HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
V. - HOTELS, continued ...
BROADWAY HALL.
This celebrated boarding-house is beautifully located a little up Broadway, and on higher ground than any other boarding-house in the place, and consequently is airy and healthy.
THE EMPIRE HOTEL.
On the corner of Front and Rock streets, in the north part of the village, is the nearest hotel or boarding-house to the celebrated Empire, High Rock, Saratoga Star, Seltzer, and Red springs.
It is on the site of the old Schouten house.
THE CENTENNIAL HOUSE.
Is opposite the United States Hotel, on Matilda street, near Division street and the railroad depot.
THE CONTINENTAL HOTEL.
On Washington street, has been a favorite resort for many years.
It is a well-built brick hotel, situated in a pleasant part of the village, and but a few steps from the railroad station.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
V. - HOTELS, concluded ...
THE COMMERCIAL HOTEL
Stands on the corner of Church and Matilda streets and Railroad place.
THE EVERETT HOUSE
Is situated on Broadway, a few doors south of the Clarendon Hotel.
THE GREEN MOUNTAIN HOUSE
Is on Washington street, the first door west of the Baptist church.
THE HUESTIS HOUSE
At 234 and 236 South Broadway, is situated on the most beautiful portion of South Broadway, near the Clarendon Hotel.
THE MOREY HOUSE
On Franklin street, is situated but a short distance from the principal springs and the leading hotels in the place.
THE MANSION HOUSE
This house is situated on Spring avenue, within a few rods of Excelsior and Union springs.
THE PIERPONT HOUSE
Is located on the corner of Regent street and White street, near Union avenue.
THE PITNEY HOUSE
On Congress street, is one of the largest and best boarding-houses in Saratoga.
THE VERMONT HOUSE
This house is on Grove, corner of Front street, and just north of the Presbyterian church.
THE WILBUR HOUSE
Is on the corner of Washington and Federal streets; it is a large boarding-house, which is kept open all the year.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
V. - HOTELS, concluded ...
THE COMMERCIAL HOTEL
Stands on the corner of Church and Matilda streets and Railroad place.
THE EVERETT HOUSE
Is situated on Broadway, a few doors south of the Clarendon Hotel.
THE GREEN MOUNTAIN HOUSE
Is on Washington street, the first door west of the Baptist church.
THE HUESTIS HOUSE
At 234 and 236 South Broadway, is situated on the most beautiful portion of South Broadway, near the Clarendon Hotel.
THE MOREY HOUSE
On Franklin street, is situated but a short distance from the principal springs and the leading hotels in the place.
THE MANSION HOUSE
This house is situated on Spring avenue, within a few rods of Excelsior and Union springs.
THE PIERPONT HOUSE
Is located on the corner of Regent street and White street, near Union avenue.
THE PITNEY HOUSE
On Congress street, is one of the largest and best boarding-houses in Saratoga.
THE VERMONT HOUSE
This house is on Grove, corner of Front street, and just north of the Presbyterian church.
THE WILBUR HOUSE
Is on the corner of Washington and Federal streets; it is a large boarding-house, which is kept open all the year.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS.
The history of the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs reaches back to the early years of the settlement of the town, and it was organized and recognized as such twenty-three years before any other church existed in the town; and although the house of worship was two miles away until 1822, a large number of their members resided in the village, and they held religious services a part of the time for some years in a school-house that stood on the first lot west of where their present church edifice is located, on Washington street.
Before its recognition as a church the Baptists in this vicinity were members, it is supposed, of the First Stillwater (Bemus Heights) church, which, according to Benedict's "History of the Baptists," arose in 1762, became unusually large, and prospered, with branches in many directions, among which was one called Kayadrosseras; and in 1791, ten of their members living on the west side of Saratoga lake were dismissed to form an independent church, and this was probably the beginning of the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs, which was constituted and received fellowship as a Baptist church by a council consisting of pastors and delegates called from various churches of the same faith and order, which met Oct. 11, 1793.
The constituent members numbered twenty.
Elder Simeon Smith, moderator; Elder Lemuel Powers, clerk of council.
At their first church conference, held Oct. 26, 1796, it was voted to hold their meetings for worship one-half the time at Bro. W. Barrow's, and the other half of the time at the school-house near Timothy Shipman's, near where, in 1878, Joseph Rowley lives, in the town of Malta.
The early history of the church was full of such hardship and discouragement as is known only in pioneer life, but the faithful band struggled on with persistent perseverance, not only to maintain their existence and visibility, but to secure ministers of the gospel to preach and administer the ordinances of the church.
And in return they saw their numbers and influence increasing, and they, year after year, occupying a larger place, while they were constantly dismissing members to unite with other churches in different sections of the State and country.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS.
The history of the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs reaches back to the early years of the settlement of the town, and it was organized and recognized as such twenty-three years before any other church existed in the town; and although the house of worship was two miles away until 1822, a large number of their members resided in the village, and they held religious services a part of the time for some years in a school-house that stood on the first lot west of where their present church edifice is located, on Washington street.
Before its recognition as a church the Baptists in this vicinity were members, it is supposed, of the First Stillwater (Bemus Heights) church, which, according to Benedict's "History of the Baptists," arose in 1762, became unusually large, and prospered, with branches in many directions, among which was one called Kayadrosseras; and in 1791, ten of their members living on the west side of Saratoga lake were dismissed to form an independent church, and this was probably the beginning of the First Baptist church of Saratoga Springs, which was constituted and received fellowship as a Baptist church by a council consisting of pastors and delegates called from various churches of the same faith and order, which met Oct. 11, 1793.
The constituent members numbered twenty.
Elder Simeon Smith, moderator; Elder Lemuel Powers, clerk of council.
At their first church conference, held Oct. 26, 1796, it was voted to hold their meetings for worship one-half the time at Bro. W. Barrow's, and the other half of the time at the school-house near Timothy Shipman's, near where, in 1878, Joseph Rowley lives, in the town of Malta.
The early history of the church was full of such hardship and discouragement as is known only in pioneer life, but the faithful band struggled on with persistent perseverance, not only to maintain their existence and visibility, but to secure ministers of the gospel to preach and administer the ordinances of the church.
And in return they saw their numbers and influence increasing, and they, year after year, occupying a larger place, while they were constantly dismissing members to unite with other churches in different sections of the State and country.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS, continued ...
Houses of worship.
The records of the church do not show that they had any house of worship for many years, but held their meetings, as stated above, until Dec. 3, 1796, when they voted to hold them at the house of Nathaniel Saxton until a more convenient place could be obtained, and the same vote was renewed Dec. 3, 1798.
Salmon Munger, Edy Baker, and Thos. Ostrander were chosen Oct. 20, 1804, a committee to stake out the ground to set the meeting-house on, and Dec. 28, 1808, they voted to build a house thirty-eight by twenty-eight feet, two stories high and gallery, and to begin as soon as $500 was subscribed.
July 8, 1809, they voted, instead of getting incorporated, to secure the title of the ground and meeting-house, by taking an everlasting lease from Mr. Ellis.
