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408 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. CHAPTER VIII. BY W. M. TRAINER. RELIGIOUS HISTORY OF JEFFERSON COUNTY-EARLY MINISTERS - PRESBYTERIANS - EPISCOPALIAN CHURCH - METHODIST EPISCOPAL- METHODIST PROTESTANT- CATHOLIC CHURCH -UNITED PRESBYTERIAN - CONGREGATIONAL- GERMAN CHURCHES - CHRISTIAN CHURCH BAPTISTS - SOCIETY OF FRIENDS, ETC. VERY much of the history of the planting of early churches in this county has been lost, and much that remains is only traditional. The early church records, if kept, have long since been lost. Most of the ministers even died without leaving any definite information concerning the churches of which they had charge. The early trials and hardships in the religious life of Jefferson county, have been undergone and their recital is even unknown by the present generation. But by the results achieved, we can safely conclude that whatever these trials and hardships were, they were overpowered and mastered by the indomitable spirit of our fore-fathers. It can truly be said of the pioneer pastor, that " he set up God's altar in the wilderness." And as the ax of the husbandman cleared a way for fruitful fields, so the labors and exertions of God's early ministers reaped an abundant harvest as a reward and crown. In compiling this and other chapters, the writer has drawn largely from previously published accounts for much valuable information. Among the first ministers in this region were what was known as " riding preachers." They would go around from settlement to settlement, preaching in one of the houses, and very often in the open air. One of these, Lorenzo Dow, came to Steubenville about 1799, and preached to the public in the shade of a large tree that stood near where the city building now is. Different denominations claim precedence in the establishment of churches in this county. The Episcopalian and Presbyterian churches were very early represented here, and undoubtedly, the great majority of early settlers were of ancestry from these two churches. The First Presbyterian church of Steubenville, dates back to the beginning of the century, if not before. Early in the year 1798, the Rev. Smiley Hughes preached to the settlers by the appointment of the Presbytery of Ohio, and by a similar appointment, Mr. James Snodgrass preached in the town and neighborhood in the month of June, 1799. The Presbytery continued to send occasional supplies, and in the spring of 1800 the sacrament of the Lord's supper was administered by the Rev. Thomas Marquis, who had the assistance of ruling elders from the opposite side of the JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 409 Ohio river. At this time the Presbyterian congregation seemed to have been considered as permanently formed. A union arrangement was entered into between Steubenville and Island Creek church for the support of a minister, and Mr. James Snodgrass was invited to preach regularly among them. In accordance with this invitation, Mr. James Snodgrass returned, in the summer of 1800. A call was made out for him in October, by the churches of Steubenville and Island Creek, and in November he was ordained to the full work of the gospel ministry, and installed as their pastor by the Presbytery of Ohio. He continued to preach steadily, for the first year or two; for two-fifths of his time at Steubenville, and afterward for the one-half. About 1810, the Rev. William McMillan came to the town to preside over the academy, and he was engaged as a stated supply to the congregation, for that half of the time (when the Rev. James Snodgrass did not preach, he being absent at his other appointments) . This arrangement caused some disagreeable feelings, and divisions in the church. In the fall of 1816 application was made by some of the congregation to have the pastoral relation dissolved. After careful deliberation on the reasons given, there being no objections made, the Presbytery of Ohio proceeded to dissolve the pastoral relation then existing between the Rev. James Snodgrass, D. D., and the First church of Steubenville January, 1817. At the same time the Rev. William McMillan ceased to act as stated supply to the same church. Early in the spring of 1817, a call was made out for Mr. Obadiah Jennings, and he having accepted of it, he was by the Presbytery of Ohio ordained to the full work of the gospel ministry, and installed pastor of the first church of Steubenville for the whole of his time. He continued the pastor of said church until March 25, 1823, when the pastoral relations existing between Rev. Obadiah Jennings, D. D., and the First church of Steubenville was dissolved at his own request. On the 2d of June, 1823, a call was made out for the Rev. Charles C. Beatty, which he accepted, and entered upon the duties of it, and on October 21, 1823, he was installed by the Presbytery of Ohio pastor of the First Presbyterian church of Steubenville. He continued to labor in his pastoral office until the spring of 1835, when owing to infirm health, he made known his intention to resign his charge. At the request of the congregation he consented to retain his office until an arrangement could be made to supply his place. The pastoral relation was not formally dissolved till April, 1837. Rev. Ephraim I. McLean, in July, 1837, accepted a call to this church, but on account of ill-health he was never installed. February 13, 1837, Henry G. Comingo was elected pastor. His connection with the church was severed by death December 1, 1861. Rev. Henry Wood then served as pastor up to 1867. From 1867 to 1875 Rev. T. A, McCurdy was pastor. The next pastor was Rev. William L. Grimes, who served from 1876 until his death, November, 1886. Rev. 0. V. Stewart, the following year, accepted a call to the church, and is its present pastor. In the summer of 1801, the church was 410 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. first regularly organized by the election and ordination of Thomas Vincent, John Milligan and Samuel Hunter, as ruling elders. In addition to these, in 1803, John Rickey and Samuel Meek were chosen and ordained. Dr. Vincent removed in 1810, and Mr. Rickey soon after ceased from infirmities to act as an elder. James G. Henning, David Hoge and Stephen Riggs were elected ruling elders, September i, 1817, and soon after ordained to this office. Mr. Meek removed in 1821, and Mr. Hunter in 1822. John C. Bayless and Alexander J. McDowell were elected elders August 5, 1822, and soon after ordained and installed. The congregation was first organized in 1819, but in the year 1833 the church was organized again under a special act of the legislature. The first place of preaching was in the grove near Walcott's factory in the summer and the court house in the winter. In 1803 the church erected a small building near the present site of the "old first church." In 1828 a larger building was erected which in after years was enlarged and remodeled. In 1872 the congregation becoming uncomfortable in the old building, it was decided to erect a new building, and a majority of the members residing in the northern part of the city, it was therefore decided to chance the location. After some trouble endeavoring to secure a location that would be satisfactory to the greatest number, the present site was secured, viz.: between Washington and North on Fourth street, and the building commenced, which was completed, and occupied by the congregation, in the fall of 1872. It is an imposing building, a fine structure, in architectural style exquisite, commodious, and an ornament to the city. In the rear of this room are the chapel and Sabbath school rooms and the pastor's study; on the second floor, the church parlors and kitchen. The building was completed at a cost (including ground, and the parsonage adjoining), of about $75,000. Shortly after its completion, the old property on South Fourth street was sold, and is now the site of the Third Presbyterian church. A number of churches have been organized from this, the parent church. In 1839 the Free Presbyterian, afterward called the Second Presbyterian church, was organized mainly by members from the first church. In 1873 Potter chapel was organized at Mingo Junction, taking Twenty-one members from the first church; and in the same year, the Old Presbyterian church was organized with twenty-seven members from the first church. In 1875 the First Congregational church was organized; fifty-two members of the first church entered into that organization. On January 1, 1838, the original members of the Second Presbyterian church instituted a separate organization with Rev. Joseph Chambers as their first pastor. Their first house of worship was the building used by the Christian congregation on North Fourth street, which they occupied until June, 1871, when they removed to their new building then completed on the corner of Fourth and Washington streets. It is a handsome structure, of pressed brick with stone trimmings, costing over $43,000, and with a spire 160 feet high.. It has a seating capicity of 600. Three of the windows of this church are memorials, they being to Rev. Mr. Chambers, D. L. Collier and Mrs. S. F. JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 411 Beatty. A commodious chapel joins the church in the rear, and a comfortable parsonage is the property of the congregation. There have been seven pastors of this church, the first being Dr. Beatty, in 1844, and Rev. William P. Breed, in 1847, who were followed by Rev. Henry B. Chapin, J. B. Patterson, David R. Campbell, Rev. William McLane and Rev. E. D. Ledyard, the present pastor. A mission chapel in the Fifth ward, to which there is attached a flourishing Sunday-school, is under charge of this congregation. What is popularly known now as the Old Presbyterian church occupies the former site of the First Presbyterian church. It was formed in 1872 by the members of the first church, who desired to keep the organization south of Market street. This church erected a handsome new building in 1877. It is called the Third Presbyterian church of Steubenville, and Rev. James A. Cook is the present pastor. Island Creek Presbyterian Church. - This church is connected with the First Presbyterian church at Steubenville, very closely, in the history of its infancy. The date of the organization of this church can not be