ItircDes ALEXANDER GAMMIE YALE UNIVERSITY LIBRARY Purchased from the income ofthe FRANCIS O. MATTHIESSEN, '23 BOOK FUND THE CHURCHES QF ABERDEEN CfturclKs of jlberaeen historical ana Description BY ALEXANDER GAMMIE ABERDEEN ABERDEEN DAILY JOURNAL OFFICE 1909 ¦M ye. 500 &8 G 147 PREFACE THE publication of this work has been undertaken in response to numerous and repeated requests. The substance of it appeared originally in a series of articles in the Evening Express from 1904 to 1906, but much additional information has been included, and the matter has been revised to the present date and largely recast. While the chapters are therefore to a considerable extent different from what appeared in the Press, it has been deemed advisable to adhere — even at the risk of some repetition — to the idea originally in view of making each separate chapter or history complete in itself. It is hoped that the volume may meet with acceptance freim the wide circle, both at home and abroad, who have expressed the wish for its appear ance, and that it may be found to fill a useful place, hitherto unoccupied in the ecclesiastical annals of Aberdeen, by supplying a record of the origin and history of each individual congregation and sect in the city. I have to express my best thanks to Mr. Robert Anderson, Editor, Aberdeen Daily Journal, who kindly revised the proofs, and helped with his counsel in various ways ; and to Mr. James B. Thomson, Sub-Librarian, Aberdeen Public Library, for preparing the Index and otherwise giving assistance. For the use of blocks and photographs I am indebted to a large number of friends, whose names are too numerous for individual mention, but' whose kindness I gladly acknowledge. My thanks are likewise due to Mr. James A. C. Coutts, Manager, Aberdeen Daily Journal, for helpful services rendered in connection with the production of the volume. A. G. Aberdeen, Christmas, 1909. C O N T E N T S CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. Chapter Page I. Cathedral of Oldmya-ohar ... 1 II. Craigiebuokler 7 III. East . 10 IV. Ferryhill 15 V. Giloomston 17 VI. Greyfriars 21 VII. Holburn 28 VIII. John Knox 32 IX. MannoBeld 36 X. North ... . 39 XI. Powis ... . 42 XII. Rosemount . 45 XIII. Rubislaw 49 XIV. Ruthrieston ';. . 52 XV. St Clement's . 56 XVI. St. Fittiok's (Chajpel of Ease) . 59 XVII. St. George' s-in-the- West ... . 62 XVIII. St. Ninian's 65 XIX. South ... . 69 XX. Trinity 73 XXI. West ... 76 XXII. Woodside 81 UNITED FREE CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. XXIII. Beechgrove . 85 XXIV. Belmont Street 88 XXV. Bon-Acoord 92 XXVI. Carden Place . 97 XXVII. Causewayend . 101 XXVIII. Charlotte Street . 104 ' XXIX. East . 108 XXX. Ferryhill . 116 XXXI. Gallowgate . 122 XXXII. Giloomston . 126 XXXIII. Greyfriare . 130 XXXIV. High . 134 XXXV. Hilton . 139 XXXVI. Holburn . 143 XXXVII. John Knox . 146 CXXVIII. Melville . 149 XXXIX. Nelson Street . 154 XL. North . 157 XLI. Oldmachar . 162 XLII. Queen's Cross . 167 Chapter Page XLIII. Rutherford 171 XLIV. Ruthrieston 176 XLV. St. Andrew's 179 XLVI. St. Clement's 183 XL VII. St. Columba 187 XLVIU. St. John's 194 XLIX. St. Nicholas 197 L. St. Paul's 202 LI. South 207 LII. Tony 211 LIII. Trinity 215 LIV. Union 222 LV. West 227 LVI. Aberdeen United Free Church College 231 CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES. LVII. Albion Street LVIII. Belmont LIX. Bon- Accord ... LX. John Street ... LXI. St. Paul Street LXII. Skene Street LXIII. Trinity LXIV. Woodside BAPTIST CHURCHES. LXV. Academy Street LXVI. Crown Terrace LXVII. Giloomston Park LXVIII. Union Grove 238 242 246 249252 257 261265 268271 276 279 EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN SCOTLAND. LXIX. St. Andrew's 282 LXX. St. Clement's Mission ... 287 LXXI. St. Jajnes's 290 LXXII. St. John's 294 LXXIII. St. Margaret's 298 LXXIV. St. Mary's 302 LXXV. St. Paul's 306 LXXVI: St. Peter's Mission 309 LXX VII. St. Mark's Mission 311 CONTENTS ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCHES. Ghiapt&r Page LXXVIII. St. Mary's Cathedral ... 312 LXXIX. St. Peter's 318 LXXX. St Joseph's 322 VARIOUS. LXXXI. Wesleyan Methodist Church 325 . LXXXII. Christian Unitarian Church 328 LXXXIII. Original Secession Church . . . 335 LXXXIV. Catholic Apostolic Church... 339 LXXXV. The Society of Friends (or The Quakers) 341 Chapter LXXXVI. LXXXVII. LXXXVIII. LXXXIX. XC. XCI. XCTI. XCIII. XCIV. XCV. Church of Christ The Salvation Army The Plymouth Brethren (open section) The Plymouth Brethren (exclusive or close section) Gordon Evangelistic Mission The Aberdeen Young Men's Christian Association The Christadelphians Free Church of Scotland The Jewish Synagogue ¦Some Forgotten Sects Page 348 350355 359361 363 371 374375376 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS Page Oldmaxahar Cathedral 1 Rev. Dr. Calder 3 Rev. Thomas S. Oargill 5 Craigiebuckler Parish Church ... 7 Rev. J. N. Cuthbert, B.D 8 East Parish Church 10 Principal Lang 12 Rev. George Walker, B.D 13 Ferryhill Pariah Church 15 Rev. Henry W. Wright 16 Giloomston Parish Church 17 Rev. Dr. Kidd ... 18 Rev. William Brebner, M.A 20 Old Greyfriars Pariah Churoh 21 Greyfriars Parish Churoh ... ... ... 25 Rev. Gordon J. Murray, B.D 26 Interior, Old Greyfriars Parish Church ... 27 Holburn Parish Church 28 Rev. Dr. M'Clymont 29 John Knox Parish Churoh 32 Rev. Dunoaji H. Brodie, B.D 34 Rev. George A. Johnston, B.D 35 Mannofield Parish Church 36 Rev. William Forbes, M.A 37 Rev. W. Phin Gillieson, M.A. ... 37 North Parish Churoh 39 Rev. William M. Wilson 40 Powis Parish Churoh 42 Rev. Thomas D. Watt, M.A 43 Rosemount Parish Churoh 45 Rev. Thomas Wilson, B.D 47 Rubislaw Parish Churoh 49 Rev. Robert Thomson, M.A., D.D. ... -51 Ruthrieston Parish Church 52 Rev. J. Morrison M'Luokie 53 Rev. J. Marshall Pryde, B.D 54 St. Clement's Parish Churoh 56 Rev. Dr. C. C. Maodonald 58 St. Fittick's Church (Chapel of Ease) ... 59 Rev. Archibald Macintyre, M.A 60 Rev. Augustus J. Kesting, B.D 61 St. George's-in-the-West Parish Churoh ... 62 Rev? James Smith, B.D 63 St. Ninian's Parish Churoh 65 Rev. Maxwell J. Wright, M.A 67 South Parish Churoh 69 Rev. William D. Scott, B.D 71 Rev. Guy S. Peebles, B.D 72 Trinity Parish Church 73 Page Rev. Robert Slessor 74 Rev. W. Bruoe Muir 74 East and West Parish Churches 76 Rev. Andrew Brown, M.A 78 Rev. A. Stuart Martin, B.D 79 Woodside Parish Church 81 Rev. David P. M'Lees 83 Rev. John Fairlie 83 Beeohgrove U.F. Church 85 Professor H. R. Mackintosh - 86 Rev. Frederick J. Rae, M.A 87 Belmont Street U.F. Church 88 Rev. Dr. David Beatt 90 Bon- Accord U.F. Church 92 Old Free Bon- Accord Church 93 Rev. Hector M. Adam, B.D 94 Rev. J. Bonnar Russell, B.D 95 Mr. William Robbie 95 Carden Place U.F. Church 97 Rev. Archibald Young, M.A 99 Rev. Thomas P. Rankine, M.A 100 Causewayend U.F. Church 101 Rev. James A. Russell, M.A. 103 Charlotte Street U.F. Churoh 104 Rev. James W. Jackson 106 East U.F. Church 108 Professor Oandlish Ill Principal Lumsden 112 Rev. G. H. C. Maogregor, M.A 113 Rev. Charles H. Todd, M.A 114 Mr. Donald Reid, Precentor 115 Ferryhill U.F. Church 116 Principal Iverach ... 117 Professor Kilpatriok 118 Rev. R. Bruce Taylor, M.A 119 Rev. John W. Coutts, M.A. 120 Gallowgate U.F. Churoh 122 Old Free Gallowgate Churoh 123 Rev. James Goodall 124 Rev. John Livingstone 125 Giloomston U.F. Church 126 Old Free Giloomston Church, Huntly St. 127 Rev. Robert Forgan, B.D/' 128 Greyfriars U.F. Churoy' 130 Old Free Greyfriars Church, Crown Street 131 Rev. William Smith 132 High U.F. Church 134 Rev. Henry W. Bell, M.A 137 Rev. D, M, Munro ... " 138 X. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS Page Page Hilton U.F. Church 139 Torry U.F. Church ... 211 Rev. Alexander F. Moir, M.A 140 Rev. Edward Brown ... 213 Rev. Andrew Dickson 141 Rev. Alexander Murray, M.A. ... 214 Holburn U.F. Church 143 Trinity U.F. Church ... 215 Rev. Andrew M'Queen, B.D. 144 Old Trinity Church and Old Trades Hall 216 Old Free Holburn Church, Bon-Accord Ter. 145 Old Trinity Church and Entrance to Old John Knox U.F. Church 146 Trades Hall ... 216 Old Free John Knox Church 147 Rev. Andrew Doak, M.A ... 219 Rev. Robert Maoleod 148 Rev. William Stoddart, M.A. ... 220 Melville U.F. Church 149 Union U.F. Church ... 222 First Melville Churoh, Weigh-house Sq. ... 150 Rev. A. M. Bannatyne ... 224 Second Melville Churoh, Correction Wynd 151 Rev. Alexander Rodger ... 225 Rev. James Muir, M.A. 152 Rev. Thomas Havre ... 226 Nelson Street U.F. Churoh .. 154 West U.F. Churoh ... 227 Rev. Archibald Campbell 156 Rev. George Webster Thomson, D.D. ... 228 North U.F. Churoh 157 Rev. J. Esslemont Adams, B.D; .. ... 229 Rev. Dr. John Murray 157 Aberdeen United. Free Church College ... 231 Rev. George Campbell 158 Principal Iverach ... 232 Rev. George D. Low, M.A. .. 158 Professor Cameron ... 233 Rev. F. Renton Barry 159 Professor Stalker ... 235 Rev. James S. Stewart 160 Professor Cairns ... 236 Old Free North Church 161 Bool Road ... 239 Oldmaohar U.F. Church 162 Rev. R. M. Cairney ... 240 Rev. Joseph Shillinglaw, B.D 165 Belmont Congregational Church .. ... 242 Queen's Cross U.F. Church .. 167 George Street Congregational Chapel Principal George Adam Smitl 168 ("The Loch Kirk") ... 243 Rev. Martin Lewis, B.A. 169 Rev. Dr. Stark ... 244 Rutherford U.F. Church 171 Rev. H. A. Inglis, M.A ... 245 " Laing's Kirkie," Northfield 172 Bon-Acoord Congregational Church ... 246 Rev. John D. MacGilp, M.A. 174 Rev. James Ross ... 247 Rev. Donald M'Farlan, M.A. 175 Rev. Donald Macintosh ... 248 Ruthrieston U.F. Church 176 John Street Congregational Church ... 249 Rev. Robert iSemple 177 Rev. Dr. Stewart ... 250 St. Andrew's U.F. Churoh .. 179 St. Paul Street Congregational Church ... 252 Mariners' Church, Commerce Street ... 179 Principal Fairbairn ... 254 Rev. Dr. Longmuir 180 Rev. Alexander Brown ... 255 Rev. A. Murray Scott, M.A. 181 Skene Street Congregational Church ... 257 St. Clement's U.F. Church .. 183 Blackfriars Chapel, Blackfriars Street ... 258 Old Free St. Clement's Churc h 184 Rev. William Kirk, M.A ... 259 Rev. A. D. Donaldson, M.A. 185 Rev. H. A. Evans, M.A ... 260 St. Columba U.F. Churoh .. 187 Rev. Thomas Richards ... 260 Rev. A. F. Campbell 192 Trinity Congregational Churoh ... 261 St. John's U.F. Church 194 Rev. Dr. John Duncan ... 262 Rev. John Ure, M.A 195 Rev. James Adam ... 264 St. Nicholas U.F. ChuTch .. 197 Woodside Congregational Church ... 265 Old St. Nicholas Lane U.P. ( Church ... 198 Rev. G. C. Milne ... 267 Rev. Dr. John Robson 199 Academy Street Baptist Church .. ... 268 Rev. J. G. Walton, B.D. 200 Crown Terrace Baptist Church ... 271 Rev. D. Ritchie Key, M.A. .. 201 John Street Baptist Church , ....272 St. Paul's U.F. Church 202 Rev. George S. Mee ... 273 Old St. Paul Street U.P. Chi) rch 203 Rev. W. S. Chedburn ... 274 Rev. Andrew Dickie 204 Rev. Forbes Jackson, M.A. ... 275 Rev. Thomas Simpson 206 Giloomston Park Baptist Church .. ... 276 South U.F. Church 207 Rev. A. Grant Gibb, M.A ... 278 Rev. W. Mackintosh Mackay, B.D. ... 209 Union Grove Baptist Church ... 279 Rev. John A. Irvine, B.A, .. 210 Rev, S. G, Woodirow ... 280 LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS Page Page Rev. R. Birch Hoyle 281 The Very Rev. Canon Toohetti 323 Mr. James Criohton 281 Wesleyan Methodist Church 324 Right Rev. Rowland Ellis, D.D 282 Old Wesleyan Church, Longaore 325 St. Andrew's Bpisoopal Churoh 283 Christian Unitarian Church 328 Old St. Andrew's Episcopal Churoh, Long- Old Unitarian Churoh, George Street 330 acre 283 Rev. Alexander Webster 331 Dean Danson 281 Original Secession Church 334 St. Clement's Episcopal Church 287 Rev. John M'Kay 335 Rev. J. R. Cormaok 288 Rev. Ebenezer Ritchie 336 Rev. R. Walker Watt, M.A. 288 Rev. Robert F. Stuart, B.A 336 St. James's Episcopal Church 290 Rev. Robert B. M'Vicar 337 Old St. James's Episcopal Church 291 Mr. Charles Joss 337 Rev. C. M. Black, M.A 292 Mr. James Youngson 338 Rev. Angus M. Mackay, B.A 292 Catholic Apostolic Church 339 Rev. J. T. F. Farquhar, M.A. 293 Old Catholic Apostolic Churoh 340 St. John's Episoopal Churoh 294 Meeting-House, Crown Street 341 Rev. Robert Cruickshank, M.A 296 George Fox 342 St. Margaret's Episcopal Church 298 Old Meeting-House in Gallowgate 345 Rev. G. E. W. Holmes, M.A 300 Churoh of Christ, Skene Terrace 348 St. Mary's Episoopal Church 302 Salvation Army Citadel 350 Rev. F. W. Christie, M.A 304 Mr. Donald Ross 356 St. Paul's Episoopal Church 306 Mr. J. A. Smith 362 Old St. Paul's Episcopal Church 307 The Aberdeen Young Men's Christian As Rev. E. E. Marshall 308 sociation 363 Rev. G. T. Shettle, L.A 308 Mr. Alexander Milne ... 364 St. Peter's Episcopal Mission Churoh ... 309 Mr. Charles Shirreffs 366 Rev. W. Disney Innes 310 Mr. Gray C. Fraser 367 Rev. Henry Burdon, B.A 311 Mr. Adam Maitland 368 Rt. Rev. Bishop Chisholm 312 Mr. J. D. Mackie 369 St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral ... 313 Mr. William Sangster 369 The Very Rev. John Sutherland 314 Mr. John Montgomery 370 Monsignor Stopani 315 Dr. John Thomas 371 Rev. John C. Meany 316 Mr. James Mowat 372 St. Peter's Roman Catholic Church 318 Free Church of Scotland 374 Priest Gordon 319 Rev. I. OstrofE 375 Rev. Andrew Grant 321 Rev. Hugh Hart 377 St. Joseph's Roman Catholic Churoh ... 322 Zion Chapel, John Street 377 Cbe Cburcbes of Aberdeen: historical and Descriptive. CHURCH OF SCOTLAND. I.— CATHEDRAL OF OLDMACHAR. Oldmachar Cathedral. The venerable Cathedral, which is now used as the parish church of Oldmachar, has behind it a long and interesting his tory associated with various forms of eccle siastical government. Roman Catholicism, Episcopacy, and Presbyterianism have in turn held sway within this ancient pile. For thirteen hundred years the building has been used as a place of worship, and, while in its outward aspect it has suffered from the transformations of the centuries, yet it can claim to have had a continuous existence, and it is undeniably rich in tradi tions of the past. Maehar, the founder of tho churoh, was a disciple of Columba., by whom h© was sent, along with some others, to preach the Gospel to the Picts. His mission «:>-. specially to the northern part of the king dom, and it is said that he was directed by his master to fix his abode by the banks of a river at a spot where the windings of the stream resembled a bishop's orojiier. Following the Don in its course, St. Machar (or St. Mochonna) discovered, near the mouth of the river at Seaton, a curve exactly answering to the instructions given him bv St. Columba. The bend in the THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Don as it flows to-day along the beautiful valley between th© Cathedral and Seaton House will still impress the observer with its resemblance to the head of a pastoral staff, and give an air of probability to the old tradition. It is generally supposed that it was about the year 570 when St. Machar settled at this spot to which he had been so strangely directed. The church which he .was the means of erecting is likely to have been quite a primitive building, constructed probably of no more durable materials than wattles and clay, or blocks of wood. The original structure may have been succeeded by other's of a similar type, and still later by some unpretentious example of rude masonry. Little is known, however, of the church and its history during the long period from the sixth to the twelfth cen turies. It is evident that, when the See of Aberdeen was founded by Royal Charter in the latier half of the twelfth century, there was still only a very humble edifice on the site chosen by St. Machar. This i6 proved by the fact that steps were soon taken to erect a building more in keeping with the dignity associated with the seat of a Bishopric. In 1333 the edifice then existing was burnt by the English in the troubled days of King David II. The pre sent cathedral was founded by Bishop Alexander Kinninmund II., but he died in 1381, before the walls had risen to a height of more than nine feet. The portion of the work carried out by him was in red sandstone, and it can still be traced in the remains of the transepts. To Bishop Henry Leighton, who then succeeded to the See, there must be attributed the adoption of granite, which has given St. Machar Cathedral a distinctive place among the cathedrals of the kingdom. During the eighteen years of his reign Bishop Leigh ton saw the building considerably advanced, and the foundations laid of the tower and steeples. Bishop Spens devoted himself to furnishing the interior, and then the great Bishop Elphinstone, most illustrious of all the Aberdeen Bishops, took up the work with characteristic energy. During his memorable occupancy of the See, he com pleted the great tower of the Cathedral, re built the choir, and, in many other ways advanced in a marked degree this impor tant project, although his name may be more prominently identified with his great work as the founder of King's College. Bishop Gavin Dunbar, his successor, com pleted the west front of the Cathedral and the two western towers, and he also built the south transept, which is still known as "Dunbar's Aisle." His great work, however, was the erection of the unique flat-panelled oak ceiling, with its rows of shields of "kings, prelates, priests, potentates, and peers." At Bishop Dun bar's death, in 1522, the building might be considered to have been complete. In its various stages the work of its erection and furnishing had occupied over 150 years. Many men of note had helped to further its progress in the generations that had passed since the scheme was first under taken, but in its perfect state the noble Cathedral must have appeared worthy of all that had been spent upon it. Only forty years elapsed, however, before the magnificent pile was almost laid in ruins. At the Reformation it suffered severely, one -act of spoliation taking place after another, until only a vestige of its former glory remained. The chancel was demolished, the lead covering was stripped off the roof, and the costly belte, gifted by Bishop Elphinstone, were taken from the tower. All the movable booty was carried off, and the whole building would have been wrecked had it not been for the timely arrival of the Earl of Huntly with a large force of armed followers. As it was, the lead and bells and other valuable plunder were shipped at Aberdeen for Holland, but the ship had scarcely left the harbour when a violent storm arose, and heavily laden with the plunder, the vessel sank almost close to Girdleness. Thus, it has been said, did the just' judgment of Heaven fall upon such sacrilegious work. Various attempts were made from time to time to repair the damage done to the building, and also at various times other works of destruction were carried out. Dr. Guild, the great benefactor of the Aber deen Incorporated Trades, was one of the leaders in the work of destruction. The removal of the High Altar, the demolition of the Bishop's house, and other acts of damage were laid to his charge. William Strachan, the Covenanting minister, was responsible for the erection of a loft ov gallery in the building. In his zeal for tho spiritual interests of the people, Strachan called out from the pulpit the names of all those who absented themselves from his preaching, with the result that the seats were insufficient to accommodate his crowds of hearers. In view of this, he secured the erection of a gallery, which, it has been said, took away "the stately sight and glorious show of the whole body of the church." In this connection it may bo mentioned that early in the present cen tury there were double rows of galleries on CATHLl'hAL vF OLDMAiHAY. each tdie of the church, and •--- ar each esd. The eaa gallery was kr-o-3--. as> tile college loft, and in it weie aivvmUBodated the principal, professors, and ccudeznr. They wafted in pre- .^sX-??: free King's College to the Cathedral- it.^ proKssors. at the head of their resptv-Trre classes, in Mack gown? ; the -indents in Their starlet academical dr?** : the proc-c^ssion r-eir_; beaded by the sarrXt in a purple cloak. The west gallery was called the common loft. The trades occupied the north and south galleries, their armorial bearings being shown in front, and in tbe south gallery tbe magistrates of Old Aberdeen had also their official seate. The crowning incident in the work oi demolition was the faO of the great central tower in 1688. Cromwell's troops, in con structing fortifications on Gastie Hill, re moved many stones from the ruined part of the Cathedral, and so much of the masonry had been utilised in this way that afterwards it- was thought necessary to take steps for preserving the tower in view of reports as to its instability. Buttresses were to be erected on the east side, hut the workmen began operations quite close to the foundations, with the result that the tower was undermined, and, with a terrific crash, it fell to tbe ground. The- devasta tion caused by the fall of such an immense structure was very great. "The galleries were wrecked, the transepts were ruined, and many of the monuments to the illus trious dead were broken in fragments. The pie-Reformation Bishops who oc cupied the See were 31 in number. The complete list is still preserved, hut the more outstanding names have already been referred to in connection with their work for the Cathedral. Among the post-Refor mation Bishops there were some men of great gifts and widespread fame. The fol lowing is the list, viz. : — (1) David Cunning ham ; (2) Patrick Blackburn (1603-15) ; (3) Alexander Forbes (1611-17); (4) Patrick Forbes (1618-35); (5) Adam Ballantine (1635-38) ; (6) David Mitchell (1661-62) : (7) Alexander Burnett (1663-84); (8) Patrick Scougal (1664-82); (9) George Haliburton (1682-1715). Bishop Patrick Forbes was a kinsman of Andrew Melville, and a churchman of great influence. He was one of those appointed to revise the Confession of Faith, the Liturgy, ajid the Rules of Discipline of the Church, and by his character and talents he gained universal esteem, not only in his diocese, but -Throughout the whole of Scot land. Bishop Ballantine was deposed in 1638, on the abolition, for the time, of F.-isoc-j^ct. H<> wrthiivw :*> F ; .-*¦- ... and his. s- ;,¦>>*.>: Bishop Harid Mm-fcelL was. cor&s»x r. -.ted on Ttv xv*~:oc.-.:i«M o» K-.v^y- y-*cy in 1<^1_ The r.ios; far.xv-is nan** os aO was that ot Bishop Patrick ^y.-.ca. A man erf enuneiKv* V.kr.sel:. Bjshov S^y-v-cal's fame was eoiips»X. by tha* ot hi so:-. Prv> f«sor Her. tv jvcv.gal. the author of "The life or God •: the ^xJ of Man." a widely- known work, which has stirrived tho inter vening centuries, and is st;';' prised to-day. All these good n>en and true served their own generation aevwrdin-: to their licht Rev. Dr. Calder. and most of them were laid to iwl near tho picturesque scene of their labours— In the still old town, Where the Minster towers Toll the passing hours To the chiming College Crown. Centuries have passed since the last of them left the scene, but a now order of things arose around the Cathedral, wliich links its history, as a Presbyterian Churoh for the parish of Oldmachar, to the life of to-day. The Cathedral was taken possession of as a Presbyterian Church on let July, 1691 , THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN and it has remained in the hands of the Presbyterians ever since. The building . underwent, at various times, a series of restorations. These were designed at first mainly to bring order out of chaos. The repeated acts of demolition, and especially the fall, of the great tower, had left the structure almost unfit for occupation as a place of worship, and a certain amount of restoration was an absolute necessity. When this had been overtaken, other schemes followed from time to time, and. while the Cathedral has never regained the grandeur of its earlier day6, it has been greatly improved and beautified since the Reformation. To mention only some of the more recent restorations, there was the rebuilding of the north aisle and the large window in the east gable in the first half of the nineteenth century, and then, at a still later date — in 1867-69 — tne large scheme of general improvement and re pairs. Under the latter scheme the gal leries, which extended all round the build ing, were removed, and the pulpit was transferred from the front of the north gallery to a place at the east end, so as to face the whole congregation, for whose accommodation a modem style of pews superseded the old ones in the area, and the 6ide aisles. The plaster in which the stone pillars were encased was removed, and —not least — the celebrated heraldic ceiling of the nave was restored. This scheme, which was designed by Mr. (after wards Sir) Gilbert Scott, was the occasion of a lengthened, and at times, heated, con troversy between the kirk-se6sion and the landed proprietors and lesser heritors. Eventually, however, all difficulties were overcome, and it has been said that, in viewing the greatly-enhanced interior of the ancient building, "the tiffs of temper and enforced expansion of purses were soon forgotten." The total outlay at this time was about £3700, of which the 6um of £2988 was raised from the levying of assessments, and £700 granted from the Restoration Fund, which wa6 collected by public subscription. The Cathedral was closed for fifteen months while the work was being carried out, and it was reopened for public worship in September, 1868. Still more recently, the east window was opened up, several stained glass windows were in serted, and, in 1890, a magnificent pipe organ was erected, and certain necessary structural alterations were carried out. The organ, which cost several thousands of pounds, is admittedly one of the finest in the North of Scotland. The list of ministers who have held the collegiate charge oi Oldmachar, with the dates, as far as known, is as follows.— First Charge. 1569 — James Lawson. 157 —Alexander Arbuthnott. 159 —David Raitt. 1621 — Alexander Scrogie. 1640— William Strachan. 165 —John Seaton, A.M. 1658— Alexander Scrogie, A.M. 1661— Alexander Middleton, A.M. 1665— Robert Reynolds. 1672— George Strachan, A.M. 1679— George Garden, A.M. 1684- John Keith, D.D. 1679— Thomas Thomson. 1705— David Corse. 1714— Alexander Mitchell. 1729— George Chalmers;. 1746— James Mitchell, A.M. 1773— Patrick Duff. 1784— Skene Ogilvy, D.D. 1830— Robert Smith, D.D. 1878 — George Jamieson, D.D. 1903— John Calder, D.D. Second Charge. 1595— Robert Howie. 1601— John Chalmers. 165 —John Seaton, M.A. 16 — Adam Sutherland, A.M. 16 - Alexander Clark, A.M. 1704— David Corse. 1717— William Smith. 1731 -James Mitchell. 1747— George Bartlett. 1755_Patrick Duff. ].774_Thomas Tait, A.M. 1780— Robert Dunbar. 1788 —Alexander Henderson, A.M. 1701— George Grant. 1 795-- Alexander Simpson, A.M. 1805— Alexander Walker, A.M. 1811— Gilbert Gerard, D.D. 1816 -Patrick Forbes, D.D. 1.847— James G. Wood. 1858 — George Jamieson, B.D. 1878— John Calder. 1903— Thomas S. C'argill, B.D. In the list there occur the names of some men of outstanding eminence. Several of them held the post of Professor or Prin cipal of King's College in conjunction with their ministerial charge, and not a few of the others were distinguished both as scholars and ecclesiastics. Dr. Patrick Forbes, who was minister of the Second Charge from 1816 to 1847, was one of the leaders of tho Moderate party of his day. cathedf.a:. of oljuacha* 0«e of the best Lata Teachers ia ti>e XoctX of Scotland, he held, iX*g with his taariv . the Professorship of Humanity, and ¥s- known by the sradters *s " Doetor Prosody." In the Pre*shytery and >yr.oJ of Aberdeen he led the Moderates in the starring dais of convict {seceding the Dis ruption, his standing and influence beirc all the greater on account of the fact that he had been Moderator oaf the Genera" Assembly in 1829. Dr. Skene Ogilvy. who held the First Charge from 17S4 to 1S30. has been described as "" a well-read man. though et blunt and unprepossessing manners, with a shrewd and acube mind: and. having con siderable aptitnde as a speaker, he often took part in the debates at tile meetings of the General Assembly." More distinct in the public men>ory than either of these, is the personality of Dr. Robert Smith, who was minister of the First Charge for tbe very long period of forty-eight years— from 1S30 to 1S7S. Dr. Smith was a man of many parrs. In addi tion to carrying on the duties of his pas torate, he took a large share in public work. and he is acknowledged to have been the founder of most of the Old Aberdeen chari ties. With great foresight and shrewd ability he devoted himself to this particular phase of work, and, having secured the support of some of the most prominent citizens, he laid the foundations of Insti tutions and Trusts from which the parish- • ioners and citizens are still reaping the benefit. The most striking figure in connection with the history of the Cathedral in recent years was unquestionably that of Dr. George Jamieson, who held the Second Charge from 1858 to 1878 and the First Charge from 1878 to 1903. In the affairs of the parish and in the work of his pastor ate he took a keen and practical interest, but it was by his theological and literary efforts that he became most widely known. A student and writer fo the very last, he accomplished a remarkable amount of work on his favourite subjects. Ever of an original and speculative cast of mind, he was also a thoroughly independent thinker. He often arrived at conclusions at variance with commonly accepted ideas, but he was never afraid to give expression to what he thought. From 1845 onwards his pen was seldom idle, and he left behind him a long list of contributions on metaphysical and theological subjects. His industry was quite phenomenal. Dr. Jamieson wa,s of a somewhat impetuous temperament. Ho always spoke his mind very plainly, aiid soiaeriai-as &e a -.ighfc h»ve fcoec., vet osxly forcible, Vm Vhu.t. in his exyressx-.is He took part in r.vir.y an en ttnlineiiir.i v-h3«ttp»e:-.ish v et wh.it he be ttered ro he r.iht Vy te the end el his life* »heu he wss tr. has e;^ htv-eichtrh y*v»r. Dr. Jatniegon continued ut the »eu\e ministry, and ius patriarchal ri$.u:v came te be familiar ererywhiM*. He «-»s emphati- cally a man et mark in his day. and has ptcnoegqno persen.Vuty and characteristic remarks will net seen be iesxettou in the Aulton. Rev. Thomas S. Otu-glll. Rev. Dr. Calder, the present minister of the First Charge, lo which lie was elected on the death of Dr. .lainiosou, in 1!HW, had previously hold the Second Charge from 1878. An alumnus of Glasgow University, his first ministerial 1 appointment wiw as ao long a period he had been a prominent figure. He left behind him several volumes of sermons and expositions, and after his death a volume was published, under the title of " Memorials of a Faithful Pastor." containing a memoir by Rev, William Selbie, of Maryculter, and a number of Mr. Stephen's special discourses. Rev. John Tainsh, who was colleague to Mr. Stephen from 1878 to 1881, continued in the sole pastorate of John Knox Church until 1883, when he accepted a call to the historic Tron Church, Glasgow, where he still labours. Although Mr. Tainsh's con nection with the congregation lasted only for about five years, he accomplished good and lasting service. His vigour as a preacher, his energy as a pastor, and par ticularly his faculty of attracting the young, made a marked impression. His business capacity also was of considerable Old Free Johu Knox Church. help to the congregation, and this feature has been even more apparent in his subse quent career, and has proved of consider able value to the Church at large. In the Assembly committees Mr. Tainsh has been a diligent worker, and his efforts for the improvement of th© service of praise, first as colleague 'and latterly as successor to Professor A. B. Bruce in the convenership of the committee, were largely instrumental in the production of th© Church Hymnary. Mr. Tainsh cam© to John Knox Church when the weight of advancing yeare was beginning to tell on Mr. Stephen, and threw himself into its varied activities with all the vigour of a young man, and im parted to it fresh life and energy. His pas torate, though a short one, wa6 not with out its influence in the history of the con gregation. Mr. Tainsh was succeeded in the pas torate of John Knox Church by the present minister, Rev. Robert Macleod, who was inducted to the charge in 1883. Mr. Mac leod is a native of Caithness, and he re ceived his University training in Aberdeen. After completing his Arts course, he acted K2 148 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN as a teacher in the Gymnasium Old Aber deen, for five years, during which time he also studied Divinity in the Free Church Colleg©. On completing his theological curriculum, he was appointed, on the re commendation of Principal Lumsden, to a new mission station in Dundee, which has since developed into Ogilvie Church, one of the largest of the denomination in that city. After a year of hard but highly suc cessful work in this pioneer cause, Mr. Rev. Rohert Macleod. Macleod accepted a call to th© church at Clunie in Perthshire, where he was or dained in 1873. After a ministry of six years in that beautiful country district, he was called to Keith, where he laboured with great acceptance and success from 1879 to 1883, when he was translated to Aberdeen. John Knox Church under Mr. Macleod has not only maintained, but con siderably improved its position. The mem bership at the date of his induction was 737 ; to-day, notwithstanding the westward tendency in the city, and other causes likely to adversely affect it, the communion roll contains over 900 names. The congrega tion is fully organised, and its numerous agencies are carried on with exceptional energy and success. A noticeable feature is the great number of young people who ar© associated in various aspects with the church. The Sunday morning Fellowship Association for young men and women is one of the most successful in the city. Mr. Macleod has largely reserved his time and strength for the duties of his own pas torate. In public work outside he has never taken a prominent part, but in concentra ting his efforts he has not been without his reward. The position of the congregation to-day is a testimony to the effectiveness of his pastorate. In the pulpit Mr. Macleod is an eloquent and forceful preacher. His discourses are able and evangelical, and his delivery is often characterised by Celtic fire and fervour. The outstanding in cident in Mr. Macleod's ministry has, of course, been the erection of the fine new church and halls on the old site. The new church — an imposing edifice costing about £6000 — was opened by Dr. Alexander Whyte, of Edinburgh, in January, 1900. In the course of its history, John Knox Church has given several of its sons to the ministry. The list of those who were " brought up " in the congregation, or were associated with it in their youthful days, includes the names of Rev. Alexander Wishart, Forgue ; Rev. Mr. Barclay, Liver pool; Rev. John Smith, Demerara; Rev. James A. Jaffray, Blackburn; Rev. Alex ander Forbes, pioneer missionary in Canada ; Rev. George Williams, of Norrie- ston, Stirling, and others. The church has had from time to time in its membership men well known in the community. In the Disruption difficulties one of the best« friends of the congregation was Mr. James Garden, advocate (father of Mr. James Murray Garden), and amongst those who at various times in its subsequent history were identified with it were Mr. Henry Brechin (one of the most prominent trades coun cillors of his day), Mr. J. H. Bisset, builder ; Mr. William Mitchell, postmaster ; Mr. James Cran, Gas Office; Mr. Duncan M. Smith, and Baillie Young. The membership of the congregation is almost exclusively composed of the work ing classes, and therein lies one of the main elements of its strength. John Knox Church has exerted in the past, and is exerting to-day, a wide influence for good, but, perhaps, the greatest service it has rendered to the denomination in Aberdeen has been in proving that it is possible to maintain even in the very centre of the city and largely on the old lines, a large, strong, and flourishing congregation of the oommon people. XXXVIII.— MELVILLE UNITED FREE CHURCH. Melville U.F. Church. Perhaps no congregation in Aberdeen has had a more changeful career than that which is worshipping to-day in Melville United Free Church. It has witnessed many strange ©cclesiastical developments, and its history is bound up with several denominations. Leaving the Established Church in 1756, its founding marked the origin of the Secession in Aberdeen, the movement which in later years led to the formation of th© United Presbyterian Church. Th© congregation was originally attached to the Burgher section of the Secession, and when the Burgher split took place over the Old and New Lights con troversy it adhered to the Old Light Synod. At a further stage in its history it returned to the Established Church, leaving it again, however, to join th© Fr©e Church, and merging with it into the larger body of the United Fre© Church of Scotland. Estab lished Church, Burgher, Old Light Burgher, Established Church, Free Church, United Fre© Church — surely this is a re cord of denominational development it would b© difficult to surpass. It is generally conceded that Rev. John Bisset, of th© East Parish Church, was the father of the Secession in Aberdeen. Mr. Bisset, although he made several overtures to the Secession leaders, never formally allied himself with the movement. Yet his sympathies wer© wholly in that direc tion, and before his death in 1756 he advised his followers to cast in their lot with it. They left the Established Church in two parties — one joining the Burgher Secession and founding the present Mel ville congregation in 1757, and th© other seeking admission to the Anti-Burgher Secession and founding in 1777 the con gregation known to-day as that of Belmont Street U.F. Church. The Burghers secured a place of worship in Weigh-house Square, and on 4th January, 1757, two months after Mr. Bisset's death, th© Presbytery of Perth and Dunfermline had their petition under consideration, and Mr. Shirra, of Kirk caldy, was sent as pulpit supply for several Sundays. In course of tim© a call was addressed to Rev. Alexander Dick, a preacher who had just completed his course of training under th© Burgher Synod. Mr. Dick was also called by Torphichen, and the Synod had to decide which invitation he ought to accept. By a great majority th© Aberdeen call was preferred, although it is said that Mr. Dick had considerable difficulty in acquiescing. Yet he must afterwards hav© acknowledged the wisdom of the choice, for his ministry in Aberdeen was a long and eminently prosperous one. He was ordained on 7th December, 1758, and th© congregation soon began to flourish under his care. Th© numbers greatly in creased, many of the best known families in th© town becoming connected with th© new cause, and in 1772 a new and more commodious church, with 700 sittings, was erected in Netherkirkgate. The cost, which amounted to £500, was met by sub scriptions at the time, and what remained was cleared off from the proceeds of the seat rents. A house for th© minister was afterwards built on the same piece of ground. Mr. Dick continued to carry on th© work of th© charg© until his death in 17th February, 1793, in the 64th year of his age and the 35th of his ministry. In 150 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN a memoir prefixed to " Sermons and Notes of Sermons" preached by him and pub lished in 1852, it is stated that, though afflicted with nervous weakness during the last years of his life, he was only laid aside from public duty the Sunday before his death. Mr. Dick, as the first Secession minister in Aberdeen, was an honour to the movement. He compelled respect even from those who had no sympathy with his sect. His memory is perpetuated by a marble tablet in the vestibule of the pre sent Melville Church, and by a handsome monument erected by his congregation over his grave in St. Nicholas Churchyard, the inscription recording that he preached the Gospel with primitive simplicity to a people who honoured and loved him, and that his life was a perpetual commentary on the purity of his doctrine. First Melville Church, Weigh-house Square. A crisis occurred in connection with the appointment of a successor to Mr. Dick. A call to Rev. William Brunton, of New- battle, was presented to the Presbytery with the signatures of 240 members and 30 adherents. A section of the congregation, however, had set their hearts on Rev. John Dick, of Slateford, a son of the former minister, and although defeated in th© voting, they carried their opposition to the Presbytery, and lodged a protest signed by 64 members against th© call to Mr. Brunton being sustained. The Pres bytery sustained the call, but the minority would not acquiesce. They applied forth with for disjunction, and went out to form St. .Nicholas Lane congregation, which now worships in St. JNicholas U.P. Church, Union tirove. Mr. Brunton was ordained on 22nd April, 1795, but he soon found himself in » nest of troubles. When the controversy between the Old and New Lights began to disturb the peace of the Church the congregation adopted th© conservative posi tion, but Mr. Brunton favoured relaxation. The result was that his elders refused to take part with him in th© observance of th© Sacrament. They next went the length of forbidding him to assist any of his brethren at communions, and this was followed in 1798 by a petition to have the relation between them and their minister dissolved. Petitions were also presented by 40 or 50 friends in his favour, and matters were becoming confused. At last four elders, the leaders of the opposition, who had been laid under suspension some months before, were cut off from the fel lowship of the church and Mr. Brunton was left without a session. In the end the majority withdrew their petition, but the contest was renewed in the courts of law over the disposal of the property. Mr. Brunton still occupied the pulpit, and an attempt to close the door against him was circumvented by altering the locks. The Sheriff decided in favour of the Old Lights, and the Court of Session, on the case being appealed, confirmed his judgment. The case was decided on 13th May, 1801, and on 3rd September Mr. Brunton gave in the demission of his charge. The pastoral tie was dissolved on 15th December, 1801, and Mr. Brunton removed to Dundee. For a time he was engaged in teaching, but after wards, with the Presbytery's sanction, undertook engagements for pulpit supply. In 1820 he emigrated to Canada, and after preaching in various places he undertook, in 1831, the pastoral care of the congrega tion at La Chute, of which he was minister at his death in 1839. The congregation had now to suffer a long vacancy. Strife and turmoil had told upon the members, for none of the three unsuccessful calls issued during this period had more than 165 signatures, including adherents. After five years a settlement was effected by the acceptance of a call addressed to Rev. William Primrose, a preacher from Kincardine-on-Forth. Mr. Primrose was oidained on 13th August, 1806, and during his 60 years' occupancy of the pastorate the Melville congregation passed through several important stages in its history. For a number of years there could have been no progress, for in 1837 the membership was returned at 160, and the stipend was the same as at Mr. Prim rose's settlement— viz., £100, with £20 for house rent. In 1839 both minister and congregation foreook their Secession con nection and sought admission to the Estab lished Church. Their petition was granted, and in that year Melville was created a MELVILLE UNITED FREE CHURCH 151 " quod sacra " Parish Church. Four years' connection with th© Establishment sufficed, for when th© Disruption of 1843 occurred th© Melville congregation, actuated, per haps, by its first principles, went out in a body and proclaimed it6 adherence to the new Free Church of Scotland. After this further change hi its ecclesiastical position, Melville Church had other 23 years of the ministry of Mr. Primrose, his death taking place in 1866. The manner of man he was may be inferred from his hold over the congregation, which remained practically intact under three changes of denomina tion. His influence must have been largely a personal one, but of his pulpit appear ances it has been testified that ' ' h© had not only clear views of th© Gospel, but was correct in expression, and very fervent in delivery." During th© closing years of his ministry h© was unable to officiate with any regularity, and the congregation fell off considerably. Late in 1866, Rev. James H. Collie, M.A., was appointed assistant, and on 7th March, 1867, he was ordained to the pastorate of th© congrega tion in succession to Mr. Primrose. Mr. Collie was a son of th© congregation, and he served it in th© ministry with acceptance and success for over eight years. The re vival movement in Scotland in the early 'seventies spread to Aberdeen during Mr. Collie's ministry in Melville, and he threw himself into it with whole-hearted earnest ness. He gathered around him a band of devoted workers, and ther© was a great ingathering to th© membership of the church. In a sense, Melville congregation still bears the impress of Mr. Collie's ministry. The evangelistic sympathies it gained then and the practical interest it acquired in home mission and general aggressive work have never left it, but are among its distinguishing features to-day. Mr. Collie left in 1875, and was afterwards minister of th© English Presbyterian Church at Bootle, Liverpool, for many years. The vacancy in th© pastorate was speedily filled by a call being addressed to the Rev. James Masson, of Saline, Fifeshire. Mr. Masson came to Aberdeen with an ex perience of eight years' successful work in the ministry after a distinguished career at college. He found M©lville congregation when it had reaped the results of the re vival, and the work that lay to his hand was that of solidifying rather than of ex tending. In this h© was amply successful. Th© church in Correction Wynd to which the congregation had removed from Netherkirkgate required extension and re novation, and soon after Mr. Masson's settlement the building had to b© tem porarily vacated. The way in which the members held together during the trying time of exile when the services wer© held in the Song School, in Union Street, was a. testimony to th© depth and strength of Mr. Masson's influence. He was in some Second Melville Church, Correction Wynd. respects peculiarly fitted for th© special work he had to do in Melville. "His preaching," it has been said, "was just such a combination of evangelical, doc trinal, and practical teaching as is required for the making of an all-round, manly, and robust type of Christian life. It was always sane and sappy, always pointed and plain. H© was faithful and helpful in the pulpit, frank and approachable in private, and tender and thoughtful as a woman with those for whom the waters had deepened, and who were tasting the bitters of life." During th© most of his ministry in Aberdeen Mr. Masson had to struggle with ill-health, although he never allowed this to affect his preaching. Th© strain, howev©r, was severe, and ther© was, per haps, Jit-tie surprise, although sincere re gret, when h© accepted in 1884 a call to the church at Coupar-Angus. There he laboured until April, 1904, when the tidings of his death came with the keen sense of a personal loss to those in Aberdeen who had, 20 yeare previously, enjoyed the bene fits of his ministry. On Mr. Masson's departure, Melville for the first time in its history went north in search of a minister. Its choice fell upon Rev. David Eaton, M.A., of Dufftown, who accepted the invitation, and was happily 152 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. James Muir, M.A. settled m the pastorate before the close of 1884. Mr. Eaton's work in Aberdeen was not of a demonstrative or showy kind. He pursued tbe duties of his office quietly but diligently, and the outstanding charac teristics of his ministry may be said to have been its wisdom, its earnestness, and its charity. Personally, he was beloved by his members for his genuine, gentle, and unassuming character. Always of a studious disposition, and with a brilliant record as a scholar, he still further matured his powers during his stay in Aberdeen. His eminence as a Hebrew scholar became widely acknowledged, and had it not been for his innate modesty, several important positions might have been within his grasp. More than once his nam© has been proposed for vacant professorships, and he has dis charged with acknowledged success the duties of a Hebrew chair during a tem porary vacancy. Dr. Eaton (for he i6 now the worthy wearer of a D.D. degree) left Melville in May, 1893, to become minister of Great Hamilton Street Church, Glas gow, and he has more recently undertaken the pastorate of Scotstoun Church, one of the new extension charges promoted by the Glasgow Presbytery. A prolonged and rather trying vacancy followed on Dr. Eaton's removal from Mel ville. Ultimately it was unanimously agreed to call Rev. James Henderson (son of Sir William Henderson), who had re cently returned from Constantinople, and had formerly been minister at Insch. Mr. Henderson at th© same tim© received ii call from Queen's Cross Church, Glasgow, which he accepted in preference to Mel ville. The committee set to work again, and in the course of time the vacancy was filled by the harmonious settlement, in MELVILLE UNITED FREE CHURCH 153 March, 1894, of Rev. W. S. Swanson, M.A., of Lochmaben. Mr. Swanson was a son of Rev. Dr. Swanson, of China, who was Moderator of th© English Presbyterian Church in 1887. He traced his ancestry to the far north of Scotland, and he was trained for th© ministry of the Free Church, gaining considerable distinction as a student. He was not long in Aberdeen before it was seen that he was in many ways a striking contrast to his predecessor. His culture was beyond dispute, but he always gave the impression of being pre eminently a man of action. His breezy manner, his impetuous walk, and his rush ing utterance in public speech betokened a personality of a marked kind. Mr. Swan son came to be known as a man of glowing enthusiasm and boundless energy. His preaching was fresh," eloquent, and telling, and he became a power on the platform as well as in the pulpit. Temperance and social work claimed his special sympathy, and when he left to become ministei of Paisley Road Church, Glasgow, in 1901 , it was recognised that the temperance move ment in Aberdeen had lost its ablest and most persistent and powerful advocate. The present minister of Melville, Hey. James Muir, M.A., was called from Kil- birni© soon after Mr. Swanson's departure for Glasgow, and he entered on the pas torate in October, 1901. In Kilbirnie he had gained a great reputation as a preacher of real spiritual power, and throughout the whole distiict his influence was acknow ledged. Since coming to Aberdeen h© has been steadily justifying th© expectations formed regarding him. The outstanding feature of his ministry so far has been the removal of the congregation from the old church in Correction Wynd and the erec tion of the fine new suite of buildings in Skene Street West. The situation of the old edifice, removed, as it was, from the street, and with access only by a narrow passage, must have proved detrimental to the interests of the congregation, parti cularly within more recent years. The only advantage that may be said to have accrued from the old site was that it gave Melville an undisputed right to claim that it belonged to th© Invisible Church ; while non© could question th© fact that narrow was the way which led to it. The new church buildings, designed by Messrs. Brown and Watt, architects, are unique among Aberdgen churches in two respects — one affecting the exterior and the other th© interior of the building. There is a campanile built wholly of granite, and th© auditorium of the church lias the seating arranged m horseshoe form. The founda tion stone of the new church was laid by Professor George Adani Smith on 5th Uctober, 19U1, and the building was opened for public worship on 3rd January, 1903, by Rev. W M. Clow, B.D., of Glasgow. In the new and modern structure, so ad mirably equipped with halls and classrooms for all the needs of a congregation of these days, there is room for growth in numbers and development along various lines ; and Mr. Muir's inspiring ministry will now liave abundant scope. Already there has been considerable progress, and what has been attained may be taken as a forecast of the possibilities of the future. Melville congregation has never lacked earnest and capable men to direct its affairs. It has had such men in the past, and it does not lack them now. Not a few, both past and present, have taken their share in public work and received honours at th© hands of the community. Yet the distinguishing features of Melville Church, as already alluded to, are its evan gelistic sympathies and its practical interest in aggressive religious work. These have dominated it all through ; and the church has been conspicuous, not so much for the public eminence of individual members as for the harmonious, united, and earnest manner in which the whole body of the peoplie have been banded together for active effort. Various outlets have been found for the zeal of th© congregation, and much good has been accomplished. Nothing, however, has reflected more favourably on the members than the manner in which the excellent Guestrow Mission, with all its many agencies, both religious and philan thropic, was maintained for many years. XXXIX. -NELSON STREET UNITED FREE CHURCH Nelson Street U.F. Church. This church owes its origin to a dispute which occasioned at the time a considerable amount of interest in local ecclesiastical circles. Two Presbyteries were agitated over it, and the Supreme Courts of two denominations had it under discussion ; while the actual outcome was the seceding of a body of members from the Free Church to the United Presbyterian Church. Time, however, obliterated th© distinc tions, and th© dissentients or their descendants returned to full communion with their former fellow-churchmen in the larger body which, as the United Free Church of Scotland, included both the sections formerly having a separate existence. The agitation which led to the founding of Nelson Street congregation centred almost exclusively . on the personality and work of Rev. Thomas Brown. Mr. Brown would appear to have been a native of Edinburgh, as in his boyhood he had been connected with Toi booth Church in that city. Not much can be learned of his record in the earlier part of his life. Presumably it had been spent in home mission work, as he came to Aberdeen in 1854 at the age of 42 to undertake the charg© of the Gallow gate Mission under the supervision of a committee of th© Free Church Presbytery. He held that position for about nine years before anything occurred te interrupt the harmony of his relations with the Presby tery, The work was characterised not only by diligence and zeal, but also by marked success in outward results. Mr. Brown found a handful of peopl© worshipping in a mission hall, but by his earnest efforts and his skilful organisation a congregation of over 200 was soon gathered together. The Presbyterial committee, being gratified with the progress of the work, resolved in 1859 to provid© for its future development by erecting a church in the district, and this project was carried into effect in 1861. So far, Mr. Brown and his members had no cause for complaint regarding the action of the Presbytery. They were less successful, however, with their application to have the mission raised to the status of a sanctioned charge of the Church, with power to elect their own minister. As a, territorial mission under the Presbytery, the control of its affairs rested with that court, and, in view of the increase in num bers and general prosperity, the members were strongly of opinion that the time had come when this state of matters should cease to exist. One strong argument ad duced was that Mr. Brown's engagement was liable to be terminated at any time when the Presbytery thought fit, without those who had by his instrumentality been gathered into a congregation having any voice in the matter. Strong feeling was shown, and when the decision of the Pres bytery and the General Assembly was found to be adverse to th© wishes of the people, it was, perhaps, only natural that there should have been keen resentment. It was certainly the case that the result was re ceived with feelings of indignation, and that steps wer© taken to secure redress. What these steps were and who instigated them formed the subject of long and heated debates in the Free Church Presby tery and of a vigorous controversy between two local newspapers. Overtures were made to the United Presbyterian Presbytery, Mr. Brown's application to be received as a NELSON STREET UNITED FREE CHURCH 155 licentiate of the Church being made on 10th February, 1863. Th© U.P.'s, however, resolved to act with caution, and the Frees instituted an inquiry regarding Mr. Brown's alleged action in seeking to in fluence the congregation to enter another denomination. The controversy was a prolonged and unhappy one. Ultimately, the U.P. Presbytery, acting by authority of its Supreme Court, resolved to receive Mr. Brown, seeing that th© Free Church Presbytery had nothing against him on the score of status or reputation. There upon another petition, in the form of a memorial from over 300 individuals con nected with the Free Church Gallowgate Mission, was presented to the Presbytery, praying to be received into the U.P. Church. The Presbytery appointed Rev. Andrew Dickie, of St. Paul Street, and Rev. J. M. M,'Kerrow, of St. Nicholas Lane, to meet with the memorialists. Mr. Dickie and Mr. M'Ker- row convened a, meeting in the Gallowgate Mission Hall, and gave an exposition of the principles of the United Presbyterian Church, and at the close 133 certificates of membership were handed in. On 8th Sep tember, 1863, the prayer of the petition was granted, and a communion-roll made up. Mr. Brown was appointed to take oversight of the new charge for a time, and on 3rd May, 1864, he was ordained to the pastorate, thus reaching the goal so long in view. The congregation continued to meet in the Gallowgate Hall for several months, but another place of worship was felt to be necessary, and, after negotiation, a site was secured in Nelson Street near it6 junction with West North Street and the Gallowgate. There the building known as Nelson Street U.P. Church was erected. Th© new church was opened on 22nd March, 1867, by Rev. Dr Andrew Thom son, of Broughton Place Church, Edinburgh, and th© congregation then entered into possession of the premises. Mr. Brown threw himself into the work with characteristic zeal. H© had no par ticular ability as a preacher, but he was a hard worker, and spent his whole time among the poor folk in the district. While he never attained a position of influence, h© gained the confidence and warm esteem of his own people. Everybody liked him, and he became a very welcome visitor in the houses of the poor in the Gallowgate district. For a tim© ther© was no lack of success, for the congregation gradually increased until th©r© were about 300 names on th© roll. Mr. Brown, however, proved unequal to the strain which the work im posed. When he entered on the pastorate h-3 was no longer a young man, being then over 50 years of age, and it was not sur prising that within 14 years of the date of his ordination he found it necessary to retire. The pioneer work requiring to be done and the exacting demands of the p©opl© of th© district in the way of pas toral visitation and oversight began to tell on his health, and on Sth April, 1878, his resignation was formally accepted by the Presbytery. He was not spared to enjoy a long period of respite from active work. He died at Greenock on 10th May, 1879— little more than a year after his retirement — in the 67th year of his age. A tablet to his memory (erected by his widow) finds a place in the vestibule of Nelson Street Church. There may have been — and there may still be — grave doubts as to the wisdom of the decision to found Nelson Street con gregation, but this need not in any way detract from an appreciation of the work accomplished by Mr. Brown. He rendered, within hie own limits, valuable service, and he will be remembered chiefly as a kindly. earnest man, full of evangelical zeal and genuine sympathy for the people, and especially for the poor. The second minister of Nelson Street was Rev. John E. Dobson, who was inducted to the charg© on 17th September, 1878. Mr. Dobson cam© with an experience of some 11 years in several spheres where he had laboured with varying 6ucces6. He was attached originally to the Congrega tionalists, and th© earlier part of his career was spent in the Congregational ministry. fn 1867 he had been ordained as pastor of the Congregational Church at Blairgowrie, but after two years he removed to Lerwick, where he remained for five years, until he resigned owing to the unsuitability of the climate. His next charge was at Gains borough, but before two years were ended he complained of ill-treatment, and re signed his pastorate ; whil© at the same time he severed his connection with the Congregational body. At the Synod of 1877 he applied for admission to the fellow ship of th© United Presbyterian Church, the reason he assigned for his change of denomination being the lack of any safe guard in the Congregational system against the interference of office-bearers. The application was favourably considered. Mr. Dobson became a licentiate of the U.P. Church, and after fully a year he was settled as minister of Nelson Street. Of his work there it is not unjust to say that it was not a success. What the reasons that militated against the progress of the 156 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN cause under his pastorate may have been it would, perhaps, be difficult to state, but the fact remains that the prospect became decidedly less hopeful. On 2nd Nevember, 1886, Mr. Dobson resigned, and was loosed from his charge. His next appointment was to Guardbridge in 1892. When Mr. Dobson left it, Nelson Street Church was in rather straitened circum stances. The membership had dropped considerably, and there was a general fall- ing-off in other respects. As a consequence, the church was reduced in status to a preaching station, and a probationer was settled in it for a time. After some months, Rev. Archibald Campbell, a native Rev. Archibald Camphell. of Glasgow, and a probationer of the U.P. Church, then in charge of the home mission station at Fetterangus, was sent to Nelson Street. He entered on th© work in October, 1887, and it was not long before there were signs of renewed life and vigour. Within a year of Mr. Campbell's settlement there was so manifest an improvement in the congregation and its prospects were so much brighter that the Presbytery agreed to restore the church to its former status with power to call a minister. It was only natural that the choice of the people should then have fallen on Mr. Campbell, who was formally ordained to the pastorate on 8th January, 1889. In the resuscitation of th© church Mr. visitors, who various nieet- the Sunday encouraging Campbell had associated with him assessors appointed by the Presbytery from some of the other U.P. churches in the city. He was specially helped by Mr. William Gray, draper, and th© late Mr. Charles Cowie, cartwright, West North Street, both of whom stood by him and gave valuable active support. Yet the burden of respon sibility fell chiefly on his own shoulders, and he had to take a personal share in almost every department of work. In this h© did not spare himself, strengthening and developing existing agencies,, and initiating new movements as the circum stances appeared to call for them. During his first winter Mr. Campbell started Satur day evening entertainments and founded a temperance society. The entertainments were the first of their kind in the city, though there are now many similar ven tures. Evangelistic work always bulked largely in the church's record. The Sun day evening service was mainly of an evan gelistic character, and special missions wer© frequently arranged for; while the surrounding district was systematically overtaken by a band of invited the peopl© to the ings. Perhaps, however, School was the most feature of all th© operations of th© Church. At one time it had vanished entirely, but then it became a most vigor ous and effective agency. Yet in this connection a difficulty was very acutely felt. The accommodation in the church buildings was not only far from comfortable, but it was also very far from adequately meeting the needs of the situation. Many aspects of th© work of th© church were capable of considerable expansion. This fact was recognised for some tim© by the members themselves, and they were diligently working with a view to th© erection of mor© commodious and suitable premises on a site which had been acquired in Causewayend. Mor© recently a proposal was made for uniting the congregation with that of St. Andrew's U.F. Church, and the negotia tions were, in due course, brought to a successful issue. The arrangement pro vided for th© united congregations worshipping in St Andrew's Church, while the buildings in Nelson Street would be utilised for home mission work. Under the act of union, which came into force on 5th September, 1909, it was further provided that both ministers should be retained on an equal footing, and that the united congregation should be known as that of King Street U.F. Church. XL.- NORTH UNITED FREE CHURCH. North U.F. Church. This congregation has, sine© its in ception, held a distinctive place in the religious life of Aberdeen. In the earlier years of its history it led the way in a great evangelical movement, and now in more recent times it is again acting as a pioneer in its great Home Mission enter prise. The first minister and founder of th© congregation was the Rev. Dr. John Murray, who came out of the North Parish Church at th© Disruption of 1843. Dr. Murray was a man of power and in fluence — one of the foremost figures in the Disruption days in Aberdeen — and he carried almost his entire congregation with him, and held them well together until a new church could be erected. For thirty-four weeks he met with his fol lowers in the Frederick Street Congrega tional Chapel, where most successful ser vices were held. In th© meantime a site had been secured at the corner of Queen Street and West North Street, directly facing the Parish Church, where, with all speed, a suitable building was erected. On 22nd January, 1844, the Free North Church was opened, and Dr. Murray and his people were once more housed in a place of worship of their own — less com modious and stately, perhaps, than the building across the street they had left for conscience sake, yet a sanctuary destined to gather around it many rich associa tions, and to exert a remarkable influence in the community. The history of the con gregation in its earliest days is largely bound up with the work of Dr. Murray. Long before the Disruption he was one of the most widely-known ministers in 'Aber deen. In 1816 he had been appointed to the vacant charge of Trinity, from which he was transferred, in 1824, to the East Church. On th© division of the City Parish of St Nicholas in 1828, he was appointed first minister of th© North Parish, and the present huge church in King Street was then erected for him. In these various spheres Dr. Murray had ac complished excellent work, and when he became minister of the Free North he had already an established reputation. He was a man of many-sided ability, char acterised alike by courage and charity, something of a Boanerges in th© pulpit, and withal a man of genuine goodness of heart and unquestioned sincerity of pur pose. His ministry continued for 18 years, until his d©ath in March, 1861. Latterly, he had an assistant in the per son of the Rev. George Campbell, who afterwards became his colleague and suc- Rev, Dr, John Murray. 158 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. George Campbell. cesser, and under whom the Fre© North entered on a most interesting period of its history. Mr. Campbell was settled in September, 1858, and it was not long before his ministry began to tell in quite a remark able way. He developed strong evangelical tendencies, and his preaching struck a note largely its own. In the Re vival movement, which stirred Aberdeen in th© early 'sixties, Mr. Campbell stood in the forefront, and the Free North be came for the time the recognised evangelical centre for the whole city. Mr. Campbell carried on a wonderful work. Crowds thronged to the church ; mass meetings were held in the Music Hall ; great multitudes gathered in the open air at the Castlegate and other places, and everywhere his preaching seemed to sway the hearts of his hearers. He was truly a prince of evangelists, with the emotional sensibility of a man of genius and a weath of imaginative, as well as spiritual, power. Some of the most prominent evangelical leaders of the tim© were fre quently in the Fre© North in these stir ring times. Rev. John M'Pherson, of Dundee, was intimately associated with Mr. Campbell in the work ; Brownlow North, Reginald Radcliffe, and many others lent ready assistance ; Duncan Matheson was a frequent helper, and amongst other local ministers who gave earnest support were Rev. James Smith, of Greyfriars, and Rev Henry Williamson, of Huntly. Whilst many congregations bene fited, the Free North naturally felt the influence of the movement at its highest. The membership increased until the ac commodation was quite insufficient, and in other ways the evangelical zeal of the congregation became apparent. Earnest, aggressive work of various kinds was undertaken, and in those days many young men, who have since taken high positions in the Church, were connected with the congregation, and, under its auspices, were introduced to practical work. Principal Whyte, of Edinburgh, was frequently to be found at the Free North during his student days at King's College, and he has gratefully acknowledged his great obligations to the influence of Mr. Campbell. Rev. Professor Gibb, of West minster College, Cambridge, was at the same time on© of th© church workers, and the Rev. George Cassie, of Hopeman, was a, leader in its aggressive and mission efforts. Mr. Campbell's ministry ex tended over a period of fully 15 years. He left for the Wynd Church, Glasgow, in February, 1873, and subsequently was ap pointed by the General Assembly as an ordained evangelist of the Church. In that position he found a congenial sphere, and his evangelistic gifts were used with lasting effect throughout the length and breadth of the land until his death in July, 1893. The third minister of the congregation was the Rev. George D. Low, M.A., who was called from Clunie, in Perthshire. Rev. George D. Low, M.A, NORTH UNITED FREE CHURCH 159 Mr. Low had been a student of rare dis tinction, taking a foremost place in his classes, and forming at the same time close friendships with not a few con temporaries who were destined in after years to become famous in the Church. He was inducted to th© pastorate of the North Church on 12th June, 1893, the ser vice on the occasion being conducted by Professor Robertson Smith, then a member of the Aberdeen Presbytery. On the following Sunday he was formally in troduced by his friend, Principal Rainy, while other three of his friends, Dr. Alexander Whyte, Dr. Macphail, and Dr. Reith, took part in the proceedings at his welcome meeting. Mr. Low served the North Church with conspicuous fidelity, and although his ministry is the shortest of the series, it was yet in various vays a very helpful one. Like his predecessor, he cherished warm evangelical sympathies. He was, however, perhaps more of a student than Mr. Campbell ; a man of wide and deep reading, well versed in theology, and ripe in practical experience. He has been described as " an edifying and savoury preacher," and there can be no doubt that, by his gifts and graces, he did much to solidify the congregation at a time in its history when such a work was of peculiar necessity and importance. Mr. Low accepted a call to Fountainbridge, Edinburgh, in August, 1882, but he has retained a keen interest in the work of his former congregation, and he took part in the closing service in the old church in January, 1904. On 26th August, 1883, the Rev. F. Renton Barry was inducted to the pastorate of the North Church. Mr. Barry came with an experience of fully three years in the work of the ministry at Carnbee, Fifeshire, where he had been ordained in 1879, but he came also as quite a young man, with all the ardour of youth. From the outset h© maintained a high standard of pulpit efficiency, his ser mons being marked by no mean intel lectual ability and expository skill. In the various duties of his office — and not least in pastoral work — he laboured with great acceptance during his ministry of nearly nineteen years, gaining not only the respect and personal esteem, but the affection of his members. The need for a new church, which had been felt almost from the beginning of Mr. Barry's pastorate, became an ever more pressing one, and ultimately it cam© to be re cognised that some practical steps would require to be taken. The prolonged negotiations between the Presbytery and the congregation regarding the selection of a new site, and other matters con nected therewith, need not be referred to, further than to say that the congregation remained perfectly united. Th© differences were entirely between the Presbytery and the congregation ; among the members themselves there was th© utmost harmony, minister and people remaining absolutely loyal to one another. In July, 1902, Mr. Barry tendered his resignation, which was accepted by the Presbytery, as it was by the congregation, with the greatest re- Rev. F. Renton Barry. gret, and with the most ample recognition of his eminently faithful and fruitful ministry. Almost immediately thereafter, he was settled as minister of Richmond Presbyterian Church, London, where he is finding suitable exercise for his abilities. For a time the outlook of the North Church was anything but hopeful, but it proved to be only the darkness before the dawn. A new chapter of signal interest in the congregational history was about to open. The Presbytery, with which the congregation had been frequently in con flict, now offered to go hand in hand with them in a great new scheme of east-end mission work. Several members of the Presbytery, and notably some laymen, such as Mr. Thomas Ogilvie, had been im pressed by the great success of the Man- 160 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Chester Wesleyan Mission in reaching the masses in the lower parts of that city, and they became convinced of the de sirability of such a venture being tried in Aberdeen. It was recognised that an undertaking of the kind would be too great for any single congregation to at tempt unaided, and that Presbyterial assistance and support would require to be freely given. The position of the North Church at the time, and the well- known characteristics of the congregation, suggested its suitability for this re sponsibility and honour being laid upon it, and numerous conferences took place. Ultimately the congregation unanimously and enthusistically resolved to adopt the scheme, and the erection of the splendid new church premises on the site of the old was the first step towards carrying it into effect. The new buildings, designed by Mr. W. E. Gauld, architect, an office bearer of the congregation, form" a splen did pile, admirably adapted in every v/ay, with the commodious church (in which there is no pulpit, but a large platform with accommodation for the choir and orchestra and a desk for the preacher in front), the numerous halls, class-rooms, sisters' rooms, etc., for the conduct of the social as well as the religious work of which they are the centre. A supreme difficulty, however, confronted the pro- motors in finding the right man to become the leader of this great new "Forward Movement," but eventually they found him in the person of a citv minister, Rev James S. Stewart, of Rutherford Church. By his evangelical fervour, his great practical ability and enterprise, and by his conspicuous success in gathering together a very large con gregation at Rutherford, Mr. Stewart had shown that he possessed pre-eminent qualifications for the position. He was unanimously and heartily called by the North congregation to be their minister, and was inducted to the pastoral charge on 9th September, 1903, being formally introduced by Dr. Alexander Whyte, of St. George's, Edinburgh. At that time, and pending the erection of the new church, tlie services were held in the Trades Hall, Belmont Street. The new buildings were opened on 1st September, 1905, by Rev. Dr. Robertson Nicoll, editor of the "British Weekly," and the services on the following Sunday were con ducted by Rev. S. F. Collier, superin tendent of the Manchester Wesleyan Mission, and Rov. G. D, I*>w and' Rev. F. R. Barry, former ministers of the con gregation. Of its traditions th© North Church has good reason to b© proud. Its ministers have been characterised by an influence which has been widespread, and which many men in high position have been glad to acknowledge. Dr Whyte and his com panions have been mentioned as coming under the spell of Mr. Campbell, and others could be cited as having at dif ferent times been more or less intimately associated with th© congregation. In this connection it may be noted that the Rev. Dr. James Hastings, the learned editor of the "Expository Times," the "Dic tionary of the Bible," the " Encyclopaedia of Religion and Ethics," and other im- Rev. James S. Stewart. portant undertakings, was a member of the North Church, and a worker in the Sabbath School and other agencies, during his college days in Aberdeen. Prominent citizens also were to be found both in office and in the membership. Many of them have passed away, including Mr. William Garvie and Mr. Alexander M'Robbie, but others remain leaders and active workers in the manifold activities of the congregation, for nothing in the history of th© North Church has been more remarkable than the con tinued loyalty of its best members through all the stress of trying times and amid all the changes in the aspect of the district. Amongst those lono- NORTH UNITF.D FREE CHURCH 161 connected with the church who remain attached and earnest workers to-day are Mr. William Valentine, Mr. Edgar Gauld, and others whose names are well known in religious and philanthropic movements in the city, while in the ranks of the younger generation ther© are several who occupy prominent positions in professional and business circles. It has thus been shown that residence in the west-end need not of necessity lead to the severance of con nection with an east-end church, and this has afforded a practical illustration of the manner in which one of the pressing pro blems of the day may be solved. Alongside the problem of the mainten ance of east-end churches there is another and greater problem to be faced in the re clamation of the east-end masses. To this great task the minister and people of the North congregation have now applied themselves. The work has been adapted to the conditions under which it has to be carried on. The central feature, perhaps, has been the popular Sunday evening ser vice, with large choir and orchestra. These services have invariably been at tended by crowded audiences all the year round. The Brotherhood of Social Ser vice, which meets on Sunday afternoons, is specially designed to reach the men of the district, and by means of various agencies and clubs every class is catered for, and the buildings are a hiv© of industry. As many as nine different services and meet ings ar© held every Sunday, and twenty- six every week. Mr. Stewart has had a succession of able and capable assistants, among the number being R©v. Graham Park, of Loudon ; Rev. W. D. Niven, of Macduff; and Rev. W. A. B. Gall, of Cromarty and a trained Sister :s also steadily engaged in work amongst the people. There has been no lack of voluntary workers, the office-bearers — both old and young — throwing them selves into the movement with the ut most enthusiasm and devotion. As an experiment in Home Mission work on new lines, the North Church enterprise has attracted much attention throughout the Church at large, and many visiters have come from other parts of the country to see the scheme in operation. Old Free North Church. XLI.