This house stood a short distance east of the Geyser spring, and was their place of worship until 1822, when they removed to the village, and occupied a house on the site of their present church edifice.
It was two stories high, with galleries, and cost about $2500.
This house was used without change until 1846, when it was remodeled and thoroughly repaired.
The increase of members of the church and society was so rapid from this time, that in 1855 it was found necessary to build the present beautiful and commodious house of worship, which was dedicated in August, 1856.
Its cost was $18,000.
About the year 1833 they built a parsonage on the same lot with the church, which still remains.
The church property is unencumbered, and the society is free from debt.
From 1793 to 1800 they had no settled pastor, but were supplied by different ministers; Elders Rogers, Craw, and Powers being most frequently mentioned, who preached to them and administered the ordinances of the church.
The first pastor was Elisha P. Langworthy, who was ordained to the work of the ministry Dec. 18, 1800; and this relation existed until Jan. 9, 1819.
His home was at Ballston Spa, and he often came on foot to meet and preach to his people.
In the cold weather he came through the drifted snow, and before going to the pulpit would shake hands with every person present, and then, with overcoat and mittens on, preach his sermon; then have an intermission, and after that another sermon; and then part with them, to meet on the next Sabbath.
In those days they had no stoves, and so did not see fire from the time they left home until they reached it again.
A cold lunch was in order on those winter Sabbaths.
The church was largely increased in numbers under his labors.
He died in 1828.
Francis Wayland, the second pastor, was called to serve the church Jan. 9, 1819, and remained with them until Jan. 19, 1823.
John Lamb, the third pastor, was called April 12, 1823, and continued as such until March 26, 1825.
The fourth pastor was David R. Mackelfresh, who was called Nov. 13, 1825, but released from his engagement June 13, 1826.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS, continued ...
Houses of worship.
The records of the church do not show that they had any house of worship for many years, but held their meetings, as stated above, until Dec. 3, 1796, when they voted to hold them at the house of Nathaniel Saxton until a more convenient place could be obtained, and the same vote was renewed Dec. 3, 1798.
Salmon Munger, Edy Baker, and Thos. Ostrander were chosen Oct. 20, 1804, a committee to stake out the ground to set the meeting-house on, and Dec. 28, 1808, they voted to build a house thirty-eight by twenty-eight feet, two stories high and gallery, and to begin as soon as $500 was subscribed.
July 8, 1809, they voted, instead of getting incorporated, to secure the title of the ground and meeting-house, by taking an everlasting lease from Mr. Ellis.
This house stood a short distance east of the Geyser spring, and was their place of worship until 1822, when they removed to the village, and occupied a house on the site of their present church edifice.
It was two stories high, with galleries, and cost about $2500.
This house was used without change until 1846, when it was remodeled and thoroughly repaired.
The increase of members of the church and society was so rapid from this time, that in 1855 it was found necessary to build the present beautiful and commodious house of worship, which was dedicated in August, 1856.
Its cost was $18,000.
About the year 1833 they built a parsonage on the same lot with the church, which still remains.
The church property is unencumbered, and the society is free from debt.
From 1793 to 1800 they had no settled pastor, but were supplied by different ministers; Elders Rogers, Craw, and Powers being most frequently mentioned, who preached to them and administered the ordinances of the church.
The first pastor was Elisha P. Langworthy, who was ordained to the work of the ministry Dec. 18, 1800; and this relation existed until Jan. 9, 1819.
His home was at Ballston Spa, and he often came on foot to meet and preach to his people.
In the cold weather he came through the drifted snow, and before going to the pulpit would shake hands with every person present, and then, with overcoat and mittens on, preach his sermon; then have an intermission, and after that another sermon; and then part with them, to meet on the next Sabbath.
In those days they had no stoves, and so did not see fire from the time they left home until they reached it again.
A cold lunch was in order on those winter Sabbaths.
The church was largely increased in numbers under his labors.
He died in 1828.
Francis Wayland, the second pastor, was called to serve the church Jan. 9, 1819, and remained with them until Jan. 19, 1823.
John Lamb, the third pastor, was called April 12, 1823, and continued as such until March 26, 1825.
The fourth pastor was David R. Mackelfresh, who was called Nov. 13, 1825, but released from his engagement June 13, 1826.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS, concluded ...
After this the church was supplied by Elders More and Hubbell and other ministers until the fifth pastor, Joshua Fletcher, was called, Jan. 24, 1829.
He graduated at Hamilton in June after, and the church called a council, which met Sept. 10, 1829, and set him apart by solemn ordination to the work of the gospel ministry.
Large numbers were added to the church during his pastorate, which he resigned Nov. 28, 1845.
Arnold Kingsbury, the sixth pastor, was settled in 1847, and labored with the church until 1849, when he was succeeded by the seventh pastor, Austin H. Stowel, who commenced his labors in the winter of 1850, and remained until Feb. 20, 1855, when he resigned, and was followed by the eighth pastor, Luther W. Beecher, D.D., who was called Sept. 19, 1855, and resigned Sept. 19, 1859.
During these two pastorates the church made a marked advance in numbers and means of support.
A.W. Sawyer, the ninth pastor, was called Feb. 18, 1861, and resigned Jan. 11, 1864, and was followed by the tenth pastor, L. M. Woodruff, who was called Sept. 19, 1864, and resigned May 1, 1870.
During these years the church paid off all its debts, and was more largely increased in its membership than under the labors of any other pastor of the same number of years.
After his removal the church obtained supplies until Dec. 12, 1870, when William Cheetham, the eleventh pastor, was called, and ministered to the church until Oct. 8, 1871.
After this the church was supplied most of the time by Rev. Samuel H. Greene, now of Cazenovia, N. Y., and Ed. H. Bronson, now of Aurora, Ill., under whose preaching many were converted and added to the church, until the twelfth pastor, E.A. Woods, was called, July 7, 1872.
He closed this relation Jan. 9, 1876.
The church was again without a pastor until the thirteenth and present one, George A. Smith, was called, May 28, 1876.
He was a graduate from Madison Theological Seminary of the class of 1876, and was ordained July 20 of the same year.
Under his ministry the church has enjoyed a very unusual degree of harmony, and many have been added to its membership.
From its membership the church has licensed the following persons to preach: Andrew Sprague, July 4, 1795; the late Francis Wayland, D.D., president of Brown University, was licensed Dec. 11, 1819; Lemuel Covell, Dee. 28, 1833; Levi Parmely, Dec. 28, 1838; Ebenezer Jewett, Nov. 4, 1859; Charles H. Moscrip, Sept. 16, 1870.
The greatest ingatherings to the church were in the years 1811, 1812, 1819, 1824, 1830, 1834, 1840, 1843, 1850, 1857, 1866, and 1872.
The whole number baptized up to June 1, 1878, was 1050; whole number added by letter, 734; total, 1784.
Present number, 428.
In December, 1817, letters were granted to members to form a church in Wilton, and in 1876 sixty-five were dismissed to form the Second Baptist church of Saratoga Springs.
