THE HISTORY OF GERMAIN STREET BAPTIST CHURCH:
ST. JOHN, N.B.
FOR ITS FIRST ONE HUNDRED YEARS
1810 - 1910

INTRODUCTION

At the annual business meeting held in January, 1909, T. D. Denham, D. Hunt and T.H. Belyea, surviving Church Clerks, were appointed as a committee to prepare for publication in book from the History of this Church from its formation in 1810 to its Centennial in 1910.

At the first meeting of the committee the writer, being senior surviving clerk, undertook the preparation of the History of the Church for the One Hundred Years of its existence—so far as it might be possible to secure the data for doing so; while to Mr. Belyea, the present clerk, was assigned the writing of the biographical sketches of the departed deacons; and to Mr. Hunt, the treasurer, the preparing of a complete account of the mortgages that have been on the present buildings and how they have been paid off.

The old records of the Church had been placed in the vault of the Deacon Francis for safe keeping, but when the vault was opened after the fire of 1877, it was found to contain nothing but charred remains of the books—the writing being undecipherable. This made the securing of the facts in connection with the early years a very difficult task; but from various sources the events set forth in the following pages have been obtained, and so far as possible verified, so that while parts of the History are not nearly as full as we could desire, in the main, I think, the account will be found to be as accurate as it is possible to make it at this late date. It is to be regretted that this work was not undertaken during the lifetime of a number of our older members who have since passed away, as their personal recollections, extending back for many years, would have been of great assistance in the preparation of our History.

Some of the information has been secured from Dr. Saunders’ “History of the Baptists,” and Dr. Bill’s “Fifty Years with the Baptists,” while the very full account of the life and labors Rev. Samuel Robinson is largely from two historical sermons delivered by Dr. Bill in 1863, from the securing of which from the Library of Acadia University we are indebted to Mr. Cohoon. Dr. Cutten also placed a collection of the “Minutes of Associations,” dating back to 1810—in which are references to this Church—at my disposal. For later minutes I am indebted to Dr. McIntyre and others. The description of the interior of the old wooden building and the early methods of lighting are from a paper by the late Miss Sarah J. Blakslee. In the early part of the work much of the original phraseology has been retained—their writer making only such changes as were required to make a connected story. From 1870 much of the matter is from my own personal knowledge of the affairs of the Church, and from the records we still possess. Another source of information—though necessarily curtailed—is from the document deposited in the corner stone of the present edifice, which was prepared by Dr. Carey, and engrossed on parchment by the writer. It was at first proposed to open the corner stone and copy the document, but this was avoided by securing an excellent account published in one of the City papers in 1877.

During the century the Church has been ministered to by twenty duly inducted pastors, besides others who have acted for a time as supply. In the early years the pastorates were mostly short, but later the pulpit was filled by four faithful ministers—Rev. Samuel Robinson, Drs. I. E. Bill, G. M. W. Carey, and G. O. Gates, whose combined terms of service reached nearly sixty years.

Besides the deacons, who with us are elected for life, some brethren have filled the clerk's office for long periods. We cannot tell when G. A. Garrison was appointed—it may be he was the immediate successor of his father, Nathan Garrison, the first clerk—but we know that he was in office previous to the separation and continued to act up to 1870, when J. J. Bostwick was appointed. After a short term by F. F. Porter, the writer was appointed in 1879, and was followed by D. Hunt and the present clerk, each of whom have served for a number of years.

These long terms of service are not confined to any particular office, as L. McMann was treasurer for many years, as was also his son S.C. McMann, who was succeeded in turn by T. D. Denham, T. S. Simms, S. McDiarmid and D. Hunt; so that the Church has had only six Treasurers and the same number of Clerks during the past forty years. Many have also served as Trustees for a number of years, among whom we recall Deacon Harding, who probably served longer than any other member of the Board. With the possible exception of G. A. Garrison, Deacon Simms efficiently filled the office of Sunday School Superintendent for the longest term—a quarter of a century—while since early in the pastorate of Dr. Carey, only three have administered the Benevolent Fund—Deacons Kinsman, Dyall and Lewis. Thus it will be seen that this has not only been a Church of long pastorates, but that many of the officers have also had long terms of office.

We are looking forward hopefully to the coming of our pastor elect, Rev. F. S. Porter, whom we are expecting soon to be with us to take up the duties of the pastorate.

In reviewing the first Century of our History we cannot but be impressed with the thought of the self-sacrificing labors of the faithful men and women of the past; who, in the face of difficulties and disabilities we haply know nothing of by experience, laid deep and firm foundations for the success that has come to us as a Church during all these years. When we consider the civil and religious liberty that has come to us as a result, in part, of the work of the founders of this old Church—we cannot but that God for what He has done for us in the past, and leaning on His Almighty arm, press forward determined with His help to strive to achieve a still larger measure of success in the future than has been ours in the past.

