Asbury preaching in a gale on his way to America.
August 7, 1771 - December 29, 1772
On the 7th of August, 1771, the Conference began at Bristol, in England.' Before this, I had felt for half a year strong intimations in my mind that I should visit America; which I laid before the Lord, being unwilling to do my own will, or to run before I was sent. During this time my trials were very great, which the Lord, I believe, permitted to prove and try me, in order to prepare me for future usefulness. At the Conference it was proposed that some preachers should go over to the American continent. I spoke my mind, and made an offer of myself. It was accepted by Mr. Wesley and others, who judged I had a call. [It was my duty to go where the conference ordered; only one or two objected.]
From Bristol I went home to acquaint my parents with my great undertaking, which I opened in as gentle a manner as possible.2 Though
1 The Minutes contain the following: "Q.7: Our brethren in America call aloud for help. Who are willing to go over and help them A. Five were willing. The two appointed were Francis Asbury and Richard Wright." Robert Strawbridge in Maryland and Philip Embury in New York had begun preaching several years previously. Robert Williams came to America in 1769, and John King followed in 1770, and in the latter year the British Conference sent Richard Boardman and Joseph Pilmoor. (The sentences in brackets in the early journal are those which were published in the Arminian Magazine but omitted in Hollingsworth's edition of Asbury's Journal. See the Introduction.)
2 Asbury's boyhood home still stands in Newton Road, West Bromwich, about four miles from Birmingham, and is preserved by the Corporation as a historic site. His birthplace "near the foot of Hampstead Bridge in the Parish of Handsworth" has disappeared. it stood a little north of the Hampstead and Great Barr railway station. His Parents were Joseph Asbury(I7I5_98)and Elizabeth Rogers Asbury (1715-1801). Their only other child was Sarah, who was baptized on May 3, 1743, and was buried on May 28, 1748, in the parish church at Handsworth, No support has been found for
4 September 4, 1771
it was grievous to flesh and blood, they consented to let me go. My mother is one of the tenderest parents in the world; but, I believe, she was blessed in the present instance with Divine assistance to part with me. I visited most of my friends in Staffordshire, Warwickshire, and Gloucestershire, and felt much life and power among them. Several of our meetings were indeed held in the spirit and life of God. Many of my friends were struck with wonder, when they heard of my going; but none opened their mouths against it, hoping it was of God. Some wished that their situation would allow them to go with me.
I returned to Bristol in the latter end of August, where Richard Wright3 was waiting for me, to sail in a few days for Philadelphia. When I came to Bristol I had not one penny of money; but the Lord soon opened the hearts of friends, who supplied me with clothes, and ten pounds: thus I found, by experience, that the Lord will provide for those who trust in him.
On Wednesday, September 4, we set sail from a port near Bristol4 and having a good wind, soon passed the channel. For three days I was very ill with the seasickness; and no sickness I ever knew was equal to it. The captain behaved well to us. On the Lord's day, September 8, brother Wright preached a sermon on deck, and all time crew gave attention.
Thursday, 12. I will set down a few things that lie on my mind. Whither am I going To the New World. What to do To gain honour No, if I know my own heart. To get money No: I am going to live to God, and to bring others so to do. In America there has been a work of God: some moving first amongst the Friends, but in time it declined; likewise by the Presbyterians, but amongst them also it declined. The people God owns in England, are the Methodists. The doctrines they preach, and the discipline they enforce, are, I believe, the purest of any people now in the world. The Lord has greatly blessed these doctrines and this discipline in the three kingdoms: they must therefore be pleasing to him. If God does Herbert Asbury's statement in A Methodist Saint, 5-7, to the effect that Joseph Asbury had a son by a previous marriage to Susan Whipple and that Daniel Asbury was a descendant of that marriage. (Journal entries for July 24, 1774; July 16, 1792; February 22, 1795; April 5, 1802; Wakeley, "Mother of Bishop Asbury," The Ladies' Repository, August, 1867, 449 if.; various biographies of Asbury.)
'Richard Wright had served one year as an itinerant before he came to America. He preached in Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, and Maryland, and returned to England in 1774. He was appointed to West Cornwall for one year and then to East Cornwall for two years, after which his name disappears from the Minutes. He did not succeed in America because, according to Asbury, he "was spoiled by gifts" and "had no taste for spiritual subjects." (See Journal entry for May 29, 1774; this was also the judgment of Thomas Rankin, as stated in his Journal, now at Garrett Biblical Institute, p. 101. Wakeley: Lost Chapters Recovered from the Early History of American Methodism, 236 if.; Atkinson: The Beginnings of the Wesleyan Movement in America, 322.)
~ From the Port of Pill, John and Sebastian Cabot sailed to the New World in the fifteenth century. (Wood: Elizabethan Sea Dogs, 1 if.) From there on Good Friday, 1773, Captain Thomas Webb, Mrs. Webb, Thomas Rankin, and George Shadford sailed for America. (Hurst: History of Methodism, II, 954.)
September 15, 1771
not acknowledge me in America, I will soon return to England. I know my views are upright now; may they never be otherwise.
On the Lord's day, September 15, I preached on Acts xvii, 30: "But God now commandeth all men everywhere to repent." The sailors behaved with decency. My heart's desire and prayer for them was, and is, that they may be saved: but 0! the deep ignorance and insensibility of the human heart!
The wind blowing a gale, the ship turned up and down, and from side to side, in a manner very painful to one that was not accustomed to sailing; but when Jesus is in the ship all is well. 0 what would not one do, what would he not suffer, to be useful to souls, and to the will of his great Master! Lord, help me to give thee my heart now and forever.
Our friends had forgotten our beds, or else did not know we should want such things; so I had two blankets for mine. I found it hard to lodge on little more than boards. I want faith, courage, patience, meekness, love. When others suffer so much for their temporal interests, surely I may suffer a little for the glory of God, and the good of souls. May my Lord preserve me in an upright intention! I find I talk more than is profitable. Surely my soul is among lions. I feel my spirit bound to the New World, and my heart united to the people, though unknown; and have great cause to believe that I am not running before I am sent. The more troubles I meet with, the more convinced I am that I am doing the will of God.
In the course of my passage I read Sellon's Answer to Elisha Cole5 on the Sovereignty of God; and I think, no one that reads it deliberately can afterward be a Calvinist.
On the Lord's day, September 22, I preached to the ship's company on John iii, 23; but alas! they were insensible creatures. My heart has been much pained on their account. I spent my time chiefly in retirement, in prayer, and in reading the Appeals, Mr. De Renty's life, part of Mr. Norris's Works, Mr. Edwards on the Work of God in New England, the Pilgrim's Progress, time Bible, and Mr. Wesley's Sermons.6 I feel a strong
5 Walter Sellon was once a Methodist itinerant and a master in Kingswood School.
During the controversy over Calvinism, Sellon at Wesley's request defended the Church of England against the charge of predestination in A Defense of God's Sovereignty
Against the Impious and Horrible Aspersions Cast Upon It by Elisha Coles in His Practical
Treatise on That Subject. (See Wesley's Journal, V, 361.)
6 John Wesley published An Earnest Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion in 1743 and A Farther Appeal to Men of Reason and Religion in 1745. These were frequently republished separately and together; and Asbury probably used one of the collected Volumes. M. de Renty was a French ascetic whose biography, The Holy Life of Monr. De Renty, a late Nobleman of France, and some time Councellor to King Lewis the Thirteenth, first published in 1651, was read by Wesley in Georgia (Wesley's Journal, I, 219, 414, 450). Wesley drastically abridged and published it in 1741, and it was this abridgment which Asbury read. John Norris (1657-171 1) was a Platonist whose Treatise Concerning Christian Prudence was abridged and published by Wesley in 1734. Wesley also abridged and published two of Jonathan Edward's works, A Narrative of
6 September 29, 1771
desire to be given up to God-body, soul, time, and talents: far more than heretofore.
September 29, I preached to the ship's company again, on these words, "To you is the word of this salvation sent." I felt some drawings of soul towards them, but saw no fruit. Yet stihh I must go on. Whilst they will hear, I will preach, as I have opportunity. My judgment is with the Lord. I must keep in the path of duty.
On the 6th of October, though it was very rough, I preached on deck to all our ship's company, from Heb. ii, 3: "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation" The Lord enabled me to speak plainly, and I bad some hopes that the interesting truths of the Gospel did enter into their minds. I remember the words of the wise man, "In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thy hand." As to my own mind, I long and pray, that I may be more spiritual. But in this I comfort myself that my intention is upright, and that I have the cause of God at heart. But I want to stand complete in all the will of God, "holy as he that bath called me is holy, in all manner of conversation." At times I can retire and pour out my soul to God, and feel some meltings of heart. My spirit mourns, and hungers, and thirsts, after entire devotion.
October 13. Though it was very windy, I fixed my back against the mizen-mast, and preached freely on those well-known words, 2 Cor. v., 20:
"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." I felt the power of truth on my own soul, but still, alas! saw no visible fruit:
but my witness is in heaven, that I have not shunned to declare to them all the counsel of God. Many have been my trials in the course of this voyage; from the want of a proper bed, and proper provisions, from sickness, and from being surrounded with men and women ignorant of God, and very wicked. But all this is nothing. If I cannot bear this, what have I learned 0, I have reason to be much ashamed of many things, which I speak and do before God and man. Lord, pardon my manifold defects and failures in duty.
Philadelphia
October 27. This day we landed in Philadelphia,7 where we were directed to the house of one Mr. Francis Harris,8 who kindly entertained us in the the late Work of God, at and near Northampton and Some Thoughts Concerning the Present .Revival of Religion in New England, and Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress. -
7Philadelphia at this time was the largest American city, having a population of
28,000. It was the Proprietary Capital of the Province until 1776. Carpenter's Hall, then nearing completion, was to house the Continental Congress three years later.
8 Francis Harris was a prominent Philadelphia Methodist who frequently accompanied the preachers to their nearby appointments. (See Pilmoor's Manuscript Journal in the possession of the Philadelphia Conference Methodist Historical Society, Philadelphia.)
PHILADELPHIA November2,1771 7
evening, and brought us to a large church,9 where we met with a considerable congregation. Brother Pilmoor10 preached. The people looked on us with pleasure, hardly knowing how to show their love sufficiently, bidding us welcome with fervent affection, and receiving us as angels of God. 0 that we may always walk worthy of the vocation wherewith we are called! When I came near the American shore, my very heart melted within me, to think from whence I came, where I was going, and what I was going about. But I felt my mind open to the people, and my tongue loosed to speak. I feel that God is here; and find plenty of all we need.
November 2. I find my mind drawn heavenward. The Lord hath helped me by his power, and my soul is in a paradise. May God Almighty keep me as the apple of his eye, in all the storms of life are past! Whatever I do, wherever I go, may I never sin against God, but always do those things that please him!
November 3. We held a watch-night. It began at eight o'clock. Brother Pilmoor preached, and the people attended with great seriousness. Very few left the solemn place till the conclusion. Towards the end, a plain man spoke, who came out of the country, and his words went with great power to the souls of the people; so that we may say, "Who hath despised the day of small things" Not the Lord our God: then why should self-important man
November 4. I was sent for to visit two persons who were under conviction for sin. I spoke a word of consolation to them, and have hopes that God will set their souls at liberty. My own mind is fixed on God: he hath helped me. Glory be to him that liveth and abideth forever!
November 5. I preached at Philadelphia my last sermon, before I set out for New York, on Romans viii, 32: "He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him freely give us all things" This also was a night of power to my own and many other souls.
9 This was St. George's Church, now the oldest Methodist place of worship in America and the first to be called a church. It was here that Asbury preached his first sermon in America on Monday, October 28, 1771. It was purchased from a German Reformed congregation on November 23, 1769. Its congregation was comprised mostly of members of the society organized by Captain Thomas Webb in 1767. Webb preached in a sail loft and later at 8 Loxley Place in a house which is still standing. Whitefield preached in Philadelphia in 1769; and one of his converts, Edward Evans, was preach. ing in the region before the arrival of Wesley's missionaries. (Pilmoor's Journal; Tees:
The Beginnings of Methodisni in England and America, 92, 93; Tees: The Ancient Landmark of American Methodism, 23-27; Atkinson, op. cit., 145, 146.)
10 Joseph Pilmoor (1739-1825) was one of the first two preachers sent by Wesley to America, arriving on October 24, 1769. He returned to England in 1774 and resumed his work in the British Conference. In 1784 he returned to America and was ordained by Bishop Samuel Seabury of Connecticut as a clergyman of the Anglican Church and Served nearly seventeen years as the rector at St. Paul's Church in Philadelphia. (Wilson: Life of Rev. William White, 111; Atkinson, op. cit., 447 448; Seaman: Annals of New York Methodism, 67.)
8 NEW JERSEY AND STATEN ISLAND November 6,1771
New Jersey and Staten Island
November 6. I went to Burlington on my way to New York, and preached in the court house to a large, serious congregation." Here also I felt my heart much opened. In the way from thence to New York I met with one Peter Van Pelt,12 who had heard me preach at Philadelphia. After some conversation, be invited me to his house on Staten Island; and as I was not engaged to be at New York on any particular day, I went with him and preached in his house.13 Still I believe God hath sent me to this country. All 1 seek is to be more spiritual, and given up entirely to God-to be all devoted to him whom I love.
On the Lord's day, in the morning, November 10, I preached again to a large company of people, with some enlargement of mind, at the house of my worthy friend Mr. P. Van Pelt; in the afternoon preached to a still larger congregation; and was invited to preach in the evening at the house of Justice Hezekiah Wright,14 where I had a large company to hear me. Still, evidence grows upon me, and I trust I am in the order of God, and that there will be a willing people here. My soul has been much affected with them. My heart and mouth are open; only I am still sensible of my deep insufficiency, and that mostly with regard to holiness. It is true, God has given me some gifts; but what are they to holiness It is for holiness my spirit mourns. I want to walk constantly before God without reproof.
New York
On Monday I set out for New York,r5 and found Richard Boardman16 there in peace, but weak in body. Now I must apply myself to my old work-to watch, and fight, and pray. Lord, help!
11 Asbury went by stage to Burlington en route to New York to assist Richard Boardman. (Pilmoor's Journal.) Captain Webb had formed a Methodist society in Burlington in December, 1440, with Joseph Toy as leader.
12 Peter van Pelt lived on Staten Island, where his Dutch forebears settled in 1687. He was a prominent citizen, a soldier in the French and Indian War, and one of the leading early Methodists in the region. Pilmoor, Williams, and probably Boardman and Webb, preached on Staten Island; and van Pelt doubtless became a Methodist under the influence of one of these preachers. He is believed to have died in 1781.
18 Van Pelt's house was a Dutch dwelling with low sloping roof, wide fireplaces and smahl windows, located on Woodrow Road about one-half mile from Woodrow Church. This church was built in 1787 and is still in use. Here Asbury preached his first sermon in New York State. (Leng and Davis: Staten Island and Its People, I, 466; Hampton: Asbury on Staten Island, 4.)
14 Hezekiah Wright was ajustice of the Court of Common Pleas of the province of New York, and a prominent citizen who operated a fleet of vessels engaged in coastal trade. His home was on Shore Road. (See Journalentry for May 22, 1802; Hampton,op. cit., 5.)
'5 Asbury took a ferry from the foot of William Street at Stapleton to Whitehall at the lower end of Manhattan Island.
16 Richard Boardnman (1732-82) came to America with Pilmoor in 1769. He was designated by Wesley as "Assistant" with authority to station the preachers. He
NEW YORK November 12, 1771
Tuesday, 12.17 I preached at New York to a large congregation18 on 1 Cor. ii, 2: "I determined not to know anything among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified," with some degree of freedom in my own mind. I approved much of the spirit of the people: they were loving and serious; there appeared also, in some, a love of discipline. Though I was unwilling to go to New York so soon, I believe it is all well, and I still hope I am in the order of God. My friend Boardman is a kind, loving, worthy man, truly amiable and entertaining, and of a child-like temper. I purpose to be given up to God more and more, day by day. But 0!! come short.
Wednesday, 13. 1 preached again at New York. My heart is truly enlarged, and I know the life and power of religion is here. 0 how I wish to spend all my time and talents for him who spilt his blood for me!
The Lord's day, 17, I found a day of rest to my soul. In the morning I was much led out with a sacred desire. Lord, help me against the mighty! I feel a regard for the people: and I think the Americans are more ready to receive the word than the English; and to see the poor Negroes so affected is pleasing,19 to see their sable countenances in our solemn
brought twenty-five pounds in cash and some books which were sold for twenty-two pounds as a contribution from the British Conference to the New York Society. Boardman and Pilmoor returned to England together in 1774. The former resumed his itinerant status and preached in Ireland and London. He died from apoplexy in Cork and was buried in St. Barry's Churchyard there.
17Jfl the early Journal there was an error of one day in each date between November
12 and December 2. Corrections have been made herein. Throughout the Journal erroneous dates have been corrected.
18 This was Asbury's first sermon in Wesley Chapel, dedicated October 30, 1468. It was the house referred to by Wesley when he asked for volunteers for America in 1769. (Wesley's Journal, August 3, 1769.) It was the fourth Methodist preaching place in New York. The first was the home of Philip Embury in Augustus Street, where Embury preached the first sermon in New York in 1766. Then a house near the barracks was used, 1766-67. The society moved to the famous Rigging Loft, 120 Williams Street, in 1767, where Captain Thomas Webb joined Embury. On March 30, 1768, lots 4 and 46 on John Street, between Nassau and Williams, were purchased from Mrs. Mary Barclay, widow of a former rector of Trinity Church, the first property owned by Methodist trustees in America. The price, six hundred pounds, was loaned by Captain Webb and William Lupton, who with Thomas Taylor were trustees. Phraseology for the deed was secured from Wesley and was first used in the deed to St. George's Church in Philadelphia. This meetinghouse was 40 x 60 feet in size, built of stone, faced with plaster, and painted blue. Subscriptions for more than 418 pounds were received from 250 persons, including prominent vestrymen of Trinity Church. A Methodist church has stood on the site since that date. In 1817 a larger building was erected, and in 1841 the present John Street Church was built, it is still active and is one of the official shrines of American Methodism. Its Society is the oldest in America, though the present uuilding is not as old as St. George's in Philadelphia. (Seaman, op. cit., 416-22, 48-53; John Street Church Records, 1.)
'9 There were Negroes in the New York Society from the beginning. Barbara Heck's servant, Betty, was present at Embury's first sermon and a charter member. Others were subsnbers to the building fund. Peter, slave of a tobacconist, James Aymar, was Converted by Captain Webb in the Rigging Loft and was for many years the sexton of
10 NEW YORK November 19, 1771
assemblies, and to hear them sing with cheerful melody their dear Redeemer's praise, affected me much, and made me ready to say, "Of a truth I perceive God is no respecter of persons."