The following persons have been elected to the office of deacon: Gresham Saxton, Nathaniel Saxton, Briggs Sherman, Eliphaz Fish, Salmon Munger, Noah Roberts, Ezekiel Bradley, John A. Waterbury, Isaac Patrick, Joseph Waring, Wm. C. Owen, John Marston, John T. Carr, Edwin N. Brown, Francis W. Waterbury, Leonard H. Simons, Deman Vail, John Palmer, Edward R. Waterbury, Leonard Cotton, Reuben Merchant, Phineas F. Allen, Gilbert L. Waring, Thomas Noxon, Charles S. Smith.
The following persons have served the church as clerk: Eliphaz Fish, Wm. Wait, Harmon J. Betts, Philo R. Waterbury, John A. Waterbury, Aruna C.T. Peck, Francis W. Waterbury, Charles Phillips, Thomas Stevens, Edwin N. Brown, Phineas F. Allen; Oliver H. Cromwell, Geo. W. Wadsworth.
The first trustees chosen by the church were Eliphaz Fish and Andrew Sprague, May 7, 1796.
The present board consists of Wm. Waterbury, Prince W. Wells, Frank V. Hewitt, Jerome Pitney, Thos. Noxon, Seymour Gilbert.
Wm. H. Gibbs is chorister and Mrs. Chas. O. Van Dorn organist.
The church has engaged heartily in Sabbath-school work.
In January, 1820, in connection with the Presbyterians, they organized a Union school, which they sustained until 1822, when each church formed separate schools of their own.
The following persons have been superintendents of the school: Harmon J. Betts, John A. Waterbury, Wm. A. Langworthy, Warren A. Smith, Phineas Fletcher, Amariah H. Fitch, Rev. Heman H. Hoff, Samuel B. Terwilliger, Philo R. Waterbury, Isaac D. Sweat, Rev. Joshua Fletcher, Thos. Stevens, John Marston, E. Milton Brown, and John T. Carr, the present superintendent.
In April, 1878, they celebrated their fifty-eighth anniversary, and by the report of the secretary we find the following statistics for the year ending March 31, 1878: number of officers, 10; teachers, 32; scholars, 355; volumes in the library, 1400; receipts for the year, $738.28.
The present officers, 1878, are as follows: Rev. Geo. A. Smith, president; John T. Carr, superintendent; Edward R. Waterbury, assistant superintendent; Geo. M. Crippen, secretary; John R. Barrett, treasurer; Oliver H. Cromwell, Beebee R. Barrett, Frank Hewitt, and Geo. Humphrey, librarians; Oscar A. Day, chorister; Miss Nora E. Morse, organist.
The ladies of the church have an aid society for assisting poor children of the Sabbath-school, besides which they have rendered large and timely contributions to aid in defraying church expenses.
The church is interested in and contributes largely for home and foreign missions, education, publication, Bible and freedmen work.
Being the oldest church and with a large membership, they feel that they have a great work to do both at home and abroad.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, SARATOGA SPRINGS, concluded ...
After this the church was supplied by Elders More and Hubbell and other ministers until the fifth pastor, Joshua Fletcher, was called, Jan. 24, 1829.
He graduated at Hamilton in June after, and the church called a council, which met Sept. 10, 1829, and set him apart by solemn ordination to the work of the gospel ministry.
Large numbers were added to the church during his pastorate, which he resigned Nov. 28, 1845.
Arnold Kingsbury, the sixth pastor, was settled in 1847, and labored with the church until 1849, when he was succeeded by the seventh pastor, Austin H. Stowel, who commenced his labors in the winter of 1850, and remained until Feb. 20, 1855, when he resigned, and was followed by the eighth pastor, Luther W. Beecher, D.D., who was called Sept. 19, 1855, and resigned Sept. 19, 1859.
During these two pastorates the church made a marked advance in numbers and means of support.
A.W. Sawyer, the ninth pastor, was called Feb. 18, 1861, and resigned Jan. 11, 1864, and was followed by the tenth pastor, L. M. Woodruff, who was called Sept. 19, 1864, and resigned May 1, 1870.
During these years the church paid off all its debts, and was more largely increased in its membership than under the labors of any other pastor of the same number of years.
After his removal the church obtained supplies until Dec. 12, 1870, when William Cheetham, the eleventh pastor, was called, and ministered to the church until Oct. 8, 1871.
After this the church was supplied most of the time by Rev. Samuel H. Greene, now of Cazenovia, N. Y., and Ed. H. Bronson, now of Aurora, Ill., under whose preaching many were converted and added to the church, until the twelfth pastor, E.A. Woods, was called, July 7, 1872.
He closed this relation Jan. 9, 1876.
The church was again without a pastor until the thirteenth and present one, George A. Smith, was called, May 28, 1876.
He was a graduate from Madison Theological Seminary of the class of 1876, and was ordained July 20 of the same year.
Under his ministry the church has enjoyed a very unusual degree of harmony, and many have been added to its membership.
From its membership the church has licensed the following persons to preach: Andrew Sprague, July 4, 1795; the late Francis Wayland, D.D., president of Brown University, was licensed Dec. 11, 1819; Lemuel Covell, Dee. 28, 1833; Levi Parmely, Dec. 28, 1838; Ebenezer Jewett, Nov. 4, 1859; Charles H. Moscrip, Sept. 16, 1870.
The greatest ingatherings to the church were in the years 1811, 1812, 1819, 1824, 1830, 1834, 1840, 1843, 1850, 1857, 1866, and 1872.
The whole number baptized up to June 1, 1878, was 1050; whole number added by letter, 734; total, 1784.
Present number, 428.
In December, 1817, letters were granted to members to form a church in Wilton, and in 1876 sixty-five were dismissed to form the Second Baptist church of Saratoga Springs.
The following persons have been elected to the office of deacon: Gresham Saxton, Nathaniel Saxton, Briggs Sherman, Eliphaz Fish, Salmon Munger, Noah Roberts, Ezekiel Bradley, John A. Waterbury, Isaac Patrick, Joseph Waring, Wm. C. Owen, John Marston, John T. Carr, Edwin N. Brown, Francis W. Waterbury, Leonard H. Simons, Deman Vail, John Palmer, Edward R. Waterbury, Leonard Cotton, Reuben Merchant, Phineas F. Allen, Gilbert L. Waring, Thomas Noxon, Charles S. Smith.
The following persons have served the church as clerk: Eliphaz Fish, Wm. Wait, Harmon J. Betts, Philo R. Waterbury, John A. Waterbury, Aruna C.T. Peck, Francis W. Waterbury, Charles Phillips, Thomas Stevens, Edwin N. Brown, Phineas F. Allen; Oliver H. Cromwell, Geo. W. Wadsworth.
The first trustees chosen by the church were Eliphaz Fish and Andrew Sprague, May 7, 1796.
The present board consists of Wm. Waterbury, Prince W. Wells, Frank V. Hewitt, Jerome Pitney, Thos. Noxon, Seymour Gilbert.
Wm. H. Gibbs is chorister and Mrs. Chas. O. Van Dorn organist.
