VIEW OF THE RISE AND INCREASE OF THE CHURCHES, COMPOSING THE Otsego Baptist Association.
By A. HOSMER AND J. LAWTON.
WHITESTOWN: Printed by WARREN BARNARD — 1800 —
BUTTERNUTS CHURCH.
IN the month of June, A. D. 1773. Ebenezer King and Incr [...] Thurstin, removed with their families and settled the Butternut Creek* about fourteen miles from its mouth whe [...] it empties into the Un [...]illa river, about twenty miles nearly south w [...] from the head of Susquehannah river. At this time there was no English settlement to the westward of them nearer than Niagara, in the [...]rovi [...]e of Upper Canada, which is upwards of two hundred miles [...]istance, the int [...]diate space was filled with several tribes of the ab [...]gin [...]s, nor any inhabitant in any direction within sixteen miles. A fe [...] more person [...] came on the same summer; and made some improvemen [...], but [...] the winter they returned (excepting Benjamin Lull, jun. wh [...] had married Elizabeth the daughter of Ebenezer Knap and lived in the family with him) and those two families lived alone through the winter. Ebenezer Knap and his wife were members of the Baptist church in Warwick under the care of Elder [...]ames Benedict. T [...]e persons notwithstanding their local situation, and their distance fro [...] civilized people, were not unmindful of the duties of religion [...] b [...]t upon their arrival in this inhospitable wild they set up a religious meeting, which was held at the house of Ebenezer Knap, in which▪ they attended to singing, exhorting and praying. But without any visible effect on the minds of their children until the February following, when on one Friday evening Elizabeth Lull, wife of Benjamin Lull, jun. arose from her bed in great distress of mind, and coming down stairs she repeated the following words:
"I have lived [...]teen years; and never had a good thought, sp [...]e a good word▪ or did a good deed." This made an impression on the mind of her sister Martha, and likewise upon her husband. Thus the work of the Lord began. Ebenezer Knap was gone from home† [...]nd they had no earthly instructor than their mother. They continued in this exercise of mind until April, when Mrs. Lull and her sister Martha were brought into liberty. In the course of the ensuing summer seven more families moved into the settlement and united with them in their religious meetings. This summer was a comfortable time with them, in the former part of which Increase Thurstin's wife was brought to rejoice in the Lord, together with C [...]leb Lull▪ son of Benjamin Lull, senior, and many others appeared under deep exercises of mind on account of their souls. It continued a comfortable season with them until the summer following.
In June 1775, one Jackson was killed by an Indi [...] on the Butternut [Page 4]Creek about two miles from the settlement; it was supposed the Indian murd [...]ed him for his money.
In A. D. 1776, the inhabitants began to be distressed by the war, and had [...]e more peace until they were deprived of most of their effects and forced to break up their settlement and retire to the interior of the country.
In the course of this year a party of men were sent by the authority of the state, who obliged the inhabitants to take the oath of neutr [...]ity and disarmed them.
In A. D. 1777, a party of the British came into the settlement, and obliged the inhabitants to swear not to take up arms against the King of Britain.
In 1778, in consequence of a suspicion that the inhabitants had viola [...]d their oath, and supplied the enemy with provision. Two companies were sent from the garrison at Cherry. Valley, who took the principal men prisoners, and drove away all the cattle they could find: The prisoners were carried to Cherry-Valley and examined, then sent to Albany and confined. In September the same year a party of the Oneida Indians came and took away all the men that were left except one who was absent; and carried them to Fort Stanwix, and delivered them as prisoners to the garrison under pretence that they took them on their way to Niagara. The women and children were now left alone surrounded by hostile savages and howling beast of prey.
In a few days after the Indians were gone, Elizabeth, the wife Benjamin Lull, senior being deprived of her family (which consisted of her husband and five sons, who were all taken prisoners) formed the resolution of leaving the place; accordingly she set out (accompanied with another woman, who carried with her two small children) through the wood for Cherry-Valley, where they arrived after two days travel, in which they endured great distress, on account of the ruggedness of the way, continual fears of the enemy, and the inclemency of the weather, for a great part of the time it rained exceeding hard, and at night they took up their lodging in an old hut and made their bed of some oat-straw. The distance they travelled was about thirty-two miles. Mrs. Lull was at this time about 57 years of age, and carried a pack that was judged to weigh about thirty weight.
In a short time after this the prisoners were released, as there was nothing found against them. They immediately removed their families back into the old settlements. Thus were these people driven from their habitations after passing through scenes of anxiety and distress, which must affect the feeling heart with exquisite sensations.
But through all their distress and danger, kind providence protected them, so that no lives were lost except Jackson's aforesaid. In 1783 Benjamin Lull with his wife and one son returned to the settlement and lived alone through the winter.
In 1784, four more families returned. In 1785 they again set up religious meetings. About the year 1787, they had preaching part of [Page 5]the time and some were baptized by Elder Comstock who had collected a small church in Cooper's patent, but he dying soon 'after, his church became extinct.
In A. D. 1792, Elder Craw from Greenfield visited them, preached and baptized two persons; May 16, 1793 a number of Baptist professors met at the house of Mr. Joseph Lull, in Unadilla for conferences after an agreeable interview in which they found a union of sentiment respecting doctrine and discipline, they adjourned their meeting.
June 1793, they again met and after further conversation they read and adopted a covenant, and agreed to call a council.
August 28th, 1793 a council consisting of the Elder and delegates from Greefield church met, and after inspecting their doings, gave them fellowship as a church in sister relation: Their number was five males, and five females. This church lies southwesterly from Springfield about thirty five miles.
Ebenezer Knap and his wife are yet members of the church and they have the pleasure of seeing their two daughters (their only surviving children) one of their sons in law, and six of their grand children) in the same church with them.
SPRINGFIELD.
IN 1787 there was a collection of nine Babtist professors in the town of Springfield, but were not regularly organized as a church: they continued in this situation until 1789, when Elder Furman removed to that place, whose labor in the Gospel (by the divine blessing) proved successful. In February the same year the work of the Lord began, and on the 13th day of March following Elder Furman, with twenty more, united with them in Covenant, and now considered themselves a gospel church, and in the words of Elder Furman, "this was a beautiful sight, a glorious day in the wilderness." They were now thirty in number walking together in union and harmony: This was the first Baptist Church erected in this once howling desert. The work of God still continued and before the end of January following, thirty-six more were added to the church.
In 1793 God again visited them with a small revival, and seven were added to the church.
In 1796 the Lord was pleased to pour out his spirit among them again, and fourteen were added to the church. This church from the beginning has been in a flourishing condition, and favored with additions yearly. Elder Furman still continues his labours among them, and we have received information that God is again visiting them, and a work of reformation is going on in that place.
FIRST CHURCH BURLINGTON.
ON the 27th of November A. D. 1793, a number of Baptist professors* [Page 6] [...] the house of Brother E. Leonard in the easterly part of Burlington for conference. Part of these were members of churches in the old [...] towns, others had been members of a church which arose here und [...]r the auspices of an Elder Comstock, but he dying, they lost their [...]bility. From this time they continued their conferences▪ and h [...]rd the relations of those who were unbaptized, until the 4th of January, 1794, when they voted to send for a council. March 28th, 1794 the council consisting only of the Elder and messengers from the church in Springfield, convened, and after examining their articles and covenant, gave them fellowship as a sister church. Their numbers were ten. This church lies southwesterly from Springfield, distant about 24 miles.*
FAIRFIELD AND PALATINE.
IN March 1793 Elder Butler removed his family to the Royal Grant. In April following set up conferences to see if they could be agreed to come together as a gospel church, they continued until July 1794, when they entered into covenant and were fellowsh [...]pt by Elder Cornell. Their number was 14. Lies north from Springfield 21 miles.
NORWICH FIRST CHURCH.
ON the 9th of June, A. D. 1792, a number of Baptist professors living on the Governor's purchase upon the west side of Unadilla river, met in conference chose a moderator and clerk, proceeded to give a relation of their Christian experience; and made other inquiries necessary to the gaining an acquaintance and obtaining fellowship with each other. These conferences were continued; and such fellowship obtained, that on the 27th of November 1793, they agreed to send for a council to meet at the house of Simeon Camp on the Unadilla river, on the 20th of January 1794; on said day Elder Joseph Craw and one Brother from Greenfield church† attended the other churches f [...]led) where after inquiring into their doings, gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order, which is now known by the name of the First Church in Norwich. Their numbers were eleven. This church lies southwesterly from the church in Springfield about forty-two miles.
SECOND CHURCH IN BURLINGTON.
IN the beginning of the year 1794, the inhabitants on Wharton creek, in the town of Burlington, generally attended a meeting of the [Page 7] [...]ethodist order. About the first of March 1794. Deacon Martin [...]ther removed into this place, when he and Brother J. Vaughn had conversation on the propriety of setting up a meeting of the Baptist de [...]omination, and agreed to appoint a conference at Brother Vaughn's on the 13th day of March 1794. Accordingly a number of the inhabitants met at the time and place appointed; when after duly considering of the matter, those of the Baptist sentiment agreed to set up a meeting, which was cordially acceded to by the Methodists.—At the next conference which was held soon after a number of persons gave a relation of their experiences which was very satisfactory; and was a very comfortable time, for it appeared evident that the Lord was present by the gracious influence of his holy spirit, and pleasing symptoms of an approaching reformation were discoverable.
On the 29th of March 1794, a number of the Brethren and Sisters covenanted together as a church of Christ.
April 20th 1794 they voted for a council, in order to obtain their fellowship as a sister church.
May 16th 1794, a council consisting of the following churches, viz. Springfield, First in Burlington, and Unadilla, convened at the house of Paul Gardner, where after proper inquiries respecting their saith and practice, proceeded to give them the right hand of fellowship.—Their number was nine. From the 5th of April to the 18th of May, meetings were frequently held, and at every meeting there were some who gave a relation of their experience, so that on the said 18th day Elder Furman visited them, preached, baptized 23 persons and brake bread to the church. From this time there was an increasing attention among the people. At almost every meeting some gave a relation of their experience, until the 29th of June, when Elder Caleb Nichols from the Shaftsbury association visited them, preached, baptized 28 persons, and brake bread to 116, a number of whom were members of the churches in this vicinity. The work was carried on with power until the October following when their number increased to ninety-eight. This church lies southwesterly from Springfield, distant 28 [...].