T. D. Denham

St. John, N.B., September, 1910.

HISTORY OF
Germain Street Baptist Church
ST. JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK

REV. EDWARD MANNING'S VISITS TO ST. JOHN IN 1800 OR 1805.

THE REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL in his autobiography says: “After the organization of the church at Waterborough, in the autumn of 1800, Mr. Manning on returning from a visit up the St. John River stayed some time in St. John and baptized converts.” He also thought that Mr. Manning organized a church here, and if so, our history goes back to 1800 instead of 1810. It is therefore probable that it was in the autumn of 1800, instead of 1805—the year named by Dr. Bill—that the first baptisms took place here. At the time of Mr. Manning’s first visit, there was no Baptist place of worship or Baptist family in the city. Mr. Manning had been directed by a friend to call on Mr. George Harding, son of Captain William Harding. He did so, and was most kindly received. Mr. George Harding lived at the lower end of Germain street, and invited the young minister to preach in his house. His father, Captain Harding, who lived on Dock Street, also placed his house at Mr. Manning’s service. Captain Lovitt, Mrs. Harper, Mr. A. Magee, and a colored sister—Amy Nickson—all opened their houses to the preaching of God’s word. As a result of these services, a revival followed and many began to inquire what they should do to be saved. The preacher pointed them to the Lamb of God as the only remedy, and several professed conversion. Two of Captain Harding’s daughters and his son George were among the number—the latter being the first person baptized by immersion in this city.

REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL’S VISITS BETWEEN 1805 AND 1808.

After Edward Manning, came Rev. Joseph Crandall in the power and spirit of the Gospel. His ministry was the means of doing much good. Captain William Harding and his wife, William Stenning, and others were baptized by him. These early baptisms occasioned much excitement in the city. The people flocked in large numbers to witness them. Some went to pray and others to mock and blaspheme; but on the part of others this administration of the ordinance in its primitive form led to the prayerful examination of the Word of God, and the general result was a conversion to Baptist sentiments and practice. In the absence of a stated ministry and house of worship the converts met in each other’s houses for mutual exhortation and prayer. These meetings were attended with a rich blessing. All were of one heart and mind, striving together for the faith of the Gospel, and as a result, the Word of God grew and multiplied greatly in the community.

MR. THOMAS PETTINGILL’S REMOVAL TO THE CITY.

In 1808 the little band of believers were greatly strengthened by the removal from Kingston to St. John of Mr. Thomas Pettingill, who had been converted under the labors of Elder Innis. Mr. Pettingill was filled with religious fervor and an earnest desire to bring sinners to Christ. His house was at once consecrated to the service and worship of God, and his heart and purse were open to support the infant cause. When Baptist ministers came to the city, they were gladly received by him. In the absence of ordained ministers the members did not fail to maintain regularly the worship of Almighty God.

VISITS OF EVANGELISTS, 1808-1810.

In addition to the visits of the Ministerial Pioneers from Nova Scotia, ministers were sent here by the Massachusetts Baptist Missionary Society. Elders Isaac Chase, Henry Hale, and David Merrill spent considerable time in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. They were eminently useful in preaching the Gospel, administering its ordinances, and in confirming the infant churches in the doctrines and practice of the New Testament Christianity. Each of these Evangelists visited the city and rendered valuable service to the cause of the Master.

CHURCH ORGANIZED 1810.

On May 23rd, 1810, the Church was organized by Rev. Henry Hale, and called the First Baptist Church of St. John. The membership consisted of twelve persons—seven brothers and five sisters, who had been brought to a knowledge of the truth through the labors of Revs. Edward Manning, Joseph Crandall, James Innes, Theodore Harding, James Manning, Joseph Dimmock, Thomas Ansley, and other evangelists. The names of the original members so far as we are able to obtain them are as follows: (1) Jeremiah Drake, grandfather of Brunswick and the Misses Drake; (2) Thomas Pettingill, father of the late James Pettingill; (3) Nathan Garrison, father of the late Deacon George A. Garrison; (4) George Harding, son of the late Captain William Harding; (5) John M. Wilmot; (6) William Stenning, an uncle of the late Deacon J. H. Harding. (1) Mrs. Thomas Harding, mother of the late Deacon John H. Harding; (2) Mrs. Uriah Hatfield; (3) Mrs. Lovett, wife of Captain Lovett. It is probable that the other three members were from among the following persons: Mrs. Harper, Mr. A. Magee, Amy Nixon, Captain William Harding and his wife, all of whom had shown much interest previous to the formation of the Church.

First Officers.

