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IN COMMEMORATION OF THE LANDING,
BELIYEBEO IN THE
2d. Presbyleviaw C\\\\ve\\, Mbany^
DECEMBER 22d, 1820:
GN THE COMPLETION OF THE
SECOND CEKT\]K\,
SINCE THAT EVENT.
BY JOHN CHESTER,
Pastor of the Second Presbyterian Church, Albany,
** QUI TRANSTULIT SUSTINET."
A L B A N Y:
PRINTED BY E. AND E. HOSFORD.
:^.
1820.
♦#^> ;
"^8
/^-
L-i
'< The Committee of Arranwtnents" Cor the colebralion of the
Second Cent urial Era of the Landing of the Pilj^rinis of New-
Eii<j;land. present to the Reverend John Chester, their warm
thanks for the very int.Testii;g and eh)quent discourse delivered
by Iiiin, at their request, on the occasion, and respectfully solicit
a copy for publication.
By order of the Committee^
JOSEPH ALEXANDER,
EBENEZEli BALDWIN.
Albany^ December 23d, 1820.
Albany, 26th December, 1820.
Gentlemen,
I have the honour to acknowledge your polite note
of the 23d inst. I send you a copy of the Sermon, agreeably to
your request, and submit it to your disposal.
I am, with affectionate regard,
your Friend and Servant,
JOHN CHESTER,
Joseph Alexander, Esq.
Ebenezer Baldwin, Esq.
ii ^mm.
JEREMIAH, Vr. 16.
TTius saith the Lord, stand ye in the ways, and see, a?ul ask
for the old paths, where is the good ivay, and walk there-
in, and ye shall find rest to your souls,
boME of the most delightful and improving emo-
tions, that the heart ever experiences, spring from
recollections connected with our Fathers' sepul-
chres. We cherish with the tenderest interest the
memory of our departed Ancestors. The places,
where they lived and toiled, where they wept and
prayed, where they fought and conquered, are dear
to the sweetest efibrts of memory, and the most sa-
cred and most noble affections of the heart. Who,
that has been long estranged from the venerable
mansion of his birth, where his parents lived, where
he began his first steps, does not find a thousand ob-
jects that produce the liveliest emotions of melan-
choly pleasure. The tlioughts rush back to the mo-
ment when "life was young," and the warm tears
of our childhood bedew the cheeks of maturity.
Ko virtuous mind is ashamed of these feelings; they
are always honourable, as they are powerful. Many
a prodigal has wept in the bitterness of remorse up-
on that threshold that he left rich in innocence, and
rich in paternal blessings, and sighs as he remem-
6
bers the counsels he has neglected and the anguish
he has caused to the heart of his Sire. What the
remonstrances of conscience and the warnings of
truth could not effect, the nie:nory of home has ac-
complished. " I will arise and go to my Father," is
the first promise of penitence — he rises and goes,
are the first acts of duty. — To cherish these emotions
is a wise dictate of religion, and they are often sanc-
tified to the higliest purposes of practical piety.
"Our Fathers, where are they?" They spent
their years " as a tale that is told," and they have
passed away like the mountain shadow. The land
they conquered is ruled by their Sons. Their fields
spread their beauty to other eyes, and give their har-
vests to other generations. That narrow spot is all
they possess. The stone that marks it is already
hoary with moss, — the foot of time has worn out the
inscription that filial affection had written. As in-
dividuals, few of them have any memento; — thouo;!!
as a community the history of their self-denial and
valour, their wisdom and patriotism, will he cherish-
ed as long as their descendants shall inherit their
spirit, or grateful affection shall exist. Their monu-
ment is neither brass, nor marble; but it is formed hy
churches and schools, by wise and noble institutions;
by halls of public justice, — by intelligence, and vir-
tue, and liberty.
Two Centuries are this day completed since the
Puritan Pilgrims of New-England landed on the soil
of the new world. What wonders have been eflfect-
ed! This wilderness, which they found filled with
savages, and destitute alike of civilization and cul-
ture ; where the worship of God was unknown, has
become joyful with improvement, and vocal with
praise. More tlian ten millions ol" inhabitants occu-
py these regions. It is a land of " every land, the
pride." It ranks high on the catalogue of Nations.
It is fdled with noble institutions — it is blessed with
liberty — it is governed by laws.
And can it be uninteresting to the descendants of
that people, who contributed so much to the settle-
ment of this country ; and whose wisdom and valour
have had so happy an influence upon the prosperity,
and the learning, the liberty and religion of iheir pos-
terity, to remember and celebrate the event, which,
while it is so honourable to us, is under God the cause
of our independence and hippiness.'*
Simple gratitude would place tliis retrospection
among our duties, but we have here a deep personal
interest. As the children of christian parents, as the
posterity of patriots, of wise statesmen and brave and
valiant Sires, we owe it to public happiness, to the
service of truth, and to our posterity " to stand in the
way and see^ andaskfoi the old paths, where is the good
way and walk therein.'^'' This is peculiarly necessary
in an age of enterprize and improvement, when the
love of novelty is giving perpetual activity to re-
search, and vigour to enterprize ; wijen there is great
danger of sacrificing important principles and safe
and pure manners, for seductive and ruinous errors,
and for vain and licentious courses.