THIRD CHURCH IN BURLINGTON.
IN March 1793, Jonathan Pettit and Stephen Taylor set up a religious meeting on the Lord's day, in the northwest part of Burlington, and continued the same until December following, when Elder Furman visited them, baptized two persons, and advised them to attend religious conferences for the purpose of obtaining acquaintance and union in order for coming into church order; accordingly, on the 8th of March 1794, they met in conference and eleven persons related their experience, gave mutual satisfaction and union was obtained. They kept up their conferences until May 11th 1794, when they voted to call a council, having before covenanted together. A council consisting of messengers from the following churches, viz. Springfield, [Page]First and Second in Burlington, convened at Brother Timothy Taylor's in Burlington, where after examining their articles and covenant, the council unanimously gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their numbers were eleven. This Church lies southwesterly from Springfield distant about 30 miles.
RICHFIELD alias EXETER.
A NUMBER of Baptist professors from different places, having moved into that part of Richfield now called Exeter, did on the 28th of December 1793, agree to set up a meeting on the Lord's day for religious worship. On the 24th of April 1794, they met at Brother Thomas Hedge's to confer on the propriety of forming a church in gospel order; but many of them, not having as yet received letters of dismission from the churches to which they belonged, they concluded to adjourn until the 14th of June 1794, to meet at the same place.—Accordingly on said day they met, and finding an agreement, they voted to consider themselves as a church in gospel order. The church in Springfield and the first church in Burlington, having been previously invited, met, by their delegates and formed a council for the purpose of inspecting their doings; when, after a candid examination, they gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their number nine. This church lies west from Springfield, distant about seventeen miles. Fifteen members were added within fifteen months from this time.
STEWART's PATENT, alias FIRST OTSEGO.
A NUMBER of persons living on Stewart's patent, in the town of Otsego. did on the 12th of March, 1794, set up a religious meeting. On the 10th of April the same year, they met in conference and began to tell their experiences to each other, and entered into a covenant together to keep up the public worship of God, and family prayer. July 18th 1794, they proceeded to receive others into their society upon their giving a relation of a work of Grace upon their souls.—November 30th 1794, Elder Furman preached and baptized five persons. In conference on the 10th of December 1794, they proceeded to examine the articles and covenant which had previously been drawn up, when finding a good agreement, they voted to send to Springfield church to come and inquire into their faith and order. December 18th 1794, Elder Furman and four Brethren with him, came and examined into their claims and gave them fellowship as a church of Christ.—Their number twelve. This church lies west from Springfield church, distant about seven miles.
SECOND CHURCH OTSEGO.
IN the year 1791 a number of persons set up a religious meeting, The year following, Elder James Bacon came into the place and began to preach to the people, baptized some, and continued with them for [Page 9]the space of two years; and then returned to Connecticut. About this time B'r John Bostwick began to improve by way of doctrine among the people. On the 20th of May 1795 they met in conference and deliberated on the propriety of forming a church. On the 4th Wednesday of June following they again met in conference, and consulted on the subject of church government, and a covenant was agreed to, and they voted to call a council to give them fellowship. On the 19th of August 1795 pursuant to request, a council consisting of the following churches, (viz) Springfield and Franklin, convened and gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their number was 12. This church lies southwesterly from Springfield, distant about 20 miles.
OTEGO FORMERLY SECOND UNADILLA.
IN the year 1790 three B [...]ptist professors moved into the town of Unadilla, near the mouth of the Otego creek, and soon set up the worship of God on Lord's day: the country being new rendered it difficult for the people to assemble, especially on evenings, on which occasions they made use of torches to light them through the Indian paths to their habitations. At a certain time a number of rude persons made an agreement to break up their meeting; but before the time came they were convinced of the impropriety of such conduct, and desisted from their purpose. About this time they were involved in some trials by reason of false brethren, who came in among them. In the years 1792 and 1793 some ministers visited them, a small reformation took place and five persons were baptized. In 1794 several professors moved into the place and united with them in the worship of God. In 1795 they met and gave a relation of their christian experience to each other, and obtained fellowship, agreed upon articles and covenant, and voted to send for a council. August 20th 1795 A council consisting of Springfield and Franklin churches convened and gave them fellowship as a church. Their number was 15. It lies south westerly from Springfield distant about thirty-five miles.
OTSEGO ASSOCIATION.
IN the year 1789 Elder William Furman removed with his family into the town of Springfield, in the county of Otsego, state of New-York. This town lies at the north end of Otsego lake, and about 15 miles south of Mohawk river; and about 60 miles west of Albany. At this time there was no B [...]ptist church in all this extensive country. Eld'r Furman was at this time about forty years of age, he is of a middling statute, robust constitution, fitted to endure hardships, naturally of a mild and gentle disposition, affable in conversation, meek and winning in his preaching; sound in doctrine, in exhortation excels, his gifts seem to be mostly of the exhortative kind; yet, he is capable of handling a text doctrinally to the satisfaction of the lovers [Page 10]of truth. He is of deep penetration and sound judgment, which renders him eminently useful in councils. He was the first minister who was settled in this wilderness, who was particularly useful in planting churches and promoting the rise of this Association. Having the glory of God in view, and desirous of the increase of the Redeemer's kingdom, he spared no pains, but exerted himself to the utmost for the accomplishment of those glorious purposes. He may with propriety be said to be the father of these churches, God has remarkably blessed his labors with abundant success. He now rejoices to see the happy effects of his unwearied pains in the service of his Lord.
In the spring of the year 1794 he proposed to the churches to meet in a conference, to consult the propriety of forming an Association of these churches. Accordingly seven churches met by their delegates on the 4th day of September 1794, at the house of B'r Wm. Goff, in Burlington. Eld'rs Werden, Cornell and Craw, belonging to the Shaftsbury Association being present, took seat with them. After an agreeable conference on the subject, they adjourned until the 2nd Thursday in January, 1795, to meet at the house of Paul Gardner, in Burlington.
January 8th, 1795, the churches again met pursuant to adjournment, and two more were added. Sentiments of an Association and the platform thereof were read, and agreed to refer them to the churches, requesting them to appoint delegates to meet at the meeting house in Springfield, on the 2d day of September next, invested with power to decide on the propriety of forming an Association.
Adjourned.
September 2d, 1795.
The delegates from the churches met.
Introductory Sermon, from Luke XXIV. 26, by Elder Ashbel Hosmer:* A Moderator and Clerk were chosen. Letters from the churches were read, and the following list taken:
| Churches. | Ministers. | Numbers. |
| Springfield, | William Furman, | 56 |
| 1st Burlington, | — — | 22 |
| 2d Burlington, | Ashbel Hosmer, | 101 |
| 3d Burlington, | — — | 10 |
| Norwich, | — — | 30 |
| 1st Unadilla, | — — | 17 |
| Richfield, | — — | 22 |
| Stuart's Patent, | — — | 21 |
| Schuyler, | John Hammond, | 63 |
| Charlestown, | Ehjah Herrick, | 24 |
| Churches. | Ministers. | Numbers. |
| Norway Palatine, | Joel Butler, | 31 |
| 2d Unadilla, | — — | 15 |
| Otsego, | — — | 12 |
| 1 [...] Churches. | 6 Ministers. | 424 |
Note the three last mo [...]ti [...]ed churches had not before attended the conference.
Eld'rs Cornell and Finds by appointment from the Shaftsbury Association being present, took seat in the conference. Adjourned until 8 o'Clock to-morrow morning.
Sept. 3, 8 o'Clock.
Sermon by Eld'r Cornell from Timothy 11.3. After a short intermission proceeded to business. A Platform and plan of union for these churches was read and unanimously agreed upon.
The delicate circumstances in which the infant churches, in this extensive territory were placed, rendered them liable to impositions from artful and designing men; and several such of dangerous principles and corrupt practices having already obtruded themselves upon these new settlements, it became indispensibly necessary that some method should be devised to prevent such impositions in future, and to keep out of our connexion all persons sustaining such characters. Therefore the conference appointed Eld. Cornell to examine each church respecting their faith and practice, and each minister concerning his character. After which the aforementioned churches and minister being found in a circumstance to unite, they UNANIMOUSLY voted to consider themselves at this and future meetings as an Association, by the name of the Otsego Association. The Elders and brethren present gave them fellowship as an Association.
Voted to open a correspondence with the Shaftsbury and D [...]bury Associations.
Voted to meet annually on the first Wednesday in September at 10 o'Clock A. M.
This being the first interview of this nature ever enjoyed in this western country, it was apparently crowned with a divine blessing — The presence of Jehovah was really felt, and the souls of God's people expanded with joy, Some who came to the meeting with a resolution to oppose the forming of an Association, were constrained to acknowledge that God was with them; and their souls rejoiced in the union of these infant churches. Indeed it was a pleasing and interesting scene, to behold the little churches scattered thoughout this extensive land, coming up out of the wilderness and uniting together in an Associate capacity, thereby exhibiting what the Lord had done and was still doing in this once howling desert.
In order to give the reader an idea of the state of the churches in this connex [...]on, we shall present him with some extract [...] from th [...] [Page 12]yearly letters to the Association, so far as we are able.
Extracts of letters to the Association for 1795.
Butternts alias 1st Unadilla. "It seems to be a winter season with us, yet at our last conference we had a very comfortable time.— Our frozen hearts began to thaw; and our cold affections began to flame. We felt a little of our first love, and our desire is that the bleeding cause of God may be built up; that Zion may travel and Satan's kingdom may fall to the ground."
1st Otsego alias Stuart's Patent. "We have to bless God that when we put our trust in him he never proves a barren wilderness to our souls, but is as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land. We have gone through some tria [...] at times; but the Lord has helped us. We have some encouragement—many attentive to hear the word and convicted we trust. We wish that brotherly love may continue."
Exeter alias First Richfield. "We have reason to bless God that not only peace and harmony abound, but we have some additions and it appears that the Lord is at work on the minds of others."
Springfield. "Approves of the platform, and desires the association of the churches."