given, but it was doubtless about the year 1800 or a little earlier. Rev. James Snodgrass was its first pastor, installed November 24, 1800. The first preaching services were held at different points. Sometimes at Pittinger's, near Bowling Green; sometimes at Carr's Ridge, but oftener at the present site of the church. After the church was organized, the present site was made the regular place for holding service. Like many of the early churches in this county, services in summer were held under a large tent, and in winter in private houses. In 1802 a house was built of round logs, which was the first building of the church. Ephraim Cooper donated the land to the church, on which it stands. In 1810 the rude building of 1802 gave way to a hewed log house. In 1825 this was burned to the ground. Soon afterward a brick church occupied the site of the former log church. This was occupied until 1856, when it was partially destroyed by a storm. It was then arranged to build on the present site, and in 1858 the present brick structure was finished. The pastors of this church have been: James Snodgrass, 1800-1825, with a slight vacancy in the year 1816-17; John C. Sidball, 1826-1835; Rev. Thomas F. Magill, 1836-1840; Rev. John K. Cunningham, 1841-1853; Rev. M. A. Parkinson, 1854-1865; Rev. W. R. Vincent, 1866-1874; Rev. Samuel Forbes, 1876-1879. Rev. M. A. Parkinson, in 1880, again became pastor, and is the present incumbent. This church was especially strong and influential for good in the first half of this century. Along with other pioneer churches, it did a lion's share in moulding the moral thought and work of early days. Its membership at present is about 200. The Presbyterian church at Mt. Pleasant, was one of the first churches organized in Ohio. About 1798, Dr. John McMillan, the great apostle of Presybterianism in western Pennsylvania, crossed the Ohio river, and founded at least two churches, one at Short Creek, now Mt. Pleasant; the other at Richland, now St. Crairsville. The spot is still pointed out where, on the farm now owned by Robert Finney, 412 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. where Beech Spring school-house now stands, near Short creek, under the spreading branches of the forest trees, with a tent or covered stand for the minister and leader of the singing, was effected the organization of this church. The first elders were Richard McKibbon, Thomas McCune, James Clark and James Eagleson. This tent or meeting place was three and a half miles southeast of the present village of Mt. Plesant. The first house built was a rude log one, about one and a fourth miles southeast of the place where the organization took place. It was at the foot of Hogue's hill, near the waters of Little Short creek, and was a very primitive structure, without stove or fireplace. At this house the congregation met and worshiped twenty years. A cemetery containing a hundred graves, was also made, but little now remains, except here and there a dilapidated tombstone to indicate where now sleep these silent dead. For the next eleven years the congregation occupied the Associate Reformed church. This building was a hewed log house and stood on a hill about one and a fourth miles north of the old log house at the foot of Hogue's hill, and two miles east of Mt. Pleasant. The pastor of this church, during these thirty-one years, was Rev. Joseph Anderson, who, after serving Short Creek and Richland some time, as a supply, was installed by the Presbytery, August 20, 1800. He had been licensed by the Presbytery of Ohio, October 17,1798. His ordination, it is said, took place under a large tree on the farm of the late Clark Mitchell, and the honor was his (Anderson's) of being the first Presbyterian minister ordained west of the Ohio. One-third of his time was given to Short Creek and two-thirds to Plymouth. He was dismissed to the Presbytery of St. Charles, Mo., in 1835, and died at Monticello, in the same state, in 1847. In 1829 the foundation was laid for a new house in Mt. Pleasant, and the building completed in the winter of 1829 or 1830. It is not known whether it was dedicated or not. The building committee consisted of Adam Dunlap, John Hogg and William Pickens. This stood for twenty-five or twenty-six years. This building became unsafe, and it was determined to build a new one, the present edifice. This house was completed in 1855. The Rev. Benjamin Mitchell succeeded Rev. Anderson as pastor, and served up until 1877, from which time Rev. W. S. Pringle has served as pastor for this congregation. The Two Rige Presbyterian Church was organized in the year 1802 or 1803, by Rev. Snodgrass. The first house of worship was erected in the year 1810, up to which time the people met for worship in various places, private dwellings, school-houses, and often in the woods. Having served the church two years, Mr. Snodgrass was succeeded (after an interval of one year) by Rev. William McMillan. He continued pastor of this church and the Yellow creek church (now Bacon Ridge) for six years. The original session consisted of but two members, Messrs. James Cellars and James Bailey. Soon afterward Messrs. Samuel Thompson, Andrew Anderson and George Day were added to the session; and in the year 1817, Mr. Thomas Elliott also. The JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 413 church being supplied part of the time occasionally and part statedly, from 1812 to 1818 (during which time a new house of worship was erected, 1816). Rev. Thomas Hunt was then called to become pastor of this and Yellow Creek churches, over which he was installed May 21, 1819. About 1828, Two Ridge church employed him for the whole of his time. He continued their pastor until October 4, 1836. Mr. Hunt was succeeded by Rev. Joseph Kerr, and he, after a pastorate of four or five years, was succeeded by Rev. William Eaton, who was installed October 21, 1844. Mr. Eaton's labors as pastor of this church ceased April, 1853. The following summer a new house of worship was erected, which constitutes part of the present building, having been afterward enlarged and remodeled. After an interval of two years Rev. David R. Campbell was installed pastor. The pastoral relationship between Mr. Campbell and this congregation was dissolved October, 1861, after which they were without a pastor for a year and a half, when they called Rev. George Fraser, who accepted the call and was accordingly installed in the summer of 1863. In the year 1867, Mr. Fraser was succeeded by Rev. J. B. Dickey, who had formerly been a member of this church. Having served this church three years he was succeeded by Rev. I. M. Lawbough, who continued pastor for but eight months. In April, 1873, Rev. Israel Price became pastor of this church for two-thirds of his time. Mr. Price leaving in the fall of 1877, the church was left without a pastor for more than a year, when, January 9, 1879, J. C. McCracken was called, and on the 6th of the following May was ordained and installed pastor. The Cross Creek Presbyterian Church. - There is one Presbyterian church in Cross Creek township, and the exact date of the first meeting or who preached the first sermon, cannot be definitely ascertained, but Rev. Wray was among the first preachers, and preached at the house of Thomas Elliott, as early as 1816. Rev. Obadiah Jennings, then pastor of the first church at Steubenville, visited and preached at the house of Judge Anderson, as early as 1820. Meetings were also held occasionally at the old log school-house, near where Stark school-house now stands. Rev. C. C. Beatty, in his youth, preached sometimes at the house of Walter Hanlon, and meetings were also held at the houses of Stephen Riggs, William Dinsmore and George Day. Rev. Thomas Hunt was also among the early preachers. In 1835, the propriety and importance of having a house of worship erected, was discussed, and in 1837 the first church was erected. It was built of brick and was a good one for that time. George Day gave an acre of ground for the church and graveyard. The following spring a petition was presented to Presbytery asking for the organization of the church. The Rev. C. C. Beatty was appointed to visit them and organize if the way was open. The church was accordingly organized with twenty-five members. The first pastor was Joseph H. Chambers. In 1873 the church was consumed by fire, but the congregation erected a new building of brick in the latter part of that year. J. F. Boyd was installed as pastor in 1870. Bacon Ridge Presbyterian Church.—The original society from which 414 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. this sprung was called Richmond church, and the meeting house stood about the center of section 25, township 11, range 3. Rev. George Scott organized the society in 1804. Arthur Latimer, John P. McMillan, Stephen Coe, Thomas Bay, Calvin Moorehead, Aaron Allan and Andrew Dixon were members at the time. The first pastor was William McMillan, D. D., who served two years. The first meeting-house was a primitive structure of rude architecture and small size, but as the congregation grew in numbers it was found necessary to build a larger house. This was done in 1820. A brick building 30x50 was erected and stood until the congregation was divided the territory being too large and the membership too much scattered. Other churches being organized contiguous the brick building was torn down and a new one put up on the northwest quarter of section 13, township 1f, range 3—a frame structure 33x44 feet. The records of the church being lost previous to 1840, the exact succession of pastors cannot now be ascertained. J. R. Dundas was pastor from 1840 till 1844, then came Cyrus Riggs, who was pastor at the time the "old brick" church was abandoned. Mr. Riggs was succeeded by Lafferty Greer, who officiated seven years, and was in turn succeeded by Rev. John S. Marquis, who resigned on account of ill-health in 1865. William Wycoff was installed in June, 1866, and officiated until October 19, 1873. He in turn was succeeded by Rev. W. M. Eaton, whose connection with the congregation was dissolved in October, 1868, since which time the church has been without a regularly installed minister, but has depended upon supplies furnished by the Presbytery, Rev. I. Price acting as stated supply at times. Briefly have we sketched some of the earliest Presbyterian churches in