Preaching at Amoskeag.--Universalist Society.--First Congregational Society.--First Methodist Episcopal Society.--First Baptist Society.--St. Michael's Church.--Unitarian Society.--Franklin Street Society.--Free Will Baptist Society.--Second M. E. Society.--Second Baptist Society.--Christian Mission Church.--North Elm St., M. E. Society.--Piscataquog Cong. Church.

The ecclesiastical history of Manchester of any interest to the reader as such, covers a period of only some twenty-six or twenty-seven years last past. Prior to 1829, there seems to have been no effectual measures taken for the regular support of a ministry, and for reasons fully set forth in the 17th chapter of this work, where also may be found a history of the eclesiastical [sic] affairs of the town, from its incorporation in 1751 to 1804, when the Rev. Mr. Pickels left the town. Prior to that time there was occasional preaching here, as the Rev. Mr. John Elliot undoubtedly preached here to the Indians as early as 1651 or 1652, and subsequently, Simon Betogkom an Indian also preached here to the Indians; and at a still later period, after the whites began to visit the Falls in large numbers, for the purpose of fishing, there was occasional preaching here during the fishing season. The Rev. Mr. Seccomb of Kingston often preached here to the fishermen prior and subsequent to 1743. He was a gentleman of good attainments, of eccentric habits, and extremely fond of fishing. As was the custom with many gentlemen of the seaboard towns, Mr. Seccomb was in the habit of visiting Amoskeag annually for the purpose of indulging in the amusement of fishing. At such time he preached upon the Sabbath. In the "Fishing Season of 1739" he preached a discourse here having Hon. Theodore Atkinson and other gentlemen for hearers. This sermon was published in 1743, and its title page was as follows:

¹AMOSKEAG FISHING.

   "Business and Diversion inoffensive to God, and necessary for the comfort and support of human Society. A Discourse utter'd in part at Ammauskeeg Falls, in the Fishing Season, 1739.

"Deep in the Vale old "Moniack"² rolls his Tides,
Romantick Prospects crown his reverend sides;
Now thro' wild grotts, and pendant Woods he strays,
And ravish'd at the sight, his course delays.
Silent and calm--now with impetuous shock
Pours his swift Torrent down the steepy rock;
The trembling Waves thro' airy channels flow,
And loudly roaring, smoke and foam below.

I. W.

The dedication of this discourse was as follows, viz:

   "To the Honourable Theodore Atkinson, Esq.; and other the Worthy Patrons of the Fishing at Ammauskeeg.
   "Gentlemen, It's not to signify to others that I pretend to an Intimacy with you, or that I ever had a Share in those pleasant Diversions, which you have innocently indulged yourselves in, at the Place where I have taken an annual Tour for some years past. Yet I doubt not but you'l Patronize my Intention, which is to fence against Bigotry and Superstition. All Excess I disclaim, but pretend to be a Favourer of Religion, and of Labour as an Ingraclicut, and of Recreation as necessary Attendant.
   "I believe the Gentleman who moved me to preach there in some odd circumstances, and those at whose Desire and charge this Discourse is Printed, (asking their Pardon if my Suggestion appear to them ungrounded) were moved more from the uncommonness of the Thing, than any Thing singular in it. I have put off the Importunity for near these three years; but least it should be that I fear it's being seen by the World, I submit it to Sight and Censure.
   "So little as I know you, Gentlemen, I heartily present it to you; tho' all the Reason that I intend to offer is, we have fished upon the same Banks: And tho' I know this will be no Bait, I am fond of being esteemed, in the Affair of Fishing, Gentlemen, your most obedient and humble servant,

"FLUVIATILIS PISCATOR.

The sermon itself bears "the evident traits of a brilliant genius and a poetic imagination.³

No account is to be found as to preaching here by any other person until the incorporation of the town in 1751, when the Rev. Mr. McDonald preached here and an attempt was made to settle him, as related in chapter XVII, of this work.

After the Rev. Mr. Pickels left in 1804, Mr. David Abbott, who had moved into the town the year previous, and was a Baptist commenced holding religious meetings at the houses of such as would open them for that purpose, and with such success that in 1812 a Baptist Church was formed in the place consisting of fourteen members. This Church continued to prosper for some years under the teaching of Mr. Abbott, until it numbered twenty-two male members, when it became divided from some cause now unknown, and finally ceased to exist. Soon after, the Methodists occasionally had preaching in town, Elders Hinds, Broadhead and Peaslee officiating.-- Their efforts were successful, and at length in 1829, during a period of much religious interest, the result of Rev. Mr. Broadhead's preaching, the project of building a church was started and resulted in success--the building of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Manchester Centre. This was the first successful effort at building and completing a meeting-house in the town. In 1828, the Presbyterians made a successful effort to form a church and society which continued with occasional preaching until 1839 when uniting with the church and society at Amoskeag, or Goffstown, they two became The First Congregational Society in Manchester. Since that period, religious effort has been abundant and most successful, so that a town, that for one hundred and ten years had not been able to support a minister, now has more churches, more ministers, more communicants and members, than any other town in the State.

UNIVERSALIST SOCIETY.--REV. B. M. TILLOTSON.

This society was commenced in 1825, at Amoskeag, through the efforts of Dr. Oliver Dean, the Agent of the Factories in that village, and now of Boston. The Society continued their worship under the charge of Rev. Frederick A. Hodgsdon.--In 1833, this church numbered 70 members, being, on Sept. 4th of that year, organized under the name of the "First Universalist Church of Bedford and Goffstown." In 1839, it was thought advisable that the society should be transferred to Manchester, and it was done accordingly. In the summer and fall of that year the society built a church upon Lowell street. The land for the same was given by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company. The church was of brick, 80 feet in length by 60 feet in width, and was dedicated to the service of Almighty God in February, 1840.

