^\ BBFORE THE SCOTGH-IRISii SOei OP AMERICA J. H. BRYSON, D.C SCOTCH-IRISH ADDRESSES. ™ SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE Their Influence in the Formation of the Government of THE United States of America. Delivered at THE Third Congress, Held at Louis- ville, Ky., May 14, 1891. INVENTORS OF THE SCOTCH-IRISH RACE OF AMERICA. Delivered at the Fourth Congress, Held at Atlanta, Ga., ON THE 28th Day of April, 1892. By Rev. J. H. Bryson, D.D., Hunisvillc, Ala. Nashville, Tenn.: Publishing House of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. Barbee & Smith, Agents. 1892. ^^ GIFT MRS. WOODROW WIUM NOV. 25, 1939 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE: THEIR INFLUENCE IN THE FORMATION OF THE GOV- ERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. BY J. II. BKYfSOX, D.D. The science of government is a study full of interest from every stand-point of investigation. The nature and genius of a government cannot be correctly understood without a clear apprehension of the several elements which enter into the formation of the governmental structure. There are always antecedents of a marked and pronounced character, which lead up to every great historical epoch, and these great events of human history must be carefully studied in the light of these antecedents if they are to be properly understood. The formation of the government of the United States is the grand- est and most distinguished achievement of human history. It has no parallel in any age or century. It is the outgrowth of principles, which had to work their way through long periods of suffering and conflict. The logical and regulative structure of the principles of our government into an instrument, which we call our Constitution, was the result of but a few months' labor; the principles themselves, how- ever, had been struggling through martyrdom and blood for many generations. To understand the government of the United States, the genius and character of the people who settled the several colonies must be carefully studied. Its m(jst distinguishing feature is that it is a government framed by the people for the people. It is their own conception of the best form of government to secure personal right and liberty. In the present discourse we propose to review the influence which the Scotch-Irish people exerted in various ways in the formation of our government. The inhabitants of the colonies up to 1776 were almost entirely an English-speaking people, coming from England, Scotland, and Ireland. The French Huguenot was not a large felement : in the settlement of the country, but it was a most important one. There was also a noble body of settlers from Holland, Tliese diflerent classes of people all have an honorable part, wortliy of themselves, in forming the government of our country. When the government of the United States came into existence, 4 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. as the voice of the people speakintr througli thirteen sovereign States, the world stood amazed at the daring and brilliant conception. Tyr- anny and ojipression received a fatal blow in that glorious day, and human liberty found a permanent home in the hearts of three millions of American citizens. Many were the pi-ophecies of its speedy down- fall, but with the first century of its history it has taken the first place among the nations of the world. The principles of this government are no longer a matter of experiment, i)ut, as a distinguished writer has said: "they are believed to disclose and display the type of institu- tions toward which, as by a law of fate, the rest of civilized mankind are forced to move, some with swifter, others with slower, but all with unhesitating feet."* The causes which led to the formation of the American Government were foreign to the people of the colonies. They did not willingly break allegiance with the mother country. It was the oppressive measures of the British Crown which forced them to declare their in- dependence and construct a new government, if they would be freemen. But the birthday of constitutional liberty had come. A mysterious providence had prej)ared a people, through long years of suffering and trial, for the glorious heritage, and had held in reserve a magnificent continent for their abiding-place. The era of 1776 was not within the range of human conception or forecast, but there was above and be- hind it all a divine Mind, bringing forward the day witli all its stu- pendous revelations. In considering the history of any people, it is a serious defect to leave out of view their religious conceptions, as expressed in their formulas of faith. Religion of necessity is the most powerful factor in the direction of human life. Mr. Carlyle has well said: "A man's re- ligion is the chief fact with regard to him."! In a Ciiristian land, with an open liible, this is pre-eminently true. AVitli the American colo- nies religious liberty was a question of not less vital importance than that of civil liberty. Their religious faith had a most iHjworful infiu- ence in forming their character, and they intend to be untramnieled in its exercise. From New Hampshire to Georgia they were Calvin- ists of the most j)n)nounced type. Calvinism was their religious creed, and out of it sprung their political })rincii)les. This had been the creed of their ancestors from the days of the Reformation. It had stood the test of fire and sword for more than two hundred years. The principles of that wonderful system had i)ermeated their whole being. *Brice'8 "American Communwealth," Volume 1., page 1. t Carlyle's " Heroes," page 1. INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. O It gave them intellectual strength and vigor. It intensified to the highest degree their individuality. It developed that integrity and force of character, which no blandishments or persecutions could break down. He who puts a light estimate upon Calvinism knows little of its principles, and he knows little of the struggles which brave Calvin- ists have made in many lands for freedom. Motley speaks correctly when he says : " Holland, England, and America owe their liberties to Calvinists." Ranke, the great German historian, as well as D'Au- bigne, says: "Calvin was the true founder of the American Gov- ernment." Hume, Macaulay, Buckle, Froude, and Leckey all afiirm that it was the stern, unflinching courage of the Calvinistic Puritan that won the priceless heritage of English liberty. Scotland can never estimate what she owes John Knox, the fearless embodiment of Calvin- ism in Church and State. Mr. Bancroft makes the statement con- spicuous that it was the Calvinistic faith of the American colonies, which prompted them to resist the oppressions of the British Crown, and maintain the desperate struggle with unfaltering courage until the glorious victory was achieved. The distinguishing feature of Calvinism as a theology is its represent- ative character, holding that sin and guilt are the result of repre- sentaticm in Adam, and that redemption is the result of representation in Christ. The logical outworking of such a theology is a represent- ative government, both in Church and State. Calvinism is the chief corner-stone of the American Republic. It was the religious faith of the colonies that made them what they were, and no adequate conception of their resistance to oppression or their struggle for freedom can be had if this fact is left out of view. The settlers of the American colonies were worthy sons of noble sires. Their ancestors in the plantations of Ulster, in Scotland, in England, in Holland, and in France had learned from their Calvinistic faith that resistance to tyranny was service to God. Calvinism is sometimes looked upon as a stern and severe religious faith, still it is the faith which has produced the grandest men and women the world has ever known. This is the faith which breasted for centuries the most terrible conflicts, trials, and sufferings, to secure for us the glorious heritage of constitutional liberty. Of these heroes Mr. Froude has well said : " They were splintered and torn, but they ever bore an inflexible front to il- lusion and mendacity, and preferred rather to be ground to powder like flint, than to bend before violence, or melt before enervating temp- tation."