Last names and years are in bold type. Transcriber’s notes are in [brackets]. The transcribers have made an effort to preserve the spelling quirks present in the original, handwritten document. A question mark (?) denotes an uncertainty about the word, the name, the spelling, or the phrase in the original document.
March 28th Married by the Rev. T. Spencer(?) Asa French to Miss Tanee(?) Spencer
April 4th(?) Lords Supper administered by the Rev. T. Spencer
August 18th Lords Supper administered by T. Spencer. Baptized Orry(?) Daughter of Timothy and Lydia Golden(?).
March 6, 1814 Lords Supper administered by Rev. T. Spencer. Baptized Grangre Lyman son of Isaac and Ruth Barns(?).
July 24th Lords Supper Administered by the Rev. T. Spencer. Baptized John and Stephen Barnes sons of Theoner(?) and Maria Strong. Maria Strong admitted to full Communion.
Nov. 13th(?) Lords Supper administered by Rev. Matthew Taylor. Baptised Elisha Skinner, Solomon Lovejoy and Prudence Lovejoy adults Elisha son of Elisha and Sally Skinner, Horatio(?) Pliny(?) son and Elvira Daughter of Isaac and Prudence Lovejoy. Benjamin Lovejoy and Abigail, his wife, Isaac Lovejoy and Prudence his wife, Solomon Lovejoy and Rien(?) his wife. Elisha Skinner and Sally Seymour admitted to full communion with this Church.
Nove. 29th Rosehannah(?) Daughter and John Edwin Annis(?) and Solomon sons of Solomon and Ren(?) Lovejoy, Benjamin Lovejoy son to Benjamin Styles and Nancy Lovejoy Baptised by the Rev. T. Spencer.
Feb. 10, 1815 Lords Supper Administered by the Rev. T. Spencer.
August 6th Lords Supper Administered by the Rev. Amos Clark.
Dec. 17th Lords Supper Administered by the Rev. T. Spencer
Dec. 18th Baptised Prudence Daughter of Isaac A. and Prudence Lovejoy.
April 1st 1816 Lords Supper Administered by the Rev. T. Spencer. Baptised Thomas son of Timothy and Lydia Golden.
June 30th Lords Supper Administered by the Samuel Swezy(?). Baptized Daniel William son of Adam and Tabitha Wait & John Barker, Solomon Hinckly and his wife admitted to this Church
Oct 27 Baptised Alexander Smith son of John and Fanny Barker.
Decem 8 Lords Supper administered by the Rev. Samuel Swezy Baptized Mary Rood and Polly Lovejoy adults William Michael Julius and Sarah Daughter of Abijah and Polly Lovejoy Thomas Sidny Albert Faren Durham George sons Thomas and Ruth Kapple and Chloe Daughter, Warner Barnes(?) son of Thomas(?) and Pamelah(?). Baptized Sidny Lock, Roe. Barnes and Jerry sons of Standish and Mary Rood. Joseph Plumb admitted a member of this Church by letter.
January 30(?) 1817 Church meeting held at the house of Oliver Barnes. Voted that this Church Change their form of Church Government from Congregational to Presbyterian and act with the Presbytery.
March 10th At a meeting of the Church held at the house of Mr. Seymore the following officers were chosen
Voted that I. A. Lovejoy procure at the expense of the Church a book(?) suitable for the records and that the sum of twenty dollars be raised to purchase furniture for the communion table.
April 4th Session met according to appointment. meeting opened with prayer. Joseph Plumb appointed Clerk of the Session. Susanna Swezy(?) Wife of Rev. S. Swezy admitted to the Church by letter. Adjourned to meet again on the 14th inst. Closed by prayer
April 14th Met agreeable to adjournment. Opened by prayer. Voted that the Confession of Herman Goodwin be received by this Church the [sic] he be recommended to the Congregational Church in this Town that the conditions upon which he is recommended be made known to the Congregation Sabbath after next Mrs. Barker’s letter from the Church in Paris received. Closed by Prayer.
June 1st. Sacrament administered by Rev. S. Swezy
June 25th At a meeting of the Session Deac I. Barnes appointed delegate to attend the meeting of the Presbytery the ensuing week at Buffalo with Rev. S. Swezy
August 1st Session met according to appointment opened by prayer. Mark Stacy received a member of this Church by letter from the Church in Madison. Voted that it be adopted as a rule of this Church that a year only be given to members removing from other Churches to procure letters.
August 3d Sacrament of the Lords supper administered by Rev. S. Swezy. Baptised Nathaniel son of Isaac and Ruth Barns also Charles Darwin son of Elisha and Sally Skinner
Oct. 8th Session met according to adjournment opened by Prayer. When the following complaint was laid before the Session. Whereas it has it has [sic] been repeatedly represented that Brother Jeremiah Rood has been guilty of the sin of intemperance use of spirituous liquor on two instances namely at the raising of Mr. Thompsons Barn in July 1816 and also while employed in drawing grain for Mr. Risly in August last and whereas the first step according the divine rule has been taken and appearing to entirely insensible of having given occasion for such reports and manifesting a willingness to meet his accuser before the Session the 8th inst I do now submit the matter to the investigation of the Session. Pomfret Oct. 8th 1817 Israel Loomis
Names of the Witnesses
The charges being read to the offending member with names of the witnesses the Session adjourned to meet on the 15th of the present month closed with prayer.
Oct. 15th 1817 Session met agreeable to adjournment opened with prayer. When the Session proceeded to the trial of Brother Rood. Mark Stacy being sworn testifies that he was present at the raising of Mr. Thompsons Barn at which time he thinks Mr. Rood had two[sic] freely of ardent Spirits that he did go strait the left [sic] the place before the rest of the company that he noticed him particularly. Benjamin Lovejoy being sworn testifies that he was present at the raising of Mr. Thompsons barn that he thought Mr. Rood had drank too much liquor that he conversed with him the next day respecting it. Mr. Rood did not appear to be sensible of being out of the way but said if that was the case he was sorry for it. Thomas Kapple being sworn testifies that he was present at the raising of the abovementioned barn that he judged from his being unusually talkative mixing vain conversation with religious topics and some other circumstances that Mr. Rood had drank too much. adjourned to the 28th 1 o’clock P.M. closed by prayer
Oct. 28, 1817 Session met according to adjournment opened by Prayer. Solomon Lovejoy having sworn Testifies that he was present at Mr. Risleys with Jeramiah Rood when he was drawing grain took dinner with him and that Mr. Rood asked a blessing at the Table and by his conversation he thought he had drank more spirits than was for his good, and also at other times he had noticed his drinking too much. Otis Maynard being sworn Testifies that he was at Mr. Risleys with Mr. Rood drawing grain and that he thought by his countenance and conversation that he had made too free use of spirits which appeared further evident by his unnatural actions and furthermore that he had seen him at another time when he thought he had drank too much. Concluded by Prayer
Nov 25th 1817 Session met according to appointment opened by prayer. After mature deliberation on the case of Mr. Rood were unanimous in the opinion that the Charges have been supported against him and in consideration of his intire [sic] insensibility with respect to his fault in consequence of which he is unprepared to make the confession which the nature of the case requires thenceforward that the Moderator admonish him and if not reclaimed by this mean[s] the matter be laid before Presbytery. Closed by Prayer.
Nov 30th Sacrament administered by Rev. S. Swezy. Baptised Harriet Daughter of Abijah and Polly Lowery(?)
Oct 15th Session met agreeable to notice. opened by prayer. When the following complaint was presented. Whereas I have reason to believe by frequent reports and otherwise that Brother Asa French has in several instances during the summer and fall past been guilty of unchristian conduct to the great scandan(?) of the cause of religion and whereas I have under a sense of duty as I humbly trust made an attempt to bring him to a sense of duty by taking the first and second steps according to the direction of our blessed Lord Math 18th 15.16 and obtaining no satisfactory evidence of repentance I do now submit the mater[sic] to the investigation of the Session and present this my complaint against him as stated in the three following charges to wit
1st an intemperate use of ardent spirits
2nd an attempt to secure in a clandestine manner a deed of a certain building lot in the Village of Fredonia which was in the possession of James Mullett, Esq.
3d Absenting himself from publick[sic] worship on the Sabbath and at other seasons –
Pomfret, Dec. 13th 1817 Isaac Barnes
Names of the witnesses
Adjourned to the 26 of the present month at 1 P.M. concluded by prayer
Decem 26 Session met according to adjournment opened by Prayer. no business done Closed by Prayer. adjourned to the 31st at 1 P.M.
Dec. 31st Session met according to adjournment opened by Prayer. When Brother Asa French appeared before them acknowledged his fault and made his confession to the satisfaction of the Session. Closed by Prayer
January 29 1818
A Letter of admonition having been sent Brother Rood according to the decision of the Session and he manifesting no satisfactory evidence of repentance the decision of the session renders it necessary that the matter be laid before Presbytery. Israel Loomis Clerk
Tus[sic] far the records have been examined by Presbytery and approved except the last articles which appear to want the proper signature. Miles(?) Squire(?) Moderator
August 13th 1818 opened by Prayer. Brother Asa French according to previous appointment and his own voluntary agreement came before the Session When he was required to answer to the following charges foundered on repeated reports of the truth of which this Session are measurably satisfied
Charges
1st For the sin of intemperance of which we have reason to believe he has been guilty at different times since his confession of Decem 31st 1817.
