Rev. Samuel Bancroft then supplied the Church for the second

THE HISTORY

OF

Germain Street Baptist Church

ST. JOHN, N. B.

FOR ITS FIRST ONE HUNDRED YEARS

1810—1910

SAINT JOHN, N. B.

THE SAINT JOHN GLOBE PUBLISHING COMPANY LIMITED

1910

INTRODUCTION

At the annual business meeting held in January, 1909, T. D. Denham,

D. Hunt and T.H. Belyea, surviving Church Clerks, were appointed as a

committee to prepare for publication in book from the History of this

Church from its formation in 1810 to its Centennial in 1910.

At the first meeting of the committee the writer, being senior

surviving clerk, undertook the preparation of the History of the

Church for the One Hundred Years of its existence—so far as it might

be possible to secure the data for doing so; while to Mr. Belyea, the

present clerk, was assigned the writing of the biographical sketches

of the departed deacons; and to Mr. Hunt, the treasurer, the

preparing of a complete account of the mortgages that have been on

the present buildings and how they have been paid off.

The old records of the Church had been placed in the vault of the

Deacon Francis for safe keeping, but when the vault was opened after

the fire of 1877, it was found to contain nothing but charred remains

of the books—the writing being undecipherable. This made the securing

of the facts in connection with the early years a very difficult

task; but from various sources the events set forth in the following

pages have been obtained, and so far as possible verified, so that

while parts of the History are not nearly as full as we could desire,

in the main, I think, the account will be found to be as accurate as

it is possible to make it at this late date. It is to be regretted

that this work was not undertaken during the lifetime of a number of

our older members who have since passed away, as their personal

recollections, extending back for many years, would have been of

great assistance in the preparation of our History.

Some of the information has been secured from Dr. Saunders’ “History

of the Baptists,” and Dr. Bill’s “Fifty Years with the Baptists,”

while the very full account of the life and labors Rev. Samuel

Robinson is largely from two historical sermons delivered by Dr. Bill

in 1863, from the securing of which from the Library of Acadia

University we are indebted to Mr. Cohoon. Dr. Cutten also placed a

collection of the “Minutes of Associations,” dating back to 1810—in

which are references to this Church—at my disposal. For later minutes

I am indebted to Dr. McIntyre and others. The description of the

interior of the old wooden building and the early methods of lighting

are from a paper by the late Miss Sarah J. Blakslee. In the early

part of the work much of the original phraseology has been retained—

their writer making only such changes as were required to make a

connected story. From 1870 much of the matter is from my own personal

knowledge of the affairs of the Church, and from the records we still

possess. Another source of information—though necessarily

curtailed—is from the document deposited in the corner stone of the

present edifice, which was prepared by Dr. Carey, and engrossed on

parchment by the writer. It was at first proposed to open the corner

stone and copy the document, but this was avoided by securing an

excellent account published in one of the City papers in 1877.

During the century the Church has been ministered to by twenty duly

inducted pastors, besides others who have acted for a time as supply.

In the early years the pastorates were mostly short, but later the

pulpit was filled by four faithful ministers—Rev. Samuel Robinson,

Drs. I. E. Bill, G. M. W. Carey, and G. O. Gates, whose combined

terms of service reached nearly sixty years.

Besides the deacons, who with us are elected for life, some brethren

have filled the clerk’s office for long periods. We cannot tell when

G. A. Garrison was appointed—it may be he was the immediate successor

of his father, Nathan Garrison, the first clerk—but we know that he

was in office previous to the separation and continued to act up to

1870, when J. J. Bostwick was appointed. After a short term by F. F.

Porter, the writer was appointed in 1879, and was followed by D. Hunt

and the present clerk, each of whom have served for a number of years.

These long terms of service are not confined to any particular

office, as L. McMann was treasurer for many years, as was also his

son S.C. McMann, who was succeeded in turn by T. D. Denham, T. S.

Simms, S. McDiarmid and D. Hunt; so that the Church has had only six

Treasurers and the same number of Clerks during the past forty years.

Many have also served as Trustees for a number of years, among whom

we recall Deacon Harding, who probably served longer than any other

member of the Board. With the possible exception of G. A. Garrison,

Deacon Simms efficiently filled the office of Sunday School

Superintendent for the longest term—a quarter of a century—while

since early in the pastorate of Dr. Carey, only three have

administered the Benevolent Fund—Deacons Kinsman, Dyall and Lewis.

Thus it will be seen that this has not only been a Church of long

pastorates, but that many of the officers have also had long terms of

office.

We are looking forward hopefully to the coming of our pastor elect,

Rev. F. S. Porter, whom we are expecting soon to be with us to take

up the duties of the pastorate.

In reviewing the first Century of our History we cannot but be

impressed with the thought of the self-sacrificing labors of the

faithful men and women of the past; who, in the face of difficulties

and disabilities we haply know nothing of by experience, laid deep

and firm foundations for the success that has come to us as a Church

during all these years. When we consider the civil and religious

liberty that has come to us as a result, in part, of the work of the

founders of this old Church—we cannot but that God for what He has

done for us in the past, and leaning on His Almighty arm, press

forward determined with His help to strive to achieve a still larger

measure of success in the future than has been ours in the past.

