Fo y F 74 .B85 D9 ^. Copy 2 ^ r^ .^ ^^ ^/? '^ An Historical Discourse ^ DELIVEEED AT WEST BROOKFIELD, MASS., ON OCCASION OF THE #rTe Punbntr antr Jfifthllj ^.nnifatrsarj) FIRST CHURCH IN BROOKFIELD, 1 OCTOBER 16, 18G7. By SAMUEL DUNHAM PASTOR OF THE CHURCH. WITH A POEM AND APPENDIX. SPRINGFIELD, MASS. : SAMUEL BOWLES & COMPANY, PRINTERS. 1868. \l t Pastor of the Cliurch tVoin 1771 tolBlfi. An Historical Discourse DELIVKKED AT WEST BROOKFIELD, MASS., ON OCCASION OF THE #ne gntttinb anb Jfiftixtlj ^nnibtrsarj) FIRST CHURCH IN BROOKFIELD, OCTOBER IG, 1867. By SAMUEL D U N H A .AI , PASTOR OF THE CHBECH. WITH A POEM AND APPENDIX SPRINGFIELD, MASS.: SAMUEL BOWLES & COMPANY, PRINTERS. 1867. '■*'iw* T>>te#oti^ Pre fa tory Note 0^ o ■^ (N r' ^ Ut I" J QJ^ / ^ c « In the preparation of the following Discourse, the records of Town, Parish, and Church, have been thoroughly explored, and every other available source of information consulted, whether manuscrijit or printed, monumental or traditionary. Many important biograjthical and other items have also been obtained by means of a somewhat ex- tensive correspondence. With the facts, carefully sifted and compared, spread out before him, the author has diligently aimed at impartiality of judgment, accuracy of statement, and exactness in statistics and dates. And it is confidently believed that what he has thus patiently sought, has, to a good degree, been attained. S. D. West Brookfield, November 5, 1867. Discourse. Deixt.eroiioiny xxxii. T. ■' KEMICJIIJER THE DAYS OF OLD, CONSIDER THE YEARS OF MANY GENERA- TIONS ; ASK THY FATHER, AND HE ■WILL SHEW THEE ; THY ELDERS, AND THEY WILL TELL THEE." Just one hundred and fifty years have passed away since the First Church in Brookfiekl was founded. We are met here within this house of God to-day to commemorate that event. From the widely diverging paths into which our varied preferences and pui-suits have led us, we are gathered once more around the venerable Mother to pay that tribute of re- spect which is due to her hoary age. And it seems quite in keeping with the object of our assembling, as being well fit- ted to foster and deepen our reverence, and strengthen the bond of our filial attachment, that we should together recount some of the more important incidents of her long and honorable ca- reer. May it not, likewise, fully accord with our own cher- ished and sacred regard for the past, and prove a source of fresh inspiration and incitement for the future, to " remem- ber the days of old," and " consider the years of many gen- erations ; " — thankfully tracing, meanwhile, the finger of God in our history. Scarcely had the wild Indian ceased to hunt the game of the surrounding forests, and to catch the fish of these neigh- boring ponds and brooks, — scarcely had the echo of his sav- age yell died away among these hills, when a Church of Christ 6 was here constituted, and the glad note of the Gospel was sounded forth from the lips of the living preacher. It was at that time the only church in all this region of country includ- ing a circuit of many miles on either hand. Of the seventy-three Congregational Churches now in Worcester County, not one had then been formed, save the First Church (the Old South) in what is now the City of Worcester, and that was organized only the previous year in 1716. This Church, — a little hardy, brave band of men, fear- less of danger, true to Puritan principles, and loyal to Christ, stood absolutely isolated and alone, surrounded only by a broad and desolate waste infested with wild beasts and savages. The maintenance of the ordinances of religion in the midst of this wilderness, remote from the centres of population, and exposed to the barbarity and cruelty of the sons of the forest, was but in harmony with the devout and heroic spirit and conduct of the Pilgrim Fathers, and early settlers of this Colony, who, for the sake of enjoying their liberty, and of walking according to the faith and order of the Gospel, aban- doned the land of their nativity for the rock-bound shores and ruffged soil of New Enfrland. From the first settlement of old Quaboag* in 1660, there is reason to believe that God had been publicly worshiped here, with the exception of about a dozen years, from 1675, when the entire town was burned, and the inhabitants dispersed by the Indians, to about the year 1687, when the scattered set- tlers began again to return. The fifteen years previous to the dispersion were years of peace and evident prosperity ; so that the " several inhabit- ants of Ipswich " to whom the first grant of land here was * The name was changed to Brookfield on becoming a township in 1673. made, had grown to a little community of twenty flimilies, who had been enabled to build for themselves a sanctuary in which they might hold public worship on the Sabbath. Indeed this original grant of the General Court in May 20th, 1660, was made only upon condition that there should be twenty families resident here within three years, and that, within the same time, there should be settled " an able minis- ter," such as the Court should approve ; " and that they make due provision in some way or other for the future ; either by setting apart of lands, or what else shall be thought meet for the continuance of the ministry amongst them." From an Historical Address* by Henry A. Sykes, A. M., of Suffield, Connecticut, it appears that Mr. John Younglove, the first minister of that town, "had preached at Quaboag (Brookfield, Massachusetts,) for some time previous to Philip's wai-," and that after the destruction of this settlement by the Indians in 1675, " he went to Hadley and taught the town or grammar school, till he was invited to Suffield," where he com- menced his labors sometime during the year 1679, or early in 1680, and where " he continued until his decease June 3, 1690." Of Mr. Younglove as a minister, " little is known ; he was no doubt an educated man, though it is not known that he was a graduate of any college, his name not being among those of the graduates of Harvard, then the only col- lege in America." There is also an obscure tradition, though no certain evi- dence, of the existence of an organized church at this early period. We are left much in the dark respecting that portion of our history ; for, doubtless, the flames that were kindled * Proceedings on the occasion of the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of tlie decease of the Rev. Beiyamin Ruggles, at Suffield, Conn., 1869, p. 48. by the treachery of King Philip's Indians, and which de- stroyed the town, consumed likewise its most ancient records. From a petition of the inhabitants of Brookfield to the Honored General Court, assembled at Boston, in November 1698, it appears that for a time previous to that date, they were destitute of the stated ministrations of the Gospel. In that petition* they show " That it is an intolerable burden to continue, as wx have done, without the preaching of the word." They further say that they " are not able at present to main- tain the worship of God;" that they " are but twelve fami- lies " — so slow was the resettlement of the town after the war that drove the first settlers from their chosen home — and that they "are not of estate sufficient to give suitable encourage- ment to a minister," though, be it said to their credit, they were " willing to do to the outside of [their] ability y In answer to their petition it was " ordered that there be twenty pounds paid out of the public Treasury of this Prov- ince, towards the support of an orthodox minister for one year to commence from the time of the settlement of such minister amongst them." Accordino; to Mr. Foot's Historical Discourse, tradition re- lates that Mr. Thomas James, a native of England, minister of Charlestown, Massachusetts, and afterwards a missionary at East Hampton, Long Island, preached the first sermon in this town. "Previously to 1713, a Mr. Smith had been em- ployed here as a minister." In 1715 the records show that Mr. Daniel Elmer, a graduate of Yale College in 1713, in a class of three, had, for a time, been carrying on the work of the ministry, supported in part by the General Court. But in that year he relinquished his labors here, and was succeeded by Mr. Thomas Cheney. * For the petition in full, see Appendix, Note I. 9 PASTORS, PASTORATES, AND CONNECTED HISTORY. Bat it was not till tlie third "Wednesday in October (the 16th, daj) 1717, that this church was formally organized, and Mr. Cheney solemnly ordained its first pastor. The terms of his settlement had been agreed upon about a year and a half before : " Att a meeting of the Inhabitants of Brookfield, on April y 5th, 1716 ; Voted y' Thomas Barnes be moderator for s^ day. Voted that Edward Walker, Senr., Joseph Banister, and Ellsha Rice, doe further Discourse Mr. Cheney as to his proposals in order to a settlement iu s * Newcomb's Cyclopedia of Missions, p. G49. 