Tuesday, 19. I remain in New York, though unsatisfied with our being both in town together. I have not yet the thing which I seek-a circulation of preachers, to avoid partiality and popularity. However, I am fixed to the Methodist phan, and do what I do faithfully as to God. I expect trouble is at hand. This I expected when I left England, and I am willing to suffer, yea, to die, sooner than betray so good a cause by any means. It will be a hard matter to stand against all opposition, as an iron pillar strong, and steadfast as a wall of brass: but through Christ strengthening me I can do all things.
Thursday, 21. At present I am dissatisfied. I judge we are to be shut up in the cities this winter. My brethren seem unwilling to leave the cities, but I think I shall show them the way. I am in trouble, and more trouble is at hand, for I am determined to make a stand against all partiality.20 I have nothing to seek but the glory of God; nothing to fear, but his displeasure. I am come over with an upright intention, and through the grace of God I will make it appear: and I am determined that no man shall bias me with soft words and fair speeches: nor will I ever fear (the Lord helping me) the face of man, or know any man after the flesh, if I beg my bread from door to door; but whomsoever I please or displease, I will be faithful to God, to the people, and to my own soul.
Saturday, 23. I went with Brother Sause21 and brother White22 to
Wesley Chapel. He was purchased by the trustees for forty pounds in 1783 when his owner returned to England and allowed to work out the sum for his emancipation. Peter was one of the founders of the African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and laid the cornerstone of its first meetinghouse at Leonard and Church streets in 1800. (Wakeley, op. cit., 439; Seaman, op. cit., 485 if.; Barclay: Early American Methodism, I, 291; John Street Church Records, I.)
20 Asbury refers to his disagreement with Boardman and Pilmoor concerning the principle of itinerancy. Asbury insisted on frequent changes in appointments or a "circulation of preachers" while the other two believed in longer tenures. Pilmoor wrote in his Journal, page 197, "Frequent change . . . is never likely to promote the spirit of the Gospel nor increase true religion." This caused a conflict between the men which was reflected in numerous Journal entries and in correspondence with Wesley. The preferences of laymen for certain preachers and the acceptance of gifts became involved. (See Journal entries for October 9, 1772; July 1, 1743; May 29, 1744; and so on.) At the conference on May 25, 1774, after the departure of Pilmoor and Boardman, it was determined that the preachers should interchange each six months and that those in New York and Philadelphia should change quarterly. (See Minutes.) This action was "undeniably one of the chief means of the marvellous growth of Methodism in its first half century." (Tipple: Prophet of the Long Road, 119, 120.)
81 Richard Sause came from Dublin with Charles White in 1766 and established a cutlery business. He was one of the original trustees of Wesley Chapel and a donor to the building fund. His home was open to the preachers, and he frequently escorted them on their travels. Asbury appointed Sause to succeed James Jarvis as the leader of the
NEW YORK November 23, 1771 hi
Westchester," which is about twenty miles from New York. My friends waited on the mayor24 for the use of the court house,25 which was readily granted. On the Lord's day morning, a considerable company being gathered together, I stood up in the Lord's power; yea, I felt the Holy One was nigh. I judged that my audience needed to be taught the first principles of religion: so I spoke from those words, "Now he commandeth all men everywhere to repent." Seriousness sat on the faces of my hearers, and the power of God came both on me and them, while I laboured to show them the nature and necessity of repentance, and the proper subjects and time for it. In the afternoon the congregation was increased, both in number and seriousness: some of the chief men of the town-the mayor and others, were present. I delivered my thoughts on those words, "This is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another." I felt warmth in my soul while I set forth the nature and necessity of faith, and much enlargement towards my bearers. In the evening I preached at one Molloy's,26 at a place called West Farms,27 to many persons, on the love of God. The next day I preached at Westchester again to a large company, and felt a sense of God resting on my heart, and much love to the people. Being detained class in 1774. (See Journal entries November 4, 7, 1774.) He was a Loyalist and returned to England soon after the Revolution, remaining an active Methodist there. The last word of him was in 1795 when Thomas Rankin in London wrote to John Staples in New York about the death of Staples' son, Thomas, named for Rankin. (John Street Church Records, 30-33,69,78,416,425-26,46 ;Wakeley, op. cit., 84-85 ;Arminian Magazine, XVIII, 413-15.)
22 Charles White came from Dublin and was an original trustee of Wesley Chapel, a donor to the building fund, cotreasurer with Richard Sause, and treasurer when Sause returned to England. His house was open to the preachers, and he sometimes traveled with them. He was a Loyalist and went to Nova Scotia after the Revolution. Later he went westward, where Asbury found him "without property and without grace" in May, 1790. (Wakeley, op. cit., 85-86; Journal entries for May 13, 1790, April 29, 1793; Seaman, op. cit., 30-33, 416, 425-26.)
23Westchester was a village on the New York mainland, near Throg's Neck. The section visited by Asbury is now in the borough of the Bronx in New York City.
Asbury traveled up Manhattan Island and crossed Harlem River by Kingsbridge about where the present IRT subway and bridge are located. (Scharf: History of Westchester County, I, 746; map of Kingsbridge, 1783.)
24 The mayor was probably Nathaniel Underhill. (Scharf, op. cit., 1, 640.)
25 The Westchester Courthouse stood near St. Peter's Church at the crossroads. It was built in 1720 and destroyed by fire in 1790.
26 Molloy was perhaps related to M. Molloy, a barber who was active in Wesley Chapel and a close friend of Sause and White. (Pilmoor's Journal; John Street Church Records, I, 14.) The home became the center of West Farm's society. (See Journal entry for January 3, 1772.)
.27 West Farms, originally known as DeLancey's Mills, was a sprawling farming district along the Bronx River three miles or so west of the Westchester Courthouse. The area is still called West Farms and includes the southern part of Bronx Park and tue thickly populated streets radiating from West Farms Road as it approaches Tremont Avenue
12 NEW YORK December 1, 1771
another day by time roughness of the weather, I preached another sermon on this text, "Knowing therefore the terrors of the Lord, we persuade men." In the evening we went to the mayor's, where we lodged that night; and the next day at noon set out for New York.
The Lord's day, December 1, I found a day of rest to my soul, and much liberty, both in the morning and evening,28 among the people. 0 that I may live to God and not to myself, and keep myself free from all worldly entanglements!
Saturday, December 7. As brother Boardman was still at New York, I thought it best to make another visit to Westchester. I spent the evening and lodged at the house of one Dr. White,29 who appears to be an understanding man in the things of God. His wife is also of an amiable disposition, and is touched with a sense of her own state, and that of her neighbours. I spoke to her freely of the willingness of Christ to save now, but unbelief still prevailed. The next morning I went to the court house to preach, but the noise of the children, and the ihi-behaviour of the unhappy, drunken keeper, caused much confusion. In the afternoon my friend Molloy informed me that the door of the court house was shut against me I felt myself at first a little troubled; but soon after a tavernkeeper gave me the offer of an upper room in his house,20 where I spoke on those words, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." The power of God was with us, and many of the vilest of those present will, I trust, remember it as long as they live. In the evening I made another visit to West Farms, and preached there; and my heart was there also touched with the power of God. I lodged that night at the house of Mr. Oakley.31 After supper I asked the family if they would go to -prayer. They looked at one another and said, there was need enough. The next morning, when I asked a blessing before breakfast, they seemed amazed. I told them, they wanted nothing but religion. The old father said it was not well to be too religious. The son said he thought we could not be too good. I soon afterwards took my leave of them, and preached in the evening at East28 Asbury preached in Wesley Chapel on John Street in New York. Boardman may
have been ill or on Staten Island. Pilmoor on this same date felt "great anxiety on account of hearing nothing from Mr. Boardman." (Pilmoor's Journal, December 2,
1771.)
29 Ebeneezer White (1744-1825) was the son of the Rev. Ebeneezer White and attended Asbury in a later illness without charge. (See Journal entries for January 19- February 5, 1772.) He and his wife were deeply religious but do not appear to have been
Methodists. (Scharf, op. cit., I, 574.)
30Two weeks previously the use of the courthouse had been granted without question. On the present occasion no appeal seems to have been made to the mayor, perhaps because Sause and White were not now with Asbury. (See Journal entry and notes for November 24, 1771.) There were three inns in Westchester at the time.
31 Lednum: Rise of Methodism in America, 76.
NEW YORK December 7, 1771 13
chester32 to a few who seemed willing to hear, on those words, "As for me and my house, we wll serve the Lord." I found myself straitened and shut up; but the Lord knoweth what he hath to do with me.
38 The village of Eastchester was a mile or more inland from Eastchester Bay at the lower part of Mount Vernon. Asbury perhaps preached in the home of Theodosius Bartow, where Pilinoor also preached and where Asbury was to be cared for when ill six weeks later. (See Journal entry for January 23-February 5, 1772; Scharf, op. cit., I, 727, and maps.)
14 NEW YORK December 10, 1771
Tuesday, December 10. I rode to New Rochelle,55 and was received with great kindness by Mr. Deveau3~ and his family, and preached there to a few. The next day also I preached to a large company, and found liberty, and believe the power of God was among us. From thence I rode to Rye,35 where a few people were collected together to hear the word: and the next day preached to them again. On Saturday, 14, I rode back to Eastchester, and preached to a large company, and found some satisfaction in speaking on "The one thing needful." On the Lord's day! preached at New Rochelle in the church.36 My text was, "All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." I felt an opening, and was satisfied. I published myself to preach again in the afternoon, and those who had most opposed me before,
33 New Rochelle was settled in 1687 by Huguenot refugees from La Rochelle, France. Here the Rev. Theodotius Bartow, son of the man who befriended the first Methodist itinerants, was Anglican rector. As the town grew, a considerable area was absorbed from the holdings of John Pell, who gave his name to nearby Peiham Manor. (Scharf. op. cit., I.) Scharf distinguishes between the spelling of the name of father and son.
34 Frederick Deveau (variant spellings) was of French Protestant descent, who opened his home to Pilmoor and Robert Williams as well as to Asbury for preaching. (See Lednum, op. cit., 70; Pilmoor's Journal.) Asbury later preached at the funeral of his daughter, Sarah Hutchinson, wife of the Rev. Sylvester Hutchinson, in the Bowery Church in New York. (Journal entry for May 30, 1802.) Another daughter, Hester, married the Rev. John Wilson, who became prominent in the Book Concern. Deveau was a Tory, and after the Revolution much of his estate was seized under the Confiscation Act of New York, and it is believed that he went to Nova Scotia. His three-hundred-acre farm called "Beechmont" gave its name to a part of present New Rochelle. This farm after its confiscation was presented to Thomas Paine, who lived there until hostile public opinion forced him to return to New York City. He was buried on the Deveau property, but his remains were later disinterred. (Scharf, op. cit., I, 689, 690; Dictionary of American Biography, XIV, 163.) This man is identified as Mr. Drake in the extract of the Journal printed in the Arminian Magazine; however, nothing more is known about Drake, and it is presumed that the man in question was actually Frederick Deveau.
35 Rye was established in the early 1660's and named for an English town. In 1676 a stone fort was built there. This was converted into a tavern by a Mr. Van Sicklin in 1728. Later it was acquired by John Doughty and operated under the name of "Sign of the Sun." When Asbury visited the place, it was operated by John Doughty, Jr., who was justice of the peace, and Asbury was doubtless entertained and preached there. (Scharf, op. cit., II, 643 if.) In 1868 the fort-tavern was purchased by the Methodist Episcopah Church and a parsonage erected on the property, which adjoined the church built years before. In 1950 the old well of the tavern was found between the church and the parsonage, and a bronze plaque was erected. (See article by the Rev. J. Lane Miller, "The Church Well at Rye Fort," Christian Advocate, October 29, 1953. Also see Baird:
History of Rye.)
36 The Anglican church at New Rochelle was a plain structure, 40 x 30 feet in size, built in 1710 on the Post Road near the center of the community. It had been continuously served by ministers of French descent ordained by the Bishop of London. The Rev. Michael Houdon was minister at this time. After his death in 1776 there was no resident minister during the Revolution. The Rev. Theodotius Bartow took the parish in 1790.
NEW YORK December 22, 1771 15
came to hear and behaved well.87 In the evening I preached in the house of my friend Mr. Deveau [with liberty and power]. The next day I preached again at Mr. Deveau's, and on Tuesday went to Rye, where I had many to hear, and felt some freedom of spirit. The next day I preached at Mamaroneck,38 to a company of people who at first took but little notice of the worship of God; but I trust some of them felt the power of truth in their hearts. On Thursday 1 returned to New York, and found my friends in peace.
Lord's day, December 22, I preached to a large company in the evening, and felt much power. I know that God was with us indeed, yea, was nigh to bless the people. On Christmas day, we had a very comfortable time. On Friday the 27th, 1 set off with two of my friends39 for Staten Island. On the 28th we arrived at Justice Wright's, where we were entertained with the best his house afforded. From thence I went to my old friend Van Pelt's, who received me with his former kindness, and collected a congregation for the evening, to whom I preached, but had a violent pain in my head. After service I went to bed, and was very ill. However, the next day, being the Lord's day, I preached in the morning and also in the afternoon, with some freedom of mind. In the evening I returned and preached at Justice Wright's. Having received an invitation to preach at the house of one Mr. Ward40 at the east end of the Island, I visited that place on my return to New York, where I had a comfortable time [and much power, and found the people kind].
On Tuesday we arrived in New York. We have been favoured here with a very solemn watch-night. Many felt the power of God.
87 Pilmoor visited New Rochelle in 1771, and the Rev. Ichabod Lewis, Presbyterian minister at White Plains, objected to the Methodists preaching in the home of Frederick Deveau. Pilmoor preached, however, and Mrs. Deveau was converted. (Lednunm, op. cit., 70.)
88 Mamaroneck had been founded on the Post Road halfway between Rye and New
Rochelle in 1661 by John Richbell, an Englishman who secured the land from the
Indians. Asbury had passed through the village three times but had not previously
preached there. William Sutton was supervisor (1741-75), and Gilbert Budd was clerk
(177 1-1806). The descendants of the colonial Governor James de Lancy lived there.
(Scharf, op. cit., 1, 846.)
39 These friends were probably not Sause and White, who were involved with Pit-moor in the tense situation relative to the appointment of preachers at Wesley Chapel. One of them may have been Samuel Selby, who later cared for Asbury in illness and accompanied him to Staten Island in February. Perhaps Asbury absented himself from ew York in order to leave Pilmoor free to adjust the situation there.
Lednum, op. cit., 76.
January 1, 1772. I find that the preachers have their friends in the cities, and care not to leave them. There is a strange party-spirit. For my part I desire to be faithful to God and man. On Thursday evening, I preached my last sermon for a time, on 1 Thess. v. 6: "Let us not sleep as do others, but let us watch and be sober."
On Friday, brother Sause and myself set out for West Farms, and I preached in the evening. On the Lord's day I preached at brother Molloy's at half-past nine, in Westchester at three,41 and at West Farms at six in the evening. A person showed me much kindness at West Farms, favouring me with a man and horse all the time I was there,42 acknowledging the word came home to his heart, and that he was wicked. My friend Hunt,43 who was a Quaker, said he never was so affected. The next day I went to Westchester, but had only a few to hear me. On Wednesday I preached at Hunt's, and felt much Divine power in my soul, and an opening among the people. I have found many trials in my own mind, but feel determined to resist. I see traps set for my feet.
Thursday, I preached at Deveau's, and had an attentive people to hear, and felt myself warm and zealous. On Friday I went to Mamaroneck had a large congregation, and felt the divine presence. Many of the people also felt the power of truth, and sunk under the word-it was laid home to the hearts of the people; but some contradicted and blasphemed. I believe God has a work to do among the people in this place. Lord, keep me faithful, watchful, humble, holy, and diligent to the end. Let me sooner choose to die than sin against thee, in thought, word, or deed.
41 Asbury probably preached at the home of Ebenezer White or in the tavern at Westchester. (See note under December 7, 1771.)
48 This man was probably Mr. Oakley. (See note under December 7, 1771.)
43 The Quaker family named Hunt was prominent in the county. A promontory in East River is called Hunt's Point. (Scharf, op. cit., numerous references.)
NEW YORK January 11, 1772 17
Saturday 11, I preached at one friend Burling's,~4 where many attended to the truth, and showed a willingness to hear. On the Lord's day I preached at Deveau'S at ten in the morning, at three in the afternoon, and at six in the evening. Many attended, but I fear few felt such deep concern as will induce them to leave their sins, and flee from the wrath to come. At brother Hunt's on Monday evening, the house would not hold the congregation: there I felt liberty and power. I hope God will visit them. I have had many trials from Satan, but hitherto the Lord hath helped me against them all. I stand a miracle of mercy! 0 that I may always be found faithful in doing his will!
On Tuesday the 14th I went to Rye: but the people here are insensible. They cry, "The Church! the Church !" There are a few Presbyterians; but they have suffered their meeting house to go to ruin,45 and have lost the power of religion, if they ever had it. I was not a welcome messenger to this people. On Wednesday the 15th I preached at two in the afternoon at Mamaroneck with some power, and in the evening returned, preached at Rye, to a large company, and felt my Master near.
Thursday 16, I was taken ill with a cold and chill. The next morning I rode to New City,46 but the cold pinched me much. On New City island a congregation was assembled to receive me. I spoke to them with some liberty, and they wished me to come again. A wise old Calvinist said, he might experience all I mentioned, and go to hell. I said, Satan experienced more than I mentioned, and yet is gone to hell. After preaching I rode to Mr. Bartow's,47 though in much pain. When I had preached there I went to bed. During the whole night I was very ill. My friends behaved very kindly, and endeavoured to prevail upon me to stay there till I was restored: but my appointment required me to set off from Eastchester, where I preached, and rode near eight miles in the evening to New Rochehle. On the 19th, the Lord's day, I preached three times, though very ill.48 Many attended, and I could not think of disappointing them.
Monday the 20th, h rode to Pelham's Manor,49 and preached there at
44 Probably Thomas Burling of New Rochelle, whose house is reported to have been an early Methodist preaching place. (Lednum, op. cit., 77; records of First Methodist Church, New Rochelle.)
45The Rye Presbyterian Church had been erected on the north side of the Post Road about 1730 and was served infrequently by the Rev. Ichabod Lewis of White Plains. The building was destroyed by fire during the Revolution.
46 New City was a village on an island of the same name near the east shore of East-Chester Bay. it was connected with the mainland by a wooden toll bridge and was a part of Peiham Manor. It is now a part of the borough of the Bronx and called City Island.
See note under December 10, 1771; Scharf, op. cit.