The church has engaged heartily in Sabbath-school work.
In January, 1820, in connection with the Presbyterians, they organized a Union school, which they sustained until 1822, when each church formed separate schools of their own.
The following persons have been superintendents of the school: Harmon J. Betts, John A. Waterbury, Wm. A. Langworthy, Warren A. Smith, Phineas Fletcher, Amariah H. Fitch, Rev. Heman H. Hoff, Samuel B. Terwilliger, Philo R. Waterbury, Isaac D. Sweat, Rev. Joshua Fletcher, Thos. Stevens, John Marston, E. Milton Brown, and John T. Carr, the present superintendent.
In April, 1878, they celebrated their fifty-eighth anniversary, and by the report of the secretary we find the following statistics for the year ending March 31, 1878: number of officers, 10; teachers, 32; scholars, 355; volumes in the library, 1400; receipts for the year, $738.28.
The present officers, 1878, are as follows: Rev. Geo. A. Smith, president; John T. Carr, superintendent; Edward R. Waterbury, assistant superintendent; Geo. M. Crippen, secretary; John R. Barrett, treasurer; Oliver H. Cromwell, Beebee R. Barrett, Frank Hewitt, and Geo. Humphrey, librarians; Oscar A. Day, chorister; Miss Nora E. Morse, organist.
The ladies of the church have an aid society for assisting poor children of the Sabbath-school, besides which they have rendered large and timely contributions to aid in defraying church expenses.
The church is interested in and contributes largely for home and foreign missions, education, publication, Bible and freedmen work.
Being the oldest church and with a large membership, they feel that they have a great work to do both at home and abroad.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SARATOGA SPRINGS.
The history of this venerable and influential society, the first religious society established in the village of Saratoga Springs, may be briefly stated as follows:
Organization. - The congregation was organized and trustees were elected January 15, 1816.
The first trustees chosen were Miles Beach, Ziba Taylor, and Nathan Lewis.
The first elders chosen and ordained, Dec. 11, 1817, were Abijah Blanchard and Luman B. Smith.
Abijah Blanchard was also chosen and ordained deacon.
This organization took place where worship was first held and the Sabbath-school was first conducted - in the village school-house, then situated on Washington street, on the spot now occupied by the First Baptist church.
It was recognized as an incorporated body by the court of common pleas June 6, 1816; was received under the care of the presbytery of Albany Aug. 19, 1817, and constituted a Presbyterian church by the admission of members, the ordination of elders, and the adoption of a confession of faith, Dec, 11, 1817.
Pastors. - The following persons have been installed and have officiated as pastors of this church, viz.:
1. Rev. Darius O. Griswold.
Under his ministration the church was established, and after acting as stated supply he was installed pastor in February, 1822.
This relation was dissolved Oct. 10, 1823.
After this the church was supplied for some two years by Rev. Dr. Wm. Chester and others.
2. Rev. Samuel W. Whelpley was installed pastor August 19, 1825.
This pastoral relation was dissolved Dec. 8, 1826.
3. For a period of over seven years the church had no pastor.
At length the former pastor, Rev. Mr. Griswold, was engaged as stated supply, and served the church in this capacity for five years.
The church owes much to this good man, who gave them some twelve years of the best part of his life, who commenced and fostered the enterprise, and under whose able ministrations it attained an enviable prosperity.
Mr. Griswold died in this village December 27, 1841, and his remains are interred in Greenridge cemetery.
4. The third pastor was Rev. Dr. Albert T. Chester, who was installed Dec. 3, 1839, and resigned his call Dec. 4, 1849.
5. Rev. Dr. John Woodbridge was installed pastor Jan. 21, 1851, and resigned Oct. 10, 1871.
6. Rev. Frederick W. Newman was installed July, 1872, and resigned early in the year 1875.
7. Rev. Dr. Peter Stryker, the present pastor, was installed July 9, 1876.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SARATOGA SPRINGS.
The history of this venerable and influential society, the first religious society established in the village of Saratoga Springs, may be briefly stated as follows:
Organization. - The congregation was organized and trustees were elected January 15, 1816.
The first trustees chosen were Miles Beach, Ziba Taylor, and Nathan Lewis.
The first elders chosen and ordained, Dec. 11, 1817, were Abijah Blanchard and Luman B. Smith.
Abijah Blanchard was also chosen and ordained deacon.
This organization took place where worship was first held and the Sabbath-school was first conducted - in the village school-house, then situated on Washington street, on the spot now occupied by the First Baptist church.
It was recognized as an incorporated body by the court of common pleas June 6, 1816; was received under the care of the presbytery of Albany Aug. 19, 1817, and constituted a Presbyterian church by the admission of members, the ordination of elders, and the adoption of a confession of faith, Dec, 11, 1817.
Pastors. - The following persons have been installed and have officiated as pastors of this church, viz.:
1. Rev. Darius O. Griswold.
Under his ministration the church was established, and after acting as stated supply he was installed pastor in February, 1822.
This relation was dissolved Oct. 10, 1823.
After this the church was supplied for some two years by Rev. Dr. Wm. Chester and others.
2. Rev. Samuel W. Whelpley was installed pastor August 19, 1825.
This pastoral relation was dissolved Dec. 8, 1826.
3. For a period of over seven years the church had no pastor.
At length the former pastor, Rev. Mr. Griswold, was engaged as stated supply, and served the church in this capacity for five years.
The church owes much to this good man, who gave them some twelve years of the best part of his life, who commenced and fostered the enterprise, and under whose able ministrations it attained an enviable prosperity.
Mr. Griswold died in this village December 27, 1841, and his remains are interred in Greenridge cemetery.
4. The third pastor was Rev. Dr. Albert T. Chester, who was installed Dec. 3, 1839, and resigned his call Dec. 4, 1849.
5. Rev. Dr. John Woodbridge was installed pastor Jan. 21, 1851, and resigned Oct. 10, 1871.
6. Rev. Frederick W. Newman was installed July, 1872, and resigned early in the year 1875.
7. Rev. Dr. Peter Stryker, the present pastor, was installed July 9, 1876.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, concluded ...
Church Edifices. - This church has had three sanctuaries.
The first was a frame building, and is still standing on the corner of Church and Matilda streets, and is now known as the Commercial Hotel.
This house was consecrated Dec. 6, 1820.
It cost about $4500.
The second building was a brick edifice, located on the corner of Broadway and Caroline street.
This was commenced early in the year 1848, and was dedicated some time in the year 1842. {note that either the year commencement or the year of dedication is in error.}
It cost $8000.
The large and elegant brick building, situated on North Broadway, just above the town-hall, is the third sanctuary.
This was finished and first occupied July 26, 1857.
The debt incurred in its erection being subscribed, the house was dedicated at the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the church, Dec. 8, 1867.
The cost of the lot and edifice was about $30,000.
Members and Church Work. - This church was organized with nine members.
It has on the church roll as admitted by letter and profession eleven hundred and ninety-five persons.
The number of persons now present and in full communion is two hundred and seventy-six.
Many connected with this church were or are persons of distinction: ministers, doctors, lawyers, judges, statesmen.
