OF THE CHUIIRCHES ANTD MINISTERS CONNECTED IWITH THX PRESBYTERIAN AND CONGREGATIONAL CONVENTION OF VWISCONSIN, AND OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE AMERICAN HOME MISSIONARY SOCIETY IN THI STATE FORl TIIE PAST TEN YEARS; BY REV. DEXTER CLARY. BELOIT: PRINTED BY B. B. UALB. 1861I PREFACE. This work is published by request of the Presbyterian and Congregational General Convention of Wisconsin. The Committee of Publication, whose names are hereto annexed, was appointed by the Convention. The labor of preparing it has devolved mainly on the Rev. Dexter Clary. It is the result of an extended statement made by him, as Agent of the American Home Missionary Society, to the Convention, of his labors the past ten years. Deeming it important that the history of churches and ministers in our connection should be preserved, and that the great benefits received through the instrumentalily of Home Missions should be on record, the Agent was requested so to extend the statement as to make it answer these ends. A similar History, extending from the first work of Home Missions, and the first organization of churches in Wisconsin, to the close of 185), was prepared by Rev. Stephen Peet, the first Agent of the American Home Missionary Society on this field, and published by request of the Convention. The present work commences where that closed, and is a continuation of it, varying somewhat, because of the changes that have taken place. It also gives greater prominence to Home Missions. Early in the decade of years, over which this History extends, some of our Presbyterian brethren separated themselves from us and united with others who had just come to Wisconsin, in establishing churches in connection with the New School General Assembly, retaining, however, their former relation to the American Home Missionary IAEFAOE. Scolety. Since that movement was commenced; both ministers and churches have, in a few instances, changed their ecclesiastical relations, some in one direction and some in the other, and it is deeined almlost essential to the integrity of this history, especially as it relates to Home M3issions, that the ministers and churches constituting the Synod of Wisconsin, should be included. But having had no opportunity to consult them so as to secure their co-operation as a Synod, it is thou:ht best that so much of the history as, relates to them shoald be placed in an Appendix. Some have expressed a wish to have the fbrmer history re-published. i'o meet that wish, in past at least, the most important portions of that work are brought forward in this. Various causes have existed for the delay in getting this little volume ready for distribution, principally the claimlli of other duties and the labor required in its preparation. Perfect accuracy of statements and statistics is not claimed; much care, however, has been taken to give a true historyone that will interest and benefit the people of God, and furnish cause of gratitude for what he has done. COAAMIITTEE OF THE CONVENTION: M. P. KINNEY, Stated Clerk of Beloit Convention, A. CLARKE, M " Milwaukee S. AV. EATON, " MIin'al Point " H. M. PARMALEE,'i " S Madison " I. N. CUTNDALL, " " Winnebago M. WELLS, 4"'" Lemoniweir " J. C. SHERWIN, " " La Crosse " A. L. C HAPIN, Plresident of Beloit Colleoe, N. D. GRAVES, Pastor 2d Congregational Church, Beloit. CONTENTS. PART I. PAGE. Organization of the General Convention: Permanency -PlanI-Reason............................. 9-13 Organization of District Convertions: MilwaukeeBeloit-iil-lneral Poitlt -Madisoln-Winnlebaglo-La Crosse —-Lemoniveir......................... 4-18 Constitution of the General Convelntion.............. 19 Constitution of the District Conventions.............. 21 Rules of Business................................. 25 Confession of Faith and Covenant................... 29 Powers and Relations of Convention: To Presbyterian Churches-To Congrecational Churches —To Ministers-To Councils............................ 34-37 Doctrinal views................................... 38 Character of the Churches.......................... 39 Meetings of General Convention-Table............ 40 Character of the Meetings.......................... 41 Action on various subjects: Resignation of Rev. S. Peet-Plan of Church Erection —Absent Members -- Salaries of Ministers -- Stockbridge IndiansCongregational Board of Publication — Christian courtesy - American Bible Society —Theological Semilaary-Revivals - Assessment - Monument at Mr. Peet's Grave-Slavery-Ministerial Education -Tract Operations -Educational Institutions - 00X=XT1. PAGE. Temperance-Home Missions-Doctrinal Integrity -Statistical Year-Tobacco-Monthly ConcertDancing —Relation of Ministers-Plan of Church Erection-Death of Ministers-Lay Labor-Corresponding Bodies-Standing Rules-Systematic Benevolence.................................... 42-68 PART II. HISTORY OF MINISTERS. Explanation...................................... 69 Table of Ministers in Wisconsin in 1850 71......... 71 Table of Ministers who have come since 1850.... 73 Tables of Ministers who have gone away since 1850.... 77 Table of Ministers who have died................... 80 HISTORY OF CHURCHES. Explanations..................................... 81 Tables of Churches now in the State........... 83 Churches that have become extinct.................. 90 Summary........................................ 90 Causes of Extinction............................ 90 Welch Ministers and Churches................... 92 PART III. HOME MISSIONS. Statement............................ 94 Growth of the Field............................... 96 Labor of Agents.................................. 97 Missionaries..................................... 99 Missionary Churches................ 101 Appropriations and Contributions.................... 102 Female Benevolence towards Home Missionaries..... 112 CHURCH ERECTION. Statement........................................ 113 Table of Houses of Worship in 1850... 115 Table of Houses of Worship built siice 1850........ 116 Summary of Church Erection....................... 120 APPENDIX. New School Synod of Wisconsin................ 121 Organization of Presbyteries........................ 122 Ministers......................................... 123 Table of Ministers now in Wisconsin................ 124 Table of Ministers who have labored and left.......... 125 Table of Churches............................ 126 Other Denominations.............................. 128 Corrections, The name of H. Avery, on page 72, should be in the next table, on page 73. The age of A. Montgomery, deceased, on p. 80, should be 51 " J. 0. Ki - pp, "' 41 " 30. S. Powell, " " " 44 " D. W. Pickard, " " " 30 ~" Mr. Steele, "" unknown. The names of D. Lamb and N. Miller, on page 72, should hav;e been erased. They (lied while this book was being printed. Their names were placed with others who had died, and are on the.same page, 80. There was not time to obtain their agres. EffrIts were made to obtain' statistics of others, but without success. A summary statement of the number of ministers was intended, like that of churches and houses of worship; also of church members. T'lhey are as follows-: Ministers now in the State-.......................... 169 Miinisters who have labored here and left since 1850.... 70 Ministers -who have lal ored here since 1850, and have died, some here and some away.................. 20 Whole number of' deaths previous to 1850............ 10 Church members in 1850, and of the churches organized since, at the time of their organization........... 5,714 Members 1st January, 1861......................... 10,145 Increase in 10 years, besides deaths, dismissions and removals..................................... 4,431 Other corrections and addiiions milght be made. Those concerned will llease bear in mind, thait the Author has had other dusties colstantly clairnin atttention, atd enotuioI to occupy his whole time; that mnakino bools hmas been n1i) [lart of the work of his life; that books composed lurgely of' statistics are prola. bly the most difficult to inke;' and thei please do him the favor to believe that he hais honestly anrd earnestly aimed to dlo justice to them nlld to the work in hand. With confidence in the charity iind florbearance of his biethren, it is comnmitted to them alAd to the chlur(ices, hoping that it will do good and not hurt, and like that of his Predecessor, bear witness to the goodness and grace of God our Savior, when he is no more. PART I. HISTORY OF THE GENERAL AND DISTRICT CONVENTIONS. Organization of the General Convention. TI-IE first Ecclesiastical Body was a Presbytery, which was organized at Milwaukee, Jan. 17, 1839, and was called the Presbytery of Wisconsin. It consisted of four ministers and two delegates; viz.: Revs. Gilbert Crawford, Lemuel Hall, Moses Ordway and Cyrus Nichols, and Elder Samuel Hinman, of the Presbyterian church of Milwaukee, and Deacon Asa Clarke, of the Congregational church of Prairieville (now Waukesha). The Presbytery was never connected with a Synod or General Assembly. At a meeting, July 5th, the same year, the name was changed to the Presbytery of Milwaukee, and other members were received. Other meetings were held, and other ministers and churches were received; and in October, 1840, a special meeting was held at Troy, and at the same 2 106 -HISTORY OF TEHE CONVEW'TION. time aalA place, a mleeting of Conglregational ministers and delegates wxas held, both having, in view a Plan of Union, which should unite all the ministers and. churches in Wisconsin, of those tW;o denominations. After consultation and nunch prayer by the'uembers of both bodies, the Union was, aor~eed upon, and thle General Convention of Wisconsin was organized. The ieiembers composing ft were as fallows: MINISTERS. Rev. D)avid A. Sherman, of' East Troy. 4c "linlruel Hall, of Geneva. i V6ses"Ordway, of, South Prairieville. J eremliah Porter, of Gre'en B1ay. (Omitted by mistake in the former history.)'" Stephe'n Peet ofrMilwaukee. " Otis F. Curti's3, of Prairieville (ilow Waukesha.) Cyrus Nichois, of Spring Prairie.'" Solomon;,Chaffee,of Pfatteville. J". U. Parsons; without charge. qITUPRCHES. There were deiegates"fromn sixteen churches, eight Presbyterian and eight Congregationral, as follows: M'ilwTaukee, Gleen Bay, Geneva, Racine, Whitewatei,, EastTrToy, South Prairieville, Platteville, Kenosha, Beloit, W.a lkesha, Milton, Saiem, Troy, Caldwell's PrarTie and LiTsbon. Permanency of th'e Arrai4gement. When this Union was agreed upon, the idea of separate organizations was abandoned, and the Conventioi was re ORGANIZATION. 11 garded by all concerned as a permanent arrangement. See History of Churches in Wis., p. 30. After ten or twelve years, when the spirit of denomiinationalism began to be agitated by some in the ministry and churches at the East and the West, the Creneral Cbnvention in session at Mtadison, in October, 1853, appoifited- a conmmittee to prepare a paper setting forth, briefly, the principles of our organization, and the reasons for its continuance. That committee reported the following, which was adopted. See 1st page of the Minutes of 1853. Plan of Organization. "The Presbyterian and Congregational C(onysntion of Wisconsin was formed in October, 1840. Its design was to unite the ministers and churches of these two denominations in one body, for the maore effective prosecution. of ftL missionary wor](. Thle basis of the Union is'cl:, to allow each chaurch to be constituted and governed according either to the Presbyterian, or to the Congregational form of Church Government) as the majority of its members may prefer. This basis is set forth in the first Article of the Constitution. " Chtrches belonging to this Convc-ention may adopt either the Presbyterian or the Congregational mode of government, and shall each be represented at the meetings of the Convention, by one delegate." Presbyterian churches connected with the Convention do not therefore give up anything essential to the Presbyterian mode of church government, neither are they required to adopt any procedure inconsistent therewith. The Book of Discipline is followed by them in all matters of govern 12 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. ment and discipline. They have their Elders, are amenable to the higher judicatory-the District Convention, with which they are connected, as to a Presbytery, and have the right of appeal to the General Convention, which sustains to them the relation of a Synod. Their want of direct connection with the General Assembly is not considered as invalidating their right to be known and acknowledged as purely Presbyterian churches. The Congregational churches, connected with Convention, are also constituted and governed strictly upon Congregational principles. Convention claims and exercises no judicial authority over them, but is to them, in matters of government, an advisory body, or a standing council. Each Congregational church is regarded as possessing the full right to govern itself, subject only to Christ the Great Head of the Church. In matters of public importance, advice is sought by such churches from councils specially called, or from the Convention, according to good usage among Congregational churches. Convention, therefore, is not an amalgamation of Presbyterianism and, Congregationalism, but a cordial union of brethren of both these denominations, who, agreeing in doctrinal belief, mode of worship, and the prosecution of the same missionary work, do not consider the difference between them upon the mode of church government so great as to make it either necessary or expedient that they should walk apart. Neither is it the design of this body to build up one of these denominations to the destruction of the other, but rather to build up churches of Christ, whether they be constituted Presbyterially or Congregationally. Accordingly it desires to be looked upon, not as an enemy to either of these branches of Christ's family, but as belong ORGANIZATION. 13 ing to and a part of both, and as practically exhibiting oneness which it is believed aelually exists between them. These, then, are some of the more promlinent advantages of this organization: 1. It secures the union of those who, by common consent, are virtually one, and who, in their present position and circumstances, ought not to be divided. 2. It enab!es Presbyterians and Congregationalists to work harmoniously together in the same field. This it does by removing the occasions of strife and ill-will and faultfinding between them, which are prone to arise when they are at rivalry. 3. It prevents the division of feeble churches, and the unnecessary multiplication of churches on the same field. Nearly all our churches are composed of members connected both with Presbyterian and Congregational churches. To separate these members, is what they are not yet able to bear. 4. It is in harmony with the American Home Missionary Society, in which both Presbyterians and Congregationalists unite to carry forward the work of Home Missions. Of this Society, nearly all the churches of the Convention have been, or are, beneficiaries, and its ministers, missionaries. There is certainly reason in the union of those on the same field, who are sent out and sustained by this great and good institution. 5. It gives greater efficiency to the Home Missionary work. It does this by securing that strength which is the result of union and co-operation, and also, by leading its ministry and churches to direct their main efforts to the advancement of the Redeemer's Kingdom, while the question, whether a church shall be governed by a session, or 14 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. by the congregation of believers, is regarded of minor imlportance." This historical statement and declaration of the principles of the organization, and the reasons for their approval and perpetuity, has been repeatedly in the minutes of meetings of the Convelntion, since 1853. ORGANIZATION OF DISTRICT CONVENTIONS PREVIOUS TO 1850. At a regular meeting of the General Convention, held in Geneva, in Junle, 1842, the District Conventions of MBilwaukee, Beloit and Mlineral Point were erected, their boundaries arranged, the ministers and churches were set off accordingly, and the tinle and place of their meetings designated. See His. Wis. Chs., p. 13. Milwaukee District Convention. The boundaries assigned to this Convention were all the Lake shore counties, from the State line south to Green Bay on the north. It consisted of twelve mlinisters and sixteen churches, and the first meeting was held at Waukesha, June 28th, 1842. ORGANIZATION. 15 Beloit District Convention. The boundaries assigned to this Convention were the territory lying between the Lake counties on the east and the mining region west, and from the State line south to Lake Winnebago on the north, and it consisted of nine ministers and fifteen churches. The first meeting was held at Milton (then called Prairie du Lac), Sept. 18th, 1842. Mineral Point District Convention. The bounds assigned to this Convention were those which included what is termed " the mineral region." Most of the counties then organized extended to the Mississippi river. It consisted of four ministers and eleven churches, and the first meeting was held at Platteville, September 4th, 1842. Madison District Convention. This Convention was organized in October, 1846, and included the northern part of Beloit Convention; viz.:the counties of Jefferson, Dane, and also Dodge, Sauk, Columbia, Marquette, Fond du Lac, Winnebago, Calumet and Brown counties. It had fifteen ministers and seventeen churches, and held the first meeting at Beaver Dam in Novemberf 1846. These four District Conventions were organized previous 16 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. to the date where the present history of churches begins, and for a more full account of their organization, and also of their relations to the General Convention and to the churches, see His. of Chs., p. 36, &c., by Rev. Stephen Peet. ORGANIZATION OF DISTRICT CONVENTIONS SINCE 1851. Winnebago District Convention Was organized in October, 1851, and consisted of all the ministers and churches in the counties north of Columbia, Dodge and Sauk. The first meeting was held at Oshkosh in November, 1851. These counties were set off from M3adison Convention. Afterwards, October, 1854, the ministers and churches in Sheboygan county and all north of it were set off to this Convention, from Milwaukee District Convention. See Minutes of 1854, p. 8. La Crosse District Convention. At a meeting of ministers and delegates from churches in the vicinity of La Crosse, held at Sparta, Monroe county, in June,1855, the subject of an Ecclesiastical Organization was under consideration, according to previous consultation. There were present, Rev. J. C. Sherwin, of La Crosse, L. L. Radcliff, of Viroqua, W. Bigelow, of Black River Falls, ORGANIZATION. 17 and W. F. Avery, of Sparta, and two or three delegates. The Convention was organized at that meeting, adopted the principles and rules of other District Conventions, and voted to request to be received into the General Convention. At the meeting of General Convention, held at Beloit in October following, the request was presented and the Convention received. The bounds assigned to it were, "the tract bounded by Wisconsin, Mississippi and St. Croix rivers, except the counties of Sauk, Richland and Crawford," and it was composed of the four ministers already named, and the churches of La Crosse, Viroqua, Sparta and Black River Falls. This territory had never been recognized by the General Convention as within its bounds, and none of the ministers or churches were in its connection. The region was but recently settled, the ministers were all home missionaries, and the churches had all been recently organized by them. Hence, previous action by General Convention, according to usage in ordinary cases, was not deemed necessary, and the organization was approved, and regarded as evidence of great progress in the work of Home Missions in that newly settled portion of the State. Lemonwier District Convention. At the meeting of the General Convention held at LaCrosse, in Oct., 1858, the following action which was taken gives a history of the organization, boundaries and members constituting this Convention: 18 HISTORY O0 THE CONVENTION. ORGANIZATION OF NEW CONVENTION. The Committee on the organization of a new Convention and the re-construction of boundary lines of Conventions, report, recommending that a new Convention be organized, consisting of all the ministers and churches located as follows: The north half of Sauk county, the whole of Juneau, Adams, Marquette, and Waushara counties, and extending North to such limits as may hereafter be defined. This will take from the Madison Convention five churches, viz: —Baraboo, Reedsburg, Lyndon, Newport and New Lisbon, and leave 17, as by last year's Report. It will also take the following ministers,: W. Cochran, S. Dwinnell, H. Hutchinson. From Winnebago Convention it will take Marquette and Waushara counties, in which are six churches, viz: Green Lake, Brooklyn, Princeton, Wautoma, Leon and Richford, and leave 24: And Ministers also as follows: A. C. Lathrop, R. Everdell, H. M. Chapin, N. Miller, S. Bristol -in all 5. Within the bounds as here described are, in all, the following churches, of which some have recently been organized and not yet reported to Conventions. Also, some Ministers who are not as yet in our Convention, but design to be. Total Churches:-Baraboo, Reedsburg, Lyndon, Newport, New Lisbon, Mauston, Necedah, Quincy, Rochearee, N. Chester, Westfield, Wautoma, Leon, Richford, Kilbourn City, and perhaps one or two more. Total 18 churches. And Ministers as follows: —W Cochran, HI. Hutchinson, ORGANIZATION. 