— OLDMACHAR UNITED FREE CHURCH. Oldmachar U.F. Church. The Disruption of 1843, which for the time wrecked th© Established Church in the city of Aberdeen itself, made compara tively little impression on its sleepy neigh bour the Old Town. In those days, the " Aulton " gloried in its separate existence ; and in the whole aspect of its life and thought it stood as a community entirely by itself. Thus th© ecclesiastical storm which raged in fury in the new and greater city was but little felt in this strong hold of conservatism. The Fre© Church found an opening at the time, but under circumstances entirely different from these which prevailed in the neighbouring com munity. This fact is worthy of notice, as it has undoubtedly, to some extent, affected th© whole subsequent history of the congregation then formed. The ministers of the Cathedral in 1843 weire Rev. (afterwards Dr.) Robert Smith and Rev. Dr. Patrick Forbes, who held the first and second charges respectively. Both exercised considerable influence, especially Dr. Forbes, who had been Moderator of the General Assembly in 1829, and was well known throughout the Church at large. Although all their brethren in th© pulpits of th© Established Church in Aberdeen joined the Free Church, the two ministers of Oldmachar remained at their posts, and declined to associate themselves with the Disruption party. This naturally produced a steadying effect on the members of the congregation, the great bulk of them ad hering to the Establishment. A small party, however, sympathised with the founders of the Free Church, and severed their connection with the Cathedral. Their going forth from the Church of their fathers was in strange oontrast to that of the Aberdeen Disruptionist6. It was devoid of the dramatic effect produced by ministers leading forth great numbers of their people, and it lacked the inspiration always associated with a great movement. They went out quietly ; but if th© occasion was not signalised by any popular demon stration, it perhaps bore all the more elo quent testimony to the strength of con viction on the part of those who took the step. The seceding party worshipped at first in one of the classrooms of the Gym nasium, which was placed at their disposal by Rev. Mr. (afterwards Dr.) Anderson, who, from th© first, was in hearty sym pathy with th© movement. In a short time a wooden church was erected in High Street, /which), after considerable delay, was replaced on the same site by the pre sent stone and lime building. The pros pects of the congregation undoubtedly suffered from its having been formed with out a minister, and it had to labour under this disadvantage for two years. Then, in 1845, Dr. Anderson, of the Gymnasium, was called to the pastorate. Dr. Ander son had formerly been parish minister of Boyndie, but had become more widely known as the founder and head of the high- class boarding school in the Chanonry known eis the Gymnasium. This establish ment gained a high reputation, and there went forth from the " Gym." many men who afterwards rose to high positions in various walks of life. Dr. Anderson was held in the highest esteem by the whole community of Old Aberdeen, and under his ministry the congregation entered on a period of prosperity. It was a great blow to th© church when, after a few years' pas torate, he thought it necessary to resign his connection with it on account of his changed views on the question of infant baptism. Dr. Anderson afterwards founded a Baptist Church in Ross's -Hall, George Street, to which h© ministered for a mini- OLDMACHAR UNITED FREE CHURCH 163 ber of years, until it joined the John Street congregation in forming what is now Crown Terrace Baptist Church. On the union of the two congregations being effected in 1879, Dr. Anderson became minister- emeritus of Crown Terrace Church, and he retained that position until his death. The second minister of the Old Aberdeen Church was Rev. Alfred Edersheim, Ph.D., who was destined to become famous in after years as a Biblical scholar. Dr. Eder sheim had been assisting Rev. Robert Forbes at Woodside, wh©r© his services were highly appreciated, and it was through his work there that he became known to the people of Old Aberdeen. Pre vious to his settlement in the north, his career had been a varied one. Born at Vienna, of Jewish parents, he became early in, life a teacher of languages, and when thus engaged at Pesth h© made the ac quaintance of Dr. John Duncan and other Presbyterian ministers, who acted as chap lains to the Scottish workmen engaged in building the bridge over the Danube. Under their influence he embraced Christianity, and he subsequently accompanied Dr. Dun can on his return to Scotland. In 1846 he entered the Presbyterian ministry, and thereafter he preached for a year as mis sionary to the Jews and Germans at Jassy, in Roumania. Dr. Edersheim was settled at Old Aberdeen in the beginning of 1848, and he remained in the charge for twelve years. His ministrations seem to have proved very acceptable, and the congrega tion continued to prosper under his care. In the academic quiet of Old Aberdeen Dr. Edersheim laid the foundations of his future fame as a writer. During his ministry ther© h© translated several Ger man theological works into English, and wrote his " History of th© Jewish Nation from th© Fall of Jerusalem to the Reign of Constantine the Great" ; while he was also a contributor to the " Athenaeum " and other periodicals. Unfortunately, his health broke down, and he was compelled, after a lengthened leave of absence, to re sign the charge and remove to Torquay. Having in large measure recovered his strength in the more congenial climate of the south of England, he was instrumental in founding St. An drew's Presbyterian Church, Torquay, of which he became the first minister. In 1872 his health again broke down, and he resigned and removed to Bournemouth, but in 1875 h© mad© a greater change when h© left Presbyterianism and passed into th© Church of England. Taking holy orders, h© was appointed to the living of Lovers, in Dorsetshire, where he wrote his great work, " The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah." In 1882 he removed to Ox ford, where h© was, on occasion, Select Preacher at the University, and filled various posts until his death, which occurred suddenly at Menton© on 16th March, 1889. Dr. Edersheim has been described as ' ' gentle and ami able in disposition, bright and hum orous in conversation, genial in man ner, a ready and fluent writer, and an effective preacher ; possessed of a poetical imagination which was apt to give a rhet orical redundance to his style ; in literary and theological questions conservative but tolerant." Dr. Edersheim left behind him a great reputation as a scholar, but he is remembered in Old Aberdeen mainly as an earnest Christian minister. He laboured zealously for the welfare of the congrega- tion, was instrumental in securing the erec tion of the present manse, and by his preaching and pastoral care promoted the best interests of the people. When Dr. Edersheim first left in quest of health, arrangements were made for carrying on th© work of th© congregation, and Rev. Thomas Gardiner was secured as " locum tenens." Mr. Gardiner had, in his probationer days, served for some time in one of the largest churches in Aberdeen, and later on he had been elected to the pastorate of a church on Deeside. The claims of the foreign mission field had, however, appealed to him, and he offered himself for work in India. Going abroad in 1853, he was closely associated with Dr. Duff, and also with Dr. Thomas Smith, who, in later days, was his most intimate friend. A breakdown in health brought this part of his life-work to an end in the closing months of 1861, and shortly there after Mr. Gardiner came to Old Aberdeen. Taking up his residence in the manse, then recently erected, he carried on the work in all its departments for seventeen months, and then on Dr. Edersheim resigning the pastorate, h© was most cordially ©lected to the vacancy. His induction took place on 30th July, 1863, and he was formally in troduced (although in his case no intro duction was necessary) by Dr. Thomas Smith. Mr. Gardiner entered on the pas torate with devoted earnestness. A man of true piety and ripe spiritual experience, he took a high view of the duties and re sponsibilities of the Christian ministry, and he freely spent his strength in the service of the church. He was very exact and methodical in all his ways, punctual to a degree with his engagements, and 164 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN scrupulously careful in the arrangement of his books and papers. His pulpit work was most diligently prepared, and for many years he was in his study before five o'clock in the mornings of four days in the week. He left 1040 carefully-written sermons and lectures. His preaching has been described as both doctrinal and practical. He ' ' preached doctrine practically and prac tice doctrinally." Yet the main charac teristic of his pulpit message was its fer vent evangelicalism. The same spirit breathed through his pulpit prayers, which were often uttered with great fervour and even heart-felt emotion. His people also remembered long after his ministry was ended the power and unction with which he gave out some of his favourite Psalms to be sung by th© congregation. The deeply solemn and yet happy tones in which he read " O let my soul live and it shall Give praises unto Thee ; And let Thy judgments gracious Be helpful unto me." were not soon forgotten. In pastoral work Mr. Gardiner was ex tremely conscientious. From the last sum mation in his books it was found that he had made 3170 pastoral visits, and 3289 to the sick and afflicted, making a total of 6459 connected with the Old Aberdeen con gregation. This represents a, considerable expenditure of tim© and strength when it is borne in mind that the pastoral visits were not mere calls for casual conversation, but were made the occasion of imparting direct religious instruction and edification to the members of the families of his flock. The affairs of the congregation were in a very fair state of prosperity, but a load of debt still rested on the church and manse, and to some extent hindered the work. It was resolved to hold a bazaar, and this was done in December, 1874, when, thanks to the generous help of many friends in Aberdeen outside the congregation, the sum of nearly £600 was raised. The result was eminently gratifying to Mr. Gardiner, and highly encouraging to the congrega tion. Mr. Gardiner from a very early stage in his ministry at Old Aberdeen took a keen interest in ecclesiastical affairs and in public questions generally, and he was a member of several of the Standing Committees of th© Church, whose meetings in Edinburgh h© attended with great regularity. But it was in connection with the Robertson Smith case that he first became a prominent public figure. In that famous controversy he was destined to become a leader on the conservative side, although entries made in his diary at the time show that he had no desire personally to play such a part. Som© of the entries reveal the man in another aspect than that which may have ap peared to the public of those days. Writing at one time, he says : — " I have had to take such a leading part as I never anticipated. I am sure I did not wish it, but begged to be excused when th© brethren placed the lead in my hands." In the Presbytery he was foremost amongst those who took the strongest view against Professor Robertson Smith, and when several ap peals were made to the Assembly, he ap peared at the bar along with Principal Brown and stated his case in a manner which gratified his friends. In two of the appeals the decision of the Assembly was in favour of his contentions. When the Aberdeen Presbytery resumed considers^ tion of the case after the Assembly, Mr. Gardiner was chosen as convener of the committee appointed to prepare the libel against Professor Smith, and this work had only just been completed when he was seized with the illness which in a short time ended in his death. There could be no doubt as to Mr. Gardiner's position on the matters in dispute. H© was avowedly of the old school, and delighted in the old paths. "I had rather," he 6aid at one time, " be a Covenanter than a, critic," and this very fairly indicated his attitude to wards the critical school generally. His opposition to Dr. Robertson Smith was not to him a light matter. H© felt h© was doing battle for the truth, and there can bo no doubt that he was actuated by the highest motives. Even towards the Pro fessor himself, however severely he may have criticised his position, and in what ever light his action may have appeared at the time, his feelings were entirely free from any personal animosity. Writing to a friend in the height of the controversy, he said, with reference to one of the heated Presbytery meetings: — "I never felt so kindly to Professor Smith himself — so free from anything like personal feeling." In paying a memorial tribute at the Presby tery, Dr. Laidlaw, who had often differed from Mr. Gardiner with regard to the case. paid a worthy tribute to the purity of motive and freedom from personality and bitterness which had marked his conduct throughout. Mr. Gardiner succumbed to an attack of scarlet fever, which was then prevalent in the Old Town, his death taking place on 14th October, 1877. He had completed 14 OLDMACHAR UNITED FREE CHURCH 165 years' pastorate of the congregation, and he was laid to rest in Oldmachar Church yard amid many manifestations of sorrow in the community generally. In his day Mr. Gardiner filled a large place in the ecclesiastical life of the district. While he could hardly be described as a man of out standing mental power, he had a keen and ready mind, and h© was a fluent and effec tive speaker. His business-like qualifica tions shone to advantage in the Church courts, but in his own congregation it was by his devoutness and earnestness that he made an impression, and it i6 by these that he is remembered. In 1878 Rev. D. M. Macalister, of Fasso- way, was called to Old Aberdeen, and was in due course inducted as pastor of th© con gregation. A very acceptable preacher, Mr. Macalister made a good impression, and the membership for a time showed signs of increase. Like his predecessor, he took an ©xtrem© conservative position on the questions agitating the Church — organs being one of his pet aversions. In Mr. Macalister's time the church hall was built, and there were other evidences of progress and prosperity, although these were not by any means conspicuous. Mr. Macalister's abilities never met, perhaps, with all the success they merited at Old Aberdeen, and in 1887, after a pastorate of nine years, he accepted a call to Buccleuch-Greyfriars Church, Edinburgh. At th© Union of the Churches in 1900, he took sides with the minority, and declin©d to enter th© United Free Church. He was intimately associated with the Fre© Church for som© "years, and subsequently attained th© dignity of the Moderatorship. In 1904 h© retired from pastoral work. Mr. Macalister was succeeded at Old Aberdeen by Rev. Duncan Maclean, B.D., of Allanton, whose settlement took place in 1887. Mr. Maclean continued the work with great fidelity. He was less pro nounced in his views on th© ecclesiastical problems of the time than either of his two immediate predecessors, and rather shrank from any public discussion. H© became known, however, as a. man of scholarship and culture. Yet, notwith standing his undoubted gifts, he found the work of the pastorate beset by not a few difficulties. The conditions were by no means conducive to success, but Mr. Mac lean laboured in the charge with persistent earnestness for thirteen years. In 1900, owing to the health of his wife, he resigned the pastorate, and removed to Edinburgh, where h© has since lived in retirement, although undertaking occasional pulpit supply in different parts of the country. Rev. Joseph Shillinglaw, B.D., th© pre sent pastor of th© congregation, was ordained and inducted to the charge in October, 1900. After a highly successful career as a student at Glasgow University and Glasgow Free Church College, he was appointed assistant in St. Paul's Church, Glasgow, and laboured there for over a jear before being call©d to Oldmachar. Mr. Shillinglaw threw himself into the work Rev. Joseph Shillinglaw, B.D. with the enthusiasm of youth, and his efforts have not been unavailing. The mem bership has been about doubled— having increased from 150 to nearly 300— the debt has been cleared off, and the buildings renovated to some extent. A Band of Hope has been instituted, and i6 now suc cessfully conducted by on© of the elders, Mr. Hendry Davidson, and the mothers' meeting, under Mrs. Shillinglaw, is another effective agency, while the Sunday School is also maintained in efficiency under the superintendentship of Mr. James Thomson. Mr. Thomson is now the senior elder, and he has stood by th© congregation in many ups and downs in its history. Another member of session who has been long asso ciated with th© congregation is Mr. Robert Clark, and in th© membership, although not in office, are at least two representatives of the University, these two being Professor J. Arthur Thomson and Mr. John Clarke, Lecturer on Education. 166 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN In summing up the history of this con gregation, it must be noted as an interest ing fact that so many of its ministers should have changed their denominational connection. The first minister became a Baptist, th© second joined the Church of England, and the fourth allied himself with the "We© Frees," while the third, although he did not change his own deno mination, was one of the leaders in the movement which resulted in the ousting from that denomination of one of its most brilliant sons. Truly, the ministers of Old machar Church have played an important part. Th© congregation itself has had alter nating periods of prosperity and decline. Situated as it is, under th© shadow of the venerable Cathedral, and amid a popula tion in which town and gown mingle with only indifferent success, it is not surprising that th© church has never mad© pheno menal progress. Another element not alto gether helpful has been th© atmosphere of unbroken repose in which the community generally seemed to live and move and have it6 being. With the fusion of Old and New Aberdeen in one municipal burgh, there has been a gradual casting away of old traditions, and a steady progress to wards a new order of things more in keep ing with a progressive community. Amid these changed and changing conditions, and under its present minister, who is so fully abreast of all the intellectual and social movements of the time, the con gregation was, perhaps, never in a more hopeful position than it is to-day. XLIL— QUEEN'S CROSS UNITED FREE CHURCH. Queen's Cross U.F. Churoh. As early as 1872 Principal Lumsden and other leading Fre© Churchmen in Aberdeen had seen th© necessity for the ©rection of a new church to serve the rapidly-extending western district of the city. Communica tions were opened with the view of attain ing this object, but certain difficulties emerged, and these for a time proved in surmountable. About five years later the proposal was revived, and, th© obstacles in th© way having then disappeared, the scheme was successfully launched. In th© early part of 1877 the Church Extension Committee of the Presbytery had the matter under consideration, and in vited an expression of opinion on the part of members of the Free Church resident in the western suburb. In course of time it was reported that a number of gentlemen belonging to the west-end, wishing to take a public-spirited interest in the Church'B prosperity and progress, had met with the committee and certain well-known friends of the Church. The result, after confer ring on the whole situation, was a complete unanimity of opinion that the time had arrived for taking active steps towards the formation of a congregation. These resi dents in the locality were so convinced of tho propriety of proceeding that they made careful examination of several available sites. Before committing themselves, how ever, to any particular schem©, they sub mitted the whole matter for the approval and encouragement of the Presbytery. The question cam© before th© Court at its meet ing on 4th December, 1877, th© report being submitted by Professor Salmond, who acted as convener of the Church Extension Com mittee, and who took an active and leading part in all th© negotiations. Good en couragement was given by th© Presbytery, th© adoption of th© report being moved in a most cordial speech by Rev. John Laid- law, of the West Church, who strongly urged the formation of this new congrega tion, although he recognised it would mean that several of the older and larger churches, such as his own, would have to part with a number of their members. Thos© who had been taking an interest in th© project were then formed into a Local Committee, and th© question of a sit© was at once considered. Th© first sit© chosen was in Queen's Road, on its north side, where the houses Nos. 8 to 10 stand to-day. After further negotiation, how ever, the committee eventually secured the site originally contemplated,, and cer tainly, in every way more desirable, viz., the triangular piece of ground lying west of Albyn Terrace, and forming th© junc tion at Queen's Cross of Albyn Place and Carden Place. Competitive designs were invited for a complete suite of buildings, including, in addition to the church, a suitable hall, together with session house, vestry, etc., Mr. Pirie (Messrs. Pirie and Clyne) being the successful competitor, with a design providing for a handsome edifice in granite at a cost of about £6000, exclu sive of £3000 for site and extras. Tbe original trustees were Professor Salmond, who was also convener of th© Local Com mittee; Major Ross, Mr. George Neilson, secretary, Great North of Scotland Rail way, who also acted as convener of the 168 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Finance Committee ; Mr. James Mathie- son ; Mr. Robert Lumsden, manager, North of Scotland Bank; Mr. William Keith, jun., granite merchant, who was convener of the Plans and Buildings Committee; Mr. William Henderson, Devanha House ; and Mr. George Allan, advocate, who wa6 one of th© original promoters of th© church, and from the outset treasurer of th© Local Committee. Principal George Adam Smith. The church was opened for public wor ship on 18th April, 1881, the preachers on the occasion being Rev. Dr. Walter C. Smith, of Edinburgh, and Rev. Dr. Laid- law, of the West Church. The pulpit was occupied in the ensuing months by many of the most popular preachers in the Free Church from various parts of the country. During this time th© necessary steps were being taken to secure a minister for the church, and several names were under con sideration. From the opening of the church, Rev. George Adam Smith, M.A., who was then filling the place of Professor Robertson Smith in the Free Church Col lege, had frequently acted as pulpit supply, and the young Hebrew tutor's ministra tions proved so very acceptable that he was unanimously called to be the first minister of the church. Mr. Smith accepted the call, and he was ordained to the charge on Thursday, 20th April, 1882, Rev. G. Webster Thomson, of the West Church, officiating on the occasion. The introduc tory services on the following Sunday were conducted by Rev. (afterwards Dr.) R. G. Balfour, of Edinburgh, afterwards Mode rator of the General Assembly. The ministry which then began proved one of the most striking and influential which the city of Aberdeen has enjoyed within the last quarter of a century. Mr. Smith's brilliant preaching soon made a great impression, and by his bright and eager personality, so full of contagious en thusiasm, he gained a special influence over young men. The pulpit of the new subur ban charge became one of outstanding im portance in the city, and Queen's Cross Church was a centre to which large audiences flocked from all quarters. The fame of the young preacher was beginning to spread beyond Aberdeen, and when his first volume on " Isaiah " was published in the series of the "Expositor's Bible," his name became known throughout the whole country. It was recognised that a new scholar and theologian of rare distinction had appeared, and henceforth many eyes were set on Queen's Cross. Overtures from various spheres of influence — including one of special urgency from the premier church of St. George's, Edinburgh — threatened to disturb the pastoral tie ; but Dr. Smith re mained firm in his adherence to his first charge until he was called by the General Assembly of 1892 to the Chair of Hebrew in the Glasgow College. His ten yeare' ministry at Queen's Cross was fruitful in many ways. He laid the foundations of a strong and successful congregation, raising the membership to about 700, and organis ing it in various departments of service. To a wider constituency, outside the con gregation, he was a guide in mattere of faith, and an inspiration to noble and strenuous living. His departure was felt to be the loss of a public-spirited citizen, and ample testimony was bome to the ex tent and helpfulness of his influence m the community. The name of Professor George Adam Smith is now familiar throughout the world, and his eminence as a theologian is acknowledged in many countries, but nowhere has his growing fame been watched with greater satisfaction than in the city where he held his first and only pastorate. Dr. Smith's interest in his old congregation is still unabated, and he finds frequent opportunities of showing this in a practical manner. In October, 1909, Professor Smith wa6 appointed Principal of Alier- deen University. The vacancy at Queen's Cross was hap pily filled by th© induction on 31st May, QUEEN'S CROSS UNITED FREE CHURCH 169 1893, of Rev. Martin Lewis, B.A., formerly of Gravesend. Mr. Lewis had a brilliant scholastic career in tbe University of Lon don, in which he gained the distinctions of "University Scholar" and "Fellow of University College." H© had likewise a distinguished record as a minister before coming to Aberdeen. Before completing his course at the Theological College of the English Presbyterian Church, he was elected to Bournemouth as colleague to Rev. James M'Gill. Ordained there in 1878, he worked for a time along with Mr. M'Gill, and afterwards held th© sol© pas torate for som© years. Overwork having affected his health, he went for a voyage to Australia, and wh©n visiting Melbourne was called to Toorak Church, one of the most influential Presbyterian Churches, not only in that city, but in the whole of Australia. Resigning his charg© at Bourne mouth, Mr. Lewis entered on the work in Melbourne, but the summer climate of Aus tralia proved so injurious that he was com pelled, after a short ministry, and to the great regret of an attached congregation, to return home. After his return in 1886 he was for some tim© in charg© of the preaching station at Mentone, and there after assisted Dr. Adolf Saphir in London, until he was asked to undertake the care of the congregation at Gravesend, which had fallen into a state of decay. There Mr. Lewis accomplished excellent work, remov ing a heavy debt, and raising a large sum for the completion of the church and the erection of extensive mission premises in a poor neighbourhood, while during his ministry the Communion roll was greatly increased and vigorous aggressive work was carried on. In succeeding Dr. Georg© Adam Smith, it was recognised that Mr Lewis would have no easy task, but he has stood the ordeal well. A man of the highest cul ture, his preaching is refined and thought ful, while at tho same time practical and evangelical. As a preacher to children he has unique gifts, and his work among boys and girls has been a special feature of his ministry both in Aberdeen and elsewhere. Mr. Lewis has been a contributor to the "Expository Times," the "Sunday Maga zine," and other periodicals, and he has frequently been urged to publish more, but as his health has never been robust, he has required all his available strength for ^ the pressing duties of the ministry. Personally, as well as for his talents, he is held in high esteem, and this was abundantly shown in 1904, when he received handsome presenta tions before going on a tour to the East. Th© fact that under Mr. Lewis's ministi-y the work and finance of Queen's Cross Church have been fully maintained, and even in some coses extended, is no mean tribute to his gifts and capabilities. The agencies of the church include the minister's Bible Class, Sunday School, Young Men's Fellowship Association, Literary and Rev. Martin Lewis, B.A. Musical Association, Mothers' Meeting, Women's Work Party, Temperance Society, and Boys' Brigade. In addition to these purely congregational organisations, a large Sunday School and a vigorous Band of Hope are earned on in Ashley Road Public School, and members of the church also conduct a Sunday School for the inmates of Oakbank Industrial School. While Queen's Cross Church has no Home Mis sion of its own in the east-end, it has taken what is, perhaps, as helpful a part by pro viding a portion of the salary of a missionary for the congregation of St. Clement's. The Christian liberality of the congregation is noteworthy, its annual col lection on Hospital Sunday placing it in th© front rank of city churches, while its contributions to the Sustentation Fund have been such as to give it a plac© among the leading congregations in the United Free Church. To other funds, both for homo and foreign work, it has subscribed very liberallv. A notable feature in the history of 170 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Queen's Cross Church has been its good fortune in the selection of assistant mini sters, many of whom have risen to positions of high distinction as theologians or preachers. The list includes the names of Rev. Professor C. Anderson Scott, of West minster College, Cambridge ; Dr. John Kel- man, Edinburgh ; Rev. A. Herbert Gray, Glasgow ; Rev. A. Duff Watson, Bour- treebush ; Rev. R. H. Strachan, Elie (a son of the congregation) ; Rev. James Wishart, Irvine ; Rev. Donald Cameron, Montrose ; Rev. W. S. Anderson, Markinch ; and Rev. Hugh Watt, of Waterbeach. There have been many well-known public men in active connection with Queen's Cross Church. The late Principal Sal mond was one of the most attached friends of the congregation from its origin, with which he had so much to do, and he ren dered loyal service in the eldership and in many other capacities. Mr. George Allan, advocate, is the sole survivor of those who took the initial responsibilities of the con gregation. The leading officials to-day are men well known in the community. The late Mr Gray C. Fraser, advocate, was session clerk for many years ; and the pre sent treasurers are Mr. J. Buckley Allan, advocate; Mr. James Duguid, advocate; and ex-Baillie Henderson. The elders in clude two Professors of the University — Professor Finlay and Professor Matthew Hay — and th© Kirk-Session and Deacons' Court comprise many of the foremost figures in professional and business circles in the city. The membership, as might be expected, is largely drawn from the west-end and well-to-do classes. The original cost of the church and site, amounting to over £9000, was entirely cleared off without any outside appeal, and further outlays of considerable amount have been mad© from time to time. A splendid pipe organ was installed at a cost of over £1200, and a beautiful Communion Table and Choir Stalls have been added ; while three handsome stained-glass win dows gifted by members of the congrega tion adorn the building. Both in its in terior and exterior the church is one of the finest in the city. It still holds, and is likely to hold for many years to come, the key of the position in the west-end, and there is every reason to believe that its future will b© worthy of the traditions that are already associated with its life and work. XHg— RUTHERFORD UNITED FREE CHURCH. Rutherford U.F. Church. Th© founding of this congregation was the direct outcome of earnest and success ful horn© mission efforts. These were centred in the Northfield district, and it is necessary to refer to som© aspects of the work there in order to trace the steps which led to the formation of a regular congregation. The locality in the 'forties and 'fifties was a strange contrast from what it is to day. South Mount Street, Kintore Place, Richmond Street, and Eden Place were unbuilt. A nursery extended from Farmer Hall (now known as Farmer's Hall Lane) westward to the back of the Short Lean ings, and from Rosemount Place south to Leadside Road. In Short Loanings and Leadside Road ther© were rows of more or less dilapidated dwellings, and the locality had a bad reputation, and was regarded by staid citizens as a dangerous place to visit after dark. For some tim© previous to 1840 religious meetings were held in the hous© No. 44 Short Loanings, where there lived a godly man named John Ross. The accommoda tion proving insufficient, the gatherings weire transferred to a small school in rear of No. 54 Leadside Road, where Mr. Ross had the assistance in his voluntary work of Mr. John Dalziel, th© dominie. In this humble meeting-place, with an earthen floor and an uncomfortably-low ceiling, much good work was done, and many well- known men gave ready assistance. On one occasion Rev. W. C. Burns, afterwards the famous missionary to China, had pro mised to preach, and as h© did not appear at th© appointed hour, Mr. Ross and his son set out to seek him with a lantern in their hands. They met him about the foot of Jack's Brae, and while coming up that steep incline Mr. Burns remarked, ' ' This reminds me of the Hill Difficulty. ' ' Amongst frequent speakers were — Rev. Messrs. Macphail, Fre© East ; Trail, late of Elgin ; Ogilvie, Maryculter ; Simpson, Trinity ; Thomson, Greyfriars ; and Parker, Bon- Accord ; along with Rev. A. Beverley, LL.D. Notwithstanding the countenance and active support of various ministers, the movement for some time was entirely under th© control and dependent on th© exer tions of Mr. Ross and those associated with him. Th© Free Church Presbytery, how ever, was not uninterested. In 1845 a City Mission Committee was appointed to secure th© preaching of the Gospel in desti tute localities of th© city, and th© North- field work came formally under notice. Instead of instituting any new effort, it was wisely decided to help Mr. Ross. Some financial assistance was given, and arrange ments wer© mad© whereby many of the ministers undertook a share in conducting the services. The City Mission Committee also gave th© help of two deacons and several ladies. Prior to this, however, Mr. Ross had secured th© co-operation of one who became his colleague more than his assistant, and who ultimately assumed practically th© entire control of the move ment. This was Mr. Alexander Laing, coachbuilder, whose name must ever be prominently associated with th© history of Northfield. Mr. Laing joined Mr. Ross about 1848, and he soon became a power in the district. So popular was he with the residents that a petition was presented to the Presbytery praying for his settle ment as a catechist, but th© request was unsuccessful. Mr. Laing, however, per severed with th© work, and he had the gratification of seeing many tokens of pros- 172 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN perity. The accommodation again proving insufficient, he conceived the idea of erect ing a, more suitable meeting-place, and in course of tim© secured an old, dilapidated dwelling in Leadside Road as a suitable site. Th© old house was demolished, and in its place there was built a small chapel and schoolroom. The chapel, which still remains a6 the eastern part of Northfield School, came to be known all over the city as " Laing's Kirkie," and that not without good reason. Not only was it the centre ol Mr. Laing's lengthened and beneficent work, but it was largely the product of his own hands. He was his own architect, drawing the plans and superintending the building ; while he paid the entire cost , with the exception of £30, out of his own pocket. " Laing's Kirkie," Northfield. The chapel was opened on 10th Novem ber, 1850, and, nothwithstanding the cor dial relations which had up tijl then existed between Mr. Laing and the Presby tery, this event was the cause of an un fortunate division of opinion. The Pres bytery did not approve of the new venture, and made arrangements for continuing the work in the old school. In this they were utterly unsuccessful, and the attempt had soon to be abandoned. Mr. Laing had gained the confidence of the people, and they went to his meetings in crowds. He laboured incessantly, and left a deep im pression on the district, " Laing's Kirkie " becoming a noted centre of religious life in the city. Soon after the revival of 1859-60, the kirk-session of the Free East Church felt that it was their duty to undertake some aggressive work, and the Upper Denburn was selected as the field for their efforts. The City Mission Committee had been carrying on work in a school opposite the Chapel of Ease brae, near the point where the Viaduct now crosses Upper Denburn, and this was transferred to the Free East congregation. Negotiations were also opened for the transfer of Mr. Laing's chapel in order that Northfield might be joined to the Upper Denburn to form one territorial district. Mr. Laing handed over the chapel and school as a gift on condition that the session also took along with them th© small debt still resting on the buildings. This agreement was sanc tioned by the Presbytery in March, 1863, and the Free East Church took possession with the aim and hop© of developing the work, so that a territorial mission charge might soon be formed. Mr. Laing's offi cial connection with th© movement then ceased, although his work cannot be for gotten. Th© first student missionary was Mr. John Gibb, now Professor Gibb, D.D., of Westminster Presbyterian College, Cam bridge. He was succeeded by Mr. James Clark, afterwards minister of Lassodie; Mr. John Keith, afterwards minister of Carmyllie; Mr. A. Ogilvy, afterwards minister of Coatbridge ; Mr. M'Farlane, afterwards minister of Leghorn ; and Mr. Alexander Clark, afterwards minister of Kingswells. In 1866, the kirk-session of the Free East Church began to see that it would be necessary to secure the services of an ordained minister if they were to succeed in raising a regular congregation. The continual changing of the missionary was felt to be detrimental to the ingather ing and upbuilding of a membership, and it was thought that the settlement of an ordained minister might add somewhat to the standing of the congregation. In April, 1867, the kirk-session of the East Church resolved to offer the appointment to Rev. Alexander Yule, then minister of Cargill, in Perthshire, who was known as an earnest mission worker, and one not un acquainted with the district, as he had in earlier years, along with Rev. T. T. Mat thews afterwards of Madagascar, con ducted a Sunday School in a mission room in the Upper Denburn. Mr. Yule inti mated his willingness te undertake the work on condition that Mr. Gray C. Fraser and Mr. George Bisset would associate themselves with the congregation as elders. These gentlemen readily agreed, and the session of the Free East consented to part RUTHERFORD UNITED FREE CHURCH 173 with them, although Rev. J. C. Macphail, who was then minister of th© church, and who had shown so deep and practical an interest in th© Northfield Mission, remarked that "giving them was like giving away his right hand." Mr. Yule was settled in Aberdeen in August, 1867. The wisdom of his selection was manifest from the outset, and in a few months it became evident that a larger place would have to be secured. The con gregation made application to be raised to th© statue of a regular charge, and the Presbytery recommended th© application to the General Assembly, which granted it3 formal sanction in May, 1868. An ex cellent site was secured for a church in Rosemount Place, directly facing Short Loanings, thus close to the street where the movement first began, and command ing the district from which the bulk of th© members had been drawn. The selection of this particular spot has proved a re markably fortunate one. Rosemount Place sine© then has becom© on© of the main arteries of traffic in the city, and the church is now in the very heart of a densely populated residential locality. Great developments have taken place in the dis trict, all tending to enhance the prospects of the church, and enlarge its sphere of usefulness. A neat church was erected, with a spire, th© clock and bell in which were largely, if not entirely, th© proceeds of subscriptions from residents in the dis trict. There was some difficulty in deciding on a name for the new church — the choice ultimately lying between that of Columba and Rutherford. It was finally resolved to adopt the latter. The half of Samuel Rutherford's memorable letters were written by him when he was in the city of Aberdeen, and it was to perpetuate th© memory of that interesting fact that the church was called by the name of Rutherford. The opening services were conducted on 9th February, 1870, by Rev. J Hood Wilson, of the Barclay Church, Edinburgh, and on th© following Sunday the special preachers were — Rev. J. C. Macphail, of Pilrig, Edinburgh (formerly of the Fre© East) ; Rev. R. S. Candlish, then of the Fre© East, and afterwards Professor Candlish, of Glasgow ; and Rev. H. M. Williamson, then of the Fre© High, and afterwards of Belfast. After the opening of the new church, the membership steadily increased, and many agencies were carried on with vigour. Nor was the work at Northfield allowed to lan guish. Mr. Yule and his office-bearers took a personal interest in the various organisations and meetings, and in Novem ber, 1871, a student missionary was ap pointed to superintend the work. The first to occupy the position was Mr. J. G. Paterson, who afterwards went abroad. He was succeeded in 1873 by Mr. John Berry, who undertook a charge in South Africa on the completion of his college course, but subsequently returned to this country and settled in Lanarkshire. Mr. Berry was followed by Mr. Henry E. Michie, now minister of the South Church, Stonehaven, who laboured with great acceptance and amid much encouragement for two years. Mr. Michie left for Dunedin in the early part of 1877, and some tim© elapsed before a successor was appointed. In th© autumn of 1878, Mr. John Burgess was selected for th© post, and, on the expiry of his term, by a Strang© coincidence, he followed his three predecessors to the colonies, after wards rising to th© highest position of honour in the Church in Australia. Shortly after Mr. Burgess's appointment as student missionary, the church had to face the pos sibility of losing its minister. In Septem ber, 1878, Mr. Yule received a call to the pastorate of Erskine Church, Melbourne, and this he decided, after du© considera tion, to accept. In Rutherford Church the prospect was naturally viewed with regret, for Mr. Yule had practically made the con gregation what it was. Under his foster ing care, and as a result of his earnest preaching and devoted work, th© member ship had risen to 450. By his evangelistic gifts and his special faculty for dealing with th© young, h© had exercised an in fluence which had been felt throughout the city at large; whil© in th© Presbytery he had distinguished himself during the great Robertson Smith controversy as an able and ready debater. Mr. Yule enhanced his repulation in Australia, gaining wide spread esteem, and being ultimately called to th© Moderator ship of the Federal Assembly. During a visit to Scotland in 1904 he occupied his former pulpit in Rutherford Church, and renewed his acquaintance with the Northfield district and the scene of his early labours. The selection of a successor to Mr. Yule was speedily and harmoniously settled — the unanimous choice, alike of the committee and of the congregation, falling on Rev. James Dewar, of Campsie. Mr. Dewar was inducted in March, 1879, and was intro duced by the late Rev. Dr. Adam, of Glas gow. He took up the duties of the pastorate with great vigour, and soon 174 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN proved his fitness as a practical worker. Possessed of special organising gifts, he developed the activities of the congrega tion in various ways. The transference of the Northfield Chapel to the School Board led to the removal of a number of the agencies to the Church Hall, but the mis sion operations wer© still continued. The services of a missionary were dispensed with for a time, and the work was appor tioned among the elders and other office bearers. New organisations, both religious and philanthropic, were instituted by Mr. Dewar, and the church became the centre of many efforts for the good of the people of the district. Much was also done about this time in raising funds to clear off the debt on the church buildings, and the con gregation were able, to rejoice in the suc cess of their efforts in this respect. Mr. Dewar had held the pastorate for 13 years when, in 1892, the Home Mission Com mittee of the General Assembly asked him to undertake the work of raising a new con gregation in Motherwell. The task did not promise to be a light one, and the induce ments, from a worldly point of view, were not great, but he accepted the invitation, and the result has been such as to ratify the wisdom of his decision. Mr. Dewar was very highly esteemed for his personal worth as well as for his record of work. He was as fully appreciated out of the pulpit as in it — perhaps even more so, for his diligence as a pastor and his unfailing sympathy made his members his friends in the true sense of the term. The work he had to do was different in certain respects -from that which fell to Mr. Yule. He found the congregation recently raised from a mission, and it was his lot to develop its congregational life and organise it more fully for Christian service. In doing this ho left his mark upon it. In seeking a successor to Mr. Dewar, the congregation met with two disappoint ments, calls being declined by Rev. John Hall, Cullen, and Rev. T. L. Ritchie, Brechin— both now in Edinburgh. Not withstanding these discouragements, a unanimous and hearty call was addressed, before the vacancy had become prolonged, to Rev. James S. Stewart, of Rathen. Mr. Stewart accepted the invitation, and his induction took place on 31st August, 1893. On the following Sunday he was introduced by his relative, Dr. Hood Wilson, of Edin burgh, who, as already stated, officiated at the opening of Rutherford Church. From the outset of his ministry Mr. Stewart met with remarkable tokens of outward success. His fervent, evangelical preaching made an immediate impression, and his eager, enthusiastic Celtic temperament seemed to carry everything before it. The member ship went up by leaps and bounds, until an enlargement of the church was rendered an absolute necessity. This large scheme was undertaken with considerable enter prise — side galleries being erected, and the transepts largely extended ; while at a later date the church was still further improved by the introduction of a handsome pipe organ. The mission at Northfield shared in the general impetus. The work was Rev. John D. MacGilp, M.A. again put under the charge of student missionaries, and amongst those who filled the position there may be noted the late Rev. James Wallace, Blundellsands, Liver pool ; Rev. John Cooper, Ballater ; Rev. Ranald Macdonald, Dingwall; Rev. Alex ander Robertson, Poona; Rev. Kenneth Cameron, Lochgilphead ; and Rev. Alex. Maclean, Nethy Bridge. Mr Stewart's ministry continued with unbroken suc cess until August, 1903, when he accepted the invitation of the North congregation to th© pastorate of their church with th© view of lead ing the new east-end Forward move ment in Aberdeen on the lines of the Man chester Mission, this step having the full and cordial approval of the Presbytery RUTHERFORD UNITED FREE CHURCH 175 During Mr. Stewart's ten years' pastorate at Rutherford, the congregation had more than doubled. H© left it with a member ship of about 900, and with its prospects in every respect brighter than at any previous period in its history. Th© next minister of the church — Rev. John D. MacGilp, M.A. — was called from Lockerbie, and inducted to the charge in March, 1904. An able student, he had also proved his qualifications for the minis terial vocation by the acceptance and suc cess of his work at Lockerbie, and he came to Aberdeen with the benefit of 12 years' experience. He also cam© with the reputa tion of being specially interested and pro ficient in th© work of the Church Courts, and this reputation h© justified in Aber- Rev. Donald M'Farlan, M.A. deen. Mr. MacGilp was an able, thought ful, and edifying preacher, and by his high- toned personality h© gained a strong hold on the esteem and respect of the members. Ther© was genuine regret when, in Decem ber, 1907— after a short pastorate of less than four years— h© left for Crown Church, Inverness. The vacancy in Rutherford was filled on 20th February, 1908, by the induction of Rev. Donald M'Farlan, M.A., formerly of the West Church, Thurso, who is still minister of the congregation, and is worthily maintaining its reputation. Rutherford Church has been as fortu nate in its office-bearers as in its ministers. At the first it had th© services, as already noted, of Mr. Gray C. Fraser, who afterwards became associated with Queen's Cross Church, a.nd of Mr. George Bisset, who retained his connection with Rutherford until his death. One elder still remains who was associated with the work at Northfield from the very first, and was one of the first leet of elders to be ordained in 1869. This is Mr. Peter Stewart, late plumber, who for many years acted as joint superintendent of the North- field Mission School. The steadfast loyalty of its office-bearers is on© most gratifying feature of the history of Rutherford. Mr. Matthew Edwards has held offic© as an elder since 1873, and for nearly as many years has been superintendent of the Con gregational Sunday School. Mr. John Whyntie has been an elder since 1878, and since 1883 has acted as congregational treasurer, in addition to filling at various times many of the important offices in the church. Mr. William Herd has discharged the duties of session clerk 6inc© 1889 — having acted for many years jointly with th© late Mr. D. R. Halley, and, since his death, solely. The congregation has already given som© of its sons to the ministry, and in years to com© the list may grow. Rev. James Wallace and Rev. John Cooper, already mentioned as missionary-assistants, had both a family connection with Rutherford, and to these there can be added Rev. John Thomson, of Carmyllie ; Rev. J. H. J. Bissett, of Fyvie ; and Rev. William Herd, now a minister in the Colonies. Rev. Fred. G. Bowie, of the New Hebrides, was a mem ber of the church, and Rev. Dr. Frank Innes, of Livingstonia, was an adherent during his college course. Both these missionaries were ordained in Ruther ford Church, and formally set apart for their work before the congregation. In the present day th© congregation is a living and vigorous one, and it is fully organised in every department of Christian activity. Neither in numbers nor in organi sation can any further development be reasonably looked for. Its task for the future must be consolidation rather than extension. It supplies an excellent type of a thoroughly modern congregation, com posed largely of the working and business people in the surrounding district, alive to the claims of the Church and, of those who are yet outside of it, and touching at many points th© life of th© community. XLIV.— RUTHRIESTON UNITED FREE CHURCH. Ruthrieston U.F. Church. Thus congregation does not, like many others, owe its origin to united action on th© part of a number of residents in the locality. Its formation may be said to be wholly due to one man, who was a com parative stranger to the district. That man was Rev. Mungo Fairly Parker, whose memory is still green after the lapse of many years. Mr. Parker was a man of rare parts. He was one of the most distinguished students of his day at the University of Glasgow, and on the completion of his course he was appointed in 1837 to the East Church, Brechin, where he had for a time as his colleague Dr. M'Cosh, afterwards the well- known Principal M'Cosh, of Princeton, United States. In 1843 Mr. Parker took part in the Disruption, and carried a larg© section of his con gregation along with him into the Free Church. In 1857 his health broke down, and he went to reside at the Bridge of Dee, where in a great measure he re covered. The village of " Ruddristoune " at that tim© was of small extent, and there was no great population, but the irreligion apparently so prevalent, and ©specially the neglect of the young, stirred Mr. Parker's heart, and with returning strength he resolved to put forth an effort to stem the tide. Having enlisted the support 'of a few sympathetic residents, he set about securing a suitable place- where meetings could be held. One of the innkeepers in the village, who rented a small house on the brae above the fords for evening enter tainments, raffles, dancing classes, etc., gave Mr. Parker permission to occupy the premises on Sundays. Forme used in tents on the adjoining market stance were brought in and arranged round the room ; a, plain deal table, with a hastily-prepared bookboard, was used as a reading desk ; while a dim, religious light was obtained from a number of candles. Th© venture succeeded beyond all expectations, and the room was filled every evening. Encour aged by the success of his first effort, Mr. Parker next rented a cottage in what is now Ruthrieston Road, and got the partition walls removed, so that there was one large room with accommodation for 140 people. By this time his preach ing had become widely known, and not only was the meeting-house packed every Sun day evening, but chairs set round th© house were also fully utilised, and even the dyke which bounded the garden would be entirely occupied with listeners. Th© next move was for the erection of a church, and on 8th August, 1858, a plain and unpre tentious but comfortable building, which cost £250, was opened for public worship. There Mr. Parker ministered with ever growing acceptance and success, until his death in 1867, and it is with this building that the memory of his lucid, earnest, and persuasive preaching will ever be associ ated. Mr. Carnie has finely voiced the sentiments of many in his verse — O ! loved for aye those Sabbath eves, And godly ParkeT's voice: " Come unto Him. each soul that grieves, Come, wearied ones, rejoioe." I he.au" the call — I join the psalm ; We plead before the Throne, And memory gilds with holy calm The Old Church in the Loan. Mungo Parker exercised a remarkable in fluence in his day. His preaching seemed te strike a distinctive note, and there were many who thought it worth while to journey from the city— for it was some thing of a Sabbath day's journey to Ruthrieston then — to have the privilege of hearing him week after week. Outside the pulpit his power was also great. Quietly and kindly he moved about amongst the people, ever ready to render help and guid ance, and labouring with special zeal for the education of the young. Mr. Parker RUTHRIESTON UNITED FREE CHURCH 177 died on 1st April, 1867, and u memorial erected by public subscription marks his last resting-place in Nellfield- Cemetery. The members of the mission (for Ruthrie ston was still but a mission station) were now confronted with an aspect of affairs which tended to test their loyalty. Mr. Parker had drawn an income from the funds of the Free Church as minister of the East Church, Brechin, and had given hi,s services at Ruthrieston gratuitously, but now th© whol© expenses of pulpit supply and general maintenance devolved upon th© congregation. A meeting was called to consider th© circumstances — Dr. Macgilvray, of Gilcomston, presiding — and with th© utmost unanimity and heartiness th© members agreed to stand by the mission and support it to th© best of their ability, the general feeling being concisely summed up in the remark that ' ' they had been ee'st wi' guid preachin', and they beet t' hae that fatever cam'." Principal Lums den, of the Fre© Church College, accepted the convenership of the mission, and in various ways used his powerful influence on its behalf. His first act was to ask Rev. George Milne Rae, M.A., to under take the pastoral charge. Mr. Rae was ordained in th© East Church on 27th June, 1867, Principal Lumsden presiding, and he carried on th© work at Ruthrieston until his appointment to a professorship in the Madras College in September of th© same year. Dr. Milne Rae is now secretary of the Colonial and Continental Committee of the United Free Church. Happily, the Ruthrieston peopl© were able to get the vacancy speedily and satisfactorily settled. Rev. George G. Cameron, M.A., was at that time supplying the pulpit of the Free West Church for Dr. Dyce Davidson, and as his engagement there was almost at an end, he was invited to take up the work of Ruthrieston. He accepted th© invitation, and officiated with acceptance for over a year. On the death of Professor Sachs, of th© Free Church College, in the end of 1868, Mr. Cameron, who had the reputation of being an accomplished Hebrew scholar, was appointed to discharge the duties of the vacant chair until the meeting of the Assembly, and his connection with Ruthrie ston was, therefore,, brought to an end. In 1887 he returned to the city again to take up the work of the chair, not, how ever, in this instance for an interim period, but as the formally appointed Professor. From that time to this Professor Cameron, who is now a D.D. of our University, has been a worthy citizen of Aberdeen, and he still retains a warm interest in the affairs of his former charge. Principal Lumsden continued to take a deep interest in the cause at Ruthrieston, and although there was a vacancy of som© length, there was no lack of pulpit supply, for when h© failed to secure any other preacher, the Principal always took the services himself. In March, 1870, Mr. Alexander Linn, a probationer from Glas gow, was settled in the charge, but after one year's service, he accepted a call from St. Fergus, subsequently becoming minister of Cranstonhill Church, Glasgow, which was afterwards handed over to the authori ties of the Free Church. Rev. Robert Semple. Soon after Mr. Linn's departure, a call was addressed to Rev. Robert Semple, then assistant at West Kil bride. Mr. Semple had been recom mended by Principal Fairbairn, of Glasgow Free Church College, and having preached before th© congregation, he re ceived a unanimous invitation. His settle ment took place in the spring of 1871, and Ruthrieston was raised by the Assembly of the same year to the status of a church. Mr. Semple was ordained in February, 1872, and soon thereafter it was resolved to proceed with th© ©rection of a new church. A building capable of accom modating 390, with hall and vestry, was designed by the late Mr. James Matthews, 178 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN and the work was carried out at a cost of about £2800. Th© opening services in November, 1876, wer© conducted by. Dr. Walter C. Smith, the poet-preacher of the Free Church. Th© congregation, under Mr. Semple's ministry, continued to flourish, and in course of tim© another new church had to be thought of. For one thing, the attendance at the Sunday School had so increased that th© hall was over crowded, and the Deacons' Court had to face th© question of enlarging the hall, building a new one, or in some other way meeting the difficulty. The outcome was a resolution to build a new church and turn the former church into a hall. The present handsome and comely edifice was, there fore, erected at a cost of about £4500, with accommodation for 700 ; while the halls accommodate 300 and 120 respectively. The opening services were held on 1st Sep tember, 1901, the preacher on the occasion being Dr. Stalker, then of St. Matthew's Church, Glasgow. Mr. Semple has not only had the pleasure of seeing Ruthrieston raised from a mission station to a regular congregation under his ministry, but he has also been instrumental in securing for it a desirable reputation as an active, harmonious, and prosperous suburban church. His ministry of 39 years has not been in vain, and, happily, it is not yet at an end, for h© is still in full vigour. Mr. Semple, who is a nativ© of Lesmaha- gow> Lanarkshire, and a, Glasgow student, is an earnest preacher, holding by the evangelical traditions. His discourses are practical and helpful, while suffused with that warmth of heart and strong human sympathy which in his personal intercourse have gained for him so sur© a plac© in the esteem and affection of his whole congre gation and of th© community generally. To mention Mr. Semple's record as minister of Ruthrieston congregation is, however, to touch merely on one aspect of his work. H© is a man with varied interests in life, and he excels in many spheres, but in none mor© than in th© Church courts. As a Presbytery clerk he is pre-eminent. He has held the clerkship of the Aberdeen Presbytery since 1885, for a time acting as colleague to Dr. Spence, although from the first discharging all the duties. His work in that capacity is beyond all praise. As a master of ecclesiastical rules and forms lie is widely known, for his opinion is frequently sought by other Pres byteries when intricate problems have to be dealt with. In th© Aberdeen Presbytery his influence is fully acknowledged. He never obtrudes his opinion, but his brethren know there is a competent and skilful hand at th© helm, and not only does he beget confidence in his strength, but he is withal so genial, so accessible, so kindly and sympathetic as to dispel any feeling of officialism. Among6t thos© who rendered lasting ser vice to the cause at Ruthrieston in its early days there were several whose names were well known in the community, prominent among them being th© late Baillie M 'Hardy, whose helpful interest in the church is worthily maintained to-day by his son, Mr. David M 'Hardy of Cran- ford. Mr. M 'Hardy has served the church with a devotion it would be difficult to excel, both as congregational treasurer and Sunday School superintendent, for over 40 years. The present session clerk is Mr. Alexander Forbes, headmaster of Holburn Street Public School, and Mr. George Cargil is clerk to th© Deacons' Court. Various interests are represented both in the ranks of the office-bearers and in the general body of the membership, profes sional and business men associating freely with the artisan and working classes. Ruthrieston Church has always been con spicuous for its interest in th© young, and not a little of it6 success is due to this fact. It has also sought to serve the dis trict in various ways, as witness the recent formation of a quoiting club, with Mr. Semple as president, to utilise the plot of ground adjoining th© church. The members have all along been characterised by a sturdy self-reliance, which has carried them unaided over many a difficulty. Perhaps most outstanding of all, however, has been the remarkable harmony which has always prevailed. It is said that neither in the kirk-session nor deacons' court has any question of policy ever been carried to a vote during all the years of the congrega tion's history. Surely this is an ©nviable record. XLV.— ST. ANDREW'S UNITED FREE CHURCH. St. Andrew's U.F. Church. This congregation has undergone several transformations in the course of its his tory. It ha6 had four names, three churches^ and two ministers. This is in direct contrast to th© general rule. In the majority of cases th© order is reversed by the frequency with which ministers ar© changed, and th© reluctance with which any alteration is permitted in the names of churches, notwithstanding their removal to new buildings. The first we hear of the congregation was in 1839 and 1840, when it met in a building in Sugarhouse Lane commonly, if not officially, known as the Sailors' Church. From the outset the membership was almost entirely confined to the seafaring classes, and this continued to be one of the distinctive features during many succeed ing years. The old church in Sugarhouse Lane was used as an Industrial School, until Sheriff Watson's School was opened. On removal to Commerce Street the new building was formally designated, the Mariners' Church, and this name found a place in the ecclesiastioal annals of the city for well nigh half a century. A fortunate choice was made in selecting as the minister Rev. John Longmuir, M.A., who was at the time acting as evening lecturer in Trinity Church. The evening lectureship was then a recognised position, and several who occupied it in connection with Trinity Church afterwards rose to distinction, two of the most notable examples being fur nished in th© persons of Dr. Kidd and Dr. Longmuir. The lectureship proved an ex cellent training for the duties of a settled pastorate, and when Dr. Longmuir became minister of the Sailors' Church he had already gained considerable experience of such a kind as to fit him in a special manner for the duties he had to discharge. He had also natural qualifications for the position, for from his earliest days he had been in love with the sea and the people who go down to th© sea in ships. Finding himself thus in a congenial sphere, he threw himself into the work with enthu siasm. The history of the Mariners' Church and the record of Dr. Longmuir's ministry are indissolubly bound up together, and to tell the story of the one is to tell the story of the other. The doctor's influence over the congregation was supreme. Even within three years after his ordination this was put to the proof, for at the Disruption of 1843, when he decided to leave the Estab lishment and join th© Free Church, he carried the entire membership of th© Mariners' Church along with him. He was never a popular preacher in the usual acceptation of th© term, a certain defect in his articulation marring to a large ex tent the effect of his public utterances. Yet among his own people his popularity Mariners' Church, Commerce Street. M2 180 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN was unmistakably great. His annual ser mons before the departure of the sailors for their usual period at sea were great occasions. The church, with the Bethel flag floating from a flagstaff above the entrance, and with a full-rigged 6hip hang ing from the roof inside, was then crowded by those who were outward bound and the relatives and friends they wer© leaving behind. The discourse was always specially suited to the occasion, and although it was often unduly prolonged, it never seemed to tax the patience of the hearers. The preacher was then at his best, while the congregation was in its most susceptible mood. Many memories clustered around those great and impressive gatherings. Rev. Dr. Longmuir. Another feature of Dr. Longmuir's work in the congregation was his unflinching advocacy of total abstinence. He was one of the early temperance reformers in the city, and was prominently identified with the movement as long as he lived. Tem perance sentiment was far from strong in the Churches in those days, and strong temperance teaching could hardly be tolerated. Even of the Mariners' Church this was true. On one occasion Dr. Long muir preached a very outspoken temper ance sermon which made a great sensation, and was the means of causing a certain exodus from the ranks. Ever ready to im prove the occasion, it is said that, in writing out th© disjunction lines of those who were seceding, he. expressed himself on the matter in a couplet, which he suggested might be the epitaph of the Mariners' Church — "What brocht this Kirk to ruin? Drinkin' I What were the ither Kirks doin' ? Winkin' ! Dr. Longmuir preached in the open air to great gatherings in Weighhouse Square and th© Quay, and spent not only his strength but his moderate means in help ing every good cause in the east end, and particularly on the "Shore." The variety of his interests and the extensive range of his knowledge and ability moved his contemporaries to wonder. On the sub jects of botany, geology, and the allied sciences he became an acknowledged specialist, and he was appointed a lecturer, first in the Free Church College, and after wards at the University. In connection with the latter he received his degree of LL.D., which he is said to have greatly appreciated. He was intimately ac quainted with Hugh Miller, and kept up a regular correspondence with him on geo logical subjects. He also acquired fame as a lexicographer, his editing of Walker and Webster's English Dictionary, Walker's Rhyming Dictionary, and Jamieson's Dictionary of the Scottish Language, making his name familiar throughout the land. Locally, he was best known, apart from his ministerial work, as a poet. He was always writing poetry, and on all con ceivable subjects. Some of his works are still known and valued, the most familiar being his "Ocean Lays," which went through more, than one edition. Person ally, Dr. Longmuir was one. of the most genial and kindly of men, very approach able to all classes in the community, and ever ready to lend a helping hand." His figure at once attracted attention like that of hie contemporary, Rev. A. M. Banna- tyne, with whom he had much in common. He has been described to the life by his friend Mr. A. S. Cook— " Dr. Longmuir was a man of powerful physique — tall, erect, muscular— and as he walked along the street with his stately step, a stout, tasselled stick in his hand, and his hat a little to one side of his large and well- formed head, with lustrous eyes and leonine face, there was no mistaking that he was a man of strong mental force and character." The doctor continued in active work, performing all the duties of his pastorate, until 1881, when Rev. A. Murray Scott was ordained as his colleague and successor. The colleagueship, how- ST. ANDREW'S UNITED FREE CHURCH 181 ever, was not of long duration, for, on 7th May, 1883, Dr. Longmuir passed away in the eightieth year of his age, leaving behind him the memory of a strenuous life and of a singularly upright character. On the following Sunday appropriate reference to his attainments and work was made from his old pulpit by Principal Brown and Rev. Andrew Doak. Rev. A. Murray Scott, M.A., who since Dr. Longmuir's death has been sole minister of the church, is a native of Laurencekirk. He took his arts degree at Rev. A. Murray Scott, M.A. Aberdeen University, and studied divinity at the local Free Church College, his ordination to th© ministry of th© Mariners' Church taking place soon after the com pletion of his course. He found the mem bership then at the low figure of 150, and immediately set to work against the diffi culties of the situation. One of the first things he accomplished was th© changing of the name from Mariners' Church to Commerce Street Church. The time had passed when th© seafaring community wished a church of their own. They even preferred to attend on© with a less dis tinctive name, while it was well-nigh an impossibility to get any of the other classes to becom© connected with a Mariners' Church. The name, however, was not the only difficulty to contend with. Th© 'church itself could boast of little more than the four walls and a roof ; there was absolutely no hall accommodation, the vestry even being merely a corner partitioned off in the church. Then, th© shifting of the population had set in ; more and more of the surrounding property was utilised for business premises, and th© problem of maintaining, not to speak of extending, a congregation under such circumstances grew ever more acute. It became a posi tive necessity to look out for a site on which to build a new church, but year after year passed befor© anything definite was accomplished. At length, after various suggestions and proposals for a movement to other localities, it was agreed, with the approval of th© Presbytery, to proceed with the erection of a church and halls on th© present excellent site at the corner of King Street and Urquhart Road. The new building — which, it was decided, should be known as St. Andrew's .Church — was formally opened on 25th January, 1903, by Dr. Ross Taylor, of Glasgow. It is impossible as yet to estimate fully the benefit of the change, al though it has been justified by what has been already accomplished. The congregation left Commerce Street with a roll .of 250, and sine© then nearly 150 members have been added. The larg© and growing industrial and working- class population amid which th© church is situated provides an excellent field for activ© work, and full advantage is being taken of the opportunities for service. Mr. Murray Scott, notwithstanding his valu able work as a member of the School Board, and in other public capacities, has devoted himself with marked energy and skill of organisation to his new field of operations. In th© admirably equipped church buildings, with their halls and class-rooms, contrasting so favourably with the lack of accommodation in bygone years, a great variety of work is now being con ducted. Sabbath schools and other agencies for the young, societies for the women of the district, and other organisa tions ar© in full operation, and systematic visitation is carried on in the densely populated str©ets immediately surround ing th© church. Nothing of a distinctly novel character has been attempted. The services, although brighter and more attractive than in th© old day6, have no surprisingly new feature, and th© various departments of work are continued on familiar lines. This does not indicate any lack of enterprise on th© part of the con gregation. It denotes rather the purpose 182 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN by which it is animated. It aims, not at reaching th© masses in miscellaneous crowds, but at gathering in and building up a solid membership from families resi dent in th© surrounding locality. It is no longer, either in name or in reality, the church of the sailors, but it is emphatically a, church of the people. It is composed almost exclusively of the working classes, and therein, perhaps, lies one of the hopes of its future usefulness and progress in the locality in which it is placed. Negotiations having been opened by the Presbytery for the promotion of a union between the congregation and that of Nelson Street, the matter was duly con sidered in all its bearings. Ultimately the union) of th© two congnegatkais was formally consummated on 5th September, 1909, the scheme finally approved providing for the retention of the ministers of both churches on an equal footing as colleagues in the pastoral charge. Under the agreement it was also arranged that St. Andrew's Church should be th© place of worship of the united congregation, under the new designation of King Street United Fre© Church. XLVI.