The landing of the Puritan Pilgrims in New-Eng-
land, is one of the most interesting and important
events that has ever occurred on this Continent.
The establishment of the Plymouth Colony, had a
deeper connection with the prosperity and glory of
8
America, than any occurrence that ever existed.
Cause and effect are ahke under the supreme con-
trol, of Almighty Jehovah. He does his pleasure ev-
ery where, and works according to the counsel of his
own will, — but under him, the event which we this
evening celebrate, was intimately connected with all
this country is, or promises to be. The twenty se-
cond of December holds as high a rank in our Na-
tional calendar as the fourth of July. Without this,
Washington would have been born in vain, and Feb-
ruary and July would have passed in the circles of
the months, without notice, or celebration.
This country was discovered at the close of the
i.'ith century. It opened upon the old world when
the cup of her abominations was full, — when her
population was too numerous for her territory : at a
period when letters were revived, when the art of
printing was discovered, when men began to discern
their natural rights, and the light of liberty and learn-
ing was beginning to shine upon a long benighted and
jo-norant world. Events of the most important char-
acter succeeded the discovery of Columbus. The
Reformation soon followed, and made an impression
upon the nations that nothing could obliterate or re-
sist. The progress of the Reformation was slower
and more partial in England than in any other land
where it finally triumphed. The Monster who dis-
graced the throne when it commenced, became its
friend that he might gratify his revenge, and indulge
his lusts. His descendants, with but a single excep-
tion, were hostile to every thing like religious liberty
or tolerance, until his family was driven from the
throne.
The PuRiTAXs, from whom the Pilrr'm«? sprang,
rose about the year 1,555, and received th --appella-
tion by way of reproach on account of ihesoHcitude
which they manifested for tliey??/nVj/of the laws, or-
dinances and worship of God. It has lon<]j been con-
secrated as a title of respect, and will be con-
sidered honourable, as long as the true history of those
who bore it shall be known. During the reigns of
Mary, Elizabeth, and James 1st. the Puritans made
every exertion to obtain their natural and inherent
light of religious liberty. They were loyal sub-
jects, and holy men ; but all their efforts were vain.
'J heir last hope was in James, who not only disap-
pointed, but ,'Corned them. Notwithstanding all his
fair and voluntary promises, he was zealously devot-
ed to the Hierarchy, and lent his talents and his pow-
er to persecute and destroy.
The Puritans, whose love of truth, whose desire
for freedom, and whose determination to worship God
according to the dictates of conscience, nothing could,
repress or destroy, at length resolved to abandon a
country from which liberty was exiled, and a govern-
raent whoPe " tender mercy was cruelty," — and w hich
determined to crush them.
They fled from every port. The christian inhab-
itants of Germany and Holland received them with
open arms. They cherished tlie Pilgrims with the
most afTcctionate hospitality. Their lands were
changed into cities of refuge. In those consecrated
regions the Reformers and Protestants of every na-
tion were welcoi; e. Here were the followers of Lu-
ther^ and Calmn ; the Puritans of England, — the
2
10
Presbyterians of Scotland, and afterwards, the Hu-
guenots* of France. They met and mingled here,
and here was laid the foundation of the greatest bles-
sings to the Church. Their union was cemented by
principle and sympathy. — The benefit and benevo-
lence of the Dutch hospitality can never be forgotten
while religion endures.
Among the emigrants to Holland, in the beginning
of the 1 7th (Century, was the Congregation of the
Rev. Mr. Robinson, some of whose direct lineal de-
scendants are in this house this evening. They ar-
rived in Amsterdam in 1609. They had suffered
much from the jealousy and power of the Archbish-
op of Canterbury, who had made the utmost exertion
to prevent their emigration. Their intentions were
often defeated ; but after much toil and suffering, af-
ter " bonds and imprisonment," they succeeded in
leaving England for ever.
After a few years spent in their retreat in Holland,
they resolved to accomplish their original design of
forming a settlement in America. Their object from
the beginning was liberty of conscience and the glo-
ry of God. They intended to lay the foundation of
a Christian Empire, and give Freedom and Religion
as an inheritance to their children.
Purer motives never influenced men, and had not
religion supported them, ihe United States had still
been the land of Vassals and savages.
* The Huguenots obtained this appellation by. way of reproach.
It is supposed to be derived from Huguon, a word used in Tour-
aine, to signify Persons that walk at night, in the streets. (See
Moshiem.) They were engaged with zeal in the cause of religion,
and used to meet frequently in the evening for sacred worship.
11
A part of Mr. Robinsoirs church left Holland in
the year 1620, — after a tedious and perilous voyage^
they found Cape Cod at the close of that year.
Their destination was the mouth of the Hudson, but
the season was too far advanced to attempt the pro-
secution of their voyage.* They continued on that
coast, to seek an habitation, until thev ao-reed to fix
their dwelling in Plymouth. Here ihey landed on
the Twenty Second of December, 1620.
It would require volumes, to recount their toils,
and sufferings — their wars and conquests — their va-
lour and institutions. God cast out the Heathen be-
fore them, and gave them a rich inheritance. The no-
ble, holy objects which made them Pilgrims, engag-
ed all their ardour, and success rewarded all their
toil. For many years they struggled for existence !