Asbury was probably at the home of Frederick Deveau.
th In the early 1660's Thomas Pelt purchased from the Indians a tract of about ten h Ousanc.j acres east of the Hutchison River. This was called Pellmam, and the Pell
o lding became a manor in the development of the county. About six thousand acres
18 NEW YORK January 2l,1772
noon, and at six in the evening at Peter Bonnette's50 in New Rochelle. The next day I rode to Deveau's, but the day was extremely cold. In the night I had a sore throat, but through the help of God I go on, and cannot think of sparing myself:
"No cross, no suff'ring I decline,
Only let all my heart be thine !"51
Tuesday the 21st I preached at my friend Deveau's for the last time, on "Those things that ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me do." The people seemed deeply affected under the word. In the morning of the 22d, I set out for the New City, and preached there in much weakness and pain of body, and in the evening went to my friend Pell's.52 That night I had no rest: and when I arose in the morning, the pain in my throat was worse. On the 23d I came in a covered sleigh to my friend Bartow's, where I took up my lodging, being unable to go any farther. I then applied to a physician,53 who made applications to my ears, throat, and palate, which were all swelled and inflamed exceedingly. For six or seven days I could neither eat nor drink without great pain. The physician feared I should be strangled, before a discharge took place: but my God ordered all things well. I am raised up again; and cannot help remarking the kindness with which my friends treated me, as if I had been their own brother. The parents and children attended me day and night with the greatest attention. Thus, though a stranger in a strange land, God has taken care of me. May the Lord remember them that have remembered me, and grant to this family life forever more!
February 5. Still I feel myself weak. It is near a fortnight since I came to my friend Bartow's. Dr. White has attended me in all my illness, and did all he could for me gratis. Yesterday was the first day of lily going out. I went to Westchester to hear a friend preach. My kind friends Sause and White brought up a sleigh from New York on Monday last, but my
were conveyed to Huguenot settlers and embraced in New Rochelle. The southern half of the remainder is now in the Bronx and called Peiham Bay Park, and the northern half is in Westchester County between Mount Vernon and New Rochelle and is known as Pelhanm Manor and North Pelham. Lednum and Tipple, as well as the Journal extract printed in the Arminian Magazine, identified this place as Phillipse Manor, but Phillipse was near the present Yonkers and beyond the territory which Asbury was now cultivating. (Scharf, op. cit., 1, 701 if.)
50 Peter Bonnette (1736-1 823), of Huguenot descent, was a close friend of Frederick Deveau. After the Revolution he became a local preacher in the society at New Rochelle. (Lednum, op. cit., 77, 102-3.)
51 These are the closing lines of the hymn "Looking unto Jesus" from the Wesleys' Hymns and Sacred Poems published in 1740. It was probably composed by John Wesley and based on a German original in the Herrnhut collection. (Poetical Works of John and Charles Wesley, I, 222, 223.)
52Thomas Pell married Margaret Bartow and lived at the Pell homestead in Peiham. (Scharf, op. cit., I.)
55 Ebeneezer White of Westchester.
NEW YORK February6,1772 19
friends at this place would not suffer me to go with them. In the course of my recover)', I have read much in my Bible, and Hammond's Notes on the New Testament." I have also met with a spirited piece against predestination. I did not expect to find such an advocate for general redemption in America. This day I ventured to preach at Mr. Anthony Bartow's to his family and a few other people. In the evening returned home, and found Mr. DeLancy,55 the former governor's son, there; who lives in the woods near Salem, and invited me to his house. We spent the evening comfortablY together.
On Thursday, February 6, I preached as I had appointed, the man of the house being in a consumption. Though I had not many people to hear me, yet I have reason to hope that my sermon did good to the poor invalid. I felt affected for my friends in this place, who had been in some measure moved by the word on my former visits, but are now returned to their old ways and company. I found myself weak and unfit to preach, but believe there were some who felt the word come close to their hearts. May God help them to profit by it! On Friday, the 7th I set out for New York in a sleigh,56 and my friends seemed glad to see me. I want to be less concerned about anything except my own work-the salvation of souls. At present I seem determined to consecrate my all to God-body, souh, time, and talents.
On the Lord's day found myself weak, but brother Pilmoor being ill, I preached in the morning, and found life. Stayed at home on Monday, and read in Mr. Wesley's Notes on the Old Testament. On Monday, the 10th I went to the jail, and visited a condemned criminal, and preached to him57 and others with some tender feelings of mind, on those words, "Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth."
Tuesday, the 11th. This day I have visited many of my friends from house to house, and did not find much evil or much good stirring among them. Now I retire to hold communion with God, and to feel his power. In the evening my strength increased, and I preached with some freedom.
On Wednesday I walked out, but caught cold, and returned home chilled and very ill. In the evening when I went into the pulpit, my every
54 Henry Hammond (1 605-60) was a prolific writer and was known as the "father of English biblical criticism." His The Paraphrase and Annotations on the New Testament, published in 1653 and frequently republished, was his greatest work. (Dictionary of National Biography.)
tephen DeLancy (1736-95), second son of the former Governor James DeLancy, inherited a tract of land in the town of Salem in the northern part of Westchester
County, where he developed a community and erected a fine residence. He married Hannah, daughter of the Rev. Joseph Sackett. (Scharf, op. cit., I, 865-66; II, 505.)
Asbury s route from Bartow's in Eastchester was through West Farms, across the Bronx River at W'lliamsbridge to Kingsbridge, and through Manhattan Island to Wesley Chapel on John Street.
57 Pilmoor had preached to this man ten days previously and on the twenty-first walked with him to the gallows and read the fifty-first psalm. (Atkinson, op. cit., 304~6.) 20 STATEN ISLAND February 2l,1772
limb shook; and afterward went to bed with violent pains in my bones. The sickness continued for three days, and kept me at home for above a week. On Thursday, the 20th, I gave an exhortation in public.
Staten Island
Having a desire to visit my friends on Staten Island, I set off in the afternoon of the 21st, contrary to the persuasion of my friends in New York. Samuel Selby58 who was tender towards me in my illness, and took care of me as if I had been his father, accompanied me.
Justice Wright59 received us and entertained us kindly; and though weak and weary, I preached at Peter Van Pelt's60 to a few persons, with much satisfaction. Mr. Disosway6' [a man of fortune] invited me to preach in his house, to which I consented; and Justice Wright sent us there on the Lord's day, with several of his family. I preached twice at that gentleman's house to a large company. Some, it appeared, had not heard a sermon for half a year; such a famine there is of the word in these parts, and a still greater one of the pure word. I returned in the evening to Justice Wright's, and preached to a numerous congregation with comfort. Surely God sent me to these people at the first, and I trust he will continue to bless them, and pour out his Spirit upon them, and receive them at last to himself!
February 24. I preached again at Justice Wright's to many people, and the Lord was with me. My labours increase, and my strength is renewed. Though I came here weak, yet after preaching three times I felt myself 58 Samuel Selby was a prominent member and trustee of Wesley Chapel and conducted a saddlery business. He was a Patriot and was forced to leave New York when
the city was occupied by British troops during the Revolution. (Seaman, op. cit., 68,
431-32; John Street Church Records, Bk. I; Journal entry for April 23, 1780.)
59 See note under November 11, 1771.
60 See note under November 7, 1771.
61 The prominent Disosway family lived near the present Tottenville, having removed from Brooklyn in 1684. Captain Cornelius Disosway operated Disosway's Mill on Staten Island opposite Perth Amboy, New Jersey, before the Revolution. His brother, Israel Disosway (1733-1815), seems to have heard Asbury preach at Van Pelt's, and he became the leader of the first Methodist class on the island; the first quarterly meeting was held in his barn, and the first meetinghouse was built of lumber cut from his trees. Woodrow Methodist Church is the descendant of that chapel. He married Ann Doty, or Doughty (1766-1838); and they later moved to New York to educate their four sons in Columbia College. All were prominent in Wesley Chapel. One of the sons, Gabriel Poillon Disosway, was a manager of the Missionary Society and a founder of Randolph Macon College. He pledged the support of Melville Cox, the first missionary to Liberia in 1833, and was one of the supporters of the Oregon mission to the Indians. (Long and Davis, op. cit., I, 166; Wakeley, op. cit., 554, 555; Lednum, op. cit., 421, 422; Hubbard: History of Methodism on Staten Island, 27-33; Clute: Annals of Staten Island, 290; Barclay, op. cit., I, 291; North, "Reminiscences," Christian Advocate, March 2, 1933, 204; Hampton, op. cit., 5-7.)
STATEN ISLAND February 27, 1772 21
strong. Thanks be to God, who hath raised me up from so low a state! On the 25th I preached at Abraham Woglom's62 at two in the afternoon, to a large company, and had an invitation to go to the south part of the [sland :63 in the evening also I preached at the same place. On the 26th, I preached at the ferry,64 on my way to New York, to a few people, though some came two miles on foot. After preaching, I visited a young man who seemed to be at the point of death: he was full of unbelief, and I fear it was through his Calvinistic notions.
Thursday, the 27th, we arrived in New York. I found brother Pilmoor had set off for Philadelphia in the morning. In the evening I met the society, and felt myself assisted and enlarged. At night I slept with holy thoughts of God, and awoke with the same: thanks be to God!
Tuesday, March 3, 1772.65 Tuesday proved to be a day of peace to my soul; part of which I spent in visiting the people. The next day I was employed in writing to England; and after preaching in the evening with power, I went to rest in sweet peace, and awoke in the morning in the same frame of spirit. May this day be spent to the glory of God! and may my soul yet praise him more and more!
63The house of Abraham Woghom was in the Rossville waterfront area about a mile from the Blazing Star Ferry to Perth Amboy, New Jersey. Several members of the Woglom family aided in establishing the Woodrow Church in 1487. (Lednum, op. cit., 75, 77; Hampton: Historical Address, 150th Anniversary of Asbury Church, Staten Tsland, 1952; Hubbard, op. cit., ch. ii.)
63 The invitation probably came from Gilbert Totten, an extensive landowner whose family were active Methodists. Joseph Totten, his brother, became a prominent preacher; and John C. Totten was a printer whose name appeared on numerous early Methodist hymnbooks and tracts. The Tottens were among the founders of the Woodrow Church on Staten Island in 1787 and some of them are buried in its cemetery along with fifteen Methodist preachers, including Henry Boehm, one of Asbury's traveling companions and executors.
64 Asbury's preaching place was in the vicinity of Quarantine Station in the Tompkinsville-Stapleton area, where the Quarantine Station (Kingsley) Church later developed. Near here was the house of Cornelius Vandeventer, whose daughter, Gertrude, married Israel Disosway, Sr.; and here also was the home of Captain Ward, where Asbury also preached. (Morris: Memorial History of Staten Island; Hubbard: History of Methodist Episcopal Churches of Staten Island; Taylor and Skinner: Revolutionary Map of Staten Island, 1781; manuscript records of Vernon B. Hampton, 1928, 1955.)
65 section of the Journal through Tuesday, March 17, 1772, has been transposed to this position from a point immediately following April 14, 1773. In all previous editions and printings there has been a hiatus of approximately a month, February 27- March 26, 1772, with no statement as to Asbury's travels or activities during the period. Similarly there has been a brief entry dated at Philadelphia April 14, 1773, which was an interpolation caused by the insertion of a section of the Journal at the wrong point. This was doubtless due to an error on the part of the transcriber or printer, and the Confusion has been noted by historians and biographers. Study of this material and Cognate documents especially the manuscript Journal of Joseph Pilmoor and the Records of John Street Church, shows that the interpolation of April 14-15, 1773, is in reality the record of the hiatus period, February 27-March 26, 1772. The section has therefore been placed in proper sequence.
22 STATEN ISLAND March 4, 1772
On Wednesday, after spending a part of the day in visiting, I preached in the evening from these words: "So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief:" and humbly hope it was not labour in vain, while unbelief, that destructive root of all other sin, was exposed to the people.
On Thursday there was an appointment for me to preach at Newtown.66 Brother Sause and myself crossed the East River; but it was with difficulty that we obtained horses.67 We then attempted to proceed on our way; but it was a severe morning, with much snow and wind. The snow came full in our faces, so that, after riding a few miles, we were lost in the storm, and imperceptibly turned our course back towards New York; which we never discovered till we overtook some people on the road. We then crossed the river back to the city, where I continued till Monday.
New York
Friday, I preached at New York on these words: "The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble;" and felt life and power in dispensing the word. On Saturday I visited the sick, and gave an exhortation to the people.
Sunday, March 8. After preaching in the morning on Heb. xii, 15, 1 went in the afternoon to church, and heard Mr. English preach a useful sermon :68 in the evening I preached with much freedom on Eccies. xi, 9, "Rejoice, 0 young man, in thy youth," &c. The young people appeared deeply serious. May the blessing of the Lord attend it, and great fruit appear in time to come! The next day I rode to Bloomingdale,69 and preached with satisfaction; and then returned home, and found it a
66 Newtown was located about twelve miles east of colonial Brooklyn. A creek on
Long Island opposite the present 23rd Street in New York is still known as Newtown
Creek, and the village was two or three miles beyond the head of this stream. Captain
Thomas Webb preached the first Methodist sermon there in 1767; and Williams,
Pihmoor, and Boardman also preached there. The location is now a section of Queen's
Borough, and the Middle Village Church is the descendant of the Newtown class.
67 Liveries hesitated to let horses in unfavorable weather. On August 5, 1771, Pilmoor was denied a horse in the heat of midsummer. (Atkinson, op. cit., 274.)
68 The church attended by Asbury was Trinity Church, at present Broadway and Wall Street, or St. Paul's Chapel, at Broadway and Fulton Street; if the latter, as seems probable, the same building remains to this day. The Rev. Charles Inglis was assistant rector, whose name frequently appears as English. He was among the subscribers to the erection of Wesley Chapel in 1768. He was a Tory and after the Revolution went to Nova Scotia, where he was consecrated bishop in 1787. (Seaman, op. cit., 438; John Street Church Records, Bk. I; Tipple, op. cit., 43, identifies the preacher as "probably the Rev. William Eldred of the Protestant Episcopal Church" but gives no substantiating data; the records of the church show that no person named Eldred or whose name begins with E was ever there.)
69 Bloomingdale was four miles north of Wesley Chapel.
NEW YORK March 10, 1772 23
blessing to labour in the vineyard of the Lord, both in season and out of season.
On Tuesday morning my mind was clear, my heart was fixed on God, and Christ was precious. Bless the Lord, 0 my soul! New York is a large city, and well situated for trade; but the streets and buildings are very irregular. The inhabitants are of various denominations, but nevertheless of a courteous and sociable disposition. There are several places of Divine worship: the Episcopalians have three; the High Dutch, one; the Low Dutch, three; the Lutherans, two; the French Protestants, one; the Presbyterians, two; the Seceders, one; the Baptists, one; the Moravians, one; the Methodists, one; and the Jews one.70 The city abounds with inhabitants; but the exact number I could not ascertain.
Wednesday, hi. My soul enjoyed great peace, and the day was partly spent in religious visits. The next day my mind was in the same comfortable frame; and holy thoughts of God, with strong desires to do all things with a single eye to his glory, as well as to follow his Divine precepts, possessed my peaceful heart.
Friday, 13. This day was, as yesterday, a day of peace; and it was with great satisfaction I preached in the evening, though cold, to a considerable number of people, on the much-neglected duty of self-denial.
Lord's day, 15. I went through my morning exercises in church as usual, and in the afternoon heard Mr. C. preach a good sermon; but a more gay and undevout congregation I have seldom seen-they were talking,
70 Asbury's list of churches is complete. The locations in present-day terms were as follows:
Episcopalians (Anglican or Church of England)
1. Trinity-west side of Broadway at Wall Street
2. St. Paul's-west side of Broadway at Fulton Street
3. St. George's-Beekman Street, several streets east of Broadway, close to East River
Dutch (Reformed and Collegiate)
1. Garden Street-south of Wall Street, east of Broadway
2. Nassau and Cedar Streets
3. Nassau Street, near John Street
4. Fulton and Williams Streets Lutheran (German)
1. Broadway, just south of Wall Street
2. North of Beekman Street, close to Swamp and Tan Yard
French Protestant-Kjng Street east of Nassau, a short distance north of Wall Street
Presbyterian
1. Wall and New Streets
2. East of the Commons, north of Beekman Street
Seceders (Quakers)_east of Nassau Street on a lane just south of Maiden Lane
Baptist__Golden Hill (John Street) at Cliff Street, close to Wesley Chapel
Moravian-Fulton and Dutch Streets
Methodist_Wesley Chapel, John Street between Nassau and William Streets
Jews-_synagogue on Mill Street east of Broad Street
24 NEW JERSEY TO DELAWARE March 17, 1772 laughing, bowing, and trifling both with God and their minister, as well as with their own unawakened souls.
New Jersey - Pennsylvania - Delaware
On Tuesday I took my leave of New York, after preaching from Philippians i, 9,71 with an intention to spent some time on Staten Island, on my way to Philadelphia. During my stay on the island I preached several times, with power and satisfaction; but was sometimes greatly assaulted by Satan. Hitherto the Lord hath helped me. Glory to his name! He preserves and blesses my soul; he supplies me with all things necessary for the preservation and health of my body. May I be ever careful to please him, and devote all the powers of body and soul to his service.
March 26. After having preached in a large upper room, at Mr. Thompson's in Amboy,72 where many came to hear, and I was much favoured in my soul, an innkeeper invited me to his house,73 and kindly desired that I would call on him when I came again.
Friday, 27. I set off on a rough-gaited horse, for Burlington; and after being much shaken, breakfasted at Spotswood ;74 fed my horse again at Crosswick's,75 and then thought to push on to Burlington; but the roads being bad, and myself and horse weary, I lodged with a Quaker, on whom I called to inquire the way. He not only invited me to tarry all night, but also treated me with great kindness. The next day I rode to town very weary; and on the Lord's day (March 29) preached in the court house to many hearers.76
71 Asbury preached his farewell sermon on this visit at 5 A.M., an hour frequently observed on Tuesdays at Wesley Chapel.
72 Amboy was the Indian name of Perth Amboy, New Jersey, which was founded about 1680 and incorporated in 1718; the word "Perth" was added in honor of the Earl of Perth. (Columbia Encyclopedia, 1376.) The owner of the upper room where Asbury preached has not been identified.
73 This innkeeper may have been John Church, who kept "a good house of entertainment" at Amboy. (Watson: Annals of Philadelphia, 1, 464.)
74 Spotswood in Middlesex County was on the road to Bordentown and Trenton, about twenty-six miles from the latter place. Asbury had a choice of two routes from Inman's Ferry, now New Brunswick; and he took the "lower road," turning about five or six miles from the Raritan River and following a circuitous route toward Burlington. (Woodward and Hageman: History of Burlington County, 54; Gordon: Gazeteer and History of New Jersey, 241.)
75 Crosswicks in Burlington County was a post town with a large Quaker meeting-house. Methodist services were held in the schoolhouse, and a class was formed which grew into the Methodist church. (Gordon, op. cit., 124, 125; Woodward and Hageman, op. cit., 289.)
76 Asbury, as well as Captain Webb, Richard Boardman, and John King, preached at the courthouse in Burlington until the county seat was moved to Mount Holly. Thereafter and until a church was built, the Methodists met in the home of George Smith. (Schermerham: History of Burlington, 195; Wakeley, op. cit., 554, 555.)