— ST. CLEMENT'S UNITED FREE CHURCH. St. Clement's U.F. Church. The effect of th© Disruption in Aberdeen was felt nowhere more severely than in the Footdee district. Th© minister ot the parish of St. Clement's at the time was Rev. (afterwards Dr.) Alexander Spence, whose sympathies with the Non-Intrusion party were well known to his congregation. Mr. Spence was a member of the General Assembly of 1843, and he "came out" with the founders of th© Free Church and took part in th© historic proceedings of the occasion. While he was thus engaged in Edinburgh, his friends in Aberdeen were not idle. It was evident from the first that a very large proportion of the St. Clement's membership would follow their minister, and this was soon proved by the practical steps that were taken in the matter. It was decided to proceed imme diately with th© ©rection of a wooden church, to be ready, if possible, by the time Mr. Spence returned from the Assembly. The carrying out of the details was re mitted to a committee, th© members of which certainly executed their commission both with economy and despatch. They contracted with Mr. Ewen, wright, father of Rev. William Ewen, senior minister of Fyvie U.F. Church, to erect the building. According to the agreement, the material was to be the property of the contractor after the church was vacated, and this re- duoed the cost of the erection to the very moderate sum of £56 4s. 10^d. A good site was secured. A gardener, William Came ron, then held garden ground extending from Baltic Street to the Links, from a builder of the name of Chalmers. Cameron consented to allow the building to be erected on the part of his ground forming the north-west corner of Baltic Street, and the tradesmen were soon at work. When Chalmers heard of what was being done, he presented a petition to th© Sheriff to in terdict the building, the petition being lodged by his agent, Mr. Ludovic Stewart, advocate, who, curiously enough, happened to be th© brother-in-law of Dr. William Paul, of Banchory-Devenick, who was then clerk of th© Established Church Presbytery of Aberdeen. It leaked out that such an application was to be made, and a caveat was lodged, craving to be heard before in terdict should be granted. Sheriff Watson, when th© petition cam© befor© him, said he would visit th© plac© on th© following day and se© the state of matters for himself. When the Building Committee heard of this, they immediately engaged a large staff of workmen ; operations were carried on through the night with the utmost vigour, and the erection was almost entirely roofed in ere morning. Th© Sheriff, accom panied by Mr. Stewart, acting for Mr. Chalmers, and Mr. George Allan (then an advocate's clerk), representing the congre gation, arrived in course of the forenoon, only to find that the building, against the erection of which interdict had been craved, was already an accomplished fact. Under the circumstances, the petition was natur ally refused, and no mor© was heard of the matter. When Mr. Spence returned from the Assembly he was astonished to find the large wooden church ready for occupancy, and in this structure h© preached to a great congregation on Sunday, 4th June, 1843, th© first Sunday of the separate existence of th© Free Church. This building, it may b© noted, was th© first place of worship erected for the Fre© Church in Aberdeen, and one of the first in Scotland, seeing it was raised from th© foundation in the few days between th© date of th© Disruption and th© first Sunday afterwards. Th© col lections at th© opening services amounted to £15 16s. ld. Mr. Spence and his people 184 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN continued to worship in the wooden church until the completion of the stone and lime building which they wer© erecting in Prince Regent Street. To this more permanent place of worship they removed on 8th October, 1843, the opening services taking place on th© Communion Sunday. The sittings had all been let in a few hours on th© Monday previous, and the unusual re quest was made in an intimation that strangers would not attend on the opening Sunday, as the church would be much crowded with the regular worshippers. Additional accommodation had soon to be provided by erecting an end gallery, but Old Free St. Clement's Church, Prince Regent Street. th© extra 250 sittings were also let imme diately. Mr. Spence had filled the Parish Church to overflowing during his ministry there, and it can be seen that the same success attended his work in the Free Church. He also continued to take an active part in the proceedings of the Church Courts and in the affairs of the Church at large. No man, perhaps, ren dered more ©ffectiv© service in the task of organising and consolidating the Free Church throughout Aberdeenshire than Mr. Spence. H© travelled all over the county — and often far beyond it — and exer cised quite a remarkable influence. His tenure of office as clerk of the Aberdeen Presbytery also afforded scope for his busi ness and administrative ability, and enabled him to accomplish valuable and lasting work. Nor was it only in matters purely ecclesiastical and religious that his activi ties and zeal were displayed. In all philan thropic ©fforts he was deeply interested, and gave much of his time to their further ance, Sheriff Watson's Industrial School work enlisting his special sympathy. Then, in still another sphere, Dr. Spence (he re ceived the degree of D.D. from Aberdeen University in 1866) was considered worthy of honour. In February, 1879, he was elected patron of the Incorporated Trades in succession to Dr. Forsyth, of the West Parish, being the first Pree Churchman to hold th© position. Dr. Spence carried on with wonderful vigour the various enterprises in which he was interested, but in 1860 a somewhat serious illness, together with the weight of advancing years, led him to give the con gregation permission to make arrangements for the appointment of an assistant. The following young probationers were asked to preach as candidates: — Rev. Charles G. M'Crie (now the well-known Dr. M'Crie, of Ayr, ex-Moderator of the General As sembly), Kev. J . W . Laurie (afterwards of Tulliallan), and Rev. Marcus Dods (after wards the famous Principal Marcus Dods, of Edinburgh). Mr. John Emslie, then a divinity student, afterwards minister of Kennethmont Free Church, and subse quently well known as Dr. Emslie, of Christchurch, New Zealand, was not a can didate, but he was very popular with the congregation, and when the voting took place, Mr. Marcus Dods was the only candidate who received any votes, while the majority declared for Mr. Emslie. The minority declined to withdraw, and th© majority abandoned their case; but, in th© interval, Dr. Spence recovered and resumed the sole work of the pastorate. In 1878 the increasing frailties of age in duced him to withdraw from active work and apply for the appointment of a col league and successor. A happy settlement was effected in May of that year by the induction of Rev. Andrew D. Donaldson, M.A. Dr. Spence was liberally dealt with by the congregation on his retirement, and between him and his colleague there existed throughout the years in which they were associated together the most harmonious relations — a state of matters equally creditable to both men. From time to time Dr. Spence occupied his old pulpit, and his interest in St. Clement's continued unabated until his death, which occurred ST. CLEMENT'S UNITED FREE CHURCH 185 on 30th August, 1890—12 years after his withdrawal from active duty. The pass ing away of one who had for so long filled so prominent a position in the community was an event which affected the whole city. Dr. Spence was more than merely an out standing minister ; he was one of the fore most public men in Aberdeen in his day. Iz was therefore fitting that he received a public funeral, attended by th© Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council in their official capacity. In th© death of Dr. Spence there passed away th© last survivor of th© band of Disruption ministers in Aberdeen who left in a body th© Established Church in th© momentous times of 1843. The city was also poorer by the loss of a man of earnest devotion to th© highest in terests of the people, and on© whose sin cerity of spirit and singleness of purpose as a minister of the Gospel wer© ever be yond question . His portrait, by tSir Georg© Reid, was placed in the hall of the In corporated Trades. Rev. A. D. Donaldson, M.A., who be came colleague and successor to Dr. Spence in 1878, is a native of Aberdeen, and in early life he spent five years in the employ ment of Mr. George Shepherd, bookseller, Broad Street, whose shop occupied part of the site on which the Townhouse now stands. Having devoted considerable time to reading and study, Mr. Donaldson ulti mately decided to prepare himself for entering the ministry, and, abandoning business pursuits, he attended the famed Grammar School at Old Aberdeen, then under Cosmo Grant, and in 1867 entered King's College as a bursar — graduating M.A. in 1871. Before h© entered on his college course he had been accustomed to take part in Christian work of various kinds in connection with the Fre© North Church, th©n under th© ministry of Rev. George Campbell. Between his third and fourth session in arts he was appointed student missionary in Gallowgate Free Church under Rev. James Goodall ; and, in addition to visiting and other work, he had to undertake the third service in the church on Sundays. In October, 1871, he entered the Fre© Church College, Aber deen, and studied under Dr. David Brown and Dr. Robertson Smith ; but in the autumn of 1872 he was offered the appoint ment of missionary at Addiewell, a preach ing station under the church at West Calder, of which Principal Iverach was then minister. Having accepted this post, he then attended New College, Edinburgh, travelling daily from Addiewell until he was appointed missionary in North Leith Church under the noted Dr. Robert M 'Donald. After receiving three invita tions, Mr. Donaldson returned to Addie well (where an iron church had been erected) in the autumn of 1874 ; and in March, 1875, he completed his course at the New College, and was licensed by the Presbytei-y of Linlithgow. Shortly after wards, he was unanimously asked to be come probationer in charge of Galatown Church, Kirkcaldy, and when the church, a few months later, was raised to the status of a regular charge, he became its first minister, and was ordained in Septem- Rev. A. D. Donaldson, M.A. ber, 1875, Professor Stalker, then minister of St. Brycedale Church, Kirkcaldy, preaching on the occasion. Mr. Donald son's ministry there was a short one, as in May, 1878, he was, as already mentioned, called to St. Clement's as colleague and successor to Dr. Spence, and returned to his native city to take up what has proved to be his life-work. Befor© leaving Gala- town, however, he saw the congregation considerably increased in numbers, the church enlarged, and a manse erected. One of the earliest movements initiated in St. Clement's after Mr. Donaldson's settlement was that for the erection of a new church. Th© old church was found to 186 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN be in need of extensive repairs, and, in view of the architect's report, and also having regard to th© need for hall and other accommodation necessary for work amongst the young, it was decided to pro ceed to the erection of a new edifice. The old_ church in Prince Regent Street was purchased by Sir William Henderson for the us© of the Gaelic-speaking Highland fishermen who came to Aberdeen, but the scheme of work did not prove the success which had been anticipated, and it was ultimately given up. Th© building was afterwards rented by the Salvation Army, but they also abandoned it after a short time, and in 1899 it pased into the hands of th© Episcopalians. Rev. John Comper, of St. Margaret's opened it as a mission, and it is now known as St. Clement's Epis copal Church. The closing services in the eld church were conducted by Mr. Donald son in the forenoon and Dr. Spence in the evening ; and on 15th September, 1883, the present handsome edifice was opened for public worship, the special preachers on the occasion being Principal Rainy and Rev. George Davidson, B.Sc, of St. Mary's, Edinburgh. Since then the work of the congregation has been prosecuted with vigour and success, and, in addition to the flourishing Sunday School, Band of Hope, and other agencies, a district mis sion has also been carried on in Links Street under a lay missionary. Mr. Donaldson takes a personal share in all th© work — superintending the Sabbath School, presiding weekly over the flourish ing savings bank, and in other respects keeping in close touch with all that' is going on. From the origin of the congregation to the present day, St. Clement's Church has never lacked men of standing and influence in its membership. Mr. George Allan, advocate, is now the sole survivor of the notable band of men who led the people at the Disruption. Even then Mr. Allan was one of the foremost of the leaders, and as time pased his influence became still greater. Although latterly connected with Queen's Cross Church, of which also he was one of the founders, his interest in St. Clement's and particularly in the stirring days of its early history, is still unabated. Amongst others connected with the con gregation, either in the past or present, there may be mentioned: — Mr. Alexander Anderson, manager of the Northern Agri cultural Company ; Mr. James Inglis, Mr. Alexander Davidson (of J. and A. David son), Dean of Guild Macdonald, Mr. Robert Sangeter, flesher, Mr. Alexander Lyon, Sir Alexander Lyon, Mr. Hugh Munro, superintendent of harbour works ; ex- Councillor John Skinner, Mr. David An derson, Mr. Alexander Findlay, superin tendent of cleansing ; Parish Councillors Bowman and Songster ; and ex-Factor A. S. Mackay, of the Incorporated Trades. These names may suffice, although the list could be greatly extended, for it has been remarked that ' ' everybody who was anybody in Footdee was connected with St. Clement's." Within recent years, with the trend of th© population westward, and the changed aspect of whole streets in th© locality, the congregation has felt to some extent the strain of new conditions. Other circum stances have also militated against the success of building up a congregation in the district where the church is placed, yet it is no small tribute to minister and people to say that the membership, which was 578 at th© tim© of Mr. Donaldson'6 settlement in 1878, is now over 700. It is worthyof mention that Mr. Donaldson and Rev. Dr. C. C. Macdonald, of St. Clement's Parish Church, have frequently exchanged pulpits, thus testifying to the better spirit which now exists as compared with the years sub sequent to 1843, when Footdee was in a general state of excitement and ecclesias tical unrest, and feeling ran high between the two churches. Every congregation provides for its poor, but, perhaps, only St. Clem ent's can boast of a Meal and Coal Fund. Certainly this has been a distinc tive feature of its work, and the "Meal and Coal-y sermon," as Dr. Longmuir used to style it, was, and still is, one of the events of the year. For long it was re gularly preached by Dr. Davidson, of the West Church, and since his death some prominent minister has always been secured for the duty. The liberal spirit with which new modes of worship have been viewed has always been conspicuous in the congregation. The introduction of hymns and organs, the practice of standing at praise, and other innovations, were introduced while they were still regarded as innovations, and introduced without any split or even division of opinion; and the same spirit of forbearance and th© same freedom from the trappings of convention may be said to be conspicuous of the con gregation to-day. XLVII.— ST. COLUMBA UNITED FREE CHURCH. St. Columba U.F. Church. Th© St. Columba Church was the direct descendant of the Gaelic Church of former years. It had behind it more than a century of continuous history, with which there is bound up practically the whole record of the religious life of the Celtic portion of the community. The first colony of Gaelic-speaking High landers settled in or near Aberdeen was one established on the south side of the Bay of Nigg in 1758, when a Mr. Adams, of London, brought them there to cut granite setts. Somewhat later in the same century another large Gaelic - speaking colony grew up at Printfield (Woodside), and in the barracks there was almost con stantly a large number of Gaelic-speaking soldiers. For a time there was a steady influx of Highlanders in search of employ ment at the public works in the city and the granite quarries in the neighbourhood, their numbers increasing to such an ex tent that it was found necessary to in stitute special means for supplying them with religious ordinances. This, however, was no easy matter, for there were very few who were proficient enough in their knowledge of Gaelic to be able to preach to these people in the only language which they could understand. Dr. Ronald Bayne, afterwards minister of Kiltarlity, was the first to take active steps in the matter, and he was the means of found ing the Gaelic congregation of Aberdeen. Dr Bayne had gone to India as chaplain to the 42nd Highlanders in 1780, but his health having failed, he returned to thi6 country in 1784 and settled in Aberdeen near some of his wife's relatives. His at tention was soon directed to the moral destitution of the Highlanders in the city and district, whose condition appealed to him as that of sheep without a shepherd. With the concurrence of Mr. Abercrombie, one of the city ministers, Dr Bayne as sembled the Highlanders in the East Church in 1785, and held Gaelic services every Sunday morning before the regular hour of worship. In 1788 the company thus gathered together had grown to Le a numerous congregation, and being in a position to pay a minister of their own, they formed themselves into the " Gaelic Society of Aberdeen," and applied te the magistrates for permission to fit up St. Mary's Chapel under the East Church for their accommodation. The application was granted, and in 1789 or 1790 they furnished th© chapel with seats and a reading desk,- and entered into possession of it. To attest their responsibility, the Gaelic Society associated with themselves as managers four well-known citizens, viz. — Mr. Colquhon MacGregor, merchant ; Mr. James Chalmers, printer ; Mr. Pat rick Robertson, leather merchant ; arid Mr. John Ewen, merchant. Dr. Ronald Bayne left in 1791 to become minister of the Little Kirk at Elgin, and he was succeeded in the pastorate at Aber deen by his brother, Rev. Kenneth Bayne, who was described as " his equal and con temporary in the Christian life, but his inferior in natural abilities." During the ministry of Mr. Kenneth Bayne the con gregation resolved to purchase or erect a church for themselves. They obtained a feu on what afterwards came to be known by its present designation of Gaelic Lane, between Belmont Street and Back Wynd, but what seems then to have been a 188 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN garden sloping steeply te th© Green. The building was founded on 10th March, 1795, but before its completion another change occurred in the pastorate of the congregation. Rev. Kenneth Bayne ac cepted a call to Greenock, where he made so great an impression that it is recorded that many of the citizens of Greenock who did not understand Gaelic went to the Highlands for the express purpose of acquiring the language in order that they might be in a position to profit by his preaching. His immediate successor at Aberdeen was Rev. John Mackenzie, who conducted the opening services in the new Gaelic Chapel on 30th August, 1795. A register still exists of the subscribers to the building fund of the chapel, and in it there are to be found the names of some pro minent citizens of the time, 6mch as Messrs. John Ewen and James Chalmers, both managers ; Mr. Alexander Hadden of Persley, of the firm of Moir and Sons; Mr. Alexander Webster, advocate ; and Professors MacLeod, Copland, and Hamil ton ; while th© largest corporate sub scription was from the Beadalbane Regi ment of Highlanders, then quartered in the city. Mr. Mackenzie was translated in 1798 to Glasgow, where he besame minister of the Duke Street Gaelic Chapel, and he was succeeded in Aberdeen by Rev. James MacPhail, second son of the revered Rev. Hector MacPhail, of Resolis, whom he very much resembled in the simplicity of his Christian character. He remained only a year, and after him came Rev William Forbes, concerning whom it was said that his ministry in Aberdeen was ' brief in point of time, but eternal in regard to its real effects." Mr. Forbes was a profound and Scriptural divine, and a man of distinctive personality. His pastoral work was characterised by great fidelity, and his pulpit exercises in both languages were accurate, able, and deeply impressive. " His temperament," re marked his brother-in-law — Rev. Donald Sage—" was intensely, nervous, and often threw him into moods of feeling the very reverse of each other — at one time in high spirits, laughing until his eyes ran over at his own anecdotes, told with no ordinary powere of humour and drollery — at another sunk in the deepest gloom, which his countenance, naturally dark and sallow, was peculiarly well fitted to express." Mr. Forbes became minister of tho parish of Tarbat, in Ross-shire, in 1800, and to the vacancy the congregation recalled their former pastor — Rev. John Mackenzie. Mr. Mackenzie did not then accept the recall, and the vacancy was filled by the appointment of Rev. Neil Kennedy, who was inducted in November, 1804, and remained until 1808. Mr. Kennedy was an eminently pious minister — a man of prayer, and rich in Christian experiences. He left for Logic, in Easter Ross, where he spent the rest of his life, and the Aberdeen congregation again re called Rev. John Mackenzie. This time Mr. Mackenzie readily returned, and he remained in Aberdeen until 1813, when he was recalled to Glasgow, not, however, to his former charge, but to undertake the pastorate of a newly-formed Gael'c congregation in the Gorbals district. In 1814 Rev. Duncan Grant, then » teacher at Fortrose, was called, and. he continued in the charg© until 1819, bestowing on the congregation as a parting gift the solid silver cups which ever after were used at the Communion services. Ilio next minister was Rev. Donald Sage, who afterwards became so well known throughout the whole of the Highlands. Mr. Sage was settled in Aberdeen in July, 1819, and he was the first minister of the congrega tion inducted by the Presbytery, for, in course of th© same year, the church had been constituted a Chapel of Ease. In his " Memorabilia Domestica," Mr. Sage has given an interesting account of his im pressions and ©arly experiences in Aber deen. " When I first settled among them,'' he says, " I found the Gaelic congregation to be a very respectable one. My annual income wa6 £150, of this amount £10 be ing paid by th© S.P.C.K. The stated ser vices on every Lord's Day were — a ser mon forenoon and afternoon in the Gaelic language and an optional English sermon or lecture in the evening. During the winter I usually lectured in English at six o'clock on Sabbath evening, but in summer I devoted that portion of the Sabbath, as well as week days, to the duty of catechising. I commenced my catechetical exercises among them by family visitation, which I found to be at once satisfactory to myself and edifying and acceptable to th© people." Mr. Sage maintained friendly relations with a num ber of his contemporaries in the Aberdeen pulpit, and especially with Dr. Kidd, of Gilcomston. For the Highlanders Dr. Kidd had a strong feeling of attachment, and during Sacramental seasons in the Gaelic Chapel, he and his people always ST. COLUMBA UNITED FREE CHURCH 189 attended the lectures on the. evenings of Thursday and Sunday. Mr. Sag© resigned the charge in December, 1821, on being appointed to the parish of Resolis, where he was destined to spend a long and honoured ministry of 48 years. He be came one of the most influential men in the Highlands during the troubled years that preceded th© Disruption and the anxious ones that followed it, and it may be mentioned as a proof of his hold on his own larg© congregation that in 1843 they followed him in a body without a single dissentient into the Fre© Church of Scot land. Mr. Sage was intimately connected with several of the leading families in the Church in the Highlands, and not a few of his descendants have found places of honour in the ministry. Two of his grand sons became well known to Aberdonians — Rev. William Mackintosh Mackay, formerly minister of the South United Free Church, and his brother, the late Rev. Dr. Donald Sage Mackay, of New York. Rev. Robert Clark, from Tongue, suc ceeded Mr. Sage in Aberdeen in 1822, but his ministry was a very short one. He resigned on 7th April, 1823, his early de parture being caused by his delicate health, which was found unequal to the strain of th© work or the rigours of the Aberdeen climate. The next minister was Rev. Hugh Mackenzie, who was inducted in August, 1823, and whose pastorate ex tended far beyond the limits of that of any of his predecessors. Several de velopments took place during his long tenure of the charge. The first was in 1835, when the Gaelic Chapel of Ease wa6 erected into a " quoad sacra " charge as Spring-Garden Parish Church, th© reason for the name not being very obvious, seeing the church was actually situated some distance from the street known as Spring-Garden. The tokens used by th© congregation at Communion seasons were inscribed " Spring-Garden (Gaelic) Parish Church, Aberdeen, 1835." The inscription on the reverse was in Gaelic, and" was hardly likely te have been in telligible to th© bulk of those within the designated parish of Spring-Garden. The next important development was at the Disruption in 1843, when the whole of the congregation followed their minister into the Free Church. An interesting corre spondence took place hetween the man agers and the Presbytery clerk — then Dr. Paul, of Banchory-Devenick. Dr. Paul, by instruction of th© Presbytery, wrote the preses of the managers that " in con sequence of Rev. Mr. Mackenzie having ceased to be a minister of the Established Church of Scotland," the Spring-Garden Church had become vacant. To this the managers responded by saying that " they have only to reply that not only Rev. Mi- Mackenzie, but all the congregation, so far as known to them, had ceased their connection with th© Church of Scotland as by law established." There the matter was apparently allowed to rest, and the association of the Gaelic Chapel with the Church of Scotland came to an end in so far as Aberdeen was concerned. The changed conditions did not in any way de tract from the prosperity and influence of the congregation. Mr. Mackenzie became highly esteemed in th© community, and the Gaelic Chapel came to occupy quite a distinctive place in the religious life of the city. From 1823 until nearly the end of the " 'forties," Dr. Macdonald, of Ferintosh, assisted at almost every yearly Communion, and when he was ab sent the Kennedys, of Dingwall or Red- castle, or other noted Highland ministers, were sure to be present. On these-. occasions great congregations were at tracted to the old church in Gaelic Lane. The building was usually packed in every corner, passages and stairs being gladly taken advantage of for either sitting or standing room, and it was no uncommon occurrence for the minister to have to find his way to the pulpit from the side door of the church leading from the vestry by climbing over the seats. These were, indeed, memorable days, which fre quenters of the Gaelic Chapel often loved to recall. Mr. Mackenzie, who served the congre gation so long and faithfully, was a native of Kiltarlity, Inverness-shire, and a student both in Arts and Divinity at Aberdeen. Soon after being licensed, he was called to a sphere of labour on the banks of Loch Tay, preaching on alternate Sundays at Ardeonaig and Lawers, on opposite sides of the loch. His ministra tions having proved acceptable, he was ordained and settled as pastor of tne double charge in 1822, but his stay in the district was of short duration. In the following year he was called to the Gaelic Chapel in Aberdeen, and there he spent practically the whole of his ministerial life. Mr. Mackenzie was a man of solid and varied acquirements. Although habitually of a reserved and unobtrusive disposition, yet those who knew him most 190 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN intimately felt that they came in contact with a mind of superior calibre. Though not gifted with great eloquence, he was an able and effective preacher, and his ser mons were characterised by a soundness of doctrine, a depth of thought, and an evangelical tone which commended them to those who were best able to judge. Mr. Mackenzie had a high conception of his office, and he discharged its duties with the utmost faithfulness and entirely with out assistance for over 33 years. In 1856 the growing infirmities of age rendered it. necessary for him to apply for the ap pointment of a colleague and successor, and the choice of th© congregation fell upon Rev. Colin Sinclair. There never was a happier collegiate ministry. Be tween Mr Mackenzie and Mr. Sinclair the most cordial and brotherly relations were maintained from the very first. Their association, however, was a short one, for in three years Mr. Mackenzie had passed to his rest, his death occurring very sud denly on 31st January, 1859. The Gaelic congregation mourned his loss, and the community missed an estimable and well- known citizen who had well served his day and generation. Mr. Sinclair then as sumed the sole pastorate but he only re mained other three years in Aberdeen, ac cepting in 1862 a call to the Free Church at Invergordon. After Mr. Sinclair's departure in 1862, the congregation had a time of trouble and anxiety during a prolonged vacancy of two years. Two calls were issued dur ing that period, hut both wer© declined ; and, to make matters worse, an attempt was made to remove the church from the equal-dividend platform, and thus reduce its status. Th© members of the congrega tion strongly resented this, and having the warm sympathy and support of the Aberdeen Presbytery, the matter was carried to the General Assembly. Rev. Principal Lumsden, Rev. Dr. Mac gilvray, of Gilcomston, and Rev. John Adam, of the South, appeared at the bar of the Assembly te plead th© case, along with Mr. Hugh Mackenzie, from the con gregation. The result was a complete victory, . the Assembly deciding un animously that the position of the con gregation should continue as before. Many members gave loyal support and valuable assistance to the congregation in these days, and none more than Mr. Donald Macalister, the father of Sir Donald Mac alister, Principal of Glasgow University, who may thus be claimed as one of the eons of the Gaelic Church. In 1864 a call was addressed to Rev. Georg© MacDonald, whose settlement in the pastorate took place in August of the same year. Mr. MacDonald was a native of the Highlands, tracing his descent from some of th© best known and most highly respected Highland families. From his native glen he passed to Edinburgh, where he had a distinguished academic career, on the conclusion of which he was called to Aberdeen, the scene of his life long ministry. On coming as a young man to the city, he found some kind and congenial friends in the ministry, those with whom he was brought into closest contact being — Dr. Macgilvray, of Gil comston; Rev. Charles Ross, then of Bon-Accord Church, and afterwards of Tobermory; and Rev. Dr. J. Calder Mac phail, then of the Free East. One of the earlier efforts of Mr. MacDonald was the acquiring of a manse for the congregation, a purpose which he achieved in 1878 ; and four years later a change was made in the place of worship. The church in Gaelic Lane had become so old and dilapidated as to require entire internal renovation in order to be made fit for occupancy, and, after consideration, it was decided to remove from it altogether. The property was disposed of, and it has since been used as a printing office. It was at first proposed by some members of the Presbytery that the congregation should proceed to the erection of a new churoh in th© King Street district, where it was felt that something might be done in the way of Church extension. The pro posal was being favourably considered, when the attention of some of the members of the congregation was drawn to the church in Dee Street, which had been used by th© United Free Methodists, but, in con sequence of the disbanding of that con gregation, was then being offered for sale. A purchase was effected on favourable terms, and the Gaelic congregation, with out suffering the inconvenience of waiting on th© erection of a new church, entered into possession of a building in every way suited for its requirements as a comfort able and well-appointed place of worship. When the change was made in the church building, it was considered a fitting time to go a, step further and change the name of the church. It had been felt for some time that th© title of Gaelic Church had become slightly misleading. For some years after the church was built the ser- ST. COLUMBA UNITED FREE CHURCH. 191 vices were conducted entirely in the Gaelic language, with an optional English service in the evening ; but as the families of the congregation grew up, the need of a regular English service was greatly felt. At first the Gaelic afternoon service was superseded by one in English, and later on another change took place, by whioh provision was made for two services in English and one in Gaelic. Notwithstand ing these modifications, it was known that many of th© general public were still under the impression that th© services were entirely in Gaelic, and doubtless the congregation suffered in consequence. It was, therefore, te obviate this difficulty and dispel any idea that th© congregation was exclusively for those who were pro ficient in the Gaelic language that it was resolved to alter th© nam© of the church to that of St. Columba. Th© change seemed to meet with general acceptance, although one worthy member of Pres bytery, noted for his conservative views, expressed himself as averse to the pro posal, his objection being not te the name itself, but to the introduction of " Saint." " We have one Saint too many in Aber deen already," he said, the reference be ing, it is supposed, te St. Clement's — then the only other Free Church in the city with the objectionable prefix. The most outstanding feature of Mr. MacDonald's ministry, perhaps, was his work on behalf of students from the Highlands. He was from the outset as sociated with Dr. Calder Macphail in the bursary scheme which bore the latter's name, and Aberdeen became the chief place to which the Macphail bursars gravitated for school and college education. As a consequence, there grew up a large body of students in connection with Mr. Mac- Donald's church, and the ties that bound the congregation to the Highlands were thereby greatly strengthened. Mr. Mac Donald delighted in working for these young men, and his fellow-ministers in the city and throughout the denomination were ever ready to place the highest value on the influence which h© exercised in this way. He abounded in hospitality towards the young men, delighted to have them around him at all times, and directed and encouraged th©m in their studies for the ministry. His church became the rallying point for all those who came up from the Highlands, and there are many now occupying positions of honour and useful ness both in the Church and in various spheres of business and professional lite whose early years were moulded by the in fluence of Mr. MacDonald's life and teach ing. Among the ministers who were in their student days either members of or connected with the congregation, there may be ' mentioned — Rev. Donald M'lver, of the English Presbyterian Mission in China; the late Rev. W. J. Macdonald, of St. Brycedale, Kirkcaldy; Rev. Peter Macdonald, sometime of the Edinburgh Gaelic Church, afterwards of Stornoway, and now of Glasgow ; Rev. Walter Calder, sometime at Bourtreebush, and now at Stornoway ; the late Rev. Alexander Mathieson, formerly of Blair-Atholl, and latterly of Belgrave Presbyterian Church, London; Rev. George Murray, Tarbet ; the late Rev. Cathel Kerr, of Melness ; Rev. Ranald Macdonald, of Dingwall ; Rev. Donald Munro, of Ferintosh; Rev K. Mackenzie, of Croy ; and many others. Mr. MacDonald had a passionate love for the Gaelic language and literature, and took every opportunity of enlarging and perfecting his knowledge ; while it was on© of the chief pleasures of his life to form classes for the instruction of young men in Gaelic. It was also one of his greatest delights to visit his native Highlands from tim© to time to take part in the solemn Communion seasons, and especially in the searching exercises of "question day" in the distant north. Throughout th© Highlands and among th© Western Isles he became a well-known figure, and in Aberdeen he gained universal respect by his high-toned life and genuine earnestness. There was something about the man which invari ably impressed those who were brought into contact with him. In a pen picture of Mr. MacDonald published during his lifetime, " Deas Cromarty" said: — "His countenance bears th© marring of the Christian soldier; his frame is long, lean, not graceful; he has fin©, thin, nervous hands, wliich bang before him and are wrung while h© speaks. The burd©n of th© poor and th© lonely is on th© spare shoulders of this tall, grizzled, worn man ; h© knows, as h© feels, mor© than is ever conveyed save by a look out of patient eyes, and by a strange recurrent cry amid the low guttural of the Highland tones. The sermon is long, and ideas flitter through it like shadows over a wid© hill side when the autumn day goes down. Suddenly, as it were the fling of the pipes, comes a wail charged with keen force and weird entreaty. You may forget what has been said, but you will never forget 192 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN this cry. The wild hills are in it, and the lonely lochs under grey skies, the screigh of th© wind through the pines; it brings one the sob of the forest in winter and the fret of the tossing stream and the travail of the shepherd when the snow is heaping 6ilent doom in the glen. It is the Gaelic voice to the Gaelic soul, and those who have heard Mr. MacDonald preaoh in the old tongue feel most of what he is and might be." Mr. MacDonald served the church in Aberdeen for well-nigh 34 years, con- Rev. A. F. Campbell. tinuing in the pastorate until his death on 4th March, 1898. The Gaelic congrega tion were ever loyal to their ministers, and they are faithful to their memory. Over the grave of Mr. Mackenzie in St. Nicholas Churchyard they erected a hand some granite obelisk; while Mr. Mac Donald's last resting-place in Allenvale Cemetery is marked by a fine Iona cross, the loving tribute of attached members and friends. In the vacancy caused by Mr. Mac Donald's death, Rev. A. F. Campbell came as a probationer to give pulpit supply for a time, and he made so excellent an im pression as to be afterwards called by a unanimous vote to the pastorate. A native of Glenorchy, in Argyl©shire, and a student of Glasgow University and Free Church College, h© was ordained as minister of St. Columba Church in July, 1898, and he worthily maintained the traditions of the congregation. Young and energetic, he prosecuted the work with vigour and success ; while by his personal gifts he won the esteem and affection of a united and compact con gregation. After his settlement the order of service in the church was modernised to some extent. The old habit of standing at prayer and sitting during the praise was given up, and the members followed the custom of other congregations in the city. Another innovation was made in the introduction of the use of hymns in public worship, and a change was also made in the hour of the Gaelic service, to the close of th© forenoon service instead of in the afternoon. It is interesting to not© that among the office-bearers at this time were two sons of previous ministers of the congregation — Mr. Hugh Mackenzie, late of th© North of Scotland Bank, and Mr. A. Neil Mac Donald, solicitor. Mr. Mackenzie, a eon of the late Rev. Hugh Mackenzie, held offic© in the congregation for over 40 years, latterly as joint session clerk. Mr. A. Neil. MacDonald, a eon of the late Rev. George MacDonald, in addition to acting as joint session clerk, was also clerk to the Deacons' Court. The work of the congregation was pro ceeding along the usual lines, when every thing was upset by the decision of the Churches Commission that provision had to be made for the Free Church in Aber deen, and allocating St. Columba for this purpose. The congregation was practically stripped of everything — its buildings, its Communion plate, its tokens, and its Com munion linen, but it retained its con gregational records. It was " evicted " from the church and manee on 28th June, 1907, the last United Free Church service being held in the building on the preceding Sunday. Th© services were then transferred to the Union Hall, but another new feature intervened when Mr. Campbell, who had been loyally supported by the congregation through the period of transition, was called te Grant Street Church, Glasgow. By his acceptance of the call the congregation was then left without a minister as well as without a church. Rev. D. M. Munro, of the High Church, as a fellow-Highlander, was asked to become interim Moderator, and when the Presbytery's negotiations re- ST. COLUMBA UNITED FREE CHURCH 193 garding the future of tho St. Columba congregation had failed, it was un animously resolved to unite with the con gregation of the High Church, one of the provisions of th© union being th© payment of an annual sum of £70 by the General Interests and Highland Committee for the maintenance of the Gaelic servic©. The office-bearers of St. Columba retained their status in the united congregation, and the members w©nt over in a body, not more than half a dozen being lost as the result of the amalgamation. Th© union has proved most successful in ©very way, and under Mr. Munro's ministry the two congregations have mingled together with the utmost harmony, and entered on a period of marked prosperity. The union with th© High was formally consummated on 10th October, 1907, on which date the St. Columba United Free Church con gregation ended its separate existence, and its name passed out of the ecclesi astical calendar. XLVIU.— ST. JOHN'S UNITED FREE CHURCH. St. John's U.F. Church. The origin of this congregation was due to a resolution on th© part of th© United Presbyterian Pjeebytery of Aberdeen to attempt the formation of a preaching station in the district with a view to the raising of a U.P. church. The initial steps in th© matter were taken very quietly. The Presbytery obtained from th© ministers of the city churches the names and addresses of U.P. members residing in the Woodside district, and these were approached either personally or by letter. The Presbytery's committe© met in the Burgh Hall, Wood- side, on 2l6t August, 1877, when eight per sons in th© district belonging to th© United Presbyterian Church came forward. The eight gentlemen who thus participated in th© inception of the movement were Messrs. Robert Beveridge, George Cumming, Wil liam E. Grassick, James Hutcheson, James Kilgour, Charles Kilgour, William Laing, and James Morren. As a result of this conference, it was resolved to form a local committe© to act along with the Presby tery's Church Extension Committee, and, once th© decision had been arrived at, no time was lost in carrying it into effect. On the following Sunday, 26th August, 1877, services were held in the Burgh Hall, the Rev. Dr. Joseph Brown, of Glasgow, preaching both forenoon and afternoon to good congregations. The services thus begun were carried on regularly every week under a succession of preachers — the first being Mr. Thomas Taylor, a divinity student, who gave two months' supply. Mr. Taylor afterwards became the first minister of Banchory U.P. Church, and in 1887 h© was translated to th© pastorate of Graham's Road Church, Falkirk. The Presbytery's committee assumed full control of th© work, taking charg© even of th© collections for th© first two months, but at th© end of that time a Congregational Committee was elected. On 22nd October, 1877, a meeting of the mem bers and adherents was held for the pur pose of making application to the Presby tery to be formed into a congregation. The petition to that effect was signed by 43 members in full communion with the U.P. Church and 34 adherents. It came before the Presbytery on 13th November, 1877, and four weeks afterwards Dr. John Rob- son, of St. Nicholas Lane Church, was appointed to preach at Woodside on 18th December, and declare the petitioners con gregated. The Presbytery also appointed Rev. Andrew Dickie, of St. Paul Street Church, to act as Moderator of session, and Mr. James Kilgour and Mr. R. W. Wright were appointed elders to act along with him. The first Preses of the congregation was Mr. David Smith, manager of Gordon's Mills, and afterwards a baillie and provost of Woodside. Mr. Smith was a man of lofty personal character and superior gifts, and no member of the community was held in higher esteem. To him the congrega tion owed much of its early progress. He acted as Preses continuously from the for mation of the church until his death in 1887, and also served it in other offices with the same devotion. The congregation being now formally constituted, there was before it the impor tant task of choosing a minister. In this matter it was not immediately successful, as it had to suffer the disappointment and delay of having two calls declined. The first was addressed to Rev. John Dundas, then a probationer, who afterwards accepted a call from the church at Muir- kirk. The second was in favour of Rev. A. R. Kennedy, M.D., a probationer from Toronto, Canada, who had been admitted to the status of a licentiate by the United Presbyterian Synod of 1878. Dr. Kennedy soon after declining the call to Woodside accepted another to Clune Park, Port- Glasgow, where he laboured till 1884, when he left the ministry and removed to War- ST. JOHN'S UNITED FREE CHURCH 195 wick, there adopting th© medical profes sion, for which he had been fully qualified. The third call was more successful. It was addressed to Rev. William A. Dunbar, then a probationer, belonging to St. James's Place Church, Edinburgh. Mr. Dunbar accepted th© invitation, and was ordained and inducted as first minister of Woodside U.P. Church on 16th July, 1879. The first ordination of elders took place on 4th April, 1880, when Messrs. Alexander Ingram, William E. Grassick, John Shand, and David Smith were duly set apart to th© office. Th© next step to be taken by th© con gregation was in connection with th© erec tion of a church. Th© first site selected was afterwards, on the advice of Mr. R. G. Wilson, architect, given up as being too costly to build upon. Attention was then directed to the excellent site occupying the whole, space between th© new part of the Old Road and the main street of th© burgh. Ther© th© present church was erected — a small but comely building, which has been much improved in the succeeding years, and is now, for its size, a really handsome place of worship. Th© building, which was seated for 500, cost £1800, and the opening services took place on 6th February, 1881, the preachers on th© occasion being the revered Principal Cairns, of Edinburgh, and Dr. Robson, of Aberdeen. Mr. Dun bar's ministry was the means of gathering and consolidating a good .congregation. Within six months of his settlement the membership had grown to 90, fully double the original number. The increase con tinued at a steady, if not at an abnormal, rate until Mr. Dunbar's removal to Wishart Church, Dundee, in September, 1890, when th© roll had again nearly doubled. Mr. Dunbar was not only a forceful and vigor ous preacher, but a citizen of public spirit, and a shrewd and thoroughly capable man of affairs. He was actively interested in all that pertained to the welfare of Wood- side, and his removal was felt to b© a dis tinct loss to th© community. In Dundee Mr. Dunbar has exercised a highly success ful ministry, and he has also taken a pro minent part in public life, particularly in connection with th© School Board, of which he has served for a time as chairman. A comparatively short vacancy was ex perienced at Woodside. After hearing several preachers, a call was addressed to Rev. John Ure, M.A., assistant to Dr. John Dobie, Shamrock Street Church, Glasgow. Mr. Ure accepted the invitation, and was ordained at Woodside on 22nd January, 1891, his settlement being marked by the utmost harmony, and his ministry opening under very favourable auspices. Mr.. Ure is a native of Glasgow, and a graduate of its University, where he studied under teachers such as Lord Kelvin, Professor Edward Caird, afterwards Master of Balliol College, Oxford ; and other well-known men. At th© close of his Arts course, Mr. Ure entered the Theological Hall of the United Presbyterian Church in Edinburgh, where also h© had the privilege of sitting under eminent professors, notably Principal Cairns, and that prince of preachers, Dr. John Ker. On being licensed he was appointed assistant in Shamrock Street Rev. John Ure, M.A. Church, Glasgow, where h© laboured for nine months befor© being called to Wood- side. Th© congregation has prospered in many ways since Mr. Ure assumed the pas torate, and much of its success must be attributed to th© enthusiasm and efficiency of his work. By his practical and thought ful sermons h© has maintained his reputa tion as a preacher, while he has also shown considerable energy and resource, and not a little power of initiative, in developing the activities of th© congregation. The membership has increased from 157 at the dat© of his ordination in 1891 to 290 in 1908 ; the Sundav School has made most 196 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN gratifying progress, and a company of the Boys' Brigade has been instituted. Great improvements have been effected in the church itself. The interior has been re painted, a fin© pip© organ introduced, and three beautiful stained glass windows in serted in the end of the building, these windows being th© gift of Mr. Ure himself. Not the least notable of th© developments of the period has been the P.S.A., which was started in 1896, and has been carried on with unvarying success every year. These gatherings ar© held in the church on Sunday afternoons monthly during the winter season. A large choir leads the praise, and the most popular soloists in Aberdeen have given their aid. Mr. Ure presides and conducts the service, and pro minent ministers and laymen have given the addresses. The attendances have always completely filled the church, and occasionally hundreds have been turned away for lack of room. Many young men and wonieii, and large numbers of those who are not regular churchgoers, have been attracted to these meetings, and ample testimony has been born© to the excellent manner in which they are conducted and th© good influence they are exerting. Mr. Ure was a member of Oldmachar School Board up to the date of the amalgamation of Woodside with Aberdeen. He has also served on th© boards of most of the Wood- side charities, and has for several years been a director of the Royal Aberdeen Hospital for Sick Children, and is at present a director of the District Nursing Associa tion. When th© Union of the Free and U.P. Churches 'was effected in 1900 it be came necessary for the congregation to take » new name, and that of St. John's was adopted — the choice, it is said, having been suggested by tbe Christian name of the minister, and as a compliment to his per sonal popularity. Since then, Woodside United Presbyterian Church has given place alike in ecclesiastical and local records to St. John's United Free Church. The congregation holds a good position of influence in the community, and several well-known men in the district are con nected with it either as office-bearers or members. Amongst these there may be mentioned Mr. James N. Gray, manager, Mugiemoss Works (who holds the offices of session clerk and Preses of the congrega tion) ; Mr. W. E. Grassick, secretary, Mugiemoss Works ; ex-Baillie Wilkie, Mr. Adam Ingram, Midland Railway ; Mr. James A. Hadden, solicitor; Mr. George Jamieson, builder ; and Mr. John M'Gregor, headmaster, Old Aberdeen Public School. In a retrospect of its history, St. John's congregation can trace steady progress and considerable attainment. In the church itself — built, beautified, and freed of debt — there is a standing evidence of what has been already accomplished. But there are other and deeper results, and, perhaps, the secret of its past success and th© hope of its future may b© found in th© fact of the con gregation being a living force, ever ready to develop its Christian activities, and to adapt these activities to th© needs of the age. XLIX.— ST. NICHOLAS UNITED FREE CHURCH. St. Nicholas U.F. Church. The congregation now worshipping in St. Nicholas U.F. Church, Union Grove, can lay claim to some distinctive features in its history. Its formation dates from the founding of th© Secession in Aberdeen, and two of its ministers — Rev. Henry Angus and Rev. Dr. John Robson — wer© called to fill th© Moderator's chair, th© only two north country ministers who ever received that honour in the United Presbyterian Church, while on© of its sons — Rev. Dr. Laws, of Livingstonia — became in 1908 th© first Missionary Moderator of th© United Fr©e Church. On th© death of Rev. John Bisset, of the East Parish, in 1756, his followers, acting, it is said, on his advice, left th© Establish ment and cast in their lot with the Seces sion. By this time, however, the Seces sion Church had been split over th© burgess oath, and th© division between th© two sections of Burghers and Anti-Burghers was at its keenest. Those who left the East Church wer© not all of one mind on th© vexed question, and they broke off into two parties. On© party adopted the Anti-Burgher position, and founded Bel mont Street Church ; while th© other allied itself to the Burghers, and founded th© congregation of which the present St. Nicholas Church is one of the descendants. The first place of worship secured by the Burghers was at th© corner of Weighhouse Square and Virginia Street. This build ing, which was known as the Seoeder Church, was opened in November, 1758, and Rev. Alexander Dick, to whom be longed the distinction of being the first Secession minister in Aberdeen, was or dained to the pastorate in th© same year. It is said that Mr. Bisset was compared to Moses, who led th© peopl© out of th© house of bondage, and Mr. Dick to Joshua, who had given them rest. Th© feeling against Seceders was very strong in Aberdeen at this time, and it was considered unsafe for Mr. Dick to appear in th© streets unless accompanied by som© of his members of good standing ; while a town's officer had to be stationed at th© door of th© meeting hous© to guard against any interruption of the service by outside disturbances. Yet th© congregation gradually increased in numbers, until, in 1772, it was found neces sary to ©rect a new and larger church. A site was found in Netherkirkgate, which then extended to Correction Wynd (St. Nicholas Street not being in existence), and the new building was opened in May, 1772. Mr. Dick died in 1793, and the con gregation became divided over the appoint ment of a successor. The majority favoured Rev. William Brunton, who, was duly elected, and the congregation maintained its separate existence until 1839, when the members returned to the Established Church. At the Disruption of 1843, how ever, th©y again left the Establishment, and founded Melville Free Church. The minority opposed to Mr.Brunton took their separate way, adhering all through to th© Secession, and laying the foundsu- tion of St. Nicholas congregation. They erected a place of worship in Belmont Street, which was commonly known as the " Bum Kirk." It stood just about where th© eastern pier of Union Bridg© now is, and it was opened in 1795. For a few years th© congregation wer« without a settled pastor, for it was not until 1800 that Rev. Lawrance Glass was ordained to the charge. Mr. Glass was a man of con siderable parts, and in a pamphlet by Mr. R. Murdoch-Lawrance, Aberdeen, interest ing particulars of his life and work are given. Soon after his settlement the church had to be demolished to make way for th© erection of Union Bridge, and in 1802 another new church was erected in Correction Wynd. On the death of Mr. Glass in 1813, th© congregation were a considerable time in selecting a minister, but ultimately their choice fell upon Rev. 198 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Henry Angus, who was the first to give the church a real standing in the com munity. Mr. Angus was a man of more than ordinary gifts, and he is still spoken of as on© of the pulpit princes of Aberdeen. His ministry was a long one, extending from 1816 to I860, and embracing the whole period of his active life. ' ' The first look of Henry Angus," it has been said, ' ' gave one the impression that he was no common man. His body was cast in one of nature's best and rarest moulds. The mingled intellectual majesty and benignity of his features, the towering forehead, and th© mellowing grey locks of his later years, mad© you sometimes feel while you looked on him as if a portrait of one of the old Reformers, somewhat modernised, had stepped out alive from th© canvas." Mr. Old St. Nicholas Lane U.P. Church. Angus may not have been what- might be called a popular preacher in the way of at tracting crowds, but he was generally ad mitted to b© a great preacher. Unequal, perhaps, in his pulpit work, h© was yet a master of his art. His strong intellectual power, hie dignified style and lofty elo quence, made a profound impression in Aberdeen; and that his outstanding gifts were recognised throughout the country at large was shown in 1850, when he was called by acclamation to the Moderatorship of the denomination. When Mr. Angus died with startling suddenness in 1860, the whole city mourn©d for the loss of one who had exemplified th© finest characteris tics of a Christian minister, and who had maintained a noble testimony for all that was good and true. His name is still lovingly cherished, for- there are those who to this day measur© all they hear by the preaching of Henry Angus. Two important developments require to be noted as having occurred during Mr. Angus's ministry. The first was the erec tion of another new church on the same site, but with its frontag© to St. Nicholas Lane instead of Correction Wynd. This building was opened in 1845, and it served the congregation for 43 years. The other event was the ordination, in 1859, of Rev. James M. M'Kerrow as colleague to Mr. Angus. Mr. M'Kerrow worked with the utmost harmony along with Mr. Angus during th© short tim© of tth©ir united, ~ ministry, and when th© full burden of the pastorate devolved upon him h© was quite equal to th© task. A son of Rev. Dr. M'Kerrow, of Manchester, the young minister had all th© natural English fluency, and his attractive eloquence soon filled the church to overflowing. With his bright sermons, clothed in fin© language and adorned with poetical quotations, he struck what was then a new note in the city pulpit, and crowded audiences were the result. After eight years of a success ful ministry, Mr. M'Kerrow was called in 1857 to Birmingham, and after some ten years' ministry ther© h© went to New Zealand, where he rose to high distinc tion in the Church. About this time an incident occurred which serves to show that th© St. Nicholas Lane congregation, although considered broader and more tolerant than some, were yet rather afraid of innovations. A former member of the church, who had risen to eminence abroad, offered to present an organ to the church, but the session and managers, in view of the great opposition manifested to the pro posal, were obliged to decline acceptance of th© gift. Feeling ran very high over th© subject, and there was extensively cir culated a brochure entitled "Eppie Ronald's Lament," of which the first two verses may be given — "Ye staunch auld Seceders, Wha, cowed the invaders 0' the faith, were your labours in vain? What waidi be their reflections To see the defections 0' your sons in. St. Nicholas Lame. " Things are come to a pass Here since Angus and Glass And Dick shone as living- epistles, When, there's needed to eke The dull forms o' the week The aid o' a. kislfu' o' whistles." SIT. NICHOLAS UNITED FREE CHURCH 199 Th© congregation, like many another, changed its mind on th© question of instru mental music. It came to realise the ad vantage of introducing an organ, but that was after many years, and when it no longer worshipped in th© old church in St. Nicholas Lane. Unfortunately, when opinion on th© subject had matured in the congregation there was no generous donor ready to present an organ, and the members had to provide it themselves. Mr M'Kerrow was succeeded by Rev. John Rutherford, B.D., whose ordination took place in 1868. When Mr. Ruther ford entered on th© pastorate th© church was in a flourishing state, and for a time all went well. Differences and difficulties, however, supervened, and in a season of stress and strain there was a considerable scattering of the congregation, not a few of the most influential members and most zealous workers leaving th© church and beooming attached elsewhere in th© city. Mr. Rutherford, who gave promise of no mean pulpit gifts, accepted a call to Leicester in 1875, and h© subsequently en tered the Established Church of Scotland, and is now minister of th© first charg© of St. Magnus Cathedral, Kirkwall, a posi tion h© has held for a number of years. In 1876 the congregation addressed a call to Rev. John Robson, M.A., D.D., for merly of Rajputana, India, whose induc tion to the charge took place in September of the same year. Dr. Robson even then had attained a high standing in the Church. A son of the widely known and highly-esteemed Dr. John Robson, of Wel lington Church, Glasgow, he followed up a distinguished academic career by choos ing th© life of a foreign missionary. In 1860 he set sail for India, and was one of the founders of th© Rajputana Mission, now on© of the most important foreign fields of the Church. Returning to this country in 1872 on account of ill-health, he found himself prohibited by medical advice from resuming his work in India. It was at this time that h© produced his well- known volum© " Hinduism and Chris tianity," which is recognised as a stan dard work on the subject, and which brought him th© well-m©rited degree of D.D. from his Alma Mater, Glasgow University. Dr. Robson, when he be came minister of St. Nicholas Lane Church, was, therefore, a man of proved ability, and he was recognised as a de cided acquisition to the local pulpit. The history of the congregation during the next 22 years is largely the history of his work and the record of his influence. The mem bers who had drifted away gradually re turned to th© church of their fathers, and th© congregation soon regained its former position. It would be impossible, however, to detail th© results of Dr. Robson's work. Suffice it to say that during all the yeare of his active pastorate h© maintained a high standard of pulpit efficiency. A student and a theologian by instinct and training, his preaching was instructive, weighty, and of lasting value to his hearers. On doctrinal subjects he excelled, and many of his discourses have stood th© test of publication, forming the subject Rev. Dr. John Robson. matter of his works, " Th© Bible: Its Re velation and Inspiration," " The Holy Spirit, the Paraclete," and others. It was but natural that Dr. Robson's mis sionary zeal should manifest itself, and he soon imparted to the congregation the mis sionary spirit which has b©en regarded as on© of its distinctive features. In material affaire also, his influence was felt, for it was largely on his initiative that th© con gregation resolved to quit St. Nicholas Lane and build the present edifice in Union Grove, which was designed by Mr. R. G. Wilson, architect. Himself a generous giver. Dr. Robson was able to elicit liberality in others, and the erection of th© new church buildings and their 200 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN entire reli©f from the burden of debt will ever remain a monument of his work in Aberdeen. H© left a deep im pression on the congregation, which it is not likely to lose for many a day, and when his active ministry closed, he re- tained the high respect and esteem of those who learned to know him as a faithful minister, an able and scholarly preacher, and a fine type of a Christian gentleman. His election to the Moderator-ship of the Supreme Court in 1900 was a fitting re cognition of personal worth and eminent service. Dr. Robson retired from th© Rev. J. G. Walton, B D. active duties of th© charg© in 1898, subse quently removing from Aberdeen — first to Edinburgh, and afterwards to London. H© died while on a holiday in Arran in August, 1908. On Dr. Robson retiring, the congrega tion had to appoint a successor who would be acting minister and take full responsibility. After some delay, occa^ sioned by the declinature of a call pro secuted in the Church Courts in favour of Rev. J. G. Goold, of Dumbarton (now of Egremont), a very hearty call was addressed to Rev. J. G. Walton, B.D., of Bell Street Church, Dundee, and was accepted by him. Then followed a mourn ful experience, and one, happily, almost without precedent in th© annals of any congregation. Mr. Walton was inducted to the pastorate on 14th September, 1899, and his brilliant pulpit gifts at once at tracted attention. Along with scholarship of the highest distinction he had oratorical gifts above th© average and a noble and winning personality. He entered on the pastorate in the early prime of manhood and apparently in full strength and vigour, yet in less than three months from the date of his induction he was laid aside by an illness, from which he never recovered. His death occurred on 29th January, 1900, and its startling unexpectedness and th© al most tragical ending of his career pro duced a deep impression in the city and throughout the Church at large. Mr. Walton's ministry of three and a half months will not soon be forgotten. Al though short in point of time, who knows what may have been its results ? The circumstances through which thi congregation passed at this time were try ing in many ways, but the vacancy wa6 not a prolonged one. It was unanimously resolved to call Rev. D. Ritchie Key, M.A., of London Road Church, Edinburgh, and Mr. Key having accepted the call, his in duction took place in June, 1900. Mr. Key came from Edinburgh with a high reputation as a successful minister, having found at London Road a handful of mem bers with a burden of debt, and having cleared away the debt and gathered a great congregation. In Aberdeen he has like wis© don© excellent work. His popular gifts as a preacher and his ability and skill in organisation and work have not been slow in making an impression. The mem bership of St. Nicholas has increased from about 500 until it is now close on 700 ; the church and halls have been repainted, electric lighting has been introduced, and a fine pipe organ has been erected. Mr. Key continues the work with unabated vigour. St. Nicholas congregation has a splendid roll of fame in th© men it has sent forth to the ministry. Rev. James Smith, of Bolton ; Rev. Dr. George Brown, of Rams- bottom, and afterwards of Brompton ; Rev. David Macrae, of Glasgow (father of Rev. David Macrae, Dundee) ; Rev. Mr. Ingram, Eday ; Rev. Robert Angus, Peebles ; Rev! James Pittendreigh, Pittenweein ; Rev. Henry A. Paterson, Stonehouse; Rev. Dr. Henry Angus, Arbroath ; Rev. Hugh G. Wallace, Kendal, and Rev. William Wat son, of Forres, may b© mentioned as men who served the church well in their day, and reflected honour on the congregation of their youth. Then in the present day ST. NICHOLAS UNITED FREE CHURCH 201 R3V. D. Ritchie Key, M.A. there are a number still in the ministry, including Rev. James L. Murray, of White- hill, Glasgow ; Rev. Dr. Gordon Gray, of Rom© ; Rev. John Mansie, of Dundee ; Rev. James Leask, of Australia ; and Rev. Alexander Urquhart, of Jedburgh. In its contributions of workers to the mis sion field St. Nicholas stands pre-eminent, for the list includes such men as the late Rev. Dr. Alexander Robb, of Jamaica and Old Calabar; Rev. Dr. Robert Laws, the great pioneer in Livingstonia, Moderator of the General Assembly, 1908 ; Rev. Dr. Shepherd, of Rajputana (whos© family was at one time connected with the church) ; Rev. Professor Cooper, late of Madras; Rev. William Robb, Rajputana; and Rev. Alex. Cruickshank, Old Calabar. If the sons of the congregation have been well represented in the mission fields, so also have the daughters, with Mrs. Dr. Laws in Central Africa, Mrs. W. F. Martin in Jamaica, and Mrs. F. Ashcroft in Rajpu tana. To public life St. Nicholas has contri buted men like th© Hon. John Paterson, who took a leading part in the administra tion of th© affairs of Cap© Colony, and the Hon. James Stewart of Fiji. Of well- known citizens of Aberdeen ther© have also been not a few who have been intimately connected with the work of the church. Amongst these may be mentioned Baillie William Paterson (and also, in more re cent days, his son, Baillie James Paterson), Baillie Robert Urquhart, the leading man in th© church of his day ; Baillie James Ross, who in his later years was a mem ber and ©lder ; Mr. George Milne, secretary of th© Association for th© Poor, whose grasp of Church affairs was very marked ; Mr. Robert Laws (father of Dr. Laws), whose very presence seemed to carry with it a benediction ; and Mr. George Tough, who filled th© offic© of session clerk for over 20 years with rare fidelity. Nor has th© succession failed in the present day. Men of light and leading still direct the affairs of th© congregation. Mr. James Strachan, who now acts as ses sion clerk, is an active member both of the Presbytery and Assembly, and takes a large share of denominational work. Mr. James Spence of Pow is congregational treasurer ; and the session and manage ment include the names of men well knowi: to the community in various walks of life. St. Nicholas has always bom© the re putation of being an enlightened congre gation ; while it is, perhaps, not quickly susceptible to new movements and methods. Its critical faculty has been strongly developed, and it has been almost as rich in ' ' sermon-tasters ' ' as Ian Mac- laren's Drumtochty. Yet its energies have not been wholly spent in discussing points in preaching. It has been a living and active force in the community for over a hundred years, and its influence has been felt even in the ends of the earth. L.