Famine and pestilence raged in the midst of them;
on every side the jealous savages were watching the
opportunity to destroy them, "//c who transplanted
sustained them ''^ He had smoothed the waves of the
ocean, and hushed its tempests. On all its storms
he had planted the bow of his covenant, and his still
small voice of love was heard amid the roar of wa-
ters and the thunders of the storm, saying ^'-fear not
for I am with thcc^be not dismayed, for lam thy Gody
He was a wall of defence round about them, and his
arm was their shield and their hope. The causes
* It seems to be admitted that tlie Captain of the ship had been
bribed by some interested persons, to land them far north of the
place they intended. After they had found Cape Cod, they
would have gone to the Hudson, but the Captain would not pro-
ceed, and in a short time the severity of the season made it impos
sible.
12
which led to their removal, aud the success which
atteiuled their establishment, induced multitudes to
follow them, to share their toil and partake of their
blessings. Great accessions of numbers, and supplies
of comfort and wealth continued to arrive until the
Colonies became permanent, prosperous and safe.
This settlement at Plymouth, although clearly
the most important, was not the first that was made
in this country. Previous colonies were establish-
ed in Virginia and New-York.* This city was found-
ed some years before the landing of the Pilgrims.
But the event, which we this evening celebrate,
* In 1609; Henry Hudson entered New-York bay and discover-
ed ihe river that bears his name. The most respectable Dutch
writers declare, that the hostility of the Manhattan Indians was so
great, that no land cnuld be purchased on that Island ; and for
some time the Dutch traders were discourag:pd from attempting
to make any settlements there. This also, is the reason assig^ned
for the erection of the Fort and Trading; House on the Island
just below this city (Albany) in lGl4. When Hudson discovered
Manhattan Island, he was sailins under a commission from King
James ; he, however, sold his right of discovery to the Dutch. —
The Fort below this City, was built by the " Dulch West India
Company," and called Fort Aurania. The English protested
against Hudson's sale, and soon after Sir Thomas Dale, Govern-
or of Virginia, sent to the Dutch and demanded a relinquishment
of their claim, and they submitted to the King of England. I
have not the means of staling precisely the date uf the commence-
ment of the City ; but it niust have been some years after the
Fort, on the Islai d below, was erected. The present City of
Ntnv-York was commenced at the close of the year l6l4. Fort
Orange which is supposed to have stood on the scite of the house
occupied by the Hon. Simeoti De Witt, in South Market-street;
"Was erected some years later.
Tide Dr. JMit.ler''s excellent Discourse before the JVe-o-York Historical
Society, 1809. Dr. TrumbuV's llistorn of Cor.necticvt, and Smith'' s
Hiatorii of ^\e-a'-York.
13
was that which s^ave cncourajyenicnt to their perse-
cuted friends in England to follow them ; it was that
which adbrded slubillfi/ and vifrour to all the other set-
tlements, and which in its progress and consequen-
ces led to the most interesting and important events,
connected with the history and independence of this
great empire.
The principles, which governed such men. their
motives and supports, can never be subjects of indif-
ference. The patriot, the philosopher, and the chris-
tian, cannot want interest and curiosity to examine
the history of the New-England Pilgrims. No other
men ever attempted to form an empire for the honour
of religion and the glory of God ; — for the abode of
liberty and for the protection of the oppressed of the
whole earth. Others have explored new countries
in quest of wealth — to gratify the lust of conquest
and dominion. These alone, in the fear of God, that
they might find a place for his temple, and an altar
for his worship. Much as they have been ridiculed
by frivolous pretenders, their history furnishes abun-
dant proofs of their holy, dauntless spirit, which ac-
complished their benevolent objects, in as perfect a
manner as can appertain to men. The results
of their wisdom, patriotism, and piety are matters
of history. They produced the independence of
these United States. In giving this just praise to the
New-England Fathers, it is not intended to detract
from, or deny the merits of other colonies, but it is
certainly true, that their spirit and wisdom led to the
most important events that are connected with the
history, independence, and glory of this great em-
pire.
14
" Thus salth the Lord stand ye hi the way, and see,
and ask for the ohl paths, where is the good way, and
walk therein, and ye sliall find rest unto your souls."
My brethren it is a solemn duty to " remember the
" days of old, the years of many generations.'''' If we de-
sire the most important information upon subjects
connected with all that is venerable in the human
character, all that is desirable in public ielicity and
order, all that is blissful in holiness and salvation —
"^o ask thy fathers and they will shew thee, th^ i:l-
'* DERs and they will tell thee,"
May we not employ this occasion to advantage in
contemplating ^'- the good old ways'''' of our Fathers,
that we may be induced to walk in them, and thus
secure the object for which they toiled and suffered
— " rest to our souky
In almost e\ery thing relating to personal or pub-
lic happiness, there is much need of obeying this in-
junction. Men may improve modes ; — but never
principles. We may extend religion in its influence
upon multitudes that have never received it, — we
may and ought to grow in grace and in the know-
ledire of our Lord Jesus Christ, but truth is uniform,
principles are eternal ; and surely those which relate
to natural rights and to salvation cannot be improv-
ed. They are independent of time and of circum-
stance, and are fixed by him with whom there is no
"shadow of turning." No persons understood the
doctrines of grace and the plan of salvation better
than the primitive church. The revelation which was
to be the foundation of their faith and the guide of
their conduct was perfect and complete. The whole
system was finished ; — sealed with the blood of its
15
Lord, and reduced to (he most delightful experience.