84 Sarah (Gilbert) White, was born September 14, 1813 ; united with this church May 3, 1835 ; was married to Eev. Asa B. Smith, March 15, 1838 ; and that same day set out on a mis- sion to the Oregon Indians, going as far as Kew York by stage. From Fort Independence they started May 1, in company with the missionaries Messrs. Eells, AValker and Gray, and their wives, and on the last day of September reached Fort Vancouver, beyond the Rocky Mountains, then in AYestern Oregon, but now embraced within the limits of Washington Territory. They made this long tedious journey on horse- back, escorted by Indian fur traders. Much of the time they were surrounded by hostile Indians, and Avere compelled to endure great hardships. Having spent a few years in mis- sionary labor among the Indians of Oregon, they went thence to the Sandwich Islands Mission ; where they labored some two or three years, and then, by reason of Mr. Smith's fail- ing health, they returned by way of China, reaching home in 1846. They brought with them three children, daughters of Mr. Locke of the Sandwich Islands Mission, the two eld- est of whom were adopted by Mr. Smith, and the youngest by an uncle. The eldest is now married to Rev. Elijah Harmon. About two years after their return, Mrs. Smith removed with her husband to Buckland, Massachusetts, where she died May 27, 1855. The name of Rev. Samuel Ware Bonney appears also upon our Catalogue as having united with the church May 7, 1837, and as having been dismissed soon after to Danbury, Con- necticut. There is, however, some reason to question whether he ever belonged to this church. His widoAvcd mother re- sided here for a few years, and was a member of this church about two years and a half, from July, 1845, to December, 85 1847. But there seems to be no certain evidence that her son was ever connected with us. A word respecting him, however, may not be out of place. lie Avas a son of Rev. William and Mrs. Sarah (Ware) Bonney ; was born in New Canaan, Connecticut, in 1815 ; in 1882 he Avas in the em- ployment of the Messrs. Merriam, publishers, at Springfield, (Massachusetts.) In 1837 he was engaged in teaching at Poughkeepsie, New York. He afterwards studied at the New York University, and at Lane Seminary, Ohio ; re- ceived an appointment as missionary of the American Board, and in 1846 began his labors at Canton, (yhina, where he continued to labor with great devotion and self-denial, and with marked success, until his death, which occurred July 27, 1864. At a meeting of the Canton Missionary Confer- ence, held on the third of the succeeding month, the follow- ing among other resolutions, was adopted : — " That while we mourn our loss, it is felt that the life and death of our brother gave abundant cause for thankfulness to our Lord and Saviour, for the grace given him, in the fulfillment of his ministry, and in his dying testimony." PATRIOTISM. I should seem to depreciate the value of our free institu- tions and republican government as connected with the prog- ress of Christ's Kingdom in our land and world, and to be strangely unmindful of the noble part which the Christian Church has performed in the preservation of those inestimable blessings, particularly in the recent mighty civil conflict of the nation, did I not in closing, at least barely mention the Avell know and tried patriotism of this church and people, as an important additional element of their wide and beneficent influence. 86 In May 1776, two months previous to the Declaration of Independence, the inhabitants of this town pledged their almost unanimous support to the Continental Congress if they should see fit to declare the colonies independent of Great Britain ; and during the entire war of the Revolution, they did not fail to redeem their pledge. And the man who through that whole period, was foremost in the deliberations and acts of the town, as in loyalty to his country, was the Hon, Jedediah Foster, a deacon in this church. But espe- cially during these late years of peril, disaster and bloodshed, there has been no backward response to the urgent calls of the country, either on the part of our church or community, whether in men or money, whether in clothing for the desti- tute, or food for the hungry, or in timely ministrations to the sick, the wounded and the dying. Our hand, moreover, is even now wide open to welcome the long oppressed to the rights and privileges of citizens, and, at the same time, gen- erously to dispense to the needy among them of our kindly Christian charities. Whether in time of war or of peace, we are solemnly bound to be true to the instincts of patriotism and philan- thropy, and to the higher promptings of our religious faith. Such is an imperfect review of our long and not uneventful history. From this summary of the events of a century and a half, we find that whatever may be the sources of regret as we revert to the past on this Anniversary Day, they are far outnumbered and outweighed by the many occasions for joy and devoutest thanksgiving to God. This ancient Church has had its severe, though brief, trial seasons, its short-lived days of darkness and sterility ; but it has also had its long and happy periods of prosperity and 87 abundant fruitfulncss. Like the veteran soldier, not without wounds and scars has it fought its battles and won its victo- ries. But these visible marks of violence only make the more clearly manifest that merciful and marvelous interposition by which the Church has been preserved. To one baptism of suffering, God has sent a score of the joyful baptisms of the Holy Ghost ; so that the hearts of hundreds have here been made to leap for joy, and their tongues loosed in the praise of redeeming grace. A precious, sacred trust is this, and exalted, blessed privi- leges these, which our pious fathers have so carefully per- petuated and handed down to us. But in proportion to the greatness and sacredness of the blessings we have inherited from the past, so great and solemn is our obligation to cherish those blessings in our own day, and to deliver them over in all their fulness to coming generations. In view of our numerous past and present mercies, OUR RESPONSIBILITY INDEED IS GREAT. From the heights of these one hundred and fifty years of Gospel privilege the eyes of five generations of godly men look down upon us. And upon their lips»to-day is the question, well-nigh solemn as the eternity to which they are now mostly gone, " Will you transmit unimpaired to posterity this noble heritage, which, through much hard toil, and many tears and prayers, we have committed to you?" Yea, rather, from the bosom of eternity itself, there seems to fall upon our ear at this memorable hour, in accents of heavenly earnestness, the united voice of the hundreds whose feet have reverently trod these earthly courts, but who now walk the golden streets, saying, "Watch ye, stand fast