travelling preachers, they received an 
 addition of three by baptism, and May 28, 1803, one more ; 
 
 *B. Cary Ch. Clk. com. fMin. O. A. 
 
192 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 
 
 and on the following day, for the first time, they partook of 
 the Lord's supper. In 1804, the church enjoyed a special 
 revival, and were made to forget their days of adversity. 
 Ebenezer Bray was ordained as pastor in 1807. He was a 
 useful under-shepherd until his convictions of duty induc- 
 ed him to resign in 1812. Twenty-nine were added under 
 his ministry. 
 
 The church was now destitute of a pastor, but prosper- 
 ed by occasional supplies from neighboring ministers, 
 among whom Rev, A. Drinkwater was the most frequent, 
 from 1812 to 1817. The next year Rev. Daniel Mason 
 was elected pastor, and devoted the remainder of his life in 
 the cause of this church. He died in 1835. Mr. M. was 
 indefatigable in his efforts, laboring with his own hands for 
 most of his support, of his family, and in the ministry as 
 much as his circumstances allowed him. There was no 
 special revival in the church while he administered to them, 
 but a cheering gradual prosperity. He was succeeded the 
 next year (1836) by Rev. Benj. Donham, who was ordain- 
 ed as pastor in October, and continues their successful 
 guide and instructor. Present number one hundred and 
 thirty-two.* 
 
 CHAPTER XI. 
 
 History of the Howdoinham Association from 1790 to the formation of the 
 Lincoln Association in 1804 — Extensive revivals in 1798 and 1799 — the 
 Lord's Supper administered at the Association in '98 — an Ordination in 
 ? 99 — success of the ' Gospel Mission' — Dr. Baldwin present, and Ordina- 
 tion ofMr. Titcomb in 1801— Revision of Articles of Faith in 1802. 
 
 In 1790, the total of communicants in the Bowdoinham 
 Association was three hundred and seventeen, embodied 
 in six churches. Connected with these churches were 
 four ministers only. These servants of Christ were active 
 
 *Rev. J. Tripp's com. and Min. ofO. A. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION 1790—1804. 193 
 
 and untiring in their efforts to extend His cause through- 
 out the country. God owned their labors and gave them 
 abundant success. They saw new churches rising in dif- 
 ferent directions about them, and ministers multiplying to 
 aid the work. These accessions toZion encouraged their 
 zeal and gave new vigor to their faith. 
 
 The next meeting of the Association was held at Balls- 
 town, in 1791. The brethren were rejoiced by an' acces- 
 sion of four new churches, which increased the number of 
 communicants by seventy-seven. These were regarded as 
 seals to their labors, by which they were induced to 
 increase their voluntary missionary supplies to the destitute, 
 and to extend their travels into more distant settlements. 
 To encourage these churches, a circular was now addressed 
 to them on the doctrine of c Perseverance,' an extract of 
 which exhibits the views of the Baptists at this time on 
 that precious doctrine. Says the letter, ' The soul at 
 regeneration has all the graces of the spirit implanted in 
 the heart, which are acted out towards their proper object, 
 Jesus Christ ; in mental and practical duties. The chris- 
 tian is made an active being in God's service. He must 
 therefore strive, wrestle and run in the ways of God.' 
 Here is practical piety bearing evidence of experimental ; 
 and here is living faith, attended by its appropriate evidence, 
 good works* 
 
 In 1792, the Association was made joyful by the reports 
 of several refreshing seasons which had been experienced 
 by the churches, which had increased their numbers, and 
 enlarged their influence, by the addition of four new 
 churches, and two ministers of Christ, and five licensed 
 preachers. This was truly encouraging to the few pastors 
 who looked with such anxious solicitude over the enlarg- 
 ing field. The Association embraced already all the 
 
 *Min. B. A. 1791. 
 
194 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 
 
 southern and middle parts of the State. These churches 
 occupied central positions in the different sections of this 
 territory. As many of these churches had no pastors, and 
 possessed but few means for an increase of spiritual or 
 religious knowledge, a letter was addressed to them by 
 the Association on the importance of a ' right reading of 
 the Bible.' This letter was therefore timely, and its con- 
 tents show its appropriateness. A larger amount of volun- 
 tary missionary labor was now pledged than had been at 
 any former meeting. 
 
 Four new churches were received to Association in 
 1793. Nothing especially new was transacted at its annual 
 meeting for this year. The apparent desire seemed to be 
 prevalent in the meeting to maintain a pious vigilance in 
 the cause. 
 
 At their annual meeting in 1794, they had new evidence 
 of the triumph of truth. Two new churches were reported 
 and received, and five had entered the ministry by ordina- 
 tion. In the course of business on this occasion, the im- 
 portant question, ' Is the ordination of deacons agreeable 
 to apostolic order V came up for the consideration and de- 
 cision of the Association, which was unanimously answered 
 in the affirmative.* 
 
 Of their annual meeting in 1795, there were no minutes 
 published. The circular for that year, preserved in their 
 book of Records, is an interesting exhibition of 'pious zeal,' 
 written by Rev. Elisha Williams. 
 
 In 1796 the Association, though not cheered with re- 
 ports of special revivals in the churches, was in a state of 
 genera] prosperity. God had blessed them with union, a 
 gradual increase, and a more extended influence. And 
 although there was much opposition to their cause in many 
 places, truth triumphed, and the number of ministers was 
 
 *Min. B. A. 1794. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 195 
 
 increased, by Nehemiah Gould, Joseph Bailey, James 
 Hooper, and Mephibosheth Cain, who had during the year 
 entered the holy work by ordination ; and the addition of 
 the church in Clinton encouraged success in the more 
 northern settlements. 
 
 In 1797, the Association was enlarged by the addition 
 of the churches in North Yarmouth and Harlem, (now first 
 China) ; and the introduction of Elders Thomas Green 
 and Job Chad wick to this new field of gospel labor, was a 
 valuable accession to the ministry. The Baptist cause still 
 advanced amidst opposition. Says the circular for this 
 year, ' As the days in which we live are days of trial, and 
 as error, both in principle and practice, is cast out as a 
 flood after the church of Christ ; crying, Lo, here ! Lo, 
 there ! may you lift up a standard for the people.' This 
 was indeed a time of struggling between truth and error ; 
 between the followers of Baal and the friends of God; as 
 the history of one of the churches (North Yarmouth) re- 
 ceived this year, evinces. 
 
 Extensive revivals advanced the cause gloriously in many 
 churches in 1798. More than one hundred converts were 
 reported from the town of Bowdoin, as the fruits of Elder 
 Potter's ministry. This was regarded as an extraordinary 
 work, considering the scattered population in a new coun- 
 try. The origin of the Baptist church in Litchfield, which 
 was organized this year, is traced to the influence of this 
 revival. The cause also had made progress among the new 
 settlements in the north part of Kennebec County. The 
 churches, New Vineyard and Farmington, were revived, 
 and the ministerial influence received new power by the 
 introduction of Rev. John Tripp, into Maine. This year 
 occurred the first difficulty among the Baptists, requiring 
 the attention and aid of the Association. It was in the 
 church at Buckfield. A committee of six was appointed to 
 
196 BOWUOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 
 
 attempt their relief by their prayers and counsels. The 
 day was designated, and by a vote, the churches were 
 requested ' to observe the same day in special prayer to 
 God, that he would give to both church and committee, 
 wisdom and direction.' This was an example worthy of 
 imitation. For the first time, the ordinances of baptism 
 and the Lord's supper, were administered at the anniver- 
 sary season of this body. The practice, however, was of 
 but short continuation. 
 
 In 1799, the Lord wrought wonderful things for the 
 churches. The revivals this year were to those in 1798, 
 as the copious showers that succeed the few drops of rain. 
 They were more general and extensive. Their anniver- 
 sary was made unusually interesting by the ordination 
 of Elisha Williams. As the ministers and churches mul- 
 tiplied, a missionary zeal increased. The circular sent to 
 the churches, (written by Elder Tripp), breathed a mission- 
 ary spirit, and was an appeal to them for a greater activity. 
 This appeal found a response in the pious hearts of the 
 brethren. A love for the destitute now became ardent, 
 and as evidence of its purity, besides sustaining the old 
 system of missionary effort by voluntary supplies, by an 
 extra number of pledges, a plan of operation was origi- 
 nated, called ' The Gospel Mission.' This plan was, to 
 raise money to sustain missionary efforts among the new 
 settlements. Elders Green, Williams and Woodard, were 
 appointed a committee of superintendence, and Eld. Case, 
 who was about giving himself wholly to itinerant labors, 
 was engaged as their missionary. Fifteen dollars were 
 contributed to aid the enterprise which was the first taken 
 in the Association for such purposes. 
 
 In 1800, the most sanguine expectation of the Associa- 
 tion as regarded the operation of the ' Gospel Mission' in 
 this incipient period of action, was more than realized. The 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 197 
 
 report of their missionary, Eld. Case, was full of interest. 
 He reported that he had visited the new settlements, plan- 
 tations and destitute churches in the eastern part of the 
 State, gave a pleasing account of the advancement of the 
 Redeemer's cause in many places, and that a door was 
 opened for extended exertions in that region. In view of 
 this report, the efforts of the Association were enlarged, 
 and future success shows that these efforts were not in 
 vain. At this anniversary, this body was enlarged by the 
 reception of the churches Brunswick, Leeds, Woolwich, 
 Medumcook and Warren. 
 
 The anniversary of the Association in 1801, was render- 
 ed delightful by the presence and preaching of Rev. Mr. 
 Baldwin of Boston, and by the ordination of Rev. Benj. 
 Titcomb. The territory now occupied by this body, being 
 extensive, the inconveniences to many of the churches, 
 occasioned by distance, prompted them to petition the 
 Association, for a division of the churches to form a second 
 body. But after some mutual deliberation, the subject 
 was postponed. The churches regarded the Association 
 as a council to whom they referred important questions for 
 a decision — and the Association frankly and affectionately 
 gratified them, by considering such questions as they might 
 propose. At this meeting the interesting and somewhat 
 difficult question, ' Is it agreeable to the gospel for chris- 
 tians to bear arms?' was presented. The following impor- 
 tant decision was given : ' Although we do not conceive 
 that our holy religion requires us to draw the sword, or to 
 bear arms in its defence ; yet, as we are members of civil 
 community, and are protected by the laws of the land in 
 which we live, we think it not incompatible with the spirit 
 of Christianity which enjoins our obedience to civil magis- 
 trates to bear arms in defence of the government which 
 protects us. The 'Gospel Mission' was still an object of 
 
198 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 
 
 special interest, and sustained with zeal. Elders Nathaniel 
 Chase, Oliver Billings and Robert Low, had entered the 
 work of the ministry, and the church in the city of Portland 
 was received into the Association. 
 
 In 1802, the Association was still encouraged with gen- 
 eral prosperity. Their number of laborers were increased 
 by Elders Sylvanus Boardman, Ichabod Temple, and Ja- 
 bez Lewis, who had during this Associational year entered 
 the ministry ; — and the churches, Freetown, (now first 
 China,) second Buckfield, and Mt. Ephraim, (now Swan- 
 ville,) were added to their numbers. Besides a general 
 progress, several of the churches had experienced exten- 
 sive revivals, and received large additions. Hitherto there 
 had been important deficiencies and a want of uniformity 
 in the Articles of Faith and Covenant, adopted by the dif- 
 ferent churches. The Articles of Faith at first adopted 
 by the Association, as expressive of the doctrines and prac- 
 tices of the denomination in the State, were this year re- 
 vised, giving to them a greater particularity and fulness of 
 expression, and were printed in their Minutes, and sent to 
 the churches with a recommendation for their adoption. 
 The alterations made in these Articles, were not designed 
 to change the sentiments, but by a modification of lan- 
 guage, to give to them a greater perspicuity and prominent- 
 ness. These Articles were generally received and adopted 
 by the churches. 
 
 At the annual meeting of the Association in 1803, the 
 important question of division again came up for consider- 
 ation, the expediency of which was now referred to the 
 churches for their individual decision, which was required 
 to be reported at the next anniversary. This was deemed by 
 the Baptists the most rational and democratic way of settling 
 all matters, which involved the interest and convenience 
 of these several independent bodies. Their united 'will' 
 was the governing principle of the Association. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1790—1804. 199 
 
 The flame of missionary love and zeal continued to 
 burn. Some idea of the feelings which were cherished in 
 respect to the work of sending the gospel to the destitute 
 may be seen from a short extract of the circular letter, sent 
 this year to the churches. This letter was written by Eld. 
 Chadwick. The writer says, ( the glorious spread of the 
 gospel in this, our day, should inspire us with fervency 
 and gratitude; look round! The fields are all white, 
 oppression is withering, God is on his way ; He reigns 
 triumphant; let the earth rejoice.' Forty-eight dollars 
 were contributed at this meeting to aid the 'Gospel Mission,' 
 which was not an insignificant sum for those times. 
 
 We are now brought (1804) to an important period in 
 the history of the Baptists, and particularly of the Bowdoin- 
 ham Association. This body had become numerous, and 
 was scattered over a wide extent of territory ; and besides 
 the churches then in it were multiplying in the very remote 
 settlements. On account of distance and bad roads, these 
 could not unite with their brethren who resided in more 
 central parts. They were therefore deprived of Associa- 
 tional privileges. The subject of division having been 
 referred to the churches for their decision, they, from a 
 consideration of these circumstances, decided that it was 
 1 expedient' to divide. It was therefore divided, by setting 
 off the churches east of the Kennebec river, sixteen in 
 number, to be organized by the name of Lincoln Associa- 
 tion, as most of these churches were within the limits of 
 the county of that name. 
 
 Much had been accomplished by the 'Gospel Mission, 5 
 for the destitute while these churches remained in one 
 body, although no distinct organization for that purpose 
 had existed. It was therefore important that before these 
 churches and ministers separated, some system of general 
 co-operation should be originated. This was done by 
 
OQO SECOND CHURCH IN SIDNEY. 
 
 organizing the Maine Missionary Society, the design of 
 which was to aid the destitute in this new and rising 
 State ; — and with $130, raised at this meeting, this society 
 entered upon the work with a spirited zeal, and under 
 most auspicious circumstances. This Association was en- 
 larged at this meeting by the addition of five ordained 
 ministers ; Jesse Martin, Peter Moor, Joseph Adams, John 
 Haines, and Thomas Macomber ; and of six churches, 
 Canaan, Sumner, Islesboro', Vinalhaven, Bethel, and Jef- 
 ferson and Lancaster. So that at the division of the Asso- 
 ciation, it numbered forty-eight churches, thirty-two 
 ministers, and two thousand one hundred and twenty-one 
 communicants. 
 
 CHAPTER XII. 
 
 Churches which united with the Bowdoinham Association during - the seven 
 years, between the formation of the Lincoln Association in 1804, and the 
 formation of the Cumberland Association in 1811 : Second Sidney — Se- 
 cond Bowdoin — Belgrade — Norway — Hallowcll — Minot (now Auburn) — 
 Freeport — Second Lisbon (now first in Webster) — Perjepscott (now 
 Danville,) — Cornville — Harmony — Denmark — Weld — Sangerville — 
 Bridgton — Hartford — Monmouth — Palmyra — New Portland. 
 
 Second Sidney. — This church is situated in the east 
 part of Sidney, and was gathered in 1806. There was a 
 revival in town in 1805,* by means of the ministry of Eld. 
 Wilbur, and the efforts of the First church, which extended 
 into the east part of the town, and several became pious, 
 and, living at some distance from that church, their desire 
 to be constituted into a distinct church was granted. This 
 church had no stated preaching till 1809, when the Lord 
 of the harvest provided for them a pastor, by placing over 
 them in charge Rev. Joseph Palmer. But the church was 
 small and feeble, and Mr. Palmer removed to another field 
 in 1812. The church were not blessed with the labors of 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN SIDNEY. 201 
 
 another pastor till November, 1S26, when they were favor- 
 ed with the ministry of Rev. Ezra Going. In 1824 there 
 was an extensive revival in this church. The principal 
 means employed to promote this work of grace was the 
 ministry of Rev. E. Going, then a licentiate. Sixty-five 
 were added by baptism, which gave the church an ability 
 to support a pastor. Mr. Going was ordained in 1826, and 
 remained about two years. In 1831, Lemuel Porter, a 
 student in Waterville College, was ordained to the work 
 of the ministry in this church. He preached here fre- 
 quently for two or three years. The next pastor was Rev. 
 Amos Lefavor, settled in 1835. He however left in about 
 one year. In 1836, Sumner Hale, a licentiate, and student 
 of Waterville College, supplied them frequently ; and in 
 1838 and '39, Rev. J. C. Morrill supplied. In 1839, 
 Rev. Sumner Hale became pastor, but was succeeded in 
 1842 by their present pastor, Rev. William Tilley. From 
 the resignation of Rev. E. Going to 1839, the church ex- 
 perienced a rapid decrease of members. But since that 
 time there has been a coming up to the help of the Lord ; 
 a more general devotion of the church to his cause, and 
 days of prosperity are gradually returning. This church 
 has a convenient meeting-house, and present number of 
 seventy-seven members.* 
 
 Bowdoin Second Church. As the Baptist cause ad- 
 vanced in Bowdoin, several persons in the north part of 
 the town embraced their doctrines ; and in 1805, twenty- 
 five in number, were organized into a church. They had 
 previously belonged to the first church in town. Conven- 
 ience dictated their separation. Before they united with 
 Bowdoinham Association, a most glorious and extensive 
 revival was experienced in that part of the town by means 
 of the pious and untiring efforts of Rev. H. Kendall, of 
 
 *Min. li. and Ken. Asso. 
 
202 CHURCH IN BELGRADE. 
 
 Litchfield. Before the revival influences departed, sixty- 
 nine were added to the church. A meeting-house was soon 
 built at a cost of $1800, and Rev. Ichabod Temple was 
 settled (1807) pastor. Mr. Temple also was useful in pro- 
 moting the revival. He was a faithful pastor. He removed 
 to the State of Ohio in 1820. 
 
 Rev. Noah Norton, their next pastor, was ordained in 
 1822. His ministry was much blessed to the edification 
 and growth of the church till 1836, when he removed to 
 Brunswick. 
 
 Since the resignation of Elder Norton, the church has 
 had no pastor, but has been favored with a stated ministry. 
 The same year, (183G,) one of their number, James Rid- 
 ley, was ordained as an evangelist, and favored the church 
 with his ministerial gift, till he removed to Monmouth. 
 Deacon Jacob Golder of Lewiston, united with this church, 
 began to preach and was ordained as an evangelist, (1840,) 
 and the church has been blessed with a portion of his 
 labors. Elders D. Pierce and J. Day, also have supplied 
 them frequently when destitute of a pastor. The most 
 extensive revival ever experienced by this church was in 
 1824 and '25, while Mr. Norton was pastor. This work 
 was general, powerful, and most convincing. Upwards of 
 one hundred souls were converted to God. 
 
 This church has at different times been much reduced 
 in numbers by large dismissions. One whole church was 
 organized of members dismissed from this, who emigrated 
 to the State of Illinois, and deacon Smith was ordained 
 as their pastor. This church has passed through no un- 
 common trials, but has much occasion for gratitude for a 
 general prosperity. Its present total is one hundred and 
 twenty.* 
 
 Belgrade. Elder I. Case and Rev. Asa Wilbur, were 
 
 *Moses Dennett, Cli. Ck. Cum. 
 
CHURCH IN BELGRADE. 203 
 
 among the first Baptists to preach the gospel here. Elder 
 Case preached frequently, and as many of the settlers as 
 became Baptists united with the church in Readfield, till 
 it was deemed expedient to gather a church here. This 
 was done Aug. 29th, 1806. It was composed of twelve 
 members. From the first movements of the Baptists in 
 this town, till 1810, there was no regular preacher statedly 
 employed. Elders Case, Wilbur, Gould, Palmer, Moses 
 Low, Kendall, and Bisbee, preached frequently ; the 
 latter of whom was ordained in 1808. Elias Taylor, 
 another member, was approbated to preach in 1808, and 
 ordained its pastor Sept. 1810. 
 
 The first twenty years of this church's existence, was a 
 period of prosperity, and previous to 1830, it passed 
 through no very severe trials ; — the church was united, 
 and Elder T. was useful. About this time a day of dark- 
 ness commenced. The church became divided, and now 
 instead of union, discord reigned ; discipline, meetings 
 and the ordinances of the gospel were neglected, and the 
 church was disrobed of its beauty and shorn of its strength. 
 Mr. Taylor, the pastor, became discouraged, resigned his 
 office, and withdrew his ministry (1833,) and a total over- 
 throw seemed to be threatened. From the time of Elder 
 T.'s resignation, till 1839, the church was supplied by 
 various ministers, but the state of its affairs were such as 
 to paralyze every effort. At length, some began to reflect 
 more seriously upon the condition of the church. They 
 saw the church, like Israel in Babylon, in bondage to its 
 enemies, and without strength to work its own deliverance. 
 Tn this emergency, application was made to the Kennebec 
 Association for assistance. Assistance was afforded, by a 
 committee from that body, who met with the church Dec. 
 18, 1839, and after much prayerful investigation, they 
 advised a re-organization. The advice was received and 
 
204 CHURCH IN NORWAY. 
 
 ten members renewed fellowship and covenant, and adopted 
 the temperance pledge, as an article of their government. 
 Time has evinced that this was a wise and prudent proce- 
 dure. From this time to the present, union has character- 
 ized their movements, prosperity has attended their efforts, 
 and the ordinances of the sanctuary have been carefully 
 and punctually observed. 
 
 •Rev. Win. Smith, a licentiate from the church in In- 
 dustry, was received to membership, and ordained as an 
 evangelist, June 26, 1836. He preached one year. In 
 1838 Rev. D. McMaster began to preach to the church, 
 and was in 1839, elected pastor. He resigned in 1842, 
 and was soon succeeded by Rev. L. Packard, their present 
 pastor. The church is now in a state of prosperity. Its 
 number is increased to seventy-seven members. Elders 
 Taylor and McMaster are still among its worthy members.* 
 Besides those, whose names have been already mentioned, 
 deacon A. W. Cummings and Benjamin Jackson have 
 received license from this church to preach the gospel. 
 
 Norway. The Congregationalists gathered a small 
 church by their missionaries in 1802. But for many years 
 it was few in number and limited in its influence. Baptist 
 preachers visited the place with but small encouragement, 
 for a considerable length of time. A small church often 
 members however was constituted here in 1806. This 
 church was the offspring of the church in Paris. The late 
 Wm. Parsons was their first deacon, and Martin Stetson 
 is his successor. 
 
 The principles of a large portion of the people in town 
 ever have been quite skeptical ; consequently evangelical 
 truth and effort have always met with serious obstacles, 
 and the Baptists in common with other orthodox commu- 
 nities, have made but slow progress. Universalism has a 
 strong hold here. 
 
 *A. W. Cummings Com. and JVlin. K. A 
 
CHURCH IN HALLOWELL. 095 
 
 This church has had three pastors — John Wagg was or- 
 dained Oct. 1806, and officiated until 1809, with small 
 success. Rev. John Haines was elected pastor in 1827, 
 and resigned in 1836 ; and Rev. R. Milner, their present 
 pastor, was received the same year. During the interval 
 between the dismission of Mr. W. and the election of Eld. 
 H., the church was partially supplied by neighboring min- 
 isters, but obtained comparatively no increase, nor acquired 
 much influence. Under the ministry of their two last pas- 
 tors, they have made some progress, received some strength, 
 and exert some beneficial influence. Previous to 1829, they 
 had no regular place of worship. They now began to feel 
 that it was time to open a public sanctuary. Towards the 
 accomplishing of this, Mr. John Rust, a worthy member 
 of the church, made the first sacrifice, by the gift of a lot 
 of land for a meeting house. The church, encouraged by 
 this act of pious interest, purchased the meeting house 
 owned by the Universal ists, and moved it on to the spot 
 given by Mr. R., and it now remains their place of worship. 
 The church is now moving forward with a total of fifty 
 members.* 
 
 Hallowell. The ancient Hallowell, incorporated in 
 1771, included the settlements and territory where now is 
 seen the beautiful and imposing villages Hallowell and 
 Augusta. That part now called Augusta was incorporated 
 into a separate town by the name of Harrington in Feb. 
 1797, but the next June it received its present name. 
 
 Previous to 1786, there was a Congregational church 
 gathered in these settlements. But this church underwent 
 several changes, divisions and modifications, prior to the 
 settlement of Rev. Mr. Gillet, the present senior pastor in 
 Hallowell. f Soon, however, under his ministry things be- 
 gan to assume more permanency, and the denomination 
 
 *Rufus Bartlett's Com. (M. B. and O. A.) fGreen. Ecc. his. p. 197. 
 10 
 
206 CHURCH m HALLOWELL. 
 
 rose in power and influence. Prejudices now became very 
 strong, even to a passion for * Congregationalism,' and 
 * Pedo-baptism.' Baptist preachers, Elders Case, Potter 
 and others lectured here occasionally for several years be- 
 fore any direct movements were made to establish a Bap- 
 tist interest in the town. The first regular efforts made by 
 any Baptist, were by Rev. Henry Kendall, of Litchfield, 
 who by request preached a lecture once every two weeks 
 from January 1806, to the following March. At first 
 there was no Baptist, or place of worship for them in the 
 town. Deacon Gow, therefore, invited him to preach in 
 the school-house. But he was not permitted to occupy 
 this humble position but for a few times. Its doors were 
 closed against him. Mr. K. was not discouraged, nor did 
 his faith fail because of these evidences of a prevalent 
 spirit of opposition. God opened the way before him. A 
 room in a private house was provided for his accommoda- 
 tion, and here he continued his semi-monthly lectures. As 
 one of the fruits of these efforts, a Mrs. Knight was con- 
 verted, and on the 5th of April was baptized after the 
 word and fashion of her Lord and Saviour. This was the 
 first person ever baptized in Hallowell. A revival now 
 commenced, and the next person to manifest her love to 
 Christ was a Mrs. Hinkley. Converts multiplied, and in 
 a short time their private room became too strait for the 
 number of praying souls. The work increased, and opposi- 
 tion, strange as it may seem to the present generation, even 
 from those who ought to have been friends, became more 
 violent and obtrusive towards the Baptists. They however 
 persevered. The young christians obtained the privilege 
 of holding evening prayer meetings in an old house on the 
 bank of the river. Here they were much annoyed.* On 
 one occasion ' opposition' laid violent hands on the old 
 
 ■"Gathered from Rev. H. Kendall's Journal. 
 
CHURCH IN HALLOWELL— MINOT. ^07 
 
 shattered and half-fallen edifice in which they were assem- 
 bled as usual for prayer, with the wicked design of giving 
 it a 'turn over 1 down the bank. But the building stood, 
 and within its broken walls the Baptists sung songs of 
 victory. A Baptist church was organized in 1807, into 
 which these disciples were gathered. This church in Sep- 
 tember of that year, numbered twenty-nine. James Hink- 
 ley was interested from the beginning of the revival in 
 1806, and now became the deacon of the church, and 
 sustained the office with integrity and usefulness to the 
 church. 
 
 This church has had six pastors who have officiated with 
 acceptance and success, viz: Elders John Robinson from 
 1811 to 1817 ; Winthrop Morse from 1818 to 18J9 ; Dan- 
 iel Chessman from 1821 to 1830 ; Henry Fitz from 1830 
 to 1832; A. Drinkwater from 1834" to 1836 ; S. Adlam, 
 their present pastor, from 1838. By the ministrations of 
 these several servants of God, the church has gradually 
 grown until it has become an efficient body, provided with 
 a respectable house of worship, and other outward privileges 
 for comfort, convenience and usefulness. Besides a gen- 
 eral prosperity which the church has experienced amid all 
 her trials from external and internal causes, which are not 
 a few, the church has been blessed with many refreshing 
 revival seasons, two of which were conspicuously glorious 
 and cheering. The first of them was in 1824 and '25, 
 under the ministry of their third pastor ; the second was 
 in 1840, as a blessing on the labors of their present incum- 
 bent. This church is eminent for a spirit of enterprise 
 and benevolence, and especially for an ardor of feeling 
 against American slavery. The present number of mem- 
 bers is one hundred and eighty.* 
 
 Minot. The early plantations of Minot and Poland 
 
 »Min. B. A. 
 
208 CHURCH IN FREEPORT. 
 
 were known by the name of 'Bakerstown.' And in that 
 part since called ' Minot,' and now 'Auburn,' a Congre- 
 gational church was organized as early as 1792. About 
 this time Baptist preachers began to make some efforts to 
 promote the religious welfare of the people in this town. 
 And by means of their occasional visits and labors, a 
 church of the Baptist faith was gathered here in 1807. It 
 numbered in September of that year, when it united with 
 the Bowdoinham Association, twenty-seven members. It 
 was soon enlarged by additions, and in 1810 was blessed 
 with the settlement of Rev. George Ricker, from Buck- 
 field, as pastor.* Elder Ricker served the church, active- 
 ly sustaining the office of pastor till 1839, when on account 
 of infirmity and age, cheerfully received Rev. Noah Hooper 
 as minister and associate pastor. This aged servant still 
 feels for the prosperity of the church over whose spiritual 
 interests he has so long watched with prayerful solicitude, 
 with whom he has wept in times of adversity, and with 
 whom he has rejoiced, when blessed with prosperity. The 
 ministry of Elder Hooper continued about two years. In 
 1841, Rev. D. Hutchinson, of Hartford, supplied them 
 two-thirds of the time. Since that time they have had 
 but little preaching, except what they have received from 
 their aged and venerable pastor. 
 
 This church has enjoyed a gradual increase and general 
 prosperity. It has always maintained a character and 
 influence favorable to the Baptist cause in its' vicinity. It 
 now has a total of eighty-seven members. f 
 
 Freeport. Freeport is fifteen miles northeast of Port- 
 land. It was anciently a part of North Yarmouth. In 
 1789, it was incorporated by its present name, and the 
 same year a Congregational church of ten members was 
 organized.^ At this time Baptists were hardly known to 
 
 *Min. B. and C. A. fMin. C. A. jGreen. Eccl. his. p, 70. 
 
CHURCH IN FREEPORT. 209 
 
 the people in Yarmouth and Freeport. From the vague 
 idea of them, some supposed they must be quite another 
 race of beings, and could be described by no more appro- 
 priate name than ' awful creatures.' Soon, however, the 
 ' strange-fire,' as it was called, found its way into Yarmouth, 
 and thence to Freeport. Baptist preachers travelled and 
 preached, regarding neither the lines of towns or parishes, 
 but claimed for their field ' the entire world.' In perform- 
 ing their itinerant labors they did not go round Freeport, 
 but into it. They preached, and some few renounced Pedo- 
 baptism, and united with the church at North Yarmouth. 
 The way was opened for more stated labors in Freeport, 
 and Elders Titcomb, Green and Lewis favored them with 
 more frequent and regular preaching.* In 1807, Rev. 
 Thomas Paul preached a discourse in Freeport, which 
 gained much influence for the Baptists — and some revival 
 followed, which prepared additional materials for a church. 
 
 Those who had united with the church in North Yar- 
 mouth took their dismission, and uniting with others were 
 constituted into a church in Freeport, Nov. 3, 1807. The 
 next year Rev. Silas Stearns, who was ordained at North 
 Yarmouth, Oct. 23, 1807, and had done much towards 
 the gathering of this church, was receiyed as its minister, 
 (but not as a regular pastor.) He preached with good suc- 
 cess about two years, when he removed to Bath, leaving the 
 church in a prosperous state with fifty-three members. The 
 next two years the church was aided and blessed by the 
 ministry of Mr. Ebenezer Pinkham, another of its mem- 
 bers, and licensed by the church. 
 
 In 1808, their house of worship was built, and their first 
 pastor, Rev. Daniel Mason entered upon the duties of his 
 office Nov. 1813. He resigned his charge Oct. 1816. 
 Since which the church has had five pastors — Eld. Robert 
 
 *Zion's Advocate, 1828. 
 
5>10 SECOND CHURCH IN LISBON— PERJEPSCOT, 
 
 Mitchell ordained Nov. 10, 1817; Rev. Ferdinand Ellis; 
 Rev. Isaac S. Smith ; Rev. Jedediah Sargent, and Rev. 
 Edgar H. Gray. Rev. Horace Seaver was ordained as an 
 evangelist June 15, 1831, and supplied them a short time. 
 In 1839, Rev. John Butler preached with them for a short 
 period with good success.* Its present number is two 
 hundred and seven members.f 
 
 Lisbon Second, (now first church in Webster.) A 
 second Baptist church was gathered in Lisbon in 1808, 
 composed of thirteen members. It had the advantages of 
 but occasional preaching till 1817, when Rev. Win. Frost 
 became its pastor ; prosperity did not attend his efforts 
 with the church, and in 1820 he resigned his charge.! The 
 church, however, survived all its discouragements, and 
 maintained visibility. Joshua Haley, John Ross and Thos. 
 Alexander, were among its first promoters. In 1823, Rev. 
 Noah Hooper became pastor. 
 
 In 1826, the Lord did wonders in this place. The 
 church was raised like one out of the dust. She had long 
 laid in obscurity, but now was like a ' city on a hill.' Mr. 
 H. continued with this church about three years, and was 
 succeeded in 1827 by Rev. Jos. Roberts, who preached 
 about two years, and in 1829, Rev. Jotham Day became 
 its third pastor. He was pastor about four years. It has 
 since been without a pastor, and in a feeble state. Number 
 fifty-two. Dea. John Ross still lives to aid its operations. § 
 
 Perjepscot, (now Danville.) Previous to 1789, El- 
 ders Potter and Macomber labored here, and disciples 
 were gathered from Perjepscot (or Danville,) into the 
 church in Lewiston, an adjoining town on the east side of 
 Androscoggin river, Danville being on the west side. With 
 that church they enjoyed gospel privileges till 1808, when 
 God opened the way for the enjoyment of similar privileges 
 
 *Rev. E. H. Gray's Com. fMin. C. A. JMin. B. A. §Min. B. A. 
 
CHURCH IN CORiNVILLE. 21 1 
 
 in their own town. This year a very interesting revival 
 blessed the people of Danville, by means of the ministry of 
 Joseph Roberts, then a licentiate. This revival was ex- 
 tensive, and many souls were converted to God. In the 
 midst of this work of mercy those who belonged to the 
 church in Lewiston took their dismission, and were united 
 with others in a church in Danville. It numbered when 
 it united with the Bowdoinham Association, Sept. 1808, 
 fifty-six members.* In 1809, its number was increased to 
 sixty-seven. Dec. 1808, Rev. Jos. Roberts was ordained 
 pastor. These were interesting and truly blessed times 
 for the people in Danville. In 1810 eleven more were 
 added by baptism to their church. This church took the 
 name of Danville in 1819. Mr. Roberts resigned his 
 charge in 1823. In 1824, Elder Roberts returned, and in 
 1825, another revival brightened the prospect of the church. 
 Mr. R. again retired in 1827. The church then remained for 
 several years without an under-shepherd, and became small 
 and feeble. In 1838 Rev. John Butler made them a visit 
 and a refreshing season was enjoyed, the waste places were 
 clothed with verdure. The broken walls were repaired. 
 In 1839, Rev. S. Owen preached one half the time, and in 
 1840 they erected a house for the worship of God. Elder 
 Owen was pastor in 1841. In 1842 Moses Hanscom was 
 ordained to the work of an evangelist, and in 1843 became 
 pastor of the church. Numbers seventy-two, f 
 
 Cornville. Baptists were the first to make any special 
 religious movements in this town. In 1801, Rev. Joseph 
 Palmer, a member of the Baptist Church in Sharon, Vt. 
 was a resident in this then infant settlement, and began to 
 preach Christ to the people. A revival attended his efforts. 
 Some resident Baptists who had emigrated from different and 
 distant churches, were quickened, and some of the wicked 
 
 *Min. B. A. fMin. C. A. 
 
212 CHURCH IN HARMONY. 
 
 were converted to God. In May, 1801, a church of twen- 
 ty members was organized by Elders Palmer and Cain 
 from China. Eld. Palmer became a member and was 
 settled its first pastor. This was the first church organized 
 on the east side of Kennebec river, in Somerset County. 
 During the first year of its existence twenty-seven were 
 added by baptism and by letter. In 1808 Elder Palmer 
 resigned his pastoral charge. In February of the same 
 year John Robinson, one of the original members of the 
 church, was ordained as an evangelist. Rev. L Case 
 preached the ordination sermon.* In 1809 Eld. P. removed 
 to Sidney, leaving a pledge to supply them one-fourth of 
 the time on the days of their regular communion. In 1810 
 Mr. R. served them one-fourth of the time. 
 
 Rev. Isaac Bridges was ordained pastor 1815, but was 
 dismissed in 1817. From the close of Eld. Palmer's min- 
 istry to 1827, the church had the privilege of but a small 
 amount of faithful preaching, consequently its numbers 
 diminished. About the close of 1827, Seneca Stanley, a 
 licentiate of the church in Belgrade, began to preach here. 
 Sept. 1828, Mr. S. became a member, and in October was 
 ordained an evangelist, but with a view of supplying this 
 church statedly. In 1830 he was elected pastor. He ac- 
 cepted the office and faithfully and successfully filled it till 
 his death in 1838. During the ministry of Mr. S. one 
 hundred and twenty-one were added to the church by bap- 
 tism, and his name is still dear in the memory of this peo- 
 ple. March, 1839, Rev. Dudley P. Bailey became pastor 
 of this church. Its present number is one hundred and 
 thirty-one.f [Mr. B. resigned and removed to St. Al- 
 bans in 1844.] 
 
 Harmony. This second church in Somerset County 
 was gathered about the same time of that in Cornville. 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. fMin. K. A. (1840 ) his. sk. by Rev. D. P. Bailey. 
 
CHURCH IN DENMARK. 213 
 
 Elder Palmer was the principal human agent in the work. 
 But the people in general were strongly inclined to ' Free- 
 willism,' and this organization soon became much scat- 
 tered. In 1808 they were visited by Benjamin Ames, then 
 a licentiate, and his labors were much blessed among them ; 
 and in December of that year by Elder Case, then engaged 
 in Missionary labors. He says : ' I found the church in a 
 broken and unpleasant state.' ' A day of Fasting and 
 Prayer was held,' and ' a day was spent in consultation 
 upon what was best to be done for the good of the 
 church.'* The r suit of these movements was the re-or- 
 ganization of the church. Elder Case gave the right hand 
 of fellowship. He then baptized several persons and left 
 them. September, 1809, it reported to the Bowdoinham 
 Association a total of twenty-eight members. 1812 and 
 '13, the church enjoyed the labors of Eld. Bisbee, and 
 received nine members ; and again from 1816 to 1820, and 
 thirty-two were addod ; and again from 1822 to 1826, when 
 seventeen were added. Since Elder Bisbee closed his 
 ministry with this church they have had preaching but' 
 about half of the time. This labor has been performed 
 mostly by neighboring ministers, among whom we find 
 the names of Elders Stanley, Jones, Page, Piper and 
 Hatch. The church has become small and feeble, and 
 yet is encouraged to persevere, with a total of twenty-one 
 members. f 
 
 Denmark. This church was gathered in 1804 as the 
 fruits of the labors of Rev. Tristram Jordan, who became 
 its pastor. It was the first Baptist church that was organ- 
 ized in the south-west part of Oxford County. Elder 
 Jordan labored almost in vain till about 1820, when the 
 members were so much diminished that he resigned his 
 office. | This year the Cumberland Association, (with 
 
 *Eld. C.'s Jour. +Min, of B. K. P. and P. A. fMirj. C. A. 1820. 
 10* 
 
214 CHURCH IN WELD. 
 
 which body the church united in 1811,) appointed a select 
 committee to examine into their state. The committee 
 reported that the church still existed, but that it was not in 
 a prosperous condition. It was now dismissed to unite 
 with York Association, but it did not become a member of 
 that body till 1829. It then had forty members ; and with 
 the same number it united with Oxford, 1831. In 1832, 
 this afflicted church began to sing for joy. One of their 
 members, Larkin L. Jordan began to preach, and was ap- 
 probated by a license to go before them in the gospel. Mr. 
 Jordan was ordained pastor in 1835, and in 1839, the time 
 to favor Zion came, and the church was enlarged by a 
 special revival. Elder J. continues to be useful with the 
 church, and an annual prosperity encourages their faith. 
 Their present number is sixty-one .* 
 
 Weld. This town was first called No. 5. Deacon A. 
 Holt removed here with his family in 1803, and made the 
 fifth resident in the place. Very few of the first settlers 
 were professors of religion, and emigration being rapid 
 and mostly of young men, ' wild and worldly,' no attention 
 was given to the things of piety. Rev. L. Jackson, from 
 Greene, visited Weld in 1804, and opened a religious 
 meeting. In 1809, this wilderness began to blossom, and 
 springs broke forth in the parched desert. God came down 
 and souls were converted. The first converts were bap- 
 tized by Elder Thos. Wyman. To the influence of this 
 revival the church in Weld, constituted July, 1809, owes 
 its existence. Asa Holt and Amaziah Reed were chosen 
 deacons ; the latter was ordained as an evangelist Sept. 
 1811. Elder Jackson resided among these brethren and 
 was their pastor till 1823, and then removed with his family 
 to the State of Ohjo. Mr. Reed furnished the church 
 occasional supplies. 
 
 *Min. O. A. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN SANGERVILLE. 2|5 
 
 This hill of Zion was watered again in 1826, and sixty- 
 three were hopefully converted. They were baptized by 
 Elders Low and Mayhew, and added to the church. Elder 
 M. preached about one year, and from that time to 1837, 
 they had only occasional supplies. This year Rev. Luther 
 Perkins removed from Woodstock to Weld, and became 
 pastor to the satisfaction of the church, and still continues 
 his charge. 
 
 This church has had two distinguished revivals. But it 
 appears from some cause that many were gathered into 
 the church at these seasons, with no better faith than had 
 1 Simon Magus.' Within five years after the first, in 1809, 
 eighteen of the number added were excluded ; and within 
 eight years from the second, in 1826, twenty-nine of the 
 sixty-three were excluded from the church. How cautious 
 ought churches to be when receiving members in a revival ! 
 Their present number is fifty-two.* 
 
 Sangerville, First Church. A church was organ- 
 ized in this town in the beginning of 180S, and was the 
 first church gathered by the Baptists or by any sect in the 
 Piscataquis County. It was then called ' Piscataquis' or 
 ' No. 4.' By means of Missionaries, Eld. N. Gould and 
 others, a revival was experienced in the place. In January 
 of this year, Elders Thomas Macomber and Gould, mis- 
 sionaries for the Maine Domestic Missionary Society, after 
 travelling over most of the Penobscot County, in bad roads, 
 and much of the time on foot, arrived at this place. 
 Here they found ten persons, (four males and six females,) 
 waiting for the Lord to send some one to baptize them. 
 They were examined and baptized by Eld. Macomber. 
 There were at this time but thirteen families in town, but the 
 comfort and safety of those who professed Christ rendered 
 it expedient that they should be embodied into a church. 
 
 *Deacon A. Holt's Com. Min. IS. C. O. Asso. 
 
216 FIRST CHURCH IN SANGERVILLE. 
 
 This was done by these missionaries. A church with 
 twelve members was constituted, and increased to the 
 number of sixteen before they left. Soon after Rev. H. 
 Kendall visited them and was beneficial to the people. 
 About this time Wm. Oaks was reclaimed from a wander- 
 ing state and was soon licensed to preach the gospel. 
 During this revival in S., several in Guilford were con- 
 verted who constituted the germs of the Baptist interest in 
 that town.* 
 
 In 1809, this church reported to the Bowdoinham Asso- 
 ciation twenty-three members, but being small, and with- 
 out a leader, and situated at so great a distance from the 
 places where the Association usually met, it withdrew its 
 relation to that body, and remained isolated and alone till 
 it lost its visibility. In 1823, it was reorganized with sev- 
 eral members from Guilford, and Rev. Daniel Bartlett 
 became its pastor. It united again with the Bowdoinham 
 Association with thirty-four members. Rev. Mr. B. offi- 
 ciated usefully till 1828, when he resigned, leaving the 
 church with its numbers increased to seventy-two, by a 
 revival in 1827. f This was the most prosperous period in 
 the history of the church. The year 1831, was a fruitful 
 one to the church. Its numbers were increased by fifty- 
 four baptisms. It has since had one pastor, Rev. A. 
 Clarke, from 1836, two or three years. J A train of trials 
 now began, which for some years disturbed the peace and 
 hindered the prosperity of the church ; and although aided 
 by the semi-monthly labors of Rev. E. W. Cressy, in 1838 
 and '39; C. P. Sinclair, licentiate, 1841; yet constant 
 ' internal commotion,' and a separation of some of its mem- 
 bers to form a new church, have operated to reduce the 
 number of members to the small total of twenty-one. These 
 brethren are in a low, discouraged state. § 
 
 *Eld. T. Macomber's Jour. fMin. B. A. JMiri. P. A. §Min. P. A. 
 
CHURCH IN BRIDGTON. 217 
 
 Bridgton. Bridgton is the most northwestern town in 
 Cumberland County, and was first settled about 1770. A 
 Congregational church of seventeen members was gathered 
 here in 1784, and a pastor settled in 1789.* Baptist sen- 
 timents began to exert an influence on the minds of some 
 in this town, about the commencement of the present cen- 
 tury. But no particular movement was made here by 
 Baptist preachers previous to 1806 or 1807. Eld. Jordan, 
 of Denmark, was influential in promoting the gathering of a 
 church in 1807, and in the increase and general prosperity 
 of the Baptist interest in Bridgton for many years. The 
 original number of members was eight ; and when Rev. 
 Reuben Ball, their first pastor, entered upon his labors in 
 1812, the number was about thirty. This year N. Bray, 
 jr. was licensed to preach, and his labors united with those 
 of their active pastor, secured for the church a special 
 blessing. A revival increased the number of members to 
 about fifty. Eld. B's labors were acceptable and useful, 
 till they were closed in 1826. He died at Greene. 
 
 Rev. John Haines succeeded Eld. Bray in the pastoral 
 office in 1827, and with him commenced a rapid succession 
 of pastors, who have officiated with advantage to the church. 
 The following are their names : Elders Wm. Wyman from 
 1828, three years ; Reuben Milner, 1832, one year ; W. 
 O. Grant, from 1834, two years ; L. L. Jordan, 1836, one 
 year ; Jacob Bray, ordained, from 1837, four years; since 
 destitute of a pastor. When destitute, the church has 
 received a profitable supply by Elders Harlow, Beckworth, 
 Leonard, Johnson, Howe, L. Tripp, &lc. There was some 
 revival in 1838. Two churches, Harrison, 1827, and 
 Sweden, 1833, originated in this church ; and four of its 
 members have become preachers of the gospel, Eld. Bray, 
 D. E. Burbank, Rufus Chase, and Edmund Watson. This 
 
 *Green. Eccl. his. p. 126. 
 
218 CHURCH IN HARTFORD. 
 
 church has had many trials, but has met them with patient 
 endurance. Its present number is fifty-seven, who are in 
 somewhat a tried state, and without a pastor.* 
 
 Hartford. Some few of the early settlers in Hartford 
 were emigrants from distant Baptist churches. But the 
 most of those who became Baptists in town previous to the 
 existence of the church, were converted into their senti- 
 ments by means of the influence of the Baptist church in 
 Livermore.f Several were dismissed from that church in 
 1810, who were the same year united in church relation. 
 The church now organized, had eighteen members. Rev. 
 Reuben Ball labored with the Baptists here something 
 more than a year about this time, and was instrumental of 
 preparing the way for the future progress of the cause. In 
 1812, we find them destitute. Rev. Daniel Hutchinson 
 was settled pastor of this church in 1816. At first, the 
 church obtained great prosperity under his ministry, be- 
 came a large and happy body of disciples. In 1818, their 
 number was ninety-six; and in 1821, Rev. D. Bartlett 
 received a license from the church to preach. But a 
 severe trial soon disturbed their harmony, marred their 
 fellowship, and resulted in the exclusion of about twenty, 
 among whom was their once beloved and useful pastor. 
 Mr. H. became a ' Mixed Communionist,' and led away 
 several of the church into the same errors. 
 
 In 1822, several members were dismissed to constitute 
 a church in Canton. By these exclusions and dismissions 
 the church was reduced in 1825, to fifty-six members. 
 From this time to 1830, the church was assisted by a por- 
 tion of the labors of Walter Marshall, a licentiate, but still 
 sustained a loss of members. In the winter of 1830, Rev. 
 Walter Foss, of Leeds, preached frequently with much 
 success, and to the increase of the church ; Mr. F. continued 
 
 *Rev. J. Bray's Com.— Min. O. A. |Rev. J. Haines' Com.;? 
 
CHURCH IN MONMOUTH— PALMYRA. 219 
 
 some occasional labors here for two or three years after- 
 wards, and aided by the occasional ministry of neighboring 
 preachers, the church has since prospered. 
 
 In 1837, Rev. D. Hutchinson having renounced his 
 anti-gospel notions upon ' communion,' was restored to the 
 church, and was received as pastor. He officiated till 1842, 
 when the church was again left without a pastor, and is 
 still destitute, but not without the preached word. The 
 present number of the church is sixty-eight.* 
 
 Monmouth. Baptists began to appear in Monmouth as 
 early as 1793. f Eld. Case, while pastor of the church in 
 Readfield, preached some in East Monmouth, and a few 
 persons became pious and united with that church. In 
 1810, they were dismissed, and a church in Monmouth 
 was organized. It reported eighteen members to the As- 
 sociation in Sept. of that year. Rev. Elias Nelson origi- 
 nated in this church, and from it he received a license in 
 1813.J Mr. Nelson was ordained pastor in 1814, and 
 until his resignation in 1817, the church gradually increas- 
 ed. But being destitute of a preached gospel, and possess- 
 ing much inefficiency in itself, the church was dropped 
 from the Association in 1822, as having no existence. It 
 then numbered twenty-four members. § 
 
 Palmyra. Palmyra is one of the southeastern towns 
 in Somerset County, and was among the first to be settled 
 in that vicinity. Baptist preachers and missionaries occa- 
 sionally travelled through this new settlement, and as some 
 of the original settlers were Baptists, they became ac- 
 quainted here and lectured to the people. A small church 
 of seven members was gathered here in 1810, and the 
 same year united with the Bowdoinham Association. In 
 1816 it numbered eleven members, and received Rev. 
 Joseph Blaisdell as their pastor. In 1818, there was some 
 
 **Min. C.A.andO.A. fEld. Case's Journal. JMin.B.A. SMin.B.A. 
 
220 CHURCH IN PALMYRA. 
 
 revival in the church, and thirty-four were added by bap- 
 tism. This encouraged both pastor and people. But as 
 is the ' morning cloud,' so was the prosperity of this church. 
 This awakening was rapidly succeeded by a declension ; 
 in 1822 the church had no pastor, and in 1824 their num- 
 ber was reduced to twenty-four. Elder Blaisdell preached 
 in 1825, and some additions were made to the church.* 
 From this time till 1828, the church maintained existence 
 by occasional preaching, and by the pious and constant 
 efforts of their worthy deacon Towle, who was one of its 
 original members. This year Rev. Joseph Roberts became 
 pastor. He served the church about five years, but with 
 small success. During the year 1834, Rev. D. T. Allen 
 preached some to the church, and several souls were 
 converted.! 
 
 As some of the members of this church resided in St. 
 Albans, the church in 1835, took the double name, ' Pal- 
 myra and St. Albans.' Elder Roberts is still a member, 
 but the church had but little preaching till 1838. Now 
 begins a new era in the history of this church. Rev. H. 
 Havves became the pastor, and a most precious revival was 
 enjoyed and more than three scores of souls were added 
 to the church. Mr. H. was pastor about two years, and 
 left the church with its numbers increased from fifty-four 
 to one hundred and seventy. The main body of this 
 church is now in St. Albans.f In 1842, Rev. O. B. 
 Walker was pastor. ' In 1843 some changes took place 
 affecting somewhat the position of the church. Twelve 
 of its members residing in Palmyra, among whom was 
 Father Roberts, were dismissed and organized into a 
 church by the name of ' Second Palmyra ;' and as some 
 of the old church were residents in Hartland Village, it 
 took the name, ' St. Albans and Hartland Village,' Rev. 
 
 *Min. B. A. 1Min. P. A. 
 
CHURCH IN NEW PORTLAND. 221 
 
 Comfort Taylor is its present pastor, and it is prospering 
 with a total of one hundred and seventy-three members. 
 This church is in the midst of a growing community, and 
 promises eminent usefulness in the cause of God.* 
 
 New Portland, (' formerly called Million Acres.') 
 The religious sentiments of the early inhabitants in this 
 town were to the fullest extent e Ar mini an,' as held in those 
 days by the Free-will Baptists. The first religious efforts 
 here were made by that sect. Within the years 1809 and 
 '10, Elders Thomas Wyman and Henry Kendall visited 
 this place, and preached a few sermons each, and a church 
 of fifteen members was organized in 1810. But for want 
 of further assistance, and being much scattered in a thin- 
 ly populated community, the church within a half dozen 
 years lost its visibility. Subsequently, as the population 
 increased, Baptist professors from different churches be- 
 came residents here. Feeling the loss of former privileges, 
 they unitedly prayed that God would be merciful to them 
 in their destitute condition.! Their prayer was not in 
 vain. In 1837, Elder John Haines visited them, and by 
 his instrumentality a church of nine members was organ- 
 ized in Aug. 1837, to be called ' New Portland and King- 
 field,' and Nathan Thomas was made their deacon. 
 
 This church had no pastor till Rev. W. E. Morse accept- 
 ed their call in 1842. Previous to this time the church 
 was favored with a supply about half the time by various 
 ministers. Elders N. Mayhew, E. G. Leach, and D. T. 
 Allen, have been useful to the prosperity of this church, 
 with the exception of some trials occasioned by some im- 
 prudences of Rev. E. G. Leach. 
 
 Their present pastor, Rev. W. E. Morse, commenced his 
 labors while a licentiate, and has been a profitable minister 
 tothe church. He was ordained Sept. 1, 1841. The church 
 is now called New Portland and has thirty-six members.! 
 *Min. P. A. fJames Moody Ch. Ck, and Min. K. A. 
 
222 SECOND CHURCH IN LIVERMORE. 
 
 CHAPTER XIII. 
 
 Churches added to the Bowdoinham Association since 1311 — Third Church 
 Livermore — Second Canaan, (now Skowhegan) — Moscow — Philips- 
 Second Mt. Vernon, a temporary church — Topsham — First Church Gar- 
 diner — Guilford — Waterville — Parkman— Brighton, a temporary church- 
 Canaan, formerly Canaan Second — Norridgewock — Athens — Gardiner 
 Second Church — Anson — Second Bowdoinham — East Dixfteld — Ripley — 
 Corinna — Winthrop — Newport — Monmouth — Norridgewock— Madison — 
 Hallowell — Third Gardiner — South Bowdoin — East Monmouth — Pittston 
 — Monmouth Centre — Second Litchfield — Second Leeds. 
 
 Livermore, Third Church. This church is situated 
 on the east side of Androscoggin river adjoining Fayette. 
 A few of the members of the ' first' church resided here ; 
 and in the neighborhood called ' Moose hill,' in Fayette ; 
 a number more belonged to the church in Fayette. These 
 members were dismissed from their respective churches in 
 1812, and organized into a church by the name of the third 
 Livermore, and reported to the Association in Sept thirty- 
 seven members, with Thomas Wyman pastor. In 1817, a 
 revival was enjoyed within the limits of this church. Sixty 
 eight were now added by baptism. Eld. W. was succeeded 
 in the pastoral office in 1818, by Rev. E. Nelson, from Mon- 
 mouth. Mr. N. labored till 1821, when he resigned, hav- 
 ing had the pleasure of seeing but little prosperity. Rev. 
 Robert Low became pastor in 1824, and the church was 
 now refreshed with a revival, but less than the first — Elder 
 Low was their successful pastor till 1832. From 1833 to 
 1837, constituted a period in which the church experienced 
 a train of severe internal trials. But this year (1837) the 
 cloud of discouragement seemed to break away, and the 
 church was restored to its former harmony. They pros- 
 pered even now with but occasional preaching, not having 
 another pastor till 1841. Rev. O. B. Walker officiated for 
 them that year. Since that period the church has had a 
 supply generally, and has a total of seventy members.* 
 
 *Min. B. A. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN CANAAN— MOSCOW. 223 
 
 Second Canaan, (now Skowhegan.) This chureh is 
 located on the east side of the Kennebec river, opposite to 
 Bloomfield. Its second name was ' first Canaan,' its third 
 'Milburn,' and its fourth, the one it now bears. Here is a 
 pleasant village, where the church now centre. The church 
 originated with members who first belonged to the churches 
 in Bloomfield and Clinton, residents of this place. For 
 convenience and the extension of Baptist influence, these 
 members, twenty in all, were embodied into a church, Jan. 
 7, 1813. 
 
 Their number was small, and surrounded by other de- 
 nominations who had become occupants of this field previous 
 to their organization. Their days of prosperity have been 
 few, and those of trial and discouragement many. For a 
 period of thirty years they were not able to provide for 
 themselves the benefit of a pastor or stated ministry, except 
 for some short periods ; and consequently obtained but a 
 small net increase. Those ministers who favored this 
 church with occasional supplies, are the Rev. Messrs. 
 Jonathan Steward, James Steward, Robert Coburn, Joseph 
 Roberts, Joseph Wagg, M. Cain, and L. Packard, each 
 preaching a portion of the time during short seasons. 
 
 Rev. L. Packard preached one fourth of the time in 
 1839, and the church began to see days of prosperity, and 
 was enlarged in 1840, to forty members. Rev. John Rob- 
 ertson, their first pastor, entered upon his labors in 1843. 
 Their present number is forty-two. 
 
 Rev. Win. Oakes,* a member of this church was ordain- 
 ed as an evangelist Feb. 1815. f Several of the original 
 members still live to witness the progress of the cause they 
 so early embraced. 
 
 Moscow. This place was first called Bakerstown, and 
 was then the most northern settlement on the eastern bank 
 
 ^Deposed and excluded from the denomination in 1821, for immoralities. 
 tRev. L. Packard's Com., Min B. and K. A. 
 
224 PHILIPS— SECOND MT. VERNON— TOPSHAM. 
 
 of the Kennebec river. It had but few inhabitants and 
 few religious privileges. A Baptist church of nineteen 
 members was gathered here in 1812, by Elders Thomas 
 Merrill and Joseph Palmer, Some aid was afforded this 
 feeble vine by the Maine Missionary Society and State 
 Convention, and by visiting brethren. Rev. Isaac Morse 
 of Madison, has rendered them important benefits. Since 
 1840, the church has been more prosperous, although they 
 are still weak, and residing at such large distances from 
 each other, their privileges remain but few. They have 
 enjoyed the blessing of a pastor's labors but one year dur- 
 ing their whole existence. This was in 1842, by Elder I. 
 Morse. Their present number is thirty-seven members.* 
 
 Philips. A small church of fourteen members was 
 organized in this town in 1813. But it never prospered. 
 In 1816 Rev. Samuel Wheeler made some effort to build 
 it up, but in vain. As the Lord left Ephraim so He ' let 
 them alone.' It became extinct in 1822. No Baptist 
 church has since existed in that town.f 
 
 Mt. Vernon Second Church A small church of eight 
 members was organized in this town in 1814, but it never 
 prospered. It lived about three years and then died in 
 infancy. | 
 
 Topsham. The first Baptist preaching in Topsham was 
 by Eld. Simon Locke, it is believed in 1779. On the 5th 
 of June, he baptized Miss R. Purington, who was the first 
 to receive the ordinance in the town. J 
 
 Previous to this, 1771, a church was gathered here upon 
 Presbyterian foundation. But this fell, and upon its re- 
 mains a Congregational church was organized in 1789, 
 and even this body has never been very successful. § From 
 1782 Rev, Mr. Potter preached in this town occasionally 
 
 *Asa Bakers Com. and Min. B. and K. A. fMin. B. A. 1813, 1822. 
 JRev G. Knox's Com. §Green. Ecc. his. p. 98. 
 
CHURCH IN TOPSHAM. 225 
 
 for several years but with no lasting effect. He says, 
 speaking of the result of his labors in T., 'I saw no fruit 
 attending my labors, but the stopping the mouths of gain- 
 sayers.'* Rev. Mr. Case was here and preached to the 
 ' awakening of several persons' in 1783, and soon others 
 preached in town occasionally. f The next baptism was 
 administered by Elder Macomber. The time is not known, 
 but must be subsequent to 1784, when he was ordained. 
 The Baptists, however, did not by these operations gain 
 much influence in the town. 
 
 A church was not gathered here until a sufficient number 
 of members from churches in other places had become resi- 
 dents in town, to render it expedient ' for their mutual and 
 spiritual advancement in the divine life, and for the upbuild- 
 ing of the cause of the Redeemer,' to organize. This number 
 was found in 1815, (three males and five females,) who on 
 the 2d of September were organized into a church at Oak- 
 hill, so called, in T. Elder Kendall preached on the oc- 
 casion ; and although a small one, and without any regular 
 preaching or convenient place of worship, prosperity 
 attended their efforts. When Elder Kendall became its 
 pastor, 1818, the church numbered more than fifty. In 
 18:24, the Baptists were able to build a small meeting 
 house in the village, at a cost of £600, where they worship- 
 ped till 1835, when they built their present house at a cost of 
 $3000. Elder K. officiated as pastor about ten years with- 
 out the support of a regular salary. Their next pastor was 
 Rev. Charles Johnson, ordained May 27, 1835. But death 
 severed the relation in less than one year. In 1837, Rev. 
 E. R. Warren entered the office and continued with the 
 church about four years. Rev. George Knox, their present 
 pastor, entered upon his work here by ordination Dec. 15, 
 1841. During the ministry of Messrs. Kendall and War- 
 
 *Fot. Nar. p. 22. fEld. Case's Journal. 
 
226 FIRST CHURCH IN GARDINER. 
 
 ren the church experienced revivals, and was much en- 
 larged.* The revival in 1840, was the most distinguished 
 for the zeal of the church and the large number of con- 
 verts. Meetings were held for more than one hundred 
 successive evenings, and one hundred and fifty-two per- 
 sons were added to the church by baptism. This church 
 has had many trials. Elders Winslow Staples, A. Wilson, 
 and Robert F. Ellis, were sent out from this church ; and 
 the Main Street church in Brunswick owes its existence 
 to the success of the Baptists in Topsham. The church 
 is now large, liberal and prosperous. Their present num- 
 ber is two hundred and fourteen members.* 
 
 Gardiner, First Church. The first religious society 
 organized in Gardiner was Episcopalian. This society 
 commenced with the settlement of the town in 1771. The 
 foundation for this society was laid by Dr. Sylvester Gar- 
 diner, the original proprietor of the town.f In 1802 the 
 Methodists commenced operations here, and have become 
 a numerous and influential body.j: The Baptists made 
 but few and occasional efforts till towards the close of 
 1815. Travelling preachers and missionaries had surveyed 
 the field, but finding it wholly occupied, they chose to 
 operate in other places. In the autumn of 1815, Rev. 
 Levi Young was blessed with seeing some fruits of his 
 labors in this town. Several persons were converted and 
 baptized, who, together with a few resident Baptists were 
 constituted into a church of sixteen members on the 14th 
 of December. This revival progressed into the next 
 year, 1816, and the church was considerably enlarged. 
 This movement laid the foundation for the Baptist cause 
 in Gardiner. For several years this church was blessed 
 with the ministry of Elder Young, although somewhat irreg- 
 ularly, and was encouraged to hold on their way. From 
 
 *Rev. George Knox's Com. fGreen. Eccl. sk. p. 227. JAp p. 54. 
 
CHURCH IN GUILFORD. 037 
 
 about 1820 to 1824, the church was destitute, had but 
 little preaching and suffered a loss of numbers. Towards 
 the close of 1825 the church was again rejoiced by a 
 special refreshing. Elders Case and C. Clark rendered 
 the church eminent service at this time. Elder Case 
 preached here some in 1826. This year Rev. T. B. 
 Robinson received a license from this church to preach 
 Christ to perishing sinners, and to feed his lambs. 
 
 In 1833, Rev. A. Bedel became pastor. He labored five 
 years with the church, and saw the displays of divine grace 
 among the people in 1836 and '37. Rev. E. Coy, succeed- 
 ed Eld. B. and preached one year, 1838. The next pastor 
 was Rev. A. M. Piper, 1840. Rev. Rufus Chase was with 
 them from 1841 to 1843. Their present number is one 
 hundred and twenty-eight members. This church has had 
 some peculiar trials. Their place of worship was a school- 
 house for many years. At length opposition awoke among 
 the Universalists. Through their influence the district 
 voted that ' no religious meetings should be held in their 
 house.' The Baptists, from necessity, provided for them- 
 selves a place ol worship in 1837.* 
 
 Guilford. In Guilford, in 1806, was commenced one 
 of the first settlements on the Piscataquis river. The sur- 
 rounding country was a dense forest, with here and there 
 a small opening. In 1808, Robert Herring, a member of 
 the church in New Gloucester, became a resident. About 
 this time there was some revival in Sangerville,f and sever- 
 al in Guilford were converted by its influence. Mr. Her- 
 ring now opened an evening meeting for prayer in his own 
 house, and here commenced the first public religious exer- 
 cises in town. During the progress of these meetings, a 
 singular and interesting incident occurred. It is related 
 
 *Rev. A. M. Piper's Com. Eld. Case's Jour, and Miu. B. A. fSee his. 
 of that Ch. 
 
228 CHURCH IN GUILFORD- 
 
 that ' on one evening the burden of each prayer was, O 
 Lord, send us one to break unto us the bread of life.' 
 Before the meeting closed, a stranger entered, and to their 
 joyful surprise, this stranger was Rev. John Dagget, of 
 Greene, who came as a missionary among them. By his 
 presence and preaching, these humble disciples were com- 
 forted and encouraged. 
 
 Others from New Gloucester soon became residents 
 here. This induced Rev. R. Low, who had been a former 
 pastor of the church in New Gloucester, to visit this settle- 
 ment. He continued his visits several years. And by 
 emigrations and conversions, he found that the resident 
 Baptists in town had increased to a sufficient number to 
 constitute a church. On the 7th of Jan. 1813, he embodi- 
 ed fourteen persons in that relation, and R. Herring was 
 made its worthy deacon. There was no opposition here to 
 the Baptists This church was blessed with a moderate 
 prosperity, having not much preaching till 1816. This 
 year Rev. Thomas Macomber was elected pastor. He 
 entered upon the duties of the office and sustained the 
 charge over the 'church for aperiod of nineteen years, when 
 from a sense of duty, he resigned. He was the kind and 
 affectionate pastor, and the church during his ministry was 
 blessed with an addition by baptism of one hundred and 
 eighteen. 
 
 After the resignation of Eld. M. in 1S35, the church 
 mourned their loss, but prayed to God that he would pro- 
 vide for them another spiritual guide. In 1836, D. K 
 Burbank, a student of Waterville College, made them a 
 visit, and his visit being signally blessed of God, and the 
 earnest entreaty of the church, induced Mr. B. to be or- 
 dained pastor. Sickness, however, terminated his useful 
 labors here, with the close of his second pastoral year. Rev. 
 Lucius Bradford succeeded him in 1838. Rev. T. Gold 
 
CHURCH IN WATERVILLE. 009 
 
 thwait and Re\ r . L. Kingman, their present pastor, have 
 successively officiated since the resignation of Mr. Brad- 
 ford, 1841. 
 
 Elders Zenas Hall and Daniel Bartlett, were ordained to 
 the work of the ministry at the call of this church. The 
 churches in Parkman, Sangerville, Monson, and Abbot, 
 have received members from this church to aid their pros- 
 perity. Their house of worship was buiit in 1832. This 
 church is a benevolent body, and operates liberally with 
 missionary efforts. Its present number is ninety-three.* 
 
 Waterville. Baptists and their doctrines were known 
 at a much earlier date than the organization of the church 
 in Waterville. Travelling and neighboring ministers had 
 preached here, and several persons residents in town 
 became believers in their creed. It was not however till a 
 few months after the establishing of the Maine Literary and 
 Theological Institution in W., that a church was embodied 
 in the town. Thirteen persons who had united with the 
 first church in Sidney, took their dismission in 1818, and 
 united with seven others, then members of the Institution, 
 in church relation, on the 27th of August in that year. The 
 church therefore ' owes its existence' mostly to the influ- 
 ence of the Institution. 
 
 For several years, although blessed with an eminent 
 ministry, many causes operated to retard an accelerated 
 progress. The members were much scattered, their place 
 for worship was removed about like the 'Shepherd's Tent,' 
 and their ' communion table was spread' at all their differ- 
 ent places for worship. Soon after the church was founded, 
 Mrs. Prudence Farewell, of Cambridge, Mass., presented 
 to them a beautiful set of communion furniture ; the church 
 in Salem, two dresses for baptismal occasions ; and Lin- 
 coln and Edmunds of Boston, ' a pulpit bible.' Rev. Jere- 
 
 *Rev. L. Bradford's Com. -Mid Min- B. P.'P. Asso. 
 11 
 
230 CHURCH in waterville; 
 
 miah Chaplin, the President of the Institution, was called 
 to the pastoral care of the church, Sept. 16, 1818. But 
 the church regarding themselves as feeble, and supposing 
 that the emoluments at the Institution sufficient to furnish 
 him with a competent living, no stipulated salary was offer- 
 ed him. After two years prosperity, however, they felt 
 themselves able to do something towards the support of 
 their pastor. Rev. S. Chapin and Rev. A. Briggs were 
 voted by the church associate pastors, May 5, 1823 ; which 
 ' arrangement continued till October 1824, when Rev, S. 
 Chapin became sole pastor.' ' Of the persons added to the 
 church by baptism, much historical interest is attached to 
 the beloved Missionary Boardman, who was baptized July 
 16, 1820.' 
 
 In 1827, they erected their present commodious house 
 of worship. Hitherto they had been nurtured by the Insti- 
 tution, but now they ' began to feel the importance of 
 standing by themselves, and of feeding the College with 
 the means of grace, instead of being fed by it.' And aided 
 by the Massachusetts Baptist Convention, they settled Rev. 
 Hervey Fitz by ordination as pastor, Oct. 7, 1829. His 
 stay with the church, however, was short, occupying the 
 pastoral office with them but a little more than a year ; 
 during which there \vas some special mercy received, and 
 some additions made to the church. In 1831, twenty-two 
 members were dismissed to form a church in Fairfield, 
 This was ' an ill-advised step.' For after lingering seven 
 years without influence or usefulness, it became extinct. 
 
 The next pastor who officiated in the church was Rev. 
 H. K. Green, who was placed in charge by installation Oct. 
 5, 1831. During his stay, a period of two years, the church 
 was enlarged by fifty-four baptisms, besides a large number 
 by letter. He was succeeded by Rev. S. F. Smith, who 
 began preaching with the church in the capacity of a 
 
CHURCH IN PARKMAN. 231 
 
 licentiate, Jan. 1, 1S34, and was inducted into the pastoral 
 office by ordination Feb. 12th. Mr. Smith labored here 
 most successfully for a period of eight years. Under his 
 ministry the church was refreshed and enlarged by two 
 very signal and extensive revivals. The church was next 
 favored with the able ministry of Rev. David N. Sheldon, 
 now President of Waterville College. He entered the office 
 of pastor in 1842, and continued to favor the church, till 
 his call to the Presidency of the College in 1843. Another 
 very extensive and rich harvest was gathered during his 
 ministry. This church has been a home for many of the 
 members of the College, which will account for the large 
 number added by letter. And from its connection with 
 the College, that institution being located in its very bosom, 
 it has been favored with gifts and religious opportunities, 
 unenjoyed by any other church in the State. It has there- 
 fore been regarded as occupying a most important position 
 in the denomination in the State. Ministers who have 
 once held membership in this body, are now laboring in 
 three quarters of the globe. The church is now a large, 
 benevolent, and influential body, of two hundred and fifty- 
 seven members.* 
 
 Parkman, The first Baptists in (North No. 5) Park- 
 man were emigrants from Greene, who gained a settlement 
 there between the years 1810 and 1817. In 1813, they 
 united with the church in Guilford, where, notwithstanding 
 the distance and no roads, they attended conferences and 
 other religious meetings. Soon, however, Win. Cole, Peter 
 Cummings and Joshua Coburn, the more influential among 
 them, commenced holding meetings in their own settle- 
 ment. Missionaries, Elders T. Macornber and Zenas Hall, 
 aided these brethren occasionally, in their pious endeavors. 
 
 *The history of this church is gathered from a sketch in the Min. of K.A. 
 1838, and subsequent copies of Min. of K. A. 
 
232 CHURCH IN BRIGHTON— CANAAN. 
 
 In 1S18, the Lord sent his reviving and renewing influences 
 among them, and souls were converted ; and on the 29th 
 of August, a church of sixteen members was organized ; P. 
 Cummings and J. Coburn were chosen deacons. 
 
 The church became strongly attached to Mr. Hall, and 
 extended a call to him to become their pastor. This call 
 was heard, and on the 14th of Jan. 1819, he was ordained, 
 and has been the faithful and affectionate pastor from that 
 time to the present ; and it would seem that his usefulness 
 has increased with his age. Eld. Hall has received for 
 salary from $70 to $100 per annum, besides a title to 200 
 acres of ministerial land, voted him by the town, he being 
 the first settled minister. Receiving therefore a comforta- 
 ble support, he has devoted his energies to the cause of 
 God. His extra parochial labors, have been many and 
 arduous. The surrounding settlements here felt the influ- 
 ence of both the pastor and church in P. The church in 
 Cambridge, Dexter, and Blanchard, owe their existence 
 mostly to efforts made by the Baptists in P. Dec. 20, 1831, 
 heir present house of worship was dedicated, in connexion 
 with a quarterly meeting. At that meeting God commenc- 
 ed a gracious revival, which proved a rich blessing to the 
 church. In 1839, and in 1843, seasons of special mercy 
 were enjoyed, and the church much enlarged. Rev. Ran- 
 som Donham and Rev. Joseph Hall, now a Free-will Bap- 
 tist preacher, originated with this church. It has a present 
 total of one hundred and ninety-nine members.* 
 
 Brighton, (called North-Hill). A small church of 
 thirteen members was organized here in 1818; but never 
 had much prosperity. In 1825, it had twenty-four members. 
 It was dropped from the Penobscot Association in 1832. 
 
 Canaan, (formerly Canaan Second) was organized in 
 the south part of the town, with nineteen members, in 
 
 *Wm. Brewster, Ch. Clk. Com. Mih'. 13. and P. and P. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN NORRIDGEWOCK— ATHENS. 233 
 
 1819. M. Cain, of Clinton, preached with them one quar- 
 ter of the time until 1834. From 1834, Rev. Sam'l Knox 
 preached with them apart of the time for about two years, 
 when the church enjoyed happy seasons. From 1837 to 
 1842, the church was blessed with preaching by Rev. L. 
 Packard, one fourth of the time. They are still a feeble 
 church of forty-five members. It conferred licenses on S. 
 Cook and Nathaniel Hubbard.* 
 
 Norridgewock. This is the shire town in Somerset 
 County ; was incorporated in 1788, and by a rapid increase 
 a small village rose on the banks of the Kennebec river. 
 Here was gathered a small Congregational church in 1797, 
 and from 1814, it has had the stated labors of a pastor. 
 The Methodists also commenced in this town about the 
 same time with the Conoreo-ationalists. These sects, oc- 
 cupying this field thus early have since held a commanding 
 influence over the people. 
 
 In 1819, a Baptist church was organized of ten mem- 
 bers. It was not till 1838 they were able to secure the 
 labors of a stated pastor. The blessing was now enjoyed 
 under the ministry of Rev. T. Goldthwait for the space of 
 about four years. The next year (1S42) the church was not 
 only destitute but greatly reduced by a large dismission to 
 constitute a second church. Deacon Jos. Pratt has been 
 one of its principal supporters through all its existence. 
 It has now twenty-six members only, and is destitute of a 
 pastor t 
 
 Athens. The first settlement in this town was made 
 about the year 1799. Soon the Methodists commenced 
 preaching here, and were next followed by the ' Christian 
 Band,' so called, and as a consequence the people were 
 generally brought under the influence of Arminian doc- 
 trines. In 1819, there was some awakening in town. Pre- 
 
 "Rev. L . Packard's Com. and Min. of B. and K. A. fMin. B. and K, Ass. 
 
234 SECOND CHURCH IN GARDINER— STRONG. 
 
 vious to this, however, the churches in Cornville and Har- 
 mony, exerted some influence over the people, and gathered 
 some members from among them. Two persons by means 
 of the awakening in 1819, became Baptists. There were 
 now ten Baptists in the place, and these were on the 17th 
 of September, organized into a church. This little band 
 went forward, forgetting the things that were behind. But 
 like other small churches in new towns, it had but few 
 gospel privileges for many years. Elds. E. Taylor and John 
 Daggett, preached here occasionally. Rev. Tozier Lord 
 also rendered the church much important aid in 1825 and 
 '26. After this Elder Stanley of Cornville, preached one 
 fourth of the time for some years, which was to the church 
 a period of comfort and prosperity. Under the ministry 
 of Elder N. Copeland, in 1834, the church was revived 
 and cheered by additions. They have since been aided 
 by Rev. R. Jones, Rev. C. Taylor and others. They have 
 a total of fifty-six members. They are much indebted to 
 their pious and active deacons, E. Cole and E. Cun- 
 ningham.* 
 
 Gardiner, Second Church. This church was organ- 
 ized in 1S20, with fifteen members. They were a feeble 
 band, not able to sustain a pastor, or build a house of 
 worship. They have forty members. 
 