-ST. PAUL'S UNITED FREE CHURCH St. Paul's U.F. Church. This congregation is the only one in Aberdeen which . has descended from the Relief Church — a denomination which filled so large a place in the ecclesiastical history of Scotland between the years 1761 and 1847. When the Relief Church joined with the Secession Church in 1847 and formed the United Presbyterian Church, the Aber deen congregation passed into the larger body, and it shared again in the union of 1900, when the United Presbyterian and Free Churches combined to form the United Free Church of to-day. Through the successive stages of its ecclesiastical development — Relief, United Presbyterian, United Free — the congregation has main tained a distinctive position in the religious life of th© community. Th© earlier history of th© congregation is, of course, bound up with th© history of the Relief movement in Aberdeen. There was a serious division of opinion over the appointment of a minister to Gilcomston Chapel of Ease, and the aggrieved minority seceded. For a time they found it impossible to build a church or call a minister, but application for a supply of ordinances was made to the Presbytery of Relief, which had been found©d at Colinsburgh in 1761 by Rev. Thomas Gillespie. Relief preachers continued to officiate until 1778, when a church was built in Belmont Street (on the site now occupied by the South Parish Church), and a petition was presented to the Relief Presbytery for per mission to issue a call. Over the selection of a minister there was a keen division. Rev. John Bryce was ultimately the choice of the members who were qualified to vote, but a large number of adherents— who as non-subscribers to th© building of th© church had -no voice in the election- favoured Rev. John Brodie, and when their candidate was defeated they imme diately separated themselves from the congregation and founded a new cause. A place of worship capable of accommodating about 1000 worshippers was built in the Shiprow — up one of the courts, and on a spot now occupied by part of th© Douglas Hotel. Mr. Brodie was ordained to the pastorate of th© congregation in 1780, and under his efforts it prospered exceedingly, but he was excluded from th© Relief con nection on account of having preached to his supporters in Aberdeen without Presbyterial sanction. In 1790 he applied to the Synod for admission, and a long and painful controversy followed with Mr. Bryc© and his session. Personal charges were mad© against Mr. Brodie, but these were repelled, and ultimately he was re ceived along with his congregation into the Relief body — Mr. Bryce and his followers, about the ame time, and, per haps, largely on account of the decision, entering th© Established Church. In 1798 Mr. Brodie accepted a call to Dovehill (now Kelvingrove), Glasgow, and with his de parture th© Relief cause in Aberdeen entered on troublous times. A vacancy of over a year was followed by the ordination on 6th November, 1779, of Rev. Alexander Bower, whose ministry altogether proved most unfortunate. Soon after his settle ment unhappy divisions began to appear, and years of contention followed. In order to get quit of him the managers of Shiprow Church on 30th July, 1805, laid on the Presbytery table a list of 14 charges against Mr. Bower, som© of them frivolous enough, such as shaving on Sunday and saying there was no sin in doing so, while various indiscretions were also alleged against him. After another trying year Mr. Bower resigned and left Aberdeen. During his stay in th© city he published a biography of Dr. James Beattie, and in 1813 a Life of Martin Luther came from his ST. PAUL'S UNITED FREE CHURCH 208 pen. Mr. Bower, although unfortunate in his ministerial relations, was evidently a man of considerable parts, and his literary work has given him a place in the Dic tionary of National Biography. Previous to Mr. Bower's resignation and consequent upon th© troubles in the church, a considerable number of members had left and formed a new congregation in St. Andrew Street, from which the pre sent St. Paul's congregation is directly descended. The Shiprow congregation con tinued for a time under varying conditions to fill a place in the city. Its ministers Old St. Paul Street U.P. Church. have been spoken of as "the bold Brodie, the balmy Bower, th© pious Paton, the godly Gellatly, and the robust Ross." Dr. John Paton, who succeeded Mr. Bower, came, strangely enough, from th© dis sentient body in St. Andrew Street. He died in 1811, and was succeeded by Rev. David Gellatly, whose ministry extended over ten years, and who in turn was suc ceeded by Rev. Patrick Ross. On 7th September, 1823, Rev. Hugh Hart, of Paisley, was inducted to the charge, and he soon came to occupy a more prominent place in public life than any of his pre decessors. Hugh Hart was something of a character in his day — yet a Christian character, notwithstanding that odd ways and views were attributed to him. Mr. Camie has given us a descriptive sketch worth preservation. "It was," he says, "an engaging sight to meet Hugh Hart going — constantly going — amongst his people. Of middle height, inclined to be portly, always most carefully dressed in spotless black, white neckcloth, high collar, carrying a silver-mounted walking stick, and wearing massive gold spectacles and watch seals, h© might well be called the picture of clerical elegance and order." Mr. Hart was a powerful preacher, with a rhetorical style, and, perhaps, somewhat eccentric. He filled the church to over flowing, although som© might maintain that the splendid singing was as helpful as the popular preaching in drawing the crowds. Mr. Hart came to Aberdeen to be minister of the Shiprow Relief Chapel, but the denominational connection was severed, and he was best known as the minister of the United Christian Church. The Aberdeen Market Company ultimately bought the building, and the " Hilloa Kirk," as it had been termed, passed out of existence, and Mr. Hart and his followers removed to Zion Chapel, John Street. The party which had broken off from the Shiprow congregation during the diffi culties and divisions in Mr. Bower's tim© built a new church in St. Andrew Street with accommodation for 900, and at a cost of £1000. Dr. John Paton was in ducted as minister on 12th October, 1803, but he remained only for a short time. He carried several adherents with him, and preached in a temporary meeting-place until, as already stated, he was settled in Shiprow Chapel after the departure of Mr. Bower. The new St. Andrew's Chapel was opened in September, 1805, and in June, 1806, a call was addressed to Rev. William Strang, formerly of Newton Stewart. Mr. Strang had encouraged the call, but in the end he declined, adducing among his reasons that the members were a mere handful and not what he had been led to expect, and even asserting that some were so illiterate as not to be able to sign their own names. A happy settlement, how ever, was effected on 11th February, 1807, when Rev. Samuel M'Millan was ordained as minister of the church. Mr. M'Millan laboured in the charge for 30 years with great acceptance, and gained the general respect of the community in such a way as to free the Relief body from the reproach it had suffered on account of Mr. Bower's ministry. Mr. M'Millan was a man of literary tastes, and published many works, including "The Beauties of Ralph Erskine" in two volumes and " Evangelical Lec tures and Essays " ; he also brought out an edition of th© works of Thomas Boston. While a man of real ability, Mr. M'Millan lacked the popular element, however, and this detracted somewhat from the success and growth of the congregation. In 1837 he was compelled on account of declining health to ask for a colleague, and on 29th November of th© same year Rev. William Beckett was ordained to th© joint charge. Under the young minister a new era of prosperity set in, but in less than three years Mr. Beckett accepted a call to 204 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rutherglen. The St. Andrew's congrega tion now fixed by a small majority on Rev. John Thorburn, and as they were desirous that he should be recognised as sole pastor, Mr. M'Millan expressed his readi ness to give up all official duties, and his connection with the church came virtually to an end. Mr. Thorburn was ordained on 27th May, 1841, and was formally intro duced by Rev. William Anderson, of Glas gow, who preached on the occasion what was described as "a terrific sermon.'' Shortly after Mr. Thorburn's settlement the members began to think of erecting a new church rather than renovating the old one, and in th© end of April, 1842, the foundation stone was laid of the building in St. Paul Street which housed the congrega tion for so many years. The St. Paul Street Church, with 900 sittings, was opened on 13th November, 1842, by Rev. Daniel Gorrie, of Kettle. Shortly there after it was seen that Mr. Thorburn and his congregation were not happily mated. Difficulties arose and dissensions occurred which Mr. M'Millan tried in vain to allay. After a year or two of strife and discord, Mr. Thorburn tendered his resignation, which was accepted on 16th December, 1S45. A vacancy of some length followed, but ultimately a call was accepted by Rev. Andrew Dickie, of Colinsburgh. The choice was a fortunate one, as subsequent events proved, for Mr. Dickie practically re-made Ht. Paul Street congregation, raising it to a higher position than it ever formerly occupied, and giving it a position in the city it has never since entirely lost. Dur ing the vacancy the Relief denomination had ended its separate existence, and the call to Mr. Dickie was on© of th© items of business at the first meeting of the United Presbyterian Presbytery of Aberdeen. Mr. Dickie was inducted on 18th August, 1847, after a short pastorate of two years at Colinsburgh. At the date of his settle ment, St. Paul Street congregation was at a very low ebb. The membership was only about 80 — mostly drawn from the working classes — and the church was burdened with a debt of about £1200. From the outset of his ministry, Mr. Dickie devoted his entire energies te the work of the con gregation, and did not take a prominent part in public life. As the result of his unceasing labours, the membership rapidly increased until it considerably exceeded 500. The debt was entirely extinguished, and to meet the growing requirements of th© congregation, ©specially in connection with Sabbath School and mission work, the adjoining building in St. Paul Street, long known as th© Medical School in connection with Marischal College, was acquired and adapted as halls and class-rooms at a total cost of £1000. A special feature of his ministry was the series of Sabbath evening lectures during the winter. Mr. Dickie inaugurated these at an early period of his ministry, and he continued them for 16 years, lecturing one© a fortnight in addition to conducting the morning and afternoon services. These lectures (mostly on Scriptural subjects) were among the first of their kind in the city, and proved ex- Rev. Andrew Dickie, tremely popular. The church was almost invariably crowded to the utmost of its seating capacity, and not infrequently the passages and even the pulpit stairs were fully occupied. Mr. Dickie's preaching was fervidly evangelical, and combined massiveness of thought with clearness and simplicity. To the young of the congrega tion Mr. Dickie devoted special attention, and he was not less successful as a pastor than as a preacher. St. Paul Street Church proved a centre of attraction in these days to the students who came from the surrounding district to prepare for the ministry. Among those bred in the congregation, or who attended Mr. Dickie's ministry for a longer or shorter term, and who afterwards attained to positions of usefulness and distinction, may be mentioned the brothers Davidson, missionaries to Kaffraria; Rev. R. M. ST. PAUL'S UNITED FREE CHURCH 205 Beedie, Old Calabar; Rev. William Rose, Dundee; Rev. J. B. Duncan, Lynturk ; Rev. John King, Govan ; Rev. Dr. James Gibb, New Zealand ; Rev. John Gibson Smith, New Zealand ; and Rev. William Simmers, Portsoy. To this list there falls to be added the names of two of Mr. Dickie's sons — the lat© Rev. Matthew Dickie, of Alva, whose premature death cut short a brilliant career, and Rev. W. 8. Dickie, of Irvine, a gifted preacher, who has proved a not unworthy successor to a man of rare genius, the lat© Dr. W. B. Robertson. Mr. William Duthie of Collynie and Dr. (now Sir) George Watt wer© connected with St. Paul Street Church in these days, and at a later stage the congregation gave a minister of high promise to another denomination in the person of Rev. David Barron, of Portsea. Among the prominent citizens associated with St. Paul Street Church in Mr. Dickie's time wer© Mr. John Miller of Sandilands, who for many yeare acted as congregational treasurer, Mr. George Miller, Mr. Arthur Knox, Dr. Meikle, of Lochhead Hydro pathic ; Mr. James Kilgour, Mr. James Patereon, Baillie Smith, Mr. James Crich- ton, and Mr. Oswald Prosser, solicitor, who also acted for a considerable term as treasurer. On th© occasion of Mr. Dickie's semi-jubilee in 1872, he was presented by th© congregation at a larg© and repre sentative meeting in th© Music Hall with an illuminated address and other gifts, including a purse of 120 sovereigns. After thirty-six years of strenuous service, the weight of advancing age began to tell on Mr. Dickie, and he applied in 1882 for the appointment of a colleague and successor. The arrangements were duly completed and sanctioned by the Presbytery, but it was some time befor© the congregation wer© able to secure a settlement. They called the Rev. John Cullen, afterwards of Leslie, and the Rev. D. K. Auchterlonie, of Craigdam, but declinatures were re ceived in both cases. Mor© successful, however, was an invitation to the Rev. David Burns, of Linlithgow. Mr. Burns was inducted to St. Paul Street Church on 28th August, 1883, and the collegiate ministry then began. Unfortunately, like many other collegiate ministries, it was not entirely successful or happy. Mr. Burns was a preacher with a cultured, thoughtful style, which ought to have made a distinct impression alike in the congregation and the community, but dif ferences and difficulties of various kinds in tervened. In less than four years Mr. Burns left Aberdeen on receiving an in vitation to undertake the building up of a new congregation in Glasgow, known as that of Nithsdale Church. He also found scope for the exercise of his excellent literary gifts in various publications. During the vacancy which followed, Mr. Dickie retired altogether from the pastorate of th© congregation, and his official connection with St. Paul Street Church came to an end. He retained, however, his seat in the Presbytery and Synod, and this led to the emeritus position having a place in the ecclesiastical arrange ments of the denomination, Mr. Dickie, it is believ©d, being th© first emeritus minister recognised in th© U.P. Church. He sur vived to witness other two pastorates in the church, his death taking place on the eve of his own ministerial jubilee in April, 1895. Thus there passed away in the eighty-second year of his age, and the fiftieth of his ministry, one who had served the Church faithfully and well, and who has left behind him in Aberdeen an honoured memory. On 28th February, 1888, the Rev. James Aitken was ordained to the pastorate of St. Paul Street Church. Mr. Aitken was a native of Leithholm, and he had recently completed his course at the Theological Hall of the U.P. Church. With all the energy of a young man he applied himself to the situation. During his pastorate a great bazaar was promoted in aid of the funds of the church, and the venture was successful in raising a considerable sum. Mr. Aitken gained the esteem of the members, and among the young of the congregation his influence was specially felt. After four and a half years' service in Aberdeen, h© accepted a call to Falkirk, where h© still remains. H© found St. Paul Street Church with a membership of 360, and left it with 400. Mr. Aitken left in December, 1892, and on 19th April, 1893, Rev. D. G. Fairley was ordained to the pastorate. Like Mr. Aitken, h© came as a young man practically without experience. Mr. Fairley proved to bo a stirring preacher, with evangelical fervour and a vigorous delivery, and he commanded good audiences. The feature of his pastorate may b© said to have been th© removal of the congregation to its pre sent place of worship. It was found that the School Board were desirous of purchas ing the old church in St. Paul Street in connection with the extension of St. Paul Street School, and after negotiation the buildings and site wer© sold for £3000. With this sum on hand the congregation proceeded to the erection of a new church 206 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN on Rosemount Viaduct at its junction with Gilcomston Park. Th© cost was about £4750, and the new building, designed by Mr. R. G. Wilson, architect — which it was decided should be known as St. Paul's Church — was opened on 27th March, 1897, by the Rev. James Rennie, of Glasgow, the Moderator of the Church for the year. In 1901, after giving eight years to the work of the congregation, Mr. Fairley accepted a call to Fairfield Church, Govan, a charge with a membership of nearly 1000, where there is abundant scope for his zeal and his forceful pulpit gifts. Rev. Thomas .Simpson. Finding themselves once more in a vacancy, the St. Paul's congregation re solved on this occasion to restrict their choice to ordained ministers already in charges of their own. A number of excel lent men were under consideration, but the choice fell on Rev. Thomas Simpson, of Stromness, who was inducted in September, 1901. Mr. Simpson had been called to Stromness in 1894, almost immediately after entering the ranks of the pro bationers. His seven years' ministry in the Far North was abundantly successful. He won a sure place in the affections of the people, and among the young men and women he achieved great success. In the Presbytery he was recognised as an able and fearless debater, and he speedily came to be looked on as being, in many way6, the premier preacher in the Orkneys, with the result that his services were in fre quent demand. In Aberdeen he has been surely winning his .ray by his eloquence, his freshness of matter, and th© general effectiveness of his pulpit style. In the general work of the congregation, as well as in public movements affecting the social welfare of the community, he has also proved himself to be active, zealous, and efficient. The office-bearers of the church to-day include Mr. George Pirie, contractor, who has acted as Preses of the congregation for a number of years ; and Mr. Douglas F. Mackenzie, session clerk ; while in the eldership there are men well known to the public, such as Mr. James Strachan, Giloomston Mills ; and Mr. Thomas Scott, LL.D., F.L.S., of the Bay of Nigg Marine Laboratory. Many and great have been the changes since the Relief cause originated in Aber deen. The whole aspect of religious life in the city has been altered, and the ecclesiastical situation in Scotland has undergone a complete transformation. Through them all, however, this congrega tion has preserved a continuous history. Every change — from the Shiprow to St. Andrew Street, from St. Andrew Street to St. Paul Street, and from St. Paul Street to Rosemount Viaduct — has marked suc cessive stages in its development, and there may be little in the congregation to-day to indicate its descent from the old Relief body. It would be possible even to note many apparent differences between the con gregation of to-day and the congregation of, say, St. Paul Street in the days when Mr. Dickie was in his prime. The personnel of the membership is not what it once was, and the outstanding characteristics of the congregation are greatly altered. This has been attributable to outward perhaps as much as to inward causes, to develop ments in tho city generally as much as to particular movements in the congregation. Yet, when all allowance has been made for the ravages of time, the congregation has never proved unworthy of the great tradi tions it inherited. The banner of the Relief has been nobly held aloft amid the changes of the centuries, and the spirit of the men of th© Relief has never been wholly extinguished, LI.— SOUTH UNITED FREE CHURCH. South U.F. Church. Occupying a commanding site on the Schoolhill Viaduct, and facing Union Ter race and Union Bridge, the South United Fre© Church is on© of th© buildings sure to catch the eye of every visitor to the Granite City. With its fine portico, supported by Ionic columns, and its handsome dome, it forms a rather striking miniature of St. Paul's Cathedral. Among the many stately edifices in the immediate vicinity, it standi out with a prominence of its own, and this prominence is only typical of the pro minence of the congregation in the com munity during all the years of its history. Th© "Free South," as it is still commonly termed, notwithstanding the prefix now officially necessary, has always been re garded as one of the premier congregations in the city. The South Church was founded in the beginning of last century. It was originally an old Secession Church, but ultimately it had cast in its lot with the Establishment. Among th© ministers in the pre-disruption years were Dr. Alexander Dyce Davidson, afterwards well known as minister of the West. When the great event of '43 took place, the minister of the South was Rev. James Stewart, and when he "went out " he carried with him his large congregation almost to a man. Even then, the South congregation stood high in influence as well as in numbers. Many of th© leading citizens of the day were counted among its office bearers and members. Th© elders at the Disruption, who signed, the Deed of Pro test on 13th June, 1843, were Robert Brown, James Abernethy, Robert Simmey, George Fullerton, William Keith, John Hay, and Georg© Yeats. Conspicuous among them was the well-known Dr. Keith, one of the foremost medical men of the city — the doctor who is said to have had the distinction of performing the first operation with the aid of chloroform, then recently discovered by Sir James Y. Simp son. In October, 1843, the following were added to the Session, namely — Baillie Urquhart, James Abernethy, jun., Nathaniel Farquhar, William Ironside, William Gordon, James B. M'Combie, David M 'Hardy, John Martin, David Stewart, David Wyllie, and John Webster, and some time later there was a further accession, wliich included Sir William C. Seton, Bart., of Pitmedden, and Messrs. George Rennie, Andrew Murray, William Smart, and James Bryce. Mr. Stewart died at an early age in June, 1816. He was a man of earnest evangelical spirit, but his pastorate was so brief that he had no opportunity of making any special impression. His connection with the congregation lasted for only about eight months befor© th© Disruption, and about three years after it. On 10th December, 1846, Rev. John Bonar, of Larbert, was inducted to the charge, but his ministry was destined to come to a speedy close. Within a year after his settlement two calls wer© pre sented to him, both from centres of hv fluence in the Church — one from St. Paul's, Edinburgh, and the other from Renfield, Glasgow. Pressure had evidently been brought to bear upon him, and in spite of the fact that he had barely settled in Aberdeen, he accepted the invita tion to Renfield Church, Glasgow. The South Church had another curious ex perience after Mr. Bonar left. A call was addressed in August, 1848, to Rev. William Arnott, Free St. Peter's, Glasgow. Mr. Arnott was inclined to accept the invita tion, but the Glasgow Presbytery declined to place the call in his hands, and decided that h© should remain where he was. The 208 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN vacancy in the South Church continued until March, 1849, when. Rev. John Adam, of Dalkeith, was inducted to the charge. Mr. Adam's ministry was a long and in fluential one, and it was th© means of lay ing on a firm foundation the prosperity which has since been char acteristic of the congregation. In th© pulpit Mr. Adam proved an able and edifying preacher, but it was as a man of affairs that he made his mark. He took an active part in the life of the community, serving on various public boards of re ligious and charitable institutions, while in the Presbytery and Synod he played a prominent part, and soon became an ac knowledged leader. He was a man of per sonality and power, and filled a large place in the life of the city in his day. In 1867 he accepted a call to Wellpark Church, Glasgow, but he found his great opportunity when he became Home Mission Secretary of the Church. His business gifts then found full scope, and in th© General Assembly and throughout th© Church at larg© Dr. John Adam became one of the most prominent and powerful figures. In 1868, Rev. John M. Sloan was trans ferred from Dalkeith to th© South Church in succession to Dr. Adam, and his ministry proved very successful in every way. He raised the membership to a higher point than it had formerly reached, and he was also the means of starting many new organisations in connection with the congregation. One of these was a Ladies' Work Party, which is said to have been the first of the kind in the city. Mr. Sloan was minister of the South during the great Moody and Sankey campaign, and he threw himself earnestly into the move ment, with the result that many were added to the church. After ten years' work in Aberdeen, marked by a ripeness of spiritual teaching which many still grate fully remember, Mr. Sloan followed the example of his predecessor in going te Glasgow, but h© subsequently accepted a call to the Grange Church, Edinburgh, where he carried on a fruitful ministry for many years until his retirement recently from active service. Rev. George H. Knight, M.A., formerly of Dollar, was the next minister. Mr. Knight's forte" was his preaching. Ill- health prevented him from undertaking much outside or general work, and the bulk of his time was devoted to pulpit pre paration, with most excellent results. Mr. Knight enjoyed the distinction of being regarded as "th© artist preacher of the Fre© Church," and his sermons, with their poetry and their mysticism, not only charmed his own congregation, but attracted many members of other churches, who felt the fascination of his pulpit gifts. There was a glamour about the style of his sermons and an uplifting influence in their teaching which made them almost unforgettable. His delivery was quiet, yet, with its tender tones, in perfect keeping with the spirit of his preaching. In 1889 Mr. Knight accepted a lighter charge at Bearsden, near Glasgow, but since then he has been obliged to retire altogether from active work, to th© regret of all who are jealous for the traditions of the Scottish pulpit. After Mr. Knight's departure, there was a somewhat prolonged vacancy, which in the end was most satisfactorily filled by the election to the pastorate of Rev. W. M. Clow, B.D., of Uddingston. Mr. Clow's ministry is still fresh in the public mind. His geniality of manner and wonderful faculty of remembering faces and Christian names were of great service to him ; and these, together with his capacity for work, and his able, inspiring, and forceful preaching, made his occupancy of the pastorate a most successful one. Mr. Clow had the note of a true preacher. He had strong convictions of his own, and he was fearless in delivering his message. It was during his term that th© present handsome church was built, the congregation being greatly encouraged in the enterprise by the munificence of Mr. John Gray, the donor of Gray's School of Art, who was then a member of the Kirk-Session. The lack of hall accommodation had been severely felt, and a movement of some kind was felt to b© necessary. It was decided to erect a new building, but it was mad© a condition that th© site should be in th© same locality, so that the congregation should not follow th© too common fashion of going west wards. The old church — which was on© of th© three under the handsome brick spire at th© corner of Belmont Street and Schoolhill — is now converted into halls and classrooms for the East Church. The new church — which was designed by Mr. A. Marshall Mackenzie, A..R.S.A. — was formally opened by Dr. Ross Taylor, of Glasgow, in presence of th© Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council, who attended the service in their official capacity. Mr. Clow, in 1897, accepted a call te be colleague to the late Dr. Hood Wilson, in the Barclay Church, Edinburgh, and h© more recently became the first SOUTH UNITED FREE CHURCH 209 minister of the Stevenson Memorial Church, Glasgow. Rev. William Mackintosh Mackay, B.D., was inducted as minister of the South Church on Thursday, 6th January, 1898. H© was a native of Glasgow, and h© came of a Levitical stock. His father was minister of Young Street Free Church, Glasgow, for many years, and his maternal grandfather was Rev. Donald Sage, of Resolis, a famous Disruption worthy. Mr. Mackay had a most distinguished Univer sity career, and, after the usual theological Rev. W. Mackintosh Mackay, B.D. course at the Fre© Church Coll©g©, Glas gow, he was for a short time assistant in St. John's, Dundee, and Westbourne, Glasgow. He was then called to Troon, and ther© he immediately made a nam© for himself. His church was crowded with visitors during the summer ; his preaching fame spread, and invitations began to reach him from various parts of the country. Th©s© wer© all passed over, and until the South Church call was addressed to him, he seemed immovable. He yielded to th© claims of Aberdeen, and h© had no reason to regret his decision. From the first, his ministry was conspicuously suc cessful. He came with the reputation of being an eloquent preacher, and this re putation he fully maintained, while in the bracing intellectual atmosphere of the Granite City his preaching was mellowed and enriched. Mr. Mackay continued in the pastorate for nearly ten years, and during that time the prosperity of the congregation was maintained in every respect. Not only did the membership increase, but by Mr. Mockay's eloquence and power as a preacher, many strangers were attracted to the church, and there were always large and representative attendances. In November, 1907, Mr. Mackay accepted a call to Sherbroke Church, Pollokshields, and thus returned to become a minister in his native city. The vacancy in the South Church was filled by the induction in April, 1908, of Rev. John A. Irvine, B.A., formerly of Wallace Green Presbyterian Church, Ber wick. A native of Liverpool, and trained for the ministry of the English Pres byterian Church, Mr. Irvine had been ordained in 1891, and had been minister of a church in Liverpool befor© his settlement in Berwick at Wallace Green Church, the historic charge which Principal Cairns and other eminent men had served. Th© succession of prominent members in the South Church has been well main tained. Principal Brown, Dr. Reith, the founder of th© Porthill Sunday School; Mr. John Cook of Ashl©y, Mr. John Gray, Dr. Henry Jackson, Sir David Stewart, Mr. A. 0. Gill of Fairfield — these wer© all at on© time more or less intimately con nected with th© congregation ; and in the present kirk-session ther© ar© some of our leading public men. In this connection ther© may be cited Mr. David Ab©rnethy, Mr. George M. Cook, Mr. Alexander Aitken, Mr. Georg© England, Mr. Thomas Lillie, banker ; Mr. Alexander Duffus, ad vocate ; Mr. Thomas Jaffrey, banker ; Mr. Alexander Marr (of A. Pirie and Sons, Ltd.), Mr. David Manson, late of the In land Revenue; Councillor Kendall Bur nett, Councillor Milne, Councillor Stewart, and many others whose names will readily suggest themselves. Th© minister has the support of a .goodly band of office-bearers —36 elders and 30 deacons — a large staff but none too larg© for a membership of about 1200. In seeking to sum up and record some general impressions of the South congrega tion, several points at once suggest them selves. Perhaps the first is th© splendid attendances always found at th© regular church services. Wherever there may be 210 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. John A. Irvine, B.A. a decline in church attendance, it certainly has not been here. At the church census taken by th© " Aberdeen Journal " some years ago, the South Church came first in the city, with 1023 present at one service. This was no exceptional occasion, for the commodious building always seems well filled. Th© next thing likely to impress a visitor is the fine blending of th© different classes in the community. In the South Church, Kipling's line, "East is East and West is West, and never the twain shall meet," has a refutation which is very apparent. In this handsome church the East-Ender and the West-Ender worship under one roof ; the successful city man and th© toiling artisan rub shoulders week by week. In few con gregations has this mixing been more ap parent, and this very fact has unquestion ably been on© of the secrets of the con tinued vitality of the church. The remark able loyalty of the South Church members to their own church, and their own minister for the time being, has often been the subject of humorous comment. For them there is no church like the South Church, whether th© old building or the new, and no minister like the minister of the South, whoever he may be for the time. This is in many respects a very ad mirable trait, and it must have done much to save the South Church from feeling to any appreciable extent the pressure which is being experienced by all mid-town churches. The members have continued coming from the suburbs and from every quarter of th© town, despite all disadvant ages and inconveniences. While this ex treme loyalty which has been so marked a feature of the South congregation has had its beneficial effect, it may also, to some extent, have exercised a slightly un fortunate and detrimental influence. It may have tended to make th© members rather "clannish" and exclusive. Yet this is only the defect of a quality, and an extreme ' ' esprit d© corps " is so rarely to be met with in congregational life in these days that, when on© does find it, there is felt to be more cause for con gratulation than for criticism. LIL— TORRY UNITED FREE CHURCH. Torry U.F. Church. Th© movement for providing a Free Church in the fishing village of Torry dates from the Disruption. To Dr. Spence, of St. Cl©m©nt's, th© Aberdeen Presbytery committed the care of this new cause, and he took prompt and vigorous action to put th© station into working order. In after years, Dr. Spence was wont to tell with pardonable pride how h© got the first Free Church in Torry erected. He had it planned, built, and opened fre© of debt all within th© ©ventful year of 1843. It was a wooden structure, built on a site on the river bank between what was known as Pierhead and Bank Street, and it cost exactly £40. Though by no means a pre tentious ©difice, yet it admirably served its purpose for the public services, Sabbath School, and mission work for many years. For a considerable time no stated preacher or missionary was appointed. Dr. Spence himself preached on Sunday even ings, or found preachers, clerical or lay, in th© city. When the Aberdeen Free Church College was founded and organised it proved a source of help and encouragement te the cause at Torry. The Principal and professors, with great readiness, preached to the fisher folk from time to time, and it is worthy of note that the thre© successive Principals — Drs. Lumsden, Brown, and Salmond — were each in his own time par ticularly good friends to the Torry Church. Many students also crossed th© Dee to try their 'prentice hand at preaching, and, among others, was an arts student, Alex ander Whyte, whose praise is to-day in all the churches. Principal Whyte, in giving expression to his deep interest in th© little fishing community, delights to tell that he preached his first sermon in Torry. In those ©arly days, befor© th© erection of the Victoria Bridge, th© journey from Aber deen to Torry was not on© to b© lightly undertaken. Access on Sundays was by way of th© Suspension Bridge, and, with bare, unprotected paths and scarcely any regular road, it required some courage to face th© journey from the bridge to the village on a dark, stormy night. Some times the preacher did not appear, per haps because his heart failed him. On other occasions a request would be sent to the visitor to come across in daylight, the assurance being offered that at th© close of th© service a number of hardy fishermen would give him a Scotch convoy to the end of th© bridge. Som© thrilling stories are told of the experiences of preachers on these dreary winter nights. The old wooden church gathered around it many happy associations, and under the fostering car© of Dr. Spence the little body of people increased until it became necessary to face a new scheme of church building. About this time, Dr. Murray, of th© North Church, became associated with the work, and he took up th© building project and saw it carried forward to success — the congregation entering their new place of worship in 1865 or 1866, entirely free of any burden of debt. The church was built to accommodate 250 worshippers in the area, and, later on, an end gallery and session-house wer© erected. Early in th© 'sixties the Presbytery appointed stated preachers to carry on the work. Those appointed wer© for th© most part proba tioners, and one of the first, if not the very first, to hold the position was Rev. George Cassie, afterwards minister at Hopeman. R©v. Finlay M. Harper, M.A., of Martyrs' Church, Wick, also laboured for several 212 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN years as probationer in charge of the sta tion, and his work was productive of lasting good. During this time a remarkable re vival movement began which did much to raise the whole moral and spiritual tone of the community. As a result of this move ment, th© church attendances greatly in creased, and steps were taken by the Pres bytery to appoint an interim kirk-session and grant sealing ordinances to the con gregation. On 6th December, 1870, the interim kirk-session was appointed as fol lows, namely: — Dr. Spence (moderator), Dr. David. Brown, Rev. Georg© Macdonald, and Messrs. James Inglis, David Mac donald, James Bryce, and John Clark. The first Communion of the congregation was celebrated on 13th April, 1871, Rev. George MacDonald, of St. Columba, preaching in the forenoon, and Rev. Alexander Leslie, of Bon-Accord Church, in the evening. In September, 1871, Rev. William Innes, probationer, then stationed at South Ronaldshay, was appointed to take up the work in Torry in succession to Mr. Harper, and after he had laboured for about two years, steps were taken to have tiie con gregation raised to the status of a regular pastoral charge. This was carried out in due form, and Mr. Innes was elected first minister of the congregation and ordained to the pastorate of the church on 20th November, 1873. The list of members on the communion-roll at that date numbered 34, and of these, four still remain members of the church. On 18th October, 1874, an election of elders and deacons having taken place, thos© who accepted office were or dained, and th© first permanent kirk-ses sion and deacons' court were constituted. The elders ordained were two in number — Mr. John Cormack and Mr. James Wood — and these two laboured faithfully and zealously in their office and as Sabbath School teachers and mission workers con siderably over 30 years. Mr. Innes dis charged his pastoral duties with great fidelity and acceptance, and also applied himself with much diligence to the educa tional interests of Torry. Th© Education Act of 1872, providing for th© appoint ment of School Boards, had come into force shortly befor© his settlement in the dis trict, and as a member of the first School Board he had much to do with the intro duction of the new order of things. Torry had also a burning question in its educa tional affairs over the site of the school provided for in th© bequest of the laird of Balnagask. Mr. Innes claimed that the school should be erected in the village of Torry, and, although fighting single- handed, he ultimately gained the victory. In th© temperance cause he was also an earnest worker while devoting himself zealously to the duties of his pastorate. He had pioneer work to do and pioneering difficulties to encounter. At the time of his settlement there was no mans© for the minister and no suitable house within a reasonable distance of the church. He set himself to supply this want, and, having secured liberal subscriptions from many- friends — notably from Sir William Hender son — a site was secured from the Land Association, one of the very first sites granted by them on the south side of the river. The erection of th© manse was pro ceeded with, but before it was completed Mr. Innes received and accepted a call to Skene, where he was inducted on 29th January, 1879. An able and thoughtful preacher, and a man of evangelical sym pathies, Mr. Innes rendered good service as the first minister of the Torry Church, and the membership, which he found at 34, was steadily augmented during the years of his pastorate until it numbered close on 140 at th© tim© he left. The next minister was Rev. Alexander Simpson, B.A., B.Sc, formerly school master at Dyce. Mr. Simpson, after studying for the ministry and qualifying as a probationer, adopted for a time the teaching profession, and was highly suc cessful as head master at Dyce. Having accepted the call to Torry, he was ordained there on 5th April, 1879, and laboured with much acceptance for six years and a, half, until September, 1885, when he re moved to his present charge in Cunningham Church, Glasgow. Mr. Simpson was a man of much energy, and, in addition to dis charging with zeal and efficiency the duties of his pastorate, he likewise gave much of his time to other branches of work. He was an enthusiastic Presbytery man, taking his full share of the work, and ultimately serv ing as acting clerk ; h© was also a strong educationist, and took an active part in School Board work ; while on th© licensing and other public questions h© mad© his in fluence felt to a considerable degree. On Mr. Simpson's departure, a call was addressed to Rev. Edward Brown, who was ordained to the charge on 17th December, 1885. Mr. Brown was a student in arts at Glasgow University, and his first year in divinity was taken in Glasgow Free Church College, under Professor A. B. Bruce, Pro fessor Henry Drummond, and others. He completed his thoological course at th© New College, Edinburgh, where, like so many others, he came under the spell of Pro- TORRY UNITED FREE CHURCH 213 feasor A. B. Davidson. On being licensed, he acted for four months as assistant to Rev. Alex. Paterson at Bainsford, and was then asked to start a new congregation at Craigneuk, near Motherwell. In this mining district a wood©n church was erected, and good work was being don© in forming th© nucleus of a congregation ; but within four months Mr. Brown was called to Torry. The congregation, which was then wor shipping in the old church in Sinclair Road (at that time known as Church Street), was almost exclusively composed of fisher people. Torry was then a fishing village Rev. Edward Brown. standing entirely by itself and with a life and an interest all its own. For some years after Mr. Brown's settlement the little community had to face a rather hard struggle. Th© fishing industry was then in a transition stag©. Trawling and other new departures had upset the fixed order of things, and a tim© of crisis had to be passed through. Th© fishermen were jealous of their rights and privileges, and afraid lest their whol© prospects should be placed in jeopardy, and in such trying times Mr. Brown proved a friend indeed. H© took an interest in all their affairs, and in th© conferences and agitations of the tim© h© placed his services freely at their disposal. By-and-by, however, the time of stress and uncertainty passed, and u. new Torry came into being. Building operations wer© soon in progress in all directions, a new population crowded in, and the whole aspect of the district under went a transformation. Naturally the changed state of affairs began to tell upon th© church life. Th© congregation deve loped steadily every year, and in 1899 it became evident that, if it was hoped to cope with th© needs of the great and grow ing community thus suddenly gathered, a new and mor© commodious church on a better sit© would be an absolute necessity. Accordingly a feu was secured in Victoria Road, and on 26th October, 1889, the memorial stone of the new edifice was laid by Sir William Henderson. Th© work was so expeditiously carried through that the opening services were held on 22nd June, 1890, the special preachers on the occasion being Professor Laidlaw, of Edinburgh, and Rev. W. M. Clow, of the South Church. Th© cost of th© building was about £2500, and as th© result of persistent effort in col lecting subscriptions, and by means of a bazaar held in 1892, the congregation were abl© to congratulate themselves in March, 1893, on th© fact that their property was entirely fre© of debt. Originally the church was built to accommodate about 520 persons in th© area, but in 1903 it was found that this was barely sufficient to meet th© needs of th© steadily increasing membership, and it was decided to proceed with the erection, at a cost of £300, of a gallery giving accommodation for 170 addi tional sittings. Attention was next directed to securing suitable hall accom modation for the Sabbath School, and other organisations, and a suite of halls was erected in 1898 at a cost of £600, the whole expense being cleared off by three sales of work held in on© year. Up to this time th© Sunday School had been carried on in the old church, which still remains th© property of the congregation. Although th© congregational school was transferred to the new hall, it was arranged to con tinue a school in th© old premises as well, and the result has been that from then till now the congregation has had two large Sunday schools, with about 50 teachers and 550 scholars. Mr. Brown's time, as can b© readily imagined, was fully occupied with the pro motion of the various building schemes necessitated by th© steady increase of the congregation, all of which h© had to under take in addition to his regular pastoral work. H© was also able, however, to take a considerable share of parochial, educa tional, and public work generally. For eight years h© was a member of Nigg School 214 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. Alexander Murray, M.A. Board, and for six years after the inclusion of Torry in the city of Aberdeen he repre sented the district on the Aberdeen School Board. During his connection with the Aberdeen Board he acted as convener of the Scripture Knowledge Committee, and per sistently advocated the introduction of temperance teaching in the schools. Tem perance work has always claimed his special sympathy. In the Aberdeen U.F. Presby tery, as convener of the Presbyterial Tem perance Committee, he came to be regarded as a special champion of the cause, and in the community of Torry he was inti mately connected with every one of the now well-known movements, by means of plebiscite and otherwise, to oppose the granting of new public-house licences to the district. In 1906 Mr. Brown accepted a call to the church of Belhelvie and Shiels, and in 1909 he was again transferred to West Scotland Street Church, Glasgow. Rev. Alexander Murray, M.A., of the English Church, Stornoway, was called to succeed him at Torry. Mr. Murray is a man of warm evangelical sympathies, and he is maintaining the traditions of the congre gation, as is evidenced by its continuous activity in all aggressive religious move ments. The circumstances of the congregation have greatly changed within the last twenty years. The fisher people now form not more than one-third of the member ship — the other two-thirds being represen tative of the various classes composing the new community. It is worthy of note that the Torry Church has been the centre of, or has been directly connected with, several revival movements. In 1859, 1869, 1886, and 1894 the district was stirred to its depths, and on several of these occa sions the church reaped a considerable har vest, some of the most devoted office bearers and workers of to-day dating their connection from one or other of these eventful years. The altered aspect of affairs in Torry requires the adaptation of fresh methods and ever-increasing enter prise and energy, but in the United Free congregation there has been a ready re sponse to every new call to service. liii.— trinity United Free church. Trinity U.F. Church. The origin of Trinity U.F. Church must be said to date, lik© other churches of th© denomination, from th© Disruption of 1843. In another sens©, however, seeing it can claim the continuous history, it can be said to date back to 1793. In that year there was a vacancy in the East Church of th© parish of St. Nicholas through th© death of Rev. Hugh Hay, and th© Town Council, in whom th© patronage was vested, conferred the appointment on Rev. Georg© Gordon. Many of the parishioners wer© dissatisfied, both with the mode of election and the choice of the preacher, and they made a vigorous protest against the whole proceedings. Their expression of opinion was ignored, and the unpopular presentee was duly settled in the charge. The dissentients, under the circumstances, felt called upon to secede from the congregation, and they applied to the Presbytery for permission to build a Chapel of Ease for their own use. At that time the population of Aberdeen was steadily increasing, and it was coming to b© felt that the church accommodation was barely keeping pac© with the growth of th© community. The Presbytery were there for© inclined to look with favour on th© case of the petitioners, and the formal con sent of the court was given to their request. Thus encouraged in their efforts, th© dis sentients set themselves with vigour to the formidable task of building a place of wor ship. An excellent site was secured by feu- ing from th© Incorporated Trades a piece of ground in the ancient garden of th© Trinity Friars at the lower end of th© classic Shiprow ; and almost on the very spot wher© th© old Trinity Convent had stood the new Trinity Church was erected. Considerable enterprise was shown by the members. They built a commodious church, along with a session-house and manse, at a total cost of £2000, and although this was a v©ry larg© sum for such a purpose in those days, th© amount was raised almost entirely without outside assistance. Wis dom and prudence, as well as enthusiasm and zeal, characterised th© congregation. They resolved to protect themselves against any repetition of th© "unfortunate circum stances which had forced them to secede from th© mother congregation, and so they obtained from the General Assembly a con stitution by which the election of a minister was vested in "the mai© seatholders in full communion with the church. On Sunday, 27th April, 1794, the church (or chapel, as it was occasionally designated) was opened for public worship by Dr. Cruden, of Nigg. It was not, however, until th© month of October that a minister was selected, when, after trial of different preachers, th© Rev. Robert Doig was appointed. Mr. Doig had been licensed by the Pres bytery of Dundee on 12th November, 1788, and h© was ordained by the Presbytery of Arbroath on 3rd March, 1791, as assistant in that parish. His induction to Trinity Church took place on 23rd October, 1794, and his ministry was one of marked pros perity. Mr. Doig was a man of strong physique and an untiring worker. His efforts soon began to tell in the steady growth of th© congregation — a larg© pro portion of th© members being then drawn from th© seafaring class. So conspicuous was Mr. Doig's success in Trinity that when th© East Church, from which th© Trini tarians had seceded, again became vacant in 1813, h© was elected to the vacancy. It was surely by th© irony of fate that the Trinity peopl© found themselves in th© position of supplying a minister to the very congregation from which their conscien tious scruples had forced them to separate. 216 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Old Trinity Church and Old Trades Hall. Th© next minister of Trinity was the Rev. Alexander Kirkland, who was at the time assistant to the Rev. Alexander Macneil, of St. Andrew's Chapel of Ease, Dundee. Mr. Kirkland had been licensed by the Presby tery of Glasgow on 1st May, 1811, and his ordination as minister of Trinity took place on 13th May, 1813. From the first he gave promise of a career of singular usefulness, but after two short years of earnest work he was cut down in the flower of his early manhood at the ag© of 32. A man "of simple manners, unaffected piety, and pure morals," his premature death was deeply mourned. It was the custom then to have three Church services every Sunday, two of them being taken by the regular minister and the third by a specially-appointed lecturer. It was two years after the erection of Trinity before th© congregation were able to afford an evening lecturer, but in 1796 they appointed to that post one whose name was destined to become famous in the re cords of the Church and in the annals of Aberdeen. He was none other than the celebrated Dr. James Kidd, afterwards minister of Gilcomston, and a professor in Marischal College. Dr. Stark, in his " Life of Dr. Kidd," says — " The. evening lecture ship in connection with Trinity afforded him an opportunity of trying his wing6 as a preacher before he was weighted with the full responsibility of a pastorate. Gilcom ston came to him in the full vigour of man hood, and the fame he had won as a preacher to the people in Trinity gave him at once a position of commanding in fluence." Dr. Kidd continued in the lec tureship until his election to Gilcomston in 1801, and all through his life he retained his love for Trinity, and he was to be found assisting at nearly every communion ser vice. On th© death of Mr. Kirkland the con gregation found themselves for the third time in their short history in search of a minister. Their choice on this occasion fell on the Rev. John Murray, M.A., then as sistant to one of the parish ministers of Dundee. Although licensed by the Pres bytery of Peebles in 1811, Mr. Murray hailed from Aberdeenshire. He was born in the parish of Clatt, and educated at the local school, and afterwards at the Gram mar School of Aberdeen. H© studied philo sophy at Marischal College, and theo logy at the University of Edinburgh, and after completing his course he had been for two years a tutor to the family of Sir James Nasmyth of Po6so. Mr. Murray's induc tion in Trinity took place on 9th January, 1816, and he found a very unsettled and unsatisfactory state of affairs. Mr. Kirk land, notwithstanding the personal fascina tion he exercised, had experienced a troub lous tim© with a section of the congrega tion. His election had been carried by a majority over the Rev. Daniel Dewar, afterwards th© well-known Principal of Marischal College, and the Dewar faction, it i6 assumed, mad© it unpleasant for him throughout all his short pastorate. When Mr. Murray came b© found th© two sections still at variance, but he was a man of firm ness as well as ability, and h© applied him self to the situation with considerable moral courage. He was a powerful preacher, and the cynical were ready to say that it was meet and fitting that Trinity congregation, in view of their state at the time, should possess in their pulpit the best denouncer of sinners in th© city. By what ever means, there can be no doubt that Mr. Murray was largely instrumental in con solidating the congregation, and leaving a very deep impression for good. Once again, by a coincidence, both curious and ironical, the East Church claimed the minister of its young offshoot, and in 1824 Mr. Murray bad© Trinity farewell. From the East Old Trinity Church and Entrance to Old Trades Hall. TRINITY UNITED FREE CHURCH 217 Church ho went, at th© division of th© city parish, to found the new North Parish Church, and leaving the Establish ment at the Disruption, he founded the Free North. H© was afterwards made a D.D., and Dr. John Murray is still remem bered as on© 'of th© potent religious forces in th© city in his day. His subsequent his tory is bound up with th© other churches he served, but one incident which occurred during his connection with Trinity may her© be cited. The managers of Trinity and th© bulk of th© members were ad herents of Queen Caroline, and at her death they resolved, as a sign of mourning, to hang the lofts of the chapel with black cloth. This was accordingly done in hand some style. Mr. Murray, however, adhered to Georg© IV., and therefor© did not ap prove of the draping of the chapel, and ne resolved to interdict, the proceedings iii his own way. At a very late hour on the Saturday night he entered the chapel, along with an attendant, and immediately proceeded to undo the work of the man agers. It was no easy task, however, and the Sunday had dawned befor© the self- imposed duty was completed. The affair was the subject of much talk at the time, particularly in view of the Sabbath desecra tion it entailed — Mr. Murray, it is 6aid, being always ready to denounce Sabbath desecration. Additions have doubtless been made to the story from time to time as it has been related, but it would appear to have at least a modicum of truth. For the vacancy caused by Mr. Murray's removal a larg© number of candidates were put before the congregation of Trinity, and a short leet of three was chosen. The threp were — Rev. David Simpson, of Burg- head ; Rev. William L©ith, afterwards of th© South Parish ; and Rev. Gavin Parker, afterwards of Bon- Accord Church. The excitement over the election was intense, the supporters of each candidate working hard for victory. Mr. Simpson, however, secured a larg© majority, and the call was made unanimous by the cordial acquies cence of the minority. He was inducted by his predecessor on 3rd May, 1825, and this was the formation of a pastoral tie which subsisted for nearly 40 years. The weekly attendance at Trinity aver aged about 1200, and th© membership, which exceeded 1400, was scattered in all parte of the city. Mr. Simpson at once began his pastoral visitation, by means of which he exercised great influence ; he in stituted a congregational library ; urged th© claims of foreign missions ; and, last but* not least, among his achievements outside th© pulpit, he started a parochial school for th© secular education of the young people ill the immediate vicinity of the church. The school was opened free of debt on 13th February, 1837, under the superintendence of Mr. John Longmuir, who was at that time appointed parochial schoolmaster and evening lecturer at Trinity. He became well known afterwards as Rev. Dr. John Longmuir, of Mariners' Free Church, to whose lif© and work reference is made in th© history of St. Andrew's U.F- Church. From the beginning of the movement which culminated in th© Disruption of 1843, it was quite evident where Mr. Simpson's sympathies lay. He took a bold and deci sive course, openly declaring his opinions on th© matter, and it was no surprise to his congregation when he joined in the historic march to Tanfield Hall, and was present at the formation of th© Free Church. On his arrival in Aberdeen after the stirring ©vents in Edinburgh he preached his last sermon in Trinity Chapel on Sunday, 11th June, 1843, taking as his text the pecu liarly appropriate words — "Arise, let us go hence." Practically the entire congre gation left along with Mr. Simpson, and the building, which, 50 years previously, had been erected as a protest against pat ronage, was now vacated because of a re newed protest. Before many weeks were over th© chapel was deserted for want of worshippers, and th© building was ulti mately sold by th© Presbytery, and Trinity Parish Church passed out of the ecclesias tical records. Its resuscitation in 1877, or, rather, the formation of a new congrega tion under the same name in Marischal Street, is dealt with under the history of Trinity Parish. The deserted Trinity Chapel stood for a tim© as am object-lesson of the power of the Disruption in Aberdeen, and it was not long before its ancient neighbour, the Old Trades Hall, was also left vacant and for lorn. The spirit of revolution and change was abroad, and in som© verses written at that time the hall was represented as expressing its regret in the lines: — " 0 ! mony a gossip this has bred At midnight, still and mirk, 'Tween me and my deserted friend — The anoe prood Tarn'ty Kirk. An' we hae glowered! in ither's face Till tears stood in ilk e'e, To think on what we ance had been, An' what we soon wtud be." •The changes were destined, however, to go still further. Later on, when the old 218 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Trinity Church was put in th© market, its career as a building for public worship was ended, and it was henceforth devoted to public amusement. For many years it was known as the Alhambra Music Hall, and sine© then the walls have resounded to many sounds other than those of praise and prayer. Mr. Simpson and his people were church- less for a time, but they soon found accom modation with some of their neighbours. The services were held at first in Melville Church, and when it proved insufficient for the large congregation, Union Church was put at their disposal. Negotiations were all th© while proceeding with a view to the erection of a new church, and -in due time a site was secured in Crown Street. There the congregation, with characteristic en terprise, erected a commodious church, and thither it removed in March, 1844. Mr. Simpson's connection with th© con gregation continued till 1864, when he passed away in a, good old age, leaving be hind him the fragrant memory of a pure and faithful ministry. The forty years during which he occupied the pastorate formed a memorable epoch in the history of Trinity, and through all th© changing circumstances his wise counsel and the in fluence of his personality were of inestim able value, lt was but natural that he should also, by reason of his lengthened participation in public life, have become a prominent personage in the city. David Simpson, of Trinity, was one of the best known ministers in Aberdeen in his day, and also, it may be said, one of the most widely respected. Of criticism, however, ho had his share. On several public ques tions he took a strong and independent attitude, and at times he may have had to encounter a certain amount of hostile opinion. For instance, it was said of him that he was a ' ' ringleader among the teetotalers who infest the town," and it was alleged that he headed a movement for the abolition of drinking toasts at funerals. On the question of Sabbath observance he was very outspoken, and another ' ' crime ' ' laid to his charge was that, along with several other city ministers — notably Rev. Abercromby Gordon and Rev. John Murray — he was ' ' a believer in the divinity of those mischievous revivals." On the other hand, Mr. Simpson's critics were con strained to admit that his composition was considerably better than that of most of the evangelical ministers of his time in Aberdeen, and that " though filled with the most strong© and perverted notions- of the nature of Christianity, h© was universally considered to be a sincere and honest spiritual teacher — zealous, activ©, and in defatigable." What Mr. Simpson was in the ©yes of those who knew him best it is not difficult to ascertain. His personality and preach ing were to them, in a, sense, beyond all criticism. His opinions and his utterances might not commend themselves on every hand, but there was no on© to question the absolute honesty of his position and th© entire disinterestedness of his statements. As a preacher he was held in high repute by all th© congregations of the denomina tion in Aberdeen. Local history can tell how often he was requested to perform the last offices for a brother minister by preaching his funeral sermon, th© general impression being that no on© could dis charge such a duty with the same tactful expression, warm- sympathy, and unfailing wisdom as Mr. Simpson. Many of his me morial tributes were published, and also a number of his other discourses, the com plete list of his publications making a goodly show. Mr. Simpson's pulpit action has been described as powerful, but it is by his preaching — true and tender, fervent and faithful — that he will best b© remem bered, and by his consistent life and walk among the people! His ministry is one of the traditions of the congregation he served so long, and Trinity can never forget David Simpson. His death, in 1864, was deeply mourned, and it was felt that a prince in Israel had fallen. Yet h© had served his generation well, and after a long day's work he entered on the rest he had so fully earned. Som© time before Mr. Simpson's death it had been seen that his strength was failing, and arrangements were made for giving him the assistance of a colleague and suc cessor. Several candidates were heard with a view to their election to th© post, among them being a probationer who was then quite unknown, but whose name was honoured throughout the world afterwards as one of Scotland's foremost theologians. He was none other than Principal Marcus Dods. It may seem rather a reflection on the critical faculty of the Trinity con gregation that he secured only two votes, but there is th© consolation — such as it is — that many other con gregations throughout the length and' breadth of th© land showed an equal lack of discernment during the seven years when Mr. Dods wandered as a probationer in search of a charge. The choice of th© congregation fell on Rev. W. H. Guolter, of Hawick, whose indue- TRINITY UNITED FREE CHURCH 219 tion took place in th© beginning of 1864. For som© months h© held th© position of colleagu© and successor to Mr. Simpson, and on th© death of th© latter he assumed the full pastorate. Mr. Gualter's ministry oontinued until 1877, when he accepted a call to St. Mark's, Glasgow. Thereafter Trinity had experience of a somewhat pro tracted vacancy, but early in 1879 a call was addressed to Rev. Andrew Doak, M.A., of Both well, and cordially accepted by him. This was th© beginning of another long and able and prosperous ministry, and the for mation of a pastoral tie which happily re mains unsevered to-day. \ yyf^M *v ¦ . s! ¦"'. ! .5 : 1 <¦•<-¦¦¦¦ i x ¦ • ¦ Rev. Andrew Doak, M.A. Mr. Doak cam© to Trinity after having won his spurs elsewhere, but it was while he was still a young man, with all the freshness and vigour and enthusiasm of youth. He threw himself into th© work of th© charg© with characteristic energy, and he had th© satis faction of seeing th© fruit of his labours. Under Mr. Doak th© congregation made steady progress in every respect. His preaching was characterised by a keen and vigorous intellectuality, a robustness of thought, and a force of expression which gained for him a high reputation ; while by his genial personality and his great human- ness h© won the confidence and affection of the peopl© in a r©markabl© degree. Mr. Doak took an Advanced Liberal position both in politics and theology. He became on© of th© most prominent and most effec tive platform speakers in th© Radical in terest, and freely devoted himself to poli tical and social work. Even in th© pulpit his sympathies with regard to public ques tions were never concealed. He believed in th© practical application of Christianity to th© affairs of life in all its aspects, and this to a certain extent coloured all his preaching. Th© evangelical note may not have been so pronounced as in the case of some of his brethren, but the depth of con viction, the strength of purpose, and the unflinching outspokenness of his pulpit messages gave them a distinct power of their own, and imparted to them a telling force. The best tribute to the ability of his preaching and the success of his pas torate is found in the manner in which he kept the large congregation around him during all the years of his active ministry. New congregations w©r© springing up in th© suburbs, and the strain on the central churches was every year becoming more severe, yet Mr. Doak — and to his credit be it said — succeeded somehow in keeping Trinity practically intact. He was not without honours, both within and without th© Church, one of the most conspicuous, from a public point of view, being his ap pointment to- the ancient office of Patron to the Incorporated Trades Mr. Doak had always shown himself to be possessed of shrewd wisdom, and he gave evidence of it again by withdrawing from the active duties of his pastorate before old ag©, with its infirmities, came upon him, and before his work had begun to suffer from the effects of his advancing years. The congre gation and Presbytery cordially concurred in his application for the appointment of a colleagu© and successor, and steps were taken forthwith to carry th© resolution into effect. The attention of the Vacancy Com mitte© was turned to th© Rev. William Stoddart, M.A., of Innellan, who had mad© a name for himself as a preacher in that favourite Clydeside resort. Mr. Stoddart during a short ministry had gained great popularity with residents and visitors alike, his church being invariably crowded to its utmost capacity during th© summer season, and h© had com© to b© regarded as one of the rising young men of the Church. Invi tations and overtures had been given him from various places — including more than one from Aberdeen — but to all these he had turned a deaf ear. Trinity congregation, however, would not be deterred from making an attempt to move him. The hearty recommendation of the committee 220 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN was endorsed with enthusiasm by the con gregation at large, and a numerously-signed and influential call was in due course pre sented to Mr. Stoddart. At a meeting of the Presbytery of Dunoon he formally in timated his acceptance, and being loosed from his charge at Innellan, he was in ducted at Aberdeen in November, 1901. Mr. Doak then practically withdrew from all pastoral duty, although he was ever ready to assist when his services were re quired. Between the two colleagues there existed from the first a most perfect under standing. Each cherished the highest esteem and warmest appreciation of the abilities of the other, and their relations Rev. William Stoddart, M.A. were never clouded by the faintest shadow. This happy state of matters still continues. Mr. Doak, howev©r, ha6 not for some time been resident in Aberdeen, and Mr. Stod dart has been solely responsible for the duties of the pastorate. From the outset of his ministry Mr. Stoddart caught th© ©ar of the city, and crowded congregations were drawn to hear him. This was accounted for to some extent by his frank and fearless pronouncements. H© never shirked a difficulty, or tried to compro mise, but with perfect outspokenness stated the position as it appeared to him at the time. Every sentence he uttered was charged with an intensity of convic tion which mad© an impression on his hearers. Mr. Stoddart has the note of a true preacher, and his genius for sermon- construction is undoubted. While marked by freshness of thought and aptness of application to present-day conditions, his sermons, by reason of their wealth of illus tration and fine literary style, are at the same time interesting and attractive to a degree. Som© of them would, indeed, tak© high rank as specimens of prose poetry. His delivery is natural and unaffected, but characterised at times by passionate elo quence, and his preaching altogether is worthy of the best traditions of the Aber deen pulpit. Trinity Church has had eminent men in its pews as well as in its pulpit. The name6 are at once suggested of Mr. Georg© Thomp son of Pitmedden, who wa& in his day one of the pillars of the church; Sir William Henderson, who was a devoted office-bearer until he left to help in th© formation of Ferryhill congregation; Mr. George Grant, advocate, a Disruption elder ; Baillie John Fraser, who was for long a respected mem ber of session, and who is represented by his family in th© ranks of the workers to-day; and Mr. James S. Butchart, advocate, who did much in various ways for th© congregation. These have all passed away, but their places hav© been taken by others. An out standing feature of Trinity Church has been the large number of public men it has always included in its membership. To day it has well-known citizens such as ex- Lord Provost Mearns, Treasurer Meff, and ex-Baillie Boddie — all prominent in muni cipal circles, and others equally well known in commercial and other walks of life. In its leading office-bearers Trinity has also been fortunate. Mr. D. B. Murray and Mr. Alexander Johnston, Harbour Commissioner, are the efficient joint session-clerks, and the elder ship includes men such as Mr. Alexander Milne, late bookseller, who is now senior elder; Mr. John M'Robb, so long the leading spirit in the Sailors' Mis sion, and others. In former times Mr. David Allan, of West Cults, was one of th© foremost office-bearers of the congregation, holding for about 30 years the post of congregational treasurer the duties of which he latterly handed over to Mr. J. C. Blake. In the deacons' court, as well as in the kirk-session, there are men of proved business capacity who are giving ungrudging and enlightened ser vice to the church. Mention might be made of the work of TRINITY UNITED FREE CHURCH 221 the congregation in its Sabbath schools and in its manifold organisations and agencies. Reference would, also be necessary to the men it has equipped and sent forth to service elsewhere, as, for instance, Rev. John Mennie, Methlick ; Rev. James Cameron, Glen- bervie; Rev. Robert Urquhart, Oldmel- drum ; Rev. John Crombie, D.D., Canada; Rev. George Abel, Udny; Rev. J. M. Skinner, Old Deer ; and Rev. Robert Milne, of Kensington, London. In the mission field there ar© Rev. John Watt, Calcutta ; Rev. John Watson, Amoy ; and Rev. Professor William Meston, B.D., of the Madras Christian College. Trinity was the first Free Church in Aberdeen to introduce an organ for use in public worship. This was long before Car negie organs had been heard of, and the " kist o' whistles" in Crown Street was naturally subjected to considerable criticism at th© time. In other respects Trinity con gregation has shown itself to be an en lightened and progressive congregation, un trammelled by the fetters of the past, and ever ready to recognise that " new occa sions teach new duties." liv.