Nathan Garrison was the first Church Clerk. Thomas Pettingill was chosen Deacon of the little Church on account of his deep-toned piety and sincere devotion to the cause of God. He was soon joined in office by Jeremiah Drake, and “these two, like Jachin and Boaz, the pillars of Solomon’s temple, did, as these names signify, Establish in Strength the truth as it is in Jesus, both by precept and example. In the absence of a settled minister, they regularly maintained and led the religious exercises of the Church, so that when they were called up higher they had seen the cause of Christ greatly advanced through their instrumentality, and departing bequeathed to the church a precious legacy,

‘The stainless memory of the just,
The wealth beyond the grave.’”

Mr. Asa Blakslee was the first person baptized after the organization of the Church.

Mrs. Thomas Harding, who died in her ninetieth year in August, 1875, was the last of the twelve that formed the little band in 1810. She saw the small vine send out boughs to the sea and branches to the river, and many dwell under its goodly shadow.

In 1812 the Church numbered twenty-seven members. They applied for admission and were received into the Association at Upper Granville, N. S., this year.

For the first three years the Church was not in a position to call a pastor, but was supplied from time to time by visiting ministers.

FIRST PASTOR CALLED.

The first pastor, the Rev. Edmund Reice, was called in 1813. He was a Frenchman who came to Halifax as a midshipman in a French vessel which was taken as a prize by the English. His conversion was remarkable. Intent, like many of his countrymen, on deriding religion, and leading a ball in a house just opposite the place where the revival meetings were held at Yarmouth, like Saul, he was struck down by the power of God and in intense agony of soul he cried aloud for mercy. He was truly converted, became a Baptist, and entered the ministry. After preaching for some time elsewhere, he was called to be a pastor of this Church.. During his pastorate a revival occurred and many were added to the Lord. He remained as a pastor about three years. Later he went to New Orleans to evangelize the French, and afterwards was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Baltimore, where he died.

Places of Meeting.

The Church first worshipped in a small room on the ground floor of a building on the south side of Princess Street, owned and occupied by Mr. Cornelius Harbell. The building was next to the residence of the late Dr. Sheffield. From Princess street the Church moved to and occupied a small church edifice on Germain street, between Duke and Queen. This building had been used, on the formation of the city, as a court house and common council chamber. It was then occupied by the Episcopalians, and afterwards by the Methodists. It soon became too small, and in 1815 the present site, on the corner of Germain and Queen streets, was purchased. The first building was completed and dedicated in July, 1818. The following advertisement appeared in the city papers: “A new Baptist meeting house will be opened for the worship of God on Lord’s Day next, when appropriate sermons will be preached and hymns sung. Collections will be made toward the expense of the building. Services at 11 A. M. and 6 P.M.

(Sgd.) THOMAS GRIFFIN, Pastor.

St. John, July 8th, 1818."

This shows that even at the early date the ministers realized the value of the press.

This old wooden Church fronted on Queen street and had a seating capacity of 500 to 600. On each side of the entrance was a short flight of stairs leading up to the Church. At the head of these stairs in recesses on either side were large stoves for heating the building. Opposite the entrance was a high box pulpit with fourteen steps leading up to it. Behind the pulpit was a large window looking north. In front was a square pew with a railing round the top and dark maroon curtains. In the pew was a table on which were four pewter plates used in taking up the collection. During the service the deacons sat in this pew. At this time they were: Drake, Pettingill and Gale. There was a gallery on three sides of the Church—the choir being opposite the pulpit. In the gallery to the left of the minister sat the colored people, of whom there were quite a number. On the ground floor the wall pews were square, while those in the centre were single pews. The pews were upholstered to suit the taste of the owners, some being done with scarlet, garnet or green, and the others with more somber colors. When the Church was enlarged, in 1838, the old-fashioned high pulpit was removed, much to the satisfaction of the worshippers. William Stenning and Thomas Harding superintended the erection of the new Church, and Brother Stenning’s funeral sermon was the first preached in the building. Subscriptions towards the building fund were opened October 14th, 1815. The following are among the amongst contributed: Thomas Pettingill, John M. Wilmot, Thomas Harding and William Stenning £50 each; Nathan Garrison £25; John Dyer and William Harding £20 each; Benjamin Gale and Henry Blakslee £15 each; Andrew S. Green, Joshua Lane, Samuel Chadburn, Henry Holmes and Jeremiah Drake £10 each; and others from £1 to £5.

Lighting.