 Strong. The Methodists commenced in Strong as 
 early as 1805, and a small Congregational church was 
 gathered here in 1810, but for several years made but little 
 progress. A Baptist church of twelve members was organ- 
 ized here in 1820. From 1822 to 1826, Rev. Samuel 
 Knox acted as their pastor. In 1834, as the result of 
 a union protracted meeting, twenty-two were added by 
 baptism. From 1835 to 1838, Rev. Win. Wyman preached 
 
 *Zion's Adv. Feb. 1835— Min. B. and P. Asso. and Eld. R. Jones' Com. 
 
CHURCH IN CHESTETtVILLE— ANSON. 235 
 
 to them one-fourth of the time. It is now a feeble and 
 destitute church of twenty-eight members.* 
 
 Chesterville. Congregationalists commenced minis- 
 terial efforts here as early as 1789, and 1796 ' the church 
 in Chesterville,' (including all the members of that faith 
 in Chesterville and Farmington) was organized. Rev. 
 Jotham Sewall was an original member. This church 
 has ever had the lead in religious influence, and has pros- 
 pered more than any other sect in town. Previous to 1805 
 the Methodists began and have maintained some influence. 
 
 With the increase of population several Baptists from 
 the church in Fayette became residents in this town. In 
 1820, twenty members dismissed from the church in F. 
 were constituted into a church in Chesterville. This 
 church, although assisted by the ability of its worthy dea- 
 con, William Bradbury, many years, and by the faithful 
 preaching of Elder Samuel Dinsmore, Elder Boardman, 
 Elder Wyman, and a few others, was never enlarged, ex- 
 cept by a small increase during the first years of its exis- 
 tence. The church commenced a sad declension about 
 the year 1831, and in 1839 its name was dropped from the 
 denomination. In 1838 it had thirty members.f 
 
 Anson. Congregationalists and Methodists commenced 
 in Anson also before the Baptists. The former gathered 
 a church in 1804, which has prospered ; the latter estab- 
 lished a circuit in 1809. The increase of Baptists, at first, 
 was mostly by emmigration. Some, however, became such 
 by occasional Baptist influence in town. It was not till 
 1820 that a church was gathered, and then consisted of 
 eighteen members only. In 1823, Rev. Francis Powers 
 became a member and preached about one-fourth of the 
 time till 1838. This was a period of some prosperity. 
 Mr. J. A. Badger, a licentiate, and some other neighbor- 
 
 •Mia. B. and K. Asso. JMin. B. and K. Asso. 
 
236 SECOND BOWDOINHAM— EAST DIXFIELD. 
 
 ing ministers since have bestowed considerable labor upon 
 the church, but latterly its prospects and influence have 
 diminished. It has never been cheered or enlarged by a 
 revival, but has, on the contrary, had to endure many 
 severe trials. It is now a destitute church of thirty-two 
 .members.* 
 
 Bowdoinham, Second Church. This church is the 
 offspring of the first church, and although the old stalk 
 has decayed and fallen, the branch lives and flourishes. It 
 was organized Dec. 1820, with twenty-seven members, 
 and is situated in the pleasant village of that town. Rev. 
 Daniel Piersons was then elected pastor, and served the 
 church about six years in the office, and still remains a 
 worthy member. Since his resignation the church has 
 enjoyed preaching at stated times, by Elders R. Milner 
 about two years, John Butler, E. W. Cressy, W. T. 
 Sargent, and William O. Grant. [Win. Bailey is now their 
 pastor, 1845.] In 1837 the church and society was accom- 
 modated with a new and convenient house of worship, built 
 principally by Wm. Purington, one of its worthy members. 
 The first and only revival in this community of Baptists 
 was in 1840, under the labors of Mr. Cressy, by which 
 the church was considerably enlarged. It is now a flourish- 
 ing church, and is exerting a healthful influence over the 
 village. It has sixty-nine members.t 
 
 East Dixfield, (formerly ' Dixfield.') The Con- 
 gregationalists formed a church of ten members in town 
 in 1806, and in 1820, it had increased to about twenty .f 
 
 A Baptist church was organized in Sept. 1817, and 
 soon after Nathan Mayh.ew was ordained pastor. The 
 church consisted of thirty-three members. In 1819 it was 
 enlarged by another revival. But it was soon after left 
 destitute, the members were scattered, and the church lost 
 
 *Min. B. & K. As. fCyrus Gardiner's Com. JGreen. Eccl. his. p. 192. 
 
CHURCH IN RIPLEY. 037 
 
 its way in the wilderness of sin. Some, however, of these 
 strayed ones were afterwards brought back and enclosed in 
 a new fold. In April, 1831, a new church of twelve mem- 
 bers was constituted, and called ' East Dixfield.' Since 
 1837, this church has been blest with the ministry of Eld. 
 Mayhew, one half the time. It is still a feeble band of but 
 twenty-eight members.* 
 
 Ripley, (now Cambridge.) In the winter of 1808, 
 Rev. Thomas Macomber, while performing a mission under 
 the direction of the Maine Missionary Society, passed 
 through No. 5, (now Ripley.) It then contained but two 
 or three families, and in different openings. He called at 
 the house of Mr. Jacob Hale, to tarry for the night. They 
 were favorable to religion, and desired Mr. M. to preach 
 that evening. Notice was given to a family four miles dis- 
 tant, which was their nearest neighbor, and Mrs. Hale said 
 this was the ' first sermon she had heard for six years. 'f 
 In 18C9 Rev. H. Kendall passed through the place, and 
 called on Mr. Hale. Eld. K. says, ' there were two pious 
 females in town, who lived a mile apart, and a swamp be- 
 tween them, in the centre of which these females met oc- 
 casionally for prayer.' About two years after, Mr. K. vis- 
 ited the settlement again, and baptized Mr. Hale and his 
 wife, who were the first baptized in Ripley. i: 
 
 In 1822, this place was visited by Eld. Case, during a 
 voluntary mission. Mr. C. says, ' the new settlement re- 
 sounded with the praises of God.' There was a revival, the 
 fruits of the efforts of a pious school teacher. * Fourteen 
 had been baptized.' Before Mr. C. left, a church was or- 
 ganized, and Jacob Hatch ordained pastor. § For three 
 years, during Mr. H's ministry, the church increased grad- 
 ually. In 1828, Dea. Forest Hatch was ordained pastor. 
 
 *A. Fletcher's Com. B. A. f31e. Bap. Reg. 1808. +Eld. Kendall's Jour. 
 $Eld Case's Jour. 
 
 11* 
 
238 CHURCH IN CORINNA. 
 
 A pleasing success attended his ministry, till it was termi- 
 nated by death, May 3d, 1834. His last labor was to bap- 
 tize twenty-two persons, among whom were his sister, his 
 daughter, and aged father. He was much lamented by the 
 church. 
 
 The church now takes the name of Cambridge, and is 
 aided in its progress by its worthy deacon, D. King. After 
 being destitute about three years, they settled Rev. R. S. 
 Mitchell ; but his stay was short, and the church remained 
 in a low state. Since 1841 , they have received a portion of 
 the labors of Rev. A. Clarke, to their comfort and prosperi- 
 ty. They number seventy-three members. This church has 
 had many trials, but under God it has triumphed.* 
 
 Corinna. A Baptist church was constituted here in 
 Sept. 1822. The original members, ten in number, were 
 mostly from the Baptist churches in Livermore. But a 
 week or two previous to their organization, Eld. Case vis- 
 ited them. He found them holding regular meetings for 
 worship, and by his advice, they at once proceeded to an 
 embodiment. f They were favored with occasional preach- 
 ing by Elders J. Martin and J. Hatch. Mr. B. P. Win- 
 chester preached to them in 1828, and in 1829 was ordain- 
 ed pastor. He has since labored faithfully and constantly 
 for the cause of God among them. This church has never 
 been blest with an extensive revival, but has pressed on 
 through many trials to the present, and still prospers .with 
 fifty members. Previous to the settlement of their pastor, 
 a painful difficulty arose in the church, which divided the 
 members; and afterwards it continued to paralyze the ef- 
 forts of the pastor. Dec. 28, 1835, by means of the faith- 
 ful and prayerful labors of a council, and the blessing of 
 God, fellowship was again restored. Since that time, the 
 church has had rest, union, and prosperity. Their places 
 
 •"Mill. B. Pen. and Pis. Asso. tEld. Case's Journal 
 
CHURCH IN WINTHROP. 239 
 
 of worship are private dwellings and school houses.* East 
 St. Albans received members from this church. 
 
 Winthrop. The original members of this church were 
 dismissed from the church in Readfield, and were organiz- 
 ed, thirty in number, June 22, 1824. A Baptist meeting- 
 house was built in East Winthrop, in 1823, and a gracious 
 revivals was enjoyed in the latter part of that year. Mr. 
 Case says, 'The revival which had commenced in Read- 
 field, spread into the eastern part of Winthrop with great 
 power, and most of the influential in society were converted, 
 and a large part of the lovely youth embraced the Saviour. 5 
 This revival, under the labors of Rev. Phinehas Bond, then 
 a licentiate, continued till, the winter of 1825. Says Mr. 
 Fuller, of the church in W., Elds. O. Briggs and J. Haines, 
 were instrumental in promoting this revival. July 11th, 
 1824, this church was increased by the addition of seventy- 
 four by letter, from Readfield church. And in May 1825, 
 Rev. John Butler was installed as pastor, which relation 
 was continued with prosperity to the church till May 1831. 
 In a few weeks alter the close of Eld. B's labors, Eld. S. 
 Fogg commenced preaching among them, and a pleasing 
 revival enlarged the church. From this time till 1836, 
 the church was supplied, mostly by Elders Fogg and R. 
 Low. There was some revival in the spring of 1835, and 
 a number of the youth were converted. The writer of 
 these lines, then a student in Newton Institution,. preached 
 a few weeks with the church at that time. 
 
 From I83G to 1839, Rev. J. Ingraham was their suc- 
 cessful pastor. He w r as succeeded by Rev. D. E Burbank, 
 who entered upon his public work among them Sept. 1839. 
 His ministry was sanctified to the good of both the church 
 and society. But his labor with them was short. He died 
 in Winthrop, Oct. 1849, in a triumphal view of his final 
 *Rev. B. P. Winchester, and Min. B. Pen. and Pis. Asso. 
 
240 CHURCH IN NEWPORT—MONMOUTH. 
 
 rest. Rev. F. Merriam, their present pastor, was imme- 
 diately ordained over them. By his ministry, the church 
 advances in usefulness and increases in numbers. This 
 church is distinguished for its temperance and missionary 
 spirit. It has enrolled on its records one hundred and 
 twenty-eight members.* 
 
 Newport. A very few of the early settlers in this town 
 were Baptists, who, like thrifty vines in a new and rich 
 soil, were productive of much fruit. Rev. Paul Ruggles 
 of Etna, preached occasionally to their edification and 
 strength. In 1817 a church was embodied with only five 
 members. In two years it increased to eighteen. From 
 1819 to 1822, they were destitute and had many trials, and 
 became much scattered. In 1823 Eld. R. Coburn was 
 received as their pastor. Mr. Coburn labored successfully 
 with them till 1835. During his ministry this church had 
 many seasons of refreshing. The most interesting revivals 
 were in 1834, the fruits of a protracted meeting, which 
 continued thirteen successive days. 
 
 In 183G it was supplied by Rev. Wm. Oaks. In 1837 
 the small church ol ten members in Stetson, united with 
 this church. It is much wiser to unite strength than to 
 weaken by division. Since this union they have been 
 supplied one-half to three-quarters of the time by Elders 
 Hatch, Steward, and B. D. Small. The doctrines of Miller 
 has caused many trials in this church, yet they prosper ; 
 and now number eighty-one members. Elder D. Steward 
 received license and ordination by this church. f 
 
 Monmouth. Rev. James Potter visited that part of 
 Monmouth in which this church is situated in 1783. He 
 says ' the people generally attended meeting and gave good 
 attention to the word. They were free to converse, but 
 disposed to cavil. And I discovered no fruit in this place 
 
 *Church Records. |Pele£ Whiting, Ch. Clk. and Min. D. and P. Asso. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN CANAAN— MOSCOW. 241 
 
 to my satisfaction.' Although from the days of Potter, 
 preachers have passed and repassed through the town and 
 preached on their way ; and although a church in the north- 
 east part of the town had once existed, yet there were not 
 a sufficient number of Baptists found in town after the 
 fall of the old church, to render it expedient to organize, 
 till 1827, when this, the first church in Monmouth, was 
 constituted. Even then the number was fifteen only. 
 They prospered, and in 1828 they erected their house of 
 worship. From this time to 1837, they secured preaching 
 about three-quarters of the time and received an annual 
 increase. Tn 1836 Rev. S. Hinkley was ordained as an 
 evangelist, and in 1837 they enjoyed a precious revival by 
 means of the special efforts of Rev. J. Butler. This year 
 they had stated preaching by Elders J. Ridley and Wm. 
 Day, who preached alternately one-half of the time each. 
 In 1838 Mr. Ridley became pastor, whose useful labors 
 were continued till 1842. In 1843 another revival was 
 experienced, and their present pastor, Cyrus Case, was 
 ordained. Truly the Lord has done great things for this 
 body of Baptists. The church has increased from fifteen 
 to one hundred and ten members.* 
 
 Norridgewock, Second Church. This church was 
 organized in 1828, with eighteen members. But opposing 
 influences at once checked its progress, and for want of 
 strength and aid, it faded and was lost to the denomination 
 in 1831, with twenty members.! 
 
 Madison. This church united with Bowdoinham As- 
 sociation in 1828, but of its particular history we have 
 obtained but little information. It then had thirteen mem- 
 bers, with Charles and Isaac Morse deacons, the latter of 
 whom received license to preach in 1834. He was bene- 
 ficial to the church. Rev. Mr. Stanley preached here 
 
 *Zion's Advocate, Dec. 7, 1837, and B. A. fMin. 11. A. 
 
242 SECOND HALLOWELL— THIRD GARDINER. 
 
 occasionally in 1835, and a pleasing revival added about a 
 dozen to the church, Oct. 1835. Mr. Morse was ordained 
 and preached a part of the time in 1838. Elder Cain sup- 
 plied them some in 1838, and Win. Wilbur was licensed 
 to preach. He also was useful in the church. Since that 
 time it appears that the church has passed through many 
 trials, had but few privileges, and enjoyed but little pros- 
 perity. It is still a feeble church of twenty-eight members.* 
 
 Hallowell, Second Church. This small church is 
 situated in the north-west corner of Hallowell, and centers 
 in the village, ' Cross-Roads.' Several members of the 
 church in Readfield residing at and near this village, feel- 
 ing that it would be for their convenience to be united in 
 a church capacity, were by their request dismissed from 
 that church and embodied as they desired in Dec. 1830, 
 and numbered twenty-one members. But time has shown 
 that what was for their convenience was not for the exten- 
 sion of the Baptist interest. 
 
 Although able to erect for their accommodation a small 
 house of worship, and favored with the ministry of Rev. 
 Joseph Torrey, from 1830 to 1832; Rev. Allen Barrows, 
 (ordained Sept. 23,) from 1834 to 1835; Rev. T. Gold- 
 thwait, (ordained 1833,) 1838, and Rev. J. Ii. Ingraham 
 1839, and a part of the time since, its prosperity has been 
 but a fraction more than nothing. It is now under the 
 censure of the first church in Hallowell, for receiving her 
 excluded members. Considerable difficulty and trial has 
 been occasioned already by the circumstance, and what 
 will be the issue time must reveal. It has thirty-three 
 members. f 
 
 Third Gardiner. This church was organized in 1834, 
 and in Sept. it had thirty members. f Having never had 
 
 *Min. B. and K. A. fRecords of Readfield Ch. and Min. B. A. 
 JRev. Mr.. Piper's com. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN MONMOUTH— PITTSTON. 243 
 
 the advantages of a pastor, or a stated place of worship, 
 and having to endure many trials, principally occasioned 
 by the influence of those who are not friendly to the pros- 
 perity of the Baptists, they have made but slow progress, 
 and obtained but small increase. The church has been 
 favored with occasional preaching by Baptist preachers in 
 its community ; and Elders Cross and Bedel have bestowed 
 upon this church a portion of their ministry at different 
 stated periods. The church has experienced revival sea- 
 sons, by which they have been strengthened, and encour- 
 aged to perseverance. They are however a feeble band of 
 disciples, and enjoy comparatively but few means of grace. 
 Their present number is forty-nine.* 
 
 East Monmouth, or the Second Church in M. In 
 1837, a very extensive revival spread its influence from the 
 first church over the centre of the town, and among the 
 people in the more eastern, especially. This revival was 
 promoted by the labors of Elders Ridley and Day, and a 
 protracted meeting, in which Rev. J. Butler participated. 
 To this work of the Lord this church owes its existence, 
 and was constituted during its progress, with seven mem- 
 bers. In Sept. this number was increased to twenty-five, 
 and Rev. Win. Day received the pastoral charge. The 
 good work of tlu Lord continued, and in 1838 eighteen 
 more were added to the church. Eld. Day resigned his 
 charge in 1840, since which the church has been destitute : 
 had no stated ministry ; suffered a loss of members ; but is 
 united and steadfast ; and is striving to keep the faith ; 
 having a total of thirty-seven members. f 
 
 Pittston. This was constituted of members from other 
 churches, Dec. 1840. It is located in a pleasant and grow- 
 ing village on the east bank of the Kennebec river, oppo- 
 site Gardiner. Aided by visiting ministers, it has made 
 
 *Min. B. A. tMin. B. A. 
 
244 BOWDOINIiAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 
 
 some progress. Recently its prospects brighten, having 
 formed a connection with the village church in Gardiner, 
 for the support of Rev. J. W. Lawton, as pastor. Mr. L. 
 resides in Pittston, and the new Baptist interest is reviving 
 around him. This church has fifteen members.* 
 
 Monmouth Centre. This church was constituted in 
 
 1842, and is situated in the centre of the town, as its name 
 indicates. Rev. S. Hinkley is its pastor. It is a small 
 church of only ten members.t 
 
 Second Litchfield. This church was constituted in 
 
 1843, with twenty-two members, and is increased to twenty- 
 eight. Rev. James Ridley is their pastor. $ 
 
 Second Leeds. This church is situated in the south- 
 east corner of Leeds. Here lived a few members belong- 
 ing to the First church in town, and for their convenience 
 they were in July 1843, organized into a separate church, 
 and Rev. W. Foss soon became their pastor. They have 
 increased from twenty-seven to thirty-four members. J 
 
 CHAPTER XIV. 
 
 BOWDOINIIAM ASSOCIATION FROM 1804 TO 1843. 
 
 Although this Association was much reduced by the 
 division in 1804 ; yet the next year they were greatly en- 
 couraged by the intelligence from the churches. Extensive 
 revivals and large additions, indicated to them that God 
 approbated this new arrangement to promote a wider spread 
 of gospel truth. A larger number of communicants were 
 added to the Association than had been received in any 
 previous year. The wants of the Maine Missionary Society 
 received special attention, and was relieved by a contribu- 
 tion of $150. The circular was an appropriate address 
 
 *Zion's Adv. (1841) ; B. A. tMin. B. A. |Min. B. A. 
 
BOWDOLNIIAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1313. 045 
 
 upon ' Good Works.' This theme is denned, and exhibits 
 the views of the Baptists upon this subject. The writer 
 says, ' By doing, we do not mean what some call ' good 
 works,' which are done from selfish motives, to pacify a 
 defiled conscience, or to escape future punishment ; be- 
 cause such are no more than ' outer court' worshippers. 
 But by doing, we mean having respect to all God's com- 
 mandments, an obedience, which has not self at the bottom, 
 but proceeds from faith and love.' A correspondence was 
 now opened with Lincoln Association. 
 
 In 1806, by means of missionary and other extra labors, 
 four new churches had been gathered and were added to 
 the Association. And as the vineyard was extended, God 
 raised up laborers to cultivate it. Elders Thomas Wyman, 
 Jacob Jewell, George Ricker and Henry Kendall, had 
 commenced their work in this gospel field. Two hundred 
 and thirty-five dollars were raised in the Association for 
 the aid of Missions ; but it deserves particular notice, as 
 an interesting fact, that these servants of God did not de- 
 pend wholly upon these outward means for success. Al- 
 though the treasury of the Missionary Society was richly 
 replenished, yet they felt that the blessing of God on the 
 laborers' work was indispensable to their usefulness. It 
 was therefore at this meeting, by a vote, recommended to 
 the churches to observe the first day of January as a 
 season for ' Humiliation, Fasting and Pr.ayer.' That the 
 particular objects of this movement might be properly 
 understood, this recommendation was accompanied with 
 instructions, to pray, especially ' for an increase of labor- 
 ers ;' ' for the pardon of the manifold provocations of the 
 baptized church ;' ' for the descent of the Holy Spirit upon 
 them ;' and ' that God would send down a liberal spirit upon 
 these baptized churches? &c, The day was observed, and 
 a blessing was received. 
 
24(3 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 
 
 The meeting of the Association in 1807, was rendered 
 peculiarly interesting to the brethren, by the intelligence 
 communicated by the Missionary Society. Success had 
 crowned every effort of the Society, and it was liberally sus- 
 tained in its operations. There was one thing of particu- 
 lar interest that occurred at this meeting, and deserves spe- 
 cial notice, as it was a means of bringing out to public 
 view the peculiar sentiments of the Baptists respecting 
 c manuscript preaching,' or ' reading written sermons.' 
 Rev. Thomas Francis, of Leeds, about to fulfil the duty 
 previously assigned to him, by preaching the introductory 
 discourse, informed his brethren that he 'had written his 
 sermon, and should preach from his notes.' This was rather 
 novel, it being the first time the singular mode had been 
 introduced ; but the sermon was preached, and although it 
 was regarded as a most able, interesting and instructive 
 discourse, yet Mr. F. had the credit of reading only. It 
 could not be allowed by the Baptists in those days, as 
 preaching. Mr. Francis had only one apology to make to 
 his brethren, which was the peculiarity of his subject and 
 design of his discourse.* The sermon was preached from 
 Genesis 32: 10. ( And now I am become two bands,' and 
 with reference to the division of the Association in 1805. 
 The author of the sermon has since entered into ' rest,' 
 but the sermon lives, and bears testimony to the talents, 
 the piety, and religious worth of its author. 
 
 In 1808, the Association was cheered especially with an 
 addition of three new churches, viz : Freeport, Perjepscot, 
 (now Danville), and second Lisbon, (now first in Webster); 
 and had the privilege of extending a joyous welcome to 
 Rev. Messrs. Silas Stearns, Ebenezer Bray, Josiah Con- 
 verse, and John Dagget, to a participation in the labors 
 peculiar to the ministry in this new and extensive field. 
 
 *Re*\ Thomas Francis' com. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1304—1848. 247 
 
 There were, this year, several very extensive and glorious 
 revivals within the limits of the Association, the intelligence 
 from which gave new impulse and vigor to their faith. The 
 circular was by Dr. Green, of North Yarmouth, and we 
 should think that was a timely and well adapted address to 
 the wants of the churches. It was doctrinal, and on the 
 ' Atonement ' The Dr. was very successful in this effort. 
 After giving a true definition of the term, he very happily 
 and very clearly explains and illustrates the 'Nature,' the 
 c Extent/ and the ' Uses' of the doctrine. Something of 
 this kind of preaching was much needed at that time. 
 Much was said among the churches upon ' General' and 
 ' Particular' Atonement ; and no man in the denomination 
 at that time, was more able and sufficient to arrest all con- 
 troversy among the churches, enlighten the brethren, and 
 create among them a uniformity of sentiment upon this im- 
 portant doctrine, than was Dr. Green. Some tell us, but 
 we profess not to aver the truth of the saying, that with Dr. 
 Green commenced a change in the Baptist faith — from 
 * 7?yper-Calvinistic,' to a ' moderate Calvinistic' — and some 
 say, from ' Antinomianism' to ' Arminianism ;' and thus 
 the Baptists have travelled from one extreme of heterodoxy 
 to another. But the truth seems to be, that the Baptists 
 have always aimed to be in the truth as it is in Jesus, unit- 
 ing in their creed ,as the great cardinal doctrines, 'Grace,' 
 and * Means' — ' Faith' and ' Good Works.' 
 
 The anniversary season in 1809 was refreshed by the 
 intelligence of extensive revivals, some of which had ap- 
 peared in the new settlements, as fruits of missionary labors, 
 and several new churches had been gathered in distant 
 places, to make glad the wilderness. Missionaries had 
 explored the northern parts of the State, and particularly 
 the country about the Penobscot and Piscataquis rivers. 
 Elders Case, Macomber, Francis, Kendall, Gould and 
 
248 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843 
 
 Bisbee, were engaged in these itinerant efforts. The 
 churches, Cornville, Harmon};, Piscataquis, (now Sanger- 
 ville) from Somerset County, and Denmark, from Oxford, 
 were received at this meeting. The Association having 
 again become large, occupying the entire settled parts of 
 Kennebec, Cumberland, Oxford and Somerset Counties, 
 and a part of Lincoln and Penobscot, a proposition to 
 make a second division was now made. But the subject 
 was referred to the next anniversary for an expression of 
 all the churches. 
 
 The session in 1810, says the clerk, was ' attended with 
 fresh tokens of the divine presence.' The churches dur- 
 ing the year had experienced unusual mercy, and the 
 destitute had been made glad by the presence of their 
 missionaries. A missionary sermon was now preached by 
 Rev. Mr. Blood, after which it is said, ' the people con- 
 tributed with warm and liberal hearts.' The Association 
 was enlarged by the reception of the following churches : 
 Bridgton, Monmouth, Hartford, Palmyra and Million Acres, 
 and Elders Joseph Dinslow, James Garcelon and Elisha 
 Robbins, had become members of this body. 
 
 The subject of dividing the Association came up for 
 decision. For the ' convenience of the churches and the 
 extension of the cause of God,' it voted to divide, making 
 the Androscoggin river and the line between the counties 
 of Oxford and Somerset the line of separation, leaving 
 it optional with those churches along that line, to unite 
 with which body they pleased. 
 
 Besides the usual business, the subject of establishing 
 an Institution in the State for the promotion of literary and 
 theological knowledge, was introduced for consideration. 
 The subject had for a considerable time occupied the at- 
 tention of many of the Baptist ministers. All however 
 that was done at this meeting, was the appointment of a 
 
BOWDOLNHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 249 
 
 committee to confer with the Lincoln Association on the 
 subject, and an appeal to the churches calling their atten- 
 tion especially' to it.* 
 
 At the 25th anniversary of the Bowdoinham Association 
 in 1811, twenty-seven churches and eighteen ordained min- 
 isters were represented as composing the body. There was 
 nothing especially interesting in the intelligence received, 
 and nothing worthy of particular note transacted in the 
 course of business excepting the appointment of a committee 
 to unite with others whom the Lincoln and Cumberland As- 
 sociation may select, to petition the Legislature for the 
 incorporation of the contemplated Literary and Theologi- 
 cal Institution. The number of ministers were increased 
 by the introduction of Elders James Pierce and Samuel 
 Smith. One church only was added at this meeting. 
 
 An encouraging prosperity was reported from most of 
 the churches in 1814, and several revivals. Some of the 
 churches, however, were passing through some unpleasant 
 trials. The subject of Foreign Missions was now intro- 
 duced to the attention of the Association, by the reading 
 of a letter from Rev. Luther Rice. The subject received 
 a cordial welcome. That missionary spirit which had 
 characterized the movements of the Baptists from the first, 
 was now enlisted in favor of Foreign exertion, and the 
 Association recommended that the churches take quarterly 
 collections for the pious purpose. In view of a general 
 decline of the religious feelings in the churches, they were 
 invited to spend a season in prayer each day, particularly 
 for a revival of the work of the Holy Spirit. It appears 
 that during the winter of this year, a most sweeping 
 epidemic had prevailed among the inhabitants within the 
 limits of this body; to which we find in the circular the 
 following striking allusion — ' the day of our visitation is 
 
 *Min. 13. A. 1310. 
 
250 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 
 
 come.' 'The Most High hath a controversy with us: an 
 by pestilence and sword, is He pleading his righteous 
 cause : and though the slain of the Lord have been many, 
 yet is not . his anger turned away.' It was stated by phy- 
 sicians that six hundred persons died in the County of 
 Kennebec during the progress of this calamity. 
 
 In 1815, the intelligence from the churches was refresh- 
 ing. From the town of Bowdoin, more than one hundred 
 and sixty converts were reported. Other places also had 
 been watered with plenteous showers. At this session, two 
 interesting questions were proposed to the Association for 
 their decision. First, ' Is it agreeable to Apostolic order, 
 and for the peace, harmony, and union of churches, for one 
 church to receive a member who is excluded from another 
 church of the same faith and order, until it is made evident 
 that the church excluding, is corrupt in discipline, and 
 struck out of the fellowship of the associated body V To 
 answer this inquiry, the Association voted concurrence 
 with Cumberland Association, that, ' Each church is inde- 
 pendent with respect to discipline;' and that 'an associa- 
 tion of churches have no power to abrogate the censures of 
 an individual church; and therefore all questions and 
 difficulties between churches and excluded members, are 
 to be decided by councils of ministers and churches ap- 
 pointed by the consent of parties ; nnd therefore a second 
 church may receive an excluded member by the advice of 
 a council so called, if the church excluding refuses to re- 
 ceive such a member at the advice of such council.' 
 
 The second question asks, ' Is it gospel, that a private 
 brother assist in the ordaining of an Elder,' &,c. In answer- 
 ing this question, it was voted, ' The ordaining of an Elder, 
 or setting apart of one to thejwork of the gospel ministry, is" 
 a transaction so solemn in its nature, and so important in its 
 consequences , that it would be highly improper for a church 
 
BOWD01NHAN ASSOCIATION, 1804—1848. 251 
 
 belonging to this Association, to proceed in the business, 
 without the concurrence of a suitable number of sister 
 churches, furnished with Elders, whom, among other things, 
 have received the solemn charge, ' Lay hands suddenly on 
 no man.' ' This answer is somewhat indefinite. But the 
 usual manner among the Baptists has been, to examine can- 
 didates by councils from churches composed of members 
 and ministers, and assign the ceremonies of ordination to 
 the Elders. 
 
 In 1816, there was a question of some interest to the 
 Baptists, proposed for the consideration and decision of the 
 Association. It was this : ' Is that person's baptism valid 
 that has been administered by an Elder, not agreed with 
 us in the subject and mode .of baptism ?' The question 
 was referred to a select committee, who reported in the 
 affirmative. Doubts were entertained by some, of the cor- 
 rectness of the report, and the subject was recommitted, 
 and the committee was enlarged with instructions to report 
 at the next anniversary. Again they reported in the affir- 
 mative, but as the Baptists were not united in opinion, the 
 subject was indefinitely postponed Two churches, Gar- 
 diner and Guilford ; and four Elders, Josiah Houghton, 
 Joseph Blaisdell, Wm. Oaks, and Samuel Wheeler, were 
 received into the Association. 
 
 In 1817, the Association was refreshed by revival intel- 
 ligence from the churches. Eight had been blessed with 
 numerous additions ; and no particular trials were disturb- 
 ing the peace of any of the churches. The circular letter, 
 prepared by Elder Boardman, was a most important docu- 
 ment. It had for its theme, ' Qualifications for Church 
 Membership.' The following three are particularly notic- 
 e d : ' 1. A scriptural or christian experience.' ' 2. Correct 
 doctrinal views,' (including the plan of salvation, ordinan- 
 ces and church polity). '3. A sober, regular outward 
 leportment, and godly conversation.' 
 
252 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804 — 18 33. 
 
 The revivals of 1817 continued, and were increased in 
 1818. Measures were devised at this meeting to raise funds 
 to aid the operations of the Theological and Literary Insti- 
 tution at Waterville. The Baptists felt a deep interest in 
 this infant school, and commendable efforts were made by 
 the churches to sustain it. Rev. Jeremiah Chaplin was 
 the Principal, whose character and influence added to the 
 respectability of the Institution. 
 
 From the interest felt in the institution at Waterville, 
 the Association in 1819 recommended to the churches to 
 contribute liberally toward the erection of a building for 
 its accommodation. The spirit of missions was kept alive, 
 and an appeal was made to the Baptists to enlarge their 
 offerings for those objects. The circular by Rev. Dr. 
 Chapin, was upon the nice doctrine of christian fellow- 
 ship. In his usual style, the doctrine in its nature and 
 blesed influences, were lucidly illustrated. 
 
 With 1820, commenced a period of general declension, 
 both in religious feeling and action. There had been but 
 little progress by the churches. The liberality and direct 
 missionary effort had been less than in any previous year. 
 This sad state of things was deeply mourned by the Asso- 
 ciation. The following question was proposed by the church 
 in New Sharon : ' If a minister be regularly introduced, 
 ordained, and settled as the pastor of a church, and after- 
 wards removed and recommended to another church, and 
 voted as their pastor, and he consents to be their pastor, is 
 installation necessary, to give him all the powers and qual- 
 ifications of a regularly settled minister of the gospel V The 
 subject was placed in the hands of a committee, and re- 
 ferred to the next anniversary. 
 
 At the next meeting, 1821, the following report was made 
 by the committee, and adopted as the sense of the Associ- 
 ation : ' That a regular ordained minister (so long as his 
 
BOWD01NHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 253 
 
 character remains unimpeached,) being invited to the pas- 
 toral office of a particular church, becomes their minister 
 and pastor as soon as a mutual agreement is entered into 
 by the parties. An installation is by no means necessary, 
 but by virtue of his ordination and pastoral office he is 
 clothed with all the authority of a minister of the gospel.' 
 Another of some interest was proposed at this session by 
 the church in Greene. ' Is it the duty of a church to 
 ordain their deacons V This question was referred to a 
 committee with instructions to report at the next meeting. 
 
 At the Association in 1822, the committee were not pre- 
 pared to report a decision, but enlarged the subject by 
 substituting the following questions : first, ' What officers 
 are necessary to the complete organization of a gospel 
 church? Second, What are their duties, qualifications and 
 powers ? Third, in what manner ought they to be in- 
 ducted into their respective offices V The subject was 
 then recommitted and referred. The subject of dividing 
 the Association was also referred. 
 
 In 1823, the prospects of the churches were more en- 
 couraging; and with a revival spirit, a missionary zeal 
 awoke afresh, indicated by a greater liberality. The sub- 
 ject of ' ordaining deacons,' was now called up. The com- 
 mittee reported, but the report was rejected, and the sub- 
 ject dropped. The Association knowing that the ministers 
 of Christ in the State, generally toiled vigilantly in his 
 cause, and receiving but small salaries, were obliged to 
 suffer many privations and inconveniences, voted ' to peti- 
 tion the Legislature to exempt the ministers in the State 
 from taxation.' They felt that this would afford them some 
 relief. 
 
 The hopes of the preceding year were realized in 1824. 
 The circular prepared by Dr. Chapin, and adopted by the 
 Association, was a full and satisfactory answer to the 
 12 
 
254 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1845. 
 
 question proposed by the committee in 1822, respecting 
 the ordaining of deacons. The writer says : ' it appears 
 to be scriptural to ordain them in the same manner as El- 
 ders.' This manner, he describes thus, ' by fasting, by 
 prayer, and by the imposition of the hands of the Presby- 
 tery.' A spirit of ' working' was again alive in the Asso- 
 ciation, and measures were now adopted to ascertain how 
 many and what families within its limits were destitute of 
 the Bible, with the design of having them supplied. 
 
 In 1825, to the question from the church in Chesterville, 
 1 Is it proper to give the title Reverend, to ministers of the 
 gospel V the following answer was given, that ' ministers in 
 the New Testament are called Elders' And on the ques- 
 tion from New Sharon, ' How are our brethren in the 
 ministry to be treated V it was voted : ' We are not to pro- 
 ceed upon the principle of partiality, but exert ourselves 
 on all occasions to promote the gifts of the brethren.' 
 
 As a large number of churches now (1825,) existed in 
 the County of Penobscot, it was deemed expedient that they 
 should be organized into an Association. Nine churches 
 situated east of Kennebec river, were therefore this year 
 dismissed from the Bowdoinham Association to aid that 
 organization. This is the third division made in this body. 
 
 Revivals in 1826 and '27, nearly restored the former 
 number of this body previous to the dismission of nine 
 churches to constitute the Penobscot Association. 
 
 Among the items of business in 1828, were resolutions 
 recommending to the churches ' Sabbath Schools and Bible 
 classes,' and ' to patronize Zion's Advocate, a new paper 
 about to be established at Portland.' Also, ' entire absti- 
 nence 1 from spirituous liquors was urged upon the whole 
 Baptist community. 
 
 In 1829 the Association became again too large for con- 
 venience. A division, therefore, was expedient, and twenty- 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. 255 
 
 one churches were dismissed to form the Kennebec Associa- 
 tion. On a question from the church in Fayette, relating 
 to the support of the ministry, the sense of the Association 
 was expressed by the following vote : — ' That in order to 
 sustain the ministry acceptably with God, and profitably to 
 the people, the Elders should give themselves wholly to the 
 work ; — that the churches adopt that method which may 
 be most suitable to their circumstances, to afford them a 
 competent support ; — that in cases in which churches are 
 unable singly to furnish such support, two or more should 
 unite; — and the labors of the Elder be proportioned with 
 them according to the means of support which each may 
 impart.' On the query from Hallowell, respecting the dis- 
 mission of members, the following rule was submitted by 
 Elder Boardman, and voted by the Association as a proper 
 regulation for the churches : ' Let it be understood that all 
 our churches, upon the reception of members by letter, 
 are indispensably bound to make an early return to the 
 churches by which they are recommended, and such mem- 
 bers as do not unite with the church to which they are re- 
 commended, are by the church to which they belong to 
 be called to discipline for such neglect.' 
 
 Darkness and lukewarmness had now long characterized 
 most of the churches. Yet the Association, in its reduced 
 capacity, came together in 1839 to be refreshed by intelli- 
 gence that the ' Laodicean spirit' was departing from them, 
 and that God was blessing them with the reviving influen- 
 ces of his Spirit. More missionary zeal was now manifest- 
 ed. The Association was enlarged by numerous additions 
 to the churches, as fruits of pleasing revivals. 
 
 To the very singular question from the First church in 
 Gardiner, ' What shall be done with members who have 
 withdrawn their fellowship from a Baptist church, and 
 joined the Methodist?' this very pertinent answer was 
 
256 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1304—1843. 
 
 given, by a vote of the Association : ' When a member has 
 left the church and united with .another denomination, he 
 is to be regarded in the same light as the denomination 
 with which he has united : and if the church desires fur- 
 ther information, it would be proper for them to call for the 
 advice of sister churches.' 
 
 In 1831 two resolutions, touching the removal and dis- 
 mission of members were passed, as additional to the rule 
 adopted in 1829. For these resolutions the Bowdoinham 
 Association is indebted to the Eastern Maine, where they 
 originated. Resolved, ' That when any member or mem- 
 bers of either of the churches in this Association, shall re- 
 move their residence, and become located within the limits 
 of a sister church, it shall be the duty of the church to 
 which such member or members belong, to write immedi- 
 ately to the church where they reside, and such letters 
 shall embrace a dismission of the member or members re- 
 moved, an account of their standing, and a direction to the 
 sister church to take them under her watch-care, to exhort 
 them to their duty, and if free to receive them, to extend 
 to them the hand of fellowship.' Resolved, ' That when 
 any church in this Association shall have received a mem- 
 ber by letter from a sister church, or when such member or 
 members have been called upon as contemplated in the 
 above resolution, without obtaining satisfaction, it shall be 
 the duty of that church to report the same immediately to 
 the church of which they are members.' 
 
 The anniversary in 1832 is reported to have been an un- 
 usually interesting meeting, by the lively manifestation of 
 union and brotherly love. Much interest was felt in a 
 question proposed by the church in Winthrop. It was 
 founded upon the important phrase in the Baptist covenant: 
 1 We covenant that we will cheerfully bear our equal pro- 
 portion of those expenses which the church may judge 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1801—1843. 057 
 
 needful for the relief of the poor, the support of the min- 
 istry, and other necessary charges of the church.' The 
 question proposed was, ' Is it agreeable to the word of God 
 to execute the above obligation by making an assessment 
 or tax upon the male members of the church according to 
 their polls and property V Respecting which the following 
 answer was submitted by Rev. Daniel Merrill, and unani- 
 mously voted by the Association : 'That it is in agreement 
 with the revealed mind of the Lord Jesus, that when any 
 part of his property, which is in the possession of any one 
 of his churches, is called for to promote his cause in any 
 such church, then it is right and fit that the sum wanted 
 should be apportioned upon all the polls and property with- 
 in such church, unless the church may agree upon some 
 other method, more pleasing to them, by which to effect 
 the desired object.' 
 
 In 1833 great darkness and spiritual declension prevail- 
 ed ; but in 1834 indications that God was about to turn 
 again their captivity, appeared. A more general interest 
 was manifested in the cause of God and humanity ; and 
 resolutions were adopted against Slavery, and in favor of 
 Sabbath Schools, Temperance, Education, Literary Insti- 
 tutions, Foreign and Domestic Missions, and Tracts. 
 Slavery and Intemperance were regarded as great, social, 
 moral, physical and political evils. 
 
 The Association was favored in 1835, with the presence, 
 •counsel, and preaching of Rev. J. A. Warne, from Massa- 
 chusetts ; Rev. E. Manning, from Nova Scotia, and Rev 
 T. Magee, from New Brunswick. Earnest solicitations 
 for aid were made by Rev. Mr. Magee, in behalf of a Bap- 
 tist Seminary in New Brunswick ; to which the Associa- 
 tion cheerfully responded by a liberal contribution to aid 
 their brethren in that Province. In addition to the repeti- 
 tion of the resolutions passed last year, the subject of 
 
258 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION; 1804—1843. 
 
 Popery in the United States attracted the attention of the 
 Association, and a resolution was adopted setting forth the 
 ' danger to our civil and religious liberties arising from 
 the prevalency of the papal religion in this country.' 
 
 The Baptists have always had much slander and abuse 
 poured upon them because of their faith and practice as 
 regards the communion at the Lord's table; and yet they 
 are firm in their opinion. At this meeting the question? 
 ' Should the churches receive persons from other denom- 
 inations to their communion tables V was discussed by 
 Elders Warne, Manning, Butler, Fogg, Pierce and Case, 
 and the Association voted the following important decision. 
 1 Voted, That the Association recommend to the churches 
 composing this body to discountenance the practice of ad- 
 mitting to the communion of the church individuals who 
 belong to other denominations ; but at the same time to 
 cherish towards them the best feelings of christian affec- 
 tion.' [The class of persons which it is here implied had 
 been received to the communion of some of the churches, 
 were such as had been immersed, yet united with other 
 denominations.] 
 
 In 1836 the spiritual prospects of the Association began 
 again to assume a more pleasing aspect. Several interest- 
 ing revivals were enjoyed. Elders Thomas Francis and 
 Charles Johnson, who had departed this life within the 
 year, received an appropriate and interesting notice. 
 
 A spirit of religious enterprise was increased in 1837. 
 Hence a more coming up ' to the help of the Lord,' was 
 witnessed among the churches, and some cheering revivals 
 had been experienced. Besides the transacting of the 
 usual business, a resolution was passed approving of the 
 formation and design of the American and Foreign Bible 
 Society, and commending it to the prayers and liberal at- 
 tention of the churches. The idea of such a society was 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804—1843. O59 
 
 wholly unknown to our Baptist fathers. But circumstances 
 extraordinary awakened the idea, and prompted the organ- 
 ization. 
 
 The intelligence from many of the churches in 1838 was 
 truly encouraging to the Association. Says Elder Grant, 
 the Secretary, ' the brethren felt they were one in name, 
 one in design, and one in effort.' 
 
 But the revivals of '38 were suddenly succeeded by an 
 alarming declension. In '39, not a single revival was re- 
 ported. Nor was there any new church asking admission. 
 A respectful notice was taken of Elders Cole and Garcelon, 
 who had been removed by death within this Associational 
 year. 
 
 The dark cloud which veiled the beauty and chilled the 
 ardour of the Baptists in 1839, disappeared in 1840. The 
 Sun of Righteousness shone forth with heavenly radiance, 
 shed down his quickening beams, and made his people sit 
 together in heavenly places. ' These were primitive days 
 to these churches, Four hundred and thirty-five were 
 added to the Association during the year, as the direct 
 fruits of extensive revivals. This was therefore a season 
 for joy and thankfulness. But in the midst of this joyous 
 festival, a circumstance occurred which awakened in the 
 minds, especially of the fathers, solemn and painful emo- 
 tions. The Bowdoinham church, the first, the oldest 
 church in this part of the State, was now dropped from 
 the Association on account of its non-fellowship with the 
 body. It became Antinomian, and opposed the operations 
 of the denomination to promote the general objects of 
 Christianity. 
 
 The scene is again changed in 1841. The plentiful 
 harvest was gathered, and a cold, winter season was rapidly 
 closing in upon the churches. There were but few additions 
 to the Association this year, and these appear to be the 
 
260 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION, 1804-1843. 
 
 gleanings only of the last year's vintage. Several resolu- 
 tions were passed, and much important business relating 
 to the general interests of the denomination was transacted. 
 The second church in Hallowell received the unanimous 
 censure of the brethren for receiving into their fellowship 
 members excluded from the first church in that town. 
 
 Some mercy drops descended in 1842 to refresh the 
 thirsty heritage, and to give new life and vigor to the almost 
 withered vines. Another of the fathers, Elder Oliver Bil- 
 lings, had fallen asleep, the intelligence of whose death 
 called forth an appropriate expression of sympathy and 
 respect. It was felt on this occasion that the Sabbath 
 School institution was too generally neglected, and the 
 subject was earnestly pressed upon the consideration of 
 the churches. 
 
 In 1843, on this fifty-seventh anniversary season of the 
 Association, the usual list of resolutions were dispensed 
 with, and the churches were exhorted ' to labor more un- 
 tiringly to promote every branch of benevolence, as God 
 shall give us ability and afford us opportunity.' 
 
 The churches, second Litchfield and second Leeds were 
 received at this meeting, and the general prospects of this 
 ancient body of Baptists were encouraging. It numbered 
 thirty-one churches, thirty-three ordained ministers, five 
 licentiates, and two thousand three and thirty-one commu- 
 nicants. It is the parent of Lincoln, Cumberland and 
 Kennebec Associations. Also, of a large number of the 
 churches which compose the Waldo, Penobscot, Piscata- 
 quis and Oxford, were once members of this body. It is 
 a very influential body of Baptists, whose progress is on- 
 ward. New churches are almost annually arising in the 
 midst of these old ones, a s new shoots from the older vines. 
 
BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION. 
 
 261 
 
 BOWDOINHAM ASSOCIATION...TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 < c 5= r 7. 
 
 ^ -i as a> ea 
 
 O 
 
 — 
 
 cor 
 5' "■ ' 
 
 9 * 
 
 7 
 
 ORGANIZED 1788. 
 
 2 ? 
 
 'lis 
 
 1 
 
 CD 
 
 
 2 £. 
 
 — • 3" 
 
 a 
 
 
 o Z r 
 
 w 
 
 re" 
 
 
 re 
 
 a. ° 
 
 3 
 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 2 9 
 
 9- 1 P 
 
 p. 
 
 & 
 
 
 
 Z 
 p 
 
 z 
 
 p 
 
 1st Bowdoin, 
 
 1788 38 31 
 
 8112 130; 120 63 21 
 
 |359 
 
 25 
 
 Levviston, 
 
 1792 5 
 
 5 232 
 
 15 i 
 
 1 98 78 41 
 
 47 
 
 308 
 
 42 
 
 Readfield, 
 
 1792 2 
 
 363 
 
 35 
 
 3 241 39 
 
 »9 
 
 
 420 
 
 71 
 
 Fayette, 
 
 1792 2 
 
 3 421 
 
 37 
 
 5 129 ! 74 
 
 68 
 
 53 
 
 487 
 
 147 
 
 Greene. 
 
 1793 2 
 
 7 432 
 
 36 1 
 
 1 158 101 
 
 68 
 
 13 
 
 495 
 
 166 
 
 Wayne, 
 
 1794 1 
 
 1 143 
 
 34 
 
 1 58 
 
 24 
 
 2.3 
 
 1 16 
 
 • 188 
 
 60 
 
 2d Webster (reorg. in 1836) 
 
 1794 2 
 
 198 
 
 24 1 
 
 99 
 
 14 
 
 26 
 
 40 
 
 252 
 
 43 
 
 1st Litchfield, 
 
 1798 1 
 
 4 351 
 
 21 
 
 3 107 
 
 99 
 
 74 
 
 14 44 
 
 336 
 
 96 
 
 Wales, 
 
 1799 4 
 
 2 233 
 
 28 
 
 7 92 
 
 35 
 
 36 
 
 
 238 
 
 79 
 
 J»y > 
 
 1799 1 
 
 4 324 
 
 28 2 
 
 1, 74 
 
 143 
 
 38 
 
 39 
 
 370 
 
 98 
 
 Leeds, 
 
 1800 1 
 
 6 235 
 
 47 
 
 5| 89 
 
 65 
 
 3.3 
 
 1 
 
 292 
 
 107 
 
 2d Bowdoin, 
 
 1805 2 
 
 5 309 
 
 34 1 
 
 01158 
 
 73 
 
 13 
 
 
 16 367 
 
 120 
 
 IstHallowell, 
 
 1807 2 
 
 9 279 
 
 100 1 
 
 2 83 
 
 65 
 
 45 
 
 13 24 
 
 408 
 
 180 
 
 1st Webster, 
 
 1808 ] 
 
 3 110 
 
 19 
 
 9 36 
 
 2.3 
 
 19 
 
 19 
 
 148 
 
 52 
 
 3d Livermore, 
 
 1812^ 
 
 a 128 
 
 35 
 
 8 76 
 
 51 
 
 23 
 
 
 12 200 
 
 70 
 
 Topsham, 
 
 1815 
 
 8 345 
 
 54 
 
 7 125 
 
 46 
 
 26 
 
 2 
 
 407 
 
 214 
 
 1st Gardiner, 
 
 1815 1 
 
 6 146 
 
 28 
 
 8 33 2b' 
 
 14 
 
 
 3 190 
 
 128 
 
 2d Gardiner, 
 
 1820 ] 
 
 51 40 
 
 16 
 
 1 15 
 
 5 
 
 12 
 
 
 2 71 
 
 40 
 
 EastDixfield, 
 
 1831 
 
 2] 21 
 
 10 
 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 6 
 
 43 
 
 28 
 
 Bowdoinham Vil. 
 
 1820 S 
 
 11 68 
 
 25 
 
 3 14 
 
 11 
 
 18 
 
 11 
 
 120 
 
 69 
 
 Winthrop, 
 
 1824 : 
 
 50 114 
 
 106 
 
 3 52 
 
 30 
 
 22 
 
 £ 
 
 250 
 
 128 
 
 1st Monmouth, 
 
 1827, 
 
 [5 115 
 
 24 
 
 30 
 
 1( 
 
 4 
 
 
 154 
 
 110 
 
 2d Hallowell, 
 
 1830 5 
 
 >1 8 
 
 14 
 
 8 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 1 43 
 
 33 
 
 3d Gardiner, 
 
 1834 30 40 
 
 9 
 
 4 18 
 
 14 
 
 3 
 
 
 1 79 
 
 49 
 
 So. Ch. Bowdoin, 
 
 1836 22! 5 
 
 7 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 
 34 28 
 
 Richmond, 
 
 1834 
 
 8 56 
 
 18 
 
 12 
 
 11 
 
 7 
 
 
 75 
 
 45 
 
 East Monmouth, 
 
 1837 
 
 7 39 
 
 6 
 
 4 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 45 
 
 37 
 
 Pittston, 
 
 1840 
 
 15 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 16 
 
 15 
 
 2d Litchfield, 
 
 1843 
 
 22 5 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 28 
 
 28 
 
 Monmouth Centre, 
 
 1842 
 
 9 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1C 
 
 10 
 
 2d Leeds, 
 
 1843 
 
 27 5 2 
 
 
 
 
 34 
 
 34 
 
 
 
 CO C"> 
 
 to 
 to 
 
 N3 
 
 g g 
 
 to 
 
 2 
 
 00, c 
 
 3 Cji Or 
 
 11 
 
 Bowdoin South Church. It was constituted in July 
 1836, and in Sept. had twenty-two members. It is the 
 privilege of this church to claim a standing on ' Baptist 
 ground ;' their meeting-house being located on the parcel 
 of land, once occupied by Eld. Potter ; yet they have never 
 had much preaching or much prosperity. In 184$, their 
 number was forty-eight. 
 12* 
 
CHAPTER XV. 
 
 CHURCHES IN LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Histories of its sixteen original Churches have been given, Thomaston, p' 
 95; Vassalboro', p. 109; Ballstown, p. 114; Miscongus Isle, p. 135; 
 St. George, p. 186 ; Nobleboro', 139; Hope, p. 145; Harlem, p. 150. 
 Woolwich, p. 165; Medumcook, p. 166; Warren, p. 168; Fairfax, p. 
 176 ; Mt Ephraim, p. 177; Islesboro', p. 188 ; Vinalhaven,p. 189; Bow- 
 doinham,p. 93. 
 
 Palermo ana Beaver Hill ; First Sedgwick ; Unity, now Knox ; Columbia ; 
 First Bluebill ; Northport, a temporary Church ; First Montville ; Carmel ; 
 Surry ; First Jefferson ; Second Jefferson ; Matinicus ; Deer Island ; 
 Stetson, a temporary Church ; Camden, First and Second Church ; Union, 
 first called Second Hope; Second Palermo; First Belfast; Dixmont ; 
 Cherryfield ; Steuben; First Trenton; Sullivan; Charleston; Belmont; 
 Castine ; Freedom ; Second Montville ; Isle au Haut ; Second Thomaston ; 
 Second Sedgwick ; Brooksville; Second Brooksville ; Mount Desert; 
 Monroe ; Appleton ; Second St George ; Eden ; Prospect ; Second 
 Nobleboro' ; Bangor; Windsor; New Castle and Alna; Waldo ; Dover ; 
 Wiscasset ; Corinth ; Waldoboro' ; Atkinson and Milton ; Third Jefferson ; 
 Searsmont ; Third Whitefield ; North Whitefield ; Richmond ; Patrick- 
 town Plantation ; Washington ; Third Nobleboro' ; First West Thom- 
 aston ; Damariscotta Mills; Cushing; Third Camden ; Third St. George. 
 
 Palermo and Beaver-Hill. A church was consti- 
 tuted as early as 1805, composed of members residing 
 in the north part of Palermo, and in a settlement called 
 'Beaver-Hill,' now 'Freedom.' Baptists had been 
 multiplying in places contiguous for several years. 
 Among them were several ministers raised up to go 
 forth into the new settlements, to evangelize the growing 
 population. Rev. Nathaniel Robinson, from Meredith, 
 N. H., became their pastor soon after they were organ- 
 ized. He labored successfully in this field, till he re- 
 moved to Cherryfield, in 1810. Its next pastor, Elder 
 Jesse Martin, officiated with zeal and profit, from 1813 
 to 1817. He left to benefit another people with his 
 vigilant labors. This church was next honored with the 
 ministry and pastoral attentions of Elder Stephen Dex- 
 ter, from 1820, two years, and was blessed with some 
 revival and increase. Elder William Bowler, their 
 present pastor, has been useful in the church at different 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 053 
 
 periods — from 1825 to 1832, and from 1841 to the 
 present. Rev. I. S. Smith was their teacher and guide 
 from 1837 to 1840, and by his ministry God made some 
 additions to their numbers. This church has, however, 
 never been blessed with extensive revivals, nor with 
 more than a small net annual increase. Their pros- 
 perity has sometimes been retarded by want of harmony 
 among the members. Yet it has yielded two branches, 
 the second church in Palermo and one in Freedom.* 
 Their present number is forty-six. 
 
 Sedgwick First Church. In 1793 a Congregational 
 church of twenty-two members was constituted in Sedg- 
 wick. The same year, Rev. Daniel Merrill, who had 
 been preaching two years as the town's minister, and 
 who was the founder of this church, was ordained its 
 pastor.| Under the indefatigable exertions of this 
 zealous working man of God, this church prospered 
 several years, and being blessed of God . with several 
 special and wide spreading revivals, its numerical 
 strength, at the beginning of 1805, was greater than 
 that of any other community of disciples in the State. 
 It had a total of one hundred and eighty-nine members. 
 A large number of these disciples, with Mr. Merrill 
 their leader, renounced Pedo-baptism, and became 
 Baptists, and on the 14th of May, 1805, were regularly 
 constituted into a church of Christ upon the New Tes- 
 tament platform, and Elder Merrill, by the same council, 
 and on the same day, was recognized by ordination as 
 the pastor. I 
 
 This singular change, as might be expected, awakened 
 excitement and produced a variety of feelings and re- 
 marks in the community. The Baptists rejoiced, not 
 as worldly victors, but in this glorious triumph of gos- 
 
 *Min. L. and W. A. jGreen. Eccl. his. p. 160. tCh. Rec. eit. 1). Nutter. 
 
0(34 FIRST CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 
 
 pel truth over human tradition; and the Congregation- 
 alists mourned the misfortune of their hitherto beloved 
 Merrill, and of his church. As regards the causes of 
 this change, much has been written, and much more 
 has been said. Some supposed that it was owing to a 
 lax discipline; some, to the influence of Baptist preach- 
 ers who were permitted to visit and preach among the 
 people; and others, to both these circumstances com- 
 bined. But facts show that such suppositions were but 
 ill-founded conjectures. 
 
 There was great caution, wisdom and firmness main- 
 tained by Mr. Merrill in the discipline of that church. 
 The first signs of disease engaged his most prompt en- 
 deavors to effect a cure. Nor was he less vigilant to 
 remove any dissatisfaction which he might discover in 
 any mind as regarded that peculiarity of his faith, "Pe- 
 do-baptism." To illustrate the attachment of Mr. Mer- 
 rill to his own peculiar views, and the anxiety he felt 
 for any of his flock who might be inquiring in a different 
 direction, we shall here introduce some circumstances 
 which are regarded as among the preliminaries to this 
 change. 
 
 Mr. R. Allen, one of the first converts under the 
 ministry of Mr. Merrill, 'never felt satisfied with infant 
 sprinkling.' Mr. Merrill was informed of the dissatis- 
 faction of Mr. Allen; whereupon he had several con- 
 versations with him, in which he labored earnestly to 
 convince him of 'its importance and Divine authority.' 
 It however remained still to Mr. Allen an unmeaning 
 and an unscriptural practice. The contagion, as it was 
 viewed, began to send its influence over other minds. 
 Deacon S. Herrick, Mr. Amos Allen and others, soon 
 revealed their dissenting feelings. Mr. Merrill was at 
 this time diligent to arrest the schismatic spirit. Yet the 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 265 
 
 number opposed to infant sprinkling rapidly increased, 
 so that a separation in the church was feared. To pre- 
 vent this, the very singular expedient was adopted, of 
 so altering their Confession of Faith, as to make their 
 dissenting views no valid objection to communion.* 
 This expedient prevented a separation, but not enquiries 
 and altercations. 
 
 How much influence Baptist preachers may have ex- 
 erted among this people, it is not easy to determine. 
 The members who dissented from Pedo-baptism tell us 
 with one voice ' that the Bible first taught them the 
 errors of the doctrine.' Mr. Merrill had no predilec- 
 tion for Baptists. He says, in his autobiography, page 
 2: 'From my earliest childhood to the commencement 
 of my literary course, I had never, to my knowledge, 
 seen more than one Baptist minister, nor heard any 
 commend the peculiar tenets of the Baptists; but had 
 frequently heard them spoken against with visible dis- 
 pleasure. I early conceived and for a considerable 
 time retained an opinion of the Baptists, not favorable 
 to their persons, their sentiments, or their practices.' 
 But as he became more acquainted with them he says: 
 'Their apparent piety, and the manifest honesty with 
 which they adhered to their sentiments, mellowed my 
 asperity.' Being intimate with several of their minis- 
 ters, and having strong affection for them, he says, 'he 
 desired a union with them, not by turning to them, but 
 by their turning from their errors.' He conversed, he 
 preached, he wrote, to secure what he desired; but, 
 failing, he resolved to write a book, to convince the 
 Baptists of their errors, and to relieve his church from 
 a perplexing uneasiness. These were important objects 
 to be gained, and he determined to gain them by the 
 power of scriptural evidence and argument. 
 
 *Com. by Elds. Nutler and Case. 
 
266 FIRST CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 
 
 He says: 'I gave myself with a degree of decision 
 to a careful and critical review of the sacred oracles of 
 God. I contemplated day and night, perused the sacred 
 volume from Genesis to Revelation. I searched, and 
 renewed my anxious search for more than two years. 
 My pain became severe. To my great disappointment 
 and extreme regret, I was driven to the then very sor- 
 rowful conclusion that the sacred scriptures did not 
 afford clear and direct evidence to support my own 
 practice.' 
 
 Now came a peculiar trial. Several children were 
 presented for baptism. But Mr. Merrill refused to per- 
 form the ceremony, alleging for his reasons, 'As God 
 has refused to me the light of evidence in favor of this 
 rite, I refuse to administer it.' This occasioned joy to 
 some of his church, but grief and dissatisfaction to 
 others. The discomfit with which he had met, so dis- 
 tressed him, he was induced to reveal his convictions 
 and trials to his worthy deacon, S. Herrick, who was 
 ready to sympathize with him, being himself also an 
 inquirer after truth. It was resolved to spend a day of 
 fasting and prayer before the Lord, 'that they might 
 not renounce their practice if it was in agreement with 
 his truth; and that they might not reject the sentiments 
 of the Baptists, provided they were in accordance with 
 his will.' The day passed, and says Mr. Merrill, 'I 
 was in extreme darkness — in darkness sensibly to be 
 felt.' For several months his conflict was severe. At 
 length the Lord removed the cloud, and holy light filled 
 his mind; he saw clearly, and found peace. He was 
 now a Baptist. With zeal, with ability, with firmness, 
 and aided by the light of truth, he entered immediately 
 upon a defence of Believer's Baptism, as the true and 
 only gospel rite. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 267 
 
 Trials did not end here. Opposition from without 
 now lifted her dark visage. Great efforts were made 
 to deprive Mr. Merrill of his salary as the minister of. 
 the town, and reject him from the pulpit of the town's 
 meeting-house, by a vote of the inhabitants, for the 
 simple reason that he had become a Baptist. But here 
 opposition was by a large majority of votes defeated, 
 and Mr. Merrill was received as the town's minister 
 upon the Baptist platform. 
 
 The next important business to be done was to change 
 the name and character of the church. On the 28th of 
 February, 1805, after prayerfully deliberating the duty, 
 it was resolved to invite a council of Baptist ministers 
 and churches, for the purposes of baptizing and embody- 
 ing them into a Baptist church. This was done by the 
 following council: Elders Pitman of Providence, Bald- 
 win of Boston, Williams of Beverly, Case of Readfield, 
 Snow of Thomaston, and Cummings of Vinalhaven, 
 besides several lay brethren. The candidates, eighty- 
 five in number, were baptized by Baldwin and Williams, 
 where was 'much water;' sixty-six of them at one time, 
 in forty-two minutes, and nineteen others the next day, 
 when they were organized into a church, and Elder 
 Case gave them the right hand of fellowship.* 
 
 The church now constituted, with Mr. Merrill their 
 able pastor, began to move forward, and in less than 
 three months sixty more of the remaining disciples were 
 baptized and added to the church; and in about a year 
 twenty-five more. This was a light in the midst of 
 darkness, shedding its spiritual radiance around the 
 path of those who were enquiring for the true way to 
 Zion. Being the first Baptist church in this region, it 
 became a centre of attraction to those who were Bap- 
 
 *For a description of these proceedings in detail, see Bap. Mis. Mag. 
 
£68 CHURCH IN UNITY. 
 
 tists in the surrounding country. Many of the original 
 members of the churches, First and Second Bluehill, 
 Deer Isle, Brooksville, Penobscot, Second Sedgwick, 
 and North Sedgwick, were from this church. It has 
 also yielded much ministerial fruit, as Rev. P. Pilsbury, 
 Rev. N. Norton, Rev. Amos Allen, Rev. Michael Carle- 
 ton, Rev. H. Hale, Rev. Moses Merrill, (son of Rev. 
 D.Merrill,) Rev. Thomas 'Merrill, and Rev. Daniel 
 Dodge. 
 
 Rev. Mr. Merrill resigned the pastoral care in 1814. 
 The same year, Mr. Ebenezer Pinkham began to preach 
 among them, and in 1815 received by ordination the 
 pastoral charge, which he held with eminent usefulness 
 till 1820. In 1816, one hundred and forty were added 
 to the church by baptism, as the fruits of a revival. In 
 1821, Rev. Mr. Merrill returns from New Hampshire, 
 and again became pastor, to the joy of the church, 
 and in 1822 another wonderful refreshing from the 
 presence of the Lord brought into this fold about one 
 hundred more. Rev. Ebenezer Mirick was pastor from 
 1829 to 1834, and some prosperity attended his ministry. 
 An interval of about a year and a half was now filled 
 by the able ministry of the late Rev. E. W. Garrison. 
 In 1836, their present pastor, Rev. David Nutter, en- 
 tered upon his labors with the church. In 1838, more 
 than one hundred souls were added to the church, as 
 the fruitful harvest of the preached gospel, by the Spirit. 
 This is a flourishing, enterprising, and able church, of 
 two hundred and sixty members.* 
 
 Unity, now Knox. This church was gathered in 
 1800, in the now town of Knox, probably by the labors 
 of its present senior and venerable pastor, Elder Isaac 
 Hall, then a licentiate. He was ordained its pastor in 
 
 *We are indebted to Rev. D. N. ; for much iuformation respecting this Ch. 
 
CHURCH IN COLUMBIA. 0(39 
 
 1806. It had a gradual increase for several years. In 
 1819, there was some revival which raised its standard 
 of influence, and promoted its efficiency. Since that 
 time it has borne the name of Knox. In 1832, the 
 church was again enlarged by a few additions. In 1833, 
 Rev. Eliab Coy became an associate pastor, and the 
 church moved on pleasantly under his labors about two 
 years. The church and pastor were assisted in 1835 
 by E. J. White, a licentiate. A revival was enjoyed, 
 and in 1836 Mr. White was ordained associate pastor. 
 Elder E. H. Emery occupied this field from 1837 to 
 1841; J. H. Melvin, from 1842 till his death in 1843; 
 and A. Dunbar since 1843. During the ministry of 
 these servants of God the church has flourished, and in 
 1843 was blessed with a revival, and Father Hall still 
 lives to see its progress.* Its present number is ninety- 
 seven. This church has never advanced without oppo- 
 sition. 
 
 Columbia, (first called 'Columbia and Addison.') 
 This ancient church was gathered in 1788, and was the 
 first Baptist church embodied east of Penobscot river. 
 Its early records being imperfect, and most of the origi- 
 nal members having gone to their rest, much of their 
 early history remains in obscurity. It appears that at 
 first the settlers had comparatively no gospel privileges. 
 Travelling preachers were here but seldom, and conse- 
 quently wickedness found but few restraints. The first 
 visible religious awakenings took place under the preach- 
 ing of a Mr. Whitney, a Free-will Baptist. Several 
 persons professed piety, and the character of the people 
 considerably improved. This was in 1785. Arminian- 
 ism found in this people a genial soil, in which it flour- 
 ished. Religious errors became prevalent, and a ve- 
 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. 
 
270 CHURCH IN COLUMBIA. 1 
 
 hement zeal characterized their influence. About this 
 time Rev. Elisha Snow, under the influence of a pious 
 and zealous Predestinarian faith, performed several vol- 
 untary missions through the new settlements along this 
 eastern coast of the State. In 1788 he visited Colum- 
 bia. He preached the gospel to them; light celestial 
 dispelled the darkness from many minds; the doctrines 
 of grace supplanted their works of righteousness, and 
 many became converts to the gospel as preached by 
 Elder Snow. And by their request he embodied them 
 into a regular church.* And although favored with but 
 little preaching for many years, and in the midst of 
 various modes of opposition, they lived in union and 
 love, and prospered. This 'New Light,' a name given 
 by opposition, shone alone for several years. Since, 
 its own offsprings have been its spiritual companions. 
 
 From 1794 to 1797, Rev. Joshua Young labored in 
 the gospel with them as their pastor. Mr. Young found 
 himself in the centre of a vast community, comprising 
 several settlements entirely destitute of the gospel. 
 Among these he labored most assiduously. Nor was 
 his efforts in vain. God blessed them. In 1796 a gen- 
 eral revival was experienced in Columbia and Addison, 
 and was extended into other places. The fruits of this 
 work laid the foundation for the churches, First and 
 Second Addison, and Cherryfield, and Steuben. The 
 last two were constituted the same year. This year 
 also, Mr. Murphy became a member by letter, and re- 
 ceiving a license to preach, was a useful coadjutor with 
 Mr. Young Now commenced a train of circumstances 
 adverse in their influence. In 1797, Mr. Young and 
 Mr. Murphy closed their labors in Columbia, and for a 
 period of seventeen years the church had no pastor. 
 
 *Ch. Records. 
 
CHURCH IN COLUMBIA. 271 
 
 In 1799, a Methodist preacher came among them, who 
 scattered the seeds of contention, the fruits of which 
 were, much wrangling and disputing about the doctrines 
 'Divine efficiency,' 'election,' and 'final perseverance.' 
 In their extremity Elder Case visited them, and with 
 the skill of a wise peace-maker, he allayed the strife, 
 and placed things again on their proper basis. 
 
 In 1805 and 1806, Elder H. Hale was made wise to 
 win souls to Christ among them, and in the contiguous 
 settlements; and in 1806, a visit and the preaching of 
 Elder Case promoted the work already in progress. 
 The church was now enlarged. 
 
 From 1814 to 1818, the church was blessed and in- 
 creased by the ministry, under God, of Rev. Benjamin 
 Lord; and in 1817, another extensive revival blessed 
 the community, and the church 'Second Addison' was 
 constituted. 1819 was a year filled with darkness, di- 
 vision, and painful trials. Elder McMasters, who was 
 their minister, labored in vain to restrain the raging 
 elements. Two parties, claiming to be the church, 
 existed, and each reported itself to the Association as 
 such. A committee was sent by the Association to look 
 into their state, who visited them, and after examination 
 and deliberation, reported to these brethren, that it was 
 their decision that all those members who could unite 
 in a renewal of 'covenant,' was the church. Where- 
 upon, a large majority of both parties signified union 
 and fellowship, and soon most of the minority joined 
 them. This method of settling the difficulty was ac- 
 ceptable to the Association.* It was not considered a 
 re-organization, but a restoration of union. 
 
 The church now moved on harmoniously, till 1825, 
 when by the labors of Elders William Johnson, Samuel 
 
 Miu. E. M. Asso. 
 
272 FIRST CHURCH IN BLUEHILL. 
 
 Allen and P. Bond, the Lord appeared in power and 
 great glory, in the revival of his work. The wilderness 
 bloomed with spiritual beauty, and the desert sent forth 
 a heavenly fragrance. In 1825, an invitation was ex- 
 tended to Mr. John Billings, of Fayette, son of the late 
 Elder O. Billings, and one of the first graduates of 
 Waterville College, to become their pastor. In April, 
 1826, Mr. Billings accepted their call, and united with 
 the church. But as a large part of the church lived in 
 Addison, and at some distance from 'Epping,' in Co- 
 lumbia, the original centre of the church, it was mutu- 
 ally agreed that a church should be organized in Addi- 
 son, and that Mr. Billings should be ordained its pastor. 
 This was done; and this arrangement left the parent 
 stock at Epping much enfeebled. From this time till 
 very recently, its sojourning has been generally accom- 
 panied with many trials and discouragements. Armin- 
 ianism, Universalism, and other false doctrines have 
 made inroads upon them; but they are not overcome. 
 They have had occasional preaching by Elders Case, 
 Johnson, Billings, Lennon. and for the last two years, 
 half of the ministry of Rev. R. W. E. Brown, a li- 
 centiate. Their original number is unknown. Their 
 present number is forty-seven.* 
 
 Bluehill First Church. This place began to be 
 settled in 1763. It was then called East Andover, 
 afterward Newport; but in 1788, it was incorporated 
 by the name of Bluehill. A Congregational church 
 was gathered here in 1772, and in 1796, Rev. Jonathan 
 Fisher was ordained its pastor. "f This church pros- 
 pered, and a strong passion for a Pedo-baptist practice 
 was created throughout the community. About this 
 time, Elders Case and Snow made frequent tours into the 
 
 *Ch. Records. *Green. Eccl. his. pp. 256, 157. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN BLUEHILL. 273 
 
 eastern part of the State, and passed through this set- 
 tlement, and occasionally preached a lecture. Though 
 they did not urge their peculiar sentiments,* it was 
 known that they were Baptists, which might have had 
 some influence. 
 
 The first extensive revival which blessed this people 
 was in 1803. Baptists were then little known here, and 
 their sentiments little regarded. Yet in the progress of 
 the revival an incident occurred, surprising to Pedo- 
 baptists. On the reception of members, three persons 
 refused to unite with the church unless they could do so 
 without subscribing to the article of infant sprinkling, 
 assigning as their reason, that 'they believed the Bible 
 authorized no such practice.' They were, however, 
 admitted to fellowship, but not without being publicly 
 exposed as dissenters from that most essential rite, 
 'infant baptism. 'f 
 
 This awakened a spirit of inquiry, and the people 
 began to search the scriptures for themselves, some of 
 whom soon saw as did Dr. Woods when he penned this 
 most important concession, 'There is neither precept 
 nor example for infant baptism in all our sacred wri- 
 tings.'! The result of these inquiries, by the blessing 
 of God, was, that in 1804, the three persons before 
 mentioned withdrew from the Pedo-baptist connexion, 
 and publicly avowed their faith in 'Believers' Baptism,' 
 (immersion) as the only gospel rite. And, although no 
 efforts were spared by the zealous advocates of Pedo- 
 baptism to arrest the progress of the 'delusion,' in 1805, 
 twenty-five or thirty more persons left their communion. 
 It deserves to be noticed that these were Biblical Bap- 
 tists. Their change of views was not produced by 
 
 *Case's Jour. fZion's Adv., March 27, 1833, Rev. J. G.'s Sermon. 
 }Dr. Woods, ciled by Rev. J. G. 
 
274 FIRST CHURCH IN BLUEHILL, 
 
 Baptist preaching, for this they had seldom, if ever, 
 heard. Their convictions were deep, their views clear, 
 and their faith firm. Baptist doctrines and practices 
 began now to prevail, and though opposed by some, 
 found adherents. A Baptist church was not, however, 
 organized in Bluehill, but the persons referred to were 
 baptized in Sedgwick, and united with that church. This 
 did not prevent their holding frequent meetings among 
 themselves, nor their being visited occasionally by Bap- 
 tist preachers at Bluehill. They had seasons of com- 
 fort, but not unmixed with trials. Their brethren whom 
 they had left, and whom they still loved, did not cherish 
 the best feelings towards them.* Rev. I. Case says: 
 he, 'accompanied with Rev. H. Hale and Deacon 
 Dodge, went to the Congregational meeting house, 
 where three Pedo-baptist preachers were assembled for 
 an association. I thought some hardness was to be 
 discovered against the Baptists, especially in Rev. Mr. 
 Powers' prayer, in which he told the Lord that the 
 Baptists were deluded. 'f But these brethren were, like 
 martyrs in the worst of times, bound together by the 
 indissoluble ties of love, and supported by the grace of 
 faith. In 1806, it was deemed important that they should 
 be organized into a church. Thirteen males and six 
 females were therefore embodied on the 13th of Febru- 
 ary. J Their number was soon enlarged by the fruits 
 of a revival. 
 
 Having no convenient place of worship, and no pastor 
 to guide and guard them, there was from this time, till 
 1816, no material changes in their condition. They 
 had, however, occasional preaching, and were permitted 
 now and then to gather a choice cluster from the vine. 
 Elder Case, who honored and cheered this church with 
 
 *Zion's Advocate, &c. \E\d. Case's Jou. {Ch. Rcc. quo. by the pastor. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN BLUEHILL. 275 
 
 his frequent visits, relates the following circumstance, 
 as illustrative of the power of truth. He says: 'Two 
 persons related their experience, and I baptized them, 
 one of whom was Deacon Hinkley, who once said that 
 he would not be a Baptist, if Mr. Fisher and all his 
 church should turn; but truth was stronger than his 
 opposition.'* 
 
 In 1807, John Roundy and Amos Allen received a 
 license to preach. In 1809, Mr. Allen was ordained as 
 an evangelist, and Mr. Roundy as pastor of the church. 
 The church, 'though perplexed, was not in despair;' and 
 'though persecuted, was not forsaken ; ' and they believed 
 that greater blessings were in reserve for them. Their 
 hopes were soon realized. In 1816, in answer to prayer 
 and in connection with the labors of their pastor and of 
 Rev. Phinehas Pilsbury, who afforded much timely aid, 
 the clouds which had lowered about the church's hori- 
 zon disappeared, and the light of heavenly glory shone 
 with resplendent lustre and beauty upon this people, and 
 one hundred and forty-one were added to the church; 
 some of these were persons who had withdrawn from 
 Pedo-baptism. The ability and influence of the church 
 were now very much increased, and their resources 
 were immediately applied to the erection of a house of 
 worship. This year a license was granted to William 
 Johnson, who was ordained an evangelist in 1818. In 
 1821, their pastor was dismissed from his charge. 
 