-union united free church. Union U.F. Church. Union Church has had the unique dis tinction of being throughout its history a hidden and at the same time a prominent church. It has occupied an unfortunate and out-of-the-way site in Shiprow, yet, notwithstanding all the disadvantages of its situation, it has never been in danger of suffering from lack of public notice. Some of its ministers helped to give it pro minence by their own strongly-marked characteristics; while the conservatism of the congregation in regard to forms of "worship gave it a distinctive place in the local ecclesiastical world. The Union Church and congregation have also at various times engaged the attention of the Presbytery, and this has likewise helped to concentrate on them a measure of public interest which might not otherwise have been apparent. The church was built in 1822 as a Chapel of Ease from the East Parish Church. It was a strong, substantial edifice, and it must have been originally of considerable size, as those who knew it in its early days often spoke of the crowded audiences that gathered within its walls, as many as 1400 or 1500 being present. At that time the district was very different from what it is to-day. The Shiprow and neighbouring streets contained the residences of the Pro^ vost, magistrates, and gentry of the city, and Union Chapel was not in the position of an east-end church. It is said, indeed, that there were then few churches west of Market Street. In 1834 Union Chapel was raised to the status of a quoad sacra church, and a district was assigned to it by the Presbytery of Aberdeen. In 1843, when the Disruption occurred, it was left by prcatically the entire congregation. Rev. John Allan, who was then minister of the congregation, adhered to the Free Church side, and after conducting the service on 11th June, 1843, he requested that those who desired to follow him into the Free Church should meet on the following Sun day in the Temperance Hall, George Street. Accordingly, on the following Sun day, Mr. Allan preached in the Temperance Hall, where there was a very larg© attend ance, while in the Union Church the audience was exceedingly small. From the Temperance Hall, Mr. Allan and his sup porters went to the Secession Church in G©org© Street (the forerunner of Carden Place Church), and there he preached for the next four Sundays by an arrangement with Rev. James Stirling and the office bearers of that church. At the first term after the Disruption, only 25 sittings were taken in Union Church, and the hopeless ness of the case soon became apparent. There was also a debt of £1300 on the building, and in view of all the circum stances a deputation of five appeared before the Established Presbytery, urging that the congregation should be disbanded and the church sold. Ultimately this was agreed to, and Mr. Allan and his party very readily became the purchasers, pay ing for th© building the sum of £1795. Thus within seven weeks from the time they had left it, they were back again in their old sanctuary as the undisputed pro prietors. Th© title deeds then prepared were framed in such a way as to retain the special clauses of the original document. The trustees were to be the office-bearers of Union Chapel for the time being, and it was stipulated that they hold the buildings "in trust for behoof of th© congregation of said chapel, but it is especially provided and declared that th© same shall, in no way, fall under the control of the General Assembly of th© Free Church or Protesting Church of Scotland, or any other ecclesiastical court whatever, and th© said Assembly shall have no concern with this trust." Safeguarded in this way, Union Church occupied a certain position of in- UNION UNITED FREE CHURCH 223 dependence, and the special provision in the title deed has played an important part in the subsequent history of th© church. Th© first minister of the congregation was Rev. David Sim, A.M., who was ordained on 29th August, 1822. He was then an elderly man of 57, and had gained varied experience of life in other spheres. A graduate of King's College and Univer sity, h© became schoolmaster of Monquhitter, but afterwards went to Den mark, and engaged successfully in farming. On returning, he was appointed master of Hilton Academy. His ministry of Union Chapel, which was entered upon at so late a stage in his life, was destined to b© of very short duration. Ordained, as already mentioned, on 29th August, 1822, he held th© charg© for only four months, his death taking place on 3rd January, 1823. Rev. William Lyon, A.M., who succeeded Mr. Sim, was a son of Rev. James Lyon, of Glamis. He gained his degree at Marischal College and University, and was ordained on 7th August, 1823. His ministry was also comparatively brief, al though he entered upon it with all the freshness of youth. After five years' ser vice, he died on 4th July, 1828, at the early age of 30. He was buried underneath or besid© the church, and his tombstone can still be seen in the hall near the spot where his remains are supposed to lie. Mr. Lyon was a man of fine gifts and graces, and in his funeral sermon, which was preached by Rev. David Simpson, of Trinity, he was described as being esteemed " for his fervent and unaffected piety, his lively and devoted zeal, and his warmth and kindness of heart." Rev. Joseph Thorburn, the third minister of th© church, was the son of a grocer in Edinburgh, and a graduate of Edinburgh University. For six months he acted as assistant to Rev. Dr. Grierson, of Cockpen, and then, on 19th February, 1829, h© was ordained as minister of Union Church. His ministry also was a brief one, although from a different cause. In 1831 he was promoted to the parish of Forglen, and accepted the appointment On 29th August, 1831, the vacancy at Union Church was filled by the' settlement of Rev. John Allan, who was destined to carry the con gregation through a memorable period in its history. During his tenure of the charge the Disruption of 1843 took place, and, as we have already seen, h© was largely instrumental in carrying almost the entire congregation along with him into the Fre© Church. Mr. Allan's ministry was fruitful of good results and successful in every way ; but, unfortunately for the congregation, it came to a close in 1847. He suffered from an affection of the voice, said to be largely the result of his prodigal use of it, and, as the trouble increased, he was compelled to retire from active duty. By this time he was in possession of inde pendent means, and, on resigning his charge, he removed, first, to Potterton House, Belhelvie, and afterwards to his native district in Ayrshire, where he spent the rest of his life in quiet retirement. Mr. Allan was in his day a man of intel lectual activity and eager spirit. Before coming to Aberdeen he had published in Kilmarnock a brief treatise on " The Guilt of Idleness under the Call to Gospel Activity." During his Aberdeen ministry h© published in Aberdeen in 1839 an " Ex posure of Unitarianism and of Mr. Harris"; and he subsequently published a volume of poems entitled " Th© Len- tiad: or Peter the Pope and his Pio neers the Puseymen, together with Anti- Pen tateuchal Prelates, Broad Church, and Balaam Ass, Pommelled and Pounded with a Hudibrastic Cudgel: A Tale in Rhyme for th© Times by a Beef-eater and Domestic Chaplain to Fish Pots." He hated Roman Catholicism, and in other productions of his pen he inveighed furiously against it. He died on 21st May, 1885. Mr. Allan was succeeded by Mr. Black wood, who had seen service in various spheres. After a short pastorate he had also to retire on account of failing health. The next minister— Rev. A. M. Bannatyne —was the first to enjoy a lengthened pastorate, and he left his mark more deeply on the Union congregation than any of hi6 predecessors, while he also occupied in his own day a distinctive position among local ministers and in the public life of Aber deen. Mr Bannatyne was in every way an out standing man. "Even among the hand some men of his time," it has been said, "he was conspicuous by the height of his figure, the nobility of his walk, and the grand proportions of his head, with its snow-white hair. Her© were plainly attri butes of no ordinary kind, and they were the index of the man. It was no unhappy inspiration that styled him the John Knox of Aberdeen, so uncompromising was he in all matters of principle." Sternly uncompromising when once he took up an attitude on any particular ques tion, Mr. Bannatyne was ready to face any amount of opposition, and, if need be, to stand, like Athanasius of old, alone against 224 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN the world. He was conservative to. the last degree. This was evident in ' his theological position, in his attitude towards all developments in the religious world, and in his outlook on the Church and affaire generally. It was only to be ex pected that he should influence his con gregation, and Union Church readily re sponded to his teaching, and became as Rev. A M. Bannatyne. conservative as its minister. Thus the old practice was maintained of standing dur ing prayer and sitting during the singing. Hymns, and even Paraphrases, were rigidly excluded from the service of praise, and afternoon services were continued long after these had been superseded by evening services in almost every other church in the city. Mr. Bannatyne was for a time the most- talked-of man in Aberdeen by reason of his memorable Presbytery speech in criticism of promiscuous dancing. He took up a position of strong opposition to the practice, and his description of dancing as "flings and springs and close-bosomed whirlings" was quoted and commented on all over the country. The speech and the occasion which called it forth are alike forgotten to-day, but Mr. Bannatyne's phrase is still familiar, and, if nothing else remained, it alone would serve to keep his memory green in the city. In the work of the Presbytery, Mr. Bannatyne took special delight. No man was mor© fully informed in all matters of Church law and procedure, and his brethren readily re cognised his accurate and extensive know ledge ; he came, in fact, to be known as the " Presbytery policeman," as he was al most invariably called on to settle any dis puted point of order. The trend of the times in the Church as well as in the world naturally occasioned considerable mis giving to a man of the type of Mr. Banna tyne, and it became evident that a crisis was approaching. Th© membership of Union Church had largely decreased — partly, no doubt, owing to th© many re movals to other districts, but also largely on account of the strict adherence to hours of service and forms of worship which had become thoroughly antiquated. An im portant alteration on the church build ings took place during Mr. Bannatyne's ministry. Originally, a6 we have already seen, it was a very large building, but in course of time it was found that all the accommodation was not required. A scheme was, therefore, carried through whereby the large area under the gallery was cut off, and practically a new church was formed out of the gallery. An out side platform had to be erected te admit of access to this " elevated " church, and below this a hall was built. On 11th November, 1890, Mr. Ban natyne made a long statement to the Presbytery of his personal position on matters of doctrine, Church govern ment, etc., on many of which he avowed that he felt out of touch with cur rent opinion, and h© intimated his intention of resigning his pastorate at the end of the year. Touching testi mony Tvas born© by members of the Presby tery to Mr. Bannatyne's unswerving fidelity to truth, his singleness of aim, and his high personal character, and regret was expressed at the prospect of losing so able and helpful a member of the Court. The proceedings on the occa sion show how deeply and favourably Mr. Bannatyne had impressed his brethren, notwithstanding the fact that he had so often found himself in conflict with them. The resignation was duly carried into effect, and Mr. Bannatyne removed to Rothesay, where he lived in retirement, although afterwards conducting services for a time in one of the public halls of the town. His death took place at a good old age, and with him there passed away a minister who will not soon be forgotten in UNION UNITED FREE CHURCH 225 Aberdeen, but many of whose sayings and doings will be told from one generation to another. The members of Union Church in a short time after Mr. Bannatyne's depar ture called Rev. G. M'Murray Ross, M.A., to be their minister. Mr. Ross was a son of Rev. Adam Ross, of Rattray, and after completing his course as a student- he had acted for a time as assistant to Dr. Hood Wilson in the Barclay Church, Edinburgh. His ordination and induc tion to Union Church took place on 23rd April, 1891. Mr. Ross was an earnest evangelical preacher, and he gained the esteem of the whole congregation. His ministry was mainly conspicuous by the gradual loosening in the congregation of the old ties of custom and th© ushering in of a new regime. Hymns and paraphrases were introduced ; the congregation agreed to 6it at prayer and stand at singing; evening services were begun and those in the afternoon discontinued, and in vari ous other ways the members found them selves getting into line with their fellow- worshippers in th© city. In 1902 Mr. Ross accepted a call from St. Andrew's Church, Dairy, and he was formally re leased from his charge in Aberdeen. He preached his first sermon as minister of Union Church on 26th April, 1891, and his last on 27th April, 1902. For a time after Mr. Ross's departure, the existence of Union Church seemed to be in jeopardy. A number of members left — not, however, an unusual occurrence on the departure of a minister — and there were those who strongly urged the congregation to enter into union with another. Both the North and Commerce Street congrega tions were at the tim© planning new move ments, and pressure was brought to bear on the Union congregation to induce them to amalgamate with one or other of these congregations. The office-bearers, however, held out against any such proposal, and, fortified by the powers conferred upon them in the title deed, they gained their point. Some of those taking the leading part had held office for many years through various changes, among th© oldest being Mr. Robert Tait, wholesale hardware merchant, the session clerk and deacons' court clerk ; Mr. Thomas Brown, shoemaker, and Mr. James Fyfe, sen., painter. Th© Presbytery consented to the continuance of Union as a separate congregation, although tem porarily reducing its status from that of a regular sanctioned charge. About this time there had come under the notice of the office-bearers the name of Rev. Alex ander Rodger, of Tarbolton, who at once expressed his willingness to champion the cause of Union Church. He had worked up an excellent congregation in Ayrshire, but was ready to take a second risk and forego his full status as a minister in the assured confidence that there would be a speedy improvement in the prospects. Having re ceived a hearty invitation as the result of preaching in Aberdeen, Mr. Rodger gave up his charge at Tarbolton, and on 5th February, 1903, he was settled in Union Rev. Alexander Rodger. Church under the Ordained Preachers Act. Mr. Rodger was a man of considerable ex perience of life. For a number of years he had followed a business career, and al though he entered the ministerial calling at a later age than many of his brethren, he had th© advantage, not to be lightly esteemed, of having a practical knowledge of the world. He had also the reputation of being a vigorous practical preacher and a capable organiser. In Union Church his influence soon began to tell. Progress be came apparent in every department of work, and the congregation enjoyed the distinction of having its affairs discussed in the General Assembly. This was in connection with an appeal for its restora tion to the status of a regular charge, with all the rights and privileges attaching 226 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. Thomas Havre. thereto. In course of the debate, cordial testimony was borne to th© success of Mr. Rodger's work, and ultimately, on 28th May, 1904, the Supreme Court acceded to th© prayer of the petition, and Union con gregation regained its position in the de nomination. Thereafter, its history was without incident until the spring of 1908, when Mr. Rodger was unanimously called to the pastorate of the Cairns Memorial Church, Edinburgh. Recognising in the call a summons to work for which his abilities and experience seemed to specially fit him, Mr. Rodger intimated his accept ance, and, in due course, was formally loosed from his charge in Aberdeen. The effect of this on th© future of Union congregation was for a time uncertain, but it was recognised from th© outset that it would mean the reopening of the whole question of th© position and prospects of the church. Notwithstanding Mr. Rodger's effective work, it was seen that the district had been undergoing a steady change, and one not likely to be beneficial to th© upbuilding of a strong congregation; while another important element was re cognised in the probable absorption of the site of th© church in a proposed scheme of city improvement. The whole question was under consideration, not only by the congregation itself, but also by the Presby tery and by a deputation from the head quarters of the Church. Th© suggestion having been made that Union congregation should start a new effort under the ' ' Man chester Scheme," and amalgamate with another city congregation, attention was directed to the probability of this being effected with, among others, Bon-Accord Church. After repeated and sometimes heated conferences between the Presbytery and th© office-bearers and congregation, it was found that the feeling of the members was against amalgamation, and in favour of continuing the congregation as a re gular charge. The desire of the congrega^ tion was granted, but with the stipulation that no minister could be called, but a preacher appointed to take charge of the church for a year. In March, 1909, Rev. Thomas Havre, of Maryculter (and for merly of Glasgow), took up the work, in response to a hearty invitation, and entered on the duties with earnestness and vigour. lv.— West united free church. West U.F. Church. The history of this congregation as a separate body, although comparatively brief, has not been uneventful. Th© West is, of course, on© of the Disruption churches, dating its existence from the stirring times of 1843, when Aberdeen had mor© than its own shar© of ecclesiastical turmoil. From 1836 the most influential minister in Aberdeen had been th© Rev. Alexander Dye© Davidson, of th© West Parish, and when he resolved to cast in his lot with Dr. Chalmers and his colleagues, it was not surprising that he had a large following in his congregation. Accord ingly, when the decisive hour came, there was a big exodus from the West Parish Church, and those who comprised it were the founders of what is known to-day as the West United Free Church. The first difficulty confronting those who ' ' came out ' ' was to secure temporary accommodation for continuing th© church services. After some negotiation, the homeless worshippers found a hospitable welcome in the Congregational Chapel, BlackfriarB Street — the building now used as a gymnasium for Gordon's College. On the first Sunday in their temporary home, the congregation were without their minister. Mr. Davidson, with many of his brethren, had to answer a summons to the Court of Session for breach of interdict. In his absence one of the services was taken by Professor Black, of the Hebrew Chair in Marischal College — a quiet, quaint, and rather absent-minded man, who conformed to the old custom of wearing black mitten6 in the pulpit. He chose a remarkable text for so great an occasion. There was a crowded congregation ; excitement ran high, and th© enthusiasm was ready at any moment to break out, when the doctor calmly and deliberately announced his text as Jeremiah xiv., 22, " Ar© there any among th© vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain ? ' ' What would one have given to have heard that sermon ! The congregation continued to meet in Blackfriars Chapel for eight months, but meanwhile the scheme for the erection of a new church was being pushed forward with all possible 6peed. The three leading churches — the West, East, and South — wer© erected on a common site at the corner of Belmont Street and Schoolhill. The design of th© buildings — and especially of th© brick spire, th© graceful outlines of which have been so generally admired — attested the skill of Aberdeen's famous architect, the late Mr. Archibald Simpson. The West congregation occupied the build ing now known as the High Church — the first service being held on January 28th, 1844. Previous to that ©vent, there had been a good deal accomplished in the organising and building up of the con gregation since the first meeting of session, the minute of which boars th© date of 12th Jun©, 1843. Dr. Davidson's preaching power and personal influence steadily in creased, and h© gave to th© West Church a commanding position in the community. In 1865, however, there came a check to the flow of prosperity and success. The congregation entered on a somewhat trying period, and, while it survived the ordeal, yet marks were left of the strain and stress to which it was subjected. The line of railway which was being constructed through the Denburn Valley in 1865 threatened at one time to undermine the church buildings. Protracted negotiations took place between the railway company 228 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN and th© officials of th© congregation, and ultimately the company purchased th© church, and the congregation once more found itself without a home. On 26th November, 1865, the Free West people began to worship in the old Free Gilcomston Church, then in Huntly Street, taking their turn immediately after the Gilcomston congregation dispersed. After a few months of this arrangement, the large Music Hall was secured, and there the services were held until 1869. Then the trouble began. Though the old West Church building had passed out of the pos session of the congregation, and though they had ceased to worship there, grave doubts existed in the mind6 of many as to the wisdom of the steps that had been taken. During the whole of 1866 serious friction was apparent in the congregation. The majority was in favour of a new and more commodious church farther west, but a compact and resolute minority held that the old church could be mad© perfectly safe, and that th© congregation should re sume worship there. Among the minority there were not a few prominent office bearers, and earnest and devoted members, who had worked w©ll for th© church. Towards th© end of 1866 the fateful step was taken. At a congregational meeting, and amid great excitement, the two pro posals were put to the vote. Dr. David son declared in favour of a new church, and the resolution to build, moved by Mr. Robert Lumsden, manager of the North of Scotland Bank, was carried by a large majority. The trouble did not end here, for the minority could not se© their way to acquiesce, and a second disruption took place. The old church was again acquired for th© minority from the railway company, and became what has sine© been known as th© High Church. Th© West congregation secured an excellent and commanding site in Union Street, at the corner of Bon- Accord Street, and on it the present very handsome edifice was erected. It forms a stately block, and internally the church is one of the finest in th© city — in fact, it has been said by competent critics to supply in its interior one of th© best examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Aberdeen. On 14th February, 1869, the new church was opened. Dr. Davidson conducted the opening services both forenoon and after noon, and the collections reached the sum of £615. During all these developments in the congregation, Dr. Davidson's in fluence was supreme. It was well that during the stage of transition, and through the period of dissension, his strong personality dominated th© congregation with its persuasive power. Although spared to se© th© new church opened, and tho congregation established in it, he did not live to see much of the fruit of the enterprise. He died on 27th April, 1872, little more than three years' after the opening ceremony. Dr. Dyce Davidson was indeed a remarkable man. He had many outstanding qualities, and his is revered very truth memorywas in He was a native got his education to a of in this day. He 'toon's bairn." Aberdeen, and the city ; his life work was accomplished here, and Rev. Dr. George Wqfcster Thomson. at th© last he was laid to rest in our St. Nicholas Churchyard. He was a man of unruffled sweetness of character and con stant humility, a preacher of unquestioned ability and impressive power, and a min ister of rare faithfulness and devotion. At Dr. Davidson's death the late Prin cipal Lumsden was appointed moderator of the session, and after a short vacancy, the Rev. John Laidlaw, of the West Church, Perth, was elected to the pastorate. Dr. WEST UNITED FREE CHURCH 229 Laidlaw exercised a memorable ministry in Aberdeen. His power steadily grew until he oommanded th© finest audiences in the city. With no oratorical embellishment, and with no ©ffort at popularising, he yet was able somehow to cast a spell over his hearers, and th© West Church was crowded Sunday after Sunday. The freshness of his thought, the direct and beautiful sim plicity of his style, his gift of luminous ex position, and his deep spiritual insight gave his preaching a charm of its own. There was great regret in th© city generally when Dr. Laidlaw left, in 1881, to take up the Professorship of Systematic Theology in th© New College, Edinburgh. Dr. Laid law was succeeded by R©v. Dr. George Webster Thomson. A native of Stanley, near Perth, and a student of Edinburgh University, Mr. Thomson left the New Col lege, Edinburgh, with the highest distinc tion of his year as Cunningham. Fellow. He was at one© offered the post of assistant to Dr. Candlish at Fre© St. George's, Edin burgh. After a year in that position he was called to St. Brycedale Church, Kirk caldy, and, after seven years' ministry there, he was called to St. George's, Glas gow. From Glasgow he was translated to Aberdeen. Dr. Thomson had always been intimate with th© foremost men in the Church, and it is interesting to note that to each of th© three congregations he served, he was introduced by ministers whose names are household words. Dr. Candlish introduced him at Kirkcaldy ; Dr. Buchanan at Glasgow ; and Dr. Alexander Whyte at Aberdeen. Of Dr. Thomson's ministry in the Free West much might be said. His wide culture, his de votional spirit, his great sagacity, and his breadth of sympathy gained for him th© respect and esteem of a wide con stituency in addition to his own congrega tion, and he became an acknowledged power in the local Church courts. In 1901 Dr. Thomson asked for the assistance of a colleague and successor, and a call was given to the Rev. J. Esslemont Adams, B.D., of Dreghorn. Mr. Adams was settled in October, 1901, and for over a year the two ministers worked together in the most perfect harmony, and with an ever-growing appreciation of each other's qualities. A rather alarming illness then prostrated Dr. Thomson for a time, and, acting under medical advice, he asked to be relieved of all active work. The request was regretfully agreed to, and Dr. Thom son then removed to Edinburgh, where he died in 1907. On Mr. Esslemont Adams the ©ntir© work of th© pastorate has since devolved, and he is manfully meeting the extra responsibilities rather unexpectedly thrown upon him. Mr. Adams had a very distinguished career as a student at Glas gow, and in his first pastorate he was highly successful in every way. Since coming to Aberdeen he has also been doing excellent work. A man of scholarly attain ments, and an eloquent preacher, he has likewis© a decided faculty for organising and directing congregational effort. In his personal intercourse with the people he is unrestrained, genial, and kindly, and the congregation are responding to his in fluence. Rev. J. Esslemont Adams, B.D. If the West has always been blessed with excellent ministers, it has been no less fortunate in its leading laymen. On© of th© most influential men — perhaps th© most influential — in its early days was Dr. Francis Edmond, who was th© firet session- clerk, rendering, both in that capacity and in many others, important service that can never be forgotten. In the earliest lists of the eldership there wer© names such a6 those of Mr. David Mitchell, Mr. Neil Smith, jun. ; Sheriff Watson, Mr. Samuel Anderson, and Dr. Macro-bin. Among others who at various times served the con gregation in an official capacity may be mentioned Mr. Patrick Morgan (session- clerk for 25 yeare), Mr. William Mowat, 230 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Mr. Andrew Gibb, F.S.A., Mr. John Miller, Mr. Hugh R. Souper, and many others. In Dr. Davidson's time divinity students found their way to the West Church as naturally as to their classrooms, and in its earlier days th© office-bearers included in their ranks such men as Professor John Fleming, Professor Smeaton, and Pro fessor Sachs. Th© traditions are well maintained to day. There is a band of capable and effi cient office-bearers, whose support ought to encourage any minister. Many of them are men who are well-known in the com munity. Professor Cameron, of the United Free Church College, and Dr. George Smith, director of studies, are elders; and the session also includes well-known Chris tian workers, such as Captain David Ross and Mr. Charles Shirreffs, and public men such as ex-Baillie Lorimer and Councillor Barron. Ex-Lord Provost Sir Alexander Lyon has been a deacon for many years. Mr. D. II. McGilvray is the accurate and efficient session-clerk, and Mr. John F. Cruickshank, of Mile-End Public School, fills th© post of convener of the Seat- Letting Committee. Mr. G. K. Fleming acted for a period of years as edi tor of the "Record" Cover, a posi tion for which, by his wide and intimate knowledge of the Church and its history, his warm interest in its affairs, and his literary aptitude, he was admirably quali fied. H© has now been succeeded by Mr. W. A. Cameron, solicitor. Mr. James Conner is clerk to the deacons' court, and the treasurers are Mr. James D. Mackie, Congregational ; Mr. J. D. M'Diarmid, Central Fund; and Mr. David Easton, Foreign Missions. The congregation may not be to-day what it once was in point of numbers, but there are several obvious ©xplanations. For one thing, th© westward tendency of the city has had an adverse influence, for, notwith standing its name, the West is not now in a west-end situation, and it has suffered in consequence. The planting of new suburban congregations such as Queen's Cross and Beechgrove, particularly the former, meant a severe drain, and the diffi culty is still present to-day. Yet, while the West has lost in numerical strength,' it has been able te retain much of its vitality. 'If the condition of its Home Mission may be taken as a criterion — and it is generally a safe criterion of a congre gation — then th© West has an excellent record. Its mission work in the Green dis trict, the operations of which ar© now cen tralised in the finely-equipped premises in Correction Wynd, .have been carried on with earnestness and vigour for many years, and never more successfully than now. LVI— ABERDEEN UNITED FREE CHURCH COLLEGE. Aberdeen United Free Church College. Th© question of providing a theological training for its students at Aberdeen was before th© Free Church of Scotland from the days of th© Disruption onwards. The General Assembly of May, 1843, declared that it was " desirable that there should not b© less than three separate Theological Colleges." The Aberdeen Presbytery had th© matter under consideration as ©arly as 8th August, 1843. The situation then existing in the city regarding th© theo logical education of th© students of the Church was th© practical outcome of the ©v©nts of th© Disruption itself. Dr Black, who had been Professor of Divinity in Marischal College, had "com© out" with the Free Church party, and on him there naturally devolved the care of th© students belonging to th© netf body. In October, 1843, the Committe© for College matters reported that Dr. Black had be©n appointed a Professor of Divinity, with Aberdeen for th© sphere of his labours. Th© Presby tery, however, urged that a further step should b© taken, and an efficient theolo gical institution established iii Aberdeen. Som© of the reasons advanced in support of this overture ar© worthy of being quoted. It was stated, for instance, that "there is a, larger number of young men who study at Aberdeen of the class who generally become ministers than at any other University seat," and that " some of th© most pious and promising of these who might be able to live and obtain a theo logical education in Aberdeen could neither afford to do so in Edinburgh, nor would solicit nor accept aid from the Home Mission." But perhaps the most striking argument adduced in favour of th© Presbytery's contention was that " great evils would be experienced in the north from th© removal of students of divinity to Edinburgh for six months during the session of College, inasmuch as tutorships in families, with the superin tendence of the education of the young attending grammar schools and colleges, would fall into the hands of students of divinity adhering to the Establishment, whereby an extensive influence - highly detrimental to the Fre© Church would no doubt be exercised in the minds of the young." In th© meantime, Dr Black was teaching Hebrew, both junior and senior, and Rev. James Bryce, of Gilcomston Church, had agreed to giv© a course of lectures on Church History. This arrangement con tinued until th© autumn of 1844, when Dr Black left for Edinburgh. Th© Presby tery, with th© concurrence of th© General Assembly, resolved to maintain the pro vision for the students at Aberdeen, and Rev. Alexander Dyce Davidson, of the West Church, was appointed to teach Systematic Theology and to carry on the work in association with Mr Bryce. On 24th December, 1844, the classes wer© opened for th© new session in the Free South Church session-house, which the Presbytery had selected as the most suit able place of meeting for the time being. At th© sam© time, Professor Bentley undertook to giv© th© students the neces sary instruction in Hebrew at the request of a Special Committee of the Presbytery. In 1845 Rev. James Maclagan, minister at Kinfauns, was appointed Professor at Aberdeen, and in 1846 Mr Marcus Sachs became Hebrew Tutor. At the opening of 232 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN the session of 1846, th© classes were re moved to rooms which had been secured ' m th© Mechanics' Institute in Market Street. All this time there had been kept steadily in view th© desirability of erect ing suitable College buildings, and the Presbytery cherished the idea of uniting in th© scheme a proposal for securing a Presbytery Hall. In 1849, a site was selected, and its commanding position at th© junction of Union Street, Holburn Street, and Alford Place at once appealed to all those interested in the matter as Principal Iverach. perhaps th© most desirable to be found in the city. Th© original cost of th© build ings was £2025, and provision was made for five class-rooms, a large hall used both in connection with the College and the meetings of Synod, a large room for Pres bytery meetings, a retiring room for the professors, and gymnasium, etc. Con spicuous amongst thos© who were instru mental in securing the erection of the College were Mr Francis Edmond, advo cate (whose generosity was not confined to that particular period), Mr Alexander Gibb, C.E., and Mr William Henderson, architect. The important undertaking, however, was not completed without an element of opposition having been aroused in some quarters of the Church. The Aberdeen College would, indeed, appear to have been a bone of contention in certain Fre© Church circles from the very first. The controversy — of which there has been evidence mor© than once in recent years — began before the College was founded ; but, as often as it was raised, it was strenuously met and triumphantly over come by the loyal Churchmen of Aberdeen and the north. After the General Assembly had given its formal sanction to the establishment of a fully-equipped theological institution at Aberdeen, it was only by persistent local pressure, and to a large extent by local enterprise and generosity, that the scheme was actually carried to completion. Even the erection of the. College . buildings was not un attended by opposition and controversy. The committee of the Edinburgh College pronounced a censure on th© Aberdeen Presbytery for sanctioning the ©rection of the College buildings, and even went the length of publishing the censure in the "Witness," an Edinburgh newspaper, and in the " Banner," an Aberdeen newspaper. This action was, as might have been ex pected, strongly resented by the Aberdeen Presbytery. Not only was a vigorous pro test made against what was considered to be a proceeding invasive of their rights, but th© Presbytery immediately proceeded to prepare an overture to the Assembly urging the fulfilment of promises already made to " increase the means of theological education in the said institution of the Free Church of Scotland in Aberdeen." The appeal may not have been immedi ately successful, because, owing to the inadequacy of the course provided at Aber deen, the Aberdeen students were for a time required to attend a session or two at Edinburgh ; but, by earnest persistence, the northern Presbytery in due tim© gained what had been contended for. The arguments adduced were always strength ened and enforced by th© reiteration of the fact that the Assembly had, time and again, given its approval and sanction to the establishment of a thoroughly equipped Divinity Hall at Aberdeen. On this fact th© Aberdeen Presbytery founded its case — to this important admission the atten tion of the Assembly and the Church was repeatedly called ; and, by Such means, together with large-hearted local genero sity and unwearying energy, the day was gained. ABERDEEN UNITED FREE CHURCH COLLEGE 230- Th© College buildings already described were formally opened on 5th November, 1850. Th© Presbytery met as usual at Trinity Church, where accommodation had been given to th© Court for several years, and, after transacting part of the busi ness, adjourned to th© College, where th© sederunt was continued. At the same time, Professor Maclagan gave his intro ductory lecture, by which th© new session of th© Divinity Hall was inaugurated. Rev. John Longmuir, of Mariners' Church, as Moderator of Presbytery, presided, and conducted a special service, which pre ceded Professor Maclagan's introductory lecture. In 1852, a sum of £2000 having been provided to permit of the establishment of a new Professorship at Aberdeen, Rev. Patrick Fairbairn of Salton was appointed to assist Dr Maclagan during session 1852- 53. Befor© the session opened, the death of Dr Maclagan occurred. Dr Thomas M'Crie was asked to undertake, along, with Mr Fairbairn, th© duties of interim Pro fessor. At th© Assembly of 1853, Mr Fair bairn was appointed ordinary Professor, and at th© August Commission of Assembly Rev. George Smeaton, of Auchterarder, was nominated Assistant Professor. An additional sum of £4000 having been offered towards the salary of a second Professor, Mr Smeaton was appointed to the office by the Assembly of 1854. Another forward step was taken in the following year. It was resolved, in terms of the Barrier Act, that the Aberdeen Colleg© should be regarded as providing a com plete curriculum of theological study on a third Professor being appointed ; and the Hebrew tutor, Mr Marcus Sachs, was ap pointed Professor of Oriental Languages and Old Testament Exegesis. During the next few years there were various changes in the Professorships. In 1856, Dr Fairbairn was appointed to a Chair in the Glasgow College, o'f which he subsequently became Principal. He was succeeded at Aberdeen by Rev. James Lumsden, of Barry, who afterwards became the first Principal of the College. In 1857, Professor Smeaton was elected to a Chair in th© New College, Edinburgh, and his place at Aberdeen was filled by the appointment of Dr David Brown, of Glasgow. More money wag forthcoming in 1864, when a sum of £1000 was offered as an endowment for the office of Principal ;' and on 28th May in that year Mr Lumsden was appointed te th© newly-constituted post. In his day, Principal Lumsden was a, man of commanding influence in the community. He took a prominent posi tion in th© Presbytery, his only rival being Dr John Adam, of the Free South Church. On© of his students now risen to eminence, Sir William Robertson Nicoll, LL.D., has spoken of his personality and gifts in terms of -warm appreciation. "He had," wrote Sir William some years ago, " th© ©ye of a statesman, and provided for the develop ment of th© Church. What gave him his great influence was, however, th© burning passion of religion which was behind his theology. The reverence, the humility, the awe of his opening prayers can never be forgotten while memory lasts." r 'Professor Cameron. On a vacancy occurring in the Chair of Oriental Languages and Old Testament Exegesis by the lamented death of that accomplished scholar, Professor Sachs, the General Assembly of 1870 appointed to the post Mr William Robertson Smith, M.A., probationer. This was an event which, as the subsequent course of history revealed, was fraught with great significance; and the Aberdeen College thus entered on what was perhaps the most interesting period in its history. Mr Robertson Smith was ordained by the Aberdeen Presbytery on 2nd November in the same year. Tn that year also he began his contributions on Biblical sub jects to the " Encyclopaedia Britanuica," some of which eventually led to the famous heresy hunt which absorbed the attention 234 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN of the Church and of the whole theological world. Th© long, and at times bitter, dis putation attracted very wide attention. The Robertson Smith case marks an epoch in the Church. How the controversy ended all the world knows. The case was debated repeatedly and at great length in the Church Courts, and although the Pro fessor defended himself with marvellous ability and consummate skill, th© decision went "against him, and he was .removed from his Chair by the Assembly of 1881. It is unnecessary to say how that decision has been regarded by the Church in the light of more recent developments and in view of the progress of theological thought. Of all the distinguished names associated with the Aberdeen College— and there have been not a few, both as teachers and students — the name of Professor Robertson . Smith has perhaps become the most widely famous throughout the world ; and his connection with the institution is one of the facts in its history which is never likely to be forgotten. It is signi ficant — and it is also most fitting — that a fine portrait of Dr Robertson Smith pre sented by subscription now adorns the hall of th© College from which he was at one time deposed. Soon after the appointment of Professor Robertson Smith to th© Hebrew Chair in 1870, two ©xtra class-rooms were added to the College, at a cost of £300, largely as th© result of th© bequests by Mr Alexander Thomson of Banchory, and partly for the accommodation of the Library, also gifted by Mr Thomson. In 1872 a property in Alford Place immediately opposite the College Buildings was acquired at a price of £700, and adapted for the 'purposes of a Library and Museum at a farther cost of £600. These sums were also provided from the Thomson Bequest, , which has figured so prominently in th© list of gener ous benefactions to the College. Mr Thomson was warmly interested in the origin and welfare of th© College, and his bequests in money alone wer© over £14,000 — an important declaration in his settle ment being to the effect that, if th© Aber deen College ever ceases to b© recognised as in itself affording a complete curri culum for the study of divinity qualifying students for the ministry, his bequests to th© College shall fall to the University of Aberdeen. This clause has already played an important part in the controversy con cerning the Aberdeen College. A fourth Chair was instituted in th© College by th© Assembly of 1875, the sum of £10,000 having been, subscribed for this purpose mainly by the liberality of Mr. George Thompson of Pitmedden. The out come of this movement was that Dr. Binnie, Professor in the Reformed Presby terian Hall, was appointed to the new Chair as Professor of Church History. In the following year, Rev. S. D. F. Sal mond, M.A., minister at Barry, was ap pointed Professor of Systematic Theology and the Exegesis of the Epistles, to fill the vacancy caused by th© death of Principal Lumsden. The Principalship was then conferred on Dr. David Brown, who wor thily held the office for over twenty years. Principal Brown's alert, active figure was very familiar in Aberdeen. He was a man who, even in old age, had a remarkable amount of vitality and energy. He was interested in everything, and gave his countenance and support to every worthy movement • in th© community ; but he was never more in his element than at an evan gelistic meeting. If h© had done nothing else than teach his students and encourage ministers to be in sympathy with evan gelical work— and many of them have acknowledged their debt to him in this connection — h© would not have lived in vain. But h© has other claims to recog nition, and some of his Commentaries are still preserving his name and fame. A portion of the Thomson Bequest hav ing been left, specially for the endowment of a Chair or Lectureship in Natural Science and Theology, th© first Lecturer was appointed in 1878, and the subsequent Lecturers who have been appointed annu ally have included som© of the most dis tinguished scholars in th© scientific world. The deposition of Professor Robertson Smith in 1881 had left the Hebrew Chair vacant. The work was carried on by, amongst others, Mr. George Adam Smith, probationer, who afterwards became the first minister of Queen's Cross Church, and was subsequently appointed to th© Hebrew Chair in th© Glasgow College, and is now Principal of th© University of Aber deen. In 1882, th© Assembly appointed Rev. George G. Cameron, M.A., of St. John's, Glasgow, to the vacant chair. Professor Cameron is still engaged in the active work of his professorship, and is now th© senior member of the staff. The next important changes in the professoriate occurred in 1887, when two chairs had to be filled. Principal Brown, while retain ing th© principalship, had resigned the Chair of Apologetics and Exegesis, to which Rev. James Iverach, M.A., of Ferryhill ABERDEEN UNITED FREE CHURCH COLLEGE 235 Church, Aberdeen, was appointed. The death of Professor Binnie had left the Chair of Church History vacant, and Rev. James Robertson, M.A., formerly Principal of the Calcutta College, was chosen to fill it. On th© death of Principal Brown, Professor Salmond was appointed to the principalship. A scholar of distinction, an untiring worker, and a man of devoted spirit, Principal Salmond has left behind him the memory of a strenuous and earnest life. His contributions to the literature of theology gave him a wide reputation, and his name will live through some of his published works. He died in 1905, and was succeeded in the principalship by Dr. Iverach, who still holds the office. Professor Stalker. A fifth professor was appointed at Aber deen in 1900, on the occasion of the Union of th© Free and United Presbyterian Churches. Professor Johnstone, of the United Presbyterian Hall, was transferred to the Aberdeen College, and some re arrangement of subjects was made. The death of Professor Robertson— who had been a prominent personality in public life in Aberdeen, and had done much for the educational interests of the city— made another blank ; but, after some discussion regarding the College generally, Dr. James Stalker, of St. Matthew's, Glasgow, was appointed in 1902 to succeed him in the Chair of Church History. The death of Principal Salmond in 1905 made another vacancy, but, instead of making a new ap pointment to his chair, another rearrange ment of subjects took place, and the staff was again reduced to four professors. When Professor Johnstone retired in 1907, the agitation for the discontinuance of the Aberdeen College— or, at anyrate, for a farther reduction of the staff — was again revived ; but the Assembly decided to make an appointment, with the result that Rev. David S. Cairns, M.A., of Ayton, was elected. Th© teaching staff at present consists of Principal Iverach, who fills the Chair of New Testament Language and Literature ; Professor Cameron, that of Old Testament Language and Literature ; Pro fessor Stalker, that of Church History and Christian Ethics; and Professor Cairns, that of Apologetics and Dogmatics. A very important addition was mad© to the College buildings in 1887, when the old library and museum buildings were taken down, and the present library and museum —a handsome block of buildings— was erected, at a cost of about £2000, by Dr. Francis Edmond of Kingswells. There is now excellent accommodation for the lib rary and museum, and also a dining-room and reading-room for the students, a janitor's house, etc. The name of Dr. Edmond, who was all along so generous a benefactor to th© institution, will always b© associated with this fine building, which has so greatly enhanced the amenities of the College. Th© library now contains about 30,000 volumes, including the valu able collection of books bequeathed by Mr. Thomson of Banchory; the rabbinical and theological library of Dr. Bisenthal, of Leipzig, purchased in 1873 by a special effort, and said to be the most complete collection of rabbinical and Jewish learn ing to be found in Scotland ; and the Brown-Lindsay collection from the United Presbyterian College library, added after the Union with the Free Church in 1900. In connection with the College there are various students' societies serving a useful purpose— th© Theological Society, for the discussion of theological subjects; the Students' Association, which brings to gether the students of all the faculties at the University who belong to the United Free Church; and the Missionary Associa tion. In connection with the Missionary Association there is practical training in home mission work. In the slums of the East-End a hall, provided by a friend of the College, is mad© th© centre of regular 236 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN and systematic effort. A student labours as missionary in the district, carrying on all the departments of work common to such undertakings ; and in this he has the aid of his fellow-students, and of others interested in mission work. The hon. presidency of the Theological Society is usually conferred on some outstanding preacher or theologian, and as the occu pancy of the office involves the delivery of a special lecture, the society has been the means of bringing some noted men to the city, and of giving the public the benefit of hearing important deliverances, many of which have afterwards been published in permanent form. Professor Cairns. The students at th© Aberdeen College have been drawn from a fairly wide area, but a large proportion have naturally come from the North of Scotland, while the Highlands and Islands have always been strongly represented. The attendances from 1846 have been as follows: — 1846-47 21 1847-48 31 1848-49 33 1849-50 37 1850-51 39 1851-52 37 1852-53 25 1853-54 19 1854-55 32 1855-56 30 1856-57 30 1857-58 24 1858-59 31 1878-79 38 1879-80 30 1880-81 33 1881-82 23 1882-83 20 1883-84 27 1884-85 25 1885-86 28 1886-87 36 1887-88 33 1888-89 37 1889-90 35 1890-91 iii 1859-60 40 1860-61 43 1861-62 34 1862-63 32 1863-64 22 1864-65 27 1865-66 27 1866-67 28 1867-68 32 1868-69 30 1869-70 32 1870-71 27 1871-72 32 1872-73 30 1873-74 25 1874-75 22 1875-76 23 1876-77 25 1877-78 32 1891-92 39 1892-93 31 1893-94 30 1894-95 33 1895-96 33 1896-97 : 32 1897-98 36 1898-99 32 1899-1900 28 1900-01 23 1901-02 21 1902-03 17 1903-04 18 1904-05 22 1905-06 22 1906-07 22 1907-08 22 1908-09 20 1909-10 22 Apart altogether from numbers, the Aberdeen College has an enviable record in the quality of the men it has sent forth into the Church. So many of them have risen to positions of influence that it would be impossible within limits to give any thing like a complete list. It must suffice to take a few names almost at random. Several of the former students, for ex ample, have become heads of theological colleges, such as the late Principal Sal mond, who presided over the institution in which he had received his own early train ing ; Principal John Skinner, of Westmin ster College, Cambridge ; and Principal Hector, formerly of Calcutta. In addition to Dr. Salmond, who was a professor before he became principal, other two of the pro- fessore were trained in the College — the late Professor Robertson and Professor Cameron. In recent years rio names have been more prominent in the theological world than those of Dr. James Hastings and Dr. J. A. Selbie, the editor and assist ant editor of th© "Dictionary of the Bible" and other important undertakings which have placed ministers of all deno minations under deep obligation ; and both Dr. Hastings and Dr. Selbie were students in the Aberdeen College. And last, al though by no means least, the name may be cited of Sir William Robertson Niooll, LL.D., the famous editor of the "British Weekly," the " Expositor," etc., and one of th© most potent forces of to-day, alike in religion and in literature. Perhaps none of the former students have attained to more widespread influence, and it is significant and worthy of mention that 6uch a man has declared that h© never repented his choice of entering the College in Alford Place instead of going off to any of the other Colleges in Edinburgh or Glasgow. It would b© ©asy to show what the College ABERDEEN UNITED FREE CHURCH COLLEGE 237 has don© for the ministry of the Church by citing th© names of many now in important and influential positions who are carrying on fruitful work, and many who, in more obscure places, have been rendering ser vice not less effective, although less in the public eye. And, perhaps, most conspicu ous of all has been the number of those who have gone from the College to the foreign mission field, and who, as professors in missionary colleges, as pioneers in new enterprises, and as earnest and able mis sionaries in nearly every heathen land, have been seeking to spread th© knowledge of Christianity. In theology, by the writ ings of its professors and former students, the College has made itself felt ; and in the domain of thought, as well as in the world of action, its influence has pene trated to the uttermost parts of the earth. CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES. LVIL— ALBION STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. This church was a pioneer in Home Mis sion work, and it inaugurated and success fully prosecuted a large scheme of religious and social work for the east-end masses long befor© the modern " Forward Movement " was heard of. The record of its early years is largely the record of the enthu siasm and self-sacrificing labours of its founder — Rev. Dr. J. H. Wilson — a man of remarkable personality and great prac tical ability. James H. Wilson became prominently identified with the temperance movement in Aberdeen at an early stage in his career, when h© was acting as reporter and sub editor of the "Aberdeen Herald." He went to Birmingham for a few yeare, but on the starting of the " North of Scotland Gazette " as a Liberal and Nonconformist journal in Aberdeen, he returned to the city to undertake the editorship. Notwith standing th© weight of his journalistic work, he soon found time to resume his efforts on behalf of the unfortunate classes of society. In couts© of tim© these efforts, which at first were confined to his leisure time, became the supreme object of his life. He forsook journalism, and ultimately be came known as one of the most successful Home Mission workers, not only in Aber deen, but in the country at large. Mr. Wilson's first venture in regular mission work showed considerable courage. He determined to invade the district of the city known as the Justice Port or Bool Road — the very centre of slum-land, and the abode of all manner of evil characters. Albion Street in thos© days was the scene of on© of the most notorious "penny gaffs" in Scotland, popularly known as th© Bool Road Penny Rattler, and frequented by the most disreputable classes. The district had acquired an unenviable reputation for fostering th© lowest forms of vice, and the unchecked ruffianism of its inhabitants was so pronounced that it was regarded as unsafe for any respectable citizen to ven ture unprotected within its confines. Into the very heart of this hot-bed of crime Mr, Wilson bravely ventured in his reform ing zeal. Securing a room directly oppo site the theatrical booth at a rental of six pence a week, h© opened a little Sunday School, and in time started a Temperance Society, aSunday meeting, a Tract Society, and a Penny Bank. The agencies soon out grew the. accommodation, and Mr. Wilson succeeded in erecting a small wooden chapel on the very site which the ' ' Penny Rattler" had so long occupied. By this time he had secured the interest of many sympathetic friends, who gave him practical assistance in maintaining the work — a pro minent supporter at this period being Mr. George Thompson, then Lord Provost of the city ; while in Sheriff Watson he found a warm sympathiser in his benevolent efforts. The chapel was opened on the sec ond Sunday of January, 1848, all seats being free and no collection taken. Li October, 1849, the wooden chapel was re placed by a stone and lime building cap able of seating 250, and towards its erec tion Her Majesty the late Queen Victoria contributed £20. A day school was opened in a hall in Park Street — the Queen giving a further contribution of £25 — and about 150 children who would have been unable to bring the needful payment for their education were taught the three R'sat the nominal fee of a penny a week. In addi tion to the Sunday services in the chapel, ther© wer© week-night lectures on science, temperance, and social subjects, the Sun day School was carried on with steady suc cess, and various other features of work were entered upon. Up to this time Mr. Wilson had not been ordained to the ministry and no regular congregation had been formed, those who had been reclaimed being urged to join some of the existing churches. It came to be felt, however, that it was rot possible in this way to reap the results of th© many-sided efforts of the mission and consolidate the work, and in 1847 a church was formed, Mr. Wilson being ordained as its first minister. Mean while the attendances at the chapel had continued to increase, and again the need ALBION STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 239 X^ '¦ : Bool Road and the "Ragged Kirk.' for larger accommodation had to be faced. In November, 1854, th© foundation stone was laid of a new building, to enter from Park Street and to seat 400— Queen Vic toria again sending a handsome contribu tion towards the cost. This church was opened on the second Sunday of June, 1855, by Rev. Dr. Lindsay Alexander, of Edin burgh. Mr. Wilson was able to enlist the practical interest of many influential citi zens in his work, and professors, M.P.'s, and ministers of various denominations appeared as speakers at the meetings. Dr. Wilson's fame as an organiser had spread throughout the land, and th© success of his "Ragged Kirk" cam© to be talked about. Th© out come was that h© received an invitation to become organising Home Mission secre tary of th© Congregational Union of Eng land and Wales, and having been prevailed on to accept the appointment, h© removed to London. In that wider sphere he was equally successful. His energy and enthu siasm, his wonderful faculty of securing the ready co-operation of competent helpers, and his organising and administra tive ability — all of which had been deve loped in Aberdeen — stood th© test of the larger sphere. H© held his important post until advancing years made it necessary for him to retire. He died in 1897, and his funeral took plac© from Albion Street Church. As a preacher Dr. Wilson adapted himself to th© audiences he had to address, but his fame rests mor© on his practical work than on his pulpit efforts. As th© founder of "Ragged Kirks," and th© pioneer in a new form of religious enter prise his name will not be forgotten for many a day. Ther© was, fortunately, no difficulty in securing a suitable successor to Dr. Wilson at Albion Street. Mr. John Duncan had been a frequent visitor as a temperance lecturer, and had made so deep an impres sion that he was called to the pastorate. He was ordained to the charge in 1859, and his memorable career in th© ministry then began. In a couple of years th© church was crowded to overflowing, and in 1862 it was enlarged by the addition of galleries, the seating accommodation being increased to about 800. Mr. Duncan, by his great natural eloquence and powerful personality, quickly filled even the enlarged church to its utmost capacity, and again it became evident that extension was re quired. After prolonged discussion, it was resolved to purchas© a site in Shiprow, and ther© a commodious church and suite of halls wer© ©rected. In October, 1878, Trinity Congregational Church was opened, and Mr. Duncan, with th© bulk of his con- 210 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN gregation, removed thither. From that tim© it had its separate existence, and it is with the history of Trinity Church that the work of Dr. John Duncan was subse quently associated. Albion Street Church was not, however, left entirely empty. A number of the members were loth to leave the district altogether, and they resolved to remain. and, if possible, to organise a new congre gation in the old building. Representa tions were accordingly made to the Congre gational Union of Scotland, and as a result the church was purchased from Dr. Dun- Rev. R. M. Cairney. can's congregation, and th© Union became responsible for the salary of a minister for a limited number of years. Rev. George Moir, of Greenock, undertook the task of building up a new congregation, and he en tered on the work with hop© and oourag© A man of tender sympathies and unbounded activity and full of faith, h© made an as tonishing impression, especially among the lapsed and non-churchgoing classes. His actual membership never reached a high figure — averaging about 250 — but he at tracted large congregations, and exercised considerable influence as an evangelist. The continual strain of services and meetings, open-air preaching, and assiduous visita tion told severely on Mr. Moir's health, and after five years in the pastorate he was compelled to seek a less exacting 6phere of labour. In July, 1885, h© was suoceeded at Albion Street by Rev. William Johnston, who also came from Greenock. Mr. John ston Mas a vigorous and able preacher, and during his ministry the congregation suc ceeded in paying off the larger portion of the debt on the church buildings. There was, however, a falling off to some extent in the membership. Mr. Johnston's strength was in the pulpit, and many mem bers who had been retained by Mr. Moir's sympathetic pastoral oversight gradually drifted away, and not a few fell back into their old habits. In 1892 Mr. Johnston accepted a call to an important charge in Toronto, and he found in Canada a suit able field for the exercise of his un doubtedly able gifts as a preacher. Unhappily, the church suffered severely at this time from internal troubles, on ac count of which it lost a number of its most active members and office-bearers. The consequence was that when the present minister— Rev. R. M. Cairney — was called from Garliestown in January, 1893, he found the congregation in reduced circum stances. The membership stood nominally at 115, but was in reality much less. Soon after Mr. Cairney's settlement it was found necessary to renew the heating apparatus of the church, but by means of a bazaar the cost of this improvement, along with the balance of debt on the buildings, was entirely defrayed. In 1896 instrumental music was introduced, and from time to time various improvements and repairs have been found necessary ; but th© congregation has always succeeded in raising, with the help of outside friends, the sums necessary for thee© objects. Mr. Cairney has devoted himself to the work of the church with untiring energy and in a spirit of bright hopefulness. He takes a personal interest in all the agencies of the church, superintending all the operations'. and keeping a close hold on the people by his pastoral visitation. In such a congrega tion the minister has to play many parts, but Mr. Cairney meets all demands on his time and strength with unfailing readiness. Work in such a district is never without its discouragements, and of these Albion Street Church has had its share. The situation to-day is more complex and, per haps, more difficult than ever. While the locality has changed considerably for the better, there is still a clamant need for aggressive effort. The present tendency, however, is towards splendidly-equipped centres rather than Ragged Kirks, and alongside great enterprises the small and struggling congregations must necessarily have difficulty in making headway. Yet ALBION STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 241 Albion Street Church pursues its own methods of work with praiseworthy per sistence. Many of th© old features of its history are still maintained. The first place is given to Gospel services, but tem perance work is still prominent, and the Penny Savings Bank, which was the first in th© city, continues to flourish. In various other directions the activities of th© congregation are being exercised, and thus the traditions of the church as an evangelising and philanthropic agency in the "East Neuk " are being well main tained. LVIII— BELMONT CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Belmont Congregational Church. Whatever else it may be able to claim, Belmont Congregational Church has cer tainly no title to a share in the modern beatitude pronounced on the community, as on the nation, without a history. It has a history — fairly long, and full of in cident, for the founders of Belmont Church were the founders of Congregationalism in Aberdeen. It was in the year 1797 that three earnest men banded themselves together, and formed a company of worshippers which, after many changes, and with frequent ups and downs, is represented amongst us to-day by the congregation now adhering to Belmont Church. The noble three were George Moir, hosier, Gallowgate; Alex ander Innes, dyer, whose memory is per petuated by the street bearing his name ; and William Stephen, shipbuilder, Foot dee. Others joined them in course of time, and in 1798 they were encouraged to pro ceed to the erection of a church.' The site chosen was on the west side of George Street, where th© Central Bakery stands to-day. It was decided that a house should be erected to face the street, and that the church should occupy the space at the back. This may seem to us with our modern ideas, short-sighted policy : yet it was not without its advantages. As Mr. John Bulloch has pointed out in his most excellent and valuable volume, " Cen tenary Memorials of the First Congrega tional Church in Aberdeen," ther© was a real recompense. The retreat of the chapel, with the intervening buildings, secured quietness, and the little, brick- paved courtyard secured at ' ' kirk-skail- ing " an opportunity for friendly hand shaking among the brethren before they merged themselves in the worldly current of the street. George Street Congrega tional Church, or, as it was familiarly termed, the "Loch Kirk," was an impor tant religious centre in the city of Aber deen until 1865, when the congregation re moved to the present edifice in Belmont Street. The old chapel was for a number of years used as the House of Refuge, but the building is now demolished, and, as already indicated, a bakehouse stands on the site. The first minister of the church was the BELMONT CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 243 Rev. William Stephens, who was ordained to the charg© in 1799. He held the pas torate for four years, leaving in 1803 to become the colleague of Mr. Haldane, in Edinburgh. Under Mr. Stephens the membership of the church greatly in creased, but it was during the pastorate of th© Rev. John Philip, afterwards Dr. Philip, that th© George Street Church first became one of the most crowded in the city. Dr. Philip was a man of great influence. He had certain peculiarities, one of them being his strong aversion to th© keeping of minutes in connection with th© church. He held that to keep books was unscriptural, and mad© the Church too much like a worldly society, and notwithstanding the strong disapproval of the people, he adhered to his position, and the minute-book re- George Street Congregational Chapel. "The Loch Kirk." mained unused until his departure from Aberdeen. Dr. Philip was in his day the most attractive and popular preacher in the city. Intelligent and thoughtful young . peopl© were specially drawn to him, and the chapel was frequently filled to over flowing. It is said that on one memorable occasion the crowd was so great inside the building that the sash of one the windows in the rear had to be removed to give the preacher access to th© pulpit. Dr. Philip had always been intensely interested in foreign missions, and th© zeal for the cause manifested by George Street Church under his inspiration, led th© directors of the London Missionary Society to ask him, in 1819, to undertake th© superintendence of their missions in South Africa. He accepted th© appointment, and held it until his death in 1851, making for himself a high reputation as a missionary adminis trator and man of affairs. The next minister of the church, the Rev. Alexander Thomson, formerly of Lochee, was a man of another stamp. The •secret of his power lay in the influence of his own personality. His transparency of character and unaffected goodness won people's hearts, and the earnestness of his preaching moved men who might have re mained indifferent to mere ability. "He aye preached us a' into Heaven," was the testimony of one of his hearers. After 21 years he received a colleague in the person of the Rev. David Arthur, and the co- pastorate continued until Mr. Thomson's death in 1853. It is interesting at the pre sent time, when so many churches are dis carding gas for electric lighting, to recall tbe fact that it was during Mr. Thomson's pastorate that th© George Street church changed its illuminant from candles and lamps to gas. In connection with this an amusing ctory is told. Mr. Thomson was afraid that th© peopl© might become alarmed at the sudden and unaccustomed blaze when the jets were turned up, so he warned them beforehand. As it happened, however, Sandy Paul, th© beadle, in place of screwing on the gas, in his nervousness screwed it off, and lo ! instead of alarming light, there was more alarming darkness. Rev. David Arthur's memory is still fra grant in Aberdeen. He came to the church as a young man fresh from college in 1841, and it was his one and only pastorate, not withstanding many invitations from other spheres. H© retired in 1874, and died in 1890, full of years and honours. Mr. Arthur was an able preacher, an excellent platform lecturer, and a man of influence in the counsels of th© denomination. For a series of yeare " Mr. Arthur's Lectures " drew crowds on Sunday evenings. It was during his eminently successful ministry that the congregation removed to the pre sent church in Belmont Street. Th© new building — a graceful structure in the Romanesque style of architecture — was opened on 27th August, 1865, the special preachers on the occasion being Dr. Lind say Alexander, of Edinburgh, and Dr. Batchelor, of Glasgow. In 1874 th© Rev. J. Barton Bell, of Aber- feldy, was inducted to the charge, but his pastorate proved disappointing, and he re signed in 1876, shortly afterwards accept ing a call to Ulverston, in Westmorland. The vacancy was soon filled by the appoint ment of the Rev. James Stark, of Dairy Church, Edinburgh, who was inducted to the charge on 25th May, 1877. Th© church had many persons of not© associated with it in bygon© days. During the ministry of Mr. Thomson one of the most attached members was Mr. George Q2 244 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN King, of the once well-known firm of G. and R. King, booksellers. Mr. Robert King was likewis© a member, as was also his son, Sir Georg© King. Two chief magistrates of Aberdeen were active office bearers of the church — Lord Provost Leslie, who was elected to the chief civic office in 1869, and Lord Pro- vest Matthews, whose term extended from 1883 to 1886. Lord Provost Rev. Dr. Stark. Leslie was the architect of Belmont Church, and it may be mentioned that, during his tenure of th© Lord Provostship, he had the honour of conferring the free dom of the city on Mr. Gladstone. Another office-bearer of long-standing and strong attachment to the church was Baillie Hugh Ross, who filled a number of the most im portant offices in the congregation. In Dr. Philip's time one of th© most zealous and intelligent members was Miss Margaret Paul, who afterwards, as Mrs. Bain, be came the mother of a remarkable son, the late Dr. Alexand©r Bain, of Aberdeen. Both in its pulpit and in its pews Bel mont Church has maintained in no un worthy manner th© traditions of its past. Dr. Stark, who is a native of Glasgow, and a student of Edinburgh University, was settled first at Elgin, and thereafter in Edinburgh. His pulpit gifts were from the first of a high order, but they were greatly developed after he came to Aberdeen, and few ministers have been able, after the lapse of so many years in one pastorate, to maintain so high a level of fresh and suggestive preaching. His abilities were widely recognised, and his services were greatly in demand as » preacher on special occasions in all parts of the country. Dr. Stark also made a name for himself as an author. His "Dr. Kidd of Aberdeen " and "Lights of th© North" are familiar and popular volumes, and he also pub lished several lesser works, such as his bio graphies of John Murker of Banff and John Pillans, as well as two volumes of sermons, under th© title of "Life's Stages" and "Life's Phases," and a volume, "Com radeship in Sorrow: Thoughts for the Bereaved." In 1902 Dr. Stark made a suggestion that he should have some assistance in carrying on the work of the church, and it was decided that a colleague and successor should be appointed, the co- pastorate to last for three years. Rev. H. A. Inglis, M.A., of Mansfield College, Oxford, was chosen for the position, and his settlement took place on 5th October, 1002. Mr. Inglis had a distinguished career as a student. He graduated M.A. at Glasgow University, and thereafter took the theological course at Mansfield, under a former Aberdeen minister, Principal Fair bairn, who formally introduced him to Bel mont Church. Mr. Inglis's cultured and earnest preaching, and his genuine interest in all the work of th© church, hav© gained for him a high place in the esteem of the members, while he has 6hown special apti tude in dealing with the young. In 1905, the term of the co-pastorate having ex pired, Dr. Stark withdrew, leaving Mr. Inglis in the position of sole pastor of the congregation. Some time after Dr. Stark accepted a call te Bon- Accord Church, which was then vacant, and his subsequent work in th© city has been in connection with that congregation. In its membership to-day, Belmont Church has, as in times past, men whose names are well known in public life. The senior deacon is Mr. John Bulloch, the his torian of th© church, whose cultured tastes and literary gifts are known to all in the North, and who is also known as the father of a very able journalist, Mr. J. Malcolm Bulloch, now editor of the "Graphic." Mr. William Macintosh (of Messrs. Esslemont and Macintosh), the re- suscitator of Broadford Works, is the church treasurer and a deacon of long standing. The Dean of Guild, Mr. James Murray, J. P., of North Inver- amsay, is also included in the list BELMONT CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 245 of deacons. Professor Stephenson, of Aberdeen University, is a member of th© church, and one of the trustees. - Th© healthy, vigorous life of Belmont Church has been evidenced by th© number of young men it has sent forth to the ministry. Th© list of names is a long one, and it is specially worthy of mention that Rev. H. A. Inglis, M.A. the only sons respectively of Rev. Alex ander Thomson, Rev. David Arthur, and Rev. Dr. Stark all entered the ministry. Rev. Patrick Thomson was minister at Liverpool, and he is survived by his" son, Professor Radford Thomson, of th© New College, London ; Rev. William Macintosh Arthur was minister at Bamford, near Rochdale; and Rev. W. Aylmer Stark was Congregational minister at Peterhead, and afterwards in London, and h© is now in charge of th© Scottish Episoopal Church at Monifieth. Among th© ministerial sons of Belmont Church still in activ© service is th© Rev. David Caird, formerly of Luton, and now Secretary of th© Liberation Society, who was at one tim© a journalist in Aberdeen, and afterwards held pas torates in Dunde© and Edinburgh before crossing th© Border. Rev. N. M. Murray, of Alnwick, was connected with th© con gregation as a young man ; and Mr. Patrick J. Green, M.A., who is now studying for the ministry, is a son of the congregation. An illustration of th© vitality of th© church is to b© found in th© energy and zeal with which it has applied itself to the various departments of congregational and mission work. The Congregational "Sunday School and th© Band of Hope ar© both fairly successful, and th© Young People's Bible Class, conducted by Mr. Inglis, has had a most encouraging attendance. It is, however, by its zealous and effective Home Mission work that th© church has been mainly characterised. For many years it has been represented in th© East End slums by devoted voluntary workers, and, in 1892, a lay missionary was appointed in the person of Mr. Thomas Leslie. The missionary spirit of th© congregation was exemplified by th© manner in which the centenary of the church was celebrated in 1898. Instead of embarking on a scheme for th© embellishment of the church build ings, it was decided to erect mission pre mises in West North Street. This was don© at a cost of over £1200, which hat. been entirely cleared off, and th© buildings give ample accommodation for the carrying on of the various departments of work- religious, social, and philanthropic — and they form a centre of light and life in a most needy locality. A large number of agencies ar© successfully conducted, one of the most flourishing being the admirably organised and efficiently staffed Sunday School. Belmont Church to-day is feeling, like its neighbours, the difficulty of its situation. Th© problem of th© mid-town church is a pressing one, and th© introduction of Sun day care has not entirely solved it. The membership of Belmont Church has been well maintained, but it is a striking fact that, with very few exceptions, the mem bers ar© all resident outside a radius of about a mile from th© church buildings. That they continue their connection not withstanding the distance is a proof of their loyalty and attachment. Belmont is the Cathedral Church of Con gregationalism in Aberdeen, but it boasts of no stately ritual or elaborate ecclesias- ticism. Its glory in th© past was to be known as the " Missionar Kirk," and it is felt that it is not in rigid respectability or consistent conservatism of method, but in th© development of the old ' ' Missionar ' ' spirit of wise resourcefulness and aggres sive zeal that its stability and prosperity depend to-day. LIX.