Third Burlington. "Peace and harmony among us."
Schuyler and Whitestown. "Wishing that practical Godliness may be zealously attended by the churches—we have reason to speak of the goodness of God that we have additions to the church, while we lament that some have of late left us and embraced heretical principles."
Second Burlington. "The church in comfortable circumstances, pray for the upbuilding of the cause of truth."
Second Otsego. "Desirous of union."
Norway and Palatine "We rejoice that God has put it into the heart of any of his people to seek for the advancement of his glory, and the building up of Zion in the world."
Otego alias Second Unadilla. "In comfortable circumstances, desirous for the advancement of the Redeemer's kingdom."
Charlestown. "Small and feeble, recommend themselves to the prayers of God's people."
[Page 13] First Norwich. "In a comfortable state."
Second session of the Otsego Assoctation, holden at Burlington, September 7th and 8th, 1796.
Wednesday, September 7th, so o'clock A. M. Association met. Introductory sermon by Eld'r Joel Butler, from St. John xvii, 2 [...]. Letters from the churches re [...]d and the following account taken:
| Dismissed | 3 | Added | 318 |
| Excluded | 6 | Diminished | 11 |
| Died | 2 | ||
| Diminished | 11 | Increase | 307 |
Four churches and four ministers were added to the Association this year.
Narrative of the churches received this year, [1796.]
FRANKLIN.
IN the month of August, 1792, a reformation began in this town which continued until January 1793, when on the 15th of said month they received fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their number was about 30. They increased greatly in numbers for about one year after they received fellowship: Several more were converted in a judgment of charity, who joined the Presbyterian church. This church lies south westerly from Springfield, distant about fifty mile [...].
AURELIUS.
SOME time in the latter end of the summer of 1795, Eld'r David Irish came into this place, and preached to the people, the Lord added his blessing; so that on the 18th of November the same year, ten persons entered, into church relation. About this time the Lord began to pour out his spirit in convicting and converting sinners in a most glorious manner, the stout hearted were broken down, while young converts were shouting hosannas to the son of David, the hearts of God's people were made to rejoice, and join the blessed theme; their little cottages became praying houses, and the wilderness that not long since was a waste howling desert, where savages and [Page 14]be [...] of prey were wont to roam, became as pools of living water.—This church lies westerly from Springfield, distant about one hundred miles.
FIRST LITCHFIELD.
In September 1794, a number of Baptist professors met in conference to consult on matters relating to Christ's militant kingdom; and feeling it a matter of importance they agreed to continue their conferences. On the 15th of March 1795 they embodied as a church, the church at Fai [...]field and Palatine gave them fellowship. Their number was seven. Soon after the Lord poured out his spirit in a remarkable manner, sinners were awakened and many we trust were brought to the knowledge of the truth, so that twenty were added to the church, besides several who united with the Congregational society in this place. In 1799 this church was again visited by the spirit of God in a special manner, and twelve were added to the church in the space of four months. This church lies west from Springfield, distant about 30 miles.
SCIPIO.
FOR a particular account of the rise of this church, the reader is referred to their letter to the Association for 1796. This church lies w [...]terly from Springfield, distant about one hundred and six miles.
Extracts of letters from the Churches, for 1796.
Butternuts. "Destitute of a pastor, desire the assistance of our Brethren in the ministry, our number small, our progress slow, we have lost one of our members by death the preceding year."
First Otsago. "We remain stedfast in the truth, endeavoring to keep the unity of the spirit in the bonds of peace. We are not ignorant of the devices of satan: but yet, though satan desires to fist Christ's followers as whea [...] we believe the Saviour prayeth for us still; so that we can sing of mercy and judgment."
Aurelius. "In comfortable circumstances the Lord is pouring out his spirit."
First Litchfield. "We have great reason, in this infant fettlement, to bless the Lord for his goodness unto us. At present it is not with us as in months past, not many conversions lately among us, but brotherly love abounds and we enjoy peace among ourselves. We have no pastor."
Exeter. "It appears to be a night season with us, and through much tribulation we march but slowly; nevertheless we rejoice that there is among us a general desire to press forward."
Springfield. "We remain stedfast in the doctrine of the Gospel.— The l [...]d hath blessed us with a spirit of love and union [Page 15] [...]he year past, and some additions have been made to the church.
Second Burlington. "It gives as pleasure to see God hath planted churches, and gives the sweet breathing of his holy spirit to revice the heart of his children."
Otego. "We wish to continue our union with the churches; desiring that they may be enabled to contend earnestly for the faith.— We enjoy a comfortable union, endeavoring to withstand the wiles of the adversary, believing that we shall reap if we faint not."
Charlestown. "We retain the same sentiments in divine things as when we last addressed you: We have to lament that coldness too much prevails among us at present. A small addition has been made to our number the year past. We are feeble, and have many trials to pass through. Brethren pray for us, that we may have grace and wisdom given us to walk as becoming those professing godliness."
Scipio. "The great Captain of our Salvation, from motives originating in himself, has seen fit, not only in the government of providence to cause this land which not long since was a waste howling desert, inhabited only by untutored savages and beasts of prey; to be peopled with civilized beings; but he is now spreading the knowledge of divine truths among us: God has in a glorious manner within a few months poured out his spirit here; our frolicking chambers have become praying houses, and our young people in some of these parts are now running together to bless and praise God's holy name. About sixteen months ago a few Baptist professors from different churches, residing in this town met in conference to form an acquaintance and obtain fellowship with each other. We continued our conferences until the October following when we sent for a council, and obtained the help of two Elders and some Brethren who gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. We have had considerable additions since."
Second Otsogo. "We rejoice that the Lord reigns and that his gracious providence is over all his works, and that he takes peculiar care of his people who are the purchase of the blood of Jesus, and for his own Glory's sake nourishes, supports comforts and cherishes, all who put their trust in him; and though he is pleased to lead his people through great tribulation; yet his rod and his staff shall comfort them, and their robes shall be made white in the blood of the Lamb. Though we have often to mourn here, we hope to rejoice hereafter. We trust the Lord is with us, and we believe he will conduct us through our trials and bring us at last to Glory.
Third session of the Otsego Association, bolden at Fairfield on the first Wednesday in September 1797.
Wednesday, September 6th, 10 o'clock, A. M. Association met. Introductory sermon from John xv, 16, by Eld'r James Bacon. Letters [Page 16]from the churches were read and the following account of the state of the churches was taken:
| Dismissed | 55 | Added | 358 |
| Excluded | 11 | Diminished | 71 |
| Died | 5 | — | |
| 71 | Increase | 287 |
For the circular letters the reader is referred to the printed minutes for each year.
Eight churches and three ministers were added to the association at this session. It was a very comfortable time. The people of God rejoiced in the flourishing of the Redeemer's kingdom, in this wilderness.
Accounts of the churches received into fellowship at this time.
SECOND LITCHFIELD.
November 10th 1796, met at the house of Aaron Peabody to converse on religious subjects, when several told their experience. They had several meetings after this, until Feb. 7th 1797 when they met, agreed upon articles of faith and covenant and voted to send for a council to inspect their doings.
Accordingly a council, consisting of the churches in Fairfield Palatine, 2d in Burlington, and the first in Litchfield, convened March 10th, 1797 at the house of B'r Cole, in Litchfield: when after inspecting their articles and covenant they unanimously gave them fellowship as a church in sister relation; their number was fifteen. This church lies westerly from Springfield distant about twenty-miles.
KORTRIGHT.
IN May, 1792, Warner Lake and his wife, who were members of Elder Gray's church, of Great Barrington, moved thair family to Kortright patent They soon set up a religious meeting.
IN the spring of the vear 1793, there appeared a considerable attention among the few scattered inhabitants. In July, Elder Gray by their request visited them, and baptized seven. Three more members from Elder Gray's church had lately come into the place. At this time they entered into covenant and on the 9th of July, 1793 Elder Gray gave them fellowship as a church: their number was thirteen. About this time B'r Lake began to speak to them in a doctrinal way. In the summer of 1794 the church called B'r Lake to ordination. October 30, 1794, the church in Great-Barrington and the church in Coeymans met in council, for the purpose of ordaining B'r Lake. After having enquired into matters which were necessary they proceeded on the following [...] day to set him apart by the imposition of hands, which was done in the following manner: Eld. Gray performed the first prayer, and preached from I. Cor. iv. 1.2. Eld. Mudge prayed the ordination prayer and gave the charge.— Eld. Gray gave the right hand of fellowship. The summer past there was something of a revival, and ten or twelve were baptized. Soon after the ordination a reformation began, which spread into Harpersfield, and about twenty were added to the church.
In 1797 another small revival took place, and sixteen were added to the church. This church lies southeasterly from Springfield, distant about [...]
PARIS
ABOUT the 20th of March 1796 Elder Eastman moved his family into Paris, and immediately set up a religious meeting. About the beginning of May the same year, he, together with baptist professors met in conference for the purpose of forming an acquaintance.
About the 18th of December the same year Elder Eastman being gone a journey, Elder Butler came into the place, and preached a sermon which was accompanied with a divine blessing; a considerable revival took place and sixteen souls were hopefully converted.
March the 9th. 1797 they met and covenanted together to watch over one another as a band of brothers.
May 30th agreed to call a council for inspecting their order.
July 6th, 1797, a council convened at b'r David Wood's house in Paris, consisting of the churches in Whitestown, 1st Litchfield, Fairfield Palatine, Petershurg, 2d Burlington and Schuyler. The council, after duly enquiring into their circumstances and inspecting their articles gave them fellowship. Their number was twenty-seven. This church lies about west from Springfield, distant about forty miles.
NORTH CHURCH BURLINGTON.
In June, 1795, Elder Ashbel Hosmer moved into Burlington and began to improve with the second church in that town. In October following he joined with the church as a member in full communion. but never was considered as the pastor of said church. He preached part of the time with a congregational society in the north part of the town, which society was the first in that part of the town that set up and maintained religious meetings. About the beginning of February 1797 he requested and received a letter of dismission from the church. The said society finding that he was dismissed from the church requested him to tarry and preach with them, and a number of baptist professors having moved into the vicinity, and attended upon that meeting, he agreed to their request.