 Towards the close of 1823, Mr. Reuben Milner began 
 to preach with the church, and was soon ordained their 
 minister, and was useful during his stay, a period of 
 three years. In 1825, J. Darling was licensed. From 
 1826 to 1828, Rev. E. Pinkham was minister, and the 
 first year of his ministry the church was blessed with 
 
 *Kld. Case's Jour. 
 
276 FIRST CHURCH IN MONTVILLE. 
 
 another revival. The interval between these revivals 
 was filled with trials and discouragements; but now 
 days of prosperity returned. In 1828, their present 
 eminently useful pastor, Rev. James Gillpatrick, com- 
 menced preaching, by license, and was ordained April 23, 
 1829. An annual increase, and a growing influence, 
 cheered both church and pastor, till 1838, when the 
 Lord hastened the gathering of another rich harvest; 
 and in 1843, there was another in-gathering of precious 
 fruit, so that the church is now a large, influential and 
 benevolent body, with two hundred and eighty members.* 
 
 Northport. This church was gathered some years 
 before it united with this Association. At that time it 
 reported thirty-seven members. But having no regular 
 ministry, it gradually decreased to fourteen, and finally 
 lost its name and place in the denomination, in 1828. 
 Deacon Jonathan Holbrook was its principal supporter.")" 
 
 Montville First Church. Five Baptists were 
 united in church fellowship in Montville, July 17, 1807. 
 The same year this 'little one' was blest with an increase 
 by a revival, and by the ordination of Rev. Job Cush- 
 man, from Hebron, as pastor. For thirteen years they 
 were blessed with his ministry and a cheering prosper- 
 ity. He resigned in 1820. Years of trials followed. 
 Rev. J. Hall preached a part of the time, but with little 
 success. In 1826, the clouds began to break away, 
 revealing some brighter prospects. This year, T. B. 
 Robinson began to aid them in the capacity of a licen- 
 tiate, and was eminently useful to them. He was or- 
 dained an evangelist, July 25, 1827. A revival by his 
 labors had enlarged the church, by an addition of con- 
 verts, baptized by Elders S. Fogg and N. Hooper. 
 
 *Zion's Adv. March, 1835, arid Min. L. and H. Asso. fMiu. L. A. and 
 Eld. Case's Journal. 
 
CHURCH IN CARMEL. 277 
 
 Mr. Robinson continued here till 1830, and baptized 
 fifteen more, making sixty-five in all, during his stay. 
 Since then, the church has had several pastors and 
 ministers. Elder Joseph Palmer preached with little 
 success, from 1830 to 1835; Elder E. H. Emery sup- 
 plied a short time; Elder T. Jameson, in 1836; Elder 
 I. S. Smith, a part of the time, 1837 and 1838; Elder 
 Fogg, a short season, most successfully ; and Elder J. 
 M. Mace was ordained pastor, and labored faithfully, 
 from 1840 to 1843. He was a blessing to the church, 
 though some internal difficulties seemed to operate 
 against a large increase. The church is now united, 
 and though without a pastor, is persevering, with sev- 
 enty-four active members.* 
 
 Carmel, now Etna and Carmel. In Carmel and 
 its vicinity, Baptists were little known previous to 1807. 
 This year, as the fruits of the labors of Rev. John 
 Chadbourn, seven persons were baptized and embodied 
 into a church, with two other resident Baptists. Paul 
 Ruggles was elected deacon. He was afterwards most 
 successfully devoted in the work of the ministry. The 
 years 1808 and 1809 were distinguished for an exten- 
 sive work of grace in these settlements, under the 
 labors of Elders J. Chadbourn, their minister, and 
 Jason Livermore, of Mount Ephraim. This season of 
 mercy to the church was followed by one of severe 
 trials. Mr. Chadbourn was dismissed. In 1810, Daniel 
 Mason received approbation to preach, and Paul Rug- 
 gles was ordained. The church was blessed under the 
 ministry of Mr. Ruggles. He died 1820. In 1822, 
 the church was again aroused from its spiritual slum- 
 bers by the preaching of A. E. Hackett, a licentiate, 
 and by the blessing of God a few souls were converted. 
 
 *A. Pierce's iom. and Min. L. and W. A. 
 13 
 
£78 CHURCH IN SURRY, 
 
 In 1823, Rev. Daniel McMaster was received as their 
 first pastor. They prospered for seven years under his 
 ministry, and sustained a loss by his resignation in 1831. 
 The meeting of the quarterly conference in this vicinity 
 was blessed to this church, with which "it was held in 
 1834. The meeting was protracted: a revival com- 
 menced, which, by the pious and efficient labors of Rev. 
 H. Hawes, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, 
 brought many precious souls to Christ. The church 
 was again enlarged. From 1835 to 1837, Rev. Jacob 
 Hatch officiated in the pastoral charge, and the church 
 advanced. March 2, 1836, Isaac Boynton, Jr., son of 
 their first deacon, was set apart to the work of the 
 ministry by ordination, and B. D. Small in 1837. In 
 1838, the church was blessed with three-fourths of the 
 ministry of Rev. S. M. Rice; from 1839 to 1842, three- 
 fourths of the time by Rev. B. D. Small. The church 
 is now destitute and in a 'depressed state.' Their num- 
 ber is seventy-six. It has been a prosperous church, 
 and has yielded to the denomination some fruit: — the 
 churches, Dixmont, Pittsfield, Plymouth, and Hermon, 
 (now extinct,) besides several eminent ministers of the 
 gospel.* 
 
 Surry. The first revival in Surry was under the 
 preaching of the Methodists, and a class was formed 
 here by them as early as 1800. Elder John Tuffs was 
 the preacher on the circuit, and Benjamin Lord, one of 
 the converts in Surry, was made class-leader. Baptists 
 were not known here then. But in 1801, Rev. John 
 Tripp, of Hebron, had occasion to visit Surry. While 
 there he preached the gospel. Soon it was known that 
 he was one of those 'dreadful creatures,' the Baptists. 
 His preaching was experimental, spiritual and biblical, 
 
 "John C. FriencUs Com. and Mm. L. and P. A. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN JEFFERSON. 270 
 
 and thus made substantial and soul-nourishing food for 
 those converts. The result was, a foundation for a 
 Baptist interest. In 1802, Mr. Tripp visited them again. 
 He now saw that his former labor was not in vain. 
 Converted thoroughly from Arminianism and Pedo- 
 baptism, Benjamin Lord and a few others, by their re- 
 quest, were now baptized.* These labors of Mr. Tripp 
 were not to be lost. God designed to carry forward 
 the work of truth. In 1803, Elder Case came to them 
 in the fulness of the gospel. His labors were blessed 
 to the conversion of several more from the same errors, 
 and of some from the love and practice of sin. He 
 baptized eleven.! These labors were occasionally re- 
 peated till 1806, when a church of seventeen members 
 was organized. The next year, Benjamin Lord was 
 qualified to preach among them by a license; and be- 
 lieving that God had designed him for their pastor, the 
 church invited him to receive the charge. He accepted, 
 and was ordained 1810. For a period of thirty years 
 he sustained this relation, with great profit to the church 
 and pleasure to himself. This period, however, was 
 interrupted by an interval of four years, from 1814 to 
 1818, during which he was the useful pastor over the 
 church in Columbia. Elder Lord died September, 1841. 
 One peculiarity has marked the progress of this church. 
 Its advancement has been altogether by periodical revi- 
 vals. It has existed thirty-seven years; had one pastor; 
 no meeting house; had four revivals,, and yielded four 
 churches — Branch Pond, Reed's Brook, Ellsworth Vil- 
 lage Church, and Third Trenton. It is now destitute, 
 with fifty-six members. J 
 
 Jefferson First Church. Jefferson was a part of 
 the territory first called Ballstown. In the western 
 
 *Rev, J. Tripp's Coin. fEId. Case's Jour. {Rev. A. B. & Min. L. & H. A 
 
280 FIRST CHURCH IN JEFFERSON. 
 
 part, now Whitefield, a church was gathered in 1788. 
 Through the influence of this church, and of Elder 
 Bailey, their pastor, Baptists soon began to multiply in 
 the eastern part, now Jefferson. Occasional labors 
 were bestowed upon this people, by Elders Potter and 
 Case, whose influence never failed to produce some 
 good result. In 1807, the inhabitants of Jefferson 
 erected a house of worship at the head of 'Damaris- 
 cotta Pond,' and Mr. William Allen, a licentiate, and 
 filled with the grace of God, commenced his untiring 
 and successful ministry among them. The Lord poured 
 forth his converting influences, and a gracious work 
 began to appear. In the midst of the accumulating 
 labors at this time, Elders Case and Pilsbury came to 
 the aid of Mr. Allen, and by their instrumentality the 
 work was made glorious and extensive.* The 'most of 
 the converts were baptized' by Elder Case, who says, 
 in his journal, for November, 1807, that he assisted the 
 council in organizing the First Church in Jefferson. 
 The minutes give the date 1808. But this was the 
 year it united with the Association, when it reported 
 seventy-five members. Its original number we have 
 not heard. Being provided with a meeting-house, they 
 next needed the pious pastor. This blessing was con- 
 ferred, by the ordination of Mr. Allen, (1809) who was 
 the principal instrument in their conversion to God. 
 Elder Allen entered upon his ministry with encouraging 
 prospects; and the numerous blessings which flowed to 
 this church under his ministry, for a period of about 
 twenty-seven years, show that he was the pastor whom 
 the Lord chose. He died in 1836, leaving the church 
 in its usual prosperous state, with about two hundred 
 members. 
 
 *The most of these facts an? gathered from Eld. C.'s Jour, for 1807. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN JEFFERSON. Qgl 
 
 This venerable Father was succeeded in the pastoral 
 office by Rev. Samuel Chisam, whose labors, from 1837 
 to the present, the Lord has signally honored, with dis- 
 tinguished power and influence. Under his ministry 
 there has been no retrograde movement by the church. 
 From' the first to the present, this church has pro- 
 gressed, acquiring gradually and annually, numbers 
 and ability, and has been repeatedly refreshed with 
 the special and revival influences of the Divine Spirit. 
 Few churches have occasion for more gratitude than 
 this. While some have sojourned in the midst of trials 
 and discouragements, this church has always advanced 
 harmoniously and prosperously. It has three hundred 
 and fifteen members.* 
 
 Jefferson Second Church. This church also origi- 
 nated with the revival in 1807. Elder Case baptized 
 the original members.! This church was much smaller 
 than the First; but for two years, being assisted by Mr. 
 Asa Wing, a licentiate, they made some progress. In 
 1815, another revival was experienced in town, in which 
 this church shared a part. It remained without a pastor 
 till 1822, when its worthy deacon, William Burbank, 
 who had been ordained the previous year, became its 
 pastor. In 1824, another work of mercy in town en- 
 larged this church and multiplied Baptists in every part 
 of the town, and in 1825, Elder Burbank and a large 
 part of this church were set off, to form a third church 
 in town. This event deprived this church of a pastor, 
 and left it in a state of comparative feebleness. From 
 this till 1833, it struggled almost alone, having but oc- 
 casional preaching, and consequently its increase was 
 small. In 1833, with the settlement of Rev. E. Trask 
 as pastor, the prospects of the church began to brighten. 
 
 *Min. L. A. and D. Asso. fEld. Case's Journal, 1807. 
 
282 CHURCH IN MATINICUS— DEER ISLAND. 
 
 He labored two years, and was succeeded in 1836 by 
 Rev. George Whitehouse, who was eminently useful to 
 the church, till 1842, when he resigned his charge, and 
 soon after the present pastor, Rev. Jonathan Burbank, 
 was introduced into the office by ordination. Although 
 this church has not had the advantages of the* First 
 church, yet it has risen to a state of respectability and 
 influence. Its present number is one hundred and six- 
 teen, and its prospects are encouraging.* 
 
 Matinicus. Matinicus is an island, forming an outer 
 limit to Penobscot Bay. On this Island, a Baptist church 
 of sixteen members was gathered in 1808. But from 
 its distance from the main land, it enjoyed but few priv- 
 ileges of communication with the denomination, and 
 never having a pastor, it gradually diminished, till it 
 lost its visibility. The fragments were gathered up in 
 1843, and embodied into a new church, of nine mem- 
 bers. They are still destitute, and need the aid of a 
 missionary.! 
 
 Deer Island. This Island lies south of Sedgwick, in 
 the eastern waters of Penobscot Bay. The first Baptist 
 minister who visited it, was Elder Case, in the spring of 
 1784. In regard to his first visit, he says : ' Satan got there 
 before me, and tried to prevent my sounding the glad tidings 
 of the gospel, but God prostrated his dark designs. '| Eld. 
 Case repeated his visits to this Island for several years; 
 souls were converted to God, and in 1807 a church of 
 twenty-two members was gathered to hold up the cross of 
 Christ to the people. The Baptists, however, did not 
 operate on the Island without opposition. Soon teachers 
 of another faith were found among the people. Says Eld. 
 Case, ' at one time I found a man there who pretended to 
 teach them, but in his reading there was no life nor power, 
 
 *Min. I . A. and D. A. tMin. L. A. }Eld. Case's Jour, 
 
CHURCH IN STETSON. 283 
 
 Kor was he of any advantage to the young disciples.'* A 
 Congregational church was organized on the Island about 
 this time, and was prosperous.! 
 
 In 1810 the Baptist church was increased to thirty-two 
 members, but being destitute of stated preaching, and sur- 
 rounded by opposing influences, its prosperity for many 
 years was small, In 1814 Rev. Samuel Allen became its 
 pastor, but retained the office only one year, yet he contin- 
 ued a portion of his labors with them, and in 1816 a work 
 of revival was experienced on this Island, and on the Isle 
 au Haut, where the other portion of his ministry was be- 
 stowed upon the people. This increased the church by near- 
 ly doubling its members ; the disciples from the Isle au Haut 
 uniting with them, Eld. A. now again became pastor, and 
 the church prospered by his ministry several years. At 
 length they became remiss in duty, and Eld. A. left them 
 about the year 18:27. In 1831 under the ministry of Eld. 
 Elisha Bedel, eighty were added to the church. Mr. B. 
 was pastor till 1834. This revival season was followed by 
 sad declensions in the church, and its numbers diminished 
 as rapidly as its spirituality. That portion of its members 
 who resided on ' Little Deer Isle,' was in 1838 embodied 
 into a distinct church. This tended also to enfeeble this 
 body. Recently by occasional preaching this church has 
 been aroused a little from its slumbering ; still it remains a 
 small and destitute band of but thirty-eight members. This 
 church has suffered much from ' laxity of discipline. 'J 
 
 Stetson. In 1807 this town, then a small settlement, 
 and called ' Stetsontown,' was visited by Elder Case, while 
 performing a mission under the direction of the Massa- 
 chusetts Domestic Missionary Society. ' Here,' he says, 
 ' I found a few pious souls. '§ He tarried with them and 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 1784. fGreen. Eccl. his. p. 158. +Min. L. E. M. and 
 H. Asso. §Eld. Case's Journal, 1807. 
 
284 CHURCH IN CAMDEN. 
 
 preached several days, and baptized eight persons and 
 embodied them into a church. But by removals and deaths 
 and other losses, this little one in a few years, (1820,) be- 
 came extinct. In 1834, Rev. S. Dexter of Corinth, visited 
 the place and opened a series of meetings, which were 
 blessed to the conversion of twenty or thirty persons ; and 
 in August of that year a new church was organized. This 
 church was also very feeble, and in 1837, had but ten 
 members. These by mutual consent dissolved their con- 
 nection, and united with the church in Newport.* 
 
 Camden. A settlement was commenced here about the 
 year 1780, and increased somewhat rapidly. The first 
 religious movement among the people was in 1784, caused 
 by the influence of the extensive revival in Thomaston that 
 year, and by the occasional preaching of Eld. Case, who 
 was instrumental in promoting that glorious work. Says 
 Eld. C. in his journal, ' April 22d, J went to Camden, or 
 to ' Goose river ;' called on Mr. Simonton, found his 
 wife and daughter desiring to see Jesus, and I trust they 
 have tasted that the Lord is gracious.' From this time he 
 made frequent visits to that people. In 1802 Elder Case 
 baptized two persons ; one of these individuals was a 
 woman who was led to embrace Christ some years previous, 
 by hearing Eld. Case repeat, 'Peace be to this house,' the 
 first time he entered her father's dwelling. This was a 
 word in season, and shows the faithfulness of this servant 
 of God. These movements were preparing the way for 
 the Baptist interest in Camden. Soon the Congregation- 
 alists began to operate in town, and anticipated the Bap- 
 tists in planting a church. They organized in 1805 ;t and 
 the Baptists in 1808, gathered two churches, one in the 
 westerly part of the town, the other in the easterly part. 
 The latter occupied the village as their centre of influence. 
 
 *Rec. of Pen. Asso. tGreen. Eccl.his.p. 175. 
 
CHURCH IN CAMDEN. 285 
 
 The First Church, in the westerly part of the town 
 was gathered by the occasional labors of Elder E. Snow 
 and Eld. John Still, and had in Sept twenty-five members. 
 Eld. Still soon became their stated minister if not pastor, 
 and was with them till 1815, but the church made slow 
 progress. In 1816 the church was increased and encour- 
 aged by a pleasant revival, but remaining destitute of the 
 stated ministry of the gospel, it became much enfeebled in 
 a few years by a loss of members. In 1824 this church 
 licensed N. Copeland, by whom they were assisted till 1828. 
 Still they were a small and inefncientjchurch. In 1831 
 Eld. A. Kalloch rendered them some important aid, and 
 in 1832 Eld. A. Bedel became its pastor. He tarried but 
 one year, leaving the church without increase. In 1837 
 and 1838, this church enjoyed some revival. Elders S. 
 Baker and S. N. Rice then labored with them. This 
 harvest season increased the church to ninety members. 
 Since that time the church has been in a tried, divided 
 and unhappy state, principally the result of the instability 
 of Mr. Baker. Their state is yet most precarious, and the 
 continuance of their visibility somewhat doubtful ; but we 
 hope better things. Their number is seventy-two.* 
 
 The Second Church in the village was gathered soon 
 after the first, and by the same instrumentality. It had in 
 Sept. sixteen members, and thus began with a smaller num- 
 ber than the first church, and for several years its prosperity 
 hardly encouraged exertion. But, aided by occasional 
 preaching, it maintained existence till 1816, when, like the 
 first, it was increased by a revival. It however gained but 
 a small advancement till within, a few years. In 1827 
 Elder N. Hooper became its first pastor, but continued 
 only one year. Now followed a series of sojourneyings. 
 for eight years, during which they were made to drink of 
 
 *Min. L. A. 
 
 13* 
 
286 CHURCH IN FRANKFORT. 
 
 a mixed cup of good and evil. But encouraged by the 
 promises of God, they believed that they should ' reap' if 
 they ' fainted not.' 
 
 The Convention considered their situation, and sent Eld. 
 H. Kendall to them, who by the help of God was success- 
 ful in gathering together this scattered flock, and of intro- 
 ducing to their number twenty-five new members. Encour- 
 aged by this success, the Convention in October made 
 another appropriation, and Eld. K.'s labors were continued. 
 The church quickened by their prosperity and animated to 
 the work by the advice and successful efforts of Eld. K. in 
 collecting aid from abroad, set about building a house of 
 worship in the village, which was completed and opened 
 in 1837. Since that time the church has not been driven 
 from one school-house to another, and thence to private 
 dwellings ; and for this blessing they are much indebted to 
 the Convention and to Elder K., but most of all to the 
 Great Head of the church. In 1838 Eld. E. Freeman 
 commenced his labors with this church, and administered 
 to its prosperity till 1842, when he was succeeded by the 
 valuable efforts of Eld. A. Dunbar one year. Eld. Daniel 
 Bartlett is their present beloved pastor, and the church is 
 advancing in respectability and influence, with a total of 
 one hundred and twelve members.* 
 
 Frankfort. A church of thirty-eight members was 
 gathered in Frankfort in 1808, but owing to adverse cir- 
 cumstances it remained nearly stationary for several years. 
 It was not favored with much preaching, till Eld. Robert 
 Lambert took the pastoral charge in 1821 ; nor were they 
 blessed then with much increase till a revival in 1824, added 
 twenty-two to their number. For several years subsequent 
 to this work of grace, they were destitute and inactive, but 
 by the means of occasional preaching and the untiring 
 
 *Hiram Bass's Com. and Min.Lin. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN UNION. 287 
 
 efforts of their worthy deacons, D. and J. Perkins, its visi- 
 bility was preserved. In 1841, their prospects brightened 
 by the ministry of Eld. N. Adderton, who became pastor, 
 and officiated to the close of 1842. Although but few 
 additions were made to the church ; yet the brethren be- 
 came united and more active in the cause of God. Their 
 present pastor, Eld. J. Hallowell, entered upon his ministry 
 with them in 1843, and the church rejoices in hope. It is 
 however still a small church of but thirty-seven members ; 
 one" less than its original number.* 
 
 Union, (first called Second Hope). The church in 
 Union originated in part with the Baptists in Hope," as its 
 original name indicates. The second church in Hope was 
 set off from the first in 1801, and organized by Elds. Snow, 
 Hall and Fuller. This church was located in the westerly 
 part of the town next to the town of Union, and the Baptists 
 in its vicinity and in Union, being increased by means of 
 extensive revivals which prevailed in 1808, united in one 
 body, to be called the Baptist church in Union. 
 
 They were favored with one-fourth of the labors of Eld. 
 James Steward, for several years, and with the same amount 
 of preaching by Eld. S. A. Flagg, in 1815. In 1816, Eld. 
 L. Rich visited them, and was successful, under God, n 
 awakening the energies of the church to activity, and of 
 winning souls to Christ. The additions now made, and 
 the spiritual zeal which now awoke, encouraged the church 
 to build a house of worship, which was completed in 1818, 
 This season of mercy was followed by one of trials, caused 
 by party feelings, but the monthly labors of Eld. Rich, 
 which were continued till 1821. saved the church from 
 ruin. From 1822 to 1826, Elder R. was pastor. But 
 serious difficulties prevailed in the church. Some became 
 Universalists ; some left, being grieved, and some were 
 excommunicated. 
 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. 
 
OgS CHURCH IN PALERMO— ORLAND. 
 
 From 1826, for five years, they were supplied monthly 
 by Eld. A. Richardson, of Appleton. And now, by a wise 
 providence, things which had been hidden in a time of trial 
 and contention, were revealed to the confusion of some, 
 and to the encouragement of others. In 1838, the church 
 became united and at rest from internal trials, by the labors 
 of Eld. Simon Fuller, who, at that time, began to officiate 
 as pastor among them. Opposition from without was 
 strong and vehement. The most of the excluded members 
 became Universalists, and were violent in their hostility to 
 the church. But the church still lives and witnesses a 
 pleasing prosperity. They now number fifty-four members, 
 and have peace among themselves.* 
 
 Palermo, Second Church. This church appears in 
 the minutes of the Lincoln Association in 1809, with 
 twenty-two members. It was encouraged by refreshing 
 revivals in 1811, '12 and '18 For several years the church 
 was aided by the labors of Mr. Daniel Whitehouse, a licen- 
 tiate, and who was ordained in 1833, and was pastor 
 one year. In 1833 the church was greatly enlarged by a 
 third revival. From 1840, Elder E. J. White was pastor 
 until 1842. Mr. A. Stewart, a licentiate, was with them 
 in 1843, and the church was a respectable body, united 
 and prospering. Sixty-five members. f 
 
 Orland and Bucksport, (now Orland .and Penob- 
 scot.) ' As early as 1784,' says Rev. Benjamin Buck, 
 ' Mrs. Lydia Buck, a member of Eld. Smith's church, in 
 Haverhill, Mass., moved to this then almost unbroken 
 wilderness.' It is an interesting fact that this pious female 
 was the natural mother or grandmother of all by the name 
 of Buck in the town and village of Bucksport. It was 
 first called ' Bucktown,' a name probably derived from 
 these first settlers. 
 
 *Eld. S. Fuller's Com. and Lin. Asso. fMin. L. and W. Asso. 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN BELFAST. 289 
 
 Mrs. Back remained firm and happy in her Baptist faith 
 and attachments till her death, in 1793. To the influence 
 of her faith, prayers and instructions, we are to look for 
 the origin of those feelings of regard to Baptist principles 
 which prevailed in this place. Mr. Jonathan Buck, one 
 of her sons, although a member of a Conoreo-ational 
 church, (for convenience sake) was nevertheless in princi- 
 ple a Baptist. Many of his neighbors and brethren were 
 united in the same society and for the same reason ; and 
 here they remained till conscience and a conviction of duty 
 compelled them to come out and walk agreeably to gospel 
 order. In 1300 Josiah Colson, Joshua Coulliard, Benja- 
 min Buck and Lydia Harriman, separated from the Con- 
 gregationalists, and were organized by Eld. A. Cummings 
 into a Baptist church. This was the first Baptist church 
 in this section. In 1809 it united with the Lincoln Asso- 
 ciation, by the name of Buckstown. By trials and difficul- 
 ties its influence in a few years became almost lost. By 
 the aid of a council in 1812, it was resuscitated, but not 
 without the loss of more than half its members. In 1815 
 it was Orland and Buckstown ; subsequently £ Bucksport,' 
 and still later ' Orland and Penobscot.' Benjamin Morrill 
 and Benjaman Buck were its first deacons ; the latter 
 received a license in 1S16, and was ordained its pastor in 
 1817. He resigned in 1818; since which the church has 
 been destitute of stated preaching. It has experienced 
 some seasons of mercy, the most distinguished were in 
 1843, which increased its number of members to one hun- 
 dred and five.* 
 
 Belfast, First Church. This church is situated in 
 the pleasant village in Belfast, at the head of Penobscot 
 Bay, and on the south side of Belfast river, first called by 
 the natives, ' Passagasawakeag,' a name signifying the 
 
 *Eld. B. ; s Com and Min. of L. and H. A. 
 
290 FIRST CHURCH IN BELFAST. 
 
 'land of sights or ghosts.' The Congregationalists plant- 
 ed their standard here about the year 1796,* and gained a 
 strong power of influence over the place. 
 
 The first efforts in behalf of a Baptist interest were 
 made in 1809 by Eld. Case. In June he made his first visit 
 with a view to assist the few Baptists who had gained a resi- 
 dence in town, in securing to themselves gospel privileges. 
 At his advice arrangements were made to organize a 
 church, and on the 30th of July the organization took 
 place, and Eld. Case baptized three persons; and two of 
 them, with others, were embodied into a church. ' The 
 principal motive for doing this,' says J. McCrillis, one of 
 their present deacons, ' was the religious condition of the 
 community,' which, 'for a new place was as immoral as most 
 any place,' and ' little or no vital religion characterized the 
 old Congregational church.' Soon after the church was or- 
 ganized, a Baptist society was formed to aid their cause, but 
 having no regular place for worship, and preaching but very 
 irregularly, the church for several years remained about 
 stationary, and at length lost its visibility. During this 
 struggle with opposing influences, they were assisted suc- 
 cessively by Elders Chase, Pinkham and Wagg, each 
 laboring occasionally for stated periods. But the day for 
 their prosperity had not arrived. In 1818 a new church 
 was organized with seventeen members, and Elder J. Waao- 
 minister. Mr. W. labored with them about two years, but 
 with little success. He was succeeded in the ministry 
 by Eld. Joshua Eveleth, and by his labors the church en- 
 joyed a pleasing prosperity. A brighter day now began to 
 d&wn upon the c'mrch. In 1826 Elder N. Hooper became 
 pastor. About this time they became able to provide them- 
 selves with a convenient house of worship, in which they 
 enjoyed seasons of devotion without annoyance. In 1833 
 
 *Green. Eccl. his. p. 167. 
 
CHURCH IN HAMPDEN. 291 
 
 their present commodious house was dedicated to God. 
 From the first this new church has enjoyed some annual 
 prosperity, but recently it has progressed in the cause more 
 rapidly. 
 
 From the close of Eld. Hooper's ministry in 1827, the 
 church were ten years without a pastor. In 1836 and '37, 
 they experienced severe trials from internal causes. While 
 without a pastor, they were assisted by Eld. J. Hall from 
 1827, two years ; Eld. White a few weeks ; Eld. H. Seaver 
 from 1831, about two years; Eld. H. Kendall in the win- 
 ters of 1833 and/34 ; Eld. Win. Day from 1835, about two 
 years ; Eld. Kendall again a short time, under whose la- 
 bors their trials were greatly removed; Eld. Harris in the 
 winter of 1828. S. G. Sargent was ordained to the pas- 
 toral charge over them in June, 1838. Under his labors 
 the church has had many refreshing seasons. In 1840 a 
 very pleasing revival was enjoyed, and in 1843, a still more 
 general work, bringing into the church a large harvest. 
 This church, which began with a small number and with 
 few to care for its interests, now claims equal rank and re- 
 spectability with the first religious societies in that pleasant 
 village. In 1840 it originated the second church in Bel- 
 fast. Present number one hundred and seventy-four.* 
 
 Hampden. The territory now Hampden, was called by 
 the Indians, ' Sowerdabocook.'f A Mr. Wheeler was the 
 first white man to settle here. He entered this wilderness 
 about 1777, and the settlement which was soon gained, re- 
 ceived the name ' Wheelersborough.' About the same 
 time settlements were opened in Bangor, Orrington, and 
 Frankfort; and in 1788, missionaries of a Puritan faith 
 began to visit these places ; and in 1800 a Congregational 
 church was organized of members residing in these several 
 places. It was not however till 1816 that they organized 
 
 ■*Dea. J. ai'CrilJis' Com. and Min. W. A. fGreen. Eccl. his. p. 218. 
 
OQ2 CHURCH IN HAMPDEN. 
 
 a church in Hampden. Baptists began to make some 
 united efforts in this town about the year 1809, when a 
 small church of twelve members was organized. The 
 same year their number was doubled. For several years 
 they obtained a small annual increase, though not exempt 
 from opposition. Dea. David Vose, one of the original 
 number, rendered them great service in these times of their 
 extremity. Eld. Case occasionally visited them as a mis- 
 sionary. In 1820, Eld. Otis Briggs took the pastoral charge. 
 Mr. Briggs was much occupied in the Academy, of which 
 he was the Principal several years ; yet he was a rich bless- 
 ing to this church, particularly in guarding it against the 
 influence and opposition of other sentiments. 
 
 In 1S28, a second church in Hampden was formed, and 
 of this Mr. Briggs became pastor, leaving the old one des- 
 titute. For the next four years they had preaching but a 
 part of the time, and by several ministers, but union and 
 prosperity attended them. 
 
 In 1833, Eld. Hervey Hawes became their pastor, and 
 preached with this and with the second church, alternately, 
 each receiving one half of his labors. With his ministry 
 commenced a most signal revival, which increased in two 
 years, each church by large additions. Prosperity contin- 
 ued with Mr. H.'s labors ; and in 1S36 they completed a 
 neat and convenient brick house for the worship of God. 
 About this time a singular train of providences introduced 
 a series of the most heart-rending trials, which for a season 
 paralyzed almost every effort of the church and pastor. 
 After much labor to extricate the church from these dis- 
 tresses, with but little success, Eld. Hawes, in 1837, re- 
 signed his pastoral charge, and the next year retired from 
 the field. Since that time the church has had three pas- 
 tors, Elders J. Boyd, T. B. Robinson, and A. Joy. Mem- 
 bers sixty-nine. 
 
CHURCH IN WHITEFIELD— DIXMONT. 093 
 
 Whitefield, (formerly Second Church). In 1808 and 
 1809, there was an extensive revival experienced in the 
 town in connection with the efforts of the ' old church.' 
 Eld. John King, a member of that church, and ordained as 
 an evangelist in 1807, preached with success in that part 
 of the town where this church exists. In 1809, he baptized 
 several persons there, and on the 13th of March, a church 
 was organized at the dwelling-house of Mr. James Preble, 
 with nine members. Clement Moody was chosen deacon, 
 who still lives to discharge the duties of that office. 
 
 This church has never had a pastor, or meeting-house. 
 Yet it has called into the ministry Elds. Wm. Bowler and 
 Robert Lambert ; and while in the church, they were very 
 useful to its prosperity Elds. J. Still and M. Lane, have 
 also preached to their benefit. Says Dea. Moody, ' we have 
 had many seasons of mercy, and many severe and painful 
 trials ; but we have stood.' It is still a small, destitute and 
 hyper-Calvinistic church, of forty-seven members. It has 
 some prosperity this year, by the ministry of Elder E. J. 
 White.* 
 
 Dixmont. A Baptist church was gathered in Dixmont, 
 in 1810. Elder John Chadbourne was their first pastor. 
 In Sept. of that year it had thirty-eight members. Elder 
 C. was their pastor two years, and then Eld. Gideon Cook 
 took the charge, and officiated till 1815, with some success 
 
 There was some revival in 1816 ; Eld. Chadbourne was 
 then supplying them. From 1818, the church had but 
 occasional preaching, and in 1824 some revival. Elder 
 Chadbourne was again received as pastor in 1827 
 
 In 1831, Eld. Chadbourne was removed by death. The 
 same year Eld. Reuben S. Mitchell was ordained to minis- 
 ter for the church, who continued little more than three 
 years ; since, they have had occasional preaching. In 1842, 
 
 *j\Iin. L. and D. Asso. 
 
294 CHURCH IN CHERRYFIELD. 
 
 Eld. C. P. St. Clair devoted one half of his efforts to their 
 benefit. In 1843, they were destitute and forgetful of 
 their doctrines. They have a total of forty-four members.* 
 
 Cherryfield, (first called First Steuben). The town 
 of Cherryfield began to be settled about 1760, and was soon 
 called Steuben, but incorporated by its present name. The 
 religious views of the first settlers were Congregational. 
 Not having preaching of any kind for many years, the 
 moral character of the people degenerated. The first 
 preacher who visited them was Rev. E. Snow, in 1787. 
 Others soon followed, and the people had occasional preach- 
 ing, but the morals of the place were but little improved, 
 till about 1796, when some were hopefully converted to 
 God. During the winter of this year, the people of Colum- 
 bia and Addison experienced some revival under the minis- 
 try of Elders J. Young and J. Murphy. In March, some 
 eight or ten of the youth of Cherryfield attended a confer- 
 ence meeting in Addison, at which place the Spirit of the 
 Lord met them, and all but one were awakened. Now a 
 ' Macedonian cry' was heard in C, and Eld. Young came 
 and preached Christ to the people, and many souls were 
 gathered to the Saviour in a revival which followed these 
 events. In July, a church was organized by the name of 
 1 First Steuben,' and J. C. Todd, one of the first who were 
 baptized, was elected deacon. In August, Eld. Case visit- 
 ed the place and baptized several more and added them to 
 the church. Eld. Murphy was soon made its pastor, but 
 seeing but little prosperity, he resigned his charge in 1800. 
 
 The next ten years the church had no pastor, but receiv- 
 ing some ministerial aid by the occasional visits of Elders 
 Case, Snow and H. Hale, it made some advancement. And 
 in 1805, it enjoyed some revival, chiefly by the efforts of 
 Eld. Hale. Eld. Case baptized most of the converts, a 
 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN STEUBEN. 295 
 
 short time after. Their next and successful pastor was 
 Eld. N. Robinson, whose labors began in 1810 and closed 
 in 1821. This was a period of general and pleasing pros- 
 perity. Since the termination of Eld. R.'s labors with 
 this church, it has received the pastoral labors of Elders 
 Phinehas Bond from 18:25 to 1831 ; Wilson C. Rider from 
 1834 to 1836; E. W. Garrison from 1836 to 1838; and 
 the author of these sketches, from 1833 to 1843. When 
 destitute of a pastor, the church has been supplied by 
 Elders Garrison, Harris and Fogg, and when no supply 
 could be obtained, the cause has been greatly aided by the 
 untiring efforts of the aged and worthy deacon, Elisha 
 Small. During the ministry of these pastors the church 
 has advanced, being blessed with seasons of special revival. 
 The first church in Harrington owes its existence to this 
 church. The principal troubles which have disturbed their 
 peace and checked their progress have been occasioned by 
 the instability of some of its members. Its present number 
 is ninety-eight.* 
 
 Steuben, (first called Second Steuben.) The first 
 religious movements in Steuben were made by a Mr. 
 Whitney, a Free-will Baptist, and a small church was 
 gathered here by his efforts. But its visibility was soon 
 lost. As early as 1785, Elder E. Snow appeared as the first 
 Baptist preacher among them. By his instructions the 
 people received more correct views of the gospel, and the 
 pious among them became Baptists. He organized a 
 church in 1796, but having no preaching, and beincr few 
 and much scattered, their light in a few years was nearly 
 extinguished. In 1805 Elder Hall came to their assistance. 
 In 1806 Eld. Case was instrumental in the extension of the 
 work. Many were baptized by him and added to the 
 church. The journal of Eld. C. furnishes the following 
 
 *Ck. Records. 
 
290 FIRST CHURCH IN TRENTON. 
 
 account of a baptismal season : ' As I was under the neces- 
 sity of leaving, and some wished to be baptized before I 
 left, we were obliged to attend to the ordinance at sunrise. 
 And, although it was a cold morning in January, it was a 
 pleasant and refreshing season. No inconvenience from 
 the cold was experienced, but so happy were we that we 
 sang praises to God before we retired from the icy water.' 
 From 1810 to 1821, this church received one half of the use- 
 ful ministry of Eld. N. Robinson, pastor of the first church 
 in Steuben. During the first year of his labors the church 
 enjoyed a powerful revival, and was enlarged to seventy-one 
 members ; yet it has since gradually diminished, till it has 
 become a feeble band of twenty-eight members. It has 
 received the occasional ministry of Elders Johnson, Buck, 
 and F. Brown, a licentiate.* 
 
 Trenton, First Church. Previous to any religious 
 organization in Trenton, the people had some occasional 
 preaching by travelling ministers. Their character was 
 distinguished for morality and their views of religion were 
 * Calvinistic' In 1808 and '09, they were blessed with 
 a revival of religion by the ministry of Elder D. McMaster, 
 a licentiate, and on the 27th of June, Elder Jason Liver- 
 more collected the disciples and organized a church of 
 eight members. The gracious work continued till the 
 church numbered twenty-one members. 
 
 In 1810, the labors of Elders J. Cushman, D. McMas- 
 ter, and B. Buck, were signally blessed to the conversion 
 of sinners here and the enlargement of the church. Be- 
 tween this time and 1824, the church passed through a 
 season of perplexity and trial, occasioned principally by 
 the imprudence of a man belonging to the 'Christian Band.' 
 He sowed the seeds of discord, stirred up strife, and thereby 
 interrupted the peace of the church. But God did not 
 
 *J. D. Parker's Com. 
 
CHURCH IN SULLIVAN. 297 
 
 forsake them. In 1824, by His blessing on the labors of 
 Elder Cushman, a revival was experienced, fellowship was 
 again restored, and the church enlarged. 
 
 On the 12th of June, 1828, their present pastor, Elder 
 John King, was inducted into that sacred office by ordina- 
 tion. God has made him a rich blessing. 
 
 In 1832, a most glorious revival enlarged this church. 
 Their house of worship was erected in 1833. God has 
 called into the ministry, from this church, John King, 
 James Gillpatrick, Francis Desisles, and George Gordon. 
 The second and third churches in that town have been 
 set off from it, yet it has one hundred and twenty-eight 
 members. 
 
 Sullivan. As early as 1790, Elder Case visited Sulli- 
 van, and preached a few times at 'Salt-water Falls.'* He 
 says : 'I found but few established christians, and the people 
 generally careless. In 1801, a small Congregational church 
 was organized, but it has never risen to exert much influ- 
 ence. f From this time till 18 JO, Elder Case performed 
 missions through this eastern country almost annually, 
 visiting this and other settlements, laying the foundation 
 for Baptist churches. This year, 1810, when he arrived 
 in Sullivan, he says he found 'the work of the Lord.' 
 This revival was in connexion with the labors of Elder J. 
 Cushman. Elder Case had the privilege of baptizing the 
 converts, and of assisting in the organizing of the church, 
 March 21, with twelve members. Moses Butler was chosen 
 clerk, and April 22d, Elder D. McMaster received a call 
 to become pastor, and was ordained over the church the 
 16th of May. His ministry was blessed to the immediate 
 enlargement of the church, and for six years the church 
 prospered under his labors. 18 1G was a glorious year for 
 this church. About seventy souls were added as the fruits 
 
 "Eld. Case's Journal. fGreen. Eccl. sk. p. 165. 
 
298 CHURCH IN SULLIVAN. 
 
 of a revival. But this bright day was soon darkened by 
 clouds. A series of painful events occurred, which af- 
 fected the character and influence of the pastor, the church, 
 and Elder A. Cummings, who labored some with them. 
 The difficulties occasioned a division, and the organization 
 of a minority into a separate church. But God did not 
 build the house, and it soon fell. 
 
 By the assistance of Elder D. Merrill, in 1818, the 
 church resumed its former standing. Elder Cummings 
 was exhonorated from blame in the difficulties, and Elder 
 McMaster was restored to the pastoral charge. But their 
 trials were not ended. In 18*22, the storm again arose. 
 Elder McMaster, who it seems had been in fault, was now 
 censured, on account of which he resigned his place in 
 the church, and the members offending with him, saw their 
 inconsistency and confessed their wrongs. From this time 
 the church, like Israel, when their ways pleased the Lord, 
 could strike their tents and go forward. They now began 
 to see days of prosperity. 
 
 Having no pastor, they secured a portion of the ministry 
 of Elder William Johnson, from 1822, three or four years. 
 After him, Elder B. Buck became pastor in 1826, and was 
 useful to them for three years. In 1826, the church united 
 with others in erecting a house of worship, a procedure 
 by no means favorable to their prosperity. Another ex- 
 tensive revival cheered and enlarged the church in 1831. 
 But as in the former instance, this was immediately suc- 
 ceeded by painful trials, occasioned by the immoral con- 
 duct of Elder J. Darling, for which he was deposed from 
 the ministry. The church then had rest. 
 
 Richard Y. Watson, who had received ordination at 
 Fayette, his native place, in 1829, became pastor of this 
 church in 1834. Since that time the church has enjoyed 
 continued prosperity, and been enlarged by repeated revi- 
 
CHURCH IN CHARLESTON. 299 
 
 vals. At present Elder Watson preaches with this and the 
 church in Hancock, being pastor of both. It has furnished 
 for the ministry one of its members, Rev. John Johnson, 
 and originated, by dismissions, a second church in Sulli- 
 van, and the church in Franklin, and has a present number 
 of one hundred and sixteen members.* 
 
 Charleston. The first settlement in Charleston was 
 made in 1800. Elder Case, while performing a mission in 
 Penobscot county, visited Charleston in 1810, where he 
 found a few pious persons. f Elder P. Ruggles had antici- 
 pated his visit by some occasional preaching ; but the work 
 of laying the foundation and erecting the church was re- 
 served for Elder Case. On his first visit he did little more 
 than to explore the field. A Mr. Jameson and wife were 
 the only Baptists then in Charleston. On his second visit, 
 the same year, Mr. Case says, he 'intended only to spend 
 the night.' But by the earnest entreaty of Mr. James 
 Norcross, then a Methodist, but afterwards a worthy deacon 
 in the Baptist church, he consented to return to Charleston, 
 after fulfilling some appointments previously made in other 
 places. He did so. It was Friday evening, and in con- 
 versation with Mr. Norcross, he perceived that he was 
 convinced of his errors, from the following questions and 
 answers which passed : Mr. Norcross asked, 'What do you 
 think about gathering a Baptist church here?' Mr. Case 
 replied, 'that he did not know as there were suitable ma- 
 terials.' Mr. Norcross then said, with strong confidence 
 in God, and with tears in his eyes, 'I believe there will be.' 
 Mr. Case replied, 'according to thy faith be it unto thee. 
 Mr. Case be^an to labor, and the Holy Spirit began to 
 work; and the two following Sabbaths persons were bap- 
 tized, among whom were James and Jesse Norcross. Be- 
 
 *Eld. S. Fogg's Com. and Min. H. A. 
 {Facts gathered from Eld. C.'sJour , 1810. 
 
300 CHURCH IN CHARLESTON. 
 
 fore Mr. Case left, Mr. Ruggles came to their assistance, 
 and aided in organizing the church. 
 
 In May 1811, Eld. Case visited the church, and several 
 persons who were waiting for baptism now had the privi- 
 lege of honoring Christ in the ordinance, among whom 
 was a Mrs. D. whose conversion was too remarkable to be 
 forgotten. We had a relation of the circumstances con- 
 nected with that event from herself, and so singular was 
 the work of the Holy Spirit, that Elder Case has all the 
 circumstances as related by her at the time, in perfect 
 recollection. The circumstances were as follows : When 
 but a youth, while on a party sleigh ride from Hampden to 
 Bangor, on the river, and in a sleigh drawn by two horses, 
 the ice gave way, and Mrs. D., with her companions, were 
 plunged beneath the watery element, but fortunately all 
 but the horses were saved. During this immersion of Mrs. 
 D., her soul by the instantaneous and powerful working of 
 the Spirit was converted to God. The rapid progress of 
 thought and experience in this short moment, as she dis- 
 tinctly recollects, was as she was falling, a most vivid and 
 impressive thought of death filled her mind. This was 
 instantly succeeded by an overwhelming consciousness of 
 her sins, her guilt, and her just condemnation, and this 
 with a view of the character and law of God shining in 
 incomprehensible brightness reflecting his love and justice ; 
 and then in a moment every energy of her soul seemed 
 concentrated in one unyielding desire for mercy. At this 
 instant those who escaped from the water, drew her upon 
 the unbroken ice, when her soul was filled with love to 
 God and Christ, and her tongue unloosed to praise his 
 name. She says that ' she hardly thought of her temporal 
 salvation, but with unutterable astonishment and gratitude, 
 she beheld that glorious grace which gave her heavenly 
 delight.' This was no delusion. Her subsequent life of 
 piety is evidence of its reality. 
 
CHURCH IN BELMONT— CASTINE. 3Q1 
 
 The church moved on from year to year, with influence 
 and enlargement by the occasional labors of Elders B. 
 Ames, P. Ruggles and B. Bisbee, and some others. In 
 1814, Eld. Henry Hale became its first pastor. He offi' 
 ciated about ten years and resigned his charge, but still 
 lives to aid the church by his counsels and prayers. Since 
 Eld. Hale resigned, the church has had four pastors ; Eld. 
 John Roundy, the author of this work, John Johnson and 
 S. S. Brownson, the present incumbent. During the min- 
 istry of the first three, the church enjoyed revivals and 
 prospered, but not without most severe trials. These trials 
 were most afflicting to the church during the last part of the 
 second pastor's administration, and a few years next after his 
 dismission ; and although after much labor they consider- 
 ably diminished, yet, their influence have more or less af- 
 fected the progress of the church during the ministry of 
 each subsequent pastor. It is now, however, rising above 
 them and making more rapid advancement, with one hun- 
 dred and eleven members. Tt once numbered one hundred 
 and sixty.* 
 
 Belmont, (first called Greene.) It appears from the Min- 
 utes of Lincoln Association, that a Baptist church was 
 gathered in Belmont in 180.9, and in 1811 it had twenty^ 
 four members. In 1819 Eld. J. Bridges was returned as 
 pastor; members thirty-eight. But it was dropped from 
 the Association in 1821. In 1842 another church was 
 organized with twenty-one members. Eld. Daniel Farn- 
 ham was pastor in 1843. The church had increased to 
 thirty-eight members.! 
 
 Castine. A church of thirteen members was gathered 
 in Castine about the year 1812, as the fruits of migration, 
 and the occasional preaching of missionaries and itinerant 
 preachers. But it never prospered and soon lost its visibility. 
 
 ^Gathered from the Rec, Eld. C.'s jour, and Rev. C. T. Norcross' Com. 
 tMin. of L. and W. Asso. 
 
302 FREEDOM— 2D MONTVILLE— ISLE A (J HAUT. 
 
 Freedom, (first called Beaverhill.) The Baptists ire 
 Freedom were first gathered in that part of the town called 
 ' Beaverhill,' in 1805, by the labors of Eld. N. Robinson, 
 and united with the first church in Palermo, of which Mr. 
 R. was then pastor, (see history of that church.) In 1812 
 there was some revival in Palermo and Beaverhill, and for 
 the convenience of the brethren in the latter place, they 
 were embodied into a separate church. They had forty-six 
 members. In 1814 Thaddeus Bailey received a license to 
 preach and was beneficial to the church. In 1821, Elder 
 Daniel Ricker received the pastoral charge, and labored 
 with them till 1834, though not the pastor so long. Eld. E, 
 Coy next aided the church for three years with a part of his 
 ministry. Since 1838 they have had no pastor, and but a 
 small amount of preaching. During ten years their number 
 has decreased about one half, including some small dismis- 
 sions to aid in the formation of other churches. Their 
 present number is thirty-three.* 
 
 Second Montville. This church originated with a 
 revival which blest the people of Montville in 1812, under 
 the labors of Elder Job Cushman, pastor of the first church, 
 and Win. Davis, then a licentiate, who united with the 
 second. In September of that, year, it had thirty-three 
 members. For nearly twenty years it was not blessed with 
 a pastor, or many gospel privileges, consequently it enjoyed 
 far less prosperity than the first church. Its numbers suf- 
 fered a gradual decrease. During its existence and pro- 
 gress, it received some ministerial aid from Eld. Simon 
 Fuller, but its vitality was too near extinguished to be 
 revived by the application of any outward means; and it 
 lost its name and place among the churches in 1832. f 
 
 Isle au Haut. On the Isle an Haut God revived his 
 work in 1815, by the ministry of Eld. Samuel Allen of Deer 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. fMin of L. A. and W. A., 1812 and 1831. 
 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN THOMASTON. 303 
 
 Isle, and a church of seventeen members was organized 
 and put under his charge. The next year the blessing of 
 revival was conferred upon Deer Isle, by which the church 
 there was enlarged, and for the good of both, the two 
 churches united in one body. This connection continued 
 till 1838, when the branch on the Isle au Haut withdrew 
 and joined a church on the ' Little Deer Isle.' 
 
 Third Church in China, (first called Second Har- 
 lem.) See history of the first church, p. 151. 
 
 Second Thomaston. As the inhabitants increased in 
 Thomaston, so increased the Baptists among them. By 
 frequent revivals the first church became numerous and cov- 
 ered a large territory. Owing to the distance from the west 
 village where a large part of the members resided, and to 
 the increasing call for their united labors in that rapidly 
 growing place, it was deemed expedient to embody these 
 brethren into a separate church. They therefore took 
 their leave of the mother church, and were recognized 
 on the 20th of January, 1816 ; Job Washburn was chosen 
 deacon, and Hezekiah Prince, church clerk. The former 
 afterwards became its useful pastor, and the latter render- 
 ed during his life most efficient services to the church. 
 Eld. S. Baker preached one Sabbath in a month till the 
 next December. From that time to 1820, they received 
 the occasional labors of Eld. A. Fuller and Eld. B. Ames. 
 The following circumstance shows how this church vener- 
 ate the christian Sabbath. The first case of exclusion was 
 for setting fire to a brick-kiln, so as to violate the require- 
 ments of that day. 
 
 Eld. John Wakefield received ordination by the call of 
 this church, and labored with them as an evangelist a part 
 of the time, about two years. In 1822 deacon Washburn 
 was ordained as an evangelist. He was elected pastor in 
 1824, and continued to officiate till 1841. Under his min- 
 
304 SECOND CHURCH IN SEDGWICK. 
 
 istry the church enjoyed more than usual prosperity, and 
 were blessed with several extensive revivals ; and from 
 strong attachment to Eld. W., on the part of many, there 
 was some unpleasant altercation in view of his dismission. 
 But soon the excitement passed away, and the church 
 united in the settlement of William Lamson, who served 
 them one year. In 1836 there was a division of this church, 
 the circumstances of which make it an event important to 
 the history of the Baptists in this village. By mutual 
 agreement, that part of the church living in the east part 
 of the village, and about the old house of worship, were 
 organized by the name of the ' First Baptist church in 
 West Thomaston.' For the circumstances which led the 
 way for this division, we refer the reader to the history of 
 that church. Eld. Washburn became a member of that 
 new church in 1841, and has since officiated as chaplain in 
 the State prison. A commodious, but perhaps too expen- 
 sive house of worship had been erected in 1837. During 
 the summer of '42, their pulpit was supplied by Rev. E. 
 Hutchinson. In November Rev. A. Felch became their 
 pastor, who continued one year. [Rev. L. B. Allen was 
 their pastor in 1845.] 
 
 Second Sedgwick. A part of the members of the first 
 church in Sedgwick, living at what is called ' Sedgwick 
 Bay,' a place some distance from the centre of the town, 
 a separation was deemed advisable. A second church was 
 organized in 1828 of thirty-five members. By the Lord's 
 blessing, in a few months this number was nearly doubled. 
 Eld. E. Pinkham was pastor from 1828 to 1832, and from 
 1835 to 1839; Eld. Amos Allen 1834, and Eld. L. King- 
 man 1841, and Eld. S. M. Rice 1843. And the church 
 has been much assisted by the occasional labors of Eld. N. 
 of the first church.* God has frequently revived his work 
 
 *John C. TibbeU's Com. 
 
SECOND BROOKSVILLE— MT. DESERT. 305 
 
 among them, so that now they are prosperous, with one 
 hundred and eighty-seven members. 
 
 Brooksville, (first called Second Sedgwick.) This 
 church originated with the first church in Sedgwick. In 
 the vicinity of what is now Brooksville, a number of per- 
 sons became pious in 1816, by means of an extensive 
 revival in Sedgwick. Forty-one were dismissed from S., 
 who united with others in forming this church in B. It 
 had sixty-eight members in September. Eld. A. Allen soon 
 began to labor for their spiritual advancement, and be- 
 came its pastor in 1818, and was their useful leader till 
 1S33, when the church had a total of one hundred and 
 sixty-one. He was succeeded by Eld. Ebenezer Mirick, 
 their present pastor. And although a faithful minister of 
 Jesus Christ, yet the church since 1834, has sustained a 
 net loss of eight members. There have been in this period 
 large dismissions to aid other churches. Of its members, 
 Lemuel Norton and Noah Norton, Jr., have become min- 
 isters. It has one hundred and eighty-three members, and 
 enjoys moderate prosperity.* 
 
 Second Brooksville. During the same revival in 1816, 
 and soon after the first church in B. was embodied, a 
 second church was organized. The next year when it 
 united with the Association, it numbered thirty-six, and 
 had for its pastor, Eld. Edward Carter. This was among 
 the unwise movements of Baptists. In 1824 the pastor 
 became discouraged and gave up his charge, and after 
 struggling without progress till 1833, they were dropped 
 by the Association, and the brethren advised to unite with 
 the first church. In 1832, they numbered twenty-two, and 
 in 1834, fourteen united with the first church. f 
 
 Mt. Desert. The early settlement of this mountainous 
 Island is full of interest to the historian. For particulars 
 
 *Min. L. E. M. and H. Asso. fRec. of Asso. 
 
306 SECOND CHURCH IN BROOKSVILLE, 
 
 we must refer the reader to Williamson's history of Maine, 
 vol. 1, pp. 198, 201 and 216. It was on this spot that two 
 Jesuits, Bairde and Masse, first planted the Papal cross on 
 the soil of Maine in 1608 ; and it was here that a French 
 colony was soon after commenced and a fort of defence erect- 
 ed. But as we have seen, the French were driven in 1613, 
 from the Island by the colonists of Virginia — the Papal 
 cross thrown down and another erected in honor of the 
 Anglican Episcopacy. From this time till after the revo- 
 lutionary war, the Island remained a desert indeed. Then 
 commenced a permanent settlement, and soon Congrega- 
 tionalists began to favor the people with the gospel by their 
 missionaries, and ' previous to 1798,' they had a church 
 on the Island. 
 
 Previous to 1790, Elders E. Snow and Case raised the 
 Baptist standard on the Island, and this year, a very exten" 
 sive revival on the northern side of the Island was witnessed 
 by them ; and in 1799, a church was constituted there, 
 now Eden.* The true light which now began to shine, 
 soon cast its radiance over the whole Island, and Baptists 
 multiplied in every part of the Island. But in Mt. Desert, 
 the southern part, those who embraced their sentiments 
 remained in the Congregational connection till 1816. This 
 year, this part of the Island was blessed with a revival, and 
 those who had been halting between two opinions, now 
 decided for the Baptists, left the Congregational church, 
 and were with others embodied into a church, consisting 
 of fifteen members. The principal minister in this work 
 was Eld. Bryant Lenin, who, with Eld. Case and a council, 
 organized the church. It was a small building, but being 
 
 fitly framed together,' it prospered, and in one year its 
 number was more than doubled. Being destitute of a 
 pastor, and meeting with some opposition from the church 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 1799. 
 
CHURCH IN MONROE— APPLETON. 307 
 
 which some had left for ' conscience sake,' and for the 
 truth, they experienced but few alterations for seven years. 
 In 1821 Eld. L. Norton became pastor, and officiated six 
 years, but his course was fruitful of trials rather than suc- 
 cess. He was dismissed therefore in 1828, and has since 
 became a Free-will Baptist preacher. During the next five 
 years, the winds howled and the storms beat against the 
 church, but its faith was not enfeebled, nor its hope with- 
 ered. And in 1833 the anticipated blessing came in a 
 most refreshing and extensive revival, which strengthened 
 the church by an addition of thirty-eight members. The 
 ability of the church was now increased, and they extended 
 a call to Eld. Calvin L. Cary to become their pastor, who 
 was ordained over them in July 17, 1833. 
 
 With the occupancy of their old house of worship, they 
 had many severe trials, there being other owners in part, 
 but now they have rest in their own new house, built in 
 1837. The church owns a fourth of another house in 
 another part of the Island. Few churches have been more 
 harmonious among themselves than this, and none more 
 prompt in discipline. It has one hundred and thirty-one 
 members, who are engaged in the various works of benev- 
 olence.* 
 
 Monroe, (first called Hermon.) A church of twenty 
 members was gathered here in 1816. Eld. R. Lambert 
 has labored with them during two short periods. But for 
 want of correct instruction they fell out by the way. By 
 receiving members excluded from the church in Frankfort, 
 they exposed themselves to the censures of the Waldo 
 Association, and they withdrew from that body in 1836, 
 but were restored in 1840. f The church is still a feeble 
 and destitute body of but twenty-two members. 
 
 Appleton. Previous to a revival of the work of God 
 
 *Rev. C. L. Cary's Com. and Min. of H. A. fMin. \V. Asso. 
 
308 SECOND CHURCH IN ST. GEORGE. 
 
 in 1816, 'vice and immorality' abounded in Appleton, and 
 but here and there a praying person could be found. This 
 year the Lord sent his servant, Eld. John Roundy, among 
 the people, whom the Spirit of the Lord made a messenger 
 of mercy to many souls. Materials for a church were now 
 prepared and brought together. The church was organized 
 in October, consisting of twenty members. About the 
 same time Eld. Abiathar Richardson began to preach to 
 their edification. He was ordained their pastor in Octo- 
 ber, 1820. The church has never been blessed with 
 extensive revivals, but with a general prosperity. Its 
 numerical increase has been however small, consequently 
 they have not been able to provide for their accommodation 
 a house of worship. In 1822 some of its members were 
 dismissed to aid the embodiment of a church in Searsmont. 
 Its prospects are good. It numbers forty-three members.* 
 
 Second St. George. The Baptists in St. George mul- 
 tiplied rapidly under the able and faithful ministry of Eld. 
 Ames. For the extension of their influence and usefulness, 
 it was judged expedient that a second church be set off 
 from the first in 1817. It was organized in Sept. with 
 eighty members. Till 1837, Eld. Ames officiated as pastor 
 in both churches, preaching one half of the time with each, 
 and God blessed his labors with wonderful success. Both 
 churches were blessed with a revival. 
 
 In 1838, Eld. Wm. Johnson became its pastor, when 
 both churches had a constant ministry, and both were again 
 blessed with a refreshing from the divine presence. To 
 the second church one hundred and fifty-one were added 
 by baptism. Eld. Johnson continued with them about two 
 years, and was succeeded by Eld. Alfred Lothrop, when 
 the church was again enlarged by a revival. In 1840, its nu- 
 merical strength was now nearly double that of the mother 
 
 *U. N. Dyer, Ch. Clk., Com. and Rec. of Min, 
 
CHURCH IN EDEN— PROSPECT— 21) NOBLEBORO'. 3Q9 
 
 church, In 1843, it numbered two hundred and fifty-two.* 
 
 Eden. (See his. of Mt. Desert church). Elders Snow 
 and Case visited this part of the Island as early as 1790. 
 In 1799, God revived his work here under their ministry. t 
 A church was organized, with thirty members. In 1801, 
 Benj. Downs became its pastor ; but his unchristian con- 
 duct brought the church into severe trials, and for about 
 fifteen years, they had little rest. In 1812, Eld. Lemuel 
 Jackson endeavored to restore prosperity, and was partially 
 successful. In 1814, Samuel Swett became pastor ; but 
 by unchaste conduct, he brought another dark cloud over 
 the prospects of the church, and occasioned his own dis- 
 missal from the ministry. But notwithstanding these 
 disasters, the church made some progress, and sustained 
 respectability. Sympathy and compassion were enlisted in 
 its favor, and timely aid was afforded them. Elder Case 
 made them frequent visits and comforted them. In 1816, 
 Eld. Lemuel Rich preached here with some success. 
 
 In 1817, Eld. Enoch Huntting became the town's min- 
 ister and the church's pastor. By a wise and faithful 
 ministry, he led them forward fifteen years, and was much 
 beloved by the people. He resigned in 1832, leaving the 
 church in a prosperous state. Since that time they have 
 had no pastor, and consequently their cause has been retro- 
 grade. Members, ninety-eight. f 
 
 Prospect. A church of eleven members was gathered 
 in Prospect in 1817, by Eld. Thomas Merrill. In 1825, it 
 was left destitute, and in 1836, the Association dropped the 
 church, and recommended the members, twenty in all, to 
 unite with other churches most convenient. § 
 
 Second Nobleborough. Nobleborough is a town 
 which has been highly favored of the Lord. It has been 
 
 *Rec. of the Asso. fEld. Case's Jour. JComfort Thomas' Com. and 
 Rec. of Asso. §Rec. of Asso. — Waldo Asso. 1836. 
 
 14* 
 
310 SECOND CHURCH IN NOBLEBORO*. 
 
 distinguished for extensive revivals of religion. The first 
 church under the ministry of Elder Pilsbury, increased 
 with unusual rapidity, and its influence was felt in adjoin- 
 ing towns. In J 819 a second church organized with four- 
 teen members. They resided in the towns of Nobleboro', 
 Bristol, and New Castle. Elder Manning, ofNova Scotia, 
 preached the constituting sermon. Most of these original 
 members have entered into ' rest/ 
 
 Elder A. Judson, from Plymouth, Mass., (father of the 
 Missionary,) was their pastor two years. In 1823, Elder 
 D. Dunbar, from Scotland, then from New Brunswick, 
 became their pastor. God owned his ministry. In 1824 
 a very general revival added ninety to the church. Mr. 
 Dunbar left this for another field of usefulness. Elder 
 "Winthrop Morse was their next preacher about one year, 
 and Elder C. Blanchard became pastor in 1827. In 1832, 
 the prospects for a general revival began to brighten, and 
 the next year the blessing was abundantly realized. Sev- 
 enty-five were added by baptism, as the ingathering of the 
 harvest. Elder B. resigned in 183G, and the church was 
 supplied till 1838, with preaching by Elders J. F. Burbank, 
 and P. Pilsbury. Elder W. T. Sargent was pastor from his 
 ordination, 1838, about one year ; after him they had a 
 supply from Thos. Frost, at Thomaston. These frequent 
 changes operated unfavorably on the general prosperity of 
 the church, although some temporary good was done by 
 occasional efforts. Elder H. Hawes entered on the pasto- 
 ral office here in 1841, and has been eminently blessed 
 in two extensive revivals. They have recently built a large 
 and convenient meeting-house, and are progressing in the 
 various religious enterprises, with a total of two hundred 
 aud eighty-six members, making a net increase of one hun- 
 dred and fifty-three since Mr. H. began to labor with them.* 
 * Joseph Colter's Com., and Records of Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN BANGOR. 31 1 
 
 Bangor. About the year 1780 settlements began to ap- 
 pear along the banks of the Penobscot river, and a few 
 families had gained a residence at the mouth of the Kendus- 
 keag, where now is the city of Bangor. As this settle- 
 ment increased, professors of religion also increased. The 
 Congregationalists, who now sustain so prominent an influ- 
 ence in the city, were the first to make religious efforts in 
 the settlement, by their missionary, Rev. Mr. Noble, who 
 was sent by the Legislature of Massachusetts, in 1788, to 
 itinerate for the spiritual good of those new settlements on 
 the Penobscot. He was succeeded by a Mr. Boyd, in 
 1800, and the latter by Rev. Mr. Loomis, in 1811, when a 
 Congregational church was organized in Bangor.* It is 
 believed that ' as early as 1802, Baptist principles were in- 
 troduced into Bangor ' The Baptists were so few, and 
 their sentiments and religious practices so little loved by 
 the people generally, that for several years it was thought 
 inadvisable to organize a church. They therefore attended 
 upon the Congregational ministry, to the support of which 
 they ' were obliged to contribute.' In 1817 they commen- 
 ced holding special prayer meetings at their dwelling- 
 houses. How sure the promises of God! When his elect 
 cry unto Him day and night, He will avenge them speedily. 
 In November of that year, by the direction of the Maine 
 Missionary Society, Elder Case commenced a mission in 
 the counties of Waldo and Penobscot.f In December he 
 visited Bangor, and rinding a few hungry, thirsty, and 
 anxious Baptists, he remained a short time with them, and 
 by his prayers, preaching and counsels, they ' were cheered 
 and encouraged.' 
 
 During this missionary visit, Elder C baptized two per- 
 sons, the first administration of the ordinance agreeably to 
 gospel direction and example in town,f and by his advice a 
 
 *Green. Eccl. Sk. pp. 218, 219. fEld. Case's Journal, 1817. 
 
312 CHURCH IN BANGOR. 
 
 council was convened, whom he assisted in the organiza- 
 tion of a church, the same month, consisting of eleven 
 members, five males and six females. 
 
 At this time the population of Bangor did not exceed 
 probably the number of one thousand, and among these was a 
 Congregational church, and a Methodist congregation. In 
 the aggregate, the Baptist influence was small, and their 
 disadvantages many. ' Although the road was open for a 
 rapid progress in the christian race, as private christians, 
 yet as members of a visible church, they had assumed new 
 duties, relations, and responsibilities ;' and to accomplish 
 the work ' of their high calling,' it required much patience, 
 perseverance, and more than all, 'living faith.' For two 
 years they had no regular preaching, but held stated meet- 
 ings for devotion, and had comfort among themselves. In 
 1819, Eld. Otis Briggs became their pastor, and aided their 
 advancement about two years. 
 
 In 1827, feeling the inconvenience of meeting in private 
 dwellings and in school houses, they began to desire a more 
 suitable place of worship. Bat there were difficulties in 
 the way. Their number was few, and their means inade- 
 quate to the undertaking. But they resolved to make the 
 trial ; nor was their attempt in vain. They found liberal 
 friends. Among their contributors, was the late N. R. 
 Cobb, Esq., of Boston, and the Hon. N. Brown, of Provi- 
 dence. In 1828, the house was completed at a cost of 
 $10,000. It is a brick edifice, fifty feet by seventy feet, 
 and furnished with a good bell, mostly by the generous lib- 
 erality of the late B. Bussey, Esq., and J. P. Boyd, Esq. It 
 occupies a central and favorable position in the city. While 
 the work of building was in progress, God in great mercy 
 smiled on the builders. 
 
 The State Convention sent a missionary to their assist- 
 ance, Rev. Isaac S. Smith, and God went with him. He 
 
CHURCH IN WINDSOR— NEW CASTLE. 313 
 
 was followed by brethren E. Going and A. Wilson. Sixty- 
 one were baptized and added to the church. Since that 
 memorable period, the church has prospered under the la- 
 bors of several pastors, who have officiated in the church 
 successively as follows : T. B. Ripley, from 18*23 to 1834; 
 T. Curtis, from 1834 to 1837; A. Wilson, of Portland, 
 from 1838 to 1841 ; and J. Chaplin, their present pastor, 
 since 1842. This church has granted licenses to nine of 
 its members. Its present number is two hundred and forty- 
 three.* 
 
 Windsor. This town was first called Malta, next Ger- 
 ry, and then Windsor. In 1819, a church of fifteen mem- 
 bers was gathered here by the name of Malta. In 1821 it 
 disappears from the records of the Association ; but in 1829 
 a second church in Malta appeared, with twenty-six mem- 
 bers. Eld. E. Trask was their pastor from 1830, about 
 three years. They have since generally had stated preach- 
 ing a portion of the time. They have eighty-nine members. f 
 
 New Castle and Alna. New Castle was among the 
 early settlements in the Pemaquid country. A fort was 
 erected on a neck of land on the Sheepscot river, but it 
 was destroyed by the Indians, with all the buildings in the 
 settlement, in 1680. t It was not recommenced until about 
 1750. Soon after this last beginning, the Presbyterians, 
 by the direction of the ' Boston Presbytery,' established a 
 missionary here. After a series of difficulties, the Presby- 
 terians were displaced by the Congregationalists about the 
 year 177(3, under the pastorate of a Mr. Whiting.^ 
 
 The first sermon preached here by a Baptist, was by 
 Eld. Case, in 1784, while on his first journey to Thomas- 
 ton, which was followed by occasional preaching by him 
 and others. A few became Baptists and united with the 
 
 *Com. by M. Giddin^s, Ch. Clk. fMm. L. and W. Asso. {Sullivan, p. 
 165. §Green. Eccd. sk. p. 100, &c. 
 
314 CHURCH IN WALDO. 
 
 church in Thomaston, as early as 1786;* but afterwards 
 united with the Baptists in Nobleboro'. For many years 
 they were but little known, and gained but a limited influ- 
 ence in town, "while the sentiments of Pedo-baptism was 
 gaining a dominant power over the people. It was not till 
 1820, that it was deemed expedient to organize a church 
 on the New Castle side of the river, and even then there 
 were but twelve persons to unite in the Baptist Articles. 
 They commenced however from a regard to duty, and with 
 faith in God, For many years the purity of their love and 
 the strength of their faith were tested by continuous trials, 
 and disadvantages. The church remained nearly station- 
 ary till 1831, when God, by a blessing upon the labors of 
 Gardner Walker, a licentiate, revived his work in New 
 Castle and Alna, and made additions to their number. This 
 was the beginning of a day of prosperity. From 1S34 to 
 1836, Eld. E. R. Warren was their pastor. In 1842, a 
 glorious era in the history of this church commenced. At 
 a quarterly meeting held with this church in the autumn of 
 this year, the Lord commenced a most interesting revival, 
 which extended into 1843 — added by baptism one hundred 
 and fifty-nine to the church, and resulted, in the early 
 stage of the work, in the settlement of Eld. William Day as 
 pastor, who was eminently successful in promoting this 
 work. This connexion still continues, and the church is 
 prospering, with two hundred and twenty-one members. f 
 Waldo. A church of twelve members was organized 
 here in 1820. Having no meeting house, they have been 
 driven from place to place, and when ejected from school 
 houses, their own dwellings have been their bethels. They 
 have not had preaching more than one-fourth of the time 
 from their organization. It has been aided by the untiring 
 efforts of its worthy deacon, N. Gurney. By these means, 
 
 *Eld. Case's Journal. fMin. L. A. 
 
CHURCH IN DOVER. 315 
 
 under God, it has sustained visibility, and exerted a favor- 
 able influence on society. Its present number is thirty.* 
 
 Dover. The forests in Dover began to yield to the 
 early settlers in 1803. It was long however, before the 
 inconveniences of a new country were overcome, and resi- 
 dence was gained here with comparative ease. The first 
 pious persons in town were emigrants from distant churches. 
 For many years there was no religious society in the settler 
 ment, and the few pious in their private and scattered posi- 
 tions, sighed for gospel privileges. The number of Baptists 
 was small, and yet seeing their neighbors, and their own, 
 children in this wilderness, becoming more and more care- 
 less of their morality, as well as of their spiritual interests, 
 they began to feel the necessity of some united and gospel 
 effort for their benefit. 
 
 Six of these pious Baptists entered the work, requested 
 a council, and were embodied into a church June 20,1818. 
 This was the first religious society in town. Soon, additions 
 were made to them by baptism, the fruits of the ' good seed' 
 sown by the occasional missionary, who had previously 
 penetrated this almost pathless desert. The first three 
 years constituted a period of trials and blessings. Their 
 meetings were frequently disturbed, and sometimes entirely 
 broken up by Universalists and rejected Free-will Baptists. 
 They however persevered and made some advancement. 
 
 In 1821, Eld. N. Robinson, of Cherryfield, visited them, 
 and by their request became their pastor in 1822, which 
 office he sustained with usefulness till 1834. During this 
 period, the church was blessed with several refreshing 
 seasons. They then employed, (1834,) Eld. E. Huntting, 
 one -half the time for several months, and in 1835, Eld. J 
 F. Page became their pastor. Since that time they have 
 
 *Min. L. and W. Asso. 
 
316 CHURCH IN WISCASSET— CORINTH. 
 
 built a convenient house for worship. They have eighty- 
 five members.* 
 
 Wiscasset. An attempt to gain a settlement in 1661, 
 on the site where now stands the pleasant village of Wiscas- 
 set, was prevented by the Indians ; so that no permanent 
 beginning was made there till about 1739. f The religious 
 views of the first settlers were Episcopalian and Congrega- 
 tional. Each sect had organized a church in the ancient 
 Pownalborough, which included Wiscasset, Alna and Dres- 
 den, previous to 1773. f The latter has since become most 
 numerous. 
 
 As late as 1821, there were not more than two or three 
 Baptists professors in the place. In the early part of that 
 year, Rev. A. Wilson began to preach to the people, and 
 the Lord blessed the word. In the course of that year 
 eighteen were baptized, and in 1822, a church was organ- 
 ized. The same year a convenient meeting-house was 
 raised and finished. Mr. W. left in the early part of 1824 ; 
 since that time they have been aided by W. Morse, W. 
 Glover, A. Wood, P. Pilsbury, and J. C. Morrill. They 
 are still a feeble church and embarrassed with serious trials. 
 
 Corinth. Among the first settlers of Corinth, there 
 were a few Baptist professors. f Eld. Case was among 
 them in 1821. They were collected into a church in 1822, 
 by the efforts of E!d. S. Dexter, who became its pastor the 
 same year. The original members were eighteen. Elder 
 D. continued pastor till feeble health caused his resignation 
 in 1832. During his ministry, the church rose gradually, 
 increasing in numbers and strength. In 1839, they com- 
 pleted a house for worship, furnished with a bell. During 
 the summer of '33, their pulpit was "supplied by Eld. W. 
 C. Rider, to the edification of the church. 
 
 *Eld. N. Robinson's Com. and Min. L. and P. Asso. fMass. Hist. Coll* 
 vol. 1, p. 1G3, cit. by Greenleaf. {Eld. Case's Jour. 
 
CHURCH IN WALDOBORO'— AL11ION. 317 
 
 Their next pastor was Eld. R. C. Spaulding. He was 
 indefatigable in his exertions, and God honored him and 
 the church with a signal success. The first year of his 
 charge, a revival began — the weak things were strength- 
 ened, the Sabbath School furnished with a library of 300 
 volumes, a maternal society formed, and temperance ad- 
 vanced. During the charge of Mr. Spaulding to 1843, one 
 hundred and sixteen were added to the church. Dea. John 
 Huntting, one of its original members, has been a distin- 
 guished blessing to this people. They are benevolent, 
 active, and a reading people. Their present number is 
 one hundred and fifty-five.* 
 
 Waldoborough. Through the influence of Baptists 
 in Warren, east of Waldoborough, and in Noblebo- 
 rough, on the west, they gradually increased in that 
 town. The prevailing religious views were from an 
 early period Congregational. In 1824, a Baptist church 
 was constituted, of thirteen members. "j* In 1826, Elder 
 Samuel Chisam became pastor, and the church began 
 to move forward. In 1834, they received a small ac- 
 cession. In 1837, Joseph Wilson became pastor, and 
 from that time to the present the church has witnessed 
 almost one continual revival. Few churches have been 
 more signally blessed than this, during the charge of 
 Mr. Wilson. Its numbers have been increased by 
 nearly two hundred. Their outward condition is pros- 
 perous. They now exert their share of religious influ- 
 ence in town. They have two hundred and sixteen 
 members. 
 