19 S. Dwinnell, M. Wells, H. Hanmer, J. W. Perkins, A. C. Lathrop, R. Everdell, N. Miller. H. MI. Chapin. Total, 11. The Committee also recommend that the said ministers, and churches by their delegates, meet at Kilbourn City the last Wednesday in October, at 7 o'clock, for the purpose of organizing the new Convention. That the oldest minister present preside until a Moderator is appointed. That, the Convention be called the Lemonwier District Convention, or by such other name as a majority present may prefer. And that brethren Wells, Cochran and Lathrop be a Committee of arrangements for the meeting to effect such organization. CONSTITUTIONS. OF THE GENERAL CONVENTION. ARTICLE I. This Convention shall consist of the ministers and a delegate from each church belonging to the District Conventions in the State of Wisconsin; and shall adopt the fundamental principle contained in thn first article of their Constitution, as the basis of its organizrtion. ARTICLE II. The Convention shall meet at least once in each year, and shall be opened with a sermon by the last moderator, and all its sessions shall be opened and clqsed with prayer. 20 HISTORY OP THE CONVENTION. ARTICLE III. A moderator and temporary Clerk shall be chosen annually. The Convention shall also have a stated clerk and treasurer, which offices may be held by the same person. ARTICLE IV. This Convention shall receive and act on all appeals' and references which may be brought regularly before them, and shall give their advice and instruction in all cases submitted to them. They shall erect District Conventions, and review their records; shall constitute the highest court of appeal,-and the bond of union, peace and mutual confidence among our churches; and shall take measures for the promotion of the benevolent objects of the day. ARTICLE V. In all cases of trial in a District Convention, the evidence on both sides shall be fairly taken and recorded; and in cases of appeal, this evidence shall be presented to this Convention as the ground of their decision. ARTICLE VI. Any five ministers, belonging to the Convention, and as many delegates as may be present, being met at the time and place appointed, shall be a quorum competent to do business. ARTICLE VII. At the meeting of the Convention, an account shall be given. of the state of religion within its bounds, and a committee shall be appointed to prepare a narrative for publication. ORGANIZATION. 21 ARTICLE VIII. Each District Convention shall annually send up their records to this body for examination, together with a statistical report. ARTICLE IX. Considering the importance of harmony in the Christian Church, and the duty of all its ministers and members to unite in promoting the interests of the Redeemer's Kingdom, and sympathizing more particularly with our brethren of the Presbyterian and Congregational churches in the United States, this Convention will hold correspondence with their general ecclesiastical bodies by delegation or otherwise, as far as may be practicable. ARTICLE X. Delegates from corresponding bodies shall be entitled to deliberate and advise, but not to vote in any decisions of the Convention. ARTICLE XI. All amendments or alterations of this Constitution or of the Confession of Faith shall require the concurrence of a majority of the Discrict Conventions, and no amendment of their Constitution or of the Confession of Faith shall be adopted until it shall have been submitted to this body and received its sanction. OF THE DISTRICT CONVENTIONS. ARTICLE L. Churches belonging to this Convention, may adopt either the Presbyterian or Congregational mode of Government, 22 HISTORY Of' THE CONVENTION. and shall each be represented at the meeting of the Convention by one Delegate. As this article constitutes the basis of this organization, it shall never be altered except by the consent of all the churches connected with the Convention. ARTICLE II. This Convention shall hold an annual and semi-annual meeting; and each meeting shall be opened with a sermon by the last moderator, and all its sessions shall be opened and closed with prayer. ARTICLE III. A moderator and temporary clerk shall be chosen at each stated meeting; and at the annual meeting, a treasurer and standing committee shall be chosen, who shall hold their office until others are appointed. The Convention shall also have a stated clerk. ARTICLE IV. A committee shall also be appointed at the annual meeting, to conduct the several parts of the examination,of candidates who may apply to this body for licensure or ordination. ARTICLE V. The moderator shall, on the application of two ministers and one church, call a special meeting of the Convention, specifying in his letters of notification, the particular business for which the meeting is called; and no other business shall be finally decided at that meeting. These letters of En::!fication shall be communicated to each minister and ORGANIZATION. 23 church connected with this body, at least ten days before the time appointed for the meeting of Convention. ARTICLE VI. It shall be the duty of the stated clerk, besides recording the transactions of the Convention, to preserve the records carefully, and to grant extracts from them; and such extracts, or any certificates, under the hand of the stated clerk, shall be considered as authentic vouchers of the fact which they declare. ARTICLE VII. The standing committee shall consist of not less than four ministers, whose duty it shall be to examine the credentials of ministers and licentiates, who may wish the approbation of this body, during its recess; and on receiving satisfaction respecting their good standing and qualification to preach the gospel, they shall recommend them to the churches. ARTICLE VIII. Licentiates, under the care of this Convention, shall be amenable to it for their preaching and moral conduct, yet not so as to interfere with the prerogative of the church, to which the licentiate belongs, to exercise discipline over him. ARTICLE IX. When any minister proposes to join this Convention, it shall be the duty of the Convention to satisfy themselves respecting his religious sentiments and conduct, and reject or admit him as they shall deem expedient. The Convention shall also satisfy themselves respecting the religious 24 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. sentiments and christian practice of any church, before admitting it to this body. ARTICLE X. Every minister connected with this Convention who shall organize a church within its bounds, shall instruct those wishing to be so organized respecting the regulations of this body, and urge them to connect themselves with this Convention, and shall report the same at the next meeting. ARTICLE II. Churches which adopt the Presbyterian form of government may elect their Ruling Elders either for a limited period or for life. ARTICLE XII. Appeals, complaints, protests, &c., may come up to the Convention from Congregational churches, in the same manner as from those that are Presbyterian; or, the decision of the church shall be finpl, as shall be fixed upon by a standing rule of the church. ARTICLE XIII. In case of an appeal from a lower judicatory, the action of this body shall be final; but any judical process originating in this body may be carried by complaint or appeal to the General Convention. ARTICLE XIV. In all cases of trial in a lower judicatory, the evidence on both sides shall be fairly taken and recorded, and in cases of appeal, this evidence shall be presented to this Convention as the ground of their decision. 3 CONSTITUTION. 25 ARTICLE XV. Each church shall exhibit their records to the Convention once a year for examination, and shall present a statistical report at the annual meeting. ARTICLE XVI. At each stated meeting of the Convention, an account shall be given of the state of religion within our bounds, and a committee shall be appointed to prepare a narrative. ARTICLE XVII. The Convention will ordinarily celebrate the Lord's supper at their annual meeting. ARTICLE XVIII. This Convention shall receive and act on all appeals and references which may be regularly brought before them, and shall give their advice and instruction in all cases submitted to them. ARTICLE XIX. Any three ministers and as many delegates as may be present, belonging to the Convention, being met at the time and place appointed, shall be a cquorum, competent to do business. ARTICLE XX. M3inisters in good standing in other ecclesiastical bodies who may be present, may be invited to sit with the Convention as corresponding members. They shall be entitled to deliberate and advise, but not to vote in any decisions of the Conventiont 4 26 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. ARTICLE XXI. All amendments or alterations of this constitution shall be submitted to the General Convention, agreeably to the provisions of their constitution on the subject. RULES OF BUSINESS. 1. The moderator shall call the Convention to order at the hour to which it stands adjourned; and, on the appearance of a quorum, shall open the meeting with prayer. 2. If a quorum be not assembled at the hour appointed, any two members shall be competent to adjourn from time to time, that an opportunity may be given for a quorum to assemble 3. After calling the roll, the minutes of the last sitting shall be read, and, if necessary, corrected. 4. Immediately after the opening of each meeting of the Convention a committee of business shall be appointed; and, in ordinary cases, no business, unless it be some of the usual routine, shall be taken up, until it be regularly presented by this committee. 5. When the moderator shall call to order, each member shall take his seat, and give due attention to businessavoiding all unnecessary walking, talking, whispering, and every thing inconsistent with good order. 6. The members shall be particular in attending at the stated hours; and no member shall absent himself during the session, without the moderstor's leave, nor withdraw entirely, without leave of the Convention. RULES OP BIUSINESS. 27 7. The moderator may speak on points of order, in preferrence to other members, rising from his seat; and shall decide questions of order, subject, however, to an appeal to the Convention; but he shall not take part in the usual debates, unless he places some other person in the chair. 8. Before debate on any subject, a motion must be made and seconded, and afterwards repeated by the moderator; and every motion shall be reduced to writing, if the moderator or any other member require it. 9. Any member having made a motion, shall have liberty to withdraw it before any debate is had thereon; but -not afterwards, without permission from the Convention. 10. On questions of order, adjournment, or commitment, no person shall speak more than once, and on other questions, no member shall speak more than twice, without leave from the Convention. 11. When a question is under debate, no motion shall be received, unless to amend, to commit, to postpone, or to adjourn. 12. An amendment may be made on any motion, and shall be decided before the original motion. 13. If any question under debate, contains several parts, any member may have it divided, and a vote taken on each part. 14. A question shall not be re-considered at the same meeting of the Convention at which it was decided, without the concurrence of two thirds of the members who were present at that decision; nor unless the motion for re-consideration be made and seconded by members who voted in the majority. 15. Every member, in speaking, shall address himself to the moderator, shall treat his fellow-memlbers with respect, and shall not indulge in personal reflections. 28 HISTORY OF THE (ONVENTION. 16. If any member act in any respect in a disorderly manner, it shall be the duty of the moderator, and the privilege of any menlber, to call him to order. 17. No speaker shall be interrupted, unless he be out of order, or for the purpose of correcting mistakes or misrepresentations. 18. If two or more members rise at the same time to speak, the one most distant from the moderator's chair, shall speak first. 19. Any member who may think himself injured by any decesion of the Convention, may have his dissent, or protest, with his reasons, entered on the records, or put on the file, if given in before the Convention rise, and if expressed in decent and respectful language. 20. The clerk shall record, as minutes of the Convention, all business that comes regularly before them, and all final decisions of such business, unless otherwise directed by the Convention; and at the close of the session, the clerk shall read the whole of the minutes, that they may be reviewed in connection, and corrected, if necessary, by the Convention, previous to their adjournment. 21. It is the duty of the moderator to appoint all committees, except in those cases in which the Convention shall decide otherwise. 22. The person first namned on any committee, shall be considered as the chairman thereof, whose duty it shall be to convene the committee; and in case of his absence, or inability to act, the second named member shall take his place, and perform his duties. 23. When various motions are made with respect to the filling of blanks with particular numbers or times, the question shall always be first taken on the highest number, and the longest time. CONFESSION OF FAITH. 29 24. When the moderator has commenced taking the vote, no further debate or remark shall be admitted, unless there has evidently been a mistake; in which case, the mistake shall be rectified, and the moderator shall re-commence taking the vote. 25. When a vote is taken by ballot, the moderator shall vote with the other members; but he shall not vote in any other case, unless the Convention be equally divided; when, if he do not choose to vote, the question shall be lost. 26. The yeas and nays on any question shall not be recorded, unless it be required by one third of the members present. 27. The moderator of the Convention, in finally closing its sessions, in addition to prayer, may cause a hymn to be sung, and shall pronounce the apostolic benediction. 28. A suitable number of copies of these rules shall be furnished by the stated clerk, for the use of the moderator and members, during the meeting of Convention. CONFESSION OF FAITH. ARTICLE I. We believe there is one God, the Creator, Preserver, and Governor of the universe; that He is a Spirit, self-existent, independent, unchangeable, eternal, infinite in being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness, mercy, and truth. 30 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. ARTICLE II. We believe that the scriptures of the Old and New Testament were given by inspiration of God; that they contain a complete and harmonious system of divine truth; and are the only perfect rule of religious faith and practice. ARTICLE III. We believe that there are three persons in the God-head, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; that these three are in essence one, and in all divine perfections equal. ARTICLE IV. rWe believe that God governs all things according to His eternal and infinitely wise purpose, so as to render them condusive to His own glory, and the greatest good of the universe, and in perfect consistency with His hatred of sin, the free agency of man, and the importance of the use of means, ARTICLE V. We believe that man in his primitive state was perfectly holy; that he fell from that state by sinning against God; and in consequence of the apostacy of Adam, all mankind are totally depraved, and by nature children of wrath, and cannot be restored to the favor of God without an atonement. ARTICLE VI. We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ, the only and well beloved Son of God, assumed our nature, perfectly obeyed the law -of God, suffered and died, the just for the unjust, making a sufficient atonement for the sins of all mankind; that God can now consistently exercise mercy towards sin CONFESSION OF FAITH. 31 ners, and that He will pardon all those who repent and believe the gospel. ARTICLE VII. We believe that God did from eternity choose some of the human race to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth; and that all those whom He has thus chosen, He will renew and sanctify in this life, and keep them by His power, through faith unto salvation. ARTICLE VIII. We believe that in order to acceptance with God, the sinner must be born again, and that regeneration is a moral change produced by the influence of the Holy Spirit operating on the mind through the truth. ARTICLE IX. We believe that men are free and voluntary in all their conduct; that their entire depravity, the purpose of God respecting their salvation, and the agency of the spirit in regeneration, do not destroy or in the least impair their free agency; that the offer of salvation is freely and sincerely made to all men; and that those who perish under the light of the gospel, perish by voluntarily rejecting its offers of eternal life. ARTICLE X. We believe that Christians are justified freely by grace through faith; and that although they are thus freely justified, still the law of God as a rule of duty remains in full force; and that all men are under obligations perfectly to obey it. 32 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. ARTICLE XI. We believe that the visible church of Christ consists of professing Christians who publicly profess their faith in him, and covenant to walk together in the ordinances of the gospel. ARTICLE XII. We believe in the divine appointment of the Christain Sabbath, and of the Sacraments of the New Testament, Baptism, and the Lord's Supper, which all are under obligation in the exercise of faith to observe; and that it is the duty of parents to dedicate their children to God in baptism and train them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. ARTICLE XIII. We believe that the soul is immortal, and that the last day Christ will raise the dead and judge the world in rights eousness; that all who die impenitent will go away into everlasting punishment; and the righteous be received to heaven to enjoy eternal felicity. COVENANT. You, viewing yourselves subjects of special divine grace, and under obligation to confess Christ before men, do now, in the presence of God, angels, and men, acknowledge your obligations to be the Lord's, and do here solemnly consecrate yourselves and all you have, forever, to God, through Jesus COVENANT. 33 Christ. You renounce the ways of sin, and choose the Lord Jehovah to be your God and eternal portion; the Lord Jesus Christ to be your only Savior, and the Holy Ghost to be your Sanctifier and Comfbrter. You take God's Holy Word to be your rule of faith and practice, and you engage by the help of his grace to conform to it in all your conduct. You promise to maintain and constantly attend all the institutions and ordinances of the gospel, baptism and the Lord's supper, public worship, and the strict observance of God's holy Sabbath. You promise daily to maintain secret prayer, to encourage family worship and the seasonable dedication of children to God in baptism, and to instruct, govern and restrain from vicious practices and company all who may be under your care. You promise not to conform to the world or indulge in vain conversation or amusement, and totally to abstain from the use and traffic of all intoxicatingo drinks as a beverage. You promise to promote the edification, purity and peace of the Church, to watch over its members in Christian meekness and brotherly love, and to submit to its discipline until you are regularly dismissed therefrom, endeavoring in all things to walk worthy of the vocation wherewith you are called. Relying on divine grace, thus you covenant with God and this church. TRESPONSE'OF THE CHURCH. We, then, the members of this church, do cordially receive you into our comlmunionl and fellowship. We welcome you as members of the body of Christ, and as fellow travellers to His rest. We promise by the grace of God to watch over you with meekness and love, and by council 34 HISTORY OF THE, CONVENTION. and prayer to help you forward in the way to Heaven. And may we live together as brethren, glorify Him on earth, and finally join the church triumphant in heaven, there to unite in the praises of God and the Lamb. Amen. POWERS AND RELATIONS OF -THE CONVENTIONS. "The great principle involved in this arrangement is contained in the first article of the constitution, which is fundamental and unalterable, as follows: Churches belonging to this Convention may adopt either the Presbyterian or the Congregational mode of government, and shall each be represented at the meetings of the Convention by one delegate. In the organization of a church, the form of government is decided by the vote of the majority of the members, and the church acts and is governed accordingly. The minority yield their preferences and coincide with the form of government thus adopted. There is no amalgamation or'mixture of the two modes of government in the same church. The difficulty of this complex arrangement is wholly avoided, except perhaps in one or two instances. Each church is either Presbyterian or Congregational, and transacts its business according to the established rules and usages of other churches of the same order. Presbyterians and Congregationalists agree to unite and act in one body on these RELATIONS OF CONVENTION. 