Among them may be specified Rev. Wm. W. Eddy, D.D., at present a missionary in Beirut, Syria, and the late Reuben H. Walworth, chancellor of the State of New York, and the late Judge Wm. L.F. Warren.
The officers of this church at present are as follows:
Session. - Rev. Peter Stryker, D.D., moderator; Paoli Durkee, clerk; Philip McOmber, N. Bedortha, M.D., Silas P. Briggs, Wm. B. Taylor, H. Dwight Williams.
Trustees. - Judge Chas. S. Lester, president; James H. Wright, treasurer; A.S. Hays, A.A. Patterson, Edward R. Stevens.
Deacons. - Samuel Freeburn, Charles C. Lester, Charles W. Fuller.
Choir. - C.C. Lester, leader; Miss Florence Eddy, organist.
Sexton. - Tracey A. Record.
Sabbath-School. - This is as old as the church.
It was organized in 1816, and Mr. John D. Mann was the first superintendent.
The school now numbers three hundred persons, and is in fine working order.
The officers are: Judge C.S. Lester, superintendent; Edward R. Stevens, secretary and treasurer; Willard Lester, librarian; C.C. Lester, chorister; Miss Sarah Pond, organist; Miss Carrie Walbridge, superintendent of primary department.
Industrial School. - This is held on Saturday afternoons.
Connected with it are about one hundred teachers and scholars.
Mrs. C.H. Stryker, the wife of the pastor, is the superintendent.
Young People's Association. - This is composed of a large number of the young people of the congregation, who make themselves very useful in a variety of ways.
The president is Willard Lester, and the secretary Walter Fuller.
There is a Women's Foreign Missionary Society in this church, connected with the Women's Foreign Missionary Society of the synod of Albany.
Also a Women's Home Missionary Society.
Of the former, Mrs. Peter Stryker is president; of the latter, Mrs. Alexander Proudfit.
The benevolent contributions of this church are obtained by (1) collections in the Sabbath-school; (2) subscriptions and collections for the poor fund; (3) subscriptions to the women's board; (4) subscriptions to general benevolence, solicited and collected each month by a committee of the Young People's Association, and disbursed by the session.
Colonies. - 1. Congregational church of Saratoga, Rev. W.R. Terrett, pastor; organized 1845. 2. Second Presbyterian church, Rev. Giles P. Hawley, pastor; organized Aug. 8, 1871.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH OF SARATOGA SPRINGS, concluded ...
Church Edifices. - This church has had three sanctuaries.
The first was a frame building, and is still standing on the corner of Church and Matilda streets, and is now known as the Commercial Hotel.
This house was consecrated Dec. 6, 1820.
It cost about $4500.
The second building was a brick edifice, located on the corner of Broadway and Caroline street.
This was commenced early in the year 1848, and was dedicated some time in the year 1842. {note that either the year commencement or the year of dedication is in error.}
It cost $8000.
The large and elegant brick building, situated on North Broadway, just above the town-hall, is the third sanctuary.
This was finished and first occupied July 26, 1857.
The debt incurred in its erection being subscribed, the house was dedicated at the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the church, Dec. 8, 1867.
The cost of the lot and edifice was about $30,000.
Members and Church Work. - This church was organized with nine members.
It has on the church roll as admitted by letter and profession eleven hundred and ninety-five persons.
The number of persons now present and in full communion is two hundred and seventy-six.
Many connected with this church were or are persons of distinction: ministers, doctors, lawyers, judges, statesmen.
Among them may be specified Rev. Wm. W. Eddy, D.D., at present a missionary in Beirut, Syria, and the late Reuben H. Walworth, chancellor of the State of New York, and the late Judge Wm. L.F. Warren.
The officers of this church at present are as follows:
Session. - Rev. Peter Stryker, D.D., moderator; Paoli Durkee, clerk; Philip McOmber, N. Bedortha, M.D., Silas P. Briggs, Wm. B. Taylor, H. Dwight Williams.
Trustees. - Judge Chas. S. Lester, president; James H. Wright, treasurer; A.S. Hays, A.A. Patterson, Edward R. Stevens.
Deacons. - Samuel Freeburn, Charles C. Lester, Charles W. Fuller.
Choir. - C.C. Lester, leader; Miss Florence Eddy, organist.
Sexton. - Tracey A. Record.
Sabbath-School. - This is as old as the church.
It was organized in 1816, and Mr. John D. Mann was the first superintendent.
The school now numbers three hundred persons, and is in fine working order.
The officers are: Judge C.S. Lester, superintendent; Edward R. Stevens, secretary and treasurer; Willard Lester, librarian; C.C. Lester, chorister; Miss Sarah Pond, organist; Miss Carrie Walbridge, superintendent of primary department.
Industrial School. - This is held on Saturday afternoons.
Connected with it are about one hundred teachers and scholars.
Mrs. C.H. Stryker, the wife of the pastor, is the superintendent.
Young People's Association. - This is composed of a large number of the young people of the congregation, who make themselves very useful in a variety of ways.
The president is Willard Lester, and the secretary Walter Fuller.
There is a Women's Foreign Missionary Society in this church, connected with the Women's Foreign Missionary Society of the synod of Albany.
Also a Women's Home Missionary Society.
Of the former, Mrs. Peter Stryker is president; of the latter, Mrs. Alexander Proudfit.
The benevolent contributions of this church are obtained by (1) collections in the Sabbath-school; (2) subscriptions and collections for the poor fund; (3) subscriptions to the women's board; (4) subscriptions to general benevolence, solicited and collected each month by a committee of the Young People's Association, and disbursed by the session.
Colonies. - 1. Congregational church of Saratoga, Rev. W.R. Terrett, pastor; organized 1845. 2. Second Presbyterian church, Rev. Giles P. Hawley, pastor; organized Aug. 8, 1871.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The formal organization of Bethesda church in Saratoga Springs was at a meeting of the congregation worshiping in a chapel on the northeast corner of Congress and Putnam streets, in the village of Saratoga Springs, on the 4th day of October, 1830.
For many years prior to this organization, and, in fact, for many years subsequent thereto, the town of Saratoga Springs was missionary ground under the voluntarily assumed charge of the Rev. Edward Davis, of Ballston, and the Rev. Deodatus Babcock, of Ballston Spa.
At the time of this organization the Rev. Edward Davis was the missionary and rector in charge of this station, and he attended this meeting in the character of rector.
At this meeting Henry Walton and Wallace Crawford were elected wardens; John H. Steel, John Clarke, Daniel D. Benedict, Esek Cowen, Rockwell Putnam, Joel Clement, Jonathan Williams, and Daniel Wait, vestrymen.
A certificate of incorporation, in accordance with the provisions of "an act to provide for the incorporation of religious societies," was drawn up, certified by the seals of Edward Davis, rector, Rockwell Putnam, and Henry Walton, witnessed by William H. Walton and Sheldon Clarke, and acknowledged before Hon. John H. Steel, judge of Saratoga County common pleas.
This certificate was afterwards duly recorded in the office of the county clerk.