— BON=ACCORD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Bon-Accord Congregational Church. The founding of new churches is some times th© result of national movements such as the Secession of 1733, the Dis ruption of 1843, or the rise of the Evange lical Union. Local circumstances may be said, however, to account for the origin of the great majority of congregations which are born when no ecclesiastical storm is sweeping the sky. "Hiving off" is the process most frequently seen in operation, and this " hiving off " is almost invariably the result of one or other of two distinct causes. One of these causes may be a general and pressing desire to further the work of Church extension by planting new churches in some new or inadequately sup plied district. The other cause may be a division of opinion among the members of some existing church, which leads a sec tion of them to withdraw and form a new church altogether. Both these causes have been in operation in Aberdeen, and both have helped in no small degree to increase the number of churches in the city. Bon- Accord Congregational Church is one of those belonging to the latter category. It owed its origin to the action of a number of members who broke off from Trinity Church, and although this movement on their part is yet of recent date, and, there fore, still a matter of delicacy, the circum stances require at least a brief reference. Under the long and honoured ministry of Dr. John Duncan, Trinity Congrega tional Church had grown to be a large and vigorous organisation with many aspects of usefulness, and it was not until 1897 that there was any visible break in the harmony of its congregational life, although the subjects of controversy may have been fermenting before that date. The differ ences which then became manifest may be said to have been purely internal, being connected with the administration and development of the congregation's own affairs. Eventually a section of the office- ' bearers and members seceded. Their num ber, while not sufficiently large to leave Trinity Church vitally affected by their re moval, was yet large enough to make them think of founding a new church rather than of joining any of th© existing churches. Accordingly, they met for wor ship in the Y.M.C.A. Hall, the opening ser vices attracting considerable attention locally. The preacher was Mr. J. Inglis Martin, a student of th© Congregational Union Theological Hall in Edinburgh, who had given temporary supply in Trinity Church during an illness of Dr. Duncan's. The new body assumed the name of Bon- Accord Congregational Church, and Mr. Martin continued to giv© pulpit supply. His theological course was then unfinished, and he still pursued his studies in Edin burgh, journeying to Aberdeen every week for the Sunday's services. On completing th© curriculum, at the close of the session of 1898, Mr. Martin settled in Aberdeen, and undertook the pastoral oversight of the new congregation, and at the annual meet- tings of the Congregational Union of Scot land in May, 1898, Bon- Accord Church was admitted to the fellowship of the Union. The services were still being held in the Y.M.C.A. Hall, but it was soon recognised that such an arrangement could only be temporary. The rent of the hall proved a heavy weekly charge on the financial resources of th© members, and, though the Sunday accommodation was ample, there wer© few facilities for carrying on during BON-ACCORD CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 247 the week the various organisations and agencies which it was felt the congregation required before it could properly accom plish its work. After careful deliberation, it was decided to proceed with the erection of a church and halls, and although such a schem© was one sufficient to tax the cour age and confidence of its promoters, yet a strong incentive was found in the pro gress which had already been made by the church during its short career. An excel lent site was secured in Bon-Accord Ter race — a few yards removed from its junc tion with Union Street, and, therefore, in n, position which had much to recommend Rev. James Ross. it. A commodious church, with a most comely interior, providing sittings for 700 to 800 persons, and with fine halls under neath, was ©rected with all possible speed, at a cost of nearly £3000. In the latter part of the year 1899 the large hall under neath the church was ready for occupation, and the services wer© transferred thither until the completion of the church itself. In th© meantime, Mr. Inglis Martin re signed the pastorate, subsequently becom ing minister of a church at Belfast, but returning to Scotland in 1903 to undertake th© pastorate of the Congregational Church at Bellshill. Bon- Accord Church in a short time addressed a call to Rev. James Ross, of Sheffield, and with th© opening of the church and the settlement of Mr. Ross in January, 1900, the congregation entered on a new and mor© encouraging stage of its history. Rev. James Ross was a native of Ferry- den, near Montrose, but his boyhood was spent at Woodside, in Perthshire. He served for two years as a pupil teacher, and thereafter entered the banking profes sion, being engaged successively at Coupar- Angus, Dundee, and London. After seven years' experience of commercial life, Mr. Ross decided to enter the ministry, giving up his position ina London bank in order to undertake the necessary course of study. He had been brought up in connection with the old Fre© Church, of which his father was a respected eld©r ; but his thoughts and sympathies — largely through his ad miration for Dr. Dale and his teaching — had turned towards Congregationalism. He therefore obtained admission to Hackney College, and four months before the com pletion of his five years' course he was called to the pastorate of Mount Zion Con gregational Church, Sheffield. His ordina tion and settlement there took place in 1890, and his work was attended with ever growing acceptance and success, a special feature being his power of attracting and influencing young men and women. He had given ten years of diligent and success^ ful service in the great cutlery city of the Midlands when he accepted the call to Aberdeen in 1900, and returned to his native land. Mr. Ross, with the genuine ness of his character and his kindly, sympathetic temperament, had qualities which go to th© making of a successful pastor, and h© had also pulpit gifts of un doubted ability. His sermons wer© not light, airy productions, but weighty, logical discourses, packed with th© results of strenuous thought, and quivering with the accents of conviction. Bon-Accord Church, after Mr. Ross as sumed the pastorate, mad© considerable progress in every way, but, perhaps, most of all in the work of consolidation. He came to the congregation at a trying period in its history, and the task which faced him was one beset by not a few difficulties and requiring tact and patience. Delicate as were the circumstances, Mr. Ross laboured with singular earnestness and zeal, and the foundations of the church were laid on a sound basis. Th© organisation of the congregation for Christian work likewise received attention, and not a little activity 248 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. Donald Macintosh. was shown by the members in carrying on the various agencies which had been set in operation. Th© financial position of the church was felt to burden the minister and members, and cripple them in their aggres sive efforts, and in October, 1904, a bazaar was held for th© purpose of relieving the situation. In June, 1905, Mr. Ross accepted a call to the church at Nairn, where he is still exercising a fruitful ministry. About this time, Rev. Dr. Stark was re tiring from the co-pastorate of Belmont Church, and the members of Bon- Accord gave him a call to become their minister. Dr. Stark accepted th© call, and was for mally inducted to th© pastorate in Novem ber, 1905. His established reputation as a preacher and author, not only locally but throughout Congregationalism at large, was an asset of value to the Bon-Accord congregation, and Dr. Stark, although then past the freshness of youth, threw himself into the work of his new pastorate with ardour. In addition to maintaining a high standard of pulpit work, he initiated a movement for the further reduction of the debt on the church which met with con siderable success. An important incident in the history of the church was the ordina tion of the first missionary who had gone from its ranks. Mr. Alexander Baxter, a son of th© congregation, who had been trained in Hackney College, London, volun teered for service in China, and before leaving for his field of labour he was for mally ordained in Bon-Accord Church, Dr. Stark and others taking part in the service. In December, 1908, Dr. Stark retired from the pastorate, and withdrew from active work, receiving before his de parture tangible recognition of his work for Bon- Accord congregation. The vacancy was not a prolonged one. A very hearty call was addressed to Rev. Donald Macintosh, of Kilsyth (formerly of Port-Erroll), who entered on th© pastorate on 7th February, 1909, Dr. Ambrose Shep herd, of Glasgow, preaching the induction sermon on the Monday following. From the outset of his ministry in Aberdeen, Mr. Macintosh made a distinct impression by his gifts of pulpit oratory and his earn est personality, and immediately took his place as one of the most popular preachers in th© city. Crowded congregations gathered to hear the "blind preacher," and Bon-Accord Church became known to the general community as it had never been at any former period in its brief history. LX.— JOHN STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. John Street Congregational Church. Th© movement which led to the founding of the Evangelical Union denomination took a considerable hold in Aberdeen. As early as 1846 a congregation was formed in th© city, and although the Morisonians were then exposed to ridicule and subjected to many petty persecutions, th© cause grew and prospered. By th© enthusiasm and devotion of the leaders, and under the memorable ministry of Rev. Fergus Fer guson, a large congregation was gathered, which moved in course of tim© from the old chapel in St. Andrew Street to th© present church in St. Paul Street. As the years passed, a few ardent spirits within its ranks conceived the idea of founding a second Evangelical Union Church in Aber deen, and in 1862 they took the initial steps which resulted in the formation of the John Street congregation. The names of several of the leading men in this new movement wer© well known in the city, while others were comparatively obscure. The group included : — Mr. William Eddie, chemist, George Street ; Mr. John Watt, jun., advocate (who after wards withdrew before the settlement of a minister) ; Mr. Georg© Watson, cart- wright (unci© of Rev. William Watson, who was for many years minister of Forres U.P. Church) ; and Mr. George Chivas, cattle dealer. Mr. Andrew Shearer, ship chandler and shipowner, was also in a sense one of the founders, for he was associated with John Street Church as an adherent and helper for about 20 years, although he never saw his way clear to formally join the congregation. For a time, meetings were held in a private house, afterwards in th© Song School, Union Street, and, later still, in the Mechanics' Hall. In 1863, a deputation appeared from Aberdeen at the annual meetings of the Evangelical Union in Glasgow, asking that formal recognition should be given to the founding of u, second congregation in the city. The de putation emphasised the fact that they had no quarrel with the existing church ; they simply wished to se© a second E.U. Church in Aberdeen. The application was granted, and th© church formally constituted. The next step was the selection of a minister, and in this connection the eyes of the people were directed towards Rev. Alex ander Stewart, who had just completed his theological training under Rev. Dr. James Morison, the founder of the Evangelical Union. Mr. Stewart accepted the invita tion which was offered to him, and in October, 1864, h© was ordained as first minister of th© church. Th© members then numbered about 40, and they were still worshipping in the Mechanics' Hall. It was not long, however, befor© they secured a church of their own, for, through an un expected development of circumstances, they were soon in possession of the building in John Street associated with the ministry of Rev. Hugh Hart. The John Street Church was built for Mr. Hart in 1841, and as it eventually be came his own property, it passed, at his death, in 1862, into the hands of his family. Knowing that the second E.U. congrega tion wer© without a church, and possibly had intentions of securing one, Mr. Hart's family approached them with an offer to sell their building. After some negotia tions, the terms were arranged, and the E.U.'s purchased the church, made some alterations, and had it opened in July, 1865, as John Street Evangelical Union Church, the inauguration services being conducted by Rev. Dr. Kirk, of Edinburgh. The history of John Street Church since then is practically a record of the influence exerted by the personality and work of its first and only minister— Dr. Stewart— who became the '" father " of the ministry in Aberdeen, his length of service in the city exceeding that of any minister in any of 250 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN the denominations. Dr. Stewart, who was a native of Coupar- Angus, was a student at Glasgow University, but in order to be mor© useful in his congregation he also took the medical course at Aberdeen University. He was afterwards awarded an honorary degree of M.D. from the American Anthropological University, and, later on, he also received from across th© Atlantic the degrees of LL.D. and D.D., several of his earlier books having been well received in America. Nor do these comprise all his distinctions, for no was also a member of th© Philosophical Rev. Dr. Stewart. Society of Great Britain, a Fellow of the Society of Science, Letters, and Arts, and also a Fellow of the Athenseum Society. Dr. Stewart published many works, both on theological and temperance subjects. The former include volumes on ' ' The Creation, or Moses and Science in Harmony," "The Mosaic Authorship of Deuteronomy," " The Confession of Faith Tested," "The Divinity of Christ," etc. Among his many publications on temper ance subjects, the most prominent ar© his " BibI© Temperance Commentary" and a pamphlet on " Unfermented Bibl© Wines." To th© general public Dr. Stewart was best known for many years as a very able and courageous controversialist. He was always ready to meet his opponents, and many can recall the great interest aroused in th© community by some of his encounters. Perhaps his most notable achievement in this connection was when he met in public debate the well-known Secularist, Mr. Charles Watts. In recognition of the able manner in which he refuted the arguments of the Secularist and pleaded the case for Christianity, Dr. Stewart had the unique honour of receiving, in 1872, a public testimonial, including a handsome gold watch and a purse of 40 sovereigns. Another feature of his work in the earlier part of his...ministry was a kind of Bible Class which h© conducted on a week-night. There were scarcely any evening classes for young people for long after its commence ment, and it was largely attended, especially by young men. The studies em braced a wide variety of subjects, and the class was most successfully conducted for about 20 years. Many were drawn to its meetings who had no other connection with the church, and not a few of its members have since risen to positions of prominence both in Aberdeen and elsewhere. The late Rev. E. C. Leal, who afterwards be came assistant to Principal Morison, was on© of th© members who subsequently attained te considerable influence in the church, and many who occupy leading places in the public and professional life of the city could also be named as former members. Within more recent years, Dr. Stewart restricted himself more to the ordinary church services. Into these he always put his strength, and there was no subject he was afraid to handle. For many yeare it was his custom to devote th© even ing service at frequent intervals to the popular exposition of some theological question of current interest, or te point the moral of some local or national occurrence. In regard to some other de partments of work, Dr. Stewart had a re markable record. Some 25 years ago he was approached by a number of city missionaries and others with a request that 'he would baptise infants, irrespective of creed or church connection. He agreed to undertake this duty, with the result that he had on an average 20 baptisms every week, making a grand total for the quarter of a century of over 20,000 children who have received the rite of infant baptism at his hands. This must surely constitute a record. Dr. Stewart found th© congregation with a membership of 40, while to-day it is nearer 400. It is in many respects a typical mid-town church, with a membership com posed mainly — indeed, almost exclusively— JOHN STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 251 of the working classes. Dr. Stewart's energies and activities overflowed into various spheres outside his own congrega tion. H© was one of the foremost temperance reformers in the north, giving of his time and strength to the work ; while he became widely known as the respected head of the Deeside Hydropathic. Yet, while thus playing many parts in life, his church was kept alive and vigorous. Ecclesiastical as well as other honouis came to him, and in these his church has shared, as when, in 1890, he was called by his brethren throughout Scotland to th© presidency of the Evangelical Union. When that body united with the Congregational Union, John Street Church, with its minister, passed into the fellowship of the larger body, and it is known to-day as John Street Con gregational Church. It was founded in 1863 to uphold a distinctive testimony, and although the principles for which it then contended ar© now almost universally accepted, yet it continues to justify its existence by filling a useful place in the religious life of the community. Dr. Stewart continued, even when ad vancing age cam© upon him, to discharge all th© duties of his pastorate without as sistance, journeying from Murtle to Aber deen twice every Sunday to conduct the services, and fulfilling other engagements during the week. He was busy up to the last, for his death took place with start ling suddenness on 6th October, 1909. On the Sunday previous he had preached as usual, and even when death overtook him he was out on business in connection with th© Hydropathic. H© literally died at his post, and the tidings of his sudden decease cam© with a shock to the community in which he had spent the whole of his long working life. LXL— 5T. PAUL STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. St. Paul Street Congregational Church. The Evangelical Union filled a large part in the ecclesiastical history of Scotland for more than half of the nineteenth century, and the oldest representative of that deno mination in the city of Aberdeen was what is known to-,day as St. Paul Street Con gregational Church. During the course of its history this congregation has had only three ministers, but they have all been men of distinctive gifts, and even of out standing ability. Rev. Fergus Ferguson, Rev. Dr. A. M. Fairbairn, subsequently Principal of Mansfield College, Oxford, and Rev. Alexander Brown — these are names known and honoured, and they have given to St. Paul Street Church an importance and interest greater than that attaching to many larger and more influential con gregations. During the forties of the last century theological controversy waxed keen in Scotland, and many were the divisions and separations that ensued. When the Rev. James Morison, of Kilmarnock, was de posed from the Secession Church for the so- called heresy of holding that "Christ died for all men, and not for the elect only," he found not a few ready to oast in their lot with him. After th© formal founding of th© Evangelical Union, there were churches springing up in all parts of the country. Aberdeen was not long in feeling th© influence of the movement that was then taking place. Rev. John Kennedy, of Blackfriars Independent Chapel, took up a strong position against what he called the errors of Morisonianism. A few of the younger members of his congregation had been looking with som© sympathy on the new propaganda, and they were summoned to a friendly conference with th© minister and deacons. Nothing came of the in terview, but it had an -important sequel. A Sunday school, under the auspices of the church, had been conducted for several years in the Town Hall at Old Aberdeen, and, as the teaching staff was largely com posed of those who wer© suspected of Morisonian leanings, th© office-bearers peremptorily dispensed with their services, and appointed substitutes to tak© up th© work at once. From this sudden and im pulsive action there was more than one result. In th© first place the school was soon defunct, and with it there passed away a religious organisation which in its day had a notable band of workers. In addi tion to th© regular staff, the teachers had the assistance during the University ses sions of young men who afterwards rose to positions of influence as Congregational ministers, including Rev. James Spence, of Oxford ; Rev. Robert Spence, of Dundee ; and Rev. Robert Troup, of Huntly, and another who was also at on© time a Con gregational minister, Dr. Georg© Mac Donald, novelist and poet. The other re sult was th© encouragement of th© ' ' here tical " brethren to separate themselves from the Church, and provide services and preachers for themselves. The Congrega tional Churches at Blackhills, now West- hills, Skene, and Printfield, now Wood- side, resolved to cast in their lot with the Evangelical Union, and thus the movement grew. Students who had joined th© new denomination were frequently secured for services in Aberdeen, and in 1846, Rev. Fergus Ferguson, of Bellshill, accepted an invitation to conduct a series of special services in th© city. The old Relief Chapel in St. Andrew Street was rented for the occasion, and on the second Sunday of March, 1846, Mr. Ferguson preached in Aberdeen for the first time. There were large congregations both morning and afternoon, and in the evening th© chapel, ST. PAUL STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 2#3 which was capable of holding over 900, was crowded to overflowing, th© majority of the audieno© being men. Services were also held on th© week nights, and so en couraging was the ventur© that, after Mr. Ferguson's fortnight expired, th© St. Andrew Street Chapel was rentecl for a lengthened period, and arrangements wer© mad© for several months' pulpit supply. The continued interest and success led to the convening of a meeting, in June, 1846, at which thos© present resolved to unite together in church fellowship, and call Mr. Ferguson to be their pastor —a call which, after som© negotiation, h© formally ac cepted. The original promoters of the church wea-e five in number — Mr. JamesF. Kellas, Mr. George Cornwall, printer, who had formerly been a prominent Baptist; Mr. David Dunn, Dr. Croom, and Mr. Andrew Shearer. Th© Church in its early days owed more to Mr. Kellas and Mr. Cornwall than to any others. Mr. Ferguson began his ministry in Aberdeen on th© first Sunday of August, 1846, and th© proceedings at his settlement created great interest, th© services being attended by very large congregations. Almost immediately thereafter there began to be felt the effects of opposition. Mr. Ferguson was studiously shunned by the ministers of the city. Sometimes he was hissed by respectable people on th© street ; others would spit as h© passed by, and " New views," "New lights," "New gas" would b© called after him in derision. On© worthy brother minister, while strongly denouncing from th© pulpit what he had misrepresented as th© doctrines of th© new denomination, shouted, in conclusion, thaj; "the nearest 'road to hell was by St. Andrew Street " ! While feeling the isola tion of his position, Mr. Ferguson went on with his work perseveringly. He was not the man to be daunted by opposition. The regular congregations at St. Andrew Street continued to increase, and ©very Sunday evening the chapel was crowded to over flowing, until th© building at last threatened to give way. Compelled to look out for a new site, th© congregation purchased a property in St. Paul Street, and erected the present commodious chapel at a cost of about £2000. This, it may b© noted, was th© first church designed by the late Lord Provost Matthews. Rev. Fergus Ferguson was a man of ex ceptional gifts. He was engaged in busi ness until h© reached middle lif©, but had always been a prominent Christian worker, and in a Bible class he' conducted in con nection with th© Congregational Church in Hamilton, h© had the future Dr. Living ston© as on© of his pupils, a fact which led to his life-long friendship with the great African missionary explorer. Retiring from business with a competency when about 40 years of age, Mr. Ferguson threw himself heartily into a revival movement in the district and this resulted in the for mation of th© church at Bellshill, of which he became th© first pastor, and which he continued to serve until his removal to Aberdeen. As a speaker he had a wonder ful gift of natural eloquence. A man of over six feet in height, of commanding aspect, and with a splendid voice, he com pelled attention. H© held crowded con gregations spellbound for th© tim© by his impassioned oratory, and he could reach a climax which almost brought his h©arers from their seats. With all his powers of speech and earnestness of purpose it was yet apparent that Mr. Ferguson never alto gether overcame his want of a University training. He lacked the trained and dis ciplined mind, and while his discourses were often masterpieces of delivery, they were perhaps not so conspicuous for their intel lectual strength and balance of expression. Yet Mr. Ferguson was a good man, who did a notable work, and lived down a great prejudice. For live it down h© did. In 1867, at a great meeting in th© Music Hall, he was th© recipient of a presentation of the value of £100, from a widely represen tative body of subscribers. In 1870 h© had begun to feel his strength declining, and two years later h© resigned his pastoral charge, although he continued to reside in Aberdeen, and still maintained his connec tion with the congregation in an unofficial capacity. His death took place rather sud denly in 1878 in th© eightieth year of his age, and the thirty-second year of his stay in Aberdeen. Th© whole city seemed to mourn his loss, and his funeral to Nell- field Cemetery was attended by a great concourse of people, including ministers of th© Established, Free, U.P., Congrega tional, Baptist, and Methodist churches — a striking evidence of th© change in public opinion from the time when he came as an unwelcome stranger to the city. On Mr. Ferguson retiring from active pastoral duty, St. Paul Street Church at one© opened communications with the Rev. A. M. Fairbairn, of Bathgate, who ac cepted a unanimous call, and was inducted to th© pastorate on 22nd September, 1872. Of the memorable ministry which then began, th© main facts ar© already well 254 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN known to all the world. It was a short ministry, lasting for less than five years, but it was certainly one of the most strik ing ever seen in th© city of Aberdeen. It might be too much to say that Aberdeen mad© Principal Fairbairn what he is to day, but it undoubtedly helped very largely in the process. When he came to the city, he was comparatively unknown to the world except as the author of one or two articles in the " Contemporary Review." To the citizens of Aberdeen he was a complete stranger, and he brought with him only one or two letters of introduction to men such as th© late Principal Geddes and the late Dr. William Alexander. Yet his ser mons soon began to attract attention. It became evident that a new prophet had Principal Fairbairn. arisen in the city, and that a new voice of unusual power was to be heard in a local pulpit. The Press gave lengthy reports of his lectures — a little to the chagrin, it is said, of some who at that time were his brethren in the ministry. The church be came crowded with intelligent and thought ful audiences, with the academic element stiongly in evidence. At the special Sun day evening theological lectures it was no uncommon sight to see six or seven of the University professors present at one ser vice, with the end gallery crowded by students. Dr. Fairbairn's style as a preacher, which is now so well known, was largely developed during these ever-to-be- remembered years. He would speak for an hour on end, without the assistance of a single note, working out an elaborate argu ment in the most ©loquent language. It was by his Sunday evening lectures that Dr. Fairbairn became specially famous, but ther© were other ways in which he was accomplishing good work. Some of those who sat under him would b© inclined to say that he was never heard to greater advantage than at . the prayer meeting, which was held in the small church hall. There he would pour out, in an easy, un conventional manner, but with a deep undertone of earnestness some of the trea sures of his Biblical knowledge, to the last ing profit of his hearers. Another feature of his work worthy of special notice was his Monday night class. This was not a minister's Bible class, according to the general acceptation of the term. Many of the members were not exactly young in years, and the most weighty subjects, both theological and philosophical, were dis cussed. The meetings were held originally iu the Church Hall, but the accommodation there soon proved insufficient, and the class removed to the Round Room of the Music Hall Buildings. "Mr. Fairbairn's Class" became famous in the city, and it would be difficult to estimate the influence it exerted. It was a company of pupils few ministers would have cared to take in hand, but on one memorable occasion, when Principal Fairbairn was absent, he sent as his substitute the late Professor Robertson Smith, then of the Free Church College. Dr. Fairbairn's method was to lecture to the class, and question them on the sub ject for the first hour, and then for the second hour submit to be questioned by them. Professor Smith, on learning of this practice from some members of the class. at once volunteered to follow out the same lines. He gave as a lecture a large part of his article on " Angels," which appeared in the "Encyclopaedia Britannica," and which formed an important item in the great heresy trial. The members of the class thereafter took full advantage of their opportunity of interrogating the professor, and for a whole hour they plied him with the most searching questions. In conver sation afterwards, Professor Smith said he never spent such an hour, and he expressed the extreme pleasure his visit had given him, and the very high opinion he had formed of the class. This was praise in deed, coming from such a source. It came to be realised that St. Paul Street Church could not long retain a scholar of the brilliance of Dr. Fairbairn, and this feeling soon received confirmation. Steps were taken to put forward his name for the Chair of Moral Philosophy in Aber deen University, on its becoming vacant ST. PAUL STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 255 by the death of Professor William Martin in 1876 ; and he lost the position only by u, very few votes. In the same year he was a candidate for the corresponding chair in the University of St. An drews, but the patrons made another choice, contrary to the general ex pectation. The following year the Congregational Union of England ap pointed Dr. I1 airbairn to the Principalship of Airedale College, Bradford, and he preached his farewell sermon in Aberdeen on 3rd June, 1877. From Bradford he removed, in 1886, to become th© first Prin cipal of Mansfield College, Oxford, a post which h© held with the utmost distinction until his retirement in 1908. Principal Fairbairn's nam© is now a household word throughout th© English-speaking world. By his numerous publications in theological literature, he has made hi6 fame secure for many generations to come, and his preach ing gifts still place him in the front rank of the pulpit forces of the day. It may^be mentioned that during his ministry in Aberdeen, Dr. Fairbairn devoted himself first of all to his pulpit preparation and th© studies in which he was engaged. He told his congregation that he thought he could serv© them better in this way than by taking up his- time with routine pastoral visitation, but that, whenever he was informed of trouble or sickness of any kind, he would be only too ready to be of any service. That he carried this out in practice many could testify who bear in grateful memory his kindly sympathy in times of sorrow and trial. With all his weight of learning, he was ever most accessible to his people. His discernment and tact, and great suavity of manner made him successful in dealing with all sorts and conditions of men, and enabled him, in pereonal intercours©, to adapt himself with acceptance to rich and poor, learned and unlearned alike. Dr. Fairbairn's place was not easy to fill, but St. Paul Street made a good choice when it called the Rev. Alexander Brown, of Galashiels, to b© his successor. Mr. Brown was inducted on 11th November, 1877. A native of Ayr, and a student of Glasgow University, Mr. Brown was a class-fellow with Dr. Fairbairn at the Theological Hall of the Evangelical Union. He was ordained at Galashiels in 1861, and had 16 years' experience in the Border manufacturing town befor© his settlement in the Granite City. He is now widely known throughout the denomination, having been president of the Evangelical Union in 1895, while in the larger Congre gational Union of Scotland he has taken an influential position. H© acted as editor of the "Scottish Congregationalist," and his literary ability has also found outlet elsewhere. To the ' ' London Quarterly Review," the "Wesleyan Methodist Magazine," and other publications, Mr. Brown is a frequent contributor. A num ber of important theological works have also come from his pen. These include a booklet on " Christian Baptism," now in its second edition ; a larger work, entitled Rev. Alexander Brown. " Th© Great Day of the Lord," also in its second edition ; and two weighty volumes on "The Doctrine of Sin" and "God's Great Salvation," the last-named being a series of expository sermons on the Heb rews. As a preacher Mr. Brown does not strain after popularity, although he seeks to make his discourses timely and practical. During his long ministry in St. Paul Street Church he has maintained a remarkably high level of pulpit work, and to-day his preaching is as weighty and suggestive as ever it was. It has frequently been the case that a sermon preached in the ordinary course has had to be afterwards 256 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN published in response to requests by hearers. This fact speaks for itself. St. Paul Street Church has for several yeare felt the disadvantages common to most churches situated in the heart of the city with a membership largely resident at considerable distance anay. Notwithstand ing th© shifting of the population, however, the members have remained remarkably loyal, and of not a few it could be said that they have continued almost from th© beginning until now. Many of them have also taken positions of influence in the public life of the city. Mr. James Crombie, Trinity Buildings, joined the church on coming to the city a few years after the congregation was formed, and he remained a devoted member and prominent office-bearer of the congregation until his death in 1907. The secretary is Baillie Kemp, who is also an attached member of long standing, having served under all the three ministers. Mr. George Murray, ex-chairman of the Parish Council, is an active office-bearer, and among the other public men connected with the church there may be mentioned Mr. William Wisely, late Harbour Commis sioner, and Mr. Robert Lamb, procurator- fiscal. The history of St. Paul Street Church is largely the history of its three pastorates. Each minister for the time being has re flected something of his own personality on the congregation. At the earn© time it has not been without some marked charac teristics of its own, and one of them has been its independent enterprise. It has never been-af raid to be a pioneer. Its very inception was an act of independence, and in the first years of its existence it had to suffer the common lot of pioneers. At different times it has shown the same spirit of freedom from conventionality, and of readiness to break through the trammels of prejudice. There was some stir in the city when, in 1855, th© church introduced an organ for use in its services. It was the first organ outside the Episcopal and Roman Catholic Churches, and in certain quarters the experiment was regarded as sufficient proof that St. Paul Street was on the high road to Romanism. More recently a further example has been given that the same spirit is still at work. In September, 1903, the new individual Com munion cups were brought into use, and St. Paul Street Church was the first in the north of Scotland, and one of the first in the whole of Scotland, to introduce this system. LXIL— SKENE STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Skene Street Congregational Churoh. Tlie history of what is known to-day as Skene Street Congregational Church dates from the years 1819 and 1820. Since then the church has undergone many changes and encountered not a few vicissitudes, but its record throughout has been an interest ing and creditable one. As Blackfriars Congregational Church, it was known in the past as a centre of intellectual and spiritual influence, and as Skene Street Congregational Church it is recognised to-day to be a living and vigorous fore© in the religious life of the community. The origin of the church was mainly due to a secession from Georg© Street (now Belmont) Church, which was then the only Congregational Church in the city, and in which, in 1819, there was a considerable division of opinion over the choice of a minister to succeed Dr. Philip. The majority favoured Rev. Alexander Thom son, who ultimately accepted the call, but a large minority were enthusiastic in urging the claims of Rev. James Spence, M.A., a native of Huntly, who had been conducting services at Woodsid©. Defeated in carrying their candidate, the minority hived off and formed a new congregation, to the pastorate of which Mr. Spence was in due course elected. A feu was secured from th© governors of Gordon's Hospital, and building operations were begun with out delay, the Blackfriars Street Chapel being opened for public worship on Sun day, 26th August, 1821. Mr. Spence was minister of the church for 15 yeare. He was a man of culture and keen intellectual ability, and, although perhaps not a preacher with popular gifts, he was able to keep the congregation well together. When Mr. Spenc© resigned the pastorate in 1835 on leaving for the Isle of Wight, the choice of the congregation fell on a young man of 22, Mr. John Kennedy, M.A., son of the Independent minister of Inverness. The ten years' ministry which followed was one memorable in the annals of the church, and also of importance in the ecclesiastical history of Aberdeen. Mr. Kennedy began his pastorate in Blackfriars Chapel on New Year's Day, 1836, and " the blue-eyed, rosy-cheeked young man" soon mad© his presence felt in th© city. Though young, h© was well educated, and he was a born preacher, well endowed with Celtic fire and with a liberal allowance of the " perfervidum ingenium." He described his congregation as follows: — " It is small ; it is Aberdonian, and, therefor©, inclined to be critical; it is old." Th© first and the last of these estimates he soon nullified. H© drew great congregations, and young people, instead of being conspicuous by their absence, were soon flocking in large numbers to the church — students from the two colleges being specially prominent. The flower of the young manhood in the city was to be found at Blackfriars Chapel in those days. Some of the students who be came members, or attended the classes, have since become widely famous. Of these it may be sufficient to mention George 258 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Dawson, of Birmingham; James Spence, afterwards minister of Poultry Chapel ; and his brother, Robert Spence, of Dundee ; Dr. George MacDonald, novelist and poet, and his brother Charles; Rev. Dr. Robert Bruce, of Huddersfield ; Principal Sir James Donaldson, of St. Andrews ; Pro fessor Alexander Bain, Rev. Dr. Donald Fraser, afterwards of Inverness and Lon don ; and Rev. Dr. Walter C. Smith, the poet-preacher. Not only among students was Mr. Kennedy's influence felt, but also Blackfriars Chapel, Blackfriars Street. among the children, and it is said that as many as 800 children attended the two Sunday Schools carried on in connection with the church. In other ways the young minister was busy. He did not confine himself to the duties of his own charge, but was active in platform work for the emancipation of the negroes, against the corn laws, and in favour of the British and Foreign Bible Society ; and he was a zealous temperance reformer, and one of Sheriff Watson's best and most unfailing helpers in his Ragged School work. When the Morisonian controversy broke out in 1844, and gave rise to the Evangelical Union, Mr. Kennedy took th© conservative side, and criticised the new movement with all the vehemence and fire of which he was capable, with the result that a number of bis members left and helped in the found ing of St. Paul Street E.U. Church. Mr. Kennedy, it is said, got a consolation im mediately afterwards by marrying an ex cellent wife, the sister of John Stuart Blackie, and a few months thereafter by becoming minister of Stepney Meeting. Dr. Kennedy became a man of great influence and outstanding fame in the English Union, and for 50 years the name of "Kennedy, of Stepney" was one to con jure with. H© was unquestionably a man of strong personality andof rich and varied gifts, and his memory will not soon perish either in Aberdeen or in the wider sphere he subsequently filled. After Dr. Kennedy left, in 1846, the church entered on an uneventful quarter of a century of its history. The pastorate was filled by Rev. George Thomson for one year, by Rev. Ninian Wight for four years, by Rev. John Thomson for seven yeare, and by Rev. Thomas Gilfillan for eleven years. Mr. Gilfillan is still remembered by some of the members as a cultured and able minister of the liberal school, with a well- marked vein of humour and sarcasm. He was called to Croydon, and remained minister there for many years. Mr. Gilfillan' s departure in 1870 was fol lowed by a, movement of consolidation. The managers of the church in Dee Street entered into negotiation with the people of Blackfriars Street, and suggested that the two churches should be united, and that a new minister should be elected by the united congregation. The proposal was accepted, and Blackfriars Chapel, as the larger building, was chosen as the place of worship. Mr. Wallace, the old minister of Dee Street, was appointed minister for six months, until the union was consummated in March, 1871, when the united body pro ceeded to select a new minister. The result was th© ©lection of Rev. Joseph Vickery, of Lancashire College, who was ordained to the pastorate in August, 1871. Mr. Vickery was a man of undoubted pulpit power. He struck a new note in his preaching, and soon gathered around him a fine class of hearers. Widely read in general literature and independent in mind and speech, h© speedily became a power of no mean force. Students and men of all ages, fascinated by his sympathetic treat ment of literary themes, crowded to hear him, and soon his eloquent and vigorous preaching filled the church to overflowing. Mr. Vickery was minister of the congrega tion for eleven years, until 1882, when he SKENE STREET CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 259 accepted a call to the important charge of Salem Chapel, York, in succession to Dr. John Hunter. Since 1893 Mr. Vickery has been minister of Castle Street Church, Dundee, and his preaching retains all the characteristics which won for him high di&- tinction in his early days. The vacancy at Blackfriars Street was happily ended by a unanimous call to the Rev. James Bell, of Crieff. Mr. Bell began his pastorate in December, 1882, and had the honour of being introduced by his former neighbour and friend in the Estab lished Church, the well-known Dr. John Cunningham, of Crieff. Mr. Bell's ministry is still fresh in th© memory of many. The culture, the ability, the modesty, and the fin© spiritual power that characterised his pulpit work were fully appreciated. During his ministry of six years the movement for selling the old church and erecting a new one was initiated, and carried to a success ful completion. A buyer for the old chapel was found in an Aberdeenshire Roman Catholic laird, who had a desire to establish something like the Blackfriars' " Settler ment," which one© stood on part of the ground of Gordon's College, but his scheme was frustrated by his ecclesiastical superiors. After being vacant for many years, the building was purchased by the Gordon's College governors, and converted into a gymnasium, in which capacity it is still used. A sit© for the new church was found at th© corner of Skene Street West and Esslemont Avenue. Th© cost of the building amounted to £3485, and it was opened for worship on Sunday, 24th October, 1886, th© services being conducted by the Rev. Principal Simon, of Edinburgh, and Dr. Cunningham, of Crieff, then Moderator of the Established Church. Mr. Bell's ministry continued until the autumn of 1888, when h© accepted an invitation from Wycliff© Church, Hull, going, like Mr. Vickery, to succeed Dr. John Hunter. He is now minister of Whiteinch Church, Glasgow. Th© next minister was the Rev. S. D. Thomas, whose pastorate lasted only for a few years, and who was succeeded in 1893 by the Rev. E. B. Mahon, B.A., from th© Yorkshire United College. When Mr. Mahon was elected there was a remarkable leet of candidates — th© other two being men whose names have sine© become known all over the land — Rev. A. E. Garvie, now Principal of th© New Col lege, London, and the late Rev. G. H. R. Garcia, whose death took place after a brilliant ministry at Sunder land, and who has left a wonderful record of oratorical power and of earnest and lasting work. Mr. Mahon set himself with all the vigour of a young man fresh from college to work up what had been for a time a d©clining cause. He put new life into the congrega tion and its agencies, and was also abl© to effect a considerable reduction in the debt on th© church building. Mr. Mahon was a ready and effective speaker, and a diligent worker, and his attractive personal Rev. William Kirk, M.A. qualities helped to win for him the high place he secured in the esteem of his people. In 1900 he received a call from Middles brough, which he accepted, and he has been able to continue in England th© success he attained in Aberdeen. The Rev. William Kirk, M.A., was settled in th© pastorate in 1900, hav ing previously been for over seven years at Bathgate, th© scene of the early ministry of Principal Fairbairn. Mr. Kirk found Skene Street Church well developed in every way by Mr. Mahon, but he succeeded in bringing it to a still higher level. Th© membership in creased under his pastorate to such an ex tent as to necessitate the erection of side galleries in the church ; the debt was en tirely wiped out, and new schemes of deco ration and lighting, etc., were carried out, and th© whole cost defrayed. Mr. Kirk- was an earnest student both of theology 260 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rsv. H. A. Evans, M.A. and literature, and a very thoughtful preacher. There was a freshness about his pulpit work which was always attrac tive. His discourses were practical and in spiring, and he knew th© secret of making his message interesting, so that the people heard him gladly. In November, 1906, Mr. Kirk, after being freely spoken of in connection with various important vac ancies, accepted a call to the pastorate of Clarendon Park Church, Leicester, where he has since been carrying on effective and influential work. Rev. Herber A. Evans, M.A., from Dul- wich, London, was settled as pastor of Skene Street Church in November, 1907, but his connection with th© congregation was destined to be of short duration. Owing to certain differences he resigned the pas torate, and left Aberdeen in July, 1908. Towards the close of th© year, a call was addressed to Rev. Thomas Richards, of Girlington Church, Bradford, who entered on the pastorate in January, 1909. His settlement was marked by unanimity and heartiness, and he took up the duties of the charge with ability and vigour. The church has had many worthy men connected with it at various periods in its history. No one is more worthy of honour than Mr, Peter Taylor, the name-fathe-" of Principal P. T. Forsyth, of London. Mr. Taylor was one of the original members of the church, and th© feu in Blackfriars Street was taken out in his nam©. Among the distinguished sons of the church, in addition to Principal Forsyth, who oc cupies so influential a position in England, mention must be made of the Rev. J. Gordon Watt, of th© Bible Society, whose death at an early age cut short a brilliant career. Mr. Watt was a son of Mr. James. Watt, who was secretary of th© church, and one of th© oldest deacons. In its membership to-day Skene Street Church represents many interests in the community, and some of its prominent members, such as Mr. John Leith, J. P., an ex-chairman of the Congregational Union of Scotland, and ex-Baillie Sangster, ar© well known in Scottish Congregationalism. Ther© are numerous agencies both of a congregational and home mission nature carried on in the church buildings, and on every hand there is evi dence of interest and activity. The church is fortunate in its situation. It is in a posi tion to tap th© West End, and it is also sufficiently central to b© accessible from all parts of the city, and not confined to any one particular district. Rev. Thomas Riohards, LXIlI.— TRINITY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Trinity Congregational Churoh. Th© events which led to the formation of this church are all associated with the life and work of its first minister, who was afterwards so well known as Rev. Dr. John Duncan. In 1859, owing to the re moval of Dr. J. H. Wilson to London, the pastorate of the " Ragged Kirk " in Albion Street became vacant, and Mr. John Duncan, temperance lecturer, was appointed. Mr. Duncan having been formally ordained to th© Congregational ministry, entered upon the duties with enthusiasm, and in a short time the suc cess of his work became very apparent. The chapel was soon crowded to excess, and in two years it was seen that some thing would require to be don© to increase the accommodation. Plans were prepared of an enlargement scheme, which provided for the erection of galleries, bringing the seating capacity of th© church up to 800. This scheme was carried into effect in 1862, but even the increased accommoda tion was soon taxed to its utmost. For several years this state of matters con tinued, and then th© necessity for another and larger extension came to be acutely felt. After a long and careful considera tion of th© position in all its b©arings, it was decided that an effort should be made to secure elsewhere another site on which a larger church should b© built for Mr. Duncan, where there would be abundant scope for the exercise of his popular gifts as a preacher, and proper facilities for carrying on the special forms of work in which he had proved so successful. It had always been in view to remain in th© ©ast-end of the city in th© centre of a needy district, and, in course of time, a suitable site was secured in Shiprow, opposite the top of Shore Brae. Mr. James Matthews, architect (afterwards Lord Provost of the city), prepared the plans of the buildings, and Mr. William Leslie of Nethermuir (a former Lord Pro vost) laid th© foundation-stone in April, 1877. Th© new church was seated for about 1000, and ample hall and class-room accommodation was also provided for Home Mission and social work, the total cost, inclusive of th© site, being about £7000. As the building was erected near the spot where in bygone years the convent of th© ancient Trinity Friars had stood, it was suggested — it is understood by Mr. Duncan himself — that the new church should take the nam© of Trinity. The suggestion was adopted, and to Trinity Congregational Church Mr. Duncan re moved with 500 members from Albion Street, leaving ther© a nucleus, which has grown into th© present Albion Street congregation. The opening services in Trinity Church were held on Sunday, I5th September, 1878, the preachers on the occasion being Rev. Dr. Pulsford, of Glas gow, and Mr. Duncan, while the services on the following Sunday were conducted by Dr. J. H. Wilson, Mr. Duncan's pre decessor at Albion Street. With th© opening of Trinity Church ther© began a new era in the great life-work of Rev. John Duncan, . who will be regarded for many years to come as on© of the outstanding figures in the Church lif© of Aberdeen. Mr. Duncan's career was so striking from first to last, he filled so large a place in the public eye, and his activities and influence penetrated so many spheres that it is difficult to 262 THE CHURCHES OF TBERDEEN epitomise th© results. The membership of the congregation increased year by year until it reached 1000, and stood, in point of members, among the very fore most in the Congregational body in the United Kingdom. This, however, was but one aspect of Mr. Duncan's work. More noteworthy even than his success in build ing up a large congregation was his wonderful aptitude in catching the ©ar and gaining the confidence of the great masses outside all th© Churches. Hi6 Sunday evening sermons on subjects of Rev. Dr. John Duncan. homely and present-day interest drew crowded attendances, their remarkable popularity being maintained year after year, even to the very end of his ministry. In this connection, it may be noted that in December, 1898, when the readers of the "Evening Express" took part in a plebiscite on the most popular preachers in Aberdeen, Dr. Duncan was voted te the first place by an overwhelming majority. In temperance work h© was ever one of the foremost leaders, and no movement for th© religious and social improvement of the people lacked his earnest support. On every platform Mr. Duncan was a welcome figure, and it may be said without hesita tion that there was no more effective plat form orator in Aberdeen in his day. Dr. Duncan (he was made an honorary D.D. of Aberdeen University in 1894) was never heard to better advantage than when re calling some early reminiscences, or sketching the men, manners, and customs of. the past. He had a great 6tore of anecdotes, and with his pawky humour he made an admirable " raconteur," ©specially in the familiar Doric. Greater than all, however, was his natural, rugged eloquence, which by its sheer force proved quite irresistible with almost any audience. Of Dr. Duncan's style as a speaker, Mr. A. S. Cook has given in his " Pen Sketches and Reminiscences " a, description 60 apt that it may be reproduced. Mr. Cook writes: — "While speaking, Dr. Duncan seems to be at a loss what to do with his arms. They are always in th© way. Sometimes folded across his chest in a Napoleon-like attitude, at others the right hand is raised above his head, describing a circle, and gyrating with tremendous swiftness, or his hand passes quickly through his hair, and not seldom he raises his right leg bent from the kne© on the table before him, if there is one. Of all this, however, he is quite unconscious, and his hearers forget the attitudes." Dr. Duncan was not without honour in his lifetime. Tn 1891 h© was called to th© chairmanship of th© Congregational Union of Scotland. Tn 1894, as already stated, the University of Aberdeen conferred upon him the honorary degree of D.D., and although he had never undergone a regular course of training, or graduated in any University, it was universally felt that never had the honour been more fittingly bestowed. Soon after the confer ment of this distinction, Dr. Duncan re ceived a more public expression of esteem. At a gathering of leading citizens it wa6 resolved to publicly recognise his incessant labours on behalf of the community. The outcome of this movement was the pre sentation to Dr. Duncan of an illuminated address, together with a purse of 300 sovereigns and a, gift for Mrs. Duncan, his worthy helpmeet. The ceremony took place in the Town and County Hall, Sir David Stewart presiding over a larg© and influential company, and Principal Brown, of the Free Church College, handing over the gifts. But there wer© other honours of another kind which fell to Dr. Duncan, and these wer© not the least striking. He gained in a degree altogether ex ceptional the trust and affection of the people among whom and for whom he TRINITY CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH 263 spent his life. To them he had no prefix or title; h© was simply John Duncan, and his name was one to conjure with. His tall, spar© form, with bent shoulders, was familiar everywhere, but nowhere more than in the streets and lanes and closes of the slums. Everyone knew him, and even the drunkard reeling home recognised and saluted John Duncan. It was not without good cause that he cam© to be known as th© " Bishop of the East-End " ; and while both as preacher and worker his memory is revered to-day, perhaps the distinctive honour of his career was the fact that " the common people heard him gladly." For many years Dr. Duncan carried on th© work of Trinity Church single- handed, and it was only when th© weight of advancing years began to press heavily upon him that he had any assistance. In 1895, Rev. F. J. Japp, as Baxter Scholar in th© Theological Hall, was appointed to assist him for a term, but in seven months he was called to th© pastorate of the church at Nairn. Thereafter Rev. J. B. Allan, B.D., was ©lected to th© assista^ ship, and for a period of two y©ars he took a helpful share in all the work of the church until his departure to undertake the ministry of Dunoon Church. About this time an unfortunate split occurred in the congregation over some questions of administration, and eventually a number of the office-bearers and mem bers left and formed Bon-Accord Congre gational Church, calling as their minister Mr. J. Inglis Martin, who had been for some tim© assistant to Dr. Duncan. Rev. J. P. Stephenson, afterwards of Broughty-Ferry, and now of Man chester, gave assistance for a short time pending the appointment of a colleague to Dr. Duncan — a course which had been adopted at the doc tor's own suggestion and by the cordial desire of th© deacons and congregation. Th© unanimous choice foil on Mr. Robert Steel, a native of Alnwick, and then a student near th© close of his course in th© Edinburgh Theological Hall, to whom a call was addressed in due course. Mr. Steel accepted th© invitation, and it was arranged that h© should enter on his work when his divinity course was completed. It was pathetic, when matters had reached this advanced stage, and Dr. Duncan was looking forward to handing over the main burden of his work to a col league, whose, appointment he had 60 warmly welcomed, that the veteran's career should be rather suddenly closed by death. Dr. Duncan died on 16th May, 1901, and the tidings sent a shock of regret through out the whole community. Th© funeral on th© Tuesday following was a most impres sive testimony to the influence exerted by th© deceased and the esteem in which he had been held by all sorts and conditions of men. Crowds of people, especially from the poorer districts of the city, lined the streets along which th© cortege passed, and the company of mourners which fol lowed the remains to their last resting- place was one of the most remarkable ever seen in Aberdeen. Not only was it large in size, but it was unique in its blending of the different classes of society. East- End and West-End met together, rich and poor, learned and illiterate, the city magnate and the man from the slums walked side by side in paying the last token of respect to one who had made so deep an impression. It was a touching tribute to a noble life. An excellent bio graphy of Dr. Duncan, from the pen of his son-in-law, Rev. J. B. Allan, of Dunoon, was published in 1909. Rev. Robert Steel, the colleague-de signate of Dr. Duncan, th©n found the sole pastorate of the congregation devolving upon him, and as soon as he left the Theological Hall he entered upon the work — his ordination taking place in Sept ember, 1901. To say that Mr. Steel, as a young man fresh from college, entered upon a task of exceptional difficulty is but a bare statement of th© facte, and to say that he was able to maintain the con gregation to th© fullest extent in all its aspects is nothing more than justice. That he was able to do so must be re garded as an evidence of ability and strength on his part and of genuine loyalty on th© part of th© congregation. The withdrawal of Dr. Duncan's per sonality, which had been th© means of attracting th© bulk of th© members, might have been expected to have a prejudicial effect on th© congregation, but Mr. Steel succeeded, not only in maintaining, but in increasing it both in numbers and in fluence. He proved to be an able and in spiring preacher, whose sermons, by their conciseness and lucidity, arrested atten tion and proved instructive and edifying. Mr. Steel shunned publicity in every form. He devoted himself wholly to the work of his own pastorate, giving to it all his time and strength, and labouring towards high id©als. During his ministry various schemes were carried out. The 264 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN interior of the church buildings was painted and decorated, electric lighting introduced, a new steam heating ap paratus secured, and a pip© organ in stalled at a cost of £650. In addition to these undertakings, and mor© important than any of them, the scheme inaugurated by Dr. Duncan before he died, and most liberally supported by him, to clear off the debt on the church buildings, was con tinued with the most gratifying results. During Mr. Steel's pastorate th© debt was reduced by £1200, leaving only £200 still to be raised. In 1906 Mr. Steel was Rev. James Adam. called to George Square Congregational Church, Greenock, and he left Aberdeen in October of that year. A vacancy of some duration followed, but on 1st August, 1907, Rev. James Adam, of Wishaw, who had received a call, was settled in the pastorate. Mr. Adam is an earnest and vigorous preacher, and an enthusiastic and active pastor. Under his guidance all the agencies of the church have been maintained, not only with efficiency, but in a flourishing con dition. The evangelical traditions of the church are fully maintained by Mr. Adam, and th© utmost harmony prevails. Like his immediate predecessor, he inaugurated a scheme of improvements on the church property, and he had the satisfaction of seeing completed, at the opening of his second year, a much needed improvement on th© church halls. They were recon structed and refurnished at a cost of nearly £400, and the additional comfort and convenience will, it is felt, help to the further efficiency and success of the church's agencies. In other respects good work is being done. The Christian Instruction Class for young men and women, which meets on Sunday afternoons, is a specially successful agency, the mem bership being 200. The other organisa tions include two Sunday Schools, Dorcas Society, Temperance Band, Girte' In dustrial Class, Literary Society, and mission work, and ther© is a sufficient number of willing workers. Throughout the congregation generally there is evidence of good management and control, and the cultivation of the true spirit which, should animate a church. The senior deacon is Mr. George Gauld, whose connection with Trinity Church ex tends over many years. Mr. J. A. Smith, J. P., ex-chairman of the City Parish Coun cil, and ex-president of th© Aberdeen Tem perance Society, is another deacon of long standing, and one of th© most active and influential workers in many departments of the church's activities. Other public men connected with the church are Mr. D. L. Crombie, formerly a member of the Aberdeen School Board; and ex-Pansb Councillors James W. Gordon and James Cheyne. The treasurer is Mr. John Mearns, of Morrison's Economic Stores, who devotes much time to the church's in terests. Mr. John M'Kay, J. P., well- known in temperance circles in the city, is secretary ; and there are a number of respected office-bearers of long standing who were members and workers in the old Albion Street days. Trinity Church, while exercising a beneficent influence in the centre of the slums, cannot be regarded as purely a district church. Its opera tions ar© widely spread, members being found in nearly every part of the city E.nd in many walks of life, yet it is still true to its worthy traditions in being to a very large extent r congregation of the common people. LXIV.— WOODSIDE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH. Woodside Congregational Churcl. This church is the oldest in Woodside. It had its origin in the early years of the nineteenth century, when the people of the district had no place of worship nearer than Oldmachar Cathedral, although the popu lation was about 2500. Certain members of the Frederick Street and George Street Congregational Churches were the first to move in the matter. They visited the Printfield regularly, and conducted week- night services in the sunk floor of what was known as the " Laird's House," a large building in the north end of the village. Considerable success attended these1 efforts, and a number of the people in the locality became connected with th© George Street Church, and travelled into th© city for the Sunday services. Rev. Richard Penman, of Frederick Street, and Rev. Dr. Philip, of George Street, were both in warm sym pathy with th© work at Woodside, and they frequently took part in the services in the " Laird's House." On the recommenda tion of Mr. Penman, an ©ffort was made to raise a sufficient sum for th© erection of a regular place of worship, and this met with wonderful success. The subscription list was issued in November, 1818, and within a month enough money had been received to permit of building operations being com menced. A little thatch-roofed edifice was erected on the sit© of the present Con gregational Church, and although there is no record of th© opening services, they must have taken place about th© end of 1819. Th© building was known as Cotton Chapel (Woodsid© used to be termed familiarly "Printfield" or "Cotton," owing to the factories once located in it) ; and although at first it was not attached to any particu lar denomination, it soon became the pro perty of the Congregationalists. For some tim© after th© opening of th© chapel the pulpit was supplied by ministers and students from Aberdeen, and also by preachers sent from Glasgow by the Con gregational Union. In 1820 Rev. James Spence, then at Falkirk, agreed, at the earnest request of 280 of th© inhabitants, to preach for 12 months, with a view to a permanent settlement. On 13th March, 1821, a church was formed, shortly after which Mr Spence removed to Blackfriars Street Church, Aberdeen. A call was ad dressed on 11th February, 1822, to Rev. Neil M'Kechnie, who had supplied the pulpit for a few months after the departure of Mr. Spence. Mr. M'Kechnie accepted th© call, but made it a condition that he should be allowed a month or more every year to visit the Highlands and conduct evangelistic services among th© Gaelic- speaking population, the church supplying the pulpit during his absence. He was a man of great earnestness, with the evangelistic gift in a marked degree. For many years after his settlement in Wood- side the chapel was crowded, but the open ing of a Chapel of Ease by the Established Church somewhat reduced the congrega tion. Mr. M'Kechnie not only conducted the regular services in the chapel, but also held meetings in the " Laird's House," and at Whitestripes, Dyce, Newmachar, and Blackburn. His ministry in Woodside cam© to an end in 1838, when he removed to Lerwick, and ultimately to Stuartfield, where he died, after a short ministry, in 1851. Mr. James Mann and Mr. John Smith then served the church as preachers, and both in succession received an invita tion to th© pastorate, which in each case was declined. Th© church was without a pastor till May, 1840, when the vacancy was 266 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN filled by the ordination of Rev. James Byres Laing. Mr. Laing, who was a very able man, and for a time editor of one of the denominational papers, remained at Woodside for over 18 years, removing in 1858 to Hamilton, Canada. During his pastorate there occurred the formation of the Evangelical Union, and he, along with other Congregational ministers, joined the new body. Som© tim© after Mr. Laing's departure the Woodside congregation re turned to th© Congregational Union. From 1858 to 1862 the church was again without a pastor, the pulpit being supplied by Rev. Alexander Munro, of Blacknills, Skene ; Mr. Gordon of Parkhill, and othere. Rev. George Moir, afterwards of Letham, supplied the pulpit for six months in 1862, and received an invitation to the pastorate, which, however, h© declined. Rev. James Strachan was then called, and he held the pastorate from 1862 to 1869. During his time the old Cotton Chapel was taken down, and, chiefly through the liberality of the late Provost William Leslie, a staunch Independent, the present Congre gational Church was erected on the same site. The church was opened on 29th De cember, 1867, the adjoining hall being built some years later. For about ten months in 1869-70 Rev. W. Robertson acted as pastor. His resignation in so short a time was occasioned by ill-health, but h© subsequently returned to the active work of the ministry, and since 1901 he has been settled at Foula, Shetland. During the six months' vacancy at this time occasional pulpit supply was given by Dr. Alexander Whyte, then a student at Aber deen, and so deeply were the Woodside people impressed by his preaching that they offered him a call. He preferred, however, to remain a Presbyterian. The Church at Woodside entered on a period of prosperity in November, 1870; when Rev. James Rae was ordained to the pastorate. Th© circumstances connected with the call to Mr. Rae were, in some re spects, unique. He had th© peculiar dis tinction of being invited to become minister of th© church in which he had been brought up as a boy, and in connection with which he had gained his first experience of Christian work. Under Mr. Rae's earnest and inspiring leadership there was soon a considerable addition to the membership and a marked increase in th© activity and zeal of the congregation. A commodious hall was added to the church buildings, and, by the ©fforts of th© minister and his people, it was opened free of debt — a further evidence of the new life and vigour given to the congrega tion. When Mr. Rae left for New Deer, in 1879, there was genuine regret, not only in the Congregational Church but in all the churches of Woodside and in the community generally. There can be no doubt that he did much to giv© Con gregationalism an assured position in the district, and his work for-the development and consolidation of the Woodside Church cannot be readily forgotten. At New Deer Mr. Rae has laboured with equal ac ceptance and success for a quarter of a century, and he is now one of the most prominent and widely respected figures in Congregational circles in the north, and is familarily known among his brethren as the Congregationalist " Bishop of Buchan." Within a short time after Mr. Rae's de parture the church at Woodside addressed a call to Rev. Georg© Saunders, then of Millseat, by whom it was accepted. Mr. Saunders was a man whose earnestness and devotion commended him to all who knew him, and for 13 years— from 1879 to 1892 — he went out and in among the people and carried on the work of th© church in all its various forms. His death, in 1892, removed a faithful minister and a highly respected citizen. In 1893, Rev. G. C. Milne, the present pastor, entered on his work at Woodside. Previous to entering Nottingham College with a view to the ministry, Mr. Milne had been engaged in business both in Glasgow and London, but he had been employed in evangelistic and mission work, and had been closely associ ated with th© first' Moody and Sankey cam paign in Glasgow. On completing his studies, he was called, in 1879, to Macduff Congregational Church, where he stayed four years. In 1883 he went to Hutcheson- town Church, Glasgow, where he accom plished good work until his removal to Woodside, in 1893 Mr. Milne is a most energetic and diligent worker. A strong advocate of the Christian Endeavour move ment, he soon organised societies at Wood- side, and he has likewis© held office in the District and National Committees. In temperance work h© has also been pro minent, and as chairman of the Temperance Committee of the Congregational Union of Scotland he has rendered service to the cause all over the country. In such work he is ably supported by Mrs. Milne, who is well known as a speaker on temperance, and to whom ther© belongs th© distinction of having instituted the Women's Progres- Woodside congregational church M1 Rev. G. C. Milne. sive Union, which is so distinctive a feature of the work in connection with Woodside Church. As secretary of th© Northern Association of Congregational Churches, and in various capacities as a member of th© Aberdeen District Committee, Mr. Milne ha6 also served th© denomination at large. The church at Woodside is to-day an active one, with many agencies, and its sympathy with aggressive movements is very pronounced. An interesting fact in connection with the history of the church is th© number of young men it has sent forth as ministers or missionaries. The list, for a congregation of the size, is a notable one, including, as it does, the names of well-known men, some of whom have now passed away, while others are still in the forefront. Amongst those who wer© either brought up in the congregation, or connected with it as young men, ther© may b© mentioned (in addition to Rev. James Rae, who has been already reierred to)— Rev. F. L. Lessees, Tunbridge Wells: Rev. Joseph Boyle, London; Rev. W Duthie, Oldham; Rev. Dr. John Hunter, of Trinity Church, Glasgow ; Rev. Alexander Craib, Pitsligo Parish Church ; Rev. Georg© Wright, Newry ; Rev. W. Skinner, London ; Rev. James Gammie, Bundaberg, Queensland; Rev. Fred. A. Russell, late of King's Weigh House Church, London ; Rev. William Lawrence, missionary to the South Sea Islands; and Rev. A. Cameron, of Ladysmith. In ite members, both past and present, the church has also included men who have com manded respect. To nam© only a few, mention may be mad© of Mr. Alexander Stephen, Bankhead, who has been in office for about 40 years, a man of sterling char acter and steady purpose ; Mr. James Pater son, who for many years conducted a large Bible Class with great tact and efficiency ; Mr. John Porter, of Persley Farm, whose quiet, kindly personality is still remem bered ; and Mr. John Keith, Persley, a man of great energy, who took a keen interest in th© church until he removed from the district. Th© Congregationalists of Woodside have always b©en on good terms with the mem bers of other denominations. The mo6t kindly feeling has existed among the Churches, and for many years it has been possible to secure som© measure of co operation in practical work by the mem bers, as well as a free exchange of pulpits by the ministers. This pleasing state of affairs is in no danger of being disturbed under the present ministry. BAPTIST CHURCHES. LXV.