this county. Many more churches of this denomination have been established in this county at dates subsequent to the founding of the above. In the county there are twenty-four Presbyterian churches with a membership of over 2,700, and a Sunday-school attendance of upwards of 3,000. The churches on the whole are prosperous and making steady growth, although some of the country churches are weakened by removals. The history of the first Episcopalian church in Jefferson county is as follows: James Episcopal Church. In December, 1800, Dr. Doddridge entered into an agreement with a number of individuals living west of the Ohio, to perform the duties of an Episcopalian clergyman, every third Saturday, at the house of the widow McGuire. The subscription book, which is dated December 1, 1800, contains the following names: George Mahan, William Whitcraft, Eli Kelly, George Halliwell, William McConnell, John McConnell, William McColnall, George Richey, Bejamin Doyle, Joseph Williams, John Long, Mary McGuire, John McKnight, Frederick Allbright, John Scott, Moses Hanlon. This little congregation was, we conclude, the germ of the present parish of St: James in Cross Creek, as among the above named we find four of them attached to the petition signed by that parish, in December, 1813, to be sent to the general convention in JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 415 1817, asking leave of that body to form a diocese in the western country. The names are: George Mahan, William McColnall, John McConnell and Benjamin Doyle. We are not acquainted with the gradations by which the congregation at the widow McGuire's expanded into the parish of St. James, nor how long services were held at her house; but from the pastor's papers, we find that from 1814 until his resignation in 1823, he remained rector of the parish of St. James— the Rev. Intrepid Morse then assuming charge of it, in connection with that of St. Paul's, at Steubenville. That the services of Dr. Doddridge were efficient at St. James, is shown by the fact, that when the diocese of Ohio was organized in 1818, he reported fifty-two communicants, and over 100 baptisms within two years. The following is copied from the records of St. James parish: At a meeting of the congregation of St. James, on the first of December, 1816, the petition to the general convention, for leave to form a diocese in the western country, was signed by over twenty-five persons, among them the original signers to the first subscription book. The church was consecrated in 1825 by Bishop Chase. The first pastor of the congregation was Dr. Doddridge, who remained until 1823. The pastors who labored after him, and their term of service, were Rev. Intrepid Morse, from 1823 until 1837; Rev. Richard Grey, from 1837 until 1851; Rev. Humphrey Hollis, from 1851 until 1855; Rev. Charles Flams, from 1855 until 1857; Rev. Edmund Christian, from 1857 until 1863; Rev. Henry A. Lewis, from 1863 until 1866; Rev. W. E. Webb, from 1866 until 1868; Rev. T. K. Coleman, from 1868 until 1870; Rev. Joshua Coupland, from 1870 until 1875. The St. James was the second Episcopal church organized in the northwestern territory, the first being at Marietta. The last pastor in charge was Rev. James M. Hillyer. This church has been somewhat disorganized for the last two years, being without a pastor, but efforts are being put forth at present to open its doors to its members regularly. Its membership is about forty. St. Paul's Protestant Episcopal Church, Steubenville, Ohio. -- The parish of St. Paul's church, Steubenville, was organized on the 17th day of May, A. D. 1819, at the residence of William R. Dickenson, by the Rt. Rev. Philander Chase, bishop of the diocese of Ohio. The article of the association reads as follows: " We, whose names are hereunto affixed, deeply impressed with the truth and importance of the Christian religion, and anxiously desirous of promoting its holy influences in the hearts and lives of ourselves, our families and neighbors, do hereby associate ourselves together by the name, style and title of St. Paul's Church, Steubenville, in con- nection with the Protestant Episcopal church, in the state of Ohio." The parish thus organized proceeded to elect officers for its government, and Brice Veirs was chosen senior warden, George Chapman, junior warden, and Nicholas Hutchins, Jacob C. Hoagland and Ephraim Root, Jr., vestrymen. The organization then effected has continued by uninterupted succession to the present day. The parish was regu- larly incorporated by the legislature of the state in 1825. The first 416 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. rector was the Rev. Intrepid Morse. He took charge of it near the beginning of its corporate existence, but about half of his time for the first few years was given to the building up of other congregations in the neighborhood. When he was absent the service was read by lay readers, among whom Mr. Edward Wood seems to have officiated most frequently. The congregation had no church, but worshipped sometimes in the room over the old market house, sometimes in the building then belonging to the congregation of Kramer Chapel. In 1822 they took up a temporary abode in the upper room of the old academy, still standing on High street, where they remained until their first church was ready for occupation. Through the labors of the women of the parish the lot on the corner of Fourth and Adams streets was purchased, and the men then taking hold of the work money was collected and the corner stone of a church was laid by the Rev. Intrepid Morse, on the 9th of July, 1832. The address on the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Mr. Wheat, of St. Matthew's church, Wheeling. The church was opened for service on September 13, 1833, and duly consecrated to the worship of Almighty God on December 8, 1833, by the Rt. Rev. C. P. McIlvain, bishop of the diocese. This building was occupied for forty-six years. In 1879, the elegant stone structure now occupied by this church was built. The corner stone was laid May 13, 1879. The church has had but five rectors during its existence. The Rev. Intrepid Morse, who had charge of it from its beginning up to 1865; Rev. Charles Gillett, D. D., from November 20, 1865, to October, 1867; Rev. Andrew Hull, D. D., for about two years ending 1871; Rev. Thomas D. Pitts, from 1871 to 1880; Rev. R. W. Grange from 1880 to 1889. The present rector is Rev. Charles D. Williams, installed June 17, 1889. The membership at present is about 175, with a Sunday-school of 125. We here give brief sketches of some of the earliest Methodist Episcopal churches in this county: The Holmes Methodist Episcopal church, now an appointment on Smithfield circuit, Steubenville, is probably the oldest Methodist Episcopal church organization in Ohio. The first church building ever erected west of the river by that denomination was the original house put up by this congregation in 1803, on the banks of Short creek. It is called the Holmes meeting house, after Jacob Holmes, a prominent member of the society and local minister, who lived near it. It was a hewed log house, about twenty-six feet long, with chimney in the side. The fireplace was not lest than seven feet in the clear, the height of story nine feet. The joists were close together and covered with clapboards, forming the ceiling. The roof was clapboards held on by weight poles. The floor was of puncheons, and the seats were made by splitting small-sized trees in two pieces. The house ranged with the creek, and the door was in the end fronting the southeast. There was not one dollar in money expended in the building. The people came together, cut the timber, hewed- the logs, split the clapboards, and put up the building. Jacob Holmes, Charles Moore, Richard Moore, Isaac Meek and Mr. Crane originated the enterprise. There JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 417 was preaching occasionally at Jacob Holmes's and Isaac Meek's before the building was erected, but there is no account of any preaching earlier than 1800. This church was abandoned in 1810, in consequence of the difficulty of crossing the creek in times of high water and ice, in the winter season. The creek now runs over where the graveyard was, including nearly, if not all, the location of the church. Some of the bodies in the graveyard were removed to other cemeteries, while others were doubtless carried away by the waters. The logs of the building are still preserved, and canes have been made from them and presented to eminent ministers. In 1810 a new house was completed, about a half mile from the first and on higher ground. The ground, which was secured for the church and graveyard, was deeded to Jacob Holmes; John Stoneman, William Storer, Jacob Jones, James Smith, S. Moore, E. Pierce, R. Moore and John Barkhurst. The house, originally, was a singular structure. It was a long narrow building; the pulpit and door were in the sides. The pulpit place was made by the building of a large pen of Jogs outside and connected with the main walls; the same arrangement was made at the door, forming a large vestibule, giving the house the appearance of an ark, with large wheel houses at the side. For several years it had neither stoves nor chimneys. Two places were made on the floor, of stones and mortar, and the house was warmed by burning charcoal on these elevations. Some seventy ministers have preached to this church. Up to the year 1829, there was a large and flourishing society, when the unfortunate division took place resulting in building a Methodist Protestant house of worship a mile away. In February, 1874, the trustees agreed to build a new and more commodious house. It was commenced in June and completed in November. The Kramer Methodist Episcopal Church. - In preparing the history of any local church in Methodism, we meet peculiar difficulties, not from any lack of material, but from the fact that our early work was connectional instead of local; and, consequently, the records are widely scattered through " quarterly " and " annual conference minutes." The plan of the early itinerants was to embrace as much territory in a circuit as could be traveled around in four, six or eight weeks, preaching each day and establishing prayer meetings, and forming classes in private houses. As these clases grew in numbers and churches were built