in tlie faith, quit you like men, be strong." " Earnestly con- 88 tend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints." " Love this dear old Church of Christ unto the end. Stand by her in the time of her trial. Seek her purity, her peace, her prosperity, her continual growth. Pray that she may keep her garments unsullied, her name without reproach, not in the present merely, but down through the years and cen- turies to come, until at last the Bridegroom shall ' present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing.' " P o e 111 . MEMORIALS OF BROOKFIELD, BY KEV. FRANCIS IIORTON, OF BARRINGTOX, R. I. ANALYSIS. — Invocation and Gratulation — Scenery and Associations — Scenery stim,, AND Cultivation, and Children — The Village, vtith its Walks, its Sanctuary and Sabbaths — Moral and Industrial Habits of Society — Favorable and Beautiful Surroundings — Former Residents and Local Attachments — Historic Reflections, Education, etc. — Religious Usages — Excellence of Domestic Character and Training — Worthy Ancestors and Ministers — Success of the Present Pastor — Historic Incidents, Revivals, and their Influence, especially the Last — Afflic- tions, Various and Personal — Fraternal Greetings — Anticipations, and Prayer FOE Posterity. God of eternity, whose power Preserves us, and our fathers blest, Be with us at this hallowed hour, And let us in Thy presence rest. Here would we come with praise and prayer, Thy gracious goodness to confess, Whose favor children's children share, In trust Thou wilt our oftspring bless. As pilgrims to a holy shrine, We gather joyously to greet Each other, as in olden time. Thrice happy thus once more to meet. 12 90 A festival is this of years, A jubilee of grateful kind, Where minglings of smiles and tears Refresh the heaven-aspiring mind. No vain regrets or glooms we bring, No sad remembrances of strife, But rather one glad offering To Him who is our spirit's life. His may we be, a blessed band Of brotherhood by heavenly birth. All journeying to the better land Whose paradise is not of earth. Still cherish we this fiivored scene Of toils, and friendships, griefs, and joys. Though brighter visions intervene, Of bliss that hath no dark alloys. Fond memories of the past we trace, 'Mid plains, and hills, and sculptured stones, And trees that with their grandeur grace These sacred sites, and dear old homes. Yon river, gentle as of yore, Grlides peacefully towards the sea, Repeating fondly o'er and o'er Sweet strains of Nature's minstrelsy. Nor less the birds that flit above, Or skim the surface of that stream, In warbling tones of truth and love. Gladden the meadows fresh and green. Yon lakelet in its beauty lies As when our fathers dwelt around — ^ A molten mirror of the skies — How clear, how tranquil, how profound ! 91 Look thither, at the twilight hour, The sunset or the moonlight scene, And feel the pacifying power Alluring to the world unseen. There gaze upon the vault of night, Whence stars look down on shadows here. Discoursing of those realms of light That canopy our dusky sphere. What wondrous influences blend. To bless the soul on heaven intent; And pilgrims on the earth befriend With sweet provisions for content. Each hillside sloping towards the plain. Has sightly homesteads nestling there. With garden spots, and fields of grain, And ripened fruits, all fresh and fair ; And chubby children issuing thence. In quest of berries or of flowers, Blest samples of fair innocence. Enjoy the glad autumnal hours. Goodness ! what glories flood the fields, Where lawns, and groves, and orchards lie, And every acre somehow yields Its affluence 'neath the sunny sky ! Whose is the heart that does not rise In gratitude to God above, Whose favor and whose grace supplies Such proofs of His paternal love? Tlien look again — the village green Smiles cheerfully the church around. While numerous shops and dwellings seen, 92 Say thrift, and skill, and taste abound. The shaded walks across the plain, Broad avenues beside, well trod, Are traveled not alone for gain — All leading to the house of God. Thither assemblies oft convene, For praise, and preaching, and for prayer. Where generations past have been. In search of heavenly guidance there. Glad voices greet the day of rest ; Hearts weary with their worldly care. Or sorrow-stricken and distressed, To Zion's altars here repair. The Comforter, the Paraclete, Whose office is to heal the soul. Thus meets men at the mercy-seat. Willing and waiting to make whole. what a balm the Sabbath brings, To spirits seeking fresh supplies Of holy influence at these springs. Whose source is found in Paradise ! The week day world is tranquil here — Of riot and of ranting void ; Nor child nor matron need e'er fear With violence to be annoyed ; Save such excess as sin and crime May bring to any spot of earth, Where baser passions in their time Incontinently spring to birth. What industries are well supplied ; What habits savoring of health ; Not nursing indolence, or pride. 98 Yet nourishing the common wealth ! No ministries to public vice, Destructive of the social weal, Or schemes of crushing avarice. The doings of the day reveal. Thus labor hath its recompense, Work of the lusty brawn or brain. And all have healthful competence, The landlord, and the humblest swain. Extend the view, on either side, Wliich trade or travel may incline. And see the prospect opening wide, No artist's pencil can define; The hills ascend — their summits climb — And gaze around where'er you stand ; Observe what elements combine To beautify and bless the land ! Each sunny slope, and graceful swell. Each pasture, with its lowing herd. Each rivulet, and mossy well, Salutes you with a welcome word : " Pause, pilgrim, and enjoy the sight ; Communion hold with Nature here. Drink in the fullness of deliglit. Which dignifies this earthly sphere ; Nor deem it strange that those who trod These paths aforetime, in their prime. Held converse witli Almighty God, 'Mid flush of scenery so smblime ! " Yet where are they — the stalwart men — That traversed thus these hills and plains? 94 Whose like we ne'er may see again, Save as posterity remains ; And worthy women, meek in mein, Of aspect and of movement bland, What wives and mothers then were seen. The joy and glory of the land ! Daughters of Brookfield, ever fair ; With health and energy endowed, Domestic jewelry most rare, Of which the dwelling may be proud. Sisters and sons, with grateful sires, The labors of the homestead share. While neither to the fame aspires Of nselessness or ennui there. All love the country — well they may ; Its atmosphere, its trees, its fields. The summer and the spring so gay. And golden fruits that autumn yields. Here winter hath its hearty joys, With books, and friends, and music blest, While each his industry employs To render happy all the rest. Tlu'ice fifty years their course have run, Eventful in their various date. Since godly fathers here begun The history we commemorate. Scarce had fierce savages retired From streams and grounds they loved so well, When friendly spirits prompt aspired In Christian fellowship to dwell. No respite to their toils and cares, Would those heroic men afford, 95 Nor ceasing from tlioir alms and prayers, Unitedly to serve the Lord — Till place was found for worship free, Amid these pleasant vales and woods; Provision for society. Instead of wastes and solitudes. Honor to those who sought to lay Foundations for religion pure, And to posterity convey A heritage of good so sure. Their culture of the mind, no less Than ground that needed earnest toil. To rescue from the wilderness. And render it a fruitful soil, Secured at once most constant care. And steady exercise of skill, The harvest wealth of soul to share, Which was their wisdom and their will. Thus, near the church the school-house rose, However humble, still at hand; As with religion learning goes. Enriching liberally