2nd neglect to attend Public Worship.
the Charges acknowledged to be true. Voted that a public confession be required and read in his presence. Concluded by Prayer
Dec 22d Session met agreeable to appointment opened by Prayer. Voted that a Letter of admonition be written to Asa French and if it should not have the desired effect that the matter be laid before Presbytery at their next session.
Isaac A. Lovejoy appointed delegate to attend the next Session of the Presbytery at Buffalo and Joseph Plumb substitute. A Letter of admonition having been written to Asa French according to the vote of the Session and not having the desired effect the matter is now submitted to Presbytery for their advise[sic]. by Presbytery voted that these records be approved except the want of the signature of the Clerk to the several minutes of the Church and that they be signed by the moderator. Buffalo Feb 10 1819 Calvin Colten mod
May 27, 1819 Session met according to appointment opened with prayer. Voted that Asa French be excommunicated from this Church provided the same be sanctioned by Presbytery. Isaac A. Lovejoy appointed delegate to attend the next Presbytery at Lewiston on the first Tuesday in July next. Oliver Barns appointed substitute. Harvey Durkee Persia Durkee his wife Parthena(?) Lyman, Mrs. Julia Johnson and Miss Atkins were admitted to the Church by letter. Joseph Plumb Clerk
Sept. 21st Session met agreeable to appointment opened with prayer. Voted that Asa French be excommunicated from this Church agreeable to the advice of the Presbytery. Joseph Plumb, Clerk
Henrietta Sage admitted to the Church by Letter.
Decem 22d The Church met agreeable to notice. Opened with prayer and proceeded to the choice of two Elders. When Harvey Durkee and Solomon Hinkly were Elected and Harvey Durkee was also chosen Deacon and was appointed moderator for one year. Concluded by Prayer.
March 12 1820 Sacrament administered by Rev. John Spencer
July 29th Sacrament administered by Rev. John Spencer. Miss Abigail T. Gilbert received to the Church. Joseph Plumb Clerk
Oct. 29th Sacrament administered by the Rev. Mr. Camp(?) and the following persons admitted to the Church by letter
Abigail Mariah Daughter of Abijah and Polly Lovejoy Baptised. Joseph Plumb Clerk
July 14th 1821 Daniel L. Andrews dismiss by Letter. Joseph Plumb, Clerk
July 1st Sacrament administered by Rev. John Spencer. Baptised a child of Joseph and Deborah Plumb also three Children of Eri and Sally Allen. Joseph Plumb, Clerk
Sabbath August 5th Sacrament administered by Rev. Mr. Phelps. Baptised a child of Isaac and Prudence Lovejoy a child of Daniel and Irene Bartholomew a child of Fenner(?) Ward(?) a child of Thomas and Ruth Kapple, a child of Elisha and Hanna Shepard. Joseph Plumb Clerk
Oct. Rev. Mr. Phelps preached a lecture and baptized two children of Henry and Marilla Howard.
December 10th Sacrament administered by Rev. Mr. Phelps. Huldah Jones wife of Carlton Jones, Elisha Shepard and Hannah his wife and Hiram Couch were admitted to the Church by letter. Ralph Plumb and Parthena his wife, Sarah Williams wife of Ezra Williams, Sally Day Wife of Benjamin Day, Sophia Bail were admitted on examination. Mrs. Day and Mrs. Plumb were Baptised also a child of Ralph and Parthena Plumb. Joseph Plumb Clerk
January 5th 1822 Mark Stacy dismissed by vote of Session. Joseph Plumb Clerk
February 1st at a meeting of the Church Elisha Shepard appointed one of the Elders of this Church. Deac. Harvey Durkee appointed delegate to attend the meeting of the Presbytery on the first Tuesday of the present month. Joseph Plumb Clerk
Mrs. Huldah Jones wife of Carlton Jones died April 6, 1822.
Sabbath April 14. Sacrament administered by Rev. Noah Smith. Mrs. Abigail Wentworth received to the Church by letter. Elisha Shepard Clerk
Joseph Plumb dismissed from the Church by vote of the Session. E. Shepard Clerk
August 17 at a meeting of the Session Harvey Durkee appointed delegate to attend the siting of the Presbytery at west Aurora on the 2nd Tuesday of Sept. next. E. Shepard Clerk
The committee appointed to examine these records reported that there was some instances of neglect in not having the minutes signed by the Clerk that they recorded Baptisms and deaths as the doings of the Church. And that with these exceptions they be signed by the moderator. Thus far approved by Presbytery with the above exceptions. Mile P. Squire Moderator
West Aurora Sept 11th 1822
Sabbath Sept. 22nd Sacrament administered by Rev. Samuel Leonard.
Lucy Garnsey received to this church by letter
Caroline E. Harrison by profession.
Sabbath December 15
Sacrament administered by the Rev. Mile P. Squire. A child of Deac. I. A. Lovejoy Baptised.
Dunkirk December 16th 1822.
Session met agreeable to previous appointment at the house of Wm. A. Lynd(?) – opened with prayer by the Rev. Miles P. Squire who was invited to act as moderator of the meeting. Mrs. Sarah A. Williams a sister in this church presented a complaint against Nancy Lynd – also a member of this church containing the following charges viz.
1 Mrs. Lynd has sinned(?) over(?) saying she did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk – and that she was almost sorry that she had made a profession of religion. Witnesses Mrs. Langdon, Mrs. Bond and Doctor Williams to one part. This was in Oct’r 1822.
2d Mrs. Lynd has denied that she ever(?) said Mrs. Brigham crowded upon her. Mrs. Van Sanford, Esther Good(?), Mr. Brigham, Mrs. Brigham, Dr. Williams, Mrs. Williams witnesses
3d and that she denied denying it – Part of the same witnesses – This was in October & November 1822
4th That she had denied saying that Mrs. Van Sanford would go down to Deacon Dodd and ask his pardon. Fanny Loomis, Mrs. Fink, Doctor Williams witnesses. This was in October and Nov’r 1822.
5th Mrs. Lynde denied that she ever denied saying that Mrs. Van Sanford had said what is mentioned in the fourth charge. Witnesses Mrs. Loomis, Fanny Loomis, Deacon Loomis. This was Nov’r 25 1822. Mrs. Williams stated that she had taken the previous steps with Mrs. Lynd as the gospel requires.
A copy of the charges and names of the witnesses having been given to the Defendant the parties consented now to come to trial –
The proof of the first charged –
Mrs. Abigail Langdon being sworn testifieth that the defendant told me she did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk and that there was such work here she was almost sorry she had made a profession of religion. Afterwards she called on me and asked me what she had said - referring to what I have just testified – whether she did not say they did not act like Christians here – I said no but that she did not believe there was a Christian here. She then said she did not say so but that they did not live like Christians or the like.
Question by defendant – Did I not ask you whether you could not be mistaken about my saying I did not believe so I said no but that if she would then say she did not mean no I would give it up.
Mrs. Annet Bond being sworn testifieth that in conversation with Mrs. Lynde she said she did not think there was a Christian in Dunkirk and that she felt almost ashamed she had named the name of Christ & professed. She afterwards called on witness and asked witness if she ever told her that she did not think there was a Christian in Dunkirk; Witness told her that she the Defendant had told her so – Mrs. Lynde then said witness was to blame for saying so – as she the defendant had never(?) made such a statement. She then told witness to consider on it for she never had told her so. Annit Bond
Doct’r Ezra Williams being sworn testifieth that in conversation with Defendant he remarked to her that she had said she did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk. She replied that she had never said so - and that Mrs. Bond had told(?) her(?) the Defendant that she Mrs. Bond did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk and then reported that she the Defendant had told her - Mrs. Bond – so and further added how nice(?) it is to be treated so – and that the conversation which she the Defendant had with Mrs. Bond was inconsistent with her the defendant having said so. Ezra Williams
2d Charge – Esther Good(?) being sworn testifieth that in conversation with Defendant about four years ago Defendant told her she the Defendant thought Mrs. Brigham and Mrs. Hiton(?) imposed upon her. Esther Good
Mr. Joel(?) Brigham having been sworn testifieth that the Defendant in conversation with him said she did not mean to have it considered, that she Mrs. Brigham crowded upon her.
Question by Defendant, did not Doct’r E. Williams state to you that Mrs. Lynde had become troublesome in the neighborhood and that he was determined to put a stop to it? Answer – He did or to that purport. Joel Brigham
Doct’r Williams testifieth that Mrs. Lynde in conversation with him avowed(?) that she said Mrs. Brigham crowded upon her or to that purport. Ezra Williams
3d charge – No Testimony
4th & 5th Charges – Fanny Loomis being sworn testifieth that the defendant told her that Mrs. Van Sanford had told Defendant that she Mrs. Van Sanford was reconciled to Valeria Dodd – and that she Mrs. Van Sanford justified her Valeria Dodd for treating her Mrs. Van Sanford as she did, considering the provocation she Mrs. Dodd had, and that she Mrs. Van Sanford would go and ask Deacon Dodds pardon – Defendant afterwards said to witness that she the Defendant had not said Mrs. Van Sanford told her the Defendant that she Mrs. Van Sanford was reconciled to Valeria Dodd but that she the Defendant told witness that Mrs. Van Sanford told Mrs. Guernsey that she Mrs. Van Sanford was more reconciled to Valeria Dodd than she had been.