The Rev. George W. Gage was settled over the church and society in 1841. Mr. Gage asked a dismission in the Fall of 1843, which was granted, and in January, 1844, the Rev. B. M. Tillotson was settled as his successor.

The society prospered beyond the expectations of the most sanguine of its friends, and it was found that their house was too small to accommodate those who wished for seats as regular attendants; and in 1849 it was determined to enlarge and otherwise improve it. Accordingly in the Autumn of that year and the winter of 1850, it was enlarged by the addition of 25 feet in width, or by one half of its former size, and its interior greatly improved; and in February, 1850, it was dedicated with appropriate services. In 1855 a portico was added to the front, and the church was provided with a fine organ at an expense of $3000. Under the ministration of Rev. Mr. Tillotson it has become one of the most flourishing societies in the city. The house is large, but it is constantly filled, and the society already feel the need of a still larger one, as seats are in demand, and no more hearers can be permanently accommodated. The church is in a prosperous condition numbering about 125 members. The Sabbath School connected with this church is also flourishing, numbering about 250, and having a Library of some 1000 volumes. The great secret of the success of this society, is the unanimity of its member in all their affairs.--A spirit of union seems to pervade their every movement.--And as long as such a spirit characterizes their efforts, their success must be continuous and permanent.

FIRST CONG. CHURCH.--REV. C. W. WALLACE.

   A Presbyterian church was organized in Manchester, on the 2lst of May, 1828. The means of grace enjoyed by this church were very limited. There was no house of worship of which it had the exclusive control. It never was blessed with the labors of a settled pastor. Rev. Wm. K. Talbot supplied the pulpit for a few months after the organization of the church. In 1833 Mr Benjamin F. Foster was ordained as an Evangelist, and divided his labors for sometime between this church and the church at Amoskeag. For a number of years this church was almost entirely destitute of the stated means of grace.
   A Congregational church was organized at Amoskeag village, Dec. 2 1828. This church was situated on the opposite side of the Merrimack river, and about three miles distant from the Presbyterian church above mentioned. Its condition was very similar to that church, although it enjoyed to a greater extent the stated preaching of the gospel. But like the other it never had a settled pastor or a house it could control. Among those who supplied this church with preaching, was Rev. B. F. Foster, before mentioned, Rev. Mr. Noble, Rev. Mr. French, afterwards missionary at Siam, Rev. Mr. Stone, and Mr. C. W. Wallace, The last named commenced his labors with this church on the last Sabbath in April, 1739. About the same time this church commenced holding meetings at the new village of Manchester. This was done with the advice and concurrence of the Presbyterian church, as well as other friends of Christ in the neighborhood. This was the first regular Sabbath service which was commenced and sustained in what is now the heart of the city of Manchester. During the summer of 1839, it became apparent that the interests of religion would be advanced by a union of the Presbyterian church at Manchester center and the Congregational church at Amoskeag village, and to have the same, when united. located at the new village of Manchester. This union was effected Aug. 15, 1839, and the church thus formed became what is now "The First Congregational Church" in the city of Manchester. Previous to this union, Moses Noyes was the deacon of the Presbyterian church, and Daniel Farmer of the Congregational church, and by agreement of parties they retained the same office in the new church. The articles of faith and covenant, and the name of the Amoskeag church, were accepted. The articles are strongly Calvanistic in doctrine. At the time of the union the church consisted of 28 members. Since that time 424 have been added--298 by letter and 126 by profession of faith--making 452. Of these four have been excluded--39 have deceased--128 have been dismissed to other churches, and 273 is the number of the present membership.
   Soon after the organization of the church in its present form, Nahum Baldwin and Hiram Brown were chosen deacons, and at a later period, 1848, Henry Lancaster and Holbrook Chandler were appointed to the same office. All these brethren still survive, and have ever been united with the pastor in maintaining the order, discipline, harmony and spirituality of the church and have thereby added much to his usefulness as a minister of Christ. Seasons of religious interest have been enjoyed. In 1842, 26 were received on profession of faith; in 1850, 17; and in 1852, 12. No year has passed without same additions to the church by profession. Not a few have been converted, who have united with other churches as they returned to their homes in other parts of the State. General peace and harmony have prevailed among the members of this church. They have been united in doctrine, in labors to promote spirituality, and in regard to the moral questions of the day. In respect to all these subjects, they have been found walking, in a good degree, in the fear of God and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost. The contributions of this church for charitable purposes, during some years past, have been between $700 and $1000.
   In April, 1838, a religious society was formed at Amoskeag. It was known by the name of "The First Congregational Society" in Amoskeag village. The spirit and design of this society may be seen from the following extract from the Preamble: "The object of this association is to support and enjoy more effectually the institutions of our holy religion. Our belief is in the reality of a Divine Revelation, our desire is to know its truths zealously to maintain these is our fixed purpose. We unite in the fear of God. For success our hope is in the riches of His mercy. Praying for Divine assistance, for purity of intention, mutual affection, a love for the truth and a holy concern for our best interests, we unite for the furtherance of our object." At the organization of the society, Daniel Farmer was chosen President, and Geo. W. Kimball Secretary. The name of the society has since been changed to the First Congregational Society in Manchester. Among the first things attempted by this society was the erection of a house of worship. Various plans were proposed and different sites were mentioned. Finally in the spring of 1839, the society commenced building their present house of worship. It was completed the following autumn, and dedicated in November of the same year. The house was built of wood, 64 feet wide by 81 long, without galleries or a tower, and at an expense including land of about $5500, though the land, valued at about $500, was given by the "Amoskeag Manufacturing Company."
   The house contained 122 pews, and would accommodate about 650 persons. At a subsequent period this house was enlarged. It is now 100 feet long and 64 wide contains 164 pews and will accommodate 900 persons. The expense of the enlargement was about $3000. The society also own a vestry which cost about $1500. They have an organ in their house of worship which cost about $1500. Other additions and improvements have been made, which, together with the increased value of property in this city, would make the whole amount the property of the society at the present time, about $14,000 or $15,000, on which there is a debt of $6000. All the expenses of the support of the institutions of religion are sustained by a tax on the pews, which are owned by the society. For the year 1854 the amount collected was $2674,03.--This society has always made a liberal provision for the support of the gospel, as well as having allowed their pastor seasons of rest, and supplying the pulpit during his absence.
   Mr C. W. Wallace, then a licentiate of the Londonderry Presbytery, commenced his labors with the first Congregational church and society on the last Sabbath of April, 1839. He did not commence preaching as a candidate for settlement. He continued, however, to supply the pulpit until Nov., of the same year, when he received a call to settle as the pastor of the church and society. The call was accepted, and on the 8th of Jan. 1840, he was ordained Of the council convened on this occasion, Rev. C. P. Bradford was chosen moderator. Rev. J. Clement scribe, and Rev. E. L. Parker assistant scribe.--Thirteen churches were invited to be represented on the council, each having a pastor. Of these, only Rev. Thomas Savage of Bedford retains the position then occupied, while the moderator, the assistant scribe, Rev. Dr. Burnham of Pembroke who offered the introductory prayer, and Rev. U. C. Burnap of Lowell who preached the sermon, have been called to their rest and reward.--The pastor of this church was the first minister ever ordained and installed in this town, and his settlement occurred ninety years after the town was incorporated.⁴