the land. E'en then what sportive games were seen. When children sprightly, fresh, and fair, Tripped gaily o'er the village green. With guileless face, and flowing hair. The spelling-book was not forgot, Nor Testament perchance, though rare. As issued from their humble cot The little groups so free from care, To meet the Mistress of the day, Whose smile was sure, whose word was rule Of) Who favored knowledge more than play, Within her well-taught, simple school. True, John was roguish now and then, And James too restless to sit still, And Mary missed her page or pen, [Now obsolete the gray goose-quill.] Some stolen glances, too, were paid — Ever, of course, against the rule — From loving youth to blushing maid. The merest accident at school ; Still study was the main pursuit, Good learning and good manners taught, The young idea how to shoot," Was foremost in the teacher's thought. Slight rivalries perhaps arise. As pupils on success intent The head to keep, and win the prize, Nor suffer social detriment. These have their stimulus, to aid The indolent in quest of lore. Inspiring those of various grade, To lessons never learned before. Fond intimacies ere long grow To richer ripeness in the heart. Till schoolmates are constrained to show Reluctance evermore to pai't. These signify their several choice. In tokens never meaningless, Each causing other to rejoice In wedlock sui-e their lives to bless. The nuptials finally are sealed, With fitting rites and general glee, And friendly feelings are revealed 07 In generous liospitality. Thus families arise and spread — Society its ranks extends — Though fond ones drop among the dead, The fairest and tlie best of friends ! Yet other strains our theme requires : Time runs too rapidly to waste ; And we are following our sires, In paths no more to be retraced. They had their Sabbaths, blessed days, And sermons from the wise and good, Sweet seasons oft of prayer and praise, When worldling dared not intrude. So had they sacraments of grace, Such as their children still sustain. The sacred font, in time and place. Serving the covenant the same ; Symbol of cleansing and of cure, Pure water sprinkled on the brow. Doth all of simple form insure. Availing to the service now. Christ's table spread with bread and wine. Choice elements, expressive still, Perpetuates the feast divine Of those who seek to do his will. What numbers here have followed him, Obedient to his blest command, Whose spirits pure have entered in. And joined the l)righi celestial band. There dwell they with the sainted host. Whose song on earth was wont to rise To Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Jehovah great, above the skies! 13 98 Those holy men who trod these ways, In paths of pleasantness and peace, Whose memory we rightly praise, Whose influence will never cease — Well liore the burden of their day. Working with all their might and main, Foundations here in truth to lay, The cause of virtue to sustain. What care had they to leave behind, Not lands alone, and dwellings good, But nurture for the immortal mind, Substantial spiritual food ! Such training children had in course. From saintly mothers and from sires, As told the nature and the source Of their intense and kind desires. Born of the Spirit from above. And blest with teachings so divine. It was the prompting of pure love. To let their bright example shine. How intimate with Heaven were they ; How conversant with sacred truth. Which was their study day by day. The rule of life, the guide of youth. Happy those homes whence daily prayer. In grateful offering arose To Him whose tender mercies spare. And give at night serene repose. What favored families were theirs, Whose parentage .was so replete With blessings for themselves and heirs. Forth flowing from the mercy-seat. 99 Ancestral honors well \vc prize, And social benefits no less, From " pai-ents passed into the skies," Who wrought such works of righteousness. Preachers besides, for scores of years, Glad tidings here of grace proclaimed, With weary watchings, toils and tears, Of whom we need not be ashamed. Successive pastors reverence claim, Who fed this flock in days of yore. Whose record is enduring fame, To live when time shall be no more. One still survives, whose hoary head* It gladdens us afresh to see, Though most are numbered w"ith the dead. Who waited on his ministry. His is the privilege to wait A little longer on these shores, Ere passing to that higher state, Where is tlie Lamb whom he adores. Others there are who since have stood On Zion's walls as watchmen here, Whose influence, however good. It may not be their choice to hear. These severally have sought to know Their higli commission from above, And clearly to the people show The riches of eternal love. Of God — of man — of Christ — of heaven, They taught right tenderly, and true ; The way to have our sins forgiven. * Rev. Eliakim Phelps, D. D. 100 And to begin our lives anew. Ah, well they harmonized in this, What every human soul must be, To enter through the gates of bliss, And dwell with God eternally. Nor less do thi'j in heart rejoice At Zion's increase and success. Praying with one consent and voice, That God will still bis servant bless. This latest leader* may ho crown With glory's signal coronet, When he shall lay his armor down, With trophies at our Savior's feet. Historic incidents we trace. In scenes *of joyance and of grief, As blessings have enriched the place, Or trials called for large relief. Seasons of grace have been enjoyed, In measure more than we can tell, When God and men have been employed In saving sinful souls from hell. The spirit hovering around, Has startled slumberers to think. And made them hear the dreadful sound, As standing on that fatal brink. Whence fierce destruction flashes wrath. And echoes vengeance at each 'breath. Sweeping the guilty mortal's ])ath With warnings of eternal death ! Anon there comes a welcome voice. Winning the trembling heart to rest, * Rev. Samuel Dunliam. 101 And bids it make the bappy cboice, And be witb grace and glory blest. What looks of loveliness has He Who agonized for human guilt, And hung upon that cursed tree, Where blood, most precious blood was spilt ! Was it for us he bled and died — The harmless sufferer for sin — The Son of God thus crucified That we might endless glory win ! Then dearest service evermore, Submission sweet, and faith, and love, Are due to Jesus o'er and o'er. In realms below, and realms above ! All praise to that eternal plan Which Sovereign Goodness saw and chose, By which to save rebellious man. And reconcile malicious foes ! Strains such as these have often rung. From many ransomed souls forgiven. Whose offerings of the heart and tongue, Have raised their incense pure to heaven. happy hours of praise and prayer, When converts from the world have come Like little children, to declare, What love divine for them hath done ! Their tongues are loosed, their lips unsealed, Their hearts with gratitude o'erflow ; The blessedness to be revealed. Is such as only Christians know. These have their sympathi(;s expressed, In joys the stranger feeleth not, 102 Or anxiousness for souls distressed, Once felt, not easily forgot. Yet harvest times have often come. Ingatherings of goodly grain, To this our temporary home. So recently refreslied again. Thanks to the Lord whose loving power. The blessing in advance has sent To consecrate this festive hour As one of mutual content. Third jubilee of years — how blest ! The period we celebrate. Is worthily the pilgrim's rest. In prospect of a purer state. Let not our lyre refuse a strain Of plaintive melody the wliile. Though little more of time remain Than friendly parting with a smile. While- Providence hath largely blest Our various residences here, It hath not been unbroken rest, Void of affliction, or of fear. No — clouds have come o'er brightest skies, And sorrow visited each heart ; Grave memories of giief arise, In which we shared a mourner's part. What shadows have each threshold crossed. Where sunlight had been briglit before ; What treasures have our dwellings lost. That nought on earth can e'er restore. Parents and children have been borne In turn to yonder sacred spot, 103 - Leaving more lonely ones to mourn Sad vacancies not soon forgot. Sisters and brothers too, how fond, Have separated at the grave, Not solaced with a thought beyond, But the Redeemer's power to save. Othei-s more dear have gone the way "Whence no returning footsteps come ; And widowed mourners see no day When seems it as before at home. How many mingle thus their tears. O'er sorrows which each heart can feel, That e'en the silent lapse of years Has no effective ])Ower to heal ! The youngest from the cradle' dear. How sadly is it laid aside In that receptacle so drear, Where many of its class abide. Yet few the families exempt From sorrow over children fled, And silencing of merriment, That such are numbered with the dead. Forgive the strain, the gentle sigh, Parental londncss, if you please. That brings some moisture to the eye, In sympathy with scenes like these. Three little graves are side by side, In yon inclosure near the gate. With tablets severally supplied To mark the name, the age, the date : A sister and two brothers there, Sleep pt^cefuUy beneath tlie sod, 104 In after ages to appear Among the risen saints of God. Our infant offspring, why deplore, When suddenly removed from siglit? Faith says, "Not lost, but gone before," To regions of celestial light. Thither let us henceforth aspire, With purer ardor for the prize. All cherishing devout desii-e To dwell witli them above the skies. Fraternal greetings we exchange With friendly spirits here at home, Ingathered from an ample range. Whence various duty calls to roam. This mother church her children dear Invites beneath the old rooftree, Together thus their hearts to cheer. And bind in bonds of charity. Daughters of comeliness and strength, Surround her here on every hand. Whose goodly influence at length Extends, how widely in the land ! E'en foreign shores are sometimes trod By those who go far hence to teach The lively oracles of God, And his incarnate love to preach. Welcome, right welcome, all who come To celebrate this festal day. Which calls a mother's children home. Their grateful offerings to pay. Yes, welcome all to this repast. So rich in sacred memories 105 Well gathered from the fruitful past, To give us plenteous supplies. Here let the hand, the heart, the voice, Their friendly sentiments express. And each in other's joy rejoice, With pure unbounded thankfulness. Thus as the moments glide apace. As moves the Autumn's golden sun, No cloud shall cross our cheerful face, Till day's delightful work is done. What though as now no more we meet. To take such retrospect of time — Or gather round this sacred seat, Where memories so sweet combine? A larger company ere long Will greet us on the shining shore. And join in one triumphant song, That there we meet to part no more ! All hail the prospect, ever bright. Of meeting in that world above. Where all is purity and light ; All righteousness, and peace, and love ! Still would we breathe a fervent prayer. That those who follow in our train May evermore most largely share These priceless blessings that remain. May children's children here enjoy Itich benefits of Gospel grace. And mightiest energies employ To renovate and save the race. Thus may the blest succession run, In ages future as tlie past ; 14 106 Nay, brighter, like the shining sun, Each generation till the last. Then come with joy each golden year. To celebrate this jubilee, Till nations shout the triumph here, Which earth has sighed so long to see ! Appendix. ORDER OF PROCEEDINGS. At a meeting of the Congregational Church in West Brookfield, Massachusetts, held at the conclusion of the preparatory lecture, FrMay afternoon, July 5, 1867, it was voted to celebrate the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the formation of the Church, to occur on Wednesday the sixteenth day of the succeeding October ; and at the same time the following persons were chosen a Committee to make all necessary arrangements for the occasion, viz : Avery Keep, John M. Fales,* Abner C. Gleason, Raymond Cummings, Rev. Samuel Dunham, Warren A. Blair, Dea. Moses Hall, Charles E. Smith, Adolphus Hamilton, Dea. Alfred White, Sherlock D. Livermore. In the evening of the day on which the above Committee were chosen, they met, and organized by the choice of Rev. S. Dunham, chairman, and S. D. Livermore, secretary, and vot-ed to submit the whole matter of the arrangements to the consideration of a sub-committee of three, who should report at a future meeting. Messrs. Dunham, Gleason, and Hall were appointed to that service. The Committee subsequently met and voted that the pastor be invited to deliver an Historical Discourse, and to procure the writing of an Anniversary Hymn, and a Poem. ♦Died suddenly of heart disease Friday morning after the Anniversary, Octo- ber 18, 1867. 108 They also issued a circular letter, inviting former Pastors, Ministers reared in the parish, Members and Friends of the Church generally, to be present and participate in the exercises of the celebration. They further determined to have a general collation, and chose a Comtnittee on Collation, consisting of the following named gentlemen : Edward T. Stowei.l, Dea. Samuel N. White, William Paige, William Adams, Jr., Joseph E. Bailey, Warren A. Blair, Curtis Gilbert, Lyman H. Chamberlain. The Committee of Arrangements likewise elected John M. Fales a Committee on Finance ; appointed the officers of the day, and prepared the^fcder of exercises. The Celebration fell upon the delightful season of Indian Summer, and proved to be one of Nature's balmiest days. The occasion drew together a large assembly from a wide region of country, and perhaps exceeded in interest and enjoyment the expectations even of the most sanguine. OFFICERS OF THE DAY. PRESIDENT, Rev. FRANCIS HORTON. VICE presidents, Dea. GEORGE MERRIAM, Rev. ELIAKIM PHELPS, D. D., Dea. JACOB DUPEE, ADOLPHUS HAMILTON, Esq., Dea. ALFRED WHITE. • COMMITTEE OF RECEPTION, S. D. LIVERMORE, A. C. GLEASON, C. E. SMITH. CinEF MARSHAL, HARRISON BARNES. ASSISTANT marshals, EBENEZER B. LYNDE, GEORGE W. BILSS, LEWIS GLEASON, JOSEPH S. GLEASON, IRA M. SOUTHWORTH, GEORGE W. STONE. 109 ORDER OF EXERCISES. MORNING. VoLUXTARY — -Anthem. Tun e — Den mark. Before Jehovali's awful throne, Ye nations, bow with sacred joy : Know that the Lord is God alone ; He can create, and he destroy. His sovereign power, without our aid, Made us of clay, and formed us men ; And when, like wand'ring sheep, we stray.ed, He brought us to his fold again. We are his people, we his care, Our souls, and all our mortal frame : "What lasting honors shall we rear, Almighty Maker, to thy name ? We'll crowd thy gates with thankful songs, High as the heaven our voices raise ; And earth, with her ten thousand tongues, Shall fill thy courts with sounding praise. Wide as the word is thy command, Vast as eternity, thy love : Firm as a rock thy truth shall stand. When rolling years shall cease to move. Invocation and reading of the Scriptures, by Rev. Joshua Coit, of Brookfield. Singing. Heavenly Father, graciously hear us ; Hear the petitions we offer before Thee ; Let thy mercy rest upon us ; Heavenly Father, graciously hear uS ; Hear our prayer, Hear our prayer. PjtAYER, by Kev. L. S. Parker, of Derry, New Hampshire. 