For nearly eleven years from the date of this organization the parish remained practically missionary ground, and the little band who met in the chapel kindly furnished by Dr. John Clarke, at the corner of Congress and Putnam streets, was carefully looked after and ministered to by the Rev. Messrs. Davis and Babcock, who lovingly and perseveringly held together the growing flock until it gained strength to stand alone.
On the 29th of May, 1841, a meeting of the church-wardens and vestrymen was held, pursuant to notice, at Bethesda chapel, permanent rules and by-laws of the incorporation adopted, and a special committee appointed to make inquiry as to grounds suitable as a site for a church edifice, and the terms on which it might be obtained.
John Clarke, Sidney J. Cowen, and Samuel Freeman were appointed such special committee.
They reported at an adjourned meeting, held June 5, 1841, three several offers of lots for a church edifice: one by Judge Henry Walton, in the grove on the east side of Broad street, north of Covent Garden; one by Rockwell Putnam, on the south side of Washington street, and one by Dr. John Clarke, in the grove on the west side of Circular street, north of and near Congress street, known as Temple hill.
The lot offered by Rockwell Putnam was finally chosen, and measures at once taken to erect upon it a church edifice.
Starting out with a debt of some $3500 for the lot selected, and no funds beyond the voluntary contributions of comparatively few in number, the work of erecting the church edifice and building up the church was slow.
For near thirty years the mortgage given on the purchase of the lot hung like a nightmare over the faithful struggling band, who labored in season and out of season to sustain the enterprise, and to clear the church, grown dear to them by labor and self-sacrifice, from incumbrance.
The plan of the building, drawn by R. Upjohn, architect, of New York, for the projected edifice on Temple hill, was, with some modifications, adopted for the new location.
The building on Washington street was commenced in 1842, and was first occupied, in an unfinished condition, during 1844.
The building, as first modeled, was in the form of the Latin cross, the nave and transepts occupied by the congregation, and the head of the cross by the chancel.
In 1859, to increase the seating capacity of the building, the walls of the nave between the towers and transepts were moved out on a line with the outer walls of the transepts.
The towers, according to the original plan, were never carried up and finished.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The formal organization of Bethesda church in Saratoga Springs was at a meeting of the congregation worshiping in a chapel on the northeast corner of Congress and Putnam streets, in the village of Saratoga Springs, on the 4th day of October, 1830.
For many years prior to this organization, and, in fact, for many years subsequent thereto, the town of Saratoga Springs was missionary ground under the voluntarily assumed charge of the Rev. Edward Davis, of Ballston, and the Rev. Deodatus Babcock, of Ballston Spa.
At the time of this organization the Rev. Edward Davis was the missionary and rector in charge of this station, and he attended this meeting in the character of rector.
At this meeting Henry Walton and Wallace Crawford were elected wardens; John H. Steel, John Clarke, Daniel D. Benedict, Esek Cowen, Rockwell Putnam, Joel Clement, Jonathan Williams, and Daniel Wait, vestrymen.
A certificate of incorporation, in accordance with the provisions of "an act to provide for the incorporation of religious societies," was drawn up, certified by the seals of Edward Davis, rector, Rockwell Putnam, and Henry Walton, witnessed by William H. Walton and Sheldon Clarke, and acknowledged before Hon. John H. Steel, judge of Saratoga County common pleas.
This certificate was afterwards duly recorded in the office of the county clerk.
For nearly eleven years from the date of this organization the parish remained practically missionary ground, and the little band who met in the chapel kindly furnished by Dr. John Clarke, at the corner of Congress and Putnam streets, was carefully looked after and ministered to by the Rev. Messrs. Davis and Babcock, who lovingly and perseveringly held together the growing flock until it gained strength to stand alone.
On the 29th of May, 1841, a meeting of the church-wardens and vestrymen was held, pursuant to notice, at Bethesda chapel, permanent rules and by-laws of the incorporation adopted, and a special committee appointed to make inquiry as to grounds suitable as a site for a church edifice, and the terms on which it might be obtained.
John Clarke, Sidney J. Cowen, and Samuel Freeman were appointed such special committee.
They reported at an adjourned meeting, held June 5, 1841, three several offers of lots for a church edifice: one by Judge Henry Walton, in the grove on the east side of Broad street, north of Covent Garden; one by Rockwell Putnam, on the south side of Washington street, and one by Dr. John Clarke, in the grove on the west side of Circular street, north of and near Congress street, known as Temple hill.
The lot offered by Rockwell Putnam was finally chosen, and measures at once taken to erect upon it a church edifice.
Starting out with a debt of some $3500 for the lot selected, and no funds beyond the voluntary contributions of comparatively few in number, the work of erecting the church edifice and building up the church was slow.
For near thirty years the mortgage given on the purchase of the lot hung like a nightmare over the faithful struggling band, who labored in season and out of season to sustain the enterprise, and to clear the church, grown dear to them by labor and self-sacrifice, from incumbrance.
The plan of the building, drawn by R. Upjohn, architect, of New York, for the projected edifice on Temple hill, was, with some modifications, adopted for the new location.
The building on Washington street was commenced in 1842, and was first occupied, in an unfinished condition, during 1844.
The building, as first modeled, was in the form of the Latin cross, the nave and transepts occupied by the congregation, and the head of the cross by the chancel.
In 1859, to increase the seating capacity of the building, the walls of the nave between the towers and transepts were moved out on a line with the outer walls of the transepts.
The towers, according to the original plan, were never carried up and finished.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH, concluded ...
The first rector of the parish after the long-continued missionary labors of the Rev. Drs. Davis and Babcock was the Rev. William Frederick Walker, formerly of Christ church, Troy, N.Y.
Mr. Walker had occupied the place for a time in a missionary capacity, and on the 19th of June was called to the rectorship of the parish.
Mr. Walker was succeeded, Sept. 2, 1843, by the Rev. Samuel Hansom Cox: then in his diaconate as minister.
March 28, 1845, the Rev. John Henry Hobart was called as rector.
He was succeeded, June 9, 1846, by the Rev. Philip E. Milledoler, M.D., who continued as rector until his death, June 19, 1850.
For some months prior to his decease the Rev. Dr. Milledoler was unable to attend to his duties, and at his request the Rev. B.H. Whicher was employed as officiating minister.
Sept. 13, 1850, Rev. S.F. Wiley was called as rector.
He remained until November, 1852, when, on account of the continued illness of his wife, he was compelled to resign and remove.
From this time for a few months Rev. Dr. Babcock, of Ballston Spa, again officiated by request.
Feb. 28, 1852, the Rev. John Steinfort Kidney was called as rector.
He continued until April, 1858, when, on account of the health of some members of his family, he accepted a call to a church in the south.
May 10, 1858, the Rev. Robert C. Rogers was called as rector.
He continued until July, 1861.
July 5, 1861, the Rev. Edmund Rowland Deacon, of Hartford; Conn., was employed as minister, and on March 12, 1862, he was called as rector.
He continued as rector till October, 1863.