THE FIRST M. E. CHURCH.--REV. GEO. M. HAMLIN.

The First Methodist Episcopal church in Manchester was organized Sept.27, 1829. For a number of years previous to this date there had been Methodist preaching in the place a portion of the time, by the Rev. Orlando Hinds, John Broadhead, E. Peaslee and others. In the year 1829 there was a revival of religion under the labors of Rev. J. Broadhead, and about eighty united with the church. The Society now felt the need of a stated ministry and a more commodious place of worship than had previously been enjoyed. Accordingly, measures were taken to erect a suitable house of worship, and in 1830, the Meeting House which has been occupied by the 1st M. E. Society since the above date, was erected at Manchester Centre, at a cost of $2000. The Rev. Matthew Newhall, from the N. H. Conference, was the first preacher stationary here. His connection with the station continued two years. The following preachers have been successively stationed at Manchester centre: Silas Green. Caleb Dustin, Converse L. McCurdy, Wm. J. Kidder, Matthew Newhall, Wm. S. Lock, Chas. H. Eastman, Ezekiel Adams, Horatio N. Taplin, Henry Nutter, Isaac W. Huntly, Elijah R. Wilkins, Robert S. Stubbs. The church now numbers 106 members and is now under the pastoral charge of Rev. Geo. M. Hamlin. The following fact proves that the church has not been altogether void of prosperity since its organization. Eighty members (the same number that was connected with the church when first organized) have been removed from the church by death or letters, showing an addition of the present membership.

THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH. REV. B.F. HEDDEN.

On the 2d of August, 1835, ten persons belonging to different Baptist churches, met for the first time in a hall, at Amoskeag, to worship according to their cherish denominational belief, amenable only to God and their own conscience.

The Goffstown church had previously voted to acknowledge them, as the "Amoskeag Branch of the Goffstown Church." Rev. J. Peabody faithfully performed the duties of an under shepherd, until Oct, 1837, during which time the Branch enrolled on its list forty-nine members.

Dec. 1st, 1836, they met at the house of Dea. John Plummer to consult with other friends, in regard to the religious expediency, of being formed into an independent church. The Branch unanimously agreed to ask a dismission from the Goffstown church; to adopt the articles of faith and practice, as presented by the New Hampshire Baptist State Convention, and also to request their pastor to select and invite an ecclesiastical council to meet with them for further deliberation.

Accordingly Jan. 4, 1837, the council convened at "Roger Williams Hall," and publicly recognized the Branch as an independent church. The following are a part of the clergymen who assisted on the occasion: Rev. D. D. Pratt, Rev. George Evans. Rev. Bartlet Pease, Rev. Mark Carpenter, and the pastor Rev. John Peacock.

As the manufacturing interest rapidly increased on the east side of the river, it was deemed advisable by this church, and other friends in the vicinity, to erect their house of worship near the centre of the new village. The First Baptist church edifice was built by a few enterprising men, on a lot of land given by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, on Manchester street, and was publicly dedicated to the worship of Almighty God in the year of 1840. It was the third house thus set apart within the precincts of the now densely crowded city. The building is of brick, 80 feet in length by 60 feet in width, of good architectural design, and surmounted with a dome and bell. The building was completed at an expense of $6000.--The society have an excellent organ, and a new commodious vestry, the funds being furnished for its erection by the "Ladies Charitable Society" connected with this church.

Rev. E. K. Bailey commenced his labors in 1837, and continued with this people a number of years. After his resignation the pulpit was supplied successively by the following pastors: Rev. James Upham, Rev. Benj. Brierly, Rev. T. 0. Lincoln, Rev. Isaac Sawyer, and the present pastor, Rev. B. F. Hedden.