NEW JERSEY TO DELAWARE March 30, 1772 25
Monday, 30. After riding to New Mills," in company with some friends, in a wagon, I preached in a Baptist meeting house and was kindly received.
Tuesday, 31. Finding the people were divided among themselves, I preached from these words: "This is his commandment, that we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another;" and humbly hope my labour was not in vain. The same night we came to Burlington.
April 2. I came to Philadelphia, and finding brother Boardman78 and brother Webb there, was much comforted. Brother Boardman's plan79 was:
that he should go to Boston; brother Pilmoor to Virginia; brother Wright to New York; and that I should stay three months in Philadelphia. With this I was well pleased; [and earnestly desire that my whole soul could be more devoted to God].
Friday 3. We dined with Mr. Roberdeau80 who cannot keep Negroes for conscience' sake; and this was a topic of our conversation.
Saturday, 4. This morning my mind was composed and serene; [fixed, I humbly hope on God alone. My desire is, to be more constantly devoted than ever: yea, to walk in holiness before the Lord].
April 7. In the evening I preached to a very large audience in the church, after preaching in the day to many poor mortals in the Bettering-house. 81
77 New Mills was the present Pemberton, New Jersey. Captain Webb preached there in 1770. In 1775 the Methodists built a meetinghouse on property deeded to the trustees by William Budd, Jr. (Woodward and Hageman, op. cit., 407.)
78 Richard Boardman (1 738-82), whose unverified birthplace likely was Gillimoor, Ireland, came to America with Joseph Pilmoor in 1769. He acted as "assistant" until October 10, 1772, when Wesley assigned Asbury to the post. Boardman's ministry was confined mostly to New York and Philadelphia, but in 1772 he entered New England and organized in Boston a class of brief duration. After his return to England in 1774 he was appointed to circuits in Ireland, with the exception of 1780, when he was in London. He died during his pastorate at Cork and was buried in the churchyard attached to the St. Fin Barre Cathedral.
79 This "plan" was a forerunner of American Methodism's system of making appointments at annual conferences.
80 Asbury's host was doubtless General Daniel Roberdeau (1727-95), friend of Whitefield and a leader in Philadelphia. When a resident of Alexandria, Virginia, in 1785, he arranged the meeting of Asbury and co*ke with General Washington at Mount ernon to discuss slavery. (Lednum, op. cit., 78; National Cyclopedia of American Biography ii, 18.)
81 This was the Philadelphia Almshouse and Hospital maintained for the sick, insane, and dependent poor, it was the first nonsectarian hospital in the United States and was established in 1732 in the square now bounded by Third, Fourth, Spruce, and Pine Streets. In 1467 the location was moved to Tenth and Spruce streets. Three modern institutions are the outgrowth of the Bettering House: The Philadelphia General Hospital a, The Philadelphia State Hospital (Byberry); and Riverview, the home for the ge poor at Holmesburg, Philadelphia. (History of Philadelphia General Hospital.)
26 NEW JERSEY TO DELAWARE April8, 1772
April 8. Set out for Bohemia82 to find Mr. Wright, (who had been at his own discretion,) that he might wait on Mr. Boardman, in order to go to New York for five months. Stopping at Mrs. Withey's88 in Chester," to feed myself and my horse, I inquired about preaching in that town, and found this to be the house where Mr. Boardman and Mr. Pilmoor put up; and that the people were pleased with Methodist preaching. After leaving word that I would call to preach there on my return, I set off for Wilmington 85 expecting to meet Mr. Wright there; but we accidentally met just as he was turning off to Mr. Tussey's86 for lodging, about four miles from the town. He seemed glad to see me, and willing to be subject to order.
The next morning Mr. Wright went on his way to Philadelphia. Having a desire to go, and see, and hear how things went, I desired him to call and preach at Chester; and I proceeded to the house of Mr. Stedham [in Delaware}, a friend of the Methodists; and then rode on to Newcastle, and stopped at the house of brother Furness,87 a tavern-keeper, but a good man. Preached there to a few people, but met with opposition, and found the Methodists had done no great good. The court house here is shut against us; but it is open for dances and balls; and brother Furness has lost his company by receiving us. However, we were comforted together.
Maryland
April 10. Set out for Bohemia, where I found that some mischievous opposers had thrown the people into confusion.
82 The name given in honor of his homeland by Augustine Herman to some five thousand acres in Cecil County, Maryland, on the east side of the Elk River between the Bohemia River and Back Creek. The manorial grant, which was in payment to cartographer Herman by Governor Calvert for "an Exact Mapp of the country," fell into the hands of the Labadists after the grantee's death in 1686. This region was the scene of early Methodist activity and is associated with Methodist history through Governor Richard Bassett, who aided and entertained bishops and circuit riders at his estate there. (Wilstach: Tidewater Maryland, 108-10; Mathews: The Maps and Map Makers of Maryland, 368-86.)
83 Mrs. Mary Withey was the widow of James Withey, an English officer. She kept the Columbia Hotel in Chester, Pennsylvania, called "the best Inn on the continent." Henry Boehm says that George Washington was often her guest. Asbury preached her funeral on May 5, 1810. (See entry for that date. Also July 16, 1773.)
84 Chester, oldest town in Pennsylvania, was the Swedish settlement of Upland when William Penn arrived in 1682. Captain Webb is believed to have introduced Methodism there about 1769.
85 Lednum lists those who preached there after Webb in this order: John King, whom Pilmoor licensed and sent to Delaware in 1770, Robert Williams, Boardman, Pilmoor, Wright, and Asbury. (Op. cit., 58.) On his first visit to Delaware, Captain Webb preached in the home of J. Stedham in Wilmington. (Hallman: The Garden of Methodism, 9, 14.)
86 This was Isaac Tussey, cousin of J. Stedham. He lived on Shell Pot Hill above Wilmington. (Hallman, op. cit., 122; Scharf: History of Delaware, II, 911.)
87 At New Castle, in Robert Furness's tavern, Asbury preached his first sermon in the state of Delaware. (Hallman, op. cit., 117.)
MARYLAND April 11,1772 27
I have had serious thoughts of going to Baltimore; but the distance, which is ninety miles, seems too much at present.
April 11. Found an inattention to study, and unsettled frame of mind, much insensibility of soul, and a backwardness to prayer. Lord, help me with an active warmth to move, and with a vigorous soul to rise!
Visited an old man who was sick, with whom I had some conversation, though not much; but came away without prayer; and was justly blamed both by my friends and myself. I would have prayed with him; but two men came in, whose countenances I did not like, and therefore neglected
my duty through the fear of man. I have nothing to plead to palliate my omission. It is true, that to introduce prayer among prayerless people is not an easy matter; yet this is no excuse for me. Lord, forgive both my secret and open faults; my failings of omission and commission: help me to have respect to all thy commandments; and to be blameless before thee in all things!
Lord's day, 12. Preached to-day at my friend Hersey's,88 as also the evening before. The house was filled both before and after dinner. The Lord gave me great liberty and power; and I humbly believe that some trembled under the word; [at least one, who was lord of the manor]. 0, that it may not wear off! I preached from these words: "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God." After describing the wicked, and showing wherein they forget God, I attempted to prove the torments to be real and eternal, from the real joys and duration of heaven.
Monday, 13. Visited E. Thompson,89 and saw his father, who is a hundred years old, or more. He had lately lost his wife, who was younger than he; and in her he lost his nurse and eartimly comfort. [The old man was in great trouble; but bad some sense of divine things, and joined me in prayer.]
Tuesday, 14. Was advised and invited to preach at Wilmington (Delaware) which I did, though there were but few to hear.
Pennsylvania
Wednesday, 15. Rode to Chester, and preached in the court house. The church minister and many Quakers were present; but the congregation
se Solomon Hersey lived at the head of Bohemia River. in his house the second Society within the present ..Peninsula Conference was organized. It is perpetuated in Bethesda Chapel at Cayott's Corner near Chesapeake City, Cecil County, Maryland.
05, 113, 292. For an account of the Hersey families see Marine: Sketch of Rev.
o n Hersey, 5, 6.)
M Ephraim Thompson and his brother Robert lived near Pivot Bridge, Cecil County, aryland. At nearby Thompson's School House, Richard Wright is believed to have organized the Bethel Society. (See Hailman, op. cit., 121, 290.)
28 PENNSYLVANIA April16, 1772
appeared to be the wildest I had seen in America. [I felt much, myself; and believe that many others felt also.] But I humbly hope the labour was not all in vain. In the morning I visited, and spoke with great freedom to four men who were under sentence of death.
Thursday, 16. I rode through a heavy rain to Philadelphia, and preached the next morning with some freedom.
Tuesday, 21. My mind is quiet and serene. I am now free from company, which is very pleasing to me, having found that much company is both disagreeable and dangerous.
Wednesday, 22. Met the society, and found both life and liberty among the people. This night Brother Williams90 came in from Virginia. He gives a flaming account of the work there. Many of the people seem to be ripe for the Gospel, and ready to receive us. I humbly hope, before long, about seven preachers of us will spread seven or eight hundred miles, and preach in as many places as we are able to attend. Lord, make us humble, watchful, and useful to the end of our lives!
April 23. Brother Williams set off for New York.
April 24. I preached at Philadelphia with freedom and power.
April 25. Preached to the people with some sharpness. In the evening I kept the door, met the society, and read Mr. Wesley's epistle to them.
Tuesday, 28. I intended to go out of town; but could not get a horse. So I stayed for Brother Wright, and heard that many were offended at my shutting them out of society meeting, as they had been greatly indulged before. But this does not trouble me. While I stay, the rules9' must be attended to; and I cannot suffer myself to be guided by half-hearted Methodists. An elderly Friend told me very gravely, that "the opinion of the people was much changed, within a few days, about Methodism: and that the Quakers and other dissenters had laxed their discipline; that none but the Roman Catholics kept it up with strictness." But these things do not move me.
90 Robert Williams, who became a member of the Irish Conference in 1766, preceded Boardman and Pilmoor to America in the summer of 1769 with the understanding with Wesley that he was to be subject to the regular preachers. Of his dramatic departure from Ireland see Lee: A Short History of the Methodists, 26ff. Williams is said to have preached the first Methodist sermon in Virginia at Norfolk in 1769. The cash book of St. George's Church shows a disbursem*nt on September 2, 1769, to Robert Williams for expenses from Norfolk to Philadelphia. After his marriage in 1774 he located. He died in Virginia on September 26, 1775; and his funeral sermon was preached by Asbury. (See Journal entries for September 26, 27, 1776.)
91 Reference is to the General Rules drawn up in 1739 by John and Charles Wesley for governing the United Societies. Asbury, a strict disciplinarian, expressed constant concern over the laxity with which his colaborers applied these rules. He insisted that class leaders after each class meeting should report to the ministers and stewards on each member's attendance, conduct, contributions, and observance of the ordinances. Because of a restrictive rule the General Rules have undergone little revision since Asbury's day. (See Doctrines and Discipline of the Methodist Church.)
NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA April29, 1772 29
New Jersey-Pennsylvania
Wednesday, 29. Set out for Burlington,98 where I met with brother Webb and brother John King,93 and found the people there very lively. Two persons have obtained justification under brother Webb, and a certain Dr. T-t, a man of dissipation, was touched under brother Boardman's preaching last night. I admire the kindness of my friends to such a poor worm as I. 0 my God! remember them! remember me!
Thursday, 30. I humbly hope the word was blest to a large number of people who attended while I preached at the court house.
Set out for Philadelphia; but about a mile from the city found that the bridge could not be crossed on horseback; so I heft my horse and walked to the ferry. Brother Wright took the horse and went to Burlington, on his way to New York. Was desired to attend the execution of the prisoners at Chester, and John King went with me. We found them penitent; and two of the four obtained peace with God, and seemed very thankful. I preached with liberty to a great number of people under the jail wall. The sheriff was friendly and very kind. John King preached at the gallows to a vast multitude; after which I prayed with them. The executioner pretended to tie them all up, but only tied one, and let the rest fall. One of them was a young man about fifteen. We saw them all afterward, and exhorted them to be careful. We returned to Philadelphia the same night, and I gave an exhortation.
Tuesday, May 5. Set out for Burlington again, and preached to a serious
92 This journey initiated Asbury's labors on that part of the Philadelphia Circuit east of the Delaware River which included all of New Jersey. He therefore crossed the state line from time to time. Captain Webb had formed the first class in New Jersey at Burlington on December 14, 1770, and placed Joseph Toy, one of his converts, in charge as leader. (150th Anniversary Program of Broad Street Church, Burlington, 2; Atkinson: Memorials of Methodism in New Jersey, 36.)
93 John King, M.D. (1746-95), was born in Leicestershire and educated at Oxford and a London medical college. It was to King that Wesley on July 28, 1775, wrote the well-known letter advising him to "scream no more at the peril of your soul." Disinherited by his father when converted under Wesley, he came to America in 1769 and was authorized by Pilmoor to preach. He began in the Potter's Field, now Washington Square, in Philadelphia; and in 1770 he preached the first Methodist sermon in Baltimore on a block in the front of a blacksmith's shop at Front and Center streets. He was present at the first conference in 1773 and assigned to New Jersey. The following year he was appointed to Norfolk, Virginia, and doubtless extended his circuit into North Carolina, to which state he was appointed in 1777. Having married Miss Sallie Seawell of a prominent Brunswick County, Virginia, family, he located in North Carolina and served as a local preacher. He was present at the first conference of the newly formed Methodist Episcopal Church at the home of his neighbor, Green Hill, near Louisburg, North Carolina, in 1785. (Historical Sketches of Franklin County, N.C., 278-83, by Edward Hill Davis, a great-great-grandson of King; Moore: Sketches of the Pioneers of Methodism in North Carolina and Virginia, 51-56; Barclay: History of Methodist Missions, I, 33-34; see note under June 23, 1780.)
30 NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA May 6, 1772
people. But how is my soul troubled that I am not more devoted! 0 my God! my soul groans and longs for this.
May 6. My heart was much humbled; but the Lord enabled me to preach with power in my soul.
Thursday, 7. Visited some prisoners; and one of them, who is to be tried for his life, seemed much affected. In the evening I preached, and felt my heart much united to this people. Next morning set off for Philadelphia, and got in time enough for intercession; alter which, I visited a sick friend, who rested her soul on God, and then I preached in the evening.
Sunday, 10. Preached in the morning; attended two places of worship in the day; preached again at night; and had a comfortable time in meeting the society.
Monday, 11. Was much stirred up, and found an increase of life in visiting the society; and then preached in the evening.
Tuesday, 12. Set off for the Jerseys.94 My mind enjoys sweet peace and the love of God. It is my desire to be entirely devoted to God, who opens the hearts of people to receive me, and my heart to deliver his counsel to them.
Wednesday, 13. Preached at three o'clock95 on, "Behold I stand at the door and knock." 0, what a time of satisfaction and power was this to my own soul! Went afterward to Mr. Thomas Taper's,96 and many friends came at eight o'clock, when I was enabled to preach with life.
Thursday, 14. Went to the new church.97 Surely the power of God is amongst this people. After preaching with great assistance, I lodged at Isaac Jenkins's,98 and in the morning he conducted me to Gloucester; and thence we went by water to Philadelphia. Here I found a change. Brother Pilmoor was come, and the house was given up; which pleased me well, as it was a burden to the people. Brother Pilmoor went to Mr. Wallace's,99 and I went to Mr. Wilmer's.100 On Friday night I was heavily afflicted; and
94 A name that persisted long after the division into East Jersey and West Jersey in
1676 had terminated when New Jersey became a royal province.
95 This preaching place was probably within what was to constitute the Greenwich Circuit. (Atkinson, op. cit., 14.)
96 Lednum, op. cit., 79, 80.
97 This new church was probably in Greenwich and seems to have been the first Methodist meetinghouse built in New Jersey. (Atkinson, op. cit., 144-45.)
98 Atkinson, op. cit., 14; Lednum op. cit., 79.
9' Probably Burton Wallace, a bricklayer and member of St. George's Church. (Lednum, op. cit., 80.)
100 Lambert Wilmer and his wife were among the first fourteen persons to unite with St. George's Church. Charles M. von Wrangel, provost of Philadelphia Swedish Lutheran churches by appointment of the King of Sweden. visited John Wesley and from England advised Wilmer and his friend, John Hood, two of the provost's converts, to join the Methodists when they organized. This they did when Pilmoor and Boardman arrived. Wilmer became a class leader, as did his wife, the latter being the
NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA May 17, 1772 31
dear sister Wilmer took great care of me. The next morning, through the mercy of God, I was something better, and preached in the evening.
Lord's day, 17. After preaching in the morning, I went to see George Hungary,101 who was near to eternity. He had peace in his soul. Some slight me in this place on account of my attention to discipline; and some drop off. But my work is to please God.
Tuesday, 19. Went about sixteen miles into the country, and preached at eleven o'clock, with energy of soul.102 A Presbyterian minister, who attended my preaching this morning, accompanied me part of the way back. We conversed by the way, on the evidences of religion, the work of God, and sending out preachers. This morning I arose with more spiritual strength, and felt a great desire to do the will of God with all purity of intention, desire, and thought; that in all things God may be glorified :hrough Jesus Christ.
Wednesday, 20. Went to Trenton,103 but as the court was sitting, I was )bhged to preach in a school house to but few people; and as there were soldiers in the town, I could hardly procure lodging.
Thursday, 21. Preached on the other side of the river to104 a few simple people; and in the evening at Burlington, where the congregation was also small on account of the fair.105
Friday, 22. In the morning I rode home in great pain; but after dinner went ten miles down the river.
second woman to hold that position in Philadelphia. Mrs. Wilmer, born in New Jersey, Jied in 1796; and her husband, a Marylander, died in 1824 or 1825. (Sweet: Men of Zeal, 86-88; Tees: Ancient Landmark of American Methodism, 26, 27.)
101Lednum op. cit., 80.
102 This preaching place was probably Supplee's Chapel, oldest in Pennsylvania except St. George's. It was a stone chapel, afterward called Bethel, and now known as Bethel Hill. Pilmoor and Webb both preached there. It was named for Abraham Supplee, a local preacher who on several occasions entertained Washington and his officers. It was used as a hospital after the battle of Germantown, and a number of the soldiers were buried there. (Boehm: Reminiscences, Historical and Biographical, 99.)
103 whitefield had preached in Trent-Town on November 21, 1739, but did not establish a society. Captain Webb preached there in 1766; and Joseph Toy, who had moved
from Burlington, organized a class in 1471. (History of Mercer County, 727; History of First Methodist Church, Trenton, 175th Anniversary, 1947.)
104 Asbury's preaching place "on the other side of the river" was probably the present
Morrisville, Pennsylvania. It was a part of the property of Robert Morris and had a small population, but was not so named until after the Revolution. There were three ferries across the Delaware at Trenton. (Bucks County Historical Society Proceedings, III, 237; Watson: Annals of Philadelphia, II, 68.)