* * St. Andrew's "Address on Calvinism." 6 THE SCOTCH-IHISII PEOPLE. In tlie memorable revolution of 177',), when the Ameriean colonies combined to form a government of tiieir own, the Scotch-Iri.sh people, who formed a large part of the settlers of the central and southern col- onies, bore a conspicuous part. In speaking of the Scotch-Irish people as transplanted from Ulster, in Ireland, to America, we have found it impossible to separate the Scotch and the Scotch-Irish. They are really one people. During the jjersecutions in Ireland, thousands of this peo- ple were forced to return to Scotland, and at a later date many of them emigrated to America. Often parts of the same families in Scotland and Ireland would join each other in the colonies. This is true of the Livingstons, the Hamiltons, the Wilsons, the Witherspoons, the Ran- dolphs, the Grahams, and others. There is still another mixture in the veins of the Scotch-Irish jjcople. Many of them are known to be of Huguenot ancestry. The Caldwells, the Dunlaps, the Brysons, the Duttields, the Pickenses, the Sumpters, and others came from France to Scotland, thence to Ireland, and thence to America. In estimating the influence of the Scotch-Irish in the formation of the government of the United States two (juestions may be asked: What was their religious creed? and what were their jwlitical ideas? Their religious faith was Calvinism; in Churcli government they were Presbyterians; in State government they were republicans. These three ideas make Scotch-Irishmen what they are. Always and every- where they are the fearless and unflinching advocates of liberty, the determined and unfaltering foe of oppression. They are by nature bold, courageous, and aggressive people. At the time of the American Revolution, the Scotch-Irish people must have formed near one-third of the entire population of the colo- nies. The tide of emigration became strong in the early part of the eighteenth century. As early as 1725, a large body of this people had settled in almost every colony. From this time onward, for a period of more than forty years, the steady flow of this people to the Ameri- can colonies was something amazing. For many years there were never less than 12,000 landed annually at the different jjorts of the country; and for the two years after the Antrim evictions it is estimated the numbers ran up to IJO.OOO or more. They settled generally in the cen- tral and southern colonies. Some 20,000 or more, however, settled along the coast from Boston to the mouth of the Kennebec. This dis- tribution of the Scotch-Irish over the whole country made it jjossible for them to exert a most powerful influence when the occasion should arise. So soon as they were settled down in their new homes they or- ganized themselves into Churches and Presbyteries (for they werePres- INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 7 byteriaiis), and in 1717 a General Synod was funned. By 1770, this delegated Synod was the most powerful religious organization in the country. Indeed, it was the only organization which embraced all the colonies. The ministry were an able body of men, graduates of Edin- burgh, Glasgow, Dublin, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. Many of the elders were graduates of these institutions. This General Synod, with delegates coming from almost every colony, met every year under a written Constitution which they had adopted. This compact organiza- tion of able men, coming together annually as delegates from the terri- tory of the several colonies, for a period of more than fifty years, was certainly a most powerful agency in preparing the way for a Congress of all the colonies when the occasion should arise. This General Synod of the Presbyterian Church, which was the only representative body of the whole country, was very obnoxious to the British Crown, and the Governors of the larger colonies were instructed to remonstrate against its assembling. But these Presbyterians knew their rights and had the courage to maintain them. In May, 1775, this General Synod of the Presbyterian Church met in Philadelphia, side by side with the Colo- nial Congress. It was a critical period. The Congress seemed to hesi- tate what to do. The Presbyterian Synod, made up of Scotch-Irish, bravely and courageously met the issue. The famous " Pastoral Let- ter " * was issued by that body to their Churches scattered throughout the colonies, to adhere to the resolutions of the Congress, and to make ear- nest prayer to God for guidance in all measures looking to the defense of the country. This powerful letter was scattered broadcast among the people, and a copy was sent to the Legislature of every colony. The people were everywhere aroused to the profound significance of the crisis which was upon them. This Philadelphia Synod and their cir- cular letter are referred to by Adolphus in his work on the "Reign of George the Third," as the chief cause which led the colonies to determine on resistance. The Scotch-Irish people, by their Annual Synod assem- bling for fifty or sixty years, manifestly prepared the way for the union of the colonies in a Colonial Congress, so that they might jointly inaugu- rate measures to protect their common interests. In that distinguished body which assembled in 1774, men of Scotch-Irish blood held an hon- orable place. Tliere were the Livingstons, of New York ; John Sulli- van, of New Hampshire; Dickenson and McKean, of Pennsylvania; Patrick Henry, of Virginia ; and the Rutledges, of South Carolina ; and others — men whose ability and culture would adorn any position. *" Presbyterians and the Revolution," page 121. 5 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. This uuion of the colonies enabled them to realize their power and strength. They petitioned the Crown and Parliament for a redress of their wrongs. But their petitions were unheeded. The conflict was inevitable. On the 4th of July, 1770, the memorable Declaration of Independence was made, and the bold announcement went forth to the world that the American colonies intended to be a free and independ- ent people. The grandest hour of human history had come. The heaven-born principles of constitutional liberty had found a home in the breasts of three millions of people; and a continent — the very paradise of the earth — was to be the permanent resting-place. The history of that immortal day is ever full of thrilling interest to the sons of liberty. The Continental Congress fully realized the tremendous issues involved in that declaration. Behind them were the throbbing hearts of a united people awaiting with intense anxiety for the deed to be done. It was an hour that was to mark the grandest epoch in human history. What a scene was there! On the table in the presence of that able body of statesmen lay the charter of human freedom, its clear-cut utterances flinging defiance in the face of oppression, and proclaiming to the world that America was henceforth the asylum of freemen. It was an hour when strong men trenil)led. But the anxious silence was broken when the venerable Dr. Witheispoon, in whose veins flowed the best blood of our race, arose and uttered the thrilling words: "To hesitate at this moment is to consent to our own slavery. That noble instrument upon your table, which insures immortality to its author, should be sub- scribed this very morning by every pen in this house. He that will not respond to its accents and strain every nerve to carry into effect its pro- visions is unworthy the name of freeman. Whatever I may have of property or reputation is staked on the issue of this contest; and al- though these gray hairs must soon descend into the sepulcher, I would infinitely rather that they descend hither by the hand of the execution- er than desert at this crisis the sacred cause of my country."