110 Anniversary Hymn. [Words by Miss Carrie A. Parker, of Derry, New Hampsliire.] Tune — Dedham. Thrice fifty years have swiftly flown, Since first a little band Of Christian laborers set this vine, And trained with loving hand. The Lord hath visited His vine With showers of heavenly grace, And blessed His waiting children's eyes With shining of His face. The precious seed in weakness sown, And watered well with tears, Hath grown unto a noble tree. And generous fruitage bears. While humble souls have watched and prayed, And with temptation fought, God hath made bare his own right arm. And great deliverance brought. His hand hath loosed the captive's bonds, He bade the slave go free ; His voice the heathen nations calls To Christian liberty. And now his still, small voice is heard Throiigh our redeemed land : " Go, Christians, in my vineyard work. Nor longer idle stand." Not the anointed ones alone, As preachers, now are sent ; But all whose hearts have felt His love. And wills to His have bent. Instead of sires, the children stand ; To us may grace be given To follow them in faithfulness. And share their joy in Heaven. Historical Discourse, (in part,) by Rev. S. Dunham. Ill Hymn. Tu n e — Ha rvard. No change of time shall ever shock My trust, O Lord, in thee ; For thou hast always been my Rock, A sure defence to me. Thou my deliv'rer art, O God; j\Iy trust is in thy power : Thou art my shield from foes abroad, My safeguard, and my tower. Benediction, by Rev. Dr. Phelps. Recess— Collation. AFTERNOON. Hymn — The Church's Welcome. Children of Zion ! -what harp-notes are stealing, So soft o'er our senses, so soothingly sweet ? 'Tis the music of angels, their raptures revealing, That you have been bro't to the Holy One's feet. Children of Zion ! we join in their welcome, 'Tis sweet to lie low at that blessed retreat. Children of Zion ! no longer in sadness. Refrain from the feast that your Savior hath given ; Come, taste of the cup of salvation with gladness. And think of the banquet still sweeter in heaven. Children of Zion ! our hearts bid you welcome To the church of the ransomed, the kingdom of heaven. Children of Zion ! we joyfully hail you. Who've entered the sheep-fold thro' Jesus, the door ; While pilgrims on earth, tho' the foe may assail you, Press forward, and soon will the conflict be o'er. Children of Zion ! Oh ! welcome, thrice welcome ! Till we meet where the foe shall oppress you no more. Historical Papers : The Deacons and Meeting-Houscs, by Rev. S. Dunham. 112 Hymn. Tune — Ohnutz. Far down the ages now, Much of her journey done,- The pilgrim church pursues her %\a}', Until her crown be won. The story of the past Come up before her view ; How will it seem to suit her still — Old, and yet ever new ! It is the oft-told tale Of sin and weariness, Of grace and love yet flowing down To pardon and to bless. No wider is the gate. No broader is the way, No smoother is the ancient path, That leads to life and day. No sweeter is the cup, Nor less our lot of ill : 'Twas tribulation ages since, 'Tis tribulation still. No slacker grows the fight, No feebler is the foe. Nor less the need of armor tried, Of shield and spear and bow. Thus onward still we press Through evil and throUj^'h good, — Through pain and poverty and want. Through peril and through blood. Still faithful to our God, And to our Captain true, We follow where he leads the way. The kingdom in our view. Address, by Rov. Eliakim Phelps, U. D., of Jersey City, New Jcr.'-ev, IvKMAUKS, by Kev. L. S. Parker, of Doiry, New Ilampsliire. 113 Historical Sketch : IVIinisters from the Church and Parish, by Rev. S. Dunham. Hymn. Tune — Coronation. Oh ! 'twas a joyful sound to hear Our tribes devoutly say : " Up, Israel, to the temple haste, And keep your festal day ! " At Salem's courts we must appear, With our assembled powers, In strong and beauteous order ranged. Like her united towers. Oh, pray we then for Salem's peace ! % For they shall prosperous be, Thou holy city of our God, Who bear true love to thee. May peace within thy sacred walls A constant guest be found ; With plenty and prosperity Thy palaces be crowned. Poem : Memorials of Brookfield, by Rev. F. Horton, of Barrington, Rhode Island. Remarks, by Hon. Amasa Walker, of North Brookfield. Prayer, by Rev. William B. Bond, of Palmer. Hymn. Tune — Dismission. Lord, dismiss us with thy blessing, Bid us all depart in peace ; Still on gospel manna feeding. Pure, seraphic love increase ; Fill each breast with consolation, Up to thee our voices raise ; When we reach that blissful station. Then we'll give thee noble praise. And we'll sing Hallelujah, To God and tlie Lamb ; Hallelujah forever, — Amen. Benediction, by Rev. Mr. Horton. 15 114 THE COLLATION. Through the efficient exertions of the Committee who were entrusted with the task of providing the entertainment, this part of the day's ex- ercises was rendered a complete success. Previous to the day, this Committee appointed and made skillful dis- position of the following ample corps of assistants, to superintend and aid in the distribution of the refreshments, viz : — Anson Giffin Jr., Mrs. E. B. Taintor, Mrs. W. A. Marcy, Mrs. San- ford Adams, Mrs. B. P. Aikin, Mrs. Doct. Blodgett, Mrs. Doct. Forbes, Mrs. L. H. Chamberlain, Mrs. M. J. Miller, IVIi's. Sarah J. Rawson, Mrs. Gk W. BUss, Mrs. Enos Gilbert, Mrs. W. A. Blair, Misses Abbie C. Blackmer, Eugenia Taintor, Ella G. Paige, Maria Reed, Ida E. Reed, Laura A. Giddings, Ida R. Giddings, Emma Rawson, Emma Sprout, Nettie Jackson, Clara J. Dane, Susie Beaman, Carrie M. Gleason, Annie Brown, Ann Elizabeth C. Gleason, Lottie M. White, Anna E. Bruce, Mary Jones, Julia Mirick, Lottie Miller, Arvilla Stone, Alice A. Rich- ards, Messrs. Eddie F. Livermore, Alfred C. White, Frank L. Bailey, Alvin W. Gilbert, Augustus N. Makejieace, Charles S. Southworth, Albert W. Bliss. At the close of the morning services, all who were present were in- vited to repair to the Town Hall, where a plentiful supply of provisions, of divers sorts, was in readiness, having being brought, by previous request, from every quarter of the town. The large audience was mar- shaled at the church, and proceeded to the hall in the following order : — Committee of Arrangements ; President and Officers of the day; Clergy and Invited Guests ; Strangers and Citizens generally. The blessing having been invoked by Dr. Phelps, the appeals of hunger were sated by a repast which, as the Worcester Daily Spy of the next morning said, " was bountifully sufficient, good and well arranged, and set forth to the satisfaction of all who were privileged to partake." At a meeting of the Church, held November 1, 18C7, it was voted that measures be taken for publishing the doings of the anniversary celebration, and the following persons were appointed a Committee on publication : — A. C. Gleason, S. D. Liveumore, Dea. J. Dupee, Rev. S. DuNUAM, W. A. Blair. This Committee subsequently met, and by vote requested Rev. S. 115 Dunham to prepare an Appendix for the press,,and authorized him to take the general superintendence of the publication. LETTER FROM GOVERNOR BULLOCK. Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Executive Department, ) Boston, October 14, 1867. ) My Dear Sir : — I am disappointed in failing to make my engagements such as to permit me to visit you on Wednesday. The One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the organization of your church is of it- self a most interesting event even in a Commonwealth which we are accustomed to call ancient. Added to this is the equal interest attached to the old town of Brookfield, which was for so many years scarcely second in political importance in the County of Worcester. The town and the church in their historical relations cannot easily be separated ; and it becomes to me a source of unfeigned regret that I cannot unite with you in commemorating the striking reminiscences which upon the present occasion will be awakened. I am, my Dear Sir, with great respect and esteem, Most truly, your obedient servant, 'ALEX. H. BULLOCK. The Rev. Samuel Dunham. • LETTER FROM REV. AUSTIN PHELPS, D. D., PROFESSOR IN THE THEO- LOGICAL- SEMINARY AT ANDOVER. Andover, Mass., September 18, 18G7. Rev. S. Dunham : Dear Brother : — I am sorry that I cannot attend the Celebration at West Brookfield, but the state of my health puts it out of my power. INIy father, I think, will be there, and would doubt- less be ready to fill any gap, should such a thing occur, — which is not probable. Your chief concern probably will be to stop the talkers. I would, with great pleasure, be present, and speak just five minutes, watch in hand, — if my health would permit me to go. Very truly yours, AUSTIN PHELPS. LETTER FROM REV. CALEB SPRAGUE HENRY, D. D., OF NEWBURGH, NEW YORK. Newburgh, N. Y., October, 14, 1867. My Dear Sir : — Your kind invitation to the Celebration of the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the organization of the Congre- gational Church in West Brookfield reached me in due season, but got mislaid until to-day I found it. I had meantime forgotten the day fixed for the festival ; and now I perceive it is so near at hand that I am 116 afraid this will not reach you before the day. I am the more sorry because events have occurred which will render it impossible for me to be present. It would give me great, very great pleasure to be there on the occasion. It is the church of my early childhood. The venerable image of Father Ward is one of the liveliest recollections of my childish days,- — his white wig, his benignant face, his exquisite courtesy. It was in that old white building on the north side of " the plain " that I first went to the Holy Communion. Of that church my vener- able father was for many years a member. In the burial ground lies the body of my mother, and I suppose, of many more whom I once knew. All these and many other associations with West Brookfield, would make it very pleasant for me to visit the place. I am sorry I cannot do so now. I live in the hope of doing so yet at some future day. Very truly and respectfully yours, C. S. HENRY. S. D. LiVERMORB. EXTRACT OP A LETTER FROM REV. JOSEPH VAILL, D. D., OF PALMER. Palmer, September 20, 1867. Dear Brother Dunham : — You allude to the anticipated Anniver- sary. It would give me great pleasure to be present, and I shall make an effort to do so. Aiipecial adjourned meeting of the Corporation of Amherst College is to take place about that time. If it does not occur on that week, I know of no obstacle to prevent my attendance. I am truly and fatcrnally yours, • JOSEPH VAILL. NOTE I. The following petition is taken from the Appendix to IVIr. Foot's His- torical Discourse on Brookfield, as being peculiarly appropriate to be preserved in connection with a history of the church : The petition of the inhabitants of Brookfield to the Honored Gen- eral Court assembled at Boston, November 1698, humbly showeth : — First, That we seem to be called of God to continue our habitation in this place ; we are low in the world, and it would be a breaking thing to our estates to remove to any other plantation. And the land here is very capable of entertaining a considerable body of people ; though inhabitants have been slow to come to us by reason of the war, yet the land is very encouraging, capable to afford a comfortable subsist- ence to many families. Second, That it is an intolerable burden to continue as we have done, without the preaching of the word. God doth require not only family worship, but his pulilic worship. It is "the ordinance of God that, on 117 the Sabbath day, there should be an holy convocation ; and that his word be preached by those who are able and faithful ; and our necessities put us upon it earnestly to desire it ; both we and our children need the instructions, rebukes and encouragements of the word ; the dark- ness and deadness of our own hearts, together with the many snares that are in the world, are an experimental conviction to us that we need all those helps and advantages that God hath sanctified for our good. Third, That we are not able at present to maintain the worship of God ; we are but twelve families, and are not of estate sufficient to give suitable encouragement to a minister ; we are willing to do to the outside of our ability ; but though as much as can be expected from us, it will not amount to such a sum as a minister may reasonably require for his labor. Fourth, That if this Honored Court would please to pity us, and grant us some help for a few years, for the maintenance of a godly, able min- ister, besides the advantage that it may be to these few families that are here, it would be a means of bringing many other inhabitants to us, whereby we shall be so far assisted that we may of ourselves be able to uphold the worship of God, and not be burdensome to others. Under these considerations we humbly beg, that this Honored Court would exercise compassion to us, and assign some relief to us out of the public treasury, which we shall look upon, not only as a testimony of your zeal for the worship of God, but also of your tender compas- sion to the souls of those whom God hath made you fathers of: and your petitioners shall pray, &c. Read November 23, 1698. In answer to the above petition, — Ordered that there be twenty pounds paid out of the public Treasury of this Province, towards the support of an orthodox minister for one year to commence from the time of the settlement of such minister amongst them. Sent up to the Honorable the Lieutenant Governor and Council for Concurrence. Nathaniel Byfield, Speaker. Signed. Samuel O. Owen, Thomas Barnes, Hervey Gilbert, Stephen Gennings, Jno. Woolcott, James Pettee, Samuel Davie, William Barnes, Thomas Parsons, Thomas Rich, Abyan Bartlett, Daniel Price. Jon. Clary, • Joseph Marks, John Pettee. Read in Council, November 24, 1698, and voted a concurrence with the Representatives. Isaiah Addington, Secretary. 118 NOTE 11. Terms of settlement as proposed to Mr. Ward, and his answer of acceptance. At a legal meeting of the first precinct in the town of Brookfield on Monday the 26th day of August, 1771, the parish passed a vote of con- currence with the church in the choice of Mr. Ephraim Ward of Newton for the minister of the church and congregation in this place. And then, " Voted, That upon the said Mr. Ward becoming the ordained minister of this Church and Congregation, there be given, granted and paid to him the sum of one hundred and twenty pounds lawful money of this Prov- ince as a settlement, to enable him to settle in this place as a minister, — the one half to be paid to him at the end of one year from the day of his ordination, and the other half in two years from said day. Voted, That upon condition the said Mr. Ward shall become the or- dained minister of this Church and Congregration, and upon condition the said Mr. Ward shall not claim any right or interest arising from the ministerial land now sold, that there be given, granted and paid to the said Mr. Ward, the sum of sixty pounds as a salary for the first year, and the like sum for the second year, at the end of each year ; and the sum of sixty-six pounds, thirteen shillings and four pence for the third year ; and the last mentioned sum every year afterwards, during his carrying on the work of the Gospel ministry in this precinct, — the said salary to commence at the day of his acceptance of this grant and closing with the terms thereof, the money to be computed at the rate of six shillings and eight pence per ounce silver ; but to be paid in the then current money of this Province. Voted, That in case the said Mr. Ward shall, for one year together during his ministry, be rendered unable to perform the publick duty of his office personally, he shall be allowed the one-lialf of the above- granted salary, and no more, during his continuance in the relation of a minister to this people, unless he shall be restored to health, and per- form said duty. Voted, That there be given, granted and delivered to said Mr. Ward at his dwelling-house annually in said precinct thirty cords of fire-wood during his continuance in the ministry here, to commence when he shall begin house-keeping, the said wood to be eight feet in length. Voted, That the foregoing grants and this contract is upon the ex- press condition the said Mr. Ward shall make no claim to any ministerial land in this town, or the incomes arising by the sale thereof ; but the same shall be and remain with the people to enable them to pay the salary before granted." 