Fairs after the English type were held annually by legislative enactment at both Burlington and Greenwich, attracting numerous visitors from Philadelphia and elsewhere. The Greenwich Fair was discontinued in 1765. (Cunningham: "Calvalcade of Counties-Cumberland" in Newark Sunday News, November 9, 1952; Kull: New Jersey_A History, 1, 310-11.)
32 NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA May 24, 1772
Sunday, 24. We rode down to Greenwich, where I preached at ten o'clock to near three hundred people, collected from different parts; we then rode back to friend Price's106 where we dined; and thence to Gloucester, which made near fifteen miles. I preached there at three o'clock to about two hundred people, and then went up the river in a boat to Philadelphia, where I preached at seven o'clock.
Monday, 25. Was unwell, but went to Burlington, and preached in the evening, though very sick.
Tuesday, 26. Found myself very unwell in the morning; but visited a prisoner under sentence of death, and strove much to fasten conviction on his heart. Through the mercy of God, I hope the poor man was humbled.
Wednesday, 27. Went to New Mills, where I preached at four o'clock; and again at ten o'clock the next morning. [In our lodgings we had much young company who had but little sense of religion. Mrs. Hulings went with me in a chair. I had many people, Baptists and others, though but hittle comfort in my own soul.]
Friday, 29. I preached under the jail wall; and for the benefit of the prisoner, attended him to the place of execution.107 When he came forth, he roared like a bull in a net. He looked on every side, and shrieked for help; but all in vain. 0 how awful! Die he must,-I fear, unprepared. I prayed with him, and for him. How difficult it is (if I may use the term) to drench a hardened sinner with religion! I saw him tied up; and then, stepping on a wagon, I spoke a word in season, and warned the people to flee from the wrath to come, and improve the day of their gracious visitaÂtion, no more grieving the Spirit of God, lest a day should come in which they may cry, and God may refuse to hear them. We then rode home to Philadelphia, where I exhorted in the evening, and found myself much more drawn out than I expected.
Lord's day, 31. Preached morning and evening with some life; but found that offences increased. However, I cannot help it. My way is to go straight forward, and aim at what is right.
June 1. Preached this morning at five o'clock; and this day I wrote to Mr. Wesley, and experienced a great degree of purity in my soul.
Tuesday, 2. Rose this morning between four and five, and was much quickened in preaching; then went to Haddonfield108 about noon. Satan assaulted me this day, but the Lord helped and delivered me, for his mercy and truth's sake, and granted me life in my soul.
106 Lednum, op. cit., 80.
107 Asbury had returned to Burlington for the execution of the prisoner whom he had visited on the previous Tuesday.
108 Asbury does not mention preaching at Haddonfield, and church records there do not indicate Methodist beginnings so early. (See note under September 23, 1484.)
NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA June 3, 1772 33
Wednesday, 3. Preaching at five at Manta (Mantua) creek,100 I was favoured with an opening and great power. After preaching there, about one hundred people went to Mr. Taper's,"° one and a hahf mile off, and there also I preached with life.
Thursday, 4. At Greenwich I was weak in body, but had some liberty in preaching to about two hundred willing people; but at Gloucester, I preached only to a few dead souls, from this striking passage: "The word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it." I must observe, that in this journey I have been kept in peace, and had more freedom, life, and power, than I ever experienced in the city, [or perhaps ever shall].
Saturday, 6. Sailing four miles up the (Delaware) river, I came to Philadelphia in great comfort.
Lord's day, June 7. After preaching in the morning, I was at the table with Mr. Stringer,111 and many felt the power of God, though I felt but little myself. We had a love feast to-day, and several could testify that God was with us: some of our Jersey friends spoke of the power of God with freedom.
Monday, 8. With much disagreeable company I set off for Trenton, where many felt the divine power accompanying the word preached.
Wednesday, 10. After preaching on the other side of the river,112 I returned to Philadelphia, and preached in the evening.
Thursday, 11. Set off in the stage for Bristol, and crossed the water to see a man suspected of murder; but found him very ignorant of things relating to his soul: I then returned to Philadelphia very unwell.
Friday, 12. I was a little better, and rose to preach at five o'clock. The Lord was with me this day at intercession.
Saturday, 13. Hitherto the Lord hath helped. Praised be his dear name! Lord's day, June 14. After preaching in the morning with some freedom of mind, I went to St. Paul's,113 and afterward spent the afternoon in my room; then preached, and met the society in the evening; but felt great
109 Mantua Creek flows through Gloucester County to the Delaware River above Maiden Island. (Gordon: Gazeteer and History of New Jersey, 173, 174; Heston:
South Jersey, 397.)
110 Lednum, op. cit., 79, 80.
111 Probably the Rev. Mr. Stringer, rector of St. Paul's Church, whose unusual
Sympathy for Methodism has been attributed to a belief that he was formerly a Wesleyan
preacher. He came from England on August 20, 1768, with a letter of introduction from
Whitefield. He was rector until October, 1774, and returned to England soon thereafter.
He died at Barnet on June 12, 1799. (Barratt: Outline of the History of Old St. Paul's
Church. See also Journal entries for December 2, 11, 18, 29, 1774; March 24, 1776.
Atkinson: The Wesleyan Movement in America, 146; The Methodist Magazine, London,
1818, 641 Lednum, op. cit., 80. See Journal entry for June 24, 1772.) Morrisville, Pennsylvania. (See note under May 21, 1772.)
113 This church was organized in 1760 under the leadership of the Rev. Mr. ClenaÂthan, and the edifice was erected in 1762.
34 NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA June 16, 1772
dryness, and was grieved to see so much conformity to the world, in the article of dress, among our people.
Tuesday, 16. Set off for Burlington ;114 and though weak and infirm, I preached at night with liberty.
Wednesday, 17. I bent my course for Newmihls; but still groan for more life, and want to be more holy.
Thursday, 18. After preaching twice at Newmills with great liberty and life, I returned to Burlington; but was very ill that night; and though quite unwell the next morning, yet proceeded on my way to Philadelphia.
Lord's day, June 21. Finding myself much recovered, I preached with some animation.
Monday, 22. This day my heart was in deep exercise.
Tuesday, 23. Walked down to Gloucester-point, and then rode to brother Chew's ;115 and though very weak, weary, wet, and low, while it rained very hard, I preached with some power to many people from these words: "As the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and reÂturneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater; so shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it."
Wednesday, 24. At Greenwich, I met with Mr. Stringer, who preached and baptized several people that seemed deeply affected. We then rode together, and had some conversation on the insult which Mr. Shirley116 had given Mr. Wesley. As Mr. Stringer knew that Mr. Shirley had preached for Mr. Wesley, and was well acquainted with his doctrine, he was surÂprised at his conduct. He said Mr. Wesley was undoubtedly a good man, and had been useful to thousands.
Thursday, 25. Travelling back towards Gloucester, I called at 'Squire Price's 117 and presented him with a petition for raising £150 to discharge the debt on our preaching house at Philadehphia. He promised both to give himself, and to propose it to others.
Friday, 26. Returned to Philadelphia, and preached at eight with some power. [But still I am not entirely holy in thought, word and deed. Will not the Lord get the victory He surely will, and I shahi be holy.] I find that Satan strives to sow discord among us; and this makes me desirous to leave the city.
Saturday, 27. Felt a great desire to live more to the glory of God; and preached at night with some life. Received a letter from Mr. Pilmoor
114 There was no church in Burlington, and services were held in the courthouse or homes. In 1788 Ezekiel Cooper refused to use the courthouse and preached in the home of George Smith. Cooper noted that there was a "considerable work" there. (Phoebus:
Light on Early Methodism, 83.)
115 Jesse Chew. (Lednum, op. cit., 80, 81.) 116 Lednum, Op. cit., 80. 117 ibid.
NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA June 28,1772 35
replete with accounts of his preaching abroad,118 in the church, to a large congregation, and the like. My heart is still distressed for want of more religion. I long to be wholly given up, to seek no favour but what cometh from God alone. I want to breathe after the Lord in every breath.
Lord's day, 28. This was a day of sweet rest to my soul; and the Lord gave me power to speak with some affection.
Monday, 29. Set out for Trenton with some loose and trifling company in the stage. After preaching in the evening with some life and energy, I went the next day to preach in the field, and then returned and preached with freedom to many people in the court house.
July 1. Went over the ferry and preached to many people; among whom were some fine women,119 who behaved with airs of great indifferÂency. Returning to Trenton, I preached at night, and the next morning at five, after which I set off for Philadelphia with unprofitable company; among whom I sat still as a man dumb, and as one in whose mouth there was no reproof. They appeared so stupidly ignorant, sceptical, deistical, and atheistical, that I thought if there were no other hell, I should strive with all my might to shun that. Came home late and weary; but preached with some comfort. I have lately been blessed with much purity of intenÂtion, and fervour of spirit; but greatly thirst after living more in God.
Saturday, 4. Went to Burlington, in order to attend the execution of one Smart,120 a murderer; and declared to a great number of people under the jail wall, "He healeth the broken in heart." The poor criminal appeared penitent, behaved with great solidity, and expressed a desire to leave the world.
Then returned to Philadelphia, gave an exhortation that night, and found the Lord's day a day of sweet peace.
Monday, 6. Set out for Burlington again, and spent three days labouring among them. Many seemed much stirred up to seek the kingdom of God.
Thursday, 9. Returned, and found some inward liberty in Philadelphia.
Saturday, 11. Was a day of peace and love to my soul.
Lord's day, 12. Went through the usual exercises of the day, and enjoyed some peace of mind. Our congregations here are small. They cannot bear the discipline and doctrine; but this does not move me.
Monday morning I preached with life, and long to be as an even-rising flame of fire.
Tuesday, 14. Went to the Jerseys and preached at friend Turner's to near one hundred people, though in the time of harvest; and while preachÂing from these words, "Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light
118 Pil . .
moor left Philadelphia May 27, 1772, and had been preaching in Pennsylvania. manuscript Journal for this period; also Atkinson, op. cit., 3 18-20, 325,
119 This was in Morrisville, Pennsylvania, where Summerset was a fashionable resort. (See note under May 21, 1772.)
120
Lednum op. cit., 81.
36 NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA July 17, 1772
in the Lord," many felt the power of truth, when the darkness and its properties were explained. After describing true religion to about one hundred souls, at Jessie Chew's,121 I went on Wednesday to Greenwich, and felt much shut up while preaching to about the same number, on, "Fear not, little flock, &c." I then proceeded to Gloucester, which is one of the dullest places I have seen in this country. The same night went to Haddonfiehd; and the next day preached at Joseph Thorne's122 to a few attentive hearers, who seemed somewhat affected by the truths of God; especialhy one S. K., who was greatly concerned on account of his past hife, as he had been much devoted to company and liquor. I felt afraid that his concern would not be permanent. However, he accompanied me to the ferry.
Friday, 17. Returned to Philadelphia time enough for intercession, and found it a good time both then and at the evening preaching.
Lord's day, 19. After preaching in the morning, I set off in the afternoon for Trenton, came thither on Monday by noon, and found life in preaching at night.
Monday, July 20. Met with brother Sause from New York, who inÂformed me that I was to go to New York; which was what I did not exÂpect; but feel myself quite easy, not being fixed in any place.123 He gave me an account of Mr. Wright's124 good behaviour; though I fear, after all, he will settle at Bohemia.12s
Wednesday, July 22. In meeting the small society of about nineteen persons,126 I gave them tickets, and found it a comfortable time. They are a serious people; and there is some prospect of much good being done in this place. After preaching on Tuesday morning over the ferry, and in the evening at Trenton, I took leave of them on Wednesday morning, and set off for Philadelphia. Left Philadelphia127 on the Lord's day evening, after
121 Asbury was doubtless preaching near Carpenter's, sometimes called Smith's LandÂing, on Mantua Creek. (Lednum, op. cit., 81; Atkinson, op. cit. 44; Gordon: New Jersey Gazeteer, 173, 174.)
122 Lednum, op. cit., 81.
123 Richard Boardman, returning from New England (John Street Records, I, May 14,
1772), found that affairs at Wesley Chapel had worsened under Wright's leadership and determined to transfer Asbury to New York sooner than had been planned. Finding that Richard Sause was going toward Philadelphia, Boardman requested him to explain the situation to Asbury and instruct him to proceed to New York.
124 Richard Wright had accompanied Asbury to America in 1771, but the two men did not always agree, and Asbury became critical of Wright. (See Journal entries for April 2-4, 1772; and final remark of May 29, 1774.)
125 In April, Boardman had made appointments for the preachers; and Asbury had carried the information to Wright at Bohemia Manor, instructing him to go to New York. Wright had been "at his own discretion" and apparently pleased with Bohemia Manor. (See Journal entries for April 2, 8, 1772.)
126 This is the first mention of an organized society in Trenton.
137 Asbury closed his work of nearly three months on the Philadelphia Circuit accordÂmg to "Brother Boardman's plan." (See Journal entry for April 2, 1772.)
NEW YORK August2,1772 37
preaching on these words, "If I come again, I will not spare;" and on Monday met with brother Boardman. Went thence to New Mills, where I preached on Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, and found the people there very affectionate; then returned to Burlington, and found many friends from Philadelphia. We had power among us at night, and the next morning at three I set off for Amboy, and on the way had some conversation with one of Jacob Boehm's128 disciples. We came to the stage-house through much rain and bad roads, about seven o'clock:
thence we went to Amboy, and took lodging at a tavern. Have been kept in peace through this journey, felt great courage in the work of God, and go towards York in faith. The congregation at Amboy was small, and they appeared to be such as cared but little for the Gospel; so that my hope of that place is but slender. On Saturday evening, I preached with some power, to a large congregation of rich and poor, from these words, "Even from the days of your fathers, ye have gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them: return unto me, and I will return unto you."
New York
Sunday, August 2, 1772. After preaching with great liberty on the Lord's day, to many people at Peter Van Pelt's and justice Wright's on Staten Island, I set off on Monday in a boat for New York,129 and arriving about five o'clock, found Mr. Richard Wright,130 who that night had preached his farewell sermon, and told the people that he did not expect to see them any more. I have always dealt honestly with him, but he has been spoiled by gifts.131 He has been pretty strict in the society, but ended all with a general hove feast; which I think is undoing all he has done.152 However, none of these things move me. My mind is calm, and my soul under a comfortable sense of God; and I am determined, by his grace, to keep on in the way of my duty, if it should be my lot to stand alone.
August 4. My soul felt life, and power, and renewed courage. DisÂ128 Jacob Boehm was the grandfather of Henry Boehm. He was born in 1693 and Came to this country in 1715. He was connected with the Mennonites.
129 Asbury took the sailboat ferry from Stapleton on the northern end of Staten Island to Whitehall on lower Manhattan. (See note under November 12, 1771.)
130 Wnght had been in charge of Wesley Chapel since early in May. (John Street church Records, 1, 17. See Journal entries for April 2, 8, 1772.) Barclay's identification of Mr. W." as Robert Williams is erroneous. (See Barclay: Early American MethoÂdism, I, 30 if.)
131 Asbury discouraged the acceptance of personal gifts on the part of preachers and declined to accept them. Note his remark in the entry for August 4.
Asbury was a strict interpreter of Wesley's rules. He maintained that society meetÂ'ngs and love feasts should be limited to the membership and not opened to the general congregation (See III in Journal entry for September 5, 1772; also entries for October
10, 1772, indicating Wesley's approval.)
38 NEW YORK August5,1772
covering the unfaithfulness of some who first spoil a man, and then conÂdemn him, I intend to keep such at a proper distance. In the love feast this evening, I found that the living could not bear the dead.135 Mr. Wright rose up and spake as well as he could, against speaking with severe reflections on his brother. But all this was mere talk. 1 know the man and his conversation.154
Wednesday, 5. Felt satisfaction and life in meeting the society last night, and spent this day in retirement.
Thursday, 6. Preached in New York, from Phil. i, 24, 25: "To abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith." Found liberty in my mind while addressing the people, and am determined, in the strength of the Lord, to aim at promoting his glory, and to seek nothing but him.
Friday, 7. After preaching in the morning, I found the Lord near, and had great peace at intercession.135 It pleases me much to see the people diligent in attending the word; and find myself favoured with liberty and the power of God in my labours among them; and humbly hope, that God will make known his power among this people, and drive Satan from them; and that we shall yet see good days in this place.
Saturday, 8. I found a degree of life in my soul; and on the Lord's day had power, and light, and life, and love, in speaking on these words: "Ye were sometime darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light." The congregations are steady, and we look for the power of God both in our own souls and among the people. 0, my God, make bare thine arm! After preaching in the evening of the Lord's day, with some opening of heart, and to a full house3 I met the society; and then set out, on Monday morning, for New Rochelle,138 and preached the same night at friend Deveau's,137 about thirty miles from York.
Tuesday-Saturday, August 11-15. My soul does not forget God; but my desire is still towards him, and the remembrance of his name. On Wednesday I found my mind somewhat engaged; but on Thursday had some fears of coming short of eternal life. A cloud rested on my mind, which was occasioned by talking and jesting; I also feel at times tempted
133 Asbury evidently means that one party in the society was spiritually "dead" and the other "living."
184 Wright left New York immediately, going to Maryland to work with Robert
Strawbridge and John King. Pilmoor was in Virginia, and Boardman remained in Philadelphia. (Lednum, op. cit., 81.)
135 Intercession was a service of prayer and praise widely observed in England. It was usually held on Friday. Pilmoor held the first such service at Philadelphia on November 23, 1771. This service later developed into the prayer meeting.
186 New Rochelle was the focal-point of the circuit in Westchester County that had been organized in the preceding winter. (See notes, November, 1771, to February, 1772.)
157 See note under December 10, 1771.
NEW YORK August l6,1772 39
to impatience and pride of heart; but the Lord graciously blest me with life and power in preaching at night; and I afterward found my mind fixed on God, and an earnest longing to be always holy in heart and life. After preaching on Friday at New Rochelle,138 from these words, "We ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip," I set out for New York on a bad horse, and met with indifferent fare, on the road ;159 but reached New York on Saturday, and there received a letter from my father and friend, Mr. Mather, who informed me of the preachers' returning to England. Preached also this evening with some satisfaction, but found broken classes, and a disordered society, so that my heart was sunk within me; but it is still my desire to commit myself to God.
Lord's day, August 16. Preached in the morning, and then went to preach at Newtown,14° about twelve miles distant, in the evening. Friend Sause was in company with me, and we were obliged to lodge at a tavern; but we were more serious than usual, and spent our time in useful conÂversation. As it rained, we had but few people at preaching in the morning;141 we then returned to New York about ten o'clock. In this journey I have found my soul comfortable and alive to God, a sacred nearness to God, and power to withstand temptations; though, in the afternoon of the next day, I had cause to blame myself for trifling conversation at noon.
Monday, August 17. This has been a day of distress to my soul. I was opposed for meeting the society, because one or two classes met at that time; which seemed to me a very weak objection, as those classes might meet at another time.