T. D. Denham

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

HISTORY OF Germain Street Baptist Church

ST. JOHN, NEW BRUNSWICK.

—————

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

THE REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL in his autobiography says: “After the

organization of the church at Waterborough, in the autumn of 1800,

Mr. Manning on returning from a visit up the St. John River stayed

some time in St. John and baptized converts.” He also thought that

Mr. Manning organized a church here, and if so, our history goes back

to 1800 instead of 1810. It is therefore probable that it was in the

autumn of 1800, instead of 1805—the year named by Dr. Bill—that the

first baptisms took place here. At the time of Mr. Manning’s first

visit, there was no Baptist place of worship or Baptist family in the

city. Mr. Manning had been directed by a friend to call on Mr. George

Harding, son of Captain William Harding. He did so, and was most

kindly received. Mr. George Harding lived at the lower end of Germain

street, and invited the young minister to preach in his house. His

father, Captain Harding, who lived on Dock Street, also placed his

house at Mr. Manning’s service. Captain Lovitt, Mrs. Harper, Mr. A.

Magee, and a colored sister—Amy Nickson—all opened their houses to

the preaching of God’s word. As a result of these services, a revival

followed and many began to inquire what they should do to be saved.

The preacher pointed them to the Lamb of God as the only remedy, and

several professed conversion. Two of Captain Harding’s daughters and

his son George were among the number—the latter being the first

person baptized by immersion in this city.

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

After Edward Manning, came Rev. Joseph Crandall in the power and

spirit of the Gospel. His ministry was the means of doing much good.

Captain William Harding and his wife, William Stenning, and others

were baptized by him. These early baptisms occasioned much excitement

in the city. The people flocked in large numbers to witness them.

Some went to pray and others to mock and blaspheme; but on the part

of others this administration of the ordinance in its primitive form

led to the prayerful examination of the Word of God, and the general

result was a conversion to Baptist sentiments and practice. In the

absence of a stated ministry and house of worship the converts met in

each other’s houses for mutual exhortation and prayer. These meetings

were attended with a rich blessing. All were of one heart and mind,

striving together for the faith of the Gospel, and as a result, the

Word of God grew and multiplied greatly in the community.

MR. THOMAS PETTINGILL’S REMOVAL TO THE CITY.

In 1808 the little band of believers were greatly strengthened by the

removal from Kingston to St. John of Mr. Thomas Pettingill, who had

been converted under the labors of Elder Innis. Mr. Pettingill was

filled with religious fervor and an earnest desire to bring sinners

to Christ. His house was at once consecrated to the service and

worship of God, and his heart and purse were open to support the

infant cause. When Baptist ministers came to the city, they were

gladly received by him. In the absence of ordained ministers the

members did not fail to maintain regularly the worship of Almighty

God.

VISITS OF EVANGELISTS, 1808-1810.

In addition to the visits of the Ministerial Pioneers from Nova

Scotia, ministers were sent here by the Massachusetts Baptist

Missionary Society. Elders Isaac Chase, Henry Hale, and David Merrill

spent considerable time in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. They were

eminently useful in preaching the Gospel, administering its

ordinances, and in confirming the infant churches in the doctrines

and practice of the New Testament Christianity. Each of these

Evangelists visited the city and rendered valuable service to the

cause of the Master.

CHURCH ORGANIZED 1810.

On May 23rd, 1810, the Church was organized by Rev. Henry Hale, and

called the First Baptist Church of St. John. The membership consisted

of twelve persons—seven brothers and five sisters, who had been

brought to a knowledge of the truth through the labors of Revs.

Edward Manning, Joseph Crandall, James Innes, Theodore Harding, James

Manning, Joseph Dimmock, Thomas Ansley, and other evangelists. The

names of the original members so far as we are able to obtain them

are as follows: (1) Jeremiah Drake, grandfather of Brunswick and the

Misses Drake; (2) Thomas Pettingill, father of the late James

Pettingill; (3) Nathan Garrison, father of the late Deacon George A.

Garrison; (4) George Harding, son of the late Captain William

Harding; (5) John M. Wilmot; (6) William Stenning, an uncle of the

late Deacon J. H. Harding. (1) Mrs. Thomas Harding, mother of the

late Deacon John H. Harding; (2) Mrs. Uriah Hatfield; (3) Mrs.

Lovett, wife of Captain Lovett. It is probable that the other three

members were from among the following persons: Mrs. Harper, Mr. A.

Magee, Amy Nixon, Captain William Harding and his wife, all of whom

had shown much interest previous to the formation of the Church.

First Officers.

Nathan Garrison was the first Church Clerk. Thomas Pettingill was

chosen Deacon of the little Church on account of his deep-toned piety

and sincere devotion to the cause of God. He was soon joined in

office by Jeremiah Drake, and “these two, like Jachin and Boaz, the

pillars of Solomon’s temple, did, as these names signify, Establish

in Strength the truth as it is in Jesus, both by precept and example.