The whole number of person added to this church since its commencement is 784, the present number is 297, being constantly lessened by dismission and death.

ST. MICHAEL'S CHURCH. (Protestant Episcopal.) REV. ISAAC G. HUBBARD.

In June, 1840, the Convention of the Diocese of New Hampshire was informed that the services of the Episcopal church were desired in Manchester. In compliance with this desire, the Rev. P. S. Ten Broeck of Concord, officiated in the school house on Lowell St. the second Sunday of July following. Services were soon after held by the Rev. T. Edson of Lowell and others. In September of the same year, the Rev. Wm. H. Moore, of the Diocese of New York, then a recent graduate of the General Theological Seminary, visited Manchester by invitation, and officiated two Sundays in a Hall in "Union Building," which had been appropriately fitted up for the purpose. The attendance was encouraging, and an invitation was extended to all favorable to the organization of a church, in conformity with the rites and doctrines of the Protestant Episcopal church, to meet on Monday evening, Nov. 28, 1840. A number of gentlemen met at the time appointed, and the Rev. William H. Moore having been called to the chair, the following resolutions were presented and unanimously adopted:

   "1,Resolved, That believing the rapidly increasing population of this town demands an extension of spiritual principles, and whereas there are many among us who feel a strong attachment to the institutions of the Episcopal church, and desire to extend the blessings of the Gospel of Christ, therefore,
   "2, Resolved, That in humble reliance upon God's blessing on our enterprise, we will now proceed to organize a church, whose doctrines and ordinances shall be in accordance with the Articles, Constitution and Canons of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States.
   "3, Resolved, That this Corporation shall be known under the title of the Rector, Wardens, and Vestry of Saint Michael's Church, Manchester, Hillsboro' Co, N. H.
   "4, Resolved, That by our personal exertions and prayers we will endeavor to build up this society and parish, in the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, and extend the blessings to those who may be pleased to unite with us.
5, Resolved, That we now proceed to elect two Wardens, and four Vestrymen, and a Secretary.

Accordingly the following officers were elected:

On the 17th of Dec. an invitation was extended to the Rev. W. H. Moore to become the rector of the parish. That Rev. gentleman accepted the invitation and entered upon his duties on Christmas Eve., 1840. A building previously used by the Free Will Baptist Society, on Concord St. having been rented, the congregation removed thither in Jun, 1841. Here they gradually gained in numbers and strength till the place was filled, when it was determined to make an effort to erect a church. By the generous exertions of the congregation seconded by donations from abroad, and the gift of a lot of land on the corner of Lowell and Pine streets, by the Amoskeag Company, this purpose was accomplished; and the church costing with the organ $2,300.00, and free from debt, was consecrated to the worship of Almighty God, by the Rt Rev. Manton Eastburn, of Mass., Thursday, Dec. 28th, 1843. During the ministry of the first Rector, the evils incident to a new enterprise, in a very fluctuating community, were experienced.--Many of those who united with the parish removed, and the church was thus deprived of some of its most devoted and efficient members. Its light was thereby diffused and the good which it accomplished was manifested more extensively. After a rectorship of more than seven years, his health failing, the Rev. Mr. Moore resigned April 23, 1848. He was succeed, in the following June, by the Rev. John Kelly, a graduate of Trinity College, Hartford. Under his energetic ministry the parish continued to prosper. The interior of the church building was much improved by a new chancel arrangement, by tempering the glare of the white walls with neutral tint, and by graining the wood work. A debt, also, which had gradually accumulated, was liquidated. In April, 1852, the Rev. Mr. Kelly resigned, and accepted a call to the church in Warren, R. I. The next May, the present rector, the Rev. Isaac G. Hubbard, entered upon his official duties. Since then a parsonage has been built, at a cost, including the land, (which was purchased at a generous discount from the Amoskeag Company) of $2100. This church may now be regarded as firmly established and in a prosperous condition. By reference to the Records, it appears that under the rectorship of the Rev. Mr. Moore, 9 adults and 24 children were baptized, and 14 persons were confirmed. Under that of the Rev. Mr. Kelly, 14 adults and 27 children were baptized and 44 persons were confirmed. Under the present rectorship 12 adults and 57 children have been baptized and 41 persons confirmed. The present number of communicants is 80.

UNITARIAN SOCIETY. REV. WM. L. GAGE.

The first distinctive preaching in this city, of the doctrine commonly held by Unitarian Christians, was in the month of January, 1841, by Rev. S. Osgood, then of Nashua. For about four months in this year meetings were held on the Sabbath, by those attached to that form of religious faith, but no attempt was made to organize a society, or to settle a pastor, and there being no suitable place in which to hold their meetings, it was decided to suspend them till another year, when the Town Hall would be ready for occupation.

In the month of March, 1842, Mr. Briggs of Boston, preached in the Town Hall, one Sabbath, and Rev. O. H. Wellington, preached during the month of April. On the 24th of April in the same year, a meeting was held of all those interested in the support of the worship of Almighty God, after the usage, and in general conformity to the doctrine received by Unitarians, at the house of Mr. William Shepherd. At this meeting only nine persons were present. Although few in numbers, they were strong and earnest in their purpose to establish such religious institutions as seemed to them best adapted to promote religious truth, and a christian life among men, and after careful deliberation, it was unanimously resolved to form a society for the more effectual support of religious worship, and Messrs. E. A. Straw, and Daniel Clark, Esq., were appointed a committee to draft a constitution, and ByLaws, for the government of the society, and report the same at some future meeting. Accordingly, on the 27th of April, another meeting was held, at which Mr. Straw reported, and the society adopted a suitable constitution, of which the following is the

PREMABLE.