Feb. 9th. 1797, Eld. Hosmer, with the above mentioned baptists met in conference, and the following question was proposed: "Is it expedient for us to attempt to unite in covenant as a gospel church!" Answered in the affirmative. Six persons who had been baptized and one who had not related their experience, then conferred on the general principles of the baptists, and found a happy agreement.
May 15th, 1797, they again met and agreed to articles of faith and a covenant, and voted to consider themselves in future as a church of Christ. They likewise agreed to call a council to look into their order. They also voted to give Elder Hosmer a call to the pastoral charge of the church, to which he assented.
June 14th, 1797, the church in Springfield, 1st and 2d Otsego, 2d and 3d in Burlington met in council in Burlington, and after exemining into their order gave them followship as a church in [...]ed order, [Page 18]The council likewise gave them fellowship in their calling Eld. Hosmer to the pastoral charge. Their number was fourteen. This church lies southwesterly from Springfield, distant about 2 [...] miles.
SECOND RICHFIELD.
In the summer of 1796, Eld, Roots was preaching part of the time in the northeast part of Richfield, in the suceeding Autumn God was pleased to pour out his spiri [...]on that small settlement, the people began to attend of conferences frequently, and a number were hopefully converted. Several of the brethren in the ministry frequently visited and preached among the people, and baptized a number. In one of their conferences they agreed to consider themselves in the character of a church, they also voted to call a council.
April 26th, 1797, a council cousisting of Springfield, Stuart's Patent, 1st in Richfield and 2d in Litchfield churches convened and gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their number was sixteen. From this time until they joined with the association their number increased to twenty-seven. This church lies west from Springfield, distant about twelve miles.
AUGUSTA alias NEWPETERSBURGH.
On the 15th of December, 1795, a number of persons met in conference according to previous appointment, several persons gave a relation of their experience. August 16th, 1796, in conference Elders Bacon, Butler, Eastmen and Holmes being present, a number of doctrinal propositions were discussed and agreed upon.
Oct. 27th, 1796, they agreed to send for a council. Nov. 9th, 1796, a council consisting of 1st Lirchfield and Fairfield Palatine churches convened and gave them fellowship as a chuch in regular order. Their numbers were nine. This church lies westwardly from Springfield, about forty miles distant.
WHITESTOWN.
A number of professors of the congregational denomination, in Whitestown, did, in the month of Oct. 1795, covenant together to hold up religious meetings. The February following Eld. Stephen Parsons, from Connecticut visired and baptized five of them: and in June 1796, having set apart a day for fasting and prayer entered into covenant to walk togeter as a church. Eld. Parsons being present on a visit assisted them to articles and covenant, gave them fellowship and administered the Lord's Sooper to them the next Lord's day. Their number was seven. The September following Eld. Parsons moved into Whiteston and settled with them. This church lies nor [...]westardly from Springfield, distant about 40 miles.
FIRST HAMILTON.
A. D. 1795 a small number or people pitched on the head waters [...] Chenange, about 100 miles west of Albany. They soon set up a [Page 19]religious meeting. June 24th, 1796 they met in conference at the house of B'r Samoel Payne, and gave a relation of their experience to each other: they continued their conference by adjournments [...] Aug. 19th, 1796, when a council met, and after proper inquiries advised them to examine their articles which they had previonsly drawn, and compare them with the articles of other churches, to which result they agr [...]ed. On the 29th of September, 1796, they sent for a council which convened on the 10th of Oct. 1796, consisting of the churches in Fairfield Palatine, 2d and 3d in Burlington and 1st in Litchfield. The council after a candid inspection of their doings gave them fellowship as a church in gospel order. Their number was 12 — This church is situate from spingfield southwesterly, distant about forty five miles.
We have not been able to obtain the letters for the year 1797. therefore we cannot present our readers with any extracts from them.
Fourth Session of the Otsego Association, holden at Franklin on the 5th and 6th of September, 1798.
The Association opened with public worship. A sermon from Romans x. 13, 14, 15 was delivered by Elder Parsons.
Letters from the churches were read, and the following account of the state of the churches was taken:
| Dismissed | 20 | Added | 308 |
| Excluded | 40 | Decrease | 68 |
| Died | 8 | ||
| Decrease | 68 | Increase | 240, present year |
Three churches were added at this time. A very comfortable time. The presence of Zion's King was conspicuou [...]. For the particular transactions at this meeting and the circular letter the reader is referred to the printed minutes for this year.
An account of the churches received at this Session.
SECOND NORWICH.
A number of Baptist professors who had removed from Nine Partners, did in the year 1795, set up and continue conferences until the 24th of Feb. 1797, when they received fellowship as a church in gospel order by the church in Hamilton. Their number was 14. Th [...] church lies southwesterly from Springfield, distant about 45 miles.
POMPEY.
In autumn, 1794, a considerable number of baptist professors Pompey and Manlius covenanted to support the worship of God, [Page 20]his own appointed ways. In 1797 several persons were brought [...] the knowledge of the truth. In October the same year Eld. Holmes from New York baptized seven persons, who were the first baptized in this country.
In Feb. 1798, a church consisting of fifteen members received fellowship. This church lies west from Springfield distant seventy miles
OXFORD.
IN the month of Sept. Eld. Smith, with other baptist professors in the town of Oxford met in conference and agreed to form a church; October 4th, 1797, received fellowship by the church in Paris and first in Norwich. This church lies west from Springfield distant about fifty miles.
Extracts from letters of the Churches, for 1798.
Butternuts. "We mourn that our practice is not more conformable to our principles. It is a time of coldness, though not of entire insensibility; a comfortable union among the brethren; some ardent desires with fervent cries ascending the hill of God for the outpouring of the divine spirit, and the ingathering of souls into the kingdom of God."
1st Otsego. "Having obtained help of God we continue until now, though we wade thorough many trials yet a number appear not discouraged: we have had some addition."
Aurelius, "God is good and deals in judgment and mercy though not in anger. Come over into Macedonia and help us."
1st. in Litchfield. "We enjoy a comfortable degree of union; in this we have reason to rejoice and give God thanks always, yet at the same time we have reason to mourn our unfaithfulness in so precious a cause; for we are not insensible of the growing evils in the land and in the church, particularly the neglect of the worship of God, which has a tendency to quench the holy spirit, is a violation of a divine command, gives the adversary an advantage and causes the faithful to mourn."
Whitestown. "We are happy to say that in the midst of prevailing in [...]quity, we find a small number whose faces appear to be set towards Zion, and are seeking a city which hath foundations: while we have reason to mourn the low state of vital piety in this place, and want of the powerful quickening and sanctifying influence of the holy spirit; yet we feel indebted to sovereign grace that a measure of christian stedfastness possesseth this little community, and we have hither to been preserved from any particular breach of christian fellowship; and still enjoy a degree of union in the worship of God, and in the ordinances of the gospel among ourselves."
Burlington North "We enjoy peace. We rejoice in the advancement of the Church. glorious cause of our Redeemer to this wilderness; the happy prospect before us seem to promise much: if the blessing be not lost by selfgratulation, or squandered away by languor or diffidence, nothing can more retard the projects of real roli [...]ion, than o [...]e [...]tions views, or [...] of God's [Page 21]ordinances or worship. The souls of our unconverted children & neighbors are at stake! God hath in former days, wrought gloriously for our help: how unreasonable would it then be, for us to provoke him to take away his presence from us: our warmest wishes are for the continuance of the divine presence with us and you."
Springfield. "It hath pleased the Lord to continue among us the year past, a degree of love and harmony, for which we desire to be thankful."
Schuyler and Whitestown. "A low time in the church; yet notwithstanding the prevailing indifference among us, God has been kind, and we have had considerable additions.
2d. Burlington. "Peace and harmony prevailing among us."
Oxford. "Brethren we think it a privilege, as well as duty, to make ourselves known to you, and tell what the Lord has done in this place, which but a few years since was a howling desert. But God has called together a number of his dear children (as we believe) & they united in the bands of love, according to divine rule. Since we have embodied, we have passed thro' scenes of affl [...]ct [...]on on and trials; but our situation at present is pleasant and lovely: we enjoy something of God's grace, and the smiles of his countenance, and we can truly say, the Lord is good."
Hamilton. This letter takes notice of the conduct of divine providence, in changing the howling desert into a fruitful field; and that they enjoy peace and amity among themselves, and trust that the Lord has seen fit often to give them his comforting presence and that it continues a comfortable time among them.
Otego. "God we trust has begun to return the captivity of Zion in our land, by sending forth his holy spirit among us, causing stout hearted sinners to bow before his word, and fall victims to sovereignty; being in some measure sensible that they wer [...] lost in sin and justly condemned by God's righteous law, and that he has by his matchless grace enabled some of our youth to speak of his goodness for his deliverance of their souls; while under the protection of heaven we do feel to acknowlge our imperfection. We have a comfortable union among ourselves at this time."
Charlestown "Continue stedfast in sentiments, no difficulty, a small addition."
Scipio. "The Lord has seen fit to preserve us in union and made some addition, so that we have reason to bless his holy name; notwithstanding we live in the midst of Deists, infidels and opposers of christianity; yet we feel (with the assistance of God) to maintain the ground against all the assaults of earth and hell. The Lord reigns let the earth rejoice."
Paris. "The Lord has been pleased to make some additions to our number the year past, and at present we are not destitute of tokens for good, and blessed [...]estimonies of the power and grace of Christ, so that we feel comfortable and stedfast."
1st Norwich. "General union and some additions."
2d. Norwich. "Blessed be God where he has begun a good work he will carry it on unto the day of the Lord Jesus. We rejoice that this country which was but a little while since a pathless wild, inhabited only by savages and [...] of [...]ey has now become a mountain of praise to the most high God and [Page 22]that there are so many baptist churches erected and erecting into an associated body."
2d. Burlington. It is a matter of grief to see religion opposed and ridiculed by the world in general, but how much more ought our sorrow to increase when we daily see those who are the professed followers of Jesus lightly esteem the gospel institutions, and can easily pass by religious duties. But we have some consolation from God's word, bel [...]eving the Lord knows who are his; and that when Zion is purged her sons will come forth as gold that is tried. We have passed under many trials since our last interview, but God hath preserved us, We enjoy a comfortable union at present, our great complaint is general coldness, which is productive of a great neglect of rel [...]gious duties."