In the absence of a settled minister, they regularly maintained and

led the religious exercises of the Church, so that when they were

called up higher they had seen the cause of Christ greatly advanced

through their instrumentality, and departing bequeathed to the church

a precious legacy,

‘The stainless memory of the just,

The wealth beyond the grave.’”

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

of the Church.

Mrs. Thomas Harding, who died in her ninetieth year in August, 1875,

was the last of the twelve that formed the little band in 1810. She

saw the small vine send out boughs to the sea and branches to the

river, and many dwell under its goodly shadow.

In 1812 the Church numbered twenty-seven members. They applied for

admission and were received into the Association at Upper Granville,

N. S., this year.

For the first three years the Church was not in a position to call a

pastor, but was supplied from time to time by visiting ministers.

FIRST PASTOR CALLED.

————

The first pastor, the Rev. Edmund Reice, was called in 1813. He was a

Frenchman who came to Halifax as a midshipman in a French vessel

which was taken as a prize by the English. His conversion was

remarkable. Intent, like many of his countrymen, on deriding

religion, and leading a ball in a house just opposite the place where

the revival meetings were held at Yarmouth, like Saul, he was struck

down by the power of God and in intense agony of soul he cried aloud

for mercy. He was truly converted, became a Baptist, and entered the

ministry. After preaching for some time elsewhere, he was called to

be a pastor of this Church.. During his pastorate a revival occurred

and many were added to the Lord. He remained as a pastor about three

years. Later he went to New Orleans to evangelize the French, and

afterwards was pastor of the First Baptist Church of Baltimore, where

he died.

Places of Meeting.

The Church first worshipped in a small room on the ground floor of a

building on the south side of Princess Street, owned and occupied by

Mr. Cornelius Harbell. The building was next to the residence of the

late Dr. Sheffield. From Princess street the Church moved to and

occupied a small church edifice on Germain street, between Duke and

Queen. This building had been used, on the formation of the city, as

a court house and common council chamber. It was then occupied by the

Episcopalians, and afterwards by the Methodists. It soon became too

small, and in 1815 the present site, on the corner of Germain and

Queen streets, was purchased. The first building was completed and

dedicated in July, 1818. The following advertisement appeared in the

city papers: “A new Baptist meeting house will be opened for the

worship of God on Lord’s Day next, when appropriate sermons will be

preached and hymns sung. Collections will be made toward the expense

of the building. Services at 11 A.M. and 6 P. M. (Sgd.) THOMAS

GRIFFIN, Pastor.

St. John, July 8th, 1818.”

This shows that even at the early date the ministers realized the

value of the press.

This old wooden Church fronted on Queen street and had a seating

capacity of 500 to 600. On each side of the entrance was a short

flight of stairs leading up to the Church. At the head of these

stairs in recesses on either side were large stoves for heating the

building. Opposite the entrance was a high box pulpit with fourteen

steps leading up to it. Behind the pulpit was a large window looking

north. In front was a square pew with a railing round the top and

dark maroon curtains. In the pew was a table on which were four

pewter plates used in taking up the collection. During the service

the deacons sat in this pew. At this time they were: Drake,

Pettingill and Gale. There was a gallery on three sides of the

Church—the choir being opposite the pulpit. In the gallery to the

left of the minister sat the colored people, of whom there were quite

a number. On the ground floor the wall pews were square, while those

in the centre were single pews. The pews were upholstered to suit the

taste of the owners, some being done with scarlet, garnet or green,

and the others with more somber colors. When the Church was enlarged,

in 1838, the old-fashioned high pulpit was removed, much to the

satisfaction of the worshippers. William Stenning and Thomas Harding

superintended the erection of the new Church, and Brother Stenning’s

funeral sermon was the first preached in the building. Subscriptions

towards the building fund were opened October 14th, 1815. The

following are among the amongst contributed: Thomas Pettingill, John

M. Wilmot, Thomas Harding and William Stenning £50 each; Nathan

Garrison £25; John Dyer and William Harding £20 each; Benjamin Gale

and Henry Blakslee £15 each; Andrew S. Green, Joshua Lane, Samuel

Chadburn, Henry Holmes and Jeremiah Drake £10 each; and others from

£1 to £5.

Lighting.

At first candles were used to light the Church. From the centre of

the ceiling was suspended a brass chandelier with twenty-four

candles. On the walls of the main floor and gallery above every third

pew there was a movable candlestick, and on each side of the reading

desk were two movable candlesticks attached to stationary stands. The

sexton wearing soft slippers would noiselessly ascend the pulpit

steps, snuffers and tray in hand, and passing behind the minister

snuff the candles; then closing the pulpit door, slowly descend the

steps. He would then proceed round the Church snuffing the

candles—some fifty in all. By the time had made a circuit of the

church it was time to commence again, and usually he made the rounds

three times during the service. At times a draft from the door or

window would cause the candles to flare, and many a broadcloth coat

or silk dress would be spattered with grease. In course of time sperm

oil lamps were substituted for the candles, and they were considered

a very great improvement. In 1845, gas was introduced into the city,

and used in this church for the first time at the formation of the

Maritime Convention in 1846. The present system of electric lighting

having been introduced only so recently as 1906.

REV. THOMAS GRIFFIN.