August, 2h. Preached this morning with great life in my soul, and felt a strong desire to be devoted to God, and more and more engaged to proÂmote his glory both in heart and life. 0 that my soul couhd be more intimately and sweetly united to the Lord! In the evening I preached with Power; but have found my soul troubled within me, on account of a partyÂspirit which seems to prevail too much in this place. But they must answer for their own conduct. My business is, through the grace of God, to go straight forward, acting with honesty, prudence, and caution, and then leave the event to Him.
Lord's day, August 23. Preached morning and evening, and had peace 138 Preaching at New Rochelle was doubtless in the home of Frederick Deveau (see
December 10, 1771) or Peter Bonnette (see note under January 20, 139 Asbury probabhy spent the night at one of the inns at or near Kingsbridge midway tWeen New Rochelle and New York.
N On March 5, accompanied by Richard Sause, Asbury had attempted to go to ewtown on Long Island but was prevented by a heavy snowstorm. (See Journal entry
or tuat date.)
141 Asbury probably preached in the tavern where they lodged at Newtown.
40 NEW YORK August 24, 1772
in my own soul. In the evening I met the society, and read Mr. Wesley's letter.142
Monday, 24. Early in the morning we crossed the North river, in order to go to Staten Island.143 Many people attended the word; but I know not what to make of them; for though they seem fond of hearing, yet they do not appear to be much affected. On Tuesday I went to Amboy (New Jersey), and dined with a mixed company of Assemblymen, Churchmen, Quakers, &c.144 Many of them came to hear me in sport, but went away very still. On my return I preached at Mr. Ward's,145 to many people; on Thursday returned to New York, and preached in the evening with some life. Friday my soul was kept in peace and love; and while preaching at night, both myself and others felt the power of God in our souls.
Saturday, 29. I preached with liberty, and can rejoice in God my salvaÂtion, finding an increasing desire to live to him alone. Lord's day, 30. Found life both morning and evening, and had many peophe; I also went to church, and heard Dr. Ogilvie146 preach on the divinity of Christ.
Tuesday, September 1, 1772. My heart was fixed to seek the Lord; and found some nearness to him, and life in my soul: I preached also in the evening with some comfort.
Wednesday, 2. Preached at five, and found my soul this day fixed to do the will of God.
Thursday, 3. Preached in the morning, and found this a blessed day. My soul was lively, and my heart was filled with holy thoughts of God, and felt a strong and pure desire to pray, and mourn, and long for God. In the evening I preached from these words: "Whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I confess before my Father who is in heaven."
142 On October 10, 1772, Asbury wrote that he received a letter from Wesley in which the founder required strict attention to discipline. The letter is otherwise unknown. An entry in John Street Records, I, 17, notes that immediately prior to this date ten shillings had been paid for postage on letters; and the letter that Asbury read may have been included in the packet.
143 This was a roundabout way of reaching Staten Island. It involved crossing the North (Hudson) River to Paulus Hook, the present Jersey City, going overland through New Jersey, and crossing to Staten Island by another ferry, perhaps the "Blazing Star," over the Kills.
144Asbury probably preached in the tavern at Perth Amboy, New Jersey, where there was a long room for dining and assemblage. The New Jersey Assembly met in the town, which was headquarters of the still existent Corporation of East Jersey Proprieters.
145 Lednum, op. cit., 76.
146 Asbury preached at 5 A.M. in Wesley Chapel and then went to Trinity Church at Broadway and Wall streets or St. Paul's Chapel at Broadway and Fulton streets, both of which were nearby. The Rev. John Ogilvie, D.D. (1723-74), was first assistant to Dr. Samuel Auchmuty, rector of Trinity. Ogilvie's sister-in-law was the wife of William Lup ton, original trustee and first treasurer of Wesley Chapel; and he had given £1 12s. 6d. to the building fund of the chapel. He died after a stroke of apoplexy in the pulpit, and Asbury noted that fact in his Journal entry on November 24, 1774. (Seaman, op. cit, 428 John Street Records, I,)
NEW YORK September 4, 1772 41
Friday, 4. Found my soul grieved at the discovery of such parties among the people. Who can find a faithful man
Saturday, 5. Found peace in my soul, and held a meeting for the better ordering of the spiritual and temporal affairs of the society. In this meetÂing I propounded the following queries:
I. How often shall there be public preaching Agreed, that it should be on Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights, besides the Lord's day; and exhortation on Saturday nighmt.
II. Shall we have morning preaching This was agreed to.
III. Shall we have the Society meetings private This was doubted by some; but I insisted on it, from our rules and Mr. Wesley's last letter.
IV. Shall we make a weekly and quarterly collection Agreed.147
V. Can any other means be devised to lessen the debt The debt was £1,100; but no other means could be found to relieve it.148
VI. Ought we not to be more strict with disorderly persons Very little was said in answer to this.149
VII. Shall we have three stewards, for the satisfaction of the society The majority voted against it.150
VIII. Are we as frugal as we can be It was thought we were.
IX. Will the stewards meet me once a week Agreed.
X. Do we endeavour to avoid all partiality in the things of God
XI. Can we come at the balance of our accounts now or soon It was thought we could.
XII. Who will stand at the door Not determined.151
XIII. Shall we meet the society on Sunday nights This was opposed by some. But I insisted upon its being the best time; and at last it was agreed to for a season.
147 As a result of this action and Asbury's later appointment of a collector (see Journal entry for September 11, 1772), the financial situation in the society greatly imÂproved. From April ito August31 the income had been 73 pounds; between September 1 and January 31 it was 87 pounds; in the next five months it was 116 pounds. (John Street Records, I.)
148 The society owed two hundred pounds to Captain Thomas Webb; three hundred Pounds to William Lupton, trustee and steward; and six hundred pounds to Leonard Lispenard, a merchant and non-member who owned adjacent property and whose wife had contributed to the building fund. The Webb and Lupton items were for the purÂchase of the John Street lots in 1768, and the money had been borrowed from Lispenard for furnishings. These notes were reduced by a hundred pounds each on August 12,
73, but otherwise the principal was not reduced though interest was paid. (John Street Records, I.)
149 See Journal entry for October 6, 1772, for reference to one of the stewards whose Conduct was not exemplary.
The stewards were William Lupton and Henry Newton and the treasurer was James Jarvis.
151 The function of the guard was to enforce the rule barring unqualified persons from he society meeting.
42 NEW YORK September 7, 1772
XIV. Who shall be the collectors This was not determined, though debated.152
XV. Can the preacher meet the children Agreed.153
XVI. Can we spread the books There was but little said on this head, and it was left undetermined.154
Monday, September 7. Richard Sause, Charles White and myself set off for New Rochelle. At night I felt myself unwell, and my mind under a cloud, but gave an exhortation at Mr. Deveau's in the evening.
Tuesday, 8. This was a day of heaviness, much trouble, sore temptation, and sorrow of heart; but in the evening I was happy in God, and spoke with power and feeling. On Wednesday my mind was warmly engaged, and I preached to many people, both at three o'clock and seven.
Thursday, 10. Mr. Deveau accompanied me as far as Kingsbridge,155 on my way to New York, where Samuel Selby156 met me, and rode with me the rest of the way.
I preached in the evening, and rose to preach next morning at five. It appears to me that trouble is at hand; but I fear nothing, being conscious of having acted uprightly before them all, and having no by-ends in view. Whoever has, must answer for it. Whatever comes, I am determined, while here, by the grace of God, to proceed according to the Methodist doctrine and discipline.
Friday, 11. I met the people in the morning to discourse with them about their temporal matters, and appointed Mr. Chave 157 to take an account of the weekly and quarterly collections. But the other two stewards158 refused an exact entry of the money that is not settled. However, the people must have the same satisfaction concerning the other collections. Saturday morning I felt a strong desire to live to God, and act with a single eye to his glory in all that I do. On Saturday evening we had a comfortable meeting. After preaching to many people on the Lord's day
152 A week later Asbury on his own initiative appointed John Chave as collector. (See Journal entry for September 11, 1772.)
153 This is the first reference to the religious instruction of children in American
Methodism. (See Journal entries for October 15, 18, 1772.)
154 Several entries in the John Street Records record cash received from the sale of books.
155 Kingsbridge was the community at the bridge connecting the northern tip of Manhattan Island with the mainland.
156 See note under February 21, 1772.
157 John Chave (1730-1816) had come to America as an officer in the French and Indian War. He was associated with Captain Webb and William Lupton and had been a member of the group that met in the Rigging Loft. After the Revolution he lived in Greenwich Village, then a suburb of New York, and later moved to Walton, Delaware County, New York, where descendants of Lupton lived. He served as collector for over two years. (John Street Records, I; Wakeley, op. cit., 509; Seaman, op. cit., 444, 45.)
158 The "other two stewards" were William Lupton and Henry Newton. (See note under October 9, 1772.)
NEW YORK September 14, 1772 43
at seven, I prepared to approach the table.159 There was a great drawing among the people while these words were enforced: "This do in rememÂbrance of me." Lord, prepare my heart. My bleeding Lord! let my soul feel thy melting love. Lord, make all thy people glad together in thee, that thou mayest be glorified in and by us both now and ever. At the table I was greatly affected with the sight of the poor Negroes, seeing their sable faces at the table of the Lord. In the evening I had a full house and much Divine assistance.
Monday, 14. I had liberty and love in preaching at five, and this day felt power to live to God.
Tuesday, 15. I spent great part of my time in company, and preached with some life to a small company at Bloomingdale.160 Preaching at five the next morning, I had many people, and a comfortable sense of God; [and possess a humble hope that I shall live this day to God].
Wednesday, 16. I set off for Newtown, and found nearness to God, and more constancy of mind. Our journey was wet and troublesome;161 howÂever, there was a small company of people, and I preached with courage, disregarding my fatigue,162 if any good can be done. We returned to New York in the night, which was very dark: but He to whom the darkness is known, conducted us in safety. Friday morning I found great peace; [but Satan was hard at my heels]. Lord, help me to be always guarded, and fly the very appearance of evil; so that in thy strength I may every moment conquer.
Saturday, 19. I felt comfortable in preaching this morning at five o'clock. 0, my God! help me this day to eye thy glory! We had a melting power this evening also in public exhortation.
Lord's day, 20. In the morning we had a good time while I spoke from the latter part of the eighty-first psalm; and in the evening we had a very full house, and the Lord favoured me with warmth and power while I addressed the people from Rom. vi, 17, 18. After preaching on Monday morning, I went to Staten island.165 Justice Wright met me and informed
159 The preachers and people of Wesley Chapel received the Sacrament at St. Paul's Chapel, Fulton Street and Broadway. (See Journal entry for June 13, 1773, when Asbury, Rankm, Wright, and Captain Webb received the Sacrament together there.)
160 Asbury had preached at Bloomingdale on March 9, 1772. It was a community near the Post road about four miles north of Wesley Chapel.
161 Practically every attempt to visit Newtown, as reported by both Pilmoor and Asbury, held some travel difficulties-heat, blizzard, obscure roads, rain, unwillingÂness of liveries to provide horses to the preachers.
162 No one in Newtown is indicated as opening his house for the preaching in these early visits. Probably the tavern keeper offered his facilities. (See Journal entry for August 16, 1772.)
163 Asbury went by the ferry from Whitehall, in New York, down the bay to StapleÂton on Staten Island.
44 NEW YORK September 23, 1772
me that the people were very busy at that time in court ;164 so I went and preached to many attentive people at Bird's ferry. Hitherto the Lord hath helped me. I will endeavour to praise him with my whole heart, and glorify him more and more. Tuesday I crossed the bay, and preached in the evenÂing at New York.
Wednesday, 23. In the morning I preached, and felt a measure of peace, and stronger confidence in my soul towards God.
I am now twenty-seven years of age, and have had a religious concern on my heart about fourteen years; though I felt something of God as early as the age of seven.
Thursday, 24. I preached in the morning from Psalm lxxxvi, 17; and found myself enlarged in the evening on the subject of the good Samaritan. This day my soul has felt much love towards God, and my mind has been bent on doing his will.
Friday, 25. Attending the lecture to-day, I heard the doctor165 with much satisfaction, and in the evening preaching I laid open the plague of the human heart as I had felt it. It was a solemn time. This day we reÂceived tidings from Philadelphia of their doing well both in spiritual and temporal matters.166 Some have been much dissatisfied with private society meetings, and collections in the classes. But, in the midst of every trial, the Lord keeps me in peace. On Saturday morning, though it was cold, we had many people, and a moving time at five o'clock; and a comfortable season in the evening exhortation.
Lord's day, 27. Preaching this morning on "building the tower," I had some assistance; but experienced some heavy exercises of mind this day. In the evening I was enabled to preach with power, on the awful subject of the judgment: attempting
I. To prove that the judgment will be universal.
II. To describe the person of the Judge.
III. To describe the awful events preceding and attending that period.
IV. To point out the business of the day.
V. To show the decision and consequences.
Monday, 28. Many people attended the preaching at five o'clock, and brother Sause and myself set off in the forenoon for New Rochelle. As we came unexpectedly on the people, I improved the occasion by preaching on these words: "In such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh."
Tuesday, 29. At friend Deveau's I preached with fervency from Ezek.
164 Justice Hezekiah Wright, close friend and frequent host to Asbury. Evidently Asbury was not aware of the court schedule, else he would have chosen a different time for the visit.
165 The "doctor" was the Rev. Samuel Auchmuty, D.D., rector of Trinity Church, or his first assistant, the Rev. John Ogilvie, D.D. Both had contributed to the Wesley Chapel building fund and were friendly. (John Street Records, I.)
166 Boardman was in Philadelphia, and the communication was doubtless from him.
NEW YORK September 30, 1772 45
xxxiii, 4. I have been much assaulted this day with temptations, but have been kept by the power of God. I find a degree of effeminancy cleaving to me, but abhor it from my very heart. The reading of Mr. Wesley's journal has been made a blessing to me, [and I hope for victory over all my foes].
Wednesday, 30. I was led to speak very closely at Peter Bonnette's, to a congregation in which were many old people; and then returned to Mr. Deveau's, where I preached again, and enforced the duty of meeting toÂgether among themselves.
October 1. I set off for New York; and preached to a small company at Kingsbridge167 on my way. This day I received a letter from my mother, informing me she was weak in body, and had an earnest desire to see me once more before she dies.
October 3. Though I preached with liberty last night, yet my mind was troubled to-day: but I earnestly desire to renew my covenant with God. Mr. Wright received a letter from Mr. Wesley, enforcing our rules and discipline. My desire is to sit loose to every created object, [and through grace to be holy as my Lord is holy].
Lord's day, 4. I feht divine assistance in preaching both morning and evening; but was grieved at society meeting, to see the steward desirous to let strangers in, 168
On Monday, I wrote to Mr. Wesley,169 and communicated the true sentiments of my mind.
Tuesday, 6. This was a day of peace and rest to my soul. After preaching at night with some power, I spoke to our steward,'70 whose conduct did not altogether please me-frequently avoiding to speak to me-absenting himself from the meeting of the leaders-the appearance of dissimulaÂtion-opposing our rules-and consulting persons who were not members of our society. He appeared to be somewhat affected by the conversation. Thursday, 8. In preaching both morning and evening, I had an opening of soul towards the people, [and found my mind in peace. My greatest concern is to be altogether holy in heart]. I met the society this evening, and told them plainly my mind relative to their state as a collective body.
Friday, 9. I met the leaders, and there were some sharp debates. After
167 Asbury reversed his usual route. Kingsbridge was on the mainland opposite the northern tip of Manhattan Island near the famous bridge. Though Asbury had passed the community on each previous trip to and from Westchester, this is the first mention of Preaching there.
168 The steward who permitted the non-members to enter the society meeting was Henry Newton. (See note under October 9, 1772.)
9 This letter to Wesley informing him of Asbury's sentiments regarding affairs in New York society was written just before Asbury received Wesley's letter naming him as assistant in succession to Boardman and "requiring strict attention to discipline."
(See Journal entry for October 10, 1772.)
170 This steward was Henry Newton.
46 NEW YORK October 10, 1772
much had been said, I was charged with using Mr. Newton171 ill, in saying he opposed my meeting the society. Mr. Lupton172 told me I had already preached the people away ;173 and intimated that the whole work would be destroyed by me. Perhaps this was because I spoke so freely to Mr. Newton, and desired him to take care what company he kept.
Saturday, 10. I received a letter from Mr. Wesley, in which he required a strict attention to discipline; and appointed me to act as assistant.174 He also enjoined that Mr. Williams might not print any more books without his consent.175 I likewise received a letter from Mr. Williams,176 informing me of the state of matters in Maryland; and that it was appointed for me to winter there.'77 For this I intend to prepare.
Lord's day, 11. Preached with power in the morning, and spoke freely to a large congregation in the evening. My soul is blest with peace and love to God.
Monday, 12. Read one of Mr. Wesley's sermons to the people, and believe some felt it reproving them for evil speaking. My mind is serene 171 Henry Newton, a merchant, was an original trustee of the John Street property and one of the largest contributors to the building fund. He was steward, cotreasurer, and treasurer for many years. He later moved to the Second Mile Stone vicinity and was a prime mover in building the Methodist church on Forsyth Street, ordered by the conference in 1789. (See Journal entries for June of that year.) He was treasurer of the corporation that controlled both properties and one of New York's heading laymen well into the 1790's. He was buried at the Forsyth Street Church. His early difficulties with Asbury disappeared, and the two became warm friends. (John Street Church Records, I, numerous entries; Wakeley, op. cit., 80-83; Seaman, op. cit., 61, 429-30.) Forsyth Street Church on Forsyth (Second) Street near Division Street was dedicated NovemÂber 8, 1789. Asbury frequently referred to it as the Bowery Church.
172 William Lupton (1728-96), a merchant, came from England in 1753 as quarterÂmaster in Thomas Webb's regiment and served with Webb in the French and Indian War. He joined the New York society under Webb in the Rigging Loft in 1767, and with Webb advanced funds for the John Street property in March, 1768. He later advanced other funds and was one of the original trustees and donor to the building fund and the first treasurer. He died on April 3, 1796, and was buried in his vault under Wesley Chapel. He and Asbury later became reconciled and were good friends. (Journal entries for July 10, 1774, and August 24, 1784; John Street Church Records (which Lupton started) I, numerous references; Wakeley, op. cit., 75-79, 329-33, 533-38; Seaman, op. cit., 61, 64, 69, 422-24.)
178Asbury's Journal references and the John Street Church Records for the period show that the congregations did not decrease and the society flourished.
174 Asbury thus succeeded Boardman in authority and continued in the post until the arrival of Rankin on June 3, 1773. This letter greatly strengthened Asbury in his controversy with Newton, Lupton, Chave, and others in the New York society.
175 Robert Williams had printed and sold Wesley's books until forbidden to do so by the conference in July, 1773. It does not appear that he was actuated by motives of personal gain, however. (See Journal entries for March 23 and July 14, 1773; Minutes of conference, 1773.)
178 This was probably Robert Williams writing on behalf of Boardman with whom he had been in close contact.
177 Asbury's appointment to Maryland had of course been made by Boardman beÂfore Asbury's appointment as assistant was received.