Question of Defendant – Did Mrs. Lynde tell you that Mrs. Van Sanford told her that she Mrs. Van Sanford would get right on to her little Pony and go down and ask Deacon Dodds pardon? Answer – She did. Fanny Loomis
Doct’r Williams testifieth that the Defendant in conversation with him, and Fanny Loomis did deny that she had said what Fanny Loomis has said she did – But answered that she had said what Mrs. Van Sanford had told her Defendant – that she Mrs. Van Sanford was more reconciled to Valeria Dodd than she had been. Ezra Williams
Mrs. Hannah Loomis being sworn testifieth that Defendant told in the presence of witness that she Defendant had never denied saying that Mrs. Van Sanford had told her the Defendant that she Mrs. Van Sanford was reconciled to Valeria Dodd and that she Mrs. Van Sanford would see her parents and ask their forgiveness – To this Fanny Loomis also testifies.
On the part of the defendant the following witnesses were called
Mrs. Wm. A. Lynde being sworn testifieth that in reply to the question of Doct’r Williams – in the conversation with him – did you not Mrs. Lynde say that you did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk – and that you was ashamed of your profession – she the Defendant answered no – but one would not think there was a Christian in Dunkirk – and she was almost sorry she had made a profession of religion and if she had not made a profession she thought she should not at this time.
Question by the Defendant – Did you in the above mentioned conversation with Doct’r Williams hear the Defendant say that Mrs. Bond had said she did not believe there was a Christian in Dunkirk – Answer – I did not. Wm A. Lynde
Deacon A. Dodd being sworn was questioned by the Moderator – Did you hear Mrs. Lynde deny in conversation with Fanny Loomis & Doctor Williams that she had said Mrs. Van Sanford had got reconciled to Valeria Dodd and that she would see her parents and ask their forgiveness? Answered – No I did not. But she avowed(?) she did say so.
Question by the same – Did you hear Defendant say that she did not say that Mrs. Van Sanford told her that she Mrs. Van Sanford would get on to her pony and go down and see Deacon Dodd but that she expected that came by way of Mrs. Garnsey? Answer I did.
Question by complainant – Was you so situated that you could hear all the conversation between defendant and Fanny Loomis? Answer – I do not think I could hear all – but was very anxious to hear all I could. Ebeneazer Dodd
Mrs. Lucy Garnsey being sworn was questioned by Moderator – Have you had any conversation with Defendant respecting what Mrs. Van Sanford told you about her Mrs. Van Sanfords being reconciled to Valeria Dodd? Answer – I have.
What was the substance of that conversation? I told her Mrs. Lynde what Mrs. Van Sanford told me. Viz. that she had seen Mrs. Lynde and was perfectly reconciled to her. She now wished to see her parents – Deacon Dodd & his wife – being sensible that their feelings must have been injured – and that she was determined to see them and that if no other opportunity presented she should make a journey down there on purpose. She said when she considered the provocation which Valeria Dodd had she did not know that she would blame her one bit.
Question by Defendant: What is your opinion of Mrs. Lynde’s character as a woman of truth and piety? Answer – I have ever found her a woman of truth and piety so far as facts have come within my knowledge.
Question of Moderator Have you been intimately acquainted with Mrs. Lynde. Answer – I have. Lucy Garnsey
Mrs. Sally Day being sworn was questioned by Defendant – What is your personal knowledge of Mrs. Lynde’s character as a Christian? Answer – As far as I have seen she has conducted herself as a Christian. Sally Day
Mrs. Ruth Barns sworn – Questioned by the Defendant – Have you been previously acquainted with Mrs. Lynde for some time back? Answer – I have ever since the next summer they came into this country. What is your opinion of Mrs. Lynde as a woman of truth & piety? Answer – I have always viewed her as a woman of truth and piety. Question by complainant – Have you ever lived near enough to her to know her particular walk and conversation among her neighbours? Answer – I have never heard more than Fredonia and know not what her particular walk might be – but have never heard her talk against her neighbors – She has spoken of this difficulty with gossip. Ruth Barns
Mrs. Love Bosworth sworn – Question by Moderator – Have you lived in Mrs. Lynde’s family? Answer – I have. How long have you lived in this family? Answer More or less of the time for a year. From your personal knowledge of Mrs. Lynde what are your feelings with respect to her as a woman of truth & piety? Answer I never doubted her word in the least and have always considered her as a woman of truth and piety. Question by complainant – How long since you lived in this family? Answer About three years. How far have you lived from her since? Ans. As far as Fredonia. Had any difficulties existed in this place at that time? Ans – no. Question by defendant – Did you reside in the family at the time Mrs. Brigham came to make her this visit? Alluded to above(?) – Ans – I did but was absent that week. I heard the visit spoken of by Mrs. Lynde but never heard her speak disrespectfully of Mrs. Brigham. Love D. Bosworth
Doct’r Samuel Snow sworn Question by Moderator – Have you been intimately acquainted in Mrs. Lynde’s family? Ans – Considerably acquainted. Have you ever known any thing prejudicial to her character as a woman of truth & piety? Ans – I have not. Question by Defendant – From what you have known of my family have you ever thought I endangered them by telling untruths or that it was not my endeavor to bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord? Samuel Snow
Session closed with prayer and adjourned until sunrise tomorrow morning. Elisha Sheppard Clerk
December 17. Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer by Moderator, and proceeded to business. After the evidence was all gone through with and the parties had submitted their subjects and retired the session reviewed the evidence and took the subject into deliberate and prayerful consideration. Whereupon resolved unanimously that the charges are not supported – that there is not evidence that Mrs. Lynde has been guilty of willful falsehood in any respect alledged. Session however cannot exculpate Mrs. Lynde from blame inasmuch as it does appear that although she has had provocation she has been imprudent – has engaged in contradictory conversation – has been too confident in saying what she did say and what she did not say at times previous and has manifested in some instances a wrong spirit for which she ought to be humbled before God. Miles P. Squire Moderator
January 3, 1823 Session met according to appointment and appointed Elisha Sheppard Delegate to Presbytery at Buffalo on the last Tuesday in January and also appointed Isaac A. Lovejoy Substitute.
Sabbath May 25
Sacrament administered by the Rev’d Samuel Leonard – Simon Abel & Hester his wife, Abiram Durkee, Parma Lyman, Roswell Harrison were admitted to this communion of the church by letter.
July 22, 1823
Session met agreeable to appointment at the house of Elisha Sheppard. Appointed Elisha Sheppard Delegate to the next meeting of Presbytery in the village of Fredonia the 2d Tuesday of Sept next & Deacon Isaac A. Lovejoy as his Substitute. E. Sheppard Clerk
Thus far examined and approved with the exception that the book is in incompetent to keep the Church Records on and recommend that the church procure a better. Miles P. Squire Moderator Fredonia Sep. 8th 1823
Sept 26, 1823
Church met agreeable to appointment opened with prayer. Appointed Samuel Marsh Elder of this church. E. Sheppard Clerk
Oct. 11 1823
Session met agreeable to appointment at the Meeting House. Opened with prayer. The son of D. S.(?) Skinner was taken into consideration. Voted in consequence of rumours circulated to the discredit of D. S. Skinners Christian character – that he be requested to meet the Session at the meeting house on Tuesday of next week at 2 o clock P.M. Closed with prayer. E. Sheppard Clerk
Oct’r 21. 1823 The adjourned meeting was not attended by a sufficient number of the session to do business. E. Sheppard Clerk
Nov’r 14, 1823
Session met agreeable to appointment at the house of Elisha Sheppard. Opened with prayer. Mr. Skinner being present made a full confession of his fault and agreed to make a public acknowledgement before the Church & congregation with which the Session was satisfied. Appointed Elisha Sheppard to attend the next meeting of Presbytery & Deacon H. Durkee his substitute. E. Sheppard Clerk
Sabbath Jany 4, 1824
Sacrament administered by the Rev’d Wm. Page. Daniel Burton & wife, Zeriah Drake, Sarah Bail, Susannah(?) Todd, Nelson Randall & Leman Hill were admitted to the Church by letter. Luther Lyman, Harriet Lyman & Sally Gale(?) on examination. E. Sheppard Clerk
[crossed out]: June 28 1824
July 25, 1824
Sacrament administered by Rev’d Wm. Page. Mr. Barber & Mrs. George Hinkly admitted to the church on examination. E. Sheppard Clk
Oct’r 3d Sacrament administered by Rev’d Wm. Page
Jan 9(?) 1825 Deacon H. Durkee appointed by the session a delegate to the next Presbytery at Mayville. Elisha Shepard Clerk
Sabbath Jany 2
Sacrament administered by the Rev’d Wm Page. Uriah Wentworth admitted to the church on examination – Mrs. Francis Page by letter – together with Theodotia Hinkly & Miss Ann Hale.
March 24, 1825
Session met agreeable to appointment. Mr. Anson Hutchinson admitted to the church by letter. A charge was presented to the session against Mrs. Clorena Coats wife of Henry Coats for a breach of the Sabbath. Session voted to take up this charge and appointed one of their members to visit sister Coats and report to the Session hereafter. Adjourned to Thursday 31st.
March 31.
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Resumed the consideration of the charge against sister Coats. After listening to the report of the members appointed to visit her and mature deliberation voted to address to her a letter of admonition. Closed with prayer.
April 3d Sacrament administered by the Rev’d Wm Page.
April 7 Session met agreeable to appointment. Opened with prayer. A charge was presented by Thomas Kaple[sic] against Elias Gilbert for intemperance. Having appointed a member of session to see him – and he Elias Gilbert having acknowledged justice of this charge to this member voted that he be required to make an acknowledgement to the Session and that this acknowledgement come before the congregation. D. S. Skinner having neglected to make his acknowledgment according to agreement and having, after being allows a season of probation continued his same course of intemperance, according to public fame(?). Voted to send him a citation to appear before session on Friday of next week. Session adjourned to Friday of next week.