Nov. 12, 1863, the Rev. Francis C. Wainwright was called as rector.
He continued until May, 1865.
The Rev. G.C.V. Eastman was employed as officiating clergyman from the resignation of Mr. Wainwright until the call, April 20, 1866, of the Rev. John Breckenridge Gibson.
Mr. Gibson continued as rector until his acceptance of a call from St. John's school, Sing Sing, N. Y.
The successor of Dr. Gibson was the Rev. Dr. Norman W. Camp, who became the rector in 1869, and continued till the year 1873, when, on account of failing health, he resigned his charge.
The Rev. Joseph Carey, the present rector, has had charge of the parish since Advent Sunday, 1873.
The present officers (1878) are. H. W. Burhans and A. B. Olmstead, wardens; James M. Marvin, Wm. M. Searing, Wm. Bennett, P. Porter Wiggins, R.C. McEwen, Wm. H. Hall, F.G. Vaughn, J. W. Ehninger, vestrymen.
Home of the Good Shepherd. - Connected with this church is a charitable institution called the Home of the Good Shepherd.
It is incorporated under the laws of the State, and owns commodious buildings, containing a chapel on Catherine street, wen adapted to the purposes of the institution, the relief of the indigent aged and others needing temporary assistance.
A flourishing mission Sunday-school is carried on in connection with it under the direction of the rector of the parish, aided by a superintendent and corps of teachers.
Parish Sunday-School. - A large and flourishing Sunday-school is held at the parish church, under the care of the rector and a superintendent, the particulars of which have not come to hand as we go to press.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
PROTESTANT EPISCOPAL CHURCH, concluded ...
The first rector of the parish after the long-continued missionary labors of the Rev. Drs. Davis and Babcock was the Rev. William Frederick Walker, formerly of Christ church, Troy, N.Y.
Mr. Walker had occupied the place for a time in a missionary capacity, and on the 19th of June was called to the rectorship of the parish.
Mr. Walker was succeeded, Sept. 2, 1843, by the Rev. Samuel Hansom Cox: then in his diaconate as minister.
March 28, 1845, the Rev. John Henry Hobart was called as rector.
He was succeeded, June 9, 1846, by the Rev. Philip E. Milledoler, M.D., who continued as rector until his death, June 19, 1850.
For some months prior to his decease the Rev. Dr. Milledoler was unable to attend to his duties, and at his request the Rev. B.H. Whicher was employed as officiating minister.
Sept. 13, 1850, Rev. S.F. Wiley was called as rector.
He remained until November, 1852, when, on account of the continued illness of his wife, he was compelled to resign and remove.
From this time for a few months Rev. Dr. Babcock, of Ballston Spa, again officiated by request.
Feb. 28, 1852, the Rev. John Steinfort Kidney was called as rector.
He continued until April, 1858, when, on account of the health of some members of his family, he accepted a call to a church in the south.
May 10, 1858, the Rev. Robert C. Rogers was called as rector.
He continued until July, 1861.
July 5, 1861, the Rev. Edmund Rowland Deacon, of Hartford; Conn., was employed as minister, and on March 12, 1862, he was called as rector.
He continued as rector till October, 1863.
Nov. 12, 1863, the Rev. Francis C. Wainwright was called as rector.
He continued until May, 1865.
The Rev. G.C.V. Eastman was employed as officiating clergyman from the resignation of Mr. Wainwright until the call, April 20, 1866, of the Rev. John Breckenridge Gibson.
Mr. Gibson continued as rector until his acceptance of a call from St. John's school, Sing Sing, N. Y.
The successor of Dr. Gibson was the Rev. Dr. Norman W. Camp, who became the rector in 1869, and continued till the year 1873, when, on account of failing health, he resigned his charge.
The Rev. Joseph Carey, the present rector, has had charge of the parish since Advent Sunday, 1873.
The present officers (1878) are. H. W. Burhans and A. B. Olmstead, wardens; James M. Marvin, Wm. M. Searing, Wm. Bennett, P. Porter Wiggins, R.C. McEwen, Wm. H. Hall, F.G. Vaughn, J. W. Ehninger, vestrymen.
Home of the Good Shepherd. - Connected with this church is a charitable institution called the Home of the Good Shepherd.
It is incorporated under the laws of the State, and owns commodious buildings, containing a chapel on Catherine street, wen adapted to the purposes of the institution, the relief of the indigent aged and others needing temporary assistance.
A flourishing mission Sunday-school is carried on in connection with it under the direction of the rector of the parish, aided by a superintendent and corps of teachers.
Parish Sunday-School. - A large and flourishing Sunday-school is held at the parish church, under the care of the rector and a superintendent, the particulars of which have not come to hand as we go to press.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
Re: HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY
HISTORY OF SARATOGA COUNTY, NEW YORK, continued ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The Rev. Olin Foote, now residing in Nebraska City, in a letter to J.B. Felshaw, Esq., says that when he came to Saratoga Springs, in the year 1829, there were but two Methodists in the village, viz., John Morrill and his wife, Diana Morrill.
Rev. Mr. Stebbins, then one of the preachers on this circuit, occasionally had an appointment here.
He was followed by Dr. Samuel Luckey on the circuit in 1830 and '31, and the new church on North Broadway was regularly supplied.
The oldest class-paper to be found bears date June 26, 1831, and contains the following names: Orin Foote, Mary Foote, John Morrill, Diana Morrill, John Holman, Almira Holman, John Hodges, Mary Hodges, Catharine Milligan, Esther Ketcham, Harriet Bell, Elizabeth Hudson, Catharine Day, J.D. Moriarity, Ann Moriarity, Mary Ann Moriarity, Caroline Moriarity, in all seventeen members, five males and twelve females.
J.B. Felshaw, Esq., first came to Saratoga Springs in 1835, and, as I have already mentioned, was one of the building committee of this church.
He also held the official relation of leader and trustee for a number of years.
To him I am indebted for a large share of the facts and incidents, including names and dates, contained in this paper, having penned them down from his own lips.
His memory is still very vigorous, and remarkably clear touching the early history and struggles of Methodism here and hereabouts.
He says that in 1835 there were about forty members in the society, a large number of whose names he distinctly recollects and can readily repeat, only four of whom are still members, viz., Tacy Eighmy, Mary Ann Hodges, Mary Ann Crawford, and Rebecca Jane Young.
Sixty was about an average attendance of the congregation then worshiping in the old church on North Broadway.
These were gathered in from Greenfield, Wilton, Malta Ridge, and the sparsely-settled region roundabout.
Up to the time of holding the annual conference in the spring of 1835, Saratoga Springs was one of the appointments on what was then called Stillwater Circuit, Greenfield, Wilton, Schuylerville, Malta Ridge, Clifton Park, and Stillwater being the other appointments on the circuit.
For some three or four years previous to this time, Rev. J.D. Moriarty, who came to this village in 1831, was the preacher in charge of this appointment, being allowed whatever could be collected for his services, which was never more than a mere pittance.
Ephraim Goss was, however, the preacher in charge of the circuit.