NEW YORK October 14, 1772 47
and comfortable. Part of Monday was spent in meeting classes; and on Tuesday morning, at five, I had many people. My intention is to deal faithfully with all; and it is my real opinion, that I am not so sensible of faults in any other person as in myself. Lord, help me to be faithful, and in all I do to glorify thee more than ever! Felt assistance this evening in
preaching.
Wednesday, I went to Newtown, but was not expected. However, we collected many people to hear the word. I then returned to York, and, after preaching in time morning, was engaged in settling the classes, making up some bands, and meeting the children. I have reason to be thankful; though my trials have been great from many quarters, they have not moved me.
Friday, 16. Preached in the morning, and felt resigned to anything, having no choice; but am willing to go to the end of the world, if I can be holy and useful.
Lord's day, 18. Preached in the morning with some sensibility, and then went to hear Mr. hnglis,178 who delivered a profitable discourse on the education of children. He proved the necessity, antiquity, and human authority of catechising; and made it evident, that, in the primitive Church, the best and ablest men were appointed for this work. He gave some account of the school in Alexandria; and told the audience, that in this
duty there should be both precept and example, and. sometimes severity. In the evening I was enabled to speak plainhy to a large congregation, on Deut. xxx, 19: "I call heaven and earth to record against you this day, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live." This day we had a love feast. Many people spoke freely, but not long. This I have observed more here than in England, that the people speak short, and yet very full.
New Jersey-Pennsylvania
Monday, 19. Set off in the stage for Philadelphia.179 The company was all pretty quiet, except one young man, who frequently profaned the name of the Lord. It was my intention to reprove him; but waiting for a proper time, I found an opportunity when there was only one person with him, and then told him how he had grieved me. He received the admonition very well; and excused himself by saying, he did not think of what he was doing. Afterward he seemed more careful. After dining at New BrunsÂwick, 180 we came to Princeton, a place I had long wished to see for the sake 178 The Rev. Charles Inglis, or English, was assistant to Dr. Samuel Auchmuty rector of Trinity Church.
179 Asbury ferried to Perth Amboy below the southern tip of Staten Island and proÂceeded by way of Brunswick and Princeton to Philadelphia.
180 New Brunswick was on "the most ancient highway in New Jersey," an Indian trail Centuries old leading from the site of the present Elizabeth. (Mellick: Lesser Crossroads, 76.)
48 NEW JERSEY-PENNSYLVANIA, October 22, 1772
of the pious Mr. Davies,'81 late president of the college there. Here I met Mr. Boardman, and we both agreed in judgment about the affairs of the society; and were comforted together. The next day I came to Trenton :182 but a drunken sailor had locked up the court house, so I was obliged to preach in a school house, where we had a comfortable meeting; and also at five the next morning.
Thursday, October 22. In the morning I preached over the river,'83 and in the evening at Trenton, with some assistance. And many young people attended.
[Friday, 23. In the morning at five, preached over the ferry, and in the evening at Trenton. Ghory to God! I have found peace, and power, and love.]
Saturday, 24. Leaving my horse at Bristol (Pennsylvania), I went to Burlington; and on the Lord's day my spirit was much dejected, though in preaching I felt greatly assisted, and Divine truth reached the hearts of the people.
Monday, 26. After preaching at five, I left them, and preached in the evening at Philadehphia. All things considered, the people here seemed to be quiet and in good order.
On Tuesday, preached both morning and evening. Richard Sause and myself set out on Wednesday for Bohemia Manor, and on our way we found a few friends at Newcastle (Delaware) that had not deserted the cause. In this journey I called at Chester jail, and saw the prisoners, who all seemed hardened to a man, and among them were the wretched three that I saw escape the gallows before ;184 two of these had behaved so badly they were now in chains. Lord, what is man! And what am I without thy grace! Keep me, keep me, holy Lord, and never let me go! Let me die rather than live to sin against thee! I spoke freely to one of them, who was a murderer.
Maryland
Thursday, 29. We reached Bohemia Manor where we found Solomon Hersey, a man hearty in the cause, and of a good understanding; but his spirit is too warm and easily moved.
On Friday, I visited Ephraim and Robert Thompson and saw their father in his hundredth year, eating, drinking, smoking, and talking. He
181 Samuel Davies had been president of the Log College, later Princeton University. He went to Hanover County, Virginia, in 1747, on a preaching tour and moved there in 1748, remaining ten years. He was a friend and correspondent of John Wesley, and in 1754 he and Gilbert Tennent visited England and raised funds for the Log College. (Kull: New Jersey-A History, I, 348, 387; Sweet: Virginia Methodism, 21-25, 27-29, 3 1-36.)
182There was no meetinghouse in Trenton at this time.
183 "Over the river" was evidently Morrisville, Pennsylvania.
184 See Journal entry for May 30, 1772.
MARYLAND October 31, 1772 49
appeared as forgetful of eternity as if he had been at the most secure distance from its brink. [It is well if his long life do not prove a curse in the end.] I think he told me that his father lived to be a hundred and nine, and never used spectacles.
Saturday, 31. Rose early this morning, and purpose, through grace, to devote this day to God. I have traveled, since Monday week, one hundred and fifty miles;185 [and it has cost me about three pounds, which must come out of my salary of twenty-four pounds per annum, as there is no allowance for my expenses either by the society of Philadelphia or New York].
Lord's day, November 1. After preaching at Hersey's in the morning, 1 intended to preach in the school house in the afternoon; but it would not contain half the people; so I stood at the door, and the people without. Went to bed very unwehl this evening; but rose at five, and feeling better, set off for Susquehanna.186 The next morning my soul longed for God. I felt a comfortable sense of his love in my heart, and can rejoice in him as my all-sufficient portion. In the afternoon we rode in company to the bay side.187 A few people, who came straggling after the time at friend Nathaniel Giles's, felt themselves affected by the power of God. [Richard Webster made one of the company; a man, who, I found by conversation, was a mystic, and very fond of Mr. Law's works; but he spoke well of the person of Christ.] At friend Giles's the family was called together in the evening, and Richard Webster gave a moving exhortation. One person seemed affected. The next morning I rose at five, my usual time, and spent one hour in solemn, secret prayer. Friend Giles treated me with great kindness, and pressed me to call again. I then went to Rocky Run, 188 and
185 The 150 miles were over the main stage line from New York City to Philadelphia. Leaving the latter place, Asbury and Sause probably crossed the Schuylkill River on a raftlike ferry, at Gray's Ferry, the site of the present Gray's Ferry bridge, and proÂceeded through Darby, revisiting the points of his first trip to Bohemia Manor begun the previous April.
186 Asbury's course from Bohemia Manor was up the Elk River to Elkton (Head of Elk), where at Hollingsworth's Tavern he took the main Western Shore Road which led through Principio Furnace and Lower Susquehanna Ferry, the present Havre de Grace.
187 Crossing the Susquehanna River, Asbury entered into three centers of Methodist influence created largely through the evangelistic labors of Robert Strawbridge. Richard Webster, whom Asbury heard at the home of Nathaniel Giles, was among the earliest Methodist local preachers of Harford County. After serving several circuits beginning with 1774, he settled near Abingdon, Maryland, where for fifty years he was unsparing in his service to Methodism. Among the monuments to his devotion is the Calvary Chapel, erected in 1821.
.188 Rock, or Rocky, Run was named for George Rock, who built a mill on this tributary of Deer Creek. Here previous to 1760 Nathaniel Giles, whose home was
Asbury's first Maryland preaching place, built a gristmill. Giles, who died in 1775,
Owned the entire Susquehanna River water front between Heming Run and the mouth
of Deer Creek. (Mason: Historical Sketches of Harford County, Md., 21, 22, 57.)
50 MARYLAND November 4, 1772
preached with freedom to a number of people, among whom were many Friends. For some days past my mind has been blest with much peace; so that I experience a present salvation, and hope to experience that which is eternal. Thanks be to God for what I feel! Glory, glory be given to my dear and gracious Saviour!
Wednesday, 4. This evening I had a very solemn family meeting; and spoke separately and pointedly to every one, both black and white.
On Thursday morning, rising at my usual time, I had a comfortable sense of God upon my heart. Glory be to thee, 0 Lord! After breakfast, Mrs. Giles, her brother, and myself set out for Deer Creek.189 We called at a Friends' meeting, and heard two men and a woman speak. They all spoke to purpose. We then proceeded to Mr. Morgan's, and unexpectedly found the people, at two o'clock, waiting to hear the word. I preached with liberty, and the power of God was felt in the hearts of many, though some of them were principal men. The man of the house looked very earnestly at me while I was preaching. I then published preaching at Samuel Litten's where we had also a comfortable time. Samuel Litten himself was deeply affected. He had been a ranting Quaker, and a rebelÂlious man; but God hath touched his heart, and wrought a good work on him and several others here. The next day we proceeded to Henry WatÂters',190 whose brother is an exhorter, and now gone with Mr. Williams to Virginia. The Lord hath done great things for these people, notwithÂstanding time weakness of the instruments, and some little irregularities. Men who neither feared God, nor regarded man,-swearers, liars, co*ck-fighters, card-players, horse-racers, drunkards, &c., are now so changed as to become new men; and they are ifiled with the praises of God. This is the Lord's work, and it is marvellous in our eyes. Not unto us, 0 Lord, not unto us; but unto thy name be all the glory!
Saturday, 7. We had a powerful meeting at Henry Watters'; several 189 Deer Creek, which empties into the Susquehanna River in northwest Harford County, was also a name which Asbury used for that community in which the families of Samuel Litten, Henry Watters, and other Methodists resided.
190 One of the notable families in this region was that of Henry Watters, and Asbury seems to have made the Watters' home his headquarters in this community. At the time of Asbury's visit William Watters (1751-1827) was traveling through Virginia with Robert Williams on a preaching mission. Nicholas Watters (1739-1 804), elder brother of William Watters, entered the traveling connection in 1776. William Watters was the first native American who became a regular itinerant Methodist preacher. He served in the itinerancy until 1783, when he purchased a farm near McLean, Virginia, and located. He again entered the active ranks in 1786, but became ill and was forced to discontinue traveling before the end of the year. His health improved, and he became active again in 1801. He finally located in 1805 and died in 1827. The graves of William Watters and his wife, Sarah Adams Watters, are in a neglected cemetery on El Nido Road, which Leads off Old Dominion Drive about one mile east of McLean, Fairfax County, VirÂginia. In 1889 the Virginia Conference placed a monument and an iron enclosure on the spot. (Sweet: Men of Zeal, 133, 22 n.; Watters: First American Itinerant of Metho dism and The Warters Family.)
MARYLAND November8,1772 51
from Mr. Morgan's followed me, and seemed to give good attention to the things of God. Here I met with Nicholas Watters, an exhorter, who apÂpears to be a serious and sensible man. After appointing to meet the cxÂhorters at my return, I went to Samuel Forwood's and preached to many people; then preached at a place about three miles on my way back, and came to Henry Watters' again, where we had a very comfortable time.
ROBERT STRAWBRIDGE
Lord's day, 8. We had a very melting time indeed, while I preached to about two hundred souls, from Rom. vi, 17, 18. We had also many people at Richard Webster's while I preached, with liberty in my soul, from 1 Cor. iv, 20: "The kingdom of God is not in word, but in power." This day I have been free from evil, happy, and joyful in my God. At the widow
191 there were many people, both black and white, rich and poor,
191 Widow Bond was a member of a prominent Methodist family who lived one mile from Faliston, Maryland. Thomas Emerson Bond, a distinguished physician and local preacher (17821856), was long editor of The Christian Advocate (New York); and another son, John Wesley Bond (1784-1819), was present at the death of Asbury while serving as his last traveling companion.
52 MARYLAND November 10, 1772
who were all exhorted to seek the Lord while he may be found. Some of the young women of this family are serious and thoughtful.
Tuesday, 10. I enjoy peace and life in my soul; and am determined, through grace, to love and seek nothing but God. Preached to many people, both at Charles Baker's in the morning, and at James Moore's in the evening; and was favoured with much freedom.
Wednesday, 11. Many people attended preaching at Mr. Sinclair's, among whom were some Baptists, who went away displeased. The congreÂgation was also large at friend Staniford's.192 I have read Dr. Stonehouse on the non-eternity of hell torments.193 But by his arguments, we may as well prove the non-eternity of heavenly joys; for he calls it an aijwnion, aionion, life. Now if the aijwnion, aionion,life of saints arises from a principle of spiritual life derived from Christ, then the ijawnion, iaonion, death of the wicked arises from a principle of spiritual death in them; and the one will come to an end as soon as the other.
Thursday, 12. Preached at friend Galloway's. There are some Baptists in this neighbourhood, who oppose the work under us, and perplex and trouble our young beginners, though they let me alone. Then returning to friend Chamberlain's, the word flowed freely, while I preached to many people, at six o'clock, from 2 Cor. v, 20: "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you, in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God." Spoke on God's being reconciled to sinners, and showed on what terms they might be reconciled to God, and that none but Christ could bring about the reconciliation. My mind was greatly enlarged while describing the character of Gospel ministers. Friday morning my soul was happy in God. I rode about eight miles to meet John King. Many people attended the word at Mr. Gatch's; and after preaching John King came. We went together to town194 and stayed all night. The next morning I returned to John Colgate's, where the conÂgregation was large at twelve o'clock. This man's friends have rejected him on account of his religion. The family seem very serious; and I hope there will be a great and good work here. Then rode to Richard
192 Asbury preached and was entertained in the home of Aquila Staniford. Henry Smith states in his Recollections and Reflections of an Old itinerant that he found Staniford engaged as a local preacher in Kentucky (p. 57).
193 The reference is probably to Sir James Stonehouse (1716-95), physician and divine, who in early life published a pamphlet against Christianity which had passed through two editions. A friendship with Philip Doddridge and James Hervey led to his converÂsion, and he took orders in 1749. At that time he burned the third edition of his pamÂphlet and later published numerous religious tracts. (Dictionary of National Biography, XVIII, 1304-5.)
194 This was Asbury's first visit to Baltimore, where in 1770 his traveling companion John King had preached the first sermon. Among the members of the society organized in the home of Daniel Evans there were in addition to Philip Gatch, Sater Stephenson and Isaac Rollin.
MARYLAND November 17, 1772 53
Owings',195 where some people came to see me, with whom we sung and prayed.
Tuesday, 17. This morning I found some peace and life in my soul; but want more retirement. My desire is, to be ever before the Lord. Many people attended the preaching, both in the forenoon and in the evening, when the congregation was much affected. The next morning .1 went to friend Strawbridge's,196 and found his family well. Here we had Dr. Warfield and several polite people to dine with us. I spoke to the ladies about head-dresses; but the Doctor vindicated them, observing that religion did not consist in dress. I quoted the words of St. Peter; I stayed about an hour, and then departed. We then rode to Friend Durbin's,197 and spent some time with his family.
Thursday, 19. Friend Durbin and I set off for Frederick.198 We came to George Saxton's, where I expected to have preached, but there was a disappointment; so we pursued our way, though my little horse was unÂwell and very weary. A poor, unhappy man abused me much on the road: he cursed, swore, and threw stones at me. But I found it my duty to talk to him, and show him his danger. Frederick is a neat, little town, having one main street and three cross streets. It contains about a thouÂsand houses, and the inhabitants are chiefly Germans. There are two German churches, one Calvinist, and one Lutheran. There is also one English church, and one Roman chapel. [About five and twenty Baptists are the greatest enemies the Methodists have in this place.] Many people came to hear me in this town.
Friday, 20. Found some peace of mind in the morning; but was sorely buffetted by Satan in the course of the day; I had but few people in the evening, and but little power.
Saturday, 21. My mind was greatly depressed. Not on account of any 195 Richard Owings was one of the band of local preachers licensed under the ministry of Robert Strawbridge. Some claim that he was the first native American local preacher. His name appears on the first class book of the society in the home of Daniel Evans. He preached the funeral service of Strawbridge in 1781 and was admitted into the conÂference two years before his death in Leesburg, Virginia, in 1786. (Minutes. See Watters:
A Short Account of the Christian Experiences and Ministerial Labors of William Watters.)
196 Robert Strawbridge, a native of Ireland, formed a class in his home on Sam's Creek. The claim that this was the first society in American Methodism remains unÂconfirmed despite rather convincing evidence. He insisted on administering the sacraÂments. (See Journal entries for August 2, 1773; August 27, 1775.) Alexander Warfield and Mrs. Warfield, at whose home Asbury later dined, were members of the society formed in the Strawbridge house.
197 William Durbin, also an original member of Strawbridge's class, was the father of John Durbin (1778-1805), who was received on trial in the Baltimore Conference in 1803. (Bibbins: How Methodism Came, 36.)
198 Asbury, accompanied by William Durbin, proceeded to Frederick, Maryland, the county seat of the present Frederick County, where John King had preached the first Methodist sermon in 1770. The residents of this community were mostly members of the Dutch Reformed Church, a sect that shared the religious fervor of the Methodists.
54 MARYLAND November 22, 1772
outward, known sin; but partly from the state of my body, and partly from a deep sense of the very great work in which I am employed. I do not know when I sunk into deeper distress: though, thank God, there was no condemnation.
Lord's day. After preaching in the morning, brother John Hagerty199 [his brother Pauh,] friend Bonham200 and myself set off to a place where I had to preach at two o'clock. Friend Bonham was awakened by the instrumentality of friend Strawbridge, and he told me that he had been much opposed [by the Baptists. He said they had used him very ilh; but he was determined to have no more connexion with them. He appears to be a solid, sensible man]. I heard him give an exhortation greatly to the purpose; and gave him a note of recommendation, to do all the good he could. Happened in company with an old, stupid Quaker woman, who supposed me to be a half Quaker, and thought the Friends were the only people in the world, and that they were not fallen from their former lively and spiritual state. A man came twenty miles for me, to go and preach a funeral sermon. I accordingly complied, and had many people to hear me. Then went about two miles, to preach at Mr. Durbin's; and met with a German minister, Mr. Benedict Swope,201 who heard me preach at both places. We had some conversation about the ordinances administered by Mr. Strawbridge. He advanced some reasons to urge the necessity of them, and said Mr. Wesley did not do well to hinder us from the administration of them. I told him they did not appear to me as essential to salvation; [and that it did not appear to be my duty to administer the ordinances at that time].
Tuesday, 24. Preached at Winchester,202 in an unfinished house; and
199 John Hagerty (1747-18 18), a native of Prince George's County and a member of the society on Sam's Creek at the time of Asbury's visit in 1772, preached at Rodda's assignment at Linganore in the present Frederick County. In 1779 he entered the traveling connection and continued to preach until 1792, when because of illness of his wife he located. (Methodist Magazine, VII (1824), 209 if.)
300 Hezekiah Bonham, an early convert to Methodism on Sam's Creek, accompanied Asbury on his first journey to the Red Stone country in western Pennsylvania in 1784. A son, Robert, entered the traveling ministry in 1794 and died in 1800.