Augusta Prays for the union, peace, harmony, and prosperity of Zion.
Kortright. "Brethren having spoken union with you, we wish to maintain our correspondence with you, from which we conceive so many advantages arise, especially in this day in which earth and hell are uniting their forces, and are directing their attacks against revealed religion. It is a time that calls for every soldier of Jesus, to make use of those weapons described by the Apostle, in defence of the truth: and as the tokens of God's displeasure hang over our land, it becomes every christian to lie near the throne of Grace, crying to God that he may avert those judgements if consistent with his will; that truth may spread; that anti-christian delusions may fall; the powers of darkness tremble, and the children of God gain the victory through faith in Jesus' name. Our present circumstances are not very flattering, nor yet particularly discouraging. Some trials have attended us the year past, but in the midst of affliction God has remembered mercy, and we have some refreshings; upon the whole we can say we have joy in the midst of mourning."
2d. Litchfield. "We maintain the form of religion, and continue in union and brotherly love among ourselves."
Franklin. "We have a comfortable agreement among ourselves, but much wanting in those lively exercises that we enjoyed in years past."
Fairfield, Palatine. "With reluctance we inform you that it is a low time among us as to religion, and some trials; notwithstanding we hope to come off conquerers through Christ."
Fifth session of the Otsego Association, holden at Exeter on the 4th and 5th of September 1799.
Association convened. Sermon from II. Cor. v. 20. by Eld'r Furman. Letters from the churches were read.
State of the churches since last Association.
| Dismissed | 127 | Added | 452 |
| Excluded | 22 | Decrease | 164 |
| Died | 15 | ||
| Decrease | 164 | Increase | 288, this year. |
[Page 23] The following churches were cordially received at this session, (viz) Brothertown, 2d Hamilton, 3d Norwich, Sangerfield, Schuyler-Short-Lots, and Wor [...]ester.
A sketch of the history of those six churches:
BROTHERTOWN.
IN the year 1776, David Fowler and five others moved to the westward of Albany, having previously obtained accession of lands from the Oneida Indians: upon which they so [...] formed a settlement, and set up a religious meeting, which was carried on by singing, praying, and exhortation. In the time of the revolutionary war, they were greatly distressed by the enemy, being deprived of their cattle and most of their other effects; so that they were forced to break up their settlement and retire to the older towns. At the conclusion of the war they returned to their former habitations; soon after a dispute arose between them and the Oneidas concerning their lands; which was productive of much trouble: many other difficulties they met with from the English on account of their land, which were discouraging; but the providence of God protected them.
Through all their trials they kept up their religious meetings; and on the 24th of May, 1798 four persons were baptized by Eld. Parsons, and they agreed to send for a council. August 23d 1798, a council consisting of the churches in Fairfield-Palatine, Paris, Whitestown, Scuyler & Whitestown, and Hamilton, convened, who after inquiring into their circumstances, gave them fellowship as a church of Christ [...] their number was twelve. This church lies west from Springfield, distant about forty miles.
SANGERFIELD.
IN the year 1797, a number of persons in the town of Sangerfield, set up a religious meeting on the Lord's day. At this time there were some who appeared under awakenings; they continued their meetings through the winter; in the course of which there arose such opposition against the baptists having any share in the lead of the meeting, that on the 14th of April, 1798, eight persons met in conference at the house of B'r White, and agreed to hold up a meeting in the baptist order; the May following four persons were baptized: at this time there appeared an engagedness in the minds of many, and the congregation increased, and some more were baptized in the summer and autumn. Nov. 27th, 1798, they agreed to call a council to give them fellowship; and likewise agreed to give Eld. Butler a call to settle with them. Dec. 19th, 1798 the churches in Fairfield Palatine, Whitestown, Paris, Hamilton and Augusta, convened in council, and gave them fellowship as a church in sister relation; their number was seventeen. This church lies westerly from Springfield about 35 miles. A small settlement in this vicinity, of about a dozen families, [Page 24]who were educated in the paedo baptist sentiments, were visited by the Lord, which induced them to turn their attention to things of a divine nature: the consequence was that several of them were converted to God, and all of them (except one or two) to the Baptist sentiment; seven of whom have joined with this church.
SCHUYLER SHORT LOTS.
A NUMBER of baptist professors living on Schuyler Short Lots, did on the 25th of Feb. 1797, embody into a church, agreeable to the advice and in fellowship of a council; their number was seventeen.
In 1799, the spirit of the Lord moved upon the minds of several, and numbers come up to the help of the Lord against the mighty. In about five months their number increased to fifty one. This church lies northwesterly from Springfield distant about 25 miles.
THIRD NORWICH.
Feb. 9th, 1799, the first church in Norwich voted to call a council to advise with them on dividing the church: accordingly on the 23d of March, 1799, the north church in Burlington, [...]d the church in Oxford, met in [...]uncil, and after enquiring into their circumstances gave them fellowship in their division; accordingly thirteen members were set off and embodied into a new church, and received the fellowship of the council as the 3d baptist church in Norwich. This church lies southwestward from Springfield distant about 46 miles.
WORCESTER.
IN the latter end of the year 1798, Elders Hosmer and Lawton visited a number of Baptist professors living on the Susquehannah river, in the towns of Suffrage and Worcester: they were advised to get into a circumstance of embodying into a church. Eld. Hosmer baptized one person, and there appeared a pleasing attention among the people. They continued their meetings and Eld. Lawton frequently visited them, and baptized three persons. After struggling through many difficulties, they did on the twenty-first day of August 1799 receive the fellowship of a council consisting of the North and Third Churches in Burlington, the churches in Butternuts and Kortright. Their number was eight: since which time eight have been added. This church lies southerly from Springfield, distant about 26 miles.
SECOND HAMILTON.
FROM this church we have received no particular information.
Extracts of letters. 1799.
Butternuts. "It is with great satisfaction that we inform you of the goodness of God unto us. In September last the Lord began his [Page 25]work among us, his power was great and the effects thereof conspicuous; sinners were alarmed, souls converted, and the people of God rejoiced. Children forsook their toys, the youth their gaudy baubles, the middle aged their undue world▪ pursuit [...] and the old their long confirmed traditionary habits; and all with united hearts bowed to the sceptre of prince Emanuel; willingly submitted to his government and came into obedience to his laws, and with joyful hea [...]ts consented [...] walk in his sta [...]utes. The work was in no one instance attended with scarcely the least symptoms of enthusiasm, but remarkably regular; and passions at no time exceeded the bounds of decency and good order: we feel ourselves under the greatest obligations to praise the name of God, for his goodness to us in this and many other respects; but alas we feel ourselves deficient in making suitable return [...] to our God for all his goodness exhibited. There is not that apparent engagedness in the cause of religion that we could wish, a lethargic drowsiness seems to pervade the minds of professors, yet not to that degree as to exclude all sensation, for we at times feel some of the vivifying rays of the sun of righteousness, which causes our souls to spring up anew, and reach away to the eternal source of all [...]ood. No difficulties among us at present but union and love continues."
First Otsego. "Having obtained help we continue, but wading through afflictions and trusting in him who never changes."
Aurelius. "God is good and deals with us in judgment and mercy, but not in anger, 'Come over into Macedonia and help us.'"
Rangerfield. "That man in his original state was formed for society, and under divine providence is greatly dependent on its aid, manifestly appears from an innate desire to extend his intercourse with his own species; so in the kingdom of grace, the christian, having the object of divine love in view, and holding it fast in his embrace, brings it into the chamber of her that conceived him, and into the house of that body whose faith and practice agreeth with his own sentiments. And as sma [...]l bodies though weak and feeble of themselves, by associating together in the bonds of love with more bodies, while ea [...]h builds over against his own house the whole forms a cord that cannot easily be broken. Taking these reasons into consideration, agreed to make known our earnest desire to be admitted into the O [...]sego Association. Our cries we trust shall ascend to the father of spirits, for the outpouring of his holy spirit, that the kingdom of grace may be enlarged, and the souls of all people brought to the knowledge of Jesus, and thereby made to comply with his holy ordinances as revealed in his holy word.
1st Litchfield. "Since our last we think we can say we have had some comfortable hours, to see God's children animated, back [...]ider [...] reclaimed, sinners trembling, and some we hope converted. Yet no [...] [Page 26]withstanding we enjoy so many favors, there is a great inattention to duty, for which we have abundant reason to be ashamed, we desire your prayers for us and your watch care was over us, "let the righteous smite me it shall be a kindness, and let him reprove me it shall be [...]n excellent oil; which [...]ll not break my head," so may we strive to walk in wisdom's ways, which are pleasant, and all her paths are peace.
Exeter. "We have to mourn because of sin which hath made a breach in the family: but we more abundantly rejoice by reason of grace which hath more than made up the loss. It appears that God is at work by his Holy Spirit on the minds of his creatures here, and hath brought a number to the knowledge of the truth."
Whitestown. "Although we have reason to mourn the want of a gene [...]al attention to religion in this place, and the prevalency of vice a [...] error: yet we have great cause of thankfulness, that God hath re [...]iv [...]d his work in some instances among us: we have attended [...] meeting for prayer the year past, and have been blest with [...] [...]okens for good therein: some backsliders have returned to Z [...]n, and the Lord has made us joyful in the house of prayer. From ou [...] experience of the benefit of prayer meetings, we recommend the p [...]ct [...]ce [...] all the churches in our connection; and while the voice o [...] [...]fi [...]i [...] Goodness to sinful worms still cries "seek ye my face."—M [...]y all [...]ur hearts answer, thy face, oh Lord! we will seek. And may we continue in prayer till sovereign mercy rain righteousness upon us.
North Church Barlington. "Our situation at times, through g [...]ace, is comfortable. The Lord is pleased to bring some to confess Christ by submiting to the ordinances of the gospel. But when we consider the general stupidity which seems to prevail among us, we [...]oure that many run in ways of vanity which if not repented of w [...]ll l [...]nd them in misery; but the power of God is sufficient to give them new hearts, and cause them to sing redeeming love. We desire your united prayers to God, that the vine which is planted here may be watered with the dues of heavenly grace; that the streams which make glad the city of our God, may continually slow unto us, to the refreshing, strengthening and establishing of our souls; and that the glory of God may reside among us to the latest generations."