At first candles were used to light the Church. From the centre of the ceiling was suspended a brass chandelier with twenty-four candles. On the walls of the main floor and gallery above every third pew there was a movable candlestick, and on each side of the reading desk were two movable candlesticks attached to stationary stands. The sexton wearing soft slippers would noiselessly ascend the pulpit steps, snuffers and tray in hand, and passing behind the minister snuff the candles; then closing the pulpit door, slowly descend the steps. He would then proceed round the Church snuffing the candles—some fifty in all. By the time had made a circuit of the church it was time to commence again, and usually he made the rounds three times during the service. At times a draft from the door or window would cause the candles to flare, and many a broadcloth coat or silk dress would be spattered with grease. In course of time sperm oil lamps were substituted for the candles, and they were considered a very great improvement. In 1845, gas was introduced into the city, and used in this church for the first time at the formation of the Maritime Convention in 1846. The present system of electric lighting having been introduced only so recently as 1906.

REV. THOMAS GRIFFIN.

Rev. Thomas Griffin, who came from England, was the second pastor. He took up the work in 1818, and remained two years.

In 1820 the Female Mite Society contributed from Missions £15 3s. 7d. ($ 60.72). “The Church was small.” says Dr. Bill, “having only about sixty members and they had just completed their first house of worship. This contribution indicates the depth of their piety, and their earnestness in sending the Gospel to the destitute.”

REV. RICHARD SCOTT.

Rev. Richard Scott was next called to the pastorate, being the third pastor. He came from England in the spring of 1821. On July 1st of this year, the Baptist churches in New Brunswick were formed into a separate Association, and met with this church. At this time there were in New Brunswick 13 churches, 6 ministers, and 506 members, our membership being 59. Elders Harris and Miller remained after the close of the Association and conducted Revival Services. Rev. Richard Scott went to the United States and collected toward the debt on the Church $1,061.00.

On Mr. Scott’s retirement a young man by the name of Densmore, who had been converted in a lumber camp, came to the city. He was on his way to the United States intending to devote himself to the ministry and was filled with the spirit of the Gospel. At the request of the Church he remained some time, and under his ministrations the Church was greatly revived and edified. For some time the Church was without a pastor, but was visited by Revs. Joseph Crandall, R. Davis, C. M. James, D. Dunbar and T. Ansley. The ministry of these brethren greatly comforted and confirmed the Church, and a few were added to the membership.

REV. CHARLES MILLER.

Rev. Charles Miller, 1824, was called as the fourth pastor. He remained two years, during which time eighty persons were added to the Church, the most of them by baptism. He was born in 1749 at Stirling Scotland, and was brought up a Congregationalist. He was ordained a Baptist Minister at Sackville in 1820. He was pastor on the Miramichi from 1821 to 1823. He left this city in 1826 for the United States, where he spent the rest of his days, the latter part of which were spent at Skowhegan, Maine.

REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL.

Rev. Joseph Crandall supplied the pulpit as pastor for a short time following Rev. Charles Miller, and his work was greatly blessed. He was born in Rhode Island. His parents came to Chester about 1775, when he was an infant. He was converted and united with the church at Chester, when under the care of Rev. Joseph Dimmock. He was ordained pastor of the church at Sackville in 1799, and was pastor of a number of churches in New Brunswick. He died February 20th, 1858, having reached the age of eighty-six years, after having preached the Gospel for nearly sixty years.

REV. CHARLES TUPPER.

Rev. Charles Tupper, father of Sir Charles Tupper, became the sixth pastor in 1826, but remained only a short time on account of ill health. Rev. Charles Tupper was born August 16th, 1794, at Cornwallis, N. S. He began to teach school at nineteen. He united with the Cornwallis Church in 1815, began to preach in 1816, and was ordained in 1819. He died January, 1881, after a ministry of sixty-five years. As a student, preacher, pastor, teacher and writer, he was very successful. He mastered thirteen languages, so as to be able to read the Bible in them all. Of his controversies and discourses one of his opponents said that “He wrote with the seriousness of a Christian, and the politeness of a gentleman.” He formed the first Temperance Society in New Brunswick. He was the editor of the Baptist Missionary Magazine for Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. In 1838, he acted as a principal of the Baptist Seminary at Fredericton. In 1857 the degree of D. D. was conferred by Acadia University. He was noted for his piety, great ability and devotion to duty.

After Mr. Tupper’s retirement the pulpit was supplied for nearly two years by Mr. Enoch Freeman, a student of Waterville College. In 1827 a Missionary Society was formed and the sum of £17 10s. 0d. ($ 70.00) was raised. In 1828 the Association was again held with this Church.

REV. FREDERICK MILES.

Rev. Frederick Miles, who had been educated at King’s College, Windsor, was ordained in 1828 and became the seventh pastor. Numbers of persons were added to the Church through the faithful labors of Mr. Miles. During his pastorate of three years, fifty were received by baptism. In the autumn of 1830, Mr. Miles resigned for the purpose of completing his theological course at Newton.

After the retirement of Rev. Mr. Miles, the Rev. Samuel Bancroft supplied the pulpit for a time with much acceptance, and several converts were added during his short term of service.

REV. J. G. NAILOR.