35 principles, regarding themselves as brethren of the same faith, and recognizing the right of the majority to decide in matters of this kind." Relations of the Convention to Presbyterie n Churches. "The Convention sustains the same relation to Presbyterian churches connected with it as a Presbytery, and has the same jurisdiction over them. The churches, by their adoption of the Presbyterian mode of government, impliedly agree to be governed by the principles and rules of Presbyterian bodies. They transact their business according to the Book of Discipline of the Presbyterian church of the United States, and have the right of appeal. The only modification is in regard to the election of elders for a limited time, or for life. Most of the churches elect for, limited period, generally for one, two or three years, and at the expiration of that time elect others or re-elect the same. This provision was made by the Presbytery of Wisconsin while under the constitution of the Presbyterian church in the United States, and was thence incorporated into the constitution of the Convention." Relations of the Convention to Congregational Churches. Thie. Congregational churches in Wisconsin ale purely Congregational, and retain all their rights and privileges as such. They do their business in a congregational way, and 86 =ISTORY OP THE CONVENTION. the decision of the church is final. The Convention stands in the same relation to Congregational churches as an Association, wiuh lay delegation, or rather a con-sociation. It has, however, no jurisdiction over the churches, unless, by the action of the church, appeals are allowed, or cases are referred to Convention for decision." " There is a provision in the Constitution which requires the records of the churches to be reviewed; but this rule does not give the Convention any control in a judicial sense. It is designed, so far as Congregational churches are concerned, to afford opportunity for advice and suggestion in regard to the manner of keeping records, and to enable Convention to discover any essential disorders or departure from sound doctrine, in which case they have the right to withdraw fellowship from the church, aud thus dissolve the connection." Relation of the Convention to Ministers. " )Ministers connected with the Conventions are governed by the constitution, or rules of business, as far as they may specify. The constitution, however, makes no provision for discipline, but purposely leaves it to the rules and usages of the denominations concerned. Hence in case of the discipline of a minister, the Convention follows the rules and usages of the denomination which he prefers. The trial of a Congregational minister is conducted as such trials are conducted in Congregational bodies in New England or elsewhere. In case of a Presbyterian minister, the trial is conducted according to the Book of Discipline in the same manner as RELATIONS OF CONVENTION. 37 in a Presbytery. Hie has, however, only one appeal, viz., ffiom the District Convention to the General Convention. Councils. "Congregational churches are at liberty to call councils, if they choose. Councils have been held, at various times, from an early period, and for all the purposes for which councils are called, namely, the ordination, installation and dismission of ministers, and for organizing churches; and the Convention has given its sanction, by the admission of ministers so ordained and the churches so organized. 2Most business of this kind is, however, transacted by the District Conventions, as a matter of convenience, and is the preference of the churches." See His. of Chs. in Wis., p. 36. These powers and relations of the Conventions to each other, to the ministers and the churches, were elementary principles, adopted at the organization of the General Convention. Their practical working, the past twenty years, may be seen in the results. The past ten years have been years of denominational agitation throughout the land. Outside influences have not been wanting, to produce a rupture here, and a separation. Ministers and churches composing this body have not been indifferent witnesses of these agitations, and their meetings have been open to the free discussion of questions of difference affecting the two denominations. Eivery church and every man in this connection claims 38 HISTORY OF' THE CONVENTION. and concedes the right of denominational preference, and the time may come when the example furnished by others will be followed by us, and "Abraham and Lot" go apart here as elsewhere. But experience thus far, and the claims of the great interests of our common Christianity in this region, do not furnish considerations in favor of separation, but of continued co-operation. Doctrinal Views. " The doctrinal views of the ministers and churches may be seen in their Confession of Faith. Measures were taken at an early period to provide a well expressed and sound Confession of Faith and Covenant. The one in use among us was prepared with great care by a committee, and after mature consideration was unanimously adopted by the Convention as an expression of their doctrinal sentiments, and recommended to be used by the churches. It is made the duty of the Conventions, by their constitution, when a minister proposes to unite with the body, to " satisfy themselves respecting his religious sentiment and conduct." All who have been received into the Convention have given their cordial assent to this Confession of Faith, and it is believed that they hold and preach those great doctrines of the Reformation which are held by the ecclesiastical bodies with which we are in correspondence. " The churches are not required to adopt this Confession, in form, but they are required to give evidence that they receive the doctrines it contains. If different articles are RELATIONS OF CONVENTION. 39 adopted, they are presented and examined when application for admission is made. This Confession of Faith was printed at an early day, and has been re-printed a few years since. It is extensively circulated and adopted by most of the churches in the State, thus producing a general uniformity in this respect." Character of the Churches. "The religious institutions of Wisconsin, bear, in a good degree, the impress of New England. A large proportion of the population either came directly from that section of country, or are of New England descent. Our ministers are mostly all of eastern origin and eastern education. The doctrines which have made that section of country lovely and renowned, and given it such power and influence in the land, are the doctrines received by our churches, adopted by our Conventions, and preached by our ministers. To a great extent, also, the order which characterizes the churches in that region prevails among us. Our churches have been graciously preserved from the errors, disorders, and divisions which have afflicted some portions of Zion." See His. of Chs. in Wis., in 1850, p. 187. The foregoing statements of doctrinal views, and the character of the churches given in the history already referred to, are believed to be as applicable now as they were when first made. The additions made to the number of ministers and of churches in this connection, have been made on the basis of these doctrinal views and these characteristics. 40 HISTORY OF THE CON VENTION. The increase of light, and the many overturnings, peculiar to this age of reforms and of progress, have given strength, instead of weakness, to the convictions in favor of these views and characteristics. And it is entirely within the truth to say that the ministers and churches of this Convention, in respect to their belief in, and earnest maintenance of sound Christian doctrine, will not suffer by comparison with the same number of ministers and churches of any denomination. Thi. individual testimony is most cheerfully given, on these points, and without solicitation; and it is deemed not inappropriate in this connection, or uncalled for in giving a faithful history of churches in Wisconsin. Table Of the Meetings of the General Convention since 1850, showing' the Place, Time, Members and Officers of each Meeting. Place /Mem's Present. of Time. Co. Del. Moderators. Meeting. memFor. mem Bod. Plattville- Oct. 2, 1851 29 10 11 4 Rev. MI. Mont:ague. Racine.-. " 7, 185254 30 9 3 a S. Peet. Madison. " 20 1853 48 20 16 2 " M. P. Kinnev. Fond du La " 7, 1854 41 22 13 4 " S. W. Eaton. Beloit. - - "- 4, 1855 56 25 16 3 "' H. Foote. Mlilwaukee. - 2, 1856 61 32 18 6 " C. W. Camp. Oshkosh..' 1, 1857 42 10 9 5 1 C. Boynton. LaCrosse..- " 7, 1858 50 27I 9 6 " N. D. Graves. Janesville -- " 2, 1.859 62 25 6 " J. C. Sherwin. Beaver Dam 4 4, 1860152120 10 6 i L. Clapp. ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 41 Character of the Meetings of General Convention. These general gatherings of ministers, delegates, and others who love the ways of Zion, have been deeply interesting and profitable. A general rule of rotation among the District Conventions, has been observed in holding them, so far as was practicable, so that a greater number might, in the course of years, have the benefit of them. This fact of rotation, as to the places of meeting, may account, in part at least, for the different number of members in attendance at different times. A leading object of the meetings being ecclesiastical in its character, more or less time has necessarily been occupied with duties in that direction. Great prominence, however, has been given to devotional exercises, and to the consideration of objects of benevolence and subjects of reform. The presence of Delegates from foreign bodies has added much to the interest of the meetings, and not unfrequently have missionaries from foreign lands been present, and added greatly to the inspiration of the occasions. Great unanimity has usually characterized the doings of those meetings, and although the Convention is composed of two denominations, as its name indicates, and for the past ten years those denominations over our land have been painfully agitated with questions of difference, those agitations have seldom affected our meetings. In the midst of commotion in the denominational elements around, it has been a cause for gladness in many hearts, 6 42 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. that we have been enabled t6 go quietly on with our work on the great and time honored principle of co-operation. To the working of this principle it is believed that this Convention, and the Churches in its connection, are largely indebted, under God, for the prosperity which has been and still is enjoyed. Action on Various Subjects by the General Conyention. The position and views of the Convention in regard to benevolent efforts, reforms, and other topics will be seen from the action of the body on these subjects from time to time. Numerous resolutions, in various forms, have been discussed and aadopted, and generally with entire unanimity. Some of the resolutions passed are given in filll, others have been condensed, owing to their length and to the frequency of action on thile same subject; all are taken from the printed minutes, and where the precise form is not given, care has been taken to give the substance as full and definite as possible. Nearly the same order, as to time, is observed in stating them here, as that in which they are found in the minutes. Action on the Resignation of Rev. Stephen Peet, as Stated Clerk in 1851. "IResolved, That we have heard, with feeling of much regret, of the painful and dangerous sickness with which it RELATION OF THE CONVENTION. 43 has pleased Almighty God to afflict our beloved brother and fellow laborer, Rev. Stephen Peet. We would hereby express to him our sincere sympathy in the midst of his sufferings, and our unfeigned satisfaction at the prospect of his final recovery and restoration to usefulness. We would also extend to him, in this connection. our thanks for the fidelity with which he has served this- Convention for a number of years, as its stated clerk; and also express our regret that it has appeared expedient to him, at this time, to resign his office." Mr. Peet had been the stated clerk from the organization of the Convention, in 1840. On his resignation, the Rev. Z. M. Humphrey was appointed stated clerk. Plan for Church Erection Adopted in 1852, Page 6. The annual meeting was held this year at Racine-Rev. S. Peet moderator. The most important item of business was the erection of a Board of Trustees for the collection and imanagement of a Church Erection Fund, upon the following plan, as reported by a committee: 1. There shall be appointed annually a Treasurer, a Corresponding Secretary and five Directors, who shall together constitute a Board of Trustees, who shall manage all funds contributed for the aid of feeble churches belonging to this Convention, in the erection of Houses of Worship, a majority of this Board shall constitute a quorum. 2. This Board shall be guided in the distribution of these funds by the conditions prescribed by the donors, so 44 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. far as conditions shall be affixed to any donations; and with respect to funds given unconditionally, they shall act impartially upon the basis of the Constitution of this Convention. The officers appointed'were, Rev. D. Clary, Corresponding Secretary; H. Hobart, Treasurer; Rev. A. L. Chapin, Rev. S. Peet, Rev. 0. S. Powel, Rev. H. Foote, Directors. Relative to Absent Members of Churches, 1853, Page 13. "' Whereas, in numerous instances, members of churches by removal fiom one place to another without applying for letters of dismission, and also by neglecting to present such letters when received, to the churches whose care they are recommended, are virtually withdrawn from all Christian fellowship, and lost to the church; it is earnestly urged upon Pastors and churches.1st. To exercise a more vigilant care of their members; to arrest declension as far as practicable in its incipient stages, and where necessary, to apply prompt and efficient discipline. 2d. To endeavor to impress members with a deeper sense of their obligation, in cases of removal, to transfer their church connections as soon as possible. 3d. When letters are given, to ask an official notification of the reception of members, by the churches to which they are recommended, and not to consider any member as dismissed until such notification. 4th. To use every means in their power, to gain infor ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 45 mation concerning members who have gone beyond their reach, or knowledge. 5th. In case of absent members known to be living in violation of their covenant vows, to ask the assistance of churches in whose vicinity such members reside, to carry out discipline in an orderly way. 6th. In case of persons known to be members of churches at the East, who form no church connection here, or live in violation of their covenant vows, it is recommended that after labor in accordance with the Gospel Rule, notice be given to the churches to which they formerly belonged, asking them to proceed to the necessary discipline. The Convention believe that the faithful adoption of, and action upon these recommendations by the churches, will save some precious souls from the utter shipwreck of their faith, and deliver the visible body of Christ from many foul spots and blemishes. In this conviction, the Convention do earnestly deprecate the practice of erasing the names of delinquent members, without the previous exercise of church discipline, or faithful effort to reach absent members." Salaries of Ministers, 1853, Page 13. At a meeting of the lay delegates of this Convention, called to consider the subject of ministerial support, the following resolutions were unanimously adopted, viz: " Resolved, That in view of the increased, and increasing expensiveness of living, and cost of the means necessary for 46 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. a faithful pursuit of the work of the ministry, a corresponding increase of salary is justly due to the ministers within our bounds. "Resolved, That we invite the Convention now in session, to take such action on this subject, as may be proper to bring it to the notice of the Churches, and also to request the American Home Missionary Society, while the churches may increase their subscriptions for the support of their ministry, not to withhold its liberal and benevolent aid." The Stookbridge Indians. As a matter of history, it may be of interest to state that a church was organized by missionaries of the A. B. C. F. Missions in 1818, among the Indians, of that tribe at Stockbridge, Onondaga county, New York, who removed to Wisconsin in 1821, and in 1834, settled in Calumet county. When'Wisconsin, as a field of missionary labor, passed from the Foreign to the Home Mission Society, that church came into our ecclesiastical and home missionary connection. The tribe decreased in population, and the church became much embarrassed and perplexed with questions pertaining to Government and the title to their lands. A delegate appeared before the Convention, and after a full statement of their trials and wants, the following action was taken: "Resolved, That the present condition of the Stockbridge Indians who have a church connected with our Body, is such as to call forth our sympathy, and that we feel it incumbent upon us to endeavor to procure for them the ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 47 stated ministrations of the Gospel, and that, as far as we can, individually, we will lend our aid to procure the recognition of their just rights by the General Government." "Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed to memorialize the proper Department of the Government in our name, in behalf of the Stockbridge tribe, setting forth their grievances and petitioning for the restoration to them of their lands." See Minutes of 1854, page 9. The Congregational Board of Publication, 1854, p. 9. " Resolved, That the objects of the Congregational Board of Publication, viz: " to procure and circulate such tracts and books as are adapted to explain, prove, vindicate, and illustrate the pecuiar and essential doctrines of the Gospel," "with their application to duty in all the various relations of civil, social, and religious life," Slavery not excepted, and the circulation of Pastoral Libraries among the churches whose ministers are prohibited from purchasing books by their limited means, meet our cordial approbation, and that we recommend to our churches a hearty co-operation with the Society, not merely in the work of securing such libraries, but also by contributing to its funds. Christian Courtesy,'54 p. 9. "Resolved, That the principles of Christian courtesy forbid that ecclesiastical bodies and churches in fraternal 48 HIISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. correspondence should receive into their connection, churches, ministers or members, without regular letters of dismission and recommendation. American Bible Society,'54, p. 12. " Resolved, That the Convention retains its strong confidence in the American Bible Society, and rejoices in the evidence that it is constantly receiving marked tokens of the favor of the Lord; that we will cordially welcome its agent for this State to our churches, and aid him in securing enlarged contributions to its treasury. Theological Seminary,'54, p. 11. " Whereas, The subject of establishing Theological Seminaries in the North-West has for some time past been under consideration by individuals and ecclesiastical bodies; and preliminary steps have been taken towards establishing two such institutions at Chicago; and Whereas, Such movements are of great importance to the interest of religion among us. Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Convention that immediate and ef-icient measures should be taken to furnish in the North-West, Theological instructions suited to the wants of Christian young men desiring to enter the ministry. ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 49 Resolved, That in view of the numbers and condition of Theological InstitutiQns at the East, the churches at the West cannot at present reasonably depend on the munificence of their eastern brethren, but should rely mainly on their own resources for means to provide Theological instruction for our young men. Resolved, That in the opinion of this Convention, one Theological Institution is all that will be needed for many years to come in the North-West, for Congregationalists and N. S. Presbyterians, and that to undertake the establishment of either a distinctive Congregational or Presbyterial Seminary in the North-West, would be unwise and injurious to the best interests of Christ's Kingdom in this region. Resolved, That we hereby declare our sincere desire for union of the two denominations in providing Theological instruction, and that we are ready to pledge our hearty co-operation in such an enterprise." Revivals.' Resolved, That in view of the general dearth of revivals of religion, and the manifest desirableness of more laborers in many of our churches, this Convention recommend the obtaining, if possible, the occasional assistance of approved Evangalists in such places as may desire them." " Resolved, That we recognize with gratitude and thanksgiving the manifestation of the power and grace of God, as seen in the late wonderful religious awakenings in Ireland,; a;ndwhile Wve prayfthat this work may gbo n, we;drawvfr- om'it 7 50 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. encouragement to prosecute our work in these Western regions with new zeal and hopefulness." Assessment for Contingent Expenses. Resolved, 1. Each church connected with the Convention shall be assessed at the rate of five cents per member; this money to be raised in such a manner as the church may elect. 2. The money thus procured, shall be collected by the Treasurers of the District Conventions, and by them transmitted to the Treasurer of the General Convention. 3. An Auditing Committee shall be appointed to audit the accounts of the Treasury. 4. The printed minutes shall be distributed, in numbers proportionate to the sums collected from the several churches. In accordance with article 2d of this scheme, Rev. J. J. Miter and Bro. W. J. Whaling were appointed auditing committee. Placing a Monument at the Grave of Rev. Stephen Peet. BELOIT, Oct., 1855. M{r. Peet came to Wisconsin in 1838. He labored in the churches at Green Bay and Milwaukee a few years, and then as Agent of the American Home Missionary Society seven years. Afterwards he was Agent of Beloit Col4*4opS, P4 taed Q ged in 1ayigi t1e foul%4 tioqu of m ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 51 Chicago Theological Seminary. He died in March, 1855. Beloit had been his residence many years, and has been that of his family since his death. His remains lie in its Cemetery. A suitable monument had been prepared, in procuring which, a great number of ministers and others in Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa, had voluntarily participated. The meeting of the General Convention at Beloit, in October following, was selected as a suitable time for placing the monument at his grave. Accordingly, the Convention took a recess on Saturday afternoon, Oct. 6th, and united with the citizens of Beloit, the Faculty and members of the College, and others present, and proceeded to the grave yard, and engaged in services appropriate to the occasion. Addresses were delivered by Rev. J. Porter of Green Bay, now of Chicago, and President Chapin of the College. The exercises were impressive; Ihe monument was erected over his grave, and an appropriate record made in the minutes of the Convention. See p. 7, 1855. Slavery. On the evil of American Slavery, the Convention has, during the last ten years, as heretofore, calmly yet candidly and steadily, by repeated action, borne its testimony, affirmin2g the essential antagonism of that institution to Christ's law of love, and the guilt of those who participate in it, or defend it. The following summary presents the main points referred to in resolutions passed at different times, expressed for the tmost part in the words of the resolutions. The Convention has said,'59, p 11: 52 HISTORY OF THU- CONVENTION. "1st. That we regard the voluntary claim made by one human being on another as property, as itself sin and all the adjuncts of slaveholding which involve that claim as also sinful and an abomination in the sight of God." And further, 1853, p. 15, "that the ministry and churches are bound to rebuke all sin, to labor earnestly for the removal of oppression, and to withhold Christian fellowship from all those who persist in holding in slavery their fellow men." 2d. It has expressed these convictions kindly and faithfully to the benevolent societies with which it co-operates, and other ecclesiastical bodies with which it holds correspondence. Thus it has declared the conviction, 1853, p. 6, that the American Tract Society and the American Sabbath School Union, in their attempt to furnish a Christian Literature for the country, should, though their publications, give at least the same prominence to the sin of oppression that they do to other open and flagrant sins. Witli expressions of abiding interest and attachment for the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, it has respectfully urged that body, 1858, p. 12, to withdraw its support from churches where slavery still continues, and, 1854, p. 11, rejoiced in every step taken in that direction. It has repeatedly instructed its delegates to the Presbyterian General Assembly and other bodies, to assure those to whom they have been commissioned, 1,56, p. 13, that we have neither fellowship nor sympathy with those ministers and divines who hold slaves "firom privrcip.7e and choice," or who seek in the Bible, excuses and defences for the sin of American Slavery," 1854, p. 12, and to tender the ardent sympathies of the Convention to such as, stalid ACTION OF TlE CONVENTION. 53 ing in some ecclesiastical relation to slavery, have labored faithfully to rid themselves of the sin of slaveholding. 3d. With a spirit of true patriotism, watching the signs of the times, the Convention expresses, 1859, p. 11, sad and fearful apprehensions for our country in view of the re-opening or great increase of the slave trade between Africa and the slave states of the Union, as well as the internal slave trade among the slave states themselves, and calls on the ministers of the churches to pray and to act wherever they can against this growing iniquity. Mlinisterial Education. Tlhe Convention deeply impressed with the importance of some systematic action to encourage and sustain pious young men in a course of preparation for the Christian ministry, in the year 1858, organized a permanent committee to attend to that interest on the following plan: The Board of Education of the Presbyterian and Congregational Convention of Wisconsin. 1st. This Committee shall be called the Board of Education of the Presbyterian and Congregational Convention of Wisconsin. 2d. The Boa.rd shall be constituted by the election at the present imeeting of two members from each District Convention, one of whom shall hold his office for one year 54 IIISTORY OF TiH CONVENTION. and the other for two years. Hereafter the Convention shall annually elect one from each District Convention, who shall remain in office for two years. 3d. The Board shall organize itself immediately after its election and hereafter shall meet at least once a year, at or near the time of the annual meeting of the General Convention. It may also meet at any time by adjournment, or by special call of the Chairman, or of any three members agreeing thereto. Five members shall constitute a quorum for business. 4th. The officers of the Board shall be a Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer, to be elected by the Board from its own number. The Board shall also appoint an Executive Committee of not less than three or more than seven, located near together. The Treasurer shall be ex-officio a member of the Executive Committee, and those members of the Committee who are not members of the Board, shall be entitled to sit in deliberation with the Board, but not to vote. 5th. The Executive Committee shall be entrusted with the care and disbursement of funds contributed to the Treasury of the Board. They shall annually present to the Board a report of their proceedings, which shall be submitted to the General Convention. 6th. The Board shall adopt uniform rules for the acceptance and assistance of beneficiaries, subject always to review and modification by the Convention. 7th. The members of the Board from each Convention shall be a Committee charged with the responsibility of looking after this interest within the bounds of their own Convention. It shall be their special effort to call forth from all the churches regular contributions, to be taken, as ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 55 far as practicable, on the Sabbath before the last Thursday in February, and to seek out among the churches worthy young men who may be persuaded to prepare themselves for the sacred office. They shall also be authorized to examine and recommend young men for the patronage of the Board. 8th. The Board shall also appoint in connection with those institutions in which beneficiaries may be pursuing their studies, local Committees who shall examine and recommend candidates and receive from such as are accepted their stated reports according to the uniform rules of the Board." The Board, as now established, has its centre at Beloit, where most of the students receiving aid are in a course of study, and President Chapin is its Chairman. The following regulations have been adopted by the Board respecting Beneficiaries: Rules for Acceptance and Aid of Beneficiaries. s' I Each applicant for aid must present to a Committee of the Board testimonials friom three or more serious and respectable persons, best acquainted with him and his circumstances, stating his age, place of' residence, indigence, and moral and religious character, including his church connection, talents, previous education and serious desire to devote his life to the Christian ministry. These testimonials should be sealed papers. It shall also be the duty of the Committees of the Board to satisfy themselves by personal conference of the propriety of extending aid in each o.se, 48 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. II. Every beneficiary shall renew his application quarterly, anid at the same time forward to the Executive Cornmittee an account of his circumstances, and his receipts and expenditures for the past cquarter, together with a; certificate from his instructor, to his confidence in the correctness of the report, and the propriety of renewing the appropriation. TIT. The amount appropriated to each individual shall not be more than eighty dollars per annum in the prepaiatory, and one hundred dollars in the collegiate or theological] course. INV. Beneficiaries ilmay at their option, subject to the discretion of the Executive Committee, receive their appropriations as gratuities; or, as loans, giving notes in the subjoined form. But all, before receiving their first appropriation, shall obligate themselves to refund what they shall have received with interest, in case of voluntary failure to enter the ministry, or of transgression of the rules of the Board. It shall, however, be in the power of the Board, at their discretion, to cancel or defer any note or obligation, when Providential circLunlstances shall appear to render such course proper." Tract Operations. Deeply impressed with the importance of fiurnishing the people with a sound Christian literature, the Convention has always seconded the operations of the Tract Societies -on this field, and urged upon the churches the adoption of systematic tract distributien. The American Tract Society whose center of pperations is in the city of New Yolrk, had ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 57 the entire confidence of the churches until within a few years. But its recent course with respect to publishing on the subject of slavery has so far shaken that confidence as to call for a specific resolution of the Convention, recommending its churches to withhold contributions from the Society at New York, and contribute to the original American Tract Society, Boston, or to the American Reform Book and Tract Society at Cincinnati. The Convention is now in hearty sympathy and co-operation with the Western Tract Agency located at Chicago, which unites the interest and labors of the Boston and Cincinnati Societies. Educational Institutions. In the rising institutions for Christian education in this state and region, the Convention has always taken a lively interest. As itfjwas fully represented in the counsels which originated Beloit College and Rockford Female Seminary, so has it again and again, by formal resolutions, expressed its interest, confidence and co-operation in the work of building up those institutions for the thorough Christian education of our youth. More recently Brockway College in the Northern part of the State, has also enlisted its interest and support. With respect to theological education, the Convention, in 1854, expressed an opinion in favor of the establishment of one institution for the North-West on a broad, liberal basis, which should receive its endowment from the region and enlist the united efforts of Congregationalists and New) 8 58 HISTORY OP THE CON"tNTION. School Presbyterians. The course of events since that time has rendered such a joint enterprise impracticable, and the Convention has therefore come in heartily to the recommendation and support of the Chicago Theological Seminary, now opened and in successful operation. The Convention has also urged'upon its churches the importance of fostering academies and preparatory schools and interesting themselves in the common schools of the State. Temperance. Upon the subject of Temperance, the Convention has held an undivided sentiment, and given, from year to year, an undivided testimony. The different stages of the reform have been. successively and freely discussed and acted upon by the Convention, with a degree of unanimity that has evidenced the oneness of desire on the part of all the churches for the suppression of intemperance, and the entire removal of the evil. The Convention has given its decided approbation of the principles of the so called "Maine Law," (1853, page 11,) 1854, page 9. For the securing of the same result, the Convention cordially welcomed the " Temperance League," and recommended to the ministers and churches its adoption as an efficient helper in the great and good work, (1854, p. 9.) and although the end is not yet, there has been no disposition to yield to discouragements or to falter in the cause. As proof of this, we have the following upon record, (1860, p. 15.) ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 59'"Resolved, That this Convention regards, with deep and unabated interest, the cause of temperance; that the organization of the Wis. State League and Bands of Hope, meets with our warm approbation, and that we recommend to our churches and ministers to co-operate with these organizations. Also, that we view with alarm the manufacture of domestic wines in our State, and their introduction into the domestic circle." Home Missions. The Convention churches have ever been cordial in their sympathy with, and support of the American Home Missionary Society. A summary of the action of Convention may be thus indicated:1. By an acknowledgement of a debt of gratitude to the Society to be paid by increased liberality in contributions to its funds. Min.'56, p. 12,'59, p. 13. 2. By an endeavor to bring forward and qualify young men to preach the Gospel under its patronage. 3. By a hearty approval of the action of the Society in'reference to churches having slave-holding members, as also of the principle adopted by the executive committee as the basis of their action in disbursing its funds, 1857, p. 7; 1859, p. 13. 4. By an expression of unabated confidence in the fidelity and impartiality of the agents of the Society employed within our bounds, 1859, p. 13. 5. By the following unanimous expression of sentiment: "Resolved, That the work;of iHome N1ission i enminently, 60 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. the great and appropriate work of the Christian church for the west, and that a large extension of this work is of the first importance to the interest of religion and the salvation of men, 1859, p. 8. Also, of the American Missionary Association, see Minutes of 1860, p. 10. Dootrinal Integrity. The question having been raised at the meeting of the General Convention in 1857, in regard to certain action by one of the District Conventions, as appeared by their records in the admission of churches in whose articles of Faith some doctrines, as maintained by the Convention, were omitted, the following was given as an expression of the views of the Convention on the subject: "Resolved, That while we respect the feelings which have prompted the protest of Rev. Wm. F. Clarke, we reply that the essential preservation of our creed is necessary to our perpetuation and purity; and that, while we do not intend to impose upon the churches connecting themselves with us, the language of our Confession of Faith, we do expect the District Conventions to require of churches applying for admission, to preserve the integrity of our system of doctrine." Minutes 1857, p. 9. Statistical Year. Resolved, Oct., 1857, That all the District Conventions be requested to prepare their annual statistical roports from gusatg 1st, to August Ist, ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 61 Resolution against Tobacco. " Whereas, The use of tobacco in its various forms is injurious to the body, the mind and the moral sense, causing a waste of means which men, as stewards of God, are bound to use for good and not for evil, and tending to other evil habits. Therefore, Resolved, That we deem the habit an immorality, and as such it should be ranked with other vices, to be avoided and opposed in all suitable ways," 1857, p. 17. Monthly Concert. "Resolved, That we earnestly recommend to every pastor, stated supply and church in our connection to observe the monthly concert of prayer for the Foreign Missions, to take up a collection at each concert, and also annual collection for this object after a faithful presentation of its claims." Dancing. "Resolved That the practice of social dancing is inconsistent with Christian character, injurious to purity, destructive to all earnest piety, at enmity with revivals of religiQn, 62 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. and in all cases at variance with the Pauline Rule, to'avoid the very appearance of evil,' and not to' cause a brother to stumble or offend,' and that we view with sorrow and corcern the fact that many professing Christians in our country encourage and indulge in it." 1860, p. 12. The Relation of Ministers to the Ecolesiastical Bodies within whose Bounds they Labor.' Resolved, That the Convention respectfully urges upon those members of the several District Conventions who are not residing within the bounds of their Conventions, the propriety of transferring their connection to that Convention in whose bounds they are laboring and residing." New Plan of Church Erection. The Board of church erection which was constituted in 1852, by reason of removals and other causes, reported at the meeting of Convention in 1858, recommending a change. The subject was under consideration in 1859, and the following plan was adopted. See minutes, p. 12. "1. Resolved, That a committee be appointed, denominated'The Central Committee of Church Erection,' whose duty it shall be to receive funds contributed by our churches for church erection, and forward such part of them to the Treasurer of the Congregational Union as shall not otherwise be disbursed for church erection puypose ACTION OF THE CONVENTION. 63 also, to endorse and recommend applications to the Trustees of the Congregational Union from churches needing aid to build houses of worship, and to take the general oversight of the business of church erection for this Convention. 2. That all churches in our Convention be requested to take up contributions, during one of the months assigned to the S. S. cause in our'plan for collections,' to aid feeble churches to erect houses of worship, and the amount collected go into the fund of the Congregational Union, for that purpose, except such sums as shall be deemed necessary to aid such churches in our connection as do not come within the rules of the Union, in consideration of the action of said Union, appropriating from its funds according to their ability to aid such churches in Convention, as make application through the Committee and with their approval. 