There will be no new communications upon this
subject, there is no other name given under heav-
en whereby we can be saved. Every fancied im-
provement is a real deformity. The pride of rea-
son and philosophy have uniformly darkened the di-
vine counsel and led to heresy and infidelity. We
are to stand and enquire for the good old ways and
walk therein In religion, they had an infallible
guide : and their views o( civil liberty were nearly, if
not altogether, perfect. Our fathers understood its
principles and brought them into as happy and suc-
cessful practice as any community that ever existed.
It is questionable whether any people ever did, or
ever will enjoy more perfect freedom, with so much
security, so simple a government, with such wise
and salutary restraints, as they enjoyed, until the
light of millennial glory shall dawn upon the na-
tions, as the morning on the mountains. Well may
their children stand in the way and ask for their
good old paths and walk therein.
The same remark may be applied to general man-
ners. The good old way, if it had less of modern
refinement, and of modish form, had less of hollow
hypocrisy and unmeaning professions. If it had
more bluntness, it had more sincerity, — and if it was
less polished, it was more sound. If it wanted the
image and superscription of modern coin, it was ster-
ling bullion, whose value w as more than its appear-
ance.
A spirit of bold and licentious innovation, which
prevails to an alarming degree in the world, is hos-
tile to that humble, uniform course which true policy
16
and duty unite to demand. The fire of the imagi-
nation, the boldness ot enterprize, the ardour of hope,
are all enlisted against the caution and safety of es-
tablished principles and settled forms. In a young
country, there is so much seductive stimulous for in-
novation — where change is so flattering — where every
thing promises so fair, and almost every vigorous etfort
is successful, there is peculiar danger of neglecting
courses, opinions, and principles, merely for the sake
of novelty and experiment. Nothing chastens this
love of chancre but the experience of age, and this
has often to lament errors which it has no power to
reform, to weep over the recollection of privileges
and advantages it once possessed, but which it can
never recal.
In the humble hope that a view of the good old
ways of our fathers, may save us from useless re-
grets, and a guilty abandonment of the true princi-
ples of religion, morality, and liberty, we proceed
to attempt an examination of their characters and
history.
They were distinguished for their Religion.
Nothing but a deep and sincere conviction of the
truth of evangelical piety ; — a heartfelt experience
of its power; — nothing but faith in its promises, and
the support of its grace, could have induced them
to leave their homes, their friends, and property, for
a wilderness, for want, and for suffering. Had they
not counted all things lost for Christ, they had never
attempted a project which no human motive could
either have dictated or sustained.
The love of truth, zeal for the honour of God, de-
votion and obedience characterized them in every
17
thing, connected Avith the cstahlishment and pro-
gress of the New-England Colonies. The Bihie was
not only their text-book, but the foundation of their
creeds, and the rule of their conduct. Their vene-
ration for the Scriptures was sincere and profound.
They received them as the inspired record of the
will of God, and as an infallible guide in truth and
duty. Every thing was subservient to their authority,
and it was their constant effort and supplication to
be conformed to their sacred precepts.
Their views of truth were uncommonly vivid and
correct. They enjoyed the best opportunities to
acquire a profound knowledge of the Scriptures.
They were well acquainted with the writirjgs and
the disciples of the Reformers. They lived in a pe-
riod when the ministers of the Protestant Churches
were among the most learned and acute scholars
and critics, that ever preached the Gospel. They
were sound and able men. They brought with
them the most valuable libraries, — they were fa-
miliar with the fountains of knowledge which all
must seek, and at which, the distinguished divines
of this day must be furnished, and instructed. The
Gospel was preached " in the demonstration of the
Spirit, and with power," Its great truths were as
ably stated, — as well defended, — and as powerfully
enlorced as they ever were, or can be, by mere un-
inspired men.
They did not deal in the refinements of metaphy-
«ical speculation, but they contended in the humil-
ity, and simplicity of truth, "/br the Faith osce de-
livered to the 6'a/y</6." They did not view theoretical
error with indifference. They had none of that li-
3
18
berality that led them to sacrifice to convenience,
or fashion, the essential glory of truth, or to confound
the distinctions of right and wrong, — evil and good, —
truth and error. They resisted infidelity^ as well in
the odious deformity of its proper shape, as when
it assumed the form of an angel of light. Their
charity was neither " sounding brass nor a tinkling
cymbal." " It rejoiced not in iniquitij^ but it rejoiced
in the truth.'''' The good old path, in which they
travelled and found rest to their souls, was the
" strait and narrow way," which the Saviour had
marked, which was worn with the feet of the apos-
tles and martyrs, and which led to duty, holiness,
and heaven.