Rev. Thomas Griffin, who came from England, was the second pastor. He

took up the work in 1818, and remained two years.

In 1820 the Female Mite Society contributed from Missions £15 3s. 7d.

($ 60.72). “The Church was small.” says Dr. Bill, “having only about

sixty members and they had just completed their first house of

worship. This contribution indicates the depth of their piety, and

their earnestness in sending the Gospel to the destitute.”

REV. RICHARD SCOTT.

Rev. Richard Scott was next called to the pastorate, being the third

pastor. He came from England in the spring of 1821. On July 1st of

this year, the Baptist churches in New Brunswick were formed into a

separate Association, and met with this church. At this time there

were in New Brunswick 13 churches, 6 ministers, and 506 members, our

membership being 59. Elders Harris and Miller remained after the

close of the Association and conducted Revival Services. Rev. Richard

Scott went to the United States and collected toward the debt on the

Church $1,061.00.

On Mr. Scott’s retirement a young man by the name of Densmore, who

had been converted in a lumber camp, came to the city. He was on his

way to the United States intending to devote himself to the ministry

and was filled with the spirit of the Gospel. At the request of the

Church he remained some time, and under his ministrations the Church

was greatly revived and edified. For some time the Church was without

a pastor, but was visited by Revs. Joseph Crandall, R. Davis, C. M.

James, D. Dunbar and T. Ansley. The ministry of these brethren

greatly comforted and confirmed the Church, and a few were added to

the membership.

REV. CHARLES MILLER.

Rev. Charles Miller, 1824, was called as the fourth pastor. He

remained two years, during which time eighty persons were added to

the Church, the most of them by baptism. He was born in 1749 at

Stirling Scotland, and was brought up a Congregationalist. He was

ordained a Baptist Minister at Sackville in 1820. He was pastor on

the Miramichi from 1821 to 1823. He left this city in 1826 for the

United States, where he spent the rest of his days, the latter part

of which were spent at Skowhegan, Maine.

REV. JOSEPH CRANDALL.

Rev. Joseph Crandall supplied the pulpit as pastor for a short time

following Rev. Charles Miller, and his work was greatly blessed. He

was born in Rhode Island. His parents came to Chester about 1775,

when he was an infant. He was converted and united with the church at

Chester, when under the care of Rev. Joseph Dimmock. He was ordained

pastor of the church at Sackville in 1799, and was pastor of a number

of churches in New Brunswick. He died February 20th, 1858, having

reached the age of eighty-six years, after having preached the Gospel

for nearly sixty years.

REV. CHARLES TUPPER.

Rev. Charles Tupper, father of Sir Charles Tupper, became the sixth

pastor in 1826, but remained only a short time on account of ill

health. Rev. Charles Tupper was born August 16th, 1794, at

Cornwallis, N. S. He began to teach school at nineteen. He united

with the Cornwallis Church in 1815, began to preach in 1816, and was

ordained in 1819. He died January, 1881, after a ministry of

sixty-five years. As a student, preacher, pastor, teacher and writer,

he was very successful. He mastered thirteen languages, so as to be

able to read the Bible in them all. Of his controversies and

discourses one of his opponents said that “He wrote with the

seriousness of a Christian, and the politeness of a gentleman.” He

formed the first Temperance Society in New Brunswick. He was the

editor of the Baptist Missionary Magazine for Nova Scotia and New

Brunswick. In 1838, he acted as a principal of the Baptist Seminary

at Fredericton. In 1857 the degree of D. D. was conferred by Acadia

University. He was noted for his piety, great ability and devotion to

duty.

After Mr. Tupper’s retirement the pulpit was supplied for nearly two

years by Mr. Enoch Freeman, a student of Waterville College. In 1827

a Missionary Society was formed and the sum of £17 10s. 0d. ($ 70.00)

was raised. In 1828 the Association was again held with this Church.

REV. FREDERICK MILES.

Rev. Frederick Miles, who had been educated at King’s College,

Windsor, was ordained in 1828 and became the seventh pastor. Numbers

of persons were added to the Church through the faithful labors of

Mr. Miles. During his pastorate of three years, fifty were received

by baptism. In the autumn of 1830, Mr. Miles resigned for the purpose

of completing his theological course at Newton.

After the retirement of Rev. Mr. Miles, the Rev. Samuel Bancroft

supplied the pulpit for a time with much acceptance, and several

converts were added during his short term of service.

REV. J. G. NAILOR.

Rev. J. G. Nailor, of England, visited the city in September. 1831,

and was invited to occupy the pulpit. Being a man of more than

ordinary talents, his preaching was highly approved of by the Church

and he was called to the pastorate. He declined the call, but agreed

to remain for a few months as acting pastor, when he left for the

United States. In this year a good Sunday School was conducted. This

is the first time the Sunday School is mentioned in any of the

accounts.

REV. THOMAS CURTIS

Rev. Thomas Curtis came here from England and became the tenth

pastor—serving from 1832 to 1835. He was a man of great intellectual

power, and his sermons were exceedingly rich in evangelical truth. He

was a profound student of the Bible, and had distinguished himself by

his Biblical attainments in his own country, and his ministrations

were highly appreciated. In 1845 he was pastor of the Baptist Church

at Charlestown, South Carolina, and highly esteemed for his mental

attainments and consistent religious character.