   "The object of this Association is to support and enjoy the more effectually, the institutions of our Holy Religion. Our belief is in the reality of Divine Revelations, and in the Bible, as the record of that revelation. We desire to know its truths, and, in all charity and love towards our fellow men to maintain them. Such being our purpose, we unite ourselves in this association, with the love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ; the love of the divine truth as taught by Christ during his mission upon the earth; and the love of all his children, our fellow men and brethren, strong in our hearts; hoping to establish and maintain an altar where the sons of man may worship their Creator as their consciences shall dictate, untrammelled by any of these fettering creeds, the offspring of human ingenuity alone. To do this we pledge our zealous and humble efforts, and in promoting this object, it shall be our strong endeavors to merge all local and party feelings and all sectarian prejudices.

   Praying for Divine assistance and hoping for the riches of God's grace and mercy, concious of purity of intention, of mutual affection, of a love for the truth, and holy concern for our fellow men, we unite ourselves for the furtherance of our object into a Religious Society."

Among the early signers of the constitution adopted with the foregoing Preamble, we find the names of Messrs. E. A. Straw, Wm. Shepherd, Daniel Clark, Esq., Benj. F. Osgood, Herman Foster, Esq., James May, J. McK. Wilkins, Esq. J. H. Moor, Wm. P. Riddle, G. W. Tilden, A. G. Tucker, B. F. Manning, Dr. M. G. Tukesbury, C. F. Warren, J. B. Upham, J. D. Kimball, Geo. Hall, H. H. Ladd, and John H. Kimball.

At this same meeting, E. A. Straw, Esq., was unanimously chosen Secretary, and Treasurer, and at a subsequent meeting, Mr. J. D. Kimball, was chosen President, and Messrs. Wm. Shepherd, and B. F. Manning, Directors. A committee was also chosen to confer with Mr. Wellington, as to his settlement with them as Pastor of the newly formed society, who, after a short time accepted the call tendered to him. Mr. Wellington was ordained to the pastoral office in this city Tuesday evening, July 10th, 1842, at which time, Rev. C. Stetson, of Medford, preached the ordination sermon to the acceptance of those who invited him to perform that duty. In the afternoon of the same day, a church was organized in connection with the society, on which occasion, a discourse was preached by Rev. Wm. Channing, then of Nashua, from the text, John, XVII, 22, 23. "That they may all be one, even as we are one, I inth em and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in me." After this discourse, the covenant agreed upon was adopted, and a declaration made that by this act of faith a new branch of the church of Christ was established, consisting at this time of but eight members. The rite of the Lord's Supper was then administered, when the members of the newly formed church, together with such of other churches as chose to unite with them in that religious service, partook of the solemn sacrament.

Mr. Wellington's ministry continued for nearly two when ill health induced him to leave the city in March, 1844. During the first year of his ministry, the religious services of this society were held in the Town Hall, but in 1843, the church formerly occupied by the Episcopal Methodist Society, was purchased and moved to the lot corner of Pine and Merrimack streets, given by the Amoskeag Corporation, where it now stands.

At the close of Mr. Wellington's ministry, Rev. A. D. Jones was chosen pastor, and was installed July 10th 1844. He continued his services for one year. After this, the society continued destitute of a settled minister for some time; Rev. M. J. Mott preaching for the society for one year, but not being installed as pastor nor residing in the city, and various clergymen supplying the pulpit for different periods of time. The society did not increase in numbers, and was only sustained by the self sacrificing spirit and earnest determination of its few members.

On the 5th of Feb. 1848, a unanimous invitation was extended to Rev. A. B. Fuller, to become pastor of the society, which call was accepted, and Mr. Fuller was ordained to the pastoral office in the evening of the 19th of March, 1848.

The society had much increased in numbers, and, on the 1st of July measures were taken, and subsequently carried into effect, for the enlargement of their church by the addition of twenty-four pews.

The church numbers at this time about forty communicants

The basis upon which this society professed to be founded, is not a strict agreement in doctrinal opinions, but the reception as their guiding principles of action, of these rules, viz;

   "1st. This Society believe that the Bible is an authoritive and sufficient rule of faith and practice, and is the creed and the only creed, that should be imposed upon churches, and the only platform upon which all churches can be founded.
   2d. As God has made no two minds alike, diversities of opinion, even among Christians, must be expected to occur, diversities which no man, or body of men, have a right to suppress by any measures, other than an appeal "to the law and the testimony." by fair argument and persuasion, and not by expulsion from Church membership, or by the cry of heresy, and, therefore, this Society recognizes as its second leading principles the right of private judgment.
   3d. As men may believe in correct doctrines and yet have corrupt hearts--may profess religion, without possessing it,--may comply without entering into their spirit--and may have many excellent feelings and emotions, and yet not be Christians, but cannot live habitually the Christian life, and manifest constantly the Christian temper and spirit, unless they be Christians. This society therefore, further declare, that in their Judgment, the Christian life and character, are the only true or reliable tests among Christians, and cheerfully agree to invite and receive to their fellowship, all, both ministers and people, who manifest this character and receive the Scriptures as their rule of faith, however much any such, may differ from the majority of the society in respect to opinions."

Mr. Fuller's ministry was very successful, but receiving a call from the New North Church, in Boston, and society, he gave up the promising field, for another of no less usefulness, and resigned his pastoral office June 18th, 1853.

Rev. Francis Le Barron was unanimously called to be his successor, and entered upon his duties immediately after the resignation of Mr. Fuller. Mr. Le Barron's ministry continued for a little over two years; his resignation was accepted the 14th of October, 1855.