Rev. J. G. Nailor, of England, visited the city in September. 1831, and was invited to occupy the pulpit. Being a man of more than ordinary talents, his preaching was highly approved of by the Church and he was called to the pastorate. He declined the call, but agreed to remain for a few months as acting pastor, when he left for the United States. In this year a good Sunday School was conducted. This is the first time the Sunday School is mentioned in any of the accounts.

REV. THOMAS CURTIS

Rev. Thomas Curtis came here from England and became the tenth pastor—serving from 1832 to 1835. He was a man of great intellectual power, and his sermons were exceedingly rich in evangelical truth. He was a profound student of the Bible, and had distinguished himself by his Biblical attainments in his own country, and his ministrations were highly appreciated. In 1845 he was pastor of the Baptist Church at Charlestown, South Carolina, and highly esteemed for his mental attainments and consistent religious character.

REV. J. D. CASEWELL’S FIRST PASTORATE

The Church being again without a pastor, instructed their clerk, Mr. James Holman, who was going to England on business, to apply to Rev. Mr. Lester, an eminent Baptist minister of Liverpool, for advice in regard to a suitable young man as future pastor. He responded to the wishes of the Church and selected J. D. Casewell. He accepted the proposal to come to St. John, and before leaving England was ordained. He was inducted into the pastorate in June, 1835. His eminent pulpit talents, combined with a kind and generous heart, gave great promise of future success. He continued to serve the Church two years when his health gave out and he left for his native land.

Rev. Samuel Bancroft then supplied the Church for the second time, as he had previously done in 1830. He was a man of sterling piety, and sincere devotion to the cause of Christ, and several converts were added to the church during his ministry. He died at an advanced age in 1876, and rests from his labors.

REV. SAMUEL ROBINSON, 1838-1850.

REV. SAMUEL ROBINSON was born in the North of Ireland. He experienced religion early in life, and when still a youth commenced preaching in his own country as a Presbyterian. He came to this country and settled in Charlotte County. The Rev. Thos. Ansley visited that district in 1830, and was instrumental in directing Mr. Robinson to an investigation of Believers’ Baptism as taught in the New Testament. The examination resulted in impressing his mind with the idea that there is no valid authority in the Scriptures for Infant Baptism, and that Christian Baptism is Immersion in the name of the sacred Trinity, upon a profession of faith in Jesus Christ. Mr. Ansley’s visit to St. George took place under peculiarly impressive circumstances. In the early part of his ministry he has visited Charlotte County, and had been the means of producing a very powerful revival of religion. Long years had passed, and a great declension in spiritual things prevailed; but there were a few who cherished the remembrance of this revival visit of Mr. Ansley, and were anxious to hear his voice once more. He was invited to visit St. George, and received the message as sent from God. He came, lifted up his voice, trumpet-tones, and a wide-spread revival followed. The man of God felt he had a message for Mr. Robinson, so sought him out and delivered it. The saintly appearance of the Evangelist, the solemnity of his address, and the fervency of his prayers made a deep impression upon the mind of this young Presbyterian brother. It was arranged for Mr. Robinson to attend one of the Evangelist’s services. As the service proceeded, the preaching, so simple, so unctious, inspired Mr. Robinson with strange and powerful emotions. He felt his heart drawn to the venerable preacher with a strong religious affection, and ere he was aware, the mantle of the old Elijah had fallen upon the young Elijah. Still he had no idea of becoming a Baptist. After Mr. Ansley had returned to his home in Bridgetown, Mr. Robinson was led to prayerfully study the New Testament as he has never done before, in reference to his duty regarding this matter, and was constrained contrary to his training to confess that the study of the New Testament had made him a Baptist. In due time he wrote to Mr. Ansley to come over and baptize him. The Baptism was appointed to take place at St. David’s—a most central position. The Baptismal day arrived and crowds flocked from all sections of the country to witness the ordinance. The venerable administrator came to the discharge of his duty invested with the majesty of the Spirit’s power, and all felt: “Surely God is in this place.” Having accomplished his work, Mr. Ansley’s course on earth was done, and he died without reaching his home. Mr. Robinson continued his labors in Charlotte County for some seven or eight years. The speed sprang up in all directions, and an abundant harvest was gathered in.

Mr. Robinson came to St. John for the first time in 1838. The Church had for some time been in a cold divided state, but a change for the better was soon apparent, and the ministry of Mr. Robinson was so acceptable that it was soon necessary to enlarge the Church by an addition of seventeen feet. This met the demand for sittings, and gave an opportunity to provide a Baptistry.

Second Baptist Church.