* Tliese burning words from one of the most distinguished leaders of the Congress carried the matter to a triumpliant conclusion: the lH>c- laration of Independence was signed, and the foundation of the Ameri- can Government was laid. This action of Congress was liailed with universal rejoicings by the people, although they knew full well it would involve them in a terri- ble and bloody conflict with the British Crown. As to the influence which foreshadowed this memorable event, it can- * " Presbyterians and the Revolution," page 166. INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 9 not be said that it was wholly brought about by any single cause; but the historical writers who speak of this period are free to say that a large proportion of the great leaders who influenced the colonies to take this decisive step were men of Scotch-Irish blood. " Patrick Henry, of Virginia," said Mr. Jefferson, " was far ahead of us all; he led the way, and the people from the sea-board to the mountains w-ere aroused to action by his burning words." David Caldwell, Ephraim Brevard, Alexander Craighead, and James Hall, with their worthy as- sociates, had the people of North Carolina educated far in advance of the Colonial Congress, as the famous Mecklenburg Declaration illus- trated. The two Rutledges, the eloquent Tennant, and others kindled the patriotic fires in South Carolina. Dufiield, Wilson, Smith, and Thomas Craighead, with their noble associates, prepared the people of Pennsylvania for the coming conflict. The action of the citizens of Westmoreland and Cumberland Counties, with that of Hanna's Town, in May, 1776, told what fearless patriotism the burning words of these courageous leaders had enkindled. The people of New Jersey, under the teaching of Dr. Witherspoon, were ready and impatiently waiting for the hour. Read and McKean were the brave leaders in Delaware. Smith, Rodgers, and Livingston, with their famous " Whig Club," con- trolled the sentiment of New York. Thornton and Sullivan were lead- ers of the people of New Hampshire, and already had their forces fight- ing in the field. These all were Scotch-Irishmen, leading and forming public opinion everywhere. The Governors of the central and south- ern colonies were not far wrong w'hen they informed the home govern- ment that the Presbyterian (or Scotch-Irish) clergy were to blame for bringing -about the Revolution, and that it was their fiery zeal which instigated the people to resistance. That the Scotch-Irish clergy ex- erted a most powerful influence upon the people, by their constant and faithful instruction in the principles of religious and civil liberty, is unquestionably true. How could it be otherwise? On the walls of their homes hung the " National Covenants" of Scotland, which many of their ancestors had signed with their blood. These famous and his- toric covenants form the rugged and storm-beaten background, on which came out the glorious Declaration of American Independence. The brave, thrilling words of that immortal instrument tell what im- portant lessons the author had learned from his maternal ancestry. Ephraim Brevard and Thomas Jefferson wrote alike. They drank at the same fountain ; they had the same instructor. It can be said, with- out fear of challenge, that Scotch-Irish blood flows through every prin- 10 THE SfOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. ciple written in the declaration whicli forms the foundation of American liberty. It is a common statement of history that the clergy of the colonies were in advance of any other class in urging resistance to the oppress- ive legislation of the mother country. The Scotch-Irish clergy, being dissenters, were untrammeled, and bravely did they s])eak out in de- fense of their country's right. The published sermons of that day show how ably the ministry labored to form a public opinion that would stand up against every form of tyranny and despotism. At that period no single agency in the country had such tremendous power as the pulpit. The ministry were universally a highly educated class. They were Calvinists in their creed, and they had learned their principles of liberty from the word of God. They put the issue upon the highest ground. They taught the people that resistance to tyrants was a duty to God. Their courageous words led the people irresistibly onward. "Arm for freedom's cause, appeal to the God of battles, and go forward," was their thrilling appeal sweeping through all the land. Gloriously was their work accomplished when " Independence Bell " rang out the dawn of freedom's day. The public declaration of the colonies that they had severed their allegiance to the British Crown, all understood must bring on a fierce and bitter war; indeed, Washington, with his armies, was already in the field, and the battle had begun. Rapidly the colonists transformed themselves into sovereign .States; and, taking the reins of government into their own hands, elected their own Legislatures and Governors. That seven of the first (Jovernors of the thirteen States should be men of Scotch-Irish blood is an honored tribute to that noble race. This proud distinction indicates the high estimate in which this people were held at the very beginning of the American Kevolution. In the long protracted war waged by England to recover her revolted colonies the Scotch-Irish people bore a prominent and honoralde part. A large number of the most distinguished officers of the army of every rank were of this peo})le. (Jens. Knox, AVayne, Montgomery, Sullivan, Mercer, Starke, Morgan, Davidson, and many others were conspicuous for their heroic deeds and efficient services on many battle- fields. In the earlier days of the revolution occurred the famous battle of Saratoga, in which the entire l^ritish army was captured. This decisive victory, defeating the well-conceived stragetic movement to cut the col- onies in twain, has been justly regarded as the great turning-point in American affairs, and, as a leading English historian says, changing INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 11 the whole current of future history.* It was this important event which secured the alliance of France, the recognition of Spain and Holland, besides bringing to the surface a favorable sentiment in England. Two brave Scotch-Irish officers, Col. Morgan and Col. Starke, contributed largely if not chiefly to this result. Knowing the importance of check- ing the invasion from Canada under Burgoyue, Gen. Washington or- ganized a regiment of picked riflemen, placed it in command of Col. Morgan, and dispatched it to the support of Gen. Gates. On the morn- ing of the 7th of October, 1777, the two armies n)et for a decisive strug- gle. Col. Morgan connnanded the left wing of the American forces, being confronted by Gen. Frazer with the flower of the British array. After fighting had continued fiercely for several hours, Frazer fell by the deadly aim of Morgan's riflemen ; and, seeing their commander borne from the field, the whole British line gave way, and the great battle of the war was won. Col. Starke, who had already defeated a strong force at Bennington, seized the fords of the Hudson, thereby compelling the surrender of the entire British army. The whole coun- try was electrified by the victory, and the daring bravery of Morgan and Starke were universally applauded. During the prosecution of the war the settlements in Western Penn- sylvania and Virginia and the new settlements in