At the conference in June, 1835, Rev. John Harwood and Oliver Emerson were appointed to this circuit, and this place was then and thereafter regularly supplied by the circuit preachers.
In 1836, Rev. E. Andrews and William H. Backus were the circuit preachers; in 1838, Seymour Coleman and William H. Backus.
The health of Mr. Backus failed during the second term of his appointment, and he was employed as a teacher at the Troy Conference Academy.
In 1838, Seymour Coleman and James Quinlan were the preachers.
In 1839, Joshua Poor, James Quinlan, and John Foster.
This was then a six weeks' circuit, and called Saratoga circuit.
At the conference in June, 1840, Saratoga Springs was made a missionary station, and Ephraim Goss was appointed the preacher in charge.
His salary was fixed at $500, one-half of which was paid by a missionary appropriation.
The membership was not far from one hundred at the time the church was dedicated, in 1841, the second year of Mr. Goss's ministry, sixteen of whom are now members of the society.
Their names are as follows: Martha S. Felshaw, Gertrude Paige, Tacy Eighmy, Charles Pierson, Rebecca Jane Young, Mary Ann Hodges, Mary Ann Crawford, Adaline Young, Proculla Webster Carpenter, Nathan Phelps, William W. Baldwin, Sarah Ann Baldwin, A.S. Piper, Charlotte W. Piper, Samuel D. Fisher, Mary F. Fisher, five males and eleven females.
In 1844-45, Stephen D. Brown was preacher in charge; in 1846-47, Stephen Parks; in 1848-49, J.E. Bowen; in 1850, Wm. M. Chipp; in 1851, Luman A Sanford; in 1852-53, J.T. Arnold; in 1854-55, Dr. Bostwick Hawley; in 1856-57, Barnes M. Hall; in 1858-59, R.H. Robinson; in 1860-61, Samuel McKean; in 1862-63, E.G. Spaulding; in 1864-65, C.F. Burdick; in 1866-68, S. McChesney; in 1869-70, H.C. Sexton.
Sherman Miner, Charles Sherman, John M. Weaver, Ephraim Goss, Desavigua Starks, Sanford Washburn, Truman Seymour, Lewis Potter, Samuel Meredith, and Elisha Watson have successively been the presiding elders on this district since 1835.
TO BE CONTINUED ...
by NATHANIEL BARTLETT SYLVESTER
1878
HISTORY OF THE VILLAGES AND TOWNS OF SARATOGA COUNTY.
VILLAGE OF SARATOGA SPRINGS (Part 3), continued ...
VI. - CHURCHES, continued ...
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The Rev. Olin Foote, now residing in Nebraska City, in a letter to J.B. Felshaw, Esq., says that when he came to Saratoga Springs, in the year 1829, there were but two Methodists in the village, viz., John Morrill and his wife, Diana Morrill.
Rev. Mr. Stebbins, then one of the preachers on this circuit, occasionally had an appointment here.
He was followed by Dr. Samuel Luckey on the circuit in 1830 and '31, and the new church on North Broadway was regularly supplied.
The oldest class-paper to be found bears date June 26, 1831, and contains the following names: Orin Foote, Mary Foote, John Morrill, Diana Morrill, John Holman, Almira Holman, John Hodges, Mary Hodges, Catharine Milligan, Esther Ketcham, Harriet Bell, Elizabeth Hudson, Catharine Day, J.D. Moriarity, Ann Moriarity, Mary Ann Moriarity, Caroline Moriarity, in all seventeen members, five males and twelve females.
J.B. Felshaw, Esq., first came to Saratoga Springs in 1835, and, as I have already mentioned, was one of the building committee of this church.
He also held the official relation of leader and trustee for a number of years.
To him I am indebted for a large share of the facts and incidents, including names and dates, contained in this paper, having penned them down from his own lips.
His memory is still very vigorous, and remarkably clear touching the early history and struggles of Methodism here and hereabouts.
He says that in 1835 there were about forty members in the society, a large number of whose names he distinctly recollects and can readily repeat, only four of whom are still members, viz., Tacy Eighmy, Mary Ann Hodges, Mary Ann Crawford, and Rebecca Jane Young.
Sixty was about an average attendance of the congregation then worshiping in the old church on North Broadway.
These were gathered in from Greenfield, Wilton, Malta Ridge, and the sparsely-settled region roundabout.
Up to the time of holding the annual conference in the spring of 1835, Saratoga Springs was one of the appointments on what was then called Stillwater Circuit, Greenfield, Wilton, Schuylerville, Malta Ridge, Clifton Park, and Stillwater being the other appointments on the circuit.
For some three or four years previous to this time, Rev. J.D. Moriarty, who came to this village in 1831, was the preacher in charge of this appointment, being allowed whatever could be collected for his services, which was never more than a mere pittance.
Ephraim Goss was, however, the preacher in charge of the circuit.
At the conference in June, 1835, Rev. John Harwood and Oliver Emerson were appointed to this circuit, and this place was then and thereafter regularly supplied by the circuit preachers.
In 1836, Rev. E. Andrews and William H. Backus were the circuit preachers; in 1838, Seymour Coleman and William H. Backus.
The health of Mr. Backus failed during the second term of his appointment, and he was employed as a teacher at the Troy Conference Academy.
In 1838, Seymour Coleman and James Quinlan were the preachers.
In 1839, Joshua Poor, James Quinlan, and John Foster.
This was then a six weeks' circuit, and called Saratoga circuit.
At the conference in June, 1840, Saratoga Springs was made a missionary station, and Ephraim Goss was appointed the preacher in charge.
His salary was fixed at $500, one-half of which was paid by a missionary appropriation.
The membership was not far from one hundred at the time the church was dedicated, in 1841, the second year of Mr. Goss's ministry, sixteen of whom are now members of the society.
Their names are as follows: Martha S. Felshaw, Gertrude Paige, Tacy Eighmy, Charles Pierson, Rebecca Jane Young, Mary Ann Hodges, Mary Ann Crawford, Adaline Young, Proculla Webster Carpenter, Nathan Phelps, William W. Baldwin, Sarah Ann Baldwin, A.S. Piper, Charlotte W. Piper, Samuel D. Fisher, Mary F. Fisher, five males and eleven females.
In 1844-45, Stephen D. Brown was preacher in charge; in 1846-47, Stephen Parks; in 1848-49, J.E. Bowen; in 1850, Wm. M. Chipp; in 1851, Luman A Sanford; in 1852-53, J.T. Arnold; in 1854-55, Dr. Bostwick Hawley; in 1856-57, Barnes M. Hall; in 1858-59, R.H. Robinson; in 1860-61, Samuel McKean; in 1862-63, E.G. Spaulding; in 1864-65, C.F. Burdick; in 1866-68, S. McChesney; in 1869-70, H.C. Sexton.
Sherman Miner, Charles Sherman, John M. Weaver, Ephraim Goss, Desavigua Starks, Sanford Washburn, Truman Seymour, Lewis Potter, Samuel Meredith, and Elisha Watson have successively been the presiding elders on this district since 1835.
TO BE CONTINUED ...