Springfield. "We remain stedfast and unmoved in our sentiments respecting doctrine, which principles as a foundation of our union we are bound in duty with you to support, as being united in the same cause▪ We are happy to inform you that the Lord hath continued a degree of love and union among us, for which we desire to praise his holy name."
2d Hamilton. "We esteem it not only the duty but privilege of God's children to labor for and maintain union and fellowship, so far [Page 27] [...] an acquaintance may be gained, that they may with one heart and mouth glorify God."
3d Burlington. "We have been blessed with a good degree of harmony the year past; our state at present comfortable: we hold the same principles as at first, the cause of Christ is a good cause: the Lord give us grace that we may maintain it. May God's glor [...] be our ultimate aim, till we shall meet in one associated body in the eternal world."
Schuyler and Whitestown. "We feel ourselves under obligations to acknowledge the goodness of God, that he has called a number of souls out of darkness into his marvelous light▪ not only round about us but some symptoms of grace and penitence appears in our meetings, several have of late given a satisfactory relation of a work of grace on their hearts, and some have been baptized. We have an encouraging prospect at present. We have dismissed thirty-eight, who are formed into a church of the same faith."
Pompey. "Since our last we have enjoyed a happy degree of internal hamony and outward prosperity. The goodness of God is manifest among us, and has given us some enlargement. We have had nineteen added the year past."
Worcester. "A feeble band, standing in need of help, and desiring assistance."
First Hamilton. Since our last we have enjoyed good days; the Lord has we trust been here by his Holy Spirit, and converted souls into his kingdom; there has been a great awakening among the young people, and a number have made a public profession of their faith in the Lord and united with this church. At present it is rather a low time among us, but we still enjoy peace, union and comfort."
Otego. "We have a comfortable union among ourselves, though we are passing through a heavy scene of trial; but we hope that God will enable us to withstand all our adversaries: and while they are rejoicing over the sons of Zion, let us with one heart lift a cry to the throne of grace for protection."
Charlestown. "No difficulties—not so much life and power as is desirable."
Scipto. "We have had and still enjoy a comfortable union among ourselves; so that we feel ourselves under renewed obligations to praise the name of God. The year past the Lord has distilled some mercy drops on various parts of this town, which we trust has brought some sinners to the knowledge of the truth, and caused the hearts of God's people to rejoice. On that we may praise his holy name, and live more to his honor and glory!"
[Page 28] Paris. "Informing you of our christian welfare which calls for grateful acknowledgements, while we make mention of the goodness o [...] that being who has hitherto helped us: from whom we have obtained help to continue until now, in the enjoyment of a happy and precious union, with that harmony and peace which is truly comforting in its infl [...]ence and blessed in its effect: yet we have reason to mo [...]th, and in the deepest humiliation before God, acknowledge our ingratitude and unfruitfulness under these special favors; but we humbly trust and believe that the Lord has and does own and bless us; he is adding to our number such as we trust shall be saved, and our drooping spirits are sometimes comforted with hopes of a gracious v [...]sit from on high; there are numbers among us who appear to be attentive, and enquiring what they shall do to be saved."
2d Norwich. "It is a matter of joy to us when we hear that in many parts of this and a jacent states, God is by his spirit moving on the hearts and conferences of the children of men: yet we mourn that we feel no more of the heavenly influence among us. May God in mercy visit us with a sh [...]wer of his grace. We are in a destitute condition as to preaching."
3d Norwich. Inform of their stability and union, but mourn their want of engagedness in the cause of religion, and request the prayers of God's people, that they may be kept from dishonoring God, and wounding the cause of religion.
Schuyler Short Lets. Takes notice of the late remarkable outpouring of God's spirit in our land, adores God for his grace in bringing them out of [...]arkness into light: For his goodness to them in visiting their settlement by his grace: in consequence of which a number were added to the church. Prays for more engagedness in the cause of truth.
2d Burlington. "A very low time among us, great inattention to religious duties, and the love of many waxes cold; a dark trying day among us, which calls for the fervent prayer of all the friends of Zion: But we still are encouraged to trust in God, believing that when Zion is thoroughly purged, her sons will come forth as gold that is tried. We wish to pass under the rod with patience, believing that all things shall work together for good to those that love God.
2d Otsego. "We acknowledge the goodness of God unto us in protecting our lives and preserving us from a discordant spirit: he hath been pleased to make some addition to our small body, which we hope is but a prelude to a more copious display of divine grace—there appears a greater attention in the minds of people in general, and of the brethren in particular, than for some time before. We find it necessary to be on our guard a [...]ainst imposters, who swarm in this day of [Page 29]error and delusion, and are nuisances to society, ravening wolves in the church of God. From suc [...], dear brethren turn away.
It it necessary for us to be on our guard, as our country is new, our settlements young, and men of all principles and characters are flocking into them: there is therefore the greatest danger of the poison of false principles being d [...]sseminated among the churches. Not only so but we are liable to be imposed upon by vile characters in the ministerial order, who will bend and twist themselves into any shape to get a footing among the churches, These considerations have given us much concern, and excited in us a wish that such measures may be ad [...]pted by us, as may have a tendency to prevent the evil apprehended."
Augusta. "We feel to rejoice and mourn; to rejoice that God by energetic influence of his holy spirit, has brought stout hearted sinners to bow to the feet of Jesus in this part of the land, that he has not wholly let [...] us as a people, but is visiting one place and another, and gathering in his elect: We feel to mourn that we are no more engaged in this glorious cause, yet we humbly trust, that by the assistance of God's grace, we shall travel Zion ward, though our number is few and our strength small, and passing under trials; yet we take encouragement in the promises of God, and pray that these trials may be sanctified to us for our spiritual good."
Kortright. "We remain stedfast on the same ground of faith and practice where we met you. We enjoy a comfortable union among ourselves, and a degree of engagedness to persevere in christian duties is manifested. God has had us in remembrance, and brought many out of darkness into his marvelous light; a number of youths have been partakers of this precious grace: we have had thirty-one added the year past."
2d Richfield. "A comfortable agreement among ourselves; our numbers small, but a degree of confidence, that we shall persevere, and in due time receive increase."
2d Litchfield. "God who is rich in mercy, is from time to time letting down some mercy drops among us, and we have reason to be thankful for the least favor."
Fairfield Palatine. "It is a low time with us, and we are passing through some trials; but are yo [...] happily united."
A brief account of some churches that have not yet united with the association.
BROOKFIELD.
A NUMBER of baptist professors living in the town of Brookfield [Page 30]met in conference, June 28th, 1798, and continued their conferences until January 26th, 1799, when they voted to consider themselves a church. On the ninth of November the same year, a council consisting of the 2d, 3d and north churches in Burlington, and 2d church in Litc [...]field, convened and gave them fellowship as a regular gospel church: their number was twenty. This church lies westerly from Springfield distant about 30 miles.
WARREN.
March 26th, 1799, a number of baptist professors met in conference, to consider the propriety of forming a church: their meetings were continued until the 25th of September, when they agreed to call a council. October 16th, 1799, Springfield, Stewart's Patent, and Richfield churches met in council, and gave them fellowship as a gospel church.
On the 9th of July, 1800, a council, consisting of Springfield, Stuart's patent, Butternut, Otsego, Burlington 3d, Burlington north, and Richfield churches, convened for the purpose of attending to the ordination of B'r Phinehas Holcomb: the solemnity was attended to in the following manner: Elder Hofmer preached a sermon. Elder Irons prayed the ordining prayer, and laid on hands with Elders Barus and Lawton: Eld. Bostwick gave the charge, Eld. Furman the right hand of fellowship: Eld. Taylor prayed the concluding prayer: The whole was conducted in good order. This church, when constituted consisted of 16 members; and lies northwest from Springfield distant about 12 miles.
DE RUYTER.
On the 26th of Dec. 1799, twenty three persons received the fellowship of council, as a church in regular order, in the town of De Ruyter. This church lies west from Springfield distant about 60 miles.
Some account of the revival of religion in different places.
LITCHFIED.
IN the summer of 1796 God was pleased to pour out his spirit on a small settlement in the town of Litchfield. A few of the inhabitants were professors of the congregational order: some were methodists. Elders Butler, Hosmer and Roots occasionally visited them, preached and baptized a number of persons, the work continued through the summer and winter ensuing, during which time those congregational brethren embraced the baptist sentiments, and uniting with those newly converted, formed the 2d Baptist Church in Litchfield; several of the converts joined the methodist society: since which time they have had several refreshing visits from on high, which caused them to rejoice in the Lord, and some addittions were made to their number.
NORWICH.
IN the year 1796, a small revival took place in the south of the church in Norwich, the settlement was small; Elder Hosmer visited them, preached, and baptized a number.
RICHFIELD, NOW EXETER.
IN the month of May 1797, the Lord began to pour out his spirit in this [...]ace, and a considerable revival took place: The arm of the Lord was revealed, backsliders reclaimed, sinners awaked, and the children of God rejoiced: It continued through the summer in which time twenty-six were added to the church; from which time the church gradually increased in number until the latter end of June 1799, when a most remarkable thunder storm took place in this part of the country, which, through the goodness of God, was made a mean of awa [...]ening some to a serious concern for their souls: since which time ten have been added to the church. In the aforementioned reformation of 1797, [...] John Lesure preached with them a part of the time; the other part [...]e preached with the church at Stuart's patent, to which considerable additions were made.
OTEGO.
In the month of August 1798, at a meeting on the Lord's day, two young persons appeared to be in great distress of mind, which was a matter of consolation to the Brethren, in so much that they continued together in the evening spending the time in singing, praying and exhorting; during which another young person was deeply affected. These persons went to their parents and with great humility confessed their faults to them, and earnestly implored their forgiveness. On the Thursday following they met for conference and prayer, when God was pleased to draw near by the powerful influence of his holy Spirit, and ma [...]e it a comfortable season to his people, whose hearts were made glad: sinners began to be alarmed, and many appeared under serious impressions▪ the work was carried on with a divine power, and the happy effects were soon visible. Several of the brethren in the ministry visited them, and were instrumented in promoting the good work; the reformation continued through the Autumn and winter ensuing, and entended itself into the adjacent settlements toward the welt, and [...]e inhabitants on the Butternut creek participated in the blessing. During [...] [...]sitation forty-six were added to the church.