Kentucky were con- tinually threatened and imperiled by Indian raids, sent out by English officers from the line of forts between the lakes and the Mississippi River. Col. Rogers Clarke, a brave, daring Scotch-Irishman, conceived the idea of organizing a secret force to capture these dangerous out- posts. He unfolded his bold conception to Gov. Henry, of Virginia, and obtained a commission to collect a body of trusty riflemen, and such supj^lies as might be needed. He selected men of his own race, hardy, courageous, and true. They went forth upon their daring mis- sion determined to succeed or perish in the attempt. Tlie expedition was a brilliant success: Gov. Hamilton, with his line of forts, was sui'- prised and captured. The broad sweep of country from the Ohio to the lakes was conquered, and it was the magnificent contribution of a few brave Scotch-Irishmen to the government of the United States. When the British generals, after a number of manceuvers and various engagements, failed to dislodge General Washington from his strong position in the hill region of New Jersey, they turned their at- tion to the southern part of the country. Lord Cornwallis was in command, and marching northward from Charleston, he met and de- * Creasy's " Fifteen Decisive Battles," page 37(). 12 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. feated the colonial forces under General Gates at Camden, which virt- ually gave him control of South Carolina. He then advanced his position to Charlotte and Salisbury, North Carolina, his purpose being to pass rapidly through that State to the southern part of Virginia. Suddenly, however, a strong body of Scotch-Irishmen from the valleys of the Watauga and the Holston, under the leadership of Campbell, Shelby, and Sevier, joined by Williams and Cleaveland, of South Carolina, appeared upon the field. They were a bold, fearless body of riHemen. (iloom, distress, and almost despair, had settled ujwn the Southern colonies. Cornwallis had reported to the British Govern- ment that the whole Southern country was subjugated. In a few days came the battle of King's i\Iountain. Ferguson was killed, and the entire cotumand was captured. It was a Scotch-Irishmen's battle, made at their own suggestion, when they heard the enemy were ad- vancing into tlie up country. Hope and courage revived everywhere. The Southland was the home of the Scotch-Irish, and they were prompt and ready to defend it at every cost. This brilliant victory proved to be the turning-point of the war in the South, and it was really the beginning of the end. Three months later, and only a few miles from the same place, General Morgan, the hero of Saratoga, fought the famous battle of the Cowpens, completely routing Tarleton's entire command, and inflicting a most disastrous blow upon the British army. This brilliant victory of General Morgan and his Scotch-Irish troops thrilled the whole country with rejoicing. General Davidson, of North Carolina, wrote that the victory " gladdened every countenance and l)aved the way for the salvation of the country." The State of Vir- ginia voted General Morgan a horse and sword in testimony of the " highest esteem of his country for his military character and abilities so gloriously displayed." Congress placed on record the " most lively sense of approbation of the conduct of General Morgan and the men and officers under his command;"-'^ also voting him a gold medal, inscribing upon it the terse but complimentary words. " Virtus unita valet: " " United virtue prevails." Of the effect of this signal victory upon the country Lord Cornwallis wrote to General Clinton, the cona- mander in chief of the British forces in America: " It is impossible to foresee all the consequences that this unexpected and extraordinary event may produce." "As the defeat of Ferguson at King's Mountain made to Cornwallis the first invasion of 2sorth Carolina impossible, so * Bancroft's "History of the United States," Volume V., page 484. INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 13 Tarleton foresaw that the battle of Cowpens would make the second disastrous." These two decisive victories, won by the heroic valor and patriotism of men of Scotch-Irish blood, foreshadowed the coming sur- render of Yorktown. It was the hour when the fatal handwriting came out upon the wall, pointing England to the inevitable result. In her folly she had sown to the wind ; in her bitterness she must reap the whirlwind. Mr. Bancroft, the cultured historian of the American revolution, in referring to this last distinguished service which General Morgan ren- dered to his country, sums up his career in this forcible language: "Appointed by Congress at the outbreak of hostilities a Captain of Provincials, he raised a body of riflemen and marched from the valley of Virginia to Boston in twenty-one days. He commanded the van in the fearful march through the wildei-ness to Canada. Thrice he led a forlorn hope before Quebec. To him belongs the chief glory of the first great engagement with Burgoyne's army, and he shared in all that followed till the surrender; and now he had won at the Cowpens the most astounding victory of the war. Forced into retirement by ill health brought on by exposure, he took with him the praises of all the army, and of the chief civil representatives of the country. He was at the time the ablest commander of light troops in the world. In no European army of that day were there troops like those that he trained. The corps under him so partook of his spirit that they were fashioned into one life, one energy, and one action."* In reviewing the difterent influences which worked jointly and so successfully to the achievement of American independence we are persuaded that the American clergy have not yet received at the hands of an enlightened public sentiment that tribute of recognition and praise, to which their distinguished services so justly entitled them. Mr. Headley, in his attractive little volume " The Chaplains and Clergy of the Revolution," has done something to vindicate the memory of these noble and godly men, who stood bravely up for their country's right in that perilous day. He begins his little work with these significant words: "Notwith- standing the numberless books that have been written on the American Revolution, there is one feature of it which has been overlooked. I mean the religious element. In this respect there is not a single history of that great struggle which is not so radically defective as to render the charge against it of incompleteness a valid one. And he who for- * Bancroft's " History of the United States," Volume V., pages 488, 480. 14 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. gets or underestimates the moral forces that uphold or bear on a great struggle lacks the chief qualities of an historian." * In speaking of the American clergy on the present occasion and the part they bore in the great struggle of the Revolution, we are restricted of course to those who belong to the Scotch-Irish race. The ministers who were of this blood were almost without exception Presbyterians, and without ex- ception, too, they were stanch supporters of the cause of American liberty. Having urged resistance to the unjust legislation of the Brit- ish Crown, they were not wanting in the hour when the conflict came. Being men of liberal culture and thoroughly conversant with the issues involved in the struggle, it is not surprising that tlieir influence was great among the people. No class of men did so much to fire the i)opu- lar heart with a determined spirit of resistance. Craighead, ]\IcWhirter, Hall, Tennant, and others, all ministers, were sent into different sections of the country to arouse and stir the people to action in the great crisis. Many of them raised companies and regi- ments and courageously led them in battle. jNIany were chaplains