 Albion. Baptists in Albion began to multiply with 
 the settlement of the town, and began to unite with the 
 several churches in China, as was most convenient. 
 With these churches they continued to operate till 1824, 
 
 *Mm. P. Asso. iLin, Asso. Records. 
 
318 CHURCH IN ATKINSON. 
 
 when their own convenience and the interests of their 
 cause in Albion, required their united efforts there. 
 They therefore took their leave of these churches, and 
 were embodied in gospel order. Their number was 
 twenty-four, with J. Lewis, from the third church in 
 China, as their pastor. In 1826, Nathan Thomas, one 
 of its original members, was ordained pastor. In 1830, 
 a revival commenced. Nathaniel Copeland was set 
 apart by ordination as an evangelist in the church, whose 
 labors were united with their pastor. In the winter of 
 1831, the revival became general and glorious, and 
 added ninety-three to the church by baptism. This 
 was a season still in grateful remembrance by these 
 Baptists. It was a most signal display of Divine mercy 
 in their favor. In 1832, Mr. Copeland was pastor. In 
 1833, Elder D. Stevens became a member, and supplied 
 the church with preaching. He was made pastor, 1834. 
 In 1839, Elder Copeland again received the pastoral 
 care, preaching with them half the time. His connexion 
 continued to 1842, since which time Elder I. S. Smith 
 has had the pastoral care, bestowing one half of his 
 labor for their benefit. During this rapid succession of 
 ministers, the church has had some trials, but has nev- 
 ertheless advanced in influence, though its numbers 
 have diminished. In 1839, it had one hundred mem- 
 bers; in 1843, its number was seventy-four.* 
 
 Atkinson and Milton. The first settlers in these 
 towns had but i^ew gospel privileges. In 1824, Jonathan 
 F. Page settled in the east part of Atkinson. In a 
 neighborhood of twelve families, there was but one 
 pious person. In the summer of that year a revival 
 commenced, by the private exertions of Mr. Page. 
 This work continued about a year, and blessed the 
 
 *Min. L. and VV. Asso. 
 
THIRD CHURCH IN JEFFERSON— SEARSMONT. 319 
 
 whole settlement with its influence. It also extended 
 into Milton, and in 1825, a church was organized of 
 members from both towns, and in September numbered 
 twenty-three.* In 1829, Elder W. Oaks supplied them 
 with preaching a part of the time. In 1830, Mr. Page, 
 who had been so useful to them as a private christian 
 and as a licensed preacher, was ordained in this church 
 as an evangelist, and has since preached a part of the 
 time, much to their benefit. A revival was experienced 
 in 1833, under his ministry. Though blessed with re- 
 freshing seasons, and some increase, they have never 
 possessed the ability to provide a house of worship, or 
 to settle a pastor. They have thirty-four members. | 
 
 Third Jefferson. A third church in Jefferson was 
 gathered in 1824. Their original number was twenty- 
 two. Elder William Burbank, ordained to the gospel 
 ministry by the second church, became their pastor, 
 and continued in their service till 1842. It has been 
 favored with several revivals. Elder Enos Trask was 
 once a worthy deacon in this church, and aided its pro- 
 gress. J In 1843, Elder T. Goldthwait became pastor, 
 and it was increased by the fruits of another revival. 
 It now numbers seventy-eight members. § 
 
 Searsmont. In 1827, a church was organized at 
 'Hazelton's Mills,' in Searsmont, with thirteen mem- 
 bers. In 1839, C. G.Porter, a licentiate from the church 
 in Calais, commenced preaching with this then almost 
 lost church, one half of the time. In 1840, he was 
 ordained in the church as an evangelist. In 1842, a 
 revival attended his labors and increased its members, 
 and strengthened its hopes. To the active and pious 
 exertions of the late Bailey Moore, the church owes 
 
 *Min. L. A. 1825. fEld. J. F. Page's Com. +E!d. Wm. Burbank's Com. 
 $Min. of D. Asso. 
 
320 THIRD WHITEFIELD— NORTH WHITEFIELD. 
 
 much of its prosperity. In 1843, it had forty-seven 
 members, without a pastor.* 
 
 Third Whitefield. This church was constituted in 
 1828, mostly of members dismissed from the then second 
 church. In 1829, it had twenty-four members. Jesse 
 Crowell was its first deacon. Elder William Pool, one 
 of its original members, was ordained its first pastor, 
 April, 1830, and was its principal promoter, till 1842. 
 For several years this church enjoyed great prosperity, 
 as the results of general revivals. Then followed a 
 season of drought and declension, with a loss of mem- 
 bers. But the last two or three years have been more 
 fruitful. Since the old and first church in Whitefield 
 was lost, this church has been denominated the second; 
 the second having taken the place of the first in the 
 Associational catalogue. Their present number is 
 eighty-one, without a pastor. t 
 
 North Whitefield. This is the fourth church gath- 
 ered in Whitefield. Its original members were mostly 
 from the third, now called the second church, and in Sept. 
 1832, it had twenty-nine members. William Glidden was 
 their deacon, and in 1834 it received some addition by a 
 revival, but the next year was nearly reduced to its origi- 
 nal number, by means of dismissions to form a church in 
 Patricktown Plantation. In 1840 it received some acces- 
 sion of members. A committee from the Association visit- 
 ed these brethren in 1841, who found them in a feeble 
 state, having had no preaching for many years, and possess- 
 ing but little energy — their number was reduced to four- 
 teen. | 
 
 Third Thomaston. In 1832 an extensive revival was 
 enjoyed by the first church in Thomaston, under the labors 
 of Elder Kalloch, which extended its converting power into 
 
 *Eld.C. G. Porter's Com. and Min. W. A. fMin. L. and D. A. JMiii. L. A. 
 
THIRD CHURCH LN THOMASTON. 321 
 
 the * Shore Village. ' The distance from this village to the 
 places of worship in the older churches, dictated the organ- 
 ization of this third church. The first meeting these 
 brethren held in separate capacity, was in January, 1833, 
 and in February the church was organized. Elder Kal- 
 loch was at once invited to become their pastor. But after 
 six months consideration of the matter, he declined. From 
 a strong attachment to him who had been the honored in- 
 strument in the conversion of many of their souls to God, 
 they again renewed their request. The call was too ur- 
 gent to be again rejected. He accepted, and entered the 
 charge, Feb. 1834. The church for one year was en- 
 larged by a gradual increase. In 1835, as the rich har- 
 vest of a series of special meetings, and of a solemn and 
 interesting work of several months, a large addition was 
 made, mostly of heads of families. This revival added 
 ability and influence, as well as members. They were now 
 able to build three-fourths of a house of worship, the Con- 
 orecrationalists building the other fourth. 
 
 too a 
 
 In 1838, another general revival was witnessed, as the 
 fruit of a discussion on the subject of gospel 'communion.' 
 This was somewhat singular, and seldom so happens, but 
 God honors his own gospel. ' At first,' says Elder K., 
 ' many of the church feared, if not opposed, a controversy 
 upon this subject,' between their pastor and the Congrega- 
 tional minister, Mr. Fessenden. ' But they were led to 
 prayer and faith, and the Spirit of the Lord came down, 
 and scores were converted to God.' In 1838 the church 
 sold their proportion of the old house, and erected a neat 
 and convenient house for themselves. But these seasons 
 of mercy were like ' the few drops before the more plente- 
 ous shower,' compared to the revival enjoyed in 1842 and 
 1843, in which nearly two hundred were added by bap- 
 tism. Truly this is a highly favored branch of Zion. It has 
 
322 RICHMOND— I'ATRICKTOWN PLANTATION. 
 
 prospered with the flourishing village in which it is situa- 
 ted. Mr. K. is still their useful pastor, and the church 
 numbers four hundred, who exert a powerful influence in 
 favor of the gospel of Christ.* 
 
 Richmond. This church is located in a pleasant vil- 
 lage in the town of Richmond, fourteen miles south of 
 Augusta. Previous to 1833 Baptists had made no public 
 efforts here, excepting an occasional lecture by a visiting 
 minister. This year a few Baptists residing here raised a 
 sufficient sum to secure one fourth of the ministry of Rev. 
 C. Blanchard, then pastor of second Nobleboro.' This 
 supply was continued through the winter of '34. During 
 these efforts, Eld. L. C. Stevens established himself here as a 
 teacher in the Academy, and preached to the people when 
 not provided with a minister. Soon some special religious 
 attention was gained, and a few conversions occurred. 
 These were the preliminary movements to the organization 
 of a church, which occurred in October of that year, with 
 L. C. Stevens, pastor. It had but eight members, inclu- 
 ding the pastor and his wife. It has since prospered by a 
 gradual and annual accession to its numbers and to its 
 strength. Mr. S. resigned in 1837. He was succeeded in 
 the office by Rev. F. Ellis, who administered to their pro- 
 fit from July 1839, to October 1840, and in January 1841 
 Mr. Stevens again became pastor, but left again in 1842. 
 Since then they have had no pastor, but are encouraged to 
 persevere with forty-five members. f 
 
 Patricktown Plantation. A church was gathered in 
 this town in 1835. It has advanced prosperously with the 
 few means it has enjoyed. Elders J. White, Josiah Hal- 
 lovvell, and B. Ring have done much towards its progress. 
 It commenced with less than a dozen, it now has sixty-six 
 members. 
 
 *Church Records. fAbial Avery, Ch. Clk'. Com., and Min. L. and B. A. 
 
THIRD NOJBLEBORO'— FIRST WEST THOMASTON. 323 
 
 Washington. A church of twelve members was re- 
 ported to the Association, and united with it in 1S35. Jo- 
 siah Wilson, a distinguished member, and a licentiate, did 
 much in aiding these first movements of the Baptists in 
 this town. For several years, with some assistance by the 
 Association, they obtained a gradual increase. The year 
 1843 was one of peculiar interest in their history. By a 
 general revival their number was doubled. They now have 
 a flourishing and influential body of seventy members, 
 What gratitude is due to God for his wonderful grace !* 
 
 Third Nobleborough. With almost unparalleled pro- 
 gress Baptists increased in Nobleborough. In 1836 an 
 extensive work of grace was carried forward by the Spirit 
 of the Lord in the first church, during which the number 
 of one hundred and fifty-one united with them by baptism. 
 The instrumentalities employed to promote this revival, 
 were Elders E. Trask, (pastor) and S. Flagg. 
 
 A division of the church now became expedient for the 
 convenience of the brethren, and important for the ad- 
 vancement of the cause. Fifty-four dismissed for that pur- 
 pose, were constituted into a third church, and Elder S. 
 Flagg received the pastoral charge. He was succeeded in 
 the office the next year by Elder Daniel Whitehouse, for 
 one year, when Eld. Flagg again resumed the pastoral res- 
 ponsibility, and was their minister till 1842. Since then 
 they have preaching by Elder E. J. White one half the 
 time. A general prosperity has attended their movements. 
 They have one hundred and nine members.* 
 
 First West Thomaston. This church originated 
 with a diversity of opinion in the second church, respect- 
 ing the building and locating of a new meeting-house. The 
 difficulty dictated a mutual separation ; one part to con- 
 tinue to occupy the old house, the other to build where they 
 *Min. L. A. andD. Asso. 
 
324 DAMARISCOTTA MILLS— CUSHING— 3D CAMDEN. 
 
 chose. This was in 1836. Those who were to remain 
 in the old sanctuary, fifty-seven in number, were organized 
 by the name of First West Thomaston. 
 
 At their invitation, Eld. D. Bartlett became their pastor 
 in 1833, and continued in their service about two years. 
 He was succeeded in 1840 by their present pastor, Eld. D. 
 Small, then a student in the Thomaston Theological Insti- 
 tution. In 1842, their members were increased by a 
 refreshing revival. In 1841, they sustained a very great 
 loss in the death of the devoted and enterprising Hezekiah 
 Prince. The Association, and indeed the whole christian 
 community might reasonably weep his departure. This 
 people still worship in the old house ; and have fellowship 
 with God and with each other. Their present number is 
 one hundred and eight.* 
 
 Damariscotta Mills. Previous to 1841, a few Bap- 
 tists resided at these mills. By their request, Eld. Wm. 
 Day visited them in the spring of that year, opened a series 
 of meetings, invited neighboring ministers, and all engaged 
 in the work of the Lord ; and the Spirit came down, con- 
 verted sinners, and thus prepared materials for a church, 
 which was soon organized, with thirty-eight members. It 
 has never had a pastor, but has had stated preaching a part 
 of the time, by Elders Wm. Day, M. Byrne, A. B. Pendle- 
 ton, and J. W. Lawton. Their number is thirty-nine, and 
 they feel the need of assistance. f 
 
 Cushing. For convenience and increased effort, the 
 old church, ' Friendship and Cushing,' was divided in 
 1842. The brethren in Cushing were organized, with 
 ninety-eight in number. Eld. D. Bartlett preached during 
 that year with both churches, bestowing on each an equal 
 proportion of his ministry. The next year he was succeed- 
 ed by Eld. C. P. Bartlett. In 1843, this church had ninety- 
 seven members, J 
 
 *Ch. Rec. fJ. Winslow, 2d. Com, jMin. L. Asso. 
 
LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 325 
 
 Third Camden. A third church was gathered in Cam- 
 den in 1842, composed mostly of members dismissed from 
 the second church. It is situated in a growing village, and 
 promises much usefulness. C. C. Long was ordained an 
 evangelist in this church the next day after its organization. 
 They have since enjoyed one-half of his labors. Their 
 number is increased to twenty.* 
 
 Third St. George. In 1842, a third church in St. 
 George was organized with thirty members, dismissed from 
 the first and second churches. It has been aided hitherto 
 by one-half of the labors of Eld. J. Kalloch, and ' their 
 prospects are reported to be encouraging.' Their number 
 in 1843, was thirty-three.* 
 
 CHAPTER XVI. 
 
 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. , 
 
 Organized in 1805. After 13 years it gave rise to Eastern Maine in 1813 ; 
 and in 7 years more to the Penobscot in 1825 j and 17 years later to the 
 Damariscotta, in 1842. 
 
 This Association was organized at St. George, Sept 
 1805. It was then composed of eighteen churches ; six- 
 teen of which had been previously dismissed from Bovv- 
 doinham, each of which were chronologically noticed in 
 the history of that body ; and two, Palermo and Sedgwick, 
 which had never before united in such a connection. This 
 Association embraced at that time all the territory east of 
 the Kennebec river, and has yielded as its legitimate fruits 
 four other Associations, Eastern Maine, Penobscot, Waldo 
 and Damariscotta. Originally blessed with a numerous 
 and able ministry, and subsequently with a rich bestow- 
 ment of the same blessing, and by the continuous and 
 
 *Min. L. Asso. 
 
 15. 
 
326 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION, 
 
 abundant spiritual influences whicb have attended that 
 ministry, this Association has ever been distinguished for 
 more than a common prosperity. The efforts of Elders 
 Job Macomber, Elisha Snow, Jesse Martin, Nehemiah 
 Gould, Coker Marble, Joseph Bailey, Ephraim Hall, An- 
 drew Fuller, Jabez Lewis, Thomas Ames, John Haines, 
 Nathaniel Robinson, and Daniel Merrill, were united with 
 others to promote the stability and progress of this new 
 Baptist enterprise in the State. The articles of Faith and 
 Covenant, as revised and adopted by the Bowdoinham 
 Association in 1802, were now received as the creed of this 
 body. These articles have since undergone a revision, 
 which will be noticed in another place. Missionary opera- 
 tions were continued by these brethren, and the plan of 
 voluntary, supplies to the destitute was adopted by the 
 ministers. 
 
 At its second anniversary in 1806, this body rejoiced in 
 view of the gradually extending prospects of their cause in 
 this new part of the State, but they mourned over the 
 low state of their churches. The churches, ' Unity,' ' Co- 
 lumbia' and ' Bluehill,' were added. It was recommended 
 to the churches to observe in concert with the Bowdoin- 
 ham Association, the first day of January, as a season of 
 Fasting and Prayer, for special blessings. The only mis- 
 sionary operations as yet commenced by this body was that 
 of voluntary supplies. 
 
 Four new churches, Northport, Montville, Carmel and 
 Surry, were added in 1807, and several ministers entered 
 this new field; some by ordination, and others from other 
 parts of the State. There was evidence that their cause 
 was acquiring a more extended influence. 
 
 The anniversary in 1808, was an unusually interesting 
 session. Elder Pilsbury, in the circular, says: ' that unan- 
 imity which prevailed during our present se.ssion, that one- 
 
LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 327 
 
 ness of soul which possessed our breasts, together with the 
 soul reviving intelligence in your letters, almost overcome 
 us, and constrained us to cry out, ' Truly, what hath God 
 wrought : God is good to Israel.' The days of Fasting 
 and Prayer continued in the churches were not in vain. 
 Most extensive revivals had enlarged the churches, and ten 
 new ones were received at this meeting, with an increase 
 of ministers. Their success encouraged them to press on 
 to victory, believing that truth would finally rise in holy 
 triumph over error and darkness. 
 
 From 1809 to 1818, the Baptists in this Association 
 met with some opposition, and were guilty of short seasons 
 of declension and inactivity ; but generally were devoted 
 to the cause of God, and obtained extensive prosperity, and 
 a wider spread of influence. Twenty-five churches were 
 brought into union with the Association, some of which, 
 however, had existed several years previous, and the body 
 was increased by an addition of about two thousand mem- 
 bers. Nor was their zeal, their benevolence, their confi- 
 dence of success, and their spiritual power increased less 
 than their numerical strength. 
 
 The years 1815, '16 and 17, were distinguished for 
 extensive revivals, and large additions to many of the 
 churches by baptism. During these years, therefore, things 
 that had withered by declension were revived, and things 
 that were scattered, were gathered together. The solitary 
 places were made glad, the barren heath put on a beauti- 
 ful blooming. 
 
 As the churches multiplied, and the field enlarged, God 
 raised up ministers and pastors to take charge and to cul- 
 tivate it. In 181? this Association was blessed with the ac- 
 tive labors of thirty-four ordained ministers and five licen- 
 tiates. A missionary spirit and zeal characterized their 
 movements. The system of voluntary supplies was con- 
 
328 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 tinued till 1811, and in 1812 a Missionary Society was 
 organized to aid the destitute within the limits of the 
 Association, and the churches were requested to raise ' one 
 cent a month from each member,' to aid the design of the 
 society, and some of the churches entered into the work, 
 and for some years fully met the expectation of the Asso- 
 ciation, while others were delinquent. In the Foreign 
 Missionary cause the Association moved simultaneously, 
 and liberally with their brethren in the State. In 1815, 
 1 The Female Cent Society,' to aid Foreign Missions, was 
 created in the bosom of the Association. This society 
 has done much for the- cause by their weekly contribution 
 of ' one cent' severally. 
 
 During this period also, many questions were examined 
 and disposed of which were considered of importance to 
 the union and welfare of the denomination, and the cause 
 of God generally. In 1813, the Association decided by 
 vote, ' that it is expedient that a council be called by the 
 churches to depose an Elder from, or restore him to office.' 
 In regard to the formation of the pastoral connection, the 
 Association gave as their united opinion, that ' whenever a 
 regular ordained minister in our order shall enter into an 
 agreement with any of our churches to be their teacher, he 
 is considered by us as their stated minister or pastor ;' and 
 as regards the baptizing and ordaining persons from a Pedo- 
 baptist connection, this body of Baptists say : ' that ordi- 
 nations administered in that church which by principle 
 practise the baptizing of the impenitent, confer no author- 
 ity upon any who may be afterward baptized and joined 
 to the kingdom of God, which does and always has 
 received the baptism of repentance for the remission of 
 sins.' The observance of the first day of January as an 
 annual season for Fasting and Prayer, was still continued 
 
LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 309 
 
 in the churches. In 1812, the fourth day of July was set 
 apart for the same purpose. 
 
 In 1817 it was proposed to divide the Association, which 
 proposition was referred to the churches, to be by them 
 decided at the next anniversary. By their request, there- 
 fore, the body was divided in 1818, by setting off the 
 churches east of Penobscot river, to form a separate con- 
 nection. The number set off for this purpose was thirteen, 
 with their pastors and ministers. At this meeting, (1818) 
 the Association gave public notice that the selling of ardent 
 spirits near the place of the annual meeting of this body 
 at the time of its sessions, is hereafter peremptorily disal- 
 lowed.* 
 
 With the year 1818, terminates the first period in the 
 history of this Association. The extent of territory occu- 
 pied, the long distance from the extremes to the centre, to 
 be travelled over by the churches at these extremes, and 
 the existence of several churches beyond them, who, by 
 distance, were deprived of Associational privileges, occa- 
 sioned a division in 1818. This division originated the 
 Eastern Maine Association, composing the churches in the 
 counties of Hancock and Washington, and all east of the 
 Penobscot river. 
 
 By this movement thirteen churches were dismissed, 
 leaving in the Association forty-six to carry forward the 
 work in Lincoln, Waldo and Penobscot. These forty-six 
 churches numbered two thousand four hundred and seven- 
 ty-nine communicants, who were aided, instructed and 
 comforted by the ministry of nineteen ordained and four 
 licensed ministers. With these churches and ministers, 
 we now enter upon a second period in their history. This 
 period will bring us down to the second division of this 
 body in 1825. 
 
 ^Gathered from the Minutes of the Association. 
 
330 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Between 1818 and 1825, the Association made consid- 
 erable advancement, and in its advisory capacity transacted 
 much important business relating to the interests of the 
 Baptists. 
 
 At their anniversary in 1819, the following important 
 regulation was by a vote of the Association, recommended 
 for the observance of the churches : ' Voted, when mem- 
 bers of one church move into the vicinity of another, and 
 do not join it, nor walk with the church to which they 
 belong, they are to be disciplined ; and, when members 
 remove and no information is received from them, they are 
 subject to discipline ; and, when members are dismissed to 
 join another, it shall be their duty to give information that 
 they have been received.' At their meeting in 1822, the 
 c Monthly Concert' to pray for success in missionary ef- 
 forts — to establish ' Sabbath Schools,' and to patronize the 
 ' Waterville Intelligencer,' and ' Baptist Magazine,' were 
 subjects recommended to the attention of the churches, 
 and in 1823, it was agreed ' to petition the Legislature to 
 exempt ministers of the gospel in the State from taxation.' 
 During this period the usual days of Fasting and Prayer 
 were continued, and God prospered the churches, as will 
 be seen by the rise and progress of the churches which 
 appeared within its limits, and by the general increase of 
 all the older churches. 
 
 The Association was not enlarged (1823) by the addi- 
 tion of any church this year ; but in 1824 it received into 
 fellowship the churches, Waldoboro' and Albion. 
 
 With 1825 closes the second period in the history of this 
 body. The progress of the Baptist cause in Penobscot 
 County had given to the Association an extent of territory 
 of about one hundred miles from North to South. For 
 the convenience therefore of the brethren in that County, 
 seven churches and five ministers were set off to form a sep- 
 
LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 331 
 
 arate organization. Notwithstanding this reduction, there 
 yet remained forty-eight churches and twenty-five ministers 
 and two thousand six hundred and fifty-nine communicants, 
 to cultivate the field already possessed, and to assist in ex- 
 ploring and in gaining possession of fields yet unoccupied. 
 
 Within this second period three Foreign Missionary So- 
 cieties, auxiliary to Baptist Board of Foreign Missions, 
 were formed within the limits of this body ; the Lincoln, 
 Damariscotta and Waldo. Each of these societies took 
 under its supervision, a definite section, and was the medi- 
 um of communication between that Board and the churches 
 included in its limits. This was a wise and successful 
 arrangement. 
 
 In 18*27, measures were taken to raise what was denom- 
 inated a ' Ministerial Fund.' The object of this fund is to 
 provide for the comfort of aged, infirm and indigent minis- 
 ters, whose energies have been expended in the cause of 
 God, and for the relief of widows of deceased ministers. 
 In 1828 the attention of the churches was directed to some 
 of the various benevolent and religious movements in the 
 christian world ; to the Missionary, the Tract, the Bible, 
 Temperance, the Sunday School cause.* Also, to Zion's 
 Advocate, a paper about to be published in Portland, by 
 A. Wilson, for the Baptists. In 1829 it was recommended 
 that the churches adopt the principle of 'Total Absti- 
 nence' from all intoxicating drinks. Several new churches 
 united with this Association during this period, and the 
 number of ministers was increased. The year 1828 was 
 a memorable period in this body. It was remarkable for 
 extensive revivals in the churches, and for the increase of 
 a benevolent and missionary spirit. The churches in Waldo 
 County, seventeen in number, with ten ministers, were set 
 off this year to form the Waldo Association. 
 
 *In 1829, a society was formed to secure a Ministerial Fund, called the 
 Lincoln Baptist Benevolent Society. 
 
332 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 In 1829 this body voted respecting excluded members, 
 ' that it is by no means agreeable to gospel order, to admit 
 to speak or pray, when their exclusion is founded upon 
 immoral conduct/ In 1830 the first church in Whitefield, 
 on account of some peculiar views and practices, contrary 
 to those of the Association, was dropped from its connection. 
 
 In 1831, a spiritual declension commenced, which re- 
 sulted in a drought that dried up and withered the spiritual 
 life and energy of the churches. The calamity became 
 general in 1833. But in 1834, there were some small 
 showers of mercy on a few branches of this body, but soon 
 the scorching heat of a summer drought, again wasted the 
 pious activity and prosperity of these bodies. In 1838 
 springs began again to break forth in this desert, and the 
 thirsty hills were refreshed with rain and dew, and nearly 
 five hundred communicants were added to the Association, 
 but the more copious showers and the more full streams 
 were reserved until 1842. This year more than eight 
 hundred baptisms were witnessed as the fruits of general 
 revivals in these churches. 
 
 During these changes, however, missionary enterprises 
 were promoted, and at the annual meetings of the Asso- 
 ciation, resolutions favoring objects of benevolence and 
 charity, and others opposing heterodoxy, infidelity, war, 
 slavery and intemperance, were adopted. In their circular 
 addressed to the churches in 1840, the views of the Bap- 
 tists in this body on the subject of ( Close Communion,' are 
 expressed and defended. The circular was from the pen 
 of Eld. Kalloch, of Thomaston. He gives his readers a 
 definition of the qualifying term close, as follows : ' The 
 term close is here used to qualify communion ;' ' it implies 
 that none but members of the visible church are qualified 
 to participate in the * Lord's Supper,' it being an ordinance 
 of the church.' 
 
LINCOLN ASSOCIATION. 
 
 333 
 
 This Association at its third division, commenced op- 
 erations with twenty-five churches. At the annual meet- 
 ing in 1842, it contained thirty-five, when a fourth division 
 was made, by making the Waldoboro' river the principal 
 separating line. Those churches west of this river were 
 to be organized into a new Association. During this 
 period several new churches were organized, mostly in 
 places where the Baptists had exerted an influence for 
 some previous years. They are therefore as new shoots from 
 the old vines. 
 
 In 1843, the Lincoln Association contained nineteen 
 churches; nineteen ordained ministers, and two hundred 
 and fifteen communicants. It was increased that year by 
 an addition of nearly four hundred. It is an efficient, in- 
 fluential and benevolent body. 
 
 LINCOLN ASSOCIATION.. .TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1805. 
 
 2 
 
 C 
 
 33 r 
 
 ffl 
 
 5 
 
 P3 
 
 -a 
 
 i 
 a 
 
 o 
 o 
 
 c 
 
 s 
 
 3 
 
 o 
 
 CO 
 
 Churches in 1845. 
 
 o 
 
 D 
 
 2 
 p 
 
 N 1 
 
 8.1" 
 
 -. 
 
 a 
 
 ST 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 o 
 p. 
 
 2 
 p 
 
 O 
 
 O 
 
 1st Thomaston, 
 
 17:;4- 47 664 
 
 41 
 
 45 221.222 92 
 
 
 4 
 
 |705 
 
 208 
 
 1st St. George, 
 
 1783 26 
 
 585 
 
 27 
 
 50 253, 143 61 
 
 
 
 11 
 
 638 
 
 243 
 
 Hope, 
 
 1 795 1 1 
 
 260 
 
 51 
 
 23 
 
 94 
 
 115 41 
 
 
 
 
 322 
 
 95 
 
 Friendship and Cushing, 
 
 1800 37 
 
 Oo2 
 
 25 
 
 15 
 
 169 
 
 58 37 
 
 
 85 
 
 
 444 
 
 110 
 
 Warren. 
 
 1800 14 
 
 437 
 
 41 
 
 5 
 
 110 
 
 73 60 
 
 
 19 
 
 
 542 
 
 285 
 
 Islesboro', 
 
 1791 * 
 
 227 
 
 11 
 
 1 
 
 49 
 
 50 27 
 
 
 
 171239 
 
 116 
 
 Vinalhaven, 
 
 1804 * 
 
 286 
 
 15 
 
 10 
 
 69 
 
 62:36 
 
 7 
 
 13 
 
 301 
 
 124 
 
 Matinicus, (reorgan'd '43) 
 
 1808! 16 
 
 26 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 11, 9 
 
 
 9 
 
 42 
 
 9 
 
 1st Camden, 
 
 1808 25 
 
 149 
 
 16 
 
 5 
 
 24 
 
 58;i5 
 
 
 20 
 
 190 
 
 72 
 
 2d Camden, 
 
 1808 
 
 14 
 
 132 
 
 48 
 
 3 
 
 52 
 
 28 20 
 
 
 
 15 
 
 194 
 
 112 
 
 Union, 
 
 1801 
 
 21 
 
 135 
 
 24 
 
 10 
 
 49 
 
 44i25 
 
 
 18 
 
 
 180 
 
 54 
 
 2d Thomaston, 
 
 1816 
 
 30 
 
 223 
 
 93 
 
 9 
 
 132 
 
 46 29 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 251 
 
 147 
 
 Appleton, 
 
 1816 
 
 20 
 
 76 
 
 16 
 
 5 
 
 24 
 
 36 16 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 112 
 
 43 
 
 2d St. George, 
 
 1817 
 
 so 
 
 303 
 
 42 
 
 .32 
 
 44 
 
 88 ! 50 
 
 
 23 
 
 
 425 
 
 252 
 
 3d Thomaston, 
 
 1833 38 
 
 ool 
 
 106 
 
 14 
 
 35 
 
 38 '23 
 
 
 
 
 482 
 
 400 
 
 1st West Thomaston Vill. 
 
 1836 57 
 
 70 
 
 23 
 
 11 
 
 30 
 
 11 9 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 150il08 
 
 Cushing, 
 
 1842 98 
 
 2 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 4 
 
 
 
 101 i 97 
 
 3d Camden, 
 
 1812! 13 2 
 
 5' 
 
 3d St. George, 
 
 1842|30l 1 3| | 33 | 33 
 
 *Unkn 
 
 own. 
 
 — 
 
 U 
 :: 
 
 CO 
 
 U 
 
 C7< 
 CO 
 -4 
 
 
 6 
 
 Crc 
 to 
 
 w 
 
 — 
 
 -o 
 
 «o 
 
 & 
 
 Or 
 
 t-3 
 Ox 
 
 CO 
 
334 
 
 DAMARISCOTTA ASSOCIATION. 
 
 DAMARISCOTTA ASSOCIATION. 
 
 This was the name taken by the churches set off from the 
 Lincoln Association in 1842. Its first anniversary was held 
 at Whitefield, Oct. 4, 1843. It then contained seventeen 
 churches; seventeen ordained ministers, and two thousand 
 one hundred and thirty-five communicants. One church 
 was received at that meeting, and their table shows three 
 hundred and one additions by baptisms. Under these cir- 
 cumstances this Association began its progress, and is not 
 less powerful, useful, or benevolent, than the Lincoln. 
 
 South Whitefield. This church owes its existence 
 to the second church in Whitefield. It was organized in 
 1843, with fifteen members dismissed from that church. 
 They have sixteen members. Elder W. Bailey is pastor, 
 are united and persevering, and anticipate by the grace of 
 God to prosper.* 
 
 DAMARISCOTTA ASSOCIATION. ...TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 «3 
 
 3 
 
 to 
 
 r pi 
 
 O M 
 
 - 
 
 
 
 r 
 
 Q 
 
 < 
 
 -d 
 
 ORGANIZED 1813. 
 
 re 
 
 B 
 
 
 re 
 
 2 
 
 re 
 
 C 
 
 a 
 
 "S 
 
 3L 
 
 re" 
 
 «d 
 
 
 
 — 
 
 re 
 
 o 
 
 DO 
 
 CD 
 
 ET 
 
 p_ 
 
 re 
 
 re 
 
 2 
 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 2 
 
 p 
 
 a. 
 
 
 Q. 
 
 re 
 
 p. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2? 
 
 o 
 
 5 
 
 o 
 
 • 
 
 Bristol &Miscongus, 
 
 1st Nobleborough, 
 
 Woolwich, 
 
 1st Jefferson, 
 
 2d Jefferson, 
 
 1st Whitefield, 
 
 2d Nobleboro' 
 
 New Castle and Alna, 
 
 Wiscasset, 
 
 Waldoboro 7 , 
 
 3d Jefferson, 
 
 2d Whitefield, 
 
 N. Ch. Whitefield, 
 
 Patricktown Plantation, 
 
 Washington, 
 
 3d Nobleborough, 
 
 Damariscotta Mills, 
 
 So. Ch. Whitefield, 
 
 f Dam. Asso. 
 
 
 1792 
 
 19 
 
 8-1 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 12 
 
 23 
 
 31 
 
 
 
 1793 
 
 12 
 
 630 
 
 17 
 
 22 
 
 204 
 
 99 
 
 5! 
 
 
 
 1800 
 
 16 
 
 168 
 
 11 
 
 1 
 
 61 
 
 31 
 
 2!) 
 
 
 
 1807 
 
 75 
 
 405 
 
 ::>i 
 
 12 
 
 69 
 
 62 
 
 33 
 
 
 
 1807 
 
 3:5 
 
 185 
 
 19 
 
 9 
 
 52 
 
 34 
 
 21 
 
 7 
 
 
 1809 
 
 9 
 
 121 
 
 8 
 
 8 
 
 21 
 
 13 
 
 15 
 
 
 
 1819 
 
 ! 1 
 
 362 
 
 34. 
 
 10 
 
 44 
 
 29 
 
 38 
 
 
 
 1820 
 
 12 
 
 246 
 
 33 
 
 4 
 
 17 
 
 6 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 1822 
 
 26 
 
 73 
 
 29 
 
 2 42 
 
 14 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 1824 
 
 lo 
 
 186 
 
 35 
 
 2 
 
 14 
 
 7 
 
 Hi 
 
 
 
 1825 
 
 22 
 
 76 
 
 13 
 
 8 
 
 17 
 
 15 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 1828 
 
 11 
 
 156 
 
 11 
 
 8 
 
 49 
 
 24 
 
 21 
 
 
 
 1832 
 
 29 
 
 13 
 
 3 
 
 
 12 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 1835 
 
 18 
 
 41 
 
 13 
 
 
 2 
 
 9 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 1835 
 
 12 
 
 52 
 
 21 
 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 1836 
 
 54 
 
 65 
 
 8 
 
 2 
 
 8 
 
 9 
 
 5 ! 
 
 
 18+1 
 
 38 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 i 
 
 
 1843 
 
 15 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 i 
 
 t ^ 
 
 ^ 
 
 )-. 
 
 -Ol C_n 
 
 — 
 
 02 
 
 -> 
 
 
 -3 
 
 
 03 — 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 " 
 
 Cji 
 
 ?c 
 
 
 CO 
 
 :: 
 
 e. N 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 89 
 
 46 
 
 23 
 
 
 659 
 
 "SS 
 
 
 4 
 
 196 
 
 14 
 
 
 511 
 
 315 
 
 23 
 
 
 237 
 
 116 
 
 15 
 
 
 138 
 
 47 
 
 28 
 
 
 400 
 
 286 
 
 42 
 
 
 291 
 
 221 
 
 1 + 
 
 
 128 
 
 57 
 
 
 7 
 
 244 
 
 216 
 
 
 
 HI 
 
 78 
 
 13 
 
 
 185 
 
 81 
 
 15 
 
 
 45 
 
 14 
 
 
 8 
 
 72 
 
 66 
 
 10 
 
 
 85 
 
 70 
 
 
 2 
 
 127 
 
 109 
 
 
 
 39 
 
 39 
 
 
 
 16 
 
 16 
 
 c 
 
 (3 
 
 09 
 
 en 
 
 t-3 
 
 C_n 
 
CHAPTER XVII. 
 
 EASTERN MAINE ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Whole period of its existence 16 years from 1813 to 1834 ; then yielded its 
 name to two Associations, one to be called Hancock, the other Wash- 
 ington. 
 
 This Association was first organized at Bluehill, on 
 the 12th of Nov. 1818. Eld. N. Robinson preached on the 
 occasion, Isaiah, 61 : 1. In this body the Baptists in the 
 counties of Hancock and Washington, and all east of the 
 Penobscot river, united. It originally was composed of 
 twelve churches previously dismissed from the Lincoln. 
 Their first anniversary was in Steuben, Oct. 1819 ; three 
 churches were added at that time. This body occupied 
 this entire field till 1834, when the churches had become 
 numerous and some of them large, and the distance from 
 one extreme of territory occupied to the other, was so 
 great that a division of the Association was deemed expe- 
 dient ; and by unanimous agreement, the Eastern Maine 
 Association was dissolved, and the next year the present 
 Hancock and Washington Associations were organized. 
 
 During the existence of the Eastern Maine Association, 
 the Baptists in this section of the State moved on pros- 
 perously. As we have seen it commenced with twelve 
 churches, and these churches were assisted by nine ordain- 
 ed ministers. A correspondence was, at its first meeting, 
 opened with Lincoln and Bowdoinham Associations in Me., 
 with New Brunswick and Nova Scotia ; also, with the 
 Baptist Board of Foreign Missions ; and it was recom- 
 mended to the churches to raise twelve and a half cents on 
 a member for Domestic Missions. 
 
 The domestic welfare of these churches received the 
 
336 EASTERN MAINE ASSOCIATION. 
 
 attention of the Association, and five hundred copies of 
 Dr. Fuller's letter on discipline, was distributed among 
 them. This was in 1820. From the prevailing spiritual 
 declension in all this eastern country, it was recommended 
 that the churches observe a season of Fasting, Humilia- 
 tion and Prayer, for the revival of the work of the Lord ; 
 and that they raise one cent a month on a member for Do- 
 mestic Missions. Their prayers were heard, and in 1822, 
 God revived his work in several of these churches. The 
 next year the Association entered upon a train of means to 
 establish a fund for the widows of deceased Baptist minis- 
 ters. The churches were requested to give their attention 
 to the expediency of requiring their members upon a 
 removal, to take letters of dismission, and to the cause of 
 temperance. 
 
 In 1826, it was certified to the Association, that some of 
 the churches were remiss in many important duties, such 
 as to attend regularly upon the Lord's supper, to keep up 
 family prayer, and render their aid in support of the gospel. 
 Whereupon, the Association recommended ' stated seasons 
 for communion ;' that means be employed ' to remedy the 
 evil of neglecting family prayer,' and that all who refuse 
 their ' equal burden' in support of the ministry, ' be dis- 
 ciplined by gospel rule.' 
 
 Instead of the usual list of resolutions, the following vote 
 was passed : ' That we highly appreciate the importance of 
 Bible, Missionary and other Benevolent operations at the 
 present day. Waterville College and Zion's Advocate re- 
 ceived the cordial approbation of this body, and simultan- 
 eously with other Associations, these churches began to 
 promote the interests of Sunday Schools. 
 
 The year 1833, God wrought wondrous things amidst 
 these churches. Multitudes by his grace were brought 
 from darkness to light, which increased the number of 
 
CHURCH IN EASTPORT. 337 
 
 communicants in the Association by four hundred, and in 
 1834, by three hundred and two by baptism. This gave 
 to the Association thirty-eight churches, nineteen ordained 
 ministers, seven licentiates, and three thousand two hundred 
 and nine members. 
 
 During these years the churches had prospered, and had 
 fellowship with each other at their communions. Much 
 business for Zion's interests had been transacted, and much 
 good for souls had been accomplished within her borders. 
 Bible and Tract Society, Male and Female Missionary 
 Societies, Temperance Societies, and Sabbath Schools, 
 were encouraged by this Association. 
 
 CHAPTER XVIII. 
 
 The churches which composed the Eastern Maine Association, — East- 
 port ; Gouldsboro' ; Deer Isle; Columbia and Addison; Penobscot; 
 Swan Island ; Jonesboro' and Addison ; Lubec ; JMariaville ; Cutler ; 
 2d Sullivan ; Hancock; Franklin; Addison ; 2d Bluehill ; 2d Sedgwick ; 
 Ellsworth ; Dennysville ; Charleston; Cooper; 2d Mariaville ; Calais j 
 Harrington; Branch Pond; Reed's Brook, and East Machias. 
 
 Eastport. Eastport is on c Moose Island.' This lies 
 in the mouth of the river St. Croix, and is the most eastern 
 land belonging to Maine, or on the coast. It was settled 
 at an early period, but not incorporated till 1798 ; and in 
 1813, it contained one thousand five hundred and eleven 
 inhabitants. The first settlers were of no particular religious 
 sentiments, and no united efforts were made to evangelize 
 them previous to 1796. The Baptists were among the first to 
 raise the gospel standard. Their first movements, says my 
 informant, Mr. C. Hayden,* son of the late deacon C. 
 
 *C. Hayden Ch. Clk. 
 
333 CHURCH IN EASTPORT. 
 
 Hayden, of the Baptist church, 'is involved in much ob- 
 scurity.' 
 
 It appears that in 1794, Eld. J. Murphy, a licentiate 
 from a Baptist church in Nova Scotia, commenced preach- 
 ing on the Island. The few resident Baptist professors 
 were quickened, and ' it is believed that some few persons 
 were converted under his labors, and by him it is supposed 
 that the first baptism in town was administered.' In Jan. 
 1796,' says Mr. H., ' a number of persons, part Baptists 
 and part Pedo-baptists, formed themselves into a church 
 under the lead of Eld. E. Manning, of New Brunswick. 
 But this body soon fell to decay.' ' Afterwards,' continues 
 Mr. H., c a number covenanted together in the form of a 
 church, and agreed to support a Mr. Gooch, as their min- 
 ister.' This body also soon died. 
 
 A remark from Elder Case, who visited the Island about 
 this time, will throw some light on these movements.* 
 ' Several years before I visited this people,' says Eld. C, 
 ' some were converted under the labors of Eld. Murphy, but 
 for want of correct gospel instruction, they embraced erro- 
 neous opinions respecting the ordinances of Christ.' ' I 
 found among them one Mr. Gooch, who professed to be a 
 preacher of the gospel, but denied and opposed the ordi- 
 nances and order of the church of Christ. He ridiculed 
 all who had correct views of the gospel truth. I pitied 
 both him and the people, and spent sometime with them, 
 and endeavored to correct their errors.' ' But Gooch was 
 violent in his opposition, ridiculed and slandered me, and 
 all that I said and did. But the Lord blessed his own 
 word, the people received light, many were convinced, and 
 not long afterwards were baptized by Elder E. Brooks, of 
 Water borough, N. B., and by him organized into a 
 church.* Those who had been led away by Gooch, now 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 1799 
 
CHURCH IN EASTPORT, 339 
 
 left him, and he retired from the place.' ' The only body,' 
 says Mr. Hayden, ' that sustained its visibility for any 
 lencrth of time was formed Aug-. 8, 1802.' This must have 
 been the church organized by Eld. Brooks; Eld. J. Mur- 
 phy became its pastor. It then numbered fifty-seven mem- 
 bers, some of whom resided on Deer Isle, and some on 
 Campobello, N. B., some in Lubec, and some in Perry and 
 Pembroke. 
 
 These members, for several years, passed through many 
 distressing trials. Says Eld. Case, who was here occasionally 
 for some years as a missionary, this church, ' for want of 
 a wise and skilful under-shepherd, became scattered, so 
 that in 1810,* it became expedient to gather them together, 
 and organize them by a special renewal of their covenant 
 engagements.' Elder Daniel Merrill, who was preaching 
 a short time on the Island, assisted Elder Case in this 
 work. 
 
 Elder Murphy, at his request, was dismissed from the 
 pastoral charge in 1805. They were then destitute till af- 
 ter their re-organization. Being now encouraged to per- 
 severance, they settled in 1811, Elder H. A. Clarke. 
 This connexion continued till 1814. Although the church 
 had obtained some prosperity, yet on account of dismis- 
 sions to form churches, in Pembroke and Lubec, they 
 were in 1814 comparatively feeble. 
 
 A house of worship had been commenced on the Island 
 in 1794, and finished in 1798. In 1815 this house was 
 taken possession of by the British soldiers, who then had 
 possession of the Island, and by them moved from its orig- 
 inal position, and converted into a ' mess-room' for the offi- 
 cers, f Thus the house of God was made a den of thieves. 
 From this time the church worshipped in private and school 
 houses, till 1820, when they were convened in a new sanc- 
 
 *Eld. Case's Jour. 1810. fMr. C. H. 
 
340 CHURCH IN GOULDSBORO'— MACHIAS PORT. 
 
 tuary, erected in a central part of the town, at an expense 
 of $3000. This accommodated them till 1837, when it 
 became too strait for them, and another house was erected 
 at a cost of $8000. 
 
 Eld. B. Buck became their pastor in 1818, and resigned 
 in 1819. Eld. H. J. Ripley officiated from 1820 to 1822. 
 Eld. Hosea Wheeler, 1822, to his death, Jan. 27, 1823. 
 Eld. Joshua Eveleth, from 1823 to 1825. Eld T. Miriam, 
 1825 to 1828. Eld. F. W. Emmons, from April 1829 to 
 Dec. 1829. Eld. Phinehas Bond, from 1831 to 1834. 
 Eld. J. B. Hague, their present pastor, entered upon his 
 charge by ordination Sept. J 835. Additions were made 
 to the church during each of these pastorates. It has 
 enjoyed several revival seasons, but none more interesting 
 and beneficial than the one witnessed in 1836. It is now 
 a church of two hundred and eighteen members, is engaged 
 liberally in the general works of christian benevolence, and 
 is most efficiently sustaining the cause among themselves.* 
 
 Gouldsborough. This is a small and feeble church, 
 and has existed since the year 1816. Through the influ- 
 ence of occasional visits and preaching of Baptist missiona- 
 ries and travelling ministers, the early inhabitants were 
 favorable to the doctrines of the Baptists. Eld's Case, Snow, 
 and Hale, were among the first Baptist preachers to visit 
 them. 
 
 The original number of the church was ten. Soon after 
 their organization, Eld. Job Chadwick became their pastor 
 and ministered to them till 1832. They have had no 
 pastor since ; but aided by occasional preaching, they have 
 maintained a respectable visibility. Their prosperity has 
 been much promoted by the labors of their worthy deacon, 
 John Sumner. Present number, twenty-sixf 
 
 Machias-Port. Machias was called by the Indians, 
 
 *Mr. C. Hayden's Com. fCh. Records. 
 
CHURCH IN MACHIAS PORT. 341 
 
 1 Mechisses.' A Mr. Allerton, from Plymouth, opened 
 in this place a trading wigwam in 1633. In 1744, an 
 opening was made by the French on the east river ; and 
 in 1763, by persons from Cumberland County, a settlement 
 was gained on the west river. Most of the original inhab- 
 itants being of a Congregational faith, a church of that 
 order was organized as early as 1781.* The town was 
 incorporated by its present name in 1784. The people 
 were generally Congregational, and favored with a stated 
 ministry. Baptists, by their occasional efforts, obtained 
 but limited influence among them for many years. In 
 1797, Mr. Murphy labored some among them. Eld. Case 
 says, ' several persons were regenerated into gospel faith,' 
 and ' from that time till 1810, Baptist ministers visited 
 these brethren occasionally, and preached Christ to them 
 and to the people. f While on a mission, Eld. Case made 
 them a visit in 1810. Here he met Rev. Mr. Manning, 
 from Nova Scotia, who aided him in constituting the Bap- 
 tists in Machias, who desired the privilege, into a gospel 
 church. Their number was eleven only. A new impetus 
 was now given to their influence, and a home was created 
 for all who might become Baptists. 
 
 In 1819, God owned the labors of Eld. Wm. Johnson 
 among them, and the church was strengthened by an addi- 
 tion, as the fruits of a revival. The next year Eld. B. 
 Buck was settled over them as pastor, who, after four years 
 useful labor, resigned his charge. In 1825, he was suc- 
 ceeded by Eld. W. Glover, a licentiate, by whose labors 
 the church enjoyed a second refreshing and enlargement. 
 Elders Bond and Johnson aided in the work, and baptized 
 the converts. 
 
 For a period of about five years after this revival, they 
 prospered with but occasional preaching. In 1831, Eld. 
 
 *Green. Eccl. his. p. 206. fEld. Case's Journal. 
 
342 CHURCH IN PENOBSCOT. 
 
 Buck again became pastor, and did much to establish the 
 church in the faith of the gospel. In 1834, Eld. W. H. 
 Beckwith was elected pastor, and the church enjoyed anoth- 
 er revival season, and had some increase. Twenty of its 
 members were now set off to form the Village Church East 
 Machias. In 1838, Eld. Charles Emerson, their present 
 pastor, entered this field of labor. By his ministry, which 
 has been bestowed only in part upon this church, the cause 
 of God has prospered. A precious revival was enjoyed in 
 the winter of 1840, when thirty-eight were added. Eld. C. 
 Emerson and J. Gillpatrick, originated in this church. 
 Their present number is one hundred and sixty, and are 
 advancing the cause of truth, aided, only by one half the 
 ministry of their pastor.* 
 
 Penobscot. This town originally included Castine, 
 and was, by the Indians, called ' Majorbigwaduce,' and is 
 still by some, called by the corrupt name, ' Bagaduce.'f 
 Congregationalists were in this field at an early date. A 
 parish. was established in 1793, and in 1795 a Congrega- 
 tional church was gathered. | 
 
 As the settlers increased, a few Baptists gained a resi- 
 dence in town. Occasionally, Baptist preachers were 
 here : but Eld. Roundy, while pastor at Bluehill, was the 
 principal instrument in planting the sentiments of the Bap- 
 tists, and although their principles were indignantly reject- 
 ed by most of the people ; yet their influence was silent and 
 successful. 
 
 A revival was enjoyed by the Baptists in Bluehill in 
 1816, which extended into this town, by which means 
 fifteen or twenty were converted and added to the church 
 in B. The fruits of this revival, together with those who 
 were converted in a revival in 1819, laid the foundation 
 
 *Eld. C. Emerson's Com., Min W. A. fPenobscot town records, cit. by 
 Greenleafhis. sk. p. 1G0 ; |Green. his. sk. p. 161. 
 
CHURCH IN SWAN ISLAND. 343 
 
 for a church, which was regularly organized in 1820, with 
 thirty-five members. The same year Eld. J. Roundy be- 
 came its pastor; in 1821, they were blessed with another 
 revival, and encouraged by an enlargement ; and in 1823, 
 they provided for their convenience a small house for the 
 worship of God. These were times of prosperity, in the 
 midst of which Eld. R. resigned his charge. They have 
 since suffered a long night of darkness, of trial, and of 
 decreass. From 1823 to 1841, it had but little preaching, 
 excepting one year (1833) when they were favored with 
 the stated ministry of Eld. W. Marshall. In 1841, Elder 
 T. J. Jewett began to aid them with a part of his ministry, 
 which has been a blessing to the church, and the Baptist 
 cause is now rising in town as from obscurity. Their 
 number is thirty-seven.* 
 
 Swan Island. Previous to 1816, there were but few 
 professors of religion on this Island, and these neglected to 
 assemble for the worship of God. Says our informant, 'they 
 had not love enough to God to face a frowning world, in 
 vindication of his cause.' But God had a people here, and 
 by his own selected instrumentalities, he raised them up. 
 The first effort which he blessed to the good of souls, was 
 a sermon preached by Rev. E. Eaton, a Congregationalist, 
 in 1816. By this means, a pious widow, who was then 
 employed as a school-teacher, was much quickened, and 
 several souls converted. This widow assembled the people, 
 and by her advice, regular meetings for praying, singing, 
 and reading sermons, were set up. These meetings were 
 profitable, as they established a religious influence on the 
 Island. 
 
 In 1817, Bryant Lennon, a Baptist licentiate, began to 
 labor among this people with success. A number more 
 were now converted, and by their request, a council was 
 
 *J, Perkins' Com.. 
 
344 SECOND CHURCH IN ADDISON 
 
 convened, to whom twelve persons related their christian 
 experience, and were baptized by Eld. Samuel Allen, of 
 Deer Isle. They were then recognized as a church in 
 gospel order, and the next year Mr. Lennon was ordained 
 as a minister of Christ among them. By his ministry, and 
 by the occasional preaching of Eld. D. Merrill, the church 
 for some years prospered. Mr. Lennon left in 1827. In 
 1828, Eld. Wm. Johnson visited and preached to their 
 benefit. They have since been dependent upon occasional 
 supplies. The church was enlarged in 1832, under the 
 labors of Eld. E. Bedel. Elder S. Macomber has since 
 favored them with a portion of his ministry. Their present 
 number is fifty-eight.* 
 
 Second Addison, (first called ' Jonesboro' and Addi- 
 son.') It was gathered under the labors of Eld. Isaac 
 Bridges, and was constituted in 1818, with twenty-five 
 members. Aaron Wass was its first and worthy deacon. 
 In 1825 and '26, they were encouraged by the preaching 
 of Eld. Samuel Allen of Deer Isle, a considerable part of 
 the time. In 1826 the Lord revived his work, and fifty- 
 nine were added to the church. But many who had glad- 
 dened the church by a profession, soon ' made shipwreck 
 of their faith,' and were excluded. Also a sweeping sick- 
 ness removed several of its most worthy members, among 
 whom was their lamented deacon Wass. They next en- 
 joyed the stated ministry by Mr. J. Henderson. He was 
 with them from 1832 till 1S35, and at first was useful to 
 them, but left in difficulty and discouragement. But He 
 who never slumbers, watched over them and rescued the 
 church from destruction. Their numbers were, however, 
 again diminished. 
 
 In 1837 Elder Isaac Boynton, their first pastor, began 
 his successful ministry among them. By his labors God 
 
 *J. Stockbridge's Com. 
 
CHURCH IN LUBEC. 345 
 
 built up this church, and made them to enjoy ' blessings in 
 heavenly places.' Their present number is one hundred 
 and three.* [Mr. Boynton died Oct. 28, 1844.] 
 
 Lubec. The first Baptists in Lubec were the fruits of a 
 Baptist influence from the church in Eastport. During 
 the revival enjoyed by that church in 1794 and '95, sever- 
 al persons were converted on what is called the 'Neck.' 
 In 1802 they were recognized as a branch to the Eastport 
 church ; but it soon was nearly lost. A few praying souls 
 however remained to plead the cause of God, and in 1820 
 nine persons were regularly organized into a church, and 
 by the blessing of God they increased, and were able in 
 1822, to erect for themselves a commodious house of wor- 
 ship, at a cost of 81600. From their organization till 
 1825, they had but occasional preaching, by Elders Win. 
 Johnson and J. Roundy. In 1825 E. N. Harris, a licen- 
 tiate, commenced preaching with them. Soon after Eld. 
 N. Cleaveland united his pious ministry with the efforts of 
 Mr. Harris, and some revival was witnessed, which increas- 
 ed the number of the church. The next year Mr. Harris 
 was ordained pastor. But unfortunately for the Baptists, 
 he was not true to his trust. He soon denied the faith of 
 the gospel, and became a Universalist. His deception was 
 cloaked by an easy and ready communicativeness, and a 
 semblance of piety. The cross of Christ was too humil- 
 iating, he therefore deserted these disciples. 
 
 Since that period the Baptists have passed through some 
 changes and many trials. In 1830 Mr. Henderson came 
 among them, but his doings were deleterious to their cause. 
 With his efforts a serious division originated in the church. 
 A party called the ' Henderson party,' withdrew, and com- 
 menced operations by themselves, but they soon paused in 
 their measures ; some returned to the church and others 
 
 *Eld. T. Boynton's Com. 
 
346 CHURCH IN AMHERST. 
 
 joined the Methodists. This was a severe affliction to the 
 church ; and since that period they have had anything but 
 rest. They were assisted by the ministry and efforts of 
 Eld. Bedel in 1831 ; of Wm. Gooding, a licentiate, from 
 England, who was ordained pastor, in 1834 ; of Eld. Thos. 
 Magee, who was pastor in 1835 ; of Eld. D. McGregor, 
 who was pastor from 1837, about two years. 
 
 In 1838 Eld. D. Thompson united his efforts with the 
 pastor, and a glorious and extensive revival added one 
 hundred and fifty-eight to the church by baptism. Almost 
 every section of the town shared in the blessing. By a 
 natural division of the town into sections, occasioned by a 
 small bay, the church now consisted of two parts, and 
 could be better accommodated in their respective sections. 
 That part where the church had existed, was called the 
 ' Branch on the Neck ;' the other part was called the 
 ' Branch at South Bay,' where now exists the second 
 church. The old branch continued to worship in their 
 meeting house, and the new branch commenced a house 
 at South Bay.* Soon difficulties began again to trouble 
 and distract the movements of both branches, and especial 
 trials existed at the neck. These trials continued to dis- 
 unite and weaken the church, so that the ministry of Eld. 
 Wm. N. Slason in 1840, and of Eid. D. Dodge in 1841, 
 were fruitless. Though this church has enrolled one hun- 
 dred and ninety-one members, yet its place, its influence, 
 and prosperity is nearly lost by its internal disorders, and 
 it is feared that a dissolution and re-organization will be 
 the only means to place the Baptist cause in that part of 
 the town in a healthy condition. 
 
 Amherst, (first called ' Mariaville.') As early as 
 1808, Eld. Amos Allen visited Mariaville, and was the first 
 Baptist who preached Christ to the new settlers. He oc- 
 
 *Stephen Rummery's Com. 
 
CHURCH IN AMHERST— CUTLER. 347 
 
 casionally repeated his visits, till 1816, and by means of 
 his labors, some were converted, and two persons were 
 baptized. These efforts prepared the way of the Lord in 
 this vicinity, and laid the foundation for this church, and 
 the one since organized in Mariaville. 
 
 Eld. Wm. Johnson, in 1820, was made a special blessing 
 to this people. Under his ministry, the good seed sown by 
 Elder Allen, began to vegetate and bear fruit. Several 
 persons were converted and baptized. In 1821, a church 
 of sixteen members was organized, which is now the church 
 1 Amherst.' About this time the Congregationalists began 
 to operate in town, and by ' their interference and exertions, 
 several who were baptized by Eld. Johnson, were drawn 
 into their society.' 
 
 This church has had but one pastor, and for one year 
 only, Eld. W. C. Rider, 1830 ; yet they have generally had 
 the preaching of the gospel, and have been blessed with 
 several revivals. There was a refreshing in 1822, Elder 
 Wm. Johnson preacher ; another in 1826 and '27, El- 
 der Rider preacher ; a third in 1831, Elder Hatch 
 preacher ; and a fourth in 1838, E.. Jewett preacher. In 
 1830, the church in Mariaville was set off, as the fruits of 
 the revival ; and Aurora in 1843. Elders E. and A. Bedel 
 originated in this church. It has seventy-seven members.* 
 
 Cutler. The Baptists were the first to make any efforts 
 to evangelize the people in Cutler. Elder Henry Hale, 
 while on a voluntary mission in 1806, spent a short time 
 and preached in Cutler, and the next year a few persons 
 were baptized, and a church of twenty-four members was 
 organized. 
 
 In 1819, Eld. Wm. Johnson visited Cutler, and found 
 this church in a feeble and scattered state. He was instru- 
 mental in their revival, and several were added to them. In 
 
 *John B. Foster, Ch. Clk. Com. 
 
348 CHURCH IN HANCOCK— FRANKLIN. 
 
 1822, they were able to build a house of worship. This 
 church has since had some peculiar trials. In 1828, addi- 
 tions were made by Eld. Trask ; in 1829, by Eld. Bedel ; 
 in 1831, by Eld. Buck ; in 1834, by Eld. Beckwith ; and 
 in 1837, by Eld. Wm. N. Slason. ' Soon after Eld. Slason 
 closed his labors with them, Mr. Henderson came into the 
 town, and preached, and soon the church was divided, the 
 Sabbath School closed, and the walls of Zion thrown down.' 
 In 1842, Eld. D. Dodge became their pastor, and still 
 devotes a part of his ministry to their benefit. They are, 
 however, as yet, in a tried and feeble state. Their number 
 is forty.* 
 
 Hancock, (first called ' Second Sullivan.') In 1824, 
 seventeen members were dismissed from the church in 
 Sullivan, and organized into the church now called Han- 
 cock. The next year it was enlarged by an addition of 
 fifty-four by baptism ; a second revival added twenty-four 
 by baptism; and by a third, fifty-six were added in 1838 ; 
 and in 1843, they gathered a fourth harvest, which in- 
 creased their number by thirty-two. 
 
 Besides these special seasons of mercy and of enlarge- 
 ment, the church has enjoyed almost uninterrupted pros- 
 perity, having experienced but few trials. Not having a 
 pastor for many years, it has been aided by the labors of 
 different ministers, who have preached successively, and 
 during stated periods. For the last few years, they have 
 received the pastoral care of Eld. R. Y. Watson one half 
 of the time, the other half being devoted to the interests of 
 the Baptists in Sullivan. This church has a meeting- 
 house, and numbers one hundred and thirty-three mem- 
 bers. The second church in Hancock originated with this 
 in 1842.t 
 
 Franklin. Most of the original members of the church 
 
 *Dea. P. Libby's Com. fMin. E. M. and H. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN FRANKLIN. 349 
 
 in Franklin, were dismissed from the church in Sullivan. 
 For their convenience, and the advancement of the gospel, 
 they were organized into a church in 1825. Their num- 
 ber was twenty-eight. Their means of improvement and 
 usefulness were quite limited for several years ; the church 
 therefore was deficient in influence, and gained but little 
 by their organization. In 1829, however, they were 
 encouraged by a few additions, and occasionally with 
 preaching by itinerant preachers. 
 
 From 1830 to 1838, this church passed through a period 
 of the most painful and distracting trials. These trials 
 were occasioned by the immoralities of Jedediah Darling, 
 whom they elected as pastor in 1830. In 1832 he was 
 deprived of the pastoral charge, and excluded from their 
 fellowship. In these movements, however, there was a 
 minority of the church who did not acquiesce, but opposed. 
 By the request of the church, the Association at its next 
 anniversary sanctioned their doings, and resolved their 
 non-fellowship with Mr. Darling. This by no means, how- 
 ever, was satisfactory to the minority. Disunion from 
 year to year paralyzed all their doings. An attempt was 
 made in 1835, to relieve the church of its deadly incum- 
 brances by lopping off some of its unfruitful branches. 
 Nineteen of the members only were found to renew their 
 covenant and fellowship. They did so, and claimed to be 
 the church, and dropped the rest, as lost members. This 
 movement also was approved by the Association. In 1838 
 Eld. J. Roundy commenced preaching to them. A revival 
 was enjoyed which not only enlarged and quickened the 
 church, but raised it somewhat above its trials.* They 
 have since had preaching the most of the time by different 
 ministers, as Elders Roundy, F. Ellis, S. Baker and S. 
 Fogg ; but the church is still a feeble body of sixty-two 
 
 *Min. E. M. and H Asso. 
 
 16 
 
350 FIRST CHURCH IN ADDlSOiN 
 
 members, and need the sympathy and th« aid of a mis~ 
 
 sionary. 
 First Addison. In May 1825, Rev. John Billings? 
 
 made his first visit to Columbia. The church in Columbia 
 
 and Addison numbered at that time about fifty members, 
 
 mostly females, and in a tried and scattered condition. 
 
 ' Soon after I commenced my labors with them as a minis- 
 ter of the gospel,' says Mr. B. 'things began to wear a 
 
 brighter aspect. The Lord poured out his Spirit and it was 
 thought that about one hundred souls were converted to 
 Christ, a large proportion of whom made a public profes- 
 sion of religion. The same year the church invited me 
 to unite with them, receive ordination and become their 
 pastor. But for certain reasons I declined their invitation.' 
 A large part of the church was in Addison, and the dis- 
 tance rendered it inconvenient for them to meet in Colum- 
 bia. Consequently in 1826, the members in Addison, fifty- 
 seven in number, were by mutual consent dismissed and 
 recognized the first Baptist church in Addison ; and, on 
 the 12th of July of that year, Mr. Billings was placed over 
 them as pastor by ordination. Eld. B. left in the fall of 
 '43, and Eld. John Johnson became his successor in the 
 pastoral office. 
 
 This has been a prosperous church, Besides a gradual 
 increase since its organization, it has experienced two signal 
 and extensive revivals. In 1832 seventy were added by bap- 
 tism, and in 1S39, thirty-nine. ' During my settlement 
 with this church,' says M. B., 'nothing transpired to dis- 
 turb those christian and friendly feelings, which first 
 existed between myself and the people of my charge. We 
 lived in peace and love.' 
 
 This church has its second house of worship, built in 
 1859. Their number was diminished in 1843, by the 
 dismission of about seventy members to form the east 
 
SECOND BLUE HILL— CRAWFORD— ELLSWORTH. 351 
 
 church in Harrington ; and yet it remains an efficient body 
 of one hundred and eighty-two members.* 
 
 Second Bluehill. The second church in Bluehill 
 owes its existence to the influence under God, of the first 
 churches in Sedgwick and Bluehill. Its original members 
 were from these churches. It occupies a central position 
 between them. It was organized in 1825. In 1833, By a 
 work of divine mercy, thirty-four were added by baptism. 
 In 1837 Eld. Amos Allen received the pastoral charge, and 
 aided its prosperity till 1843. Their number then was sev- 
 enty-two, being increased that year by thirteen baptisms.f 
 
 Crawford, (first called ' No 20.') A church of nine- 
 teen members was gathered in this new town in 1825. 
 A revival in 1826, increased the number to seventy-three. 
 In 1829, twenty-five were dismissed to aid in building a 
 church in the town of Cooper, and various other losses, 
 soon reduced this church to a fraction more than forty. 
 
 They had occasional preaching only. Eld. B. Buck 
 aided their advancement by a part of his ministry in 1830. 
 In 1832 they were again enlarged by a revival. They 
 erected a house of worship in 1837. The church then 
 had fifty-nine members. In 1842 they received a fourth 
 of the ministry of Eld. Daniel Dodge. But declension in 
 the church paralyzed his efforts. At the close of '43, they 
 were in a low and scattered state, having only thirty-six 
 members. The beloved Benjamin Fletcher, who died in 
 1842, while in course of study preparatory to the gospel 
 ministry, was licensed to preach by this church. A respect- 
 ful notice of his death was taken by the Washington As- 
 sociation at their annual meeting for that year.t 
 
 Ellsworth. Ellsworth, on Union river, settled as early 
 as 1763, was at first under a Presbyterian influence. The 
 Congregationalists followed and formed a church in 1812. 
 
 *Rev. J. Billings' Com. fMin. H. Asso. |Min. W. Asso. 
 
352 CHURCH IN PEMBROKE. 
 
 P. Nourse, minister. The people of Ellsworth, therefore, 
 had no particular respect for the sentiments of the Baptists. 
 In a very extensive revival enjoyed by the Baptists in Sur- 
 ry in 1827, a few souls in Ellsworth were converted, and 
 united with the church in Surry. In 1828, seventeen 
 members dismissed from S. were organized into a church 
 in Ellsworth. This church never prospered, and in 1837 
 it was disbanded.* 
 
 Pembroke. Pembroke was formerly called Pennema- 
 quam, and is about twelve miles west of Eastport. Elder 
 Case and other travelling preachers in Maine, and from 
 New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, began to preach here 
 occasionally about as soon as the Baptists commenced in 
 Eastport, and those who became pious Baptists in P., united 
 at first with the church in Eastport. Distance, bad roads, 
 and the danger in crossing the bay to Eastport, occasioned 
 a separation, and the recognition of the Baptists in Pem- 
 broke as a church about the year 1800. But having none 
 to instruct or encourage them, the church was soon lost', 
 and for several years the religious affairs of the people 
 remained in a broken and sad condition. There was, 
 however, some lively stones not to be lost amidst the ruins. 
 In 1805 a Congregational church was gathered by the 
 missionary efforts of Rev. Jotham Sewall ; but for many 
 years this church remained in a feeble state, and was una- 
 ble to settle a pastor .f 
 
 The few Baptists who continued to hold fast their faith 
 through a series of obstacles, were gathered together and 
 strengthened by a few occasional efforts made by Eld. B. 
 Buck in 1819, then pastor of the church in Eastport. A 
 second attempt was made to move forward in the capacity 
 of a church. The church now formed, consisted of eleven 
 members, and for several years received much profitable 
 
 *j\lin. E. M. and II. Asso. jGrccn. Eccl. his. p. 207. 
 
CHURCH IN CHARLOTTE. 353 
 
 aid from this faithful man of God. From 1822 to 1829, 
 the Baptist cause advanced by the occasional visits of Eld 
 Wm. Johnson, and about thirty were added to the church. 
 In 1832, Wm. H. Beckwith, a licentiate from New Bruns- 
 wick, was ordained in this church. 
 
 With the year 1834, commenced a new period in the 
 history of the church. Elder C. Emerson became its pas- 
 tor, and remained about two years. In 1837, Eld. S. Fogg 
 spent several months with profit to them, and the same year 
 Eld. Wm. N. Slason became pastor. He preached with 
 them one half the time for about five years, and they were 
 much enlarged under his ministry. In 1843, they were 
 destitute. Their number is fifty-nine.* 
 
 Charlotte. Many of the first settlers in Charlotte 
 moved from Pembroke, and of these some were Baptists. 
 Soon the people were supplied with preachers by the Meth- 
 odists and Free-will Baptists, and societies embracing their 
 sentiments were formed and enlarged. To these religious 
 pioneers the Baptists felt strong attachments. But they 
 were Baptists; and did not find all their spiritual desires 
 gratified, by such a ministry. They thus lived several 
 years. Eld. Wm. Johnson was the first Baptist to preach 
 Christ here. In the summer of 1829, he was successful in 
 gathering these disciples together for prayer and worship. 
 God converted others and added to their numbers, and in 
 August, thirty members were recognized as a gospel 
 church. In 1832 the church by a revival was quickened 
 and enlarged. From this time to 1838, this branch of 
 Zion travelled through trials and painful difficulties, and 
 sustained a considerable loss of its members. f In the fall 
 of '38, Mr. Slason of Pembroke, commenced preaching 
 with them one fourth of the time and his ministry was 
 
 *Eld. W. N. Slason's Com. and Min. W. A. 
 tEld. Wm. N. Slason's Com. 
 
354 CHURCH IN COOPER— MARIA VILLE— CALAIS. 
 
 blessed to their peace and fruitfulness. In 1843 they were 
 a destitute body of sixty-two members. 
 
 Cooper. In 182£, a revival was enjoyed in the east 
 part of Cooper, underthe labors of Elds. A.andE. Bedel. 
 The converts united with the church in Charlotte; but 
 towards the close of the year they were dismissed and 
 recognized with others as the church in Cooper. In 
 1836, Elder Evan Powell became pastor. He sustained 
 the pastorate, preaching for them a part of the time till 
 
 1842, when he resigned, to give his attention to the 
 cultivation of a more promising field. The church, in 
 
 1843, were destitute, with thirty-one members.* 
 Mariaville, first called 'Second Mariaville.' In 
 
 the fall of 1829, the Baptists in Mariaville took their 
 dismission from the church in Amherst, called 'First 
 Mariaville,' and by their request were recognized as a 
 church. Their number was twenty-four, and their 
 prospects flattering. For several years they were as- 
 sisted by the labors of P. N. Kimball, a licentiate, and 
 in 1831 the church was much enlarged by a revival. 
 From 1832 to 1842, they passed through many trials, 
 yet enjoyed spiritual prosperity, with preaching not 
 more than one fourth or one half the time. Elder B. 
 Buck became its first pastor, in 1842. In 1843, the 
 church was in an encouraging state, with ninety-four 
 members. | 
 
 Calais. Calais lies along the western bank of the 
 St. Croix river, and has two pleasant and flourishing 
 villages, one known by the name of 'Salt-water,' at the 
 head of the tide; the other, called 'Mill-town,' is two 
 miles abova. The lower village is about twenty miles 
 above Eastport. There are villages opposite to these 
 on the English side of the river, and they are places of 
 considerable business. 
 
 *Min. E. M. and VV. A. fMin. E. M. and H. A. 
 
CHURCH IN CALAIS. 355 
 
 Previous to the spring of 1832, the Baptists made no 
 religious efforts in this town. But few of the denomi- 
 nation had gained a residence here. The circumstances 
 which opened the way for the gathering a church, were 
 somewhat peculiar and interesting. 
 
 In March previous to the organization of the church 
 in May, 1832, Samuel Kelley, a present deacon of the 
 church, and resident at 'Salt-water,' together with some 
 others, attended a quarterly conference held by the 
 Baptists in Charlotte. At this meeting, says deacon 
 Kelley, 'I became very much impressed with the duty 
 of aiding in the formation of a Baptist church in Calais, 
 and named the subject to two of my Baptist brethren 
 who were from Calais; but they gave it as their opinion 
 that we could not build the house for want of timber.' 
 Deacon Kelley was not, however, discouraged by their 
 unbelief. He says: 'I became more and more anxious, 
 and in conference with some of my brethren of the 
 meeting, I received encouragement to go on. At the 
 close of this meeting I returned home happy in the an- 
 ticipation of a church in Calais. I arrived home, and 
 while taking some refreshment, and refreshing the pious 
 heart of my companion, who also was a Baptist, by an 
 account of the meeting, I remarked, how thankful I 
 should be to have some Baptist brother come in, with 
 whom I could converse upon the things of the kingdom. 
 I was then informed that a man in the other room desired 
 to see me. I rose from the table and said to my wife, my 
 request is granted — a Baptist has come.' The following 
 conversation then followed between deacon Kelley and 
 the stranger: — 'Are you a Christian?' 'I hope I am.' 
 'Are you a Baptist?' 'lam.' 'Then,' said dea. Kelley, 
 'God has sent you to me.' This man soon moved into 
 town, and became one of the original members of the 
 church. 
 
356 CHURCH IN CALAIS. 
 
 'Soon after this/ says deacon Kelley, C I was met in 
 the street by one who inquired for dea. Kelley. Having 
 introduced myself, he said that he understood we desired 
 to organize a church, and he recommended a young 
 minister in the Province, by the name of Robinson, who 
 would be of great service to us. The stranger left me, 
 and I have never seen him since. I wrote immediately 
 to Mr. Robinson, and he came. At the close of the 
 first service two persons, and members of the English 
 Methodist church, rose, witnessed to the truth, and de- 
 sired to unite with the Baptists in forming a church. 
 Two females and the husband of one of them, and a 
 Methodist class-leader, were among the first baptized.' 
 We regard these circumstances as the more interesting 
 from their providential occurrence, thus evincing the 
 hand of God in these movements. Elder Robinson was 
 successful, and the church desired was recognized in 
 May, consisting of eleven members. 
 
 At their first conference in June, six persons offered 
 themselves and were received for baptism. They were 
 the first baptized in town. Prosperity in the church 
 commenced with its existence, and for several years the 
 Baptists gained rapidly in numbers and influence. In 
 December, 1832, they commenced building their house 
 of worship at 'Mill-town,' where this church now as- 
 semble. As the fruits of a revival on the British side, 
 and at a place called 'the Reach,' forty-eight were in 
 May, 1833, set off from this church and embodied there. 
 
 From their organization to the settlement of E. N. 
 Harris, they were supplied first by the ministry of Eld. 
 S. Robinson, and then by William H. Beckwith, a li- 
 centiate. Mr. Harris preached about two years, before 
 his faith was wrecked upon the quicksands of Univer- 
 salism. Elder J. Huckins was their second pastor, from 
 
FIRST CHURCH IN HARRINGTON. 357 
 
 1835, about three years. This was a period of unusual 
 prosperity. In 1836, the church in East Calais was set 
 off, and in 1838, thirty-eight members were dismissed 
 to form the church in Baring. Elder E. D. Very was 
 their next pastor, and officiated for them till the brethren 
 at 'Salt-water' were recognized as a separate church, 
 in 1841, when he became their pastor. They then set- 
 tled Elder W. N. Slason. This church also contributed 
 some of the materials for the church in Topsfield. It 
 has furnished for the ministry, Thompson, Magee, Burns, 
 Nugent, Porter, and Todd. The latter in 1843 was in 
 a course of preparatory studies. Surely, in view of 
 these facts, we may exclaim, 'what hath God wrought!' 
 Where, in 1832, only eleven Baptists appeared, in 
 1843, we find nearly three hundred. This church had 
 eighty-five.* 
 
 First Harrixgtox. This town lies east of Cherry- 
 field, and the first Baptists here became members of the 
 church there. In 1832, twenty-one members from the 
 church in Cherryfield, together with five others, were 
 recognized as the Baptist church in Harrington. In a 
 few months, Elder B. Buck became their pastor, and 
 continued until 1840. Under his ministry they enjoyed 
 a season of revival, in 1834, when twenty-two were 
 added by baptism. For two or three years they pros- 
 pered. Difficulties then arose, which continued till the 
 fall of 1842, when union and encouragement was re- 
 stored by the blessing of God, on the labors of a visiting 
 committee, sent to their aid by the Association. 
 