April 15. Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. D. S. Skinner not appearing – no business transacted. Adjourned to Tuesday of next week.
April 19. Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Mr. Gilbert being present consented to comply with the requirements of Session respecting making his acknowledgment. Voted that Moderator be requested to write D. S. Skinner a letter of admonition stating to him the necessity of making an immediate acknowledgment to the church for the sins of which he confesses himself guilty. Session adjourned. Closed with prayer.
June 16, 1825 Session met agreeable to appointment at the meeting house. Opened with prayer. Mr. Lovejoy who was appointed by the Session to see Mr. Gilbert respecting his neglect of making his acknowledgment reported he had seen Mr. Gilbert who agreed to read his acknowledgement on the 12 of June 1825. Voted as Mr. Gilbert has not appeared and has twice neglected his engagement that he be suspended from church privileges for three months from the first Sabbath in July – unless he should make a satisfactory confession before that time should expire. In consequence of information laid before the Session, voted that Mr. Wentworth be cited to appear before the Session in one week from to day at 2 o clock P.M. at this place to answer to certain charges alledged against him. Mr. Fenner Ward having been accused by public fame(?) of going to a ball and manifesting a very unchristian spirit and having acknowledged the truth of the accusation to a member of the Session who was appointed to converse with him upon the subject. Voted that he be requested to make a public confession of his fault before the church & congregation on the first Sabbath in July. Closed with prayer. Mr. & Mrs. White were admitted to the church by letter.
June 23, 1825 Session met agreeable to appointment at the Meeting house at 2 o clock PM. Opened with prayer. Mr. Wentworth being present the subject respecting him was taken up and partly investigated [a note here says “see page 66-72”] Voted that this meeting be adjourned to Tuesday next week at 2 o clock PM at this place. Closed with prayer.
June 28, 1825 Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Session resumed the examination of the case of Mr. Wentworth he being present. The charges alledged[sic] against him were –
1 – Public fame(?) says you quarreled with Dr. Crosby near the first of June – when you used profane language and manifested an improper spirit
2 Public fame says that you shortly afterwards had a quarrel with Mr. Caple(?) when you again manifested a spirit very unbecoming the Christian character and very injurious to the reputation of the church with which you stand connected.
Mr. Wentworth manifested willingness to reply to these charges immediately.
As to the first charge he states that the little boy living with Dr. Crosby came into his shop and that he Mr. Wentworth told this boy in reference to some difficulties existing between the children of Dr. Crosby and his child which had also made some impression upon the minds of the other members of the two families and led to some unpleasant speeches – that from the oldest to the youngest of Dr. Crosbies family were iniquitous with the exception of Dr. Crosby himself. This boy then it seems went immediately home and told the family of Dr. Crosby that Mr. Wentworth had just said they were all liars from the oldest to the youngest. Dr. Crosby then came to Mr. Wentworths shop in a great passion – abused Mr. Wentworth. would not listen to Mr. Wentworths repeated requests to be calm – but continued shaking his fists in Mr. Wentworths face and calling him hard names. Mr. Wentworth after having required Dr. Crosby to leave his shop in vain stooped down for the purpose of taking a hoop shaving and whipping it around Dr. Crosbies legs until he should leave the shop and Crosby supposing him Mr. Wentworth to be getting a hoop pole for the purpose of beating him Dr. Crosby struck & kicked him & pushed him over in a very dangerous situation and fell upon him and struck him again. Which in this situation Mr. Wentworth struck Dr. Crosby once when he came to a determination to strike him no more – Mr. Wentworth then released himself from Dr. Crosby – arose – and told Dr. Crosby he Mr. Wentworth should not strike him the Dr. again and if the Dr. wished to strike him to strike on. Dr. Crosby then became pacified and soon settled the difficulty so that the two families are now living on terms of friendship. Mr. Wentworth during this affair once or twice called Dr. Crosby a damned rascal or something to nearly the same amount.
As to the second charge Mr. Wentworth admits that shortly after the difficulty with Mr. Crosby he understood Mr. Caple was about to bring a charge against him Mr. Wentworth founded on this difficulty. Mr. Wentworth thought as the difficulty was amicably adjusted between him and Dr. Crosby and as Mr. Caple was not connected with the church that he Mr. Caple was interfering where he had no concern. Which under the influence of these feeling and Caple came to Mr. Pages house where Mr. Wentworth & others were at work – Mr. Wentworth asked Mr. Caple rather abruptly whether he Mr. Caple was going to bring the charge of which we have been speaking against him Mr. Wentworth before the session – Mr. Caple replied, he was – Mr. Wentworth called him Mr. Caple a little dirty puppy Mr. Caple then told Mr. Wentworth that he was a drunkard and a thief and would any time forfeit his work for a dollar – and repeated the charge – Mr. Wentworth told Mr. Caple to go out of the house and not hinder the workman by his talk. Mr. Caple refused to comply on the ground that the house was not Mr. Wentworths. Mr. Wentworth insisted upon Mr. Caples leaving the house – as the house was then under his care – Mr. Caple continued to refuse – Mr. Wentworth told Mr. Caple not to continue his abusive language. Mr. Caple did not desist. But called him hard names. Mr. Wentworth then pushed Mr. Caple into the entry where Mr. Caple took a board and attempted to strike Mr. Wentworth. Mr. Wentworth told Mr. Caple not to strike and came near him Mr. Caple. Mr. Caple then laid his hand upon Mr. Wentworths shoulder when Mr. Wentworth shoved Mr. Caple out of the front door and cuffed his ear for tearing Mr. Wentworths shirt.
Having listened to Mr. Wentworths statements and thinking it unnecessary to call any witnesses Session went into a deliberation of the affair. After serious thought and considerable conversation Session voted that according to Mr. Wentworths own statement they think both charges should be sustained and are hereby sustained and moreover that Mr. Wentworth be required to make a public acknowledgment of his fault before the church & congregation. In the affair with Dr. Crosby Session think Mr. Wentworth manifested an improper spirit in making to the boy the statement he did – in making preparations to whip Mr. Crosby with the hoop shaving – and above all in using profane language. If Paul(?) had done either he would in the hour of seriousness been not only willing but anxious to make an acknowledgement and manifest a grief as open as the crime(?) was public. As to the swearing they think there is no doubt and can be no excuse – no matter what may have been the provocation.
In the affair with Mr. Caple Session think Mr. Wentworth manifested an unchristian spirit – inasmuch as he should feel offended with Mr. Caple for designing to bring a charge against him which Mr. Wentworth should have brought himself. Mr. Wentworth should rather have felt humble and deserving of censure – and have been willing to be brought before Session. Session likewise thinks Mr. Wentworth manifested an improper spirit in this affair with Mr. Caple inasmuch as he should accost Mr. Caple so abruptly and call him a little dirty puppy – inasmuch as he turned Mr. Caple forcibly from the house – and inasmuch as he struck Mr. Caple. Session do not by any [sic] justify the conduct of either Mr. Crosby or Mr. Caple in their affairs. They stand however before another tribunal – where a due estimation formed of the whole transaction. Dr. Skinner having received Judgment call from the Session to read his confession or give a sufficient reason why he will not and having neglected them all and Session having voted his excommunication now voted to postpone it for four weeks from the first Sabbath in July – in hopes that Dr. Skinner would previous to that time discharge his duty. Closed with prayer.
Sabbath July 3 1825
Sacrament administered by the Rev’d Wm Page – Thomas W. Stephens having been examined by Session for admission to the church and having stood propounded the usual time of a fortnight and no exceptions being taken to him was admitted to the Church and was baptized together with a child of Mr. Abijah Young.
July 28 1825
Session met agreeable to previous notice. Opened with prayer. Took into consideration the case of Mr. Ward – Mr. Ward having once acknowledged his fault and engaged to make his confession and failing in his engagement Voted that he be admonished by letter for not making his acknowledgement and be required to do it immediately. At the request of Mr. Wentworth resumed the consideration of his case. After some deliberation voted to take a recess of an hour and ¼ After recess session took up the case of Mr. Wentworth, and voted after some further consultation to adjourn the meeting until next week on Thursday at 3 o clock P.M. closed with prayer.
August 4, 1825
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. H.(?) A. Lovejoy was appointed clerk pro tem. Three of the session being absent adjourned until Thursday one fortnight hence at 3 o clock P.M. at the house of Mr. Page I. A. Lovejoy Clerk
June 23 1825 See Pag
Session voted that the Moderator be requested to call a meeting of the church for the purpose of appointing two additional Elders. Mr. Barns being incapacitated and Mr. Loomis being sick
August 18 1825
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. I. A. Lovejoy chosen Clerk pro tem. Mr. White being absent deferred for a few moments the business of Mr. Wentworth. Mr. Ward still continuing to neglect his engagement respecting his confession voted that he be cited to appear before Session in one week from Saturday next in this place at 3 o clock P.M. Mr. Lovejoy was appointed Delegate to Presbytery meeting in Edi(?) the 2d Tuesday of Sept’r next. Mr. Marsh his substitute. Mr. White & Sheppard being absent session entered into a further consideration of the case of Mr. Wentworth according to his request – Voted at length that they can perceive no reason why their formal vote respecting his case should be altered. Voted to adjourn until one week from Saturday next at three o clock P.M. I. A. Lovejoy Clerk
August 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Mr. Ward appearing, requested leave of the Session to read his confession only before the church. He manifested a willingness to make a confession but thought it would be sufficient to read it before the church at one of its meetings. He acknowledged that he had been to a ball or dance where spirituous liquor was freely used and engaged in the dance and had previously drank too freely himself. Mr. White and Lovejoy & Sheppard being absent voted that the session adjourn until Thursday of next week at 3 o clock to meet in this place – when the case of Mr. Ward may be considered. Harvey Durkee was appointed clerk pro tem.
