Black River and Northern New York conference memorial . Second series. Containing sketches of the life and character of the deceased members of the above conferences, not included in the former work. Brought down to ... 1880 ...

Front matter

BLACK EIYEB

AND

NORTHERN NEW YORK

Dedication

(gpi&topni Oftfttrcti,

AT WHOSE REQUEST THIS WORK HAS BEEN UNDERTAKEN,

The Author begs leave to 'present his feeble, yet (jratefd

Preface

The present work was commenced years ago at the special request of the Black River Conference, and more recently it has been continued and compiled at the request of the Northern New York Conference of 1879.

In attempting to obey the behests of the conference, the author at an early date endeavored to carry out the wishes of the brethren by preparing a manuscript which brought the sketches down to the year 1862. When about ready for publication, our war with the South commenced, and the good people of the North had about all they wanted to attend to, without paying much attention to literature, or in fact anything else aside from the salvation of the Nation ! This seemed to be the one great object. Thank God, the Nation was saved, although at a tremendous sacrifice of men and money.

Since the close of the war, the manuscript has lain dormant, " Lo ! these many years," but, as the good brethren seemed desirous of having the work completed and published, I have within the last year taken hold of the matter again, and brought the sketches down to the year 1880. In this we have followed the advice of several judicious brethren of the conference, who thought with myself that the work would be more complete if brought down fully to the present time.

We have labored under the usual disadvantages of a scarcity of material, and especially in regard to some highly esteemed brethren who died years ago. But we have done the best we could under the circumstances, and we have, at least, given every deceased brother an honorable mention, of which all were truly worthy ; and with all its faults and errors, we submit these " Memorials" to the regard of the ministers of the conference, and to readers in general.

In the arrangement of these various Memoirs in the work, it will be noticed that we have strictly followed the date of the death of the deceased subject of the Memoir, without regard to the position, length of ministerial service, or other adventitious circumstances adhering to the life and labors of the departed brother, our only regret being that vi. PREFACE.

each and all had no more worthy pen to portray the virtues that

adorned their christian character.

In regard to the portraits inserted, the author is obliged to remark that they are not as numerous as could be desired ; and yet, such as I have been able to secure are well transferred to these pages by skilled artists, and I hope they will prove acceptable to all the friends of the deceased.

Appended are the Conference resolutions before referred to.

The following resolution was adopted in 1862, by the Black River Conference :

Whereas, This Conference, at a previous session, by resolution requested Rev. P D. GORRiEto prepare a second volume of the Black River Conference Memorial, to contain sketches of the lives of our deceased brethren, not contained in the former volume ; and

Whereas, It is important that the lives and labors of our departed fellow laborers should be imbodied in a permanent form. Therefore,

Resolved, That should Bro. Gorrie see fit to prepare and publish, as soon as practicable, the said volume, we, as members of the conference, will aid him as far as we can in the collection of materials for the work, and also in promoting the sale of the same among the people of our respective charges.

H. Shepard.

W L. Tisdale.

Resolutions adopted by the Northern New York Conference of 1879, — submitted by Rev. A. E. Corse :

"Resolved 1st, That we request our brother, Rev. P D. Gorrie, to complete his Memoirs of Deceased Brethren,

2d, That when completed, we as members of the Northern New York Conference, will give our influence to the sale of the same."

C O N T E N T S

PACE.

Preface

V

Historical Sketch. . .

. ix

CHAPTER.

DIED.

Rev. Chas. Gtles, . .

• 295

Contents

CHAPTER.

XXXIT. Rev. D. Ferguson,

XXXIII. Rev. J. W. Coope.

Chapter II

JOHN R. LEWIS.