In May, 1856, Wm. L. Gage, of Boston, received a unanimous call from the society, and was ordained to the work of the ministry on the 25th of June. He is the present pastor.

FRANKLIN ST. CHURCH, REV. S. C. BARTLETT

This, the second Congregational church, was formed in 1844, by colonization from the first church. The crowded state of that congregation and the prospect of a rapid influx of population into the city, had led many individuals, including the pastor of the first church, seriously to consider the expediency of organizing a second church and society. The first public movement was made on the 27th of April. After the adjournment of the annual meeting of the First Congregational Society, held on that day, another meeting was organized by the persons present, and a resolution was introduced, affirming the expediency of immediate measures for the formation of a second church and society. The resolution was discussed and laid upon the table; and a committee, consisting of Rev. C. W. Wallace, Asa 0. Colby, Abram Brigham, Andrew Moody, and W. G. Means, (all professors of religion,) was appointed to make further inquiries. After one week, the committee reported strongly in favor of the project; and the resolution of the previous meeting was adopted. On the 7th of May, at a meeting publicly called for the purpose, a constitution for a second Congregational society was presented, discussed, adopted, and signed by sixteen individuals. Josiah Crosby, M.D., was chosen President, and Abram Brigham clerk and treasurer. Legal notice of the existence of the society was given in the Manchester Memorial on the 23d of May, signed by twenty-six individuals. The society immediately hired the town hall as a place of worship, at a rent of $150 a year, and commenced public services on the first Sabbath of June.
   A committee had been appointed on the 20th of May, to confer with the first church on the expediency of forming a new church. The result was, that an ecclesiastical council of ministers and delegates from nine neighboring churches--Rev. A. Burnham, moderator, and Rev. P. B. Day, scribe--assembled on the 27th of June, 1844, at the house of Rev. C. W. Wallace; and on the same day organized the second Congregational, now named "The Franklin St. Church." It was composed of twenty members; eight of them from the first church, and the remainder, members of various churches, who had been waiting for this movement. David Brigham was the first deacon chosen, and Thomas Carleton the second.
   The first pastor was Henry M. Dexter, then recently from Andover theological seminary, who received a unanimous call, and was ordained Nov. 6, 1844. Sermon by Rev. E. N. Kirk of Boston. Salary, $800 the first year, $900 the second, $1000 afterwards. After a faithful ministry, Mr. Dexter was dismissed March 14, 1849, to the very deep regret of the church and people. He was succeeded by Rev. Henry S. Clarke, installed Sept. 29th of the same year; sermon by Rev. Walter Clarke of Hartford, Conn. On account of his health, Mr. Clarke, after an acceptable ministry, was dismissed July 1, 1852.
   The present incumbent, Rev. Samuel C. Barlett, was installed November 3, 1852; sermon by Rev. N. Lord, D. D. The salary was, in March 1854, by spontaneous and unanimous vote of the society raised to $1200.
   From the formation of the church the number of members received by profession is 105, and by letter 262. Present number of members 246. No powerful revival have been enjoyed. The means of grace, however, have been accompanied by occasional influences of the Divine Spirit. In the year 1850, 25 individuals were received to the church by profession. During the year ending July 3, 1854, 21 were added in like manner, nearly all being members of the Sabbath School.
   The first place of worship was the Town Hall. In ten weeks the hall was burnt; and the congregation temporarily occupied a small ckapel [sic] now standing on Central street; then Patten's hall; and subsequently the new City Hall. The project of erecting a house of worship, which was contemplated from the beginning, began to be seriously agitated in 1846. Subscriptions to the amount of $2900, were raised to commence the effort. A lot of land on Franklin st, was given to the society by the liberality of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Co. A plan was prepared by a committee, in consultation with Mr. Bond, an architect of Boston. The house was commenced early in 1847, and dedicated December 22nd of the same year. Sermon by the pastor, Rev. H. M. Dexter. It is a nest edifice of brick, measuring ninety feet by seventy, with an audience room capable of seating 1050 persons. The basement contains a large lecture room, smaller one, and a third room fitted up for committee meetings sewing circles and similar purposes. The house and fixtures cost about $12,000; besides the organ, built by Simmons of Boston, at a cost of $1900 more⁵

FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH.--REV. F. W. STRAIGHT.

This church and society commenced holding meetings in Manchester in a school house the last of the year 1838. Mr. Gilmore Smith obtained the services of Elder Lemuel Whiting who came from Lowell once in two weeks, and preached several months.

Sept., 1839, Rev. J. L. Sinclair came to this town--commenced holding meetings and soon gathered a little church around him, which became the foundation of the present existing society. Without accommodations for church worship, they commenced and soon completed a small hall on Concord street, for that purpose.

November 14, 1839, the little company met at their hall to take into consideration the propriety of organizing themselves into a church. They had previously applied abroad for ministerial aid, which being deferred they thought best to delay no longer. Accordingly, appointed Brother John L. Sinclair, chairman. After prayer and consultation, voted:

   1, We believe it will be for the good of our fellow-men and the glory of God to organize a church of our faith and order in this place.
   2, We we [sic] will therefore now proceed to organize a church to be known as he [sic] First Free Will Baptist Church in Manchester.

John L. Sinclair, Leonard Jackson, and Nehemiah Chase, were appointed a committee to obtain articles of faith, and rules for church adoption.