BUTTERNUTS.
ON the 17th of January 1798, B'r John Lawton moved into the town of Butternuts, in consequence of a request of the baptist church there: the church at that time was few in number: a good degree of harmony prevailing among them at this time: but not so great an engagedness in religion as could be wished; and a great neglect of the duties of religion was prevalent among them; but still there were some desires for more engagedness in the cause of truth. Early in the spring there was some seriousness apparent on the minds some of the youth, but it was soon gone: However the truth made some impressions, the minds of professors seemed to be more and more impressed with the necessity of attending to religious duties: and desires were encreased for the out-pouring of the holy spirit. Thus it continued until Lords day August 26th 1798, when one was excluded the church privileges, for immoral conduct. This was a solemn scene, it being the first case of that nature in the church. The members were deeply affected, and the audience in general appeared solemn and attentive: about this time information was received of the reformation on the Otego creek. Lords day, September 26th 1798, was a solemn day; in the meeting, the power of the Lord seemed to be present; and a number of youth and other persons seemed to be greatly alarmed, while the people of God much encouraged. About this time a young woman gave a relation of [Page 32]the work of God on her soul, and was received for Baptism. Several persons were now under deep exercises of mind. October 10th, Elder Hosmer preached a sermon from I. Peter 111, 12. and baptized four persons. This was a solemn time, the arm of the Lord was revealed, and the glory of God displayed: the tongues of God's children were loosed, and their souls were filled with joy and gladness: while sinners were expressing their concern with many tears and signs, fobs and groans were heard on every side: but notwithstanding the powerful operators many were passing under, yet there was no appearance of any wild enthusiastic zeal: But a national concern agitated the minds of sinners, while the children of God seemed to rejoice from having r [...]ght apprehensions of the truth; order and regu [...]arity appeared through all the m [...]eting.
On the 25th of October, B'r Lawton was ordained, and the Lord's day following baptized eleven persons. The work continued through the winter, during which, and in the spring and summer following▪ sixty persons were added to the church by bap [...]sm: one of them a wom [...]n in her eighty fourth year, and had been a professor sixty years several of them vou [...]h. Thus God has made a glorious display of h [...]s d [...]vine power & grave, for the salvation of his people. The work was truly glorious. When we behold a little village just emerging as it were from a [...]e of uncultivation, where we see but now and then a little cottage, among the huge forests that overspread the country, yet in such a place sixty souls brought to bow to the sceptre of King Jesus, must give us high and exalted thoughts of God's grace. The work was regular as well as powerful. It was almost entirely free of any enthusiastic [...]aint, a deep solemnity appeared on the minds of the subjects of the work, their understandings were enlightened, their judgments [...]formed and their affections regulated.
HAMILTON.
In the latter end of the year 1798 a B'r Price visited the church in Hamilton. His preaching was blessed of God and a glorious work took place in different parts of the town. A young man in the vicinity who was a princ [...]pal leader in their merry meetings was struck under great concern of mind, w [...]ch induced him to converse freely on religious subjects. His conversation together with the former preaching (B'r Pr [...]ce being now absent) had such an effect that a number of youth under deep impressions left their school and went to see the aforesaid young man who was still laboring under great distress of mind. The night following a conference was held, and says our correspondent "it was a time never to be forgotten. Sa [...]nt's [...]ongues were loosed [...]n prayer and exhortat [...]on, and sinners crying out what they should do to be saved. One man present, an open deist, who delighted much in Paine's book, despised the Bible, and spake evil of religion, was awakened to a sense of his danger, and through the goodness of God, was brought into liberty and united to the church with a number of others, who had been brought to bow to the righteous sceptre of Zion's victorious and ever glorious King.
SECOND CHURCH NORWICH.
About the last of October, 1799, there began to be some attention to religious subjects, on the Chenango river, in the town of Norw [...]ch. This was occasioned by the sudden death of two eminent persons in the Second Church.—About this time Elder Taylor, v [...]sited, preached and baptized four persons: his preaching was blessed to the awakening of several from their security, and of consolating the people of God. About the middle of November, Elder Hosmer, being on a journey, met with one of the brethren, who solicited hi [...] [...] [Page 33] [...] them and preach, he complied, turned aside and preached a lecture in the afternoon, and in the evening attended a conference which was continued till almost day br [...]k. [...]he [...]e was taken up in the relation of experiences which was not finished when the me [...]ting broke up. This was a means of a further spread of the work. About the first of Dec. there appeared a general concern on the m [...]ds of the people. The impressions were powerful. The first su [...]day in De [...]. Elder Roots visited them and baptized twenty-two persons. He [...]nu [...]d with them the ensuing week, when time he spent in visiting and [...]tending conferences. On the second sunday he baptized fourteen, on the third he baptized twelve more.
On the monday after he last sunday [...]n Jan. 1800, Eld. Hosmer by request visited them, and preached on monday, tuesday and wednesday evenings. On thursday be went to Sherburne and bap [...]zed sour, some of these were aw [...]kened by his preaching here in Nov. Some thing singular took place here, five persons were sitting together in one of then meetings, when their souls were delivered, four of th [...]m, within the space of ten minutes of each other. On friday he returned and on the sabbath following he preached, Eld. Roots being present baptized two persons.
ORDINATIONS.
June 23d, 1796, B'r John Bostwick was set apart to the work of the ministry, in the second chh. Orsego. Business conducted in following manner. (viz.)
Eld. Henry Green of the Vermont Assn. preached a sermon. Eld. Butler prayed the ordaining prayer, Elders Bacon, Roots and Lake laid on hands. — Eld. Cornell of the Shaf [...]sbury Assn. gave the charge. Eld. Hosmer the right hand of fellowship. Eld. Furman prayed the concluding prayer. This was the fist ordination wihin this Assn. The collection of people was so great that the solemnity was attended to in the woods. The whole was attended with decency and good order.
October 25th, 1797, B'r Stephen Taylor of the 3d chh. Burlington was separated to the work of the gospel ministry, by the imposition of hands, in the following manner, (viz.)
Eld. Butler preached from [...] Elder Bacon prayed the ordaining prayer and laid on hands with Elders Furman and Hammond. Eld Hosmer gave the charge. Eld. Bostwick the right hand of fellowship. Eld. Hammond concluded with prayer. The exercises were attended to in a barn. Decency and good order crowned the business of the day.
Oct. 25 [...]h, 1798, B'r John Lawton of the Butternut church, was publicly inducted in o [...]th [...] min [...]erial labor in the following manner, (viz.)
Eld. B [...]ler preached a sermon from 1st Timothy iii chap. 1 verse. Elder Les [...]re prayed the ordaining prayer and laid on hands with Elders Bostwick and Smith. Eld. Bacon gave the charge. Eld. Hosmer the right hand of fellowship. Eld. Tayloy closed the solemnity with a pertinent address to the th [...]o [...] of grace. The business was performed on a stage in the open air, in the presence of a large concourse of people, who behaved with decency and candor.
A List of the Churches composing the Otsego Association.
| Churches. | Ministers. | 1795 | 1796 | 1797 | 1798 | 1799 | ||
| 1795 | Aurelius | 10 | 83 | 96 | 93 | 9 [...] | ||
| 1796 | Aug [...]sia | 9 | 9 | 15 | 14 | |||
| 1 [...]9 [...] | 1st Burling. | 20 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | |
| 1794 | 2d Burling. | 9 | 101 | 99 | 96 | 91 | 94 | |
| 1794 | 3d Burling. | Steph'n Taylor | 11 | 10 | 15 | 15 | 22 | [...] |
| 1797 | Burling. N. | Ashbel Hosmer | 14 | 19 | 20 | [...] | ||
| 1793 | Butternuts | John Lawton | 10 | 17 | 24 | 30 | 32 | [...] |
| 1798 | B [...]othe town | 12 | 13 | |||||
| Charleston | Elijah Herri [...]k | 25 | 26 | 29 | 32 | [...] | ||
| 1794 | Exeter | 9 | 22 | 27 | 43 | 60 | [...] | |
| 1793 | Franklin | 30 | 90 | 101 | 93 | [...]3 | ||
| 1794 | Fuir. & Pal. | 14 | 31 | 37 | 53 | 3 [...] | [...]1 | |
| 1796 | 1st Hamilton | Peter P. Roots | 12 | 3 [...] | [...] | |||
| 179 [...] | 2d Hamilton | [...] | ||||||
| 1793 | Kort [...]ht | Warner Lake | 13 | 60 | [...] | [...] | ||
| 1795 | 1s Li [...]chfield | 7 | 27 | 37 | [...] | 4 [...] | ||
| 1797 | 2d Litchsield | 15 | 15 | [...]7 | 33 | |||
| 1794 | 1st Norw [...]ch | 11 | 30 | 35 | 41 | 43 | [...] | |
| 1797 | 2st Norwich | 14 | [...]3 | [...]4 | ||||
| 179 [...] | 3d Norwich | 13 | 19 | |||||
| 1794 | 1st Otsego | 12 | 21 | 24 | 46 | 53 | 50 | |
| 179 [...] | 2d Otsego | John Bostwick | [...] | [...]2 | 26 | 33 | 41 | 50 |
| 1794 | O [...]ego | [...] | [...] | [...] | [...] | 24 | [...] | |
| 1797 | Oxford | S [...] Smith | [...] | 30 | ||||
| 1797 | Pa [...]io | [...] | 27 | 28 | 40 | 52 | ||
| 1798 | Po [...]pey | 15 | 19 | 3 [...] | ||||
| 1797 | Ri [...]field | Jas. [...] | 16 | 27 | 19 | 19 | ||
| 1795 | Scipio | David Frish | 47 | 7 [...] | 89 | 103 | ||
| 17 [...] | Spring field | W [...]. Furman | 30 | 56 | 61 | 78 | 84 | 87 |
| 179 [...] | Sange [...] field | Joel Butler | 17 | 37 | ||||
| Schuyler & Whitestown Schuyler | Joo. Hammond | 63 | 77 | 81 | 96 | 4 [...] | ||
| 17 [...] | Short Lots | 17 | [...]5 | |||||
| 1796 | Whitestown | Steph. Parsons | 7 | 12 | 24 | 36 | ||
| 1799 | Worcester | 8 | 8 | |||||
| 34 | 15 | 424 | 653 | 1054 | 1292 | 1659 | ||
| 1709 | Brookfield | 20 | 20 | |||||
| 1799 | War [...]en | Phin. Holcomb | 16 | 16 | ||||
| 1799 | De Ruyter | 23 | 23 |
Brookfield, Warren and De Ruyter churches were formed since the last session of the Ass'n.