Soon after Mr. Robinson came, the restoration of several members, who had been separated from the fellowship of the Church by reason of differences which had arisen, took place, with the understanding that a second church should be formed. These members therefore received their dismission, and by the advice of a council duly called were formed into what was known as the Second Baptist Church. They built a church in 1840—the building now in the possession of the St. John’s Presbyterian Church on King street East. They called different pastors, and for a time enjoyed prosperity, but owing to a combination of adverse circumstances the movement did not succeed. It may have been that the time was not ripe for a second church, and consequently it ceased to exist.

Shortly after his coming the Church requested Mr. Robinson to remove to the city permanently and devote all his time to the work here. He accepted the call provisionally, and spent a large portion of his time during 1838 and 1839 in this city, laboring with untiring energy and enlarged success. This he continued to do, until by the earnest solicitations of the people, combined with the blessing of God upon his ministry, he was convinced that it was his duty to accept the permanent pastorate of this Church. He removed his family to St. John, and a parsonage was built on Germain street adjoining the Church. A small building had previously stood upon this lot which had been used as a vestry. In 1841 the rock was removed from under the Church, and the vestry for the use of the Sunday School and prayer meeting was completed.

Music.

For a number of years there were no chants, responses, organ, or paid singers, but the congregation joined heartily in the singing. Up to Mr. Robinson’s time there was no music during the taking of the collection, and the noise of the pennies and coppers dropping on the pewter plates was not at all pleasing. The choir prevailed on Mr. Robinson, who was fond of music, to obtain the consent of the deacons for them to give what was then known as a “Copper Tune.” After much persuasion the deacons consented, and the next Sunday the choir sang the anthem “Great is the Lord and Greatly to be Praised.” The deacons were much alarmed at such “dance music” being given in the house of God on the Sabbath day. At the close of the service they met, and determined that such music must be stopped. Mr. Robinson was instructed to go to the choir at once and stop such unseemly proceedings. That pastor eventually prevailed on the deacons to allow the choir to sing during the collection, on condition that they sing only quiet tunes. This they did for a while, till the prejudice was broken down, when they sang such pieces as they thought best, and the deacons did not again interfere.

In January, 1840, a series of special services were commenced by the pastor and Rev. Charles Tupper, the latter continuing to labor with the pastor during the winter.

In 1841 a revival commenced in the Sunday School. A number of the scholars confessed conversion and were baptized. The work extended to the congregation and a number of young men and women professed a new-born faith.

On the 16th day of May, 1841, the Carleton Branch was formed into a separate church; and in 1842 a church was formed at Musquash, consisting of about twenty members.

At Grand Bay twelve of fourteen persons were baptized and received into the membership of this Church. On the formation of the Fairville Church in 1881, those remaining on our roll were dismissed to that church. The work was continued at Musquash, Grand Bay and Red Head. There were weekly accessions for months in succession, and a rich harvest of souls were gathered in, so that 1842 was a year of refreshing in this Church and its outposts.

The commercial crisis of 1843 produced much financial embarrassment, and occasioned many removals on the part of church members; but the labors of the pastor were incessant, and the spirit of revival was enjoyed in some measure, though not to the same extent as in the previous year.

The mercantile depression continued and was greatly felt by the Church through 1844; but the work of God advanced despite all depressing influences, and some fifteen were baptized during the year. The pastor was aided in his work by Brother John Francis, whose zeal and earnestness in the cause produced a deep impression on many hearts.

The Portland Church was organized in 1842, and 1846 the Association met with them, this Church assisting in entertaining the delegates. On the Sabbath an interesting meeting was held in the open air in the neighborhood of “The Bethel” on Britain street. Several were converted, and the worship of God established in that place. In 1847 “The Bethel” was completed and opened for worship. It was designed to be a free house—open to sailors, and any who might be induced to come and hear the message of life. It is worthy of note that “The Bethel” was erected on the very ground where a house once stood, occupied by a colored sister belonging to this Church, and was for many years consecrated as a place of prayer.

The Baptist Convention was organized in this Church in 1846. At this time the deacons were: N. S. De Mille, Thomas Lockey, Samuel Kinsman, and John Smith. The cause was greatly revived in 1847, twenty being added by baptism and fifteen by letter.

One of Mr. Robinson’s methods for aggressive work was to send out the members in bands of four to hold meetings in different parts of the city and vicinity. Besides the places previously referred to these included Brussels street, Pitt Street, Marsh Bridge and Loch Lomond. Such a meeting was established on Brussels street in a private room. It soon became a Mission station. In 1847 the erection of the present edifice was commenced, and in 1850 a separate church was organized.

1848 was distinguished by the out-pouring of the Spirit’s power. The gracious work commenced in March in the Sunday School under the superintendence of Deacon G. A. Garrison. Eight young persons presented themselves for baptism and were joyfully received by the Church. The good work proceeded as the following report will show. When the Western Association was organized in 1848, this Church reported an increase for year: By baptism 33, by letter 16, restored 3. Total increase 52. Total membership 455. Contributions for Denominational Funds £27 11s. 8 1/2d. ($110.34).