November 16, met according to adjournment. After prayer heard committee's report. Accepted their church covenant and regulations. The following officers were unanimously chosen:

Five men and nineteen women united together to form this infant church. But this little band soon increased from 24 to 112 members, and the audience becoming too large for their straightened accommodations, measures were taken to erect a house of worship. But the church was poor--society small--place new, with few inhabitants, and many things seemed against the man who should step forward to undertake this work. But John L. Sinclair was not the man to give back for trifles, but facing difficulties and shouldering the responsibilities with his little company, he entered courageously upon the work.

January, 1842, a deed of a beautiful lot on the corner of Merrimack and Chestnut streets 100 by 120, was kindly given by the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company, on which a plain, substantial wooden house 50 feet by 87 was erected the same year.

In January, 1843, the house was dedicated to the worship of God, and which worship has been ever since constantly maintained. The house cost some over six thousand dollars.

January 1843, Rev. J. L. Sinclair resigned the pastoral charge and was succeeded by Rev. D. P. Cilley. Under his arduous and successful labors hundreds united with the church. The Sabbath School increased to 300 or more. Two sewing circles were in successful operation, and $150 were raised annually for home and foreign purposes. Twelve hundred dollars were paid on the original debt, besides interest and current expenses, and the number of the church increased to 35O.

April 1, 1850, Rev. D. P. Cilley resigned his charge and was succeeded by Rev. Joseph B. Davis from Providence. The sewing circles, still continue in a prosperous condition, raising from $50 to $150 annually each. The Sabbath School numbered in July 1853, 555.

During 1851, and '52 four hundred dollars were expended in repairs on the house and some fifteen hundred dollars paid on the original debt. Two hundred dollars were raised annually by the church and society for Home and Foreign Missions. During the two years ending with 1853 over 100 members were added to the church. In the fall of 1855 Rev. Mr. Davis left to take charge of a society in Lowell, and was succeeded by Rev. F. W. Straight, October 1 1855. Since his connection with the church and society 100 members been added to the church. The Sabbath School numbers about one hundred. Silas Hamilton, Superintendent.

SECOND M. E. SOCIETY.--REV. H. H. HARTWELL.

The Second Methodist Episcopal Church, was organized in Manchester on the 6th of December, 1839. Different ministers had preached occasionally, till the society was organized.

In June, 1840, Rev. John Jones, according to the Episcopal usage of this denomination was "Appointed" pastor, and remained one year, laboring with great acceptability and success. This year, they built a chapel on the corner of Hanover and Chestnut streets. In 1841, Rev. Silas Green became pastor, and under his direction they continued to enjoy prosperity.

In 1842, Rev. Elisha Scott had the pastoral charge. Such was the growth of the place and the increase of the congregation, that their house became too small for them; and they proceeded to erect the commodious brick church on Elm street; at a cost of $16,000.

In 1843, Rev. James W. Mowry succeeded Mr. Scott, and remained two years.

The following is a list of the preachers, and the order in which they came;

1845, Rev. Osmon C. Baker,
1846,   "   John Jones,
1847,   "       "        "
1848,   "   Samuel Kelley,
1849,   "   Lorenzo D. Barrows,
1850,   "   Charles N. Smith,
1851,   "   Silas Quimby,
1852,   "   Justin Spaulding,
1853,   "   Elisha Adams,
1854,   "       "          "

During these successive years, this church has been doing her part in all departments of the great christian reform. She has contributed liberally for the support of her ministry, and for the promotion of all the other benevolent enterprises of the times.

In 1855, Rev. Henry H. Hartwell, (the present pastor) commenced his labors with this church. The past has been as prosperous a year as they have ever seen.

Mr. H. reports at the close of his first year, (May, 1856) as follows:

Church members, and those eligible to be received, 440.
1 Sunday School, 47 officers and Teachers, 485 scholars, and 825 volumes in the Library.

During the past year the society has raised for religious purposes, more than $3000. It is estimated that this church exerts a direct influence, to a less or greater extent, upon about 1600 of the population of this city and immediate vicinity.

The society formerly raised funds to meet their current expenses by voluntary subscriptions,; but they have now commenced renting their pews, and hope from the proceeds to pay all incidental expenses. From present appearances, the experiment will be completely successful.

CATHOLIC SOCIETY.--REV. WM. MCDONALD.

In July, A. D. 1844, Rev. William McDonald came to Manchester for the purpose of organizing the Catholics of this city. At that time they numbered about six hundred, and during the subsequent year they worshiped at Granite Hall. In the meantime their pastor bought a large lot on the corner of Merrimack and Union streets, for which he paid twelve hundred dollars, and commenced to build a church thereon in May 1849. When they began to worship in this church, their number much increased, and their religious wants seemed to be removed; but to their disappointment and astonishment, the church proved defective and in a short time became unsafe to congregate in. They were therefore obliged to take it down and re-build it. In re-building they re-modeled it, and doing so they have very much improved its style, and have made it--at least internally--the most beautiful church in the State. They also intend to improve it externally by building a tower, &c. The expense of building and re-building has cost the society twenty-three thousand dollars, the most of which is paid.