REV. J. D. CASEWELL’S FIRST PASTORATE

The Church being again without a pastor, instructed their clerk, Mr.

James Holman, who was going to England on business, to apply to Rev.

Mr. Lester, an eminent Baptist minister of Liverpool, for advice in

regard to a suitable young man as future pastor. He responded to the

wishes of the Church and selected J. D. Casewell. He accepted the

proposal to come to St. John, and before leaving England was

ordained. He was inducted into the pastorate in June, 1835. His

eminent pulpit talents, combined with a kind and generous heart, gave

great promise of future success. He continued to serve the Church two

years when his health gave out and he left for his native land.

Rev. Samuel Bancroft then supplied the Church for the second time, as

he had previously done in 1830. He was a man of sterling piety, and

sincere devotion to the cause of Christ, and several converts were

added to the church during his ministry. He died at an advanced age

in 1876, and rests from his labors.

REV. SAMUEL ROBINSON, 1838-1850.

——————

REV. SAMUEL ROBINSON was born in the North of Ireland. He experienced

religion early in life, and when still a youth commenced preaching in

his own country as a Presbyterian. He came to this country and

settled in Charlotte County. The Rev. Thos. Ansley visited that

district in 1830, and was instrumental in directing Mr. Robinson to

an investigation of Believers’ Baptism as taught in the New

Testament. The examination resulted in impressing his mind with the

idea that there is no valid authority in the Scriptures for Infant

Baptism, and that Christian Baptism is Immersion in the name of the

sacred Trinity, upon a profession of faith in Jesus Christ. Mr.

Ansley’s visit to St. George took place under peculiarly impressive

circumstances. In the early part of his ministry he has visited

Charlotte County, and had been the means of producing a very powerful

revival of religion. Long years had passed, and a great declension in

spiritual things prevailed; but there were a few who cherished the

remembrance of this revival visit of Mr. Ansley, and were anxious to

hear his voice once more. He was invited to visit St. George, and

received the message as sent from God. He came, lifted up his voice,

trumpet-tones, and a wide-spread revival followed. The man of God

felt he had a message for Mr. Robinson, so sought him out and

delivered it. The saintly appearance of the Evangelist, the solemnity

of his address, and the fervency of his prayers made a deep

impression upon the mind of this young Presbyterian brother. It was

arranged for Mr. Robinson to attend one of the Evangelist’s services.

As the service proceeded, the preaching, so simple, so unctious,

inspired Mr. Robinson with strange and powerful emotions. He felt his

heart drawn to the venerable preacher with a strong religious

affection, and ere he was aware, the mantle of the old Elijah had

fallen upon the young Elijah. Still he had no idea of becoming a

Baptist. After Mr. Ansley had returned to his home in Bridgetown, Mr.

Robinson was led to prayerfully study the New Testament as he has

never done before, in reference to his duty regarding this matter,

and was constrained contrary to his training to confess that the

study of the New Testament had made him a Baptist. In due time he

wrote to Mr. Ansley to come over and baptize him. The Baptism was

appointed to take place at St. David’s—a most central position. The

Baptismal day arrived and crowds flocked from all sections of the

country to witness the ordinance. The venerable administrator came to

the discharge of his duty invested with the majesty of the Spirit’s

power, and all felt: “Surely God is in this place.” Having

accomplished his work, Mr. Ansley’s course on earth was done, and he

died without reaching his home. Mr. Robinson continued his labors in

Charlotte County for some seven or eight years. The speed sprang up

in all directions, and an abundant harvest was gathered in.

Mr. Robinson came to St. John for the first time in 1838. The Church

had for some time been in a cold divided state, but a change for the

better was soon apparent, and the ministry of Mr. Robinson was so

acceptable that it was soon necessary to enlarge the Church by an

addition of seventeen feet. This met the demand for sittings, and

gave an opportunity to provide a Baptistry. Second Baptist Church.

Soon after Mr. Robinson came, the restoration of several members, who

had been separated from the fellowship of the Church by reason of

differences which had arisen, took place, with the understanding that

a second church should be formed. These members therefore received

their dismission, and by the advice of a council duly called were

formed into what was known as the Second Baptist Church. They built a

church in 1840—the building now in the possession of the St. John’s

Presbyterian Church on King street East. They called different

pastors, and for a time enjoyed prosperity, but owing to a

combination of adverse circumstances the movement did not succeed. It

may have been that the time was not ripe for a second church, and

consequently it ceased to exist.

Shortly after his coming the Church requested Mr. Robinson to remove

to the city permanently and devote all his time to the work here. He

accepted the call provisionally, and spent a large portion of his

time during 1838 and 1839 in this city, laboring with untiring energy

and enlarged success. This he continued to do, until by the earnest

solicitations of the people, combined with the blessing of God upon

his ministry, he was convinced that it was his duty to accept the

permanent pastorate of this Church. He removed his family to St.