They were distinguished for their love of the di-
vine cause of religion, and for the honour of God
their Father, Saviour, and Sanctifier. This absorb-
ed their affections. They were borne away by the
love of Christ. To promote the glory of his name
and his kingdom, they devoted all they were, and all
they possessed. This was their first, their chief
object in all they designed, and all they performed.
It was neither wealth, nor honour, that they sought,
— they renounced both, that they might glorify God
ill the gospel of his Son.
Their bold and irrepressable desire for liberty
was consecrated to the service of truth. They con-
sidered freedom as an unspeakable blessing to reli-
gion ; for this they valued it, — for this they sought
it at the price of their sufferings, at the expense of
ease, and treasure, and blood. When they had se-
cured it for themselves and their children, they con-
secrated it to its Giver, and employed it for the dif-
19
I'usion of truth, as a means of personal improvement,
of more profound luimilitv, of more faithful obe^
dience.
They loved the doctrines of grace, their freencss
and sovereignty, — the purity of God's worship, and
the order of his house, with holy fervour. For these
they sacrificed all that this world holds df»ar. In
perils of waters, — of enemies, — of savages, — of pes-
tilence and famine, they could say, " none of those
things move us, neither do we count life dear if w©
may finish our course with joy."
They were distinguished for the good old ways of
Scr'ipinval morality. Beheving, they were carelul to
maintain good works. Their virtue sprung from the
only true fountain — faith. They entertained the
strictest regard to the preceptive will of God. The
purity of their morals gave them a name, which their
enemies intended as a reproach, but w.hich they re-
ceived as an honour. Their whole history vindicates
their claim to this appellation.
They were remarkable for their sanctification of
the Sabbath. With them it was a day of sweet and
sacred rest. It was wholly devoted to reading, me-
ditation, and prayer, in private, and to family instruc-
tion, and social worship, in pubhc. No secular em-
ployment disturbed its repose, nor interrupted its
devotion. No traveller alarmed their peacelul vil-
lages. They rested irom their labours, and blessed
him, who " sanctified the Sabbath day and hallowed
it." One of the reasons which induced our Father
to leave England, w^as the gross and universal pro-
fanation of tliis holy day. The licentiousness of
that period, had left no trace of regard for the Sab-
20
bath. It had become a day of pleasure and dissi-
pation, when fashion lent its power to corrupt the
vulgar, and united all its seductions to bring reli-
gion into contempt. The Puritans well knew that
when the Sabbath was overthrown, or disregarded,
the citadel of religion, — the last defence of piety,
would be destroyed. They would not leave their
children to be educated in the midst of corruption,
and they braved the ocean's tempest and its " moun-
tain wave," — the wilderness and its savage inhabi-
tants, to '•'"find rest for their souls^
Oh, may their descendants, in whatever clime
they make their home, stand in the way, and ask for
this ;o-ooc? old path of duty, and, like their Fathers, be
distino-uished for their sacred regard to the Sabbath
of the Lord, — to its hallowed rest, — to its delightful
duties.
Another remarkable fact in their history, was their
dev otion to the interests of Education. The church
and school-hoi se rose together, and were mutual
supports. No where, on earth, are the benefits of
common education so widely enjoyed as in New-
England. On this subject she is a wonder, and a
model. Her wise systems, her noble appropria-
tions, have brought education to every farm-house
in her territory, and spread the Bible, with all its
treasures, before the eyes of all her children. Pa-
rents felt their responsibility, and they endeavour-
ed to " bring up their children in the nurture and
admonition of the Lord." Their object was to make
their ofTspring Christians ; to give them sound prin-
ciples of holiness, while they gave them information
of letters and business. They knew nothing of thai
21
iatal indnl2:oncc, which now ruins such multitudes
of ouryoutli, A2;o aaus venerated; — thorc was true
subordination. Tlie distinctions of society were not
broken down. Children did not atTect to be men;
they were not permitted to hsp in blasphemy, and to
mino;Ie oaths and imprecations with their sports.
They were not left to the guidance of their passions.
Our Fathers knew the evil propensities of the heart,
and governed by the advice of" the wisest men, they
brought the povver of the rod to aid the gentler mo-
tives of affection and remonstrance. Then there
was some meaning in the terms master and servant.
Subordination and obedience vvere common in the
family and school-room, the shop and the counting-
liouse, and order and happiness, were the conse-
quences.
The head of each family was a priest in his own
house. 1 he domestic altars were numerous as the
families. The morning and evening incense con-
stantly ascended from these Betliels, to their preserv-
er and beneflictor. The influence of family order
and piety, was diffused through the community. ]Ma-
sistrates were venerable and venerated. The child
rose and stood uncovered before the antient. They
walked in the good old way of" rendering unto all their
'• dues, — HONOUR to ichoni no.vouR," and if they wanted
the etiquet of courts, they did not want that true re-
spect, which makes office honourable and efficient.
Those were times of discipline in the family, — the
church and the state. Authority was exercised with
great moderation; but with great firmness, impartial-
ity, and vigour. There were fevv' crimes; but those
were rigorously punished. There were but few to
22
connive at iniquity, and of course, the guilty seldoiii
escaped. Public opinion was uniformly on the side
of virtue, and operated as an immense restraint up-
on the wicked. Their laws were simple and intelli-
gible, and they were executed with a promptness and
a certainty, that made them terrible to the guilty : —
of course public morals were pure. That there was
an uncommon degree of order and submission, is
evinced by the fact, that public crimes were extreme-
ly rare, and no w'icre did public punishment produce
such disgrace and dread. It was the general opin-
ion that gave such severity to the executed law ; it
was the universal detestation, that branded the guilty,
and made its mark more intolerable than Cain's.