119 Mr. Ward signified his acceptance of the above terms, September 13th, in the following words : — " To Jedidiali Foster Esq., Moderator of a meeting in the first precinct in Brookfield, to be communicated. Gentlemen: — After the most mature, deliberate consideration (the time would admit) of the general invitation you have given me to settle among you, and take upon me the pagtoral care of the Church and Congre- gation in this precinct, considering the encouragement you gave as a set- tlement, and the sum you offer as a salary, although not agreeable to my expectations, and attended with some peculiar restrictions, yet for the sake of the peace of the society, and hoping for the continuance of your friendship and affection, I accept of your proposals, and do hereby signify my closing with the terms thereof. Praying that, by the divine aid and assistance,! may faithfully discharge the important trust when committed to me ; wishing that grace, mercy and peace may be multiplied in this place ; and that we may long be mutual blessings and comforts to each other in this life, and finally meet and rejoice together in endless happiness, I remain, Gentlemen, your sincere friend and humble servant, EPHRAIM WARD. Brookfield, first precinct, September 13, 1771." NOTE III. THE ORIGINAL AND PRESENT COVENANT OF THE CHURCH. You do now in the presence of the great and holy GOD, the elect Angels, and this assembly of witnesses, enter into a solemn and per- petual covenant, never to be forgotten, never to be broken. You sincerely and cordially give up yourself to that GOD whose name alone is JEHOVAH ; taking GOD the Father to be your GOD and Father, GOD the son to be your only Saviour and Kedeemer, GOD the Holy Ghost to be your Sanctifier and Comforter. You submit yourself to Christ, and accej)t him as the Erophet, Priest, and I^ng of your soul, the Great Head of the Church, and the only Media- tor of the covenant of grace; promising that by the assistance of the Holy Spirit you will keep the covenant of the Lord inviolably ; that you will cleave to the Lord Jesus Christ by faith and ( Jospel obedience ; — and will endeavor to reform your life as to all known sin, whether open or secret ; — will live in the conscientious discharge of all duty toward GOD and man; — walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blamelessly ; — that you will endeavor that the inward temper of your mind be conformed to GOD's will and word ; — and that you will follow the excellent example which Christ has set you for the rule of your life. You also give up yourself to this Church in the Ivord ; and freely 120 covenant and bind yourself to walk as a regular member of Christ's . church ; to obey them that have rule over you in the Lord — to read GOD's word, and to live in the practice of social and secret prayer, and in diligent attendance on the word preached, and ordinances adminis- tered : and relying on the grace and all-suflficiency of Christ, which are sufficient for you — You promise to walk according to what you now know, or shall know to be your duty. Do you sincerely and cordially consent to the covenant now proposed ? We then receive you as a sincere disciple of Christ and a member of the same church with ourselves, promising, so long as GOD shall con- tinue you among us, to watch over you with meekness and brotherly love ; and may the Lord add to the numbers and graces of his church , and finally bring us all to join the general Assembly, and Church of the First-born, whose names are written in heaven. Amen. NOTE IV. The number of members of which the church was composed when Mr. Ward's ministry commenced, in 1771, is not ascertained. We gather from the Catalogue about ninety names. But as the record of admis- sions begins only fourteen years earlier, (in 1758), many names are un- doubtedly lost. The following table, carefully compiled by Mr. Cordley (former pastor) from the Catalogue prepared by himself, and continued by the present pastor, indicates the annual increase or decrease in the member- ship of the Church during each pastorate for the last half century, be- ginning with the year 1816. Mr. Phelps was settled October 23, 1816. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1816 October 23, 236 1817 January 1, 4 4 236 1818 January 1, 13 11 238 1819 January 1, 57 6 289 1820 January 1, 65 14 340 1821 January 1, 8 9 339 1822 January 1, 10 10 339 1823 January 1, 6 333 1824 January 1, 2 13 322 1825 January 1, 2 12 312 1826 January 1, 4 13 303 1826 October 25, 8 16 290 Mr. Phelps was dismissed October 25, 1826. 121 Mr. Foot was settled October 25, 1826. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1827 January 1, 1 1 290 1828 January 1, 84 13 361 1829 January 1, 13 8 366 1830 January 1, 7 9 364 1831 January 1, 11 IG 359 1832 January 1, 6 19 345 1832 May 1, 1 4 342 Mr. Foot was dismissed May 1, 1832. Mr. Horton was settled August 15, 1832. Ye.ir. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1832 August 15 4 338 1833 Jauuary 1 10 12 336 1834 January 1 11 24 323 1835 January 1 8 21 310 1836 January 1 99 28 381 1837 January 1 6 12 375 1888 January 1 11 19 367 1839 January 1 2 18 351 1840 January 1 29 21 359 1841 January 1 3 14 348 1841 September 15, 11 14 345 Mr. Horton was dismissed September 15, 1841. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1842 1842 January 1, January 12, 1 6 340 1 340 Mr. Chase was settled January 12, 1842. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Jlembers. 1843 1843 January 1, October 27, 13 2 22 15 331 318 Mr. Chase was dismissed October 27, 1843. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1844 1844 January 1, December 19, 3 5 14 313 802 16 122 Mr. Parker was settled December 19, 1844. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1845 January 1, 1 1 302 1846 Januarj^ 1, 15 14 303 1847 January 1, 12 16 299 1848 January 1, 6 16 289 1849 January 1, 21 13 297 1850 January 1, 2 16 283 1851 January 1, 7 10 280 1851 April 7, 4 3 281 Mr. Parker was dismissed April 7, 1851. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1852 1852 January 1, November 17, 6 12 11 269 264 Mr. Byington was settled November 17, 1852. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1853 January 1, 1 2 263 1854 January 1, 14 10 267 1855 January 1, 18 12 273 1856 January 1, 7 22 258 1857 January 1, 3 13 248 1858 January 1, 8 16 240 1858 October 28, 19 18 241 Mr. Byington was dismissed October 28, 1858. Year. Additions. Removals Mr. Cordlev was< dismissed Juno 2o. 18')2. Members. 1859 1859 January 1, June 28, 3 2 5 239 237 Mr. Cordley was settled June 28, 1859. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1860 1861 1862 1862 January 1, January 1, January 1, June 23, 15 9 11 3 5 18 11 7 247 238 238 234 / 123 Year, Month. Additions. Removals. Mcmberf. 1863 1864 1864 January 1, January 1, October 4, 2 1 1 G 3'J* 235 229 191 Mr. Dunhan 1 was settled October 4, 1864. Year. Month. Additions. Removals. Members. 1865 1866 1867 1867 Januar}^ 1, January 1, January 1, December 1, 27 20 10 78 7 10 9 218 231 231 300 The lithographic likeness of Rev. Mr. Ward accomiianying this pamphlet, has been kindly fvirnished at considerable expense by his grandson, George L. Ward, Esq., of Cambridge. * Of these iwcnty-four were stricken fromihe roiZ. having been absent many years without taking letters of dismission and recommendation to other churches. LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 014 077 291 4 1^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS II III I 111 014 077 291 4 • Holliiiger pH 8 J MiU Run F03.2193