John, and a parsonage was built on Germain street adjoining the

Church. A small building had previously stood upon this lot which had

been used as a vestry. In 1841 the rock was removed from under the

Church, and the vestry for the use of the Sunday School and prayer

meeting was completed.

Music.

For a number of years there were no chants, responses, organ, or paid

singers, but the congregation joined heartily in the singing. Up to

Mr. Robinson’s time there was no music during the taking of the

collection, and the noise of the pennies and coppers dropping on the

pewter plates was not at all pleasing. The choir prevailed on Mr.

Robinson, who was fond of music, to obtain the consent of the deacons

for them to give what was then known as a “Copper Tune.” After much

persuasion the deacons consented, and the next Sunday the choir sang

the anthem “Great is the Lord and Greatly to be Praised.” The deacons

were much alarmed at such “dance music” being given in the house of

God on the Sabbath day. At the close of the service they met, and

determined that such music must be stopped. Mr. Robinson was

instructed to go to the choir at once and stop such unseemly

proceedings. That pastor eventually prevailed on the deacons to allow

the choir to sing during the collection, on condition that they sing

only quiet tunes. This they did for a while, till the prejudice was

broken down, when they sang such pieces as they thought best, and the

deacons did not again interfere.

In January, 1840, a series of special services were commenced by the

pastor and Rev. Charles Tupper, the latter continuing to labor with

the pastor during the winter.

In 1841 a revival commenced in the Sunday School. A number of the

scholars confessed conversion and were baptized. The work extended to

the congregation and a number of young men and women professed a

new-born faith.

On the 16th day of May, 1841, the Carleton Branch was formed into a

separate church; and in 1842 a church was formed at Musquash,

consisting of about twenty members.

At Grand Bay twelve of fourteen persons were baptized and received

into the membership of this Church. On the formation of the Fairville

Church in 1881, those remaining on our roll were dismissed to that

church. The work was continued at Musquash, Grand Bay and Red Head.

There were weekly accessions for months in succession, and a rich

harvest of souls were gathered in, so that 1842 was a year of

refreshing in this Church and its outposts.

The commercial crisis of 1843 produced much financial embarrassment,

and occasioned many removals on the part of church members; but the

labors of the pastor were incessant, and the spirit of revival was

enjoyed in some measure, though not to the same extent as in the

previous year.

The mercantile depression continued and was greatly felt by the

Church through 1844; but the work of God advanced despite all

depressing influences, and some fifteen were baptized during the

year. The pastor was aided in his work by Brother John Francis, whose

zeal and earnestness in the cause produced a deep impression on many

hearts.

The Portland Church was organized in 1842, and 1846 the Association

met with them, this Church assisting in entertaining the delegates.

On the Sabbath an interesting meeting was held in the open air in the

neighborhood of “The Bethel” on Britain street. Several were

converted, and the worship of God established in that place. In 1847

“The Bethel” was completed and opened for worship. It was designed to

be a free house—open to sailors, and any who might be induced to come

and hear the message of life. It is worthy of note that “The Bethel”

was erected on the very ground where a house once stood, occupied by

a colored sister belonging to this Church, and was for many years

consecrated as a place of prayer.

The Baptist Convention was organized in this Church in 1846. At this

time the deacons were: N. S. De Mille, Thomas Lockey, Samuel Kinsman,

and John Smith. The cause was greatly revived in 1847, twenty being

added by baptism and fifteen by letter.

One of Mr. Robinson’s methods for aggressive work was to send out the

members in bands of four to hold meetings in different parts of the

city and vicinity. Besides the places previously referred to these

included Brussels street, Pitt Street, Marsh Bridge and Loch Lomond.

Such a meeting was established on Brussels street in a private room.

It soon became a Mission station. In 1847 the erection of the present

edifice was commenced, and in 1850 a separate church was organized.

1848 was distinguished by the out-pouring of the Spirit’s power. The

gracious work commenced in March in the Sunday School under the

superintendence of Deacon G. A. Garrison. Eight young persons

presented themselves for baptism and were joyfully received by the

Church. The good work proceeded as the following report will show.

When the Western Association was organized in 1848, this Church

reported an increase for year: By baptism 33, by letter 16, restored

3. Total increase 52. Total membership 455. Contributions for

Denominational Funds £27 11s. 8 1/2d. ($110.34).

Sunday School: No. of Schools 2, No. of Scholars 200, No. of Teachers

35, No. of Volumes 600, No. of Baptisms from Schools 25.

In 1849 the Sunday School reported 3 Schools, 320 Scholars, and 43

Teachers; while in 1850, after the separation, the numbers had fallen

to 1 School, 120 Scholars and 16 Teachers.

Brussels Street Building Dedicated.

The Brussels Street building was completed and dedicated on Sunday,

September 1st, 1849. Rev. Theodore S. Harding, who preached the

dedication sermon, contrasted the condition of the Baptists in the

city at that time with the past, it being forty-six years since he

had first visited the city. The Church, not being in circumstances to

settle a pastor at Brussels street, made temporary arrangements for

assistance by the pastors of the Portland and Carleton churches.