3. That a committee of one minister in each District Convention be appointed, whose duty it shall be to endeavor to secure collections from all the churches, for the purpose of church erection, and forward the amount to the Central Committee. 4. That all'churches needing aid to build houses of worship, be requested to seek it through the Central Committee, instead of going to the churches at the East to obtain it. 5. That the Central Committee report to this Convention, at-the next meeting' a full statement of their doings. Relative to the Death of Ministers. "Resolved, That it be made the duty of the stated clerk to report, hereafter, at each regular" meeting of this Con 64 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. vention, a list of the names of members who have died during the year preceeding, with a brief biographical notice of each one, for insertion in the minutes." Lay Labor. This subject has been under consideration both by the Convention and the churches, and much interest has been manifested in the developement of talent and influence among lay men as auxiliary to the ministry. In 1860 the following resolutions were adopted. See minutes, p. 13. " Whereas, It appears from statements made to this Convention, that there are many destitute settlements and neighborhoods within our bounds, and in the vicinity of churches occupied by our Ministers, where Christian influence is much needed, and might be exerted with hope of success, and which it is impracticable at present to supply with ministers. Resolved, That the ministers of this Convention be requested to acquaint themselves, as far as possible, with the destitutions and wants around them, and to seek out such laymen as themselves and their respective churches may deem of suitable qualifications, and encourage them to go into those destitutions to hold meetings for religious purposes; in other words, to engage in lay-preaching, under the general supervision of their brethren, and with their co-operation, and report the results of these labors from time to time, to their respective Conventions. ACTON OF'HE COONVENTION. 65 Corresponding Bodies. The spirit of union and co-operation which led the ministers and churches to unite at the beginning in the Conventional arrangement has grown with their growth, and has developed itself in seeking and readily accepting proposals for fraternal correspondence with other evangelical denominations. Accordingly the Convention has appointed delegates, frem year to year, to other bodies, and gladly welcomed delegates from them whenever they have visited us. The following is a list of the names of ecclesiastical bodies with which this Convention is in correspondence: The General Conference of Maine, " General Association of New Hampshire, " General Association of Massachusetts, "' General Association of Connecticut, " General Convention of Vermont,'" Rhode Island Evangelical Association, " General Assembly of New School Presbyterians, New York General Association,' Ohio General Conference, Michigan General Association, " Illinois General Association, " Iowa General Association, " Minnesota General Conferen e, K" ansas General Association, "Oregon General Association,' Canada Congregational Union, Frankean Evangelical Lutheran Synod, " Wisconsin Presbyterian Synod, (N. S.) " Wisconsin Baptist State Association. 66 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. The Wisconsin Methodist Episcopal Conference,' West Wisconsin Methodist Episcopal Conference, "' North-West Wis. Methodist Episcopal Conference. And in order to secure a delegation to a greater number of these corresponding bodies, the Convention passed the following rules: See Minutes of 1860, p. 22. Standing Rules. 1. Any delegate to any of the bodies with which we are in correspondence, is authorized to attend the meeting of any other of the bodies, as delegate; provided, neither of the regular appointees is present. 2. It shall be the duty of each person appointed principal delegate to any such body, in case he cannot attend! to give timely notice to his alternate; and in case of the inability of the alternate to attend, it shall be his duty to convey the fraternal salutations of this body by letter. 3. The printed minutes, containing the name and the appointment of any delegate, constitute his credentials. 4. To meet the current expenses of the Convention, the following scheme has been adopted: (1) Each church connected with the Convention shall be annually assessed at the rate of thr-ee cents per member -this money to be raised in such a manner as the church may elect. (2) The money thus procured shall be collected by the Treasurers of the District Conventions, and by them transmitted to the Treasurer of the General Convention. (3.) The published minutes are distributed to the churches, through the Post Office, in quantities proportion ACTION OP THE CONVENTON. 67 ate to the sums contributed by each. Churches contributing nothing are entitled to no copies of the minutes. Particular attention is requested to the last two regulations. Systematic Benevolence. A PLAN FOR COLLECTIONS IN WISCONSIN. January March May July Septem'r Novemb'r COUNTIES. and and and and and and February April. June. August. October. Decemb'r Kenosha, Racine, Walworth, Waukesha, Home Tracts S. Schools Bible Foreign Milwaukee, Missions. Educati'n and and *h. Caue e. Missions. Sefferson, Dodge, Colpor'ge Erection. Washington, Rock, Green,Dane. Foreign Home Tracts S. Schools Bible Columbia, Satkl. Missions. Missions. Educati'n and and Ch. Cause. Colpor'ge Erection. Lafayette, Grant, Iowa, Crawford, Bible Foreign Home Tracts S.Schools RichlandBad Axe. Cause. Missions. Missions. Educati'n and and Ch. Colpor'ge Erection. Marquette, Adams Juneau, Wood, S. Schools Waushara, and Ch. Bible Forei n Home Tracts Waupacca, Erection. Cause. Missions. Missions. Educati'n and Portage,Marathon, ~ Colpor'ge Sheboygan, Fond dil Lac, Winnebago, Tracts S. Schools Bible Foreign Home Calunmet, and and Ch. Cause. Missions. Missions. Educati'n Manitowoc, Brown Colpor'ge Erection. Outagamie. La Crosse, Monroe Tracts S. School and all North to Educati'n and and Ch. Bible Foreign HIQmp the State Line. Colpor'ge ErectioL. Cause. Mission.l Miaiton,. _r- I~Iy~CIll _ lUII.~~-~.~T;~7lP. -.~ -177T ThSTORY OF THE OONVEINTION. REASONS AND EXPLANATIONS. 1. This plan is the result of considerable consultation and labor, with aid from the experience of churches at the East. 2. It will tend to secure annual contributions from all the churches to all these objects of benevolence. 3. It will make the calls on the churches regular, and at proper intervals. 4. It will promote systematic, efficient and harmonious action among Agents. 5. It will aid ministers in their efforts to promote benevolence among their people, diminish the necessity for Agents in that work, and advance the cause in general. 6. This plan leaves the churches to choose their own channels for their contributions, and at liberty to contribute to other objects whose claims may be presented, at least occasionally, to their consideration. HISTORY Of MINISTERS. 69 PART II. HISTORY OF MINISTERS, Explanation. The following tabular form of the history of ministers, is adopted, instead of one more extended, as in the former history, for the following reasuns: Ist. The number of Ministers is now so great that it would make this book quite too large and expensive if even a brief sketch of the history of each were given. 2d. Wisconsin, as a field of ministerial and home missionary labor, is better known than when the former history was written, and the leading facts here given are deemed sufficient to answer the design of this work, and to give the necessary information on this point. The names of ministers who were in Wisconsin in 1850, and are still here, are placed by themselves, and first in order, and then follow the names of those who have come to the State since 1850, and are still here. This arrangement gives at one view, the names of all who are now in Wisconsin, and their present fields of labor, &c. This, however, does not include those who, in 1850,,were members of the Convention, and have connected 70 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. themselves with the Synod, nor those Welch ministers who belong to Convention. Both will be found in their connections. A like arrangement will be seen in the table of the names of those ministers who have left the State,, and those who have died. A few names are included in these tables of those who are not in fact members of the Convention, but whose labors are in its churches, or whose sympathies and purposes are understood to be in that direction, with perhaps one or two exceptions. The work of Home Missions in Wisconsin being a prominent object of this history, less care has been taken to be exact in giving a statement of ecclesiastical relations, yet, about the same measure of accuracy in this respect, obtains in this, as in the former history. If omissions and inaccuracies of dates, names, &c., are detected, those concerned may be assured that they are not the result of a want of much labor and care. To put together so many and such varied statistics as are contained in these tables is much labor, certainly enough to satisfy one man that a like experiment in book making would not be repeated without some misgivings. In giving dates, the year only is stated, and not the day or the month. In this way there is greater uniformity,for the month and the day, in many cases, could not be ascertained, and the year only.is deemed sufficient. During an unavoidable delay in getting this work ready for the Press, several ministers have come to the State, and commenced labor in the churches. Their names are included in this table of ministers, so that it extends somewhat into the year 1861. The same extension will be found in the statistics of churches and houses of worship. HISTORaY OF MINISTERS. 71 Ministers. TABLE: Showing the Ministers who are nzow in Wisconsin, their native State, where educated, when ordained, when they came, and their present fields of labor. WHERE NAMES. NATIVE EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELDS STATE. CATED.ORD'ND TO WIS. OF LABOR. A. S Allen, Mass. N. E. 1839 1846 Black &iddleton, W. Armes, Vt. N. E. 1833 1840 Without ch'ge, A. Barlow. N. H. N. E. 1843 1845 " H. H. Benson, Vt. N. E. 1845 1844 Mineral Point, S. S. Bicknell, N. H. N. E. 1838 1845 Koshkonong, C. Boynton, N. Y. N. Y. 1851, 1850 WatertownD. P. Brown, Vt. N. E. 1830 1849 Withoutch'rge, J. J. Buishnell, Ct. N. E. ---- 1848 " C. C. Cadwell, N. Y. Ohio. 1835 1838 Genoa, & Rich. C. W. Camp, Ct. N. E. 1848 1849 Sheboygan, F. H. Case, Ct. N. E. 1845 1842 Withoutchr'ge, A. L. Chapin, Ct. N. Y. 1.844 1843 Prest Beloit C, N. C. Chapidi, Ct. N. Y. 1851 1849 La Crosse, L. Clapp, Mass. N. E. 1845 1845 Wauwatosa, A. Clarke, Mass. N. E. 1849 1848 Hartford, D. Clary, Mass. N. Y. 1829 1840 Ag't Home Mis, O. P. Clinton, Vt. N. Y. 1835 1842 Vinland, W. Cochran, Vt. N. Y. 1846 1845 Brodhead, O. F. Curtis, N. H. N. E. 1830 1840 Em'rald Grove, S. D. Darling, Mass. N. E. 1841 1850 Oakfield, J. Emerson, Ct. N. E. 1860 1848 Prof. Beloit C. H. Foote, N. Y. N. Y. 1839 1842 Waukesha, L. Foote, Vt. N. Y. 1829 1847 Without ch'rge, H. Freeman, Vt. N. E. 1843 1846 is J. Gridley, N. T N. Y. 1835 1847 Somers, L. Hall, N. B.. 1825 1838 Without ch'rge. 72 H ISTORY O' THE CONVYNTIOM. Ministers. WHERE NA.MES. NATIVE EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELDS STATE. CATED. ORD 7ND TO WIS. OF LABOR. J. Jameson, Scot. 1843 1849 Magnolia, O. Johnson, Mss. N. E. 1843 1845 Without ch'rge, M. P. Kinney. N. Y. N. Y. 1844 1841 Janesville, D. Lamb, Vt. N. E. 1831 1847 Spring Vale, A. D. Laughlin, K. Y. Wis. 1847 1846 { Pleasant Hill, T. Loomis, N. Y. Ill. 1845 1848 Without ch'rge, H. Marsh, N.Y. N.Y. 1842 1842 i C. W. Mathews, Vt. N. E. 1851 1848 Sun Prairie, S. A. M'Ewan, N. Y. N. Y. 1837 1849 Withoutch'rge, N. Miller, N. Y. N. Y. 1841 1846 Princeton, S. E. Miner, N. Y. N. Y. 1838 1841 Without ch'rge J. J. Mitre, N. Y. N. Y. 1838 1841 Beaver Dam, E. J. Montague, Mass. N. E. 1846 1846 { Oconomowoc M. Montague, Mlass. N. E. 1844 1844 Prin. Allcademy, C. Morgan, N. Y. N. Y. 1843 1850 E. Troy, E. Morris, Eng. Eng. 1840 1850 Munro, J.A. Northrop, N. Y. N. Y. 1839 1844 Without ch'rge H. M. Parmalee, N. Y. Ohio. 1842 1850 Oak Grove, D. Pinkerton, N. H. N. E. 1845 1844 Without ch'rge J. Reynard, Eng. Ill. 1851 1850 t Shullsburg & Ill. ] 11885312 i ~54~] Monticello, L. Rogers, N. H. N. J. 1832 1841 Without ch'rge E. D. Seward, Ct. N. E. 1843 1843 Lake Mills, F. G. Sherrill. N. Y. N. Y. 1850 1850 Fulton, R. R. Snow, Ct. N. E. 2845 1840 Rochester, J. D. Stevens. Y. N. Y. 1837 1841 Caldwells Pra. S. H. Thompson Ohio. Ohio. 1842 1843 Ples't Pra. C. Warner, N. Y. N. Y. 1835 1843 Elk Grove, J. W. Walcott, N. H. N. E. - - 1850 Without ch'rge M. Wells. N-. Y. N. Y. 1845 1843 INecedah and H. Avery, Ohio. Ohio, 1860 1857 Stockbridge, H rSrTOY oF MINTIStRS. 73 The foregoing ministers were in Wisconsin in 1850. See His. Chs., p. 90. The following have come to Wisconsin since 1850, and are still here: Ministers. WHERE NAMES. NATIVE EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELD STATE. CATED. ORD ND TO WIS. OF LABOR. W. F. Avery, Mass. N. E. 1855 1854 Without ch'rge E. Bascom, 1857 Without ch'rgo D. M. Bardwell, Ag. Bi. Soc., B. S. Baxter, Vt. Vt. 1841 1859 Burns & Leon, F. W. Beecher, Ill. N. E. 1860 1860 Mil. Hanoverst W. Bigelow, Vt. N. E. 1854 1854 Black R. Falls. A. Ber:ton, Ct. Ohio. 1837 1855 Without ch'rge D. H. Blake, Vt. N. Y. 1859 1860 WaLupun, J. J. Blaisdell, N. H. N. E. 1852 1859 Prof Beloit C., West Salem, E. Brown, Ct. Ohio. 1853 1850 N. La Crosse, Omalaska H. N. Brinsmade Ct. N. E. 1828 1853 ist C. Ch. Bel'it S. Bristol, Ct. N. E. 1842 1852 Meartford and W. H. Burnard,. En. Ill. 1854 1854 Shopiere & C1. D. A. Campbell, Me. West. 1852 1845 Richford & W. P. Canfield,- - - 1852 Menominee, H. M. Chapin, Vt. N. E. 1855 1844 Markesan, J. Collie, Scot. Wis. 1855 1854 Delavan, G. W. Cotterell, 1854 Without ch'rge J. N. Cundall, Ct. N. E. 1854 1854 Rosendale, D. C. Curtiss, Ct. N. E. 1840 1855 Fort Atkinson, W. Day,- -. Without ch'rgo D. S. Dickinson,- a-. 1861 Union Grove,'i A. M. Dixon, Ten. Ill. 1842 1856 Blakes Prairie, H. H. Dixon, Vt. Vt. 1852 1851 Without ch'rge J.W. Donaldson N. Y. N. Y. 1858 1843 Kewaunee, S. A. Dwinnell, Mass. Mass. 1853 1835 Reedsburg & V F. B. Doe, Vt. N. E. 1854 1858 Appleton, M. Doolittle, - --. -- --.1858 Darlington, Wis. B. Durham. Ohio. & 1861 Evansville, 10 74 HISTORY OF TBHE 0ONVENTION. lM3inisters. WHERE NAMES. NATIVE1 EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELD STATE.CATED. ORD ND TO WIS. OF LABOR. C. Ellis,.1859 Quincy and f Saxville, R. Everdell. Eng. Eng. 1835 1850 Poysipp, Auroraville, E. N. Goddard, N. E. 1861 Markesan, N. D. Graves, Mass. Mass. 1846 1854 2d C. C. Beloit J. Hall, Eng. Eng. 1848 1852 Brookfield, H. Hanmer,.. 1855 Without ch'rge R. Hassell, Eng. Eng. 1844 1846 Low'ille & L'ds J. A. Hawley, Ct. Ct. 1841 1852 Ripon, J. M. Hayes, -.... - 1856 Without ch'rge C. D. Helmer, N. Y. Ct. 1859 1859 Plym. C. Mil. T. B. Hulbert, Vt. N. Y. 1834 1860 Hammond, S. J. Humphrey N. H. N. E. 1854 1861 Beloit 1st C. C. C. J. Hutchins, Pa. Ct. 1855 1859 Racine, H. Hutchens, Eng. Eng. 1857 1854 Sauk City, F. M. Jams, Ohio. Ohio. 1860 1855 Tomah and 1I.60 [ 1855 Jacksonville, J. S. Jenkens, Eng. L. C. 1860 1857 Merrimac & 1Caledonia, G. C. Judson, Ct. Ohio. 1846 1859 Sterling, J. Keep, Mass. N. E. 1835 1861 Bristol, L. H.. elsey, N. Y. N. E. —.. - 1860 Prof. Beloit U. A. Kidder, Vt. N. Y. 1849 1856 Eau Claire, B. King, N. Y. N Y. 1857 1860 Milton, A. C. Lathrop, Ct. N.Y 1843 1853 MoWestfieldlo & W. D. S. Love, N. Y. N. Y. 1848 1857 Milwaukee, N. McLeod, Can. L. C. 1849 1859 Prescott, J. Manley,... 1851 Without chrge W. H, Marble, N. H. N. Y. 1850 1856 Oshkosh, J. T Marsh, Ct. N. E. 1853 1857 Hartland, L. E. Matson, 1861 1861 Racine, J. T. Mathews, Mass. N. E. 1859 1859 Kenosha, C. T. Melvin, N. H. N. E 1859 1859 Columbus, W. E. Merriman Mass. N. E. 1857 1861 Green Bay, HISTORY OF MINISTERS. 75 Ministers. WHERE NAMES, NATIVE EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELDS STATE. CATED. ORD)ND TO WIS. OF LABOR. N. A. Millard, N. Y. N. Y. - 1860 Raymond, E. G. Miner, Mass. N. E. 1852 1851 Whitewater, H. A. Miner, Vt. N. E. 1859 1857 Menasha, C. M. Morehouse N. Y. N. Y. 1848 1864 Evansville, W. J. Monteith, N. Y. N. Y. 1837 1856 Genesee, D. T. Noyes, Mass. N. E. 1852 1851 Richland Co., A. A. Overton, Ct. Wis. 1857 1847 Avoca & Bos'l] L. Parker,.... 1861 Oconto Co., J. HI. Payne, N. Y. N. Y. 1836 1858 Salem &Wilm't E. S. Peck,. 1853 W. C. O. S. Pt S. D. Peet, Ohio. (W & IIs. 1854 1856 Fox Lake, J. W. Perkins, N. H. N. H. 1833 1857 Chester and Lawrence, P. C. Pettibene, N. Y. N. Y. 1840 1856 Burlington, D. Phillis, Wales N. E. 1861 1860 Sparta, J. E. Pond, Mass. N. E. 1859 1858 Nenah, W. Porter, Mass. N. E. 1847 1852 Prof. Beloit C. L. L. Radeliff, N. Y. N. Y. 1842 1855 Desoto, B. W. Reynolds,...1851 Without ch'rge J. P. Richards, Pa. Ill. 1861 Caledonia & Oak Creek~ W. M. Richards, Ct. N. E. 1 1835 1859 Berlin, E, W. Rice, N. Y. N. Y. 1860 1858 Ag't Sab. Sch., E. P. Salmon, Mass. N. J. 1831 1860 Allen's Grove, A. Sedgwick, Ct. Mass. 1824 1858 afayette & R. Sewall, Eng. Eng. 1854 1853 Stoughton, J. Silsby, Pa. P & 0 1861 1861 Pra. du Sac, J. C. Sherwin, N. Y. Ohio. 1840 1851 Ag'tA. H.M.S. J. B. L. Soule, Me. Me. 1858 1858 Elkhorn, T. D. So'thworth N. Y. N. Y. 1832 1859 Williams, W. R. Stevens, Mass. N. I. 1847 1855 River Falls W. Stoddart, Sc'tl'd Wis. 1857 1856 Fairplay, L. Tavlor, Mass. N. E. 1843 1861 Madison, S. H. Thompson Ohio. 1861 Pleasant Pro. J. D. Todd, N. Y. Wis. 1860 1866 1betonville, 76 HI8TORY OF THE CONVENTION. 3Ministers. WHERE NAMES, NATIVE EDU- WHEN CAME PRESENT FIELD STATE, CATED. ORDIND TO WIS. OF LABOR. W is. & - G. L. Tucker, Vt. WN. -- 1859 Trempeleau, E. B. Tuthill, N. Y. I N. E. 1861 1861 Baraboo, T.A Wadswo'th Eng. Ohio. 1854 1859 Sheboygan F'lls J. K. Warner, N. Y. Ct. 1858 1859 Centre, J. H. Waterman N. Y. N. Y. 1861 1860 Pewaukie, oJ Watts, Eng. I Y... -1969 Johnstown, B. E. Willi'ms'n - Mass. 1860 1858 Fond du Lac, J. N. Woodruff, N. Y. Ohio. 1858 1860 Hudson. HISXTORY OF MINISTiRS. 77 Mi aisters, TABLE: Containing the names of Ministers who have labored in the State some part of the time the past ten years, and have left the State, when they came, where they labored, when when they went away, and where they went, so far as is known. CAME WHERE NAMES. TO FIELD OF LABOR. WENT THEY WIsC. AWAY WENT. J. W. Allen, 1850 M:rquette, S Falls, 1837 1 New Eng G. W. Bassett, 1830 Milwaukee, Free ch. 1851 Illinois. E. G. Bradford, 1812 Waupun, Princeton, 1856 New Eng. L. Bridgeman, 1842 Westfield, 1857 New Eug. B. C. Church, 1745 Wyvoninrg, 1857 Michig'n. A. Eddy, 1849 Beloit, 1836 Illinois. B. Foltz, 1849 Allens' G & Burling. 11858'" J. E. Heaton, 1837 Waterloo, 1856 Nebraska. W. Herritt, 1849 Mallitowoc, 1833 Illinois. T. M. Hopkins, 1815 Racine, 1859 New York Z. M. Humphrey 1819 Racine, Mil., Plyr.., 1839 Chicago. J. H. Kiassan, 1816 Markesan. Baraboo, 1855 Iowa. A. Lilley. 1814 Hartland, Pewaukee, 18531 New York C. Lord, 1816 Madison, 1851 New Eng. H. Lvman, 18 3 Sheboygan, Johnst'n 183 New York J. H. Martyn,' 1850 Waukesha, 1833 3 C. W. Monroe, 18L9 Howard, Appleton, 1856 Boston. W. A. Niles, 1850 Beaver Dam, Water. 1859 N. Y. M. Ordway. 1836 Without Charge. 1857 Rockfo'd. W. L. Parsons, 1818 Milwaukee, 1853 New Eng. J. M. Phillips, 1816 Hazel Green, 1852 Iowa. J. Porter, 1840 Green Bay, 1858 Chicago, L. Rotbins, 180D Omro, 1837 Iowa. F. H. Rood, 1830 Sheboygan, 1851 Vermont. W. J. Smith, 1818 Richland Co., 1838 Iowa. W. H. Spencer, 1850 Milwaukee, 1855 Philadel. The foregoing Ministers were in the State in 1850. See His. of Ohs, p. 90. 11 78 IUITORY O0 THE OOXVESTION. Ministers. TABLE: Containing a list of Ministers who have come to Wisconsin since 1850 and have left the State: CAME NAMES. TO FIELDS OF LABOR. WENT WHERE GONE. WIS. H. C. Atwater, 1859 Hartland, 1860 N. E. W. S. Blanchard 1851 Sheboygan, 1852... G. M. Blauvelt, 1857 Racine, 1859 New Jersey, H. W. Brown, 1859 Ripon, 1860 East, B. Burnap, 1853 Hazel Green, 1854 N. Y. J. Caldwell, 1859 Madison, 1860 --- E.B.Chamberlin 1859 Green Bay, 1860 N. Y. H. W. Cobb, 1856 Prescott, 1857 Ill. W. F. Clarke, 1857 Waukesha, 1859 Canada, T. Cook, 1854 Menasha, 1856 N. E. O. W. Cooley, 1853 { Fox Lake, N. Port 1858 Ill. and K. City, J. Cushman, 1851 Elkhorn & Pewaukee 1854 N. E. S. Day, 1857 Milwaukee, 1859 Ill. W. P. Davis, 1857 Rochester& Wat'rfrd 1858 N. Y. Dickinson, 1858 Kenosha, 1859 Ill. C. B. Donalson, 1858 Lowell & Waukesha, 1860 111. N. H. Eggleston 1857 Madison, 1860 Mass. J. S. Emery, 1854 Sheb. Falls, Union 1858 Ill. J. 1854 Grove & Palmyra, S. Emerson, 1853 Genesee, 1854 South, F. W. Fisk, 1853 Beloit Coll., Prof. 1858 Chicago Sexn. N. C. Goodhue, 1851 Jefferson & Koskon'g 1857 East, F. Harman, 1854 Hartl'nd &Pewaukee 1855 Iowa, W. S. Huggins, 1852 Beloit & Whitewater, 1854 Mich. J. G. Hibbard, 1856 Salem & Wilmot, 188 Ill. S. Hawley, 1853 Fond du Lac, 1858 N. Y. L. H. Johnson, 1856 Elkhorn, 1859 Rockford, Ill. Chas. Jones, 1860 Platteville, 1861 N. E. J. Laughran, 1856 Hazel Green, 1858. HI$TO1RY OF MINISTIRS. 