In the absence of sufficient data, the author finds pleasure in transferring to this work the following interesting obituary of Brother Lewis, which was first furnished for the columns of the Northern Christian Advocate by our worthy brother and esteemed fellow-laborer, Rev. Erasmus W Jones. Aside from the facts inserted, the author can cordially endorse the high estimate placed upon the character of Brother Lewis by the above graphic and descriptive writer. We only remark, by way of preface to what follows, that the author's acquaintance with the deceased began at the time the latter was received as a probationer in the conference, in the year 1844, and became more intimate during the years that Brother Lewis was stationed on the South Canton Circuit, when the author, being stationed in the immediate vicinity, had frequent opportunities of meeting him in public and social religious meetings, on festive occasions, and in the family circle. I ever found our dear brother to be a warm-hearted friend — a companion, whose soul was full of geniality and sunshine, and whose presence was sufficient to drive away from the hypochondriac a host of " blue " spirits, which sometimes hover over the path of even a good man. It is said by some writer or speaker that it takes all classes of men to make a world, and it is equally true, that it takes a variety of classes to fill up the ranks of the ministry. If all were Johns, there would be no Peters ; and if all were Pauls, there would be none by the name or with the characteristics of an Appollos ! Yes, we must have a variety in the ministry, — some who can little more than weep over the desolation of .Zion, and others, who, when the fitting "time to laugh" comes, can express their inward joy in smiling glee, and who also, in seasons of affliction, can weep most heartily and sympathetically with those who weep. True, it is difficult at times to tell where grief should end and mirth begin, or to judge always correctly how far a Christian, and especially a Christian minister, may indulge in mirthfulness ; we know of no rule whereby the matter may be determined, only to observe the apostolic injunction : " Let your moderation be known unto all men."

These remarks are not intended to apply wholly, or by inference, to either condemn or approve the subject of this sketch. That our good brother was among the cheerful ones of earth, that his mind was cast not in the mould of melancholy gloom, but in nature's more cheerful sunlight, is a fact which all who had the happiness of his acquaintance very well know ; and yet to approve unbounded mirth on the one hand, would be to encourage frivolity and thoughtlessness ; and to condemn all pleasantry on the other, would be to endorse a spirit of gloom, incompatible with the better instincts of our nature, and but little in accordance with the genius of true religion, which brings forth the ripened fruits of love, joy and peace. We simply add, that if there is error in either extreme — for there is a happy medium between sinful mirth and sinful gloom — it is safer to err in regard to the former than the latter — safer by far, as it regards our own happiness and the happiness of those around us. From all foolish talking and jesting, and from all peevishness, moroseness and long-facedness, — good Lord deliver us ! We will now insert the Memoir alluded to, and add a few other items of interest.

REV. JOHN R. LEWIS, OF THE BLACK RIVER CONFERENCE.

*

" In compliance with the request of Mrs. Lewis, and with feelings of gratitude for the privilege of speaking of genuine departed worth, in the person of my late friend and brother, these few lines are presented to the numerous readers of the Northern Christian Advocate. Many there are, undoubtedly, in our conference, who had greater facilities for personal acquaintance with the subject of this brief Memoir, than myself, and therefore are better qualified to do justice to the departed ; but with John K. Lewis, I also have had the pleasure of some sweet acquaintance ; and, if genuine friendship and strong Christian attachment in the premises can render any assistance, I shall not be left without help. Brother Lewis has left us some very precious manuscripts, in the form of a journal, to which I have had free access. From these, written with his own hand, I have been enabled to derive all the facts essential to the foundation of a correct biographical sketch. I have now in my possession a large collection of very interesting items, connected with the short career of the worthy departed, that would fill a good-sized volume ; but such must be the length of this article, that nearly all of these must be omitted, and a few must suffice.

"John Rowland Lewis was born on the 14th of June, 1819, in the town of Underhill, Chittenden County, Yt. His father's house was located on the banks of a small stream, at the foot of the highest peak of the Green Mountains, from which spot a beautiful view was had of the towns and villages below. So Brother Lewis was in reality one of the ' Green Mountain boys.' His mother died when he was quite young, of whom he had but a slight recollection. From an early period in his history, he was the subject of deep and pungent convictions. Often his youthful heart would throb with painful emotions, while his eyes were bathed in tears on account of his sins.