On the subject of education, in its higher branch-
es, their uniform conduct deserves praise and ad-
miration. The attention which they paid to this sub-
jest, was wonderful, considering their circumstances.
They were in a desert, struggling for existence.
They were obliged to employ their implements of
husbandry as weapons of defence. One would think
that their safety would have occupied all their
thoughts, and absorbed all their energies, flad they
not been extraordinary men it would, — but they nev-
er neglected the true interests of learning; provision
was soon made to establish an University.* As the
colonies multiplied, their attention to this subject
increased, and three respectable Colleges were
founded, in the first century after they landed. The
interests of learning have steadily advanced, and
* The first TTiiiversity that was established on this continent, is
Harvard, in Cambridge, Massachusetjs — the second; Yale; in New-
Haven, Connecticut,
23
•multitudes of men, of the tirst eminence, in every
part of tlie United States, and in every department
of civil and professional life, have been educated in
New-England. Her inhabitants have expended for
several years past, more tiian one million of dollars
annually, in educating men who have left her terri-
tory, to devote their acquirements to the service of
the inhabitants of other states. Her efforts upon this
subject may be forgotten and treated with ingrati-
tude; but she deserves great credit, and will secure
it from the wise and candid. The foundation was
laid by our Fathers, and the effects of their noble
exertions have been felt, and will continue to be felt,
through every portion of our country.
They were equally distinguished ibr their Love of
LIBERTY. They had tasted the bitterness of tyran-
nical power, — they had been crushed by despotic
fury. The sufferings of the Puritans, in England,
can scarcely be credited ; they could not be endured.
Exile and want, were favours in the contrast. They
fled to the wilderness, and enjoyed in the woods, and
amid savages, that which civilization and refinement
had denied them. Their views upon this subject
were wise and practical. Their liberty was as free
as the mountain breeze ; but it was the very opposite
of licentiousness. It was not freedom from the salu-
tary restraints of law, conscience, or the bible.
They yielded all that was essential to the general
order and safety ; but nothing more. No man was
so low, as not to be protected in his rights; none so
high, as to be safe in his guilt. Public morals and
general information, those corner stones of republi-
can freedom, were "the stability of their times."
24
Perhaps no government ever exhibited so perfect an
example of pure democracy. The free institutions
of the United States, and tlie Magna Charta of the
Federal Government, owe some of their best provis-
ions to their wisdom. They made the experiment,
and settled the bounds of rational liberty, and to the
astonishment of the world, exliibited a model of sim-
ple government, weak in its theory, but powerful and
efficient in its operations. They shewed that sacri-
iice was compatible with freedom; — and that no ty-
rant might assume a throne and sway a sceptre, they
established the principle and acted upon it in every
thing connected with government, — that the source
of political power is in the people alone.
They were distinguished for personal bravery. It
required no ordinary courage to resist the torrent of
persecution in their own country. They withstood
the power of their enemies with a martyr's firmness.
In their flight from England, they met obstacles that
would have discouraged any thing but the courage of
principle and faith. They left Holland under cir-
cumstances that would have appalled any hearts but
their own. They met the tempest in the commence-
ment of their voyage, — all the vessels were disabled
and returned, but the single one in which they came.
Before them was a trackless ocean, — they were
leaving their friends, their homes, and their temples !
If their courage did not perish under these discour-
agements, what must it have been to resist despair
and prompt to exertion, when they reached our
coast .^^ Deceived in \\\^ situation.,\\\Qy enter, in their
"' tempest-tosl bark," a bay unknown, and unexplored !
The shrouds glitter with ice, the shore is desolate
25
with winter, — yet they leave their ship with praises,
an J land on the rock with prayer ! Here was the cour-
age of self-denial and holiness, that may challenge
the wreath from the hero's brow. Here was no ex-
ternal excitement, no inspiring trumpet, no pennon
streaming on the wind, — all without was bleak and
desolate ! — within all was calm, — they rested on an
arm that was never weary, and '•'• found peace for their
*« souh:''
7'his spirit has distinguished the inhabitants of all
the colonies in every generation. It resisted the op-
pressive acts of the British cabinet, — it animated the
resolutions of the colonial government ; it was seen
in their councils, and in the field, and led to the rev-
olution, and to our independence. 1 he blood, that
was shed at Lexington, and on the heights of Charles-
town, was the evidence of what that spirit could
clare and achieve, and subsequent history has shewn,
that it was as wise as it was dauntless.
In review of this rapid sketch, —
We learn the true sources of national prosperity
and glory. " The Jcar of the Lord is the bcgiiming of
*' wisdom^ and to depart from evil is vnderstandingr
" Righteousness exahcth a nation^ but sin is the reproach
" of any people.''^ " Pure and iindefled religion'''' is the
true basis of all lasting freedom. ^* Where the spirit
" of God ^s, there is liberty. ''"'
If their posterity would send down to their
children, the rich and blood bought inheritance
which has been entailed upon them, — they must
walk in the good old paths of tlieir Fathers. They
must venerate the bible, the sabbath, and the sanc-
4
26
TUARY. They must maintain a life of godliness, — •
grow in grace and in the knowledge of their Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ.