in the army ; and when reverses and depressions came, it was their stirring appeals which kept the patriotic fires burning, and awakened fresh courage for a renewed struggle. They served in almost every capacity. They were in Legislatures, in State conventions, in councils of safety, in all positions which required wisdom, vigor, and decision. "Washington knew the value of these distinguished men as counselors. Wither- spoon, Rodgers, McWhirter, Caldwell, and Dufiicld were often in con- ference with him in the darkest days of the Revolution. He knew he had their sympathies, and he had respect for their judgment. He some- times risked important luovenieuts on their information about places, persons, and surroundings, and they never failed him. l{ev. Dr. Witherspoon, of Princeton, was one of the most conspicuous characters of this ])eriod. He served in the Continental ('ongress for a number of years, and it was conceded that he had no superior in that distinguished body. He was a member of every important committee, and his influence was recognized as a most potent factor in guiding the government safMy tlirough that stormy period. Tennant, of Charleston, was the close associate of the Rutledges, the Pinkneys, Drayton, and Gadsden; they knew his strength and sought his counsel. He was a meuiberof the State convention, and it was his powerful influence with tlie people wiiich aroused them from their lethargy, when brave men feared all was lost. * Headley's "Chaplains and Clerjiy of the Revolution," pages 13, 14. INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OP THE UNITED STATES. 15 Turning to New Jersey, we find the Rev. James Caldwell the popu- lar idol of the State. As chaplain of the First Brigade, he kept the enthusiasm of the troops to the highest pitch. When reverses came, his resolute spirit rose with the hour. He flung despondency to the winds, giving encouragement to all by his cheering words. When the supplies of the army were running short, and all efforts to secure them Avei-e unavailing, he was induced to accept the position of Assist- ant Commissary General. Such was his indomitable energy and his personal favor with all classes that he soon had the army amply supplied. To him the general ofiicers looked continuously for reliable informa- tion about the enemy. He seemed ubiquitous, and nothing could es- cape his keen, penetrating scrutiny. Washington esteemed his service invaluable. The invading force could keep nothing concealed from his incessant watchfulness. His own vigorous enthusiasm he imparted to the people everywhere. He seemed by intuition to know the plans of the enemy, and so often did he thwart their plans and pur])oses in their inception, that a large price was offered for his capture. On one occasion he ventured to his home, aiming to get his flimily out of the way of the frequent raids of the enemy. Apprised of his coming, the Hessian troopers made an effort to capture him ; but failing in their de- signs, they murdered his wife in the presence of her children, firing the manse over them, and only the prompt efforts of neighbors saved the little children and the dead body of the mother from the flames. It was a fearful blow to the husband and father. His sufferings seemed, however, if possible, to give him greater influence with the army and the people. The best families of the State asked the privilege of caring for his motherless children. Lafayette adopted one of his sons, and gave him the love and opportunities of his princely home. His trials in- creased, rather than relaxed, his energies in the varied offices in which he served. When the battle came, he was always with the soldiers in the thickest of the fight. On one occasion, in a hot engagement at the village of Springfield, he discovered the fire of one of the companies slackened for want of wadding; he quickly rushed into a Presbyterian church near by, gathered an araiful of Watts's hymn books, distribut- ed them along tlie line, and said : " Now put Watts into them, boys." With a laugh and a cheer they rammed the charges home, and gave the British Watts w ith a will. The upper })art of New Jersey being a strong strategic position, Gen. Washington kept a strong force there continuously; and the im- portant service of Mr. Caldwell, until the day he fell by the hand of an assassin, it would be impossible to overstate. " He was a man of un- 16 THE SCOTCH-IRISH PEOPLE. wearied activity, aiid wonderful powers. Feelings of the most glow- ing piety and the most fervent patriotism occui)ied his bosom at the same time, without interfering with eacli other. He was one day preaching to the battalion; the next, providing ways and means for their support; and the next, marching with them in battle. If defeat- ed, assisting in the most efficient way to conduct their retreat ; if vic- torions, offering their united thanksgiving to God, and the next day carrving the consolations of the gospel to some afflicted or dying par- ishioner."'^- Would that time would permit the mention of other clergymen — Evans, Rogers, Allen, Kerr, Cummins, David Caldwell, Patillo, Alex- ander Craighead — all belonging to this patriotic race, who wrought with great power and efficiency in the struggle for American independ- ence! When a careful review is made of the powerful and influential causes which led to the successful achievement of our national rights and liberties, we are j)ersuaded no single influence will stand out with greater prominence than tliat of the American clergy. We have sj)oken of statesmen, of warriors, of clergymen, of battle- fields and victories that give honor and renown to the Scotch-Irish name. All, however, has not been said. There is another chapter of our history which can never be forgotten, and over it may be placed the bold head-lines: The Power behind the Throne, that is greater than the Throne itself. What shall be said of the women of the Scotch-Irish blood? Glo- rious women are they. They suffered; they endured; they toiled; they struggled; they encouraged ; they prayed ; they comforted. They were wounded; they were sabered ; they were murdered; they died like he- roes; they were faithful to their country; they were faithful to their sires, their husbands, and their sons. They have made Scotch-Irishmen the best blood in the world. In this presentation of the imj)()rtant and distinguished i)art taken by the Scotch-Irish in bringing the struggle for American Independ- ence to a successful issue, we would express the highest admiration for the illustrious part borne by others in securing this common heritage. In the first great crisis of the Kevolution, when the sacred cause of our liberties seemed to tremble in the balance, men of Scotch-Irish blood threw themselves into the breach, and struck a blow that made Saratoga immortal. At a later period, when the enemy had overrun the *Headley'8 "Chaplains and Clergy of the Revolution," pages 230, 231. INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 17 Southland and were proudly boasting that the end was near, the brave sons of Ulster gave a lesson in the science of war at King's Mountain, at the Cowpeus, and at Guilford Court-house, which taught the British Crown that not a foot of American soil had been conquered, after all the seven years' warfare. And when the "Articles of Peace" Avere signed, the Western boundaries of the United States were lifted from the top of the Alleghanies to the banks of the Mississippi, and because a hand- ful of daring Scotch-Irishmen had said with their rifles : " It must be so." And still another word must be written, which reflects imperishable honor upon the noble character of this people. In the dark days of Valley Forge, when Washington was sorely tried, and his spirit heavi- ly burdened, when men in the Congress and in the army, who should have held up his hands, were combining to accomplish