"At the early age of twelve years, he gave his heart to God, and ' received the spirit of adoption, whereby he could cry, Abba Father.' For a while he lived in the sweet enjoyment of God's love. Uninterrupted joy was his portion.

4 His seas were calm, his skies were clear.'

Sweet streams of consolations flowed into his youthful heart ;

4 Jesus all the day long.

Was his joy and his song.'

But, through the intrigues of the enemy, and the wiles of older transgressors, he was soon led away from the simplicity of the gospel, lost his enjoyment, gave up the ways of religion, and led the miserable life of a backslider ; and in this condition he remained until the 7th of September, 1837, when, at a camp-meeting, God in mercy saw fit to restore unto him the joys of his salvation. His own language is this : ' In the evening, about 7 o'clock, I went into a tent, and entered a prayer circle ; and there, by the grace of God, I trust my sins were buried, never to rise again. I returned from this meeting to my enployment with my heart overflowing with love, both to God and man.' From the journal of Brother Lewis, it is quite evident that from this time he received very clear indications from the Spirit of God, that it was his duty to go forth in the name of his Great Master, and proclaim the glad tidings of salvation to a dying world.

On the 15th of October, 1838, while in his nineteenth year, Brother Lewis bade adieu to his ' Green Mountain State,' and on the 2d of November found himself among his friends and relatives in Yerona, Oneida County, N. Y Here it appears he enjoyed his mind well, and held very sweet and pleasant communion with his God. The conviction of his call to the ministry became deeper and more pungent from day to day. In regard to this matter, he says : 'After serious reflection on the subject for about two years, I was constrained to make known to the world that God had called me by his providences, and more especially by his Holy Spirit, to abandon my worldly pursuits and engage in the arduous work of calling sinners to repentance. Accordingly, a public disclosure of my feelings was made at a camp-meeting, in the town of Westmoreland, on Sabbath evening, the 15th of September, 1839. I here resolved to set my life apart for the service of God. After my return, I immediately applied for and received a license to exhort in the M. E. Church, bearing date of October 2d, 1839.'

" Brother Lewis, after having received his license, was not idle. At once, with zeal and energy he entered into the work, and the salvation of souls was his constant theme. He held numerous meetings in the different vicinities, and God gave him tokens for good in the upbuilding of the Church, and the conversion of sinners. On this point, he remarked : ' In striving to do my duty, I enjoy a good degree of the presence of the Lord, and I grow more firm in the belief that God has called me to labor publicly in his vineyard.

" In view of the great work before him, Brother Lewis very wisely concluded to spend some time within the classic walls of Oneida Conference Seminary, at Cazenovia. This he did for at least two terms, from which, undoubtedly, he received untold benefit.

" Brother Lewis received license to preach, on Saturday, February 5th, 1841, at a place called ' Warner's Settlement,' near Baldwinsville, Onondaga County, N. Y It appears from his journal, that this license was given to one that was determined by grace to improve it to God's glory. He ' studied to show himself approved unto God, a workman that needed not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.'

" On the 3d of June, 1841, Brother Lewis was joined in holy matrimony to Miss Ellen Suits, of Steuben, Oneida County, N\ Y., a young lady of fine mind and deep piety. In regard to this, Brother Lewis remarks in his journal : 'In choosing a companion, I did not select for beauty, (wholly,) riches, extensive education, nor one from an opulent family ; but I think I have selected one of more than usual activity in business, possessing an amiable disposition, well acquainted with domestic affairs, and well calculated to make a companion happy. O Lord, help us to be what husband and wife ought to be in the fear of the Lord ! May we ever impart to each other such love and kindness as affectionate companions deserve, be an honor to the cause of Christ, a blessing to society, way-marks for glory, for Christ's sake, Amen ! '

"On Saturday, June 8th, 1844, he was recommended by the Quarterly Meeting Conference, of Steuben Circuit, as a suitable person to join the traveling connection, and at the following session of conference, he was received and appointed to Herkimer Circuit, as a Junior Preacher, with Brother Slee. At the next session of conference, he was appointed to Lee Circuit, to travel under Brother G. C. Woodruff. In regard to his appointment, he says ; ' With this I am well pleased. O Lord, grant me thy grace, and give us a prosperous year! O Lord, revive thy work, especially in my soul ! '