Sunday School: No. of Schools 2, No. of Scholars 200, No. of Teachers 35, No. of Volumes 600, No. of Baptisms from Schools 25.

In 1849 the Sunday School reported 3 Schools, 320 Scholars, and 43 Teachers; while in 1850, after the separation, the numbers had fallen to 1 School, 120 Scholars and 16 Teachers.

Brussels Street Building Dedicated.

The Brussels Street building was completed and dedicated on Sunday, September 1st, 1849. Rev. Theodore S. Harding, who preached the dedication sermon, contrasted the condition of the Baptists in the city at that time with the past, it being forty-six years since he had first visited the city. The Church, not being in circumstances to settle a pastor at Brussels street, made temporary arrangements for assistance by the pastors of the Portland and Carleton churches.

The Associational letter from this Church August, 1849, refers to the time when Father Pettingill opened a prayer meeting in 1808, with only three praying brothers to assist him, and says: “Since then eight Baptist places of worship have been erected in the City and its environs, through the agency of this Church which grew from these feeble beginnings. The most of these churches were supplied at the time with the faithful preaching of God’s word. The records of the Church for the previous ten years show additions by baptism and letter of 600; but the loss by death, dismissals, removals and exclusions left the church at that time with a membership of 334.”

Brussels Street Church Formed.

The plan of Associate Pastors for Germain and Brussels streets not working very well, in 1859 the church decided to separate. This was carried by a vote of 57 against 17. The division of the mother church was made with the utmost harmony and good feeling on the part of all, both pastor and people believing that the establishing of a separate church at the other end of the city would lead to a more general knowledge of Baptist doctrines and the consequent extension of the Master’s Kingdom. Subsequent history has proved this belief to be well founded. We quote from Dr. Bill’s sermon at the dedication of the new building erected here in 1866: “This movement—the division of the church—which we believe was of God, left us without pastor or deacons. Instead of being discouraged, the Church rallied around the standard of the banner of the Cross of Christ, which had been planted here so many years, and directing their united efforts determined to stand fast in the defense of the gospel, and maintain their rank and standing. Unfurling to the breeze the folds of this banner, we went forward proclaiming victory through the Blood of the Lamb, and victory—blessed be God—has been ours.”

Readjustments.

Dr. Carey says: “The remnant clinging to this hallowed spot again called Rev. J. G. Casewell to the pastorate, he having about this time returned from England. The following brethren were elected deacons: George A. Garrison, Edmund S. Barteaux, Dr. Simon Fitch and Manuel Francis. Solomon Hersey was appointed treasurer, and G. A. Garrison continued as clerk. The first report to the Association, after the separation, gives the following information: Number dismissed to Brussels street 158; to other churches 7, died 2, leaving a membership of 167. This number was reduced by 27, who were not in full fellowship, so that the real number of members was only 140. Contributions to the Denominational Funds: £27 14s. 7d. ($110.92.)

After the separation, this Church which had previously been known as the First Baptist Church, was called the Germain Street Baptist Church. This name it still retains, with the addition of the word “United” which was added when the two branches of the Baptist family in the Maritime Provinces became one.

Rev. Mr. Casewell had many warm friends and admirers, and it was hoped that his splendid pulpit ability would soon gather a large congregation. Hence, notwithstanding discouraging circumstances, the members took hold with the united determination to exert themselves to the utmost to build up the cause here. Old debts were paid and arrangements were made for the support of the pastor and for the general expenses of the Church. The burden fell quite heavily upon a few, and some embarrassment was felt; but by united effort the expenses were regularly met, and indications for the future were favorable. In March, 1851, revival indications were manifested especially among the young, and several professed conversion. Mr. Casewell’s health having again failed, he left for England in 1851, and on the voyage passed suddenly from time to eternity.

REV. DR. BILL’S PASTORATE, 1852-1863

REV. I. E. BILL, of Nictaux, N. S., was the second pastor after the separation. He came February, 1852, and continued till February, 1863. He labored faithfully and successfully in extending the triumphs of the Gospel—not only in the pulpit but also through the press, as editor of “The Christian Visitor.” During his pastorate of eleven years more than 300 members were added to our number by baptism, and by letter from sister churches. He was present at the laying of the corner stone of the present building in 1877. He is spoken of in the early days of his ministry in this city as one of the most popular preachers of his time. His fluency of speech and power of declamation made him a favorite preacher, and drew large congregations to hear him.