 Soon after this, by their invitation, Elder E. Nugent 
 came among them, and God made him instrumental in 
 building up the church, and in the spring of 1843, he 
 was ordained as their minister. He preaches for them. 
 
 ■Dea. Sam'l Kelley, Com. and IVlin. W. A. 
 
358 BRANCH POND— REED'S BROOK— EAST MACHIAS. 
 
 half of the time, with profit. They have a convenient 
 house of worship, and number fifty-six members.* 
 
 Branch Pond. A church by this name was gathered 
 in 1833, and September, 1834, had twenty-six members. 
 In 1838, it received some increase, but has never been 
 blessed with a stated ministry. God has however raised 
 up from among them, one, Elder Thomas J. Swett, to 
 preach his gospel. Their present number is thirty-two. "(* 
 
 Reed's Brook. This church is in the vicinity of 
 Ellsworth, and was gathered as the fruits of the occa- 
 sional labors of Elders Lord, King and Cary, in 1834. 
 'Previous to 1826/ says deacon Garland, 'there was no 
 church, no house for prayer, among us;' but that year, 
 Elder John King devoted a portion of his useful labors 
 for the spiritual benefit of souls in this neighborhood, 
 and the Lord converted many to himself by this means. 
 But the Methodists came in, and soon divisions arose, 
 and Elder King being called away, the Methodists got 
 up a class, took the ground, and held it about seven 
 years.' 
 
 In the winter of 1834, the people here were blessed 
 with another revival, which resulted in the organization 
 of a Baptist church. 'At this time,' says dea. Garland, 
 'we had great persecutions;' but God it seems prospered 
 them in the midst of the fire. Though never blessed 
 with stated pastoral labors, yet they have, by what as- 
 sistance they could obtain, increased from thirteen to 
 thirty-five. In 1842, they had a pleasing revival under 
 the labors of Arial Kelley, a licentiate. J 
 
 East Machias. Previous to any united efforts by the 
 Baptists in the East Machias village, Pedo-baptism had 
 planted its erroneous standard, and most of the people 
 had rallied around it. But at Machias-Port, the faith 
 
 *Ch. Records. +Min. of H. A. JDea. b. Garland's Com. and M. H. A. 
 
CHURCH IN EAST MACHIAS 359 
 
 and practice of the Baptists were more correctly under- 
 stood, and a church of considerable influence had for 
 many years existed. This light had shed some of its 
 rays over the East village, and some, by searching care- 
 fully for gospel truth, became Baptists, and united with 
 the church at the Port. Though living in a community 
 who were strongly opposed to the sentiments of Baptists, 
 their influence was felt and their number slowly increased. 
 In 1833, they began to be moved by a sense of duty, to 
 make a more united and direct attempt to sustain the 
 gospel and its true institutions in the village; and, in 
 the spring of 1334, they took up their connection with 
 the church at the Port, and were embodied into a church 
 at the village, by the name of East Machias. Their 
 number was twenty-four, twenty of whom were females, 
 and two of the males only resided in the village. Thus 
 commenced the little church in East Machias. Few, 
 and much opposed, and being mostly females, nothing 
 short of a pious faith could predict or anticipate success. 
 But their trust was in God, and they prospered. 
 
 Soon after their embodiment, Mr. E. N. Harris began 
 to labor as a minister of the gospel among them. But 
 his labors soon terminated, and Eld. William H. Beck- 
 with was their pastor from August, 1835, one year. 
 This was a time of prosperity, in which they were en- 
 couraged by additions, and erected a neat and beautiful 
 house of worship, furnished with a bell and clock. Eld. 
 W. N. Slason was their next successful pastor, from 
 August, 1836, one year. In 1838, Elder E. D. Very 
 supplied their pulpit about seven months, and received 
 ordination as an evangelist. In 1839, Eld. C. Emerson, 
 from the Port, became their pastor, and preached semi- 
 monthly, and by his labors God enlarged the church, 
 It deserves to be noticed here that, although those who 
 
360 HANCOCK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 practiced Pedo-baptism at first cruelly opposed the 
 movements of the Baptists, in 1840, they united with 
 them in protracted meetings, to promote a revival. But 
 we fear that all the opposition did not then cease. 
 
 In 1842, the church settled Elder T. B. Robinson as 
 pastor, but sickness severed the connexion in a few 
 weeks, and the church has since remained destitute of 
 an under-shepherd, and have had occasional preaching 
 only, by Elders Emerson, Hunting, Fogg, and R. W. 
 E. Brown. Their present number is ninety-two, and, 
 although destitute of a pastor, they are blessed with a 
 valuable gift in their worthy deacon, William Brown.* 
 
 CHAPTER XIX. 
 
 HANCOCK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches— Eden, p. 309; First Sedgwick, 263 5 Bluehill, 272 ; 
 
 Surry, 278; Deer Isle, 282; Isle au Haul, 302; Trenton, 296 ; Sullivan, 
 
 297; Orland and Bucksport, 285; Brooksville, 305; Mt. Desert, 305 ; 
 
 Gouldshoro', 340; Penobscot, 342; Swan Island, 343; Amherst,' 316 ; 
 
 Hancock, 348; Franklin. 348 ; Second Bluehill, 351 ; Second Sedgwick, 
 
 304; Ellsworth, 351 ; Mariaville, 354; Branch Pond, 358; Reed's Brook, 
 
 358. 
 Churches added between 1835 and 1843 — Village church Ellsworth; Little 
 
 Deer Isle ; West Trenton ; North Penobscot; Second Hancock ; North 
 
 Sedgwick ; Long Island ; Aurora. 
 
 On the second of September, 1835, the delegates 
 from twenty-two churches in Hancock county, held their 
 first meeting at the Baptist meeting-house in Trenton, 
 and proceeded to organize the Hancock Association. 
 It numbered eleven ordained ministers, eight of whom 
 were pastors, four licentiates, and one thousand nine 
 hundred and four communicants. 
 
 Besides the usual business transacted at such annual 
 meetings, spirited resolutions were passed, in favor of 
 ministerial education, temperance, the tract cause, 
 
 *P. Foster Folsom's Com. and Min. W. A. 
 
HANCOCK ASSOCIATION. ,'3(3 j 
 
 religious publications, anti-slavery principles and im- 
 mediate emancipation, and foreign missions. The Asso- 
 ciation voted to correspond with the several Associations 
 in the State and in the Provinces of New Brunswick 
 and Nova Scotia, and to co-operate in the work attempted 
 by the State Convention. Sabbath schools are also 
 recommended to the attention of the churches. In the 
 transactions of business at subsequent anniversaries of 
 this body, we find but two things of particular historical 
 importance. 
 
 In 1836, to the question, 'What course ought the 
 church to pursue in regard to a member in good 
 standing, who wishes to leave the church to join another 
 of a different order?' it was voted, 'that, in such a case, 
 it is the duty of the church to labor untiringly to estab- 
 lish such a member in the truth of the ordinances, and 
 to remove all difficulties; but if no proper effort can 
 accomplish this desirable object, the church have done 
 its duty. If the member leave, and join another order, 
 he has not only embraced error, but walked disorderly, 
 and can no longer be retained a member; but the whole 
 intercourse and labor with such member should be ac- 
 companied with tender christian affection and sympathy, 
 which would not withhold a written testimonial of his 
 moral and religious character, if requested.'* 
 
 In order to lessen the business of the annual meeting, 
 it was voted 'to hold a semi-annual meeting on the fourth 
 Wednesday of June in each year, to attend to benevo- 
 lent objects.'! 
 
 The Associational years 1838 and 1843, were pre- 
 eminently distinguished for extensive revivals and large 
 additions to the churches. And from 1835 to 1843, the 
 Association was enlarged by eight churches, four or- 
 
 m\n for 183(1. fMin. 1830. 
 
362 ELLSWORTH VILLAGE— LITTLE DEER ISLE. 
 
 dained ministers, and six hundred and ninety-seven 
 communicants.* 
 
 Ellsworth Village Church. In ancient times it 
 was no uncommon thing to see new and splendid cities 
 rise upon the ruins of others; and sometimes the spoils 
 of the earlier were appropriated to enrich and beautify 
 the later. Previous to the recognition of the village 
 church in Ellsworth, a Baptist church had existed in 
 town several years. Never having prospered, it was 
 disbanded in 1837, and some of its members united with 
 others, dismissed from the church in Surry to constitute 
 this village church, which then consisted of twenty-nine 
 members. In the spring of this year, Elder Allen Bar- 
 rows entered upon his charge of their spiritual affairs. 
 Unlike the old church, this has seen days of prosperity. 
 In. the winter of 1838, this Zion was made to rise and 
 shine, and the glory of God was upon it. To the joy 
 and encouragement of both pastor and people, this re- 
 vival enlarged the church by sixty-one by baptism and 
 eighteen by letter. Their old and broken sanctuary 
 was repaired, and a nourishing Sabbath school estab- 
 lished. This church prospers, with eighty-six members.']" 
 
 Little Deer Isle. A small church of twenty-three 
 members was organized on this island, in 1838, and 
 Elder Samuel Macomber was reported to the Hancock 
 Association as their minister, or bishop. This church, 
 however, has not prospered. Its visibility is maintained, 
 but with a gradual loss of members. It needs the aid 
 of a missionary. J 
 
 West Trenton and Third Trenton. In the year 
 1839, a very extensive and interesting revival was en- 
 joyed in the first church, and by the labors of Elder 
 King, its pastor, and the assistant labors of Eld. Eben. 
 
 *Min. 1813. tEkl. A. Barrows' Com. and JMin. II. A. JMin. H. A. 
 
WEST TRENTON— N. PENOBSCOT— N. SEDGWICK. 363 
 
 Pinkham and F. Desisles, extended its converting 
 influences into the various sections of the town. The 
 town being naturally divided by narrow creeks or arms 
 of the sea, it became expedient, for the convenience of 
 the brethren in these divisions, to form other churches. 
 Consequently, the west church and third church in 
 Trenton were organized. The former had, in Septem- 
 ber, 1839, forty-four members, and the latter twenty- 
 two. The west church has obtained but little progress, 
 while the third church, by a revival in 1843, nearly 
 doubled its numbers. Both are however in a pleasant 
 and flattering condition; the first has forty-one, and the 
 second forty members. They have never had the ad- 
 vantages of a pastor, but have been blessed with consid- 
 erable ministerial labor, by which they have profited.* 
 
 North Penobscot. This church was organized in 
 September, 1841, with fifteen members, and Augustus 
 Rafnel was ordained its deacon. It was composed of 
 persons who had moved into this vicinity from other 
 churches. They have since been favored with but little 
 preaching, and have had little increase, as to numbers, 
 influence or ability. Their present number is seventeen. "f" 
 
 Second Hancock. In 1842, as the fruits of the wide 
 spreading influence of Baptist sentiments in Hancock, 
 a second church, of forty-two members, was gathered 
 in the town, and mostly of members dismissed from the 
 first. This church is progressing in usefulness, with 
 John Googins, deacon. J 
 
 North Sedgwick. This church was organized in 
 March, 1843, with thirty-six members, dismissed from 
 First Sedgwick, Brooksville, and Second Bluehill. The 
 reason of this organization was their distance from these 
 churches, and a revival had increased the number of 
 
 Min. H. Asso. fMin. II. A. and J. Perkins' Com. jMin. H. A. 
 
364 LONG ISLAND— AURORA AND PLANTATION NO. 20. 
 
 disciples in their midst, who needed a spiritual home. 
 And, as an interesting fact in their history, within a few 
 weeks, their number was increased to one hundred and 
 four, their present number. They are much assisted in 
 their efforts by Elders A. Allen and C. P. St. Clair, 
 Who are members.* 
 
 Long Island. This Island is situated twelve miles 
 east of Naskeag Point, the south east extremity of 
 Sedgwick, and the outer land in Placentia Bay. The 
 church here originated with a powerful work of grace 
 and mercy, in the winter of 1843, in connection with 
 the ministry of Elder C. P. St. Clair, and was composed 
 of twenty-six members. The revival continued several 
 months, and the church was increased to forty-six, its 
 present number. 
 
 Although in years past, these islanders were blessed 
 with the occasional visiting and preaching of such min- 
 isters as Elders A. Cummings, S. Allen, D. Dodge, S. 
 Macomber, and a few others, they were notorious for 
 their profanity, general wickedness, and intemperance; 
 and when the work of God commenced, opposition to it 
 was strong among them. But a stronger than they was 
 there, and most of the twenty-three families now resident 
 on the Island are praying families. How changed the 
 scene! Piety, peace, order and harmony now reign, 
 where once sin, infidelity and polluting habits degraded 
 society, "f" 
 
 Aurora and Plantation No. 21. In this newly 
 settled community, Baptists have increased with the pop- 
 ulation. The Baptists in Amherst, from whose church 
 a large part of these members were dismissed, exerted 
 a favorable and pious influence on the society in Aurora 
 
 *Ziorrs Adv. March 11, 1843, and Min. A. |B. Lunt.s Com. and Zion's 
 Advocate, 1843, March. 
 
HANCOCK ASSOCIATION. 
 
 365 
 
 and No. 21, when this church was organized, of twenty- 
 four members. Elder Jeremiah Jewett was their pastor 
 in 1843.* 
 
 HANCOCK ASSOCIATION.. ..TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 c 
 
 C3 
 
 — 
 
 — 
 
 U 
 
 - 
 
 C 
 
 — 
 
 r 
 
 Q 
 
 | 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 
 
 
 i 
 
 c 
 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 ORGANIZED 1835. 
 
 o 
 
 2 
 
 5" 
 a 
 
 a 
 
 z 
 
 ft 
 
 3_ 
 
 — 
 - 
 
 5" 
 
 o 
 
 3 
 
 v. 
 
 re 
 
 a 
 
 o 
 
 ft 
 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 o 
 
 ' 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 C- 
 
 
 
 2 
 p 
 
 2 
 p 
 
 lsl Sedgwick, 
 
 1805 
 
 85 551 
 
 47 
 
 12 
 
 276 
 
 68 
 
 67 
 
 
 24 
 
 
 683|260 
 
 Eden, 
 
 1799 
 
 38 163 
 
 in 
 
 6 
 
 40 
 
 10 
 
 32 
 
 
 39 
 
 
 203 
 
 98 
 
 Orland and Bucksport, 
 
 1800 
 
 4 190 
 
 8 
 
 
 18 
 
 16 
 
 16 
 
 
 47 
 
 
 202 
 
 105 
 
 IstBiuehill, 
 
 1806 
 
 19 386 
 
 75 
 
 16 
 
 74 
 
 34 
 
 16 
 
 19 
 
 36 
 
 
 473 
 
 280 
 
 Surry. 
 
 180G 
 
 17 132 
 
 11 
 
 
 76 
 
 14 
 
 24 
 
 
 
 10 
 
 168 
 
 56 
 
 Deer Isle, 
 
 1807 
 
 22 192 
 
 5 
 
 
 35 
 
 12 
 
 19 
 
 
 115 
 
 
 219 
 
 38 
 
 1st Trenton, 
 
 1809 
 
 8 242 
 
 10 
 
 4 
 
 62 
 
 21 
 
 21 
 
 10 
 
 22 
 
 
 260 
 
 128 
 
 Sullivan. 
 
 1810 
 
 12 226 
 
 10 
 
 3 
 
 57 
 
 34 
 
 36 
 
 
 8 
 
 
 248 
 
 116 
 
 Brooksville, 
 
 1816 
 
 
 33 
 
 11 
 
 82 
 
 80 34 
 
 
 14 
 
 
 oU 
 
 153 
 
 Alt. Desert, 
 
 1816 
 
 15 185 
 
 25 
 
 1 
 
 27 
 
 24 15 
 
 
 29 
 
 
 225 
 
 131 
 
 Gouldsboro', 
 
 1816 
 
 10 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 37 
 
 26 
 
 Penobscot, 
 
 1820 
 
 35 
 
 51 
 
 5 
 
 
 22 
 
 7 
 
 5 
 
 
 20 
 
 
 91 
 
 37 
 
 Amherst, (1st Mariaville) 
 
 1821 
 
 16 
 
 130 
 
 7 
 
 1 
 
 51 
 
 6 
 
 8 
 
 
 22 
 
 
 153 
 
 77 
 
 Swan Island, (reorg. '27.) 
 
 1821 
 
 12 
 
 78 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 25 
 
 8 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 92 
 
 58 
 
 Hancock, (2d Sullivan) 
 
 1824 
 
 n 
 
 178 
 
 11 
 
 6 
 
 47 
 
 33 
 
 11 
 
 1 
 
 13 
 
 
 206 
 
 133 
 
 Franklin, 
 
 1825 
 
 28 
 
 48 
 
 15 
 
 
 2 
 
 11 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 81 
 
 62 
 
 2d Bluehill, 
 
 1825 
 
 27 
 
 61 
 
 9 
 
 3 
 
 13 
 
 8 9 
 
 
 
 g 
 
 97 
 
 72 
 
 2d Sedgwick, 
 
 1828 35 
 
 184 
 
 17 
 
 2 
 
 26 
 
 2 
 
 13 
 
 
 10 
 
 
 236 
 
 187 
 
 Mariaville, 
 
 1829 24 
 
 86 
 
 16 
 
 3 
 
 6 
 
 10 
 
 10 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 100 
 
 94 
 
 Branch Pond, 
 
 1833 26 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 
 1 
 
 38 
 
 32 
 
 Reed's Brook, 
 
 1834 13 
 
 17 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 
 41 
 
 35 
 
 Ellsworth Vil. Ch. 
 
 1837 39 
 
 73 
 
 26 
 
 
 19 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 10 
 
 
 3 
 
 128 
 
 86 
 
 Little Deer Isle, 
 
 1833 23 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 23 22 
 46 41 
 
 West Trenton, 
 
 1839 44 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 1 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 3d Trenton, 
 
 1839 22 
 
 22 
 
 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 44 
 
 40 
 
 North Penobscot, 
 
 1811 15 5 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 20 
 
 17 
 
 2d Hancock. 
 
 1842 12 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 42 
 
 43 
 
 North Sedgwick, 
 
 
 45 
 
 23 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 104 
 
 104 
 
 Aurora and PI. No. 1, 
 
 1843 24 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 24 
 
 21 
 
 Long Island, 
 
 1843;26 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 46 
 
 46 
 
 
 , -Ji « 
 
 Ml Cv 
 
 O | !*► 
 
 M 
 
 ex 
 
 I 
 
 JOi *«■ | *G 
 
 
 cc[ cc 
 
 •-r «c 
 
 -J — 
 
 tc 
 
 
 >4 & D 
 
 
 
 W 
 
 CO | d 
 
 C* 
 
 
 -J -*» 
 
 
 
 
 w 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 *Min. H. A. 
 
CHAPTER XX. 
 
 WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches— Columbia, 269; Cherryfleld, 294 ; Eastport, 337; Steu- 
 ben, 295 ; Machias-port, 340 ; Jonesboro' and Addison, 344 ; Lubec, 345 ; 
 Cutler, 347; Crawford, 351 ; Addison, 350; Cooper, 354; Pembroke, 
 352; Harrington, 357 ; East Machias, 358 ; Calais, 344; Charlotte, 353.^ 
 
 Churches added between 1835 and 1843 — Hodgdon ; Eastern Calais ; Bar- 
 ing; Beddington ; Jonesboro'; Topsfield ; Amity and Orient; Calais 
 Village; Second Lubec; Houlton; Second Harrington; East Harring- 
 ton ; Hodgdon and Richmond, N. B. 
 
 The delegates and ministers of sixteen churches in 
 Washington county, met at Columbia, in August, 1835, 
 and organized the Washington Association. At this 
 meeting, the church in Hodgdon was added to their 
 number, making seventeen churches, with one thousand 
 two hundred and three communicants. These were 
 blessed with the preaching of seven ordained ministers 
 only. This Association received as their portion of the 
 funds held by the Eastern Maine Association, $47,90. 
 This body has enjoyed unusual prosperity, considering 
 the limited means which many of the churches have 
 possessed. 
 
 Its number of churches, in 1843, was twenty-eight; 
 ordained ministers, eleven; and communicants, one 
 thousand nine hundred and eighty-six. Several of the 
 churches have never had pastors, and some of them 
 have always been destitute of any very regular preach- 
 ing. These have received some assistance from the 
 Convention, and quarterly conferences within its own 
 bosom. 
 
 This Association cherishes a respectful regard to all 
 the benevolent operations of the christian world. The 
 catalogue of resolutions, which had already become 
 familiar, if not formal, in other Associations, were 
 
CHURCH IN IIODGDON. 307 
 
 adopted and sustained by this body. In no one thing 
 is this Association more particular, than in their respect 
 and care for the ministry. They recommend to the 
 churches the expediency of advice, by council, even in 
 granting licenses to their members; and that they take 
 special care not to receive into their pulpits persons not 
 properly qualified to preach the gospel. 
 
 This body embraces a large field of missionary ground, 
 and the churches are doing what they can to cultivate 
 it. Nor do they labor in vain, as their annual increase 
 proves. Twelve new churches were added between 
 1835 and 1843. 
 
 The multiplication of churches in this Association, 
 has been in some cases owing to the division of large 
 ones in the same town. This division of churches is 
 considered by many a fault peculiar to the Baptists 
 generally in the State. And undoubtedly in some in- 
 stances it is a source of evil. If it does not alienate 
 the attachments of brethren, it often weakens their 
 ability to support a pastor, and tends to multiply churches 
 beyond the number of ministers to supply them with 
 wholesome preaching. It sometimes occasions the re- 
 moval of a worthy pastor, and sometimes induces feeble 
 churches to encourage gifts to the ministry which are 
 wholly unsuitable to the office. 
 
 Hodgdox. This town is in the remote eastern part 
 of the State, and on the road leading from Calais to 
 Houlton. It is a newly settled town, and by emigrants 
 principally from the neighboring Provinces. Some of 
 them were Baptists. A church was organized in Janu- 
 ary, 1835. Elder Elisha Bedel, a missionary sent here 
 under the direction of the Maine Baptist Convention, 
 was elected their pastor. But instead of a blessing, he 
 proved the occasion of many painful trials to them. He 
 
368 CHURCH IN HODGDON. 
 
 also secured his own downfall. After much difficulty 
 and patient suffering, the church convened a council 
 from the churches in Calais, Baring, and Crawford, in 
 1839, and by their advice he was deposed from the 
 ministry and excluded from the church. The church 
 then had rest. 
 
 In 1838, a brighter day began to dawn upon this 
 church, though surrounded with clouds of darkness and 
 trial. Some indications of a Divine blessing appeared 
 in connection with the labors of Thomas Murry, a li- 
 centiate of Crawford church. The blessing came in 
 1839. Mr. Murry became a member of the church, 
 and a revival of the work of God increased the church 
 to eighty-eight members, a part of whom lived in Amity 
 and Orient, and were recognized as branches of this 
 church, with Columbus Dunn, deacon of Amity, and 
 Samuel G. Tuck, deacon of Orient. In February, 
 1838, Mr. Murry was ordained pastor of the church, 
 but was removed to the church in Heaven, by death, the 
 next July. [See Biography of Elder Thomas Murry.] 
 This was a mournful affliction to this church in the 
 wilderness, and surrounded by a large territory of fif- 
 teen towns and plantations entirely destitute of the min- 
 istry of the gospel. 
 
 In this their extremity, their cry unto the Lord of the 
 harvest was, 'Send us one to break unto us the bread of 
 life.' Their prayer was heard and answered. Daniel 
 Outhouse, one of their number, was now called of God 
 to be their leader. With their license he preached to 
 their satisfaction and comfort, till 1841, when he was 
 ordained their pastor. In 1840, the church was en- 
 larged by another revival; and in 1841, the branches 
 'Amity and Orient' were united and recognized as a 
 separate church. They were again deprived of a pastor 
 
CHURCH IN EASTERN CALAIS-BARING 369 
 
 in 1842, by the resignation of Elder Outhouse, but not 
 of stated preaching. Elder E. Watson has labored 
 with success in this church. This church, though re- 
 mote from the high privileges of a christian community, 
 has nevertheless been signally blessed of God, and is 
 prospering, with a present number of seventy members.* 
 
 EasteRxN Calais. The villages and vicinity of Calais 
 were honored of God with the distinguished blessing of 
 a general revival in 1836, under the ministry of Elder 
 James Huckins. To the influence of this revival, this 
 church owes its existence. It is located, as its name 
 indicates, in the east part of Calais, and was organized 
 in 1836; and had, in 1837, thirty-nine members, with 
 Eld. A. D. Thompson for their pastor. Eld. Thompson 
 remained with them, however, but a short time, when 
 they were left destitute; since which they have had 
 many trials, but little prosperity, and remain a feeble 
 church, with their numbers reduced to twenty-seven. "j" 
 
 Baring. Baring is a flourishing village, westerly 
 from Calais, at the distance of five miles from 'Salt- 
 water.' The river St. Croix divides it from St. Stephen, 
 N. B. The first Baptists in Baring were emigrants from 
 distant churches. Mr. James Sargent moved from North 
 Yarmouth to Baring, in 1828. Soon after his arrival, 
 he opened an evening prayer meeting, to be held weekly 
 on the St. Stephens side of the river. Here, aided by 
 one other male disciple, who has since fallen asleep in 
 Christ, he maintained the worship of God, 'amid much 
 popular opposition.' But God, who always hears when 
 his people pray, designed that these disciples should not 
 long toil alone. In 1835, deacons N. D. Shaw and O. 
 Allen, with several other Baptists, became residents in 
 Baring. Meetings were now held more frequently, and 
 
 *H. P. Towno's Com. and Min W. A. fMin. W. A. 
 
370 CHURCH IN BEDU1NGTOJN— JONESBORO y . 
 
 the Baptists began to secure an important influence in 
 the village. 
 
 Soon converts began to multiply, and to unite with 
 the church in Calais. In May, 1838, their number had 
 increased to thirty-seven. They were then induced to 
 leave their brethren in Calais, and organize in Baring. 
 The same day that they embodied, eight were added to 
 the church by baptism. 
 
 Their first pastor, Elder O. B. Walker, was ordained 
 among them in 1839, but left them at the close of one 
 year. He was immediately succeeded by Elder W. N. 
 Slason, who devoted to them only one half of his minis- 
 try. By the blessing of God they completed, in 1843, 
 a neat and commodious house of worship. Their num- 
 ber then was fifty-three.* 
 
 Beddington. A small church was gathered here in 
 1838, consisting of thirteen members; but it has become 
 extinct, occasioned by the removal of its members. f 
 
 Jonesborough. Until the winter of 1840, the inhab- 
 itants of this town had enjoyed but few gospel privileges, 
 and no stated ministry by any denomination, though for 
 many years the Lord had occasionally sent to them his 
 servants, and a few had become professedly pious. The 
 first part of this year was distinguished for general re- 
 vivals in the country, and this town shared largely in 
 the blessing. 
 
 A few persecuted Baptists resided here, and among 
 them the work of grace was powerful and glorious. 
 This work was eminently promoted by the efforts of E. 
 Nugent, then a private brother of the church in Calais. 
 In May, 1840, the church was organized, with twenty- 
 five members; twenty-three of them were baptized on 
 the clay of the organization. Mr. Nugent was licensed 
 
 Eld. VV. N. Slason's Com. and Mia. W. A. fMin. VV. A. 
 
TOPSFIELD— AMITY AND ORIENT— CALAIS ViL. ;J7i 
 
 by this church, and preached to them with success two 
 or three years. In 1843, they had sixty-eight members, 
 but were without a house of worship and needed as- 
 sistance.* 
 
 Topsfield. Topsfield is a new town, thirty-eight 
 miles from Calais, upon the Houlton road. A few 
 members of the church in Calais obtained a residence 
 here, which opened the way for Baptist efforts. In this 
 new field of gospel labor, the Baptist Quarterly Con- 
 ference, in the eastern part of Washington Association, 
 became much interested, and in the fall of 1839 sent 
 into it Elder E. Powell, of Cooper, as a missionary. 
 The Lord went with him and converted sinners by his 
 instrumentality, and in 1840, a church of eleven mem- 
 bers was recognized in Topsfield. This was indeed a 
 light shining in a dark place, and its influence has been 
 felt by the surrounding community. In 1841, Elder 
 Powell became its pastor, and continues to be useful 
 to the church, which now has eighteen members. 
 
 Amity and Orient. In 1835, Edmund Watson, a 
 licentiate, from Lincoln, Penobscot county, came into 
 this vicinity and was instrumental of much good to souls, 
 and of promoting the prosperity of these branches of 
 Hodgdon church. In 1839, these branches, 'Amity and 
 Orient,' composing eighteen members, were constituted 
 into a church, and in April, Mr. Watson was ordained 
 its pastor. He retained the pastorate for one year only, 
 but continued to preach a part of the time much longer. 
 This church also has been assisted by the missionary 
 labors of Elder E. Powell, and yet they are a feeble 
 church, of but twenty-one members.! 
 
 Calais Village. This church is situated in the vil- 
 lage at 'Salt-water.' Here a minority of the Baptist 
 
 *Eld. E. Nugent's Com. and Min. W. A. jDea. C. Dumv's Com. 
 
372 SECOND LUBEC— HOULTON— 2D HARRINGTON. 
 
 church in Calais lived, and in 1841, they became a 
 separate church. Elder E. D. Very became their pas- 
 tor. He resigned in 1843. They were that year build- 
 ing a neat house of worship. They have increased 
 from fifty-eight to sixty-two. 
 
 Second Lubec. This second church in Lubec was 
 organized in 1842, of members living in what is called 
 the South Bay neighborhood, and who had constituted a 
 branch of the first church. A meeting-house was com- 
 menced in this part of the church in 1838, but remains 
 unfinished. They organized with forty-two members, 
 and have increased, by letter, to forty-eight. And 
 while animosity and fightings characterize the move- 
 ments of the first church, this small body press forward 
 in harmony, and prosper. 
 
 Houlton. This town occupies an interesting position, 
 as it holds an important relation to the whole Aroostook 
 country. No particular efforts were made in this place 
 by the Baptists, till 1842. In the summer of that year, 
 Elder Henry Kendall, in the employ of the Maine Mis- 
 sionary Society, made a successful effort in this town 
 and its vicinity. His ministry, and the idea of embodying 
 a Baptist church in the village and town, were favorably 
 received. By him, a church of fifteen members was 
 gathered, under cheering prospects. Since their organ- 
 ization they have been favored with a privilege in the 
 Unitarian meeting-house, some preaching by mission- 
 aries and others, and are striving to honor God by ad- 
 vancing his cause and kingdom. 
 
 Second Harrington. In the winter of 1843, a re- 
 vival of religion extended its saving influence throughout 
 the town of Harrington. In the southern extremity of 
 the town, 'Burnt Point,' (so called) a few Baptists, be- 
 longing to the churches Cherryfield and First Harring- 
 
CHURCH IN EAST HARRINGTON— HODGDON. 373 
 
 ton, resided. Here the work of grace was most inter- 
 esting, souls were converted, and in May a church 
 of sixteen members, ten of whom were baptized on 
 the occasion, was embodied. This infant church has 
 increased to twenty-five members, and is exerting a 
 pleasing influence in a growing community. E. Nugent, 
 whose labors were blessed in the revival, is pastor of 
 the first and second churches. 
 
 East Harrington. Over the neighborhood about 
 the 'Great Marsh Stream,' in the east part of Harring- 
 ton, the first church in Addison shed its benign influence 
 for many years, and a large minority of that church 
 belonged in this vicinity. It was, however, somewhat 
 inconvenient for most of them to assemble regularly 
 with their brethren in Addison. By means of the revival 
 in 1842 and 1843, their number was much increased; 
 and for their better accommodation a church was or- 
 anized, in 1843, consisting of sixty-six members, with 
 encouraging prospects. The separation of this minority 
 from the church in Addison, did not so lessen their ability 
 as to deprive them of a stated ministry, and this church 
 is able to sustain preaching once in two weeks. 
 
 Hodgdon, and Richmond, N. B. This church, as 
 its name indicates, is partly in Maine and partly in New 
 Brunswick. It was organized in 1843, with twelve 
 members, and Elder T. Batchelder settled as pastor. 
 Four have since been added, making their present 
 number sixteen. 
 17 
 
 & 
 
374 
 
 WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION. 
 
 WASHINGTON ASSOCIATION. ...TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1835. 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 1 
 
 o 
 
 co 
 
 r S3 
 
 o 
 
 M 
 
 g 
 
 o 
 
 r- 
 
 O 
 E2, 
 
 < 
 
 3 
 
 
 5" 
 
 i 5t J «i 
 
 5 9 
 
 I 
 
 — 
 
 CD 
 
 w 
 
 
 o 
 
 x 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 a. 
 
 
 a> 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 f * 
 
 a 
 
 VI 
 
 
 
 1 ■ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 !"* 
 
 
 
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 1822) 
 
 Columbia, 
 
 Cherryfield, 
 
 S leu ben, (reorg'zd 1805) 
 
 Eastport, (reorg'zd 1810) 
 
 Machias Port (Machias) 
 
 2d Addison, 
 
 Cutler, (reorg'zd 1817) 
 
 Crawford, 
 
 1st Addison, 
 
 Lubec, 
 
 Cooper, 
 
 Pembroke (reorg. 
 
 Charlotte, 
 
 Calais, 
 
 1st Harrington, 
 
 East Machias, 
 
 Hodgdon, 
 
 Calais E Ch. 
 
 Barring, 
 
 Jonesborough, 
 
 Topsfield, 
 
 Amity and Orient, 
 
 Calais Vil.Ch. 
 
 2d Lubec, 
 
 Houlton, 
 
 2d Harrington, 
 
 Harrington E. Ch. 
 
 Hodgdon, &c. 
 
 * Unknown. ^ 
 
 Or 
 OS 
 
 t©| CO 
 
 © CO 
 
 1788 
 
 * 
 
 227 
 
 23 
 
 19 
 
 13140 
 
 30 
 
 
 11 
 
 
 250 
 
 1796 
 
 11 
 
 202 
 
 29 
 
 5 
 
 52 
 
 39 
 
 33 
 
 
 27 
 
 242 
 
 1796 
 
 * 
 
 87 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 24 
 
 IS 
 
 23 
 
 
 ~4 
 
 
 ~98 
 
 1801 
 
 57 
 
 317 
 
 74 
 
 9 
 
 68 
 
 31 
 
 41 
 
 
 96 
 
 
 448 
 
 1810 
 
 11 
 
 231 
 
 29 
 
 7 
 
 53 
 
 15 
 
 13 
 
 
 32 
 
 
 271 
 
 1818 
 
 25 
 
 140 
 
 19 
 
 9 
 
 24 
 
 n 
 
 25 
 
 
 
 6 
 
 184 
 
 1808 
 
 24 
 
 62 
 
 7 
 
 8 
 
 12 
 
 33 
 
 11 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 93 
 
 1825 
 
 19 
 
 85 
 
 9 
 
 
 46 
 
 14 
 
 15 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 113 
 
 1826 
 
 57'220 
 
 24 
 
 6 
 
 83 
 
 27 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 303 
 
 1820 
 
 9,283 
 
 32 
 
 12 
 
 55 
 
 55 
 
 17 
 
 
 18 
 
 324 
 
 1828 
 
 29 26 
 
 9 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 1!) 
 
 9 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 64 
 
 1800 
 
 1 1 1 106 
 
 22 
 
 1 
 
 47 
 
 21 
 
 6 
 
 
 7 
 
 
 139 
 
 1829 
 
 30 
 
 49 
 
 7 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 16 
 
 4 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 86 
 
 1832 
 
 11 
 
 221 
 
 99 
 
 1 
 
 196 
 
 38 
 
 12 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 331 
 
 1833 
 
 2i ; 
 
 41 
 
 9 
 
 
 8 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 76 
 
 1834 
 
 21 
 
 71 
 
 32 
 
 
 19 
 
 5 
 
 7 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 127 
 
 18351301107 
 
 23 
 
 3 
 
 53 
 
 28 
 
 7 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 160 
 
 1837 
 
 39 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 8 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 40 
 
 1838 
 
 37 
 
 28 
 
 7 
 
 
 2 
 
 7 
 
 5 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 72 
 
 1840 
 
 25 
 
 40 
 
 11 
 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 76 
 
 1840 
 
 11 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 18 
 
 1841 
 
 18 
 
 5 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 3 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 
 4 
 
 24 
 
 1841 
 
 53 
 
 5 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 64 
 
 1842 
 
 12 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 48 
 
 1842 
 
 15 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 15 
 
 1843 
 
 16 
 
 15 
 
 S 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 34 
 
 1843 
 
 66 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 66 
 
 1843 
 
 12 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 16 
 
 47 
 98 
 28 
 218 
 160 
 103 
 40 
 36 
 182 
 191 
 31 
 59 
 62 
 85 
 56 
 92 
 70 
 27 
 52 
 68 
 18 
 21 
 62 
 48 
 15 
 34 
 66 
 16 
 
 ts i— o: 
 
 jt-3 W <J <0 
 CO CO CO 
 
CHAPTER XXL 
 
 PENOBSCOT ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches— Harmony, p. 212 ; Sangerville, 215; Guilford, 227 5 
 Parkman, 231 5 Athens, 233 ; Ripley, now Cambridge, 237; Corinna, 238 3 
 Carmel,277; Hampden, 291; Dixmont, 293; Charleston, 299 ; Dover, 
 315; Corinth, 316. 
 
 Added at their first session from Bowdoinham Association— Frankfort, 28G ; 
 North Hill, 232; Bangor, 311; Munroe, 307; Palmyra,219 ; Newport, 
 240. 
 
 Added between 1826 and 184-3 — Dexter; Enfield; Bradford; Monson ; 
 Levant; Kirkland and No. 8, temporary churches; Second Hampden; 
 Greenfield ; First St. Albans ; Abbot; Lincoln; Lee; Blanchard, a tempo- 
 rary church ; Plymouth; Foxcroft, a temporary church; Garland; Pitts- 
 field ; Athens Village ; Exeter ; Old Town ; Sebec ; Bangor and Glen- 
 burn ; Newburg; Passadunkeag ; Palmyra ; Springfield : Eddington : 
 Argyle : Newport Village : North Bangor : Patten. 
 
 A Convention of thirteen churches, from the Lincoln 
 and Bowdoinham Associations met at Parkman, in January, 
 1S26, and organized the Penobscot Association. At their 
 first anniversary, September following, six other churches 
 from the same bodies, and two new churches, united with 
 them. By these twenty-one churches, sixteen ordained min- 
 isters were then reported, and seven hundred and ninety- 
 five communicants. Thus commenced this interesting body 
 of Baptists, spread over a large and newly settled territory, 
 but rapidly increasing in population.* 
 
 At its commencement, this body voted co-operation with 
 the missionary and benevolent societies connected in the 
 denomination in the State, and the usual days of Fasting and 
 Prayer, as the first day of January, and the fourth of July, 
 were recommended to the churches for their observance. 
 
 Spirited resolutions have been almost annually passed 
 upon the various topics noticed by similar bodies, and in 
 temperance, religious and ministerial education, and mis*- 
 sionary operations, especially in domestic missions, this 
 body have ever evinced a lively and benevolent interest. 
 
 *Min. L. and B. Asso. 
 
376 CHURCH IN DEXTER. 
 
 These churches have not only resolved, but have labored 
 to meet the responsibilities of their resolutions. 
 
 No Association, upon a comparison of means and privi- 
 leges, has done more to promote the extension of the cause 
 than this body, nor has any obtained a more rapid increase. 
 Its territory is large, and many of its churches have been 
 small and feeble, being scattered in thinly populated com- 
 munities, and not favored with much of the preaching of 
 the gospel. In 1838, it numbered forty churches, twenty- 
 four ordained ministers, two licentiates, and two thousand 
 one hundred and ninety-six communicants ; making a net 
 increase, in twelve years, of twenty churches, eight or- 
 dained ministers, and one thousand four hundred and one 
 communicants. It was this year divided, and the Piscata- 
 quis Association formed ; and yet it remains an efficient 
 and influential body of Baptists. 
 
 It has been highly favored with revival mercies, — the 
 years 1828, '29, '31, '34, '37, '38, and '43. Its table now 
 shows twenty-eight churches, twenty-two ordained minis- 
 ters, and one thousand four hundred and thirty-eight com- 
 municants. 
 
 Dexter. Baptists increased in Dexter, partly by emi- 
 gration and partly by means of the preaching of Elder 
 Z. Hall, pastor of the Baptist church in Parkman. For 
 some years they were a branch of that church, and received 
 a portion of Elder Hall's ministry. December 28, 1825, 
 they were embodied into an. independent church, consisting 
 of thirty members. From April, 182G, to 1832, Elder 
 Jacob Hatch was their pastor. But from his missionary 
 zeal, he was absent from them one half of the time from 
 1830, which was supplied to the church by the employment 
 of Elder W. Marshal. During this period the church was 
 enlarged by twenty-seven baptisms. 
 
 July 15, 1832, Eld. E. Hunting became pastor, and sus- 
 
CHURCH IN COLD STREAM 377 
 
 tained the office about two years, and preached occasion- 
 ally, much longer. This church has also been aided by 
 the occasional ministry of Elders T. Macomber and E. 
 Freeman. From 1835 to 1836, Elder C. T. Norcross 
 preached with them about one half of the time, and the 
 next year Eld. D. Bartlett was pastor, and preached statedly. 
 His labors were blessed to an increase of the church, by 
 some revival. The next three years, from 1837 to 1840, 
 Eld. S. Lothrop was pastor. The church prospered under 
 his ministry and aided the formation of the East St. Albans 
 church, in 1840. In 1841, the church had some trials, 
 but was blessed with the stated ministry by Eld. I. S. Smith, 
 and some additions. In 1842, they were destitute, and 
 wandered much from the Lord. In 1843, they were again 
 encouraged and assisted, by the ministry of Elder J. M. 
 Mace, and again enlarged by additions. In 1839, they 
 built for their accommodation a house of worship, in a 
 pleasant part of the village. Their present number is 
 sixty-six, and how important their influence in that village, 
 where the false doctrines of Universalism have so strong a 
 hold. The churches Garland and Exeter took their rise 
 from this body.* 
 
 Cold Stream, (now Enfield.) This town is about 
 forty miles northerly from Bangor, on the east side of Pe- 
 nobscot river. A settlement commenced here about 1820. 
 A few of the first settlers were Baptists. In 1826, they 
 commenced holding social religious meetings. These 
 humble efforts were blessed. A seriousness first appeared 
 upon the minds of the youth, and soon the number of pray- 
 ing souls was increased by the converting influence of the 
 Spirit. 
 
 Elders J. Roundy and N. Robinson were travelling, this 
 summer, and preaching Christ to those new settlements. 
 
 *C. Copeland's Com. and Min. Asso. 
 
378 CHURCH IN BRADFORD. 
 
 On the 11th of July, both these servants of God were at 
 Cold Stream. They baptized six persons, who, together 
 with several others, were embodied into a church. Left 
 almost destitute of preaching, this infant church had some 
 trials, in the midst of mercies, in 1827. In 1830, Elders 
 Dexter and J. Hatch, missionaries of the Maine Conven- 
 tion, visited the church, and by the precious outpourings 
 of the Holy Spirit, souls were converted and twenty added 
 to the church by baptism. This gave them strength to go 
 many days rejoicing, and they subscribed to pay $50, in 
 the fruits of their lands, to aid domestic missions that year. 
 From 1831 to 1837, difficulty and trial beset their journey- 
 ings. In 1835, Amos P. Messer, one of its worthy deacons, 
 was ordained as an evangelist, and in 1837, became its 
 pastor, devoting one half of his useful ministry for their 
 benefit, and the other portion of it to the benefit of other 
 feeble branches of Zion, till 1842, when Alvan Messer 
 received license, and preached to them the same amount 
 of time, and was instrumental in the enlargement of the 
 church. In 1843, they received the ministry of these 
 brethren alternately, each one fourth of the time. Their 
 number is seventy-six.* 
 
 Bradford, formerly Blakesburgh. The church in 
 Bradford was organized August, 1827, and was composed 
 of eight members only, five of whom were by letter from 
 the church in Atkinson. Although feeble, without a pas- 
 tor, and scattered in a sparsely settled community, yet the 
 pious zeal of these brethren prompted them to sustain 
 meetings for prayer and conference, and the occasional 
 preaching of the word among them. These efforts were 
 blessed of God. The reviving and converting influences 
 of Divine grace were given, and thirty-four were added by 
 baptism and four by letter, in 1827. Nothing special oc- 
 
 *Min. P. Asso. and letters to the Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN MONSON— LEVANT. 379 
 
 curred again, affecting the progress of the church, till 
 1834, when their number was increased by another spiritual 
 refreshing; and in 1836, by another. This church has 
 been blessed with several useful members, so that, though 
 it has never had the advantages of a pastor, nor house of 
 worship, it has increased, lived harmoniously, and main- 
 tained respectability. 
 
 From its commencement it has been supplied occasion- 
 ally with gospel preaching, mostly by Elder J. F. Page. 
 And from its members, God has called into the ministry, 
 Elders E. Coy, C. L. Cary, and Daniel Small, who are 
 successful in aiding the cause of Christ Their present 
 number is forty-three.* 
 
 Monson. This church owes its existence to emigration. 
 In 1827, thirteen Baptists, resident in town, were embodied 
 into a church. They have prospered, though without a 
 pastor or a meeting-house. Eld. J. F. Page has preached 
 with them some, every year since their organization. They 
 have also been aided by Elders Z. Hall, T. Macomber, E. 
 Going, and L. Kingman. Elder Kingman labored with 
 them one fourth of the time, in 1843, and they enjoyed a 
 pleasing revival. Their present number is seventy-five. 
 Here also is a Congregational church, in a flourishing 
 condition.* 
 
 Levant. This town is twelve miles north from Bangor, 
 with a growing village in its north-east corner. This vil- 
 lage is the centre of business, and the usual place for re- 
 ligious meetings. There is in town two meeting-houses 
 and three religious societies — Baptist, Congregationalist, 
 and Universalist. The Baptist church was organized with 
 eight members, in 1828. Previous to its organization, a 
 few Baptists resided in town. R. C. Spaulding, a member 
 of the Theological Institute, at Waterville. while teaching 
 
 *«L F. Page's Com. letters of the church and Min. P. Asso. 
 
380 CHURCH IN K1RKLAND. 
 
 school in town, in 1826, was employed to preach on the 
 Sabbath. This opened the way for his settlement as the 
 town's minister, which took place in May, when he was 
 ordained to the work. This church, though scattered over 
 a wide extent of territory, promiscuously among other 
 sects, not too favorable to its welfare, has prospered under 
 the faithful and prudent labors of its two able pastors, R. 
 C. Spaulding and T. B. Robinson. Eld. Spaulding labored 
 to make it a reading, spiritual, benevolent, and working 
 church. And he succeeded most admirably. He estab- 
 lished a Sabbath school, in 1832; and the same year a 
 revival was enjoyed, in which a number of the school were 
 converted. He resigned his charge and moved to Corinth, 
 in 1834. The same year, their house of worship was 
 erected, one half of which, however, is owned by the Con- 
 gregationalists. . 
 
 In 1835, Eld. Robinson entered upon his pastoral charge, 
 and labored successfully in the office till 1839, when an 
 invitation from Hampden, and the limited ability of the 
 church in Levant, induced him to resign his charge of the 
 latter and become pastor of the former. But his stay at 
 Hampden was short. In one year he returned to Levant, 
 again became the pastor of the church, but for want of a 
 competent support was obliged to seek employment in some 
 other part of the gospel field, in 1842. His residence, 
 however, is still in town, and when not engaged in mis- 
 sionary labors, he aids the progress of the church. In 
 1836 and '38, the church was much enlarged by interesting 
 revivals. Two of its members are in their preparatory 
 studies to the ministry. Present number is fifty-three.* 
 
 Kirkland. This is a new town, twenty miles north 
 from Bangor. A church of twelve members was gathered 
 here in 1829. —At first its prospects seemed encouraging; 
 
 *N. Fisk, Ch. Clk. Com. andMin. P. Asso. and letters of the ch. 
 
NO. 8— SECOND HAMPDEN— GREENFIELD. 3gl 
 
 but being almost destitute of preaching, and possessing but 
 few gifts, and surrounded by various influences unfavorable 
 to its perseverance, after struggling several years amid 
 trials and discouragement, they were scattered, and in 
 1838, their visibility was lost.* 
 
 No. 8. A church of eight members was gathered in 
 this newly settled plantation, in 1829. At first it prospered 
 under the ministry of Jesse Norcross, a licentiate of the 
 church in Charleston. In 1832, Elder Nathan Thomas 
 became its pastor ; but he labored almost in vain, for this 
 light has ceased to shine — the church is fallen.* 
 
 Second Hampden. This church is situated in the west 
 part of Hampden, and was organized in 1828, of thirteen 
 members. Eld. O. Briggs became its pastor. He resigned 
 in 1S31. In 1833, they built a house for worship, and 
 employed Eld. H. Hawes one half of the time. In 1834, 
 a glorious year of spiritual release was experienced, and 
 the church was enlarged by an addition of forty-four by 
 baptism. In 1835, they were again without a pastor, but 
 w T ere supplied with preaching semi-monthly, and mostly by 
 Eld. Briggs. In 1838, they had some preaching by Elder 
 McMaster ; in 1841 and '43, by Eld. T. L. Pilsbury. But 
 for a period of eight years the church has been declining 
 and diminishing, wasting its vitality and usefulness by in- 
 ternal divisions. It is reduced to a feeble church of thirty- 
 six members. Surely the fine gold has changed, the strong 
 has become weak.f 
 
 Greenfield and No. 1, formerly 'Olammon.' The 
 first Baptists in this new and rising settlement, were emi- 
 grants from churches at a distance. In 1829, Elders S. 
 Dexter and J. Hatch, missionaries sent into the rapidly 
 increasing settlements in the eastern part of the State, 
 visited this place, and finding materials already prepared, 
 
 *Min. P. A. and letters to the Asso. fThis 1st ch. p. 262 and Min. P. A. 
 
 17* 
 
382 FIRST CHURCH IN ST. ALBANS— ABBOT. 
 
 organized a church of seventeen members. In 1830, a 
 precious revival was enjoyed, and nineteen added by bap- 
 tism. Reuben Tolman was ordained pastor. Eld. Case, 
 by direction of the Convention, visited them that year and 
 cheered them with his presence and preaching. Elder 
 Tolman was pastor but one year. Eld. Daniel Macomber 
 served them in the gospel in 1835, and the church was 
 enlarged. Since that period they have seen days of afflic- 
 tion. But like Sardis, it had 'a few names who had not 
 defiled their garments.' In 1843, God appeared for their 
 help, and sent Eld. McGregor to them, whom he has blessed 
 to their benefit. Their prospect is brightening. Their 
 number is forty.* 
 
 First St. Albans. A small church, of about fifteen 
 members, was gathered here in 1829. The next year it 
 was enlarged to the number of thirty, and Eld. Benjamin 
 Bisbee became its bishop. In 1832, it began to be harassed 
 by trials within its own bosom, which reduced it the next 
 year to sixteen members. In 1834, Elder William Oaks 
 preached for them, and the church was increased. From 
 that time to the present, this church has had but occasional 
 preaching, by D. Given, a licentiate, and some others, and 
 has done comparatively nothing for the general welfare of 
 Christ's kingdom. It has twenty-two members. f 
 
 Abbot. This town was incorporated in 1827. Several 
 Baptists resided in different parts of the settlement, but 
 they had only a partial acquaintance with each other. In 
 1829, nine individuals were constituted into a church. 
 God owned their works, and poured out his Spirit, which 
 made the wilderness resound with the praises of the young 
 converts, and this 'little one' was soon rejoiced by an ad- 
 dition of twenty. In 1831, Joseph Hall was qualified by 
 license to preach. For two or three years he was successful. 
 
 *Let. to the Asso. andMin. of P. Asso. tMin. P. and Pis. Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN LINCOLN— LEE. 3^3 
 
 But difficulties arose among them, which reduced them, in 
 1835, nearly to extinction. But their life was again re- 
 newed, in 1836, by the ministry of Eld. Thomas Macomber, 
 and in 1837, by Eld. William Oaks. They have since had 
 occasional preaching by brethren A. Clark, Z. Hall, J. F. 
 Page, S. Tubbs, and J. Hatch. Their location is unfa- 
 vorable, being scattered over a wide territory. Thirty- 
 three in number.* 
 
 Lincoln. Lincoln is a large town on the east side of 
 Penobscot river, at the mouth of the Matanawcook stream, 
 where is a flourishing village. A [Baptist church was 
 gathered here, consisting of six members from the church 
 in Paris, by the advice of Elders Dexter and Hatch, mission, 
 aries of the Convention, in 1830. Soon after its embody- 
 ment, Eld. I. Case, another missionary of the same body, 
 visited the place and added four by baptism. 'Of these,' 
 says father Case, 'one was a woman educated a Pedo- 
 baptist, but on becoming pious, searched the Bible for 
 truth and direction, and renounced her infant baptism ;' 
 'a second was educated a Quaker, but was converted and 
 embraced the truth as it is in Christ.' This church has 
 been highly favored with pleasing gifts for exhortation, 
 prayer and discipline, and two of its members, Stephen 
 Chase and Edmund Watson, have become ministers of the 
 gospel. In 1834 and '35, this church had a stated minis- 
 try, but no special prosperity ; and since that time to the 
 present, although it has had much preaching from year to 
 year, and though other religious societies have flourished 
 around them, they remain a small and inefficient body of 
 christians. They need help. Their present number is 
 twenty-seven. t 
 
 Lee, (first called No. 4.) A settlement was commenced 
 
 *Min. P. and Pis. Asso. and letters to the Asso. fM'ui. P. A. and Mil), of 
 Con. and letters to the Asso. Rev. S. Fogg's Com, 
 
384 CHURCH IN BLANCHARD— PLYMOUTH. 
 
 here in 1S27, and the town possessing a rich and fertile 
 soil, the increase of population was rapid. In a period of 
 ten years from the first opening, it had five hundred and 
 thirty-six inhabitants. In 1830, there were thirty families, 
 among whom were a few Baptists, who as soon as practica- 
 ble began to hold meetings for social and religious wor- 
 ship. By these means, these strangers in the wilderness 
 became acquainted with each other, and the same year, 
 (1830) a church of ten members was organized by the 
 two missionaries, Dexter and Hatch. They were visited 
 and encouraged by Eld. Case in a few weeks after they 
 were embodied, and several persons, two of whom had 
 been previous to their conversion, ' defenders of Univer- 
 salism,' were by him added to the church. This church 
 has not been blessed with a pastor, but has frequent preach- 
 ing by missionaries, and some stated preaching by Elders 
 A. P. Messer, and W. Marshall. Elder A. Messer and 
 J. Jackson have preached with the church occasionally. 
 They have, however, but few gospel privileges, and are a 
 small, tried and inefficient church of twenty-nine members. 
 They need and desire the aid of a faithful missionary.* 
 
 Blalychard. In this new and lonely settlement under 
 the northern brow of Russell Mountain, and on the north 
 branch of Piscataquis river, a few Baptists found it con- 
 venient to reside, and by occasional preaching a small 
 church of about thirty members was embodied in 1828. 
 By the labors of brethren Hall, Hatch, Oaks and Marshall, 
 some were added in 1831. But its light soon waned, and 
 in 1837, with twenty-nine members, its name was lost. 
 ' Their fall was owing partly to a want of gospel means, 
 but mostly to neglect. 'f 
 
 PlYxMOuth. This town was incorporated in 1826, and 
 previous to 1830 the people enjoyed, if they desired them, 
 
 *Min, P. A. of Con. and letters to the A. flVlin. P. A. and letters to the A. 
 
CHURCH IN FOXCROFT. 285 
 
 but few religious privileges, and even since as a town they 
 have had but a small amount of evangelical preaching. A 
 church of eight members was organized in 1830. These 
 Baptists had been members of Etna and other churches. 
 Eld. E. Carter began to preach semi-monthly for them in 
 1832, and has since labored much for their advancement. 
 
 In 1836, twelve of the members were dismissed and 
 embodied into a new church, and in that capacity, and in 
 company, ' emigrated to the Great Western Valley.' This 
 rendered the church very feeble, but Elder Carter continued 
 his efforts for their welfare. The church was perplexed 
 and weakened by internal difficulties from 1839 to 1842. 
 In '42 they were blessed with the ministry of Elder T. L. 
 Pilsbury. Their prospects are not the most encouraging. 
 Present number thirty-five.* 
 
 Foxcroft. This town on the north side of Piscataquis 
 river, has a rich soil, was first settled in 1805, and ' named 
 in compliment to the Hon. Jos. E. Foxcroft. 'f It has a 
 fine village, in which is located a promising Academy. 
 Here were some Congregationalists. As the population 
 increased, some Baptists became residents here, and by 
 means of occasional preaching some were converted and 
 embraced their sentiments, who with the older members, 
 were united with the church in Dover, as a branch church. 
 
 In March 1832, nineteen members were recognized as 
 an independent church. The following September they 
 had increased to thirty-two. By a revival in 1838, it was 
 increased by nineteen baptisms. It received only occa- 
 sional preaching, and it did not very well succeed in its 
 operations. After the formation of the ' Foxcroft and 
 Dover Village church,' this church was disbanded, most 
 of its members uniting with that body.f 
 
 *Min. P. A. ; letters to that body. fN. E. Gazeleer. \M\a P. and Pis. 
 
 Association. 
 
386 CHURCH IN GARLAND— STETSON— PITTSFIELD. 
 
 Garland. This town was incorporated in 1811. The 
 earliest settlers were mostly Congregationalists. It was 
 several years before there were any resident Baptists. 
 However, by means of occasional preaching by missiona- 
 ries and visiting ministers, a few Baptists were raised up, 
 and connected with the church in Dexter. Dec. 1833, 
 eleven members were recognized as a church. They 
 have never had a pastor, and not more stated preaching 
 than one week in four. Elders E. W. Cressy, S. M. Rice, 
 N. Robinson, and J. Hatch, have afforded them some as- 
 sistance. They remain in a low and discouraged state. 
 Their present number is eighteen. They unite with other 
 societies in Sabbath Schools.* 
 
 Stetson. (See ' Newport and Stetson,' pp. 240 and 
 283.) 
 
 Pittsfield. This town was incorporated in 1819. 
 Jan. 1830, Eld. D. McMaster became a resident in town, 
 and preached to the people occasionally, but with no ap- 
 parent success. Previous to his labors the gospel had not 
 exerted its salutary influences in town, and the people were 
 far from being too moral. ' Sabbath breaking and intem- 
 perance had become common evils.' During 1832 and 
 '33, Eld. M. withheld his labors, and the people were left 
 almost without preaching of any kind. At the beginning 
 of 1834, Eld. M. recommenced his preaching wherever he 
 could in this dark and desolate spot; and his efforts were 
 not in vain. God sent down his Spirit, converted sinners, 
 and in May, 1834, a church of eighteen members appeared 
 in P. This church by the faithful labors of Eld. M., was 
 soon enlarged. Sabbath Schools and Temperance Socie- 
 ties were immediately formed. Thus in the short time of 
 a few months, the moral aspect of Pittsfield was greatly 
 changed. The people had satin darkness, but now they saw 
 
 *Min. P. A. and letters to the Asso. 
 
CHURCH IN ATHENS VILLAGE— EXETER. 387 
 
 a pleasant light. During 1835, this church had by mis- 
 sionaries and others, preaching semi-monthly. But from 
 that time till 1842, it was destitute, and being surrounded 
 by those ready to devour, and becoming luke-warm, and 
 scattered, they lost their hold of the cross, and wandered 
 from the denomination. In 1S39 they reported twenty- 
 seven members. * 
 
 Athens Village. The original members of the church 
 in this village were from other churches. They were or- 
 ganized in 1836, seven in number. Elder Rufus Jones 
 was the agent in promoting these first Baptist movements 
 in this village. The next year, under the united labors of 
 Mr. Jones and C. Taylor, then both licentiates, a pleasant 
 revival was enjoyed in this church and village. Both of 
 these gospel preachers have since been ordained; the 
 former took the pastoral charge of the first church in 
 Athens, and the latter the charge of this church. In 1841 
 Eld. Jones became the pastor of this church and officiated 
 till 1843, when he returned to the business of farming 
 for support. The church, therefore, has no pastor, and is 
 small and feeble, with thirty-seven members only.f 
 
 Exeter. This town was incorporated in 1811. For 
 many years the people had but few gospel privileges, and 
 it was not till about 1836, that the Baptists made any very 
 successful efforts in town. A few resided here and be- 
 longed to the church in Dexter. In 1836, Eld. J. Hatch, 
 missionary for the Convention, spent eight weeks in this 
 town, and was instrumental in gathering these scattered 
 and lonely disciples into a church, and of strengthening 
 their faith and zeal. They were fifteen in number. Eld. 
 H. preached monthly in 1837, and some in '38 and '39. 
 After about two years of declension and darkness, the 
 church was revived by the preaching of Elder. C. T. Nor- 
 
 *Min. P. A. and letters to that body. fMin. P. and P. A. Eld. Jones' Com. 
 
388 CHURCH IN OLD TOWN— SEBEC— BANGOR, &c. 
 
 cross. He preached one-third of the time most of the 
 year 1842, and in '43 they were favored again with Elder 
 Hatch monthly. By these labors the church with much 
 struggling in itself is enabled to do but little more than 
 sustain visibility. Their number is twenty-two.* 
 
 OldTown. This church was organized in 1835, with five 
 members, but had no regular preaching for about two years. 
 In 1837 E. Freeman began to preach to them, and in '38 he 
 was ordained their pastor. About twenty were added to the 
 church during his ministry. In 1839 Eld. C. Blanchard 
 began his labors among them, and the next year took 
 charge of the church. Their present number is seventy, 
 and promises to be an important and useful body in the 
 denomination. f 
 
 Sebec. This town was incorporated in 1812. It has 
 a small village at the outlet of ' Sebec Pond.' Here the 
 religious societies centre. A few Baptists belonging as a 
 branch to the church in Charleston, had resided here some 
 years before a church of twelve members was organized in 
 1836. But not being able to sustain preaching more than 
 monthly, their progress is slow. Elders T. Macomber, N. 
 Robinson, L. Bradford, E. McGregor, missionary, and A. 
 G. Tibbets are among those who have preached statedly 
 here. Their present number is thirty.^ 
 
 Bangor and Glenburn. This church was organized 
 in 1837, of nine members, residents in Bangor and Glen- 
 burn, and centres its operations about six miles north-west 
 of the city of Bangor. This church was gathered by the 
 instrumentality of Mr. H. H. Smith, then a student in the 
 Theological Institution at Bangor. Additions were soon 
 made to it by converts baptized by Elder T. B. Robinson. 
 They have had no pastor, but preaching statedly, either 
 
 *Min. P. A. : Min. Con.; letters to the Asso. fMin. P. A. and letters to 
 the Asso «fec. |E. Robinson, Ch Clk. Com. 
 
NEWBURG— PASSADUNKEAG— PALMYRA. 389 
 
 monthly or semi-monthly, and with their limited means 
 have made some progress. In 1842 and '43, the church 
 was blessed with a revival and a number of additions. A. 
 Kelley, a licentiate, ministered to them in 1841, and Eld. 
 D. Steward in 1843. Their present number is forty.* 
 
 Newburg. This town was incorporated 1819. It is 
 fourteen miles south west of Bangor. Baptists commenced 
 some movements here in 1823. The general relio-ious 
 views of the people were of an Arminian cast, and Baptist 
 sentiments at first were not well received. A church of 
 eleven members was embodied in 1838. Though destitute 
 of a pastor, and with only a small school-house for their 
 place of worship, they still prosper. They have had 
 preaching by various ministers about one half of the time, 
 and were blessed with a refreshing season in 1841. A. 
 Kelley, licensed by the church, afforded them some aid, and 
 Wm. Miller, ordained 1843, has been a blessing to them 
 since 1841. Their number is twenty-three, and their 
 prospects goodf 
 
 Passadunkeag. This town is thirty miles N. by E. 
 from Bangor, and has a flourishing village at the junction of 
 Passadunkeag stream with Penobscot river. It is a rapid- 
 ly growing place, and promises to be an important town in 
 the eastern country. In 1838, a church of eight members 
 was embodied here ; but not under the most favorable cir- 
 cumstances. At first, they had but a small amount of 
 gospel preaching. Since 1840, they have been more highly 
 favored ; Eld. A. P. Messer has preached monthly, with 
 success, and their number has increased to twenty-seven. f 
 
 Palmyra. This town was incorporated in 1807. Bap- 
 tists began to increase in town about this time, and in 1810, 
 the church ' St. Albans and Hartland Village,' was organ- 
 ized, in which all the Baptists in this town concentrated 
 
 *Min.P. A. and letters to the Asso. fMin. P. Asso, {Min. P. Ass. 
 
390 CHURCH IN SPRINGFIELD— EDDINGTON. 
 
 their efforts for many years. In the beginning of 1838, 
 Eld. John Robinson, of Cornville, came into the town and 
 commenced preaching in a neighborhood, where the pros- 
 pect of success was somewhat uncertain, the people gener- 
 ally being under the soul-destroying influence of Universal- 
 ism. But encouraged by the word of the Lord, he perse- 
 vered, and though there was not a praying family in the 
 neighborhood, the converting influence of the Holy Spirit 
 soon appeared, which soon changed the scene, so much, 
 that instead of the sportsman's gun and woodman's axe, on 
 Sabbath morning, the voice of singing and praying was 
 heard. In April, a church of thirteen members was em- 
 bodied as the fruits of this work, and the blessing was 
 continued through the summer, during which about thirty 
 were added to the church. 
 
 Sept. 1839, Sullivan A. Maxim, one of its members, was 
 set apart to the work of an evangelist, and the next year 
 received the pastoral charge of the church. He preaches 
 however only once a month, leaving a vacancy to be filled 
 by occasional supplies by others. He was pastor a short 
 time only — withdrawing his charge, to labor in other fields- 
 In 1843, he was again pastor, and the prospects of the 
 church are more encouraging than in former years. Pres- 
 ent number is thirty-nine.* 
 
 Springfield. This town was incorporated in 1834, and 
 is sixty miles N. E. by E. from Bangor. With the rapidly 
 growing population, Baptists from other places became 
 residents in town, and in Dec. 1838, a church of eight 
 members was organized, and Eld. A. P. Messer has preach- 
 ed with this people monthly since that time. His labors 
 have been useful to the increase of the church, which con- 
 sists of thirty-seven members. f 
 
 Eddington, is six miles above Bangor on the east side 
 
 *Min. P. A. and S. Keen's Com. fE. F. Lcighton, Ch. Ck. Com. Min. P.A . 
 
ARGYLE— NEWPORT VIL.-N. BANGOR— PATTEN. 391 
 
 of Penobscot river. In Jan. 1839, a church of twenty-six 
 members mostly dismissed from the church in Amherst, 
 was embodied here. This company of disciples have a 
 large field to cultivate, and the opportunity of doing much 
 good. They hold their meetings in two places alternately, 
 four miles apart ; but they have had but little preaching, 
 and have little more than a name to live. The enemy has 
 sowed strife among them .Their number in 1842, was 
 thirty-one.* 
 
 Argyle. In 1838 Eld. G. J. Newton became a resi- 
 dent in this town, and began to preach occasionally, and 
 in Sept. 1838, a church of but four members were organ- 
 ized, who elected Eld. N., their pastor. The church has 
 increased to thirteen, but has never obtained great pros- 
 perity. The Methodists have the leading religious influ- 
 ence in the placet 
 
 Newport Village. This village is twenty-four miles 
 west of Bangor, and is a flourishing and beautiml place. 
 A few Baptists had resided here for several years. But it 
 was not till 1842 that a church was embodied. It had 
 eleven members, and has increased to twenty-six. They 
 have no pastor, but own a part of a ' Union Meeting House,' 
 and unite with other societies in the Sabbath School.}: 
 
 North Bangor. This church was constituted in 1842 
 with six members. It has no pastor, but regular preaching, 
 and has increased by an addition of five.§ 
 
 Patten. This is a church in the wilderness. ' There 
 is not a Baptist church within fifty miles of it, and but one 
 or two of any kind,' and three years ago it must have been 
 an exercise of strong faith to anticipate what is now seen 
 and felt in Patten. But God accomplishes his own will. 
 In the spring of 1842, Eld. E. McGregor, by the direction 
 
 *Min. P. A. and Zion's Advocate, 1839. tMin. P. A. and Eld. G. J. 
 Newton's letter. JMin. P. A. §Zion's Adv. 1842 
 
392 
 
 PENOBSCOT ASSOCIATION. 
 
 of the Maine Missionary Society, visited and refreshed the 
 inhabitants of the forest. He labored fifteen weeks with 
 much success, and in May 1843, a church was organized 
 in Patten, where in 1840, there was but one Baptist pro- 
 fessor. The number at first was thirteen, which soon in- 
 creased to twenty. Their prospects are encouraging.* 
 
 PENOBSCOT ASSOCIATION... .TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 3 
 
 C 
 
 s=" 
 
 
 - 
 
 O 
 
 
 r 
 
 O 
 
 - 
 o 
 
 r. 
 
 3 
 
 ? 
 
 ORGANIZED 1826. 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 B 
 
 O 
 
 p 
 
 
 2 
 
 f 
 
 o 
 
 6 
 
 s. 
 
 a 
 
 p. 
 
 
 cc 
 
 3 
 — 
 — 
 
 ••/. 
 
 a 
 
 p 
 
 3 
 
 o 
 
 Etna &Carmel(lst Carmel) 
 
 1807 
 
 9 
 
 195 
 
 19 
 
 •1 
 
 91 
 
 53 
 
 14 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 223 
 
 76 
 
 1st Hampden, 
 
 1809 
 
 12 
 
 153 
 
 30 
 
 5 
 
 57 
 
 35 
 
 26 
 
 6 
 
 19 
 
 
 195 
 
 69 
 
 Charleston, 
 
 1810 
 
 12 
 
 176 
 
 71 
 
 4 
 
 86 
 
 55 
 
 21 
 
 6 
 
 
 3 
 
 264 
 
 98 
 
 Newport and Stetson, 
 
 1817 
 
 5 
 
 92 
 
 32 
 
 3 
 
 15 
 
 12 
 
 13 
 
 3 
 
 8 
 
 
 129 
 
 81 
 
 Bangor, 
 
 1818 
 
 11 
 
 257 
 
 207 
 
 2 
 
 131 
 
 41 
 
 34 
 
 25 
 
 
 9 
 
 475 
 
 243 
 
 Corinth, 
 
 1822 
 
 18 
 
 124 
 
 M 
 
 5 
 
 38 
 
 18 
 
 13 
 
 5 
 
 
 28 
 
 196 
 
 155 
 
 Enfield (1st Coldstream) 
 
 1826 
 
 19 
 
 78 
 
 18 
 
 4 
 
 14 
 
 11 
 
 9 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 115 
 
 76 
 
 Bradford (1st Blakesburgh) 
 
 1827 
 
 8 
 
 72 
 
 34 
 
 16 
 
 9 
 
 '25 
 
 7 
 
 4 
 
 52 
 
 
 114 
 
 43 
 
 Levant, 
 
 1828 
 
 8 
 
 78 
 
 29 
 
 
 42 
 
 11 
 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 106 
 
 53 
 
 2d Hampden, 
 
 1828 
 
 13 
 
 61 
 
 13 
 
 2 
 
 33 
 
 10 
 
 4 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 87 
 
 36 
 
 Greenfield and No. 1, 
 
 1829 
 
 17 
 
 52 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 17 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 70 
 
 40 
 
 Lincoln, 
 
 1830 
 
 6 
 
 16 
 
 16 
 
 
 5 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 38 
 
 27 
 
 Lee, (once No. 4,) 
 
 1880 
 
 10 
 
 23 
 
 15 
 
 
 9 
 
 12 
 
 1 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 48 
 
 29 
 
 Plymouth, 
 
 1831 
 
 8 
 
 33 
 
 25 
 
 
 10 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 66 
 
 35 
 
 Garland, 
 
 1833 
 
 11 
 
 12 
 
 10 
 
 
 10 
 
 2 
 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 
 33 
 
 18 
 
 Exeter, 
 
 1836 
 
 15 
 
 10 
 
 5 
 
 
 5 
 
 5 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 30 
 
 22 
 
 Oldtown, (1st Orono,) 
 
 1835 
 
 5 
 
 60 
 
 20 
 
 
 16 
 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 85 
 
 70 
 
 Bangor and Glenburn, 
 
 1837 
 
 9 
 
 39 
 
 7 
 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 
 ■I 
 
 1 
 
 
 53 
 
 40 
 
 Newburg, 
 
 1839 
 
 11 
 
 8 
 
 15 
 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 
 34 
 
 23 
 
 Passadumkeag, 
 
 1838 
 
 8 
 
 14 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 88 
 
 27 
 
 Palmyra, 
 
 Argyle, 
 
 1838 
 
 13 
 
 35 
 
 11 
 
 1 
 
 7 
 
 11 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 60 
 
 39 
 
 1839 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 14 
 
 13 
 
 Springfield, 
 
 1889 
 
 8 
 
 22 
 
 12 
 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 43 
 
 37 
 
 Eddington & Jarvis' Gore, 
 
 1839 
 
 26 
 
 5 
 
 3 
 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 
 36 
 
 31 
 
 Newport Vil. Church, 
 
 1842 
 
 11 
 
 I 6 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 27 
 
 26 
 
 North Bangor, 
 
 1842 
 
 6 
 
 2 
 
 31 
 
 
 
 i 
 
 
 1 
 
 111 11 
 
 patten, 
 
 1843 
 
 13 
 
 7 
 
 1 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 | 20j 20 
 
 
 
 (S 
 
 i_i 
 
 en | ^ 
 
 g 
 
 o: 
 
 i 
 
 Oi 
 
 i_i 
 
 Or (3 , ►— 
 
 
 
 — 
 
 CD 
 
 ^ ' " 
 
 
 cr 
 
 
 -■: 
 
 ts 
 
 Cn £t 
 
 
 
 ~ 
 
 ? 
 
 
 
 <r> 
 
 cc 
 
 
 
 s 
 
 
 en 
 
 OS 
 CO 
 
 •Min. P. A. and letter to the Asso. 
 
CHAPTER XXII. 
 
 PISCATAQUIS ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches— Parkman, p. 231 ; First Sangerville. 215 ; Sebec ; 388 ; 
 Dover, 31.5; Abbot, 382; Athens Village, 387; St. Albans, 382; Har- 
 mony, 212 ; Guilford, 227 ; Athens, 233 ; Corinna, 238 ; Dexter, 376 ; 
 Monson, 379; Cambridge, 237. 
 
 From Lincoln Association — Atkinson and Milton, 318; St. Albans and 
 Hartland; Norlh-Hill, 232. 
 
 Added between 1839 and 1843 — Second Sangerville ; Foxcroft and Dover 
 Village; East St. Albans; Milo ; Greenville and Shirley; Second Pal- 
 myra; Hartland. 
 
 This Association embraces churches situated mostly 
 in Piscataquis County, and dismissed from the Penobscot 
 Association in 1838, for the purpose of forming this body. 
 It was organized at Parkman, Sept. 10, 1839, of fourteen 
 churches; Atkinson and Milton and Second Sangerville 
 were received at their first meeting, making in all sixteen 
 churches, with ten ordained ministers, and two licentiate 
 preachers, and eight hundred and seven communicants.* 
 
 This Association embraces a new country in which 
 many of the churches are small, and possess but a limited 
 ability to sustain the gospel. The Baptists here, however, 
 are indefatigable in perseverance, and obtain a rapid in- 
 crease. They do all they can to promote the religion of 
 Christ among themselves and something for the cause 
 abroad. 
 
 There is no cause of benevolence or wide spreading 
 sin, that receives the attention of other Associations that 
 is indifferently passed over by this body. Their resolutions 
 are copious and spirited, and their zeal corresponds to their 
 resolves. In their Minutes for 1843, instead of the usual 
 long list of resolutions published by the Associations almost 
 annually, they inserted the following one, as expressive of 
 the spirit and will of the churches. 
 
 *Min. Pis. Asso. 1839. 
 
394 2D SAJNGERVIL'LE— FOXCROFT— E. ST. ALBANS. 
 
 * Resolved, That our views in regard to all the benevo- 
 lent operations have not changed, nor our zeal abated. And 
 we recommend more of the book of Acts, and less of the 
 book of resolves.'* 
 
 Since their first anniversary God has eminently blessed 
 this body. Seven churches have been added, making in all 
 in 1843, twenty-three churches, with fifteen ordained min- 
 isters, one licentiate, and one thousand three hundred and 
 four communicants. f 
 
 Second Sangerville, is situated in the south part of 
 the town, and was embodied in 1S39, with eleven members, 
 most of them dismissed from the first church. There 
 was some difference of opinion as to the expediency of 
 the separation. They have had no pastor, but since 1841, 
 have had preaching monthly by Elder J. F. Page, and 
 have increased to twenty-two members. J 
 
 Foxcroft and Dover Village. This church is situ- 
 ated in the two flourishing villages, Foxcroft and Dover. 
 Eleven members, previously dismissed from the old 
 churches were embodied into church relation, August, 
 1840. In 1841, they had preaching by C. P. St. Clair, a 
 licentiate, semi-monthly ; in 1842 they had preaching 
 monthly, and in 1843 Elder O. B. Walker became their 
 pastor. By the blessing of God their number has increased 
 to seventy. § 
 
 East St. Albans is in the north-east part of the town. 
 It was embodied in the winter of 1840. It owes its exis- 
 tence partly to dismissions from the church in Dexter, but 
 mostly to a revival experienced at that time in its vicinity. 
 Its original number wast hirty-one, and its present is thirl y- 
 nine. From their commencement till 1842, they luid 
 preaching one half the time by Elders Winchester and 
 
 *Min. P. A. 1843, p. 6. fMin. P. A. table, pp. 4 and5. jMin. P. A. and 
 
 letters to the Asso. §EId. Robinson's Com. and Min. P. Asso. 
 