his removal, thanks to the God of the brave, no Scotch-Irishman ever laid the weight of a feather upon the troubled heart of their country's chief- tain. Everywhere, in the Congress, in the army, in the gloomiest days of the Revolution, this patriotic people stood by their great commander, until he returned his commission into the hands of those who gave it, with its sacred trust gloriously accomplished. And in after days, when times of peace had come, and Virginia was prompted to give to Gen. AVashington a testimonial of her appreciation of his distinguished serv- ices, he received it; but, turning to the Scotch-Irishmen of the Valley of Virginia, who had stood by him in his darkest hours, he presented the entire donation to them for their " Liberty Hall," that their sons might be educated in the principles of their noble sires. When the great Revolution of 1776 was brought to a successful termination, and the British Government recognized the independence of the United States, the American people found themselves confront- ed with a profound prol>lem full of difficulties and dangers. A better organized and more efficient government must be constructed, while the eyes of the nations are looking upon the bold venture with intense concern. The outside })ressure of a common enemy being removed, the thirteen colonies felt for the first time the full meaning of their in- dividual independence and sovereignty. The experience of a few years very clearly demonstrated that the "Articles of Confederation " were not sufficient as a bond of government between the States. The army had been disbanded. Congress was powerless to execute its regulations, and sectional jealousies were rife. It was a critical period, and strong men trembled as they looked into the future. But behind the cloud the hand of an all-wise Providence was steadily guiding the destinies of the American people. 2 18 THE SC'OTCn-IRISH PEOPLE. On tlie 14tli ot'May, 17n of the World to the Bihlc," pages 7(>, INFLUENCE UPON THE GOVERNMENT OF THE UNITED STATES. 25 Michaelis, Professor of Law in the University of Gottinger, remarks that "a man who considers laws philosophically, who would survey them with the eye of a Montesquieu, would never overlook the laws of Moses." The able historian, Millman, in his " History of the Jews," speaking of Moses, and the wide acquaintance with his writings among other nations, affirms, that " the Hebrew law-giver has exercised a more extensive and permanent influence over the destinies of man- kind than any other individual in the annals of the world." That the succeeding ages, as well as those that were contemporaneous, were deeply indebted to Mosaic institutions, is unquestionably true. Moses himself foresaw this, and labored to impress the thought upon his countrymen as a powerful motive for the careful observance of their institutions. "Keep therefore" said he, " and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear of all these statutes, and say, Surely this great na- tion is a wise and understanding people." * The distinguished writers of every country, who have written elaborately of the fundamental laws of society, which secure individual rights and protect the personal interest of all parties, refer almost without exception to the Hebrew government and its institutions as the original source of all such laws. Beyond all question, the Hebrew commonwealth is the background, out of which has been brought the greatest and most perfect human structure the world has ever seen — the American coinmoiixveallh. The American people obtained their ideas of liberty and right di- rectly from the word of God; they knew there was no mistake in the teaching, and this made them courageous and determined in the strug- gle for their liberties. The framers of the American Government often in their writings speak of the natural right, which belongs to all men, and were possibly unconscious of the source of the great idea. Gratian, the distinguished Puritan writer, in defending natural right, said: " He termeth it that which the books of the law and the gospel do contain." The people who founded the government of the United States were thoroughly conversant with the word of God, and they thoroughly understood its infallible teachings as to the rights of men. The Bible is the original and true foundation of our American government. People in other lands have made this important discovery. Montesquieu has said: " Christianity is a stranger to despotic power." f DeTocqueville, an- * Deuteronomy, chapter iv. 6. t Spring's "Obligation of the World to the Bible," page 91. 26 THE SCOTCri-IRISH PEOPLE. other brilliant ami iii.striiotive writer, says of the relij^non of the gospel : " It is the companion of liberty in all its battles and all its conflicts; the cradle of its infancy, and the divine source of its claims."^- The people of Scotch-Irish blood, who wielded snch a powerful in- fluence in the formation of the government of the United States, were a people wiiose lives and beilig were permeated with the teachings of the word of God. From that divine source they gathered the profound principles of civil and religious liberty, which they were determined to assert aud maintain at any and every cost. The blessings and privi- leges which are enjoyed under the administration of the constitutional government of our country teach in a most conspicuous way the value of the principles which enter into its structure. But when it is seen that these principles of human right and liberty are grounded in the word of (Jod, that they are in reality a direct revelation from the di- vine Mind, they take on a value and measure of excellence which can only be measured by the purposes of the great God himself. With what watchfulness and care should the citadel of American liberties be guarded! Here in this heaven-favored land shines the light, the glorious light of constitutional liberty, which is to lighten the world. Never, never, to the latest day, can America forget the precious blood of Ulster's sons. In the conflict for freedom they were conspic- uous for unfaltering fidelity and indomitable courage. In that critical hour, when a constitutional government was to be formed, the genius and spirit of this wonderful jjcople led the way; and when the amazing structure was complete. Providence wrote the words upon the pages of human history that .Scotch-Irishmen had come to America for such a time as this. NVENTORS OF THE SCOTCH-IRISH RACE OF AMERICA. THE INVENTORS OF THE SCOTCH-IRISH RACE. iNthe year 1856 a very remarkable book was published byEev.Mr. Blakely, a Scottish clergyman, which bore the striking title: "The Theology of Inventions." He maintains, with gi'eat force, the prop- osition that there is a divine providence in all inventions. His argu- ment is a strong one, characterized by much ability and research. He claims that God has bestowed all the powers possessed by the in- ventor; that he is the creator of the material world out of which every invention is jjroduced, and so there must be a divine provi- dence in all inventions, as they appear in human history. The endowments of the human mind, as well as the nature and laws of matter, being qualities bestowed by a wise and beneficent Creator, they cannot legitimately be divorced from the designs had in view by their author. If human life in all generations is under the guidance of divine jirovidence, then all inventions and discoveries, which so modify and change the curi"ents and developments of human life can no longer be considered as matters of accident, but results, which find their birth and advent at times when the greater good would accrue to humanit}-. He who studies carefully the problems of human his- tory, how certain people are prepared for great eras, when wonder- ful achievements are gained and the interests of mankind are wi- dened and enlarged, will