Each year witnessed an increase of their members. so that the church, notwithstanding it can seat twelve hundred people, is quite insufficient to accommodate the worshippers. In order to give all an opportunity of frequenting church on the Sabbath, they have two services each Sabbath forenoon. At present they number about three hundred, many of whom are not of course communicants, or, as they say, practical catholics. However, it must be admitted that as a whole they conduct themselves well--that certainly the majority of them are good and useful citizens and should therefore command our respect--nay, our admiration when we take into account their condition and circumstances. They have to pay the strictest attention to the religious training of their children. Of this their Sabbath School bears evidence as it contains on an average about 400 scholars. To secure the punctual attendance of their children, they have a well organized society which subscribes a large amount annually to procure clothing for the destitute, and alleviate the wants of their poorer brethren, thus diminishing the chances of pauperism and of taxation. As a religious society they have gone on very harmoniously. They and their minister have been uninterruptedly united for these last eight years. The above narrative is a proof of this, as well as the following particulars. They bought in 1853, eighteen thousand feet of land and have built them a beautiful parsonage-house which must have cost five or six thousand dollars, and for all this too they have paid. And last year they purchased a large lot on Laurel street, south of the church, for the purpose of erecting a spacious brick building for a Select School. This house is to be built immediately, at a cost of some six or eight thousand dollars. Moreover they have a cemetery within the limits of the city, well located, containing ten acres, very suitable for such a purpose. Now all these well planned and executed efforts, display unusual energy, when it is known that they have been accomplished within the short period of eight years--efforts pregnant with much useful instruction to our readers, as they must be with much laudable pride to their performers. Certainly our Catholic community deserve well of our citizens for contributing their share of ornamental buildings to our young city, and for their rapid approximation to American frugality and New England industry.

ELM STREET BAPTIST CHURCH.--REV. J. M. COBURN.

October 27, 1845, thirty seven members of the first Baptist Church were dismissed to form a new church and society. They were recognized as a church by a Council Dec. 3d, 1845.

The sermon of recognition was preached by Dr. E. E. Cummings of Concord; Hand of Fellowship by Rev. B. Brierly of the First Baptist Church; Address to the Church and Congregation by Rev. D. D. Pratt of Nashua.

The Church first met in Classic Hall with Rev. A. T. Foss their minister. After several months they removed to Temple Hall previously occupied by the Second Congregational Church. Mr. Foss, resigned the pastoral charge of the church July 11, 1847. December following Rev. J. C. Morrill became their pastor and remained with them till July, 1849.

During Mr. Morrill's pastorate they worshiped for a short time in a chapel on Central Street, thence they removed to the City Hall where they continued till Feb. 22, 1849, when they removed to their present place of worship on Elm street, after which by a unanimous vote of the church and by legal measures they were incorporated under the name of the Elm St. Baptist church.

Their next minister, was Rev. O. O. Stearns, who labored with them, not quite a year, and was succeeded Jan., 1851, by Rev. Isaac Woodbury, who continued till Jan. 1853. In July following their present Pastor, Rev. J. M. Coburn commenced preaching for them. Their Deacons are Eliviress Parmenter, Caleb Gage, Lyman Woods, Caleb Boynton, and Savory Burbank. Clerk and Sexton, G. Holbrook. The present number of the church is 200.

CHRISTIAN MISSION CHURCH.--REV. T. P. SAWAIN.

   In the spring of 1847, Rev. 3. L. Seymour was employed by tne [sic] friends of religion to act as city missionary in this place. A hall was rented, in which he opened a Sabbath School and conducted religious Services. The idea of instituting a Free Chapel was suggested and favorably regarded. To this object the "Amoskeag Manufacturing Company," gave a lot of land considered worth $1000, and by the contribution of individuals and also of the Congregational and Presbyterian churches of the State, the building was completed in the fall of 1850, at an expense of about $3000, capable of seating 400 people.
   The "Manchester City Missionary Society," was legally organized April 24, 1850, and hold the property by a tenure requiring "that no rent or tax shall be assessed on any slip or seat in said house of public worship, and that it over be kept open and free for the poor in the city of Manchester."
   The society employs a clerical missionary, and meets its annual expenses; 1st by the income of $1000, bequeathed for that purpose by the late Thomas D. Merrill of Concord; 2d, by the appropriation of $1[0?]0 by the State Missionary Society; 3d, by donations or contributions from the two Congregational churches in the city and in the chapel During the erection of the chapel no missionary was employed, and Rev. Mr. Seymour having been called to another field of labor, Rev. T. P. Sawin, then of Harwich, Ms., was invited, who commenced his duties April, 1851. After a few months, it was thought desirable, especially by those who labored in the Mission Sabbath School and tended the chapel service, that a church be organized into which might be gathered the results of missionary labor. This was effected by an ecclesiastical council, Dec. 30, 1862, under its present name; 17 members were then united in covenant, to which ten were added within two months. The whole number that have united is 44; deducting the dismissions and deaths, the present number is 36. The number of adult baptisms, nine; infants, five.--The church was organized with the distinct understanding, that whenever its own interests, the success of the mission, or the cause of religion requires, it may leave the chapel and provide for itself elsewhere. The church in its present connection with the mission elects the missionary for its pastor, and in all respects is Congregational.

NORTH ELM STREET M. E. CHURCH. REV. ELISHA ADAMS.

The North Elm St. M. E. Church was organized May 19, 1855, under the pastoral care of Rev. Elisha Adams. The church at its organization numbered 23 members who colonized from thee Elm street M. E. Church.

The society worship in Smyth's Hall. The Sabbath School now numbers about 100; and the church 65 members.

CONGREGATIONAL SOCIETY, PISCATAQUOG.--REV. MR. BOWMAN.

The meeting house occupied by this society was built in 1820. It is a large commodious house and of sufficient capacity to accommodate the people of that neighborhood for some time to come. The pulpit was supplied for some time by Messrs. Long and Miltimore. It had not been regularly occupied for some years, for preaching, until in 1855, when the Rev. Mr. Stone supplied the desk through the Summer and Fall. The Rev. Mr. Bowman, lately of Portland, Me., commenced his connection with this society, June 15, of the present year, and the prospect is encouraging that the society will become permanent.

Footnotes