201 Benedict Swope, or Schwope, was an elder in the Reformed congregation at Pipe Creek, Maryland, as early as 1754. Coming under the influence of Robert Strawbridge and William Otterbein, he became a leader in the Evangelical movement and stood high in the esteem of Bishop Asbury. Asbury records Swope's death in Kentucky at the age of eighty. (See Drury: The Life of Rev. Philip William Otterbein, 157, 191; Methodist Review, VI (1823), 249-54; Bibbins, op. cit., 36.) Bishop John Christian Keener was a great-grandson of Benedict Swope. (Hough: Christian Newcomer, His Life, Journal and Achievements, 5 n.)
202 The present seat of Carroll County, Maryland, was laid out by William WinÂchester (1710-64) in 1764, and bore the name of the founder until changed to WestÂminster by act of the General Assembly. The log meetinghouse stood on Marston Road, a mile south of New Windsor, Maryland. Those who give priority to this site as that on which the first Methodist preaching house in America stood have erected this marker:
MARYLAND November 25, 1772 55
while the rain beat in upon me, many people looked and wondered at the stranger. However, I delivered my message with some energy, and then road three miles to Richard Owing's, where the Lord enabled me to preach with much feehing to a great number of people.
Wednesday, 25. We rode about twenty miles to my old friend Joshua Owing's,203 the forest home for the Methodists at that time, and found a very agreeable house and family. The old man is "an Israelite indeed." He was once a serious Churchman, who sought for the truth; and now God has revealed it to him. The Lord has also begun to bless his family. He has one son a preacher, and the rest of his children are very thoughtful. Though it was a rainy day, there were many people, and my heart was greatly enlarged towards them, in preaching.
Thursday, 26. The congregation was also large at Mr. Samuel Merry-man's,204 and the Lord was with me. But on Friday, at Mr. Evans'205 the congregation was small, and I was much straitened. The same evening I rode to Baltimore.
Saturday, 28. Preached at the Point 206 the first time.
Lord's day, 29. It was a rainy day, but I rode to the Point, and after preaching to a large congregation, returned to town and dined at William Moore's :207 I preached in town both at three, and at six o'clock.
Monday, November 30. Rode in company with Mrs. Rachel Hulings, Mrs. Rogers, and the widow White,208 to Nathaniel Perigau's,209 and
"On this spot stood the log meeting house erected about 1764, the first Methodist meeting house in America." Its successor is Bethel Chapel located about a mile to the southwest of the original site and standing near the Alexander Warfield house. (Bibbins,
op. cit., 42-44; Roberts: Centenary Pictorial Album, 30, 32, 33, 34; Scharf: History of Western Maryland, II, 927.)
203 Asbury now travels towards Baltimore. Joshua Owings was the father of Richard
Owings of Sam's Creek. (For an account of the affiliation of the Owings family with the
Garrison Church see Allen: The Garrison Church, Sketches of the History of St. Thomas'
Parish, Baltimore County, Maryland, 1742-1852, 30, 175.)
204 Samuel Merryman lived on the Hookstown Road about four miles from BaltiÂmore. His devotion to Methodism dated from his early membership in the society on
Sam's Creek. (Smith: Recollections of an Old Itinerant, 204, 205; Bibbins, op. cit., 45,
46; Maryland Historical Magazine, X (1915), 176, 286; Lednum, op. cit., 19.)
205 In the home of Daniel Evans, in what is now Roland Park, Baltimore, the first society in the present Baltimore County was organized. (McLean: Sketch of Rev. Philip Gatch, 24; Stevens: History of the Methodist Episcopal Church, I, 74.)
206 In 1772 an Irishman, Captain George Patton, or Paten, opened his house for preachÂing at Fell's Point. "The first meeting-house that was built by the Methodists in BaltiÂmore was that at Fell's Point." (Lee: A Short History of the Methodists, 49; William Hamilton in the Methodist Quarterly Review, July, 1856. For a partial list of early members see Lednum, op. cit., 89.)
207 William Moore resided at the southeast corner of Water and South streets, Baltimore. (Lednum, op. cit., 88.)
208 Among Asbury's pioneer women helpers were Mrs. Rachel Hulings, who later engaged in evangelistic work with him; and Mrs. Rogers, mother of Philip Rogers, a Baltimore layman, long useful. (Lednum, op. cit., 88, 89.)
56 MARY LAND December 1, 1772
preached to a large number of people. Then I rode to William Lynch's, to whom I was introduced by Mrs. Hulings, and had many to hear the word of truth.
[Tuesday, December 1. Lodged tonight in a damp bed, and though I expected some bad consequence, yet through mercy I received no injury.] The next day, at Joppa,210 there were many people from the country, and some from the town.
Thursday, December 3. Preached at Joseph Presbury's, to many people who could feel the word, and with much power in my own soul. Then rode three miles into the Gunpowder Neck, and had a solemn, heart-affecting time, while preaching from Rev. ii, 1 h; a passage which, it seems, just suited their case: afterward returned to Joseph Presbury's.
Friday, 4. After preaching, Josias Dallam conducted me to his house, and treated me with great kindness. Preached at his house at three o'clock; and on Saturday, at Moses Brown's, about three miles off.
Lord's day, 6. Went about five mihes to preach in our first preaching house.211 The house had no windows or doors; the weather was very cold:
so that my heart pitied the people when I saw them so exposed. Putting a handkerchief over my head, I preached, and after an hour's intermission (the people waiting all the time in the cold) I preached again.
Monday, 7. John King and I went about five miles to lodge; and the next morning set off for Bohemia Manor. We passed through Charles-town,212 and dined at the head of the Elk.213 We lodged at Robert ThompÂson's, where I spoke closely to the poor Negroes, who took some notice of
209 Nathan Perigau, or Perrigo, spiritual father of Philip Gatch, resided about six miles northeast of the Baltimore of that day. About 1772 Perigau and Gatch organized a circuit in Pennsylvania along the Maryland border. (Gatch, op. cit., 9-11, 22.) William Lynch, whose home was on Patapsco Neck, was a local preacher. He is believed to have attended the Christmas Conference. He died in 1806.
210 The ancient town of Joppa when visited by Asbury was situated twenty miles northeast of Baltimore. It not only was at the head of navigation on Gunpowder River, but was at the crossroads of what was known as the Joppa Road running west to Towson and the main thoroughfare south from Lower Susquehanna. This once-historic place is now a cluster of houses on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad and Highway 7. (Wilstach:
Tidewater Maryland, 199, 205; Journal entry for Tuesday, January 19, 1773.)
211 The first Bush Forest Chapel, six miles from Aberdeen, Maryland, was erected in
1769 by the society formed by Robert Strawbridge. Asbury described it as "the second house built for the Methodists in the State." (See Journal entry for Thursday, NovemÂber 16, 1791.) On December 20, 1773, an acre of land was given by Benjamin Herbert to the society. The "Conveyance-Agreement" contains the names of such prominent Methodist families as Watters, Preston, Bull, Howard, Presbury, Armstrong, Baker, and Dallam. A photostat of the deed and text appeared in Bishop Charles W. Flint's Report to the Jurisdictional Conference, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, June 11, 1952.
212 Charlestown, Cecil County, Maryland, founded 1742, was halfway up the NorthÂeast River, forty miles northeast of Baltimore. When Asbury visited it, and until 1784 when the county seat was moved to Elkton, it was a village that promised to rival Baltimore.
213 This was the present Elkton.
MARYLAND December 8, 1772 57
what was said. Since I went from here last, my travels have been, perhaps, as much as three hundred miles in about six weeks. And, glory to God! I have been favoured with the presence of the Lord; and with zeal and power in my public exercises. Rode to Bird's tavern214 for my trunk and box of books; and received a letter from Mr. Pihmoor which surpassed everything I ever had met with from a Methodist preacher. The Lord judge between him and me !215 Then I went to Solomon Hersey's, and after preaching to a few people, I spoke to them, one by one, concerning the state of their souhs.
Tuesday, 8. I intended to have preached at Georgetown ;216 but in my way found a large house belonging to a certain Mr. Bayard,217 in which Mr. Whitefield had preached some years ago, to some Hollanders, who were eminent for rehigion: but the old people are now dead. Then I proÂceeded on my way to Georgetown, and lodged at the house of a Quaker. He treated me with great kindness; and appeared to be an understanding man. His wife was somewhat tender in religious conversation. In the evening the Negroes were collected, and I spoke to them in exhortation. In the morning three or four white people also attended at prayer, to whom I spoke about their souls. The Friend went with me in the morning; and when I asked him what satisfaction he required, he told me, no more than what he had received.
Wednesday, 9. Preached to many people, rich and poor, at John Randall's,218 and at another place in the evening.
Friday, 11. Went twelve miles into Kent county,219 and had many great people to hear me. But before preaching, one Mr. Read, a church minister, came to me and desired to know who I was, and whether I was licensed.
214 This may have been either Bird or Buck tavern. Each was a well-known hostelry in colonial times.
215 This refers to Asbury's conflict with Pilmoor over the frequent change of the preachers. (See note under November 22, 1771.)
216 Georgetown, now Galena, Kent County, was on the south bank of the Sassafras River, which divides Cecil and Kent counties, Maryland.
217 Probably a descendant of Petrus Bayard, nephew of Peter Stuyvesant, who landed in New York City, 1647, and joined the Labidists at Bohemia Manor. In the Bayard mansion George Whitefield preached. James Asheton Bayard (1767-1815), American statesman, married a daughter of Governor Richard Bassett. The joint funeral services of Bayard and Bassett, who also died in 1815, were conducted by Ezekiel Cooper. (Mallery: Ancient Families of Bohemia Manor, Their Homes and Their Graves, 46 f.)
218 in John Randall's house, near Worton, Kent County, Robert Strawbridge preached the first Methodist sermon on the eastern shore of Maryland. About 1780 the society erected a chapel. (Hallam, op. cit., 119, 318; Jesse Lee, op. cit., 39.)
219 Asbury was probably in the neighbourhood in which the Old Kent Meeting House, the first Methodist place of worship on the Peninsula, was later erected. In the churchÂyard of the long-abandoned site between Chestertown and Rock Hall, William Gill and James Smith, two widely known itinerants, are buried. (Garrettson: The Experiences and Travels of Mr. Freeborn Garrettson, 76 ; Lee, op. cit., 50 ; Wakeley: Heroes of Method-ism, 199, 200.)
58 MARYLAND December 13, 1772
I told him who I was. He spoke great, swelling words, and told me he had authority over the people, and was charged with the care of their souls. He also told me that I could not, and should not preach; and if I did, he would proceed against me according to law. I let him know that I came to preach, and preach I would; and further asked him if he had authority to bind the consciences of the people, or if he was a justice of the peace; and told him I thought he had nothing to do with me. He charged me with making a schism. I told him that I did not draw the people from the Church; and asked him if his church was then open He told me that I hindered people from their work; but I asked him if fairs and horse races did not hinder them and, further, told him that I came to help him. He said, he had not hired me for an assistant, and did not want my help. I told him, if there were no swearers or other sinners, he was sufficient. But, said he, what did you come for I replied, to turn sinners to God. He said, cannot I do that as well as you I told him that I had authority from God. He then laughed at me, and said, You are a fine fellow, indeed! I told him I did not do this to invalidate his authority; and also gave him to underÂstand that I did not wish to dispute with him: but he said he had business with me, and came into the house in a great rage. I began to preach, and urged the people to repent, and turn from all their transgressions, so iniquity should not prove their ruin. After preaching, the parson went out, and told the people they did wrong in coming to hear me; and said I spoke against learning. Whereas, I only spoke to this purpose-when a man turned from all sin, he would adorn every character in life, both in Church and state. I left him, and preached at John Randall's at seven o'clock.
Lord's day, 13. Preached twice with very little intermission, to many people collected at a school house near Robert Thompson's; and then rode to Solomon Hersey's, and found it a comfortable time while preachÂing at six o'clock.
Delaware
Monday, December 14, 1772. I rode to New Castle, and preached to a large company. My soul has lately been much bowed down.
Tuesday, 15. There were but few people attended preaching at Mr. Stedham's; and as the next day was wet, I stayed and had a family meeting. On Thursday I went to Mr. Tussey's.220 My mind has been much affected lately. May the Lord support and teach me! After preaching at
220 Asbury revisited the home of Isaac Tussey, a Methodist preaching place since Captain Thomas Webb held services there in 1769. The house built in 1765 still stands five miles below the Pennsylvania state line. (Delaware, a Guide to the First State, 325.)
DELAWARE December 20, 1772 59
Mr. Tussey's, I went to hear a New Light minister, and found but little satisfaction.
Lord's day, 20. Though it rained much, yet many people attended preaching at Isaac Hersey's. Then I preached at a place about five miles off; and rode thence to Newcastle, where many people attended at night. The Lord favoured me. My mind is now full of Divine peace.
Maryland
Monday, 21. I set out for Bohemia Manor; and though my body was much fatigued with my ride, and my head ached violently, yet in the evenÂing I enforced these words: "Be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless;" and endeavoured to show them, that in justification we have peace, in sanctification we are without spot, and in perfect love we are blameless; and then proceeded to show them wherein we must be diligent.
Tuesday, 22. On my way to Susquehanna, a person came for me to visit Mrs. Thomas in a dropsy. I then proceeded to Josias Dallam's; and the next day set off for Joseph Presbury's, to attend our quarterly meeting.221 Many people attended, and several friends came many miles. I preached from Acts xx, 28: "Take heed, therefore, unto yourselves," &c. After showing to whom the charge was given, I proceeded to enforce the subÂject thus:-
I. Take heed to your spirits.
II. Take heed to your practice.
III. Take heed to your doctrine.
IV. Take heed to the flock.
1. Those that are under deep conviction.
2. Those that are true believers.
3. Those that are sorely tempted.
4. Those that are groaning for full redemption.
5. Those that have backslidden.
I then urged the motives to this duty. We afterwards proceeded to our temporal business, and considered the following propositions:- 221 Asbury now returned to the western shore to begin his second round of appointÂments in that part of Maryland. Josias Dallam lived near Aberdeen, Maryland, on the site of the present Aberdeen Proving Ground. Joseph Presbury conducted the meeting at which William Watters was spiritually awakened. Presbury served simultaneously as trustee of three Methodist chapels-Bush Forest Chapel built in 1768, and in 1773 those erected on Gunpowder Neck and at the mouth of Middle River. The quarterly Conference held in his home is the first of which the minutes have been preserved. They indicate a growing cleavage between Asbury and Strawbridge over the administration Of the sacraments by Mr. Wesley's unordained helpers. (Lee, op. cit., 41; Stevens, op. Cit., I, 133, 134; The Methodist Review, N.Y., May, 1928.)
60 MARYLAND December 22, 1772
1. What are our collections We found them sufficient to defray our expenses.
2. How are the preachers stationed Brother Strawbridge and brother Owings in Frederick county. Brother King, brother Webster, and Isaac Rollins,222 on the other side of the bay; and myself in Baltimore.
3. Shall we be strict in our society meetings, and not admit strangers Agreed.
4. Shall we drop preaching in the day-time through the week Not agreed to.
5 Will the people be contented without our administering the sacraÂment John King was neuter; brother Strawbridge pleaded much for the ordinances; and so did the people, who appeared to be much biased by him. I told them I would not agree to it at that time, and insisted on our abiding by our rules. But Mr. Boardman had given them their way at the quarterly meeting held here before, and I was obliged to connive at some things for the sake of peace.
6. Shall we make collections weekly, to pay the preachers' board and expenses This was not agreed to. We then inquired into the moral characters of the preachers and exhorters. Only one exhorter was found any way doubtful, and we have great hopes of him. Brother Strawbridge received £8 quarterage; brother King and myself £6 each. Great love subÂsisted among us in this meeting, and we parted in peace.
I then went to Josias Dallam's; and on Christmas day attended the Church,223 and heard parson West preach a plain, useful sermon, which contained much truth; and afterward received the sacrament. Then rode five miles to Bush Chapel; but as Mr. Strawbridge did not give public notice, few people attended, and the preaching was late. [Perhaps Mr. Strawbridge omitted to give public notice, that it might prevent my going to church.] The next day I rode to Barnard Preston's, 224 where we had a
222 Isaac Rollins (spelled "Rollings" by Lee), a member of Daniel Evans' class near Baltimore, was the third native American to become a traveling preacher. Of his unfortunate ministerial career and tragic death Asbury has left an extended account. (See Journal entry for Tuesday, August 5, 1783; also Lednum, op. cit., 389, 390.)
223 This was the historic Garrison Church of which from its erection in 1743 the Owings, Bond, Murray, Doughaday, Dallam, and several other later Methodist families had been members and vestrymen. Josias Dallam, on whose land at Abingdon, co*kes-bury College later was erected, accompanied Asbury to hear "parson West." The Rev. William West (1734-91) and two others on December 31, 1784, invited co*ke and Asbury to tea in Baltimore to discuss the prospect of a union of the Protestant Episcopal and the Methodist Episcopal Churches, only recently released from British ecclesiastical control. Thomas Worthington informed Asbury that the vestry of this church had decided to invite him to become its rector. (See Journal entry for Tuesday, August 26, 1777; also Allen: The Garrison Church, Sketches of the History of St. Thomas Parish, Garrison Forest, Baltimore County, Md., 39, 46.)
224 This was probably Barnard Preston, who among other Harford County Methodists signed the deed for the site of the Bush Forest Chapel, December 20, 1773. Or it may
MARYLAND December27,1772 61
large congregation, and a very comfortable meeting. On the same day, at the house of Henry Watters, Nicholas Watters225 spoke with great care, but with little depth. He may improve, and make a useful preacher in time.
Lord's day, 27. Rode to the widow Bond's, and preached twice, with very little intermission, to a great number of people. Appointing a meeting in the evening, I had an opportunity of hearing Isaac Rollins exhort. His exhortation was coarse and loud enough, though with some depth. I gave him a little advice, which he seemed willing to take.
Monday, 28. Many people of various kinds attended at Aquilla StaniÂford's. Preached afterward at J. Moore's in the evening, and went thence to James Baker's, and met the class.
Tuesday, 29. At Mr. Sinclair's I found great peace of mind, and, thanks be to God, had power in preaching, though the people were dead and stupid. The next day at Mr. Chamberlain's I had many people, and preached with freedom; then went to Galloway's, where we had great consolation.
refer to Barnett Preston, who was a member of the first grand jury for Harford County, which met at "Harford Town" (Bel Air), August 23, 1774. (Preston, op. cit., 65.)
226 Nicholas Watters (1739-1804) was one of the seven sons of Henry Watters of
Deer Creek, Maryland, and brother of William Watters, the first native American
itinerant. Nicholas was received on trial at the conference in Baltimore with Freeborn
Garrettson in 1776. He died of smallpox while stationed at Charleston, South Carolina.
(Minutes, 1776; Hedges, op. cit., 33-35; Betts : History of South Carolina Methodism, 33.)