Miss Nancy Barns admitted to the church by certificate.
List & account of the various individuals who ever belonged to this church
Asa French Excommunicated 1819
Elisha Skinner 1814 Excommunicated 1826
Sally Seymour 1814 now Mrs. Marsh
Joseph Plumb 1815 Dismissed 1822
Miss Barns now Mrs. Howard Died 1827
Miss Atkins 1819 now Mrs. Hubbard
Sally Allen 1820 Dismissed 1827
Clorena Durkee 1820 now Mrs. Coats
Daniel Andrews Dismissed by letter 1820
Hiram Couch 1821 Dismissed by letter 1825
Abigail Wentworth 1822 Died 1827
Daniel Buxton 1823 Dismissed 1824
Mrs. Buxton 1823 Dismissed 1824
Nelson Randal 1823 Dismissed 1824
Lemon(?) Hill 1823 Dismissed 1825 by letter
Sally Yale now Mrs. Risly 1823
Mrs. Frances S. Page 1825 Dismissed 1826
Miss Ann Hale 1825 Dismissed by letter 1826
100 in all – 77 now in communion
There are now living within the limits of this society the following individuals who stand connected with the Presbyterian Church in other places
A young lady living with Elder Tucker Miss Rich
Miss Whitman(?) now living with Mr. Durkee
[written to the side of the list]: There are now connected with the church eighty two individuals 53 females and 29 males.
[also written to the side of the list, below the previous]: There are also 23 other individuals within the limits of this society who stand connected with our(?) churches in other places 14 women & 9 men. Sept’r 1st 1825
A continuation of the list of the members of the Church
females 53
males 29
/82
Baptisms within the year 1825
Sept’r 1st 1825
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Mr. Sheppard being absent Mr. White was chosen scribe. After deliberating upon the request of Mr. Wood to require of him a confession before the church only – Voted that Session can perceive no reason why this request should be granted or why their vote respecting him recorded on page 65 should be altered. Session thinks the confession should be as public as the crime. Mr. Lovejoy was appointed Delegate to Synod and Mr. Marsh his substitute. As the rumour is circulated that Dr. Skinner while writing his late confession drank excessively in a public house on the Lords day of spirituous liquors – to his own discredit – and the grief of the church – and as other reports are circulated tending to contradict the statements he made in his letter to the Rev’d Mr. Page – written the sabbath previous to his making his confession therefore voted that a committee consisting of Mr. White & Harrison be appointed to inquire into the truth of these reports.
Whereas Mr. Kaple has circulated reports respecting Mr. Harvey Durkee impeaching his veracity and his character as a christian and as these reports are believed by many and are frequently made the subject of conversation by men out of the church to the injury of Mr. Durkees reputation and the reputation of the church – therefore voted that this case be attended to upon the ground of public fame(?) Voted that the Session adjourn to Wednesday of next week at 1 o clock P. M. to meet in this place when the case of Mr. Durkee can be further considered and the report of the committee appointed to examine the truth of the rumours respecting Dr. Skinner can be heard. Understanding that Mr. Wentworth has never yet been informed officially of the vote of session respecting him recorded on page 75 and understanding that he continues dissatisfied with the proceedings of session in his case. Voted that Mr. White be appointed to converse with him endeavoring to make him sensible of the propriety of the proceedings of Session relating to his difficulties and also to influence him to comply cheerfully with the requisition of Session. Closed with prayer.
N. B. –This last vote was taken previous to the motion of adjournment although recorded afterwards.
Sept’r 7 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer Mr. Sheppard being absent I. A. Lovejoy was chosen scribe. The committee appointed to inquire into the reports that are circulated to the discredit of Dr. Skinner Reported that the found it was rumoured and believed that Dr. Skinner had frequently while writing his confession and frequently afterwards drank too freely of spirituous liquors. Whereupon resolved that Dr. Skinner be cited to appear before Session in three weeks from tomorrow at one o clock P. M. in this place when certain charges will be exhibited against him. After deliberating upon the case of Deacon Durkee voted that a committee of three be appointed to visit him and Mr. Caple for the purpose of adjusting their difficulties if possible consisting of Messrs Lovejoy, White & Marsh. Mr. White the committee appointed to notify Mr. Wentworth respecting the vote of Session concerning him reported that he gave Mr. Wentworth the notification. Adjourned until three weeks from tomorrow at 1 o clock P. M. in this place. Closed with prayer.
Thus far examined & approved with the three following exceptions viz. in many instances no place is mentioned for the meeting of Session the names of the Elders present are not mentioned not closed with prayer.
Sept’r 29 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment at the Academy. Opened with prayer. Present Rev’d William Page Moderator. Elders Durkee, Lovejoy, Harrison, Marsh and White. Absent Elder Elisha Sheppard S. Clark
W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem. Having ascertained that no citation has been served upon Dr. Skinner agreeable to the vote of Session at their last meeting – Resolved that Dr. Skinner be cited to appear before Session at their next meeting. The committee appointed to adjust the difficulty between Dea. Durkee & Mr. Kaple wished to defer their report until the next meeting of Session which wish was granted. Resolved as Fenner Ward continues after repeated solicitations of the Session and repeated promises of his own to make a public acknowledgement of the sin of which he confesses himself guilty – therefore resolved that he be excommunicated from this church – provided the same be sanctioned by Presbytery. Minutes of the Session were read and approved. Resolved to adjourn two weeks from this day to meet at one o clock P.M. at the house of the Rev’d W. Page Closed with prayer.
Oct’r Sacrament administered by Rev’d W. Page
Oct’r 7, 1825
Session met agreeable to the request of Moderator. Opened with prayer. Present Rev’d W. Page Moderator. Elders Sheppard, Durkee, Marsh, White, Harrison & Lovejoy. Whereas Elias Gilbert has not made any satisfactory acknowledgement of the sin of which he confesses himself guilty and as the period for which he was suspended from the privileges of the church is expired therefore resolved that he be suspended for three months more and that Mr. Marsh & Sheppard be appointed as a committee to visit him and express to him the sentiments of Session respecting his neglect. Whereas Mr. Wentworth still neglects to make any satisfactory acknowledgement of his fault therefore resolved that he be suspended from the privileges of the church for three months. Resolved that Session adjourn. Closed with prayer.
Oct’r 13, 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment at the house of the Rev’d Wm. Page. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Rev’d Wm. Page Moderator Elders White & Marsh. Absent Elders Durkee, Lovejoy, Harrison and Sheppard. W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem. The minutes of the last meeting were read. The committee appointed to attend to the settlement between Dea Durkee & Mr. Kapple exhibited their report in writing – which was as follows – “Your committee attended to the business of their appointment and succeeded in bringing about a happy settlement between the two families – Your committee is of opinion that Dea Durkee is censurable for saying to Mr. Kapple that Mr. Moore told him that you (Mr. Kapple) said you have me in jail in four weeks when at the same time he Dea Durkee knew Mr. Kapple did not say any such thing and also for shutting up a pig of Mr. Kapples in a hollow stump and for letting it remain there when knowing of the circumstances although it was done by his son. and also for exercising an unchristian spirit during the difficulty between the two families. Committee W. C. White & Samuel Marsh. There being no other members of the session present but the said committee & the Moderator the consideration of this report was deferred. It being ascertained that Dr. Skinner has been cited to appear before Session this day according to the vote recorded on page 88 and he not appearing therefore resolved that he be cited to appear before session at its next meeting. Resolved that it be a standing rule of this Session to hold its meetings at the house of the Rev’d Wm. Page. Minutes were read & approved. Session adjourned to meet at this place in two weeks at one o clock P. M. Closed with prayer.
Oct’r 27, 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Elders White, Marsh, Lovejoy, Durkee, Harrison & Sheppard. Moderator William Page. The excuses offered by the members who were absent at the last meeting of Session were not sustained with the exception of that offered by Deacon Lovejoy. Minutes of the last meeting were read. The report of the Committee who were appointed to adjust the difficulties existing between Deacon Durkee & Mr. Kapple was read and accepted. As it appears from this report that the Committee consider Deacon Durkee answerable in certain particulars therefore resolved that Deacon Durkee be requested to state before Session whether he acknowledges himself guilty of those particulars for which the committee censures him and also at public forum(?) makes other reports to the injury of his reputation whether he be guilty of other faults. Resolved to have a recess of one hour and one half until the public services of the afternoon be concluded.