be constrained to admit the statement as true that there is a Theology in Inventions. The question may be asked, and with much significance, why were the great inventions and discoveries, which have been such a blessing to mankind, not found out until these modern days? If all inventions and discoveries have the hand of an all-wise Providence behind them, why Avas their advent so long delayed; and when they did come, why were thej^ so largely developed out of a jjarticular people, commonly known as the Anglo-Saxon race? These are ques- tions full of interest to the thoughtful and investigating mind, and open up fields of research which have as yet been but little explored. Such problems, however, cannot be discussed on this present occasion. It is a proverb of much l»roader meaning than man}' suppose that 30 THE INVENTOHS OF THE SCOTCH-IRISH RACE. "necessity is the ihoIIut <>f invcMitioii." Tlie (leinands of society, of commerce, and of civilization, have generally indicated the direc- tion in which inventive skill should direct its energies. The great- est achievements of inventors have usually l>een the greatest bless- ings to humanity. It is ])i'ecminent ly true that inventors deserve well of their fellow-men. They are the great henetactors of their race. Many of them have had io struggle through great poverty, trials, and ridicule hefore success could he ohtained. It is a sad and painful reHection ui>on our race that some of the greatest inventors have had theii- inventions tilched from theii- hands, enriching mul- titudes and even nations, while they themselves have died in pov- erty and neglect. Sutfei-ing, ]ienury, and mart3'rdom have been the only rewards for some of the most useful inventions of the world. It seems incivdil)le that these great benefactors of the human familj- should have received such recom])ense at the hany ])ronioteil ? Before J\Ii'. FuUon gave iiis enlii'i- attention to mastering the ]»rol»lem of steam p(jwer navigation, he applied all his energies to the })i'oducl ion of a diving lioat to desti-oy war vessels, attei" the manner of toi'pedoes of liie present daw The invention ]iroved quite successful, and. believing he IkuI pr(Mluce(| a new and impoi'- tant addition to naval warfare, he oHei'ed his invention to the Eng- lish govei'innent. His pi'oposition was met l>v a projiosal. foi* a considerable ri'ward. to supjnn'ss his in\i'nl ions, so that neither ids own country nor any other might receive the advantage, lie in- dignantly rejected the overture, and ri'plied with much feeling: "I will never consent to let these inventions lie dormant. >liould my countiy at any time have need for them; and were you to grant me an annuity of twenty thousand jiounds a yeai". T would sacrifice all to the safety and independeiici' of my country." These were noble and ))atriotic utterances of J\Li'. Fulton, and indicate the strong in tegrity of character which he possessed. The cart-er of Mi'. I'ultnn bad now reached one of its important turning points. Thoi'oughly discouraged at the reception which the iMiglish and French ( lovt-rnnients had given to his inventions, he determined to return to his own country and give all bis energies to the application of steam power to navigation. It was fortunate foi' America that advei'sity drove her worthy son back to her shores, as the splendid triumph of bis genius was near at band which was to reflect much glor\' upon himself ami bis country. In the \-ear ISOd .Mr. ['"niton arrived in New ^'ork. and immedi- atelv began the consti'uct ion of a boat which was to ti'>t the prac- ticability of the invention he had cai'efully worked out in bis own mind. In U'ss than a year. boat, engines, and macbim^ry were all ready for the experimental t rip. 'f be foal was named ••( Mearmont," ROBERT FULTON. 66 after the home of Chancellor Livingston, who was associated with Mr. Fulton in this steam power experiment. In the month of Au- gust, 1807, Mr. Fulton made the public announcement that he would, on a certain afternoon, start on his new boat for Albany. At the appointed time a large multitude assembled, perfectl}- incredulous as to the success of the experiment. Jest and ridicule were freely ex- pressed altout "Fulton's folly." A few personal friends were invited aboard the boat to witness the trial of the new power. At the sig- nal the vessel moved smoothly out into the midst of the river, like a thing of life, and started majestically on her trip of one hundred and tifty miles to Albany. The multitude were tilled with blank amazement as the " Clearmont " disappeared from their view upon the Hudson. The crews on the sailing crafts were appalled as they saw the terrible object coming toward them belching tire and smoke; some hid themselves in the holds of the vessels, some leaped into the water and made for the shore, others fell upon the deck and im- plored divine protection from the apjDroachesof the horrible monster. The people of Albany and the Legislature were filled with wonder and astonishment as the boat moved in proud majesty up to the wharf. The following day the new vessel returned safely to New York. It was a glorious day for Mr. Fulton. His wonderful genius had triumphed over all obstacles, and the application of steam power to navigation was an established fact. It was the dawn of a new era in the prosj^erity of nations, and the beginning of a new period in the civilization of the world. Mr. Fulton could not be otherwise than greatly gratified at his success, but he was thinking of the wel- fare of his countrj'men in the hour of triumph. Listen to his own noble words as he gives an account of the matter to a friend: ''Hav- ing employed much time, money, and zeal in accomplishing tin's work, it gives me great pleasure to see it fully answer my ex})ecta- tions. It will give cheap and quick conveyance to the merchandise of the Mississippi, Missouri, and other great rivers, which are now laying open their treasures to the enterprise of our countrymen ; and, although the prospect of personal eniolument has been some induce- ment to me, yet I feel infinitely more ])leasure in reflecting on the immense advantages that my country will derive from the inven- tion." There is a grand nobility in these words which should touch the heart of every American citizen. The genius and ability of Mr. Fulton entitled him to take rank among the greatest men of the woi-ld. He possessed a rare and Avonderful comlnnation of extraordinary qualities. He was one of 34 THE INVENTORS OF THE SCOTCH-IRISH RACE. nature's nolilenien. Tlii'imi^li his inventions Ik- becatne a ij:;reat Iten- cfactoi- to liis i-ace, retleetini;- liuncjr up(ni his country and imnior- taUty upon himself. Ilis s))ien(li(l career was cut short at hij^li noon. Entliuscd with nuu'velous concejitions to reconstruct the navy of his countrj' with the ni'W slrani power he had (Iiscovereleasure anerfec1ed his invention that he pro- |iosed to inak'e a ])iililic exliiliit ion of the o])eration of teleii"ra|>hie instruments at New York University, of which he was at that j)e- I'iod a professor. On .January 24. 