The Associational letter from this Church August, 1849, refers to the

time when Father Pettingill opened a prayer meeting in 1808, with

only three praying brothers to assist him, and says: “Since then

eight Baptist places of worship have been erected in the City and its

environs, through the agency of this Church which grew from these

feeble beginnings. The most of these churches were supplied at the

time with the faithful preaching of God’s word. The records of the

Church for the previous ten years show additions by baptism and

letter of 600; but the loss by death, dismissals, removals and

exclusions left the church at that time with a membership of 334.”

Brussels Street Church Formed.

The plan of Associate Pastors for Germain and Brussels streets not

working very well, in 1859 the church decided to separate. This was

carried by a vote of 57 against 17. The division of the mother church

was made with the utmost harmony and good feeling on the part of all,

both pastor and people believing that the establishing of a separate

church at the other end of the city would lead to a more general

knowledge of Baptist doctrines and the consequent extension of the

Master’s Kingdom. Subsequent history has proved this belief to be

well founded. We quote from Dr. Bill’s sermon at the dedication of

the new building erected here in 1866: “This movement—the division of

the church—which we believe was of God, left us without pastor or

deacons. Instead of being discouraged, the Church rallied around the

standard of the banner of the Cross of Christ, which had been planted

here so many years, and directing their united efforts determined to

stand fast in the defense of the gospel, and maintain their rank and

standing. Unfurling to the breeze the folds of this banner, we went

forward proclaiming victory through the Blood of the Lamb, and

victory—blessed be God—has been ours.”

Readjustments.

Dr. Carey says: “The remnant clinging to this hallowed spot again

called Rev. J. G. Casewell to the pastorate, he having about this

time returned from England. The following brethren were elected

deacons: George A. Garrison, Edmund S. Barteaux, Dr. Simon Fitch and

Manuel Francis. Solomon Hersey was appointed treasurer, and G. A.

Garrison continued as clerk. The first report to the Association,

after the separation, gives the following information: Number

dismissed to Brussels street 158; to other churches 7, died 2,

leaving a membership of 167. This number was reduced by 27, who were

not in full fellowship, so that the real number of members was only

140. Contributions to the Denominational Funds: £27 14s. 7d.

($110.92.)

After the separation, this Church which had previously been known as

the First Baptist Church, was called the Germain Street Baptist

Church. This name it still retains, with the addition of the word

“United” which was added when the two branches of the Baptist family

in the Maritime Provinces became one.

Rev. Mr. Casewell had many warm friends and admirers, and it was

hoped that his splendid pulpit ability would soon gather a large

congregation. Hence, notwithstanding discouraging circumstances, the

members took hold with the united determination to exert themselves

to the utmost to build up the cause here. Old debts were paid and

arrangements were made for the support of the pastor and for the

general expenses of the Church. The burden fell quite heavily upon a

few, and some embarrassment was felt; but by united effort the

expenses were regularly met, and indications for the future were

favorable. In March, 1851, revival indications were manifested

especially among the young, and several professed conversion. Mr.

Casewell’s health having again failed, he left for England in 1851,

and on the voyage passed suddenly from time to eternity.

REV. DR. BILL’S PASTORATE, 1852-1863

——————

REV. I. E. BILL, of Nictaux, N. S., was the second pastor after the

separation. He came February, 1852, and continued till February,

1863. He labored faithfully and successfully in extending the

triumphs of the Gospel—not only in the pulpit but also through the

press, as editor of “The Christian Visitor.” During his pastorate of

eleven years more than 300 members were added to our number by

baptism, and by letter from sister churches. He was present at the

laying of the corner stone of the present building in 1877. He is

spoken of in the early days of his ministry in this city as one of

the most popular preachers of his time. His fluency of speech and

power of declamation made him a favorite preacher, and drew large

congregations to hear him.

Rev. I. E. Bill was born February 19th, 1805, at Cornwallis, N. S. He

was baptized by Rev. Edward Manning, and began to preach in 1837. He

was ordained at Nictaux in 1829, where he was pastor for over twenty

years, and was greatly blessed in his work—during the first year of

his pastorate baptizing 151 persons. He was a warm friend of Acadia

College and its affiliated institutions, and was present at the

founding of the Academy in 1828. In 1881 Acadia University conferred

on him the Degree of Doctor of Divinity. He established the first

Ladies’ Boarding School at Nictaux in 1846. He was a pastor of

Germain Street Church 1852 to 1863. After resigning the pastorate of

this Church, he preached in Fredericton, St. Martins and other

places. Dr. Saunders says “He was an extraordinary man and

minister—loving and beloved. His ‘Fifty Years with the Baptists’ is a

monument.” He dies at St. Martins, August 4th, 1891, aged eighty-six

years.

Dr. Gates in preaching his funeral sermon says: “You can know with

what attachment Dr. Bill was bound to this Church, when you recall

the fact that he retained his membership here until the last, and it

is this Church that now reports another of its members passed into

the land—‘where sweeps no desolating wind.’” Dr. Gates in concluding

says: “Have you not known him; have you not heard him eloquently

pleading for the higher education; have you not listened to him as

with tender pathos he had pleaded for the millions of the perishing

in the heathen lands; have you not listened at with burning words he

denounced the evils of the time; aye, too, have you not felt the

force, the power of his enthusiasm, his hopefulness as he has painted

in your presence in glowing colors the coming of the more blessed

days—the days of righteousness, of peace, of grace—days of the

reigning of Jesus Christ?”