Half past three
Session was called to order by the Moderator and all the members being present proceeded to business. In conformity with the resolution stated above Deacon Durkee was inquired of whether he ever told Mr. Kapple that Mr. Moor had told him Mr. Durkee that he Mr. Kapple had said he Mr. Kapple would have him Deacon Durkee in jail in four weeks when he Deacon Durkee knew that Mr. Kapple had said no such thing. Deacon Durkee answered to this inquiry that he once told Mr. Kapple that Mr. Moor had told him Deacon Durkee that Mr. Kapple would have him the Deacon in jail in four weeks after Mr. Moor had made this statement to Deacon Durkee and then informed him that it was untrue. Deacon Durkee states that Mr. Moor told him that Mr. Kapple said he Mr. Kapple would have the Deacon in jail in four weeks and that Mr. Moor afterwards told Deacon Durkee that Mr. Kapple had made no such statement and that after this he Deacon Durkee told Mr. Kapple that Mr. Moor had said that he Mr. Kapple had reported that he Mr. Kapple would have Deacon Durkee in jail in four weeks. The inquiry was then made of Deacon Durkee whether he shut Mr. Kapples pig in the stump, and whether he suffered it to remain there after knowing of the circumstance. Deacon Durkee answers that he did not shut the pig in the stump and that when he learned the pig was there he ordered his son to release it though he thinks it would have been just to have confined any pig that did as much mischief as this had done and whose owner refused to confine it. The inquiry was likewise made of Mr. Durkee whether he was conscious of manifesting an unchristian spirit during the difficulties between him & Mr. Kapple, which he freely acknowledged and deeply deplored. He was asked moreover whether there were other faults in his character which he would mention before Session. He stated that he had often made engagements which he neglected to fulfill that he had long lamented this trait in his character and did hope that with the blessing of God it would no longer appear. Session understanding that reports are circulated to the injury of Deacon Durkees reputation and to the dishonor of religion therefore resolved that a committee of two be appointed to inquire into these reports and bring them in the shape of charges against Deacon Durkee at the next meeting of Session. Mr. Harrison & Mr. Sheppard were appointed this committee. It being learned that two citations have been served upon Doct’r Skinner requesting him to appear before Session neither of which he has obeyed and it being learned that in the last citation he was apprised of the rule contained in the 13 article of Chap IV of the Book of Discipline therefore resolved that Session proceed to trial in this case. W. C. White was appointed to manage his defence and E. Sheppard and W. Harrison as a committee to make out the charges the case to be prosecuted at the next meeting of Session. Mrs. Deborah Skinner & her two daughters Mrs. Sally Root and Mrs. Nancy Willson presented letters of good standing and recommendation from other churches and were received by vote of the Session into this church. Minutes of the Session were read & approved. Resolved that Session adjourn to meet in this place at one o clock P M in one fortnight from this afternoon. Closed with prayer.
Nov’r 10, 1825
Session met according to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Members being all present the minutes of the last meeting were read. The committee appointed as to the case of Deacon Durkee made report as follows – Your committee having attended to the business for which they were appointed do make this following report – After having attended as they believe faithfully to the subject and made all the inquiries which they feel themselves authorized to make they find nothing against Deacon Durkees christian character which in their opinion ought to be brought in the shape of charges grounded upon public fame before this Session with the following exceptions which exception your committee would bring in the shape of charges against him according to the vote of Session
Ist Public fame says of Deacon Durkee you are guilty of neglecting to fulfill your ordinary engagements without any sufficient cause
II That you stated things to Mr. Kapple which however true in fact yet which were wickedly designed to mislead his mind and to awaken in his bosom very unpleasant sensations. The statement is that you told him Mr. Kapple for a truth which you pretended to believe and on which account you pretended to feel greatly injured a story which Mr. Moor had related to you for truth & which he afterward assured you was entirely unfounded and which you therefore did not and could not credit.
III That you have been guilty of exercising unchristian feelings and manifesting an unchristian spirit towards Mr. Kapple in the late difficulties between you & him. This report was accepted. E. Sheppard, R. Harrison
Deacon Durkee was called upon to answer to the charges exhibited by this committee against him. He acknowledged with readiness and apparent penitence their justice. Whereupon Session Resolved that Deacon Durkee be admonished before the Session of the impropriety & evils of his conduct and be exhorted to guard with vigilance against similar wanderings in future and that notwithstanding those wanderings, Deacon Durkee hereafter remain in full communion with the church and confidence of the Session. The admonition & exhortation mentioned above was administered by Moderator. Charges were then exhibited by the committee appointed for this session against Dr. Skinner, as follows.
I Public fame says that while engaged in writing your late confession which was on the sabbath you resorted to the tavern and drank spirituous liquor to excess. Witnesses to this charge are Mr. D. Harmon & Mr. E. Haskins
II Public fame also says that since making your confession in public you have frequently been guilty of intemperance insomuch that your neighbors and the public consider you entirely unreformed. Witnesses Mr. Haskins, Judge Grey(?), Joseph Kenyon & Samuel Haven.
Dr. Skinner being absent and Mr. White his counsel consenting – therefore resolved that the trial of Dr. Skinner be postponed one fortnight. Minutes of the Session were read & approved. Adjourned until two weeks from this day to meet at the House of the Rev. W. Page at one o clock P. M. Closed with prayer. E. Sheppard Clerk
Nov’r 24, 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Members present Rev. W. Page, Isaac Lovejoy, W. C. White, H. Durkee, R. Harrison & S. Marsh Absent E. Sheppard.
Stated clerk being absent W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem it being thanksgiving day and Mr. White the counselor of Dr. Skinner consenting voted to adjourn until one fortnight from this day to meet in Session Room at one o clock PM Minutes not being prepared were not read. Closed with Prayer. W. C. White Clerk pro tem
Sabbath Dec’r 4th 1825
Elias Gilbert approved and made humble acknowledgement of the sin of intemperance before the church and congregation, in the following terms-
Impressed with the conviction that I have seriously offended God and injured the cause of religion by using spirituous liquor on various occasion to excess and feeling it my duty to counteract the evil I have caused as far as my ability extends I now would make full and humble acknowledgement of my offence before God & this congregation and sincerely do I solicit the forgiveness of each. I am sensible that this acknowledgement will contribute very little in deed to counteract the evil occasioned by my departures, unless it come from a heart penitent and broken in view of its wanderings and unless the acknowledgement be followed by an amended life. Devoutly therefore do I pray that God will assist me by his grace to feel and to reform and that my brethren in the church will hereafter assist me by their prayers and christian watchfulness to withstand the great temptation. I would make this confession not as a matter of form and dire necessity but as a thing of duty and of choice however unpleasant and painful may be my present sensations. Private feeling must be sacrificed when the favor(?) of God and the welfare of his church are in question.
Fredonia Dec’r 4, 1825
Dec’r 8, 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Present Rev’d W. Page, Elders Marsh, H. Durkee, Lovejoy. Absent Elders Sheppard, Harrison & White. I. A. Lovejoy was chosen Clerk pro tem. Minutes of last meeting were read and approved. Elders White, Sheppard & Harrison appeared & took their seats. Their excuses for late attendance were not accepted. The witnesses in the case of Dr. Skinner not appearing according to notice given them and Session judging that Dr. Skinner could receive no injury from again postponing the trial therefore with consent of his council – the Dr. not appearing resolved that the trial of Dr. Skinner be again postponed until one week from this afternoon. Resolved that the confession made by Elias Gilbert & recorded on pages 103 & 104 be accepted and that the term of his suspension now come to a close. Resolved that Session adjourn until one week from this day to meet in Session Room at 1 o clock PM Closed with prayer.
Dec’r 15, 1825
Session met agreeable to adjournment. Opened with prayer. Present Rev’d W. Page. Elders Marsh, Harrison & Durkee. R. Harrison was chosen clerk pro tem the stated clerk being absent. Minutes of the last meeting were read. Mr. White appeared & took his seat. His excuse for late attendance was accepted. The Witnesses in the case of Dr. Skinner appearing were sworn and testified as follows.
Mr. E. Haskins being sworn testifies that on the Sabbath previous to Dr. Skinners making his late confession in public he the Dr. came to his Mr. Haskins house which is a tavern and called for pen ink paper and room that the witness inquired of Dr. Skinner what he wanted this pen ink paper & room for and in some way ascertained that the Dr. designed to write a confession which was to be read before the church & congregation in Fredonia. Witness also testifies that Dr. Skinner drank spirituous liquor at his house on that day to excess he thinks five time. Witness also testifies that since Dr. Skinner made his confession he has been guilty of intemperance insomuch that witness consider the Dr unreformed. Witness testifies further that he has often conversed with the neighbours of Dr. Skinner upon the subject and thinks he can safely say that in the public estimation Dr. Skinner is unreformed. All of which was read to witness and by him approved. Mr. White the Dr council the Dr himself being absent inquired of witness as follows – Question How far do you live from Dr. Skinner? Answer Between a quarter and a half a mile. Question Does Dr. Skinner ride much as a physician? Answer He would do considerable business provided people could depend on him. Question Does Dr. Skinner visit your tavern less frequently than before he made his confession Answer Immediately after making his confession the Dr did not visit my house so frequently as formerly. I do not perceive however but that his calls are not near as frequent as ever. Question Does he call for liquor as often as formerly Answer I think he does. Question Does he carry any to his house. Answer Not more than is necessary. All of which answers were separately read to witness and by him separately approved.
Questioned by Mr. Durkee as follows. Question How long was Dr. Skinner at your house on the Sabbath previous to his making his confession in public Answer I may not be able to tell within an hour but should think from about eight in the morning until nearly one. Read to witness & by him approved. Questioned by Mr. Harrison How much do you think the Dr drank on this Sabbath Answer I should think a gill at a time. Read to witness & by him approved.
Mr. D. Harmon being sworn testifies that on the day Dr. Skinner made his confession he came to his tavern called for pen ink & room that while getting the pen & ink the Dr entered the bar took down the rum bottle and drank full a gill. Witness also testifies that he saw the Dr in liquor night before last at the tavern of Mr. Haskins. Read to witness & by him approved. Questioned by Drs Council Was there no one with the Dr who drank a part of the gill mentioned above Answer No He drank it all himself. Read to witness & by him approved.