My brethren, we mu stattend, with uninterrupted
fidelity, to family discipline and family prayer, — two
duties which are dreadfully neglected. We must
cherish a spirit of subordination. There is no free-
dom in licentiousness; — it is the gratification of the
few^ at the expense of the many. He who cultivates
personal religion, and obeys the gospel, is the best
friend to his country. Christian piety is practical
patriotism. It is the good old patriotism, which com-
mends the cause to God in the closet, which it advo-
cates in the senate, and for which it bleeds in the
field. Our Fathers acted up to profession, they
promised little., they performed mwc/i.'
If we neglect religion, — if children are suffered to
grow up without discipline and restraint, — if the fam-
ily altar is forgotten, and the sanctuary deserted, — if
we despise the principles of our education and for-
sake the old ways of our fathers ; — oh ! then this
"goodly heritage" — this land " flowing with milk
" and honey," — this asylum for the oppressed — this
last and favoured abode of liberty, will become des-
olate ! The city full of inhabitants will be deserted !
This enterprize will be palsied under the scowl of a
tyrant, and this prospeiity and freedom will be ex-
changed for poverty and servitude ! !
Holiness is the path to rest, — it leads to happiness,
— it has the promise of the life that now is, and of
that which is to come. We must pursue it if we
would find peace for our souls, and secure their sal-
vation.
27
Be assured, my brethren, when the inhabitants of
this country shall become the advocates of immoral-
ity, of loose and infidel opinions ; when the bible
shall be the subject of lawless criticism, and is aban-
doned to liberal and fashionable heresy, — when the
discipline of the fire-side and the church is relaxed,
or omitted, and " the people love to have it so,"-*«
then anarchy will follow as the herald of despotism,
and national felicity and freedom, will be exiled and
destroyed.
This review teaches us to admire and adore the
HOLY providence OP GoD, as it has been manifested in
the settlement and progress of the United States.
All the causes which led to it were ordered in
great wisdom, with a view to the learning, religion,
and independence of this country. Every thing was
directed in mercy. The discovery of America pre-
ceded the reformation. The knowledge of this
country was for many years, very limited, and had
the politicians of Europe understood its value, it
would have been any thing now, but a {vee republic.
Their ignorance was essential to the project of our
Fathers. They themselves knew little more of it,
than that it was too little valued to arouse the cupid-
ity, and too distant to provoke the notice of th eir
government. They had the greatest difficulty in
leaving England. The providence of God was sig-
nally displayed in their escape. They found much
in Holland to improve and prepare them to settle this
country, and every thing to excite their gratitude,
and that of their posterity. The Dutch were the
sincere friends of the New-England Pilgrims, audit
must be the desire of every feeling heart, that a
28
friendship so sacred in our Fathers, may ever be per-
petuated in their descendants.
Another remarkable thing in their history, which
illustrates the kind and peculiar interposition of pro-
vidence, was the place on which they landed.
To those who are acquainted with our coast, at
this day, it would seem that no place could have
been more unfortunate. But here corn had been
cultivated, and was actually stored, which they
found, and which contributed to their support when
threatened with famine. Many of the savages had
lately been swept off by a mortal sickness, and all
the tribes Wf re much reduced. In this vicinity the
Indians were more gentle and kind than in many
places on the coast. The name of the amiable and
faithful Massasoit, is a volume of testimony on this
point.
Had they accomplished their intentions, and
reached the mouth of the Hudson, they would have
found insuperable difficulties. In that region there
was no provision. There was a dense population of
fierce warriors. They cherished a deep animosity
against the white men, and they were determined to
drive them from the country. Had they settled any
where, between the Connecticut river, and the capes
of the Delaware, this Jubilee would not have been
Celebrated, and their children would have wanted a
name, and a country, as well as an existence.
What Christian can contemplate the history of his
country without adoring its Benefactor ? The more
we examine its origin and progress, the more we
shall wonder and praise ! Its present situation is
most propitious. The inhabitants, of all the north-
29
em parts of the Union, are at this moment distin-
guished for ihe\r hatred of slavery, — for their compara-
live good mora/^,— for their love of liberty, — for their
attention to education, — and for their effhrts to spread
ihe Gospel. And how is this population compos-
ed ? — For the most part of the descendants of Per-
secuted Protestants. Besides the children of the
Jsew-England Pilgrims, and of the Reformed Dutch,
We have many of the sons of the French Huguenots.
Their Fathers fled from their country, at a time
when a spirit of the most cruel persecution prevailed
in France, under the direction of Louis XIV. impel-
led by the Cardinals. In 1685, in violation of all
the faith of treaties, — all the obligations of truth, —
and all the principles of justice and humanity, the
Edict of Nantes was revoked. This act, which is
the very blackest in the history of France, not ex-
cepting her awful revolution in 1793, threw a health-
ful and excellent population into our country. —
Among the descendants of the Huguenots, may now
be traced, some of the most distinguished of our
citizens. They were among the very best subjects
that ever lived under any government, and the act
that drove them from their country, was one of the
most impolitic, as well as cruel, that ever disgraced
any power.