AilLO— GREENVILLE & SHIRLEY— 2D PALMYRA. 395 
 
 Roberts ; in 1842, by Eld. J. Hatch, and in 1843, by Eld. 
 J. P. Roberts. They have no pastor, nor house of worship 
 excepting school and dwelling houses.* 
 
 Milo. This town was incorporated in 1823, and is 
 increasing rapidly in population. Baptists, by emigration, 
 gradually became residents in the place. In June 1840, 
 a church of twelve members was organized. The next 
 year they were assisted by Eld. T. Macomber, who preached 
 monthly for them. In 1842, they had the same amount of 
 preaching, and some revival, and in '43 they had preaching 
 every third Sabbath by Eld. A. G. Tibbets. Their num- 
 ber is thirty-one. f 
 
 Foxcroft, received in 1842 from Penobscot, (see p. 385.) 
 
 St. Albans and Hartland, received in 1843 from 
 Penobscot, (seep. 396.) 
 
 Greenville and Shirley. Shirley was incorporated 
 in 1836, and Greenville in 1834. These towns are among 
 the extreme settlements in the northern part of the State, 
 and are situated upon the higher branches of the Piscata- 
 quis river, and near ' Moosehead Lake.' The church 
 bearing the above name was organized of ten members 
 from these towns, near the southern extremity of this Lake. 
 In 1843, Stephen Darling of Greenville, and Otis Cobb, 
 were chosen deacons. Three others have since united with 
 this small company of disciples in the wilderness. They 
 are scattered over a large territory and desire the labors of 
 a missionary. I This church was gathered by the labors of 
 Eld. O. B. Walker, who was sent there on a mission two 
 weeks by the Maine Domestic Missionary Society. 
 
 Second Palmyra, was organized in 1843, with twelve 
 
 members from the ' old church,' with twenty others, the 
 
 fruit of a revival, and has increased to fifty-five. It had 
 
 the occasional ministry of Elders Joseph and J. P. Roberts. 
 
 *E. Crocker's Com. and Min. Pis. A. fMin. p, Asso. JZion's Adv. 1843. 
 
396 
 
 PISCATAQUIS ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Hartland. This is a feeble church of sixteen mem- 
 bers. It was embodied in 1843, with eight members, and 
 is assisted by the occasional ministry of Elders D. M'Mas- 
 ter and S. A. Maxim,* 
 
 PISCATAQUIS ASSOCIATION.. ..TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 w ^ 
 
 
 
 cc 
 
 r 
 
 Pi 
 
 © 
 
 H 
 
 g 
 
 d 
 
 - 
 
 Q 
 
 3 
 
 J 
 
 ORGANIZED 1839. 
 Churches in 1813. 
 
 IS 
 
 a 
 
 • o 
 
 3 
 
 op 
 p 
 
 12. 
 5" 
 
 a 
 a. 
 
 s 
 
 o 
 
 3. 
 
 co' 
 en 
 CD 
 
 — 
 a 
 
 
 
 
 — 
 
 s 
 
 a 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 Z 
 o 
 
 o 
 S 
 
 o 
 
 Harmony, 
 
 Sangerville, (Piscataquis) 
 
 St. Albans and Hartland, 
 
 Guilford, 
 
 Parkman, 
 
 Athens, 
 
 Dover, 
 
 Cambridge, (Ripley) 
 
 Corinna, 
 
 Atkinson and Milton, 
 
 Dexter, 
 
 Monson, 
 
 1st St. Albans, 
 
 Abbot, 
 
 Athens Vill. Ch. 
 
 Sebec, 
 
 2d Sangerville, 
 
 Foxcroft & Dover Village, 
 
 East St. Albans, 
 
 Greenville and Shirley, 
 
 2d Palmyra, 
 
 Hartland, 
 
 Milo, 
 
 *Min. P. A. 
 
 1808 281 96 21 
 
 1808 
 1810 
 1813 
 1818 
 1819 
 1818 
 1822 
 1822 
 1825 
 1825 
 1827 
 1829 
 1827 
 1836 
 1835 
 1839 
 1840 
 1340 
 1 843 
 1843 
 1843 
 1840 
 
 12 132 35 
 
 214 52 
 202 46 
 299.97 
 78 21 
 147 62 
 
 23 
 
 33 
 
 11 
 
 3 
 
 
 3 
 
 1-1 
 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 13 
 
 6| 
 
 65 
 
 86 
 
 55 
 
 103 
 
 103 
 
 27 
 
 75 
 
 42 
 
 32 
 
 24 
 
 8 1 
 
 19 
 
 7 
 
 18 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 10 
 13 
 
 17 
 15 
 
 15 
 13 
 
 9 12 
 
 |9, 
 
 7i 1 
 
 13' 1 
 
 I I I I 
 
 1 145 
 
 1179 
 
 9 273 
 
 1262 
 
 |412 
 
 3 109 
 '221 
 
 16 139 
 6 107 
 85 
 V.r, 
 99 
 50 
 59 
 44 
 37 
 2i 24 
 
 4 67 
 45 
 13 
 15 
 16 
 31 
 
 21 
 21 
 
 173 
 99 
 
 193 
 56 
 85 
 73 
 50 
 34 
 66 
 75 
 23 
 22 
 37 
 30 
 22 
 70 
 39 
 13 
 45 
 16 
 31 
 
 1 is 
 
 55 
 
 CO 
 
 -J 
 
 31 
 
 (w 
 
 S3 
 
 -3 
 
 
 5 
 
 £ 
 -i 
 
 & 
 
 
 Or 
 
CHAPTER XXIII. 
 
 WALDO ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Churches whose histories have been given — First Vassalboro', 109 : Second 
 Vassalboro 7 , 112 : First China, 17b ; Second China, 150 : First Palermo, 
 262: Second Palermo, 283: First Montville, 276 : Second Mont vi lie, 
 302; Freedom, 302: Knox, 268 : Appleton, 307 : Belfast, 289 : Waldo, 
 314 : Albion, 217 : Searsrmmt, 319 : Monroe, 307 : Frankfort, 286 : Wind- 
 sor, 313 : Dixmont, 293 : Swauville. 177: Islesboro', 188: Belmoat, 
 301. 
 
 Added between 1828 and 1843 — Winslow : Second Searsmont : Second 
 Belfast : Frankfort Village : Unity. 
 
 In 1828, the churches in the county of Waldo, and in 
 that part of the County of Kennebec, lying on the east side 
 of Kennebec river, and belonging to Lincoln Association, 
 by their request, were dismissed to form the Waldo Asso- 
 ciation. These met by their delegates, in Palermo, Oct. 
 10, 1828, and organized. Their first annual meeting was 
 held at Montville, in August 1829. Three more churches 
 from Lincoln Association united with them. At this meet- 
 ing the body was enlarged to seventeen churches, nine 
 ordained ministers, three licentiates, and seven hundred and 
 forty-nine communicants. 
 
 The sentiments of this body as regards the various benev- 
 olent objects which receive the attention of the denomina- 
 tion at large, are in harmony with their brethren, as the 
 following vote, passed in annual meeting* shows : ' We 
 manifest our cordial approval of the benevolent operations 
 of the day ;' and resolutions appropriate to the various 
 objects have been adopted. These churches approve of 
 Temperance, Sabbath Schools, Ministerial Education, 
 Missions, Bible and Tract causes, and disapprove of Pope- 
 ry and Slavery.! 
 
 They also disallow one church the right to receive a 
 
 *JMin. W. A. fMin. 1834. 
 18 
 
ggg CH'tJftCff IN WINSLOW 
 
 member expelled from another,* and account it contrary 
 fo pure and proper discipline to drop members.! They 
 consider it reprehensible for an evangelist to baptize persons 5 
 within the limits of a church favored with a pastor /without 
 first consulting him,' and further, they condemn the prac- 
 tice of baptizing persons, and not uniting them with a reg- 
 ular Baptist chnrch.j: As regards members wishing to leave 
 and connect themselves with other religious societies, they 
 allow at the request of the person leaving, the giving a 
 writing, certifying the act of withdrawal from such a mem^ 
 ber, and the reason thereof. § 
 
 Since the organization of this body, several alterations 
 have occurred and enlargements made, which are impor- 
 tant to its history. The two churches in VassaFboro' have 
 become one church — second Montville and Prospect are 
 among the lost. The Association has received Monroe ? 
 Frankfort, Windsor, Dixmont, Swanville, Islesboro', from 
 the Lincoln ; and the churches which have arisen as fruits 
 of their influence, under God, are, second Searsmont, se- 
 cond Frankfort, Winslow, Belmont, and Unity. The 
 church in Hope has returned to the Lincoln. 
 
 The present number of churches, twenty-one ; ordained 
 ministers, thirteen ; licentiates, one ; and communicants, 
 seventeen hundred and fourteen — making an increase of 
 members, nine hundred sixty-five. 1843 was distinguished 
 for extensive and glorious revivals among these churches. 
 
 Winslow. This town, nearly opposite Waterville, was 
 incorporated in 1771. From 1826 there had been occa- 
 sional preaching by Elders Webber, King, Proctor, Bart- 
 lett, and Copeland. In the spring of 1837, there was some 
 revival in the east part of the town, under the labors of 
 brethren Bartlett and Knox. Souls were converted and 
 baptized, and a church of twenty-five members was em- 
 
 *Min. 1836, p. 6.f Min. 1835, p. 7. JMin. 1843, pp. 6 and 7. §Min '43, p. 6. 
 
2D SEARSMONT— 2D BELFAST -FRANKFORT VIL. 399 
 
 bodied. Previous to the death of Eld. Palmer, they were 
 blessed by his ministry. They have also had assistance by 
 Eld. S. Knox, and by students from Waterville. They have 
 no pastor, and a school house is their place of worship. 
 Their present number is thirty-five.* 
 
 Second Searsmont. In 1838, a second church in 
 Searsmont was organized with ten or twelve members, and 
 T. Bailey was chosen deacon. In 1840, their number was 
 nearly doubled. They have been checked in their progress 
 by some severe internal difficulties. They had twenty-four 
 members in 1843.t 
 
 Second Belfast. This church is situated in the east 
 part of Belfast, and embraces members in Belfast and 
 West Prospect. Several members of the church in Belfast 
 village resided here, and in the winter of 1840, C. G. 
 Porter, a licentiate of the church in Calais, labored among 
 them, and God owned and blessed his ministry to the 
 quickening of his people, and to the conversion of sinners. 
 At first the converts united with the church at the village, 
 but their numbers increased till a church of twenty-six 
 members was embodied in this part of the town. Mr. 
 Porter continued to preach for them one half the time till 
 the end of 1841, when A. B. Pendleton became their pas- 
 tor, but soon resigned. They have since prospered with 
 occasional preaching, and have increased to seventy-one 
 members, twenty of whom were baptized during a revival 
 in 1843.f 
 
 Frankfort Village Church, (or Second Church in 
 Frankfort.) This village is on the Penobscot river. In 
 Nov. 1841, a few Baptists, (eleven) were organized into a 
 church. The first year of their existence they began to 
 arrange for the building a house of worship, which they 
 
 *Jos. Taylor, Ch. Clk. Com. and Min. W. Asso. fMin. W Asso. 1843 
 and C. G« Porter's Com. JMin. W. A. 
 
400 
 
 CHURCH IN UNITY. 
 
 have accomplished. They have recently enjoyed a pre- 
 cious revival under the labors of Eld. C. 6, Porter, which 
 has increased their numbers to sixty-five.* 
 
 Unity. This town was incorporated in 1804, and the 
 same year a Congregational church was organized by 
 Jotham Sewall, but for many years it was small and des- 
 titute.f The Baptist church is of recent origin. It was 
 constituted in 1843, of eighteen members, with Eld. E. H. 
 Emery, pastor. f 
 
 WALDO ASSOCIATION TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1829. 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 <g 
 
 
 
 IS 
 
 r 
 
 - 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 ~ 
 
 ~ 
 
 r 
 
 en 
 
 1 
 
 O 
 
 p ^ 
 
 orq' 
 
 93 
 
 S 
 
 CD 
 
 i 
 
 re 
 
 CB 
 
 P 
 
 — 
 
 % 
 
 D9 
 
 a 
 
 -y 
 
 N 
 
 r 
 
 
 
 rtT 
 
 
 
 ft 
 
 
 
 re 
 2 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 re 
 
 
 
 o. 
 
 
 
 J; 
 
 
 
 
 
 ft 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 c 
 
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 §Vassalborough, 
 
 2d China, 
 
 Knox, 
 
 1st China, 
 
 J3vvanville(lsl Mt.Ephraim) 
 
 1st Palermo, 
 
 Mont ville ( 1st Ch.) 
 
 1st Frankfort, 
 
 2d Palermo, 
 
 Belfast (Vil. 1st) 
 
 || Belmont, 
 
 Dixmont, 
 
 Freedom, (1st Beaverhill) 
 
 Monroe. 
 
 Windsor (2d Malta) 
 
 Waldo, 
 
 Albion, 
 
 1st Searsmont, 
 
 Winslow, 
 
 2d Searsmont, 
 
 2d Belfast, 
 
 Frankfort, Vil. Ch. 
 
 Unity, 
 
 §lst and 2d united in 18-10. 
 IJGrccne, reorganized 1842. 
 
 1788;lli380 
 
 19 213 
 
 1767 
 1800 
 1801 
 1801 
 1805 
 1807 
 1808 
 1809 
 1809 
 1809124 33 10 
 Gl 
 
 22 1 123 24 
 
 1810 
 1812 
 1816 
 1820 
 1820 
 1824 
 '1827 
 1837 
 1838 
 1840 
 1841 
 18-13 
 
 10 227 
 
 107 
 
 44 
 
 
 21 
 
 
 429 
 
 4 96 
 
 80 
 
 28 
 
 
 10 
 
 
 274 
 
 11 
 
 46 
 
 46 
 
 19 
 
 
 23 
 
 
 220 
 
 11 
 
 133 
 
 74 
 
 43 
 
 
 7 
 
 
 517 
 
 
 110 
 
 13 
 
 11 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 154 
 
 7 
 
 116 
 
 49 
 
 18 
 
 
 15 
 
 
 247 
 
 16 
 
 45 
 
 51 
 
 19 
 
 
 11 
 
 
 190 
 
 7 
 
 52 
 
 42 
 
 12 
 
 
 
 145 
 
 3 
 
 56 
 
 35, ! 15 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 169 
 
 8 
 
 34 
 
 37 
 
 15 
 
 
 
 9 
 
 293 
 
 
 7 
 
 3 
 
 2 
 
 
 H 
 
 
 67 
 
 5 
 
 20 
 
 11 
 
 18 
 
 
 1? 
 
 
 107 
 
 4 
 
 83 
 
 23 
 
 18 
 
 
 
 20 
 
 138 
 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 
 6 
 
 
 34 
 
 10 
 
 38 
 
 63 
 
 17 
 
 
 121 
 
 209 
 
 i 
 
 22 
 
 15 
 
 IS 
 
 
 
 
 76 
 
 
 37 
 
 38 
 
 17 
 
 
 42 
 
 
 208 
 
 
 6 
 
 5 
 
 9 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 66 
 
 1 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 8 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 1 
 
 43 
 29 
 80 
 66 
 13 
 
 149 
 64 
 97 
 
 273 
 17 
 46 
 74 
 37 
 65 
 
 174 
 33 
 44 
 33 
 22 
 89 
 30 
 74 
 47 
 35 
 24 
 71 
 65 
 18 
 
 
 5fc 
 
 4- 
 
 si 
 
 
 1 
 
 9° 
 
 Or 
 
 <o 
 
 to 
 
 
 3779 
 31 
 
 205 
 
 f Min. VV. Asso. fGreen. Eccl. sk. p. 203. JMin. W. A. 1843. 
 
CHAPTER XXIV. 
 
 KENNEBEC ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Churches from other Associations — First Sidney, p. 116 ; Second Sidney, 
 200; Clinton, 149; Industry, 151: Farmington, 153; Mt Vernon, 158; 
 New Sharon. 178; Bloomtield. 180; Belgrade, 202; Comville, 241; 
 Milburn, 223 ; Moscow, 223 ; YVaterville,229 ; Canaan, 232 ; First Nor- 
 ridgewock, 233 ; Second Norridgewock, 241 ; Strong, 234 ; Chesterville, 
 235; Madisonj 261 ; Anson, 235; New Portland, 221. 
 
 Added between 1830 and 1843 — Fairfield ; Augusta ; Starks ; Avon ; Second 
 Bloomfield; Solon; Oak Hill. 
 
 This body was organized in Industry, September 1, 
 1830, with twenty churches, nine ordained ministers, 
 and nine hundred and nineteen communicants.* A large 
 part of the churches embraced within the limits of this 
 body are in the Counties of Somerset and Franklin. 
 
 In 1841, the following questions were proposed by the 
 second church in Norridgewock :"|" 
 
 1st. 'What is the duty of a church in reference to 
 communing, where a difficulty exists between two or 
 more of its members?' 
 
 2d. 'What is the duty of the church in reference to 
 their members, who are under such circumstances?' 
 
 These important queries were answered by the Asso- 
 ciation as follows: 'The church has no power to set 
 aside the command of Christ — 'Do this in remembrance 
 of me.' If, however, an extreme case should occur, in 
 which obedience to this command cannot be rendered, 
 the omission of it cannot be wrong.' To the second, it 
 was replied, 'It may be consistent to suspend both par- 
 ties from religious privileges, where investigation cannot 
 be ha(J, or results formed. But in no case are the in- 
 nocent and the guilty to be treated alike for a longer 
 
 *Min. of K. A. 1830. tMin. 1841. 
 
402 KENNEBEC ASSOCIATION. 
 
 time than is necessary for investigation and deliberate 
 results.' 
 
 Resolutions had been frequently passed by this Asso- 
 ciation, deprecating 'Slavery' in the United States as a 
 most extensive evil and flagrant sin; but in 1843, the 
 subject came up in a new form, and asking for a decision 
 as regards how the churches, not directly affected by 
 the sin, should treat slave-holding church members, at 
 their communion and fellowship. The question came 
 from the church in Augusta, and was referred to a 
 committee of three: Warren, Trask, and Bailey. This 
 committee reported the following resolution: 'That it 
 is the duty of our churches to exclude from their fel- 
 lowship, individuals and churches who are guilty of 
 the sin of slavery, as they would for any other fla- 
 grant immorality.' Upon deliberation and discussion 
 of this resolve, it was ascertained that a few only of the 
 brethren present were in favor of its adoption, and the 
 following was offered as a substitute, which passed 
 almost unanimously: 'Resolved, That while we would 
 carefully discriminate between different degrees of guilt, 
 we think it is the duty of the churches, after faithful, 
 scriptural admonition, to withdraw fellowship from in- 
 dividuals and churches who persist in the sin of slavery; 
 this withdrawal being based upon the same reasons that 
 exist in relation to any other flagrant sin.'* 
 
 Belgrade and First Sidney churches have undergone 
 a new organization ; and Chesterville, Fairfield, and 
 Second Norridgewock, have become extinct. In 1843, 
 the Association had twenty-five churches, twenty-one 
 ordained ministers, and one thousand five hundred and 
 sixty-nine communicants; increase in thirteen years, f 
 six hundred and fifty. The most distinguished revivals 
 were in the years 1832, '38 and '43. 
 *Min. of K. A. 1843. fMin. 1843. 
 
CHURCH IN FAIRFIELD— AUGUSTA. 403 
 
 Fairfield. In 1831, several brethren belonging to 
 Baptist churches in Waterville, and some other places, 
 residing in the south part of Fairfield, were organized 
 into a church of about twenty members. But, as many- 
 feared and anticipated when it was formed, it has fallen. 
 At the annual meeting of the Association in 1837,* it 
 was recommended to these brethren to unite with other 
 churches. f Their number never exceeded twenty-seven. 
 
 Augusta. Augusta, the capital of the State, was 
 first settled in 1771, and incorporated in 1797. In 1840, 
 it contained 53 1 4 inhabitants. The first religious society 
 formed here, was the Congregational church, in 1794.J 
 The Baptist church here is comparatively of recent 
 origin. Pious Baptists and members of other churches 
 had for many years gradually increased in the village. 
 In 1831, L. Porter, then a student in Waterville Col- 
 lege, preached here occasionally, by the request of some 
 of the resident Baptists, and the same year a Baptist 
 church of thirty members, was gathered. Their first 
 place of worship was the old Court house. This was 
 spacious and convenient. § Here they had occasional 
 preaching. The officers and students at Waterville 
 aided their undertaking. By these means they pros- 
 pered, and were increased in less than one year to the 
 number of sixty-five members. 
 
 In 1834 and '35, they were supplied almost statedly 
 with the ministry, by J. C. Morrill. || During these 
 years the ehurch enjoyed unusual prosperity, in the 
 addition of members, and in the increase of outward 
 means and facilities for progress. With some assistance 
 from abroad, they built a house of worship, which was 
 furnished with a good bell by the liberality of Col. Alfred 
 
 *See Min. 1837, p. 4. fMin. 1836. {Green. Eccl. sk. p. 198. $Zioirs 
 Adv. Dec. 22, 1831. pin. 1835, p. 11. 
 
404 CHURCH IN STARKS— AVON— 2D BLOOMF1ELD. 
 
 Reddington. # In 1836, Rev. C. Blanchard became pas- 
 tor, and continued about one year. In 1833, T. Curtis 
 was installed their pastor, but left them in about two 
 years, destitute and in a low and discouraged state. 
 They were next supplied a short time by P. S. Adams; 
 but they still 'remained somewhat unfruitful, '"j* In 1841, 
 E. R. Warren became their pastor. In 1842, a very 
 general revivalf blessed the church and society. The 
 church was enlarged by seventy-seven by baptism, and 
 others by letter. In 1843, it had one hundred and 
 ninety-three members. § 
 
 Starks. This town, on the west side of Kennebec 
 river, was incorporated in 1795. A Congregational 
 society was established here in 1804. Several members 
 of the Baptist church in Industry lived in Starks, and 
 in 1833, a church of fifteen members was gathered, 
 most of whom were dismissed from Industry. They 
 had preaching monthly. In 1837, they were increased 
 by a special revival, and by another season of mercy in 
 1842, which increased the church to its present number 
 of forty-five members. In 1840, D. T. Allen became 
 their pastor. || 
 
 Avon. This town was incorporated 1802. Here the 
 sentiments of the Methodists have long prevailed. The 
 Baptist ministers came and preached, and some of the 
 people became pious and were baptized. A few materials 
 being now prepared for a church, it was embodied May, 
 1836. Their present number is ten. ft 
 
 Second Bloomfield. In the southern part of the town 
 of Bloomfield, where this church is located, the people 
 were nearly destitute of gospel privileges, and were ex- 
 ceeding careless and unconcerned about eternal things. 
 In 1835, Eld. L. Packard began preaching occasionally 
 
 *Min. 1835, p. 11. tMin. 1840, p. 10. JMin. 1842, statistics. §Min 1843. 
 ||Min. K. A. IT J. Libby Ch. Clk. Com. Mm. 1043. 
 
CHURCH IN SOLON— OAK HILL. 
 
 405 
 
 here. In Oct. 1837, a church of thirteen members 
 was organized. Mr. P. was pastor from 1838 to 1842, 
 preaching for them one half and then one fourth of the 
 time. Their present number is thirty.* 
 
 Solon. In Dec. 1840, a church of eleven members was 
 constituted. These members are scattered over the ter- 
 ritory of four towns, Embden, Concord, Bingham and So- 
 lon, and present an inviting field for a Missionary. They 
 have preaching about one fourth of the time, and have in- 
 creased to eighteen members.! 
 
 Oak Hill, Norridgewock. This church was organ- 
 ized in 1842. It has twenty-one members. J 
 
 KENNEBEC ASSOCIATION... .TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1830. 
 Churches in 1343. 
 
 3 
 
 c 
 
 
 
 
 C 
 
 
 ~ 
 
 3 
 
 
 Q 
 
 3 
 
 CD 
 
 > 
 
 
 i 
 
 S 
 
 3. 
 
 35' 
 
 CI 
 
 to" 
 
 9- 
 
 re 
 
 
 a 
 a. 
 
 
 O 
 
 
 — 
 
 
 — 
 
 re 
 
 c 
 
 
 — 
 
 
 
 ¥, 
 
 w 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 r* 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1st Sidney (reorgz. 1843) 
 
 Clinton. 
 
 Industry, (1st N. Vineyard) 
 
 Farmington, (reorgz. 1810) 
 
 Ml. Vernon, 
 
 New Sharon, 
 
 Bloomfield (Canaan) 
 
 2d Sidney, 
 
 Belgrade, (reorg. 1840) 
 
 Cornville, 
 
 N. Portland (reorg. 1837) 
 
 Moscow (Bakerslown) 
 
 Skowhegan,(2d Canaan) 
 
 Waterville, 
 
 Canaan, 
 
 Norridgewock, 
 
 Anson, 
 
 Strong, 
 
 Madison, 
 
 Augusta, 
 
 Starks, 
 
 Avon. 
 
 Bloomfield (2d) 
 
 Solon, 
 
 Norridgewock, Oak-hill, 
 
 11791 
 1796 
 1797 
 1797 
 1799 
 1802 
 1803 
 1806 
 1806 
 1801 
 1810 
 1812 
 1813 
 1818 
 1819 
 1819 
 1820 
 1320 
 1328 
 1332 
 1333 
 1836 
 1837 
 1840 
 1842 
 
 16 133 
 26 206 
 165 
 146 
 144 
 178 
 267 
 
 17 
 12 
 15 
 
 i9:i7i 
 
 I 41 
 
 11 69 
 
 4| 57 
 
 61 4.3 
 
 36 
 
 31 
 
 104 
 
 56 
 
 3', 35 
 
 6 61 
 
 3 
 
 12 
 
 15 
 
 121 
 
 7 
 
 39 
 
 7 
 
 11 
 
 11 
 
 39 
 
 1 
 
 38 '22 
 39 21 
 26 24 
 21 
 
 172 
 
 16 ' 
 
 21 
 
 68 
 50 
 93 
 44. 
 93 
 
 115 
 77 
 77 
 
 131 
 36 
 37 
 42 
 
 257 
 45 
 26 
 32 
 23 
 28 
 
 193 
 45 
 10 
 30 
 18 
 21 
 
 VC 00 
 
 'John Wheeler, Ch. Clk. 
 
 18* 
 
 I 
 
 Com. and Min. Asso. fMin. Asso. '42 and '43, 
 
 00 
 
CHAPTER XXV. 
 
 CUMBERLAND ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches — East Brunswick, p. 99 ; Hebron, 119 ; First Buckfield, 
 122; Paris, 123; First Livermore, 135; New Gloucester, 147; Jay, 156 ; 
 Brunswick, 159; First Portland, 170; Second Buckfield, 177; North 
 Yarmouth, 183 ; Jefferson and Lancaster, 190; Sumner, 190; Bethel, 
 191; Norway, 204; Minot, 207: Freeport, 208: Danville, 210: Den- 
 mark, 213 : Weld, 214 : Bridgton, 217 : Hartford, 218. 
 
 Added between 1811 and 1843 — Bath: Second Livermore: Waterford : 
 Scarboro' : Peru : Cape Elizabeth : Byron : Canton : Turner : Poland : 
 Oxford: Harrison: Hamlin's Gore : Woodstock : Village Church Bruns- 
 wick : Chebeague Island : Free Street Portland : Harpswell : Durham : 
 Main St. Brunswick. 
 
 Twenty-two churches situated mostly in Cumberland 
 and Oxford Counties, were dismissed from the Bowdoin- 
 ham in 1810, to form a new Association west of Androscog- 
 gin [river. Two new churches, second Livermore and 
 Bath, united with them; and the Cumberland Association 
 was organized at North Yarmouth, Oct. 2, 1811. These 
 twenty-four churches were blessed with the ministry of 
 twenty-two ordained preachers and two licentiates, and 
 embraced one thousand one hundred and sixty-five com- 
 municants. This Association adopted the same articles of 
 Faith and Covenant, with some verbal amendments as the 
 Bowdoinham and Lincoln, and united with them in the 
 cause of Missions and Literary and Theological Education. 
 
 The first question proposed to this new body was by the 
 church in Hebron, in 1812 : ' Can a church by vote dis- 
 solve itself, otherwise than to join some other church or 
 churches?' This was a question of some importance, and 
 was referred to Eld. Blood of Portland, for an answer.* 
 The answer submitted to and adopted by the Association 
 was virtually as follows : A church may dissolve in cases 
 of doctrinal errors ; inconvenient locality of its members; 
 
 *Mro. C. 1812, p. G. 
 
CUMBERLAND ASSOCIATION. 407 
 
 and when distance renders it impossible for its members 
 to meet regularly for worship, conference and discipline. 
 But in no other case can a church consistently vote its 
 own dissolution. The second question of special impor- 
 tance was submitted by the second church in Livermore. 
 Question : ' Is it scriptural for one church to receive into 
 fellowship a person who has been excluded from another 
 belonging to the same Association F This question was 
 referred to a committee of three, Blood, Boardman, and 
 Titcomb, to be answered at the next annual meeting ; 
 when the following report of the committee was unani- 
 mously adopted : 'Each church is independent with respect 
 to discipline. An association of churches have not power 
 to abrogate the censure of an individual church — there- 
 fore, for one church of the same faith and order to receive 
 an excluded member from another church of the same 
 faith, order and association, is contrary to order.' The 
 same decision upon a similar question was given by the 
 Bowdoinham Association. The subject of Foreign Mis- 
 sions was recommended to attention and liberality at the 
 meeting in 1814. 
 
 In 1S17, the propriety of ordaining deacons, came up 
 for decision. This query was referred to the churches to 
 be answered in their letters the next year, and there the 
 matter ended. Upon the question, ' What are the measures 
 to be pursued, and the formalities to be attended to, in 
 order that a public preacher be cloathed with all the au- 
 thority and vested with all the powers of a minister of the 
 gospel of Christ? This question grew out of the custom 
 then being introduced of settling a pastor by installation. 
 A similar question in 1821 was suggested by the same 
 custom. On both occasions the answers were against in- 
 stallations. In 1823 a committee was raised to aid in 
 forming the State Convention. In 1S24 resolutions were 
 
408 CUMBERLAND ASSOCIATION. 
 
 first passed on temperance. In 1825 a social library was 
 recommended in each church. In 1828 the churches in 
 Oxford County were set off, with one or two others in Cum- 
 berland, to form the Oxford Association. In 1829, Bible 
 Class and Sabbath School instruction, Tract and Bible 
 Societies, first commended to the churches as highly im- 
 portant to their welfare. In 1880 Zion's Advocate was 
 recommended to the patronage of the churches ; also, the 
 Am. Colonization Society was noticed favorably. In 1832 
 the Association concurred with the Quarterly Conference 
 in the employment of a County Missionary. In 1834 res- 
 olutions appointing special seasons for prayer to be observed 
 by the churches in favor of ministerial education and 
 literary institutions. In 1835 a proposal was made to form 
 a benevolent Society, to assist aged ministers and relieve 
 their widows and orphans. The proposal was accepted. 
 In 1636 the Christian Review was recommended to the 
 churches, and the County Sabbath School Union formed. 
 In 1837 the organization of the Foreign Bible Society, 
 approved by the Association, and Home Missions received 
 attention. In 1839 the following question was referred to 
 a committee, viz. Champlin, Humphrey, Jones, Hart and 
 Ricker : ' Are we required by the word of God to acknowl- 
 edge and fellowship as sister churches, those whose mem- 
 bers live in the allowed practice of a heinous sin ; such 
 as holding their fellow-men and brethren as property, 
 &LC.V* In 1840 it was resolved that it was inexpedient 
 for the Association to give any advice on the question. 
 The circular letter is dispensed with, and its place in the 
 Minutes is required to be filled with a brief history of one 
 of the churches composing the Association. During the 
 history of this body, these churches have done much for 
 the various causes of benevolence, for literature and for 
 
 *JMin. C. A. 1840. 
 
SECOND CHURCH IN LIVERMORE. 409 
 
 the promotion of an enlightened theology in our own State. 
 The Association has also watched over the several churches 
 with care and diligence. The churches, Bridgton, Den- 
 mark, Brunswick, Scarboro' and Bath, have remonstrated 
 against the interference of the Association with particular 
 churches. Chebeague and village church Brunswick, have 
 received advantage from advice given by committees sent 
 to them in difficulty. It has been a prosperous body. From 
 its organization to the division in 1828, it was enlarged by 
 the additions of thirteen new churches, and embraced in 
 all two thousand two hundred and fourteen communicants.* 
 By this division it was reduced to twelve churches, ten 
 ordained ministers, and one thousand one hundred and 
 twenty-two members. f Its present number are fifteen 
 churches, twelve ordained ministers, and one thousand 
 nine hundred and one members ;| making an increase from 
 1829 of three churches and seven hundred and seventy- 
 nine communicants. 
 
 Second Livermore. Occupying the southern part of 
 that town, was organized with seventeen members in 1811. 
 It was gathered by the instrumentality of Eld. Ransom 
 Norton, who became its pastor and officiated in the 
 church till 1826. In 1819 they built a house for worship, 
 but it was not well located, and never finished. In 1842, 
 they took it down and rebuilt in a pleasant location, about 
 half a mile north of North Turner Bridge. It will now 
 conveniently accommodate the whole church, a part of 
 whom live in North Turner. Their number in '43 was 
 thirty-five. 
 
 Since Eld. Norton closed his labors with this church 
 they have had stated supplies a portion of the time by 
 Elders W. Foss and Martin Leonard, between the years 
 1826 and 1838, and Eld. Wm. Johnson in 1S38, and Eld. 
 
 •Mill 1828. tMin. 1829. {Mm. 1843. 
 
410 CHURCH IN BATH. 
 
 Jos. Hutchinson in 1839 to '40, and from 1842 Eld. Sam- 
 uel Boothby, half the time, and the church though small, 
 are nevertheless encouraged to persevere.* 
 
 Bath. This town is situated about twelve miles from 
 the sea, on the west side of Kennebec river, and was 
 incorporated in 1780. It has a large commercial village, 
 and is important for its trade. The Congregationalists 
 were operating here previous to 1762; a society was 
 formed in 1767, and the present first church in 1795. 
 A second Congregational church was formed in 1805. 
 Thus a Pedo-baptist influence covered the whole ground. 
 And yet, it appears that previous to any special move- 
 ments by the Baptists, a few persons embraced their 
 faith and desired to walk in the ordinances of the gospel. 
 The first ministerial efforts were made by Eld. James 
 Potter. He says,f 'In 1783, I visited Bath, and enjoyed 
 sensible tokens of the Divine presence.' 
 
 Towards the close of the same year, Elder Case 
 preached in this place, but it is not certain that any 
 special results followed. Those who became pious 
 Baptists, and those Baptists who resided here in the 
 days of Eld. Potter's ministry, either united with the 
 church at Harpswell, or moved to other places. 
 
 For some years previous to the formation of the church 
 in Bath, Baptist preachers, as, Elders Haines, Mariner, 
 Case, and Stearns, preached to the people occasionally. 
 In July, 1810, three persons were baptized by Elder 
 Haines. Some revival influences followed, which led 
 the way for the organization of the church in October, 
 the same year. The council met, and the church was 
 embodied at the dwelling-house of Elijah Low, who had 
 been, for some years previous, the only male Baptist 
 in the village, and who was one of the ten first united 
 in the church. £ 
 
 *J. H.'s Com. and Min. O. A. tPotter's Nar. p. 23. \E. Low's Com. 
 
CHURCH IN BATH. ±\\ 
 
 Prosperity begaa with the church. The next day 
 after they were embodied, three were baptized by Elder 
 Stearns; and soon after, three more by Elder Mariner. 
 December 2d, they celebrated the Lord's Supper. In 
 November, Eld. Stearns united with them, and from 
 December he officiated as their pastor. 
 
 They were amidst opposing influences, had no house 
 of worship, few in number, and poor as to temporal 
 wealth. They had therefore to hold their church meet- 
 ings in dwelling houses, and public meetings on the 
 Sabbath in school-houses, or such as were open to their 
 service. At length they were better accommodated in 
 what was called Nichols' Hall, where they peaceably 
 served God till 1817, when they built a brick house, 40 
 feet by 60 feet. 
 
 The first general revival was in 1816. In this work 
 their pastor was much assisted by a travelling preacher, 
 by the name of Scrivener, 'who seemed to come by the 
 direction and in the Spirit of Christ.' A large accession 
 was now made to the church, and the gradual increase 
 now became much larger than before the revival. The 
 second revival was in 1825. In 1834, a third season of 
 special mercy was enjoyed, and Eld. I. S. Smith par- 
 ticipated in the labors by which the work was promoted; 
 and a small refreshing was experienced in 1840, by Eld. 
 Butler's efforts. The church had some trials about the 
 year 1827, when one of their deacons and twenty-five 
 of their members left the church. But their trials have 
 gradually subsided, at the return of some of these erring 
 brethren. 
 
 Eld. Stearns faithfully conducted the spiritual affairs 
 of the church till his death, August, 1840. His life 
 and ministry were appreciated, and his death lamented. 
 
 H. G. Nott became their pastor in September, after 
 
412 WATERFORD— SCARBORO'— PERU— C. ELIZABETH. 
 
 the death of Mr. Stearns. Under his labors this people 
 enjoyed a refreshing revival in 1842. They are friendly 
 to all truly benevolent objects of the day, and aid them 
 by their generous donations. This church has conferred 
 license on Henry Wyer, John Wakefield, William Pat- 
 terson, Abraham H. Granger, and Martin B. Anderson. 
 Members in 1843, two hundred and twenty-six. # 
 
 Waterford. In 1812, Josiah Houghton, a licentiate, 
 aided in gathering a church of twelve members. But 
 it did not prosper, and in 1828, was lost from the Asso- 
 ciation.! 
 
 Scarboro'. A Baptist church was gathered in 1818, 
 of fifteen members. But they were overcome by op- 
 posing influences, and lost their visibility in 1840. 
 They reported to the Association, in 1835, twenty-four 
 members. J 
 
 Peru, (first called Plantation No. 1.) This town was 
 incorporated by the name of Peru, in 1821. Among the 
 first settlers there were some Baptists, and in 1818, a small 
 church of nine members was embodied. Gilbert Hathaway, 
 one of its original members, was licensed to preach in 1821, 
 and was for many years useful to the church. He was not 
 ordained, and became deacon in the church in 1830, when 
 Eld. Elias Nelson became their minister a part of the time. 
 This year it had twenty members. From 1834 to 1S39, 
 they had but a small amount of preaching, by L. Cummings, 
 a licentiate, and 1S40, S. S. Wyman, a licentiate, became 
 a member, and preached occasionally for them, and in 
 1843, was ordained pastor. It is a feeble body of twenty- 
 nine members. § 
 
 Cape Elizabeth. This church, with twenty-four mem- 
 bers, was organized in 1S20, and Eld. N. Hooper was 
 
 *S. Eames'Com.Min. C. A. fMin. C. A. 1812, 1828. +Min. C. A. $Min. 
 C. and O. 
 
CHURCH IN BYRON—CANTON— TURNER. 413 
 
 placed over them as pastor. He remained with them about 
 two years, but the church did little more than maintain 
 their standing. In 1825, R. Curtis became their minister. 
 In 1828, they were again destitute, with a decrease of 
 numbers. They have since had no pastor and not much 
 preaching They have however built a house of worship, 
 and are still striving to sustain life, with 22 members.* 
 
 Byron, (first called No. 8.) Twenty-one persons were 
 recocrnized as a church of Christ in 1820. Previous to 
 this, Baptists had increased by emigration, and by means 
 of occasional preaching by Baptist ministers. It has never 
 had a pastor, and but little of gospel preaching. Elders 
 Robert Mitchell, A. Bedel, and C. P. Branin have preached 
 here occasionally. The church has had many trials, suf- 
 fered much for want of active piety, and been cheered 
 with but one revival. This season of mercy was in 1826, 
 when sixteen were added to the church. Its present num- 
 ber is twenty-six. t 
 
 Canton. This town was incorporated in 1821, and '22 
 a Baptist church of sixteen members was organized. From 
 this time till about 1840, a period of eighteen years, it expe- 
 rienced one continued season of darkness and discourage- 
 ment. It was small, had not much strength in itself, had 
 no pastor, and very few privileges. During this period, 
 Dea. Z. Harford was its principal supporter. A brighter 
 prospect began to appear in 1840, and prosperity has since 
 cheered this feeble and afflicted body. In 1839, the church 
 had eleven members only; the present number is forty-six. 
 The labors of Eld. M. Lawrence, have been much blessed 
 among this people, and the church is rising to be a useful 
 vine in the Lord's vineyard. | 
 
 Turner. This town was first called Sylvester, in honor 
 of Capt. Jos. Sylvester, one of its original proprietors. It 
 
 *Min. C. A. tMin. C. and O. A. tMin. C. and O. A. 
 
414 CHURCH IN TURNER. 
 
 was first settled in 1775, and was incorporated by its pres- 
 ent name in 1786.* Religious efforts were made in this 
 town by the Presbyterians at a very early period of its 
 settlement, and a church of their faith and order was organ- 
 ized in 1784.f The Rev. Mr. Strickland was pastor.f 
 Gradually this church lost its Presbyterian character, and 
 in 1803, a Congregational church took its place, and con- 
 tinues its influence in the town. The Baptists were the 
 next to introduce the gospel into town. Between 1791 
 and 1793, Eld. Potter made frequent visits to Turner, and 
 preached and baptized a few persons, who united with the 
 church in Buckfield, which was embodied in '91. About 
 this time there was much dissatisfaction among the people 
 in Turner, with the Presbyterians, on account of the heavy 
 taxes levied upon them to support their church operations. 
 Baptist sentiments beginning to have some influence in 
 town, a society by their name was formed and incorporated, 
 comprising the friends of the Baptists in Turner and Buck- 
 field. But it does not appear that they secured much 
 preaching except by travelling preachers, and such occa- 
 sional efforts could do but little in Turner, for ' at this 
 time,' says Eld. Potter, ' the greater part of the people in 
 Turner appear to be carried about by various winds of 
 doctrine 'J 
 
 In 1811 Eld. Lewis Leonard, from Albany, N. Y., 
 preached here a few weeks, and baptized two persons, and 
 in 1816 there was an extensive revival in town in connec- 
 tion with the Congregational church, and ten of the con- 
 verts became Baptists and united with the church inMinot, 
 of which Elder Ricker was pastor. Regular meetings of 
 began now to be held by the Baptists in T., and Elder R. 
 preached for them one sixth part of the time for two years. 
 The foundation was now being laid for a Baptist church. 
 *N. E. Gazetteer. tGreen. Eccl. sk. p. 178, 183. JEld. Potter's Nar. p. 72. 
 
CHURCH IN POLAND— OXFORD. 415 
 
 In 1824, a revival was experienced under the labors of 
 neighboring ministers, but chiefly by the instrumentalities 
 of Elder D. Nutter, of Livermore. A church was now 
 embodied with twenty members, and soon additions were 
 made to it. This year, too, A. Wilson commenced preach- 
 ing a part of the time, and his ministry was useful to this 
 infant church till 1828. Since, this church has employed 
 the following ministers either as pastors or evangelists ; 
 brethren John Hull, Charles Miller, W. O. Grant, Josiah 
 Houghton, D. Hutchinson, Eliab Coy, Thomas F. Cur- 
 tis and A. Wilson. They have had several precious sea- 
 sons of revival, which have increased their faith, their zeal 
 and their numbers. They have a neat and commodious 
 house of worship, located in a beautiful and flourishing 
 village. Their present number is one hundred and thirty- 
 three.* 
 
 Poland. This town was incorporated in 1795. By 
 means of the influence of Baptist churches, Baptist pro- 
 fessors increased gradually in town, most of whom united 
 with the church in Paris, or were members of that church. 
 In 1824 they were embodied into a church consisting of 
 twenty-one members. After struggling to maintain visi- 
 bility several years, it united with the Baptist church in 
 Oxford, when that church took the double name, ' Poland 
 and Oxford. 't This union continued and the double name 
 was retained till almost the whole church and its influence 
 was confined to Oxford, J and then the name Poland was 
 dropped, and here ends the Poland church. 
 
 Oxford, (first called in 1827, ' Second Hebron.') The 
 church in this town was gathered by means of Baptist min- 
 isters in adjoining towns. It was recognized in 1827, and 
 composed of seventeen members, most of whom had pre- 
 
 *A. PettenguTs Com. and Min. C. and O. A. tMin. O. A. 1837. +Min. 
 O. A. 1840. 
 
416 HARRISON— HAMLIN'S GRANT— WOODSTOCK. 
 
 viously belonged to the churches in Paris and Hebron, and 
 was then called second Hebron, but took the name Oxford, 
 in 1829. It has ever been a small and feeble church, and 
 has labored under some peculiar disadvantages. But bless- 
 ed with more preaching than the church in Poland, they 
 had greater prosperity. In 1837, the church in Poland 
 united with this ; but the cause was still more prosperous 
 in Oxford, and their name was dropped in 1840. Eld. R. 
 C. Starr was its first pastor, and Eld. Timothy Bailey in 
 1843. Their prospect is good, and they hope that their 
 labor will not be in vain. Their number is forty -five.* 
 
 Harrison. This town was incorporated in 1805. 
 The first Baptists here were united with the church in 
 Bridgton. In 1827, a church of twenty-two members 
 was organized. In 1835, they were enlarged and cheered 
 by a precious revival. In 1837 and 1838, Elder R. C. 
 Starr devoted one half of his ministry to them, and was 
 considered their bishop. This increased their number 
 to sixty-three. Levi Burnham was ordained June 21, 
 1843.| 
 
 Hamlin's Grant, or Hamlin's Gore. A church by 
 this name was constituted in February, 1828. Several 
 of its original members had previously been members 
 of the church in Paris. Ransom Dunham has been 
 their pastor since 1835. Their number is ninety-seven. J 
 
 Woodstock and Greenwood. This church was 
 gathered, with thirty-five members, in 1828. In 1843, 
 they enjoyed a portion of the labors of Elder Reuben 
 Milner, and were much revived. Their number is 
 thirty-eight. § 
 
 Village Church, Brunswick, was constituted in 
 1829, and was dropped from the Association in 1839. || 
 
 *Min.O. A. tMin.C.andO. A. JMin. O. A. Eld. R. Dunham's Com. 
 §Min. C. and O. Asso. ||Min. C. Asso, 
 
CHURCH IN CHEBEAGUE ISLAND— HARPSWELL. 417 
 
 Chebeague Island forms a portion of the boundary 
 of Portland harbor. Methodists have exerted an influ- 
 ence here for many years. In 1828 and '29, a general 
 revival of religion extended its influence over the island, 
 and some of the converted became Baptists. In 1830, 
 a church was constituted of eighteen members. They 
 have erected a house for worship, but it was not finished, 
 in 1843. Their number is thirty-one.* 
 
 Harfswell, first called Harpswell Neck. This 
 church was constituted of eighteen members, living on 
 what is called Harpswell Neck and on Sabasdegan 
 island, in 1827. In 1831, when they united with the 
 Cumberland Association, the church had thirty mem- 
 bers. In 1836, they built a convenient house of worship, 
 at a cost of $1100. Their numbers have gradually 
 increased, and some precious seasons of revival. Elds. 
 Kendall, Starr, Norton, and Butler, have labored here. 
 Their number is seventy-six. | 
 
 Free Street Church, Portland. Almost from the 
 commencement of the Baptists in the city of Portland, 
 they have been blessed of God with an interesting pros- 
 perity. An annual increase, together with additions by 
 repeated revivals, gave to the first church, in 1835, the 
 number of two hundred and seventy-two members. 
 The congregation who usually met with them had become 
 so numerous that their house of worship had become 
 'too strait.' Under these circumstances it was deemed 
 an important duty that the church be divided, that 
 thereby they might extend their exertions. Immedi- 
 ately, therefore, arrangements were made to form an- 
 other church, and open a second place of worship. 
 
 The place chosen by the Great Head of the church, 
 was 'Portland Theatre' It was purchased by the Bap- 
 
 'Min. C. A. and D. Morse, Ch. Clk. Com. fMin. C. Asso. 
 
418 FREE ST. PORTLAND— DURHAM, S. VV. B. 
 
 tists, December, 1835, and soon converted into a house 
 for the worship of God. Its location is pleasant, being 
 on Free street, near the centre of the city. The next 
 month, fifty-seven persons, mostly from the first church, 
 were recognized, January, 1836, as the 'Free Street 
 Church, Portland.' Thus commenced a second interest 
 in the Baptist cause in Portland ; and that this movement 
 was pleasing to the God in Zion, the subsequent history 
 of this church shows. Jan., 1837, Thomas O. Lincoln 
 became its first pastor. This connexion continued har- 
 moniously till September, 1841. During his ministry 
 the church had uninterrupted prosperity. Two signal 
 revivals were experienced — the first in 1837, and the 
 second in 1840 — and the last was to the first, like latter 
 to the former rain. In this season of mercy, one hun- 
 dred and sixteen souls were hopefully gathered into the 
 fold of Christ. 
 
 Besides several benevolent societies, there are con- 
 nected with this churGh two large and flourishing Sab- 
 bath schools. In February, 1842, Rev. Lewis Colby 
 became its second pastor. By his ministry the prosperity 
 of the church continued. While the first church has 
 been moving on in its path of general usefulness, and 
 has increased to a total of members nearly as large as 
 when the church was set off, this second, the offspring 
 of the first, has had a more rapid numerical growth. It 
 has a total of two hundred and seventy-six. This is an 
 active body of Baptists, and promises much usefulness 
 to the cause of God in the world. # 
 
 Durham, S. W. Bend. The church in Durham, 
 located at what is called 'South West Bend,' was con- 
 stituted in 1838. They have had a pleasing progress, 
 and several refreshing seasons from the presence of the 
 
 *Min. C. A. and M. F. Whitter, Ch. Clk. Com. 
 
SlAIN STREET BRUNSWICK. 
 
 419 
 
 Lord. They are united and persevering. They have 
 increased from twenty-two to forty-two. * 
 
 Main Street, Brunswick. In the early part of 
 1840, a very extensive revival was witnessed in Topsham, 
 which spread into Brunswick. In October of that year 7 
 thirty-eight persons, mostly from the church in Topsham, 
 but who lived in Brunswick, were embodied into a 
 church. They had previously completed a house of 
 worship, in a central part of the village, and containing 
 seventy-five pews. P. S. Adams was their pastor about 
 two years.| In 1843, they had increased to one hundred 
 and seven members. [D. C. Haines is their present 
 pastor.] 
 
 CUMBERLAND ASSOCIATION-TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 ORGANIZED 1835. 
 Churches in 1343. 
 
 3 
 
 s 
 
 Z 
 7 
 
 C5 
 pa 
 ■a 
 
 5' 
 a 
 
 
 f 
 
 
 
 p. 
 
 en 
 
 3 
 
 — 
 
 
 3 
 
 ■a 
 
 — 
 5 
 
 
 
 3" 
 
 a 
 
 3 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 — 
 
 <x> 
 
 
 
 D. 
 
 
 
 'X 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 O 
 
 r 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 *East Brunswick, 
 
 New Gloucester, 
 
 North Yarmouth, 
 
 1st Brunswick, 
 
 Portland, 
 
 Auburn, (Minot till 1843) 
 
 Freeport, 
 
 Danville, (Pejepscot) 
 
 Bath, 
 
 Cape Elizabeth, 
 
 HarpsAvell, 
 
 Chebeague Island, 
 
 Free-St Portland, 
 
 Durham. S. W. Bend, 
 
 Brunswick, Main-St 
 
 1785 
 
 31 
 
 201 
 
 7 
 
 5 
 
 52 
 
 61 
 
 
 50 
 
 
 2 
 
 239 
 
 1795 
 
 12 
 
 194 
 
 25 
 
 2 
 
 57 
 
 18 
 
 
 36 
 
 8 
 
 
 231 
 
 1797 
 
 7 
 
 316 
 
 36 
 
 5 
 
 120 
 
 42 
 
 
 65 
 
 22 
 
 
 459 
 
 1799 
 
 8 
 
 402 
 
 20 
 
 24 
 
 130 
 
 103 
 
 
 67 
 
 43 
 
 
 430 
 
 1801 
 
 10 
 
 520 
 
 117 
 
 7 
 
 199 
 
 46 
 
 6 
 
 98 
 
 38 
 
 
 647 
 
 1807 
 
 27 
 
 196 
 
 25 
 
 5 
 
 51 
 
 19 
 
 
 27 
 
 59 
 
 
 240 
 
 1807 
 
 17 
 
 311 
 
 22 
 
 4 
 
 59 
 
 31 
 
 4 
 
 31 
 
 19 
 
 
 350 
 
 1808 
 
 56 
 
 118 
 
 12|12 
 
 51 
 
 30 
 
 
 32 
 
 13 
 
 
 186 
 
 1810 
 
 10 
 
 484 
 
 105 
 
 35 
 
 162 
 
 143 
 
 10 
 
 56 
 
 37 
 
 
 599 
 
 1820 
 
 34 
 
 5 
 
 4 
 
 
 8 
 
 4 
 
 
 o 
 
 4| 
 
 43 
 
 1827 
 
 IS 
 
 5°, 
 
 5 
 
 2 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 3 
 
 82 
 
 1830 
 
 18 
 
 9,0 
 
 4 
 
 
 6 
 
 3 
 
 
 4 
 
 
 2 
 
 42 
 
 1836 
 
 57 
 
 229 
 
 59 
 
 
 51 
 
 5 
 
 
 21 
 
 
 3 
 
 345 
 
 1838 
 
 22 
 
 13 
 
 12 
 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 1 
 
 47 
 
 1840 
 
 38 
 
 34 
 
 38 
 
 
 4 
 
 2 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 83 
 114 
 215 
 111 
 
 267 
 87 
 
 207 
 72 
 
 226 
 22 
 76 
 31 
 
 276 
 42 
 
 107 
 
 'Old HarpsweJl. 
 
 <— tO Oi tS Or. tS 
 
 s 8 
 
 f Min. Con. and letters to the Asso. 
 
CHAPTER XXVI. 
 
 OXFORD ASSOCIATION. 
 
 Original Churches— Hebron, 119 : First Buckfield, 122 : Paris, 123 : First 
 Livermore, 135: Second Buckfield, 177: Sumner, 190: Bethel, 191: 
 Norway, 204 : Denmark, 213 : Weld, 214 : Bridgton, 217 : Hartford, 
 218: Second Livermore, 409 : Peru, 412: Byron, 413: Canton, 413 : 
 Turner, 413 : Harrison, 416 : Hamlin's Gore, 416 : Woodstock, 416. 
 
 Added between 1828 and 1843 — Paris and Woodstock : Second Brunswick : 
 Second Bath : Sweden: Andover: Rumford : Rumford and Milton. 
 
 Previous to the formation of this Association, the 
 Cumberland embraced almost all the churches within 
 the counties of Cumberland and Oxford. In 1839, it 
 was mutually agreed to divide the Association by the line 
 separating these counties, with liberty to the churches 
 in Harrison and Bridgton to unite with those in Oxford. 
 
 Agreeable to this arrangement, nineteen churches in 
 Oxford, &c, met at Turner, September 30, 1829, and 
 organized the Oxford Association. With these churches 
 were eleven ordained ministers, four licentiates, and 
 one thousand one hundred and thirty communicants. 
 Three churches, with one ordained minister, were 
 received this session: Paris and Woodstock, Second 
 Brunswick, and Second Bath. Several new churches 
 have since united with this body, and cheering additions 
 have been made to all these churches, so that, although 
 it lost three churches: First Buckfield, Second Bruns- 
 wick, and Second Bath, and individual members by 
 dismissions, &c, it contained, in 1843, twenty-four 
 churches, twenty-two ordained ministers, seven licentiate 
 preachers, and one thousand eight hundred and sixty- 
 two members; thus showing a net increase, in fourteen 
 years, of seven hundred and thirty-two members. 
 
 Like the older Associations, this body has entered 
 into the works and causes of benevolence, with spirit 
 
SECOND BRUNSWICK— SECOND BATH— SWEDEN. 421 
 
 and zeal, with resolutions and efforts, and with much 
 prayer and faith. In 1831, a vote, expressing the thanks 
 of this body to the Cumberland Association, for their 
 liberality in presenting to Oxford their interest in the 
 social library, owned by the two bodies. In 1833, a 
 vote was passed, recommending to the members of the 
 churches the discontinuance of mourning apparel, as a 
 practice useless and expensive. In 1839, it was recom- 
 mended that each pastor supply one week of missionary- 
 labor among the destitute. As with other Associations, 
 so here are societies for missions and other purposes, 
 Sabbath schools, and two quarterly conferences. It is 
 a united and influential body. 
 
 Paris and Woodstock. This church embraced 
 members living in Paris and Woodstock, a part of whom 
 were previously members of the church in Paris. It 
 was organized March, 1827, and in September it had 
 twenty-five members. In 1833, in connexion with the 
 Methodists, they built a house of worship. Here they 
 worship a part of the time. In 1839, they were blessed 
 with a revival, which added twelve to their number, and 
 another in 1842, the influences of which remained in 
 1843. Their number was sixty-eight. # 
 
 Second Brunswick was constituted about 1826. 
 From 1827 to 1840, Eld. Shimuel Owen was its pastor. 
 In 1841, the Association advised their disbanding and 
 uniting with other churches."}* 
 
 Second Bath. This organization was an unwise 
 procedure. It never had evidence of the approbation 
 of God, and lost its name and place in 1830, about three 
 years after it was recognized. 
 
 Sweden. A small church of about a dozen members 
 
 *Min. O. A., and Eld. R. Donham's Com. fMin. O. A. 1840. 
 19 
 
422 ANDOVER— RUMFORD— RUMFORD, &C 
 
 was organized in Sweden, in 1834; but it was dissolved 
 in 1837.* 
 
 Andover. This is in the north part of Oxford county, 
 and was incorporated as early as 1804. A Congrega- 
 tional church was established here in 1800. The in- 
 crease of population has been comparatively slow; in 
 
 1840, it had 551 inhabitants only. In 1834, a church 
 of ten members, who had previously belonged to other 
 Baptist churches, was constituted. In September, 1835 s 
 the ordinance of baptism was first administered in town, 
 to two persons, by Elder Walter Foss, of Leeds. In 
 
 1841, Leonard Kingsley, one of their deacons, was or- 
 dained pastor. They have a school house only for a 
 place of worship. Their number is thirty-four. | 
 
 Rumford. This town was incorporated in 1800, and 
 in 1803, a Congregational church was organized. In 
 1836, a Baptist church was gathered, with but six mem- 
 bers. It has occasional preaching by neighboring min- 
 isters. Two of their number have become preachers: 
 I>aniel Richmond and Isaac Whittmore.J 
 
 Rumford and Milton. A church of fourteen mem- 
 bers, and called 'Rumford and Milton,' was embodied 
 in 1843.* 
 
 *Min. O. A. 1837, p. 5. fMin. O. A. and Moses Cutting. JMin, O. A, 
 and Eld. B. Donham's com. 
 
OXFORD ASSOCIATION— LOST CHURCHES. 
 
 423 
 
 OXFORD ASSOCIATION.. .TABULAR VIEW. 
 
 
 -,$ 
 
 C 
 
 cr 
 
 r psi 
 
 G 
 
 — 
 
 Ol 3 
 
 r 
 
 Q 
 
 .- 
 
 -d 
 
 
 
 j» 
 
 c 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 ORGANIZED 1829. 
 
 c - 
 
 j\ 
 
 
 a 
 
 z 
 
 S, 
 
 — 
 
 Q. 
 
 
 
 £ 
 
 5' 
 
 5 
 
 p 
 
 
 <6 
 
 >' 
 
 o 
 
 T 1 
 
 3 ; 
 
 3! 
 
 5" 
 
 
 "= 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 s 
 
 Churches in 1843. 
 
 • o 
 B 
 
 p 
 
 
 
 H 
 i 
 
 d 
 p. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 p 
 
 3 
 
 o 
 
 Hebron. (1st Shepherdsfi'kl) 
 
 1791 
 
 13 
 
 403 
 
 13 
 
 8 
 
 94 
 
 43 
 
 50 
 
 
 16 
 
 ,-ii- 
 
 Paris, 
 
 1791 
 
 23 438 
 
 30 
 
 3 
 
 11.-; 
 
 46 
 
 51 
 
 
 50 
 
 
 
 201 
 
 Livermore, 1st. 
 
 1793 
 
 17 
 
 376 
 
 61 
 
 11 
 
 EOS 
 
 130 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 15 I 
 
 73 
 
 Bethel, 
 
 1795 
 
 7 
 
 171 
 
 E4 
 
 6 
 
 16 
 
 34 
 
 19 
 
 
 10 
 
 
 
 132 
 
 Buckfield, (2d church) 
 
 1802 
 
 18 
 
 105 
 
 10 
 
 9 
 
 38 
 
 29 
 
 16 
 
 
 26 
 
 
 133 
 
 52 
 
 Sumner, 
 
 1804 
 
 18 
 
 120 
 
 42 
 
 6 
 
 55 
 
 33 
 
 22 
 
 
 
 35 
 
 180 
 
 112 
 
 Denmark, 
 
 1804 
 
 32 
 
 58 
 
 16 
 
 8 
 
 13 
 
 11 
 
 11 
 
 
 13 
 
 
 106 
 
 61 
 
 Norway, 
 
 1806 
 
 10 
 
 54 
 
 17 
 
 1 
 
 19 
 
 10 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 81 
 
 50 
 
 Weld, 
 
 1809 
 
 49 
 
 122 
 
 19 
 
 5 7 
 
 40 
 69 
 
 86 
 
 21 
 
 
 in 
 
 
 200 
 
 51 
 
 Bridgton, 
 
 1807 
 
 8 
 
 191 
 
 26 
 
 10 
 
 42 
 
 . 
 
 
 35 
 
 
 225 
 
 57 
 
 Hartford, 
 
 1810 
 
 18 
 
 159 
 
 35 
 
 9 
 
 85 
 
 26 
 
 18 
 
 
 2 1 
 
 
 212 
 
 68 
 
 Livermore, 2d, 
 
 1811 
 
 17 
 
 49 
 
 16 
 
 o 
 
 22 
 
 17 
 
 15 
 
 
 
 5 
 
 82 
 
 35 
 
 Peru, (first No. 1,) 
 
 1818 
 
 9 
 
 31 
 
 10 
 
 3 
 
 8 
 
 11 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 50 
 
 29 
 
 Byron, (first No. 8 ; ) 
 
 1820 
 
 21 
 
 42 
 
 11 
 
 i 
 
 li 
 
 23 
 
 ■I 
 
 
 8 
 
 
 74 
 
 26 
 
 Canton, 
 
 1822 
 
 16 
 
 35 
 
 El 
 
 1 
 
 9 
 
 10 
 
 6 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 72 
 
 46 
 
 Turner, 
 
 1824 
 
 22 
 
 121 
 
 10 
 
 1 
 
 35 
 
 14 
 
 13 
 
 
 
 L3 
 
 181 
 
 133 
 
 Harrison, 
 
 1827 
 
 52 
 
 11 
 
 
 12 
 
 8 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 63 
 
 Oxford, 
 
 1827 
 
 17 
 
 20 
 
 36 
 
 
 11 
 
 7 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 4 
 
 
 73 
 
 
 Hamlin's Gore, 
 
 1828 
 
 8.) 
 
 66 
 
 27 
 
 
 r 
 
 8 
 
 ii 
 
 
 9 
 
 
 128 
 
 97 
 
 Woodstock & Greenwood, 
 
 1828 
 
 35 
 
 22 
 
 3 
 
 
 14 
 
 4 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 66 
 
 38 
 
 Paris and Woodstock, 
 
 1827 
 
 25 
 
 41 
 
 13 
 
 
 14 
 
 3 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 9 
 
 79 
 
 68 
 
 Andover, 
 
 1834 
 
 10 
 
 20 
 
 12 
 
 
 5 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 42 
 
 34 
 
 Rum ford, 
 
 183G 
 
 6 
 
 17 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 
 
 23 
 
 19 
 
 Rumford and Milton, 
 
 1843 
 
 1! 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 14 
 
 14 
 
 
 Q 
 
 
 C 
 
 • EJ 
 
 Q 
 
 
 g 
 
 H 
 
 C 
 
 ■z 
 
 r 
 
 r. 
 
 3 
 
 3 
 
 CHURCHES LOST 
 
 "J. 
 
 
 35 
 - 
 
 ■a 
 
 CD 
 
 ■~r. 
 
 O 
 
 1 
 
 2_ 
 
 
 
 
 —_ 
 
 
 _• 
 
 
 
 
 
 CD 
 
 PREVIOUS TO 1843. 
 
 S 
 CD 
 CL 
 
 
 5. 
 ? 
 
 .— 
 
 
 ." 
 
 CO 
 
 .— 
 
 
 — 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 c 
 
 b 
 
 Kitterv. 
 
 1682 1683| 
 
 *i * 
 
 * 
 
 - 
 
 * 
 
 * 
 
 
 * 
 
 * 
 
 * 
 
 * 
 
 Bowdoinham, 1st 
 
 1784 
 
 1840 
 
 
 137 
 
 15 
 
 8 
 
 55 
 
 33 
 
 
 
 26 
 
 
 152 
 
 19 
 
 Litchfield, 2d 
 
 1791 
 
 1838 
 
 21 
 
 232 
 
 7 
 
 2 
 
 57 
 
 79 
 
 E5 
 
 
 34 
 
 
 242 
 
 17 
 
 Buxton, 
 
 1799 
 
 1833 
 
 14 
 
 149 
 
 5 
 
 
 88 
 
 21 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 
 163 
 
 26 
 
 Gorham, 
 
 1768 
 
 unk. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Whitefield.lstBallstown 
 
 1789 
 
 1830 
 
 15 
 
 336 
 
 3 
 
 2 
 
 50 
 
 35 
 
 21 
 
 
 45 
 
 
 25 1 
 
 
 Buckfield, 1st 
 
 1791 
 
 1841 
 
 17 
 
 94 
 
 10 
 
 2 
 
 84 
 
 19 
 
 23 
 
 
 8 
 
 
 123 
 
 12 
 
 Lancaster, 
 
 1804 
 
 1829 
 
 ' 
 
 108 
 
 1 
 
 
 37 
 
 12 
 
 I 
 
 
 23 
 
 
 33 
 
 Northport, 
 
 1807 
 
 1828 
 
 37| 49 
 
 
 
 17 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 1 4 ' ! 
 
 14 
 
 Kennebunk, 1st 
 
 1803 
 
 1828 
 
 28 
 
 93 
 
 
 
 27 
 
 6 
 
 20 
 
 
 
 
 121 
 
 21 
 
 Lerwick, 2d 
 
 1804 
 
 1834 
 
 76 
 
 84 
 
 4 
 
 
 12 
 
 12 
 
 :i 
 
 
 
 
 164 
 
 139 
 
 Berwick, 3d 
 
 1808 
 
 1824 
 
 14 
 
 6 
 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 
 
 20 
 
 14 
 
 B'onmouth, 
 
 1810 
 
 1822 
 
 19 
 
 19 
 
 
 
 7 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 38 
 
 24 
 
 .~\lt. Vernon, 2d 
 
 1814 
 
 1817 
 
 8 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 8 
 
 8 
 
 Chesterville, 
 
 1820 
 
 1839 
 
 20 
 
 11 
 
 15 
 
 1 
 
 9 
 
 4 
 
 4 
 
 
 
 
 46 
 
 39 
 
 'Unknown. 
 
324 
 
 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 LOST CHURCHES CONTINUED. 
 
 Norridgewock. 2d 
 
 ( Jastihe, 
 
 Montville, 2d 
 
 Ellsworth, 
 
 Beddingtbn, 
 
 Kirklair,!, 
 
 No. 8, 
 
 hard, 
 croft, 
 Fairfield, 
 Scarborough, 
 Waterford, 
 fPoland, 
 Brunswick, 2d 
 Bath, 2d 
 Sweden, 
 
 Brighton, (North Hi 
 Phillips, 
 Leo, 
 
 Malta, 2d 
 Brooksville 2d, 
 Prospect, 
 
 Village Ch. Bruns 
 
 1st Sidney, p. 116. 
 
 ]828i 
 
 1812 
 
 18381 
 1829 
 1829 
 L828 
 1832 
 
 1818 
 
 1824 
 t827 
 1827 
 
 1818 
 
 1819 
 1816 
 1817 
 
 1831 1!] 
 1816113 
 
 1832 33 
 
 1837 
 1841 
 1838 
 1834 
 
 1837 
 
 1 837 
 1840 
 1828 
 
 1841 
 
 1830 
 1G37 
 
 Yi 
 
 121 
 
 20 
 
 2 
 
 1832,13 9 
 
 13. '2 
 1816 
 1822 
 1834 
 1836 
 
 8 
 
 18 
 
 1 
 
 u! 
 
 
 i 
 
 2 
 
 1 
 
 6 
 
 6 
 
 1 
 
 1 
 
 !> 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 4 
 
 1 
 
 15 
 
 3 
 
 2 
 
 
 11 
 
 7 
 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 2 
 
 21 
 
 1 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 2 
 
 3 
 
 
 3 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 
 
 5 
 
 8 
 
 
 1 
 
 3 
 
 I 21) 
 13 
 56 
 
 wick, p. 416, 1st Newfield, p. 56, 2i 
 
 I 6 
 Newfield, p. 57, 
 
 *A part joined the Foxcroft and Dover Ch. fUnitcd with Oxford. 
 
 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 The first efforts made by Baptist ministers in the State 
 were characterized by a missionary spirit. They saw a 
 wide and fast opening field before them — a field, too, filled 
 with immortal beings under the influence of sin and Satan, 
 checked in their downward course to ruin only by an Ar- 
 minian gospel. They felt for the salvation of their souls; 
 and with a zeal fired by the spirit which warmed the hearts 
 and cheered on the apostles, like them, they went every- 
 where preaching the Word. 
 
 Although it has been said of them that they were in 
 doctrine 'hyper-Calvinistic, 1 there is evidence that they 
 understood their pious and ministerial responsibilities. 
 They were working men, and taught the indispensibleness 
 of practical as well as experimental piety.* In 1789, the 
 York Association numbered six churches and four ordained 
 ministers; and the Bowdoinham Association, six churches 
 and four ordained ministers. And the number of members 
 
 f Mih. Bow. Asso. 1793 — Circular Letter 
 
GENERAL OPERATIONS. 405 
 
 belonging to these churches did not exceed five hundred, 
 and yet their own peculiar constituency, and their relation 
 to the widening uncultivated fields about them, necessarily 
 required a more systematic plan of missionary labor on the 
 part of the ministers. This necessity was perceived by the 
 ministers in the Bowdoinham Association, and at their 
 annual meeting, 1789, they adopted the plan of 'voluntary 
 supplies to the destitute.' To sustain this plan of mis- 
 sionary effort, the supplying preacher pledged himself to 
 supply a certain destitute church or churches with preach- 
 ing, on some specified Sabbath or Sabbaths, within the 
 ensuing Associational year. This plan was adopted by the 
 ministers in York, 1798; in Lincoln and in Cumberland, 
 at the time of their organization. This enterprise was 
 carried forward with a zeal and perseverance which reflects 
 praise and honor upon those early Baptist pioneers in the 
 State. 
 
 It was, however, soon discovered that this plan was rap- 
 idly accumulating a vast amount of labors on the hands of 
 the ministry, to be borne by them alone, without the aid 
 and support of a co-operating church ; that the abilities 
 and energies of the growing churches were not brought 
 into the missionary field. In order, therefore, to bring the 
 churches into the missionary work, another plan of opera- 
 tion was adopted by the Bowdoinham Association, in 1799, 
 to be called the 'gospel mission,' and by the York Associa- 
 tion in 1800. This plan consisted in the appointment of 
 a committee, 'to employ a suitable ordained Elder as a 
 missionary, to travel into the eastern parts, to preach and 
 administer the ordinances of the gospel.' And the churches 
 were requested to sustain by their liberalities the missionary 
 thus appointed. This plan interfered not with the plan of 
 voluntary supplies. It contemplated a wider range of 
 missionary effort. It was designed to carry the gospel not 
 only to the destitute churches, but to the new and distant 
 settlements, where Christ was not preached to those who 
 sat in darkness. 
 
 Only a few years, however, elapsed before it was clearly 
 seen that the operations of both these plans Were quite 
 inadequate to meet the spiritual wants of the churches, 
 which were fast multiplying in the midst of a rapidly in- 
 creasing community. New openings were made and new 
 settlements planted annually, and in every part of our ter- 
 
426 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 ritory. With this view, the Bowdoinham Association, at 
 its eighteenth anniversary, 1804, and before its first division, 
 deemed it necessary that a more general and systematic 
 plan of missionary operations should be formed, in order 
 that the entire field lying before these ministers and 
 churches, and now open to them, might be successfully 
 occupied. 'The Maine Baptist Missionary Society' was 
 therefore now formed. With this society nearly the whole 
 denomination co-operated. To its untiring efforts 'to ren- 
 der assistance to feeble churches, and to sustain the preach- 
 ing of the gospel in destitute regions,' the Baptists owe 
 much of their almost unexampled prosperity. Missionaries, 
 by its direction and support, were constantly employed in 
 various sections of the State, whose faithful efforts, together 
 with the faithful labors of the pastors, gave an astonishingly 
 rapid increase of churches and communicants to the de- 
 nomination. 
 
 This society moved on increasing in ability and influence 
 annually, sending help to the feeble churches, and the gos- 
 pel into destitute places, until the domestic field was aided 
 by the 'Baptist State Convention,' organized at Winthrop, 
 June 23, 1824. In 1825, this Convention assumed the 
 responsibilities of the Domestic Missionary enterprise, so 
 that for several years the old 'Missionary Society' had but 
 little more to do, or did but little more, than to look on 
 and view the works and successes of the Convention. 
 
 This Convention was composed of delegates elected by 
 the Associations, each Association being allowed to send 
 one delegate for every fifteen churches; also of delegates 
 elected by churches and missionary societies, each being 
 entitled to one delegate for every fifteen dollars paid into 
 the treasury of the Convention. 
 
 This Convention was an important organization in the 
 Baptist denomination. It was, and is in its present form 
 of organization, the uniting and concentrating organ of 
 general operation. Here, matters of important interest, 
 as regards the prosperity, union and peace of the denomi- 
 nation in the State, and as regards the general operations 
 of the kingdom of Christ throughout the world, are mu- 
 tually and piously deliberated and discussed. And by the 
 decisions, resolutions and recommendations of this en- 
 lightened body of Baptists, the cause of evangelical truth 
 and righteousness has been eminently promoted ; and by 
 
GENERAL OPERATIONS. 337 
 
 their missionaries, under God, many souls have been con- 
 verted to Christ, and brought under the influence of his 
 love ; some, now large, flourishing and influential churches, 
 have been gathered and established in gospel order, and 
 many other churches, once small and feeble, have been 
 enlarged, strengthened and encouraged to perseverance. 
 
 In 1842, the Convention, owing to some peculiar em- 
 barrassments arising from the accumulated and ever en- 
 larging work, and to the increasing amount of other 
 business coming annually under its cognizance and man- 
 agement, transferred back to the Maine Missionary Society 
 the responsibility of conducting and carrying forward the 
 Domestic Missionary enterprise. So that the present de- 
 sign of the Convention is, to concentrate the influence of 
 the Baptists in the cause of Christ; to cultivate christian 
 acquaintance, to communicate intelligence respecting the 
 state of religion in the churches, and to gather statistics 
 of the denomination. It is now composed of every regu- 
 larly ordained Baptist minister in the State, and each As- 
 sociation may send one delegate for every five churches. 
 
 The Maine Domestic Missionary Society has entered 
 upon its appropriate work with renewed energy and vigi- 
 lance, and is fast increasing its means and resources of 
 usefulness. To increase its pecuniary ability, the consti- 
 tution of the society was so amended that any person may 
 become an annual member, by the payment of one dollar ; 
 and a life member, by the payment of $20 at one time : 
 and any church, society, or Association, may send one 
 delegate, by contributing $5 to the funds of the society, 
 and an additional delegate for every additional $10. The 
 business of this society is conducted by a Board of Trus- 
 tees selected from the members ; and to facilitate their 
 labors, the State is divided into three districts : Western, 
 Eastern and Central ; and the trustees in each district are 
 organized into a sectional board, for convenience, to trans- 
 act the business of the society coming within that district. 
 By this arrangement, the wants of churches, and the con- 
 dition of the destitute, are better known, and the means 
 of the society are the more promptly and appropriately 
 applied to meet the design of the enterprise. It holds an 
 annual meeting in connection with the Convention, when 
 the board make a report of the state, condition, labors 
 and successes of the society. Besides these missionary 
 
428 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 plans and operations, there have existed and do now exist 
 other smaller societies, connected with the Associations 
 and churches, which have occupied some smaller fields, of 
 their own choosing, and have rendered great good to the 
 cause of Christ in the State. Several of the Quarterly 
 Conferences are doing much for the destitute within their 
 limits, and in this way aid the work of the Domestic Mis- 
 sionary Society. 
 