Mr. Samuel Haven being sworn testifies that since the first of Nov’r he saw Dr. Skinner more disguised with liquor he thinks than he ever saw him before. Witness also testifies that in the public estimation so far as he understands it the Dr is unreformed. Read to witness & approved. The other witnesses whose names stand connected with the charges against Dr. Skinner not appearing were not sworn. Rev. W. Page being sworn testifies that Dr. Skinner told him in excuse for not making his confession when Session required it that on the sabbath previous to the one when the confession was made the Dr went to the house of Mr. Haskins to write the confession, and endeavored for some time to effect the object but was so agitated and distressed as to be entirely unable to succeed. Witness also testifies that Dr. Skinner told him on the sabbath when the confession was made in excuse for the shortness and defects of the confession that he the Dr had written in the village since he come from home at the house as witness afterwards understood of Mr. Harmon. Read to witness and approved. No further testimony being offered in support of the charges against Dr. Skinner Defendants council was called upon for his defense. No witness however appearing on the part of the Defendant and the Defendants council being willing to submit the whole matter to Session as it stood the Session dwelt upon the testimony before them and after mature deliberation as is hoped Resolved unanimously that both charges in the estimation of Session are fully supported. Whereupon Session made the following resolution – Whereas it doth appear from his own confession that Dr. Elisha Skinner a member in this church has for many months used spirituous liquor to excess and as it doth appear from good & accredited sources that although the said Dr has been for nearly 18 months repeatedly warned and admonished of his fault by the Session of this church [crossed out: and been labored with time and again with a levity and forbearance bordering upon excess] and been exhorted and intreated and warned to reform putting off from time to time the censure he deserved with a levity and forbearance bordering upon excess and as it doth now appear from the testimony we have just heard that at the very time when Dr. Skinner urged onward by the repeated solicitations and warnings of Session was writing the confession he was to read in public as a token of his repentance he resorted to a tavern, on the sabbath day, & committed the same crimes(?) for which he was then preparing his confession and as it doth likewise appear that since making his confession he has continued to use spirituous liquor to excess insomuch his neighbours consider him entirely unreformed and as it doth likewise appear that although the Dr has lately been twice cited to appear before Session and been admonished according to the rules of our Directory that unless he did appear and answer to the charges to be exhibited against him Session would proceed as if he were present appointing him a council and showing him all appropriate fairness and kindness although the Dr has been so cited and admonished yet he has utterly disregarded the one and the other thereby manifesting the utmost contempt of the authority of the church with which he stands connected – therefore resolved that Dr. Elisha Skinner for the purpose of reclaiming him and of delivering the church from the scandal of his offences and of inspiring all with fear by the example of his punishment – be excommunicated from tis church. Minutes were read & approved. Resolved that Session adjourn sine die. Closed with prayer. R. Harrison, Clerk pro tem
Jan’y 1st 1826
Sacrament was administered by the Rev’d Wm. Page
Fredonia Jan 12, 1826
Session met agreeable to appointment at Session Room. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Rev’d W. Page. Elders Harrison, Marsh, White & Durkee. Absent Elders Sheppard & Lovejoy. W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem. Minutes of the last meeting were read. I. A. Lovejoy appeared & took his seat. His excuse for late attendance was accepted. His excuse for being absent at the last meeting of Session was not accepted. E. Sheppard appeared and took his seat. His excuse for late attendance was accepted. Having ascertained that Mr. Wentworth has not been officially informed of of [sic] his late suspension from the privileges of the church therefore resolved that he be suspended from the privileges of the church until he make satisfaction. Resolved that Elisha Sheppard be delegate to Presbytery at its next meeting in Westfield & that W. C. White be his substitute. Minutes were read & approved. Resolved that session adjourn sine die. Closed with prayer. W. C. White Clerk pro tem
A copy of Doct Skinners excommunication was read before this Church and congregation on Sabbath last January 15, 1826 E. Shepard Clerk
Fredonia Feb’y 13, 1826
Session met agreeable to appointment at Session Room. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Rev W. Page Elders White, Durkee & Harrison. Absent Elders Sheppard, Marsh and Lovejoy. W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem. Minutes of the last meeting were read. E. Sheppard appeared and his excuse for late attendance being accepted took – The case of Fenner Ward being laid before Pres and that body refusing to give any opinion upon the subject or to sanction the excommunication of Mr. Ward Resolved that Fenner Ward be suspended from the privileges of the church until he make satisfaction. Mr. Walker Lewis being dangerously ill and wishing to join the church and to partake of the Lords supper before he leaves the world. Therefore resolved that Session meet at the house of Mr. Lewis on Wednesday of this week at 1 o clock P M for the purpose of examining him as to his religious character and of receiving him into the church and of administering to him the Lords Supper if it shall then be judged expedient. Minutes were read & approved Resolved that Session adjourn to meet on Wednesday of this week at 1 o clock P M at the house of Walker Lewis. Closed with prayer.
Feb’y 15, 1826
Session met agreeable to adjournment at the house of Walker Lewis. Opened with prayer. Present Rev. W. Page, Elders White, Harrison, Marsh, Durkee & Lovejoy. Absent Elisha Sheppard. W. C. White was chosen clerk pro tem. Mr. Lewis having expressed a wish to join the church resolved that Session proceed to his examination. Having examined Mr. Lewis and being satisfied with his evidences of regeneration and of his soundness in the faith – resolved that Mr. Walker Lewis be admitted into the church upon giving his assent to the Articles of faith and to the church covenant and that the sacrament of the Lords Supper be administered to him at his request. After divine service Mr. Lewis gave his assent to the Articles of faith and to the church covenant and was therefore admitted into the church according to the vote of Session and the sacrament of the Lords Supper was administered to Mr. Lewis and the church members present. After the communion service Session being called to order the minutes were read & approved. Closed with prayer. W. C. White Clk pro tem
April 2, 1826
Sacrament administered by the Revd Wm Page. Mr. Enoch Hutchinson and Elizabeth his wife and Calvin his son were admitted by certificate into the church.
June 31, 1826
Session met
according to appointment at the Academy. Opened with prayer. Roll called –
Present Rev W. Page, Elders White, Marsh, Harrison,
Durkee & Lovejoy. Absent E. Sheppard. W. C. White
chosen scribe pro tem. Received into the church upon certificate Mrs. Harriet Whitcomb
and Mr. Philip Wells. Mrs. Rebecca Barlow wishing to be examined
for admission into the church, but bein[g] unable at present to endure the
fatigues of examination in consequence of bodily weakness Resolved to meet
tomorrow at four o clock at the house of Mr. Harvey Durkee for the
purpose of examine her agreeable to her request. Minutes were read and
approved. Closed with prayer.
W. C. White scribe pro tem
July 1, 1826
Session met according to adjournment at the house of Dea Durkee. Opened with prayer. Roll called. Present Rev’d W. Page Moderator, Elders Marsh, Lovejoy, Durkee & White. Absent Elders Sheppard & Harrison. W. C. White was chosen scribe pro tem. Proceeded to examine Mrs. Barlow according to her request. Having closed the examination session went by themselves and after some conversation Resolved that Mrs. Rebecca Barlow stand propounded for admission into the church on the morning of the next Sabbath and that she be received in the evening of the same day – provided no objections are made – See note. Minutes were read and approved. Closed with prayer.
July 2, 1826
Mrs. Rebecca Barlow was admitted into the church according to the vote of the Session upon giving her assent to the articles of faith and to the church covenant. She was also babtised[sic].
Note – Mrs. Barlow being very unwell, the time during which she stood propounded was much shorter than we think suitable on ordinary occasions. This vote therefore must not be taken as a precedent. W. Page
August 1, 1826
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Rev. W. Page Moderator. Elders White & Harrison. Absent Elders Marsh, Lovejoy, Sheppard & Durkee. W. C. White was chosen scribe pro tem. Resolved that I. A. Lovejoy be delegate to attend the meeting of Pres in this place on Thursday next. A letter of recommendation being presented by Mrs. Ann Todd from the Church of West Springfield Mass dated June 4, 1826 Resolved that Mrs. Ann Todd be received and is hereby received as a member in good standing into this church. Understanding that Mr. & Mrs. Hoysington who have resided in this vicinity more than a year and have seldom [crossed out: if ever] attended upon the ordinances of Gods house and seem to be straying from the fold of Christ being as we learn members of a Presbyterian Church in Gaines N Y therefore resolved that I. A. Lovejoy & H. Durkee be a committee to visit Mr. & Mrs. Hoysington for the purpose of learning why they absent themselves from the ordinances of Gods house presenting no letter of recommendation from the church to which they belong and standing so far aloof from their Christian brethren. Whereas Mr. & Mrs. Spaulding have often represented to the members of this church & session that they were as they supposed members in good standing in the ch of Brutus N Y where they left the place and have repeatedly sent for letters of recommendation from that church but have as yet received no answer – they know not why – therefore resolved that the Rev W. Page address a letter to the Pastor of that church requesting of him the reasons if any there be why the church in Brutus withhold from Mr. & Mrs. Spaulding letters of recommendation to the church in this place. Minutes were read. Resolved to adjourn. Closed with prayer. W. C. White scribe pro tem
August 10, 1826
Session met agreeable to appointment. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Elders White, Harrison and Durkee. The Rev. W. Page being present was invited to sit as moderator. and W. C. White scribe pro tem. Mrs. Frances Page being about to leave the place and requesting a letter of recommendation to another church where the Providence of God may lead her Whereupon resolved that her request be granted.