79 ]Ministers. NAMES. TO FIELDS OF LABOR. WENT WHERE GONE. WIS. I. Lawson, 1853 { Fulton, Evansville 1860 Ill. E. M Lewis, 1858 Potosi & Rockville, 1860 Mich. T. Lyman, 1856 N. Pepin, 1858 -- W. L. Mather, 1855 { mFond du Lac, Ply-1861 Chaplain in mouth & Ge'neva, Army, C. H. Marshall, 1858 udson, 1859 H. B. Pierpont, 1857 Two Rivers, 1860 Mich. B. B. Parsons, 1857 Ripon, 1859 Ill. D. W. Pickard, 1858 Platteville, 1859 Maine, J. A. Roberts, 1859 Sparta, 1859 -- W, Scofield, 1858 Janesville, 1859 Ill. G. Spaulding, 1854 Genesee, Barabo 1860 Min. & Hammond, M. C. Stanley, 1856 Two Rivers and1859 Mich. j5 Manitowoc, Ira Tracy, 1851 Blake's Pra. & vic., 1856 Min. W. W. Warner, 1857 Dodgeville, 1858 N. Y. A. Warren,' 1853 Milton, 1857 111. J. Wilcox, 1851 Pakwaukee. & vicin. 1858 Ohio. 80 I18TORY 01 TIE CONVENNTION. Ministers Who have died in Wisconsin. NAMES. CAME FIELD OF LABOR. DIED. AGE. TO WIS. W. Adams, 1837 Beloit & Mineral Point, 1842 53 N. Kingsbury, 1840 S. Prairieville, 1843 46 D. A. Sherman, 1840 East Troy & Pike Grove, 1843 62 S. Hubbard, 1840 Without charge, 1846 65 Edward Allen, 1846 Fulton, 1846 51 F. H. Pitkin, 1845 Delavan, 1847 27 Eber Child, 1846 Fulton, 1847 48 A. D. Harris, 1849 Without charge, 1850 29 Wm. Marchant, 1844 " " 1850 52 A. Gaston, Delavan and vicinity, 1849 40 C. L. Adams, 1850 Neenah, 1852 33 C. A. Boardman, 1854 Monroe, 1860 72 S. Chaffee, 1840 Richland county, 1856 T. G. Cole, 1856 Centre, 1857 34 C. Eddy, 1859 Without charge 1861 66 E S. Hunter, 1851 "9 1858 62 J. Lewis, 1843 Platteville,- 1860 43 J. O. Knapp, 1859 2d Cong. Ch., Beloit, 1860 - C. C. Mason, 1852 Centre, joined Methodist, 1858 A. Montgomery, 1856 Agent A. B. C. F. M. 1859 J. Morton, 1854 Sheboygan county, 1859 S. Peet, 1837 Ag't Chicago Theo. Sem. 1855 58 0. S. Powell, 1850 Fort Atkinson, 1855 - C.E. Rosenkrans 1842 Columbus, 1861 J. D. Strong, 1856 Lowville, 1859 W. H. Spencer, 1851 Died at Chicago, 1861 M. Steel, 1851 Died at the East, --- 30 D. W. Pickard, 1853 Died in Maine, 1859 - D. Lamb, 1847 Springvale,-Aug. 1861 N. Miller, 1846 Princeton, " 1861 HISTORY OF CHUROHES. 81 HISTORY OF CHURCHES. Explanation. The plan adopted in giving a history of the churches is similar to that in the history of ministers. This part of the work in hand may appear to some to be unnecessary after having the main facts given so fully and so recently in the published minutes of the General Convention. In reply to such a suggestion, if made, it may be proper to state, 1st. That the minutes are but yearly histories. This is a summary for the past ten years. 2d. The minutes of the Convention have been published but eight years since 1850, and the statistics of many of the churches are frequently wanting in the minutes when published. 8d. There are several churches whose date of organization is more or less recent, and which sympathize and cooperate with the American Home Missionary Society, and yet are not at present connected with the Convention; therefore the minutes contain no reports from them, and they should be included in this history. The names of those churches which have united with presbyteries since the former history was published are omitted here; also the names of Welch churches, connected with the Convention. Both will be found in their respective connections. 19. 82 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. A full history of the churches might require that the names of all their ministers since 1850 should be given, with the length of time which each one has labored with them. But to do this is not practicable, without materially changing the form of this work; therefore are given the names only of the ministers who are now supplying them. In some cases churches have become extinct, and, after a few years, organizations have been effected at or near the same places, and under the same name, form of government, and in the same ecclesiastical connection. Such cases remain without any notice of this feature in their history. The church is deemred esrentially the same. HISTORY OF CHURCHES. 83 CHURCHES. TABLE: Containing the names of churches now in the State, their form of government, date of organization, increase of members the past ten years, and the names of ministers now laboring with them. The first in order are the names of churches that were in the State in 1850; then those that have been organized since that time. EM1- MEMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. 1850 1860 Allen's Grove, C 1845 70 147 E. P. Salmon, Alto, C 1849 17 29 Appleton, P 1850 8 116 F. B. Doe, Aztalan, C 1840 25.. Extinct, Baraboo,., C 1847 34 39 Vacant, Beaver Dam, P 1843 93 161 J. J. Mitre, Beetown, C 1847 20 11 N. Wayne, Beloit 1st, C 1838 207 303 S. J. Humphrey, Big Platte, P 1842 13.. Extinct, Blakes' Prairie, P 1847 28 73 A. M. Dixon, Bower Branch, C 1849 14 17 Vacant, now Genoa, Bristol, C 1851 12 r; J. Keep, Brookfield, C 1849 15 2LJ. Hall, Burlington, P 1848 18 75 P. C. Pettibone, now Union C. Byroll, C 1849 7.. Extinct, Caledonia, C 1844 13 14 J. P. Richards, Centre, C 1844 24 56 J. K. Warner, { n pCereso, C i1851 11 153.F. A. Hawley, Clynman, C 1844 9.. Extinct, Dartford, C 1849 7 57 S. Bristol, Delafield, P 1849 18 6 Vacant, 84 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Churches. MEM- MBMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS, ORG. 1850 1860 Delavan, C 1841 88 158 J. Collie, Dodgeville, C 1847 43 41 Vacant, Dunkirk, C 1846 12.. Extinct. East Troy, P 1839 25 78 C. Morgan, Elk Grove, C 1846 32 72 C. Warner, Elkhorn, C/ 1843 45 45 J. B. L. Soule, Emerald Grove, C 1846 29 116 0. F. Curtis, Evansville 1st, C 1846 26.. Excluded,.Exeter, C 1849 9.. Extinct, F Gairfield, now C 1849 23 53 H. M. Parmalee, Fairpl ay, P 1842 19 30 W. Stoddart, Fond dal Lac, C 1842 57.. R. H. Williamson, Fountain Pra., C 1847 17.. Extinct, Franklin, P 1845 8.. Extinct, Fort Atkinson, C 1841 48 68 D. C. Curtiss, Genesee, C 1842 61 41 W. J. Monteith, Geneva, P 1839 76 175 W. L. Mather, Granville, C 1843 15. Extinct, Green Bay, P 1836 84 94 W. C. Merriman, Hartford, C 1847 12 68 A. Clarke, Hazel Green, P 1845 50 15 H. Maibin, Janesville, C 1845 100 258 M. P. Kinney, Johnstown, C 1845 31 53 J. Watts, Kenosha, C 1838 170 191 J. T. Matthews,'Koskonong, C 1846 17 42 S. S. Bicknell, Lake Mills, C 1847 36 80 E. D. Seward, La Martine, C 1850 10.. Extinct, Lancaster, C 1843 46 47 S. W. Eaton, Lisbon 1st, C 1842 35.. Extinct, Lisbon 2d, C 1848 14 Extinct, Lowell, C 1845 12 25 H. M. Parmalee, Madison, C 1840 40 57 L, Taylor, i Marquette co. P 1847 7 20 E. N. Goddard, now Markesan Milton, C 1838 37 43 B. King, Milwaukee, Ply. C 1841 175 335 C. D. Helmer, HISTORY OF CHURCHES. 85 Churches. MEM- MEMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. 1850 1860 Mil. Free ch., C 1847 52 203 W. D. L. Love, now Spring st. Mineral Point, P 1839 75 66 H. H. Benson, Mt. Zion, C 1842 28. Extinct, Monroe, P 1850 18 26 E. Morris, Reorg. & Con. Neenah, C 1846 29 96 J. E. Pond, now Presbyt., Newark, C 1845 29.. Extinct, New Diggings, C 1844 21. Extinct, N. Rochester, C 1840 40 25 J. D. Stevens, Oak Creek, ex., C 1846 10.. J. P. Richards, Oakfield, C 1848 15 18 S. D. Darling, Oconomowoc, C 1845 25 62 E. J. Montague, Ohio Settlement C 1847 12. Extinct, Oshkosh, C 1849 41 260 W. H. Marble, Palmyra, P 1847 29 45 H. T. Lathrop, f Paris, now C 1844 42 35 J. S. Dickinson, Union Grove, Pewaukee, C 1840 33 33 J. H. Waterman, Pike Grove, P 1839 34 42 J. Gridley, now Somers, Platteville, C 1839 128 149 Vacant, Pleasant Pra., C 1844 39 20 S. H. Thompson, Potosi, P 1840 32 19 Vacant, Pra. du Chien, P 1842.. 25 Vacant, Pra. du Sac, C 1841 19 27 J. Silsby, Racine, P 1839 191 218 C. J. Hutchins, Racine, C 1850 40 83 L. E. Matson, Raymond, P 1840 88 49 N. A. Millard, Richland, or P 1850 11 30 J. D. Todd, Buena Vista, Richmond, P 1850 14 14 A. D. Laughlin, now Orion, Ridgeway, P 1845 39 Extinct, Rochester, a 1840 39 23 J. D. Stevens, Rosendale, C 1848 30 100 I. N. Cundall, 86 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Churches. MEM- MEMNAMES. GOY. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. 1850 1860 Salem, C- 1840 38 31 J. H. Payne, Sheboygan, C 1845 43 61 C. W. Camp, Sheboy-ran, P 1850 20. Extinct Sheb. Falls, C 1847 72 58 T. I. Wadsworth, Shopiere, C 1844 81 161 W. H. Burnard, (Stockbridge, P 1830... Removed, Indian, Shulsburg, C 1848 18 42 J. Raynard, Spring Prairie, C 1841 23 14 A. Sedgwick, Springvale, C 1848 45 45 D. Lamb, Sugar Creek, C 1841 30.. Extinct, Summit, P 1841 37 62 E. J. Montague, Sun Prairie, C 1846 11 25 C. W. Matthews, Troy, C 1839 71 21 Vacant, Vinland, C 1850 9 17 0. P. Clinton, Warren, n ow C 1841 21 72 J. T. Marsh, Waterloo, C 1845 20 13 Vacant, Watertown, C 1845 21 130 C. Boynton, Waukesha. C 1838 98 110 H. Foote, Waupun, C 1845 31 82 D. H. Blake, Wauwatosa, C 1842 31 88 L. Clapp, Whitewater, C 1840 97 166 E. G. Miner, Willow Springs, C 1847 19.. Extinct, Wyoming, P 1846 41 57 Vacant, Yellow Stone, C 1848 20.. Extinct. HISTORY OF CHURCHES. 87 Churches. The following churches have been organized since 1850: MEM- MEMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. THEN NOW Albany, C 1853 10 25 J. Jameson, Argyle, C 1854 12.. Extinct, Auroraville, C 1857 12 15 R. Everdell, Avoca, C 1858 8 11 A. A. Overton, Barre, C 1858 15 12 E. Brown, Beloit 2d, C 1859 46 64 N. D. Graves, Black Earth, C 1856 11 13 A. S. Allen, Black R. Falls, C 1855 9 10 W. Bigelow, Boscobell, C 1857 6 12 A. A. Overton, Brodhead, C 1859 27 61 W. Cochran, Burns, C 1858 8 42 B. S. Baxter, Charlestown, C 1861 10 13 H. Avery, Chester, C 1858 5 17 J. W. Perkins, Clinton, C 1858 35 61 W. H. Burnard, I ooksville, P 1851 15 34 R. Sewell, now Stought'n Darlington, C 1856 11 72 M. Doolittle, Dayton, P 1858 12 14 J. D. Todd, De Soto, C 1856 10 7 L. L. Radcliff, Dover, C 1854 12 23 Vacant, East Ithaca, C 1859 8 17 J. D. Todd, Eau Claire,.C 1856 6 22 A. Kidder, Empire, C 1855 9.. Extinct, Evansville 2d, C.... 5 50 B. Durham, Fond du Lac, C 1856 35 149 R. H. WilliamEox, Fox Lake, C 1853 8 65 S. D, Peet, Fulton, C 1851 9 61 F. G. Shirrell, Grand Rapids, C 1860 6 6 Vacant, Green Lake, C 1853 11 14 H. M. Chapin, Hammond, C (1858 15 25 T. B. Hurlbut, Hortonville, C 1852 11 17 O. P. Clinton, Howard, C 1855 6 12 Vacant, Hudson, C.1857 17 49 L. N. Woodruff, Hustisford, C 1857 8 8 Vacant, Ironton, C 1860 9 9 S. A. Dwinnell, Jefferon, C 1851 9.. Extinct, 88 HISTORY OP THE CONVENTION. Churches. MEM- MEMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. THEiN NOW Jacksonville, C 1860 10 15 F. M. Iams, Kilbourn city, C 1858 14 14 Vacant, La Crosse, C 1852 12 77 N. C. Chapin, Lafayette, C 1855 20 44 A. Sedgwick, Leon, C 1860 27 40 B. S. Baxter, Madison, Union, C 1859.. Vacant, Magnolia, C 1851 i8 16 J. Jameson, Malone, C 1860 19 9 W. R. Stevens, Maple Grove, C 1853 14 43 J. C. Holmes, Maquonego, C 1857 9 15 J. D. Stevens, Marquette, C 1852 6. Extinct, Mauston, C 1858 6 7 M. Wells, Mazo Manie, C 1857 7 7 Vacant, Menekaune, P 1857 5 9 L. Parker, Metomen, C 1857 14 31 S. Bristol, Merrimac, C 1858 10 10 J. S. Jenkins, Menasha, C 1851 19 82 H. A. Miner, Middleton, C 1851 12 27 A. S. Allen, IMilwaukee, C 1861 29 51 F. W. Beecher, Hanover st., Monticello, P 1851 16 24 J. Reynard, Muscoda, C 1857 6 9 A. D. Laughlin, New Lisbon, C 1857 4 26 Vacant, New London, C 1857 13 32 Vacant, Necedah, C 1858 9 17 M. Wells, Newport, C 1855 10 15 Vacant, North Pepin, C 1856 14 20 Vacant, North La Crosse C 1859 9 15 E. Brown, Oconto, P 1858 7 9 L. Parker, Onalaska, C 1859 10 10 E. Brown, Oxford, C 1861 13 13 A. C. Lathrop, Pakwaukee, C 1852 8 Extinct, Pleasant Hill, P 1853 18 51 A. D. Laughlin, Plover, C 1859 14 23 Vacant, Plymouth, 1854 14 42 T. A. Wadsworth, Prescott, C 1852 9 87 N. M. Lead, Princeton, C 1852 14 16 N. Miller, HISTORY OF CHURCHES. 89 Churches. MEM- MEMNAMES. GOV. WHEN BERS BERS MINISTERS. ORG. THEN NOW Quincyx, C 1858 7 10 Vacant, Richford, C 1858 17 24 D. A. Campbell, Richland City, C 1855 19 17 J. D. Todd, Ridgeway, C 1856 12 - Extinct, Reedsburg, C 1851 16 44 S. A. Dwinnell, River Falls, C 1855 16 80 W. R. Stevens, Roch a Cree, C 1858 8 8 Vacant, Rockville, C 1853 5 12 Vacant, Rugglesville, C 1856 12 - - Extinct, Saxville, C 1858 10 17 R. Everdell, Sparta, C 1855 22 58 D. Phillips, Spring Green, C 1859 11 12 D. T. Noyes, Sterling, C 1859 10 10 G. C. Judson, Stockbridge, C 1860 15 20 H. Avery, Stone Bank, P 1852 14 26 J. Conly, Stoughton, P 1851 15 34 R. Sewell, Teychedah, C 1854 10 2 Extinct, Tomah, C 1859 11 23 F. M. Iams, Trempeleau, C 1857 13 25 G. L. Tucker, Two Rivers, C 1852 10 38 Vacant, Viroqua, C 1855 7 16 G. C. Judson, Waterford, C 1858 21 23 J. D. Stevens, Wautoma, C 1853 5 22 D. A. Campbell, Waukau, C 1858 16 7 T. A. Amerman, Westfield, C 1852 8 30 A. C. Lathrop, West Salem, C 1860 -10 10 E. Brown, Williams, C 1859 12 21 T. D, Southworth, Wilmot, C 1851 10 18 J. H. Payne, Windsor, C 1851 7 35 C. W. Matthews, Wyalusing, C 1854 Extinct, Wyocena, C 1853 20 70 S. I. Barteau, Wyota, P 1854 16 4 Extinct. 90 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Churches. Of the foregoing churches, the following are extinct, viz: Aztalan, Lisbon 1st, Yellow Stone, Big Platte, Lisbon 2d, Argyle, Byron, Mount Zion, Empire, Clyman, Newark, Marquette, Dunkirk, New Diggings, Pakwaukee, Exeter, Oak Creek, Teychedah, Evansville, Ohio Settlement, Wyalusing, Fountain Prairie, Ridgeway P., Wyota, Franklin, Ridgeway C., Stockbridge, Grandville, Rugglesville, Jefferson, Lamartine, Sheboygan P., Sugar Creek. SUMMARY. Whole number of churches organized before 1850,.-.. 111 " " " since 1850,...... 101 Total-........ 212 Extinct, of those organized in 1850, - 23 since 1850,. I..... 10 33 179 Welch churches, 20 Total now.. 199 CAUSES OF THE EXTINCTION. Among the causes, and perhaps the most prominent, may be the following: HISTORY OF CHURCHES. 91 1. The loss by death or by emigration of the leading members: 2. Inability to obtain ministers. 3. Changes of central points, and the organization of churches near where there was more rapid growth and increase of population and business, and consequently greater privileges. 4. Perhaps premature organization. Failures like these, especially in new regions which are being rapidly settled, and are subject to many fluctuations an-l changes, may occur in spite of the wisest forecast and the greatest care. Many, and perhaps all, of these extinct churches had been fostered, as far as was practicable, by ministers residing nearest to them, and by home missionary aid. Some of them had attained to considerable strength, as will be seen fromn the fact that the aggregate membership by the last reports was over 500, aud that eight of them had houses of worship. By comparing the number of extinct churches with the whole number organized, it will be seen that the proportion has greatly diminished the past ten years. In a very few instances, where churches of two or more denominations had existed, and become nearly or quite extinct, the few remaining members have united in one organization, and, by way of accommodation, have taken the name of Union Congregational Church. But in no case, so far as is known, has this union included any except such as are recognized as orthodox in sentiment, and such as we were accustomed to fellowship as Christians. 92 HISTORY OF THEE CONVENTION. Welch Ministers and Churches. MEM- MEMMINISTERS. CAME CHURCHES. WHEN BERS BERtS TO WIS. ORG. THEN NOW J. Davies, 1854 Ba'ngor, 1855 12 39 49ss ~ Fish Creek, 1859 20 26 J. Davis, Rosendale, 1851 9 35 G. Griffiths, 1857 Milwaukee, 1857 8 32 IDelafield, 1844 12 57 D. Jones, 1844 Without charge, - - - - G. Jones, Cambria, 1859 25 50 4' Welch Pra., 1848 19 80 J. P. Jones, 1852 Spring Green, 80 W. W. Jones, 1855 Spring Water, 1853 11 28 D. Lewis, 1849 Ridgeway and 1853 21 59 Blue Mounds, 1847 9 33 R. Morris, 1846 Without charge, E. Owens, Bethel and 1857 21 25 "s | Dodgeville, 1845 19 48 G. Samuel, Emmet, 1846 16 30 Ixonia, 1856 25 22 R. Williams, Rehoboth, 1850 20 21 -- Hopkins, Racine, 1848 21 100 Pike Grove, 1852 42 80 Bark River, 1859 50 55 H. Parry, 1861 Oshkosh, 1850 16 20 These Welch churches and ministers are Congregational in sentiment, differing in nothing essential from American Congregationalists. The most of them belong to the Convention. Nine of the fourteen ministers, and twelve of the twenty churches are in this connection. They also belong to an association of their own. This privilege is extended to them for their benefit. They are becoming Americanized very fast, and at no distant day they will probably discontinue their separate organization. HISTORV OF CHURCHES. 93 They are in full sympathy with the American Home Missionary Society, and all these churches are or have been aided by the Society in the support of their ministers. The total number of members in these twenty churches is nine hundred and twenty. Most of the ministers received their education in Wales, and have come to this country within a few years past. All these churches have houses of worship. In building them they have been very economical. Six of them are built of logs, costing from eighty to one hundred dollars each. The other fourteen have cost on an average about four hundred dollars. The most expensive one is at Milwaukee, and cost less than fourteen hundred dollars. A few of the churches were aided in building these houses from the Congregational Building Fund. 94 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. PART III. HOME MISSIONS. The author of the former history of churches in WTisconsin, near the close of the book, page 189, gives a brief statement of what had been accomplished in the State up to that time, 1850, and of the influence of Home Missions in securing those results. He says: " The history of the rise and progress of religious institutions in this State is without a parallel in respect to their early establishment and their rapid advancement. "Fifteen years ago this country was occupied by the wild red man and the wild prey which he followed in the chase. " In 1836, one minister entered this field and commenced his labors, and one church was organized during that year. " In 1839, when the writer passed over the Territory and explored its situations and wants, he found three ministers and five or six churches. Fromn that time there has been a constant accession of ministers and a rapid increase of churches, from year to year. There are now on this ground one hundred ministers and one hundred and twenty-five HOME MISSIONS. 95 churches. An ecclesiastical organization has been established, consisting of a General Convention and four District Conventions, which happily unite these churches and ministers in one body; and over forty houses of public worship have been erected.'But these statistics and general statements by no means show what has been accomplished. An' amount of moral influence has been exerted by these ministers and churches on the forming character of this young and growing State, which no arithmetic can compute and no mere figures can express. The Gospel has been preached, not only to congregations connected with these churches, but to multitudes in other places, and in the scattered setllements of the country. Sabbath schools have been extensively established, and multitudes of children and youth have thus been brought under religious instruction. The temperance cause has been aided and borne forward in its achievements. The Bible has been widely circulated. Tracts and religious books have been scattered over the state. The observance of the Sabbath has been promoted; the cause of education has been advanced; common schools have been encouraged, select schools and academies have been established and sustained, and a college has been founded and put in successful operation that is adequate to the wants of the country in this respect; and, what is more than all, revivals of religion have been enjoyed among the churches, from year to year, which have resulted in the hopeful conversion of nearly three thousand souls. "These happy results are to be traced in a great measure to the influence and efforts of the American Home Missionary Society. "The early occupancy of the field by that society, its effi 96 H ISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. cient aid and continued fostering care have placed the cause of religion in its present advantageous position in the State. " Nearly all the churches in the State were either organized by the missionaries of that society, or have been aided in the support of its ministers by its funds. " Most of the ministers who have labored in this field have received their support, in part, from this source. The whole number who have been aided by this society from the beginning is one hundred and twenty, of whom thirty have removed to fields of labor out of the State, eight have ceased to receive aid, and five have gone to their reward on high. "' Ten churches once aided by this society now support their own ministers. " Those ministers who are now sustained by their own people are occupying ground prepared to their hands by the A. H. M. Society, and building on foundations laid by them. " The whole amount of funds which this society has expended in Wisconsin is about sixty-five thousand dollars. The whole number of ministers aided is one hundred and twenty. The years of labor performed are four hundred and twenty." Growth of the Field. The successor of Rev. Mr. Peet in the Agency of Home Missions entered upon his labors the Ist of August, 1850. At that time there were very few settlers north of Fox river, and north and west of Wisconsin river. The Indians' title to the land was but recently extinguished. The Indians themselves still occupied large portions of it. But little of it was in market. HOME MISSIONS. 