 Besides these domestic operations, the Baptists in Maine 
 have aided, by their prayers and liberalities, the Foreign 
 Mission cause, as conducted by the Baptist Board for For- 
 eign Missions. As soon as the Baptist General Convention 
 was formed, at Philadelphia, April, 1814, a spirit for the 
 foreign enterprise was awakened among the Baptists in this 
 State. At their annual meetings for that year, the Asso- 
 ciations began to operate in favor of the cause, by con- 
 tributing to the funds of the board, and by earnestly 
 recommending to the churches to form societies for the 
 same liberal purpose. And this appeal was heard by many 
 of the churches ; missionary societies were formed, and 
 pleasing contributions were made to aid in sending the 
 word of life to the heathen. As the denomination increased, 
 the spirit of missions became more general ; and, as the 
 operations of the Foreign Board were annually enlarged, 
 the necessary means to sustain them were also to be pro- 
 portionally accumulated ; the Baptists in Maine therefore 
 felt sacredly called upon to enlarge their efforts in the work. 
 To do this, a more general and simultaneous movement 
 was made in 1825 and '26, by forming in the several coun- 
 ties, large societies, auxiliaries to the Baptist Board of 
 Foreign Missions, and less societies in towns, primaries of 
 these auxiliaries. These societies operated together most 
 efficiently. But within a few years there has been less of 
 the formal and systematic movement. Churches and in- 
 dividuals have operated more separately, and send their 
 contributions more directly to the board. But the spirit 
 and the liberality of the Baptists in the State are not thereby 
 diminished. These contributions show a cheering ratio of 
 increase with the numerical increase of the denomination. 
 In the work of Home Missions, also, have the Baptists 
 in Maine cheerfully, prayerfully and beneficently co-op- 
 erated. It has, however, been regarded by them as second 
 in importance to the foreign enterprise, and consequently 
 
GENERAL OPERATIONS. 429 
 
 their contributions for its support have been comparatively 
 less. It may be that they have not duly estimated the im- 
 portance of the Home Mission effort. But, before they 
 are adjudged of indifference and neglect, it should be re- 
 membered that their field of domestic operation has ever 
 been extensive, and the calls for their attention to the wants 
 of numerous destitute portions, in this new and fast growing 
 State, have ever been urgent and necessitous. To these 
 calls they have never been indifferent, but with a com- 
 mendable zeal they have labored to evangelize the entire 
 field. And in this way they have, by an indirect influence, 
 aided in an important sense the design of the Home Mission 
 Society. 
 
 The Bible and Tract causes have received a commenda- 
 ble share of their attention ; and especially is the design 
 of the American and Foreign Bible Society, organized at 
 Philadelphia, April, 1837. held sacred and important by 
 the Baptists in Maine. The following resolutions, adopted 
 by them in Convention, October, 1837, evinces their interest 
 in this society: 'Resolved, that we approve of the forma- 
 tion of the American and Foreign Bible Society, by the 
 Convention at Philadelphia, in April last, and recommend 
 to our churches to contribute liberally to its funds;' and 
 in 1843, ^Resolved, that the American and Foreign Bible 
 Society is entitled to the warm support of the churches in 
 Maine.' 
 
 They were among the first promoters of abstinence from 
 intoxicating drinks. And with all vigilance they have 
 strove together till the monster of intemperance is driven 
 out from among them, and some of their churches make 
 the 'pledge of total abstinence' a test of fellowship. Their 
 influence has not been confined wholly to themselves, but 
 they have earnestly and ever united with all the friends of 
 humanity, in their attempts to expel the evil from commu- 
 nity and from the world. 
 
 The Baptists were early in the Sabbath School cause. 
 Schools began to be formed about twenty-five years ago, 
 and their evident beneficial results soon overcame all op- 
 position and prejudice to them, and awakened an attach- 
 ment which has been strengthened by experience. At 
 first the Baptists united in society with other denominations } 
 to carry forward this benevolent cause. But in 1835, their 
 19* 
 
430 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 own schools had become so numerous, that it was deemed 
 expedient that they should separate from those denomina- 
 tions, and give their entire attention and influence to the 
 schools connected with Baptist churches and congregations, 
 and to encourage the Baptists to multiply their schools, 
 and to increase their efforts and the means appropriate to 
 advance the design of the institution. In 1835, the Maine 
 Baptist Sabbath School Union was formed ; and to aid this 
 society in its liberal attempts to increase the means of 
 biblical instruction, in 1836, Sabbath School Unions were 
 organized within the limits of most of the Associations. 
 Their operations have eminently benefitted the cause. 
 From the neglect of schools to make reports, the State 
 Union has ever found much difficulty in procuring statisti- 
 cal accounts of the schools. 
 
 At first there was more promptness than is now mani- 
 fested. In 1836, there were reported, 225 schools, 1471 
 teachers, 10408 scholars, 192 who had become pious, and 
 16305 books in the several libraries. In 1843, 214 schools, 
 1399 teachers, 9338 scholars, 419 became pious, and 
 19770 volumes in their libraries. This diminution in 
 numbers is wholly owing to deficiency of returns. In 
 1836, the returns were full, but in 1843, there were 129 
 churches not reported ; and, says the secretary, Rev. J. 
 Ricker, 'many of these are large, and known to have in- 
 teresting Sabbath schools.' This cause, among the Bap- 
 tists, is advancing. 
 
 There were, in 1843, sustained by the Baptists in the 
 State, more than twenty Quarterly Conferences. These 
 organizations have for their object, the cultivation of ac- 
 quaintance, the promotion of a more elevated, enlightened, 
 devoted and active piety in the churches, to increase a more 
 benevolent spirit and zeal, and to attend to the more local 
 affairs pf the denomination in those small communities 
 which come not under the cognizance of the Associations. 
 
 From the relation which the college at Waterville sus- 
 tains to the intellectual and religious improvement of the 
 denomination, it would be an important omission in these 
 sketches to say nothing of that Institution. It originated 
 with the Baptists. At the annual meeting of the Bow- 
 doinham Association, in 1810, the importance of estab- 
 lishing an Institution in Maine, for the promotion of Lit- 
 erary and Theological knowledge, was considered. The 
 
GENERAL OPERATIONS. 431 
 
 desirableness of the object had occupied the attention of 
 many of the ministers, for several years previous to this 
 time. But now, from a variety of considerations, such an 
 Institute seemed to be imperiously demanded. 
 
 They saw the Baptists multiplying and rising into a 
 large denomination, in the midst of a rapidly growing and 
 enlightened population, where talents, science, and an 
 increasing general knowledge demanded an enlightened 
 ministry. They saw, too, young men coming forth from 
 the field, and from the workship, fired with a pious zeal to 
 enter the holy work of preaching the gospel. To prevent 
 the embarrassments of a limited education, and to. qualify 
 them to meet the spiritual expectations of an improved 
 society, something must be done ; and the work was com- 
 menced. After the appointment of a committee, to confer 
 with the brethren of the Lincoln Association, the subject 
 was referred to the next annual meeting. 
 
 At the meetings of the Cumberland and Lincoln Asso- 
 ciations, in 1811, the brethren in these bodies respectively 
 concurred with the views and feelings of the brethren in 
 Bowdoinham. Committees were now appointed by these 
 three Associations, to unite in one joint committee, to 
 petition the Legislature of Massachusetts for the incorpo- 
 ration of such an Institution. The petition was presented 
 by Rev. Caleb Blood, of Portland, and the incorporation 
 was granted in 1813, and Vv 7 aterville was selected as the 
 most suitable location. Here it was established, and here 
 it flourished, being fostered by the denomination, and in- 
 structed by the Rev. Messrs. J. Chaplin and S. Chapin. 
 Its character was not changed till 1820. This year it was 
 authorised to confer college degrees, and in 1S21, it re- 
 ceived the name of a college. By this change, however, 
 the department for the pursuit of Theology was not wholly 
 lost. Dr. Chaplin was appointed President of the college 
 and Professor of Theology. It was soon evident to the 
 churches that the Institution for Theology existed only in 
 name. Many, therefore, expressed their disapprobation of 
 the change by withholding their support. The college, 
 however, found warm friends, not only in Maine, but in 
 some other States, particularly in Massachusetts. Although 
 it has received some aid from the State, in money and 
 lands, and many liberal donations by individuals, it has 
 
432 GENERAL OPERATIONS. 
 
 nevertheless persevered through many obstructions. Its 
 condition at present is more free from embarrassment than 
 at any former period, and its prospects for stability and 
 usefulness more encouraging. The character of its present 
 Faculty has created in the community a confidence, that 
 the student will not find here less attention or ability than 
 is found in other colleges. 
 
 Previous to 1822, the Baptists in Maine had not the 
 privileges of a periodical press. Nor even then had they 
 one under their own supervision. 'The Waterville Intel- 
 ligencer,' at its commencement at that time in Waterville, 
 opened' to Baptists in Maine an important channel of com- 
 munication, with the public and with each other. But 
 through this medium they did not always speak what they 
 wished. Soon after, the Baptist Herald was commenced 
 at Brunswick, and professed to be devoted to the interests 
 of the denomination. But with this paper the churches 
 and ministers soon became dissatisfied. Its anti-missionary 
 spirit was a sufficient objection to its patronage. In 1828, 
 Zion's Advocate was commenced in Portland and conducted 
 by the faithfulness and prudence of Rev. A. Wilson, who 
 was both proprietor and editor. This paper has, from its 
 beginning, been wholly sustained by the Baptists, and de- 
 voted exclusively to their cause. 
 
 Although it was a consistent and useful herald for the 
 denomination, yet in a few years it was thought by some 
 to be too moderate and liberal in its doctrinal character ; 
 and that its columns were kept too close as regards some 
 of the causes of humanity, in which some of the brethren 
 felt an especial interest, and respecting which they wished 
 to speak freely. This view and feeling originated the 
 'Eastern Baptist,' in 1835; a small one dollar paper, pub- 
 lished successively at Richmond and Brunswick. It how- 
 ever did not obtain a very liberal patronage. In 1839, this 
 paper united with the Advocate, and the editorial was en- 
 trusted to the wisdom and faithfulness of Rev. Joseph 
 Ricker. This arrangement continued till the close of 
 1842, when Rev. A. Wilson again resumed the responsi- 
 bilities of the old Zion's Advocate, which in his hands is 
 largely enjoying the confidence and patronage of the 
 Baptists. 
 
MINISTERS, 
 
 Including all who have labored, and all who are now labor- 
 ing in the State. 
 
 Abbot Constant, pastor of 
 the 1st church in China, from 
 1814, about three years. 
 
 Adams Joseph, was ord. pas. 
 of thech. in Jay 1804, and offi- 
 ciated in thatch. 14yrs. Af- 
 ter an interval of about 10 yrs. 
 which was mostly filled up 
 with itinerant labors, he was 
 pas. of the same church from 
 1828, nearly 3 yrs. From the 
 close of this second period of 
 his pastoral labors, till his 
 death 1844, he preached but 
 occasionally and in different 
 places. He was first a Meth- 
 odist, then a Baptist, and main- 
 tained an honorable connexion 
 with the church in Jay till his 
 death. 
 
 Adams P. S.,ord. an Evan- 
 gelist at Sanford, Sept. 1838. 
 He preached in different pla- 
 ces till 1840, when he entered 
 the pastoral office in the Main- 
 st. ch. Brunswick. He retired 
 from the responsibility of pas. 
 and became a member of the 
 ch. E. Brunswick 1843. [He 
 removed to Mass. 1844.] 
 
 Adlam Sam'l., came into the 
 State in 1838, and was installed 
 pas. of the 1st ch. in Hallowell 
 the same year, where he con- 
 tinues to sustain the office with 
 ability and usefulness. 
 
 Allen Amos, entered the 
 ministry about 1S07, by license 
 from the 1st ch. Bluehill, and 
 received ord. to evangelize in 
 1810. He was devoted to the 
 
 benefit of the destitute for 8 
 yrs. In 1818, he was elected 
 pas. ofthe ch. Brooksville, and 
 was their successful leader till 
 1833. Again he wasdevoted to 
 supply the destitute. In 1837, 
 he received the pastoral charge 
 ofthe 2d ch. in Bluehill. This 
 charge he resigned in '42, and 
 he is again the devoted evang. 
 
 Allen Wm., appears first in 
 the capacity of a licentiate of 
 the ch. Columbia. He soon 
 entered the field which God 
 designed for him to occupy 
 and cultivate. He was ord. 
 pas. of lstch. Jefferson 1809. 
 Here he faithfully and success- 
 fully magnified his office dur- 
 ing a period of about 27 yrs. 
 which was closed up by his 
 death in 1836. 
 
 Allen Sam., licensed by the 
 ch. in Frankfort 1813, was ord. 
 pas. ofthe ch. on Deer Isle '14. 
 Here and on the adjacent Is- 
 lands he devoted most of his 
 ministry till 1825. He however 
 was occasionally among the 
 destitute on the main, and saw 
 a gracious revival in 2d Addi- 
 son, 1826, where he preached 
 about 2 yrs. 
 
 Allen D. T. was ord. pas. of 
 the ch. in Industry 1828. He 
 resigned his charge 1 35, but 
 preached occasionally for sev- 
 eral yrs. afterward. He was 
 next pas. ofthe ch. in Starks, 
 from 1839 to 1843. The en- 
 tire of his ministry has never 
 
434 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 been to the people over whom 
 he statedly presided. He has 
 been much engaged in domes- 
 tic missionary labors. 
 
 Allen L. B. is son of the late 
 Eld. Wm. A., a graduate of 
 Wat. Coll. ; was ord. pas. of 
 1st ch. Thomaston, May 1840. | 
 He presided over this ch. till 
 1843. He now has the pastoral 
 charge of 2d Thomaston. 
 
 Ames Benj., was baptized by 
 Eld. Case, ord. an evangelist 
 in 1809, settled as pas. 1811 by 
 the first church in St. George. 
 Here he presided till 1839, and 
 lives the senior pas. Eld. A. 
 has seen glorious things among 
 the people of his charge, and 
 attendant upon his ministry. 
 
 Ames Thomas, was ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Islesboro' 1804. 
 He officiated about 5 yrs. and 
 resigned the charge. What- 
 ever he has since performed in 
 the ministry, has been done by 
 occasional itinerant labors. 
 
 Adderton N., preached for 
 the 1st ch. Frankfort, and the 
 ch. in Monroe, 1841 and '42. 
 
 Ambrose Arnold, was licens- 
 ed in 1811, and ord. an evan- 
 gelist in 1812 by the ch. in N. 
 Sharon. Of his history we have 
 been enabled to gather nothing. 
 
 Babcock Rufus, Jr. President 
 of Wat. Col. from 1833 to '36. 
 
 Bailey Joseph, was ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Ballstown, now 1st 
 Whitefieldinl796. He receiv- 
 ed Rev. E. Trask,jr.pas.l827. 
 This connection continued hut 
 a short time, and in 1830, the 
 ch. with its venerable pas. was 
 dropped from the fellowship of 
 the denomination on account 
 of their anti-gospel Faith and 
 Practice. He continues the pas. 
 of that people. 
 
 Bailey Dudley P., began to 
 preach in Greene, 1833, by the 
 authority of a lie. and was ord. 
 pas. 1835. He has since offie'd 
 in the office for two other chs. 
 Wayne and Cornville. For the 
 former from 1836 to '38, for the 
 latter from 1839 to '43. [He 
 was pas. of the ch. in St. Al- 
 bans in 1844.] 
 
 Bailey John, pas. of 1st ch. 
 in Brunswick from 1831 to '35, 
 since deceased. 
 
 Bailey Wm., ord. pas. of N. 
 Buxton, 1840,iesigned his chg. 
 ofthech. 1844. [Pastor of ch. 
 Bowdoinham, 1845]. 
 
 Bailey Timothy, ord. pas. of 
 the ch. in Oxford, Mar. 1843, 
 officiated 1 yr. and resigned. 
 
 Baker Sam'l, left the Meth- 
 odist, united with the Baptist, 
 and was ord. an evang. 1808. 
 He now associated his labors 
 with Eld. Snow, then pas. of 
 the ch. in Thomaston. Mr. B. 
 became a Universalist in 1813 
 and wasexpel'd from the Bap- 
 tists. Upon his confessing his 
 errors, he was restored to their 
 fellowship again in a few mos. 
 after his exclusion. For similar 
 reasons he was again excl'd in 
 three weeks from his restora'n 
 to confidence. Mr. B. has dur- 
 ing his minister'l career passed 
 through a variety of changes, 
 embraced several ists andtsms, 
 by which course, as a conse- 
 quence, he has lessened his re- 
 ligious influence. He has how- 
 ever been again restored by the 
 Baptists and is the present pas. 
 of the Istch. in Camden. 
 
 Ball Reuben, was first pas. 
 of the ch. in Hartford, 1811, 
 and second ofthech. in Bridg- 
 ton from 1812 to '26. He died 
 at Greene, 1827, much lament- 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 435 
 
 ed by the people over whom 
 he had presided so long, and 
 with so much ability and piety. 
 
 Ballard Joseph, was pas. of 
 the ch. in S. Berwick village 
 from 1829 or '30, till '33. Here 
 he saw the wonderful works of 
 God in building up Zion, 
 
 Bartlett D., lie. by the ch. in 
 Hartford, 1821, ord. at Guil- 
 ford 1822; pas. Sangervillech. 
 in '23; offie'd about 5 yrs.,then 
 removed to Warren, was the 
 successful pas. of that ch. from 
 1828, about 5 yrs. He next be- 
 came pas. of the 1st church in 
 China, 1833, where the Lord 
 made himemin'tly useful about 
 3 yrs. He has since disch'ged 
 the duties of a pas. in Dexter, 
 1837; in first W. Thomaston, 
 1838; in Friendship, 1842, and 
 in second Camden, 1843. 
 
 Barron Oliver, was pastor of 
 the ch. in Wells, during two 
 periods in its history; first from 
 1820,9 yrs.; 2d, from 1837, 6 1 
 yrs. The faith and practice of 
 the ch. received much correc- 
 tion and improvem't under his 
 ministry. He was also pas. of 
 ch. in C. Neddock from 1830, 
 about 3 yrs. 
 
 Barrows Allen, a graduate of 
 Wat. Col. was ord. pas. of the 
 ch. Hallowell X Roads, 1S34. 
 He labored in this ch. but 1 yr. 
 Subsequently he has been pas. 
 of the ch. in Leeds, 1835, 1837, 
 of the ch. in Ellsworth village 
 1837 to 1843. 
 
 Barrows Lewis, a graduate 
 of Newton Theol. Insti'n and 
 ord. pas. of the ch. in Wool- 
 wich, April 1843. 
 
 Bartlett C. P., ordai'd as an 
 evangelist at Friendship, April 
 1843, has since become pas. of 
 the ch. in dishing. 
 
 Bassett Jno. All we know 
 of him, he was a member of the 
 ch. in St. Albans, a few yrs. but 
 where he preached we have 
 never had any information. 
 
 Batchelder W., was among 
 the early ministers in the State, 
 was ord. pas. of the ch. in* N. 
 Hill,' in Berwick, 1796, and . 
 after 9 yrs. useful ministry re- 
 tired from the State. 
 
 Bedel Abra n, orig. in the 
 ch. in Amherst, and being fa- 
 vored with a license in 1824, 
 he began to itinerate, and was 
 successful in gathering the ch. 
 in Crawford, in 1825. He con- 
 tinued his evangelizing efforts 
 in Crawford, Charlotte, Coop- 
 er, &,c. till he was ordained at 
 Thomaston and became pastor 
 of 1st ch. Camden, 1832. He 
 was settled pas. of the 1st ch. 
 in Gardiner, in 1833. For a 
 term of 5 yrs. he was a bless- 
 ing to this ch., and since then 
 he has been doing the work of 
 an evang.j and belongs to the 
 ch. in Andover. 
 
 Bedel Elisha. He began to 
 preach about the same time 
 with his brother Abram, and 
 was ord. pastor of the ch. in 
 Cooper in 1S28. He however 
 removed, and became pas. of 
 the ch. in Deer Isle, 1831. He 
 officiated in this ch. 3 yrs. In 
 1835 he entered the pastoral 
 office over the ch. in Hodgdon, 
 and here he fell into the snare 
 of the fowler, denied his Mas- 
 ter, and by a council, convened 
 to consider his conduct and 
 standing, he was deposed from 
 his office, and expelled from 
 the church in 1839. 
 
 Beckwith W. H. was pas. of 
 Machias-port 1834; E. Machi- 
 as 1835, and then left the state. 
 
436 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 Previous to his ord. at Pem- 
 broke, 1832, he was engaged in 
 successful itinerant labors in 
 Calais, &c. 
 
 Beecher L. F., the present 
 pas. of the 1st ch. Portland, en- 
 tered the holy office over that 
 body Oct. 1842. 
 
 Bisbee Benj. was set apart to 
 the work of the ministry Dec. 
 1809, in Belgrade. From this 
 time till 1812, when he was 
 made pas. of the small ch. in 
 Harmony, he was travelling 
 continually among the desti- 
 tute to i'eed them with the 
 bread of life. He was the faith- 
 ful pas. in this ch. till 1825. 
 During this period he was of- 
 ten evangelizing among the 
 destitute. He was pas. at St. 
 Albans, from 1830 to '32. Eld. 
 B. continued to travel and 
 preach Christ till age and infir- 
 mity laid him aside. He is now 
 more than 80 yrs. old, and re- 
 joices in Zion's prosperity. 
 
 Billings Oliver, was among 
 the early converts in Fayette. 
 He was ord. an evangelist 1800 
 and soon received the pas, 
 charge of the ch. in F. He was 
 the acting pas. for more than 
 20 yrs. and sen. pas. till his 
 death, July 31, 1842. He was 
 truly a good man. 
 
 Billings John, son of Olirer 
 B., was one of the early stu- 
 dents at Wat. ; entered the 
 ministry atColumbia by license 
 1825, and ord. pas. of the ch.in 
 Addison, 1826. In this ch. he 
 was most successful in promot- 
 ing the cause of Christ, till he 
 resigned his charge in 1843. 
 He became pas» at N. Liver- 
 more 1844. 
 
 Blood Caleb, entered the 
 pastoral office in the 1st ch. in 
 
 Portland 1810, and magnified 
 the office with wisdom and a- 
 bility till death closed his la- 
 bors on earth March 1814. 
 
 Blaisdell Jos., pas. of the ch. 
 St. Albans and Hartland, from 
 1816 to '22, and supplied them 
 with preaching in '24 
 
 Blanchard C., after preach- 
 ing as a licentiate several yrs. 
 was ord. pas. of 2d Shapleigh 
 in '23; resigned in '28, and the 
 same yr. accepted the charge 
 of 2d Nobleboro'. He left this 
 ch. 1836, then preached the 
 gospel a short time to the ch. 
 in Augusta, and in 1839, began 
 to preside over the operations 
 of the ch. in Orono, where he 
 now officiates. 
 
 Board man S., converted fr. 
 Arminianism and Pedo-bap- 
 tism 1793, became a Baptist. 
 Feb. 1802, ord. pas. of the 1st 
 ch. in Livermore, with which 
 he first united, was pas. of ch. 
 N. Yarmouth,from 1810 to '16 
 — of the ch. N. Sharon from 
 1816 to '43. On account of his 
 age, he has had an associate in 
 the pastoral work several yrs. 
 past. He is the venerable fath- 
 er of the lamented Mission. B. 
 
 Boothby Samuel, ord. pas. 
 of the 2d ch. Livermore 1843, 
 and preaches half of the time. 
 
 Bond Phinehas, itinerated 
 successfully a short time in 
 Winthrop and Readfield,1823; 
 ord. pas. of the ch. Cherryfield 
 1825 ; in 1831, he removed to 
 Eastport, and was pas. of that 
 ch. till '34. He was next pas, 
 of the church in Warren, from 
 1835 to '40. and is now pas, of 
 Fayette ch., where he com- 
 menced in 1841. 
 
 Bowler Wm. was ord. an 
 evangelist, 1824, and in 1825, 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 431 
 
 he accepted the pas. charge of 
 1st Palermo. He officiated in 
 thisch. till 1832, and then sus- 
 tained the pas. charge of 2d 
 China, from 1832 to 1841, and 
 from 1841 pas. of both Paler- 
 mo and 2d China to '43, half 
 the time with each. 
 
 Boynton Isaac, jr. ord. an 
 evan. at Etna 1836; accepted 
 the pas. charge of 2d Addison, 
 1837, and there labored till '43. 
 [He died at East Harrington, 
 Oct. 28,1844.] 
 
 Boyd John, ord. pas. of 1st 
 Hampden 1S38, and sustained 
 the office one year, since which 
 he has preached but little. 
 
 Briirsrs A. very, Prof, in Wat. 
 Coll. from 1822 to 1827. 
 
 Briggs Otis, grad. of B. U.; 
 commenced his ministry as a 
 licentiate in Farmington; was 
 ord. nas. of thech. North Yar- 
 mouth, July 1816. He was 
 soon appointed agent to take 
 charge of the township of land, 
 given by the State of Mass to 
 the Coll. at Wat. He removed 
 to Bangor 1818, where he prea. 
 till he became pas. of the ch. 
 in Hampden, 18C0. He was 
 pas. of 1st ch. in H. 8 yrs. and 
 3 yrs. of the 2d ch. in H. He 
 was engaged several yrs. in 
 agencies forbenev. causes, and 
 died Oct. 1,'42, while employ- 
 ed in col. funds for the H.M.S. 
 
 Bray Eben., ord. pas. of the 
 ch. in Bethel 1807, resigned 
 his charge in 1812. 
 
 Bray Jacob, licensed by the 
 ch. in Bridgton 1835; ord. pas- 
 tor of thatch. '39; resigned his 
 charge 1842, is now itinerating 
 among the churches. 
 
 Bridges, I., pas. of the ch. 
 Belmont, 1819, travelled occa- 
 sionally for some years and 
 
 preached, but was never very 
 successful as a minister. 
 
 Bradford Lucius, ord. an 
 evan. at Sebec vil. Feb. 16S8, 
 preached a short time to the 
 ch. there, and then was pas. of 
 the ch, in Guilford from 1838 
 to '41. Since he closed bis la- 
 bors at G he has supplied the 
 ch. in Jay. 
 
 Bradford Zabdial, gradu. of 
 Wat. Col. was ord. pas. of the 
 ch. N. Yarmouth May 1837. 
 [Removed to Providence, R. I. 
 1844.] 
 
 Bradbury Win. C. grad. of 
 Wat. College, and ord. as an 
 evan. at Saeo, March 1838. 
 
 Buck Benj., converted from 
 a Pedo-bap. faith, became a 
 Bap., left the Cong, in 1800, 
 and was ord. pas. of the ch. 
 Or land and Bueksport, 1817. 
 He left this ch. and received 
 the pas. charge ofEastport '18. 
 He has officiated as pas. in the 
 ch. Machias Port from 1819 to 
 '25; in Sullivan from 1826 to 
 '29; preached in Cutler and 
 Crawford 1830 and '31. Asrain 
 pas. of M. Port from 1831 to 
 '33; pas. of 1st Harrington fr. 
 1S33 to '40 ; and paa. Maria- 
 ville 1842. In 1843 he retired 
 from active labors in the vine- 
 yard from age and infirmity'. 
 [He died Dec. 10, '44, ag. 76.] 
 
 Buker David, pastor of 1st 
 Bowdoin in 1807. 
 
 Burbank Wm., was an early 
 deacon, then a licentiate, then 
 ord. an evangelist in 1821, and 
 then made pas. in 1824, in the 
 2d ch. Jefferson. In 1S25, a 
 3d ch in J. was set off from 
 the 2d, and Eld. B. became its 
 pas., and was its active pastor 
 i till 1842. He is now the senior 
 | pastor. 
 
438 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 Burbank Dan'l E., at the age 
 of 18, commenced a course of 
 studies at Waterville, prepar- 
 atory to the ministry, but his 
 love for souls drew him imme- 
 diately into the field of active 
 labor. He was ord. pas. of the 
 ch. in Guilford, Nov. 1836. 
 He labored 2 yrs. and more, 
 with great success. His health 
 now began to decline, and he 
 removed to New York, and re- 
 mained a short time where he 
 was useful in the cause of God. 
 He returned and became pas. 
 of E. Winthrop in 1839, but 
 his labors were closed up by 
 death, Oct. 29, 1839. Thus fell 
 ayouthful soldier of the Cross. 
 
 Butler John, came from Mas- 
 sachusetts, was settled pas. in 
 E. Winthrop, 1825. He re- 
 signed in 1831, and the same 
 yr. became pas. at North Yar- 
 mouth. He resigned his charge 
 here in 1835, and devoted him- 
 self most successfully to the 
 work of an evangelist. He 
 became dissatisfied with strict 
 communion as held by his Bap- 
 tist brethren, and connected 
 himself with a Free-will Bap- 
 tist ch. But here he could not 
 feel at home, he has therefore 
 returned to the Baptists, and 
 preaching at 1st Thomaston. 
 
 Burnham Levi, ord. pas. of 
 ch. in Harrison, June 1843, but 
 devotes a part of his ministry 
 to the benefit of other chs. 
 
 Burnham John, lie. by the 
 ch. in 1st. Bluehill, 1807 ; ord. 
 pas. of ch. in Frankfort, 1809, 
 and has since made shipwreck 
 concerning the faith. 
 
 Byrne Martin, preached as 
 an evang. a short time in 1841, 
 at Damariscotta Mills. 
 - Burbank Johnson, ord. evan. 
 Dec. 16, 1843. 
 
 Case Isaac, born in Reho- 
 both, Mass. 1761, conv'd 1779, 
 united with thech. in Dighton, 
 Mass. in 1779, was lie. 1780, 
 ord. an evan. 1783, came to 
 Maine, and began to travel and 
 preach with wonderful success 
 in the new towns and settle- 
 ments, the same year gather'd 
 the 1st ch. in Thomaston, 1784, 
 and was its pas. from its org. 
 8 yrs. 1792. He gathered the 
 ch. in Readfield and officiated 
 as its pastor till 1800. From 
 1800 till the infirmities of age, 
 weakened his bodily strength, 
 he has been engaged in con- 
 stant and extensive missionary 
 labors, either voluntarily or by 
 the direction of the Mass. or 
 Me. Do. Mis. Society. Many 
 of the chs. in Me. owe their 
 existence to his efforts, and 
 multitudes of souls, their sal- 
 vation to his instrumentality. 
 
 Case Cyrus, the present pas. 
 of 1st ch. in Monmouth, was 
 ord. into the office, Oct. 1842. 
 
 Cain M., ord. pas. of thech. 
 in Clinton, which he had aided 
 in collecting, 1796. He was 
 the active pas. till 1831, and is 
 yet alive, and the senior pas. 
 
 Carter Edward, lie. by the 
 ch. in IstMontville, 1816; ord. 
 pas. of 2d Brooksville, 1817; 
 removed 1824, and evangelized 
 till 1832, and pas. of the ch. in 
 Plymouth from 1832 to 1843. 
 He was assisted in the minis- 
 try by Rev.T.L. Pilsbury,'42, 
 
 Cary Calvin L., the useful 
 and present pas. of the ch. in 
 Mt. Desert, was inducted into 
 the holy work, 1833. 
 
 Chase Nathaniel, was one of 
 the original Baptists in Buck- 
 field, was lie. by the 1st ch. in 
 that town about 1796, and ord. 
 its pas. 1801, and continued to 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 439 
 
 preside over its spiritual inter- 
 ests till 1835. Since then the 
 feebleness of age has allowed 
 him the privilege of preaching 
 but occasionally. 
 
 Chadwick Job, was ord. an 
 evan. at Vassalborough, 1796; 
 elected pas. of 2d China, 1797, 
 where he officiated till 1805. 
 His next field of labor was 
 Gouldsboro', where he was 
 pas. from 1816 to '31. Between 
 the yrs. 1805 and '16 he was 
 successfully engaged in Do. 
 Mis. efforts in Me. and on C. 
 Cod, Mass. He died at Wind- 
 sor, Me. Dec. 25, 1831. 
 
 Chadbourne John, ord. an 
 evan. at Cornish, 1798; pas. of 
 ch. in Limington oneyr. 1802, 
 a mis. in Etna and Carmel and 
 vicinity, 1807 and '08; pas. at 
 Dixmont 1809 to '11, and sup- 
 plied them occasionally from 
 1816 to '26; was again pastor 
 from 1827, till his death, 1831. 
 
 Chadbourne John 2d., ord. 
 pas. of the 2d ch. in Shapleigh 
 1818. He resigned 1822, and 
 preached in N. H. several yrs. 
 Supplied the2dch. in San ford 
 1833, and became pas. at Hi- 
 ram 1835, where he officiated 
 about 3 years. 
 
 Chadbourne Wm., pas. of 
 3d ch. in Berwick from 1808 to 
 '17. He died in 1818. 
 
 Chadbourne Levi, aided in 
 building the ch 1st Parsonsfield 
 and was its useful pas. from its 
 organization 1792 till 1805. He 
 also preached much with the 
 ch. in Limerick and other new 
 places, where he aided the 
 Baptist cause in times of per- 
 secution. 
 
 Chapin Stephen, D. D., was 
 born at Milford, Mass., edu- 
 cated at B. U. and while with 
 
 the Cong. ch. at Mt. Vernon, 
 N. H. he renounced the Pedo- 
 baptist creed, became a Bap- 
 tist, and was ord. pas. of the 
 ch. at N.Yarmouth, Sept 1819. 
 With ability he magnified the 
 office, till duty called him to 
 another field in 1822. From 
 this time till 1828,he was Prof, 
 in Wat. Col. With his Prof, 
 in Col. closed his labors in Me. 
 
 Chaplin Jere., D. D., was 
 born in Rowley, Mass. Jan. 2, 
 1776, graduated at B. U. 1799. 
 In 1818 he was placed at the 
 head of the Baptist Lit. and 
 Theol. Insti. at Wat. This 
 Insti. was chartered a Col. '20, 
 and Dr.C. was elected its Pres. 
 in 1821. He however held the 
 twofold office from thistimeof 
 Pres. and Prof, of Theol. He 
 resigned these offices in 1833. 
 During his stay in Maine he 
 wrought agood and great work. 
 Besides sustaining these offices 
 with ability and usefulness, he 
 was often among the chs. en- 
 couraging the Baptists to per- 
 severance and liberality, and 
 pas. of the ch. in Waterville, 
 from 1824 till the settlement of 
 Rev. Mr. Greene, in 1831. 
 
 Chase Rufus, was ord. evan. 
 at Albion, March 1841, and the 
 same yr. accepted the pastoral 
 charge of 1st ch. in Gardiner. 
 [Removed to Wells, 1844.] 
 
 Champlin Jas. T., ord. pas. 
 of lstch. in Portland, May '38. 
 He resigned his charge of this 
 ch. in 1841, and has since been 
 successfully employed as Prof, 
 in Wat. College. 
 
 Chase Joshua, from New- 
 burvport, was pas. of S. Ber- 
 wick ch. from 1807 to '13, and 
 from 1S22 to '24. 
 
 Chamberlain Philip, ord. an 
 
440 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 evan. in Hebron, 1831, became 
 pas. of Jefferson, N. H. 1833. 
 
 Chapman Nathan, preached 
 in 1st ch. in Livermore from 
 1835, about 2 years. 
 
 Chisam Sam'l, ord. evan. at 
 Jefferson 1825, elected pas. of 
 Waldol)oro' 1826. Here he 
 labored amidst persecution and 
 discouragement 10 yrs., at the 
 close of which period he be- 
 came pas. of 1st ch. Jefferson, 
 1837, where he now labors. 
 
 Chessman Dan'l, was pas. 
 1st Hallowellfrom 1821 to '30. 
 
 Clark F., pas. ofch. in Saco, 
 from 1827 to July 2, '33, when 
 the ch. withdrew from him the 
 hand of fellowship both as a 
 minister and as a christian. 
 [He was restored to the ch. 
 but not to the ministry, 1838.] 
 
 Clarke Caleb, Jr. pas ofch. 
 Fayette, from 1834, about 2 
 yrs. and pas. of Mt. Vernon, 
 1837. 
 
 Clarke A., pas. of Sanger- 
 ville, from 1836, 2 yrs. Since 
 then he has perform'd the work 
 of an evan. in different chs. 
 
 Chaplin Jere., the present 
 pas. of Bangor, received the 
 charge 1842. He is son of the 
 late Dr. J. Chaplin, and a 
 graduate of Wat. College. 
 
 Colburn Robert, converted 
 in Bloomfield 1806; ord. evan. 
 and aided in supplying that 
 ch. from 1814 to '25, preach- 
 ing also among the destitute 
 often. In 1825 he became pas. 
 of the church in Newport, and 
 their leader till 1836, since he 
 has preached but occasionally. 
 
 Colburn A., present pas. of 
 the ch. in Saco, received the 
 charge 1843. 
 
 Colby Lewis, graduate H. 
 U. and of N. T. Inst, became 
 
 pastor of S. Berwick vil. ch. 
 1838. He resigned 1842, and 
 was pas. of the Free St. ch, 
 Portland from 1842 to '44. 
 
 Cole Benj., converted 1784, 
 licensed by the Lewiston Con- 
 ference, (so called) ord. evan. 
 1801, and elected pas. of the 
 ch. in Lewiston 1802. He was 
 the pas. of this ch. with the ex- 
 ception of a few short intervals 
 which were filled up by mis- 
 sionary efforts, till near the 
 time of his death, Sept. 1839. 
 
 Converse Josiah, was pas. 
 of the 1st ch. in Portland, by 
 ordination from 1807 to 1810. 
 His was a prosperous ministry. 
 
 Cook Gideon, entered the 
 pastoral care of the 1st ch. San- 
 ford 1816, and discharged the 
 duties of the office till 1825. 
 He has officiated since in the 
 ch. Kennebunk port from '25, 
 2 or 3 vrs.; again in 1st San- 
 ford from 1S32 to '38; in the 
 ch. at C. Neddock, from 1838 
 to '40; Sanford, Mt. Hope '41 
 to 1842, and in Kennebunk 
 vil. ch. 1843.. 
 
 Cox Eben., one of the orig- 
 inal Baptists in Hope, 1787, 
 was first a deacon, then a li- 
 centiate, and then he was ord. 
 pas. 1822, having for many yrs 
 been most efficiently employed 
 in promoting the interests of 
 the ch. He was pas. however 
 but a short period, but has ever 
 labored for the good of the ch. 
 and the destitute. 
 
 Copeland N., was ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Albion, 1832. He 
 was their pas. one yr. and one 
 yr. at Athens, 1834. and since 
 then he has been an evangelist 
 supplying the destitute. He 
 preached one half the time in 
 Albion, from 1839 to '42. 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 441 
 
 Coy Eliabj associate pas. at | 
 Knox 1832 and '33, supplied 
 the eh. in Hope half the time 
 in 1834 and '35; occasionally 
 at Freedom, from 1834 to '37; 
 pas. of 1st Gardiner in 1838, 
 and an associate pas. at He- 
 bron since 1839. Mr. Coy has 
 performed other labors. 
 
 Cressey E. \V.,ord. an evan. 
 at Garland, Nov. 1837, preach- 
 o 1 at SangerviH'e 1838 and '39; 
 supplied the cb. in Bowdoin- 
 bam vil. a -part of 1840; pas. 
 at Vassalboro' fr. '41 ab. 2yrs. 
 
 Cross Win., ord. an evang. 
 1334, and preached some for 
 the 3d ch. Gardiner, till 1840. 
 
 Cnshman Job. ord. pas. of 
 1st ch. Montville, 1807, and 
 was a blessing to the ch. till 
 his resignation, 1820. 
 
 Curtis Reuben, ord. an evan. 
 in the ch. at Greene. 
 
 Curtis Thomas, from Eng- 
 land, pastor at Bangor from 
 1834 to 1837; pas. in Augusta 
 1839 and '40. 
 
 Curtis Thomas F., son of 
 Rev. Thomas C.wasonl. pas. 
 of the ch. in Turner, 1840. He 
 has since left the State. 
 
 Dasruett John, commenced 
 preaching in Greene, by licence 
 1807, was ord. evang. 1808, t 
 became its pas. 1810, and faith-' 
 fully labored for its spiritual 
 prosperity till 1820, when he 
 resigned the pastoral charge. 
 
 Davis Nehemiah.wa-; instru- 
 mental in gath. the 1st ch. in 
 Sh-ipleigh, 1781. He was pas. 
 till 1798, when he rem. to the 
 State of Ohio. 
 
 Davis C. B., grad. at New- 
 ton The. Inst., ord. pas. ofch. 
 in Paris, June 1838, and con- 
 tinues his office in that ch. 
 
 Darling Jedediah, after itin. 
 
 sev. yrs. as a lie, was ord. and 
 bee. pas. of Franklin ch. 1830; 
 but was exel. fr. thech. } S2. 
 
 Day Wm., preach, in Belfast 
 from 1835 ab. 2 yrs., and was 
 pas. of 2d Monmouth from '37 
 to '40 ; and of Woolwich from 
 '40 to '42, and is present pas. 
 ofch. New Castle and Alna. 
 
 Day Jotham, ord. pas. Ken- 
 nebunk port 1821 ; resign. } -28, 
 and bee. pas. of 2d Lisbon fr. 
 1829 to '32; but preached a 
 part of the time only with the 
 , ch., and afford, them some sup- 
 | ply '36 ; also the same yr. some 
 j to 2d Bowdoin. From that time 
 to the ores, he has lab. in 2d B. 
 j and elsewhere occasionally. 
 Denslow Jos., beg. to use his 
 gift in the ministry soon after 
 he was chos. dea. at 1st Bow- 
 doin 1794 ; was ord. pas. 1805; 
 he was blessed in the office till 
 1820. From '20^ until his phys- 
 ical energies were crippled by 
 the infirm, of age, he preached 
 to the dest. He died at Tops- 
 ham Oct. 1840, aged 84. 
 
 Delano Zebedee, was the 
 first convert in Livermore '93; 
 rec. a license by that ch. '99; 
 was ord. and bee. pas. of the 
 ch. Lebanon and Berwick, ab. 
 1802, where he was the devot- 
 ed, faithful, and active pas. till 
 1831, and lives the beloved 
 senior pas. to see the progress 
 of thech. under the ministry 
 of his associates. 
 
 Densmore Samuel, pas. of 
 the ch. Chesterville from 1825, 
 about 2 yrs. 
 
 Dexter Stephen, preach, by 
 license a few years in Fairfax, 
 now 1st China, and being ord. 
 he was their pas. from 1809 to 
 '19 ; fr. '20 he was pas. of 1st 
 j Palermo 2 yrs ; and from '22 
 
442 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 to '32, he was pas. of the ch. 
 in Corinth. He was employed 
 by the Dom. Mis Soc. to lab. 
 in the new settlements a part 
 of the time for several years, in 
 which he was successful in 
 planting several new churches. 
 He died in '36. 
 
 Donham Benj., pas. of the 
 ch. in Bethel, was inducted into 
 the office by ord. Oct. 1836. 
 
 Donham Ransom, pas. of the 
 ch. Hamlin's Gore, com. lab. 
 with it '35, ord. pas. Oct. '36. 
 
 Dodge Daniel, ord. evan. at 
 1st Sedgwick, 1835. Most of 
 his labors have been of the itin- 
 erant character. He has how- 
 ever been pas. of Lubec '41, 
 and of Cutler since '42. 
 
 Drinkwater Arthur, ord. pas 
 
 ny yrs a licens. preach, in the 
 ch. " Great Hill," Berwick. 
 
 Emery E. H., pas. of the ch. 
 in Knox from ,837 to 1841; 
 evangelized '42 ; and was pas. 
 of the small ch. Unity, 1843. 
 
 Eaton J., was born at Wells 
 June 22, 1743, con. at the age 
 of 22, first a Dea. then a licen- 
 tiate in 1793, ord. at Berwick 
 1798, and was the pas. of the 
 church in Wells from 1790 to 
 1820. He preached till near 
 his death, Dec. 1831. His age 
 was 83 yrs. He was one of the 
 first Baptists in the State, and 
 was an associate in the minis- 
 try with Joshua Emery, and 
 was with the Baptists in their 
 persecutions and trials. 
 
 Ellis Ferdinand, was pas. of 
 
 ofch. in Mt. Vernon 1816. He I Freeport ch. from '29 to '31, 
 
 officiated successfully in this and pas. of the ch. in Rich- 
 
 during two periods — first,from 
 
 1816 to '21 ; second, from 1829 
 
 to '33. At Hallowell he was 
 
 pas. from 1834 to '36 ; and in 
 
 1st Bloomfield,pas. fr '36 to '43. 
 
 Dunbar Duncan, first from 
 Scotland, then from N. B., was 
 pas. of 2d Nobleboro' from 
 1823 to '25. 
 
 Dunbar Albert, ord. pas. of 
 Friendship, July 1338. Here- 
 signed '40 ; but subsequently 
 favored them with occasional 
 supply. He was pas. of 1st 
 Camden 1842, and is the pres. 
 pas. of the ch. in Knox. 
 
 Dunbar Melzer, ord. pas. of 
 the ch. in Hope in 1843. 
 
 Durgin Wm. J., ord. pas. of 
 the ch. Islesboro', Mar. 1843. ' 
 
 Emery Joshua, was the first 
 to break away from the dark- 
 ness, and to throw off the 
 shackles of a Pedo-baptist Ar- 
 minian creed, and to become a 
 Baptist, in Berwick, 1768. He 
 was subsequently, and for ma- 
 
 and pas. of the ch. in 
 mond, from '39 to '40. 
 
 Emerson Charles, ord. jun. 
 pas. of the ch. now called Ac- 
 ton, 1828, where he preached 6 
 yrs. He was pas. at Pembroke 
 from '34, 2 years ; of Kenne- 
 bunk, '37 — '38, one year ; of 
 Machias Port, from '38 to the 
 present ; also officiating pas. of 
 E. Machias, and preaching one 
 half the time there, 1839^ '40, 
 '41, and '43. 
 
 Emmons Francis XV., evan. 
 at Eastport a few mts. in 1829. 
 
 Eveleth Joshua, pas. of the 
 ch. at Eastport from '23 to '25. 
 
 Farnum Daniel, ord. an Ev- 
 angelist at Whitefield, June, 
 '41, and has been pas. of the 
 ch. in Belmont since 1842. 
 
 Felch Alvan, graduate of 
 Newton Theol. Inst., ord. pas. 
 and officiated in ch. at N. Glou- 
 cester from 1836, 6 yrs., and of 
 1st W. Thomaston 1843, 1 yr. 
 
 Fittz Henry, ord. pas. of Wa- 
 terville, 1829, and was pas. of 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 44;* 
 
 lstch. in Hallowell from 1830, 1 Freeman Edward W., ord. 
 2 years. | pas. of ch. Old Town, Feb. 
 
 Flanders Abner, ord. pas. of 1838; rem. here but short time; 
 
 the ch. in Buxton, 1803, and 
 preached in thatch, till '25. He 
 was pas. of the ch. in N. Bux- 
 ton, from '25 to '29 ; he was 
 min. in Wells, 1830, in Leba- 
 non and N. Berwick from '32 
 to '35, in Waterboro from '36, 
 2yrs.,and supplied 1st Ken. 
 and Lyman one-half the time 
 in '41, of which church this 
 venerable servant of God is a 
 worthy member. 
 
 Flagg Samuel, after several 
 yrs. active and successful la- 
 bors as a licensed preacher, 
 was ord. pas. of the ch, on Mis- 
 congus Island and Bristol, 1808, 
 and presided over the interests 
 of the ch. till '30, when age and 
 infirmity induced him to retire 
 from active service in the gos- 
 pel field. 
 
 Fogg Parker L., ord. pas. of 
 1st church Shapleigh, 1829, and 
 officiated in the ch. 3 years 
 
 Fogg Samuel, 
 the ch. 
 
 1st Thomaston, 1321, 
 and officiated 5 yrs. He next 
 preached statedly at Green fin. 
 *28, about 3 years, and then 
 aided in supplying the ch. in E. 
 AVinthrop from 1831 to 1836. 
 Since then, he has been useful- 
 ly employed in the work of an 
 evan., or agent for some be- 
 nevolent cause, and many of 
 the chha. have been blessed by 
 his efforts. 
 
 Foss Walter, lic'd. by ch. in 
 LeeJs, 1825; ord. evang. at L. 
 '30; performed the work of an 
 evang. among the destitute till 
 '43, when he bee. pas. 2d ch. 
 in Leeds; has preach, in Hart- 
 ford, 2d Livermore, Jay, An- 
 dover, and some other ch's., a 
 part of the time statedly. 
 
 pas. 2d Camden fr. '38 to '41. 
 
 Francis Thomas, was first 
 convert in Leeds: bee, Meth- 
 odist class leader, 1794; a Bap; 
 was bap. by eld. Potter, 1795; 
 beg. immediately to preach by 
 lie; was ord. at Leeds, 1798; 
 sup. ch. Wayne, '98, '99; bee. 
 pas. ch. in Leeds, 1800; was 
 the active and eminently suc- 
 cessful pastor till 1835, and the 
 sen. pas. tilldeath, May 9, '36. 
 
 Frost William, ord. pas. 2d 
 Lisbon, 1S17; pas. for 3 yrs. 
 
 Fuller Andrew, ord. evang. 
 at Nobleboro', 1794; same yr. 
 bee. pas.ch. Miscongus island; 
 res. '98; rec. and sus. charge 
 in Hope, fr. '99 till 1803; was 
 next pas. in Warren, fr. 1804 
 to '20. 
 
 Fuller Simon, ord. pas. 2d 
 ch. Union, 1830, and continues 
 to labor profitably with them. 
 
 Grant William O., pas. ch. 
 ord. pas. of j Litchfield, 1824 to '34; pastor 
 
 ch. Turner, ISS'o; pas. en. in 
 Bridgton, fr '34, 2ys; returnd. 
 to Litchfield, and was again 
 pastor from '37, 5 years. 
 
 Garcelon J., ord. an evang. 
 at Bowdoin, 1809, with which 
 ch. he labored much in word 
 and doctrine. He was a miss, 
 indeed, and traveled extensive- 
 ly in the State for the benefit of 
 the poor and destitute. His 
 whole min. career, except 1S15, 
 when he discharged the duties 
 of pas. in Lewiston, was filled 
 up by itin. labors. He was 
 faithful, endured hardness and 
 opposition with patience. He 
 died Dec. 28, 1833, aged 80. 
 
 Garcelon James jr., son of 
 the late Rev. J. G. and pres. 
 pas. of the ch.inLewiston,over 
 
444 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 which his father once presided, 
 was ordained 1841. 
 
 Garrison E. W., gradu. of 
 Wat. Coll., was ord. an evan. 
 May '32, preached for the ch. 
 1st Sedgwick fr.1834, 1 1-2 yrs. 
 for Cherryfield as pas. from '36 
 to '38, and where now is the 
 ch.N. Sedgwick 1839. He died 
 July 19, 1840. 
 
 Gilbert S. C, was pas. of the 
 ch. Kennebunk Port from 1840 
 to '43. 
 
 Gillpatrick James, educa. at 
 Wat. Theo. Ins., ord. pas. of 
 1st ch. Bluehill, April 1829. 
 From the close of 1828, Eld. 
 G. has lab. with distinguished 
 success in this gos. vineyard. 
 
 Gillpatrick Jos., ord. pas. of 
 ch. So. Berwick 1826, where 
 he was useful 8 yrs. He then 
 was a blessing to the ch. 1st 
 Shapleigh, as pas. from 1833, 
 8 yrs. : and to the ch. 1st Stan- 
 ford from 1841, 2 yrs. 
 
 Glover Willard, pas. of ch. 
 Limerick from 1827, 2 yrs. ; 
 preaching occasionally with the 
 ch. in Acton 1828; and pas. of 
 Wiscasset '32. He is now pas. 
 of ch. Vinalhaven. 
 
 Godding Wm.,lic. by the ch. 
 in Jay 1800, ord. an eva. 1802, 
 preached in Wayne most of the 
 time for4yrs. He then remov- 
 ed to Shapleigh, received the 
 pas. charge of the ch. now Ac- 
 ton 1807. Over this ch. he pre- 
 sided till '35, performing the 
 entire duties rill '28. He still 
 lives to see the progress of this 
 ancient ch. 
 
 Goldthwait T., ord. an evan. 
 at 2d Hallowell, Feb. '38,prea. 
 for that ch. 1 yr. He was pas. 
 in Athens from 1838, 4 years ; 
 pas. of Guilford '42, 1 yr. and 
 is the present pas. SdJefFerson. 
 
 Going Ezra, pas. 2d Sidney 
 from '27, 2 years and prea. in 
 Wayne 1829. 
 
 Gooding Wm. J., preached 
 in Lubec 1834. 
 
 Gould N., ord. pas. of ch. in 
 Vassalboro' '96, officia'd 3 yrs. 
 
 Golder, Jacob, ord. an evan. 
 in 2d Bowdoin, where he has 
 labored most of the time. 
 
 Gray E. H. ord. pas. ch. in 
 Freeport; discharged duties 
 of the office to satisfaction and 
 profit, from 1839 to '43. 
 
 Green Thomas Dr. was first 
 a physician; ord. pas. ch. N. 
 Yarmouth, Jan. 1797; was an 
 able defender of the truth and 
 an affectionate pastor, till his 
 death, May 29, 1814. 
 
 Green Chs. H. was pas. 1st 
 I Parsonsfield, 1842, 1 year. 
 
 Green Henry K. inst. pas. 
 ch. Waterville, 1831, of. 2 ys. 
 
 Haines John, ord. pastor ch. 
 now Swanville, 1804. About 
 2 yrs. after, was elected pastor 
 ch. Vinalhaven; con. till 1810; 
 then removed to 1st Livermore 
 where he was successful about 
 11 yrs.; he next was associate 
 pas. at Fayette, from 1823, 2 
 yrs.; ofric. as pas. ch. Norway 
 fi\ 1827, about 9'years. Since 
 1836, he has lab. occasionally 
 in various places, and hasever 
 been prominently and actively 
 eng. in Dom. Miss, operations. 
 Hale Henry, was first a mem- 
 ber of the Cong, ch. in Sedg- 
 j wick. He became a Baptist, 
 l was bap. by Rev. I. Case, on 
 ! Vinalhaven, 1804, and soon af- 
 ter ree'd ord. at Sed wick as an 
 evan., travelled extensively in 
 the eastern part of the State, 
 and in the British Provinces, 
 and was made eminently suc- 
 cessful in promoting the cause 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 445 
 
 of Christ wherever he went. 
 He was settled pas. of the ch. in 
 Charleston, 1814, and officiat- 
 ed over this people till '24. He 
 still resides in C, and lab. oc- 
 casionally in different places. 
 
 Hale H. S., was a grad. of 
 Wat. Col., became pas. of the 
 ch. 2d Sidney 1839, about 2 y rs. 
 
 Hall Eph., became pious in 
 1783, ord. pas. of the ch. St. 
 George 1793, labored till 1809, 
 then resigned. During 1808, 
 prea. 1-4 of the time in Hope. 
 
 Hall Isaac* bro. to E. Hall, 
 bee. pious at the same time, 
 commenced preaching by lie, 
 was instrumental in gathering 
 the ch. in Knox, 1800; was ord. 
 pas. 1806, and continued ac- 
 tively engaged until age re- 
 quired an associate. [He died 
 Nov. 25, 1844. 
 
 Hull John, supplied the ch. 
 1st Belfast 1827 and '28. [He 
 died at Livermore August 19, 
 1829, aged 31. He was buried 
 in the cemetery, near the Bap. 
 meeting-house in Turner. 
 
 Hall Zenas, was ord. pas. of 
 the ch. Parkman in 1819. Un- 
 der his ministry, which contin- 
 ues with this ch. the cause of 
 Christ has flourished, not only 
 in Parkman, but in various oth- 
 er places where he has labored. 
 
 Hallowell Josiah, was pas. 
 ofch. in Patricktown '41; pas. 
 of Frankfort 1843. 
 
 Hanscom Moses, ree'd ord. 
 as an evan. 1842 by the ch. in 
 Danville. [Served the ch. in 
 Durham, S. W. B. 1844.] 
 
 Harlow Eph., ree'd lie. by 
 2d ch. Buckfield in 1824 ; was 
 ord. pas. '25, and is a blessing 
 to the ch. 
 
 Harris E. N., operated a few 
 yrs. among the Baptists in the 
 20 
 
 eastern part of the State, but 
 soon denied the faith of the 
 gos. and became a universalist 
 
 Harris J. M., was ord. at 
 Kennebunk vil. in 1840, and 
 was their pastor 2 years. 
 
 Hartwell Philander, ord. in 
 1830. supplied 2d Sanford 1 
 yr. and pas. 2d Berwick 1832. 
 
 Hathaway Levi B., ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Farmington 1841, 
 and officiated 1 year. 
 
 Hatch Jacob, ord. pas.ofth'i 
 ch. Ripley 1822, 4 yrs.; pas. in 
 Dexter from 1826 to '32, but 
 preached half the time only, 
 from 1830. Since then has 
 been engaged as an evan. to 
 several destitute chs., and as a 
 miss, among the new settle- 
 ments. He officiated as pas. 
 in the ch. Etna and Carmel, 
 1835, 2 yrs. His ministry is 
 now divided between the chs. 
 Exeter, Garland, Abbot, &c. 
 
 Hatch Forest, was first Dea. 
 of the ch. in Cambridge ; ord. 
 its pas. in '28, and sustained 
 the office till his death in 1834. 
 He was a useful pas. 
 
 Hawes Harvey, while a stu- 
 dent at Wat. became pas. of 
 ch. Fairfield in '32, 2 yrs ; has 
 since been employed as pastor 
 over 1st Hampden, from 1838 
 to '37, preaching a part of the 
 time with 2d ch. in H. ; over 
 St. Albans from 1838 to '40; 2d 
 ch. in Nobleboro' from '41 and 
 was its pas. in '45. He has 
 done something in the vine- 
 yard as an evangelist. 
 
 Heard G., of 2d Shapleigh, 
 was ord. an evan. in '41, and 
 preached in Alfred about 2 yrs. 
 
 Hooper James, commenced 
 his min. in Paris, was ord. pas. 
 of that ch. 1795, continued the 
 active pas. till 1836, and sen. 
 
446 
 
 DICTIONARY OF' MINISTERS. 
 
 pastor till his death, in 1843. 
 
 Hooper Noah, first appear- 
 ed as pas. of the ch, on Cape- 
 Elizabeth 1820, 2 yrs., and re- 
 moved to Lisbon, where he 
 was pas. from J 23, about 3 yrs. 
 He has since labored with sev- 
 eral chs. as pas. or as an evan. 
 He supplied the ch. in Belfast 
 1827; 2d Camden '28- was pas. 
 1st Bloomfield fr. 1829 to '32; 
 and preached at Durham, S. 
 W. B., Minot, Litchfield, and 
 some other places. 
 
 Hooper Wm., the first Bap. 
 mm. ord. in Me., was set apart 
 to the work of the gospel min- 
 istry Aug. 14, 1776. A part of 
 his ministry however only was 
 devoted to the Bap. cause in 
 Me., one half being bestowed 
 upon the ch. in Mad bury, N. 
 H., then called ' Madbury and 
 Berwick.' 
 
 Houghton Josiah, was born 
 in Waterford 1790, and united 
 with the Cong. ch. at the age 
 of 1 7 ; but soon became a Bap- 
 tist, entered the ministry and 
 took the pas. care of Readfield 
 ch. in 1816. After laboring 
 here about 7 yrs., he was pas. 
 of the ch. in Newbury port, Ms. 
 7 yrs. He returned to Me. in 
 1830, and became pas. in Fay- 
 ette, where he was successful 
 about 3 yrs. The next 2 yrs. 
 he toiled for the Convention as 
 their agent. From '35 to his 
 death in '38, he was the useful 
 pas. in Turner. 
 
 Hodsdon Timothy, was ord. 
 the first pas. of Hollisch. Oct. 
 1805. and was instrumental in 
 promotinsr its spiritual pro- 
 gress, till he was removed by 
 death about the yr. 1822. To | 
 his ministry thatch. owes much 
 for its early success. 
 
 HinkJey Smith, was ord", ant 
 evan. in Monmouth, Jan. 20, 
 1836. The ch. in Leeds rec'd 
 his ministry in '37, and now 
 pas. of ch. 'Monmouth Centre.' 
 
 Hubbard John, ord. pas. of 
 the ch. in Hollis, Oct. 1832. 
 He officiated for the benefit of 
 this ch. till 3 35 ;, for the ch. in 
 So. Berwick from '36 to '40 ; 
 for Kennebunk from '41 to'43j 
 is now pas. of 1st Shapleigh. 
 
 Hubbard John jr., pas. of 
 the ch. in Cornish in 1845. 
 
 Hutchinson Daniel, pas. of 
 the ch. in Hartford 1816, and 
 after leading the ch. about six 
 yrs., he embraced sentiments 
 of a * mixed communionist,' 
 and left the denomination. But 
 convinced of his errors, he re- 
 turned to the ch. and became 
 its pas. again in '37, and enjoy- 
 ed union with his brethren till 
 1842, and resigned his charge; 
 since then he has been engag- 
 ed as an evangelist. 
 
 Hutchinson Joseph, son of 
 Rev. D. H. was licensed by the 
 ch. in Hartford, ord. as an 
 evan. and became pas. of 2d 
 Livermore 1839 ; since 1840, 
 several chs. have been blessed 
 by his itin. and stated ministry. 
 
 Huntting Enoch, was settled 
 in Eden, on Mt. Desert island 
 as the town's minister and pas. 
 of the ch. in 1817. This con- 
 nection continued about 15 yrs, 
 and he removed to become pas, 
 of the ch. in Dexter. Since his 
 resignation of the pas. charge 
 in Dexter, he has preached 
 occasionally and statedly in 
 different churches. 
 
 Ilsley Silas, was successful 
 pas. ch. in Warren, 1842 and 
 '43, and resigned his charge. 
 
 Ingraham J. H., inducted 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 447 
 
 into the gospel ministry by the 
 Congregationalisls; becoming 
 a Baptist, he was placed over 
 2d ch. Hallowell, as pas. 1839, 
 where he now resides, preach- 
 ing a part of the time only. 
 
 Jackson Lemuel, ord. evan. 
 at Sidney, 1793; was blessed in 
 hisitin. labors in the new towns 
 and settlements till he became 
 pas. ch. Greene, '97; res. 1801, 
 bee. pas. 2d ch. Weld, 1809: 
 he was the respected and use- 
 ful pas. of this ch. 13 yrs: re- 
 moved to Ohio, in 1823. 
 
 Jameson Thomas, as. past, 
 of Eld. Wm Goding, ch. Ac- 
 ton, was settled as such, 1837; 
 aided ch. Montville in '36. 
 
 James David, pas. ch. Ken- 
 nebunk, from 1829, 1 or 2 yrs. 
 Jewell Jacob, ord. evang. at 
 Mount Vernon, 1805. 
 
 Jewett Jeremiah, ord. evan. 
 1835; from '38 to '42, preached 
 much for church id Amherst. 
 Johnson Wm ord. at Blue- 
 hill, 1819; has been most suc- 
 cessfully eng. as evang. greater 
 part of his ministry, ah. 24yrs. 
 By his efforts a large number 
 of churches, especially in the 
 eastern part of the State, have 
 been blessed. He was pastor 
 ch. in Re ad field ,fr. 1834 to '37; 
 of 2d St. George, '38 to '40. 
 Johnson Charles, was born 
 at Stoughton, Mass., May 27, 
 1806; bee. pious at the age of 
 18, closed his Theol. studies at 
 Newton, 1835, and same year 
 ord. pas. ch. Topsham, where 
 he was useful till death termi- 
 nated his ministry, Feb. 29, '36. 
 Johnson John, educated at 
 Waterville Col.; ord. pas. ch. 
 in Charleston, 1838; pastor at 
 A Jdison, 1845. 
 Jordan Tristram, ord. to the 
 
 work of the ministry, in 1794; 
 but his labors do not appear on 
 the records of the denomina- 
 tion till 1804, when he became 
 pas. of ch. Denmark, and sus- 
 tained the relation till 1819. 
 
 Jordan Larkin L., was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. in Denmark, in 
 1835, and is useful to the ch. 
 
 Jones Ahira, was ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Saco, Aug. 1838 ; 
 resigned his charge in 1843, 
 and became pas.of Kennebunk 
 Port ; resigned in 184j. 
 
 Joy Amariah, was ord. in 
 Farmington Dec. 1838, and 
 afforded that ch. a supply of 
 the ministry about one year. 
 
 Jones Rufus, preached a 
 short time in Athens and vicin- 
 ity, and was ord. pas. of 'Ath- 
 ens vil.' June 1836, and contin- 
 ues to minister unto that ch- 
 
 Judson Adoniram, was pas. 
 of 2d church Nobleboro' 1820. 
 [The father of the missionary 
 in Burmah.] 
 
 Kalloch Amariah, was ord. 
 1830, has officiated as pas. in 
 lstch. Thomaston from 1831 
 to 1834; in 3d ch. Thomaston 
 since 1834. 
 
 Kalloch Joseph, bro. to A. 
 K. was ord. jun. pas. of the ch. 
 1st St. George, Sept. 1841. 
 
 Kendall Henry, born in San- 
 ford, Me. July 3, 1774, expe- 
 rienced a work of renewing 
 grace at the age of 19, was lie. 
 to preach 1801, wasord. at Mt. 
 Vernon 1805, and the same yr. 
 became pas. of the ch. in Litch- 
 field. He was useful in L. till 
 1818, when he removed to 
 Topsham, and took the charge 
 of that ch., and was useful till 
 j he resigned in '2S ; he then 
 gave himself to the work of an 
 I evan. or missionary, and is 
 
448 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 now actively and successfully 
 employed as agent for Me. D. 
 M. Society. 
 
 Kin* John, ord. at White- 
 field, 1807, but when and how 
 long he labored in the ministry 
 is uncertain by any records we 
 have found. 
 
 King Alonzo, was settled by 
 ord. as pas. ofthe ch. in North 
 Yarmouth 1826, but on account 
 of ill health resigned hischarge 
 in 1831, and left the State. 
 
 Kinsman Eben., after sev- 
 eral yrs. of useful labor as a 
 licentiate, he was ord. pas. of 
 the ch. in Limerick 1796 ; re- 
 signed in 1807. 
 
 Kingsbury Leonard, Dea. of 
 the ch. in Andover, was ord. 
 its pas. 1842, and served the 
 ch. 1 year. 
 
 Kingman Lebbeus, the pres- 
 ent pas. ofthe ch. in Guilford, 
 was ord. pastor of the ch. 2d 
 Sedgwick 1841, with whom he 
 remained about 1 year. 
 
 Knox Samuel, was ord. a- 
 bout 1822, and became pas. of 
 thech. in Strong; resigned his 
 charge of this ch. 1825, and 
 was pas. of the ch. Brighton, 
 from 1826 to '31 ; supplied the 
 ch. in Norridgewock fr. 1834, 
 2 yrs. ; was the junior pas. in 
 Clinton from 1831, 2 yrs., from 
 1835, 1 yr. and from 1838, 2 
 yrs., and had the pas. charge 
 ofthe ch. in Winslow from 
 1840, 2 yrs. 
 
 Knox George, the present 
 pas. of the ch. in Topsham, 
 was ord. to the office Dec. '41. 
 
 Ladd Samuel, was settled 
 pas. of Kennebunk and Ly- 
 man 1843, Left the State '44. 
 
 Lefavor Amos, preached for 
 the ch. 2d Sidney, 1 yr., 1835. 
 
 Lambert Robert, became 
 
 pas. ofthe ch. Frankfort 1821. 
 After aiding the progress of 
 this ch. 5 or 6 yrs., he took the 
 pastoral charge of the ch. in 
 Monroe, and officiated from 
 1329, 2 yrs. 
 
 Lamson Wm., ord. pas. of 
 the ch. 2d Thomaston, August 
 18, 1840, preached 1 year and 
 resigned. 
 
 Leach E. G., received ord. 
 at N. Portland Mar. 1839. 
 
 Leighton S. S., was settled 
 by installation as pas. ofthe 
 1st ch. in Leeds in 1843. 
 
 Lennan Bryant, was ord. 
 pas. ofthe ch. on Swan Island 
 1823, and served till 1827 ; he 
 next aided the 2d Hampden, 
 1838, but has been since gen- 
 erally engaged as an itinerant 
 preacher. 
 
 Leonard Martin was ord. as 
 an evan. at Leeds Sept. '25 ; 
 has never officiated as pas. of 
 any ch., but has labored a part 
 ofthe time in different places. 
 
 Lewis Jabez, was pas. ofthe 
 1st China, from 1801 to 1808. 
 
 Lewis Daniel D., was pas.of 
 the ch. in N. Gloucester in '09. 
 
 Littlefield N. G.,was ord. as 
 an evan. at Lyman 1828, and 
 preached a part ofthe time for 
 that ch. several yrs., and has 
 been its pas. since 1839. He 
 was also pas. ofthe ch. S. Ber- 
 wick, from 1833, about 2 yrs. 
 
 Lincoln Thos. O., was ord. 
 Dec. 1834 ; soon became pas. 
 ofthe ch. Kennebunk vil., but 
 resigned his charge in '36, to 
 take charge ofthe Free-st. ch. 
 Portland, where he labored 
 successfully till '41, when he 
 removed to Philadelphia. 
 
 Livermore Jason, was pas. 
 
 of Swanville ch fr. 1807 to '10. 
 
 Locke Simon, was. ord. pas. 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 449 
 
 of the ch. Lyman, Sept. 1783, 
 and was the devoted and use- 
 ful undershepherd of this ch. 
 for a period of 49 yrs., where 
 in 1831, he finished his course 
 and the ministry he had rec'd. 
 
 Long C. C, was ordained an 
 evan. in 3d Camden May '43. 
 
 Lord Nath'l, was born 1754, 
 ord. pas. of the ch. in Wells, 
 1780, and was their successful 
 guide 18 yrs. ; he then receiv- 
 ed the pastoral charge of the 
 2d ch. Berwick in 1804, and 
 lead the ch. through all its tri- 
 als till he was removed by 
 death April 1832. He was a 
 devoted and active servant of 
 the Cross, and his extra paro- 
 chial labors were eminently 
 useful to the early Baptists in 
 the State. 
 
 Lord Wentworth, was ord. 
 an evan. at Parsonsfield, 1803, 
 and became pas. of this origi- 
 nal ch. in P. 1806. He was the 
 acting pas. till 1830, and sen. 
 pas. till '35, when he resigned. 
 
 Lord Benjamin, was one of 
 the first Baptist ministers in 
 the eastern part of the State. 
 He was born 1778, became pi- 
 ous, united with the Metho- 
 dists, and was appointed class 
 leader in Surry 1800 ; he em- 
 braced the sentiments of the 
 Baptists in 1802, was elected 
 deacon of the ch. in Surry, and 
 after preaching some years by 
 license, he was ord. pas. ofthe 
 church ' Surry and Ellsworth.' 
 This relation continued till '14, 
 when he rec'd the pas. charge 
 ofthe ch. in Columbia. He 
 returned to Surry in 1818, and 
 resumed his pas. charge ofthe 
 ch. he had left, and ministered 
 to them until his death, Sept. 
 19, 1841. 
 
 Lord Tozier, supplied the 
 ch. in Athens from 1825, 2yrs. 
 
 Lothrop Alfred, Ord. in '36; 
 supplied the ch. * Lisbon Cor.' 
 1837 ; was pas. of the ch. in 
 Dexter from 1837 to '40, and 
 is now pas. of 2d St. George. 
 
 Low Robert, was settled the 
 pas. ofthe ch. in N. Glouces- 
 ter 1800, and has officiated in 
 thisch. as pas. from 1800 to '07, 
 and from 1815 to '20. He has 
 also discharged the duties of 
 pas. in Readfield from 1807 to 
 '15; and from 1832 to '34. Af- 
 ter supplying the Wayne ch. 
 and others destitute of a stated 
 ministry from 1820, he became 
 pas. of 3d Livermore in '24, 
 and preached to that ch. till 
 '32. Since 1834, he has labor- 
 ed but little, being much enfee- 
 bled by age. 
 
 Lawrence Manassah, was 
 ord. at Sumner June 1833, and 
 has officiated as pas. of that ch. 
 since his ordination. 
 
 Leonard George, was born 
 in Raynham, Mass., 1802, pro- 
 fessed Christ 1820, graduated 
 at B. U. 1824, was ord. pas. of 
 thech. in Portland 1839, was 
 useful to them but a few mths., 
 when he was removed by death 
 Aug. 11, 1831. 
 
 Macomber Job, was ord. pas. 
 of 1st Bowdoinham, in 1784, 
 and was their spiritual guide 
 till 1810. 
 
 Macomber Tho., was settled 
 pas. ofthe ch. in Sumner about 
 1804, and assisted that ch. till 
 1815. During his stay with 
 this ch. however, he travelled 
 much as a missionary to the 
 destitute. In 1816, he remov- 
 ed to Guilford, where he now 
 resides, and was the acting pas. 
 of thatch, from 1816 to '35; 
 
450 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 since then he has preached oc- 
 casionally in different places. 
 
 Macomber Joseph, received 
 a license by, and was ord. an 
 evan. in the ch. in Jay 1814, 
 and preached to the ch. and 
 elsewhere for a period of about 
 14 years. 
 
 Macomber Samuel, was ord. 
 an evan. on Vinalhaven 1820, 
 and was engaged in supplying 
 that ch. and others in the vicin- 
 ity for two or three years. 
 
 Mace J. M., was ord. pas. 
 ofthech. 1st Montville 1840, 
 and after two years ministry 
 with that ch. he engaged in a 
 supply of the ch. in Dexter and 
 others in its vicinity. 
 
 Magee Thomas, from the 
 Province of N. B. was pas. of 
 the ch. in Lubec 1835. 
 
 Mariner Samuel, received 
 ord. at Harpswell 1802, and 
 was pas. of that ch. for a peri- 
 od of about 30 years. 
 
 Martin Jesse, received ord. 
 at Vassalboro' as pas. of the 
 lstch. in that town, 1804, and 
 officiated for that people from 
 1804 to '13, and from 1824 to 
 '29 ; from 1817 to 1821, and 
 from 1832 to 1836, he was the 
 associate pas. of Rev. O. Bill- 
 ings in Fayette; and pas of 1st 
 China from 1829 to '32. He 
 is now aged and preaches but 
 a little. 
 
 Maginnis John S., was ord. 
 pastor of 1st ch. in Portland, 
 Sept. 1832, but resigned his 
 charge in 1837. He is now 
 Prof, of the Theo. Institution 
 at Hamilton, N. Y. 
 
 Marble Coker, was ord. an 
 evan. at Vassalboro' Junel805. 
 In 1808, he became pas. of the 
 2d ch. in V. and labored with 
 them till 1820. 
 
 McMaster Daniel, was plac- 
 ed in charge of the ch. in Sul- 
 livan by ord. in 1810, and sus- 
 tain'd the office of pas. till '22. 
 He has officiated as pas. in the 
 ch. Etna and Carmel from '23 
 to '31, in the ch. in Belgrade 
 from 1839 to '42. 
 
 McGregor Elias, was pas. 
 of the church in Kennebunk, 
 from 1839 and 1840. He has 
 since been engaged as a mis- 
 sionary among the destitute. 
 
 Mayhew Nathan, was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. East Dixfield, 
 soon after its organization in 
 1817. He was pas. till 1825, 
 and preached one half the time 
 from 1837 to '43 ; preached for 
 the ch. in Jay from 1831, 1 yr 
 From 1825, to the present, he 
 has afforded aid to several des- 
 titute churches. 
 
 Mason Daniel, received lie. 
 by the ch. in Fayette 1811, and 
 was ord. an evan. in the same 
 ch. in 1812. He officiated as 
 pas. in the ch. at Freeport fr. 
 1813 to '16 ; and in the ch. at 
 Bethel from 1818 till his death 
 in 1835. 
 
 Marshall Walter, was lie. 
 by the ch. in Hartford, and 
 preached for them some yrs., 
 and has been for several yrs. 
 employed in supplying desti- 
 tute chs. in the eastern part of 
 the State. 
 
 McGregor Daniel, was pas. 
 of the ch. in Lubec in 1837. 
 
 Maxim SullivanM.,was ord. 
 an evan. at Palmyra 1839, but 
 has since '40 been pas. of that 
 ch. and preached 1-4 the time. 
 
 Merrill Daniel, was first a 
 
 Cong, minister of Sedgwick ; 
 
 became pas. of the 1st Baptist 
 
 ch. 1805, and officiated as pas. 
 
 | in that ch. from 1805 to '14, 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS, 
 
 451 
 
 and from '22 to 28. He died 
 in 1833 ; he was an able de- 
 fender of the Baptist cause. 
 