Rev. I. E. Bill was born February 19th, 1805, at Cornwallis, N. S. He was baptized by Rev. Edward Manning, and began to preach in 1837. He was ordained at Nictaux in 1829, where he was pastor for over twenty years, and was greatly blessed in his work—during the first year of his pastorate baptizing 151 persons. He was a warm friend of Acadia College and its affiliated institutions, and was present at the founding of the Academy in 1828. In 1881 Acadia University conferred on him the Degree of Doctor of Divinity. He established the first Ladies’ Boarding School at Nictaux in 1846. He was a pastor of Germain Street Church 1852 to 1863. After resigning the pastorate of this Church, he preached in Fredericton, St. Martins and other places. Dr. Saunders says “He was an extraordinary man and minister—loving and beloved. His ‘Fifty Years with the Baptists’ is a monument.” He dies at St. Martins, August 4th,. 1891, aged eighty-six years.

Dr. Gates in preaching his funeral sermon says: “You can know with what attachment Dr. Bill was bound to this Church, when you recall the fact that he retained his membership here until the last, and it is this Church that now reports another of its members passed into the land—‘where sweeps no desolating wind.’” Dr. Gates in concluding says: “Have you not known him; have you not heard him eloquently pleading for the higher education; have you not listened to him as with tender pathos he had pleaded for the millions of the perishing in the heathen lands; have you not listened at with burning words he denounced the evils of the time; aye, too, have you not felt the force, the power of his enthusiasm, his hopefulness as he has painted in your presence in glowing colors the coming of the more blessed days—the days of righteousness, of peace, of grace—days of the reigning of Jesus Christ?”

In 1856 the membership of the Church was 229, and in 1860, 320.

In 1859 the Deacons were: G. A. Garrison, John Fisher, Manuel Francis, E. J. Barteaux, E. H. Duval, and A. McL. Seely. This year we find the New Year’s Conference Meeting referred to for the first time. At the Annual Charity Sermon, the collection was £9.

It is to be regretted that owing to loss of the Records more of the History of the Church during Dr. Bill’s pastorate is not available. Dr. Bill himself in closing an historical sermon delivered in this Church in 1863 said: “The remaining portion of the History includes my own life and labors as pastor of this Church. We shall not go into the subject at present, but at some future day, and in other hands, it may be found to comprise a chapter not devoid of interest, as the history of this Baptist Church is rich in incident as it is also rich in suggestion and influence.”

REV. HENRY VAUGHAN’S PASTORATE, 1863-1864.

When Rev. I. E. Bill resigned, in 1863, Rev. Henry Vaughan, son of Simon Vaughan, of St. Martins, was called to the pastorate and entered upon his labors in March. He was a graduate of Acadia University and Newton Theological Seminary, and was ordained at St. George in 1862. He was a sound preacher and well qualified to fill the pastoral office, and his friends looked forward to a long life of usefulness in the Master’s service.

The Second Building.

The old Church, built in 1818, and enlarged in 1838, was out of date and not in keeping with the progress of the city. It was therefore resolved, in March, 1864, to erect in its place a substantial brick building. To this work the pastor gave himself with untiring zeal and unabated energy, contributing of his own means and obtaining subscriptions from his relatives and friends to forward the undertaking on which he has set his heart. The corner stone was to have been laid on the 24th of August, but the pastor was suddenly taken ill, and died on 14th of September, 1864. On the 22nd of September the corner stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies, but a shadow was thrown on the scene, for the loved and laborious pastor was not there, but had gone to his rest and reward.

The vestry was completed and dedicated on the 6th of February, 1864, when a discourse was delivered by Rev. I. E. Bill commemorative of the life and work of the Rev. Henry Vaughan.. Mr. Vaughan is the only pastor of this Church since its formation who has died while pastor.

The Church was completed in 1866, and was built of brick with cut stone trimmings. It was of the Gothic style of architecture in use in the early part of the fourteenth century, with some adaptations. It had a frontage of fifty feet on Germain street, and seventy-five on Queen. The entrance was through the tower in the centre of the building and was surmounted by a portal pleasing to the eye. The vestibule had a groined roof, and the ceiling of the main auditorium, being supported by pillars, together with the Gothic roof, gave a very pleasing appearance to the interior. There were galleries on three sides of the church, the choir and the organ occupying the one facing the minister. The main audience room was dedicated on the second Sunday in November, 1866. It was a beautiful sanctuary, commodious, homelike and pleasant, suggesting the words of the Psalmist: “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of Hosts.” The Baptistry was in the Vestry, on the northern side of the room, the platform being over it, and the seats arranged to face the same way. Off the Vestry were the Parlor and Infant classrooms, in the same positions as in the present building, while the library was in the south-west corner. The cost of the building was $40,000.

The Parsonage faced on Germain street, and was built of wood, being the building erected in 1840. In 1872 it was remodeled at a cost of $1,400, and made very comfortable for the family of Rev. Dr. Carey.