97 The only churchles organized beyond Fox river were Osh-'kosh and Neena.A. Nor'h and west of Wisconsin river were the churches of Baraboo, Prairie du Sac, Buena Vista and Richmond. The village of La Crosse was not commenced. The population in Wisconsin in 1850 rwas three hundred and five thousand five hundred and sixty-six. The number of organized counties was twenty-nine. The tide of immigration, which had been checked for a time, greatly increased. New settlements were rapidly made. Material for new organizations accumulated. Internal improvements were commenced in the older settlements, and greater facilities were being furnished for reaching, the newer parts of the State. As a consequence, new demands were created for Home Missionary labor. More than two years had passed since Mr. Peet closed his labors as Agent of Home Missions, and during that time there was no agent in the State. Labor of Agents. Mr. Peet had been accustomed to give a large share of his labors to the organization of churches. But there were peculiar circumstances growing out of denominational relations, which made it, expedient that, for the present, the responsibility of organizing churches should rest mainly on neighboring ministers and missionaries. Those who have been accustomed to regard the work of agents at the East as consisting mainly in soliciting contributions, and at the West that of organizing churches and preaching to those that are destitute of ministers, have often inquired what constitutes the necessity of employing an 14 98 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. agent where so little can be expected from the churches in the form of contributions, and where it is deemed expedient that he leave to others the main work of organizing churches. It may not be out of place, therefore, to give here a brief reply to such an inquiry. The following have been the principal features of the work in Wisconsin the past ten years, viz: To explore the field, and learn its condition and wants; To prepare the way for, and, when necessary, to assist in the organization of churches; or, if the way was found prepared, and the case seemed to require it, to organize churches himself; To advise with and assist missionaries who were just entering new fields, in arranging their labors; To visit destitute churches, preach to them and obtain supplies for them; To act on application from churches for aid in support of their ministers; in doing which, it is expected that he will give the society what information he can relative to the need of aid, the amount that it would be wise to appropriate, and the general aspects of the field where funds are to be expended; To visit missionaries, for the purpose of encouraging and assisting them in their labors and difficulties; To render service, when desired, to ministers who wish to change their fields of labor, and to churches who wish to obtain ministers; To present the claims of Home Missions to the churches, and to aid and encourage them in the development of their resources; To correspond with the society relative to all that pertains nOME MISSIONS. 99 to the work and the interests of Home Missions on the field; To receive and distribute reports, books, tracts, boxes of clothing, &c., that are sent him; besides doing an indefinite amount of miscellaneous work. The different kinds of work devolving on an agent vary in their proportions with the varying state of things in his field of labor. For example, there is now much less to be done in the way of exploring new regions and effecting new organizations; and more in that of developing the resources of the churches. One agent occupied the whole state from 1850 to 1857, when the field became so wide and the work so great that the Stste was divided, and another agent was appointed for that portion of it which lies north and west of Wisconsin river. The present extent of the whole field, compared with what it was in 1859, may be understood by the fact that there are now fifty-six organized counties, instead of twentynine, and a: population of seven hundred and seventy-five thousand and six:hundred, in place of three hundred and five thousand, an increase in ten years of full one hundred per cent., and the work of agents, though varying in its proportions, has increased accordinjly. lMissionaries, The work of supplying the State with missionaries, which was so early commenced and so successfully prosecuted from the begidlning until 1850, as already quoted from the former history, has been continued to the present time. 100 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. New fields open have been occupied. New wants have been met. The missionaries have had ample scope for their energies and zeal, and great encouragements in their labors. The number of missionaries has increased from year to year. Many have become pastors of churches. Many changes have taken place. Circumstances which appeared to be beyond human control have caused considerable fluctuation. Settlements, when made, have sometimes been of short continuance. Missionaries have come and labored a few years and left. Others have taken their places. Not a few have moved on with the tide of emigration WTestward. Others, overtaxing themselves with labor and care have been laid aside. Some have " fallen asleep," and "rest from their labors." The number of commissions given by the A. H. ]LM. Society to missionaries in the State, from 1851 to 1861, is nine hundred and twenty-eight. The number of missionaries is as follows: In 1851.............. 84 In 1856.............. 84: In 1852............. 83 In 1857.............. 93 In 1.853...... 87 In 1858..............102 In 1854..............100 In 1859..............108 In 1855.............. 87 In 1860..............100 These statistics are taklen from the annual reports of the Society, the report of each year being regarded as covering the ]preceding year which closes oil the 1st of March, previous to the date of the report. To give a statement of the results of the labors of these missionaries the past ten years, would only be to repeat what is stated in the former history, adding the increased proportions according as the number of missionaries has increased. HOME MISSIONS. 101 The season of great financial depression which has been experienced over all the land, and especially in the States of the North-West, has borne hard upon the missionaries. By reason of it many have learned, if they had not before, " how to be abased." But they have been content to share with the churches and with the community in general, the inconveniences and privations produced by it, and to labor on in the confident expectation that God will provide. Missionary Churches. In the former history it is stated that of the one hundred and twenty-six churches in the State in 1850, only ten supported their ministers without aid. Since then the number of churches organized is one hundred and forty-one. Of these, one hundred and twelve will be found in the list of churches connected with the Convention including Welch churches, and twenty-nine in the list of churches connected with the Synod of Wisconsin. The present number of self-supporting churches is forty. TUhe others are dependent on Home Missionary aid. Of these, a few have received aid from the American Missionary Association, and three or four, so far as is known, from the Home Missionary Committee of the General Assembly. Several German and Norwegian churches have been organized and aided in the course of the ten years, but at present none of them, except two Norwegian, are receiving aid. One church of Hollanders will be found connected with the Convention, and one with the Synod, that receive aid. 102 HISTOrY OR THE CONVENTION. Appropriations and Contributions. The statistics presented in the follow table are simple facts of history, which brethren consulted on the subject have thought might appropriately be placed in this connection. They may be instructive tor good in time to come, and furnish, in the review, cause for both gratitude and humility. If, to any, the amounts contributed by the churches seem small in proportion to what has been received. and the progress towards self-support slow, it should be remembered that the early emigrants to a new country are generally poor, and besides large outlay to secure homes, and provide for domestic wants, they are taxed at once with the whole burden of necessary public improvements, Also, that the claims of the various objects of benevolence brought before them must not be set aside. The aggregate of contributions to the objects of benevolence the past ten years, as stated in the very imperfect reports to the Convention, is $58,062.80. This table, prepared originally by request of the H. M. Society and commenced with 1850, has been brought down to March, the close of the last Home Missionary year, making in all eleven years. The churches being then arranged according to their local and special relations, they are placed in the same order here. HOME MISSIONS. 103 Milwaukee Convention. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. CONTRIB. Milwaukee, Plymouth............ $719 82 Milwaukee, Spring st......... Wauwatosa --.-.... —. -- 483 33 214 37 Brookfield-...... 1,000 00 102 02 Pewaukee...... 414 58 15 91 Geneee........... 1,510 42 106 62 Delafield....-. 887 50 37 30 Summit............... 27 00 Oconomowoc -. 812 30 72 67 Hartland-.... -.. 448 00 41 50 Newburg -... 279 50 23 04 Lisbon, extinct....... 500 00 27 96 Hartford............... 1,414 50 131 50 Kenosha.......- —. 250 49 Salem................. 400 02 43 50 Wilmot.. 200 00 4 00 Pleasant Prairie... - - 117 76 6 05 Somers..287 50 48 00 Paris..- - 1,042 5 0 41 15 Racine, Presbyterian-._.-_..... 668 23 Racine, Congregational........ 42 00 Burlington............ 350'00 15 62 Rochester..........725 00 27 67 North Rochester-...-. 537 50 22 18 Raymond —....... -... 450 00 46 55 Caledonia........ 677 42 27 64 Waterford............ 400 00 6 35 Oak Creek, extinct..... 675 42 4 00 Williams h......1..... 175 00 10 00 Maqnooi~ e flo -- 7.,,,... — 75 00 7 50 Waukeshas.5 00 Milwaukee, Hanover st. -....... 104 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. B3eloit Convention. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. TTAL _I * CONTRIIB. Beloit, 1st Congregational...-.. $1,116 45 Janesville 158 33 228 61 Johnstown - - 951 67 82 33 Mount Zion, extinct.... —-... 241 60 2 00 Shopiere.....- 499 16 128 95 Miilton —..............-........ 616 63 56 97 Fulton-............. 740 00 36 00 Evansville. —- -.... 1,040 00 72 25 Centre.-.... 1,218 33 68 69 Emerald Grove... 481 71 45 21 Magnolia.. —--...- -. 575 00 33 72 Brodhead.. —. 100 00 20 00 Monroe --- - -... — -—.- 2,638 34 38 52 Albany.- - 950 00 39 46 Geneva. - -. 608 35 134 43 Genoa.350 00 73 00 Delavan......... —___.-,___ 400 00 341. 18 Allen's Grove-. —. 76 00 Elkhorn -.-.-.-.-...-. 1,188 50 35 33 Whitewater —....... -........ 69 00 82 25 Troy... -...-.. 982 25 63 32 East Troy.-. - 561 41 103 43 Lafayette.... 785 84 43 25 Spring Prairie......... 100 00 3 50 Stoughton.........- -.. 741 50 32 50 Newark, extinct... —-—......... 240 00 7 07 Exeter, extinct —........... — ---- 440 00 6 51 Sugar Creek, extinct ----------—. 175 00 3 17 Clinton........ 7 07 Beloit, 2d Congregational......... 8 00 HOMEi MISSIONS. 105 Mineral Point Convent*,on. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. TOTAL CO1NTRIB. Shlulllbur -$1,742 50 $59 50 Monticello.. 742 50 59 50 Darlington -.... 915 71 21 39 Elk Gr8,ve 1. 87!6 220 46 Boner Brainch-........ 512 50 70 91 Platteville............. 141 65 270 49 Hazel Green. -5 7 —. 570 83 98 31 Fairplay -. i1,'i 73 37 156O 69 Lancaster....... -....-.. 1,302 09 91 25 Beetown.. -. — Pate ll G r(;e. -. 1,758 84 863 58 Muscoda -....... t833 03 8 50 Potosi...........-........ 1,557 03 25 83 Rockville.-...-.-..403 00 5 00 Mineral Point......-..-.- 990 09 79 35 Dodgeville.. —o. — 1,794 95 121 10 Wyoming. 1,052 12 72 35 Do)ver.. 275 00 29 50 Arelua, extinc'.-............ 175 00 5 00 Pleasant Hi.l.1. 950 00 12 50 Orionl......... - 495 09 6 75 Buena Vista-....-..... 1,096; 67 83 10 Richl:and City-......... 75 00 3 00 RugIlesville, extinct. 100 00 Wi'low Springs, extinct - -.... 283 38 16 50 Yellow Stone, extinct 34 —-------- 58 34 Ridgeway P., extinct. -... 433 50 44 00 DayI ton.220 00 2 50 Avoca. 500 00 6 62 Boscobell o-...........o... o 477 50 11 63 Argyle, extinct -.....- 94 47 Wyota, extinct -. - - - -. 41 68 a. 14 106 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Madison Convention. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. TOTAL CONTRIB. Madison.-.. $118 75 $120 47 Sun Prairie -93.....,,.3. 13 60 11 W'indsor..- - 525 00 32 54 Black Earth..- - 783 75 17 75 Palmyra --.......... —......,, 2,079 12 100 86 Fort Atkinson.. —.. - 1,320 47 122 50 Koskonong.....,, 433 33 12 00 Lake Mills.... Waterloo.........- -..' 550 00 28 30 Beaver DamI..-.....- 74 88 213 27 Jefferson, extinct.- —. 415 25 6 43 Oak Grove. —.._. —-_. 1,350 00 101 50 Lowell-......... -....... Fox Lake -,,. 987 67 92 59 Hustisford........ —. -. Mazo Mal.ie.. -- 200 00 8 50 Wyocena................... —.. 1,802 87 54 14 Prairie du Sac -... 1,854 32 71 49 Watertown. -....-.- 1,239 92 189 81 Middleton, --..457 50 10 75 Sprinlg Green..- 240 00 34 00 East Ithica... -,, - - - 233 37 7 00 La CroSse Convention, La Crosse- $1,425 00 $243 75 Sparta..,- -.... 1,033 35 31 17 Viroqua-.....,.- — 7 87 50 13 65 Blaclk River Falls 1,650 00 16 30 Prairie du Chien.., —.., 1,425 00 26 00 De Soto, —-~~ — ~.- -56 50 Trempelea- 1..1.... -.-. —........ 1)174 83 37 75 Ear Claire -. -........ --...... 931 66 26 50 North Pepin.._.-..- 550 00 20 25 River Falls......... 575 00 78 32 HOME- MISSIONS. 107 La Crosse Convention. TOTAL CHURCHES. TOTAL AID, NTIB. CONTRIB. Prescott.. -.,.-...... 75 00 40 75 North La Crosse - - 249 99 12 00 Barre * * * * o b --- 166 66 3 00 Onalaska-.-. —--------- ------ - 249 99 3 00 Hudson..-....- 472 02 18 00 Hammond.-..... —- 935 00 22 25 Burns-................ 633 83 7 00 Leon. --- 150 00 3 00 Menomenee- -........-......... 250 00 Sterling -,. —................. 137 50 3 50 Malone.......o.O.O.oo.. 50 0.0 Lemonweir Convention. Saxville —.,,$,, 96 33 $5 00 Auroraville -.,267 17 4 99 New Lisbon-............-.-.., 366 67 5 34 Mauston,,,,,450 00 2 84 Necedah.. —,, 450 00 2 84 Westfield -.,,- - _ -, 550 00 8 79 Quincy.............. — -...... 317 00.. Roch a Cree,,.. — --—,,,. —,,, 266 63 Chester.. —............. - 713 33 5 50 Richford... — - 475 00 2 22 Plover....... —- 137 50 Tomah...............,.,,.. 434 55 2 00 Kilbourn City............ 142 33.... Lyndon...'25 00......... Merrimac-...- 46 88 3 28 Reedsbura-..-o-.. *.*.......,,.. *,.*..... Baraboo, C........ - - --- -.-. Newport............. 483 33 13 00 Wautoma.- - -........... 1,466 00 23 07 Grand Rapids... 300 00 5 00 Jacksonville.- -, s17 501 Oxford****w~9ow*.~w*****X*.O 6, a* ~ 108 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Winnebago Convention. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. TTAL CONTRIB. Fond du Lac. -433 37 185 40 Fond du Lac, Plymouth.......... 94 50 Ripon -. -.-.-.-.D.....- - 903 4.9 44 44 Alto - -........ 491 61 19 00 Waupun. —............ 981 66 146 52 Teycheda, extinct 591 67 13 00 Rosentdale - 450 00 38 75 Sprintlgvale-...... 1,266 67 118 00 Oakfield 1,26417 55 29 Sheboygan.. 102 25 133 62 8heboygan Falls -.-...... 1,499 75 52 84 Plymouth......-902 67 92' 45 Oshkosh-osh....... 891 67 70 52 NWaukaw. —.. 783 34 24 394 Vinland.... 325 00 10 00 Neenah.-. 2,082 54 68 31 Pakwll aukee, uxtnextt. -t - — 95 8 8 33 6 50 Green Lae. -. 459 50 66 25 Broolilyn- ll- 6....... l 616 08 31 50 Princeton -..o.... 1,225 00 20 37 Menasha -....- -.. s 1,889 96 64 63 Stockbridge Indians, extinct... 5Z9 17 14 24 Two Iiivers.- - - - <..... 1,42'7 90 124 94Maple Grove..................... 383 33 17 00 Green Bay --------------—.................. 336 02 Howard.. —--. — 602 08 55 47 Appleton.....-o.............. 1 52'7 08 175 53 New London ----------—. —-o -. 905 75 10 50 Hortonville.- -...-.. 0 - - -. - 784 42 38 79 Byron, extinct ----—............ -- 250 00 10 55 Empire, extinct - O- o c - lMetornen.... - - —. 181 92 5 91 Menekaune -. -...... -. 475 00 11 00 Oconto, D........................ 375 00 5 86 Stockbridge C........ —--- 250 00'10 58 Waupua 0ollaiad........ 26 25. - - HOME MISSIONS. 109 Synod. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. CONTRIB. Milwaukee, 1st Presbyterian.. $... $121 17 Barton................. 1,818 50 89 33 Cottage Grove................... 1,700 00 169 23 Columbus.................... 1,823 50 90 69 Lodi........................... 1,266 67 33 16 Leeds.......................... 747 62 12 50 Lowville.................... 747 63 12 50 Berlin..........................,900 00 184 58 Wanpaca....................... 2,499 00 9 04 Matritowoc...................... 1,610 66 152 80 Stevens Point........... 1,592 00 10 00 Baraboo...................... 1,517 19 73 06 0 mro.......................... 1,655 43 27 00 Markesan..................... 1,104 02 31 16 Poysippi................. 329 17 26 38 Colu I mbus, Germ an.....3.. 3'75 00 8 65 Ashippun.................... 278 83 13 32 Arling ton................... 75 00 35 40 Otsego......................... 250 00 9 25 Pardyville...................... 312 50 11 75 Caledonia................... 312 50 8 09 Loganville..... 450 00 3 13 Lawrence................ 213 33 1 30 Milwaukee, Holland.............. 100 00 Rural....................... 1,404 00 29 50 Montello................... 225 00 8 13 Sun Prairie................ 50 00 15 00 Jefferson........................ 700 00 10 00 Wausau..........n............. 766 67 8 00 Portland........................ 158 50 5 87 Scott........................... 120 75 25 110 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Foreigners. CHURCHES. TOTAL AID. TOTAL CONTBIBDelafield, Welch............. 862 5.0 70 25 Pike Grove, "............ 519 50 31 15 Racine, "............. 537 17 55 50 Bark River, "............. 360 41 4 66 Mil., Cal. Meth.,............. 858 30 71 27 Emmett,............. 401 16 19 00 Ixonia, "............. 605 34 24 50 Spring Green, "..7...... 763 68 19 00 Dodgeville,..420 00 26 13 Bethel, i............. 420 00 26 12 Welch Prairie,........5... 532 35 18 50 Ridgeway, "............. 321 33 22 27 Rosendale, "............. 150 00 13 60 Oshkos3h, ".............. 424 00 24 10 Milwaukee, C., ".......... 528 63 23 50 Blue Mounds, "............. 321 34 16 00 Bafaor,............. 3 50 9 50 S rinz Water, ".......... 245 00 23 14 Rehoboth, "............. 616 25 48 64 Fish Creek,............. 5.....00 Germans, total............. 3,000 32 51 15 Norwegians,"............... 875 00 23 00 The whole amount of yearly appropriations and contributions for ten years to the 1st of May, 1861, is as follows: I APPROPRIATIONS.. CONTRIBUTIONS. I - -- I - -- 1851................... 11,066 16 789 22 1852................... 13,805 60 667 03 1853................. 13.958 48 898 49 1854................... 14,683 84 1,264 41 1855................... 13,442 25 1 655 62 1856................... 13,600 47 3.03:7 29 1857................... 16,610 58 2,307 87 1858................... 15,299 07 1,648 86 1859................... 18,846 43 1.695 58 1860................... 15,469 38 2,774 46 $148,776 26 $16,831 77 German and Norwegian.... 3,875 32 74 15 152,651 58 $16,905 92 Previous to 1851.......... 65,000 00 I $217,651 58 I Many missionaries, especially those who were just entering the ministry and were commissioned to come West with a view of occupying the waste places, were furnished with means to meet the expense of coming; add to this the salaries and expense of Agencies and the whole amount of Home Missionary Appropriations to Wisconsin, from the first, will exceed two hundred and thirty thousand dollars. 112 UIST'ORY OFP TE CONVENTION. FEMALE BENEVOLENCE Towards Home Missionaries, The activity of ladies at the East in making up clothing for the families of missionaries, deserves an honorable notice in this connection. They have anticipated and provided for their wants in a manner and measure truly and largely benevolent. The aid thus extended has been timely and most acceptable. The missionaries and their falilies feel very grateful for it. Many have been relieved of burdens and cares in this waly when all othlelr maloans of relief seemed to be beyond their reach. In a new country like this where so many duties devolve on missionaries, and where household cares press so heavily on the mother, it is a great relief to receive the yearly box of ready made clothing, prepared, as in many cases they have been, with special reference to them. By this means, not only are their hearts made glad but their usefulness much increased, and thus Christian females far away are workers together, with those who are here, in the missionary field. This quiet way of doing good, peculiar to the true woman, is of great value to the cause of Christ, and will in no wise fail of a reward. CHURCH ERECTION. 