the work was divided until at last the station was formed. There was then no missionary society to assist in the support of the ministry. The country was wild, the settlements distant — roads not made the church was to be gathered from the wilderness. The itinerant could only hope for a bare support as he followed in the path of the pioneer and gathered the people to preach the gospel. The Ohio circuit, which finally embraced Steubenville, was formed in 1787, but the first Methodist preaching here, of which we have any account, was in the summer of 1794, when Samuel Hitt and John H. Reynolds preached a few sermons in the midst of much opposition. Their circuit embraced Ohio county in Virginia, Washington county in 27 - B 418 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY Pennsylvania, and the settlements on both sides of the Ohio river from the mouth of the Muskingum to near Pittsburgh. In 1810 a class of twelve was permanently formed, with Bernard Lucas as leader, and the meetings which had been carried on for ten years previously at different houses in the town, were still continued, but with renewed vigor. In 1811 Bezaleel Wells gave the church a lot on which to erect a suitable building. Many of the large gatherings previously had been held in the old log court house. In 1821 the church building was increased by the addition of a large cross building which gave the church the name of the " old ship." In 1830 the church suffered a loss of membership of some ninety members that withdrew and formed the Fifth Street Methodist Protestant church. In 1854 the " old ship " was dismantled and the present edifice was erected and called the Kramer church, in recognition of the munifi - cent gift from Allen Kramer, of Pittsburgh. The Kramer church has been the scene of many large and successful revivals, and has always been at the front in active Christian work. The Hamline Methodist Episcopal church was formed from the Kramer in 1844. The Tho mpson chapel was formed from it in 1868, by an amicable division, sixty- three members leaving to establish the new church. Methodist Episcopal Church of Richmond. About the year 1800, a young Methodist preacher by the name of Joseph Hall came to Ohio and married Miss Dillah Moores, daughter of James Moores, of Salem township, and settled on the northwest quarter of section 2, township t0, range 3, where Mr. E. Burchfield now lives. He preached occasionally at the house of his father-in-law, James Moores, afterward at the house of Stephen Ford and Henry Jackman alternately, until a small log church was built on the land of Henry Jackman. The first class was formed about 1808, of which the following persons were members: James Moores and wife, Elizabeth; Henry Jackman and wife, Christina; Joseph Hall and wife, Dillah; Stephen Ford and wife, Ruth; George Hout and wife, Christina. Judge James Moores was the first class leader. During the year 1832, a church (brick, 40x44) was built at Richmond. This building, with some alterations, stood until 1861, when it was replaced: by the present structure (45x66, brick) at a cost of $5,000. Location, east side of South Sugar street. There are at present 265 members. Mt. Tabor Methodist Episcopal Church. - Rev. James B. Finley first preached in that locality, at the house of Adam Jackman, in the year 1814, and organized the first class. Members of class: Richard Coulter and wife, Adam Jackman, Mary Jackman, Margaret Jackman, Jane Patterson, Isabel Whittaker, George Alban, Garrett Albertson, Strickland, William Nugent, Richard Jackman, Jane Jackman, Jane Armstrong, John Crawford, James Crawford, Martin Swickard, Margaret Swickard, Jacob Vail, and some others whose names are not remembered. Richard Coulter was the leader of the class. Preaching was continued at the house of Adam Jackman for twelve years. The first church edifice —a brick building — was then erected. JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 419 In this building the society continued to worship for thirty years. In the year 1856, the present neat and commodious frame building was completed and dedicated. With the exception of a brief interval it has always been connected with Richmond. Long's Methodist Episcopal church, in Cross Creek township, was organized about 1803. It was an offspring from the Episcopalian church of that locality. J. B. Finley was probably its first minister. The Methodist Episcopal church in this county is strong and vigorous and has kept pace with the increasing population. There are at present thirty Methodist Episcopal churches within the limits of Jefferson county, with a membership aggregating about 5,000. The Methodist Protestant church in this county dates back to 1827, and the first church of this denomination was organized at Mt. Pleasant. The first Methodist church built was a small brick, built in the village of Mt. Pleasant about the year 1815, at the east end of the town, on ground owned by David McMasters, a local minister. The house was used some years for school purposes. About, the year 1827 the subject of lay delegation commenced to be agitated in the church, and during that year a separation took place. With but few exceptions the members withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal organization and organized non-Episcopal societies. They continued to occupy the same church building. The lot had not been leased by the society, and David McMasters dying in that year, it was subsequently deeded to the Methodist Protestant organization, which was organized in 1829 by William B. Evans, a local minister. Samuel Pennington was the first class leader; Rev. David McMasters, Anna McMasters, Aaron B. Townsend, Mary Withrow, Mrs. Kurlin, James Davis and wife, were some of the original members, none of whom are now living. In 1839 the old house was taken down and a new church building erected on the same site, 40x50 feet. When the new house was near completion it took fire from a defective flue and destroyed the roof and plastering, delaying its completion until 1842. During the rebuilding the society occupied the Presbyterian church. The new house when finished was the house of the Union Sabbath school, and was used for temperance meetings, school exhibitions, and other public meetings, and was replaced by a new house 40x60 feet, in 1869, on the same lot. This structure has basement and vestibule, and was dedicated by Alexander Clark in the winter of 1869, costing about $6,000. The society, like all others, has had its days of prosperity and its seasons of adversity. This church now numbers 389 members, and a Sunday-school of 320 children, and twenty teachers. J. D. Murphy is the present pastor. The Methodist Protestant church, situated on Fifth street, below Market, in Steubenville, was organized in 1830, under the leadership of Rev. George Brown, when ninety-three members withdrew from the Methodist Episcopal church. The original building put up by this congregation was torn down in 1853, and the present one erected. This church, at present, has a membership of 354, and a Sunday-school of 250 scholars and teachers. Rev. S.A. Fisher is the present pastor. 420 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. The first class of the Methodist Protestant church, at Toronto, was organized in 1851. Joseph Hamilton was the first pastor. In 1853 a church building was erected, and at the present time the membership of the Toronto Methodist Protestant church is 300, with a Sunday- school numbering 300. William Hastings is the present pastor. The Methodist Protestant church, at Empire, has a membership of 144, and a Sunday-school of 148 scholars and teachers. S. T.. Allen is present pastor. The Smithfield Methodist Episcopal church numbers the largest congregation of this denomination 1n the county, being 359, and has a Sunday-school attendance of over 200. S. S. Fisher 1s the present pastor. In the country there are ten Methodist Protestant churches, five pastoral charges and ten Sunday-schools. The Catholic Church.- The early history of the Catholic church in Jefferson county does not begin with the time when her membership. became so numerous here that public services were held, a church edifice built and a resident pastor ministered to the spiritual wants of his people. Long before this Catholic church was making steady progress in this county, even before the opening of the present century, several prominent Catholics were found in the vicinity of Steubenville. Amongst these will be remembered Mr. Tiernan, who was a farmer, and whose two sons, Michael and John, were afterward merchants in Steubenville. There was also a wealthy and refined family named Sullivan, owning a large farm across the river in Virginia. One of the family was Dr. Sullivan, who practiced medicine in Steubenville. Also Mr. John Rodgers, who came to this place about 1792, and built a powder mill on Cross creek before the war of 1812. He also erected at that early day a lumber mill and flouring- mill on Cross creek, and shipped his flour to New Orleans in flatboats to find a market. He was regarded as a man of great ability and enterprise. His name was as good as a bond amongst the business men of the West and South. Though born in Ireland he conversed with his Pennsylvania German customers in their own tongue, and was besides a fine Latin scholar. Two of his children are Mrs. Davis, of Clinton street, and Mrs. McGuire, whose daughter is Mrs. Capt. McCann, corner of Seventh and Logan streets, Steubenville. Mr. McGuire and Mr. John Brady, whose farm is at the head of Market street, were also early settlers. There was also a Mrs. Butler, Old Mammy Butler she was called, who lived on North street, and a Mr. Fanning, who was a cabinet-maker. These, with many others whose names are forgotten, were all in Steubenville and vicinity. They fondly clung to the old faith of their fathers, and taught the same to their children and grandchildren. And thus the Catholic church was gradually gaining ground long before a building, surmounted by a cross, made its appearance. As an instance of the devotedness of these early settlers to their holy faith, some would go to Pittsburgh to receive holy communion, and John Tiernan, then in business in Steubenville, wrote and had printed a little book in de-. JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 421 fense of the Catholic faith, and in