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

In 1859 the Deacons were: G. A. Garrison, John Fisher, Manuel

Francis, E. J. Barteaux, E. H. Duval, and A. McL. Seely. This year we

find the New Year’s Conference Meeting referred to for the first

time. At the Annual Charity Sermon, the collection was £9.

It is to be regretted that owing to loss of the Records more of the

History of the Church during Dr. Bill’s pastorate is not available.

Dr. Bill himself in closing an historical sermon delivered in this

Church in 1863 said: “The remaining portion of the History includes

my own life and labors as pastor of this Church. We shall not go into

the subject at present, but at some future day, and in other hands,

it may be found to comprise a chapter not devoid of interest, as the

history of this Baptist Church is rich in incident as it is also rich

in suggestion and influence.”

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

When Rev. I. E. Bill resigned, in 1863, Rev. Henry Vaughan, son of

Simon Vaughan, of St. Martins, was called to the pastorate and

entered upon his labors in March. He was a graduate of Acadia

University and Newton Theological Seminary, and was ordained at St.

George in 1862. He was a sound preacher and well qualified to fill

the pastoral office, and his friends looked forward to a long life of

usefulness in the Master’s service.

The Second Building.

The old Church, built in 1818, and enlarged in 1838, was out of date

and not in keeping with the progress of the city. It was therefore

resolved, in March, 1864, to erect in its place a substantial brick

building. To this work the pastor gave himself with untiring zeal and

unabated energy, contributing of his own means and obtaining

subscriptions from his relatives and friends to forward the

undertaking on which he has set his heart. The corner stone was to

have been laid on the 24th of August, but the pastor was suddenly

taken ill, and died on 14th of September, 1864. On the 22nd of

September the corner stone was laid with appropriate ceremonies, but

a shadow was thrown on the scene, for the loved and laborious pastor

was not there, but had gone to his rest and reward.

The vestry was completed and dedicated on the 6th of February, 1864,

when a discourse was delivered by Rev. I. E. Bill commemorative of

the life and work of the Rev. Henry Vaughan.. Mr. Vaughan is the only

pastor of this Church since its formation who has died while pastor.

The Church was completed in 1866, and was built of brick with cut

stone trimmings. It was of the Gothic style of architecture in use in

the early part of the fourteenth century, with some adaptations. It

had a frontage of fifty feet on Germain street, and seventy-five on

Queen. The entrance was through the tower in the centre of the

building and was surmounted by a portal pleasing to the eye. The

vestibule had a groined roof, and the ceiling of the main auditorium,

being supported by pillars, together with the Gothic roof, gave a

very pleasing appearance to the interior. There were galleries on

three sides of the church, the choir and the organ occupying the one

facing the minister. The main audience room was dedicated on the

second Sunday in November, 1866. It was a beautiful sanctuary,

commodious, homelike and pleasant, suggesting the words of the

Psalmist: “How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of Hosts.” The

Baptistry was in the Vestry, on the northern side of the room, the

platform being over it, and the seats arranged to face the same way.

Off the Vestry were the Parlor and Infant classrooms, in the same

positions as in the present building, while the library was in the

south-west corner. The cost of the building was $40,000.

The Parsonage faced on Germain street, and was built of wood, being

the building erected in 1840. In 1872 it was remodeled at a cost of

$1,400, and made very comfortable for the family of Rev. Dr. Carey.

REV. DR. CAREY’S PASTORATE, 1865-1881.

———————

REV. G. M. W. CAREY was invited to visit the city in August, 1865. He

came, preached for three Sundays, and received a unanimous call to

the pastorate. He accepted and entered upon his labors here on the

third Sunday in December, 1865.

Death of Rev. Samuel Robinson.

The death of Rev. Samuel Robinson occurred September 16th, 1886,

after long and successful pastorates in this and Brussels Street

Churches. For some twelve years he was pastor here, during which time

374 persons were added to our membership by baptism and 188 by

letter—a total of 562. At Brussels Street Church he labored from 1850

up to the time of his death—sixteen years—and was the means under God

of adding to the membership of our sister Church 456 by baptism and

191 by letter—647 in all. During his two pastorates in this city,

which covered the long term of twenty-seven years, he thus received

into the two Churches the large number of 1,209 persons. Mr. Robinson

probably did more than any other man of his time in extending Baptist

principles in this city and county, and his work was greatly blessed

by God.

Revival Services.

On January 17th, 1870, Elder Knapp, of Illinois, who had been invited

to the city by Germain and Leinster Street Churches, commenced

special services. The plan adopted was to meet alternately in each

church a week at a time, and hold united services. Elder Knapp’s

sermons were searching and powerful, striking terror to the hearts of

the ungodly, and convincing the backslider of his sinfulness and

bringing him back to the realization of his duty to God and the

Church. The meetings were largely attended, and a profound impression

was made on the minds of the unconverted. As a result of these

services 103 persons were added to the Church by baptism and by

letter.

Church Debt Paid.