" At the next session of conference, which met at Lowville, Brother Lewis was received into full connection, received the ordination of a Deacon, and was appointed to the charge of Three Mile Bay Circuit, with Brother Thos. P. Brown, as Junior Preacher. In regard to this, he exclaims :

' 0 Lord, give us both a prosperous year ! Make us a blessing to the circuit ! ' At the next session of conference, he was appointed to Philadelphia Circuit. Next he was appointed to Theresa, where he remained for two years, and was blessed with a good degree of prosperity. He was next appointed to the charge of South Canton Circuit, where he remained for two years, and was greatly beloved by all. He was next appointed to Lysander Circuit, where he remained for one year, from whence he was sent to Van Buren Circuit. This was Brother Lewis's last charge. For some time he had felt strong inclinations to remove to the West, and before the close of the conference year of 1854, he had fully made up his mind to that effect. Consequently, at the session of our conference at Camden, he asked for a transfer, which was granted ; and to the sorrow of all his brethren in the ministry, he bade Black River Conference a final farewell. Before leaving for the West, he, with his family, spent some two weeks within the bounds of Steuben Circuit, where his wife's relatives reside. During this time I had the pleasure of spending some hours in his society. I also had the pleasure of hearing him preach. His text was those words of the Saviour — ' Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.' I had the impression then, and I have the same impression now, that his sermon was one of the best I had ever heard. I knew Lewis was a good preacher ; but at that time he exceeded my most sanguine expectations. On the Sabbath evening before he started, he was with me at a certain appointment. Little did we think then, that he was destined to leave the society of mortals so soon. There he stood before us, the very picture of perfect health ; and on that night, in an exhortation, he remarked that he had not experienced a day of real sickness in all his life.

" Before he reached his destination, he felt some symptoms of disease, but nothing to alarm him, or to cause him to abstain from his usual duties. On the morning of the last Sabbath he spent on earth, he left his family in the full confidence of joining it again at night, or in the morning. He had consented to fill one of the appointments of Rev. Michael Lewis, a beloved brother, with whom he had been intimately acquainted while within the bounds of the Black River Conference. In the morning, therefore, he preached. While in the company of Brother M. Lewis, and on their way to the afternoon appointment, he felt quite sick; so much so, that instead of entering the place of worship, he went to a brother's house near by, and laid on a bed. His symptoms became very alarming. The physician was called, and every practical thing was done for him, but all of no avail, if soon became evident that Brother Lewis was drawing near the cold waters of Jordan. Of this he was fully aware himself ; but death to him had no terrors. His mind was as peaceful as a summer breeze, and tranquil as the air of evening. With a heavenly smile on his countenance, he looked up, and with his hand uplifted, he cried, — ' Yonder is my home !' At another time, a few moments before he left the shores of mortality, he cried — ' All is well ! ' and soon he calmly fell asleep in the embrace of death. Thus passed away the happy spirit of our beloved brother. He died of cholera, in Kendall, 111., at 2 o'clock on Monday morning, July 10th, 1854, aged 35 years and 26 days.

"Brother Lewis, as a preacher, was an ornament to our conference. His sermons were not of that shallow cast that called forth the pity instead of the attention of his hearers ; but they abounded with genuine thoughts, solid matter, tangible ideas and sound theology.

"As a companion and a parent, he abounded in those affectionate graces that are so requisite to the happiness of the family circle. His home, to him, was a home indeed ; there, kindness answered kindness, and affection met affection.

" In point of sociability, his cup was generally full and running over ; and who could be melancholy and sad in the presence of John R. Lewis ? His wit was of the genuine sort, and it never cost him the least effort. Sometimes his remarks would have some faint appearance of levity ; but I think it was only in appearance. His expressions were often so peculiarly original, and so surcharged with pure native wit, that when, perhaps, he least expected it, he would find that his words had created quite a merry sensation. Let those who laugh more than is necessary at the peculiarity of a brother's sentences, beware lest they charge levity on the innocent party.