reply to s0me local agitation against Catholicity at that time. The spark of living faith was kept alive by the visits of the good old Catholic missionary priests from Pittsburgh. The first of these was Rev. Father O'Brien, and he was succeeded by Rev. Father McGuire. These good priests visited these scattered members of their flock down the Ohio from house to house, baptized the children, joined the young people in marriage, offered the holy sacrifice of the mass, presented the gospel, instructed the rising generation, visited the sick and buried the dead. A few yet living remember them well, and how the glad news would pass from house to house when the good father came amongst them. This continued until about the year 1830. Steubenville by this time was getting to be a lively river town, and its manufacturing industries attracted skilled workmen from the east, many of whom were Catholics. Rev. Father McGrady, an Irish priest of great talent and energy, then residing in Hanover, Columbiana county, had by this time taken charge of Steubenville as a missionary, and seeing the congregation in Steubenville growing rapidly he laid the foundation of St. Pius church, the first Catholic church in Jefferson county, in 1832. The church was a small brick building, and occupied the site of the present St. Peter's Catholic church, corner Fourth and Logan streets, Steubenville. Good old Mr. McGuire deserves special mention for the active part he took in raising funds for the new church, which though small, was then a great undertaking. Rev. Father McGrady attended his charge in Steubenville every two weeks till March, 1835, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Father James Conlan. About this time (1835) there were (besides the families already mentioned) the following Catholic families residing in the town of Steubenville: Mr. Patrick Duffy, Mr. James McLuinness, Mr. O'Neill, Mr. Owen Connelly, Mr. I. McCarty, Mr. John Smith and Mr. Owesney. During the administration of Father Conlan quite a number of German Catholics were added to the rising congregation, including the families of Mr. John Bord, Mr. John Nath and Mr. Parola, in 1837. Also the Baslers, Kellers and Mr. Standley, lately deceased. In fact, by this time the congregation was so numerous that it is impossible to give names. Rev. Father James Conlan, like his predecessor, resided in Hanover and Steubenville every two weeks alternately for ten years, till he was succeeded by Rev. James F. Kearney, 1n March, 1845. Rev. Father Kearney was the first resident pastor of Steubenville, and held divine services every Sunday in the little brick church of St. Pius, erected by Father McGrady, in 1832. He remained in charge until October, 1848, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Father O'Farrell, who was pastor till August 1, 1850, when on his removal from Steubenville, Father Kearney again looked after the congregation till December of the same year, when Archbishop Purcell appointed Rev. Emanuel Thienpont, pastor of St. Pius church, Steubenville, December, 1850. Father Thienpont was a native of Belgium, 422 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. a man of great industry and administrative ability, and taken altogether, as good a specimen of the old missionary priests as could be found in the last half century. Taking advantage of the favorable circumstances afforded by numerous public works connected with the building of the Pan Handle railroad then through Steubenville, he took down the little church of St. Pius and erected oh its site in 1853, the present large edifice known as St. Peter's church. A piece of land was purchased west of the city and a cemetery was opened there. Father Thienpont continued to ably manage the affairs of the church until 1865, when he was given an easier charge on account of his advancing years. He died 1873, on the mission in Logan. W. T. Bigelow succeeded him, but his life work was cut short by the small pox in 1871, which he contracted while acting a hero's part in administering to the sick. Father Tuomey was then in charge, but he soon followed Father Bigelow to the grave, dying in 1873. Rev. Father J. A. Murray had charge up to 1876, then Rev. H. B. Dues for a short time. After him came Rev. B. Wisman in ,1877. His health began to fail and Rev. M. M. A. Hartnedy took charge February 28, 1879. Besides St. Peter's church in Steubenville, there is another Catholic church in the southern part of the city. This is the Holy Name church dedicated July 20, 1885, and in charge of Rev. J. Hartley. The Catholic church has churches at other different points in the county, namely: Hammondsville, Irondale, Toronto, Mingo, and other smaller missions. Both the churches at Steubenville have graded schools under the charge of the sisters of charity, and the general supervision of Rev. M. M. A. Hartnedy. Rev. Hartnedy also established St. Peter's high school in 1879, which has graduated fifty scholars, and where all the higher branches of a liberal education are taught. The high school has increased in membership every year. About five years ago a new site was chosen for a Catholic cemetery and was duly dedicated as such, being now called Mt. Calvary cemetery. Under Rev. Hartnedy's charge, St. Peter's has undergone much improvement. The entire front of the church was remodeled, and now it presents an elegant appearance. In 1888, on the site of the pastor's residence, he caused to be erected an elegant two-story stone building now called " The Deanery." This building is probably the finest of its kind in Ohio. The United Presbyterian church, Steubenville, was organized in 1810, and is among the oldest in the city. It was originally connected with the Associate Reformed church, one of the bodies which, by union in 1858, formed the United Presbyterian church. The first pastor was Rev. George Buchanan. He began his labors here in the fall of 1810, was ordained and installed as pastor, June 4, 1811, and continued in his charge of the congregation until his death, which took place on the 14th of October, 1855, at the age of about seventy- two. Mr. Buchanan was a zealous and faithful minister of Christ. His personal character was such as to command the respect and confidence of all. His labors were abundant, and can only be appreciated by those who are acquainted with the trials of a pioneer life. JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 423 For nearly thirty years from the time of his settlement he served as pastor of two other congregations besides that in Steubenville Yellow Creek, in the same county, twenty miles distant, and Hermon's Creek (now called Paris), in Washington county, Penn. In 1838 he gave up these two congregations and concentrated his labors in Steubenville. From an early period, in addition to his pastoral work,. he conducted a classical school, and was the educator, in part, at least, of many who have attained distinction, among whom may be named the late Hon. E. M. Stanton. " He rests from his labors, and his works do follow him." The membership of the congregation was at first very small, only twenty-six names appearing on the joint call of the three churches above named for Mr. Buchanan, and of these twenty-six some few were only adherents and not communicants. It grew steadily, however. There is no certain information as to the membership at or before the death of Mr. Buchanan, but a few years after his death it numbered 180. During the course of its history many of the best and most influential citizens of Steubenville have been connected with it. Few of the older members how survive. Less than forty of those whose names are now upon the roll were received during Mr. Buchanan's life. The membership at present is about 220. The long pastorate of Mr. Buchanan has been followed by several shorter ones. Rev. J. K. Andrews was pastor from January, 1857, until October, 1863; Rev. J. W. Clokey, from July, 1864. until December, 1868; Rev. T. J. Kennedy, from January, 1870, until April, 1873; Rev. S. J. Stewart, from February, 1874, until February, 1877; Rev. William S. Owens, from 1877 to 1887; Rev.W. R. Harshaw, from 1887, until 1889, when he severed his connection with the church, since which time there has been no pastor. The first place of worship was the old court house. Here the congregation assembled until about 1815. From that time for nearly two years, services were held in a two-story building, used as a school-house, on Fourth street, east side, between Washington and North, the site of which is now occupied by the Christian church. The first building owned by the congregation was erected, as nearly as can now be ascertained in 1817. It stood on the same lot, in the rear of the present edifice, fronting on North street. In 1838 a one-story building was erected on the present site. In 1859 this building was remodeled and made two stories high. This building was torn down in 1882, and the present handsome church erected in the same year, and was dedicated January 1, 1883. The membership of the church at this time is 222. The oldest United Presbyterian church in the county is Piney Fork, in Smithfield township. The first preaching here was in 1800. The first pastor was Rev. Alexander Calderhead, a Scotch minister of the Associate Reform church. He preached here until his death in 1812. Soon after. Calderhead's death, Rev. John Walker commenced preaching to the church. December, 1821, Rev. Thomas Hanna accepted a call in connection with Cadiz. He was pastor until 1835, when Rev. Joseph Cloky took charge. In 1840, Mr. Cloky and congregation 424 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. connected themselves with the Steubenville Associate Reformed Presbytery. In 1842, Rev. Cloky quitted his charge. The congregation then had no pastor until 1856, when Rev. William Lorimer became pastor. He was released from his charge in the spring of 1859. In May, 1860, Rev. J. M. Jamison became pastor, and still continues in charge. They at first preached in the woods. They built a tent between two trees and covered it with clapboards, and the congregation sat on logs and poles arranged for seats. They afterward built a cabin to be used in winter. In 1824, they built a hewed log house 60x30. In 1838, they built the present house, a brick building, 69x30. Its membership in 1889, was eighty-six. Another early church of this