1838, the distinii-uished ]iai-ties in- vited were present, filled with astonishment at the proposition to eonvcy intelliii^ence throuii'h a coil of wire ten miles hniix. In defer- ence to Gen. (,'ummint>;s, a military ofHcer present, the followinsj s^'Utence was «;-iven to Prof. .Morse to ti-ansnnt thi-oUi;-li the long wire in the teleii'ra]ihic al])hahet (if dots and dashes: "Attention, tiie universe: By kinixdonis, rie watched with intense SAMUEL FINLEY BREESE MORSE, 39 anxiety the fate of the bill, for in its success were centered all his hopes of getting his invention before the world. Trembling with agitation, he heard the roll call. The bill had a majority of eight. He and his friends were greatl}- rejoiced, but the bill had yet to run the gauntlet in the Senate during the few days of Congress whicli yet remained. March 3 came, and Mr. Morse sat in the gallery all day long. As the senate chamber was lighted, two Senators, his personal friends, came to him with the sad intelligence that there was no hope of getting the bill passed, as only a few hours remained and a large number of bills were before it on the calendar. His hopes were crushed. He went to his hotel, fell upon his knees at his bedside, and jjourcd out his troubled heart to Clod, as he had ever done in the dark days when thick shadows fell upon him. He soon realized that " the Lord giveth his beloved sleep." Mr. Ellsworth, the Commissioner of Patents, and his friends in the Senate watched the bill continuously, and at the last moment secured its passage and signature by the President. Early next morning the little daughter of Mr. Ellsworth came to the hotel as Prof. Morse came down to breakfost. The young girl quickly said: " I came so early to be the first to congratulate you, Mr. Morse." "And for what reason, my child?" said he. "Why, upon the passage of the bill by the Sen- ate." The professor assured her that it was not possible, as he lelt the capitol onlj^ a few hours before adjournment. She then in- formed him that her father was present at the close, and saw the billed passed and signed. He sank down in his chair overwhelmed at the good news. Recovering himself, he promised Miss Annie Ellsworth that she should send the first message over the first line of telegraph that was opened. With this appropriation by Congress, Prof. Morse proceeded with energy and delight to construct a telegraph line from Washington to Baltimore. By May 24, 1844, he had his line constructed between the two cities. There was much excitement in both cities as to the success of the new and wonderful invention. That intelligent mes- sages could be sent over this wire of forty miles' length in an instant staggered the faith of every one. When everything was ready, he informed Miss Ellsworth he was prepared to redeem his pledge that she should indite the first mes- sage for the telegraph line. Her good mother had suggested the striking words of Scripture: " What hath God wrought!" (Num. xxiii. 23) and the daua'hter handed them to Prof Morse. He took his seat 40 THE INVENTORS OF THE SCOTCH-IiaSH RACE. li}' the iiistniiiiciit and spclli-d tlu- woi-ds of tlio iiK-ssaii'i' in the dot and (hish of the telei;ra])h aljihaliet. In a moment Mr. ^'ail. who was at the insti'ument in Jiaitimore. returned the words to Wash- inii'ton, thus passinii' over a circuit of eiii'hty miles. Tlie parties present were filled with amazement ; they saw bej'ond controversy the success of the invention. Pi-cjf. Morse did not ex- hibit tlie surprise of liis enthusiastic friends, for he knew perfectly what his instrument would do, and the tact accom|)lished was but the confirmation to others of what to liim was :i certainty on the packet shi]) "Sully" in 1882. Tie received, with the modesty in krrjtin^- with the sim])licity of bis ciiaracter, the strong- congratulations of his friends. Neither then nor at an}' subse<|uent period of his life did his language or manner indicate any exultation in his wonderful triumph. Jle be- lieved himself an instrument employed by heaven to achieve a great result, and having accom])lislied it. he claimed simply to be the origi- nal and oidy insti'ument by which that result had been reached. Prof Morse said of the Hrst message that was sent — ■ What hath God wrought!'' — that it ba])tizee came back the answers with bene- dictions for him who had made the people of all nations to be as one. The career of this wonderful man now closes. On April 4, 1872, in his eighty-fourth year, the message came calling him to the pre- cious rewards of his Christian faith. CYRUS HALL McCORMICK. Attention is now diivoted to aiiotlKT (listiiiLCuislie(l Scotcli-Irish- inan, to \vho>>L' genius ane safely as- serted that no single invention has ever become such a powerful factor in increasing the commerce of all nations. The family of Cyrus Hall McConnicU for two genei-ations were ! settlers in the famous valley of Virginia, so fruitful of great tmd goo in- vention i;-ave to the aii'ricult ural interests of tlie conntiy. IJeapini;- hy niacliincrv was a revolution to the uTain pro(hution of tiie woi-Id. 'I'he success wiiich a kind PiMvideiice was pleaseil to l)esto\v U|»on Mr. MeC'orniick sceined ne\ei- to till liini with exultation. Init onl\- served to l^rint;; out the i-eniarkalile excellencies of his charadei-. In 1858 he was married lo .Miss Nettie Fowler, a lady ilisl ini;uislied for her intellii^vnce and menial endowments. To them were iiorn two dauL!;iders and thrt-e sons. The i'elii;-ious life of .Mr. .McCornuck was sti-oni;- and of a pi'o- nounced tyjn". IK' held, with vigorous tenacity, to the ivliii'ious ' faith of his fathers, lie loved his ('luirch and all In r interests, and wlu'n his inventions ltroni;ht him ampk' foi-tune. he he^an t o liestow lari>'e and lilicral henefaelioJis u|ion siU'h reli^-ions iiivtitulions as comnuMKU'd themselves to his favorahle consideration. In is.")!! he iMidowcd the I'l'eshyterian Theoloirical Sennnarw of Chicaijo. and afti'i'w ai'd larii'e and liheral i;ifts were made, hoth hy himself and his fannU, ann)unl iui;' in all to over a million dollars, .\fter Mr. McCoruucks death, the Trustees of the seminaiy \cr\ |iro|terly chanii'cd the coi']K)rate title of the institution to that of •The Mc- ('oi-nnck Theoloii,-ical Seminary of ( "hicai;-o." 'l'hroni::h this liherally endowed school of the prophets thisiiohle man has already e.xerted. and will continue to exert, a most favorahle reliii'ious influence upon till- ii'reat North west sect ion of our ci.nnt ry. .Mr. .Met 'ormirU died in the year 1S84, haviuL;,- passed his seventydift h hirthday. His end was ])eace. In the person of his son. Cyrus Hall MeCorndck. .Ir.. the fathei- has left hehind him a ^-ood i-epresentat ive. Sncceedini;- to his t'a- ther's in\'enlion with all its emoluments, he has (.'xpanded the prin- ci] lies of t he invent ion in vai'ious direct ions, lari;"el\' increasing- its in- tliU'ncc ami reveinies. .1 ust where the fat lu-r laictolirr. 18;{2. l)olh inventions were a success in tlu" first trial, ami lioth were ahont twelve years in commandiuii- puidic attention, lioth men ahout tlu' same time had I licii' inwnl ions recoiiMii/.ed li\' t he CYRUS HALL McCOKMICK. 45 various nationalities of Europe and of the world, and almost simul- taneously they received the highest honors from every civilized government. While engaged in developing their respective inven- tions, the}^ formed an acquaintance which was mutually pleasant and agreeable. They both lived to enjoy the fruits of their labors, and passed away at a ripe old age, leaving behind them the blessed example of Godly Christian lives. In ])reparing this address on the inventors of the Scotch-Irish people of America, we have deemed it advisable to restrict ourselves to the three great Inventors (Mr. Fulton, Mr. Morse, and Mr. McCor- niick), whose life work has been closed by death. The inventive ge- nius of these three men lay in entirely different directions, and yet their inventions have effected most powerfully the interests of man- kind, and ]»roved an inestimable blessing to the whole world. If time would ])ermit, we could speak of other Scotch-Irish in- ventors Avhose ]iroductions have commanded universal attention and admiration. The mother of Thomas A. Edison, who was Miss Elli- ott, is of this blood ; a woman of rare endowments and intellectual cul- ture, who profoundly impressed herself upon the young life of her son. But we must rest our cause with the three master Inventors we have mentioned. Their Inventions, their lives, and their characters reflect immortal honor upon the Scotch-Irish race. 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