 Merrill Thomas, became pi- 
 ous and was ord. an evan. in 
 the ch. Industry 1813. He 
 officiated as pas. at Prospect, 
 after supplying the ch. Swan- 
 ville, from 1816, 1 year, from 
 1817 to '25. 
 
 Melvin Joseph H., was ord. 
 an evan. at Knox, and bee. col. 
 pas. with Rev. I. Hall in 1842, 
 which relation was dissolved 
 by the death of Mr. M. 
 
 Messer Alvan, after preach, 
 by license a few years, was 
 ord. in 1843 as an evan. at En- 
 field. 
 
 Messer Amos P., onee adea. 
 in the ch. in Enfield, rec. lie. 
 and ord. in thatch, in '35, bee. 
 its pas. in '37, and preach, half 
 the time till '42. At pres. he 
 is pas. of the ch. in Springfield, 
 and his labors are divided bet. 
 this ch. and Enfield. 
 
 Merrill J., bee. pas. of the 
 ch. in Waterboro' 1842; pas. 
 at Cornville in '45. 
 
 Miller Charles, pas. of 1st 
 Bloomfield, (1844) was pastor 
 of S. Berwick ril. ch. €r. 1826 
 to '29 ; of the ch. in Turner 
 fr. 1830 to '32 ; of 1st Liver- 
 more fr. 1839 to '43. 
 
 Millet Joshua, (the author 
 of this history,) was lie. by the 
 ch. in Leeds, ord. pas. of the 
 ch. in Charleston Jan. 6, 1836, 
 resign, his charge in '38, and 
 rem. to Cherry field, and was 
 pas. of that ch. till 1843. 
 
 Milner Reuben, after itin. a 
 short time as a lie, was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. in Bluehill 1823, 
 (supplied the ch. in Woolwich 
 one year ;) and preach, for that 
 ch. about 3 yrs ; preached for 
 
 the 1st ch. Thomaston, '28 : 
 the most of the time for the 2a 
 Bowdoinham fr. 1830 to '31 ; 
 for Bridgton '32 ; Kennebunk 
 port vil. ch. '35 • pas. of the 
 ch. Norway, fr. '38 to the pre- 
 sent, (1845.) 
 
 Mirick Eben'r, bee. pas. of 
 1st ch. Sedgwick, 1829. He 
 preach, for this ch. till he ac- 
 cepted the charge of the ch. in 
 Brooksville, 1834, over which 
 he now presides. 
 
 Merriam Franklin, the pres. 
 pas. of the ch. in Winthrop, 
 was ord. over thatch. Jan. '41. 
 
 Merriam Isaac, was pas. of 
 
 the ch. in Eastport fr. 1825 to 
 
 '28 ; and was the successful 
 
 pas. of the ch. in Wells fr. '31 
 
 , about 5 years. 
 
 Mitchell R. S., has done the 
 work of an itin. preach, for se- 
 veral yrs. 
 
 Mitchell Robert, was ord. 
 pas. at Freeport 1817, and 
 preach, for that ch. ab. 2 yrs. 
 The subseq. part of his minis- 
 try was devoted to the benefit 
 of various churches. 
 
 Mowers Peter, was ord. in 
 1804, and was pas. of the ch. 
 in Mt. Vernon fr. 1807 to '15. 
 He afterwards denied the faith 
 and was deposed from the of- 
 fice of the ministry*. 
 
 Morrill J. C, as an evang. 
 afforded a supply of the ch. in 
 Augusta in 1836 ; for 2d Sid- 
 ney from 1838, ab. 2 yrs. ; and 
 was pas. of the ch. in Wiscas- 
 set from '40 to '43. 
 
 Morton Z., bee. pas. of the 
 ch. in Alfred a 843. 
 
 Morse Isaac, was ord. at 
 Madison in 1836 ; and as an 
 evan. has blessed that ch. and 
 others in its vicinity, with oc- 
 casional sup. He is now pas- 
 
452 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 tor of the church in Moscow. 
 
 Morse Winthrop, offici. as 
 pas. for the 1st ch. in Hallow- 
 ell from 1818, ab. % yrs \ for 
 the eh. in Farmington fr. J 21 to 
 '24. 
 
 Morse W. E., was ord. an 
 evan. at New Portland Sept. 
 '41 ; was pas. of that ch. from 
 5 41 to '42. He is now an evan. 
 
 McMarden — -, is a mem. 
 and an ev. in the ch. Belgrade. 
 
 Murry Ths., fr. Nova Sco- 
 tia, came to Hodgdon, where 
 he was ord. an evan. Feb. '39; 
 but his ministry was of short 
 continuance ; he died June of 
 the same yr. of his ordination. 
 
 Nelson Elias, was lie. by the 
 ch. in Monmouth 1812; was 
 ord. and offic. as its pas. from 
 '14 to '17 ; in 3d Livermore fr. 
 1818 to '21 ; in Jay fr. '21 to 
 '24, and fr. '33 to '39, of which 
 ch. he remains a senior pastor. 
 
 Newton Calvin, bee. a Prof, 
 of Rhetoric and Hebrew in 
 Waterville College 1831, and 
 resigned his office in the Col. in 
 '37. . He was elected Prof, of 
 Theol. in Me. Theol. School 
 in '37, and was the Principal jn 
 that Inst, till *42. During his 
 connexion with these Institu- 
 tions, he was useful to many 
 churches and soc. as a min. of 
 Christ. 
 
 Newton G. J., was ord. pas. 
 of the ch. in Vinalhaven Sept. 
 183(5, and preach, for that ch. 
 about 2 yrs. Since '38 he has 
 been the pas. of the small ch. 
 in Argyle. 
 
 Norcross C. T., rec. lie. by 
 the ch. in Charleston, and was 
 ord. as an evan. in that ch. 
 Oct 1832. He has officiated as 
 pas. in the ch. Friendship fr. 
 1832 to '35 ; in Dexter '36. 
 
 Since that time he has lab. oc- 
 casionally with dif. churches. 
 
 Norton Ransom, was one of 
 the early converts in the ch. in 
 Livermore ; rec. lie. by that 
 ch., and ord. pas. of the 2nd ch. 
 in L. 1811, and sustained the 
 office till 1826. He died Nov. 
 1,1834. 
 
 Norton Noah, was placed in 
 charge of 2d Bowdoin, by ord. 
 in 1822, which office he filled 
 till he removed to Brunswick, 
 1836, and has since been the 
 useful pastor of that church. 
 
 Norton Lemuel. 
 
 Nott Handel G., has officiat- 
 ed pas. of the church in Bath 
 since 1840. 
 
 Nugent Edmund, the present 
 pas. of Harrington, was ord. 
 in that church in 1843. 
 
 Nutter David, was ord. an 
 evan, at St. Johns, N. B., 1820. 
 He came to the State and has 
 officiated as pas. in 1st Liver- 
 more from 1822 to '34. After 
 preaching in Brunswick a short 
 period, he accepted the pasto- 
 ral charge of the ch. in Sedg- 
 wick, and is still useful to that 
 people. 
 
 Noyes R. ? was ord. an evan . 
 by the Atkinson and Milton ch. 
 by whose supply that church 
 has received some aid. 
 
 Oaks William, was ord. an 
 evan. at Canaan 1815, but for 
 immorality, he was deposed 
 from the ministry and exclud- 
 i ed from the fellowship of the 
 denomination. He has since 
 been restored and has preach- 
 ed occasionally in different 
 places. 
 
 I Outhouse Daniel, the pres- 
 ent pas. of 2d ch. in Lubec,was 
 ord. pas. of ch. Hodgdon, '41. 
 
 Owen Shimuel, was lie. by 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 453 
 
 the 1st ch. in Brunswick 1820, 
 received ord. as an evan. in 
 1824, and for many years per- 
 formed the work of an itine- 
 rant. He was pas. of the ch. 
 in Danville from 1S40 to '42. 
 
 Packard Lucius, was ord. an 
 evan. at Clinton, Feb. 1837, 
 and supplied the ch. 2d Cana- 
 an, from 1837 to '42, with a 
 part of his ministry. He now 
 supplies Belgrade and Read- 
 field. 
 
 Paine Henry, the Principal 
 of China Academy. He has 
 preached but occasionally since 
 his ordination. 
 
 Palmer Joseph, came into 
 the State 1801, and was pas. at 
 Cornville from 1801 to 1808, 
 and pastor of 2d Sidney 1809, 
 and officiated to 1812. After 
 laboring as an evangelist, he 
 was pas. of the ch. in Sumner, 
 from 1817 to '31 ; of 1st Mont- 
 viile from 1831 to '35. Since 
 1835, he has preached a part of 
 the time in different chs. 
 
 Page J.ona. F., was ord. an 
 evan. at Atkinson 1830, and 
 was useful in the ministry in 
 that and some other chs. for 
 several years. He has been 
 pas. of the ch. Dover from '35. | 
 
 Pattison R. E., President of 
 Wat. Coll. from 1836 to 1837. 
 
 Pierson Daniel, ord. in 1810, 
 was the pas. of the 1st Bow- 
 doinham until 1821, when he 
 received the charge of the 2d 
 ch. in B. From 1822 to '37, he 
 was a guide to this ch. He is 
 still a member. 
 
 Pierce James, received lie. 
 by the ch. in Litchfield 1810, 
 was ord. pas. of the church in 
 Wales 1811, and sustained the 
 work of an under- shepherd till 
 1832, 
 
 20* 
 
 Pierce Daniel, lie. by 1st 
 Lisbon 1816, and ord. pas. of 
 that ch. 1818. He was pas. till 
 1819, and again from 1821 to 
 '24. In '25 he received the 
 pastoral care of the church in 
 Greene, and sustained the con- 
 nexion till 1823. He was pas. 
 of the ch. in Wales from 1835, 
 about 2yrs. He now preach- 
 es occasional!}' in various chs. 
 
 Pendleton Amos P., the pres- 
 ent pas. of 3d Livemiore, was 
 ord. an evan. at Hope', Dec. '42. 
 
 Pilsbury Phinehas, previous 
 to his becoming a Baptist, was 
 a deacon in the Cong. ch. in 
 Sedgwick, and performed some 
 itinerant labors while a mem- 
 ber of that ch. He was ord. 
 by the Baptists at Fayette, Jan. 
 3, 1805. He was engaged as 
 an evan. till he became pas. of 
 the ch. in Nobleborough 1808, 
 where he was successfully em- 
 ployed till 1835 ; he then had 
 the charge of the ch. at Wis- 
 casset about 1 yr., and in '37, 
 became pastor of the ch. in 
 Greene, where he now labors. 
 Besides the work of a pas. he 
 has been very eminently dis- 
 tinguished and honored of God 
 as an evangelist. 
 
 Pilsbury T. L., was ord. at 
 St. George 1839, and an asso. 
 pas. in that ch. about 2 years ; 
 since 1841, he has been engag- 
 ed as an itin. among the chhs. 
 in the Penobscot Association. 
 
 Pinkham Eben'r, rec. lie. by 
 the ch. in Freeport, was ord. 
 an evan. at Sedgwick 1816. He 
 soon became pas. and officiated 
 till 1820. He remained a mem- 
 ber of this ch., preachinr in 
 various places, till 1828, from 
 which time till '32, he was pas. 
 of 2d Sedgwick, and again he 
 
454 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 served this ch. from 1835 to '39. 
 Since then he preaches but oc- 
 casionally. 
 
 Piper A. M., was ord. an 
 evan. at Harmony 1838. From 
 1839, nearly 2 years, he was 
 past, of 1st eh. Gardiner. 
 
 Pool William, the present 
 pas. of 2d Whitefield, was in- 
 ducted into the office by ord. 
 April 1830. 
 
 Porter C. G., the present 
 pas. of 2d Frankfort, was ord. 
 an evan. at Dixmont, after 
 preaching by lie. from the ch. 
 in Calais, July 1840. He was 
 pas. of 2d Belfast '41, and of 
 1st Searsmont '42. 
 
 Porter Lemuel, while a stu- 
 dent at Wat. Col. in 1831, was 
 ord. an evan, and preached for 
 that church apart of the time 
 for 2 or 3 yrs. He also ren- 
 dered much important assist- 
 ance to the Baptists in Augusta 
 dur. their first reg. movements. 
 
 Potter James, was among 
 the first converts east of New 
 Gloucester, and beg. to preach 
 immediately. He first united 
 with the Cong, at Harpswell, 
 became a Bap. in 1782, was 
 ord. an evan. in Oct. 1785, and 
 officiated as pas. at Harpswell, 
 from 1785 to '88, and in lstch. 
 in Bowdoin from 1788 to 1811. 
 Besides these stated labors, he 
 travelled much in the new set- 
 tlements, was a pioneer to the 
 Baptists in all the interior parts 
 of the State, and was instru- 
 mental in laying the foundation 
 for many of the now flourish- 
 ing chhs. Hedied Mar. 1815. 
 
 Powers Francis, was ord. at 
 Anson 1823, and took the pas- 
 toral charge of the ch. till '37, 
 preaching for them one quar- 
 ter of the time. 
 
 Powell Evan, was pas. of 
 the ch. in Cooper from 1836 to 
 '42, preaching however but a 
 part of the time only for that 
 ch. He has been employed by 
 the East. Quar.Conf. in Wash. 
 Asso. as a missionary to the 
 dest. He is now pastor of the 
 church in Topsfield. 
 
 Proctor Hadly, com. preach, 
 at 1st China 1823, was ordained 
 pas. '24, preached till '26 ; and 
 again he was pas. from 1837 to 
 '42, when death closed his 
 work on earth. 
 
 Purrington Elihu, bee. pas. 
 of the ch. in Topsham 1815, 
 and served 2 years ; and then 
 served the ch. 1st Bowdoinham 
 from 1821 to '40. 
 
 Remick Timothy, rec. ord. 
 at Cornish, and was pastor of 
 that ch. from 1805, a period of 
 27 or 28 years. 
 
 Reed Amaziah, one of the 
 first dea. in the ch. in Weld, 
 Was ord. an evan. 1811, and for 
 many yrs. rendered important 
 aid to that ch. by his ministry. 
 
 Rice S. M., ord. an evan. in 
 1839 ; has preached since in 
 various des. chhs. in Pis. Ass. 
 
 Richardson J., is the present 
 pas. of the South Berwick vil. 
 ch., and has officiated since '42. 
 
 Richardson Zebadiah, prea. 
 at Fryeburg from 1787 to '05. 
 Richardson Abiathar, the 
 present pas. of the eh. in Ap- 
 pleton, was ord. and ree'd the 
 charge 1822 ; after preaching 
 some years as a licentiate. 
 
 Ridley James, ree'd ord. '36, 
 and has officiated in 2d Bow- 
 doin 1836 ; sup. ch. in Mon- 
 mouth '37, and pas. '38 to '41. 
 He at present preaches at dif- 
 ferent places. 
 
 Rich Lemuel, officiated as 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 455 
 
 pas. of the ch. Islesboro', from 
 1809 to '15 ; Union, from y 22 
 to '26. He has labored much 
 as an evan. 
 
 Rieker Daniel, as an evan., 
 he belong, to the eh. in War- 
 ren, from 1817 to '20, and was 
 pas. of the eh. in Freedom from 
 1821 to 1~34. 
 
 Rieker George, the present 
 sen. pas. of the ch. in Auburn, 
 was ord. pas. of 2d Buekfield 
 1805, and after officiating in 
 that ch. about 5 yrs., he rem. 
 to Minot (now Auburn) in 
 1810. and took the charge of 
 the church in that town. 
 
 Rieker Joseph, rec. lie. by 
 the 1st ch. in Portland, and 
 was ord. an evan. at Portland 
 1842, and is the present pas. 
 of the ch. in New Gloucester. 
 For 2 or 3 years prev. to his 
 entering the ministry, he was 
 the editor of Zion's Advocate. 
 
 Rider Wilson C, ord. at 
 Amherst 1830, and served that 
 ch as pas. 2 yrs., and has offi- 
 ciated in Cherrv field from 1834 
 to >3Q ; in Leeds '33 and '39 ; 
 and preached for the church in 
 Wayne in '40. He is the au- 
 thor of a series of Lectures 
 against " Universalism." 
 
 Ripley H. J., officiated as 
 pas. ofthech. in Eastport fm 
 1320 to ; 22. 
 
 Ripley Tho's B., was ord. 
 pas. of 1st Portland July 24, 
 1816. and served in that office 
 till 182S. He next officiated in 
 the ch. in Bangor fm '28 to '34. 
 
 Ring John, was an itinerant 
 preach, in the Lin. Asso. from 
 1307, many years, and connect- 
 ed with the 1st ch. in Jefferson. 
 
 Rinir Benjamin, the present 
 pas. of Patricktown Plantation, 
 was asso. pas. in the ch. 3d 
 Nobleboro', from 1840 to '42. 
 
 Robinson Nath'l, has offici- 
 ated as pas. in the ch. 1st Pa- 
 lermo from 1805 to '10 ; in 
 Cherryfield, from 1810 to '21 ; 
 in Dover, from 1821 to '34. 
 Since then he has preached oc- 
 casionally in different chhs. 
 
 Robinson John, ord. at Corn- 
 vi He an evan. 1808, and sup- 
 plied that ch. one quarter of 
 the time for one yr. He has 
 lab. but little in the vineyard. 
 
 Robinson Otis, was ord. pas. 
 of 1st Sanford in 1798, and 
 presided over thatch, till 1810. 
 
 Robinson T. B,, the present 
 pas. of the ch. in Levant, was 
 ord. at 1st Montville 1826, and 
 officiated in thatch, till he bee. 
 pas. of 1st Thonaaston in '29. 
 Here he served till 1831 ; and 
 next took the case ofthech. 
 in Wayne 1831, and served till 
 '35 ; he then removed to Le- 
 vant, and has officiated in this 
 ch. from 1835 to '39, and from 
 '41 to '45. In '39 was pas. of 
 1st ch. in Hampden. 
 
 Robinson Timothy, was pas. 
 of 2d ch in Sidney for 1824. 
 
 Robbing Eleazar, was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. in Wnterboro', 
 and served from 1839 to '42. 
 He has preached some in Ken- 
 nebunk and Lyman, and in 
 Sanford, (Springvale.) In 1843 
 he was engaged as an agent for 
 the Dom. Miss. Soc. 
 
 Rohhins Samuel, preached 
 for the ch. Kennebunk, in '33, 
 and for North Buxton in '34. 
 
 Roberts Joseph, was ord. 
 and served the ch. in Danville 
 as pas. from 1803 to '27 ; and 
 the ch. in St. Albans and Hart- 
 land from 1823 to '33 ; since 
 then he has been engaged in 
 supplying several chhs. occa- 
 sionally. 
 
 Roberts Joseph P., ord. an 
 
456 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 evan. j n the 2d ch. Palmyra. 
 Roundy John, rec. lie. by 
 t,] e i s t ch. in Bluehill in 1807, 
 a 'id was ord. pas. '09, and min- 
 istered to that ch. till '20. He 
 lifts since officiated as pas. in 
 the Penobscot from 1820 to '23; 
 in the Charleston from 1825 to 
 to '35 ; in Franklin 1S38. He 
 has labored also much as an 
 evangelist. 
 
 Ruggles Paul, was among 
 the Baptist pioneers among the 
 new settlements in Penobscot 
 Co. After preaching some 
 years by license, he was ord. 
 
 pas. of the ch. in in 
 
 1S10, and preached to that ch. 
 till '20, when the Lord called 
 him to give up an account of 
 his stewardship. 
 
 Roberts Joshua, was pas. of 
 Kennebunk from 1803 to '31, 
 and at Limerick from '32 abt 
 two years. 
 
 Sanders John, officiated as 
 jun'r pas. in the ch. at Lyman 
 for 1831. 
 
 Seaver Horace, was ord. an 
 evan. at Freeport '31 ; offic'ted 
 as pas. at Warren '33; in 1st 
 Thomaston from '34, about 2 
 years. 
 
 Seavy John, preach, by lie. 
 about 3 years for the ch. in 
 Limington; was ord. pas. 1816; 
 and continued the connexion 
 to his death in 1844. 
 
 Sargent S. G., the present 
 pas. of the ch. in Belfast, was 
 ord. to the charge June 1833. 
 Sargent Walter T., was ord. 
 at Damariscotta, and pas. of 
 2d ch. in Nobleboro', Sept. 
 1838, and served the ch. one 
 year; of the ch. Bowdoinham 
 vill. '41 ; and of the ch. in Mt. 
 Vernon, from '42 to '45, where 
 he still continues. 
 
 Shaw B. F., the present pas. 
 of 1st China, was ord. into the 
 office 1843. 
 
 Sherburn Andrew, was pas. 
 of the ch. Kennebunk Port 
 (lost) from 1804 to '19. 
 
 St. Clair C. P., was ord. an 
 evan. at Dixmont 1S42. 
 
 Sibley Clarke, was pas. at 
 Cape Neddoek from 1834 to 
 '35 ; at Saco, pas. '36 ; Ken- 
 nebunk Port '37 to '40. 
 
 Slason Wm. N., has preach- 
 ed at Parsonsfield, and has 
 been pas. in the ch. at East 
 Machias, 1836 ; in Pembroke 
 from '37 to '42 ; in Calais '43; 
 at Parsonsfield again in '44 ; 
 and at Effingham, N. H., '45. 
 Sheldon David N., Presid't 
 of Waterville College, became 
 pas. of the ch. in Waterville in 
 1842, and ent. upon the duties 
 as Pres. of the College in '43. 
 Spearing Joseph, preached 
 in Clinton and in its vicinity 
 several years, by lie. ; and af- 
 ter his ord. he was jun. pas. in 
 that ch. from '41, about 2yrs. 
 Spaulding Royal C, was set- 
 tled as the minister of the town 
 of Levant by ord. in 1826 ; and 
 was pas. of the ch. from '2S to 
 '34, when he removed to Co- 
 rinth, and was pas. of that ch. 
 till '43 ; and at Houlton in '45. 
 Small Daniel, the present 
 pas. of 1st ch. in West Thom- 
 aston, was placed in charge by 
 ord. Nov. 1839. 
 
 Small B. D., was ord. an 
 evan. at Etna 1838, and sup- 
 plied thatch. 3-4 of the time 
 from '39 to '42 ; he is the pre- 
 sent pas. of thech. N. Bangor. 
 Smith Eliphnlet, labored as 
 an evan. in Fayette and its vi- 
 cinity as early as 1790 ; and 
 was pas. of that ch. from 1792 
 
DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 457 
 
 to 179S ; and united with Rev. 
 Mr. Billings in supplying the 
 ch. some years afterward* 1 . He 
 was beneficial to the Baptist 
 cause in other places. 
 
 Smith William, officiated as 
 pas. in the ch. Readfield, from 
 1837 to '41. He is the present 
 pas. of the ch. in Wales. 
 
 Smith Henry, was among 
 the early Baptists in York Co. 
 He was ord. pas. of the ch. in 
 Waterboro' 1785, and was the 
 faithful teacher and guide to 
 that ch. for a period of more 
 than 40 years. He died at the 
 age of 84 years, Feb. 11, 1836. 
 
 Smith Isaac S., after preach- 
 ing 2 or 3 years as an evan., 
 bee. pas. of the ch. in Friend- 
 ship, from 1822 to '31 ; of the 
 ch. in Freeportfrom'32 to '36; 
 of 1st Palermo from '37 to '40. 
 
 Smith Samuel F., was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. in Waterville 
 Feb. 1834, and was their suc- 
 cessful teacher till 1842. 
 
 Snow Elisha, commenced 
 preaching at Thomaston in 
 1784, and was ord. an evan. at 
 Harpswell 1790 ; was pas. of 
 the ch. 1st Thomaston from 
 1794 to 1821. He was much 
 devoted to the cause of God ; 
 travelled much, and aided ma- 
 ny destitute churches. He died 
 Jan. 30, 1832. 
 
 Stinson William, was ord. 
 at Bowdoin, and pas. of the 
 2d ch. Litchfield 1792, and 
 served that ch. till 1822. 
 
 Stanley Seneca, was lie. by 
 the 1st ch. Sidney ; ord. an 
 evan. at Cornville 1828 ; with 
 thisch. he labored successfully 
 till about a year previous to 
 his death, Oct. 1838. 
 
 Starr Robert C, was lie. by 
 the ch. in Warren, 1811, and 
 
 ord. an evan. in 1816. The 
 same year he became pas. of 
 the ch. in Friendship, and la- 
 bored till 1821. He aided a 
 supply of the ch. in Woolwich 
 from 1818 to '21, and was pas. 
 of that ch. from 1821 to 1828. 
 He then removed to N. Glou- 
 I cester and was pas. of that ch. 
 from 1828 to '35 ; from 1837 
 to '38, supplied the ch. in Har- 
 rison half the time, and was 
 pas. of the ch. Oxford, from 
 1838, 1 yr. For 1840, he was 
 pas.of the ch. in Leeds, and 
 from 1841 to '45, pas. of the 
 ch. in Wayne. 
 
 Stinson Sam'l, was ord. the 
 pas. of the ch. in Woolwich, 
 and served them from 1806 to 
 '21. He died Nov. 1823. 
 
 Steward Jonathan, was an 
 evan. 1813, and has been use- 
 ful in the denomination, and 
 especially to the church 1st 
 Bloomfield, for which he prea. 
 much from 1814 to '25. 
 
 Steward James, preached in 
 Stetson and vicinity from 1808 
 about 2 yrs.j and served the 
 ch. in Hope, as pas. till 1812, 
 and then in Prospect, 2 or 3 
 yrs. The remaining part of 
 his time was devoted to oc- 
 casional and sometimes stated 
 supplies of different chs. 
 
 Steward David, is a mem- 
 ber of the ch. Newport and 
 Stetson, and is engaged as an 
 evan. supplying that and oth- 
 er chs. since 1835 to the pres- 
 ent. 
 
 Stevens L. C, entered the 
 ministry and became the pas. 
 of the ch. in Richmond, at its 
 organization in 1834. After 
 serving this ch. about 3 yrs., 
 he removed to Fayette, and 
 wasjun. pas. from 1837 to '41. 
 
458 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 Again he served the church in 
 Richmond one year, and is 
 the present pas. at N. Sharon. 
 
 Stevens Daniel, was ord. 
 and became pas. of 2d China, 
 from 1823 to 1826, and sup- 
 plied 1st China '27 ; and again 
 he was pas. of 2nd ch. in C. 
 from 1829 to '32 ; he then af- 
 forded some supply to the ch. 
 in Albion from '33 to '37. He 
 died at the age of 59 yrs. 
 
 Stearns Silas, born in Wal- 
 tham, Mass., July 26, 1784 ; 
 became pious at the age of 18; 
 was ord. an evan. at N. Yar- 
 mouth Oct. 1807. He, after 
 preaching about 2 yrs. at Free- 
 port, became pas. of the ch. in 
 Bath Dec. 1810. Here he la- 
 bored till called away by death 
 Aug. 1, 1840. 
 
 Strong H. W., supplied the 
 ch. in Sanford '40. 
 
 Strong J. E., has officiated 
 as pas. of the ch. Lebanon and 
 North Berwick since 1840. 
 
 Swett Samuel, operated as 
 an evan. in New Sharon and 
 vicinity from 1811, 2 or 3 yrs. 
 
 Swett Thomas J., was ord. 
 an evan. 1840, and hns preach- 
 ed for the chhs. Branch Pond 
 and Penobscot, Han. Asso. 
 
 Still John, operated as an 
 evan. within the limits of the 
 Lincoln Asso. from 1807, ab't 
 12 years. 
 
 Taylor Elias, received a lie. 
 to preach by the ch. in Bel- 
 grade in 1808, and was ord. 
 pas. 1810, from which time till 
 '38, he officiated to the satisfac- 
 tion of the ch. and pleasure to 
 himself. He has afforded them 
 much profitable aid since that 
 time. He died Jan. 19, 1845. 
 
 Taylor Comfort, was ord. an 
 evan. at Athens village 1838, 
 and for '40 he was pas. of that 
 
 ch., and was the pastor of the 
 ch. " St. Albans and Hartlaud 
 Village" in 1843. 
 
 Temple Ichabod, was pastor 
 of the ch. 2d Webster from 
 1802 to '06 ; and of 2d Bovvdoin 
 from '07 to '20. 
 
 Tebbets A. G., was ord. an 
 evan. at Exeter in 1842. 
 
 Thomas Nathan, originated 
 in the ch. in Wayne, and after 
 preaching by license received 
 from that ch., he was ord. at 
 Albion '26, and was pas. of that 
 ch. till '31 ; since then he has 
 operated as an evan. in No. 8 
 and vicinity. 
 
 Thresher Eben'r, ree'd ord. 
 and was pas. of 1st Portland 
 from 1828 to '30. 
 
 Tilton J. H., was pas. of the 
 ch. in Limerick from '40 to '44. 
 
 Tilley William, has been the 
 pas. of 2d Sidney since 1842. 
 
 Titcomb Benjamin, was one 
 of the first Baptists in Portland; 
 was ord. at North Yarmouth 
 1799, and served the 1st ch. in 
 Portland as pas. from 1801 to 
 '04 ; he then removed to Bruns- 
 wick, and was pas. of the 1st 
 ch. in B. from 1804 to '27 ; and 
 of the ch. called the " Village 
 Church, Brunswick," from '29 
 to '36. He yet lives to see the 
 Baptists multiply. 
 
 Titcomb Benjamin jr., son of 
 B. T., was born in Stand ish, 
 Me., Dec. 4, 1787. He pro- 
 fessed Christ in Brunswick, in 
 1816 ; in '22 he was ord. an 
 evan. ; after preaching in Free- 
 port, and Charlestown, Mass., 
 by lie. for 2 or 3 years. Pie was 
 a useful minister of Christ till 
 his death, March 1829. 
 
 Torrey Joseph, was pas. of 
 the ch. in Readfield from 1826 
 to '30. 
 
 Tolman Reuben, preached 
 
DICTIONARY OF A1INISTEUS 
 
 459 
 
 in Greenfield and No. 1, from 
 1828, 2 or 3 years. 
 
 Tripp John, the present 
 senior pastor of thech. in He- 
 bron, was born at Fairhaven, 
 Mass., March 25, 1761, be- 
 came pious at the age of 11 
 years ; at the age of 26 he be- 
 gan to preach by lie. ; was ord. 
 at Carver, Mass., an evan. 
 1791 ; in '93 he came to He- 
 bron, and entered upon the 
 duties of pastor in that ch. 
 
 Tripp L. H., son of J. T., 
 present pas. of ch. in Cape 
 Neddock. 
 
 Tripp Shubael, another son 
 of J. T., was ord. at Newfield 
 1824, was pas. 1 year ; and 
 was the useful pas. of the Ken- 
 nebunk Port and Kennebunk 
 from 1833 till his death, '37. 
 
 Trask Enos, appeared as an 
 evan. in 1st Whitefield in '27; 
 from '30 to '32 he was pas. of 
 the ch. in Windsor ; from '33 
 to '35, of 1st Jefferson ; and 
 from '36 to '45, of 1st Noble- 
 bo ro\ 
 
 Tubbs S.-j an evan. in Ab- 
 bot, 1842. 
 
 Tyler Samuel, assisted in 
 affording th^ ch. 1st Parsons- 
 field a supply of the ministry 
 from 1830, several yrs ; from 
 '35 to '38, he was pas. of the 
 ch. in Woolwich. 
 
 Very Edward D., was ord. 
 an evan. at East Machias Oct. 
 1838. He was pastor of thech. 
 (Milltown) Calais, from 1839 
 to '41 ; and the Calais Village 
 ch. from '41 to '43, when he 
 resigned. 
 
 Walker O. B. , after preach- 
 ing by lie. some years, was 
 ord. pas. of thech. in Baring, 
 1838 ; from the years '40 to 
 '42, he was pastor of the ch. 
 3d Livermore ; and is the pre- 
 
 sent pastor of the ch. " Fox- 
 croft and Dover." 
 
 Warren E. R, officiated as 
 pastor in the ch- Newcastle 
 and Alna,from 1834 to '36 ; in 
 Vassalboro', from '36, 1 year; 
 in Tops ham from '37 to '41 ; 
 and in Augusta to close of '43. 
 
 Watson Richard Y., was 
 ord. an evan. at Fayette May 
 1829, and '30 he received the 
 pas. charge of the ch. Vinal- 
 haven, and officiated 3 years; 
 and since '33 he has sustained 
 the pas. care of thech. in Sul- 
 livan, & sup. ch. in Hancock, 
 
 Watson Edmund, was ord. 
 an evan. at Houlton, Apr. '36. 
 
 Washburn Job, was first a 
 deacon in the ch. 2d Thomas- 
 ton, and an evan. 1822 ; and 
 officiated pastor of that ch. fin 
 1-824 to '41 ; he is the present 
 chaplain for the States Prison. 
 
 Wakefield John, received 
 ord. as an evan. in the 2d ch. 
 Thomastofi, and was useful to 
 that ch. till he became pastor 
 of the church in Warren in 
 1821. On account of feeble 
 health his ministry closed in 
 1327. 
 
 Wagg John, entered the 
 ministry about the year 1806; 
 but was never very successful 
 in the work of an evan. or pas. 
 
 Webber Stephen, was ord. 
 pas. of the ch. in Limington 
 1803, and sustained the charge 
 till '09 ; since labored in N.H. 
 
 Winchester Benjamin P., 
 was ord. pastor of the ch. in 
 Corinna Dec. 1829, and is 
 their present minister. 
 
 Wedgwood J. M., is the 
 present pastor of the 2d ch. in 
 Slrapleigh. 
 
 Wheeler Hosea, was pastor 
 of thech. in Eastport for '22. 
 
 Wheeler Samuel, operated 
 
460 
 
 DICTIONARY OF MINISTERS. 
 
 as an evan. in Philips and vi- 
 cinity in '16. 
 
 Whitehouse George, by ord. 
 became pas. 2d Jefferson '36, 
 and prea. to that ch. till '42. 
 
 Whitehouse D., preae. for 
 the 2d ch. Nobleboro', in '37. 
 
 White Edward J., belong- 
 ing to the 2d ch. in Palermo, 
 was ord. an evan. at Knox Aug 
 '35 ; he was pastor of 2d Pa- 
 lermo from '40 to '42. 
 
 Williams Elisha,one of the 
 early Baptists in Livermore, 
 ord. an evan. at the meeting of 
 the Bowdoinham Assoc. Aug. 
 1799, and was pastor of the 
 ch. in Brunswick from 1800 to 
 '03, when he removed from 
 the State. [He died at Bev- 
 erly, Mass., Feb. 3, 1845.J 
 
 Williams N. M., ord. as as- 
 sociate pastor at New Sharon^ 
 Jan. 1840 ; and after laboring 
 with this people 2 years, he 
 removed to Farmington, and 
 has charge of that ch. 
 
 Williams N. W., pastor of 
 the church in Augusta. 
 
 Wilson Adam, Editor of 
 Zion's Advocate ; born in 
 Topsham, Feb. 10, 1794 ; bap- 
 tized at Topsham July 1816 ; 
 graduated at Bowdoin College 
 1819; ordained at Topsham 
 as an evan. Dec. 13, 1820 ; 
 spent 3 months in travelling 
 among the destitute ; labored 
 at Wiscasset 3 years, '21 to 
 : 23, during which time the 
 Baptist ch. there was organ. 
 In '24 spent 3 months as a 
 missionary in Washington co., 
 in the employ of the Maine 
 Baptist Convention, immedi- 
 ately alter its organization ; 
 was pastor of the churches in 
 Turner and New Gloucester 
 4 years, '24 to '28 ; was Edi- 
 tor of the Advocate from its 
 
 origin, Nov. 11, '28 to '38 ; 
 then pastor three and half yrs. 
 at Bangor ; then two years at 
 Turner ; then returned to 
 Portland and resumed the 
 charge of the paper. 
 
 Wilson Joseph, the present 
 pastor of the ch. in Waldobo- 
 ro', after laboring successfully 
 as a lie, was ord pastor of 
 that church in '37. 
 
 Wilbur Asa, ord. an evan. 
 in Sidney 1793, and was pastor 
 of that ch. from 1796 to 1829. 
 
 Wing Asa, an evan. in 2d 
 Whitefield 1810 and '11. 
 
 Wood Abial,jr., ord. pas- 
 tor of the ch. in Wiscasset 
 1834, and preached one year. 
 
 Woodard Samuel, was a- 
 rnong the first in Brunswick ; 
 he officiated as pastor of the 
 East Brunswick from 1792 to 
 1801 ; he was a member of 
 this ch. till his death, Oct. '31. 
 
 Wyman Thomas, was ord. 
 an evan. in Livermore about 
 1806 ; he was useful to this 
 ch, for several years. The 
 church in Greene was favor- 
 ed with his ministry the year 
 1808 ; and he was pastor of 
 3d Livermore from '12 to '17. 
 
 Wyman Wiliiam, son of 
 Rev. T. W., was ord. and offi- 
 ciated as pastor of the church 
 in Bridgton from '28 to '31 ; 
 since then he has been em- 
 ployed in supplying various 
 destitute churches. 
 
 Young Levi, operated as an 
 evan. among the destitute in 
 Industry and vicinity in 1814. 
 
 Young Joshua, was pastor 
 of the ch. in Columbia and 
 Addison from 1794 to 1797. 
 He was successful as an evan. 
 in the eastern partofthe State 
 during the early movements of 
 the first Bap. in those places. 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 461 
 
 No. Mem- 
 bers. 
 
 ,0 «-■ ■<# t- ©3 ©} 
 I O Ci S-< CO © CM 
 
 o cm ^ co ■* 
 
 Pastors. 
 
 Ord.Min, 
 
 No. Chs. 
 
 
 juaioc- r, rt s-l ^ o m - t- co rr« 
 
 
 
 r-. 
 
 o n n >o « >-i o fl -r « « t? k k o ol'; « n io kj o a Tf 
 
 o 
 
 i- O * O ■? ^ - 'C lT* O r C O O 'C h O iQ 'J CO f O h "5 
 
 
 ^> 
 
 ■4 _i — — *h i-h t-« »•* ©* ©< ©« ©*©< ©* ©j s* ©» ©« e* ©1 ©1 ©i g--i ©i 
 
 fj-a 
 
 <©£ 
 
 •s.2 5S 
 
 r£ o-C 
 
 ~.E 4j 
 
 'SbS - » 
 
 — © E "5 
 
 > '^ 
 
 aSa,aifa< 
 
 c H.2J.5. « '■» £-2 = © "> o o 
 g"© J-3 3.2 5 8 -33 I 813 fi £ Sj" oi.2 
 
 *sfc 
 
 P 3-3^ g-5 2'5 §. 
 
 _ <u ., - - - 
 fe fe S © 2 ° s « ■- - 
 
 3 ^S 
 
 T-rnH r- a r- 
 
 Jf*H J Jl jSllllUlJI 1! 11111 
 
 xi-^facflEaia^aifett! § 
 
 oa^<i<'ho'd^^<ao: 
 
 :oc» 
 
 O S 
 
 d < 6 so o 
 
 
 ~ a> t: o 
 
 - 9). V r/T"0 " 
 
 3 « • jQ £ 05 
 
 » -J3 O © ~ 
 
 r-^Oai-5.2; 
 
 2 w cc co -3 * ' 
 
 be 
 
 S 
 
 £ = £d 
 
 tfj-1. 
 
 1 o o o. 
 
 ' § § § 
 
 i 2_2-e 
 
 <$«i 
 
 C- o <u 
 
 2 22 — 
 o a o 
 
 SB «i 
 
 O 22 
 
 s — © 
 M 2 "2 
 
 S® 
 
 CO . 
 
 MO 
 
 S S 
 
 
 o re o 
 - = I = 
 
 ^T3 a.S a 2 S S 
 
 o 2 j£T3 « 9 = - 
 
 J e» .Spaces 
 
 GQ 2=3 
 
 S^: 
 
 © © jz o 
 
 d ^ d ^ < 6 
 
 8.9 Is 
 
 O to -©01 
 
 OB o"© • « 
 
 ©I 
 
 5 e.9 
 
 Time. 
 
 S . Bjb2 - 
 
 BJ3 ©-= C-5-£^ 
 
 ^v2 2 y>3-| c"©-2 = 
 — -© C _c co gj y 
 
 * B u b " -» 
 
 a3aHg:yja:cj-:oo^^> 
 
 53 
 
 Is 
 
 - ?• 1 
 
 .ii •■ B en 
 
 e 
 
 -9 c 
 
 co rd « — 
 
 !2 '■« 
 
 1 iiji 
 
 _. be a s j= -g o> 
 
 © 5 afio "■- E eo O bD = -s 
 
 -_ oicfa fj^, o.= >>3C ©j;; 
 ^ J « W > r C -3 J 22 Ed U3 M 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 No.Mem- 
 bers. 
 
 Pastors. 
 
 Ord.Min, 
 
 No. Chs. 
 
 Time. 
 
 
 
 oco e'- 
 
 
 en cr> O} 
 
 T}^o-(nK)(ncot^co(oOQOto 
 
 G^ Gv( Gn» 
 
 <C>iO<r>tO*Ot^t-Tf<Tf<Tj<iOCOTf<'# 
 
 a a 
 ~ = "3 
 
 -a ba»- 
 
 c ra.o 
 
 2- a 
 
 ra « o 
 
 >-». CO .s 
 
 B § 
 
 U 0) 
 
 33 G CS 
 
 _0J bo 
 
 O <u o 
 
 G Si "5 
 
 • S (8 g . 
 
 "S bbg o 
 
 en c C'-S 
 
 - 0)-- H O 
 
 s-fi £?££ 
 
 co a$j '3. 
 
 o-2 -o • o 
 
 ^^ §E°3 
 
 a .>- CO ^ 
 
 • « jo >> fcfl-5 -g 
 
 \S C "55 c £ 
 
 _C t-. CO 4, y 
 
 o <g g — oj-3. 
 
 .2 o-~ u 
 
 S«|B a 
 
 ■- bo 2 &.-£ 
 
 £.5 ^0) > w 
 
 H-G CJ='C C0j£ G >,J).S 
 
 2 s'S £"§<3 
 
 a a ~g 
 
 odh £«<»-,• dc od dud<; 
 
 "3 
 
 «-* 
 3 - • 
 ro J5 : 
 
 G 
 
 o 
 o o ^ 
 
 01 
 
 »*~> CD 
 
 
 
 
 y'S 
 
 &<^~;<G*;oo<h<^ ^ 
 
 o 
 
 cfi 
 
 E 
 
 CO 
 
 «8i 
 
 3 .g 
 
 £ "c s.-e co 
 
 v |a 
 
 3 ^•£"= cc °'*o£2 
 
 . __• o -g -^ ;■_.:_• ® 
 
 o " -G 
 o u 
 
 o j5 
 
 id Htojo^odj o 
 
 bo 
 
 1 J I fflgSt 
 
 ~*5 fee 25 
 
 EtfS 
 
 ; 2tt«2^2 S-H-ItS c2 gj 
 
 a G b.« C _• 3.05 * b Cfl-C G 3 rt G ^.Gj ~ 
 
 'a 5 
 
 ra -> >. cu r" . c g <s i. n^ y r to r » — 
 
 tCi f- CO CTi O -^ G9 SO ^ lO t-D t~ CO CT5 O >— 1 <?^ eo IH 
 G^C^G^C^WCOWOWGOGOSOCOSO'Tf'Tf'^Tfi '■ 
 CO 
 
 S2 coj>t~- 
 
 co co 1 — 1 o 
 
 'H G-» CO SO 
 
 CO 
 
 SO iO CO 
 
 CO 
 
 "#•*-* 
 
 CO 
 
 toco 
 
 G £ £ 
 
 -C G . 
 CO G O 
 
 ? - bo 
 
 O CO 
 
 H & 
 
 
 
 G bX) 
 » be 
 
 W CdcTD 
 
 
 g w-53 u-s 
 
 5 ^«S 5«3 
 
 3 « « 
 
 •5 ^«3 s^c 
 
 _ 05 4} jo 0) 
 
 5^ 
 
 6 corf nj ; 
 
 fCOOlO-H 
 CO CO CO o o> 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 463 
 
 t-i -* — ** rt rtH5)rt«rtJ«^5( 
 
 <£> VO O <M 
 
 ■*c-ooQ»^'*»ot~ocoQc3»»Qe<e<<oo4'*»-i 
 
 - - -h ^ ~t ?):)?)";?)?!- ^ « ci « - st 5-) 
 
 — s^cmg^s<<§3s^s-«?n 
 
 n 
 
 
 OObQ^iOh- JiCO-h CO iO lO ©* sg 
 
 co co co -^ tj -?< ^ -n s> -?} co co co co co co 
 
 §3 
 
 — 54 S^» 6§ 3? -^ CO CO CO rft t» tt< CO CO CO^"*OS<(GOGOCOCOCOCOt*.^.^ SS5100 
 
 
 m a a. 
 
 SI 5 S 
 
 £ ».2 § 
 
 22O_0_fa 
 
 £oi 
 
 
 BUS 
 
 cd_:o 
 
 ^-= 5 
 
 2.^0 
 
 <C- JO 
 
 «2 o o s co c 
 
 COS 3.2-8 
 
 
 
 
 
 «- a, 
 
 CO 
 
 
 
 
 
 .C JS 
 
 « 
 
 guide, 
 trials, 
 rror, 
 
 
 E_~ 
 
 .CO - co 
 
 _e cu 8 ■ 
 
 * «.2 «rg 
 
 5S 
 
 
 •0 
 s 
 3 
 
 c^ " 
 
 5 for 
 ions 
 
 feet 
 bful 
 
 J3 
 
 U S e 
 
 » 5 °-^ '§ -s « 
 
 CO J- 
 
 2*E 2 '5 
 
 o a 2 S » 
 
 DS^W 
 
 3 co 
 
 £s-5^.>^ Bjgg 
 
 eg s = a jbje j= e 
 
 £ 8 
 
 to 
 
 -co > B 
 fcJO* bD « 
 
 E S^ 
 ££0 
 
 H§-§- 
 
 
 -x 8 
 ! as £ ^ w H 
 
 ^ m 
 
 HO 
 
 _S£ o 
 
 C 3 
 
 
 £.&/<* a 
 
 o c o »- 
 
 ^0^1 
 
 rv. to -B 
 
 o a, t. 
 co o - « 
 a o jb -e 
 
 o • c — 
 
 co COCO! 
 .3^ 
 
 "&3(W 
 
 
 & ~2 1 
 3c co co 
 ,«- <y £3 — 
 
 _=o s^ 
 
 ■2 ^ 
 
 £.2. 
 °'co 
 
 g.S » E 
 
 —4 o 
 
 6 co 1 
 
 ;Si2 «"2 § 
 
 c fcc£ 
 
 : > S o « c be g 
 
 SO 
 
 h pi a ^ q eh' ■-»• ^ , 
 
 CM 
 cu . 
 «Z 
 
 J£ CU - 
 
 c 2 
 
 »Q 
 
 aT CO^ •• CO* wT C 
 
 i S g-S E g 
 
 - v. fen w •—" * * - ."3 
 
 CO ;~ ^^ L ^— 
 
 fa! „ 
 
 
 a ^1 
 
 a- £ co 
 
 cdb 
 
 
 .3§-o\«2» S io 
 
 So*S5S§OS^O E 
 
 OH 02 «0— co— o co to 
 
 CO vT <" .CO . ^ . . _c 
 
 ^ -J 5 5 5 2 
 O 
 
 a C B 8 
 
 CO • — cO cO en 
 
 ». - 2 1. "5 »• - COQ« 
 
 co " rt I. B) Ng eg 
 
 O o O CO O ** JZ 
 
 05 ^ 72 i-J ai ^75 
 
 B2lS %' 
 5 .» <S «2 a co 
 
 -=; c c 
 ^ » 5 
 
 o o^ 
 
 eiOr- 
 
 
 cO 
 
 'l-rTg 
 
 
 E2.i- 5— -o^s-e— -cog 
 
 :>^ 
 
 . u 
 
 JB CP 
 
 '^o^JcasSfar" 
 
 ' ~— w v -■ u 
 
 ;^^g§Sog8^§gS§82^S2SSSE:~28^^^^ 
 
464 
 
 STATISTICS. 
 
 ! I No.Mem- 
 J bers. 
 
 Pastors. 
 
 Ord.Min. 
 
 No. Chs. 
 
 
 
 Time. 
 
 
 
 
 ~«.2 
 
 -» Cu 
 
 fe.1 S.se ^ © s^C -3 „ s r? s> 
 
 > 
 
 •— 3 09 
 
 OQ 3 
 
 g ca bo 
 
 
 OT5 
 
 g E-i gu cq <; ^ tf rj^cutfaQ-afauma^ 
 
 5 >> ro 
 
 « s 2 „-* 
 
 09'0^ 
 
 1 |*°>Q^ 
 
 ££ 
 
 
 a ~_ r 
 
 g;|.3*<« 
 
 — o re g> -a . a; 
 
 3 c^^ o-or 
 
 O OT C 
 
 »9 ^ _- e <d 
 
 ..s sp s 5 »fc 
 
 3-O.S c ~« & >».« 
 * t-i bo 
 
 
 
 
 S.a E £.aj 
 
 s a « ■<! 2s 
 
 I 4 1 
 
 3 'KB = 
 
 TJ re ts 
 
 dooa 
 
 p -a £ s = 
 
 .2 2 5 aT rt * 
 
 tB SO v rig-* la | 
 
 
 
 ~ re.= o J» 
 
 111 411 Ifllf II 
 
 J^QOJJJ^fc 
 
 tNs^s-<i}wcc«Go^wc?wcoi:^5 
 
 SSSSI 
 
 Oi GO ^ VO OJ 
 
 CO — lOkO -* 
 
 — a. = 
 (Owe — 
 
 V O O »- 
 
 •■= bfl-r n 2 
 
 
 « ^.SPa. 
 
 
 2-c a> 3 
 
 
 Q-E-Qiw 
 
 ^ 
 
 bB . 
 
 o 
 
 JS^ 3.5 
 
 
 -si 
 
 A.I 
 
 Mer 
 Pils 
 Mai 
 
 h- 1 
 
 O 
 
 rnQlC^ 
 
 
 OQ 
 
 £ s 
 
 < 
 
 Merrill, 
 Macomb 
 Merrill, 
 Boardm 
 
 (J 
 
 O 
 
 Q-iQai 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 g 
 
 £ 
 
 J 
 
 S j 
 
 
 S s 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 S CO 
 
 
 •-» »-» 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 J_ 
 
 
 SB 
 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 -»'Q 
 
 
 bx 
 
 o 
 
 III 
 
 I 
 
 CO 
 
 £ 
 
 
 
 
 M 
 
 ^^^ 
 
 S^ 
 
 § 
 
 sss 
 
 B 
 
 
 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 465 
 
 Nf»S<^ S-tG^W CO CO CN CM CN 8; 
 
 — ^ ^ 
 
 T* C~> r- 
 
 CMCM CO 
 
 <M S3 <M 
 
 S-3 ■* O CO I 
 
 CN <M -< — > I 
 
 « «# 'o ci co co cd i 
 
 5 CO CM »-" CM CM CM ( 
 
 
 Jm ?5 
 
 a* 
 
 888 
 
 ©CMtOCMa>CMI>C>CM 
 
 co « to o 3 rf o co o • 
 
 « — <© t"- 
 CM G^.CN CMCMCMCMCOCOCOCOTf'CM 
 
 iCMOOC-CH>COCOCMCO' 
 
 l .%$\ 
 
 5-3. CM CM COCO CO CO 
 
 3.2 -0© 
 
 •C 3 OO 
 
 ■8X8 fl 
 
 "5.cS.2 
 
 r - > 
 
 'If fit 1 
 
 2.1 s gil 
 
 oa.2 
 
 5 a^2 jc 
 
 on « — 5 
 
 o — c = 0,0 
 
 31 8*3 "l^* 
 
 CJ 
 
 5.2 
 s K2 I £ 1 
 
 re a, — - - o 
 
 -=st: 
 
 3 (8 «•= S 3 ffllSuM tT'3 
 
 Is 
 
 be— 
 
 >o 
 
 ^2 « I.S.9PS go 
 
 « •- c> a> 
 
 to C — — 
 
 .2 « o o 
 
 OfcZZ 
 
 03 03 co — 
 
 
 _ /: 
 
 BQ»-s 
 
 . o 
 
 c£tf! 
 
 2 5 
 
 .2 DO 
 
 ipfii 
 
 Cv CO 
 
 £ c 2 a 
 
 £ «- - t: ., <*> *r b*? 2 t- o 5 
 
 
 Ill 
 
 • re . 
 
 =re< 
 
 jsfp 
 
 
 air-! 
 
 ©go 
 
 
 5M£ 
 
 <<: 
 
 B^gg^ 
 
 IIS 
 
 « 2 * 
 
 V £.= = -. as 2 g 
 
 O CO > 
 
 
 co . 3 (C 
 
 £* 5 m 
 
 .- -i« ~ CO ^ ~ ~ 
 
 to ra — r< 
 
 S=3 Sh J 
 
 8 * * * S fe 
 
 J3 
 
 33 - 
 
 bu 
 
 
 
 CO 
 
 
 M 
 a 
 
 '5 
 
 a 
 
 bo 
 
 s 
 a v w 
 
 2 3 
 _r ■£ 
 
 ^: j= re 
 
 J= 03 C 
 
 3 
 
 co 0--5 
 
 .03 
 
 en 
 
 0^ 
 
 22 ^ 
 
 _ js re 
 
 szh> 
 
 
 
 - 
 
 3^GO-*0'-r>C~COC>p 
 
 *2 So 
 
 S-S 03 03 
 
 22 
 
 co O 
 
 g-g re^ „ 
 
 2§ 
 o « 
 
 a - to s 
 
 "g2£ 
 
 ! 32 §?Ss 
 
 -2 -S 
 «SJ §-§-§ ^-2 Z |e2^ re^^^^H^O^^OQ 
 
 CH<NG9S^c^G'»c^(^S-»«COCOeOCOCOCOCOCOCOT?'*TJ<'* 
 
466 
 
 STATISTICS. 
 
 No. Mem- 
 bers. 
 
 Pastors. 
 
 Ord.Min. 
 
 No. Chs, 
 
 10 en s<» io <?* co 
 
 ko s^t en to tji r- 1 
 
 &*©oe<ototf5i-it»»-it'-e-»-'*G-*eocoT-H 
 o&^^tocnt-ioest-i^eo-H^G-icoco 
 
 ooomcccocooH-iHMrtHMM 
 
 © t-OGO 
 
 cotr><r>c-cecno->pcncr><D — cs^tenOiQcot-t-coco cncoj>co 
 
 lOntOrtHrtH i— 1 ^H ' 
 
 Time. 
 
 5~ 2 13' 
 
 -o o-£r= 
 
 g - ©u, 
 
 g g-c-s<- 
 
 I s is 2- 
 
 _~ Cow 
 
 C. <U © O — *; , 
 
 a o -- o o <u 
 
 'S5o„r 
 
 o - 
 
 2-5 £ 
 
 3 5 O 
 
 
 -- sao 
 
 K V 
 
 ja ° - O B « 
 * ^— > "3 re t« J" 
 
 = ~F O 
 
 »3 .— 
 
 Oc H OOffiSL t <;Qa,Hcasu 
 
 .2 «n «j 
 
 oo s a 
 
 GOO 
 
 « « a 
 
 JIM 
 
 S S 3 ° 
 O „^«« 
 
 o- oj r 5 o . fi . «r-i 2 
 
 
 SS£S!3b5|5-;=§-ggStf5fS£ 
 J.3S h «« -Oh 2=~< §-.- « ..S3J' 
 
 .o a 
 S "5b - b? 
 
 O !fl >>> 
 
 ^33 = ^ 
 
 9 <S 4>.2 
 
 
 
 6_d_d la"; 
 
 
 b ^ a d 
 
 1 odfi-u a, 
 COM ^££ 
 
 02 5 A 
 
 
 o -=: 
 
 o -a 
 
 •» ^ <o 
 
 _ g 
 
 2 5 
 
 U 
 
 S 5 r - 
 
 5 S 5 • r _r <D 'O 
 
 « 2 
 
 
 (rtrtrtr- ^^f-ir-lS^S<«(^G^G^S^G^G^o-IG^COGOCOriCOCOtOl 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 467 
 
 i CO C~ CO CT» CT> 
 
 O C- © *■" ' CO CO 
 
 O CO ©CM GO — i 
 
 O >0 iQ ^ "3 O 
 
 O = S 
 
 « 2 
 
 S 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 mod 
 
 o 
 Z 
 
 
 Nw 
 
 
 *. 
 
 _r 
 
 
 
 _= s 
 
 ^ 
 
 &2 
 
 E « 
 
 cz — 
 
 
 ■■■g 
 
 o~ 
 
 J < 
 
 £« 
 
 hO 
 
 Kod 
 
 ^N 
 
 -iEH 
 
 ai 
 
 35 o-: 55 
 
 £ £ « S 
 tf S H < B J 
 
 Z C* fc £ ffi 3 
 
 
 icMco©-#*#o-r~i>© 
 
 ^•^rGOC7>co-*c7>cocM 
 
 2231 
 2240 
 
 2389 
 2578 
 2861 
 3209 
 
 
 O^Of^-i-OtOCO 
 
 N M -h G< 3 iO 
 
 
 O O Tf O K5 »o c « <t 
 
 ■* to tji to »o o> 
 
 
 tfiO©*COCO-fVOCOi-i 
 -HM9<fi 3<t G* CM CO 
 
 GO CO t? «a O CO 
 CO CO CO CO CO GO 
 
 
 
 < 
 
 M 
 
 o 
 
 
 CO 
 
 Religious hope, 
 Search the scriptures, 
 Religious education of child'n, 
 Grow in grace, 
 The gospel minister, 
 On hearing the gospel, 
 Duty of prayer, 
 Several duties, 
 Religious knowledge, 
 
 Duties of christian church, 
 Christian stability, 
 Practical godliness, 
 Efforts to inc. relig. intellig'ce, 
 Ministerial support, 
 Christian decision, 
 
 D. McMaster, 
 L. Norton, 
 
 E. Hunting, 
 
 D. Merrill, 
 Committee, 
 
 E. Hunting 
 R. Milner 
 E. Pinkham 
 J. Billings 
 
 D. Merrill 
 
 J. Gilpatrick 
 
 E. Mirick 
 W. C. Rider 
 P. Bond 
 
 J. Billings 
 
 <i 
 
 W 
 
 Z 
 
 < 
 
 z 
 
 H 
 
 < 
 
 Beiq. Buck, 
 N. Robinson, 
 E. Hunting, 
 H. Wheeler, 
 D. Dunbar, 
 J. Eveleth 
 D. Merrill 
 Jno. Roundy 
 Isaac Merriam 
 
 B. Buck 
 P. Bond 
 J. Gilpatrick 
 W. C. Rider 
 E. Merrick 
 J. Gilpatrick 
 
 E. Hunting, 
 
 II Wbceler, 
 E. Hunting, 
 J. Eveleth 
 P. Bond 
 E. Hunting 
 P. Bond 
 
 do. 
 do. 
 do. 
 do. 
 
 . do \ 
 J. Gilpatrick 
 
 
 Jno. Roundy, 
 D. Merrill, 
 
 B. Buck 
 D. Merrill 
 D. Merrill 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 A. Allen 
 Jno. Billings 
 J. Billings 
 
 
 Steuben, 
 
 Sedgwick, 
 
 Surry, 
 
 Addison, 
 
 1st Brooksville, 
 
 Bluehill, 
 
 Eastport, 
 
 Sullivan, 
 
 Cherryfield, 
 
 Eden, 
 Sedgwick, 
 
 Addison, 
 Franklin, 
 Bluehill, 
 Cberryfield, 
 
 
 CIO — MKirfOOfKClO- 1 S* GOrf 
 -* CM CM CM CM CM 6? CM CM CM W SO CO CO SO CO 
 CO 
 
 
 Ouo^f 
 
 CO*-* 
 
 
 t^ -™ CO 
 
 cr>© 
 
 
 C~- O CM 
 
 5*t- 
 
 
 1—1 1— 4 
 
 
 
 «5 -f -O 
 
 OtC 
 
 
 
 CM --i 
 
 
 ^O'O CO 
 
 Hc^ 
 
 
 &9 rf UO 
 
 O CM — 
 
 
 CM CM CM 
 
 :o coco 
 
 
 «T • 
 
 • 
 
 
 
 
 
 8* 
 
 j* 
 
 
 
 
 
 fgff 
 
 o 
 a. 
 
 
 sS ©.5 
 
 Dh 
 
 
 SRja 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 'c^l* 
 
 — >> 
 
 
 O) = £ 
 
 ._ "5 
 
 
 r-3-a 
 
 o a. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 •= cS 
 
 
 3y§ 
 
 l|£ 
 
 z 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 — 
 
 - 
 
 ojS S> 
 
 i.1 
 
 S..&DO 
 
 < 
 
 1—1 
 
 u 
 
 
 
 4) « >- . >- ,2 
 
 ro Q O oj O H 
 
 QQ 
 
 
 
 m 
 
 
 
 < 
 
 - - 
 
 If 
 
 H 
 
 &g£ 
 
 
 C 
 m 
 
 *££ 
 
 ^S 
 
 OQ<< 
 
 faH 
 
 PQ 
 
 
 
 o 
 
 
 >% 
 
 z 
 
 <« . 
 
 
 
 
 S^ 
 
 
 
 05 
 
 
 O -i 
 
 C-i 
 
 
 
 a 
 
 
 o 
 
 o 
 
 
 .-6 6 
 
 &JD.S 
 
 
 _Q "O "O 
 
 bfij2 
 
 
 o 
 
 'C o 
 
 
 « 
 
 e:a! 
 
 
 Z 
 
 oz 
 
 
 a * 
 
 s 
 
 
 o — 
 
 o 
 
 
 
 
 
 1 1 ? n 
 
 - CO 
 
 o t- a> 
 
 
 :Tj<1> "S 
 
 
 cc X c 
 
 = > .U 
 
 
 
 165 
 
 
 O t- CO C7i O ft 
 g* CM CM CM CO GO 
 
 
468 
 
 STATISTICS. 
 
 No. Mem- 
 bers. 
 
 Pastors. 
 
 Ord.Min 
 
 
 ■*t~iOOCGGOGOtr>G^G^©Cn 
 
 No. Chs. 
 
 GOGOGOGOGOCO^G^G-*^ GJ S3 
 
 % 
 
 
 o 3i 
 
 5 "«3 .-^.22 
 
 oj^ ^-; 
 
 . ^ m -n -fi 2 o« a. B 
 
 <© «_ e O 2 
 
 o-S 
 
 >>S So 
 
 £cc;o;oo,2jso3 0,^,5 
 
 bo 
 
 bfi 
 
 .§-.sis«ig|§s-s.s 
 h w oi as e* H «j oji^ajd^j 
 
 JS o 
 
 bx> 
 
 aMIsggs.SajS* 
 
 *tf£o 6B5 ^! E d«Sco 
 
 H^^Eh, 
 
 <!3S03O 
 
 ■2 » SPS 
 
 h aswEn 
 
 
 N. Robinson 
 
 do. 
 J. Roundy, 
 Z. Hall. 
 
 do. 
 N. Robinson, 
 A. Wilson, 
 
 do. 
 H. Hawes, 
 R. C. Spaulding 
 J. Hatch 
 T. B. Robinson 
 
 P/ace. 
 
 Parkman 
 
 Corinth 
 
 Guilford 
 
 Etna 
 
 Dexter 
 
 1st Hampden 
 
 2d Hampden 
 
 Corinth 
 
 Charleston 
 
 Bangor 
 
 St. Albans 
 
 Corinth 
 
 Time. 
 
 CO 
 
 •«# era >— i O go oa 
 C- t- •— i •— ' <— ' © 
 
 O a t£> tf5 tr> CT> 
 INCOGS T? CO SO 
 
 cocr>^G-<<r>cooo-<*ir5ior- 
 
 mo^^&irt 
 
 MiOO^COOl 
 
 t- CO OaCTa Cra O 
 
 en co era era © g^ 
 
 iptures 
 
 jience 
 
 ruin 
 
 of the Church 
 md effort 
 
 W. Asso. 
 ian 'character, 
 lination 
 an benevolence 
 
 duty of chrs. 
 
 S-2 
 
 « 5 « g g.2 g 
 
 O fc « c .2 la a 
 
 5 » rt ■£ 
 E g-S S I 
 
 a S § g'~ 
 
 a 
 bfl 
 
 £ £ S w S "3 > 
 
 so- § 
 
 S*.«Sdi 
 
 alllll^l 
 
 §§§£IifS" gJ? >s 
 
 5 ?tB M 
 
 .-i o3 as £q_^ £ d n as ~ ; 
 
 . . .•= s I s 
 
 o o o ■-; 20 >» . .£OQd 
 
 -■OT3 5 .OOO— .13 
 
 CO gOTJ-OMO 
 Q ^ W Q OQ 
 
 *-< £S S a) 
 
 S-a •- -I 
 
 o s o 
 
 as^ q 
 
 = o 
 
 sq:^k 
 
 o JJ 
 
 ,« a S a cc 
 
 ^as>o^sasu 
 
 co_^ 
 
 icOGOCOSOGOeOGOCOSOSO'* 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 e-xtt 
 pc W 
 
 IS 
 
 
 i-^ — . .-* 
 
 
 
 T3 
 
 gg 
 
 CO 
 
 
 O 
 
 
 « 
 
 c 
 
 'O 
 
 
 
 O 
 
 fu 
 
 >>>> 
 
 - 
 
 ^ 
 
 ~ 
 
 
 — 
 
 a 
 
 5 >' >» 
 "3,3.2 
 
 0) 
 
 ■5 «^.H 
 
 7t 
 
 tors 2 
 
 COM 
 
 ce 
 
 foi 
 
 6< 
 
 
 ^ 
 
 
 CO 
 
 
 S) u "~o 
 
 3 
 
 s^6 
 
 weu s . 
 
 CJe*££ 
 
 aJdHw 
 
 
 
 c 
 
 
 
 
 Sarg 
 Mace 
 owler 
 Porte 
 
 a 
 
 s Q o 
 
 QQ 
 
 -sisd 
 
 
 
 a 
 
 ^ 
 
 en 
 
 Ol 
 
 3 
 
 © d 
 
 00 
 
 o . 
 
 O 
 
 02 
 
 D 
 
 
 
 
 c 
 
 i- 
 
 o 
 fee 
 
 
 
 
 
 c 
 
 dOQ" 
 
 i 
 
 ■a . 
 O 
 
 = 
 
 QQ 
 
 
 b 
 
 
 
 1 
 
 
 rt eS C 
 
 
 
 
 co 15 "3 
 
 ^>U£h 
 
 §5§!§ 
 
 CO 
 
 
 poesu'jaiwto- 
 
 " so. s-» »o "O C- t- CO 
 
 o. co co sTsT 
 
 G<»Tji^<if5MGO«kOkO 
 
 g. I? To- 
 ri's 
 
 <«^3 re 
 
 55 g — ^ °> 
 
 ■J •••23 si 
 
 I - 2 * ci o 
 
 re re 
 bxr- 
 ,— =o 
 
 -3 C 
 
 y - > 
 
 5- 5 »-s 
 
 .2 3,8" g 3" 
 
 
 22*5 fe "S "S ^ o 
 
 OOm 
 
 ■q.H 
 
 S B en CO 
 
 oo^csc 
 
 ;*afr5i 
 
 SSSg-ip 
 
 So § 0.2 § £ 2 s 
 
 si .£335 S-&3 
 
 Qd^Q^ZrtdScQd 
 
 
 
 — 
 
 H 
 
 Qo|S 
 
 "!§ 
 
 s 
 
 z 
 
 
 C 5 co 
 
 
 5 S d d d drK -Sj5 
 
 d d d d d 
 
 
 O^* 
 
 ■0"OTJ-C-U 
 
 <!-; 
 
 * ^O 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 * . 
 
 c 
 o 
 
 2S2 a 
 .2 "S c 
 
 OS« 
 
 
 6*-«z 5 
 
 O ^O 
 
 ^Q hJ 
 
 ^*G-i 
 
 W <JCd 
 
 ill Ii PA II Jill 
 
 2 
 
 cr-eoco — 
 
 C3 C7> i— i »-* 
 
 kO-#COC5-*< 
 
 — s* V5 co •* ■ 
 
 S^OOCOCiOQOM 
 
 C75GO-#-HiOt^<OCO 
 
 O — — < CM 
 S^ S3 Sn) g-* 
 
 ! G^ CO Tf ■* ■* 
 
 ! ~* e;?)g< g* 
 
 f 2 
 
 £ CO > 
 ^2 « - 
 
 .2 o o-2 
 §IgJ§ 
 
 . ° C s< 
 
 co O ,bp 33 
 
 CD — 
 
 » « S " 
 cy O c 
 
 o £ "•= .2 
 
 O 33-3 js 
 
 2Qy o 
 
 c2 
 
 1 5 o 
 
 SO 
 
 •— :c"C Ocyreo • 
 
 <ia'sQ<ai<daQa igi 
 
 _ O 0_j S 
 
 lolll^lll^ 
 
 i s--cio*g s^ g* s 
 so Z<B^5Q<iddog 
 
 5 2 
 
 «5 5 3 E i; 
 
 2 os 
 
 c o c iJ 
 
 2 re 2 «° 
 
 a S ^ S s 
 
 - " ? 3.2 3.2 
 
 u 5^ o *; 
 
 ZcsQaqS 
 
 a = 
 
 §2 as* 
 
 - O ^ O ^ * -O » 
 
 cosoc^cowcr5c?5CCty5co 
 co 
 
 IS 
 
470 
 
 STATISTICS. 
 
 II No. Mem- 
 
 §§82 
 
 bers. 
 Pastors. 
 Ord.Min. 
 
 o go ^ o 
 
 'O H G-t Cl 
 
 No. Chs. 
 
 GO rp O iO 
 CM CM CM CM 
 
 
 0> © S-, 
 
 5- 
 
 -C bnitfrz 
 
 
 
 33 
 
 £.2 -2 S 
 
 ^ 
 
 -a * * £ 
 
 1 § g-5 
 
 
 18^!^! S 
 
 
 
 3 
 
 
 s 
 
 V- <»-. V- 3 
 O O Oj= 
 
 * 
 
 © © G ° 
 
 © u o © 
 
 
 a a a -a 
 
 
 « a3 o3 ~ 
 
 
 
 & 
 
 coS» 
 
 j 
 
 CUD, Q.S2 
 
 CQ 
 
 S S Sgj 
 
 
 
 ^j 
 
 s >> 
 
 <u 
 
 
 
 © = 5 £ 
 
 
 
 
 cq .as* 
 
 C^JH 
 
 
 
 
 :=] © 
 
 
 
 J 
 
 o 
 
 > 
 
 <"aO-8 
 
 Cs 
 
 72^Q 
 
 
 lius^"^ 
 
 
 i 
 
 
 03 
 
 
 
 ►i* 
 
 
 
 i«>« 
 
 
 fc ^ 
 
 
 QQ z 
 
 
 . 
 
 
 3 © 
 
 I! 
 
 g 
 
 ■2j<- - 
 
 1 
 
 «s .a 
 o 3 
 
 * 
 
 CQQ 
 
 
 ai«j 
 
 «j 
 
 a -" 73 o 
 
 a 
 
 o © <u a 
 
 ^ 
 
 111,1 
 
 
 Cfi 0JD2 
 
 
 . o-2 — 
 
 Time. 
 
 Q i-i CMGO 
 
 OfflHM 
 
 r-OOlO 
 
 <— i CM CM <T> 
 
 'JW^iO 
 
 CM CM GO GO 
 S^!M^G< 
 
 CM C?< CM GO 
 
 S © 5 
 
 o< 
 
 <iQtf <i 
 
 -3-) CO T? 
 
 "-O^ClCOO 
 
 ~i 
 
 OC5ph 
 
 — o cr> 
 
 _ 
 
 M 
 
 ~ 
 
 O COlO 
 
 rtOO) 
 
 - 
 
 ~> 
 
 - 
 
 C- C- CO 
 
 O O ©1 GO 
 
 CM CM CM ©* 
 
 s 
 
 00 
 M 
 
 ICQ 3 
 
 > £ ©^ § 
 a g 0.-5 ^ | 
 
 • JO B m'" 3 ^ 
 
 o o o ~° "S ^ 
 
 ■Ittl-IJ? 
 
 © «-:= cua a-a 
 . £ © £ - » o 5 
 
 as.*- 
 
 ca^. 
 
 3 v. en >. 3 3 
 
 - BCf J -'- 
 
 03.1 C j2Om^^ 
 
 :^h4W!?Hi 
 
 
 
 
 
 SD, , s s j. j. , 
 
 03 
 
 15 S 
 
 1 J£ In S5 "O Xi ©iS 
 ! oj cfl 03 'O 3 _e C3 
 
 'Owa<i jou 
 
STATISTICS. 
 
 47J 
 
 s-j cr. 
 
 00 w 
 
 Bap 
 Min 
 Chs 
 Trs. 
 Dd, 
 
 
 r 4h 
 
 64 CO 
 
 — -* 
 CO CO 
 
 1 
 
 Of 
 ©J co 
 
 G^ CO* 
 
 !r>ioios-»i-coc3-iiococr>OG^Go™ 
 tc t- co co — -rf ■— r~ — en co — c- 
 
 - ) ?> — — G J CO -r ~ . CO -COS-IO 
 
 so ■<* »o »o So 10 — tc cc — . c - si ' ) 
 
 
 
 
 83 
 
 1— G! i-H CO O CD CO O C"> CO 
 
 co co -?■ -j- en cc -r O 
 
 CO Tj< G4 CO r* tx> — G-> G> i> O 
 
 
 td 03 
 
 ^^^5S^S|2SS5S55§o 
 
 
 
 
 en 
 O) 
 
 O CO i CO CO G) G( t- iO — to o< -^ 
 — G-J G) 0< CO -r -r -rr iq ^r vc cc co 
 G<t 0< G* G} G> G* G> O-t 0< 0> G) G* G> G-t 
 
 
 O CO 
 
 O CO -c CC G^ O) r- O — 1 t — G> 
 
 £j 
 
 en 
 
 G) W G-' CC t-HQffi CO r.oo 
 
 ^wctccccc-cC'r^iccjT 1 
 
 e 
 
 ?>2 
 
 1 i-s'-s'-s 
 
 D. Merrill 
 No Letter 
 
 J. Houghton 
 T. I?. Ripley 
 
 E. Pinkhain 
 
 J. S. Magiunis 
 S. V. Smith 
 H. Hawes 
 O. Barron 
 L. C. Stevens 
 J. Millet 
 Discontinued 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 sr 
 6 
 
 b 
 
 a. _a 
 
 CO _OT 
 
 7) PU 
 
 T. B. Ripley 
 J. Haines 
 1). Merrill 
 J. Gilpatrick 
 I. Merriam 
 J. Ballard 
 P. Bond 
 T. Curtis 
 1). Nutter 
 C. Newton 
 T. B. Robinson 
 N. Colver 
 L. Colby 
 Z. Bradford 
 
 
 3 3 2 
 
 it 
 
 u 
 a 
 
 B. Greenough 
 J. Miller 
 D. Scribner 
 
 B. Greenough 
 tt 
 tt 
 
 a 
 
 <u 
 "5 
 
 be 
 
 fee 
 
 c 
 
 50 
 
 J. Torrey 
 J. Houghton 
 
 tt 
 A. Wilson 
 
 E. R. Warren 
 tt 
 
 T. O. Lincoln 
 
 L.Colby 
 tt 
 
 1 
 
 2 
 O 
 73 
 
 >> 
 
 D. Merrill 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 J. Butler 
 
 do. 
 A. Drinkwatcr 
 
 do. 
 C t Newton 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 A. Wilson 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 do. 
 
 
 
 2 
 
 
 •a 
 
 CO 
 O 
 
 PS 
 
 North Yarmouth 
 
 Bloomfield 
 
 Warren 
 
 Readlield 
 
 Topsham 
 
 Portland 
 
 Bangor 
 
 Bath 
 
 Watcrville 
 
 Sedgwick 
 
 Tliomaston 
 
 Hallowell 
 
 Turner 
 
 Warren 
 
 Tfo -c c- x r. c - ?) r5 'j"--: t; 1- co r. - S* co 
 ©•> &i g-< tx g) o? co co co c: co co co co cc co «# -r t* -* 
 00 
 
472 STATISTICS. 
 
 MAINE BAPTIST MISSIONARY SOCIETY. 
 
 Errata. On page 39, line 17, read i when' instead of ' where.' 
 
 45 
 53 
 132 
 132 
 
 167 
 167 
 203 
 217 
 276 
 295 
 377 
 
 20 
 
 25 
 
 30 
 
 9 
 
 Z.' Richardson, &c. 
 ( 1780/ instead of 1750.' 
 ' seventy-one,' instead of seven.' 
 
 Talorstown' 
 R. C. Starr 
 I. S Smith 
 Morse' 
 Ball' 
 I. Hall 
 Hale' 
 ' A. Lothrop 
 
 A few grammatical errors can be corrected by the reader. 
 
 Tatonston. 
 <l.S.,'&c. 
 ( F. S. Smith. 
 ' Moses.' 
 
 Bray.' 
 
 J. Hall.' 
 
 Hall.' 
 S. Lothrop.'