— ACADEMY STREET BAPTIST CHURCH. Academy Street Baptist Church. The church meeting in Academy Street- is th© oldest Baptist community in Aber deen. It has survived many vicissitudes, at times being decimated by internal dis sensions, and at others presenting a united front in earnest evangelical effort and been missionary enterprise. It is the only congregation in the city belonging to the Scotch Baptists, whoe© distinctive position is to b© found in their adherence to the system of a plurality of pastors or teach ing elders, who may, at the same time.. continue at their secular callings; in their recognition of the exercise of the gifts of the members in public exhortation ; and in tlieir confining th© ordinance of the Lord's Supper to baptised believers. , The early records of the church have, unfortunately, been lost, but th© history of its beginnings can, to some extent, be traced from references in the memoirs of some leaders in the religious world in the earlier part of the nineteenth century. Andrew Fuller, in the course of a visit tc Aberdeen, agreed to meet with a few Baptists who were then assembling to gether in an upper-room. At this meet ing, which was held on 12th July, 1805, ther© wer© present eight or ten Baptists resident in the city, but Fuller mention's that they were not in a state of fellowship, and that h© was doubtful if they were sufficiently united to ¦ be formed into a church. At that meeting three person:; applied for baptism, and Fuller relates that " next morning I rose at "five o'clock, and baptised three persons in a mill dam about five miles from the city, where we went in a postchaise, and returned about eight o'clock. There were upwards of 100 people present." It is believed that at this time the church, which now meets in Academy Street, was founded, and that the upper-room referred to was that in South Silver Street, in which the con gregation worshipped until 1874. In the memoirs of Archibald Maclean there is published a letter from the church in Aberdeen " to the Church of Christ as sembling in the Pleasance, Edinburgh," iu which they condole with the Edinburgh church in th© loss sustained by th© death of Mr Maclean, who was one of its pastors. The letter was dated 8th January, 1813, and was signed by Thomas Fraser and George Bayne. In 1834 there is another reference to the church in a letter from " th© Church of Christ as sembling in South Silver Street, Aber deen, to the Church of Christ assembling in the Pleasance, Edinburgh," the subject of th© letter being that of forming a union " to extend our fellowship in the Gospel of God our Saviour and in the in stitutions of His House, to all Baptist Churches who hold fast the faith of Jesus and continue steadfast in the observance of th© ordinances of the New Testament, or, in other words, to all Calvinistic and strict Communion Baptist Churches." This letter, dated 22nd September, 1834, was signed on behalf of the church in Aber deen by Thomas Fraser, elder, and George Brown, deacon. Georg© Brown was a well- known auctioneer in Abe.rdeen, and an ardent temperance reformer, and for some ACADEMY street baptist church 269 years he was a member of the Town Coun cil, and held the office of baillie as re cently as 1890. A further letter, of date 3rd November, 1834, which began with the same greeting, had reference to "the sub ject of union, and brought to light the fact that at that time there wer© two churches in Aberdeen holding strict com munion views — representing the Liberals and Conservatives of the Scotch Baptists of the period. The signatories to this letter were Thomas Fraser, John Mac donald, and David Souter, pastors. In 1860 th© church was still meeting in South Silver Street under the pastorate of Mr. John Macdonald. Mr. Macdonald died in that year, and Mr. John Stewart, of the Aberdeen Combworks, a well-known citizen" filled the breach in the leadership of the church. In 1864 th© church called to its service as evangelist, Mr. Hewson, afterwards well known as the travelling secretary of the Baptist Temperance Society. Mr. Hewson continued for fully two years, a special feature of his work being his open-air preaching in the Castle- gate, which gave him in those days :i singular position. Mr. James Wight, who came to Aber deen in 1867, was at once invited by the Silver Street Church to become its pastor. He had previously held the farm of Wester Echt, and he had been revered through out the whole district as a man of devout spirit. His work there is said to have in cluded the forming of a church, over which h© was pastor for forty years. He continued in full charg© of Silver Street Church until 1872, when Mr. John T. Hagen (from Manchester College) was settled as his colleague, and although re tired from activ© work, he held the office of pastor until his death in June, 1875. Mr. Hagen's work was very successful among the young. He was a good singer, and revolutionised the service of praise. During his pastorate Messrs Moody and Sankey visited Aberdeen, and Mr. Hagen threw himself heart and soul into the work. As a result, many wer© added to th© church — the baptisms taking place m the river Dee, near the present entrance to th© Duthie Park. The church so pro spered that the upper-room — with all its hallowed memories — was now found to be inconvenient for regular church work, and it was resolved that a chapel should be built as early as possible. In the mean time, the Atheneeum Hall was secured as a more commodious place of meeting, and as affording increased opportunities for usefulness, and to this hall the church re moved iu 1871. Mr. Hagen's health gave way in 1875, and he resigned, soon aftei- to be called to th© church at Dunferm line, where he still labours. Mr. Manning, from Harlington, Lon don, after preaching for two Sundays, was invited to th© pastorate, and began his work on 3rd October, 1875. He was a man with oratorical gifts, but was rather in advance of his time. He made an in novation in Aberdeen when he commenced a series of lectures in M'Farland's Music- Hail on Sunday afternoons, with such sub jects as " Strikes and Lock-outs" and ''The Best Things in the Best Place for the Best Purpose." He was a man of striking per sonality, a great debater, and on© whose eloquence moved th© people. To this has to be added that he was a fin© singer, and h© attracted large audiences, who did not hesitate to applaud his solos and the telling points in his addresses, much to the discomfiture of the good deacons who accompanied him to the platform. H© noticed this on one occasion, and told his audience to take their own way of expressing their approval or displeasure. " For," said he, as he pointed his thumb over his shoulder, " I'm not so straight-laced as my Scotch brethren here." The deacons appeared no more on the platform after this! The union of pastor and peopl© was only in name, so Mr. Manning threw up Scotch ways in disgust in March, 1876, and the church was again without a pastor. In February, 1876, the proprietor of tho Athenaeum Hall intimated his intention of letting it as » warehouse, and the church had to look out for another meeting-place. The inconvenience and disadvantages ex perienced in renting a hall made the members unwilling to repeat the experi ment, yet they had no time to formulate a scheme and gather the means for building a chapel. At this juncture the Bellevue Academy (which gave Academy Street its name) came into th© market. As the building stood, it was not suitable for a place of worship, but the church (composed of about seventy members, mostly of th© working class) resolved to purchas© it and oonvert it into a chapel. The purchase was made on 9th March, and the chapel opened on 24th September, 1876, the number of sittings provided be ing 270, and the total cost £750. Th© church had by this tim© chosen as pastor Mr. Charles Brown, th© senior student of the Baptist Union of Scotland, but as his term of study did not conclude till July, 1877, he was only able to preach 270 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN occasionally till 2nd August, when he began his work in earnest. Mr. Brown was a true pastor, most painstaking in his work, lovable and sympathetic in his dis position, and h© gained the affections of his flock, sp that much regret was felt when he relinquished his charge in 1879, and shortly after went out to Jamaica as a missionary. In th© end of 1879, Mr. Towler (from th© Manchester College) ac cepted the pastorate, which he filled with much acceptance, till 1881. One of the members, who contributed a considerable proportion of th© paster's salary, dis agreed with some part of Mr. Towler'^ teaching, and intimated the withdrawal of his monetary support. As » consequence a separation between -a pastor beloved and an appreciative flock was mutually agreed to. The parting was an affecting one. Mr. Towler thereafter represented the Baptist Tract Society, and on his visits to Aberdeen he never failed to place his services at the disposal of his old church. Mr. Wallace, missionary to the Bristo Place Baptist Church, Edinburgh, then came, as he had done on several previous occasions, to fill the gap, till early in 1882 when an arrangement was mad© with Mr. Macgregor, who was connected with the church at Branderburgh, to com© as an evangelist. Difficulties arose similar to those in th© case of Mr. Towler, and Mr. Macgregor returned at th© end of the year to tak© up the pastorate of th© church at Branderburgh . At this juncture Mr. Samuel Garrioch, one of the deacons, stepped into the breach. During the period that Mr. Gar rioch presided over th© church, Mr. John Stewart, whose pecuniary help had for long made it possible for the church to pay a pastor's salary, changed his views on the Communion question, and withdrew from the fellowship of the church, so that from 1882 till the present time the church has had no paid pastor. Mr. Garrioch fol lowed his business calling, and had but his spare hours for study, but these he used to good advantage. With occasional help, he conducted th© services twice each Sunday, and also a week-night service, for eight years. He had abilities of no mean order. He was a keen theologian and a good platform speaker, and his knowledge of th© Scriptures was remarkable. He spent himself ungrudgingly in the service of the church, performing the duties pertaining to the pastoral office with much efficiency at a trying time, until his retirement, from ill-health, in September, 1890. He died in March, 1891, at the age of 47. After Mr. Garrioch's retirement, th© meetings wer© conducted by various brethren. From 1891 to 1899 th© church had the advantage of the services of Mr, A. S. Rigg. He was an excellent speaker, and as an evangelist and teacher was much sought after, being ever ready to giv© his services without respect to denominational distinctions. He did much to develop the gifts of ©xhortation, so that when h© left for Edinburgh, in January, 1899, the church parted from him with great re gret. From 1899 until now th© church has experienced considerable difficulty in efficientlycarrying on its work, but what ever else may b© lacking, the utmost har mony has pervaded this little body of disciples. The smallne6s of the com munity has developed the family spirit and drawn the membere closer together in Christian sympathy and affection ; and signs of vitality are not awanting to cheer those who- labour for the common good. The forenoon service for breaking of bread and mutual exhortation is presided over by Mr. Charles Urquhart, the senior deacon. Mr. Urquhart has done much good work as a Bible class teacher, and his Scripture knowledge and practical ap plication of the Scriptures to daily needs have helped many in equipping them for the battle of life. The brethren assist Mr. Urquhart in this service, as do some sym pathetic helpers from th© sister churches. In the afternoon the Sunday School meets ; and in the evening an evangelistic service is carried on with the assistance of able and willing helpers from various Christian communities in the city. On Monday evenings a women's meeting is carried on, with an average attendance of about 40; on Wednesday evening the prayer meeting is held, with a monthly missionary meeting, the average attend ance being about 20 ; and on Friday even ings there is a young people's singing class. From the rank and file of this small community there have gon© forth not a few who have rendered valiant service in various spheres. Here and there through out the United Kingdom to-day there are men in important and influential positions who first exercised their gifts of preach ing and exhortation in th© Academv Street Chapel. With all the record of sunshine and shadow, the members of this little body feel that they have warrant for the assurance that there is something for them still to do in the bearing of their distinctive testimony and in th© further ance of th© Gospel. LXVL— CROWN TERRACE BAPTIST CHURCH. Crown Terrace Baptist Church. The Crown Terrace Church cannot alto gether lay claim to the distinction of being in the direct line of succession from the founders of the Baptist denomination in Aberdeen. That honour belongs, although only by a few years, to the body now wor shipping in Academy Street. But there are Baptists and Baptists, and between Academy Street and Crown Terrace there is a difference. The former belongs to the Scotch, or Strict Baptists ; the latter is allied to th© Baptist Union of Scotland, and is in communion with the very large and influential Baptist body in England. Therefore, while Crown Terrace Church may not be directly descended from those who first introduced Baptist principles to our city, it is the oldest representative of what may be termed th© recognised or official Baptist denomination. The church dates its history from 30th October, 1821, when 13 persons, after a day of fasting and prayer, resolved to form themselves into a church. The minute in cludes the following sentence, which is worthy of being quoted — "We then con versed a little about the nature of a Gospel Church, and having, wertrust, given our selves first to the Lord, we gave ourselves to one another by the will of God." Founded on this constitution, the church then proceeded to the selection of a pastor. and Mr. Gilmore, who was one of the 13, was at once chosen. Mr. Gilmore had been engaged in preaching and pastoral work in the -city for several months, and had highly commended himself to the brethren. He was a student under the Baptist Northern Education Society, and had evidently been sent to Aberdeen to further the interests of the cause. He began preaching in St. George's Lodge on Sunday, 4th February, 1821, and soon attracted large audiences. Three services were held each Sunday, and th© building was well filled in the forenoon and afternoon, and crowded to excess in the evening. St. George's Lodge being found too small for the larg© congrega tions, application was made to the Relief minister for the use of his church in the evenings, and this was readily granted. After the congregation had been formally constituted, the members set about secur ing a place of worship of their own. A site was feued in Union Terrace, where the School Board office stands to-day. Mr. Smith was employed as architect, and building operations were begun in April, 1822. The church was opened in the early part of 1823, and Mr Gilmore's salary as pas tor was fixed at £100 per annum, with the stipulation by th© members that ' ' should their resources be diminished, this sum they may be obliged most reluctantly to curtail ; but a sum that, should the Almighty prosper their exertions, they will promptly and cheerfully augment." In March, 1827, it was decided to sell the chapel, an offer having been received which h was considered advantageous to accept. The building continued to be used as a place of worship, and for many years it was known to the public of a later day as Bon-Accord Fre© Church, previous to the removal of that congregation to their new premises in Rosemount Viaduct. The Baptists secured an eligible piece of ground on the south side of John Street, a few yards east from its junction with George Street, and there a new church was erected in 1829, which served the congregation for many years. Soon after entering into pos session of the new chapel, the congregation lost its first pastor. Mr. Gilmore had been impressed with the need for workers in Canada, and he resolved to accept a press ing invitation he had received from Mon treal. Of Mr. Gilmore not much is known, but it is evident that under him the church 272 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN was united and harmonious, and his touch ing letter of farewell could only have been penned by a man of high-toned character and spiritual sensitiveness. After various ineffectual calls and a suc cession of preachers on probation, Mr. Thomas Pottinger, of Bradford Academy, wa6 invited tc the pastorate, and, having intimated his acceptance, he was formally ordained on 5th June, 1832. His stay was, however, of short duration. In January, 1834, he announced his resignation of the pastorate "on account of the want of suc cess in attracting a congregation, as well as on account of the existing unpleasant John Street Baptist Church. state of the church itself." Mr. Alexander Hay, of Bristol Academy, was the next pastor, but he fared no better than his predecessor, and in less than a year he also resigned. The church was now in financial as well as other difficulties, and the outlook was not promising. Some of the members favoured the idea of carrying on the work for a season without a pastor, and even in Mr. Hay's time overtures for union (which were rejected) were made to th© Scotch Baptists, then worshipping in Silver Street. After Mr. Hay's departure, the services were continued, but the mem bers gradually dwindled away, and at tempts to secure another pastor having failed, it was agreed to dissolve the church; and on 17th .February, 1837, the dissolution took place. In the end of the same year Mr. A. M. Stalker, a student of Bradford College, came to Aberdeen for the sake of his health, and partly to see what prospect there might be of forming another Baptist Church on similar principles to those of the church formerly in existence. Mr. Stalker conducted services first in Massie's Hall, Union Street, and afterwards in Con cert Hall, Broad Street, and in course of time a requisition was presented to him to undertake the formation of a church, the requisition being accompanied with a re commendation in favour of again obtaining the John Street Chapel. On 13th May, 1838, the church was constituted, seven persons being present in addition to Mr. Stalker ; the old chapel was once more secured, and on 17th July, 1839, Mr. Stalker was ordained to the pastorate, Mr. Kennedy, of Blackfriars Street Indepen dent Chapel, taking part in the service. In June, 1840, Mr. Stalker was compelled to resign on account of ill-health, and Mr. Pledge, of Stepney College, was elected his successor in September, 1842. Mr. Pledge made a longer stay than his pre decessors, but in May, 1849, after a long spell of ill-health, he had to announce his resignation, and follow Mr. Stalker to the more genial south. On the recommenda tion of the Rev. S. J. Davis, of the English Baptist Home Missionary Society, Mr. John Price, of Bristol College, was invited to Aberdeen for a few weeks, and his ser vices proving acceptable, he was offered a call to the pastorate. Mr. Price accepted, and his ordination took place on -31st August, 1851. After two years' experience of the work, Mr. Price became discouraged with the few additions to the membership and the small attendances at worship, and he resigned the pastorate, afterwards ac cepting a call to Weymouth. Mr. Davis again came to the help of the church, and on his recommendation, Mr. Perkins, minister of the church at Battle, in Sussex. was asked to preach, with a view to elec tion to the vacancy. Mr. Perkins gave satisfaction, and he accepted a unanimous invitation to the pastorate, his settlement taking place in October, 1853. Lack of success still followed the church even under a minister of experience, for in October, 1654 — exactly one year after Mr. Perkin's arrival in Aberdeen — it had to be intimated to him that, in consequence of the low CROWN TERRACE BAPTIST CHURCH 273 state of th© church funds, the church could not guarantee his salary at th© same rate beyond other six months. Mr. Perkins left at the ©nd of March, 1855. Then followed one of the most interesting periods in the history of the church. A call was ad dressed to Mr. George S. Mee, of Nar- berth, Pembrokeshire, who had then com pleted his studies at Glasgow. Mr. Me© accepted th© call, and arrived in Aberdeen to take up the work on 3rd July, 1857. He was ordained to th© ministry on 26th November, the service being largely at- tended, and the following ministers taking part, viz. — Mr. Watson, Edinburgh ; Mr. Williams, Glasgow ; Mr. Anderson, Old Aberdeen, and Mr. David Arthur, of Bel mont Street Independent Chapel. Rev. George S. Mee. Rev. Georg© S. Me© was a man of excep tional parts, and he was, perhaps, the first of their ministers to give th© Baptists visi bility in Aberdeen. Th© short pastorates and th© many changes told against the con gregation, and, while earnest men had filled the pulpit, none of them wer© of out standing power. Mr. Mee, however, was of another stamp. He was a man of ex ceptional ability — cultured, versatile, and powerful. As a preacher he was strikingly original, , perhaps rather advanced in his views for the times, and of marked inde pendence of mind. He soon attracted at tention in Aberdeen, and thoughtful men from other churches began to find their- way to John Street Chapel. Amongst those who came under his spell wer© Mr. William M'Combie, of the "Free Press," and Mr. James Macdonell, then a young man beginning his career in Aberdeen, and afterwards prominently associated with the "Times.'' Sir W. Robertson Nicoll, in his biography of Macdonell, refers to Mr. Mee's influence over the young journalist. Macdonell wrote to his friends in glowing terms of the preacher h© had discovered, and after he left Aberdeen on© of his re grets, even in a city of preachers, was that he had no longer the privilege of hearing Mr. Me©. A literary society was formed in connection with John Street Chapel, which attracted many of the more intel lectual of th© younger men in the city, and Macdonell was for a tim© one of its leading figures. An era of prosperity had appar ently dawned for th© church, but by and by evidences of friction again became ap parent. Mr. Me© unfortunately got into conflict with som© of his deacons. Som© controversy of a painful nature followed, and ultimately, on 9th November, 1862, he tendered his resignation. After severing his connection with the church, he con tinued for som© time to conduct services in th© Ball Room of th© Music Hall Buildings, where h© preached to crowded audiences every Sunday. The movement was under the management of a committe© composed of admirers belonging to various denomina tions, and the audiences, it has been said, were in a certain sense worthy of being compared, in intellectual earnestness and ability, to those found at a later period in St. Paul Street E.U. Church during the ministry of Principal Fairbairn. Mr. Mee afterwards received an appointment on the staff of th© "Dundee Advertiser," and entered on a literary career. On the 30th September, 1863, the vacancy in the pastorate at John Street was filled by th© settlement of Rev. Stephen J. Davis, of London. The mem bership increased under his ministry, but on 6th December, 1865, h© accepted a call from Bath Street Church, Glasgow, and was succeeded at John Street by Mr. Clarence Chambers, of Romsey, Hants. Another Baptist congregation had by this time been formed in th© city, and was meeting for worship in Ross's Hall, George Street, under Dr. Anderson, of the Gym nasium, Old Aberdeen. Dr. Anderson was a man of distinct individuality and great force of character, and was a well-known personality in th© city. (His career is more fully detailed in the article on Oldmachar U.F. Church.) During Mr. Chambers's ministry the John Street and Georg© Street congregations w©r© drawing closer togeth©r in mutual understanding, and in course of time a union was satis factorily effected, the two congregations worshipping in the John Street Church, 274 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN with Dr. Anderson as pastor. Ultimately it was decided to secure a successor to undertake the burden of the work, Dr. Anderson retaining the position of minister-emeritus. In 1879 the Rev. W. Stewart Chedburn, of Berwick- on-Tweed, received an invitation to the pastorate, which he accepted, and here he still remains as minister of Crown Terrace Church, to which the congregation re moved from John Street. The church in Crown Terrace, which was opened on 3rd February, 1870, by Rev. Dr. Culroes, of Stirling, was noticeable for its campanile — th© only one in Aberdeen prior to the erection of Melville U.F. Church. Rev. W. S. Chedburn. Mr. Chedburn was a native of Edin burgh, and he studied for a term at Edin burgh University, and afterwards for five years at Rawdon College, then under the presidency of Dr. Ackworth and Dr. Green. He was ordained at Berwick-on-Tweed in 1868, and there he carried on successful work for 11 years, being associated in many evangelical and social movements in the community, first with the late Principal Cairns, and afterwards with the late Dr. John Smith, of Broughton Place Church, Edinburgh, both of whom were at different times his fellow-ministers in the town. Mr. Chedburn held th© record as a, Baptist minister in Aberdeen. If his predecessors came and stayed but for a little time, he made up for ' their deficiencies, having spent nearly thirty years in the pastorate of Crown Terrace Church. Mr. Chedburn was well known in Aberdeen as an earnest evangelical preacher, a sympathetic supporter of every good work, and, last but not least, a man of warm heart, with a kindly outlook on life. It can be seen that the history of the Baptists in Aberdeen has not been charac terised by unvarying success. The vicis situdes and misfortunes of the early part of their history were enough to wreck the best cause, and it must have been largely owing to the fine type of laymen who were at the head of affairs that the church came through so trying an ordeal. There have been many noble Baptists in Aberdeen — men of high standing in the community, and of strong religious convictions. One of the deacons in the early day6 was that influential and estimable citizen, Mr. David Macallan, of the firm of Messrs. Allan and Macallan. Mr. George Cornwall, printer, was also prominently connected with the church, and Mr. M'Combie's relation to it has already been referred to. Mr. A. C. Barker was a deacon, and for several yeare secretary, and there were none mor© de voted and more honoured than Mr. James Crichton, of Sandilands, Mr. Alexander Gibb, and his brother, Mr. John Gibb. In the present day Mr. John Gibb, jun., is church secretary. Within recent years Crown Terrace Church has done something in the way of church extension. Two new churches in the city have sprung from it — Gilcomston Park Church, formed in 1886, largely through the financial help of the late Mr. John Stewart of Banchory, and Union Grove Church, formed in 1892. It would b© incorrect to say that these are th© out come of disruptions — it has rather been in each case a "hiving off," and the three congregations are on excellent terms with each other. That the parent church has not suffered numerically is proved. by the statement that when Mr. Chedburn came, in 1879, the membership was 279, while to day, even after all th© transplanting, it is about 350. Crown Terrace Church has always been •distinguished for its warm Christian atmo sphere, and it is not surprising that it has nurtured a number of ministers. Among its sons in the ministry there may b© men tioned Rev. A. D. Garrow, of Waterfoot ; Rev. J. L. Harvey, of Berwick ; Rev, Joseph Farquhar, of Blackburn ; Rev. C. S. CROWN TERRACE BAPTIST CHURCH 275 Morgan, of Liverpool ; and Rev. A. Grant Gibb, of Gilcomston Park, Aberdeen ;¦ while the church has also given on© of its young men to the noble army of martyrs in the Rev. W. A. M'Currach, who fell in the Chinese massacres. In its various organisations and agencies th© church has done good work. It has been specially prominent in its support of th© Christian Endeavour movement. Mr. Chedburn had th© honour of having intro duced Christian Endeavour in the north, for it is worthy of mention that th© Crown Terrace Society was th© first to be regis tered in Scotland. In aggressive work the church is still well represented. It has to be noted, however, that the measure of the work carried on by th© church officially, or in its name, does not adequately repre sent the measure of th© work of its mem bers. It is noticeable that members of Crown Terrace ar© prominently identified with various undenominational missions in different parts of the city, and while this may b© highly creditable to their own earnestness and zeal, it may not be alto gether conducive to th© strengthening of the church. The fact is noted merely to show that, in seeking to estimate th© in fluence of Crown Terrace Church as a reli gious fore© in th© community, it would b© manifestly unfair to restrict the vi©w solely to operations which centre in the church buildings. Mr. Chedburn di©d on 10th May, 1909, and his death was mourned by the congregation he had served so long and faithfully and by a wide circle of friends in th© general community. Th© vacancy in th© pastorate of Crown Terrace Church was .filled by th© appointment of Rev. Forbes Jackson, M.A., Principal of Harley College, London, who accepted a unani mous call which had been addressed to him by th© congregation. The strain and struggle of early years, with the steady alternation of sunshine and shadow, have been forgotten in the hap pier circumstances of to-day. Now the church has an assured position, and to the present members th© lines have fallen in pleasant places, and they have entered on a goodly heritage. Rev. Forbes Jackson, M.A. LXV1I— GILCOMSTON PARK BAPTIST CHURCH. Gilcomston Park Baptist Church. This chuTch owes its inception to the lat© Mr. John Stewart of Banchory House, the father of Sir David Stewart. Mr. Stewart was an ardent Baptist, and for a number of yeare he had a strong desire to see another Baptist Church founded in Aberdeen, particularly in some populous, central district. In the initial stag© of the negotiations, Rev. J. T. Hagen, of Dunfermline, who was at one time minister of Academy Street (Scotch) Baptist Church, Aberdeen, was associ ated with Mr. Stewart as one of his oldest and most trusted friends, and he was at least indirectly helpful in starting the cause. Mr. Hagen approached Mr. Robert Law, at Mr. Stewart's request, and laid his proposals before him, in order to se© if he could get at least half-a-dozen to join him in taking up the matter. Mr. Law agreed, and those who became as sociated with him were Messrs William Ritchie, John Gammie, John Carnie, James Morgan, John Allan, and George Scott. At a conference with Mr. Stewart, held at Banchory House, it was decided to go forward. It had been arranged to invite Rev. Alexander Bisset, M.A., then at Kirk caldy, to lead the new movement. Mr. Bisset had formerly been a well-known minister of the Fre© Church in Aberdeen shire, and it was felt that he had special qualifications for this particular work. A graduate of Aberdeen University, and a student of New College, Edinburgh, he had been ordained as minister of Rhynie Free Church, from which he was called to the pastorate of the Free South Church, Peterhead. There he accom plished good work until his views on baptism underwent a change, when he re signed his pastorate, severed his connec tion with the Free Church, and joined the Baptists. Soon after he became minister of Whyte's Causeway Baptist Church, Kirkcaldy, where he remained until he received the invitation from Mr. Stewart and thos© acting with him, to come to Aberdeen to undertake th© raising of the new Baptist Church. Th© first service was held on Sunday, 17th October, 1886, in the Northern Friendly Society's Hall — Mr Bisset officiating. From the very outset a con siderable measure of success attended the movement. In view of the progress, the services were transferred to Ross's Hall, George Street, where, curiously enough, another Baptist congregation, which was subsequently merged in Crown Terrace Church, had been originated twenty years previously by Dr. Anderson, of the Gymnasium. On 26th January, 1887, the members formed themselves into a church under the name of Georg© Street Baptist Mission Church, with a roll of 34 names. So far, all had gone well with the infant cause, but just when the formation of th© new congregation was realised the death occurred of the original promoter of th© movement. Mr. Stewart's removal at so critical a juncture was a staggering blow to thos© whom he had induced to take up the cause, and when it was found that his death involved the withdrawal of considerable financial aid, the outlook was not of the brightest. Those at the head of affairs resolved, however, to make the best of the situation as they found it, and, conscious of the strength of their claim, they appealed te the Baptist Union for assistance. In view of the record of ag gressive work accomplished, and of the prospects of future development, the GILCOMSTON PARK BAPTIST CHURCH 277 Union voted an annual grant, which not only took the church out of its difficulty for th© time, but was continued as long as it was required. Th© promise of development was abundantly realised in the immediately succeeding years. From the first the con gregation was of a decidedly evangelistic type, and it readily attracted those with evangelistic leanings and in sympathy with aggressive work. In three years the membership reached 215. In 1893 ;th© number on th© roll was 301, th© total ad ditions since the beginning being 394, of whom 288 represented a clear gain to the denomination. This will indicate the nature of th© work carried on, and the extent to which it prospered. In May, 1893, Ross's Hall had to be vacated, as it was then required for busi ness purposes, and the congregation, after seven years' absence, returned to the Northern Friendly Society's Hall. This, however, was merely a temporary arrangement, as it was felt that a per manent building in a suitable locality had becom© an absolute necessity. With a fine sense of selection — a selection homo logated in a few years by other two con gregations building churches closely ad joining — a site was secured in Giloom ston Park, near its junction with Rose mount Viaduct. The foundation stone of the church was laid on 15th November, 1893, by Mrs. Georg© Thompson, yost. of Pitmedden, a daughter of Mr. Stewart, th© founder of the congregation. The in terest of the Stewart family in the move ment was further emphasised by the handsome presentations made by Mrs. Thompson of part of the furniture and fittings of th© church. The building — English Gothic in character, and designed by Messrs Brown and Watt, architects — has a neat and tasteful appearance. It has accommodation for 600, and was erected at a cost of -£3000, and opened for public worship by Rev. Dr. Landels, of Edinburgh, in October, 1894. In the new premises, amply provided with suitable classroom accommodation, work was con tinued on the old lines, numerous evangelistic services and open-air meetings being special features. The progress now was less marked than in the early years of the church, but much earnest effort was expended. The history proceeded al most without incident until 1902, when Mr. Bisset resigned the pastorate. H© had rendered excellent service, more particularly in th© early years of the church's existence, and his work was fittingly recognised by th© members and friends before he left Aberdeen. A man of strong evangelical leanings, uncom promising to a degree in his attitude on matters both of creed and conduct, it was, perhaps, the case that his extreme and rigid views somewhat overshadowed in the public mind his real ability. Yet his adherence to his principles and his faithful work were apparent to all, whether they agreed with him or not. Mr. Bisset afterwards became minister of the church at Alexandria, where he laboured until his death in 1908. After Mr. Bisset's resignation, Rev. A. Grant Gibb, M.A., took charge of the congregation for some tim©, and ultimately he accepted a unanimous and pressing invitation to undertake the pastorate. Mr. Gibb is a native of Aber deen. He is the elder son of the late Mr. Alexander Gibb (of Messrs J. and A. Gibb), who long occupied a prominent position in the religious life of the city, and was one of the leading office-bearers of Crown Terrace Baptist Church. Educated first at the Gymnasium, Old Aberdeen, Mr. Gibb passed to th© Univer sity of his native city, where he graduated in 1881, taking a high place in the Greek and Humanity classes. On leaving col lege he was for six years engaged in business in his father's firm, but he felt drawn to th© ministry, and eventually re sumed his studies. A course in natural science at Aberdeen University was fol lowed by th© study of Divinity in New College, Edinburgh, where he took a lead ing place in several classes. At th© com pletion of his curriculum, Mr. Gibb ac cepted a unanimous call to th© oversight of a pioneer Baptist cause then newly started in Limerick. Within two years a church was built at a cost of £2400, and opened free of debt, the proceeds being entirely the freewill offerings of the people. In addition to his pastoral work, Mr. Gibb found time to conduct missions in various parts of Ireland, and h© also laboured among the large garrison of Limerick, and the sailors of the port. In 1897 he was president of the Baptist Union of Ireland, and he lectured on Pastoral Theology in the Pastors' Train ing Colleg© in Dublin. In 1901 his voice broke down under the strain, and, acting under medical advice, he took five months' entire rest, and visited Egypt, Palestine, and Syria. Coming back thoroughly re stored, he devoted himself for several 278 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN months to evangelistic work throughout Scotland, and during this time was ap proached by several vacant churches. All these were declined, but the invitation of Gilcomston Park Church was accepted, and Mr. Gibb entered on the pastorate in 1902. Rev. A. Grant Gibb, M.A. Since then the church has enjoyed pro sperity, the membership having almost doubled, and the finances being in a satis factory condition. The congregation carries on a great deal of evangelistic work in th© open-air, lodging-houses, etc., and has also a mission hall in Baker Street, while ther© are likewise two large Sunday Schools in connection with the church. Gilcomston Park Church has always been more or less associated with- revival movements. From its earliest days in George Street, the congregation made these a special feature. When th© Welsh revival was at its height, Mr. Gibb visited several of the districts most deeply affected, and on his return some of th© methods in operation in Wales were intro duced in connection with his own con gregation. The Church Hall was thrown open for prayer twice a day, and meetings were held every night of the week. On Saturdays a special effort has been made to reach "the man in the street." An open-air service is held in Correction Wynd, the singing being accompanied by the organ and other instruments, several lady workers meantinie visiting the public- houses (where they ar© well received) dis tributing tracts and invitations. After nine o'clock the open-air workers march to the church, whith©r they attract a company, chiefly men and youths, number ing generally about 300. A free cup of tea is supplied, and Gospel addresses are then delivered by Mr. Gibb and other city ministers (many of whom have given aid in this way), and the proceedings last from 9.30 till near midnight, and sometimes even beyond it. This work has been at tended by a measure of success which has far exceeded the expectations of the workers. Many remarkable cases are cited, and several who were formerly the slaves of drink hav© been reclaimed through the instrumentality of these gatherings, and are now members of th© church, and among its most active workers. In course of its history the church has given many of its sons and daughters te active service in the foreign mission field, over twenty members having gone forth as missionaries to different parts of the world, while there are several in charges at home. Amongst these who are in the ministry the names may be mentioned of Rev. David Barron, of Portsea; Rev. D. D. Smith, of Grantown-on-Spey ; and Rev. Charles Morgan, of Clare, Suffolk. The foreign missionaries belonging to the congregation include Rev. William and Mrs. Emslie, Rev. George and Mrs Gibb, Rev. James and Mrs. Neave, Rev. J. and Mrs. Horobin, and Rev. T. W. Begg, all of China; Rev. Joseph and Mrs. Clark and Mrs. George Harvey, of the Congo; Rev. A. and Mrs. Stephen, of Assam; Miss Ellis, of Morocco; Miss Lochhead, of Algeria ; and Miss Stewart, of Smyrna. Dr. Mary Biss©t (a daughter of Rev. Alexander Bisset) is an agent of the Bap tist Missionary Society ; and Miss Forrest, Lonmay, is also in India. With so many who claim its interest in distant climes, Giloomston Park Church, even with all its absorption in aggressive work in its own immediate sphere, is not likely to forget the greater world outside, and in th© day6 to come it may not only be an evangelical force in the city of Aberdeen, but also a nursery for workers to the regions beyond. LXVIII.— UNION GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH. Union Grove Baptist Church. After the Baptists in Aberdeen had, through the instrumentality of Mr. John Stewart of Banchory, founded a new con gregation in George Street, ther© was, on the part of several of the members of Crown Terrace Church, a feeling that something should b© attempted in the west end. Accordingly, a movement was set on foot, which resulted in th© forma tion of the congregation at Union Grove. Th© leader in this Church extension movement in the west end of the city was Mr. James Crichtonj Sandilands Chemical Works, a man well known and highly respected in all religi ous circles in the city. Mr. Crichton, while a prominent worker in the Y.M.C.A. and other undenominational agencies, was an ardent Baptist, and took a warm in terest in all th© affairs of the body, ultimately rising to the post of president of the Baptist Union of Scotland. His interest in the principles of the body was such that he bequeathed a fund of £1000, the interest of which is devoted to reward ing th© best paper on Baptist principles, the competition being open to all Baptist ministers in Scotland, and the prize ten able for two years. H© was enthusiastic in his advocacy of the need of an educated ministry, and he was a lover of books, leaving a number of valuable volumes to th© church. In seeking to found a new cause in th© western district of th© city he was actively supported by Mr. A. C. Barker, and among others prominently identified with the inception of th© move ment wer© — Mr. John Raffan and Mr. Alexander Watt and Mr. John Grant, of Messrs. Watt and Grant. A site was secured in Union Grove, but it was de cided to defer for a tim© the erection of a church, and be content to begin the services in a hall. The part of the feu facing Union Grove was, therefore, left vacant until such time as the scheme could be completed, and only the northern portion of the ground was utilised. On it a building was erected capable of serving, in the first instance, th© purposes of a place of worship, and of being ultimately used as a church hall. Th© structure cost about £1500, and was opened in August, 1892, by Rev. Dr. Landels, of London. Th© whole of the necessary sum was raised, with th© exception of £300 lent from th© Baptist Building Fund ; but this-loan was soon repaid. Th© next step in the matter was the election of a minister, and this resulted in a call being addressed to Rev. S. G. Woodrow, formerly of Kettering. The invitation was accepted, and the pro moters of the new cause considered them selves fortunate in securing a pastor with so high a reputation and so extensive and varied an experience. Mr. Woodrow is a son of the late Rev. G. Woodrow, of Gloucester, a Baptist minister highly esteemed in his day. After working for several years as a clerk, he entered Regent's Park College as a student for th© ministry, and passed through the usual curriculum with credit, taking a high position in logic and ethics. In 1864, Mr. Woodrow ac cepted the pastorate of th© Baptist Church at Halstead, Essex, where he laboured with acceptance and success for 6ix years. After leaving Halstead, he went to America, and th© next ten years were spent in work in the United States, chiefly in Providence and Buffalo. In consequence of domestic affliction and bereavement, h© decided to return to Eng land, and shortly afteT his arrival, in th© summer of 1880, h© was called to the church at Wokingham, Berks. After five years' work there, he removed to under take the pastorate of Charlotte Street Chapel, Edinburgh. In 1888 a cordial in vitation was sent to Mr. Woodrow from 280 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN the Fuller Baptist Church, Kettering, one of the historical churches of the de nomination, with a larg© and influential and vigorous congregation, but after a time th© strain taxed his health, and, acting on medical advice, he resigned the pastorate. Retiring to Bristol, his time was devoted to literary work and preach ing engagements. While thus engaged, Rev. S. G.gWoodrow. the invitation cam© to him from Aber deen to undertake the care of the infant congregation at Union Grove, and, after consideration of all th© circumstances, he decided to accept the call, and his ministry opened on th© third Sunday in January, 1893. When Mr. Woodrow came to Aberdeen there were about 25 members in connection with the Union Grove Church, and, with these as a nucleus, he began his efforts to build up a new congregation. The progress in numbers was by no means phenomenal. During the first year 28 new members were added, and the in crease has continued year by year at a moderate rate. Th© additions actually made to the membership did not, how ever, entirely represent the progress of the church. From the very first a con siderable amount of earnest work was carried on by the minister and his people. The Sunday School was very successful from the start, and it continues to be one of the most prosperous and useful agencies of the church. Soon after Mr. Wood- row's settlement, a Christian Endeavour Society was instituted. The Band of Hope is attended by crowded audiences of children drawn not merely from the congregation, but also very largely from the densely populated districts in the immediate vicinity of the church. Another agency which appeals to the peopl© of the locality, and has proved the means of reaching not a few of them, is the Mothers' Meeting, which has always been highly appreciated. The Bible Class in connection with the Sunday School, which was so successfully conducted by Mr. Crichton, is now in charge of Mr. Alex ander Watt, J.P. Mr. Woodrow worked ably and zealously in building up the congregation at Union Grove, and his preaching gifts have like wise been appreciated in the pulpits of other denominations. He also found time for some outside work, and to him be longed the credit of having founded the Deaf and Dumb Benevolent Society in Aberdeen. He has contributed to various journals and magazines, and some years ago he published a volume of sermons under the title of "Christian Verities." In 1907 Mr. Woodrow retired from the pastorate of Union Grove Church, but he has continued te reside in Aberdeen. He has been almost constantly engaged in giving pulpit supply, and has acted as ' ' locum tenens ' ' in several Presbyterian churches. The vacancy in Union Grove Church was filled by the appointment of Rev. R. Birch Hoyle, A.T.S., whose induction took place on 7th January, 1908, the ser vice on the occasion being conducted by Rev. J. E. Roberts, B.D., of Manchester, the successor of Dr. Alexander Maclaren. Mr. Hoyle was a distinguished student of Regent's Park College, London, his suc cesses including second with honours and prizeman for the A.T.S. degree, the only Divinity degree open to students of Non conformist Colleges until 1902, when Lon don University conferred the B.D. In 1900 Mr. Hoyle was called to be paster of the church at Sudbury, Suffolk, wh©re he soon took a prominent part in public affairs, notably in connection with the education controversy. His speeches at UNION GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH 281 Rev. R. Birch Hoyle. the National Conference on education at Newcastle in 1903 and at the Memorial Hall, London, in 1905, brought him into public notice, and an address which he gave at the Baptist Union meetings at Derby caused a sensation at the time. But controversial work did not occupy all his time. He visited Wales when th© revival movement was at its height, and carried something of its fervour into his own church. On his retirement from the pastorate at Sudbury on account of a, breakdown in health, he received many marks of public esteem. For th© next year he travelled in Italy and North Africa recruiting his strength. Sometime after his return he received the call to Union Grove Church, which, notwith standing other inducements, h© decided to accept. Mr. Hoyle is a man of virile intellect; and h© has expository gifts of no mean order. Of social, as well as of political, questions he has been a keen student, and as a speaker he is trenchant and vigorous. Sine© his settlement in Aberdeen he has appeared on various public platforms, and has taken a special interest in pol itical affairs. At Union Grove Church the audiences have been growing largely, especially in the evenings, when th© place is practically filled. A con siderable number of students ar© to be found in the congregation, and their presence may be taken as an evidence of th© impression made by Mr. Hoyle's preaching on th© thoughful and educated young people. A special feature is made of the week night service oil Wed nesday evenings. The aim is to touch on moral and religious questions which may be considered hardly suitable for mixed Sunday congregations, and the services have attracted not a few prominent Christian workers from other churches. The outlook of the congregation generally was never so bright as it is at present ; a spirit of unity and hopefulness in the hearts of the people auguring well for the future. Yet to many it will un doubtedly appear that the founders of the congregation — wise and far-seeing and zealous as they were — may have erred in building a hall and leaving a church un built. They may have had practically no choice in the matter, and yet it must now seem as if they had begun at the wrong end. Whatever the sacrifice and the burden involved in the effort, it is unlikely that the congregation will ever reach the stag© of development or attain the position in the community it might other wise expect until it proceeds with the erection of a church worthy of the district and of the denomination. Mr. James Crichton. EPISCOPAL CHURCH IN SCOTLAND. Right Rev. Rowland Ellis, D J)., Bishop of Aberdeen and Orkney. LXIX.— ST. ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. St. Andrew's has always been regarded as the leading Episcopal congregation in the city of Aberdeen. It owes something of its reputation in this respect to the antiquity of its origin, but that, of itself, would have been insufficient to give it a foremost place. It has been fortunate in having th© adherence and support of a very large and influential body of members, and it has been particularly fortunate in its clergy. From the fact of having had three Bishops at different times in its in cumbency, it came to be known as ' ' the Bishop's Church," and it has also been frequently spoken of in an informal and unofficial manner as the pro-Cathedral of the Diocese. The congregation was founded soon after the Insurrection of 1715 by the Rev. Andrew Jaffray, who had formerly been minister at Alford, th© first meeting-place being in a house at the back of the Tol- booth. On Mr. Jaffray's death in 1730, ho was succeeded by Rev. James Miln ; and in 1735 Mr. Miln was succeeded by Rev. William Smith. During Mr. Smith's in cumbency the meeting-place was changed to Concert Court, and afterwards to a dwelling-house within a close on the west side of Guestrow. During the time of per secution in 1746, all the Episoopal meeting houses were burned — Mr. Smith's chapel (then probably in Concert Court) being gutted and destroyed. Mr. Smith died in 1774, and was succeeded in the following year by Rev. John Skinner, after wards th© well-known Bishop John Skinner. Mr. Skinner was a son of Rev. John Skinner, Longside, who became well known as the historian of the Church, but perhaps even better known as the author of " Tullochgorum." Soon after the settlement of Bishop Skinner, the congregation had so greatly ST. ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 283 St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. increased that a new meeting-place became an absolute necessity. A house in Long- acre was secured, and the Bishop fitted up the two upper floors for the chapel, the under floor being reserved for himself and his family. It was in this building that a great event took place — an event ever memorable in th© annals of Episcopacy in Aberdeen. On Sunday, 14th November, 1784, th© chapel was the seen© of the con secration of Dr. Samuel Seabury as the first Bishop of th© United States of America. In 1884 the Seabury Centenary was cele brated by special services, which attracted widespread attention ; and it may be men tioned that every year brings tourists from America to visit the historic church in Aberdeen which is the present-day repre sentative of th© " Upper Room " in Bishop Skinner's Chapel in Longacre. Soon after the repeal of the penal laws, the continued increase of the Bishop's congregation re quired the erection of another new place of worship, and a chapel was erected in Long- acre, on the sit© of the former dwelling- house. It was named St. Andrew's Chapel , and was opened for service on Sunday, 13th September, 1795. In it, on the 19th and 20th June, 1811, there met the Synod of the Scottish Episcopal Church — the only national synod of the Scottish Episoopal Church ever held in Aberdeen. (The building, which was bought by th© Wes leyan Methodists, and served as their chapel for over half a century, was eventually demolished in th© exten sion of Marischal College.) Bishop John Skinner died in 1816, during the erec tion of th© present St. Andrew's Church, which had been undertaken in order to accommodate the ever-growing congrega tion h© had gathered around him. He filled a large part in the early history of St Andrew's, and, while no on© was mor© worthy of a memorial, it has been well said that " Bishop John Skinner required no other monument to his memory than the Church which h© found in poverty, adver sity, and persecution, and which he left in unity and tranquillity." Dr. William Skinner had acted as assis tant, and latterly as colleague, to his father in the incumbency of St. Andrew's, and on his death he succeeded to the sol© charge, and afterwards to the Episcopal offic© of Bishop. His connection with St. Andrew's continued until his resignation on 1st November, 1847. After considerable delay, the Rev. Stephen Allen was appointed to the vacant charge, with Mr Wagstaff as junior incumbent; but, on account of differences of opinion regarding certain changes they had introduced in the mode of conducting part of the church service, both these clergymen resigned in 1850. On 8th October of the same year the Rev. John G. Ryde, an Oxford first-class man, was appointed to the sole incumbency. Mr. Ryde held office until 27th July, 1855, when he resigned in order to obtain a less labori ous charge, and for other private reasons. A successor was found in the person of the Rev. Dr. Suther, then of St. George's Old St. Andrew's Episcopal Church, Longacre, 284 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Church, Edinburgh, whose lengthened and fruitful connection with St. Andrew's Church and with th© city and diocese of Aberdeen then began. In 1857 he was elected to the bishopric on the death of Bishop William Skinner. During Bishop Suther's incumbency a notable event took place in the consecration of St. Andrew's Church. The building was opened for worship on 27th July, 1817, but, in conse quence of the heavy debt incurred in its erection, it could not then be consecrated. The original cost of the church was about £8000, of which only about £3000 was paid, leaving a debt of £5000, which it took over 40 years to liquidate. In 1858 the debt was cleared off, and steps were taken for purchasing the feu-duty and raising other £300 for the improvement of the interior of the church. These projects having been successfully accomplished, the consecration of the church took place on Tuesday, 23rd August, 1864. Through the good offices of the late Sir Alexander Anderson, at that time Lord Provost of Aberdeen, the Arch bishop of York (Dr. Thomson) accepted the invitation of the Bishop to take part in the consecration and preach the sermon. This gave a special significance to the occasion, as being the first time in Aberdeen an English prelate had taken an active part in the services of the Scottish Church. ¦ In consequence of failing health, Bishop Suther resigned the incumbency on 13th February, 1879, to the general regret of the congregation. During the 24 years he held the charge, his ministrations were highly esteemed, and to the afflicted and distressed he was ever a kind friend. A new incumbent was found in the Rev. Henry L. Greaves, of St. Andrew's Cathe dral, Inverness, whose settlement took place on 14th September, 1879. Mr. Greaves took up with much energy a scheme, largely promoted by the late Mr. James Chivas, for a chancel, which was completed and dedicated on 12th October, 1880. On account of ill-health, Mr. Greaves resigned in 1881, and he was succeeded by the Rev. J. M. Danson, then of St. Mary's, Arbroath. Mr. Danson, in coming to St. Andrew's, yielded to strong pressure brought to bear upon him, both by Bishop Suther and the trustees, and the wisdom of their choice has become more apparent with every passing year. It is within th© mark to say that there is no more widely respected clergyman in the city of Aberdeen at the present time than the scholarly and eloquent Rector of St Andrew's. In 1907 Dr. Danson was ap pointed Dean of the Diocese of Aberdeen and Orkney in succession to Dr. Walker, his elevation to that offic© calling forth ex pressions of satisfaction and congratula tion not only from members of the Episco pal Church throughout Scotland, but also from many in other communions who had been associated with him in public life. The feelings of respect and esteem enter tained for him are by no means confined to his own communion. They are shared by all denominations, and the widespread appreciation of his culture and talents found fitting recognition when, in 1892, the University of Aberdeen conferred upon him the honorary degree of Doctor of Dean Danson. Divinity. Dean Danson was bom at Ingle- ton, in the West Riding of Yorkshire, and h© comes of an educational stock, both his father and grandfather being members of th© teaching profession. Very early in life he devoted himself with ardour to the study of literature, and this, doubtless, accounts in large measure for the immense stores of literary learning of which he is the possessor to-day, and from which he can draw -at will those apt literary allusions which impart so great a grace and charm to his public utterances. It is also said that he nursed his creative faculty by youthful contributions to the county news papers of Lancashire and Westmorland. Having taken his degree at Trinity College, Dublin, he held an assistant mastership in ST. ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 285 St. Mark's College, Chelsea, for three years, and was then appointed vice-prin cipal of the North Wales Training College, Carnarvon. In 1871 he was ordained deacon and priest by the Bishop of Bangor, and during his holidays in 1873 he took temporary charge of St. Mary's, Aberdeen. This marked the beginning of Dean Dan- son's long connection with Aberdeen, for, on the resignation of th© incumbent, he was appointed to th© charge. During the six years of his incumbency, he had the satisfaction of seeing St. Mary's raised clear above its initial difficulties, and a debt of nearly £2000 brought within measurable distance of extinction. In 1879 he was translated to St. Mary's, Arbroath, but he was only allowed to re main there for a year and a half when he was recalled to Aberdeen to take up his present charge of St. Andrew's. Thus it will be seen that, with a short interval of 18 months, Dean Danson has been con tinuously engaged in work in the city of Aberdeen for a period of over 35 years. The citizens soon learned to appreciate his worth, and to utilise his services. He was twice returned to the School Board, and, on the second occasion was elected to the chairmanship, his occupancy of that post being marked by th© intimate knowledge and wide grasp of educational affairs which have always characterised him, together with the dignified courtesy which he has ever exemplified in his public life. It would be difficult to do justice to Dean Danson's many public services. It has been well said of him that, " blessed with a genial wit and a facile and persuasive tongue, he is in much request as a speaker at all sorts of philanthropic and philosophic gather ings ; and he appears equally happy and equally at home in commending the claims of the Association for Improving the Condi tion of th© Poor, presiding over the learned deliberations of a Philosophical Society, discoursing on the prevention of cruelty to animals, enlarging on Scotland's musical abilities, or encouraging among the young the kindly treatment of domestic pets." Perhaps, however, one of the pithiest esti mates of the breadth and many-sidedness of his character was that said to have been made by a Presbyterian when Dr. Danson was leaving St. Mary's, Aberdeen, for Arbroath. "Yes," said he, "Mr. Danson will be a loss to you. He has a good head, a good heart, and a good gab. You will find men, perhaps, to equal him in any of these respects, but th© fin© balance of the combination is as rare as it is admirable." His graceful diction, his polished utterance, his genial and flowing eloquence have charmed the inhabitants of the Granite City for many years since then. In the Scottish Episcopal Church Dean Danson has for long occupied an influential place. As convener of the Board of Educa tion, an office which he held for many years, he rendered inestimable service, and for several vacant bishoprics his name has been prominently mentioned . St. Andrew's, during its long and honour able history, has had many prominent citi zens connected with it, as well as many well-known county families. The late Mr. John Smith, president of the Society of Advocates, and the late Mr. Newell Bur nett, county clerk, may be cited as repre sentative men of its past. In its present the succession is well maintained, and many names readily suggest themselves. St. Andrew's has also done not a little in rear ing and training young clergymen. Two of its own young men are at present in active service — Rev. Francis Turreff, rector of Woodhead, Fyvie, and Rev. Albert A. Turreff, of Slangham, Sussex. Both are sons of the lat© Mr. James Turreff, one of the churchwardens of St. Andrew's for many yeare. Mr. Turreff, on all matters of Episcopal Church History, was a recog nised authority, and th© History of St. Andrew's congregation, which was com piled by th© late Professor Grub to 1843, was continued by him down to recent years. A noteworthy feature of the work at St. Andrew's for many years has been the splendid day school, under Mr. T. Cooke. The St. Andrew's School has always been a large and successful one, and ther© are over 400 scholars on th© books. St. Andrew's has always been charac terised by its generous liberality. It would, indeed, liave been strange had it been otherwise. Its clergy have been men of warm and wide sympathies, and they have never failed to inculcate the grace of Christian giving. Nor has the laity failed to exhort in th© same way when occasion required. What old member of St. Andrew's does not remember good, honest George Nicolson — th© quaint simplicity of his mind, his punctual and unfailing at tendance at every kind of church gather ing, his old-fashioned airs for the violin, his sonorous responses in church, and his queer rendering of Scottish songs ? One ecclesiastical function George loved to dis charge, viz., to " carry roun' the plate" in the north aisle of St. Andrew's, where he had sat in the same pew for years on 286 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN end. His quick eye had perceived that a gentleman in the same aisle always "passed" the plate with nothing more than a profound bow. George could stand this no longer. "Come, come," said he, nudging the polite but parsimonious churchman with th© plat© on th© elbow, " let's have less o' your manners an' mair o' your siller." St. Andrew's is proud, and justifiably so, of the leading position it still occupies among the Episcopalian churches in the city, and in that position it is secure so long as it proves worthy of its great tradi tions and continues to cultivate the lofty and enlightened churchmanship by which it has always been distinguished. LXX.— ST. CLEMENT'S EPISCOPAL MISSION CHURCH. St. Clement's Episcopal Church. The founding of this church was one of the latest fruits of the singu larly fruitful life and work of the late Rev. John Comper. In the course of his eventful career, Mr. Comper displayed many striking charac teristics, but, perhaps, the foremost of them all was his enthusiasm in the service of the poor. When h© left the historic and congenial congregation of St. John's to found a mission in the Gallowgate, he gave what might have been regarded as the supreme test of his devotion to the in terests of th© lower class. Yet, a 'greater was still to come. When St. Margaret's had been founded on a sur© foundation, and raised to the status of an incumbency, Mr. Comper had no thought of resting on his laurels. H© might well have been con tent, at his advanced age, to restrict his work to the vigorous and flourishing con gregation he had been the means of raising, but his sympathy was still with those who were outside th© fold. St. Margaret's, with its advancement and progress, had become, as he expressed it, almost too re spectable, and he longed to reach lower down in the social scale. The outcome of this longing was the founding of the St. Clement's Mission. Mr. Comper turned his thoughts to the east-end of the city, and after several localities had been considered, it was re solved to begin work in th© Justice Street district. A hall — which, in the first in stance, was rented, it is said, from Rev. John Duncan, of Trinity Congregational Church — was secured at the corner of the Cowgate, and this building was opened as a mission in 1886. It was an understood rule at th© first that no on© would b© ad mitted who came in hat or bonnet— the services were designed purely for the men and women of th© streets and lanes and closes of th© surrounding district. Evi dently these were reached with consider able success, for in a year or two the work had outgrown th© limited accommodation, and Mr. Comper and his workers found it necessary to be on th© outlook for another meeting-place. About this tim© the old Fre© St. Clement's Church in Prince Regent Street was in th© market ; th© Salvation Army, who had purchased th© building from th© Free Church congregation, being then prepared to dispose of it. Th© church was bought by a near friend of Mr. Comper'e, and handed over to him, along with th© nucleus of an endowment for a mission in th© east-end. This was in ful filment of a childhood's vow, mad© on St. Clement's Day, to build a church and dedi cate it to that saint, and thus St. Clement's Episcopal Mission was founded. The church was. opened in 1889, and it now con sists of nave, aisles, and west gallery, the side aisles having been built and several alterations and repairs carried out in October, 1900. For some tim© after th© opening of the mission-room in Justice Street, th© whole responsibility for the conduct of the ser vices was born© by Mr. Comper, assisted by Rev. H. C. Williams and Rev. J. M. Fergus, curates of St Margaret's. On 3rd June, 1887, Rev. Samuel C. Smyth entered on his duties as priest-in-charg© of th© mission, and thereafter the work was carried on under his leadership. Mr. Smyth saw the mission transferred from its first quarters and founded in Prince Regent Street, and he laboured with great zeal and much ac ceptance on its behalf. His connection 288 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. J. R. Cormack. with St. Clement's continued for nearly seven years. In 1894 he left for New castle, where he died at a comparatively early age. Mr. Smyth was a man of superior gifts and graces, and he left be hind him a good record of earnest and self- denying work well performed. He did much for St. Clement's in its early days, and his memory is warmly cherished by the older members of the congregation. In April, 1894, Mr. Smyth was succeeded at St Clement's by Rev. E. W. Haswell, who had ' formerly held curacies at Dumfries and Glasgow. Mr. Haswell maintained the work in all its branches, but his connection with the congregation lasted only for two years, his departure being hastened by the failure of his wife's health. He became rector of St. Columba's, Lonmay, in May, 1896, and two years thereafter he was ap pointed curate in All Saints', Edinburgh, and subsequently removed to England. Rev. R. C. Ross, who had come to Aber deen in 1896 as curate in St. Margaret's, frequently officiated in St. Clement's, and in 1898 he was appointed priest-in-charge of the mission. A man of much energy and vigour, he considerably developed the practical side of the work during his con nection with the congregation. On leav ing in March, 1902, he went for a voyage round the world, and in 1903 became curate in St. Dunstan's, Stepney. In September, 1902, Rev. A. N. Vowler came to St. Clement's, after four years' work as curate in the church of St. Michael, Shoreditch. Mr. Vowler entered on his duties with good prospects, and he soon gained the esteem of the people. Almost from the outset, however, he was handicapped by ill-health, and it became evident that he would be unable to stand the climate. This led to his resignation in November, 1903 — little more than a year after his settlement — and he afterwards became assistant chaplain of All Saints' Convent, Colney Chapel. Mr. Vowler was succeeded by Rev. J. R. Cormack, who was more of a Scotsman by education and training than the majority of his predecessors. He studied at the University of Edinburgh, and, after com pleting his arts course, entered the Edin burgh Theological College in 1892. He took a good place in all his classes, and came out third in the Preliminary Theolo gical examination. H© was curate of St. James's, Cupar, from 1894 to 1897, and then removed to England, where he held a similar position at Kirby Misperton, for three years, from 1898 to 1901. On re turning to Scotland, he served for three years as curate in St. Peter's, Kirkcaldy, until his appointment to St. Clement's, in March, 1904. Mr. Cormack proved an earnest and enlightened worker, and in every way he earned the confidence of the people. In 1909 h© retired from the position, and was succeeded by Rev. R. Walker Watt, M.A , rector of Ecclesfield, in the diocese of York. Mr. Watt is a graduate of Aberdeen University, and before going to Ecclesfield in 1906, he was for some years rector of St. Matthew's, Oldmeldrum. The lay elector of St. Clement's is Mr. Alexander Latto, and the lay representative Mr. John Milne. Several of the members have a long con- Rev, R. Walker Watt, M.A, ST. CLEMENT'S EPISCOPAL MISSION CHURCH 289 nection with th© congregation. Mr. Alexander Smith, who acted as sac ristan, was on© of th© original mem bers of the mission in Justice Street, having been intimately associated with Mr. Comper in the steps that were necessary to secure the first mission-room, as well as in th© movement which led to the acquisition of the present churoh. Th© work of the congregation is being prosecuted with unceasing earnestness, and latterly it has been directed more ©specially on social lines. The district has not been improving, but rather the revere©, and it was felt that something required to be done to meet the slum conditions, which were increasingly prevalent. Social clubs were instituted for the purpose of reaching the young, and now there is the Guild of the Good Shepherd for boys, and the Guild of St. Mary the Virgin for girls, while those of a more advanced age are drawn to the girls' sewing class. One of the most suc cessful of all the agencies has been the Working Lads' Association, which, by means of its social and recreative functions, has attracted a considerable number of the youths of the district. The more elderly membere of the community are also cared for. A mothers' meeting is regularly con ducted, and the Sisters of St. Margaret's, who have taken an active part from the outset, continue to work in the district on behalf of the church. St. Clement's will ever be associated with th© memory of Father Comper, to whose passion for humanity and power of initia tive it owes its existence. Through the course of its history the Comper family" have likewis© given generous and practical help to the church, and it has had numer ous sympathisers among a wider public. St. Clement's worthily represents Episco- palianism in the east-end of th© city, and it may be said to have justified its existence by the manner in which it is touching at many points the life of the people whom it was designed to serve. LXXI.