☞ EXPLANATION. The first column shews what year the churches were constituted — the second chhs. names—third ministers' names—fourth the [...]ther when constituted— the fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth the number [...]ach year as they are marked.
SOME GENERAL REMARKS.
WE have been particular in noting the day when the churches were formed, and by whom they were received into fellowship, that we may give the reader some idea of their circumstances in the infant state of the country, and when there were but sew in habitants to what there is now. The settlements were very small and scattered over a great extent of country: many of the first settlers were the professed children of God, but in general they became backsliders: the difficulties of settling a new and uncultivated country, the hardships they endured, and the want of opportunities to attend on religious meetings, may be assigned as part of the reasons for this declension. God permitted them in some measure to overcome the stubbornness of the country, and then was pleased to recall the wandering of their minds. The reformations began with those backsliders, and was attended with power on the hearts of those that knew not God; and yet the village perhaps so small that all might meet in a small log house, and if the shower extended further, a log barn or an adjacent wood formed their place of worship.
Our brethren in the old towns and cities have sept abroad accounts of the wonderful work of God among them, but if we take a comparative view of the numbers, if ten in our small villages are brought to the knowledge of the truth, it is more in proportion than an hundred in some of those places: but in some places, where the settlements have been of earlier date, it has been surprising to see the numbers collected, instances have been known of two or three hundred people convening at a weekly lecture. None of these churches are of longer standing than about seven years (excepting Springfield church,) which time is short for the extraordinary increase, which is about four times the number since the association formed, which is about five years. There are yet a number of churches in Onondaga and Ontario counties which have formed a conference among themselves, concerning which we have been able to obtain little or no information; a number of reformations have taken place there under the preaching of our fellow laborer Elder David Irish an account of which we cannot obtain before this goes to the press.
We have given an account by whom these churches were received into fellowship, that we might inform the [...]eader of the union that ha [...] taken place, and the care there has been both in ministers and churches, to guard against errors in doctrine and practice: it is worthy [...] observation that the loose manner in which the laws of the sta [...] [...] New-York concerning the first day of the week were execused, [...] gether with the mixture of inhabitants of different sentiments, almost overthrew the observation of the day; [...] therefore h [...]m [...], [...] cessary that the religious observation of the first day, should be eni [...]ned on the churches at their formation, and made an article in their covenant, and that every head of a family should set up the worship of God, dy vocal prayer in their houses.
[Page 36] There were but five ordained ministers when the association [...] formed, and no two of them nigher together than twenty five [...], one of them, living at the distance of sixty or seventy miles from the body of the association, did little but minister to the church to which he [...]orged; another but se [...]dom appe [...]red abroad, so that the weight of the work [...]ay on three, together with the assistance of some young men whom the Lord was raising up, and some traveling Elder [...] from other Associations. Eld'r J [...]mes B [...]con ministered to the church [...] Franklin, which belonged to the Shaftsbury Association, but his kind assistance ought to be remembered.
In the year 1793, Eld'r Joel Butler came to the Royal Grant, and began to preach to a few scattered i [...]b [...]tants; a considerable opposition was made against him by an a [...]birious I [...]guer, whose character has since came up to public view; this [...]ed his progress for some time, but the hand of the Lord was with him, a church was formed under the name of Fairfield and Pala [...]. In the spring of the year 1795, a considerable reformation began in Litchfield, Eld'r Butler princ [...]pally attended, preached and bapt [...]zed; when this reformation subsi [...]ed others took place; Eld'r Butler's calls were numerous, and as a zealous act [...]ve laborer in the cause, was greatly instrumental of the grow [...]h of the north western part of this Association, and is to be respected for his caution, piety and abilities.
In June 1795, Eld'r Ashoal Hosmer removed his family to Borlington and began to labor, in connexion with Eld'rs Butler and Forman, whose friendship to him as a stranger and unused to the woods, he is ever ready to acknowledge. An expensive circuit became the lot of each of these, the frequent calls from the little numbers in one place and another, "to come over and help us," necessitated them to encounter the hardships of rains and snow, by day and night, through uncultivated wilds and unoccupied roads, without much hopes of [...]urthly reward, the country being new and the churches small; the people, poor, were hardly able to support themselves without expending much on the preacher [...] Joined to these discouragements was another of greater magnitude; that was, the frequent intrusion of men of corrupt principles and characters, who, imagining that the country was favorable to their sinister views, not only journeyed, but some actually removed and got into the vicinity of some of the small churches, and through their means divisions and contentions arose, which caused councils, the preachers must be called for, and when they discharged their duty, and bore testimony against their evil conduct, heavy reflections from them and their partizans were the consequence, yet amid all these discourag [...]ments they co [...]tinued their exertions, and God crowned their labors with su [...]cess, and comforted their souls by pouring out his holy spirit; the old professors were stimulated to unite in church relation, and sinners were converted to the knowledge of the truth; the wilderness that once sit solitary and was the lurking place [...] savage men and beasts, now became the place where God was [...] [...]ipped [Page 37]in truth and sincerity. These observations will in [...] [...]r [...] account for those rules which appears in our minutes, which [...] [...]xcited the wonder of our friends and the malice of our [...]mies.
After the formation of the Association, Eld'r Roots came into th [...] country, whose industry is best icon by an extract from his journal, which we here subjoin:—"In December 1795, I came to Litchfield, in the state of New-York. in consequence of an invitation which I received Elder Hosmer of Burlington, who had been desired by the baptift at Litchfield to engage some preacher to come among them. About the first of January 1796, I agreed to preach at Litchfield one half of the time for one year. During this year I rode and preached in many places; and in the month [...] of October, I rode as far as the Genes [...]e River and preached thirty two times;" since which time Eld'r Roots has married in this country, has removed his residence to Hamilton, obtained a letter of dismission from the church in Boston, joined with the first church in Hamilton and continues his labors in that and adjacent places.
In the year 1796, the church in Franklin, having obtained a dismission from the Shaftsbury Association, united with us, which added Eld'r James Bacon to our number, whose unwearied labors, notwithstanding his advanced age, has been a source of great comfort to churches and ministers. At the sitting of the Association in September t [...]is year, Eld'r John Bostwick, who had lately been ordained in the second church in Otsego, Eld'r David Irish of Scipio chu [...]ch, were received in fellowship, and Eld'r Hezekiah East [...]an, who had removed to Paris and was laboring with a people where a church hath since been formed, came and formed an acquaintance with [...]. The same autumn Eld'r Stephen Parsons, a man of super [...]or abilities, settled in Whit [...]ftown and commenced labor in union with us. At the next Association, he, with Eld'r Lake of Kertright, joined and increased our strength. Shortly after this, Stephen Taylor was ordained in the third church in Burlington, and continues his labors with that church and oceasionally with others to good acceptance. The next year, John Lawton was ordained in the Butlernut church, and continues with them at present, and of a truth we may say the Lord has done great things for us, whereof we are glad. The extent of this association from east to west is about one hundred and forty miles, & from north to south about 60. The first association was holden in a meetinghouse, built by the baptists and congregationalists in Springfield, the second mostly in the woods, the third in a barn, the fourth and fifth in dwelling houses; and in all these the presence of the Lord has more than made up the want of convenience. The rapid increase of these new settlements has now made many of our congregations respectable, though it is to be lamented that many of the settlers do not attention the worship of God.
Let the reader pause a moment and reflect on the mavelous [...]ork of God, and he will be astonished to think that such a va [...] exte [...] of [...] ritory [Page 38]should suddenly emerge from a state of uncultivation, and pre [...] to view its golden fields and spacious meads which promise a rich [...]d to the industrious husbandman: the mind must expand with [...]erior joy, while it views the increasing glory of the Redeemer's [...]ngdom, exhibited on this spacious theatre.
The following letter was received by one of the compilers of this work.
"IN compliance with your request, I send you an account respecting religion in this new settlement in the summer of 1796, being destitute of preaching a number of serious persons agreed to meet together on the sabbath, to read and pray together, which was ever after attended to. In the winter of 1797 religious conferences were set up and attended to weekly, although the number very small, part of the not more than one male exclusive of the family where the meeting was held would attend. Although very discouraging, yet they were continued. A most remarkable stupidity appeared among the people. About the beginning of Autumn 1797, there was one woman under strong impressions of mind; and I trust she was born again as she gives evidence of the new birth. The 9th of June, 1798, a church was gathered here by the Rev. Mr. S— which consisted of 13 members, which had belonged to other churches; there has been additions made until its number was 24, since which two have moved away.
The latter part of the summer, 1799, several persons appeared to be under some impressions of mind; the work gradually increased till about the last of October, when there appeared an uncommon solemnity on the countenances of people, & a number were struck under strong impressions: Nearly at the same time in No [...]ember, three persons were propounded to the church, and last sabbath 17 more; and more I expect will shortly come forward and confess Christ before the world. At present the awakening appears to be at a stand: This work has been remarkable on account of the steadiness of the people: nothing of the enthusiastic nature has appeared; God is a sovereign, he has taken some of the most unlikely persons to human appearance; grey headed and middle-aged, and mostly passed by the youth. Oh, my friend I most earnestly intreat your prayers to Almighty God for us, that he would continue to pour out his spirit more and more among us, and not pass by the youth, and that it may spread from house to house, from heart to heart, from state to state, and from nation to nation; till the glory of the Lord covers the earth as the water does the sea: which is the sincere prayer of your friend.