Scotland has also contributed to our character,
by her salutary manners, and her sound religious
knowledge.
The generous spirit of the Irish will also enrich
our national character. Romantic and brave, — cap-
tivating and gpnuine, — the children of Erin will im-
prove the nation that they have adopted, and benefit
themselves by aiin<^ling with us.
30
Almost all the nations of Europe are contributing
to our enlargement and strength, our wealth and
glory. These different people, as yet peculiar and
distinct, will soon melt down into one mass, possess-
ing the good qualities of all, and form one character.
Local prejudices will vanish, and we shall all sur-
render sectional and peculiar names, for the proud
distinctive appellation of Americans.
V In the present prosperity, — in the future prospects
of our beloved country, what heart can be unmoved,
or ungratefi:!. How^ much occasion is there for de-
vout thanksgiving to the Author of all our mercies.
To him who has been our Counsellor in peace, and
our Shield and Buckler in war. He brought our
fathers by the good old way, into a land of " streams
and broad rivers," — he gave them and their children
this rich, this blest inheritance.
Oh ! hearer, if you are a lover of your country's
true glory, — if you appreciate your happy lot, — if
you value your precious privileges, " stand in the
way, inquire for the good old path, and walk there-
in." Let me again exhort you to cherish the simple
manners, the ardent love of liberty, and the fervent
piety that distinguished our immortal Ancestors.
Let us love, obey, and adore their covenant God,
and live to his glory. Let it be the sacred patriot-
ism of free Americans, to love their country, and pro-
mote its fame, by knowing and performing His/>/ea-
sure, who is King of kings, and Lord of lords,
Let us ever continue to be the firm friends and
patrons of the true interests of education and learn-
ing. On this subject we have much cause for con-
gratulation. The noble funds, devoted to the diffu-
31
sion of common education, for the establishment and
endowment of academies and colleges in this state,
are honourable, in the highest degree, to its wisdom
and patriotism.
Let us cherish a generous love of true Liberty,
and walk in the good old ()ath of subordination and
obedience to the laws. Let us guard our freedom
from the approach of licentiousness. " Happij is lie
" who condemneth not himself in the thing which he al-
" bwethy Public immoralities have led on to ruin
every free republic that ever existed. Vice is the
parent of despotism ! Nothing will preserve us, but
the fear of the Lord.
Above all, then, let us cleave to the good old path
of Scriptural Religion, unseduced by the specious
sophistry o^ infidelity on the one hand, and heresy on
the other. We must love the Lord our God, with
all our hearts, and live by faith on the Divine Sa-
viour. We must " do justly, love mercy, and walk hunt'
" bly with Gody " In simplicity,, and godly sincerity.^
" and not withjleshly wisdom^ wc must have our conversa-
" tion in the world.-''
Soon we shall sleep with our fathers. The inte-
rests and cares, which now occupy, and sometimes
agitate and divide us, will pass into other hands.
But if we are faithful to our privileges, our *• children
" ivill rise up and call us blessed.'''' This favoured Innd
shall contain a ^vee and happy people to tho latest
times. Our souls, redeemed, shall unite with the
spirits of our Saixted Sires, while our graves shall
be made in the land of songs and joy, of fr<'<^dom
and happiness, and be watered by the tears of
grateful posterity.
Tlie following Hymns mere, composed for tin occasion.
Father supreme of lieaven and earth,
Creative source of all !
Whence infant nations spring to birth,
And empires rise and fall .'
Thy throne, above the circling spheres,
Shall stand, while cent'ries roll;
Nor boundless space, nor endless years.
Can limit thy control .'
To Hira from whom our blessings flowj,
Who all our wants supplies,
This day the choral song and vow
From grateful hearts shall rise I
^was he who led the pilgrim ba.vj>
Across the stormy sea ;
nrwas He who stay'd the tyrant*s hand^
And SET AN EMPIRE FREE I
When shivering on a strand unknovm.
In sickness and distress,
Our Fathers look'd to God alone,
To save, protect, and biess !
Be Thou our nation's strength and shield,
In mauhoo'l, as in youth;
Thine arm for our proiection wield,
And guide us by thy truth I
When IsraeFs God had marked the way.
From persecution's fiery sway,
Our Fathers left their native land,
Sustaiii'd by his Alinighty Hand.
His Providence, their trust and guide,
S^^ itrely, tlTOUgh the deep they glide :
A world unknown, their hopes explore j:
By faith, tliey reach the prorais'd shore*
Fervpfit the Christian Pilgrims raise
On heathen soil, their shouis of raise j
With thankful hearts, aloud proclaim..
In Eieathen lands, Jehovah's name.
Jehovah's name ! the hills rejoice,
Glad nature owns her Maker's voice j
The wiJdi^rness breaks forth in songs.
To HitH, to whom all praise belongs*
'h.ft all their children rise, and hrltig
Tiieir grateful incetije. to our Kmgj
Iiv hit fair courts their voices rai^e.
And fill the land with songs and praise.