denomination is the United Presbyterian church of Richmond. The original society from which this has sprung, was organized by Rev. Alex. Calderhead, in 1805, at the house of Col. John Andrews, on the northeast quarter of section 6, township T0, range 3. John Collins, John Johnson and John Walker were ordained ruling elders. A tent six feet long, five feet wide and seven feet high, of clapboards, was erected in 1806, on the farm of James McLain, and moved on a sled, from place to place, to suit the convenience of the preacher or the congregation. In 1811, Rev. George Buchanan became pastor, and in 1816, a hewn log meeting house 24x28, called " Union church," was erected on the lands of David Andrews. - Rev. Buchanan was succeeded in 1831, by Rev. Hugh Parks, under whose auspices a new church was built at Richmond in 1836. This was replaced by the present building, in 1851. Rev. Parks was succeeded by Rev. William Lorimer, in 1838, and he remained pastor until 1858. Rev. J. H. Peacock was pastor from 1859 until 1 871. From that time, the Rev. J. B. Borland has been pastor. The present membership is about ninety. Yellow Creek United Presbyterian Church. - The first preacher of the Associate Presbyterian denomination who preached in the vicinity, was Rev. E. N. Scroggs, in the year 1814. Rev. John Walker and Dr. Ramsey also preached at times. The congregation was organized under an act of the legislature in 1820, Rev. E. N. Scroggs officiating. Amongst the first members were Henry Crabs and wife, Anna; Hamilton Walker and wife, Mary; William Kelley and wife, Christiana; Matthew Barr and wife, Margaret; Samuel Dorrance and wife, Mary; John Jordan and wife, Mary Ann; Thomas George and wife, Jane; John Kean and wife, Mary, and Sarah Story. Thomas George and Henry Crabs were elected ruling elders. The first preaching was done in the house of Thomas George; next in a tent, and 1828 a brick building was put up, 30x40; afterward enlarged to 30x60. In 1858 a frame building 40x60, was erected, which is still occupied by the congregation. The succession of ministers is as follows: Rev. E. N. Scroggs and Dr. Ramsey; Rev. John Donaldson, twelve years; Rev. James Patterson, eighteen years; Rev. John Easton, one year; Rev. T. Simpson, from December 25, 1856, to September 12, 1861; Rev. James Golden, from April 4, 1863, to April 1, 1869; Rev. H. Y. Leeper, JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 425 from January, 1870, to the present. The congregation at the present time numbers 134 members. Other United Presbyterian churches in the county are the Toronto United Presbyterian church, established in 1869, which now has a fine building and a membership of about fifty. The Knoxville United Presbyterian church organized in 1837, by Rev. Samuel Taggart and John Donaldson, with a membership of seventeen. Its membership now is about 200 and it erected in 1875, its present church edifice. The Grant Hill United Presbyterian church, organized in 1866, in which year the church was built. It is situated in Brush Creek township, and has a membership of sixty-eight. Rev. S. W. Clark preached the first sermon in this church. The first Congregational church of Steubenville, was organized in 1875, with a membership of forty. Rev. H. M. Tenney was first called to the pastorate of it, and he served as such until 1880. Then W. F. Blackman was pastor until 1885. Then Daniel Bradley up to May, 1888. Since then Rev. C. W. Carroll has been pastor, and the church has made a steady growth. For the first years of its existence the church held services in the old Philharmonic hall, on North Fourth street, then in the second story of the Odd Fellows building, now occupied by the Y. M. C. A. In 1883, the church purchased ground and erected an elegant church structure on Washington street. The church lately had erected in the alcove in the rear of the pastor's desk, one of the finest pipe organs in eastern Ohio. ,The membership at present is 200. There are two German churches in the city of Steubenville. They are both of the German Lutheran denomination. One is on Fifth street near Market, and the other on the corner of Third and South. The Fifth street building was erected about 1862. Rev. George Pfuhe was the first minister. About 1880, some points of difference arising between different members, a part of the congregation withdrew and formed a new church organization and purchased the Third and South street property. The Fifth street congregation seems to be the strongest, although the church was considerably weakened by the split. At Salem there is the St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church, which is the first of this denomination organized in the county. It was organized 1814, by Rev. John Rhinehart. The present house of worship was built in 1870 in Salem village, the former place was about one mile east of the village. The present membership is about seventy-five. The following are the Disciple churches of the county: Disciples Church of Smithfield.-This church was started on Salt Run, about 1831, under the labors of Thomas Campbell. It was removed to Smithfield in 1836. The first elders were William Scott, Joshua Carle and John Cramlet, of whom Joshua Carle is now the only one living. The first deacon was David Carson. Alexander Campbell preached here occasionally for a number of years. Elder Young, of Wellsburg, was among the first who preached for the congregation; also Jonas Hartzell, Dr. George Lucy and Harrison Jones. 426 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. The first meetings were held in the school-house, but in 1838, a good, comfortable brick building was erected, costing over $1,000. This house is still occupied by the congregation. There are at present about sixty members, with regular preaching once a month. As there is no baptistry in the church, the ordinance of baptism is generally attended to in McIntyre's creek, some two miles distant from the church. In 1867 a Sunday-school was organized, with James P. Hopkins as superintendent. This school is still in progress. The Christian church in Steubenville traces its origin back to Alexander Campbell who, among his early labors, founded a congregation in Steubenville. The first authentic records of the society are dated 1841, when the small brick church on Dock street, between Fourth and Fifth streets, was built. This was occupied by them for thirty years, when the church purchased the Second Presbyterian church building on Fourth, north of Washington. This is the building now occupied by the Christian church. The early trials of this church were severe, but hard, energetic Christian work has given it permanency, and it now numbers a membership of over 225. Rev. A. E. Bosworth is the present pastor. Connected with the church is a baptistry back of the pulpit, where the ordinance of baptism can be administed in full view of the congregation. At Brilliant there is a prosperous church of the Christian denomination, which erected a fine church building in 1889. Its membership is over 150. At Toronto a society is formed for the erection of a church of this denomination, but no final steps have yet been taken. Christian Church at New Somerset.-This church was first organized September 19, 1840, by Elder John Jackman, with the following members: Joseph Marshall and wife, Matthias Swickard and wife, G. H. Puntious and wife, Daniel Householder and wife, John Bill- man and wife, Hannah Zeatherbery, Jennet McGee, Emily Coffman and Mary Householder. The first church officers were Joseph Marshall, G. H. Puntious and Matthias Swickard, elders, and Daniel Householder, deacon. In June, 1841, Peter Householder was elected deacon. The first regular preacher employed was Charles E. Van Vorhis, for $37.50 for one-fourth of his time. He was succeeded by the following ministers or elders: John Jackman, Mahlon Martin, Eli Regal, Cornelius Finney, Thomas Dyal, J. M. Thomas, J. D. White, Mason Terry, J. A. Wilson, Robert Atherton, D. O. Thomas, A. Skid- man, M. P. Hayden and others, who held protracted meetings for the church. The first church was built in 1841, of brick, 28x40 feet. The present membership is 100. The present pastor is J. W. Kemp. Of the charter members but two are living, Matthias Swickard and Mary Householder. At Unionport, in this county, there is a Disciple church with a fair membership. Mount Moriah-Regular Baptist. -This is the oldest regular Baptist church in Jefferson county. It was first organized at Steubenville, May 17, 1812. Daniel Woodward was chosen clerk, and Rev. Samuel Yateman was called to be its minister, which call he cheer-   JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 427 fully accepted. In the "Declaration of Principles" set forth by these early pioneers, we quote: "ART. 15. We believe that pride is forbidden in the Scriptures, and that it is the duty of all the followers of the meek and lowly Jesus to adorn themselves in modest apparel as people professing godliness. "ART. 16. We believe that the principle and practice of slave- holding is an abhorrent sin in the sight of God, and very inhuman to man; we therefore refuse to commune with slaveholders at the Lord's table, and with any that will commune with them." After a lapse of two years, we find this record: "The church having thought proper to remove their meetings of business from Steubenville, met at the house of Mordecai Cole, near Cross creek, in Wayne township, Jefferson county, on the 5th day of March, 1814." This was near where Unionport now is. Their meetings appear to have been held at private houses for some years, and, though the country was new and sparsely settled, and all were busy in clearing away the forests and opening up homes, they were not unmindful of their religious duties, but promptly attended all their meetings, many traveling from three to sixteen miles. The last record we have of this church is September 20, 1817: "Church met at the house of Peter Hesser, when, after preaching, Thomas White and Zachariah Prichard presented letters from the Thumb Run church of Faquier county, Va., and were recieved into fellowship." About this time the scattered members of this church appear to have united with the regular Baptist church at Hopedale, Harrison county, about seven miles from the neighborhood where these members lived, where they continued to attend worship until 1823, when, on