[The following crossed out: A letter from the Rev. S. C. Aiken of Utica being read containing the following interrogations which he wishes to be administered to Mrs. Frances Page, according to the provision of the Directory – See Chap 6 – on witnesses – Page 406 Utica Edition. Whereupon resolved that the interrogation be administered agreeable to this request. The interrogations are as follows
1 Did you or did you not about 5 years ago or when ride in a sleigh or cutter in company with Abijah Thomas of Utica from Whitesburo[sic] to Lenox –
2 Was his conduct towards you on that journey in any measure improper or indecent?]
3 Did you, at any time, during that journey, in consequence of his improper conduct, contemplate quitting him and seeking a refuge or escape from him in some house on the road –
4 Did you after your arrival at Lenox refuse to be in the company of Mr. Thomas in consequence of his [aforesaid] ill treatment or for any other and for what cause –
5 Did you refuse to return home from Lenox with Mr. Thomas, and if so, for what reason –
6 Did Mr. Thomas, at any time, and how many times during the journey aforesaid, put, or attempt to put, his arm around your neck; and press you to his body – and kiss, or attempt to kiss you – or put or attempt to put his hand into your bosom –
7 Did Mr. Thomas exhibit indecent improper or lascivious actions during the said journey – and if so what were they?
8 Did or did not Mr. Thomas at any time on the aforesaid journey make use of any improper indecent or lascivious expressions. If so declare them
9 Do you know of any other circumstances, matter or thing which occurred on the aforesaid journey or relating thereunto – tending to fix upon Mr. Thomas a charge of licentious talking or jesting or lascivious conduct and conversation – if so declare such matter in full –
Mrs. Page being duly sworn testified as follows –
1. To the first interrogatory she answered “I should think it was 5 years last winter that I rode in a cutter with Mr. Thomas from Whitesburo to Lenox” Read to witness and by her approved.
2. To the second interrogatory she answered “I thought his conduct was improper” Read to witness and by her approved.
3. To the third interrogatory Mrs. Page replied “Yes, If I had acquaintance on the road I certainly should have left him.” Read to witness and by her approved.
4. To the fourth interrogatory Mrs. Page replied – “I stated to my sister Mary in Lenox that I disliked exceedingly to be in the presence of Deacon Thomas on account of what I esteemed unbecoming conduct in him during our ride from Whitesburo to Lenox” Read to witness and by her approved.
5 To the fifth interrogatory Mrs. Page replied – “Deacon Thomas asked me to return with him – But I refused for two reasons – First I did not expect to return so soon as Dea Thomas did for I had not completed my visit Second I was very much offended with his treatment of me” Read to witness and by her approved.
6 To the sixth interrogatory Mrs. Page replied “No!” Read to witness & by her approved.
7 To the seventh interrogating Mrs. Page replied – “Deacon Thomas took my hands and put them against my remonstrances into his bosom, saying he had promised my mother to keep me warm. I took them out of his bosom however and turned my back upon him and so afterwards rode” Read to witness and by her approved.
8 To the eighth interrogatory Mrs. Page replied “I do not recollect of any” Read to witness and by her approved.
To the ninth interrogatory Mrs. Page replied “I do not recollect of any thing – His manner however I thought was very unbecoming being very light & trifling insomuch I never afterwards could respect him.” Read to witness and approved.
Minutes were read and approved. Resolved that session adjourn sine die. Closed with prayer.
August 15, 1826
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. The Rev. W. Page being present was invited to sit as Moderator & H. Durkee was chosen Scribe pro tem. Present Elders White, Harrison, Durkee & Lovejoy. I. A. Lovejoy was appointed council for Dea Thomas to put such questions as he chose to Mrs. Page respecting her answers to the interrogatories administered to her at the last meeting of session on the 10th inst. Mrs. Page being called before Session was interrogated by I. A. Lovejoy as follows –
Ques 1st Had you any design of returning with Dea Thomas when you left Whitesburo?
Answered – “When I left Whitesburo my mother told me I might or might not return with the Dea as I chose. Before I reached Lenox however I came to the conclusion that I would not return with him.” Read to witness and by her approved.
Ques 2d Do you remember whether Deacon Thomas designed to return through Lenox
Answered “I think he went to Canistote that evening – Whether he was expecting to return to Lenox I do not know” Read to witness and by her approved
Ques 3 How old was you at that time
Answered “I think thirteen” Read to witness & by her approved
Question 4 Did the Deacon converse with you any upon the subject of religion during your ride with him
Answer “I do not recollect that he did” Read to witness & approved
Council for Defendant being satisfied and Session wishing to put no other questions to Mrs. Page the examination was closed.
Resolved as the Rev. W. Page has been permitted to resign his pastoral office over the ch & con in this place and is about removing elsewhere that Elder Henry Durkee be appointed for the present – the standing Moderator of Session. Minutes were read and approved. Resolved that Session adjourn sine die. Closed with prayer. H. Durkee Scribe
January 22d 1827
Session met according to appointment. Opened with prayer. Roll was called. Present Harvey Durkee Moderator. Present Elders White, Marsh & Lovejoy. Absent Harrison & Shepard. W. C. White was chosen clerk protem. Resolved that Harvey Durkee be appointed delegate to attend the next meeting of Presbytery & I. A. Lovejoy his substitute. Minutes were read & approved. Resolved that Session adjourn without date. Closed with prayer.
February 7th 1827
Session met agreeable to previous notice. Rev’d J. W. M. Master was requested to sit as Moderator. Opened with prayer. Isaac A. Lovejoy was chosen clerk P. T. Members present Harvey Durkey, Sam’l Marsh, Roswell Harrison. Absent W. C. White & E. Shepherd. The Minutes of last meeting were read. Mr. Harrison was excused for non attendance last meeting. Mrs. Weles [Wells?] presented a letter from ch at Montague dated Aug 4, 1826. Signed Aron Gates & was recd as a member of this Church. Mrs. Elmira Baker presented a letter from ch at Auburn dated Oct 5th 1826 Signed S. Lansing & was also received as a member. W. C. White was excused for late attendance. Closed with Prayer.
February 16th 1827 Friday Evening
Session met agreeable to notice. J. W. M. Master Moderator. Opened with prayer. Members present E. Shepherd, S. Clark, Harvey Durkey, Sam’l Marsh, W. C. White, E. Harrison, I. A. Lovejoy. Minutes of last meeting not at hand. The following persons presented letters of dismissal from other churches & were received as members of this church. Viz Clement Lamon, J. C. Lamon & wife Maria from L. R. Ch Brooms. John Spalding & wife Anna 1st Congregational Church Brutus. Lucinda Winchester ch Scheneatiles. John Baker 1st ch at Auburn. Eli Gilbert on confession faith. Closed with prayer.
March 30th 1827
Session met agreeable to notice. H. Durkee Moderator. Opened with prayer. Edward Deming presented a letter from the Congregational Church in Boonville & was received on the same as a member of this Church. H. Durkee Moderator W. C. White Clerk Pro tem Closed with prayer
May 11th 1827
Session met agreeable to notice at the house of J. McMahan’s the Rev Mr. Adams was invited to sit as Moderator. Opened with prayer. J. A. Lovejoy was chosen clerk protem. Mr. Isaac Leech, Mrs. Ford & Mrs. Skinner was [sic] examined for admission & approved. Mr. Leech & Mrs. Skinner were received on the following Sabbath. Closed by prayer. J. A. Lovejoy Clerk pro tem.
Alanson Bail & Frances E. Sharp were received into this Church on certificate May the 1st(?) 1827.
August 8th 1827th
Session met agreeable to public notice. Opened with prayer. Present J. W. McMaster as Moderator. Elders Durkey, Marsh and Harrison. Absent White, Shepherd & Lovejoy. Bernice Taylor presented a certificate from Congregational Ch at Montague dated April 30th 1827. Recd to com’n of this ch. Mrs. Ann McMaster from 1st Presbyterian Ch N York Recd to commun of this ch.
Closed with prayer.
Augt 15th 1827
Session met agreeable to prev notice. Opened with prayer. Rev’d J. W. McMaster invited to sit as Mod. Present Elders Harrison & Durkee. Absent!! Shepherd, White, Marsh and Lovejoy. Oliver Taylor Wife & his Sister were recd to communion of this ch on certificates from ch at Montague Dated April 30th 1827. Widdow Elisabeth Dibble & daughter Elisa were recd on certificates from congregational ch of Boonville dated Nov 26th 1826. Messrs Lovejoy & Marsh presented their excuses for non attendance last meeting wch were sustained.
Closed with prayer.
August 24th 1827
Session met agreeable to notice. J. W. McMaster Moderator. Present all the members. Opened with prayer. Mrs. Mary Robbins was recd on a letter from the Congregational ch at Smithfield to the commune of this ch. Mr. Saml Marsh was chosen delegate to Presbytery of Sept 4 1827. Closed with prayer
Thus far examined and approved with the following exceptions first that the examination of witness in cases of discipline had better be kept on papers on file than in the church book. #2nd that all meeting of the session be signed by the Clerk. Thus far approved by Presbytery September 7th 1827 Springville Elihu Mason Mod
January 7th 1826
Elders
The Session should transact business in the following order
1 Open with prayer
2 Call the roll
3 Read the minutes of the last meeting
4 Attend to the business of the meeting
5 Read the minutes
6 Close with prayer.
The Clerk of the Session should keep his minutes in the following order
1 Session met agreeable to &c and was opened with prayer
2 The Roll was called and Elders __ were absent & Elders __ were present
3 Minutes of the last meeting were read
4_______
5 Minutes of the present meeting were read & approved
6 Closed with prayer
Attest ___ Clerk