" Brother Lewis was laborious • to idleness he was an entire stranger — he was always at work. He was laborious as a student, a pastor, as a preacher, and when occasion required it, he disdained not to imitate the great Apostle of the Gentiles, by ' working with his own hands.1

" He was called away from the church militant before he reached the meridian of life. He was wanted to fill some important station in the church triumphant above. The young officer in the army of Jesus is called home. His promotion came at an early stage of the warfare. His sword is exchanged for the palm of victory— his cross for an immortal crown.

' Servant of God, well done !

Thy glorious warfare's past, The battle fought, the viut'ry won, And thou art crowned at last.'

" His memory is peculiarly dear to thousands, and to none more so, than to the brethren and sisters and friends within the Yan Buren Circuit, where Sister Lewis, with her two children, now reside, and where they daily share the kind sympathies and tender regards of that proverbially liberal people, ' whose praise is in all the churches.' Their reward is on high.

" Adieu, John B. Lewis ! No more do we see thy smiling countenance at our annual conference ; but thou art not forgotten. For a while we are parted by the 'narrow stream.' The great bishop has seen fit to transfer thee to another and holier conference. Soon we meet again in a better land —

' Where sickness, sorrow, pain and death, Are felt and feared no more.'

E. W Jones."

As stated in the above sketch, Brother Lewis took a transfer from Bishop Morris, at the Black River Conference, held in Camden, 1854. His certificate of transfer was not addressed to any particular conference in the West. His design was to join the Bock Biver Conference, if his labors were needed there, and if not, to offer his certificate to the Iowa Conference. He consequently removed his wife and two children, with his household goods, to Illinois, where he awaited the time for the session of those conferences, the former to be held at Lewiston, Illinois, September 13th, and the latter at Dubuque, September 27th, Bishop Morris presiding at each of them.

The Black Biver Conference, that year, closed its session June 6th, and toward the end of the month, Brother Lewis bade farewell to the scenes of his youthful ministry, and went among comparative strangers, not expecting so soon to fill a stranger's grave. His last sermon, preached only some fifteen hours before his death, was founded on Psalm 119, 156. " Great peace have they which love thy Law, Oh God, and nothing shall offend them." It is said that he preached an able and affecting sermon, notwithstanding his ill health. Thus the earthly labors of our dear brother were closed on earth, and thus he emigrated to that better country, where the inhabitants have no occasion to say " I am sick."

Shortly after his decease, his now lonely and disconsolate widow returned to New York, with her orphaned children. She was in very feeble health, and the expense of removing to, and returning from Illinois, had well nigh used up their scanty means. They have ever found warm hearted, sympathizing friends at Van Buren, their former place of residence, where their wants, for the time being, were bountifully supplied by that kind people. At the ensuing session of the Black River Conference, the question properly arose, what was Brother Lewis's status at the time of his death ? Where did he belong ? On what conference had his widow and children a claim ? But one answer to these questions could be given, that he not having formed a connection with any other conference, was still a member of the Black River Conference, and thus, though our beloved brother " went out from us," he was still " of us," and we have the privilege of doing honor to his memory.

In appearance, Brother Lewis while among us, was a picture of rosy health, of robust manhood ; one whose constitution seemed to be formed to endure the ruder shocks of time, and who more than many, if not all his brethren in conference, seemed likely to be fitted to endure the ups and downs, and to experience the lights and shadows of the itineracy, without serious detriment to health. Large and portly In person, firm and elastic in step, quick and vivacious in all his movements, with a warm, kind heart — who bid

REV.THOS D.MITCH EL

THOMAS D. MITCHELL. 41)

fairer to live to a good old age than he ? And yet, how are

the mighty fallen ! How soon the prospect changes ; and

scarcely had the sound of his last farewell faded upon onr

ears, than we hear the doleful news, that our brother is

dead !

"Yet again, we hope to meet thee, When the day of life is sped ; There in heaven with joy to greet thee Where no funeral tears are shed."