account of the distance they had to travel, they petitioned to be set off to themselves again. They were regularly constituted a new church, by the name of Pine Run church, and a new hewed building was erected the same year and solemnly dedicated. The first sermon preached in it was by Elijah Stone, who was the first regular pastor. The next pastor was Rev. Hipsley, then followed by John Long, Thomas W. Greer, Solomon Sells, George Jones, George Wharton, George C. Sedgwick, Squibb, Washington Glass. The original members composing this church at its reorganization in 1823, were James Shockney, and Rebecca Shockney, his wife; Luke Tipton, and Theresa Tipton, his wife; Thomas Rowland and Deborah Rowland, his wife; Andrew Roloson and Hannah Roloson, his wife— eight members in all. The original log house having been occasionally repaired and weatherboarded, is still standing- in a good state of preservation, though no regular preaching has been held in it for some years. It is yet the legal property of the church. The Pine Run church, after its re-organization in 1823, appears to have been for many years a strong, influential body, with a flourishing Sabbath school connected with it, but a large and influential portion of its members situated in the neighborhood of where Mount 428 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. Moriah church now stands, became desirous of building a new house there and establishing the church at that place, which being opposed by those living in the neighborhood of Pine Run, those favoring the removal voluntarily withdrew and built a new house and formed themselves into a regular church organization, which they called Mount Moriah. A council was called to consider the propriety of the action. This council met July 6, 1861, and after examining " the articles of faith," etc., of the brethren and sisters, resolved to recognize them as a regular Baptist church, with the name of Mount Moriah, and on Sabbath, Rev. W. R. McGowan preached the sermon, Rev. J. Davis offered prayer and gave the hand of fellowship, and G. C. Sedgwick, the charge of the church. The infant church elected the following officers: G. C. Sedgwick, pastor; S. B. Thorp, clerk; Andrew Ralston, W. P. Saunders, W. Merriman and G. W. Ralston, deacons; John Cole, John L. Megrail and John Walden, trustees. The number that united as members on that occasion was thirty-five. For about a year the church held its meetings in a barn and some times in a school-house, near. In the summer of 1862, John and Thomas Cole gave the church an acre of land, upon which the present house was built. In regard to furnishing the house we find this entry upon the church records: " WHEREAS, the Smithfield chapter of R. A. Masons have generously donated us the sum of $20 to pay for our lamps, therefore, Resolved, That the thanks of this church be tendered to the Chapter for their kindness to us, and may Heaven bless them in all their deeds of charities and labors of love." A Sabbath school was organized and prayer meetings held. In the fall of 1864, the pastor, Rev. G. C. Sedgwick, impelled by a sense of duty, resigned his charge and entered the service of his country. In November, 1864, Rev. S. D. Ross was engaged as pastor to fill the vacancy. Before two years had expired, this pastor was compelledby failing health to seek rest among the friends of his youth in his northern home. Rev. W. J. Dunn was invited to assume the pastorate which he did, October 6, 1866. After serving the church four years, this pastor also leaving the church it was pastorless until 1871, when he returned and served one year, and again left them. The congregation, without a pastor, became scattered, and the Sabbath school diminished, until in the spring of 1873, Rev. G. C. Sedgwick again took charge of the congregation which 1s now in a prosperous condition. Upon the establishment of Mount Moriah and a withdrawal of so large a portion of its members, Pine Run church is no longer able to keep up an organization, and for some years its meetings have ceased. The Society of Friends of Mt. Pleasant. Among the early settlers of Jefferson county, the Society of Friends formed a considerable portion as to numbers, and by no means an unimportant part as to influence. These pioneers brought, not only the indomitable industry and thrift which soon transformed the wilderness to a community of pros- JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 429 perous homes, but also an intensity of religious fervor, and a fidelity to clearly defend convictions of right, which made them a strong power in shaping the contour of thought around them. The stream of immigration flowed from Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina — many coming as far as Friends' settlements in western Pennsylvania as early as 1799, and waiting there until the government was prepared to dispose of lands west of the Ohio river. Numbers from North Carolina sought this more rigorous climate that their children might grow up free from the association of slavery. Baltimore yearly meetings had for a long period held a testimony against this prevailing evil, and throughout the limits of the society a strong feeling on the subject existed which bore fruits in the new land. The first Friends' meeting west of the Ohio river was probably held in the autumn of 1800, near the tent of Jonathan Taylor, where he first located in what is known as Concord, Belmont county, about five miles from Mt. Pleasant. He had encamped in the forest while building his cabin in this new wilderness home. The little gathering consisted of himself, his wife and a few other individuals, seated under spreading branches upon newly felled logs. When the cabin was put up and covered, and the floor which consisted of puncheons partly laid, the meetings were transferred to it. The first meeting held in this cabin was on a First-day of the week. It had been preceded by a time of considerable rain, which in anticipation, rendered the accommodations very desirable. The poles designed for sleepers on which to lay the remainder of the floor, served as seats. We are justified in supposing that meetings for worship were from this time regularly held, as meetings for transacting the business of the society were regularly established, under the care of Friends in the east, as early as 1802. The Stantons, Lipseys, and a number of other Friends families settled near Mt. Pleasant in 1800. Jonathan Taylor soon removed from Concord to within a short distance of that place, on what is now known as the Updegraff farm. The year of 1801-2-3, were laborious ones. Forests were to fell, and the ground to prepare for planting sufficient for present need. Houses were to be built, and the pressing wants incident to pioneer life were to be met, but in 1804 a log meeting house was built near where the Short Creek house now stands, one-half mile west of Mt. Pleasant. The records of a monthly meeting, called Short Creek, open third month, nth, 1804. At this first meeting the subject of the pious and guarded education of the youth and the state of schools was weightily considered, and a committee appointed to give the subject further solid consideration. Nathan Updegraff was appointed to serve as clerk, Jesse Hall and Henry Lewis from Short Creek preparative meeting and James Carr, from Plymouth preparative meeting, to serve as overseers. The records of this meeting show a rapidly increasing membership by direct application and certificate brought by families moving within its limits, from the monthly meetings to which they previously belonged. So prosperous was the society, that in 1806 ten acres of land 430 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. was bought. The deed was executed by Horton Howard, September 25, 1806, and made " to Nathan Updegraff, Aaron Brown, Enoch Harris and Jonathan Taylor, as trustees of the Society of Friends or Quakers, on behalf of themselves and jointly with the whole Short Creek monthly meeting of the Society." The consideration money was $30. The Short Creek meeting house, which still stands, was built in 1807, on this land, at an expense of $2,000. Its dimensions are 45x70. This lovely spot has truly come to be a city of the dead. The burying ground upon its summit, which overlooks a wide expanse of beautiful scenery, having received with nature's tenderness the forms of generation after generation of those who have gathered there for worship. In the spring of 1807 Short Creek quarterly meeting was organized, consisting of five monthly meetings, viz.: Concord, Short Creek, Salem, Miami, and West Branch. Four of these were in Ohio and West Branch in what was called the Indiana territory. Ohio yearly meeting was set off from the yearly meeting of Baltimore in 1812, and was composed of Friends west of the Allegheny mountains. The first yearly meeting was held at Short Creek in 1813. During the years 1815-16 what is well known as the yearly meeting house was built in Mt. Pleasant, and was first occupied in 1816. It 1s a large brick building, 190x62, and variously estimated as capable of accommodating from 1,500 to 2,500 persons. Although the exclusive property of the yearly meeting, it has been used by the society for particular meetings since second month, 1817, for the greater convenience of Friends residing in towns or country homes made this a more central point, members to the west of Mt. Pleasant still worshipping at Short Creek. For a series of years the records of Short Creek monthly meeting show a rapid increase of membership. The minutes of tenth month, 1813, recommend Friends to continue their labor with those "who are still deficient in supporting our testimony respecting spirituous liquors," and a committee was appointed to have the subject in care. Marriages in accordance with established usage were frequent. The meeting of twelfth month 20, 1814, records as follows: " Benjamin Lundy and Esther Lewis appeared in this meeting and signified their intention of marriage with each other. They having consent of parents; George Kinsey and Ansalem Patterson are appointed to inquire into his clearness in other like engagements and report to the next meeting." According to custom a like committee was appointed in the women's meeting to make similar inquiries respecting the proposed bride. The meeting of first month 24, 1815, records that "the