113 CHURCH ERECTION. The usefulness of missionaries, and the prosperity of the churches, depend so much on their accommodations for holding meetings, that the erection of houses of worship seems to be intimately connected with the history of Home Missions. Previous to 1857, the number of church edifices erected by the churches embraced in that history, was forty-five, many of them were small and cost but little, being designed for use only a few years, until larger and better ones could be built. In building those houses but little aid was received from abroad, no arrangements having been made to meet that department of wants. The origin of the whole church erection movement which has produced large results the past ten years, it is believed, may be found in the liberality of a benevolent gentleman residing in New Haven, Ct. By him the sum of five hundred dollars was placed in the hands of the agent of Home Missions in Wisconsin, to be donated in sums of fifty or one hundred dollars to churches to aid them in building houses of worship. The results of that investment were so gratifying to the donor, that it was repeated, and a like sum was again donated to be disposed of in the same way. The stimulus thus applied, and the hope thus awakened resulted in the appointment, by the General Convention in 1852, of a Board of Trustees of Church Erection to receive and appropriate Funds. Soon after that the Fifty Thousand IDollars 15 114 HTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Fund was raised by Congregationalists at the East, eight thousand dollars of which were given to churches in this State. Since then other sums have been raised at the East and among ourselves. Presbyterian churches at the East soon engaged in the same benevolent work, and have aided churches in Wisconsin connected with the General Assembly. The whole number of meeting houses built in the State since 1850, by churches of the denominations that have co-operated in the work of Home Missions here is one hundred and thirty-two. For a more specific statement, see the summary at the close of the following table. CHURCH ERECTION. 115 TABLE Of the houses of worship in 1850, showing when they were built, the material, size, sittings, cost, and aid received. WHEN MATE- SIrTNAMES. SIZE. COST -AID. BUILT. RIAL. TINGS. Allen's Grove,'47 w 25x40 250 $800 Beaver Dam,'47 w 26x32 200 800.... Beloit, 1st C.,'44 s 38x56 400 4,000 Beloit P.,'50 S 46x70 400 6,000.... Berlin,'50 w 24x42 225 350.... Delavan,'48 w 32x46 200 1,000 Dodgeville,'48 30x40 200 1...000 East Troy, 48 w 25x30 150....... Elk Grove,'48 w 26x36 200 750.... Fairplay,'48 w 26x36 150 800.... Fond du Lac,'49 w 30x40 200 900.... Genesee,'50 w 37x45 200 1,200... Geneva,'41 w 26x36 150 500 Green Bay,'38 w 40x60 300 3,000.... Hazel Green,'48 w 36x46 300 1,600 Janesville,'49 b 50x5O 300 3,000.. Johnstown,'50 w 32x48 300 1,600 Kenosha,'44 \ 40x60 400 4,200.... Lisbon 1st,'50 w 30x4O 200 700 Madison,'46 w 32x4O 250 1,800 Milton,'42 w 20x3O 150 500 Milwaukee, P.,'43 w 42x60 400 4,700 Milwaukee, Ply.'50 b 56x100 850 12,500.... Milwaukee, Free'48 w 43x6O 450 3,000.... Mineral Point,'44 w 44x5O 350 3,000 Mt. Zion,'44 w 26x3(; 160 600.... New Diggings,'44 w 24x36 150 500.... N. Rochester,'49 w 30x43 200 1,000.... Oshkosh,'a0 w 25x30 150 600.... Pike Grove,'46 26x36 160. Platteville,'46 b 40x6O 400 3,000 Potosi,'50 b 25x30 200 1,000.... Racine, P.,'42 w 30x60 450 1,000.... Racine, C.,'50 w 40x66 600 4,500 Raymond,'48 w 30x38 200 800 Ridgeway, P.,'60 w 20x30 100 400.... Y1~ ~ ~ 2 x L0 i0.. 116 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Houses of Worship. NAMES. WHEN MATE- SIZE. SIT- COST. AID. NAMES. SIZE. _ i BUILT RIAL. TITNGS. huoowtuer,'48 w 32x45 300 1,800 Salem,'50 w 16x35 125 500.... Sheboygan, C..'47 w 25x32 250 1 200.... Sheboygan, P.,'50 w 20x50 200 700 Summit,'44 w 25x40 150 800.... Troy,'48 w 38x40 300 1,400.... Waukesha,'48 w 26x60 350 22000.... Watertown,'50 w 32x68 200 1,500.... Whitewater,'48 b 40x60 450 4,300 Houses built since 1850. Allen's Grove,'54 w 36x55 330 2.000 670 Albany,'55 w 37x50 250 2,600 200 Appleton,'53 w 40x84 400 3,500 600 Avoca,'60 w 24x36 200 700 100 Baraboo, C.,'52 b 200 1,000 208 Beaver Dam,'51 w 40x60 350 2,900 Beetown,'51 w 25x35 175 400 Beloit, 2d C.,'59 w 32x50 275 2,800 Barre,'59 w 20x34 100 300 Blakes' Prairie,'55 w 30x42 200 1,400 300 Black Earth,'61 w 32x50 230 1;300 300 Black R. Falls,'59 w 21x39 125 800 256 Bristol,'53 w 32x46 250 1,400 361 Brodhead,'61 w 36x56... 2,000 BroolfiAld,'54 w 34x40 200 1,600 200 Burlington,'52 w 40x70 300 2 500 200 Caledonia,'55 w 30x40 200 1,300 200 Centre,'55 w 25x36 150 865 144 Chester,'59 w 18x26 100 600 175 Clinton,'60 w 34x56 280 2,000 Delavan,'55 w 42x70 475 5,050 Larlington,'57.. 250 1,754 125 Dartford,'58 w 32x42 200 1,200 200 De Soto,'60 w 24x48 160 1,650 500 East Troy,'57 w 36x70 400 7,000 600 Elk Grove,'58 w 32x46 200 1,500 100 Elkhoran,'58 w 30x48 250 1,400 CHURCH ERECTION. 117 Houses of Worship built since 1850. WHEN MATE-I SITNAMES. BUILT. IAL SIZE. TINGS.COST. AID. BUILT. RIAL. TINGS. Emerald Grove,'54 w 26x45 200 2,000 500 Evansville,'57 b..... 225 2,500 Eau Claire,'59 w 41x64 300 3,500 250 Fort Atkinson,'52 w 36x47 400 3,000 Fulton,'58 b 36x55 300 2,800 Fox Lake,'55 w 28x38 150 1,500 200 Fond duLac,P1.'57 w 35x60 300 2,000... Geneva,'51 w 40x60 400 2,500... Green Lake,'55 w 34x40 150 1,200 175 Hartford,'54 w 32x50 250 1,700 225 Hartland,'57 b 28x42 200 1,900 200 Hortonville,'59 w 24x44 160/ 1,600... Howard,'55 w 26x45 150 1,000... Hudson,'59 w 35x55 300 2,000 250 Jamestown,'60 w 32x40 200 1,100 Jenkinsville,'61 s 36x40 200 1,300... Koskonong,'61 w 28x44 1 2i:0 1,000... Lake Mills,'52 b 32x40 200 i 1,300 130 Lancaster,'51 w 30x40 175 1,000 125 Lafayette,'60 w 28x42 225 1,400 257 La Crosse,'55 w 28x75 300 2,060... Madison,'58 b 42x74 500 4,400 Mazo Manie,'58 w..... 125 1,150 175 Menasha,'58 w 36x56 275 3,000 300 Milton,'57 b 34x50 200 1,500 200 Mil., Hano. st.,'59 w 4Ex80 600 7,360 5455 Mil.. Spring st..'57 b 64x96 1100 30,000... Magnolia,'54 w 34x52 300 1,065 200 Monroe,'60 w 35x45 200 1,400 200 Neenah,'59 b 38x50 1] 50 2,000 208 New London,'60 w 36x56 280 2000 500 Oak Creek,'55 w 31x52 225 11650 225 Oak Grove,'54 b 32x44 200 3,000 200 Oakfield,'53 w 24x36 100 650 275 Oconomowoc,'54 w 32x50 300 2,5t~0 225 Oshkosh,'57 w 60x95 700 10,000 Palmyra,'55 w 30x50 250 2,300 200 Union Grove,'51 w 30x40 160 600 118 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Houses of Worship built since 1850. NAMES. WHEN MATE- SIZE. COST. AID. BUILIT. RIAI, TINGS. Pewaukee,'55 w 30x50 240 $700 150 Pleasant Pr:I., 58 w 31x48 200 2,000 Pleasant Hill,'56 w 32x40 160 800 125 Plover,'54 w 28x36 200 400... Plymontli,'59 w 32x47 225 1,400 250 Pra. du Chien,'58 b 36x50 250 2.800 1,039 Pra. du Sac,'51 w 28x52 200 1,000 Prescott,'56 b 36x50 300 4,000 200 Princeton,'54 w 26x36 250 600 250 Racine, P.,'52 b 59x9( 800 12.000 Racine, C.,'52 b - 500 7,350 300 Ripon,'53 v 30x46 300 800 50 River Falls,'55 w 30x50 150 1,600 300 Rockville,'53 w 18x36 125 300 95 Rosendale,'55 w 34x48 250 1,600 150 Reedsburg, C.,'55 w 32x50 250 1.,500 200 Salem,'51 w 26x35 125 500 150 Sheb. Falls,'55 w 40x60 300 3,000 225 Shopiere,'52 s 40x561 300 (3,000 175 Shulsburg,'52 s 35x45 300 2,000 150 Sparta.'57 w 36x55 250 3,100 1,000 Spring Prairie,'60 w 32x50 i 200 1,800 Springvale,'55 w 32x44 175 1,2010 200 Sun Prairie,'60 w 24x44 150 1,200 100 Two Rivers,'58 w 36x50 150 1,000 200 Stone Bank,'58 x 26x32 125 600 Trernpeleau,'57 w 28x36 150 1,350 200 Wainpun,'52 xv 32x44 400 1.000 350 Wautomra,'56 v 30x40 150 1,100 19-1 Waterford,'58 w 36x56 350 3,800 100 Westfield,'61 w 28x48 300 1,000 200 Wauwatosa,'53 w 41x64 450 3,347 225 West Salem,'60 w 26x48 300 1,000 150 Wilmot,'54 w 32x40 | 200 1,200 300 Williams, x'58 w 32x48 180 3,000 150 Wyocena,'55 w 36x45 260 2,000 200 Windsor,'60 w 30x40 200 1,500 CHURCH ERECTION. 119 Welch Houses of Worship. WHEN MATE- SITNAMES. SIZE. COST. AID. BUILT. RIAL. TiSGS. Milw.ukee,'58 w 26x40 180 1,375 100 Oshkosh,'56 b..... 200 1,500 300 Spring Green,'55 w 22x26 130 620... Spring Water,'56 1 18.24 60 80. Bangor,'59 w 28x36 160 800 150 Blue Mounds,.. w 20x28 150 475 100 Racine,'56 b..... 150 700 100 Welch Prairie,'50 w 22x25 100 450... Cambria,'60 w 34x45 200 1,100 Ridgeway,.. w 21x18 100 175... Delafield,.. w 18x28 130 Bethel,.. w..... 300... Dodgeville, w... 500 Pike Grove,'53 I........ 400. Bark River,'59 w........ 400 75 Ixonia,'56 w... 300 Rosendale,.. 1.::.. Rehoboth,........1 Fish Creek,.. No....ne Emmet,.. None 120 HISTORY OF THE CONVENTION. Summary of Church Erection. Whole number of houses of worship in 1850........ 45 Whole number of houses of worship built since 1850.. 120 Total.................................... 165 Whole cost of the 45............................. $85,800 Whole cost of the 120...................... $249,076 Total....................................334876 Aid in building the 45........................... $1,325 Aid in building the 120......................... $22,991 Total aid............................... $24,316 Received from the Congregational Building Fund... $12,442 Received from churches and individuals East and West, and from the Board of Church Erection of the Convention........................ $13,220 Whole number of church bells.................... 34 Total weight.................................... 27,7631b Total cost..................................... $10,532 Whole number of sittings........................ 40,600 Houses built of wood............................ 139 Houses built of brick............................ 21 Houses built of stone............................ 5 Houses enlarged.............................. 12 Houses being built............................ 6 Houses built by churches that had small ones before.. 10 Churches that have none.........44.... 44 APPENDIX. 121 APPENDIX. New School Presbyterian Synod of Wisconsin. The following statements and statistics relative to this Synod are given mainly because of their relation to the work of Home Missions the past ten years in the State. They are placed in an appendix for reasons assigned in the preface. They are given chiefly on the authority of brethren, who have kindly responded' to circulars that were sent to them; some were taken from the minutes of the General Assembly, and some from documents of the Home Missionary Society. They do not include churches or ministers located in the region of Lake Superior, but some other churches are included, though not connected with this Synod, and for the same reasons that some churches are included in the statistics of the Convention, though not in fact connected with it. The entire history of this Synocr, and of the Presbyteries of which it is constituted, is ilicluded in the ten years over which this work extends. When the former history of churches in Wisconsin was published, there was no other organization than the Presbyterian and Congregational Convention, which sustained a relation to the A. H. M. Society. Early in 1851., the question of a separate organization was agitated, chiefly by brethren who had but recently 16 come to the State. Some who were connected with the Convention, and some who were already here but had formed no connection, united with them. Some of the churches belonging to the Convention went with their ministers; other churches have since been organized, and other ministers have come in and united. Organization of Presbyteries. The Presbytery of Milwaukee was organized early in 1851, and composed of Rev. Winm. H. Spencer, Rev. Eli S. Hunter, D. D., and Rev. Mr. Steele, ministers; and the First Presbyterian Church in Milwaukee, and a newly organized church at Walker's Point in Milwaukee. The Fox River Presbytery was organized in the Autumn of 1851, and was composed of Rev. C. E. Rosenkrans, Rev. J. B. Preston, and Rev. Cutting Marsh, ministers, and the churches of Columbus and Berlin. In 1856, the Presbytery of Columbus was organized. The number of ministers and churches in Fox River Presbytery had increased, and the bounds were so wide that a division took place, and one portion took the above name. The Synod was organized in 1857, and was composed of all the ministers and churches connected with these three Presbyteries. In 1856, an Agent of Home Missions was appointed by the Church Extension Committee of the General Assembly, whose labors were chiefly those of exploring the field, and organizing or securing the organization of churches in that connection. His services were continued a year or more, and resulted in the addition of a considerable number of churches to the Synod. Since then there has been no agent of that Committee in the field. APPENDIX. 123 The churches thus organized were most of them small and feeble. They have been aided, with few exceptions, in the support of ministers by the American Home Missionary Society. For the most part the churches and ministers ot the Synod have co-operated with the Society, in good faith, as it is believed, to the present time, and a disposition has been evinced on the part of the Society to aid and foster them, the same as those of the Convention. The following tables contain the principal statistics of ministers and churches in that connection, and their houses of worship. Ministers. In collecting materials for this work, circulars were sent to ministers of Synod the same as to those of the Convention; but on making out the tables of statistics it was found impracticable to include all the particulars. Those contained in the following tables are supposed to answer the main design as it relates to Home 3Missions, and as the returns in some cases were not full, and the tables would necessarily be imperfect, only a part of the statistics are given. The following table contains first, the names of ministers of this connection now in WVisconsin, their native SLate, when they came, and their present fields of labor; and next, the names of those who have been in the State some portion of the past ten years, when they came, where they labored, when they went away, and also those who have died. Both these last named will be found also in tables with others on pages 77 to 80, 124 APPENDIX. Ministers. TABLE: Containing the names of ministers now in Wisconsin, their native State, when they came, and their fields of labor. CAME NATIVE NAMES. ATI TO FIELDS OF LABOR. STATE. W. M. Adams, Ohio, 1861 Beloit, S. H. Ashmun, N. Y., 1851 Rural and vicinity, S. H. Barteau, N. Y., 1852 Pardyville and Wyocena, J. Conlv, Ireland, 1855 Ashippun & Stone Bank, J. H. Dillingham, N. Y., 18360 Manitowoc, W. Drummond, Scotland 1846 Portland and Waterloo, A. G. Dunning, N. Y., 1855 Arlington, G. W. Elliott,....... 1853 Milwaukee, City Miss. C. Hall,. 1857 Col' orteur, C. F. Halsey, N. Y.. 1858 Wausau and vicinity, J. C. Holmes, N. J., 1852 MaDle Grove, M. Holmes, N. J., 1854 Sabbath School Miss. J. G. Kanouse, N. J., 1846 Cottage Gro. & Sun Pra. J. N. Lewis, N. Y., 1851 Without charge, J. S. Lord, Conn., 1857 Barton & Scott, H. T. Lothrop, Mass., 1850 Palmyra, C. Marsh,....... 1836 Without charge, J. B. Preston,....... 1850 Omro, F. B. Reed,... Without charge, B. G. Riley, N. Y., 1858 Lodi and vicinity, E. F. Waldo, N. Y., 1857 Jefferson, T. Williston, N. Y., 1858 Reedsburg & Loganville, C. Ven de Ven, Holland,... Milwaukee, Holland ch., P. Zonne, Holland, I Holland, Sheboygan Co. APPBDIX. 125 Ministers. Ministers who have been in Wisconsin and have left,when they came, where they labored, and when they went away; also those who have died. MINISTERS. CAME. WHERE LABORED. WEN AWAY.,~~] -- _1 —— I.. A. Eddy, 1849 Beloit, 1856 Ill, W. Bridgeman, 1859 Waupaca & Plover, 1860 C. R. French, 1852 Barton & vicinity, 1857 Iowa, H. Gregg, 1857 Baraboo, 1859 Ohio, W. Herritt, 1849 Manitowoc Co., 1853 Ill., M. Kidd, 1855 Walker's Point, 1856 Ill., P. Kanouse, 1854 Cottage Grove, 1856 N. J., W. Lusk, 1857 Reedsburg, 1859 Ohio, W. A. Niles, 1850 Beaver D. & Watert'n, 1859 N. Y., L. Rood, 1856 Oinro, 1869 N. Y., S. G. Spees, 1856 Milwaukee, 1859 Ohio, W. H. Spencer, 1850 Milwaukee, 1866 Phil'd. Mr. Steele,' 1851 Walker's Point, 1852 N. Y., J. Willson, 1853 Milwaukee, 1855 Ind., Ch. Wiley, 1866 Milwaukee, 1857...... b. Uhlfelder, 1857 Loganville, 1859 Iowa, Oswald, 1856 Columbus, Ger., 1857 Iowa, E. S. Hunter, 181 V. C., Died in 1858...... J. D. Strong, 1856 Lowville, Died in 1859 C.E.Rosenkransl 1842 Columbus, Died in 1861 Of these forty-four ministers, thirty-one have labored under commissions from the American Home Missionary Society. Of the twenty-four now in the State, seventeen are supplying twenty-five churches, several of which are in connection with the Convention, and ministers belonging to the Convention are supplying several of the churches connected with Synod. 126 APPbNISX. TAEBLE; Containing a list of churches,-when organized, members then, members now, houses of worship, when built, and their cost. MEM- MEM- IOUSES OF WORSHIP. WHtEN CHURCHES. WHEN BERS BERS WHEN COST oRG. THEN. NOW. BUILT. Ashippun, 1857 8 18 building Arlington, 1855 10 19 none,........ Baraboo, 1851 14 67 1852 unknown Barton, 1852 12 30 1853 1,100 Berlin, 1850 23 78 1856 4,500 Caledonia, 1857 10 22 none, Columbus, 1850 17 57 1854 1,400 Columbus, Ger., 1856... Cottage Grove, 1846 23 40 1860 1,200 Eaton, 1858............ Hampdon, 1851.......... Holland, 40........... Jefferson. 1858 11 29 building Lawrence, 1856 5 12 none........ Leeds, 1858 14 15 none,........ Lodi, 1852 10 80 1859 2,500 Milwaukee, Hol..150 Loganville, 187 7 8 none,........ Lowville, 1851 9 20 none, Markesan, 1847 7 20 1857 2,650 Manitowoc, 1851 15 30 1855 800 Maple Grove, 1852 14 43 1858 800 Milwaukee 1837 in1850 306 1843 6,000 175 Montello, 1858 12 26 none, New Lisbon, 1858......... ]Omro, 1852 80 none,......... Otsego, 1856.. Pardeeville, 1857 7 36 none,......... Poisippi, 1853 8 30 none........ Portland, 1858 11 26 none, Reedsburg 1st, 1857 7 24 1858 1,800 Reedsburg'2d, 1858 6 3 none,........ MEM- MEM- HOUSES OF WORSHIP. CHURCHES. BERS BERS WHEN ORG. BES COST. THEN. NOW. BUILT. ----— ~ — II - I- -' - Royalton, 1860... none,'Rural, 1858 9 24 1860 1,400 Scott, 1858 10 12 none, Stevens Point, 1852 5.. 1855 1,600 Sun Prairie, 1858 32 31 1859 600 Waupaca, 1851.. 20 none,. Wausau, 1858 5 8 none,........ in 1850 Beloit, 1849 1850 150 1850 6,000 Of these forty churches, six were organized previous to 1851, four of them belonged to the Convention, and two of them, when organized, were Congregational. Three others, organized since, were Congregational. Three of the forty support their ministers without aid, viz: —Milwaukee, Beloit and Berlin. Thirty-one are, or have been aided by the A. H. M. Society. Six are believed to be extinct. A few are supposed to be aided now by the Church Extension Committee, and all are supplied, at least a portion of the time. By the table on page 109, it will be seen that the amount of aid granted by the A. H. IM. Society to churches of this connection, in the support of their ministers, is $26,113,47, and the amount contributed to the Society by all the churches of Synod, for the same time, is $1,212,24. Fifteen of these churches have houses of worship, and besides these, the two Holland churches are supposed to have houses. Some of these houses are yet unfinished, though occupied. Two or three others are being built. The aggregate membership of the churches, so far as known, is about fifteen hundred. 128 APPENDIX. Other Denominations. Efforts made to obtain information relative to the full evangelical religious strength in Wisconsin have not been successful. The last reports published, so far as can be ascertained, give statistics as follows: OLD SCHOOL PRESBYTERIANS. One Synod and three Presbyteries-39 ministers, including absentees; churches, 49; members........... 2,000 EPISCOPALIANS. Parishes, 44; rectors or ministers, 46; members...... 1,800 REGULAR BAPTISTS. Churches, 199; ministers, 130; members.............. 9,0260 EPISCOPAL METHODISTS. Circuit preachers, 201; local preachers, 300; members, 17,000 DUTCH REFORMED. Churches, 7; ministers, 5; members................. 1,000 WESLEYAN AND PROTESTANT METHODISTS. Circuits, 20; ministers, 41; members................ 1,200 SEVENTH DAY BAPTISTS. Churches, 10; ministers, 17; members............... 1,100 There are many other smaller denominations among Americans. Among the Welch there are three or four; among the Danes as many, and among the Germans many; some of which appear to be evangelical; very many do not. Adding to the above the members connected with the Convention and the N. S. Presbyterians, and the whole number of members will be, nearly, 50,000