— ST. JAMES'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. St. James's Episcopal Church. (Showing spire in original plan, but still to be built.) This congregation was founded in 1854 by a number of members 'who seceded from St Paul's Church. The cause of the seces sion is easily explained. On the resigna tion of Rev. Samuel A. Walker as co-pastor of St Paul's, several of the congregation of that chapel who were not satisfied with the sole ministrations of Rev. Sir William Dunbar, the remaining incumbent, met in consultation as to their future action. Their position was that " they could not with advantage to their spiritual condition continue to attend St. Paul's," and they wer© of opinion, after considering the whole matter, that a fit tim© had come for the establishment of another English Episcopal congregation in Aberdeen. Once the de cision had been reached, no time was lost. On 8th January, 1854, a meeting was held, and on 13th January a communication was addressed by the dissentients to Rev. Abel Woodrofe, who had been acting for Mr. Walker at St. Paul's, inviting him to " do duty as their minister in the hall, 56 Union Street." Those who signed the request, and were thus the founders and first members of St. James's, were — Messrs. Thomas Best, John Avery, John Pickthorn, Patrick Joss, and William Cook. Mr Woodrofe accepted the appointment for three months. The first meeting for worship took place on Sunday, 15th January, 1854, and the attendances were so encouraging to the pro moters that they determined to persevere. On 9th February a meeting was held in Mr. Avery's office, those present being Messrs. Christie, Best, Skene, Gibb, Bannerman, Routledge, Pickthorn, Joss, and Avery, and a committee of their num ber was appointed to draw up a prospectus of " a proprietary English Episcopal church in or near th© west-end of the city of Aberdeen entirely unconnected with any party or minister." The next step was the purchase of th© Fre© Greyfriars Church in Crown Street, a building which has thus served as a place of worship for two de nominations before being devoted to its pre sent use as the Aberdeen Physical Training College. The church was vested in the following trustees, viz. — James Dyce, re siding in East Craibstone Street; John Irvine Boswell of Kingcausie; William Routledge, rope and twine manufacturer in Aberdeen ; Hardy Robinson, residing in Union Place, Aberdeen ; and Colonel Thomas Lumsden of Belhelvie Lodge; and it was stipulated that " th© property is to be held by these trustees for the special purpose of a church in strict conformity with the Church of England as by law established and none other, and that the cure shall be held solely by clergymen hold ing the orders of that Church." The necessary alterations having been com pleted, the church was opened for worship on 25th June, 1854. At this time Rev. Richard Jones was officiating on trial, and he was subsequently appointed the first ST. JAMES'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 291 incumbent. Under him the work of th© congregation was maintained with vigour and success, but on 12th February, 1858, Mr. Jones, to th© deep regret of the managers and congregation, was obliged to resign the charge in consequence of the delicate health of his family. Rev. John Goodwin was chosen as his successor. Mr. Goodwin's ministry extended for three yeare, from 1858 to 1861, when h© was succeeded by Rev. T. Brookes Wrenford. Old St. James's Episcopal Church, Crown Street. St. James's had been holding aloof from the other Episcopal churches in Aberdeen, but in 1865 an invitation was received through Dr. Rorison, of Peterhead, to join the Scottish Episcopal Church, a similar invitation being sent to St. Paul's. All th© Bishops of England recommended union, but, notwithstanding th© strong feeling in favour of th© overture, it was ultimately declined because of the dissen sion which, it was felt, would be sure to follow. Th© desire for union seemed, how ever, to grow among th© members, a cordial feeling towards the Bishop of Aberdeen being repeatedly expressed. This was specially the case about 1870, when the question of union was again raised. On 28th September in that year it was pro posed "that the clergyman accepting th© cure of St James's Church b© required to apply to the Bishop of th© Diocese for his licence." The proposal was adopted, but it brought on a crisis which prevented it from being carried into effect. Th© mem bers in th© minority were very determined, and threatened to take legal proceedings. Thereafter all the' managers, with the exception of Mr. Thomas Bannerman, resigned office as a protest against th© action of th© unreasonable minority. In this connection it may be mentioned that one of th© new managers elected in place of those who resigned in 1871 was Mr. J. P. Kay, chemist, who has continued to the present day to b© one of the foremost supporters of St. James's. Mr. Wrenford had left in 1867, and he was followed by Rev. W. Acraman, who in turn was followed in 1871 by Rev. Thomas Worthington^ Mr. Worthington disagreed with th© managers and congre gation, and in 1873 h© was called on to resign. Rev. Freeman R. Stratton held th© charge from 1873 to 1874, and Rev. John Lockwood from 1874 to 1876. In th© latter y©ar Miss Bannerman be queathed to' th© congregation and incumbent th© annual income derived from a sum of £3000 set apart for th© purpose, and this bequest has played a large part in th© subsequent history of th© church. Miss Bannerman was an enthusiastic member and a devoted worker of St. James's and a loyal member of th© Church of England, and her legacy wa6 given on condition that the congregation should not b© united to, nor become con nected with, the Scottish Episcopal Church. Th© effect of this was quickly seen, for at the next meeting of th© managers it was decided that no clergy man should be elected to St James's who desired to join the Scottish Episoopal Church or to obtain th© Bishop's licence. On 6th December, 1876, Rev. Robert Allen was elected clergyman, and although his ministry was a comparatively short one, it formed a most important epoch in the history of the church, and in large measur© laid th© foundation of its future prosperity. Ther© were several important developments during his incumbency, one of the most famous being his application to th© Bishop of th© Diocese for a licence. It is almost impossible to realise to-day th© great excitement which this action caused in th© congregation at the time. A minority strongly protested against the acceptance of th© licence, and an action against Mr. Allen was raised in th© Court of Session. Through all the trying time T2 292 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. C. M. Black, M.A. Mr. Allen's conduct was admirable, and he assisted in th© case with great ability, and had hie reward when th© decision of the court was announced as being in his favour on ©very point. During Mr. Allen's term of service, and largely owing to his influence, other important matters were successfully arranged, among them being the raising of a sum of £500 to clear off th© debt on the parsonage. At this time also, the appointment to th© incumbency was made a life on© — previously it had been for three years only. In 1880 Mr. Allen decided to take up foreign mission work, and thus gratify a long-cherished desire. H© joined th© staff of the South American Missionary Society, and went out to Buenos Ayres. There h© worked with all his characteristic earnestness until his death on 2nd February, 1893. Mr. Allen was a most lovable man — gentle in manner, kind and sympathetic in heart — and he exercised a strong personal at traction during his ministry in Aberdeen. In 1880 Rev. C. M. Black, M.A., was appointed to the charge, and he was soon recognised as an eloquent and able preacher, while h© had a remarkable power of winning the affections of 'The people. He held the incumbency until 1885, wh©n he removed to Christ Churoh, Edinburgh, where he still ministers with marked acceptance and ability. His successor at St. James's was Rev. Angus M. Mackay, B.A., whose connection with the congregation continued for a longer period than any of his predecessors, and who left a deep and abiding impression. Mr. Mackay was appointed in 1885, and a new constitution of the church was pre pared in April, 1886. The congregation having resolved to remove from Crown Street, the excellent site at the corner of Union Street and Holburn Street was acquired, and the foundation stone of the present handsome church was laid on 22nd July, 1887, by Mrs. Maclure, widow of Professor Maclure. (Th© spir© which ap peared in th© original plan has still to be built.) There followed about this time the greatest crisis through which the church ever passed; th© Bannerman Be quest and the condition attached to it involving th© congregation in two litiga tions in the Court of Session. Th© first action, in which th© church was successful, wa6 raised after it became necessary for the clergyman of the church to obtain the licence of the Bishop of Aberdeen in consequence of a resolution of the English Ecclesiastical Courts prohibiting English bishops from exercising Episcopal supervision in Scotland. The second action was also successful in the first instance, but on appeal a, judgment adverse to the congregation was given. The congregation acquiesced in ohat decision, and decided to enter into full fellowship with the rest of the Episoopal Church in Scotland. Th© forfeiture of the legacy left th© con gregation with a debt of £3000. Rev. Angus M. Maokay, B.A, St. JAMES'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 293 Rev. J. T. F. Farquhar, M.A. Mr. Mackay, by his firm, far-eeeing administration and his gifts of concilia tion, carried th© congregation through all these trying and critical years. His pulpit work also was of high quality, his sermons " being characterised by sug gestive thought, exact scholarship, and scientific knowledge, enriched and adorned by literary grace, and tempered by a broad Christian charity." These were the appreciative terms in which his work was referred to by the congregation in formally taking leave of him on his ap pointment to Holy Trinity Churoh, Dean Bridge, Edinburgh. Mr. Mackay was known to many outside the Episcopal Church as an author of ability and suc cess, on© of his most popular works b©ing "The Brontes: Fact and Fiction." Mr. Mackay died on 1st January, 1907, and St. James's congregation placed in the chancel of the Church a memorial tablet to commemorate his labours among them. In 1900 the present rector, Rev. J. T. F. Farquhar, M.A., came to St. James's, and und©r his charge th© work has con tinued to prosper. Mr. Farquhar was educated at Pembroke College, Cambridge, and before coming to Aberdeen he had been rector of St. Mary's, Dunblane, and had filled th© post of Synod clerk in the Diocese of St. Andrews. He is the author of several works, and a contributor to various theological publications. The affairs of St. James's ar© managed by the vestry, who are Mr. J. P. Kay, chemist; Dr. Irvine Forteseu©, Bon- Accord Square ; Mr. Robert Gall ; Mr. Arthur Clyn©, architect; Mr. Charles Smith, solicitor, hon. treasurer ; Mr. J. R. Cornwall, Clydeburn ; Mr. D. T. Byres, CE. ; Mr. A. L. Bruce, chemist; and Mr. A. T. Cruickshank, advocate, hon. secre tary; the rector being ex-officio chairman. Th© energies of the congregation are now being directed to th© extinction of th© remaining burden of debt, but they do not allow their own heavy burden to inter fere with their giving to philanthropic and missionary agencies. LXXIL— ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. St. John's Episcopal Church. The congregation of St. John's represents the section of the parishionere of St. Nicholas who adhered to the Rev. Dr. Georg© Garden when he was ejected from , the second charge, in 1693, for refusing to conform to Presbyterianism. Later on, Dr. Garden was thrown into prison for the part h© took in supporting the Jacobite cause in 1715, and still later he managed to make his escape to the Continent. After his return from exile, h© again gathered his congregation around him, and it is on record that in 1722 they found a meeting- place in the house of a Mrs. Peddar, in the Castlegate, near its junction with the Broadgate and the Shiprow. In 1732 they occupied a house in the Broadgate oppo site th© gate in Marischal College, from which they removed in 1742 to a house in Blairton Lane — both of these meeting- places, according to the practice of these trying times, being fitted up partly as a. dwelling-house and partly as a chapel. Dr. Garden died in 1733, and he was succeeded by the Rev. Andrew Gerard, who had been his colleagu© sine© 1728. During Mr. Gerard's incumbency the chapel was de molished, but it was also during those dark days in the history of Episcopacy in Aber deen that he was chosen as Bishop of Aber deen in succession to Bishop Dunbar, his consecration taking place in 1747. . He still continued to hold his incumbency, and after the abatement of the persecution he was permitted to repair and refit his chapel for worship. Bishop Gerard died on 7th October, 1767, and was succeeded in his incumbency by Rev. George Innes, who had come from Elgin in 1761 to assist him in his work. Mr. Innes was elected and consecrated Bishop of Brechin in 1778, and, like his predecessor, he continued to com bine his pastoral and episcopal functions till his death, which occurred in 1781. He was the author of a catechism on the doc trines of th© Church known as the " Forty Lesson Catechism," which was first pub lished in 1765, and was reprinted in 1803 and 1819. In 1778 Rev. Roger Aitken had been appointed to assist Bishop Innes in the work of the congregation, and h© after wards succeeded him in th© full charge. During his incumbency th© meeting-house in Blairton Lane was sold, and a site was purchased and a chapel built in the court which is now 38 Castle Street. Mr. Aitken appears to have become personally respon- ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 295 sible for almost the entire cost, and financial difficulties pressed heavily on the cause for a time. In 1806 another move was made to Golden Square, where a larger building of greater ecclesiastical pretensions had been erected. This chapel, which was de dicated under the name of St. John the Evangelist — the title which the congrega tion uses still — had a small handsome spire, and in its interior it was said to be a model of architectural correctness, and of light ness and elegance of appearance. Mr. Aitken resigned his charge in 1814, and went out to Nova Scotia as a chaplain under th© Society for the Propagation of th© Gospel in Foreign Parts. Rev. Alex ander Bruce, . who succeeded Mr. Aitken, remained only for one year, removing in 1815 to Banff, where he had a very long and successful incumbency. His successor in St. John's was Rev. Adam Annand, an Oxford graduate, and a man of consider able private means. He relieved the chapel of its financial embarrassments, and spared no expense in the decoration of its interior, with the result that it came to have the reputation of being "equal in elegance to any place of worship in Scotland." Mr. Annand died on 1st April, 1818, in the thirtieth year of his age, to the great and unaffected grief of his congregation. In October of the same year the Rev. Patrick Cheyne — a name revered in the history of St. John's, and for many years almost a household word in Aberdeen — was appointed incumbent. He was appointed at the early ag© of 24, and held the charge for the long period of 40 years. One of the outstanding eyents of his incumbency was the removal of the congregation to its pre sent building. In 1847 it was found that the fabric of th© chapel in Golden Square had become so decayed as to be almost be yond repair, and it was resolved to proceed with th© erection of a new church of a "strictly ecclesiastical character." The present site in Crown Terrace and St. John's Place was secured. The foundation stone of the new church was laid on 20th November, 1849, by Bishop William Skinner, and the church itself was opened and consecrated on 6th May, 1851. On the occasion of the opening ceremony, the clergy taking part in the service met and robed in the chapel in Golden Square, and, preceded by the choristers, also in surplices, went in procession through the streets to the new church, probably the first public procession of its kind in Aberdeen since the Reformation— 300 years before. None of the clergy who took part are now alive, but of the choristers of that day there are two survivors still connected with St. John's, Mr. John Mitchell and Mr. John M'Laren. Mr. Cheyne was at the height of his popularity and influence about this tipie, and his high standing in the diocese was testified by the fact that in 1857 his name was put forward for the Bishopric of Aber deen, in succession to Bishop Skinner, although the Rev. Dr. Suther, of St. Andrew's Church, was ultimately appointed by 13 votes to 9. Th© opposition to Mr. Cheyne was largely based on his prominence as a High Churchman — some even going the length to say that he was "quite as much of a Puseyite as it was possible to be without going over to the Church of Rome." The following year found him en tering on a period of anxiety and trial. A publication entitled " Six Sermons on the Doctrine of the Most Holy Eucharist " was made the foundation of a charge of errone ous teaching, and, after prolonged and re peated trials, marked by many stormy scenes, Mr. Cheyne was formally deposed, and deprived of his office as a clergyman of the Church. Of this sentence, Dr. George Grub, his legal adviser at the time, and his constant and loyal friend, said— ' ' Opinions differed at the time, and will probably continue to differ, as to the jus- tioe, or, at all events, th© expediency, of the proceedings against him. But there is now only one opinion as to th© final sen tence — it should never have been pro nounced ; and it was recalled a few years afterwards, with the consent of all con cerned, and to th© satisfaction of the whole Church." After his deposition, Mr. Cheyne resided for a time in England, but in 1871 h© returned to Aberdeen, and thereafter he frequently officiated in the church with which he had been so long and intimately connected. He died on 18th November, 1878, in his 85th year, and was buried in Oldmachar Churchyard in presence of a larg© concourse of mourners, representa tive of all classes in the community. No name in the history of St. John's is more revered than that of th© Rev. Patrick Cheyne. There was considerable difficulty in find ing a successor to Mr. Cheyne, but at last the Rev. Frederick George Lee was per suaded to undertake the charge. He was instituted in November, 1859, but resigned in March, 1861, on account of differences that had arisen between him and the con gregation. On his resignation he issued a "Statement of Facts," in which he com- 296 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN plained, in somewhat vigorous Tangauge, of the treatment he received. Not a few of the congregation sympathised with Mr. Lee, and separated with him from St. John's. With these supporters, and act ing under the Bishop's sanction and licence, he opened a building for service in Correc tion Wynd, and out of this movement there grew St. Mary's Church, Carden Place, of which Mr. Lee was th© founder and first incumbent. On Mr. Lee's resignation of St. John's, the Rev. John Comper, at that time incum bent of Stonehaven, was offered, and ac cepted, the charge. One of his first acts was to secure, after some difficulty with the Bishop, the introduction of the Scotch com munion office, and his work was further signalised by his success in getting a day- school built as a memorial of the forty years' incumbency of Mr. Cheyne. He also opened a mission in the Gallowgate, which he conducted for some time in con nection with St. John's, and, in 1870, he resigned St. John's, in order to devote himself exclusively to this mission, which he soon developed into the incumbency of St. Margaret's. St. John's is thus the mother church of other two flourishing Episcopal congregations in the city — St. Mary's and St. Margaret's. The Rev. John Stewart Falconer, who succeeded Mr. Comper, was a man of learn ing and many accomplishments, a. devoted worker whose tenderness of heart, humi lity, and charity endeared him to every one. His incessant labours made a deep impression' on the congregation, but they also wore out a bodily frame never too strong, and his death occurred on 29th May, 1874, after he had held the charge for three years. A 6tained glass window in the church commemorates his personality and work. On 10th October, 1874, the Rev. William Ramsay Sparks was instituted as incumbent. Mr. Sparks was also a scholarly man, with an Oxford training, and he laboured with acceptance for three and a half years, until he left, in 1878, to undertake work in England. Rev. Ernest P. Sketchley, who succeeded him in St. John's, held the incumbency barely three years when he was appointed one of the Secretaries for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Ports— his departure being most keenly regretted. On 13th February, 1881, the Rev. Wil liam Henry Bleaden was instituted to the charge, and St. John's entered on a most hopeful era in its history. Under Mr. Bleaden's able and vigorous superinten dence the congregation reached a high pitch of prosperity, financially and other wise, and rich and handsome gifts were made to the church. Mr. Bleaden left in 1889 for the Church of St. Mary Magda lene, Paddington. Rev. Robert Cruickshank, M.A., the pre sent respected rector, was appointed on 6th September, 1889. Mr. Cruickshank graduated at Aberdeen University, and he afterwards studied at the Edinburgh Theo logical Hall. He was ordained deacon in 1880 by the Bishop of Edinburgh, and priest in 1881 by the Bishop of Brechin. For eight years he laboured in St. Paul's, Rev. Robert Cruickshank, M.A. Dundee, and both there and in Aberdeen his work has been attended by success. Under Mr. Cruickshank, St. John's has maintained its high traditions, and several important developments have taken place. A new aisle has been added to the church, and in various ways the fabric has been improved. Mr. Cruickshank takes an in terest in diocesan affairs generally, and at present h© holds the position of convener of the Home Mission Board. No history of St. John's would be com plete without some reference to the manv notable laymen who have been connected with it. Amongst those now gone may be mentioned Dr. John Stuart, author of ST. JOHN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 297 "Sculptured Stones of Scotland," one of th© chief promoters and the first secretary of the old Spalding Club; Mr. John Dunn, advocate, a man of ability and scholarship : Dr. Georg© Grub, author of " The Eccle siastical History of Scotland," who was for many years the leading figure in the church; Professor George Ogilvie, of the University, who afterwards succeeded to the estate of Boyndlie and assumed the name of Forbes; Mr. Norval Clyne, advo cate, a devoted Churchman, who was for twenty-two years churchwarden at St. John's, and was widely known as an author and poet; and Dr. James Rodger, a bril liant student and a distinguished medical practitioner. In th© present day the congregation in cludes many men who are well known in the community, such as Mr. J. P. Cumine, advocate ; Mr. John Whyte, painter ; Coun cillor Latto; Mr. John Mitchell, artist, and others. Mr. W. Thompson, teacher, acts as church organist, and in his hands the musical service has been raised to a point of excellence of which the congrega tion are justifiably proud. St. John's in this respect is acknowledged to take one of the leading places among the Episcopal churches in the horth of Scotland. LXXIIL— ST. MARGARET'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. St. Margaret's Episcopal Church. The events which led to th© origin of St. Margaret's Church were closely connected with the personality and work of its founder — Rev. John Comper — who occupied for many years so distinctive a place in the religious and ecclesiastical life of the city. Mr. Comper, after memorable terms of ser vice at Nairn and Stonehaven, came to Aberdeen to undertake the incumbency of St. John's in 1861. In his tenure of that charge he became known a6 a man of great force of character, holding decided views, and capable of defending them with tena city and success. While he thus made something of a reputation for himself, and materially improved the prospects of St. John's — particularly by securing the erec tion of its excellent day schools — his mind and heart turned steadily towards the poor and outcast in the slums. All bis life he had been a zealous worker himself, and he had also in a marked degree, the power of initiative. It was his sympathy with the poor and his desire to reach and help them that led to the important new departure for which he was responsible, viz., — the introduction (for the first time since the Reformation) of sisters into the work of the Scottish Episcopal Church. He became convinced that the closes and alleys which no woman in ordinary attire dare enter could only be braved by one wearing a distinctive uniform — one whose dress would proclaim her mission. He therefore appealed to the Sisters of East Grinstead, as a Sisterhood devoted to tending the poor in their own homes, and in answer to his appeal one of the most energetic mem bers of the community was sent to Aber deen. Needless to say, there was consider able prejudice to be overcome, and the sister was not without opposition at the outset. For the first six months she re sided in Mr. Comper's own house, and then a flat was secured in Affleck Street. There one or two more workers joined her, and their rooms became the centre of an earnest work which was mainly exercised in the courts and closes of the Gallowgate. A friend interested in th© movement offered the sisters the free use of a house in Fer guson's Court, and in June, 1864, they took up their residence in the Gallowgate, and practically inaugurated the movement which led to the founding of St. Mar garet's. Mission services were at once be gun. Night schools for boys and girls and Sunday and day schools were insti tuted, and in three years' time the rooms were so overcrowded that part of a house was hired in Seamount Place. A large, bare room was fitted up as a mission chapel and day school in 1867, and from this centre a vigorous and determined attack was made on the surrounding vice and misery, and interesting services were held, in which a surpliced choir gathered from the slums took a prominent part. In other three years a school chapel was built, with entrance from Ferguson's Court, the foundation stone being laid in June, 1870 ; while the dedication took place on 9th November in the 6ame year, Bishop Suther officiating in presence of the Primus, Bishop Eden, and Mr. Mackonochie, of St. Alban's, Holborn, London. All this time Mr. Comper, in addition to his duties at St. John's, had been devoting himself heart and soul to the mission. After the chapel was opened, the claims of the work in creased to such an extent that it became impossible for him to continue filling the dual position. He had to make his choice between the mission and the mother church of St. John's, and, without hesitation, he chose the mission. In doing so he con sulted his own personal inclination towards work of the kind, but it is also necessary ST. MARGARET'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 299 to say that at the same time he mad© a very considerable sacrifice. To renounce the position of ministering to an intellectual, historic congregation for that of a worker in th© slums, with a reduction in status from that of an incumbent to that of a licensed priest, and to face th© risks of a bare and uncertain income, required no little courage, but this was a quality Mr. Comper never lacked. He took up th© work with characteristic force and energy, and th© results of his labour soon became apparent. At th© Diocesan Synod of. 1871, St. Margaret's was raised to the status of an incumbency, and in various ways there were important developments. The sisters, who had been pursuing their beneficent ministry, wer© enabled in 1874 to purchase two cottages on the crest of the rising ground on the west side of the Spital brae. There they subsequently erected St. Martha's Home and the handsome chapel which now occupies so commanding a posi tion. St. Martha's, since it was formally opened by the Bishop, ha£ been th© centre from which th© sisters have worked, but St. Margaret's Church and its Gallowgate district have not been deprived of their assistance. Sister Catherine and her de voted band are unwearied in visiting and ministering to th© poor. Their helpful pre sence has brightened many a dark and squalid home ; while th© lapsed have been reclaimed and the fallen won back by their gentle and sympathetic dealing. Mr. Comper instituted many guilds and classes in connection with St. Margaret's, and a remarkable programme of work was carried on. Many were gathered in, the baptisms and confirmations for som© years reaching a high figure; special services wer© conducted, missions and retreats were held, and th© direction of these manifold activities entailed a serious burden. A school chapel was found to be unsuitable, and separate schools were built, which en abled St. Margaret's to be consecrated as a church by the Bishop of the Diocese on October 1, 1879. Notwithstanding the pro gress of the work, th© eager spirit of Mr. Comper was still unsatisfied. He felt that mor© ought to be done in the lower parts of the city to reach the people, and in 1886 he opened a mission room in Justice Street, to which no one could be admitted who cam© in hat or bonnet. In 1889, a friend purchased the old St. Clement's Free Church and handed it ov©r to him, along with th© nucleus of an endowment for a mission in the east end. There th© St. Clement's Mission was inaugurated, and this was worked from St. Margaret's as long as Mr. Cdmp©r held the incumbency. In th© year 1889, another forward step was taken, when a notable addition was made to St. Margaret's Church itself in the ©rection of a- western chapel, dedicated to St. Nicholas, and built from plans pre pared by Mr. Comper's eldest son. During all these crowded, anxious, fruitful years Mr. Comper seemed never to be idle. His familiar form was to be seen in the Gallow gate and other slum localities at all hours, and everyone came to know and reverence Father Comper. He seemed to have become a very part of the life of the district ; but the burden of advancing age became heavy to bear, and a long and serious illness in 1897 led him to the conclusion that he was no longer equal to the demands of his charge . Accordingly, in 1898, he resigned the in cumbency of St. Margaret's, retaining only the chaplaincy to the Sisterhood, which he held to the end of his life. His closing years wer© spent in congenial studies and interested participation in th© work of the diocese and of the Church in general. To the study of th© Liturgies he had always devoted special attention, and he published the fruit of his prolonged investigation in the work entitled "A Popular Hand-Book on the Origin, History, and Structure of Liturgies." Mr. Comper's death occurred with startling suddenness on 27th July, 1903, in the Duthie Park, where he had been spending the afternoon with Mrs. Comper. The tidings caused great and widespread regret in Aberdeen, not in Epis copalian circles only, but in many other Churches and throughout th© city at large,, where his self-denying labours had been known and admired. Mi". Comper was in many ways a man of outstanding person ality — such a personality as emerges only how and again in a community. He was looked on as an exponent of advanced cere monial in the Church, but in other respects he held views equally pronounced. Regard ing bazaars, for instance, he took up what was an unpopular position, strongly and consistently condemning them as a means of raising money for Church purposes. The memory of th© man and his work, of his words and deeds, will be fragrant for many a year in the Gallowgate, which he knew and loved so well ; and with St. Margaret's Church, which he founded and nursed into vigorous life, the name of Father Comper must ever be associated. On Mr. Comper's resignation, in 1898, th© incumbency of St. Margaret'6 was offered to Father Dolling, the famous mission worker in Portsmouth and Lon- 300 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN don slums, whose methods attracted so wide attention, and whose remarkable record has been preserved in the biography published since his death. Unfortunately, Father Dolling had previously committed himself to accept another appointment, otherwise there is good reason to believe he would readily have come to Aberdeen. After some little delay, the incumbency was accepted by Rev. F. P. Williamson, B.A., who entered upon the work under the hap piest auspices. Mr. Williamson was a man of great activity and diligence ; he was very widely read, and possessed high culture ; while in the pulpit he wielded a magnetic power. His special gifts as a preacher and his zeal in practical work were making a distinct impression, but, unfortunately, after two years, some difficulties — not con nected with himself personally nor in a direct manner with his work at St. Mar garet's—led him to place his resignation in the hands of th© Bishop. This was the beginning of a troublous period in the his tory of the church. The churchwardens and the congregation re-elected Mr. Wil liamson to the charge, but th© Bishop de clined to reinstate him. This gave rise to a considerable amount of feeling in the congregation, and the matter, after keen discussion, was appealed to the College of Bishops. The decision was in favour of Bishop Douglas, and adverse to the wishes of the congregation, and Mr. Williamson thereupon left Aberdeen. Thus there ended a painful and trying chapter in the history of St. Margaret's. Rev. G. E. W. Holmes, M.A., formerly of Stanley, Perthshire, succeeded Mr. Wil liamson in 1902, and he proved himself fully equal to the demands of the charge. Mr. Holmes had been a distinguished student both in classics and theology. An earnest preacher, a vigorous and persistent worker, with good organising ability, he maintained the life and activity of the congregation, and impressed his personality on the people. Mr. Holmes was thorough in everything he undertook, and he devoted himself un sparingly to the duties of his charge. Rev. H. R. Allen, M.A., was appointed curate, and Rev. T. A. R. Allsopp, as diocesan supernumerary, was also attached to St. Margaret's. In this connection it may be said that during Mr. Comper's time St. Margaret's had a succession of excellent curates, the most outstanding of whom was Rev. S. A. Barrett, now of Bootle, who became well known throughout the city during his term of service, and took a pro minent part in the proceedings of several local societies. In February, 1907, after a highly successful term of service in Aber deen, where ha was widely esteemed, Mr. Holmes accepted the incumbency of All Saints, Edinburgh. Rev. F. P. Williamson was then unani mously re-elected to St. Margaret's by the vote of the congregation, and he returned to th© scene of his former labours in April, 1907. Since then a notable addition has been made to the church by the erection of a new aisle in memory of its founder and first rector — Father Comper. This beauti ful piece of work, which contains an oak screen in memory of Mrs. Comper, was de- Rev. OK E. W. Holmes, M.A. signed by the well-known architect, Mr. Ninian Comper, of London (a son of the family), and cost £1200. This sum was subscribed by Rev. A. Chadwick and other friends of Father Comper. The porch was the gift of th© congregation and its friends in memory of its founder. The new aisle was solemnly dedicated by the Bishop of Aberdeen on 10th August, 1908, and on th© same date tho Clergy House erected adja cent to the church was also opened. The Clergy House was designed by Mr. G. G. Irvine, architect, Aberdeen, and it. oost £820. It is occupied by th© Rector and his brother, Rev. H. L. Williamson, B.A., ST. MARGARET'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 301 who has been curate of St. Margaret's for several years. A new organ by Messrs. Wadsworth, of Manchester, has also been installed at a cost of £220, towards which Mr. Carnegie gav© £100. A church hall has also been erected in order to develop th© social sid© of th© work, and the cost, £750, has already been practically raised. In the long line of laymen who have served St. Margaret's ther© are some outstanding names calling for special mention. Lord Forbes of Castle Forbes left St. John's with Mr. Comper, and stood by him during all th© years of his incumbency, giving generously of his means, and in other ways seeking to en courage his efforts. His lordship's interest in the church continues to the present, and he still occupies the offioe of lay elector, to which he was appointed many yeare ago. No one served the church with greater fidelity than the late Mr. William Harper. Mr. Harper was churchwarden for a con siderable time, and it was mainly through his instrumentality that the large sums of money were raised for the cost of the church and schools. On Mr. Harper's resignation, Professor Grierson and Mr. John Milne, printer, were appointed churchwardens. Mr. Miln© has been associated with St. Mar garet's for many years, taking an active and helpful interest in all its affaire, and serving it in many capacities. The present , churchwardens are Mr. J. R. Sutherland, who has given ungrudging and valuable service in financial affairs ; and Dr. A. T. G. Beveridge, who also fills the offic© of lay re-. presentative, and whose keen interest in the affairs of the congregation and of the diocese is well known. St. Margaret's lias som© outstanding features, and in certain respects it occu pies quite a distinctive position. Its High Church tendencies ar© mor© pronounced than in the case of any of the other Epis copalian congregations in the city, and this has been true of it from the very first. Along with its love of ritual, there has also been apparent its love of the poor. It has been distinguished all along by an aggressive missionary spirit, which has found an outlet in many forms and through various agencies designed to reach and cave th© dwellers in the slums. In such efforts it has attained a measure of suc cess sufficient to encourage th© workers to renewed endeavour. Many have been drawn within the fold of the church, and it is a notable feature/as testifying to the hold the church has gained over them, that once they are attracted they seldom sever their connection. It is not uncommon for them, as they rise somewhat in the social scale, to move from the Gal lowgate district to other more desirable re sidential parts of the city, but it is seldom this implies a severance -of the ties with St. Margaret's. Thus the congregation, while specially strong in its own immediate locality, has now a connection all over the city, and draws its members from every quarter. St. Margaret's is rich in the affectionate loyalty of its own people ; while it has gained the approval of the outside public by its persistence in earnest work on behalf of the needy. LXXI V. -ST. MARY'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH. St. Mary's Episcopal Church. The congregation of St. Mary's was formed by an offshoot from St. John's in 1861. The latter congregation had been in a state of division over its relations with its incumbent, Rev. Frederick George Lee, and after considerable con troversy ther© was 'a regular 6plit. Mr Lee, with his sympathisers, seceded from St. John's, and with the sanction and licence of the Bishop of the Diocese, opened a building for service in Correction Wynd. The building which they secured had formerly been used as a writing school ; later on it was occupied as a mission hall by the Free West Church, and subsequently that congregation erected on th© site its present suite of mission premises. Episcopacy was entirely unrepresented in the west-end of Aberdeen in 1861, and it occurred to Mr. (afterwards Dr.) Lee and his supporters that therein lay their opportunity. Accordingly a site for a church was secured in Carden Place, which at that time was on the very outskirts of the city. Plan6 were prepared, and build ing operations w©re begun in due course. the foundation stone of the church being laid on 1st July, 1862. Considerable at tention was devoted to the architecture of the edifice, and while the actual drafting of the plans was in the capable hands of Mr. Ellis, ther© can b© no doubt that the inspiration cam© from Dr. Lee. The whole scheme was, in fact, his own production, and it was carried out almost entirely on his own responsibility. This was proved by the state of matters when he left. St. Mary's Church was opened by Dr. Lee as a proprietary chapel on 30th March, 1864, the Bishop having declined to sanction it as a churoh in con nection with the Episcopal Church in Scotland. Services were held in it for a short time, until Dr. Lee's departure from Aberdeen, when it was temporarily closed. Ultimately the building was purchased by a number of churchmen from Dr. Lee's creditors, and it was reopened under licence and with due ceremonial by Bishop Suther on 3rd December, 1865. St. Mary's is one of the most picturesque ecclesiastical edifices in Aberdeen. The architecture is pointed Gothic, with Romanesque features, and the bands of colour in th© masonry and in the tiles on the roof earned for it many years ago the title of the "Tartan Kirk." The dis tinctive name has stuck, and there are few Aberdonians of whatever ecclesiastical persuasion who do not know the "Tartan Kirk" as one of the landmarks of the city. Internally the edifice is admirably adapted for » stately service. The win dows, which are placed high in the walls, while excellent in their way, are, how ever, utterly unsuited for the north, and they testify to th© fact that their in ception was due to a churchman who had been brought up under sunnier skies. The fine spaces left for fresco paintings are now being filled with suitable mural paint ings by Mr. Allen Sutherland, Aberdeen. The first painting, representing "The Annunciation," was unveiled on Ascension Day, 1908. When completed they will materially enhance the beauty of the church. The massive granite altar, stand ing in an apse, and elevated high above the nave by four series of steps, at once attracts attention. The eye also falls on the magnificent altar piece by Westlake, a, triptych of the Crucifixion, St. Mary and St. John, with attendant angels. Specially worthy of mention is the crypt chapel underneath the chancel, which has recently been renovated, and which is used for week-day services and guild and other meetings. A handsome oak lectern has re- ST. MARY'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 308 oently been presented to th© church by an anonymous donor. St. Mary's has had a fairly long suc cession of incumbents, frequent changes having taken place during the earlier years of its history. Dr. Lee, who has al ready been referred to as th© founder of th© congregation, was in many ways a man of ability and power. He was an eloquent preacher, a poet of considerable mark, an artist of no mean skill, and a heraldic student of respectable attainments. His earlier works wer© defences of the Anglican position, and perhaps no better defence of Bishop Barlow's "Consecration" has ever been published. The most im portant of his later works, " The Sinless Conception of the Mother of God," gave Indication of his ecclesiastical future. After leaving Aberdeen, Dr. Lee became vicar of All Saints', Lambeth, a position which he held for many years until he seceded to th© Church of Rome. His death occurred at a comparatively recent date. In 1866 Rev. H. J. Palmer was ap pointed incumbent of St. Mary's, and he was the first to hold the bishop's licence. He remained until 1869, and accomplished good work. He was greatly esteemed by the congregation, and twenty years later, when vicar of Christ Church, Ashton- under-Lyne, he returned by request to preach the sermon at the consecration of St. Mary's in 1890. Mr. Palmer was fol lowed by Rev. H. D. Jones, who held the incumbency for five years. Mr. Jones came to St. Mary's at a time when its fortunes were low, but by his eloquence and pastoral zeal, definite signs of progress soon became evident. H© was able to en list th© support of some of th© leading Churchmen in th© city, such as Professor Smith Shand, Mr. John Ligertwood, sheriff clerk ; Mr William Dunn of Murtle, Mr. R. B. Horn©, stockbroker; Mr. Georg© Milne, city treasurer; Mr. John Keith, banker; and others. Mr. Jones is now canon of Chichester, and vicar of a large church in St. Leonard's Th© next incumbent was one who has since played an important part in the public life of Aberdeen — Rev. J. Myers Danson, now of St. Andrew's Church. Coming to tak© temporary charge of St Mary's during his holidays, Mr. Danson (now Dean of the Diocese) mad© a most favourable impression, and on the res ignation of the incumbent he was ap pointed to th© charge. From 1874 to 1879 he laboured with ©v©r-incr©asing acceptance and success, and he had the satisfaction of seeing the position of the congregation considerably improved dur ing his incumbency. The initial difficulties which had faced St. Mary's were almost entirely surmounted, and th© debt was materially reduced. The prospects of the congregation wer© steadily rising, and it was with the utmost regret that Dr. Dan son was allowed to leave, in 1879, for St. Mary's, Arbroath. In 1880, Rev. A. F. S. Hill was appointed to the incumbency. He served St. Mary's for six years, and subsequently became rector of Dufton, in the diocese of Carlisle. After the re peated changes the congregation entered on a more settled period in its history by th© appointment, in 1886, of the present rector, Rev. F. W. Christie, M.A. (Cantab.). Mr. Christie is a native of Dundee, but his "forebears" hailed from Aberdeenshire, both his grandfather and his great-grand father having, been well known in the Huntly district. He was educated at tho High School of Dundee and privately, afterwards passing to Cambridge, where he 'was Scholar of his college. He was ordained deacon by Archbishop Thomson, of York, on Trinity Sunday, 1878, and priest on Trinity Sunday, 1879, in York Minster. From 1879 to 1886 he held curacies in various parts of England, prin cipally in Yorkshire, gaining much valu able experience. Since coming to Aber deen, in 1886, Mr. Christie has seen many improvements in St. Mary's. He applied himself zealously to the work of the charge, his earliest efforts being directed towards raising th© necessary amount to clear off the debt resting on the church In this respect he met with great en couragement, and within four years of his settlement th© entire sum was raised, not only to remove th© mortgages on. the church and parsonage, but also to pur chase the feu-duty. Th© effort was not without its touch of romance or mystery. Many generous friends contributed liberally, but the most remarkable gift cam© from an anonymous donor. When there was still £186 to raise, Mr. Christie was astonished on© evening to receive, by parcel post, a small box, neatly wrapped in brown pap©r, and addressed to him self. On opening th© package and remov ing a great mass of paper shavings, he discovered a little brown paper packet, which was found to contain 186 sovereigns, with no hint as to th© identity of the donor, who signed himself (or herself) " Dunedin," This unexpected contri- 304 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. F. W. Christie, M.A, bution completed a prolonged and laborious effort, and although the anonymity of "Dunedin" has been main tained until this day, the gift has never been forgotten, and the box which con tained it is preserved intact as a curiosity. After its somewhat chequered history of 25 years, St. Mary's was at last free of all th© encumbrances which at times had filled even th© most sanguine with despondency, and the way was now clear for the con secration of the church. Accordingly, on 16th April, 1890, the ceremony of con secration was performed by Bishop Douglas, th© procession being taken part in by clergy from all parts of the diocese ; while ther© was a very larg© attendance of interested onlookers to witness the im pressive service. Later in the day there was a public luncheon in th© Queen's Rooms, when speeches were delivered by prominent Churchmen, and congratula tions were freely extended to St. Mary's congregation on the happy position to which, after long years of stress and struggle, it had at length attained. Mr. Christie continues his work with unabated zeal and devotion. He is an earnest preacher, and by his personal qualities he has gained the warm esteem of the entire congregation. During his incumbency there has been no shadow of a differenc© or division, the most perfect harmony having prevailed throughout. He has all along been well supported, and i'l past days he had th© loyal co-operation of prominent Churchm©n. The present church-wardens are — Mr. James Ross, Mr. William Mutch, Mr. J. L. Porter, and Mr. A L. Strachan. Since being relieved of its original bur dens, St. Mary's has not adopted a policy ST. MARY'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 805 of inaction. What th© congregation has already accomplished has only served to make it eager to face new tasks. Quite recently the church was thoroughly re novated and re-seated, and a new system of lighting introduced, all at considerable cost, and a new vestry and church hall have been added. The spirit which animated the members to surmount th© difficulties of bygone years is impelling them to anticipate and to meet the necessities of the present day, and so long as this temper prevails St. Mary's will maintain its position among th© Episcopal Churches in the city. That it may suc ceed in doing so will be th© wish of the citizens at large, for Aberdeen could ill afford to be without its "Tartan Kirk." LXXV.— ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH St. Paul's^Episcopal Churoh. The history of St. Paul's Episoopal Church is one of particular interest. It dates from a very early period, and it has associations with many men of local and even national fame. In th© annals of Episoopalianism in Aberdeen, St. Paul's has from the first held a position which is in many ways unique, and it still occupies such a position to-day. The earliest document in connection with th© church records the fact that " At Aberdeen this 2nd day of August, 1720 years, there met together certain burghers, merchants, tradesmen, and in habitants of Aberdeen for settling ane Episoopal Meeting House by a qualified minister in the terms of law." The site chosen was on the west side of the Gallow gate, and ther© in 1721 they built a chapel, which was described in the deed of con veyance as being " for the use of the Episcopal congregation of the burgh of Aberdeen." Th© building was a handsome and commodious on© — at' least, it was consid©red remarkably so at th© time. The ohurch, which had accommodation for 1000 worshippers, had an aisle on the north side, with galleries round the whole building, supported by Tuscan columns of wood, over which were placed Ionic columns, supporting th© roof, in the centre of which was a handsome cupola, about nin© feet in diameter. In the west end was a fine organ, erected in 1780. It was provided by th© voluntary subscriptions of the members, and is supposed to have been the first organ in use in any church in Aberdeen, and although it was rebuilt and enlarged in 1881, all the old pipes were retained. It served the congregation for a long stretch of years, and its walls were sacred with many hallowed memories. In 1865 it was superseded by the present stately edifice facing Loch Street, but with entrances from th© old site in Gallow gate, and which, although not hoary with antiquity, is already rich in its associa tions. In 1843 John Rickart of Auchnacant presented to the congregation the tene ment adjacent to th© chapel for a dwell ing house for the minister. It would be impossible to mention all the prominent men who have been con nected in on© way or another with the church. Th© baptismal and marriage re gisters ar© practically complete from the beginning, and the number of famous names to he found in them is quite remark able. Lord Byron as a boy attended St. Paul's Church, and among other wor shippers wer© Sir Peter Lumsden and Sir Harry Lumsden, of the Guides (a brass tablet commemorates th© latter) ; mem bers of the Outram family, and many re presentatives of the oldest and best-known county families. The Duke of Gordon had a son baptised in th© ohurch in 1743, and ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH 307 Old St. Paul's Episcopal Church. the baptismal list is representative of all classes in th© community, from the nobility and gentry to th© poorest of the poor, and even to the unknown strangers within the gates. Dr. Samuel Johnson is another of the eminent men of the past with whom St. Paul's can claim to have som© associa tion. During his visit to Aberdeen, Dr. Johnson " sat under " the St. Paul's clergyman of the day, and his impressions are recorded in his journal of his tour to th© Hebrides. " In Aberdeen," he wrote, " there is an English chapel, in which th© congregation was numerous and splendid. The form of public worship used by the Church of England is in Scotland legally practised in licensed chapels, served by clergymen of English or Irish ordination, and by tacit connivance quietly permitted in separate congregations supplied with ministers by th© successors of the bishops who were deprived at th© Revolution." In Boswell's " Life of Johnson " it is stated that Professor Thomas Gordon " had se cured seats for us at th© English chapel. We found a respectable congregation and an admirable organ, well played by Mr. Tait." Th© fact of Johnson and Bos well being seen in th© chapel led to th© invitation to visit Slains Castle. In Johnson's Letters w© read: — "When I was at the English Church in Aberdeen, I happened to b© ©spied by Lady Di. Middleton, whom I had some where seen in London; eh© told what she had seen to Mr. Boyd, Lord Errol's bro ther, who wrote us an invitation to Slains Castle." In Kennedy's " Annals of Aberdeen," it is stated that " as a good many respect able families continued of the Episoopal persuasion, and became English Inde pendents, they formed themselves into a congregation, and appointed a clergyman, ordained by an English bishop, to ad minister the ordinances of religion ac cording to th© forms of the Church of Eng land." This marked a peculiarity in the position of St. Paul's Church for many years. It acknowledged no Episcopal jurisdiction in Scotland. It was not until 1841 that it became formally united to the Scottish Episcopal Church, and the late rector was the first to b© instituted by 6he bishop of th© diocese, the institution tak ing place on 15th December, 1898. Th© clergy of St. Paul's sine© the found ing of the church has contained many well- known names. The complete list is as follows:— (1722) Rev. R. Milne, (1727) Dr. Cockburn, (1741) Rev. John Gordon, (1757) Rev. J. Riddoch, who published a volume of sermons; (1782) Rev. Roderick Macleod, afterwards rector of St. Anne's, London, gradfather of the present Lady Caithness, and father of a Principal of Aberdeen University ; (1790) Rev. J. Deans, (1807) Rev. J. Cordiner, (1836) Rev. Isaac Harris, (1842) Rev. Sir Wm. Dunbar, Bart., who differed with the bishop as to the terms of union with th© Scottish Church ; (1855) Rev. J. Kirkman, (1858) Rev. F. W. B-ouv©rie, (1869) Rev. Samuel Clark, (1875) Rev. T. W. Bray, (1879) Rev. Samuel Clark, (1886) Rev. G. W. Rowntree, well-known as a poet, having six times won the Seatonian Prize at Cambridge for a sacred poem; (1894) Rev. W. Fairclough, (1898) Rev. E. E. Marshall, (1908) Rev. G. T. Shettle. The present Rector, Rev. G. T. Shettle, L.A., was educated at Merchant Taylors and St. Andrew's University. He worked for several years in Salisbury Diocese, where he was ordained Deacon and Priest, 1887-8, and afterwards in Newcastle and Chester Dioceses. In th© former, for some years, h© was Vicar of Cramlington and organising secretary to the Diocese Lay Helpers' Association. His last charge was St. Catherine's, Birkenhead, in the Diocese of Chester, in which he held the offic© of surrogate. He is th© author of the following works, in addition to various Old St. Paul's Episcopal Churoh. 308 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN Rev. E. E. Marshall. contributions to reviews and magazines — " A Handbook for After Meetings," with introduction by the Bishop of St. Albans; "The Pathway of the Cross," with introduction by the Archdeacon of Widerf arne, and " Daily Habits and Godly Discipline," a volume of sermons. St. Paul's has always been fortunate in the men who have taken a leading part in its affairs. A well-known citizen, Mr. James Augustus Sinclair, afterwards Earl of Caithness, was one of the managers, and for many years also the treasurer. The church has now a new constitution, with a broad and democratic basis of con stituent membership, and it has still the allegiance of men of recognised position and influence in the community. Colonel Innes, LL.D., C.V.O., was the first Lay Representative, and Mr. W. C. Good the first Lay Elector. On Mr. Good's de parture from Aberdeen, Colonel Innes be came Lay Elector, and Mr. Alexander Emslie Smith, advocate, the Lay Repre sentative. The two excellent church wardens are Mr. James Duguid, a member of an old Aberdeenshire family long loyal to the Episoopal Church, and Mr. John Jameson, whose father was for many yeare a manager and a keen supporter of St. Paul's, and whose ancestors suffered much in the days of the persecution of the Episoopal Church. The statistical re turn for the year ending 31st December, 1908, shows 330 communicants, while the whole congregation numbers 559, and the number of communions made 1212. Th© collections showed an increase. Ther© ar© 222 subscribers to th© Clergy Sustentation Fund. St. Paul's Church has great traditions, of which the congregation ar© justifiably proud. It has been associated very in timately with th© rise and progress of Episcopacy in Aberdeen, and it has from the first held a position of recognised im- ' portance. The tim© was when St. Paul's was th© fashionable city church, and it was not unusual for the Gallowgate to be lined with carriages waiting th© dispersal of- the congregations. A great change has passed across the ecclesiastical life of the city since then, and the conditions to-day are different in many ways, yet the congrega tion is still a living force in th© com munity. St. Paul's can boast of the great antiquity of its origin and the splendour of its history, but it has no need to dwell upon these. It has an even greater glory in the vitality and vigour, the efficiency and earnestness which characterise it to day. Rev. 0. T. Shettle, L.A. LXXVL— ST. PETERS EPISCOPAL MISSION CHURCH. St. Peter's Episcopal Mission Church. There has been no more striking feature of the increase of th© population of Aber deen within recent years than th© remark able growth of the suburb south of the Dee. The old village of Torry counted for little, but with the marvellous development of the fishing industry there sprang up a large new community in closer proximity to the city, which is now included within the municipal boundary. Th© new conditions mad© it necessary that there should b© som© change in the ecclesiastical arrange ments, and th© Episcopalians were not slow in realising this fact. In one sense, the new situation had a special claim on the Episcopal Church. In th© teeming popu lation so quickly gathered in the district there was a very larg© influx from Eng land and from southern cities and villages, and a great proportion of the new residents wer© members of th© Episcopal communion. It was not surprising, therefore, that steps should have been taken to meet the neces sities of the situation which had thus sud denly presented itself. This was not, however, the first move ment by the Episcopal Church in Torry. Iu 1882 an attempt had been made to found a mission in the district, and for a tim© the effort was not without promise. Services were held in a wooden hall near th© harbour, and good work was done in a quiet way. This mission was worked in connection with St. Mary's, Cove, and it was mainly owing to changes in the ar rangements at Cove that it had ultimately to be given up. Th© mission at Cove, with which the history of St. Peter's is largely bound up, was founded in 1864, and a neat school chapel was built, consisting of nave, chancel, and vestry. Among thos© who sub scribed to the building fund was the late Mr. W. E. Gladstone, who always took a keen interest in the Scottish Episcopal Church. In addition to the regular services, day and night schools were conducted for many years with con spicuous success, until they had fin ally to be relinquished owing to th© decrease of th© population in th© village. The first priest in charge was the Rev. W. Humphrey, who, after a short ministry, was transferred to Dundee, and subse quently joined the Roman communion. He was succeeded by Rev. T. I. Ball, now Pro vost of Cumbrae Cathedral. Other clergy who had charge of the mission were the Rev. H. H. Flower, Rev. C. E. Joblin, and Rev. R. Allen. From 1883 till 1900, Mr. William Mutch, assistant librarian, Advocates' Library, now printer in Aber deen, was in charg© as honorary lay reader, the sacramental ordinances being supplied by Rev. J. S. Gammell, of Drum- tcchty, and afterwards by the Rev. W. D. Innes, of Cowi©, who had been appointed to take charg© of th© work at Cov© and Torry. Soon after his appointment Mr. Innes resolved to devote his attention to the rapidly-increasing population at Torry. The urgent need for work appealed to him, and he was able to foresee the prospect of great development in the near future. It was at once apparent that in th© altered circumstances of th© locality the new movement in Torry would have to be on different lines from the former attempt in the same place. Mr. Innes and those associated with him realised this from the outset, and directed their efforts accord ingly. It was resolved to proceed as soon as possible with the erection of a church worthy of the district. A site was secured on the south side of Victoria Road, and the outcome of the negotiations was the rear ing of the handsome and striking edifice which now occupies so prominent a position in the new town south of the Dee. St. Peter's was acknowledged at th© time of 310 THE CHURCHES OF ABERDEEN its erection to b© a striking, and in some respects remarkable, addition to the eccle siastical architecture of Aberdeen. It rises to a great height, and thus presents an imposing appearance; while it has some features which ar© quite distinctive. The masonry is of red granite, in small oblong blocks, and this secures a pleasing effect. The altar front is of beautifully-carved wood, and the top is a fine slab of Raemoir granite. The building was begun in 1897, and it was opened by the Primus, the late Rev. W. Disney Innes. Bishop Jermyn, of Brechin, on 16th Novem ber, 1898. Mor© recently a commodious church hall has been built, where the Sun day School and the various agencies have full scope for their work. The scheme is still incomplete, as it is intended, in course of time, to erect a house for th© priest on the west side and a, choir and' clergy vestry on the north. A magnificent organ presented to the congregation is on© of the latest additions to the equipment of the church. Sine© the opening of St. Peter's there have been constant growth and de velopment both in membership and in Christian work. The members and com municants have steadily increased, and the liberality of the congregation has been fully manifested in th© gradual reduction of the debt resting on th© church fabric. The church has also becom© th© centre of great religious activity. Many organisations are in operation. There is a very large and flourishing Sunday School ; while the Boys' Brigade, th© Men's Guild, and other agencies are rendering excellent service. The seats in the church, it may be re marked, are fre© and unappropriated. Rev. W. Disney Innes, who has been mainly responsible for the inception and development of th© movement which re sulted in the erection of St. Peter's, and to whom the church owes so much, is a devoted and earnest Churchman, who is esteemed and loved everywhere. As laird of Cowie he was well known and highly respected in Kincardineshire, and espe cially in the Stonehaven district, before he took Holy Orders. Mr. Innes was ordained deacon in 1893 and priest in 1895 by the Bishop of Brechin, and he was for some time assistant curate in St. James's, Stone haven, previous te his appointment to the Cove and Torry Missions in 1896. His work in the latter capacity, and especially on behalf of the people of Torry, is well known. The present position and prospects of St. Peter's are full of hope. Under Mr. Innes' able and earnest ministry St. Peter's gives promise of increased prosperity and usefulness. Much has already been accom plished, but there is much still to be done. The field of operations i6 a needy one, and the conditions of work are not un attended by special difficulties. Episcopacy has received visibility in Torry by means of the stately edifice which is so well seen from the southern districts of the city ; and, what is of even mor© importance, St. Peter's has come to be acknowledged as a living power in the community, the influence of which has to be reckoned with by the con tending forces of evil. In the future of Torry and in the development of its reli gious life it is likely te play an important part. It is worthy of being noted, in closing, that St. Peter's, although included within the municipal boundary of th© city of Aber deen, is under the jurisdiction of the Bishop of Brechin. Aberdeen has thus the dis tinction of being within more than one diocese — a distinction possessed by few cities in the kingdom, and certainly by no other city in Scotland. LXXVIL— ST. MARK'S EPISCOPAL MISSION CHURCH. Rev. Henry Burdon, B.A. Soon after the settlement of Bishop Ellis in Aberdeen a movement was started for the purpose of extending the work and in fluence of th© Episcopal Church throughout the Diocese. With a view to th© accom plishment of this, it was decided to insti tute what is known as the Bishop's Fund for Church Work in the Diocese, and from this fund grants have been allocated for work in various districts. Th© question of extending the work in certain city districts claimed attention, and ultimately it was decided to proceed with a new mission in th© Rosemount locality. In course of time the scheme took practical shape, and th© mission church, to which ther© has been given the name of St. Mark's, is the first- fruit of th© Bishop's Fund in the city of Aberdeen. An excellent site was secured in Short Loanings, in the heart of a needy locality, and yet within a stonethrow of a main thoroughfare, and practically commanding th© whole of the Rosemount district. A neat and comely structure was erected, with accommodation for carrying on the various departments of work. The building, which rests on a granite foundation, is substanti ally constructed of strong wood framing covered externally with galvanised corru gated iron sheeting with wood facings, the whole being attractively painted in tints of red and greyish green. In addition to the nave, seated for 200, the plan of the building embraces a chancel, a small vestry, and a hall or mission room, constructed to accommodate about 70 people. This room, which will b© used for mission meetings, Sunday school classes, and other similar purposes, has a separate entrance from Magdala Place, the entrance lobby com municating with the nave of the church, thus affording a convenient means of access to and egress from the church in addition to th© main entrance from Short Loanings. Th© internal fittings of th© building are all of wood, and of a very simple and inex pensive description, from special designs in keeping with the character of th© struc ture by the architect, Mr. Arthur Clyne, F.R.I.B.A., Aberdeen. The church was dedicated by Bishop Ellis on 20th May, 1908, and soon thereafter Rev. Henry Burdon, B.A., was appointed priest-in-charge. Mr. Burdon was formerly well known in Aberdeen as curate of St. Margaret's, and under him the new cause at St. Mark's has been making satisfactory progress. ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCHES. Right Rev. iEneas Chisholm, D.D., LL.D., Bishop of Aherdeen. LXXVIIL- ST. MARY'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL. Th© ©rection of St. Mary's Cathedral marked an important forward step on the part of the Roman Catholic community in Aberdeen. For many years they had met in St. Peter's Chapel, Justice Street, but, with a steady increase in numbers and in influence they began to consider the advisa bility of building a new place of worship more imposing in appearance and farther west in the city. Th© outcome of this was the ©rection of the splendid edifice in Huntly Street, which is a striking monu ment to the enterprise and liberality of th© Catholics of thos© earlier years. The dedication of th© building to St. Mary of th© Assumption took place on Thursday, 21st December, 1860, Bishop Kyle, of the Northern District, officiating. Bishop Murdoch, of the Western District, cele brated Pontifical High Mass, and he was assisted by a large concourse of clergymen. The ©vent created considerable public in terest, and since then St. Mary's has been to th© general community a standing re minder of th© presence and power of Roman Catholicism in its midst. On the restoration of the Catholic Hierarchy in 1878, St. Mary's became the Cathedral of the Diocese of Aberdeen, under the first Bishop, the Right Rev. John Macdonald, D.D., who had formerly been Vicar Apostolic of the Northern Dis trict, in succession to Bishop Kyle. Bishop Macdonald was a man of sterling virtue and blameless life, and of a most lovable disposition. Of a quiet and retiring character, h© took but little part in public life. His tall and stately figure was, how ever, familiar in the streets, and, when he officiated in the Cathedral on the occasion ST. MARY'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL 313 of any great function, dressed in full ponti ficals, he presented a commanding appear ance. When he attended the Vatican Council, he was said to be th© tallest, with one possible exception, of all the assembled St. Mary's Roman Catholic Cathedral. fathers. After a lingering and painful ill ness, Bishop Macdonald died on 7th February, 1889. Th© second Bishop was the Right Rev. Colin Grant, D.D., whose episcopate was of tragically short duration. Bishop Grant's consecration took place with great solemnity in St. Mary's Cathe dral on 13th August, 1889. Within a few days thereafter he was laid aside by an illness from which he never recovered, his death taking place on 26th September, within six weeks of his consecration. The tidings of his death caused inexpressible surprise and sorrow among th© Catholics of his diocese. H© was cut off befor© h© had an opportunity of proving his capacity for th© office of Bishop, but his previous career had shown him to b© a man of zeal, tempered with prudence, shrewd and re sourceful in business, of a forceful per sonality, and with gifts indicating his fit ness to be a leader of men. Bishop Grant's successor was th© Right Rev. Hugh Macdonald, D.D., who speedily gained th© confidence of his clergy and people, as well as th© esteem of the general community. Bishop Hugh Macdonald was a man of fine gifts and earnest outlook. He served the cause well, and his decease on 29th May, 1897, was widely regretted. The present Bishop, the Right Rev. .^r*r*%ev*%^%w*-^sv&%*&tyv% «%«m%%%%mvp PURVEYORS TO HIS MAJESTY. BY APPOINTMENT /p The Unprecedented Demand for our ffiUX OAT (MS1 A HAS MADE AN EXTENSION OF THIS DEPARTMENT > l"-^ j ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. Our Increised Facilities will Ensure Promrtr \ttentloo to all Orders ADVERTISEMENTS 403 The Guiding Eye. No work is done better than it is seen — if seen indistinctly it will be more or less badly done. Deftness of hand can only come of keen vision. Quick and accurate thinking can only be accomplished when the eyes help— not obstruct— the brain. Good vision contributes to good work, good health, and the enjoyment of recreation. If your sight is imperfect, or your eyes trouble you, consult me. My whole time and attention is given to Sight-testing and the fitting of Spectacles or Eyeglasses, which I guarantee to give comfort and sight safety. Q. H. 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