committee appointed to 1nquire into Benjamin Lundy's clearness, report that they find nothing to obstruct his proceeding in marriage with Esther Lewis. They are therefore at liberty to accomplish the same," and a committee was appointed, in both the men's and women's meetings, to attend the marriage and report the " orderly accomplishment." From the meeting of second month 21st, we further learn that "the Friends appointed to attend the marriage of Benjamin JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 431 Lundy and Esther Lewis, report that the same was orderly accomplished," and from that held the 23d of fifth month, following that Benjamin Lundy and Esther, his wife, request a certificate to Plainfield monthly meeting, which was produced, approved and signed by the clerk. On sixth month 20, 1815, the representatives appointed the preceding month to attend the quarterly meeting, report that they all attended and inform " that it is recommended to the monthly meetings to appoint suitable committees to assist and encourage Friends in making wills in time of health." After due deliberation such an appointment was made. About the year 1818, the subject of establishing an institution for the guarded education of Friends' children was agitated, but the definite steps which resulted in the Friends boarding school of Mt. Pleasant were not taken until years afterward. The memorable division which occurred in the various yearly meetings in America, and which originated the two branches commonly known as Orthodox and Hicksite Friends, took place in Ohio, ninth month and sixth day, I 828, during the week of yearly meeting. The party sympathizing with Elias Hicks adopted the simple name of Friends, while the other party assumed the name of Orthodox Friends; each party, however, claiming to hold the principles of George Fox and other early ministers and writers of the church. The probability is that from the rise of the society in the seventeenth century, there had really existed differences of opinion on some doctrinal points which were not particularly regarded in the earlier days, while still . warm from the fever kindled by persecution, and filled with the spiritual health which the presence and influence of the devoted men and women who were instrumental in the rise and early prosperity of the society, had nourished. But when "Full long its feet the flowery ways Of peace had trod," and " Too cheaply truths, once purchased dear, Were made its own." Controversy more and more prevailed on points which have perplexed the great and good in all ages of the Christian church, and respecting which widely diverse judgments have been reached by holy, God-loving, righteous men. As is the universal tendency where people are met on the basis of opinion, there developed two broad parties, which were necessarily irreconcilable, so long as that spirit prevailed, which in this age " gibbets men in sermons and burns them in print," and a permanent separation ensued. Oftimes "God's hand within the shadow lays The stone whereon His gates of praise Shall rise at last." Perhaps from this cloud which caused grevious mourning among many in both divisions came a baptism into deep things, which brought such a new nearness to God's truth. That spiritual comfort is dis- 432 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY pensed, independent of theological articles of opinion, seems patent since unquestionably these branches of the church, both continued to receive strength from an edifying gospel ministry, and to abound in members highly blessed spiritually. For years the orthodox branch continued meetings for worship at both Mt. Pleasant and Short Creek. Early in the year 1829 the branch denominated Hicksite purchased land one mile west of Mt. Pleasant at a point central for those in membership, and soon occupied a meeting-house built thereon for particular meetings, but continued to have the use of the houses at Short Creek and Mt. Pleasant when desired for quarterly and yearly meeting purposes. The orthodox yearly meeting of Ohio was again disrupted, in 1854, into what are known as the Gurney and Wilbur factions. Soon after this, those in harmony with the part denominated Gurney Friends discontinued the use of the house on Short creek, all consolidating in the meeting convening in the yearly meeting house in Mount Pleasant, and those denominated Wilburites found desirable to discontinue their meeting, held at Short Creek, the members being attached to their meetings at other points. The boarding-school property remained in the possession of this branch until 1874, when the supreme court of Ohio, by its decision settled the title in favor of the Gurney division. Previous to this decision the Wilbur Friends had continued to hold their yearly meeting at Mount Pleasant, but soon after made arrangements to remove it to Barnesville, Belmont county. Their last yearly meeting was held at Mount Pleasant, in tenth month of 1877. Those who worship still in Mt. Pleasant appear to have departed, in some measure, from the plain, simple form of earlier years. They now send out ministers into the world as evangelists, and have adopted the same practice of singing, praying and preaching that other churches have, and the general manner of conducting the religious services is not very different from other. churches. As one of their ministers expressed himself, it is now an aggressive and progressive church. After all its vicissitudes and trials 1t is still in a prosperous and flourishing condition, having had an addition of forty members within the last year. A Sabbath school was organized in connection with this church May 3, 1858, with Ellwood Ratcliff as superintendent. Early in its history care was extended toward certain children, who were prevented from attending from want of suitable clothing, and a committee was appointed to supply the wants of those in need. Solicitude was also felt for colored children and a committee was appointed in their behalf. This school is still continued. Friends known as Hicksites hold their meetings regularly in the house one mile west of Mt. Pleasant, built soon after the division a of 1828. The meetings appear to be conducted in the primitive style of Friends, and those assembling to be substantial, intelligent citizens of the community. The Friends church in Smithfield township, is undoubtedly the oldest church in the township. It was organized as early as 1802. JEFFERSON COUNTY, OHIO - 433 The first meetings were held at the private residences of members until about 1804, when they put up a log building near where the present one stands. They used this building until 1813, when a good substantial brick took its place. This brick, with some repairs, stood until 1879, when it was torn away and the present ample frame house was erected. This last building cost about $2,000. The building committee consisted of Nathan L. Wood, William M. Cope and Evan Purviance. The lot on which this building stands contains ten acres. It was deeded June 7, 1810, by James Carr, to George Hammond, Casparius Garretson, David Purviance and Nathan McGrew, as trustees for the society. This church was originally called Plymouth monthly meeting. 1n 1818 the name was changed to Smithfield meeting. The congregation at present numbers about 180 members. The following is a partial list of the original members of the church in 1802: Benjamin Townsend and Jemima his wife, Malchi Jolly, Richard Jelks, James Carr, William Kirk, George Hammond, James Hammond and David Purviance. The first marriage in this church was Evan Evans and Mary Brighte, or Brite, which took place April 20, 1808. The lot of ten acres on which the church stands is used as a cemetery. The first burial was a child of Malachi Jolly. The first grown person buried there was Jemima Townsend, wife of Benjamin Townsend. There was in connection with this church a Sabbath school established, commencing with about twenty scholars, that had increased to sixty in 1879. Evan Purviance has been superintendent for the last seven years. Joseph Hoyle is assistant superintendent and Mary E. Blackburn, secretary. The same cause that brought about the division in the churches of the Society of Friends throughout the land in 1828, that resulted in the establishment of two separate organizations, had the same effect in the Smithfield church as in the others. It divided into Hicksites and Orthodox parties. The Hicksites organized a society and in 1829 built themselves a house of worship near the east end of Fourth street, where they met and worshipped until 1859, when by removals their numbers became so small that they ceased to hold regular meetings and dissolved their organization and sold their property. Their house was a brick building and is now owned by William Vermillion. In 1854, another division occurred in this church. This division was brought about by a difference of opinion between J. J. Gurney and Thomas Wilbur, on some theological points not clearly understood by the writer, and not necessary to the purpose of our work, if it was. These two parties were distinguished by the names of Gurneyites and Wilburites, more commonly called " Gurneys " and " Wilburs." The former of them being largely in the majority, retained possession of the property, and the " Wilburs " withdrew and formed a separate church organization. The seceding members, though very respectable in influence and standing in the community, were weak in numbers and have as yet built no meeting house, though they contemplate doing so. They hold their meetings at private residences. The colored churches of this county are as follows: Two in Steu- 28 - B 434 - HISTORY OF THE UPPER OHIO VALLEY. benville, the African Methodist Episcopal church, with a membership of ninety-six, and the Methodist Episcopal church (colored), with a membership of forty; the African Methodist Episcopal church at Mt. Pleasant, thirty-seven members, and the Methodist Episcopal church (colored) with fifty-two members; the Baptist church at Trenton, thirty-five members; the Smithfield African Methodist Episcopal church, forty-seven members; at McIntyre, the African Methodist Episcopal church, forty-nine members, and the Baptist church twenty- three members. These figures have been given to us by Rev. D. W. Butler, present pastor of the African Methodist Episcopal church of Steubenville.